Margaret, Chapter One of Going Rogue by Sarah Palin ends on page 62. That’s about 61 pages after it should have ended. It has approximately 19,500 words to it, but not one of them was worth reading. It’s all pure crap. If this chapter is any indication of what’s ahead, then it appears Mrs. Palin plans to spend the rest of her life getting even with the world by rewriting history.
The very first page of the book is a map of the globe as seen from the North Pole – I guess to emphasize the proximity of Alaska to Russia. Honestly honey, when is she going to learn that dog don’t hunt? Her defending us from Russia would be about as effective as Todd Palin’s preferred brand of condoms. Oh yes – Track arrived not quite 8 months after they sprinted to the courthouse to elope. I guess Sarah’s ghost writer didn’t think anyone who reads this book could count.
And oh my but did she love to read. All her life all she ever did was read, read, read. Too bad somewhere along the way she didn’t learn to write. And that college thing… Well, it seems that it took so many years and so many different colleges to get a degree because she had to work so much. And by work, she means entering beauty pageants and sleeping with Todd.
She finds a way to reference Ronald Reagan as early as page three in this chapter – which is supposedly about her childhood – and then mentions him again about a dozen more times before the chapter ends. Even her Grandpa ate jelly beans and looked remarkably like Ronald Regan. And Sarah’s favorite words – patriotic, patriot and patriotism – populate her paragraphs like children conceived out of wedlock populate her family tree.
On page two we learn that sweet little Piper, Sarah and Todd’s fourth child, is the poster child for the Alaska Right to Life group, but if you ask me, she should have been the poster child for the waning popularity of Jay Leno and late night television. I guess there’s not much to do on cold nights in Alaska except watching out for Russians and wooing Palins.
Margaret, I tried to come to this with an open mind. Really I did, sweetheart. I wanted to believe that there really was something of substance to someone who captured the imagination of millions. Even Barbara Walters has Sarah on her Top 10 list for the year. But it’s just not there, Margaret. Substance. She has none. Not even with a ghost writer. I mean how much respect can you have for a woman who describes the birth of her first son by writing, “Oh. My. Gosh. I thought I was going to die… Had any woman ever hurt this much? I didn’t think so.” Is it possible her ghost writer is a man?
But honestly, why am I so nasty about this woman? First I called her a bitch and now I am suggesting her knees are together about as often has Hillary Clinton appears in public with Bill. Look. There I go again sounding like a dime novel. But her entire attitude and approach to life – the sheer hypocrisy of it all – just really gets my goat. Consider the following excerpt from the book which refers to a State Trooper who pulled her over for an illegal joy ride on a snow machine:
“It was Christmas Day; we were out in the middle of nowhere, a couple of kids on a snowmachine up against a big dude with a gun and a badge. I couldn’t help but wondering about his priorities, if he really didn’t have more important things to do, like catching a bad guy, or helping a poor old lady haul in her firewood for the night. Looking back, maybe that was my first brush with the skewed priorities of government.” Page. 18
And that, dear Margaret, sums up my issue with Sarah Palin and so many others like her. They are so quick to look for the “bad guys” in everyone else never seeing the one staring back at them in the mirror each morning.
Here’s hoping Chapter Two has something worth writing about because I’ve only got a few years left on this earth and I hate that even a few hours are being wasted on this exercise in fertility. Pun intended. I mean it. Really.
Margaret and Helen 
Do you know that you do not need a DIET to LOSE WEIGHT?
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By: get more on October 7, 2014
at 9:55 PM
What’s up, just wanted to tell you, I loved this blog post. It was inspiring. Keep on posting!
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By: Zoila on September 18, 2012
at 1:05 AM
I absolutely love her comments on Palin’s book. I saw it at the dollar store…hahaha. I think I’ll spend the buck just to look at the references she speaks of….
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By: Anonymous on July 15, 2012
at 4:03 PM
Thank you thank you thank you! SOMEBODY has to say this, and you do it so well!
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By: Naomi Baltuck on May 20, 2012
at 5:06 PM
Hope we can take this discussion forwards.
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By: 300 Workouts reps on January 5, 2012
at 1:35 AM
What an honest opinion. I love it. I wouldn’t even pick up her book much less try to plow through it.
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By: Aeval on September 10, 2010
at 11:24 AM
Oh ladies, you speak the truth with such beautiful snark and insight, it regularly makes coffee come out my nose.
In case you missed this:
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By: marissa on May 3, 2010
at 2:44 PM
DElurker… Gates is meant to make a major announcement next tuesday??? Could it be? ONE for the good side! Keep em coming guys keep em coming…..
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By: lori on January 28, 2010
at 3:11 PM
Since Margaret and Helen are on Vacation…
I thought I would give you some thoughts
to ponder…..
FIRST:
last nights comment by
MSNBC’s Chris Matthews said on the post-speech commentary that speaking of Obama ” I forgot he was black tonight,” .
WOW..now thats not racist….
And now for the Top comments by our servicemen……..
” U.S. Marines — Certified Counselors to the 72 Virgins Dating Club”
” Water-boarding is out… so kill them all!”
“Interrogators can’t water board dead guys”
” U.S. Marines — Travel Agents To Allah”
“Stop Global Whining”
“When In Doubt, Empty The Magazine”
“Naval Corollary; Dead men don’t testify”
“The Marine Corps — When It Absolutely, Positively Has To Be Destroyed Overnight”
“Death Smiles At Everyone — Marines Smile Back”
“Marine Sniper – You can run, but you’ll just die tired!”
“What Do I Feel When I Kill A Terrorist? …. A little Recoil”
“Marines – Providing Enemies of America an Opportunity To Die For their Country Since 1775″*
“Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Anyone Who Threatens It”
“Happiness Is A Belt-Fed Weapon”
“It’s God’s Job to Forgive Bin Laden — It’s Our Job To Arrange The Meeting”
“Artillery Brings Dignity to What Would Otherwise Be Just A Brawl”
“One Shot, Twelve Kills — USN Gun Fire Support”
“Do draft dodgers Have Reunions? If So, What Do They Talk About?”
“My kid fought in Iraq so your kid can party in college”
“Machine Gunners — Accuracy by Volume”
“A Dead Enemy Is A Peaceful Enemy — Blessed Be The Peacemakers”
“If You Can Read, Thank A Teacher. If You Can Read It In English, Thank A Veteran”
“Except For Ending Slavery, Fascism, Nazism, and Communism, WAR has Never Solved Anything.*
“Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don’t have that problem.” – Ronald Reagan
Lets hear it for our men in uniform in Haiti…!
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By: craigΔ on January 28, 2010
at 2:34 PM
LOL @ the comments section, JJoe!
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By: Claire on January 28, 2010
at 2:18 PM
http://crooksandliars.com/david-neiwert/glenn-beck-thinks-president-obama-go
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By: JuneauJoe on January 28, 2010
at 2:05 PM
Give Lori the CupiDoll.
She’s right, they are not meant to show emotion..that is the senior officers making up the
Joint Chiefs of Staff…as well as Chief Justices.
They were appointed. Not elected.
AND,….
“I thought I’d get some applause for that one!” was priceless! Way to call them on their pettiness, sir!
WHY give him anymore credit than he deserves?
Just what the hell is he gonna do for the remaining three years?
He has spent more time giving speeches,collecting awards and showing up in Denmark every other week than being President.
Did ya see Biden..He almost didn’t know when to clap on cue or not…What puppets.
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By: craigΔ on January 28, 2010
at 1:45 PM
vgmanΔ
Obama ..experience on or in the beltway system?
He was a senator from Jan 05 to when he was elected president in Nov 2008.
Now how many years did he have of experience of being a senator?… or were you counting the amount of the same time that he was outside the beltway running for President?
There are janitors in the who have more senatorial experience than obama, by just collecting the trash cans in the senate offices.
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By: craigΔ on January 28, 2010
at 1:23 PM
“Yeah McCain was a POW. Gee, guess what – he wasn’t the only one. But he certainly has made a career out of being a POW, hasn’t he?”
..Yes Greytdog..He has been popular and perhaps its because he was a prisoner..so perhaps he knows more than any of us what it is like to be out of country and starving for support to survive.
You can include Robert Dole in that group as well.
And Donna what the Hell? You write
“When it comes to McCain, he may have engaged in acts which were heroic. His motivations are unknowable. However, he also engaged in acts which were stupid, dishonest, cruel, and reckless. I decline to ignore the less admirable parts of the man.”
MOTIVATIONS…?
Geez Donna he was a professional aviator defending his country engaged in a “police action”
WAR in Vietnam.
And what actions were stupid? cruel? reckless?
what less admirable parts of the man?
Oh..I see, you were writing about Ted Kennedy
and his driving abilities.
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By: craigΔ on January 28, 2010
at 1:09 PM
Lori, I guess you’re right. I felt like I did see a reaction but I may be wrong.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 28, 2010
at 12:54 PM
Gates cheered for repeal of don’t ask don’t tell.. the others, in their defense, are not meant to show any emotion, one way or the other.
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By: lori on January 28, 2010
at 10:34 AM
I agree wholeheartedly, Delurker Girl!
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By: Claire on January 28, 2010
at 9:26 AM
One bleak spot last night. Did you see the stone faced military reaction to Obama’s statements about gays serving in the military? It was shameful, IMO.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 28, 2010
at 9:04 AM
The worst criticism I’ve seen from the right is that Obama was arrogant. Can they make up their minds? They’ve spent the last year saying he isn’t arrogant enough, with all his weak apology touring around the world.
As a country, I feel we NEEDED to hear what he had to say last night. It was such a big boost for our optimism!
I will never get used to the pettiness in the crowd during the SOTUA. Watching those stone faced Republicans when Obama is conveying things that are so good for this country, while Democrats clap wildly. I’m as annoyed by it when it’s the other way around. Doesn’t that seem abundantly immature? You can see them all staring at the front couple of rows to take their cue over how they are to react.
I had a lot of favorite lines but the one about “I thought I’d get some applause for that one!” was priceless! Way to call them on their pettiness, sir!
I wish that we could get some traction on getting unemployment down. I feel strongly that political bickering and grandstanding in front of the media is the cause for the lack of progress. The ‘liberal media’ keeps letting teabagging hotheads get on the air and throw grenades that aren’t even based on fact. Focus on real news and not opinions or artful spinnery!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 28, 2010
at 8:56 AM
From all polls I have seen this morning our President hit it out of the park last night.
Can you imagine how successful the speech would have been had he been able to declare “we now have health care reform with a public option?” wowowowow
Pelosi, much to her credit, had it served up and ready to be served to the President tonight. Let’s give credit where credit is due and lay blame where it belongs. Right in the lap of Reid.
Shame on you Harry. Grow some grapes and make this happen! You owe it to us you owe it to the 30 MILLION people without access to affordable health care.
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By: lori on January 28, 2010
at 6:16 AM
President Obama’s speech tonight made
me want to stand right up and listen to
the “Star Spangled Banner”.
There…that did. 😉
PEACE ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on January 28, 2010
at 2:09 AM
ice storms in the midwest have downed thousands of utility poles and knocked out electricity on many of the sioux reservations in south dakota. water is out, and fuel is sparse. electricity has been out for 5 days and is expected to be out for up to 21 days more in some areas.
http://www.pathwaystospirit.org/start.html
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By: gramma rock on January 28, 2010
at 12:54 AM
I meant “sit up”–you know, like, pay attention to the people who expect you to represent them.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 28, 2010
at 12:54 AM
Outstanding address to the people of our country. He called everyone to task. Citizens, corporations, lobbyists, Congress, young, old, and on both sides of the aisle–I mean everybody. And that’s good. I like a President who works on bringing people to together. Being a former Senator means he knows how the beltway works. I sincerely believe he has told Congress to sit and take notice.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 28, 2010
at 12:52 AM
Hi Congenial Gang,
A resounding ABSOLUTELY to the comments above!!!!!!!
I thought Obama’s speech was Presidential, solid and realistic. Let’s all get behind him and get to work! Yes, we can make this a better country together when we try harder.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 28, 2010
at 12:28 AM
Yoo hoo, Helen…where are you? This doesn’t look like it’s your blog anymore. We miss you and hope you’re okay….
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By: texastrailerparktrash on January 27, 2010
at 11:11 PM
I very much like the idea of President Obama meeting monthly with both the Republican and Democratic caucuses, but I would go further, each office holder should have three of their constituents present. One should be unemployed, another facing bankruptcy, and the third unable to buy health insurance due to a preexisting condition, and of course this should be televised, government transparency at its best.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 27, 2010
at 11:03 PM
Ditto that Poolman
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By: jsri on January 27, 2010
at 9:54 PM
I hope so, too, Poolman.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 27, 2010
at 9:54 PM
I sure do like that guy. I hope he stays this tough for the rest of the year.
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By: Poolman on January 27, 2010
at 9:47 PM
darn right!
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By: Donna on January 27, 2010
at 9:39 PM
Yes we can!
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By: lori on January 27, 2010
at 9:27 PM
YES, WE CAN!!!!!
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By: OceanGypsi on January 27, 2010
at 9:22 PM
I’m with you President Obama!!! Now, let’s do it!!! Together!!!
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By: OceanGypsi on January 27, 2010
at 9:07 PM
Cheers my friends! I’m enjoying my president’s speech a lot.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 27, 2010
at 8:34 PM
Hi congenial gang and Buttons44,
When it comes to the T-partiers, let them do their thing. Does anyone remember the Texas billionaire, H. Ross Perot?
Buttons, would you like to jump in?
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 27, 2010
at 6:09 PM
“Like the rest of Wall Street, WellPoint – one of the nation’s largest insurers, with 14 state Blue Cross brands in its portfolio – is having a banner year.”
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By: Poolman on January 27, 2010
at 5:46 PM
Yeah! As we all are sometimes, but when it’s called for or good for a laugh, why not?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 27, 2010
at 4:13 PM
I’m an asshole.
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By: Anonymous on January 27, 2010
at 4:04 PM
I’m sure Craig, James and UAW will scoop up a fistful or two.
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By: Anonymous on January 27, 2010
at 4:01 PM
Sarah Palin’s Tea Party Dinner Disaster
Unsold tickets, activists demanding refunds—will Palin wind up addressing a half-empty room at the Tea Party convention?
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on January 27, 2010
at 3:30 PM
we progressives have a sense of humor… this was cute.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/26/state-of-the-union-drinki_n_436932.html
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By: lori on January 27, 2010
at 3:13 PM
All I need UAW are my eyes and my brain to tell me that young man couldn’t talk any young woman in to working for him as a hooker. Look at him, is there any doubt in your mind, that his prom date was his cousin?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 27, 2010
at 2:20 PM
no ones puppet….
what flavor of kool-aid do you drink….
talk about a spinning a line of….
juneau…
yes pimps belong in jail and so do tax cheats….Daschel,Emanual,etc.
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By: uawtradesman on January 27, 2010
at 1:54 PM
after reading lobo’s Patterico blog post brings me back to my wish that all news media would beg away from the “it has been leaked” “rumored that”, etc news. I realize that everyone is trying to scoop everyonelse in 24/7/365 news today. But oh how I wish they would all go back to finding at least 3 separate source before they air the “news/leak/rumor”???!! I prefer facts (instead of leaks/rumor) on the news programs. Or maybe we have to find a new word for what for generations has been known as “the news”
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By: reader on January 27, 2010
at 1:34 PM
I would rather believe this attention needing soul was on another epic adventure to expose suspected liberal incompetence. By trying to show how the phone was never answered in Senator Landrieu”s office and since there were complaints existing as to such. I don’t see this guy as into criminal behavior as much as just a manipulator trying to paint a picture of misconduct and garner kudos. He was emboldened by the right after his last efforts were greatly rewarded and praised. He may have felt somewhat invincible. Maybe some jail time would alter his perspective, though I think he will skate, based on his ethnicity and connections.
As with the ACORN videos, this stuff would be tweaked and slanted with added effects to make a mountain out of a molehill. This has the effect of energizing a group ravenous for justification of their existing fears and desired intended heartfelt actions. It only takes a little spark in a dry forest to ignite the whole hillside. These are not reasoned folks with peace in their hearts and souls full of spiritual oil. These are the silver pitchfork crowd taking back their land. Their country. My, me, mine. Them folks. For god and country, get a rope! Don’t ask me where that comes from. It isn’t constitutional or Christian, but they believe it’s supposedly both.
With every human involved activity, there will be those that cheat. We can find that in every institution historical and existing. Exposing corruption is noble and commendable, for sure. But one should not cheat or bear false witness regarding others while trying to bring evil to light.
Me, I’m just a steward of all this stuff. It belongs to the earth and the Creator. When my flesh gives out, that will stay here too. Dust to dust. Yep, just passing through. A mere blip on the eternal thread. Making my demo tape – a kind of multimedia DVD recorded in the library of history of mankind. Recording as we speak… 😉
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By: Poolman on January 27, 2010
at 1:07 PM
It occurs to me, that young man is going to want some liberals on his jury to listen to all of the evidence before coming to a verdict.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 27, 2010
at 12:39 PM
Aside from McCain being born with ye old silver spoon in his mouth, (if it weren’t for his father and grandfather he would have been kicked out of the military long before heading to Vietnam) the way his wife was always walking 5 paces behind him or always standing behind him really irked me, like she was his little geisha. And then the Palin thing of course. You know the “lets just put up any old vagina and that will get the women voters” idea. He is a creepy old man.
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By: Hillbilly on January 27, 2010
at 12:24 PM
A corporation is running for political Office in Maryland. Since they have personhood, they should logically be able to hold office.
UAW: ha, ha, ha – such a jokester. (By the way, Pimps belong in jail, but then, so do people who pose as telephone repairmen to tap phones.)
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By: JuneauJoe on January 27, 2010
at 12:02 PM
“parents” is the missing word, but you all knew that right?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 27, 2010
at 11:52 AM
UAW, have you seen pictures of James O’Keefe in his pimp costume? Were you fooled into think he was a pimp? Come on now, it is obvious that he looked like a naïve twerp. the folks at ACORN were just playing along with the joke. Yesterday, I saw a young man in a tight pair of jeans, the waistband right under his butt cheeks, sure he wanted to look like a hood, but no reasonable person bought his act. Think about it, a blind eight-five pound elderly woman with one arm in a sling using a walker could have outrun him. Use your brain UAW, quit being just another lemming.
Course if I was the mother of that teenaged want-to-be, I’d hitch those blue jeans up to some suspenders looped over his ears, and I’d show up at his school several times a day to make sure they stayed that way, and that my kid could do nothing but crouch over his books and study. Too bad James O’Keefe’s didn’t put the same emphasis on his education.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 27, 2010
at 11:49 AM
Reader–you are correct. UAW is engaging in the hyperbole that is normally employed by Beck and Hannity in substitution for accurately stating facts.
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By: Donna on January 27, 2010
at 11:03 AM
I don’t get the feeling that anyone here said yea or nay about ACORN – we were just saying those who live in glass houses should not throw stones…. Also please clarify for me I didn’t think they were setting up prostition rings just how they could beat income tax??? I could be wrong about that – but that seems to be the way I remember the short video clip I saw.
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By: reader on January 27, 2010
at 11:02 AM
And Delurker–I understood exactly what you meant, as would anyone who was not looking to, in the vernacular, stir the turd.
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By: Donna on January 27, 2010
at 11:02 AM
I think too much has been read into my comments about McCain.
I wasn’t talking about how he moves, I was talking more about how creepy it is to watch his face when he’s listening and when he responds to questions. He swallows and squirms. It’s a distinct change from his campaign persona. He looks extraordinarily uncomfortable, and I don’t mean physically. It’s so exaggerated that if he were an actor I’d say he was trying too hard to convey discomfort.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 27, 2010
at 10:51 AM
juneaujoe and greytdog….
explain to me again how great it is that Acorn is in the business of helping to set up prostitution rings
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By: uawtradesman on January 27, 2010
at 10:47 AM
My personal view is that one can certainly feel compassion to the extent someone has gone through a dreadful experience. However, tha passion is tempered when that person (a) enjoys advantages that are not available to others who were similarly traumatized or (b) exploits his past trauma. Further, to the extent that such traumatic experiences cause permanent mental and/or physical harm, the person may well not be suited for certain positions, including public ones.
Apart from that, I don’t believe that the wounds or mistreatment that one might suffer excuses a lack of integrity. Nor does it justify inappropriate behavior.
When it comes to McCain, he may have engaged in acts which were heroic. His motivations are unknowable. However, he also engaged in acts which were stupid, dishonest, cruel, and reckless. I decline to ignore the less admirable parts of the man.
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By: Donna on January 27, 2010
at 10:40 AM
I’m sure that Patterico is hated here, if you even know who he is – but here’s an interesting article on the allegations against James O’Keefe.
http://patterico.com/2010/01/27/washington-post-writer-makes-assumptions-about-okeefe-that-the-facts-dont-cash-again/
Look back a few posts for his take on the Ellie Light situation. Interesting as well.
Patterico is a controversial figure to be sure, but he backs up his harangues, insofar as as his backups can be trusted.
It’s getting awfully hard to wade through the online rubble to get to the truth. Not to mention time consuming. I know my trust is shattered. The past 9 years (sorry, but it’s business as usual in Washington this year, IMO) has seen to that.
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By: Lobo on January 27, 2010
at 10:21 AM
Vietnam was a stupid war, which we had no chance of winning.
Now, we need to look at Afghanistan. Bin Laden made a goal to protracted war which wastes money and US lives. Bin Laden may have gotten his wish.
Here is a comparison of Vietnam and Afghanistan.
http://www.brasschecktv.com/page/790.html
Are we wasting lives and money in an war which we cannot win in Afghanistan? I think so.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 27, 2010
at 10:21 AM
Since John McCain is senator from my state, I have gone through different opinions about him over the years. Yes he was abused in Vietnam and that is difficult to relate to if you have never experienced anything similar. But there is much more to McCain’s story. If there was anything noble about him, it has since been tarnished and lost, IMO.
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By: Poolman on January 27, 2010
at 10:01 AM
31 House Republicans Supported Resolution Honoring Alleged Felon James O’Keefe | Media Matters Action Network http://bit.ly/biIVev
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By: Greytdog on January 27, 2010
at 9:56 AM
Yeah McCain was a POW. Gee, guess what – he wasn’t the only one. But he certainly has made a career out of being a POW, hasn’t he?
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By: Greytdog on January 27, 2010
at 9:52 AM
I have to admit chuckling heartily when I heard that James O’Keefe, the “pimp” who “busted” ACORN was really busted for attempting to illegally wiretap a federal official’s phone. BWAHAHAHAHA. sigh. I needed that.
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By: Greytdog on January 27, 2010
at 9:51 AM
I just saw John McCain on GMA. Is he getting creepier? Not what he says, but how he says it and his mannerisms.
By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 26, 2010
at 6:15 AM
Yes, Delurker–he is getting creepier. No question about it.
By: Donna on January 26, 2010
at 6:54 AM
Thanks, Donna, for affirming what I was seeing with McCain. He’s sort of jerky and awkward and shifty like he’s lying. And creepy! I can’t quite figure it out.
WELL DONNA..PERHAPS YOU AND YOUR LIBERAL CRONIES SHOULD REVIEW THE HISTORY OF HOW MCCAIN WAS CAPTURED AND HELD PRISONER FROM 68 TO 1973.
THEN AND ONLY THEN WOULD YOU REALIZE WHY HE WALKS AND HOLDS HIMSELF THE WAY HE DOES. AND YOU HAVE THE “HUTZPAH” TO MAKE COMMENTS ABOUT HIS GAIT. I TOOK THE LIBERTIES OF COPYING THIS FOR YOUR YOU.
“I regained consciousness just before I landed by parachute in a lake right in the center of Hanoi, one they called the Western Lake. My helmet and my oxygen mask had been blown off.”
“McCain’s battered body sank 15 feet to the bottom of the muddy lake. He managed to kick his way to the surface with his one good leg, but his equipment dragged him back down. Finally, as he went down for a third time, McCain used his teeth to inflate his life preserver and bobbed to the surface.
North Vietnamese pulled McCain from the lake, stripping off his clothes. McCain felt a twinge in his right knee and was horrified to see his leg bent at a 90-degree angle.
“My God, my leg,” McCain said.
A man slammed a rifle butt down on McCain’s right shoulder, shattering it. Others bayoneted him in the foot and groin.
Eventually, he was thrown onto a truck and taken to Hanoi’s main prison.
Soon, McCain was told that a Frenchman wanted to talk to him and would take a message back to McCain’s family.
Before the meeting, the North Vietnamese tried to set McCain’s shattered right arm. Without anesthetic, a doctor using a fluoroscope worked on the arm for 90 minutes, with McCain screaming in pain
. The arm had two floating bones, and the doctor could not set it properly.
Finally, the doctor gave up and wrapped a cast around McCain from his neck to his waist and down his right arm to his wrist.
They moved McCain to a new room with clean white sheets. Soon afterward, a North Vietnamese man known as “The Cat” arrived. He was the commander of all prison camps in Hanoi.
The North Vietnamese operated on his knee, accidentally cutting the ligaments on one side. Throughout his stay as a POW, McCain could never walk right. Among his fellow POWs, he earned the nickname “Crip.”
Before long, McCain would find himself tied to a stool, and the guards would literally beat him into confessing that he was a “black criminal” and an “air pirate.”
In May 1969, the North Vietnamese asked McCain to write a letter to U.S. pilots asking them not to fly over North Vietnam. When he refused, they made him stand for hours and hours.
When McCain tired and sat down, a guard stomped on his injured leg. McCain was back on crutches for the next 18 months.
In March, McCain joined a group of prisoners who were put onto trucks and driven to Gia Lam Airport in Hanoi. McCain said he didn’t believe he was leaving until he actually spoke with an American in uniform.
It was the best day of his life.”
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By: craigΔ on January 27, 2010
at 9:27 AM
I certainly hope so too, I know its selfish but I need a dose of her common sense and humor. Living in the great state of paranoia, rural Georgia, I sometimes feel that I am all alone. So when I need a little boost I come here or watch the ‘”Colbert Report”.
Maybe Matthew will update us soon.
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By: Hillbilly on January 27, 2010
at 9:23 AM
Hillbilly: There has just been no new post and no other news. We sure do hope a new post comes soon. I hope Margaret and Helen and their families are well.
A comparison of Afghanistan and Vietnam.
http://www.brasschecktv.com/page/790.html
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By: JuneauJoe on January 27, 2010
at 8:05 AM
Someone help? I’ve been off the grid for a while and am wondering if I missed something about Margaret? Is her husband still ill?
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By: Hillbilly on January 27, 2010
at 6:49 AM
Hi Congenial Gang, Grandma Katie, Bruddah Juneau Joe and Poolman,
Poolman, yep! the angry white men piece is priceless. I’ve met a few over the years. Fortunately, not many.
Grandma Katie, I’m not giving away my ‘Traps for Trolls’ just yet. No telling when a new crop will show up. Let’s just say, they run along the lines of give’em enough rope and they will invariably hang themselves.
Also for you, Bruddah Joe, my copy of Chalmers Johnsons’ ‘Nemesis’ from Amazon came. (Total cost of a new paperback, including shipping and handling was, 15 bucks and change.) I tried to scan a page of the reference notes to put up here. But the print was so fine it’s unreadable. I don’t know how to blow it up. (Technology challenged, you know.)
I decided to send the reference notes to both of you here at M&H instead of by e mail. This way, if anyone wants to challenge the veracity of what you write, they can look ’em up themselves! So there!
I may copy off a few by hand to get you started when I get a little time. But I’ll have to be soooooo careful. You know how cranky the internet gets when the addresses are not EXACTLY correct. Sheesh!
Grandma Katie, I’m thinking, just how extensive the British Empire was at its zenith. I think it mostly started out with trade and to get the resources, (LIKE OIL?) that their little island needed and didn’t have. But it was in competition with most of the monarchies of Europe until the defeat of the Spanish Armada. From then on, it was RULE BRITAINIA! Yeah, they screwed the Irish big time for CENTURIES! All in the name of religion or whatever. It always is. The REAL reasons were power and $$$$$$$ though. Politics may always be local, but the ramifications wind up being national or internationa in scope. Especially in taxes and conscription of their young men to go fight those wars.
The big problems arise with all empires on how to hang onto all their ‘colonies’. The only way is militarily. That really drained the English people with war after war after war, (except for the monarchy and upper classes that reaped all the economic benefits. Does that ring any bells?)
You can expand on any of this little synopsis. I’m doing it off the top of my head. And we all know, that is not the most reliable source!
Gotta go bandage up my fingers and grind out a few more Valentine Guys. I’m REALLY getting fed up with those little f—ers.
Aloha 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 26, 2010
at 9:24 PM
I hope you girls are ok, I was just telling my husband that you haven’t blogged for a while. Be Well
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By: carlae on January 26, 2010
at 8:45 PM
looking for a good price on books check out abebooks.com
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By: reader on January 26, 2010
at 8:36 PM
Poolman – love that about angry white men!!
Buttons44 – hope you wander up this way one of these days. Would love to see you in person.
Jean – you’re right about more than 2 or 3 syllables, I had to quit using
them back in high school. Clue us in on the traps you set sometime.
Now exactly what info are you looking for. Have found lots the very first attempt on the net. However, my Iriish blood began to boil very quickly!! One book seems to have a lot of references from it.
Depending on what you are looking for, I may order it from half.com
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By: Grandma Katie on January 26, 2010
at 7:40 PM
gravatar! That’s it! Thanks! 🙂
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By: Imaginista on January 26, 2010
at 5:53 PM
Oops!
Imaginista, just try Gravatar.com. Maybe that will work.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 26, 2010
at 5:29 PM
Hi Congenial Gans and Imaginista,
Glad to have you back. It’s been a while and you have been missed.
This link may help you with your avatar. Maybe not. I’m not too swift with this computer stuff.
http://en.gravatar.com/site/terms-of-service
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 26, 2010
at 5:16 PM
imaginista, I change/post my avatar through wordpress.com
is that what you are looking for?
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By: lori on January 26, 2010
at 4:58 PM
The anti – ACORN documentary maker arrested for wire tapping… caught in the act….
http://crooksandliars.com/susie-madrak/speak-devil-acorn-documentary-maker-c
What are the right wing nuts going to say about this one?
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By: JuneauJoe on January 26, 2010
at 4:51 PM
You just made me snort, Imaginista! I will have to use that line somewhere!
Good to see you around!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 26, 2010
at 4:09 PM
ACORN: I remember: Take a non issue and blow it up.
They (GOP) want to totally ignore the stolen votes with Diebold machines in 2000 or 2004 in Florida or Ohio.
The Republicans sure are good at bitching. The national media open up the airwaves to them too, which I find unbelievable.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 26, 2010
at 4:05 PM
One more question… why are the trolls being fed? Their asses are getting as fat as their heads!
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By: Imaginista on January 26, 2010
at 3:29 PM
Hey all, almost 1600 coments later, no new post from Helen. I hope all is well.
Anyway, quick question – I lost the link and information to register for an avatar picture to use when commenting on various websites. Can someone please repost that?
Thanks!
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By: Imaginista on January 26, 2010
at 3:20 PM
JuneauJoe — can anyone remember all the fuss the GOP made about ACORN and Dem’s?????
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By: reader on January 26, 2010
at 2:51 PM
OMG, JuneauJoe! No wonder people don’t trust the census when stunts like that get pulled! I guess I’m naive – I wouldn’t have guessed they’d pull something like this, and now I’m reading that it’s not the first time!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 26, 2010
at 2:13 PM
This is cute: The GOP send out a Census type document asking for money and taking a very biased survey. It looks like it is an official Census document.
http://crooksandliars.com/nicole-belle/gop-sends-out-fundraising-letter-look
Just your usual deception….
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By: JuneauJoe on January 26, 2010
at 12:23 PM
Oh Helen and Margaret where are you — things seem to be getting personal here. Too many attachs on the people visiting the porch.
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By: reader on January 26, 2010
at 10:40 AM
Delurker: The man sold his soul and whatever integrity he may have had to try to become president. And it didn’t work. From all appearances, he’s never been a particularly admirable person and the ugliness is showing.
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By: Donna on January 26, 2010
at 8:56 AM
Poolman, great pie!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 26, 2010
at 8:25 AM
Oh my stars, there is a pro healthcare reform rally near me today! I’m sure there have been others but those aren’t the ones we hear about on the news. Darn liberal media and their one-sided coverage. 😛
Thanks, Donna, for affirming what I was seeing with McCain. He’s sort of jerky and awkward and shifty like he’s lying. And creepy! I can’t quite figure it out.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 26, 2010
at 8:21 AM
Yes, Delurker–he is getting creepier. No question about it.
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By: Donna on January 26, 2010
at 6:54 AM
I just saw John McCain on GMA. Is he getting creepier? Not what he says, but how he says it and his mannerisms.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 26, 2010
at 6:15 AM
Peace Have a Piece of Pie 😀
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By: Poolman on January 25, 2010
at 11:32 PM
I taste vomit!!!!!!!!!!
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 25, 2010
at 11:02 PM
…OFSNAO regarding deerlight craig…Rantng now , guess he fiugres “nicely” regarding the jewish producers/writers etc about fictionalizments on tv that as far as he considers is slanted left to incite viewers opinion of such as t-baggers toting their guns and etc (uh, think that is a bit of rip from various news reporting sources …are claiming those incidents did NOT occur craig ? they, those so doing those jaw droppables self admitted their proclivities and alligences ON CAMERA and can indeed be ggogled if you care to catch their clips…) Writers of various “backgrounds” rip from the various reportings and fictionalize them –Fox news does it regularly and NO, just because they state their verson of a fact does NOT equate to an ACTUAL FACT , hence all the viewers viewing do NOT slurp that koolaid attitude you seem so enbroiled in accepting for yourself . Bushie himself at a fund raiser in 2001 Spring stated “you can fool SOME of te people ALL of the time and those are the ones you concentrate on” (google it , was reported various sources, believe was APril of 2001, and NO not going to research it out for you !!) So conclusionality is Craig you have indeed been concentrated upon , and lived life into Bushies acknowledgement of the way things go for some but do bother to note so as NOT to remain totally clueless…does not work/wonk upon all for they do bother to do research fact checking is rather orutine these days especially !! Add another notation, YOUR estimation of NBC is , lets put it this way “interestingly enlightening” as to where your mindsettings reside as well.
Now lets move to your note on R/Arthritis…true, is considered an auto immune deseas but weight NO FACTOR ? HARDLY !!! Extra poundage on someone who suffers the RA dis-easement can confirm differently and so can the specialists in the field and remains a critical factoring in treatment to help alleviate the pains/etc !!
(may be wrong, would have to re read for at one point took that you spouted being in the medical field..or perhaps was your wife…whatever, you suffering an arrogant misconception of which you spout as if certain of that notion that weight has NO bearing on RA and you are indeed DEAD WRONG !!!
This bit “From a posting on Feb 2005
NBC…Bias on Law & Order? Never!
“I see I’m not the only one to immediately pick up on last night’s “Bill O’Reilly,” “ripped from the headlines” episode of Law & Order.
I immediately said to my husband when it started that they were playing off of ….” blah, blah, blah…., uh from a posting in Feb of 2005 and the said to “my husband”…lke say whatters and whatever….and is this by chance Craigs WIFEY driveling in or what ? Despite something from FIVE YEARS ago and KNOW your memory to date has NOT shwn such capability in factuals, so evidently you picking it up somewhere , perhaps a more conservative blogesphere or whatever and is like a whatever and your choice but do not expect others here or similar to take hold and run with it for any worthwhile for it is what it is and not much at that !
Will say got it about right when saying O’Riley and Hanniety come off as same ol’ crappola sorties, each has own style but same theme runs amuck by them and their counter parts there at Fox. Surprised you mentioned Air AMerica, without at least a cheer for its demise but another one of those “wahteverings”….You definitely come off as haven drunk yourself totally skunked by the righteous right folks and hey , that IS your perogative and free choce and fully entitled to…Just get over the fact that ALL DO NOT SO SUBSCRIBE nor accept !!
Your complain/whine often that you see so much hate/etc emnating from the left, you see no cnetering or any that willing to wonk/work together …rarely hear you list the GOP positions…or ACCOMPLISHMENTS , it comes off desengenuous at best when you whine and truly malign a great many and remain so truly clueless. Have others who whine too , from both “sides”, but have those that truly DISCUSS the options and use FACTS , and rather unbiasly…you seem lacking in that ability/capability and so come off as blindeyed quite often. Perhaps you need to take a bit of time , perhaps review…think many here have points of view, share them but do listen up to others as well, sometimes still disagreeing with THE thought but able to discuss. True , does seem to be leaning far more progressively inclined ..but most pen as well , and willing to listen , discuss and many valid points are made in the grouping that gathers but perhaps too, if reviewing the blog , you detect too far left or too progressively inclined perhaps is just not where you should waste YOUR time for lets face it, rarely do you change minds and but reaffirm WHY minds will not easily change to your perspectivity jsut by being Y-O-U –NOT trying to be rude , just stating an observation from your interaction hereabouts. You get rude when YOU choose, you get a response and then you WHINE incessantly as if being totally victimized and therefore figure your concepts are right and others are so wrong and blah, blah, blah…HOW can you remain SOoooooooooooooooo CLUELESS ? Is a bit of a mystery but hey, keep up your exampling as it serves to reinforce the impression that you leave lingering and why it serves to bolster resolve and be thankful to NOT be you !!!
This ditty from you ”
It’s annoying, but on the other hand, ignorance is the biggest chink in their liberal armour. I used to be a big liberal myself, until I actually started researching things.” is true ROLL ON THE FLOOR , thanks, needed a good chuckle to end the day with !!
( and think murdoichs coirporation is NOT US but established elsewhere which even if HE is US citizen does not give him the right for his CORPORATION to contribute…and Randolph if a dem was of an era of differt dems, they are found as very blue dogs or goper sorts , Hearst was more in league of robber barons …)
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By: Buttons44 on January 25, 2010
at 11:01 PM
no one’s puppetΔ
Is it not weird that your sign and mine consist almost of a positive and negative plates representing us on this blog.
Kinda like soul mates.
Ying & Yang
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By: craigΔ on January 25, 2010
at 10:10 PM
GrandMA Katie & DONNA and thew rest.
Goodness knows I expected the response I got.
As soon as I used the Jewish term I knew
Donna and her defenders would be out in short order.
I actually dated a Jew in August 73….right before “the surprise attack war”. She wanted to get married and demanded I stop seeing my girl friend,now wife..after only six weeks of dating.
Met her family spent the weekend at her parents in Dallas and they gave me a copy of the history holocaust as if I had never heard of it or read about it for my nights enjoyment.
Did learn one thing. The holocaust was about more than six million Jews. It also included
another 7 million plus undesirables, such as gypsies,species of subhuman peoples from occupied lands and the sick and mentally infirm.
So the Jews..While I support their right to have a sovereign country…they should and do recognize they were just a sum of the millions killed.
Enough of the history lesson. I’m sure Auntie Kate,Jean and her copied rants as well as others will waft over these lines for the next few hours.
Like spraying for cockroaches…gosh do they run in the dark.
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By: craigΔ on January 25, 2010
at 10:02 PM
Oops! Sorry. Apology in order in the interest of accuracy. I should have Googled Rupert Murdoch and William Randoplh Hearst first and then posted.
Rupert Murdoch was Australian but is now a U. S. Citizen. Hearst was a Democrat and may have had a few good qualities, but he more or less invented sensational ‘yellow journalism’.
Off to Valentine Guys in earnest until finished, bloody fingers notwithstanding.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 25, 2010
at 9:47 PM
Grandma Katie–thank you for riding to defend my and JJ’s honor. I appreciate it and am sure he does as well.
Poolman–great article. Doesn’t explain the dynamic of “I’m here!” “Now you are saying I’m not very smart.” “Now you say I”m not funny.” “Now you say I”m not interesting.” “Hi–I’m back!” Well, I understand that on the ironically named Craig’s List, there are personal ads for people who like to be abused….perhaps the mosquito who buzzes around here would do better coming out and looking for someone who will give him an actual swirlie.
And Delurker–thanks for the laugh!
Night all! Wishing you pie aplenty.
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By: Donna on January 25, 2010
at 9:16 PM
Hi Congenial gang,
Oooooo! This is scary if true. Can anyone confirm? The new Supreme Court Decision does NOT preclude FOREIGN campaign contributions. Two examples: Citgo, (owned by Venezuela, mouth piece of Hugo Chavez). I believe that Fox News is owned by Rupert Murdock, a multi-billionaire from New Zeland.
Does anybody remember the newspaper empire of Randolph Hearst? If not, Google him. I’m afraid this is the beginning of a nasty trend. Even McCain exhibited some misgivings this morning on CNN.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 25, 2010
at 9:15 PM
Anatomy of an Angry White Man: Why Men Act like Jerks Online
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By: Poolman on January 25, 2010
at 9:10 PM
Donna – I know I broke my own resolution didn’t I? first of hi posts I huave read in awhile, and it is the last.Just coulldn’t let the attacks on you and JJ go by. AS I said , he is an angry olld white man and he lost.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 25, 2010
at 8:42 PM
LOL, Donna. Glad you didn’t take that personally. I just couldn’t resist. I even thought of calling you a nickname that was a combo of your name and what I said you did… then decided I’d leave the low hanging fruit for someone else to grab.
I’m feeling a little wicked tonight, LOL! 😀
And no, I wouldn’t keep showing up after the first time or two. I certainly wouldn’t give it months!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 25, 2010
at 8:41 PM
Hi Congenial gang, Grandma Katie and Sistah Donna,
If eitiher of you wants to get through to a particular troll, you really should limit your vocabulary. Anything beyond two or three syllables is completely over his head.
However, so far, I have set two traps for him, and he blindly walked right into them to show his true colors. If he gets too obnoxious, I’ll set a couple more.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 25, 2010
at 8:41 PM
damn, delurker! You’re right. C’est la vie.
Hey–would you keep showing up somewhere that people thought (and told you) that you were not very bright, not very interesting, and not at all funny? Now I am not thinking of anyone in particular….:)
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By: Donna on January 25, 2010
at 8:15 PM
Hi Jean, I guess I just don’t think your plan to give perspective voters the big picture is going to work, it all comes down to “all politics being local,” for the majority of voters. I suspect we can all do more good by volunteering our time to our own Congressional candidates, than giving a crash course in world civilizations, however if some of you think you can influence voting patterns this way I comment and support you in your efforts.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 25, 2010
at 8:07 PM
Oh Donna… you chastised Grandma Katie and what did you do? You doubled down!
😀
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 25, 2010
at 8:04 PM
Dear Grandma Katie–now here I’ve been advocating WWGKD and you go and respond to the troll!
Quite seriously, this is about nothing but a person who wants attention. He comes back to try to get it. If he’s acknowledged in any way, good or bad, he’s getting what he wants: some indication that he exists. And he will keep coming back as long as anyone here gives him one whiff of attention.
This has nothing to do with the views of the hosts, the guests, or anything else. If he truly found this blog distasteful, he wouldn’t spend further time on it (as I have chosen not to go to Politico–not worth my time or energy). This has nothing to do with any sort of exchange of viewpoints or attempt to be educated or to educate. Purely and simply, this is the equivalent of the bratty kid defacing a building with graffiti–it makes him feel like he’s actually been somewhere and done something. And this is despite that fact that spraypainting something like “F. You” proves nothing more than a towering lack of originality.
Craig doubtless thought it would provoke a response from me to use the “liberal/Jewish” canard. Nope–he’s meaningless. Ditto the nonsense about scurrying cockroaches. Big yawn–that’s the best he can do? Pretty lacking, wouldn’t you say?
I don’t intend to respond further and I hope that others do likewise. He’s proved he’s a complete zero and when he appears, he simply reinforces that. So let him talk to himself.
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By: Donna on January 25, 2010
at 7:06 PM
Gee. I thought this was Margaret and Helen’s blog. Must have been mistaken…
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By: texastrailerparktrash on January 25, 2010
at 6:43 PM
Craig – since I read your diatribes against JunneauJoeo & Donna I huave been fuming. How dare you cast such hateful aspersions on people you only know by what they or what y ounk th ey mean. I picture you as an angry old white man whose party LOST in the last election, you LOST the Civil war. STOP whining and grow up. If this site is so distasteful to you wh y do you keep coming back? I have ckecked a few ot her blogs and find the comparision between this one and some of the others quite glaring as to composition and thought. You have told us nothing about yourself other than spending a few hours of time with school
children but leaving many hours of nothing time. AS of now if I had children in your presence, I would most likely yank them out. BTW learn the difference betweem your and you’re.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 25, 2010
at 6:19 PM
Hi Congenial Gang and no one’s puppetΔ,
No, I’m much too old to get into the hassles of the publishing world. Beside, Chalmers Johnson and many others are way, way ahead of me in their efforts. My speed in research is to just put it out there and if anyone wants to read it, find; If not, that’s fine too.
Would you like to join in? If you have the time, I think you could make some excellent contributions. Grandma Katie took the British Empire. When it comes to the sad progression of American Democracy into a MIlitary Monarchy or Dictarorship, there are several other related topics open. How about the Roman Empire or Reagan’s “Star Wars” ambitions to take the expansive (and VERY EXPENSIVE) battlefield into outer space. The amount of TAXPAYER DOLLARS that went into that, and still is for all I know, is staggering. Exactly like pounding sand down a rat hole.
Aloha! 🙂
P. S. the Valentine Guys beckon.
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 25, 2010
at 5:11 PM
From a posting on Feb 2005
NBC…Bias on Law & Order? Never!
“I see I’m not the only one to immediately pick up on last night’s “Bill O’Reilly,” “ripped from the headlines” episode of Law & Order.
I immediately said to my husband when it started that they were playing off of the Bill O’Reilly story. The show began with O’Reilly’s character, Larry Shea spouting off some typical over the top right wing opinions, and answering a woman’s question about how to protect children from bad influences on TV and the internet with “well, you can start by buying my book.” Then some bookstore employees talk derisively about the contrast between his family values and his sexual harassment suit, as well as the fact that even though they live in a blue state, there are still plenty of idiots buying his book. My husband said, “That can’t be O’Reilly because his opinions are nothing like that.”
Ha! Right. To liberals, anyone on a radio station other than NPR or Air America thinks exactly like that. Especially if they are also on the Fox News channel. Nevermind that, for instance, Bill O’Reilly and Shawn Hannity have very different views, it’s all the same right wing crap to them.
Of course I have never found the fact-checking of Law & Order to be particularly good. I got very annoyed during the last season of Law & Order: CI when an overweight woman mentioned that she had rheumatoid arthritis in her knees “you know, because of my weight.” Nevermind the fact that rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that mostly affects the hands and feet and has little or nothing to do with weight, whereas OSTEOarthritis is caused by the wearing away of joint cushioning and is usually worsened by weight. Two minutes on the internet would have fixed that one.
I wouldn’t imagine they’d be any more thorough in this case.
This is hardly the first time a “ripped from the headlines” episode has completely misrepresented a conservative person or idea.
There was that one where a person who wrote books on getting back to biblical ideals in marriage murdered his daughter in law because she wanted to get a divorce from his son. Then there was the one about the outspoken critic of homosexuality that had a gay son who was so very depressed. But the one that really annoyed me was where they took that story that came out last year about the family that had been starving their children and made it into a horrifying glimpse into the dangers of homeschooling.
Law & Order has always done controversial episodes like this, but they used to have more believable discussion between the officers and prosecutors that came pretty close to fairly debating the issue. Lately they barely even seem to try.
There were only a few pathetic opinions offered up in defense of the Shea character, and they were both completely shot down. It’s too bad, too, because it’s always been my favorite show.
This just goes to show the fact that a lot of people really don’t know anything about what conservative ideals are really about or what conservative people are really like.
It’s annoying, but on the other hand, ignorance is the biggest chink in their liberal armour. I used to be a big liberal myself, until I actually started researching things.”
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By: craigΔ on January 25, 2010
at 5:09 PM
NBC is on the Liberal/ Jewish gravy train.
Take a look at the writers and their producers and then look at the correlation. No secret here.
If you take a look at the NBC produced “Law N Order” series and their offshoots such as SVU Special Victims Units etc…
and watch the shows they are liberally
biased as to current negative right wing views and news.
The story lines although being stated at the beginning of each show are not to be construed as being replicas of current or past news events, is anything but. They have depicted T-Partiers with guns and other issues to stir up the sub-conscious….and hopefully rally the left or left of middle constituents.
Hopefully with a few more elections like last week and a couple of more bodies to fall from grace AKA Edwards, then perhaps the light will finally shine and watch the cockroaches scurry this November.
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By: craigΔ on January 25, 2010
at 5:01 PM
Hi Congenial Gang and Bruddah Juneau Joe,
We who have not learned the lessons of the History of Civilization are doomed to repeat the same mistakes. We might as well crawl back into our caves with the Hunters and Gatherers and eat raw meat.
The laughable criticisms and condemnations of a troll or two are ringing endorsements!!!! How does it go, rolling on the floor LMAO!
Those who can do. Those who can’t, sit back on the sidelines and throw brick bats.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 25, 2010
at 4:52 PM
deerlighted Craig, obviously you yourself have a bottomless voided pit of a mind that gets filled to the over brimmed level and thensome in regards to so very, VERY much…and true gbo, is YOUR consideration space is wasted from others inputtings and admnistion to JUST google it as if non fallable or whatever …bets are you link specifically to certain cavities that offer up your repetitionaries spiled here abouts , often quite speilled contemptuously thou you whine and whimper rather endlessly and repetitively that OTHERS are the whiners and whimperers and wrought out ranted hatefullnessings highlighting your state of mindsettings which other DO INDEED find pitful and some TRY pity but patience does indeed wear thin and T-H-E-N-S-O-M-E…just advising and NO , not really trying to shut you up, even if you fail to notice others do indeed allow divergencies of opinions but sans truly the hateful spitefuls until the patience HAS indeed worn thin and then retorted to in kind…Something a good many expect and want from the whimpedassed dems that are in elected positions to represent US for the greater common good of all and btw, that does include even you and similar ilkings who would have indeed a shot AT the greater common good even if you attempt to proclaim just out to get in YOUR pockets or infringe on YOUR rights and the many similar etc;s tat could indeed be cited…YOU come across as a blatant blindeyed whackout fool more often than you obviously realize IN THE REAL WORLD where most are NOT drinking koolaid but addressing the concerns held by a goodly TRUE MAJORITY !! It is tired repetitionaries from you , but does serve a purpose for we DO realize such as you do exist but recognized as well and folks are indeed mad as all helle and thensome , rather fed up to boiot and willing to even suggest a booting or two or three IS proper !! Your attempt to dig , to incite or whatever is far more scrollable than you realize and not changing minds except perhaps serve to energize resolve to whipass back and up and out the nonsense makers !! Don’t bother getting a clue, doubt you could actually handly the truthmaticals abounding , so you are truly a designated w-h-a-t-e-v-e-r-i-n-g , more than you capable of realizing so are one SoBeIt’s as most will indeed keep on keeping on and make sincere effort to move forward and UP rather than just accept such as what you expound as if a given let alone credible !!! BTW, that IS laughter, sardonic thou it may indeed be you hear in the background at your insiped gistings !!!
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By: Buttons44 on January 25, 2010
at 4:44 PM
Cuckoo atchoo. I sure hope Helen is okay. I am looking forward to a new post. I don’t think we have ever gone this long. This one takes so long to load! Anyway, the right is feeling froggy now that Scott Brown got elected. I think it was a good wakeup call to dems to get back to the will of the people and out of the pockets of corporate America.
UAW, this site’s for you. I get somewhat tired of KO and even RM sometimes, but they got more integrity than many of the others. They actually are listed as political commentors, and not journalists. As far as a bias in the media, it is not primarily liberal anymore. With corporations owning the bulk of the news sources, true journalism has been replaced with entertainment to boost ratings and profit – the motivator for these networks and their shareholders. That is one reason that the internet is becoming the primary source for a more honest and well-rounded view of the news.
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By: Poolman on January 25, 2010
at 4:29 PM
^^^ cuckoo, cuckoo!
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By: Sonny on January 25, 2010
at 2:52 PM
another BTW in ref to UAW’s ref of NBC/GE …GBO …GE, one of THE largest govt. contractors/etc and perhaps never noticed how in the bag for GOP , especially way back in 2000 election cycle …Morning show with constant views of Bush/Cheney throngs with rare site of GOre ones right on thru election day or how about Tommy Brokaws great interview with Cheney in Dec while waiting Court decison ..welcomed “MY GOOD FRIED” in opening and in closing “hope to see you back soon once officially VP “…or how about Jack Welch at the time on vote night insisting THEY announce Bush win befor all pols closed –yeah, right on mark , claiming they BUT liberally biased that is pure BS and where they manuver a compromise, make no mistake, heart of the orporation lie GOP for those government contracts for military/etc good deals that gop hand out …THey make sure to butter some dem bread for current hold THE offices but not all and figure surely the gops will “return” and known to have long memories..the make meager nice with dems is but a biz ploy and limited at that. True today they do have Rachael and Keith and ED Achultz too but take a hard , critical look see at their line up…it is NOT liberally cast although that gets touted as much as Fox touts that THEY are fair and balanced.
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By: Buttons44 on January 25, 2010
at 2:37 PM
from UAW, (who had not realized to be so fully delusional til this post) :
The network’s coverage was idiotic, one-sided and downright ugly….
Daresay to have had a real man in the White House we’d have needed to install Gov. Palin rather than Mister TelePrompt.
http://www.newsrealblog.com/2010/01/24/is-organizing-for-america-the-source-of-the-ellie-light-letters/
if you want to get big money out of politics your going to have to include George Sorros and Media Matters
Was this a put upon/gist posting or were you REALLY serious ?
FInd it difficult to consider you so OUT of your tree that somehow you figure Sara would have been better than Obama and as for the snark about Soros and Mediamatters …can but figure you buy that myth that the MSM is LIBERAL…have you bothered to check out the CORPORATE ownership of media which is held in approximately FIVE hands who are NOT notorious for being liberal by any stretch ..where even due to Obama getting majority by the voters, they cautiously did “contribute ” meager support to make some appearance at “reconcilliation” but continued assault none the less and feel semi embolden what with SEEMING success being shilled and bought by some as legit and even the wins BY GOPs who rightfully figure would indeed be properly shunned IF folks rationaled their filty hands and doings in the national quagmire that has all riddled with consequences that NONE, even themselves, held hostage by !! WHO IN THEIR FREAKING RIGHT (as in CORRECT) MIND WOULD WANT TO RETURN REINS TO SUCH ? NONE who realized the full reality of REALTIME/ FACTS –and a btw, no the Dems are NOT total innocents but sure a better option at this point in OUR time !!! Like amjor WTF and WOWZRINO’ing !!! (am hoping just due to late night and but first sip of morning coffee this slightly after noon !!!)
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By: Buttons44 on January 25, 2010
at 2:28 PM
I’ve made Lemon Chess Pie before, it is quite delicious. And easy to make as I recall.
Claire
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By: Claire on January 25, 2010
at 12:34 PM
That recipe sounds like a chess pie… a Texan favorite. A perfect selection for this front porch I’d say.
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By: lori on January 25, 2010
at 12:28 PM
It does sound good, I think it deserves a better name though.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 25, 2010
at 12:14 PM
Still in.
Here’s something a little different – a recipe for Milk Tart:
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Milk-Tart/Detail.aspx
The reviews sound really good.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 25, 2010
at 11:46 AM
Yes…the corporations that run media are asshats…..like GE……OOPS!!!!!they just happen to own MSNBC……and we know just how “fair and balanced” they are….
http://www.olbermannwatch.com/
Keith Olbermann and Rachel Maddow, positively enraged that Massachusetts dared to elect a Republican, delivered two hours of nonstop bilious rage toward the state’s voters, calling them “irrational” and “teabaggers,” engaged in “a total divorce from reality,” and hinting that they’re vicious racists to boot….
The network’s coverage was idiotic, one-sided and downright ugly….
Daresay to have had a real man in the White House we’d have needed to install Gov. Palin rather than Mister TelePrompt.
http://www.newsrealblog.com/2010/01/24/is-organizing-for-america-the-source-of-the-ellie-light-letters/
if you want to get big money out of politics your going to have to include George Sorros and Media Matters
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By: uawtradesman on January 25, 2010
at 10:40 AM
The last time we went this long without a post from Helen her hubby was in hospital. Hoping that’s not the case now – hoping it’s because their grandkids sent them all on a cruise for some wonderful adventures. Keeping fingers crossed that’s why it’s been awhile between postings.
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By: Greytdog on January 25, 2010
at 10:05 AM
….And Joe,..May I call you JOE,
you didn’t have to do an ounce of research on your own.
Open wide and they will filler up..that cavity of a brain there sport.
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By: craigΔ on January 25, 2010
at 9:50 AM
Some people worship sports figures, others actors, many get into musicians. ME? I admire good campaign mangers, especially ones that are successful. I told you I am a politcal nerd. Anyway …Paul is one of my favorite and I happen to agree with this od ed.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-begala/pass-the-senate-bill-plea_b_434700.html
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By: lori on January 25, 2010
at 4:51 AM
Helen: I am hoping you make a new post soon! I hope all is well with you and your family. Margaret, wishing you well too.
Another Troll Hero bites the dust:
http://crooksandliars.com/david-neiwert/tea-party-leader-arrested-rape
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By: JuneauJoe on January 25, 2010
at 1:01 AM
I am really, really missing new posts on this blog. You are one of my very favorites, Helen, and I hope your health is good
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By: Fan on January 25, 2010
at 12:06 AM
I think a troll is talking to himself!!!!
“God what a waste of blog space”
I am actually learning something about a topic which I am finding interesting.
Thanks Jean
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By: JuneauJoe on January 24, 2010
at 11:51 PM
Jean, I guess I just don’t understand where you are going with the al; research, are you going to publish it somewhere or what?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 24, 2010
at 10:37 PM
Auntie Jean
Good God.
If you wanted to get your point across
why not just have them look it up and
or google it ?
Or just reference the darn stuff……
God what a waste of blog space.
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By: craigΔ on January 24, 2010
at 10:37 PM
Hi Congenial gang,
Believe it or not, this is a VERY BRIEF list of civilizations come and gone.
In recorded history there are vast numbers of civilizations, large and small, that rose and fell; far too many in fact to be summarized here. Only a few of the major contributors to the advancement of humanity are catalogued. I have not included Asia, North and South American Empires. The list is compiled from the historians, Will and Ariel Durant, from two encyclopedias and the Internet.
SUMERIAN CIVILIZATION – The earliest KNOWN civilization. It centered around the farthest south region between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers in Mesopotamia some 4500 – 4000 BC. Originally they were probably non-Semitic people but later Semitic tribes came and mingled with the indigenous people.
The Sumerians were apparently the first to make use of the wheel. They also invented a system of writing, a rudimentary Code of Laws and the concept of founding city-states. The Sumerians were conquered by Babylonia but handed the torch of civilization to Egypt.
EGYPTIAN EMPIRE – Prehistoric Times – 8000 – 3200 BC. It began to decline in the fourteenth century BC.
JUDEAN CIVILIZATION – Believed to have been settled c. 2200 BC by the people of Abraham. They may originally have come from the city of Ur in Sumeria. (Remember this for future reference, especially the CITY OF UR.) Much of the history of Judea comes from the Bible, which is singularly lacking in dates.
Babylonia conquered Judea in 586 BC, destroyed Jerusalem and took the Jewish people back to Babylon in captivity. About fifty years later, the Persian King Cyrus the Great (555-529 BC) defeated Babylon and allowed the Jews to return to Judea under his suzerainty.
BABYLONIA – A little farther north of Sumeria and south of present-day Bagdad, Iraq, Babylonia was an important civilization from the early second millennium to the early first millennium BC. The Code of Hammurabi is considered one of the first systems of law for governing people; a significant legacy handed down to ancient, medieval and to a certain extent modern times.
Babylonia was under Persian domination for some two hundred years and was finally defeated by Assyria.
HITTITES – c. 2000 BC – 800 BC. Indo-European invaders established a feudal state in Asia Minor in Anatolia, (the Asian part of modern Turkey.) They were the first people known to work with iron and thus initiated the Iron Age. They were defeated by the Assyrians toward the end of 800 BC.
ASSYRIA – This civilization rose in Northern Mesopotamia (Iraq) about the Fourteenth Century BC and was destroyed 612-609 BC by a Chaldean-Median coalition that would ultimately come under the umbrella of the Persian Empire.
The pattern of these ancient civilizations was to kill and utterly destroy the cities of the defeated and then enslave and/or mate with what few inhabitants remained.
GREEK or HELLENIC EMPIRE – Prehistoric inhabitants date back to 4000 BC. Hellenic States reigned from 1000 BC until defeated by the Roman Empire in 146 BC. The rise of Greece originated as a group of city-states confederated roughly between 1100-850BC. Alexander the Great expanded the Empire throughout the Near East, Egypt, etc. Greece limped along for several hundred years after the Roman Conquest.
However, Rome copied most of the Greek culture, incorporating it into its own. (Greece practically invented Democracy.) The death of the Greek Civilization is generally attributed to Constantine around 325AD. The Christine Byzantine Civilization outlawed the ‘pagan’ Greek religion and consigned it to ‘mythology’.
The Renaissance had its origins in Greek culture and ultimately passed the torch of its civilization even until today. Modern Western Culture has its roots from the heritage bequeathed to it from Greece, an influence that permeates every aspect of our daily lives.
CELTIC CIVILIZATIONS – c. 1200 BC. Indo-European people of the Bronze and Iron Ages originated in southeastern Rhine and Upper Danube River areas of Germany. The first prehistoric people known north of the Alps, they spread throughout Europe, southern Russia, Asia Minor and as far south as Carthage in North Africa. Many Celts were conquered by the Roman Empire but others survived into the seventh – ninth centuries AD and even until today. (The Irish and Basques in Spain.)
PERSIAN EMPIRE – 600 BC – 640-42 AD.
ROMAN EMPIRE – 27 BC – 476 AD.
BYZANTINE EMPIRE – 330 AD – 1453 AD.
HOLY ROMAN EMPIRE – 800 – 1806 AD.
OTTOMAN EMPIRE – 1289 – 1922 AD.
BRITISH EMPIRE – Sixteenth century – 1980s. The British Empire reached its zenith around the world, sometimes by exploration and other times by outright conquest. In 1839 Canada was granted limited self-government and other countries such as Australia, New Zealand, African and areas of the Middle East followed. World Wars I and II took its toll on the Empire and she changed the name to the ‘British Commonwealth’. India gained her independence in 1947. By 1980 there was little left of
the ‘Empire’ but the influence of the ‘Commonwealth’ continues.
AMERICAN EMPIRE – LET’S HOPE NOT!!! Time and again history has shown the incompatibility between the building and maintenance of Empires and democracy. It is not possible to have a love of individual liberty at the same time as the tyranny necessary to hold an Empire together.
Free people do not take kindly to occupation and being held down by force no matter how benevolent. Any act of kindness on the part of the Empire is perceived by the indigenous people as weakness and an opportunity to rebel.
The United States started out with the old imperial tradition but more often than not, acquired territory with money rather than conquest. The Louisiana Purchase and Alaska are examples. I’m not sure how we acquired Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and other South Pacific territories.
During the mid-nineteenth century we teamed up with European powers to flex our muscles toward China, Japan and the rest of Southeast Asia. That area of the world had been relatively peaceful and non-aggressive for millennia. Hawaii was just plain usurped in a bloodless business coup. We have not shied away from armed conquest, but that has not often been the American style – so far……or until recently.
An interesting footnote to history is that in the fourteenth Century (before Columbus) CHINA embarked on an ambitious enterprise of building ships that could have rivaled or even out-stripped European expansion. For unknown reasons, (to me at least), China abandon the idea and turned isolationist.
After how many millennia, mankind should slowly be learning that in the long run, Imperialism does not work out too well.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 24, 2010
at 9:56 PM
Clinton surplus was $230 Billion.
I have been reading about torture. Finding it interesting. Historically, it was used to inflict pain and humiliation. Torture was not effective in getting accurate information.
Seems the person being tortured talks but basically says whatever the interrogators want to hear.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 24, 2010
at 9:55 PM
Hi gang,
When it comes to fiscal responsibility, does anybody remember the EXACT figures of Clinton’s SURPLUS when he left office vs. Bush’s squandered-on-war DEFICIT when he left and handed it off to Obama?
It seems to me that those numbers should be repeated loud and OFTEN!!!
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 24, 2010
at 8:48 PM
Hi Congenial Gang and Grandma Katie,
Great! You are on board for British History. Nothing wrong with researching on the internet. I do it all the time.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 24, 2010
at 8:39 PM
Buttons44 from your mouth to God’s ears. Let’s not lose hope. The link today from Lori to Bill Moyer’s Journal says it all though. Corporate America sponsors the news. Therefore, the news are not going to really tell it like it is when their bottom line is at stake. Isn’t the obstructionism of Obama’s agenda obvious? We are back to where we were when even the news could not criticize where the right was taking us, to the abyss! They are quick now to talk about the deficit. I hardly heard talks of the deficit during the prior administration from the newsfolks. The double standard is obvious to me. And this is the “liberal media” we are talking about. “We the people” are really being scammed.
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By: Easier on January 24, 2010
at 8:27 PM
Jean – I h ope to do most of he researchvia Internet. I only have access to a samll neighborhoood library. However can order from the mail Library. I am most interested in the British history.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 24, 2010
at 6:08 PM
Coakley versus Brown is a done deal. Let’s move on. The ruling on Citizens United versus the FEC should be the subject of the day. Impeaching SCOTUS or protesting will not bring results. All people, right or left , progressive or independent need to do what ever it will take to push a constitutional amendment that can over ride this ruling and have this amendment on the states ballots now not twenty years from now.
This is far more sweeping than the individual case of Citizens United. That was a case of an issue advocacy group being prevented from buying air time at a specific time and the court decided to rule on almost every aspect of campaign finance precedent for corporations.
This isn’t a left/right issue as far as I’m concerned. I agree that the restrictions on Citizens United were unconstitutional (and they were serious Hillary haters). I don’t understand why SCOTUS didn’t simply draw the line between an advocacy group and corporations/unions, continuing to allow corporations/unions to create PAC’s for their political spending.
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By: Anonymous on January 24, 2010
at 5:54 PM
http://www.facebook.com/pages/National-Day-of-Protest-of-the-US-Supreme-Court-April-15-2010/269692832715?v=wall
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By: bcwill on January 24, 2010
at 4:14 PM
Easier, think where a good many fall is “ever hopeful”…truly wanting Obama to prove to be an exception to what IS readily perceived of OTHER electeds…Many are indeed proud /some fulfilled to have finally seen /helped to usher in our nations first black President–relieved in part that finally we did move forward even knowing his election was NOT “THE” end all/be all answer to so many of our national woes but it felt like a good step forward, good sign we WERE capable of “learning” off of past mistaken notions and realizing too that not all were “in the moment” of such as well. IT FELT GOOD, first time in a long time that a godd number of us REALLY, REALLY felt out national PRIDEFULS !! We figured it was a see there, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE and move forward and we are NOT totally stuck in but muck and mireings !! (and ahem, the WE makeup was of various races and backgrounds and religions and even preferred political alligiences and many still cling to the notion and are not willing to write off Obama presidency as a loss for we KNOW it is not.
When catching site of him in various whateverings, one has to wonder what he must be thinking /feeling and wonder if he has regrets of taking this on or IF even in the future he will have some…Inclined to think would be more like regret that he can NT have a magic wand to cure all and kn ows/knew from the start none at his disposal but did figure that perhaps we HAD learned harsh lessons due to the woefullness on so many levels of the Bush oridginal win and then ensueing reign with the likes of such culprits as Cheney and RUmsfeld and WOo and GOnzalez and so many others such as CORPORATE’s who bought them long ago and to whom they did indeed cater too …Isn;t it strange to hear how it is the DEMs who are aligned with the CORPORATES , when in actuality would be hard pressed to find other than a small minority of such aligned democratically and quite the opposite, most aligned big biz folks are REPUBLICANS…amazing how that gets twisted…same goes with the tag line ELITE or the nonsense of LIBERAL media .
Here on this board have the likes of Craig who spews hatefilled whateverings who then attempts to spin it is OTHERS who are hatefilled and etc…IT remains a true WOWZERINO-ing” for sure for any with base intelligence and basic common sense/sensicals. Folks are weary of the bickering and visciousnous in the bickerings but a review will show the nastiness, the nastier emanatons come spewing horrifically from the right side of the aisle and with so many proclaiming NOT but falsely so. They seem to figure folks are truly dense and dummified for sure. Far more claim now to be independents , fewest are GOPers these days for that party has been a MAJOR embarassment for sure and DO NOTE< the Dems have their whack jobs as well but nowhere nere the rights organized core support groupies that do indeed lockstep to the point of being a bit of a true mindboggler for any sane person for sure.
We've had so many of what we THOUGHT were OUR basic national principles compromised and thrown in our collective faces that is a factor and here IS hoping that indeed TRUTH WILL SET US ALL TRULY FREE but not likely anytime soon is THAT likely to occur and possbly, unfortunately , a good possbility that may never happen –we are mere humans and so very foibled and remain so despite best efforts and good intentions. Humansd are "hopeful" brings by necessity–it helps us get thru to another moment or day . We wish alot, pray alot , hope some answers those wishes and prayers and inbetween we dream too, ension what we ourselves would do if WE ruled the ruled–well, some even dream of ruling much grander and want the unverse. Realities are often harsh, too harsh so cling to hope, hopefulls and occasional make some progress towards a greater common good despit all. At the very least, three cheers for hope, keep clinging to itit is sometime ALL we got !
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By: Buttons44 on January 24, 2010
at 3:50 PM
I sometimes wonder what the reaction in govenment (state and/or federal) is absolutely ‘no one’ showed up to vote – instead just write on the ballots it really doesn’t matter who or which party is there — evetually you all screw “We the People”
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By: reader on January 24, 2010
at 3:44 PM
Thanks Lori and Juneau Jo for the links. Just hope Obama et. al. are listening. Grandma Katie, I agree with you, it is rarely about the citizenry, when people run for Congress. Very rare indeed, it is more about making a name for themselves. That is why somebody like President Obama who might be in it for the greater good is so out of this world that people have a hard time believing he could be for real and be meaning what he is saying.
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By: Easier on January 24, 2010
at 2:39 PM
This is a good take on Scotty’s election win:
Evan Bayh Calls For A Retreat From Principles In The Wake Of Mass. Election
Evan Bayh Calls For A Retreat From Principles In The Wake Of Mass. Election
First Posted: 01-20-10 11:22 AM
Yesterday evening, reflecting on what he called the “looming landslide” for Scott Brown, Atlantic blogger Andrew Sullivan characterized the Democratic party as “a clapped out, gut-free lobbyist machine.” And right on time, here’s Senator Evan Bayh (D-Ind.), sounding the clarion call for timidity:
“There’s going to be a tendency on the part of our people to be in denial about all this,” Bayh told ABC News, but “if you lose Massachusetts and that’s not a wake-up call, there’s no hope of waking up.”
[…]
“The only we (sic) are able to govern successfully in this country is by liberals and progressives making common cause with independents and moderates,” Bayh said. “Whenever you have just the furthest left elements of the Dem party attempting to impose their will on the rest of the country — that’s not going to work too well.”
It’s worth pointing out just how detached from reality Bayh is on this regard. The White House, armed with its bicameral Democratic majorities, spent the entire calendar year of 2009 vainly attempting to govern by moving its policies ever-rightward. In fact, the administration has gone much further than attempt to find “common cause with independents and moderates” — it has strained itself to find common cause with Republicans! But if Bayh thinks that the wake-up call is for Democrats to continue to do what they’ve been doing all year, then it’s Bayh who’s somnambulating.
The thorny facts are these: The White House and Congressional Democrats set out at the beginning of the year to pass an economic stimulus package. They strained themselves to moderate the bill. The result was a less effective stimulus that didn’t earn a shred of bipartisan support. And the public, as a result, has soured on the stimulus package.
The White House and Congressional Democrats set out at the beginning of the year with a promise to fully redeem the generosity of taxpayers, who charitably bailed out Wall Street after its own cascading series of catastrophic mistakes nearly decimated the economy. They’ve since strained themselves to moderate their efforts: leaving huge loopholes in derivatives reform measures, putting forth very little effort to ensure the CFPA won’t be defanged, and assenting to Ben Bernanke’s continued rule of the Federal Reserve — despite his studied disinterest in solving the nation’s unemployment crisis. The emerging consensus is that Obama seems to be a sell-out. And the public, as a result, has soured on the Democrats’ approach to the economy.
The whole notion that the problem the Democrats face is the inability or unwillingness of progressives to find common cause with moderates is especially idiotic viewed through the prism of health care reform. Progressives have been accommodating moderates all year long. Single-payer was removed from the bargaining table at the outset of the debate. As the year wended on, the public option was removed as well — it was downgraded to an opt-in public option. Then, that was removed from the table. Medicare buy-in was removed from the table. The Stupak amendment, which was inserted to forge common cause with conservative Christians, was added to the mix. Finally, health care reform became: “Whatever Joe Lieberman is willing to accept.”
Think about this: the public option was supported by a huge majority of the public. At times, 70 percent of the public supported it. Did 70 percent of the population vote for Barack Obama? No! The public option was an idea that found common cause with progressives, moderates and McCain voters. Congressional Democrats, with filibuster-proof supermajorities, could not manage to fight for — let alone pass — a bill with something broadly supported by massive swaths of the public.
And so the public, predictably, has soured on health care reform. (And Democrats know that a cross-section of generic opposition to health care reform is against it solely on the grounds that it is not progressive enough — this, they believe, is “good news!”)
So, let’s accept the fact that Bayh can’t possibly believe what he is saying. Instead, allow me to make the needed translation from Party Hack into English: what Bayh is signaling here is that it’s time for individual Democrats to abandon their governing principles and save their own skins electorally. That’s the wake-up call: SAVE YOURSELVES. Don’t do anything without absolute political cover. Place your political preservation ahead of the country.
Naturally, the public will continue to sour on this, because the public would like the people they voted for, in droves, to at least attempt to deliver on their promises. Unfortunately, Bayh wants his party to veer sharply in the “clapped out” and “gut free” direction.
And that does indeed appear to BE the DEM consensus take on the Brown win of Teddy’s Senate seat. FInd it AMAZING in some respects, but then, find it amazing that folks WOULD vote to put a GOP back in to a seating of any sort when the GOP has done little BUT POLITICAL PARTISANLY OBSTRUCT and NOT truly offer up much of ANYTHING that could be construed as forging a greater common good for ALL rather than JUST select few !! Pitful we are stuck with just a two party dysfunctional morass of a system that allows the electeds NOT to represent OUR best interests just their own !!
( and with that, will exit, preferring the “center” one, sorry for slurping the bandwith/etc…)
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By: Buttons44 on January 24, 2010
at 2:38 PM
….a deer in headlight craig…GBO , Bodacious of you of all to attempt to degrade anothers input “…Donna and all the others who wish to spread lies are nothing more than echoes..”…”Yet all of you continue to ignore his ignorance and yet support someone who is really lost in his own little time machine” –can be so easily applied right back atcha and thensome for sure and more on the mark as well !!”A one track agenda” for sure ….others are of the opinion that perhaps Craig could do with some counseling as he suggested JJ was in need of erroneously so out of context and evidenty out of his, C’s comprehension ability . but does not faze himself as goes on to extoll ” And Donna you are still coming across as a little vindictive and somewhat sophomoric in your
postings. To lash out as you did , must be indicative of someone who has had one too many and has issues to be worked out in Group Therapy.
Your bitter Donna..and it is showing.”…uh, ironic bitterness showing there on YOUR part Craig and attempt to project /deflect it by assailing others with whom you disagree. Uh, just a hint, does not make YOUR premise valid so is rather disregarded…”properly’ !!
A true “topper” followed ..” It’s amazing…after reading all the posts
over the past two hours..there is a lot of hate being spoken here.
You all have really become irrational in your thinking.
And your hands were suppose to be the ones reaching across the aisle?
I have seen a very unseemly group of vile
characters here. Is this the make up of the democratic party?
What a shame. Pity the poor souls”
Frankly, will say is a bit of willfilled stretching to sincerely extend pity for your soul Craig…think far more delusional on your victimhood part that you play off. Say, could you give a rundown of just WHAT the GOPerites did offer up as their solutions in this past year and how well THEY reached across the aisle …Would like a list for reference and please, fact check it befor posting if able to post such…gonna’ be rather short list so SHOULD be within you realm of capbilities from what you have indicated you figure yourself capable of/etc.
(and an oh, when whipping up that apple pie, injest it with perhaps some applejack brandy , so very yummy..Here , do a french apple tart, simplified and use apricot jam with some “injesting” for the top glaxe , gets scarfed down and OH, if want a delish pie crust, use a sugar cookie roll out of the grocers freezer or your own…is scrumptous as a base or even ol’ Pepperridge pastry sheets—they work well for numerous renditons and variety of fillings ‘en crout” and a great snacker is brie cheese encrout, simple wrap and can add in such as smoked oysters ..great when siipping a glass of wine/champagn or a good ale/beer for that matter .)
(suggests Gibbons RISE and FALL of Roman EMpire” a good reference…have reccommended for long time , too erry for sure . History teaches many lessons , unfortunate that too few actually learn. Always room for improvement and always roo for basics as well which proive “practical/practible too !)
(In regards to the Edwards ..they and do indeed mean THEY made their own conundrum. Will grant mitgating circumstances and ever so in regards to the loss of their child but others have had similar loss and manage . Will say such loss is vastly important but too, he was NOT their only child which in others case was a factor. Any life comes with NO guarentees, no proise of fairness either. In retrospect, when story was first emerging, remeber the E’s having an important announcement..watched them walk out of their compound–but NOT hand in hand and where the “words” were that were announcing E’s return of cancer and their intent to stay in campaign race and well, etc….VOices at the time wondered if that was “wise/practicall for the INDICATION was she was quite VERGED on short time, why would any continue that grueling sked –they had YOUNG CHILDREN and would seem efforts would be perhaps best utilized on medical treatments/healings and the children –especially if pronosis was NOT assured/etc…Supposedly to claim mantle of willingness to self sacrifice for the good of the people/voter/etc….Now think more a ruse to deflect attenion and garner sympathy/support /etc…Sorry, am that old and that prone to cynicismaticals and DO think all too likely THE possible . Gutual inkling that that press conf was USED, think likely too E knew more than what indicated , likely hurt, but also the stakes for they and their family “position” were high/etc. Think THEY were WRECKLESS as well as feckless. Add a ps’er, not to point of figure that E’s cancer was itself “faked” , think better possible is that was emphasized /exagerrated perhaps and sorry, but for various “reasopnings”. Think both have cul;pabilities and deeply offensive to their children , to the public and to their political party . JE made a hooric choice in becoming involved with the other woman , offensive now is that statement “when child is older, able to understand” hopes for forgivenss is more than a tad outrageous showing pity(pittifulness) for himself first and foremost. Give Elizabeth credit for base intelligence, thin she made a calculated decison, weighed/balnaced the what if’s –what to lose, what possible to obtain and try hard to figure she thopught better positiong for her children/etc in the mix of all of it/etc.
DON’t really know, just the impression, what taken from observations/etc. Feel sorriest for the children , bets are difficulties yet for them in regards to it all and most likely loss of trusting the very ones they should have been able to feel trustworthy of all others in this world. PITIFUL, absolutely pitiful. Just stating a viewpoint, a cynical one for sure but know others feeling similar with some refusing to say outloud or about until a bit pressed into discussion.9alot out of defference wanting to believe Elizabeth did NOT calculatingly play us all as second fiddlerings , etc !!)
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By: Buttons44 on January 24, 2010
at 2:35 PM
Jean – good luck finishing the Valentines!!
I am finishing up the newest book by Diana Gabaldon. It has a flot to do withthe RREvolutionary was and describes the battles. Granted it is a novel, but gives much historical background. It is over 800 pages and I have less than 200 to go. The first 6 books covered SCotland and the English battles of Culloden, and alot more history.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 24, 2010
at 11:58 AM
After 44 years have passed, I have not ch anged my opinion about Congress. That is once they get inside the Beltway, they cease to remember anyone out side the Beltway exist.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 24, 2010
at 11:49 AM
Dear Helen, I sincerely hope that you and your husband are all right and that reading Sarah Palin’s book didn’t give you a stroke or a heart attack. I miss your posts and can’t help worrying about your silence. I’d love to hear what you have to say about the recent election in MA.
Worried in Maine
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By: lmanley on January 24, 2010
at 11:35 AM
Good Sunday morning All.
A quick musical interlude:
CRASH KINGS ~ ‘It’s Only Wednesday’
If you haven’t heard of them…you have now.
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on January 24, 2010
at 8:10 AM
Thanks Lori,
Here is another good one!
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/eric-alterman-and-melissa-harris-lacewell
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By: JuneauJoe on January 24, 2010
at 7:45 AM
OK I feel better now.
Axelrod move over!
The calvary is coming hold on progressives! 😉
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/22/AR2010012204216.html
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By: lori on January 24, 2010
at 5:54 AM
The problem I have with term limits without publicly funded elections, is who could afford to take 8 years out of their real life/career?
I am just fearful that if we impose term limits we will eliminate ANY chance of the ordinary citizen to represent us.
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By: lori on January 24, 2010
at 4:26 AM
Hi reader, term limits in regard to the President came after FDR. Relatively recent. So if it could be done for the executive why not the legislative you might ask? They would be the ones to vote on the measure and you know how self-serving that bunch is in DC. Will not happen anytime soon.
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By: Easier on January 24, 2010
at 12:06 AM
RE: Edwards and the news — Although I am not a fan (at all) of David Letterman I will give him credit for standing up in front of the TV world and saying yeah I stepped in it big time. That whole story lasted only a week (I believe) in the news. It left no room (or need) to keep digging into his life or “affairs”.
I still say 8 year terms for politians. There was a reason (and I believe it is the same reason for the Senate and House of Representatives) that our forefathers only gave the Pres. two 4 year terms in office. Power corrupts and all those contributions for campaigns requires favors owed.
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By: reader on January 23, 2010
at 10:10 PM
Time to act against this treasonous action by the Supreme Court’s Gang of 5. Below is a petition calling for their impeachment.
http://www.peaceteam.net/action/pnum1030.php
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By: Dispirited Voter on January 23, 2010
at 9:45 PM
Petition to impeach the Supreme Court’s Gang of 5 for their treasonous ruling.
http://www.peaceteam.net/action/pnum1030.php
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By: Anonymous on January 23, 2010
at 9:42 PM
Hi Congenial Gang, Juneau Joe, Grandma Katie, Donna and jsri,
Thanks, Juneau Joe and Grandma Katie for your offers to help me out with my (our?) research. As soon as I get my copy of “Nemesis” I will give you each a list of sources to look into. But Heaven knows, that book is by far not the only source. Feel free to scrounge around for any others you can find.
Grandma Katie, don’t worry about knowing the ins and outs of research. All I do is read about the subject, take notes and then summarize it in my own words. Often, when the author uses better words than I can, I quote verbatim, of course giving credit to the source.
Also, don’t even think about worrying about your typing errors. To paraphrase a well-known source, Let he/she who has never misspelled a word, throw out the first typo. How do you feel about taking on either the Roman Empire or the British Empire as background material on the sure and steady march toward an American Empire? Take your pick.
Further, we shouldn’t worry about our personal bias showing because we try to explain WHY. The conservative side shows its bias all the time, very loudly at that, but fails to say WHY. Like Geico commercials repeated incessantly, when the unwashed brain dead hear and see them over and over again ad infinitum, they come to be believed unconditionally.
Donna, I went to pueblo.gsa.gov. As you may know, I am almost technologically illiterate so I had a tough time navigating it. I finally found FOIA. TONS of info. I will try again when I have more time, but I’m sure I will need a translation for most of it. What and why are there 9 exceptions and 3 exclusions to the FOIA that can be challenged in court?
jsri, I too am dismayed and appalled at the ramifications of the new Supreme Court decision. As I understand it, it even turns McCain-Feingold around! It figures though with a 5-4 Conservative majority. I believe it was Bader Ginsberg and Sotomajor plus one other who wrote strong dissenting opinions.
To my way of thinking, this decision gives free rein to corporations; to name a few, huge insurance and pharmaceutical companies as well as big defense contractors to essentially buy Congressional seats for their own purposes. (That used to be called bribery and was a crime.)
It takes a lot of money to run a campaign and win an election. Staff, traveling expenses and especially TV commercials. (A hefty designer wardrobe too!) TV networks are also run by corporations and charge huge fees for those ads. Once in office, the elected officials ostensibly are beholden to their constituency. However, a vast majority of the constituents work for the corporations in their local areas and their lively hoods are on the line. So naturally, they vote for the office holder who will see to it that their lifestyle is secure. The corporations send in their highly paid and fast talking lobbyists to persuade (arm twist) the office holder to vote in favor (or in some cases, against) what is most beneficial to the corporation in the long run, not necessarily for the individual constituent. The carrot is the promise or actual ‘gifts’ of campaign contributions for the next election coming up. And so the vicious cycle begins all over again. It is not supposed to be ‘quid pro quo’, but who is fooling whom? There is not a lot of personal integrity going around the seats of power.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
P. S. Back to the Valentine Guys. I’m up against a deadline…..
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 23, 2010
at 8:55 PM
NOP, I didn’t understand your reference to jrsi. Maybe I missed something along the way?
I do feel horrible that Edwards and his wife suffered such a horrible loss. I agree that it’s hard for a marriage to survive something that traumatic. It’s not right for parents to have to bury children.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 23, 2010
at 7:02 PM
I think there is a good lesson in the supposed swiping of the diaper for DNA testing. If the connected emotion to the evidence would be happiness that he might be the father, then so be it. But if his intention was to use the evidence to possibly deny paternity, then he opened up a whole can of worms with his new daughter.
Like I said before, the good in a person comes out in ways that show good-heartedness towards others. The bad in a person comes out in ways that reveal mean-spiritness towards others.
Letting one consume you is the decision we make.
But one can not be both.
The Supreme Court decision is scary indeed. I don’t think enough people are aware of how the ruling affects their lives now and in the future.
I know that many of the regulars here feel the same way about powerful people using their position and influence to do things that spread mean-spiritedness. A grass-roots movement is the only way to check the power of any ruling entity.
Who was the swing vote on that ruling? I’d like to read their opinion.
People, wake up! Progressive people do not want to repeat the past. If robber barons caused human suffering on a large scale–why would we allow that to happen again?
The Peoples’ Seats (all 535 of them) should not be adorned with dollar signs and sponsorships. They should be held by representatives who work every day to make connections with the people they represent.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 23, 2010
at 6:25 PM
Delurker–you and I agree 100%.
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By: Donna on January 23, 2010
at 5:40 PM
Delurker Girl, I for one am not amused that Elizabeth Edwards was willing to go along with the deception during his campaign. I get more cynical the older I get, I don’t like it that is the case, but…. jsri has some problems with the human race as well, drat we all understand how he feels.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 23, 2010
at 5:06 PM
I think the thing about the Edwards scandal being newsworthy is that he lied and lied and lied about lying. The affair, IMO, isn’t the point. It’s that he lied about having it, lied about fathering the child, and tried to sell himself as someone above that. A wonderful stand-up guy.
He came clean about the affair when he had no chice. Then didn’t come clean about the child until again he had no choice. One guy was saying that Edwards asked him to sneak a wet diaper to him so he could get a private paternity test, and that he tried to rig a real one to say he wasn’t the father. (I guess this could be hearsay. I don’t know who it was that was talking.)
That makes him a fraud, IMO. He tried to win elections and market himself with lies.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 23, 2010
at 4:43 PM
I MISS HELEN!! Helen – where are you? Please at least have your grandson post something so we know you are OK!!
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By: Simi on January 23, 2010
at 2:59 PM
Jean:
This may be my last post here for a while. I’m almost stunned into silence by the election of Scott Brown and by the fire sale of the federal government by the Supreme Court.. I think the citizens of Mass have made a serious mistake. The guy Brown is a totally empty suit without an original idea in his head. He was actually a 4th level politician, a sacrificial lamb put up by the Repubs who are probably as surprised at his election as the rest of the nation. And now they are treated his ascendance as if Jesus Christ had just won.
His campaign speeches are tedious and predictable, totally lacking in substance and foresight. His track record in state government is essentially non-existent. But on the campaign trail, In fifteen seconds he can bring up Al Qaeida, tax cuts, killing health care and his truck, and the second fifteen seconds will be a repeat of the first fifteen, and on and on ad infinitum. Sorry, I don’t want someone who is clueless and classless making our laws. I’d prefer to have the smartest person in the room doing that. Unfortunately that is seen to be elitist by all the voters who have no idea what the word really means.
But the action by the Supremes has to rank as the most duplicitous polemic I have ever seen. To ignore the direction such action will take the country is truly frightening. Now, every position of governance or authority will have a price tag and voters will be relegated to a position similar to that enjoyed by serfs in the Middle Ages. The age of the robber barons is about to be repeated, and I suspect its arrival will come with lightening speed.
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By: jsri on January 23, 2010
at 2:09 PM
Auntie Jean – if you need more researchers – call on me. I”m not s ure about about all the ins and outs but willing to try.
All th is about children, it isn’t any easier when they are 30 and die violently.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 23, 2010
at 11:05 AM
Morning all, Hi Whirled,
Jean, I will check out torture.
I put the link to my blog and you can email info through that.
Edwards: I would be a mess if one of my three children died – it would impact me a lot. I would also say the same for some nephews and nieces that I also consider my kids.
Why is there so much time spent on Edwards? Huffington Post checked the amount of time spent on Edwards – hours, and time spent on the Supreme court decision giving personhood to corporations – minutes. Then we have Haiti.
The priorities are way off.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 23, 2010
at 11:02 AM
President Obama’s
Weekly Address 1/23/10
“As long as I’m your President… the most powerful voice in Washington belongs to YOU.”
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on January 23, 2010
at 9:04 AM
Auntie Jean–go to pueblo.gsa/gov and they have a link to FOIA that’s probably as clear as you’ll find. That should give you an idea of the process and we can then discuss specifics.
Re the Edwards family: I agree that the loss of a child is the worst of tragedies and cannot imagine the ways that people try to fill that void. What I don’t know is whether John Edwards was, like many very successful trial lawyers, basically a bottomless pit of neediness to begin with. I know fabulous trial lawyers who aren’t like that but a lot who just are.
I don’t think there are any heroes in this situation. Not him. Not Ms. Hunter. And not Elizabeth Edwards. Nobody behaved in a way that I’d have hoped people would behave. But I also believe that the Edwardses have created their own punishment for their shortcomings. As for Ms. Hunter, I have no idea what will happen to her but she certainly doesn’t appear to be an admirable person.
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By: Donna on January 23, 2010
at 8:51 AM
x-post from Mudflats:
The Mudflats » Open Thread – A Global Family http://bit.ly/6AeqTe
Please read, please watch the u-tube vid . .it’s really wonderful and starts your day off with a smile
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By: Greytdog on January 23, 2010
at 8:32 AM
Vgman, That was the first thought that came to my mind when the world first learned of their troubles.
The grief, from the death of a child, could destroy just about anything.
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By: lori on January 23, 2010
at 6:07 AM
Hi Congenial Gang, jsri, Juneau Joe and Donna,
So,jsri, you’ll have brand new spankin’ hearing aids too! Oh, yeah, we’re talking mega-bucks. But if they work as well as they are supposed to, it could be a whole new world around here. I sometimes wonder how much of a hearing loss I could have developed as a result of the TV volume! I would like to compare notes with your wife. And then there is the invincibility of the grandsons. We have them too. Wasn’t it wonderful when we were that young and also knew EVERYTHING there was to know about EVERYTHING. My, how age changes that perspective. I’m not sure I know much of ANYTHING about ANYTHING anymore.
Juneau Joe, thanks for the tip about the discharge papers. If we can’t round them up here, its nice to know there’s another route.
And step right up! You’re on the team. How would you like to take on the disgusting subject of torture? You will need a very strong stomach. We have all heard about ‘water boarding’ and Abu Gharib, but there was so much, much more to it. And yes, the orders came down from the very top. They gave new meaning to the definition of ‘rendition’. I always thought it meant someone’s interpretation of a musical number. Not so in this context. It has to do with snatching people right off the street, even in foreign countries (Europe), and spiriting them away in a large fleet of their own planes to secret prisons for ‘interrogation’. Some were never heard of again. How’s that for the American Constitutional System of Justice to say nothing of common decency.
We got the book, “Nemesis” by Chalmers Johnson at the library on the recommendation of Bill Moyers on PBS. We have always respected Moyers’ thoughtful point of view. Turns out, the book is the last in a trilogy. I will probably get the other two sometime. We had to return it because there are a limited number of copies in our library system and there is a long waiting list for it. I ordered my own copy from Amazon that will be here in a few days.
In “Nemesis” he has page after page of the footnotes of his sources, sprinkled throughout the book. These are other books, newspaper articles from all over, and government documents obtained through the FOIA.
Donna, I would like to know exactly what is involved in getting those, especially when the Administration didn’t want that information out. Much of it was redacted. “Top Secret, National Security”, you know. Heaven knows how many others were either destroyed or never existed in the first place.
Juneau Joe, to get started, I could give you some of the references and you could take your pick tracking them down. Or you could get your own copy. Amazon has used ones and paperbacks pretty cheap. It cost more in shipping and handling than the book.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 23, 2010
at 1:23 AM
vgman: I am so impressed about what the students did. Thank You and thank them.
I am retired from teaching. Thank You for your dedication and efforts.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 22, 2010
at 10:11 PM
In case you missed the benefit concert tonight, this was an awesome performance.
YouTube – Justin Timberlake & Matt Morris (Leonard Cohen Hallelujah Cover) Hope For Haiti
http://bit.ly/5wnaKu
pls give to HopeForHaiti.org
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By: Greytdog on January 22, 2010
at 9:54 PM
no ones puppet — yes we have elections. But if you consider holding a senate seat for 40years (no matter which party they are with) a term????? Kenndy, Stom Thurmond (maybe there should be an age limit also) , McCain, any of those there for more than 8 years. Too much power too many favors owed. And dear Sarah would have to be elected first – hope it Never Happens. But there should also be impeachment if they turn out to be real duds. The system as it is does not allow much time for ‘govenmenting’ since they usually start campaigning right after being elected. I realize that those already holding the “power” will never change any of this even though a few have talked about changing things — and I have some property in Flordia I am willing to sell for a song??!!!
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By: reader on January 22, 2010
at 9:32 PM
Time heals all wounds. Yes or no? There was a couple who spoke on Oprah last week about how the death of a loved one can wreak havoc on a family. They said it changed them. John and Mrs. Edwards (gosh, why does her name escape me) should be commended for the length of their marriage since the tragedy in 1996. They evidently worked on their family unit for some time, but everyone changes and mourns in a different way. Only they know how this affair and new child in the extended family will impact them.
On another note, I wanted to share with you the relief my school collected in one day’s giving by the student population–
Just over $700. I encouraged my students to give whatever they could and found that many gave bills, instead of coins–although I did hear a little jingling in the bottom of the bag. It was heartening to see the kids understand that there were those who needed our help and to have no response would be unthinkable.
Teaching children to respect and care for each other. In action.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 22, 2010
at 9:29 PM
Hi Jean:
I went in for my final hearing test and fitting for new hearing aids today. I’ll pick them up next week. The difference between what these will do and what the old ones did is extraordinary. Unfortunately, I could buy a good used car or a room full of furniture including a wall sized digital TV for less that what those little suckers cost.
But I haven’t yet been successful in getting my grandson to get fitted earplugs to use whenever he plays with his rock groups. I’ve been all over him like a cheap suit about the issue but 18 year olds are invincible and he knows that nothing as pedestrian as hearing loss will ever happen to him.
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By: jsri on January 22, 2010
at 9:02 PM
“Did anyone ever think that all the hubris caused by John Edwards’ affair could be the result of miscommunication between John and Mrs. Edwards after the death of their child? I’m not excusing his behavior, but relationships are hard after the death of a child.”
Well, I think that is a really long disconnect in the relationship, then, since their son died in 1996.
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By: Judy on January 22, 2010
at 8:59 PM
Time for a new post, Helen. I’m going into withdrawal.
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By: WakeUpAmerica on January 22, 2010
at 8:50 PM
Jean, I might be able to help with research. I might look for a job in March and April, so I might be a light duty reasearcher. I do like stuff like that though
Discharge papers: Go to any vet organization and they can get them. Mine are on record in the County Courthouse where I grew up. I don’t think I have a copy of mine either.
Term Limits: Then you have bureaucrats running things. I could see Sarah Palin’s types popping up and being in charge with term limits. They sound good but they actually do the opposite of what they say. Sarah Palin was terrible. I might also say that those people like power.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 22, 2010
at 8:46 PM
http://www.dailykos.com/tv/w/002494/
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 22, 2010
at 8:20 PM
So, tonight, I’m walking my two dogs and I find myself saying the following words just before we re-entered the house–“Some walks are shorter than others, Tasha, but you still need to poop!”
I’m arguing with her because she knows which one of two routes we usually take is the shortest. Oh, the fights we fight.
What a crazy day today with all the comments from ubermedia.
Jon Stewart is hilarious. He definitely shines a light on what is often annoying–abuse of others with words.
Did anyone ever think that all the hubris caused by John Edwards’ affair could be the result of miscommunication between John and Mrs. Edwards after the death of their child? I’m not excusing his behavior, but relationships are hard after the death of a child.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 22, 2010
at 8:07 PM
Hi Congenial Gang and farsight,
My husband had molds made of his ears today and has ordered his new digital hearing aids. Hooray!!!! It’s going to take about 2 1/2 weeks to get them. The audiologist was super nice and answered a barrage of questions.
He did check with the VA. There is a possibility that if he can claim that his hearing loss is service related and it is approved, it will reimburse him for the cost. It will take 8 – 9 months to do the paper work. There is one small gltch. They want his discharge papers. Uh, after 54 years, where in the hell are those papers? We’ll try the safe first and then turn the house upside down.
Stay tuned. farsight, we will probably be asking you plenty of questions.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 22, 2010
at 7:39 PM
I think we have term limits, they’re called elections.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 22, 2010
at 7:05 PM
The Senate wants to pass legislation that would abolish the filibuster. That seems short-sighted. It would help pass legislation in the short term, but imagine the grudges that will be avenged as soon as the majority tips the other way? It seems like after the Massachusetts senate seat loss, which would have been prevented if not for legislation Democrats put in place to require special election instead of appointment by the governor, we’d start thinking longer term.
I could be wrong, but on this one I think the consequences could be extraordinary. I would hate to do something like this just to pass health insurance reform that doesn’t even resemble what we really wanted anyway thanks to obstructionist politics.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 22, 2010
at 6:41 PM
I say term limits to all in government — it was NEVER intended to be a carreer!!!!!!!!!!!! Or may I add a wealth builder for the individuals we send to Washington to represent “We the People”. How many go there and come out after 40 years as billionairs????? How do they do that on what we pay them to represent us??? I don’t think either side comprehends how angry “We the People” are and not just with the bankers etc. I wish we could all just vote for the guy who has never been in Washington before and vote out all those that have been there for say 8 years or more regardless of party. Think that might get their attention. Yes I rant.
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By: reader on January 22, 2010
at 5:13 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Here is where we stand as far as I can see. We have 10 months until the mid-term elections. For the Democrats to get anything done in the next two years after that, we will need to seat a bigger cushion of Senators and Representatives. They are all human, so some, like Kennedy, may die. Others may defect and its possible some on both sides may go down in disgrace or even to jail! It has become overwhelming obvious that the Republicans are just going to continue to obstruct and try to coast without any real cooperation, hoping to take back the White House and Congress in 2012. OK, that’s where we are.
All of us here at M&H have lives, responsibilities and diverse interest. Politics is the glue that holds us together however, or more precisely, what has happened and is happening to our country.
I for one have two projects in the works right now. Those of you who have been here forever may remember that every year I make 150 little red and white yarn ‘Bobble Head’ Valentine Guys for my three grandchildren to take to their classmates and friends. Yep! My fingers are once again, blistered, bleeding and bandaged from making the damn little suckers. 100 of them are already in the mail. 50 to go.
My other project is some research further into the outline of ‘American Imperialism’ as presented in Chalmers Johnson’s book, “Nemesis”. I Googled him and he has an impressive and credible bio. I want to research further sources to check on the accuracy or expand on many of the points he made. I intend to do this in any event because it interests me greatly. I also feel that if more people knew more of the details, it just might influence their thinking about the mid-terms. For heaven’s sake, we sure don’t want to get back into the clutches of another Bush-type Administration.
We are quite a diverse group here at M&H, scattered all over the country. And we talk to people. This makes for an ideal vehicle to spread ideas. Since research is very time consuming and time is of the essence, (10 months) I could sure use some help! Anybody want to volunteer? There are many of you here who have special skills. We could be very useful to each other in getting information out there.
Just one example out of many. Did you know that as of 2006, we still have 9,960 deliverable nuclear bombs, down from a stockpile of 32,500 in 1967? How many times over is it necessary to have the capability to destroy everything and all life forms on this planet? Of course, some would claim that keeps us as a ‘The Super Power’. Whoopee! Do you know how much it costs to keep those bombs secure in their silos, the number of highly trained personnel, etc.? Do you have any idea what a drain the ‘secret’ Pentagon budget is on TAXPAYER MONEY? How much Health Care and reduction of the National Debt and Deficit could a lot of that money take care of?
Do we want our children and grandchildren to live in a democracy or a military monarchy or dictatorship?
There is plenty of history about how Rome began as a democracy and abandoned it in favor of a military emperor. You know what happened to Rome. And then there was the British Empire. She eventually gave up her ‘Colonies’ and Empirical ambitions in favor of democracy.
Think about it.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
P.S. A couple of other topics for discussion. Yesterday’s Supreme Court decision and effect, among other things, on the Corporations’ Military-Industrial Complex and their defense contracts. Then there is ‘Star Wars’ the gazillions of $$$$$$ of R&D poured into it and it still doesn’t work. Well, at least we civilians got a GPS out of it.
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 22, 2010
at 2:44 PM
I think it is absolutely hilarious. And well-deserved.
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By: Donna on January 22, 2010
at 2:28 PM
UAW, yup Stewart nailed Olbermann to the wall. About damn time. I appreciate Keith, but there are times when I just turn off the TV because he’s almost as obnoxious as listening to Beck. Anyone notice that Stewart also laid into Maddow the other night? That was also pretty good and needed too. We need folks like Stewart to point out the foibles of the powerful & influential – and yes, in their own right, Olbermann and Maddow wield power –
Jon Stewart may well be the “country’s jester” but remember – the role of the court jester was to remind the King of humility and hubris. A dangerous role to have but necessary.
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By: Greytdog on January 22, 2010
at 1:57 PM
Grrrr…. I use a small credit union for my banking but Wells Fargo has my mortgage. Can’t close that account just yet. 😦
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 22, 2010
at 1:45 PM
So the banks found a way around most of the restrictions President Obama put on them.
http://crooksandliars.com/susie-madrak/bankers-brag-theyve-already-found-way
I am going to close my Wells Fargo account today.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 22, 2010
at 1:09 PM
Got to admit: Jon Stewart did a good job.
Just read a story saying, many on the hill are glad Brown got elected. They now have an excuse to do nothing on Health care or any controversial issue.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 22, 2010
at 12:18 PM
Olbermann is no Rush, but he is definltey over the top, UAW. You’re right about that. I don’t care for his show, especially the (generally) windbaggy special comment segments.
His accusations are immensely ‘dramatified’ but the point is that they were based on real examples of Brown’s own actions.
Olbermann should have focused on the fact that Brown plans to screw the majority out of getting the healthcare they want while his state already has it and is generally satisfied with it. (Certainly not more unhappy than BCBS customers are.)
I didn’t realize you liked Jon Stewart. I try not to miss it. There are gems in his show almost every time.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 22, 2010
at 10:49 AM
Keith Olbermann cedes the high ground and wallows in the swamp of baseless name-calling.
you tell them John Stewart
http://vodpod.com/watch/2909971-special-comment-keith-olbermanns-name-calling
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By: uawtradesman on January 22, 2010
at 10:19 AM
The Dems should go with Reconciliation, which has been used quite often. It takes 1/2 plus 1 to pass a bill under reconciliation.
http://www.williamkwolfrum.com/2010/01/21/dear-media-reconciliation-is-only-obscure-because-of-you/
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By: JuneauJoe on January 22, 2010
at 9:54 AM
*the* conclusions, not “he” conclusions.
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By: mapes on January 22, 2010
at 9:35 AM
Yea, the rumor was based on fact. And I totally agree with your statement that the piece “says what it says.” People seem to always try to make something mean something to reinforce their own stereotypes. Personally he conclusions that people draw tell me more about the person drawing the conclusion than the object of their assumptions.
I happened to see this live the day it aired so I knew to include the word “biscuit” in my search for the fact behind the rumor that you asked about. My own inclinations came into play when I witnessed what went down, and to be candid my response had more to do with the sex and age of the shovers and inciters. I wondered how the men in my life would respond in a similar situation, and it made me ponder the idea of laying down one’s life for another. But theorizing about that was very different from the reality of the situation in Haiti, so I tried to stop myself and let it be that “it is what it is” and that’s all it is.
CNN’s coverage has been outstanding.
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By: mapes on January 22, 2010
at 9:29 AM
Thank you for the link, Mapes. I guess it did really happen. Maybe. 😉
What I mean is, I still think the issue was misunderstanding, more than systemic ungratefulness. I wonder if the guy explaining about the expiration dates was really making an assumption about the problem. However, the piece says what it says and I guess that set off the “see how ungrateful the Haitians are” campaign. I still think that people accustomed to eating mud to ward off hunger, and drinking water they use for washing and bodily functions, must by and large not be people who would care about an expiration date. It’s too bad it was ever aired. It’s noise. The more importnat point is that the people are so desperate for food & aid that they are mobbing the aid workers. To me that says more aid is needed, not less.
I imagine it’s hard for people to realize how hard it is to be patient and civilized under those circumstances. Good grief, all I have to do is watch how my husband acts when dinner is late! An hour without food and he’s a bear – I can’t imagine a week or more without food and then having to compete with hundreds of other hungry people to get something!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 22, 2010
at 8:45 AM
hopefully soon somebody will update the blog to let us know that margaret and helen are fine?
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By: barbara on January 22, 2010
at 6:28 AM
Kucinich wants to pass a bill that takes personhood away from Corporations. This would be a way to reverse the terrible Supreme Court Decision which allows corporations to put as much money as they want into a campaign.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/dennis-kucinich-repeal-corporate-personhoo
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By: JuneauJoe on January 21, 2010
at 10:25 PM
Hi gang, Delurker Girl, Greytdog, Sherri, reader and jojofraz,
Herks, is a wonderful word! I’m adding it to my vocabulary.
We had MRE’s after our Hurricane Iniki out here in 1991. They were affectionately dubbed “Meals Refused by Ethiopians”. Pity the poor soldiers who have to subsist on them for months on end.
FOLKS, HELLO! For the most part, you need a STOVE or some way to heat MRE’s up. Get that? It’s not easy to find your STOVE under rubble, and if you do, many STOVES don’t work without ELECTRICITY or GAS. GI’s are known to heat them up by boiling water in their helmets. Of course, you need WATER to do that. (MRE’s are somewhat similar to crude frozen TV dinners only they aren’t frozen but vacuum packed.) We were fortunate to have a generator for the two months until we got power restored but water was very iffy during that time.
I too am very concerned about Helen and Margaret. I hope they and their families are all right. When it’s a long, long time between posts, we are reduced to bickering with the trolls, which is, as Helen said, “an exercise in fertility”, without the sexual gratification. Actually, we put a heavy burden on their shoulders to carry by themselves, almost all three million hits of us. (Admittedly, many of them multiple hits, myself included.)
I am working on an idea in their absence to take a little of the heat off them. I’ll get back to you when it is better formulated.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 21, 2010
at 8:36 PM
Delurker – if you’ve seen any of the rescue vids coming out of Haiti, you’d know the Haitian ppl are extremely grateful to all the nations assisting them. On Twitter, some are asking for specific S & R teams because they’ve seen them help others in their areas; babies are being named for the various countries that have gone in to help, and the various aid agencies are receiving inquires from all over the globe about long-term recovery and rebuilding.
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By: Greytdog on January 21, 2010
at 6:52 PM
There is an email address under either MOD or about us – stating however you may not get a reply. I sent an email to that address and ask that someone post something — even it is only “We are OK!!” Guess no one has check in on that email address. Since I didn’t get it sent back to me I am assuming it is still valid!!! Any one have any other ideas???
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By: reader on January 21, 2010
at 6:48 PM
I miss Helen. I need her logical analysis of current events. Anyone have any idea?
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By: jojofraz on January 21, 2010
at 6:38 PM
I’m beginning to think Margaret and Helen have gone the way of the Poe Toaster.
Before I start grieving, is anyone ready to organize a “Where’s Margaret and Helen?” campaign???
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By: Sherri Δ on January 21, 2010
at 6:37 PM
Thanks for your response to my question re: Mass. health care program. I searched the web today and found several sites on it. As one site said it is not perfect but it is a start. Maybe now that Brown was elected the Republicans will be more willing to volunteer their ideas and use Brown as their Knight in Shining Armour come to the rescue of our health care. However as I said in a previous post WAY back there – what we really have is a “disease intervention plan”. If we could just turn it into a “Health [Promotion and Disease Prevention] System” we may be better off.
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By: reader on January 21, 2010
at 5:12 PM
Listening right now to Shannyn Moore and AKM live talking about latest corporate takeover…
http://lightningstream.surfernetwork.com/Media/player/view/kudo4.asp?call=kudo&title=ListenLive&skin=KUDO
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By: Poolman on January 21, 2010
at 4:17 PM
http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/world/2010/01/15/lawrence.aid.distribution.cnn.html
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By: mapes on January 21, 2010
at 3:07 PM
OMG, Greytdog, that’s exactly HOW I made that typo. I had started with hateful jerks and backspaced out the word. Creepy!
I’m sure the unfamiliarity of the food is a big issue! Language differences, too. I bet the volunteers are working so hard, and under such dangerous conditions, that it would be hard to explain it all day long, too.
The Haitian people have to be utterly bewildered and devastated. Calling them ungrateful is just shameful. It makes me sick to hear it.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 21, 2010
at 2:34 PM
Glenn Beck is crazier than normal today! I think the Mass election made the right wing nuttier than normal.
It is so bad I will not even post a link. Not worth seeing or repeating.
The right wing hate, anger and spreading of fear is going off the charts.
Time to quietly assess, reorganize and plan for the next set of elections.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 21, 2010
at 2:33 PM
I like the term “Herks” – hateful +jerks=herks
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By: Greytdog on January 21, 2010
at 2:28 PM
DeLurker Girl – haven’t heard that rumor – but there is a rumor in Haiti that the food supplies coming in are for the American military, aid workers, and American citizens only. Ppl are upset – and the MRIs that are being handed out are unfamiliar to the majority of Haitians. When told that food is being handed out, they think rice, beans, cassava, flour, eggs, milk. etc. They don’t think MRIs. They aren’t sure how to prepare them, what’s in them, etc. Can’t say I blame them – I also wonder what the hell is really in those MRIs
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By: Greytdog on January 21, 2010
at 2:27 PM
JERKS, not herks. My bad!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 21, 2010
at 2:22 PM
Have any of you found out if there is any truth to the rumor going around that Haitians are rejecting food specifically because they think it’s expired? All I can really find is references to a rumor, and herks saying ungrateful Haitians should just fend for themselves.
I don’t believe for a second that desperate, devastated, starving, primarily illiterate people are checking for expiration dates and refusing to eat food that is being distributed. Shocking how a common type of people has fallen for it.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 21, 2010
at 2:18 PM
Welcome to the Corporate States of America.
http://www.themudflats.net/2010/01/21/welcome-to-the-corporate-states-of-america/
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 21, 2010
at 2:03 PM
Greytdog:
Your talents as a drummer and trumpeter are greatly appreciated. Keep up the good work.
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By: jsri on January 21, 2010
at 1:17 PM
Sorry for the repost. it was only meant to be a typo correction
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By: jsri on January 21, 2010
at 1:12 PM
Re: lori on January 21, 2010 at 12:46 PM
Lori. Sorry. I left the state of Mass before their health plan went into effect. But here is an old link that has more details.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20266957/
But from what I’ve heard, many more children who were uncovered before are now under the umbrella and many more small businesses now offer coverage. And contrary to what a lot of people would like you to believe, illegal immigrants are not covered.
But it is still an insurance plan, not a health plan. I don’t see how the insurance companies have any room to complain.
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By: jsri on January 21, 2010
at 1:10 PM
Re: lori on January 21, 2010 at 12:46 PM
Lori. Sorry. I left the state of Mass before their health plan went into effect. But here is an old link that has more details.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20266957/
But from what I’ve heard, many more children who were uncovered before are now under the umbrella and many more small businesses now offer coverage. And contrary to what a lot of people would like you to believe, illegal immigrants are not covered.
But it is still an insurance plan, not a heakth plan. I don’t see how the insurance companies have any room to complain.
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By: jsri on January 21, 2010
at 1:09 PM
Reader, No I don’t live in MA, sorry.
I just volunteered to GOTV for the special election.
It is my understanding however, that MA does have the closest thing to universal health-care anywhere in the nation… Maybe Jsri knows something about it?
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By: lori on January 21, 2010
at 12:46 PM
Well, now we all know WWGKD! LMAO!!!
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By: Claire on January 21, 2010
at 12:12 PM
JuneauJoe —- For someone who does not know you , does not have any idea why you chose to teach in remote Alaska or anything else about you, I suggest he shuts TFU.
For the rest of us I suggest Resolutions 1 and 2.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 21, 2010
at 11:41 AM
Buttons44 – love your expression gophead! BTW any rain problems at your place?
Greydog _ that brownie pie sounds wonderful!! Makes me wish I could get in a kitchen and cook.
Does the troll have a brain that can check out facts? or does he spend his da y writing nonsense to insult people and crap on Helen’s porch. Scrubbing th e porsh so often gets tiresome.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 21, 2010
at 11:34 AM
well, I say good for her!
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By: Donna on January 21, 2010
at 11:31 AM
Here is a link to the Cindy McCain Ad about hate against Gay Marriage
http://www.rumproast.com/index.php/site/comments/good_for_cindy_mccain_poses_for_noh8_campaign/
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By: JuneauJoe on January 21, 2010
at 11:03 AM
McCains wife, Cindy, is in a pro gay marriage ad.
I just saw a bit of the ad on the AM news.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 21, 2010
at 10:58 AM
McCain is letting Scarah help him get re-elected. This could be good if the Dems don’t waste this oportunity!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 21, 2010
at 10:49 AM
Sign the Grayson Petition to stop corporations from unlimited funding of elections.
http://crooksandliars.com/john-amato/sign-alan-graysons-supreme-court-petiti
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By: JuneauJoe on January 21, 2010
at 9:45 AM
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/thom-hartmann-its-all-about-republicans-vs
Thom Hartman: Interpreting the loss in Mass.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 21, 2010
at 9:19 AM
I’m in, Farsight. And Greytdog–that sounds wonderful. Many thanks.
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By: Donna on January 21, 2010
at 6:48 AM
The discussion regarding the availability of 50 medical beds on a ship is a moot question. The logistics of relocating one million displaced persons in Haiti is the first priority after search and rescue. Setting up refuge camps that will probably exist for years is an organizational nightmare
Haiti is a country with no public sewage system. Sanitation is the real problem as health concerns will soon demand 100,000 medical beds or more after the earthquake victims are cared for. What difference does it make who got there first when you have a such a dire situation! All of us should expend our energy toward a positive solution.
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By: Anonymous on January 21, 2010
at 6:14 AM
Thanks for the Olbermann link, Joe. I don’t generally care much for Keith’s show, but he sure does back up what he says with plenty of specific examples. It was a good piece.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 21, 2010
at 4:51 AM
I’m in.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 21, 2010
at 4:45 AM
Not JuneauJoe’s of course.
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By: farsight Δ on January 21, 2010
at 12:33 AM
OK folks, I read it so you don’t have to. The last 2 posts were the ranting of a juvenile mind. I can’t empathize with the mind what acts like this. I’m sure it feels powerful in that much of the discussion has been turned to it.
Let’s not engage or discuss its childishness. It would be nice if we could go 200 – 300 posts at least like that.
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By: farsight Δ on January 21, 2010
at 12:31 AM
WWGKD
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036677/#34964735
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By: JuneauJoe on January 21, 2010
at 12:29 AM
It’s amazing…after reading all the posts
over the past two hours..there is a lot of hate
being spoken here.
You all have really become irrational in your thinking.
And your hands were suppose to be the ones reaching across the aisle?
I have seen a very unseemly group of vile
characters here. Is this the make up of the democratic party?
What a shame.
Pity the poor souls
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By: CraigΔ on January 20, 2010
at 11:14 PM
By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 8:35 PM His post again mentioned the Carl Vinson carrier.
Donna and all the others who wish to spread lies are nothing more than echoes of Joe’s ignorance that he mentioned this same ship and the same complaints about not taking patients. I told him it was not a hospital ship.I told him and everybody earlier what the carrier was there for.
Yet all of you continue to ignore his ignorance and yet support someone who is really lost in his own little time machine. Ya tell him once and he doesn’t get it..then again..and again..
A one track agenda. This captain …and this ship…and these beds…are not being utilized.
Then he start in on his marxist agenda about the Cubans were there first. Who gives a shit?
The cubans care more and the US Military
could do more and blah..BLAH…
Man this guy JJOE needs counseling.
And Donna you are still coming across as a little vindictive and somewhat sophomoric in your
postings. To lash out as you did , must be indicative of someone who has had one too many and has issues to be worked out in Group Therapy.
Your bitter Donna..and it is showing.
I know last night was hard.
Have another drink, get a grip and go to synagogue.
“And Delurker–I vote for warm apple pie with ice cream. With a wee glass of warm cognac after it.”
Just wish you had someone to lean on in a moment like this. I worry about someone in your shape.
I’ll pray for you.
and ….as for Buttons44..
Pull the corn cob out.
You’ll feel better tomorrow.
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By: CraigΔ on January 20, 2010
at 11:06 PM
Delurker & Donna, this isn’t a pie recipe but it’s quick, it’s yummy, and it’s been deemed sinful by some friends:
(measurements are approximate)
2 cups toasted & crushed hazelnuts
1/2 c. (or so) graham cracker crumbs, crushed
1 cup butter, melted
Mix together. Press firmly into prepared pan (I use a brownie pan sprayed with PAM, then parchment paper ‘painted’ with a bit of melted butter). Pop into 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes or so until “crust” is set (should be “golden brown” not burned). Remove and let cool.
Take your favorite boxed brownie mix and prepare as directed. Pour over nut crust. Bake as directed on brownie mix box.
Remove from oven. Let cool completely. Turn pan over onto plate. Tap lightly. Remove parchment paper from the nut-crusted brownies. Serve with ice cream and hot fudge sauce.
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By: Greytdog on January 20, 2010
at 10:55 PM
reader, thanks to the frugality of my Scots ancestors, our family has owned a small vacation house on Martha’s Vineyard since 1893. The house is a generational legacy that everyone pitches in to keep in order. My cousin & his family now live in the house. Whenever we came back to the US on furlough, family reunions were often held there in the summer. I have family and close friends along the Cape and in Boston, but I have never lived there as a resident, so I have no experience personally with the health care program in that state.
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By: Greytdog on January 20, 2010
at 10:47 PM
lori and greytdog you obviously live or have lived in Mass. I have heard that Mass already has their own version of health care reform. Could you give the rest of us an over view of your hearlth care program.
And the trolls have to come here because it gets boring on their own sights which must sound something like Ann Coultier arguing with herself.
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By: reader on January 20, 2010
at 10:26 PM
Helen? Margaret? Are you okay?
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By: Shash on January 20, 2010
at 9:45 PM
Lots of good posts today. Now, I’m off to make dinner.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 20, 2010
at 9:12 PM
We all deal with issues in different ways, some people like to rant to feel better and some are quick to move on to the next thing. This blog is not a blog where people are supposed to move in lockstep. That said, Greytdog, I cannot stomach to read some of the posts here. When I do most of the time inadvertendly, I always come away wanting to wipe my eyes from ever seeing the filth. But by God, I applaud you for ranting against some of our more juvenile posters. You go lady!
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By: Easier on January 20, 2010
at 9:06 PM
I see your point, No One’s Puppet. I, myself, have never had the urge to stand around in vomit spattered clothes, reeking of urine, trying to get strangers to listen to me. So it’s hard for me to empathize with those who regularly don the befouled clothing and gibber, much less when they expect to get a reaction.
And Delurker–I vote for warm apple pie with ice cream. With a wee glass of warm cognac after it.
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 8:56 PM
For our little party, I don’t recommend merlot and snocaps. Two good things that completely wreck each other!
We’ve been seriously short of pie around here lately. I have canned cherry pie filling and frozen crust. Surely someone here could do much better!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 20, 2010
at 8:45 PM
The ship is the Carl Vinson
I would have put that up earlier but I truly scrolled past the two trolls. Didn’t know they wanted the information.
Here is a link about Cuba setting up a hosp.
http://www.brasschecktv.com/page/788.html
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 8:35 PM
I’m in! What’s our category? Desserts? Salads? Maybe a nice cocktail?
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 8:23 PM
Trolls have so little control of their own life and the verification of their very existence, in their own mind, depends on the reaction of those of us they can shock and get to react. Hey we are only human, so if we read their crap, we are bound to react. One of the good things about this blog is the comfort level we have in share not only our ideas, but personal facts about our lives, but that same information gives trolls the ammunition to offend. It might be time for a good recipe exchange while we practice WWGKD.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 20, 2010
at 8:09 PM
I’m not sure M&H’s little blog is as imortant to them as it is to us, ROFL! I wonder if they even read the comments? 😀
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 20, 2010
at 8:04 PM
Craig…you yourself are in a STFU moment in time as you disparage your whateverings so self riteously,,,and believe it was James who attempt the snark regarding JJoe but even he was a tad more more civil in re-addresing ..a btw the way, if you are so concerned regarding the Navy ship/incident, you are enabled via YOUR computer to seek out the informaton..nothing in any notes hereabouts that another MUST accomodate YOUR laziness to verify and but only take your crappola as if must be taken as veracible and topped with your play at victimhood–aw poor little C is told to stuff it and blah, blah, blah. You DO come across too often as a true dieharded gophead representative but frankly, your are not even that good at that !! Too Bad, SO Sad and whatever .
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By: Buttons44 on January 20, 2010
at 8:02 PM
JuneauJoe – WWGKD? Scroll past the trolls. None of them have said anything constructive that I have read. Carping about your teaching in Alaska. Still have seen no mention of what he does except a few hours a week. What does he do the rest of the time?
Obama has done m ore in one year than his predecessor did. Has he had much cooperation? Thank him for immediately sending help to Haiti.
My SO was a stanch die hard Rush fan.
But I never heard one word about having Paramedics help him. or Nursing home stays. Or q u estion who was paying for itall.
Donna – so you too are watching the total numbers! Make ia nice VAlentine don’t you think?
So Mass voted for Brown. I look at it as a wake up call to the Democrats to wake up, join together and pick someone who doesn’t take a vacation for 18 days. Sounds like someone else who was always running off to his “ranch”.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 20, 2010
at 8:02 PM
Actually No.
Just looked. WOW. That is pretty amazing.
Wish they would put up a new post. It is a bit worrying that it has been so long between posts.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 7:17 PM
That happened to my daughter in NY. I happened to be 8 feet away. Those crazy guys find those who are intimidated and really try to freak them out.
He left pretty fast after I walked up.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 7:13 PM
On a more interesting topic, see how close to 3 million H & M are getting?
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 7:12 PM
You nailed it.
You have to protect the children from those fools too.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 7:10 PM
And do we respond to the crazy guy with the vomit-covered raincoat who smells like urine and is waving a leaflet and screaming “doctors cure deafness with new miracle plant!” when he says “hey–have you tried it?” Nah…we head on our merry way thinking “man, that’s one who didn’t watch the ‘your brain on drugs’ commercials.”
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 7:06 PM
Donna – That is an amazing analogy!!! Great!!
It is exactly like that……..
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 7:03 PM
Perhaps the best analogy is the crazy person on the street corner who is yelling nonsense–and expects passers by to answer.
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 6:55 PM
Good for you, Juneau Joe. It is obvious to anyone that you are well read, educated, and informed. You have zero need to justify anything to anyone, much less someone who doesn’t approach your intellectual horsepower.
WWGKD.
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 6:52 PM
WWGKD
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/8471460.stm
Thank You President Obama for sending 4000 more troops at this critical time in Haiti. The sooner they get help, the more lives that can be saved.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 6:47 PM
Beck (and his followers) are talking crazy again!!!
http://crooksandliars.com/david-neiwert/becks-eliminationist-tirade-against
WWGKD
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 6:38 PM
‘I found your comment regarding JJ’s “fitness” to teach to be beyond the pale. How dare you assume to judge another person while demanding that no one judge you?” Greytdog
the above concerning a post about JJOE..
Well my what a lady stfu….
If the shoe or card carrier fits then so be it.
I don’t think I was speaking to you..greytdog
If all Joe can do is bash the country he lives in well he can vote them out. But I asked him and still have had no answer to his outlandish comments and crap about some Captain not allowing patients on a Naval ship
I said give me a source..and yet you support his crap..and he has chosen to ignore my questions.
AND How good of you to keep reminding everyone what a wonderful person you are.
Do you blow trumpet or are you just a drummer?
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By: craigΔ on January 20, 2010
at 6:30 PM
Anne,
Thank You for your comments. We do need healthcare for all. It is crazy that so many people are going bankrupt because of medical expenses.
I have a friend who died because she was sick and recovering when she got the swine flu. She had no insurance and knew they would put her in the hospital so she stayed home. She died during the night.
It is crazy!!!
Lori – You are right. Time to move forward. The candidate in Mass did not work out – move on and learn from the loss.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 4:51 PM
Greytdog:
The only consolation in this great Massachusetts election mess is that Brown only gets to serve the remainder of Kennedy’s term and I suspect that by then this loudmouthed braggart will shoot himself in the foot and get voted out of office.
But as a past resident of the great Bay State I’m not surprised by the result. After all tMA voters elected Bill Weld and Mitt Rommney to the governership. Unfortunately, in this Brown election they get to share their stupidity with the rest of the country.
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By: jsri on January 20, 2010
at 4:48 PM
and one more thing before I go and do some more yoga so the top of my head doesn’t fly off!
I am sick to death of democrats, whom I have donated our hard earned money and my valuable time for 40 years, stand in a circle and shoot each other. The repugs have had NO policies NO message NO agenda for over 25 years but yet still manage to seat candidates.. WHY? because they have party unity and when they get into trouble they would rather take a bullet for their guy than disparage a fellow party member. BARNEY… I am TALKING TO YOU! STFU!
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By: lori on January 20, 2010
at 3:05 PM
James:
I have seen no bi-partisanship coming from the Republicans. I have seen only claims of “socialism” and out-of-control spending. Government spending doesn’t seem to be a problem with people when we’re talking about Medicare or Social Security, also decried as “socialsm” when they were proposed and passed. But I don’t see Republicans in a hurry to repeal those. Why? Because people like them. I believe if we can work out a way to provide healthcare to people so they don’t have to worry about going bankrupt and losing everything they’ve spent their lives working for, they’re probably going to like it. And the GOP vowing to block anything put forth, so matter how many concessions they’ve been allowed, makes me mad. If they’d put forth an alternate proposal, I’d be willing to look at it. But they’ve done nothing. They’ve just nitpicked at what has been proposed and done their best to make it fail so they can feel like they’ve done something.
The GOP is ruled by ideology right now, and you cannot negotiate with an ideology that says “You either believe as we do or you’re wrong.” They will not work with Democrats, so if they feel frozen out, it’s their own damn fault and it’s too late to bitch about it now.
I’m allowed to be pissed about healthcare. I’m worried I’ll get sick and lose everything. Why can’t we get this right? Why does every other industrialized country feel this is a priority and we don’t? Why does every other country with some type of health care for everyone think this is important and our citizens don’t? We’re compassionate when it comes to Haiti, but when it comes to compassion for our own poor and struggling citizens, we care more about keeping what we have than helping out our fellow citizens? How did we become this selfish? In a country that’s supposed to be christian, that’s supposed to care about helping others, how did we become this?
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By: Anne on January 20, 2010
at 2:52 PM
Absolutely correct greytdog we did put up a terrible candidate.
Also it isn’t like MA has never turned shades of red. I seem to recall a smuck by the name of MITT that resided in the governor’s mansion a few years back.
We are 1 and 1 when it comes to winning seats in special elections. We stole a house seat away from a SP backed Tbagger, they took a senate seat. We have a good chance to take it back in a couple of years.
So I don’t look at this is any kind of “signal” that Obama and his policies are disliked and therefore we should change the course. Had Brown run as a right wing nut or a bagger it would be a different story, but he didn’t he ran as a main stream moderate. I am a bit concerned we are losing the blue collar white man vote. Our policies help/ represent him well and we SHOULD have their vote and we don’t . We need to message our polices better to reach him.
What I do see however are a bunch of democrats that aren’t using the political brains that God gave em and are squandering away all OUR hard work.
Greyt I still would be interested to know what district you were calling that you received such negative feedback. Was it district 1? by chance ? I had district 2, that by in large went Brown and I only received a tiny fraction of negitive feedback. I’d like to know more.
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By: lori on January 20, 2010
at 2:26 PM
Here is a perspective about the success of Obama in Iraq.
But Obama’s biggest practical foreign policy success has been in keeping to his withdrawal timetable in Iraq. Most observers have paid too little attention to this, among his most important decisions. When he became president, his top generals, including Gen. David Petraeus and Gen. Ray Odierno, reportedly came to him and attempted to convince him to modify the withdrawal timeline adopted by the Iraqi parliament as part of the Status of Forces Agreement negotiated shortly before he took office. They did not want US troops to cease patrolling independently in mid-June 2009. They did not want to get all combat troops out by summer 2010. They wanted to finesse the agreement. Reclassify combat troops under some other heading, they said.
Overturning the SOFA or dragging Washington’s feet about it would have produced rage in Baghdad. It had the potential for undermining the government of PM Nouri al-Maliki, and for reinvigorating both Sunni Arab extremists and Shiite radical movements such as the Mahdi Army. It would have made other Arab regimes suspicious of US motives.
http://www.juancole.com/2010/01/one-year-later-did-obama-win-iraq-war.html
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 2:20 PM
Just sorry folks gave in to the impulse to read the troll, you know you can’t resist setting them straight and then they come back.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 20, 2010
at 2:18 PM
Poolman–you are right that it’s unfortunate it seems so terribly important to James to feel validated. I visualize him like Rumpelstiltskin hopping around and shouting “I WAS RIGHT! I WAS RIGHT!” and shaking his little gnarled fist in the air.
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 2:16 PM
A mark of success is to judge a hypothesis by its results, Donna. If your belief system is consistently wrong, change it.
Call me immature or anything else. It doesn’t change the fact that I am right. Had some of you not engaged in adhominam attacks on people who disagreed , even when we were civil, I would not have kept score and rubbed your noses in it. You are reaping what you sowed.
If Juneau Joe hid his political beliefs from his students, then my kids would have been happy in his classes. I’ve seen too many conservative and liberal teachers who thrust their beliefs onto students. If he kept his views out of the classroom, hooray for Joe and I appoligize for assuming otherwise .
I agree with him about the Senate bill.
The “Senate candidate” took a vacation because she “knew” she would win. How could she not win when she led by thirty points a couple of months ago and she was chosen to occupy the Kennedy seat? The Democrats thought her election was a formality because they underestimated the grass roots movement which learned Obama’s campaign networking methods.
Maybe the lost election will convince them not to underestimate their political enemies and to compromise. Brown had better produce also, or he will be gone.
Anne, one reason Ma voters chose Brown was as you implied, they were afraid the government health insurance program would steal from their already expensive health insurance system.
I’m proud of them. They have shaken the political framework of the whole country.
The Republicans offered a number of alternatives, and though the Democrats said they wanted to work with Republicans, party leaders froze them out. They let Republicans offer a few meaningless amendments, and leaders crafted the bills in secret. Even Sen. Durban admitted he wasn’t privy to the final negotiations.
So, Anne, you are wrong about the Democrats’ willingness to work with Republicans. If the Democrats are smart, they will work with the opposition now.
Polls show most people oppose Obama’s agenda once they learn the details. If he wants a successful presidency, he needs to compromise and run to the head of the crowd as Clinton did. David Gergan said the four main aspects of Obama’s agenda in their present form are dead. Brown has proven every safe seat is potentially vulnerable, and our legislators are suddenly nervous.
Obama misread the vote. Voters were voting not so much for him as the image he created and what people projected onto him. They wanted nothing which reminded them of Bush, and Obama seemed to be above politics. Now that he has failed to live up to expectations, and people learn what he is selling, they reject the package. If Obama compromises and moves toward the middle, he can still be a good president.
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By: James on January 20, 2010
at 1:51 PM
This was James’ “I told you so” moment:
“Its unlikely but even Ted Kennedy’s old seat may theoretically go Republican according to the Democratic Public Policy Polling.” James 1-09-10 at 8:59 AM
In my interpretation, he could have been right no matter the outcome. Like when the weatherman says “chance of rain.” But I say, let’s give him the “I told you so” moment he so desperately needs, and chalk up that point is his favor.
Score keepers abound. Good umpires are rare. It is probably a good time to refresh our knowledge of the rule book and equip ourselves properly for the event we are mutually participating in.
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By: Poolman on January 20, 2010
at 1:39 PM
Well said, Greytdog. I bet it felt good to get that off your chest!
Their arrogance will keep the point from having any real impact on them. Trolls disturb & disrupt. They don’t have any interest in learning or growing or getting along. As long as they can get the desired reaction, they don’t leave, either. We can shoo away fruit flies but as long as we keep putting out fruit for them, they’ll keep coming back. I’m not chastising you. You said what needed to be said. It’s just a terribly frustrating situation.
It’s sort of shocking that of all the things they could choose to spend their time & energy on, they choose crapping on this porch.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 20, 2010
at 1:16 PM
Yeah, Greytdog. Well said. About time someone put him in his place.
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By: sunshine on January 20, 2010
at 12:58 PM
As for Craig – so what if we were all communists? what’s the BFD? You gonna run to Bachmann and tell her about the unAmerican activities in which we’re all engaged? Let’s start with a sampling of my “communist activities”:
Volunteer with Eldercare
Teacher – Elderhostel
Pro Bono Elder Patient Advocate
Tutor – at risk students grades 9-12
Actively involved in Habitat for Humanity, Church World Service, and World Council of Churches
Lifelong supporter of Oxfam, Heifer Intl, Doctors w/out Borders, UNICEF
Active member of Peace Now (seeking viable solutions for Israel/Palestine peaceful coexistence)
Volunteer w/Coalition for the Homeless
Notice the theme of these communist activities and interests? It’s called Giving Back and Paying it Forward – if that’s Communist – so be it.
Either report me for these UnAmerican Activities, Craig, or STFU.
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By: Greytdog on January 20, 2010
at 12:55 PM
Personally, I would have like to have seen a strong Progressive Dem as the junior senator from Massachusetts. AS a lifelong Kennedy supporter, I have to admit I became very annoyed with the Dems talking about “Teddy’s seat” – Ted would have been the first one to remind them that it was NOT his seat but the People’s Seat – and he served at the behest of the People. That, in the long run, Ted would become the People’s Senator is beside the point. The Dems fielded an ineffectual candidate who assumed she’d ride to victory on the Kennedy name alone. Ted could have told her differently – that those days are gone and you have to earn that seat through campaigning and following through on your commitments. I hope that Scott Brown also understands this. Whether or not Brown is a t-bagger or RWNJ is not my concern – we’ll soon seen if he toes the party line or had enough courage to stand up to Limbaugh and Beck. I am not going to sit here and nit-pick him to death just because he’s GOP.
On a personal note, I think James owes JuneauJoe an apology. I found your comment regarding JJ’s “fitness” to teach to be beyond the pale. How dare you assume to judge another person while demanding that no one judge you? You sit there on your pompous ass pontificating to everyone and playing that childish game of “I told you so”. Well James I am so glad to know that God has bestowed omnipotence on you – too bad he also didn’t bestow some compassion and empathy. I find you intellectually interesting – and I admire the fact that you are maintaining a family farm in this era of BigAgra. BUT that doesn’t mean I will sit by silently while you bully and demean others on this blog. I’m trying to be nice here, but frankly, if you were standing in front of me, I’d bitch slap you upside your head for even assuming you’re the only one with “the Truth”. Jackass.
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By: Greytdog on January 20, 2010
at 12:47 PM
I, for one, want to thank our Commander in Chief for responding so quickly to the Haitian crisis.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 20, 2010
at 11:53 AM
“The Democrats cannot unite; the Republicans simply want to destroy. Obama won the election with a new coalition; but he has had to govern through the existing system, which is essentially broken beyond repair. Hence he is as stranded as the country.”
Now: Call The GOP’s Bluff
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By: Poolman on January 20, 2010
at 11:46 AM
Call Senator Murkowski and TELL HER TO GIVE BACK THE $124,500 FROM THE ENERGY LOBBY!
***Murkowski is trying to gut the Clean Air Act! She had energy lobbyests write the amendment which will gut the clean air act. (Alaska is melting by the way.)
Make a quick phone call to her Washington office at 202- 224 -6665!
WWGKD
Thanks Donna – reminders do help
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 11:30 AM
JuneauJoe–WWGKD.
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 11:15 AM
Troll Poop on the porch!!!
Stroll folks!!!
Amazing Story: 20 US firefighters worked for 6 hours on a collapsed 3 story house. They found a boy and a girl alive.
That is a great use of US taxpayer money.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 11:14 AM
If our humanitarian efforts matched our military efforts in priority and funding, we could be a true blessing to the world. Instead we are the new world’s police force and occupiers of the globe, with over 700 bases on foreign soil, making more enemies with our occupation than allies. With our military being promoted as our christian outreach, we have greatly polluted the gospel of Christ. With scripture imprinted on weapons of war and twisted to justify genocide, we heap burning coals on our heads and bring a curse on future generations.
“We Have Met The Enemy And He Is Us.”
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By: Poolman on January 20, 2010
at 11:10 AM
Well JOE..May I call You JOE?
You must be a closet communist.
You are so ready to find fault the efforts of your own country’s military relief.
And you seem to perpetuate this notion that there is a ship that the “captain” has under his command and will not allow its medical personnel to assist.
Again JOE…where do you get your inspiration from as to who is saying this..and about what ship?
Facts JOE.
Just give us the source of your knowledge upon where you make your judgement.
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By: craigΔ on January 20, 2010
at 10:56 AM
Haiti: Cuba was the first country to set up a hospital in Haiti. The US has a ship with a 50 bed hospital but the captain has not allowed it to be used for injured Haitians. (Medical Personnel aboard the ship said they were equipped to help 800 people per day if they get the OK.) A US hospital ship is on the way.
The Navy did set up a field hospital yesterday.
Years from now, Cuba will get have a lot of good feelings because of their quickness to do the right thing. (We keep talking about stopping communism, etc but we only care about embargoes or bombing – not helping those in need. That is the feeling of many in the countries in need.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 10:33 AM
Right again, No One’s Puppet. I like you. 🙂
How long is Brown’s term? He’ll have to run again next year, won’t he? I can’t find that information. Too much talking head ‘noise’ to wade through and I lose patience.
My mind is consumed with fear & sadness for the people in Haiti. I made what I thought was the biggest contribution I could afford last week. I will dig deeper now.
Couponmom.com is a website where you can get printable coupons for groceries, etc. I just got a notice from them that for each of their coupons redeemed in the next week they will donate a nickel. Redeeming just 10 coupons will be enough to provide clean drinking water to a family of four for a full month. I don’t know how fast they can do this, but Haiti was destitute before the earthquakes and clean water has and will probably always be an issue. If this particular painless way to contribute doesn’t address immediate needs, it is still worth doing.
Living Water International has been serving Haitians for a long time. Contributions go toward sending missionaries to Haiti to drill and repair wells, and to teach hygiene. It’s a good Christian cause if you are interested. I’m sure they are doing what they can for relief of course, but their purpose is more toward ongoing need.
The poverty in Haiti is difficult to even fathom. There are people who make their ‘living’ selling dirt ‘cookies’ for food. They are enslaved to the people who sell them the bags of dirt used to make them. Can you imagine how heartless you’d have to be to sell dirt for $5/bag to people who in turn prepare the dirt for food for others? Those same profiteers could be selling them rice for the same price! It’s sickening.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22902512/
Sorry, no time to proof read but just wanted to share more about how awful it was there before this disaster. These people had nothing, and now they’ve lost even that.
To that, Rush says “I have mine. Get your own,” and “I pay my taxes, why should I be bothered with this?” Hypocrites preach that Haiti brought this upon themselves when they made a deal with the devil. They forget that they are supposed to be like Jesus, caring for the sickest and poorest among us. They forget that they themselves may be failing a really important test.
It’s no wonder we can’t get health insurance reform for our own people if jerks like that can’t even find empathy for the poorest of the poor. They make me sick with their righteous heartlessness. I would rather be good than right.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 20, 2010
at 10:00 AM
I knew this would happen. A lot of people who voted for Obama expected miracles, but that’s impossible. I remember when Clinton came into office with lots of promisese and ran into opposition in Congress. He was only one man and couldn’t change whatever he wanted. Keeping the recession from turning into a depression was not enough. We want everything fixed now. Why haven’t you done it?
I am so, so disappointed in Massachusettes today. They already have universal health care in their states. Something like 92% of their population has it, so what to they care whether the rest of the country suffers?
Michael Steele was on ABC news this morning saying how Republicans want to work with Democrats on health care legislation now. That’s total bullshit. It’s one thing to have a different opinion, or different ideas on how to reform healthcare, but don’t lie to me and tell me you’re upset that Democrats don’t want to work with you. They offered. You declined. Don’t piss on me and tell me it’s raining.
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By: Anne on January 20, 2010
at 9:59 AM
Honestly, I probably taught James child and neither he nor his child knew I was a liberal.
Politics was after school and weekends.
Single payer is the way to go for sure. At the very least, we need a public option in a health care bill.
Again: The Senate seat was lost because the Dem Candidate took an 18 day vacation – what did she really expect.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 9:57 AM
ah, the mature “I told you so” response. And, of course, the invocation of Mary Jo Kopechne.
As for the completely uncalled for statement about JuneauJoe’s “fitness” to teach, I can say that I’d be proud and grateful to have any kid of mine under his tutelage.
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By: Donna on January 20, 2010
at 9:39 AM
WWGKD
There is no problem with Obama;s agenda, the majority silently, TOO SILENTLY, support it, the problem is with its execution. Democrats grow a pair!
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 20, 2010
at 9:28 AM
Olberman on Brown, an apology.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/cspanjunkie/olbermann-uses-comment-apologize-massa
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 9:20 AM
Once again, I told you so.
When I posted that Scott Brown had a remote chance of winning, I expected only a surprisingly close election. My mind changed about ten days ago.
Brown’s road to victory began last spring when a many of us took to the streets in what became the Tea Party movement. The left and some posters here derided the protest as inconsequential, but I told you differently. Events are proving me right again.
The Democrats should have seen this coming and found a better candidate who could run a campaign. Their smugness and inability to interpret events made this happen.
You and the Ma. Democratic campaign should have seen this coming. I did. Surely, I’m no smarter than you. Once again, I believe your obscession with Sarah Palin is misplaced. She is not leading this grass roots movement, though she and others would like to control it.
Now, the Democrats are in disaray. Barney Frank said “But our respect for the democratic process must rule out any effort to pass this health care bill as if the Massachusetts election had not happened.” Sen Webb said there should be no vote until Brown is seated.
The Democrats have two choices: to triangulate as Clinton did or to run themselves and us over a cliff. Clinton turned his defeats into a successful presidency. If the Democrats strap the belt to their chests and with a loud “Obama akbar” politically detonate themselves, they will be discredited for a long time.
The Republicans make a tragic mistake if they think this is a Republican movement. The Tea Partiers will pick them off also.
No one’s PuppetA you give good advice for your side except for one thing. Your side is in the minority, and most Democratic legislators want to keep their jobs.
Juneau Joe, once again, I wonder about your fitness to teach school. The Democrats have controlled Congress since 2006, and they contributed to the financial crisis at least as much as Republicans. Yes, Obama inherited a mess, but he isn’t the first to take a difficult job. He promised more than he could deliver, and his methods were misguided to say the least.
Rush said “This one’s for you Mary Jo.” The hills are alive with shadenfreude, and it is another reason for worry. You don’t realize the anger which is building in reaction to your rage. I have a bad feeling about this.
To Obama, the Democratic leadership, and some in the press:
“I see your dirty face
hot behind your collar
But its done in vane
Truth is hard to swallow.
So you pray to God
Just to file away
You live a lie
You live a lie
And you take your time
And you do the crime
Well, you made your bed
I made mine.”
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By: James on January 20, 2010
at 9:08 AM
Great post, NOP. Didn’t mean to leave you out but I hadn’t read that far yet. 🙂
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 20, 2010
at 9:03 AM
Lori & JuneauJoe, I agree with you both.
I agree that the economy & jobs are causing image problems for the administration, but I view the House & Senate as a bigger problem than the presidency itself. Dems refusing to work with each other and not finding a way to call Republicans on their obstructionist stunts are making the administration look pathetic.
We should have the health care voters wanted when this administration was voted in. Remember, the real referendum?
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 20, 2010
at 9:01 AM
Why the seat was lost? this comment struck me.
Please. Martha Coakley took an 18-day vacation, came back for the last 12 days of the campaign, and then acted surprised when she was losing. The failing is her own. I’m also not sure where people think the economic crisis and unemployment high came from. Bush squandered our surplus and handed the country over to Obama in ruins, of course it’s still in shambles. If by 2012 he hasn’t cleared it up, okay, then it’s time to look for somebody new, but it’s been one year.
Shaun Bickley, Houston, United States
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 8:34 AM
I am with Lori, the average American just isn’t into nuance, promise us change, and by damn we expect change. It is high time we quite apologizing for the cowardly Democratic officeholders, which pretty much includes all of them with a couple of exceptions, it is time for liberals to squawk loud, hard, and long, hold their feet to the fire. These Senators are afraid of the tea partiers, big mistake, they need to be afraid of us, we worked for them, we donated to them, and we voted for them, well we can support better prospects in the future during in primaries. I’m not blaming Obama or Harry Reid for not finishing healthcare before now, I blame us, we aren’t demanding enough from our representatives in Washington
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 20, 2010
at 7:54 AM
DeLurker Girl: You are so very right. Losing one seat is nothing compared to Haiti.
here is another take on the Senate seat:
irst, the recession and job losses are making the administration unpopular.
Second, the health care bill is dead and deserves to be. From the moment deals were made with pharmaceuticals and insurance companies, the chance for competitive health insurance and real savings was gone.
Three, whoever stepped into the presidency in the wake of George W. Bush was stepping into the disaster created by Bush. Obama has never said just how bad it was nor what he intended to do to clean up the Bush mess.
http://prairieweather.typepad.com/big_blue_stem/2010/01/bottom-line.html
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 7:22 AM
Another earthquake in Haiti – this one a 6.1. The loss of one senate seat is small stuff compared to this.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 20, 2010
at 5:43 AM
Hi Martha ,
I am in the lower 48. I left AK in June. I do miss the AK snow. Colorful: That was a unique troll.
Lori: Yep. Health Care should have been a done deal by now.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 20, 2010
at 4:01 AM
Yes we learn and move on.
I am not in lock step that any senate/congressional race is a referendum on the president. I never have been. I can certainly understand that conventional wisdom but it never seems to reach a logical conclusion for me.
I am buying the ticket on the “Harry needs to go train”. I’m sorry folks, health-care should be a done deal by now. Nancy had it wrapped up ready to put a bow on it (with a fairly strong PO)and deliver it to the American people in November. It is now SOTU and we still have no bill and the one we do have is unpopular with everyone. It has taken too long. People are OVER healthcare. I say give us a good bill and let them filla us if they want to. Kick ass and take names Harry. If we go down, at least we go down fighting. Put the democrats on the record. As my father use to say, “let’s see where the bear shits in the woods”.
And while I am ranting I have yet ONE more cliche’.. Democrats dance with the boy who “brung” you to the dance for HEAVENS sake!
Ok I feel better now I am ready to go back to work… Thanks for allowing me to rant.
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By: lori on January 20, 2010
at 3:27 AM
Hey Juneau Joe – it could be Colorful ya know. Chuckle. We are all doomed until we repent something or other!
I hope you are well – are you not in my neighborhood anymore?
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on January 20, 2010
at 1:20 AM
From The Mudflats:
Bob Cesca said:
Once again, like Virginia, this is all about an incompetent Democratic candidate and an impatient electorate which, like the idiot townspeople of Springfield on The Simpsons, have been easily herded into thinking the Republicans deserve another shot — even though it was the Republicans that royally screwed us in the first place.
http://www.themudflats.net/
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 11:49 PM
Scroll on Folks
He is back to wiping the poop around the porch with his hands again
WWGKD
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 11:05 PM
The election results tonight have sent a message.
Someone reached too far for too much at one time. With all the needs of this country..
HE is consumed by one object..national health care..when the rest of the country is asking him to realize there are many issues to be addressed.
“He”, Reid and Pelosi thought they were above it all..and could do anything they wanted without conceding to the majority will of the people.
That someone will be a one term President.
posted by Auntie Jean…
“I, for one, am NOT going to indulge in sour grapes, recriminations, vindictive, nasty back and forth about it.”
Time will tell..I say that attitude lasts less than 24 hours.
It’s certainly time for Margaret to come out and speak about the poop left behind on her porch by the state of Mass.
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By: craigΔ on January 19, 2010
at 11:00 PM
WWGKD
Scroll time… Step over the Troll Poop folks.
I hope he does not smear it this time.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 10:53 PM
Troll poop on the porch!!
WWGKD
Stroll, Stroll, Stroll
By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 3:36 PM
I really think it’s kinda interesting.
Your continued posts such as the above do nothing more than to call attention…
Much like a yellow light saying caution slow down ahead..
and then everyone still stops to read.
Stupid and anti-climatic.
scroll on Joe..May I call you Joe?
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By: craigΔ on January 19, 2010
at 10:44 PM
I honestly think the Democrats shot themselves in the foot when they didn’t go for single payer healthcare, people could have understood the concept and I think they would have got behind it.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 19, 2010
at 10:12 PM
Lots of people did good work but it did not work out. Time to learn from this one and move on.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 9:27 PM
Completely agree, Auntie Jean.
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By: Donna on January 19, 2010
at 9:26 PM
Hi gang,
Well, the election in Massachusetts is over now. I, for one, am NOT going to indulge in sour grapes, recriminations, vindictive, nasty back and forth about it. This tells us that there is plenty of work to be done between now and the mid-term elections. That’s what it means to be liberal and progressive; looking forward, not clinging to obsolete ideas of the past.
There are, after all, 49 other states; each with unique needs and problems that have to be addressed. Some are national and international in scope, others are purely local. Let’s concentrate our efforts on those too.
Chins up!!!!!
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 19, 2010
at 9:24 PM
Ted Kennedy – he is probably rolling in his grave!
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 9:03 PM
So, Coakley lost. Conviction is not the forte of the American electorate. It looks like we want problems fixed yesterday, or else. It is really disappointing that we remain at the toddler stage when it comes to looking at problems from a macro perspective. It takes time to work out the problems this government has inherited. For all the people who were voting for the dow to be at 1000 before the end of 2009, I hope you are enjoying your gains. Maybe they are not the same people who are complaining that Wall Street was taken care of, at the expense of Main Street. But then, try to do it all at once, you are doing too much, taking on too much, this government is told. Yes, like the saying goes, you cannot please all of the people all of the time. Again, someone has to win and someone has to lose. It is unfortunate, for this president, who I believe, is animated by the bests of intentions.
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By: Easier on January 19, 2010
at 8:58 PM
Unsurprised, but really disappointed.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 19, 2010
at 8:55 PM
damn straight. We pick ourselves up, take stock of what we need to do, and we do it. In the immortal words of Mary Chapin Carpenter, “sometimes you’re the windshield, sometimes you’re the bug.”
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By: Donna on January 19, 2010
at 8:51 PM
ugly ugly ugly…… but you’re right donna you win some you lose some. Don’t get mad get even.. 😉
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By: lori on January 19, 2010
at 8:41 PM
Well, Coakley conceded so I believe that moots any challenge to the machines. It is unfortunate and I obviously wish it were otherwise, but she lost. This happens and we live with it and we move on.
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By: Donna on January 19, 2010
at 8:30 PM
Grandma Katie:
That troll poop is gross. The little twit messes all over the place and then uses his grubby little hands to wipe the poop around. Lysol – yep.
After the election in Mass – it will take some time to certify it. The Diebold system they use to count vote is easily hacked. There needs to be a check of the paper.
http://www.gouverneurtimes.com/st-lawrence-news/54-worldnational-news/10625-easily-hacked-voting-systems-to-be-used-in-ma-special-election-for-the-us-senate.html
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 8:22 PM
JuneauJoe – do we need to have a porch cleaning party complete with scrub brushes and lots of lysol?
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By: Grandma Katie on January 19, 2010
at 8:08 PM
If any of you care to watch the vote
http://www.boston.com/news/special/politics/2010/senate/results.html
remember there are no exist polls (in this race) so any “prediction” prior to votes being counted is just speculation.
fingers crossed!
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By: lori on January 19, 2010
at 6:37 PM
JuneauJoe – glad you are exercising your scroll fingerr too. Fun isn’t it. Sure beats attacks of high blood pressure doesn’t it.
Buttons44 – just up the road in Long BEach! Isn’t this rain something. For the firist time in a long time, the weather is happening just on time as the we atherman predicted. Enjoy your posts.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 19, 2010
at 6:30 PM
Yawwwwwwnnnnn. Very long day.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 19, 2010
at 6:22 PM
don’t you just hate when REPs act like DEMS….
“Never before has Congress compelled Americans, under threat of government fines or taxes, to purchase an unwanted product or service simply as a constitution of existing in the country (a ‘living tax’),” McCollum wrote to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, R-Nev., Minority Leader Mitch McCollum, R-Ky., House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Pa., and Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio.
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/01/19/florida-attorney-general-threatens-lawsuit-health-care-mandate/
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By: uawtradesman on January 19, 2010
at 5:22 PM
Good News: The State Department is easing restrictions for children from Haiti…
They are fast tracking adoptions that are in process.
Navy now has hospital set up in Haiti. The big problem was getting space at the airport. I believe more from haiti are now being allowed onto the ship.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 5:21 PM
juneaujoe….
since you seem to have a problem with the navy then you should let the man in charge know…..that would be the Commander in Chief…..aka,Barack Obama….and let him know how displeased you are…..
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By: uawtradesman on January 19, 2010
at 5:08 PM
Another BTW, mentioning the offshore equi[pped ships/etc…inline was just reading COMPLAINTS regarding “on scene ‘journalists” who are al;so full fledge doctors etc rather than JUST reporting/covering the news, BECOMING part of the STORY by pitching in when efforts much needed..Was a journislm professor opined , derided other journalists too who stopped “reporting” to take part in rescue effort /assists , was haranguing IMPROPER and NOT PROPER PROTOCOL/etc….have a bit of “umbrage” for am one who figures rules regulations ARE GUIDELINES to extract the best/better outcome i regards to issues at hand and feel common sense too often in short supply or obviously failure to be applied !!! Gotta believe it IS something in our national water supply that allows for so much of the nonsense cuz minds are way to FUPPED and thensome…there is just a linited supply of rational rationale it does so seem and thensome !!!
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By: Buttons44 on January 19, 2010
at 4:47 PM
Remaining eer hopeful for sure Donna…worthwhile cling and Reader, indeed find it flaberghasting that evidently many DID expect INSTANEOUS relif from the miseries of the Bush/Cheney reign…Totally unrealistic at very best , utter NON -snsical as well but will “give” one to the disparageable MSM , they do indeed hold vast sway and influence in what and hw they do or fail to “report” and too many are taking SUPPOSED information on the fly/run and not all go back to VERIFY the whateverings…..the public is dissappointing , to say the least , not all but evidently a sufficient number who are actually so willing to sklice off own noses and actually allow such as a Brown to even be considered but then too, JS was hitting pertinent marks with his estimation of what going down and gives indication how clueless the dems ARE …THey remain evidently so CLUELESS that they think it is due to “(mere) frustrations that abound for myriad reasons , missing the most accurate pereption , these electeds are FAILING to actually represent US, THE ORDINARY PEOPLE in regards to so much ..We’re told that the present HC bill will AT LEAST give some of us SOMETHING but that something is nothing all that much to cheer as it fails far more in the concerns that concern us. Stupidly as well, too few fail to realize that HCR is vital for the economy and JOBS for employers can NOT sustain the costs , even thou they get tax credits, for their bebfit , the employee WILL be shouldering more of the COSTS that will go to bolster the coffers and hand out ridiculous pay/bonuses and WHO buys the standard premise of such as the finacila folks who claim the compensations ARE warranted or they will lose their BEST folks who mismanaged this economy for their profit —let those “good” folks hit the streets , let them see if others will pay for the booty they deliver and meanwhile , lets demand RE-REGULATION and INSIST on OVERSIGHT and hold all properly accountable !
(a YOho o Granma K, am oceanside OC as well….just spent the previous hour in tornado watch….nice it passed us by , lot of rain /wind etc, highHIGH surf/etc, flooded streets …supposedly the NEXT storm considered the fiercest to be coming…due wed/thur into friday, our unfortunate “luck”, fam member sked for surgury Thurs and we were to drive/etc..trying to see IF possible to be resked..sensible but means NOTHING in such regards unfortunately !!)
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By: Buttons44 on January 19, 2010
at 4:40 PM
A short history of Hait -i good information
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/fareed-zakaria-past-prologue-haiti
Stupid comes so easily to trolls
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 3:43 PM
Troll poop on the porch!!
WWGKD
Stroll, Stroll, Stroll
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 3:36 PM
Greytdog,
I don’t believe I said the US was the only one capable of doing this water desalinization process? I went back thru my posts and did not see same. The Isralies did arrive soon after and from what I hear they have the Portable MedEvac process down pat.
Hell I’m all for getting it down there…I don’t care who gets it there.
But with all due respect to Joe.. a carrier does have fantastic capabilities..it’s just not a good use of the facilities on board to take the patients out there and then..where are the families to go?
You cannot take them on board. There are security issues as well.
Its just a good mobile platform from which to dispense men and materials to the countryside.
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By: craigΔ on January 19, 2010
at 3:32 PM
Auntie Jean,
It is part of a rock formation called Camel Rock in Shawnee National Fores in Southern Illinois. I was there a couple of years ago when visiting Il for class reunion.
http://www.backpackcamp.com/GardenOfTheGods.html#Anchor-Observation-49575
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By: farsight Δ on January 19, 2010
at 2:23 PM
The Propaganda War Continues
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By: Poolman on January 19, 2010
at 1:17 PM
Bloggers help an orphanage in Haiti!
http://crooksandliars.com/susie-madrak/how-bloggers-saved-orphans-and-haitia
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 1:14 PM
Craig – one of the first rescue units onsite in Haiti were the Israelis – & in that relief unit are desalinization engineers who have already set into motion getting potable water to folks. More is needed of course – but I think it is ridiculous to believe that only the US has this technology and ONLY the US military can do this job. The Israelis have been using desalinization methods/technology for almost 40 years. . .
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By: Greytdog on January 19, 2010
at 1:14 PM
the Marines from the USS Bataan have landed in Haiti and established a beachhead HQ complete with medical facility. Huuurrrahhh!
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By: Greytdog on January 19, 2010
at 1:10 PM
4 cargo planes of refugees from Haiti have arrived at the Sanford-Orlando International Airport. More flights are expected in over the next several days. Some of the folks were missionaries/business folks working/living in Haiti; others are Haitian citizens w/current visas & family in the States. About 30 were unaccompanied minors/orphans – Harvest Time International is helping assist the refugees – clothing, food, places to stay, medical care. If anyone can help, or if your church group would like to donate gently used clothing (including shoes, jackets, bedding, etc) please contact:
Harvest Time International Inc
http://www.harvest-time.org
225 Kennel Road
Sanford, FL 32771-8814
(407) 328-9900
Thanks all!
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By: Greytdog on January 19, 2010
at 1:09 PM
Anonymous was me
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By: lori on January 19, 2010
at 12:50 PM
Scott Brown is a Die-hard Yankee Fan
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By: Poolman on January 19, 2010
at 12:16 PM
Ohhhhh JJ if it weren’t so true it would be funny… OK so it is still is pretty funny.. 😉
Ohhhhhh my party, like my family, has it’s faults but I love em/us/me in spite of themselves …
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By: Anonymous on January 19, 2010
at 11:45 AM
Here is Jon Stewart… so very true
http://theimmoralminority.blogspot.com/2010/01/jon-stewart-does-great-job-of.html
WWGKD
scroll on trolls
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 10:44 AM
Resist manipulation. 🙂
Did anyone see Jon Stewart last night? Good stuff about Massachusetts and Democrats.
Who here is voting today?
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 19, 2010
at 10:34 AM
USS Carl Vinson sent a few medical teams to a beach-head triage unit. They did bring much needed supplies and skills to that overwhelmed unit. People are doing what they can with what they have – and considering the absolute breadth and depth of this catastrophe, that anyone alive is being pulled out of the rubble remains amazing – a true testament to the human will to survive and the human desire to help one another. There are still areas that have yet to receive any sort of assistance – recd a notice of a hospital standing ready and capable of accepting patients – 75 miles from Port Au Prince – the roads leaving the capital are impassable. How do you get patients to that remote hospital? That’s a logistical problem on a small scale – now multiply that a million times over – and you have the situation facing the relief teams.
There are several issues of immediate need: potable water, food, medical care, medical personnel. Unless you’re a trained medical person or have field training in disaster relief – you’ll get in the way. But we can and should donate to the folks who are there – PSI is partnering with UNICEF to provide potable water. A 50-cent donation to PSI will supply a family of four with potable water for 180 days. It doesn’t matter what is in that water, PSI’s PUR sachet cleans it – truly remarkable and lifesaving. Here’s a link in case you’re interested in their work and the difference your 50cents will make to a family in Haiti (or anywhere in the world where clean water is an issue).
PSI http://bit.ly/5D7SyM
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By: Greytdog on January 19, 2010
at 10:29 AM
WWGKD
Troll crap on the porch again…
Scroll finger works well..
People are praying so Trig Palin will not have Downs Syndrome. Trolls need to check this out.
http://www.pray4trig.com/
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 10:20 AM
It’s tough huh Joe..Can I call you Joe?
Being one uped in public.
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By: craigΔ on January 19, 2010
at 10:16 AM
Talk from what you know JOE..Don’t go off making assumptions when you don’t know what your talking about.
JOE..you need an education and a mouth washing….
Sitting off the coast of Haiti, the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Carl Vinson can make some 400,000 gallons of its own fresh water every day, and much of it will soon be going ashore. The nuclear-powered vessel, which had been heading to its new home port in San Diego when it was diverted to Haiti hours after the quake, has massive desalination capacity – purifying the same ocean saltwater it traverses – and the Vinson has a daily excess of 200,000 gallons “that we can give away,” says Cmdr. William McKinley, who oversees the desalination process.
Aircraft carriers have been desalinating ocean water since World War II, and in recent decades they’ve been giving their excess H2O away more frequently during humanitarian emergencies. But the 2004 Indonesian tsunami disaster, which killed more than 200,000 people and left much of the Indian Ocean coast a wasteland, tested desalinated water donation capabilities like never before. One of the lessons aircraft carriers learned then, and during the Hurricane Katrina calamity a year later, was that they needed a better delivery medium if they wanted to make a difference during catastrophes of that magnitude.
As a result, early this week the Vinson will receive up to 100,000 special 2- and 5-gallon water “bladders,” collapsible containers that will make transporting such enormous volumes of liquid more efficient. If the Vinson could actually move all 200,000 of its excess gallons to Haitian distribution points each day, it could as much as double the amount of water aid, which relief agencies and military helicopter pilots alike say is being used up faster than they can deliver it. That in turn would allow donor governments and organizations to turn more of their efforts toward augmenting other critical necessities like food, medical supplies and, later on, more long-term help like building materials.
Desalination is essential for nuclear-powered vessels like the Vinson. Nuclear reactors heat the water that makes the steam that powers the ship – but that water has to be pure. Some ships use reverse osmosis technology, which pumps the saltwater under extremely high pressure through cleansing membranes. The Vinson employs a process that can boil the ocean water at lower temperatures and separate the brine. The carrier has four such water distilleries that can each produce 100,000 gallons of fresh water a day for both steam power and the crew’s daily needs. In recent years, water-scarce cities near seacoasts worldwide have begun duplicating the method as well.
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By: craigΔ on January 19, 2010
at 10:13 AM
WWGkd?
Scroll on
Some people really enjoy seeing others in pain.
They say life has been tough as they jet off on their trip.
Keep the scroll finger ready folks.
Trolls are like flies on shit.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 9:55 AM
It is an aircraft carrier JOE. Not a hospital ship.
It will be used for the streamlined efforts of getting people to an fro for fixed wind aircraft. Remember there is only one runway on shore that is usable.
The carrier will also be used for its FRESH water making capability. The carrier has a complement of some 6,000 sailors and officers not counting air crews. The carrier will also bring an expanded helicopter complement on board to add to those of the Helo assault ship.
So bringing 50 patients on board would not make a dent in the treatment of the mass casualties.
Today sometime an expected Helicopter assault ship will arrive bringing more Marines for security but also a much added capability of helo transportation for people into the heartland of Haiti. This will add for further delivery of search and rescue, security personnel as well as medical treatment teams.
The medical ship Comfort with a 200-bed facility will also arrive and receive patients.
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By: craigΔ on January 19, 2010
at 9:33 AM
I like your idea Jean, I am in.
WWGKD
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By: JuneauJoe on January 19, 2010
at 3:29 AM
Hi gang,
What say we take a break from all the heartbreaking news we see on Haiti and also while we wait for the Massachusetts election results. Here’s hoping!!!!!
There are some other fun videos on this site, especially the one in the Antwerp Station.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 19, 2010
at 12:59 AM
Compassion for another.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 19, 2010
at 12:29 AM
WWGKD
Dr. Martin Luther King.
Here is his ‘I have a dream’ speech.
http://www.themudflats.net/2010/01/18/got-mlk/
Letting 50,000 poor people die and rot while a ship sits in the harbor with the skills to help is against what the United States should stand for.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 18, 2010
at 11:10 PM
JuneauJoe
When you get to be the Captain of a multi billion dollar asset of the United States then you can decide
who and what can be brought aboard.
Till then, the Captain of the vessel on the scene is in charge and knowledgeable of the situation. He knows what and when anyone can be brought on board.
What do you think a Carrier is? it’s not your party boat for rent.
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By: craigΔ on January 18, 2010
at 10:44 PM
Hi gang…has anyone heard from Helen or Margaret?? Getting concerned. Hope all is okay with Howard.
Helen, Margaret…if you’re out there…let us know you’re okay…
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By: Cindi Δ on January 18, 2010
at 10:33 PM
Thanks for your concern Donna. I’m near the ocean. Those having mudslide problems aare near the burn area. Nothing to hold the slopes in place so the mudslides. But rain? we haven’t had any rain like th is in several years. Many cities have been rationing water and the word is conserve!
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By: Grandma Katie on January 18, 2010
at 8:29 PM
Grandma Katie–I see on the news that there are floods in Southern California. Are you safe?
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By: Donna on January 18, 2010
at 7:37 PM
Greytdog – we gratefully add you to our list of role models!!
My scroll finger has been getting a workout! Beats getting blood pressure raised.
No ones puppet – thanks for the definition of sockpuppet.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 18, 2010
at 7:18 PM
We have an aircraft carrier in Haiti with 60 medical personnel. The captain has not allowed people from haiti to taken care of on the ship. They have 50 empty beds. The ship has far better facilities than anything in Haiti.
I hope Obama tells them to take care of the sick and injured – now. A hospital ship is on the way but they need help now.
the medical people say they can do the job – need the captain of the ship to say get to work.
http://crooksandliars.com/susie-madrak/offshore-clinics-medical-officer-no-o
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By: JuneauJoe on January 18, 2010
at 6:30 PM
Roman was not built in a day — why do some expect Obama and his team to fix all the problems they inherited in just one year. After all it took 8 years to make them this bad.
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By: reader on January 18, 2010
at 5:22 PM
fivethirtyeight.com has Brown winning. This is terribly sad but may be a necessary wake-up call. And perhaps the GOTV effort will pay off.
I refuse to believe that any single election is dispositive and do not agree that this kills HCR or any of the other “horribles” that are being posited. But I sure wish it would be otherwise.
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By: Donna on January 18, 2010
at 4:35 PM
A repost of the youtube links
=W3ijYVyhnn0
YouTube – Les Misbarack
YouTube – Takin’ it Back with Barack Jack! (For Swing voters!!!)
As for Nelson, he was disparaged for the good deal he got his constiuents as well..talk came up that he had decided to rescind the request/gift/bribe…Would appreciate , no matter WHICH party, if operated with concern for the people NOT just their own concernments in electability. If did their job, would be an easy election/re-elect fi based on merits of representation. Just slicing off noses is not in the best interests of any –need to figure it out how best to serve the greater common good ..not just ones self.
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By: Buttons44 on January 18, 2010
at 4:11 PM
Well, Buttons–we’ll just remain hopeful.
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By: Donna on January 18, 2010
at 4:04 PM
Politico: Nebraska Sen. Ben Nelson and his wife were leaving dinner at a new pizza joint near their home in Omaha one night last week when a patron began complaining about Nelson’s decisive vote in favor of the Senate’s health care bill.
Other customers started booing. A woman yelled, “Get him the hell out of here!” And the Nelsons and their dining companions beat a hasty retreat.
“It was definitely a scene in there,” said Tom Lewis, a 41-year-old dentist and registered Republican who witnessed the incident.
A second witness confirmed the incident to POLITICO.
It’s a new experience for Nelson.
He used to be a popular figure back home, a Democrat who served eight years in the governor’s office and was elected twice to the Senate by a state that’s as red as the “N” on the University of Nebraska’s football helmets.
But Nelson has seen his approval ratings tumble in the wake of his wavering over the historic health care bill, his deal-cutting with other Senate Democrats and, ultimately, his support to break a GOP filibuster and send the bill to a House-Senate conference committee. …
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By: craigΔ on January 18, 2010
at 3:57 PM
Find it irratonal if Brown slips in …truly do as the slim majority is NOT sufficient to get much of anything done let alone accomplished ..Seems venting frustrations at this point is self defeating for who REALLY, REALLY thought things would instaneously turn around for the better…doesn’t work that way in their individual lives but frustration evidently may b eeasier to tap into even if self defeating–scary indsets afooot for sure !! If anything tis a time to BOLSER up a majority this year, and if then prove themselves totally incapable/ inept, well 2012 is just around the corner folks ..besides all else, WHAT has the GOP party offered as SOLUTIONS to the weight of the facts that they ruled both houses and the WH and helmed all the various govt. entities and look at the helluva’ mess we are in …Have heard NOTHING from the GOP except OBSTRUCTIONISMATICALS at all costs and NOT for OUR greater common good but their partisan political own good !! THAT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE , no matter how frustrated a voter may be to vote for MORE STATUS QUO GRIDLOCK !!
Here’s two fav ‘s from 08….
http://www.youtube.com/watchv=ZJW67YfLWgs&NR=1
Btw craig…GBO, you really have to kidding or delusionally demented in regards to some of the babble you post,but whatever!!
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By: Buttons44 on January 18, 2010
at 3:53 PM
The President and his family served meals to the homeless today.
The noxious Rush Limbaugh claims that the President is “politicizing” 9/11. As if that were not the entire Guiliani campaign. As if that were not the theme at the Republican convention.
The contrast couldn’t be more dramatic.
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By: Donna on January 18, 2010
at 3:44 PM
no one’s puppetΔ, I did enjoy the Bill Moyers and Greg Mortenson interview, and agree that what he is doing is good. But our armed actions speak greater volume to the people. Our killing and maiming of innocents along with the guilty is not furthering the cause of peace or brotherhood. It provides them with an occupied police state and us with an on-going war agenda.
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By: Poolman on January 18, 2010
at 3:39 PM
Anyone looking to equate the new world system with the ancients and is familiar with all the signs and symbolism involved in such matters may find this link with the article and ads interesting.
http://www.eyeofdubai.com/v1/news/newsdetail-38345.htm
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By: Poolman on January 18, 2010
at 3:21 PM
Facts and truth are not important to most people on this blog. Unless it can be twisted to fit in your left cheek.
Loved it the other day when some reporter asked Brown how he felt about the possibility of occupying Ted Kennedy’s seat…he responded..
“I believe it’s the peoples seat”.
Thats what most of you don’t realize.
Thanks for letting me post.
Craig
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By: craigΔ on January 18, 2010
at 3:20 PM
I’d be curious to know what part of MA you are calling too Gretydog – do you happen to know what district?
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By: lori on January 18, 2010
at 3:19 PM
Greytdog, I’ve been calling all day too.. I have had mostly positive out of about 175 I have had 4 negitive.
How many have you had?
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By: lori on January 18, 2010
at 3:00 PM
Poolman, check out this link, I posted on the 16th, there is some hope for Afghanistan.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 18, 2010
at 2:39 PM
Greytdog:
I don’t have a helluva lot of time to devote to this because of current volunteer activities but I’ve called just about everyone I know in MA and many are as appalled as I am. But a few are real hardheads who harbor an almost pathological resentment of President Obama and invested in their hatred is an inability to see how this single election can have profoundly negative implications for the entire country. They have no idea at all that this would be voting against their own self interests.
Brown couldn’t possibly be a worse candidate at this time in our country’s history.
BTW, I just got in and found yet another message from Brown’s backers on my answering machine. That’s a total of 12 messages over the past 2 days, 2 dozen during the past week. If they think this is a way of garnering support, they are sadly mistaken..
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By: jsri on January 18, 2010
at 2:32 PM
I was merely saying that should the Massachusetts vote fall in favor of Brown, then the circle of history will be realized – from a colony of religious intolerance to a state that elects a person in bed with a political party that also supports religious intolerance. In that sense, then, one could almost say that it’s destiny.
jsri – I hope I am wrong. I’ve been phonebanking from my house but the responses I’ve been getting don’t look good. Of course, working a phone bank you have to be polite – but frankly when a Dem gets on and bitches about Obama not fulfilling his promises – I just want to reach through the phone and slap them – hard. And remind them that it’s Yes WE can – as in ALL OF US.
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By: Greytdog on January 18, 2010
at 1:55 PM
“By a variety of measures, U.S. military policies in the Afghanistan war are failing.”
Those who profit from war and conflict have held us hostage for a decade. The power that war gives our leaders over us and our nation has guaranteed the continuance of war for the rest of our lifetimes. There will always be “terrorists”, or whatever we may choose to call them. Especially when we support them one decade and turn on them the next. We are all being played. Keep us in fear and we will agree to anything. Feel like a pawn yet?
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By: Poolman on January 18, 2010
at 12:46 PM
Donna:
Not really. But I’m concerned by the amount of money flowing into the state for ads. I can only hope that the Mass liberal base will come forward and enable Coakley to pull it off.
The alternative scares the hell out of me.
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By: jsri on January 18, 2010
at 12:14 PM
jsri–do you have a prediction?
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By: Donna on January 18, 2010
at 11:56 AM
Greytdog:
I think you may have miscast the Mass voters somewhat. Puritans they are not. Catholics may be a more accurate description. Also with strong immigrant ancestors. And as a former long time resident I can tell you that they are good score keepers too. And Martha Coakley has some provincial baggage that also may be a strong negative. She is still saddled with the awkward memories of her handling of the appeals in the murky Fells Acres child abuse case, an outcome that was guaranteed to please few and alienate many voters no matter where she came down on the issues.
And the amount of money that has been poured into attempts to defeat her has been enormous. TV stations in the area have been almost non-stop negative for the past week with Scott Brown ads of questionable origin.
This negativity also spills over into RI and NH where these ads have been played almost non-stop. And in a bizarre twist of campaigning, my wife and I have received over 20 calls from Brown supporters during the past week, and we live in RI. See if you can figure that one out.
VGman:
We too admire Anne Hutchinson and Roger Williams. It was here in RI that the concept of real religious freedom was established. Unfortunately, with candidates like Scott Brown, our grandkids could see it end here too.
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By: jsri on January 18, 2010
at 11:53 AM
Finished reviewing Sam Tanenhaus’ book The Death of Conservatism. This weekend I purchased Will Bunch’s Tear Down This Myth, about Ronald Regan.
http://aarthurs.livejournal.com/
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By: Anne on January 18, 2010
at 10:52 AM
Cob, thank you for posting your message of concern. i’ve been checking back daily. Helen, let us know okay? Hope you’re okay!
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By: barbara on January 18, 2010
at 10:48 AM
Coulter is just plain sick!!! She is like a troll on national TV!!
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/cspanjunkie/poor-president-bush-has-suffered-enoug
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By: JuneauJoe on January 18, 2010
at 10:27 AM
LOL Well greytdog I must admit I haven’t yet heard that political theory concerning MA … But hell it’s probably just as viable as the ones I have heard. !
All I know is 30 million people gaining access to healthcare hang on us getting the vote out tomorrow. I am working for those 30 million plus one guy named Teddy…..
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By: lori on January 18, 2010
at 9:31 AM
Here! Here! Greytdog!
Two people I always admired were Anne Hutchinson and Roger Williams.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 18, 2010
at 8:49 AM
Well, if the Massachusetts voters decide they want Scott Brown, then IMO they are simply coming full circle back to the Puritans. Like the Puritans, the T-baggers (like Scott Brown) believe in persecuting anyone who doesn’t practice their religion, doesn’t practice Christianity in the EXACT same way as they do, and certainly believes that women belong in the home, not the workforce. Furthermore, like their Puritan ancestors, the T-Baggers have no tolerance for anyone, any idea, or any thing that may be forward-thinking, progressive, or challenge their entrenched parameters of what is right and what is wrong. I certainly wouldn’t be at all surprised if Massachusetts decided to oust, as did the Puritans before them, “nonbelievers” from their state – just to keep Massachusetts pure for the “real” believers. It’s just too bad that the voters of Masschusetts prefer the twisted legacy of the Puritans over the noble legacy of the small farmers and shop keepers who rose up and said no to the imperial dictates of a lunatic and in the process, let off the shot of freedom that once echoed around the world –
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By: Greytdog on January 18, 2010
at 8:20 AM
GOTV GOTV GOTV…..
Yes we can.. Yes we can ….. Yes we can
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By: lori on January 18, 2010
at 7:15 AM
Newest Homeland security search procedure. The future of air travel.
http://www.brasschecktv.com/page/786.html
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By: JuneauJoe on January 18, 2010
at 6:56 AM
Hi gang and farsight Δ,
Interesting avatar you have there. Please explain it, would you?
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 18, 2010
at 1:22 AM
Now I see it on my last post. I must have been logged out of WordPress for a while. Wish it showed up on my previous posts now that I am logged in. Anyway, what I said earlier about the troll.
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By: farsight Δ on January 17, 2010
at 9:27 PM
Sure wish I could keep the gravatar straight. I go back and forth between several computer so I don’t know if that is the problem or whether I am somehow getting logged out of WordPress.
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By: farsight Δ on January 17, 2010
at 9:23 PM
Martha Unalaska Yard Sign,
The troll, Craig, is just looking for a reaction. It is probably just best to let him spew his hate and scroll on by. If engaged, he will come back and seem reasonable until he starts spewing like Regan in the exorcist (every bit as unattractive and just as possessed).
Although his (or ours for that matter) free speech rights don’t extend into this forum (I don’t think he is truly smart enough to realize this), he is allowed by the good grace of our hosts to continue on here. He does tend to personify much of what it is that most of us don’t like about the right wing lunatic fringe so his speech here does serve a purpose. Just not the one he thinks it’s serving. I believe our hosts in their bountiful wisdom realize this and allow his continued presence.
Facts and truth are not important to him. Let him simmer in his own juices; it’s what he deserves.
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By: farsight Δ on January 17, 2010
at 9:07 PM
H gang,
Oops! To clarify in case you didn’t see the TV thing with Obama, Clinton and Bush. It was G.W. Bush, not his father, the other former president. I’m sure you know that the senior Bush and Clinton have worked together on humanitarian efforts before, quite effetively at that.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 17, 2010
at 8:43 PM
Hi gang and Juneau Joe,
Thanks Juneau Joe and for the link. Whoa! Lets hope the people of Massachusetts get out the vote!!!!! Special elections are notorious for low turnout, but this is a crucial one. There is so much hanging in the balance. Let’s keep our fingers crossed. I think Obama delivered a thoughtful and rousing speech!
About the raging controversy of what Harry Reid said vs. what Trent Lott said, blah, blah, blah. Here’s a little story to illustrate the whole scenario.
Last evening about dusk, we were heading home after a big day in the cities of Kapa’a and Lihue. My husband noticed a warning light on the dash we had never seen before. He pulled into the parking lot of a recently closed restaurant. We keep the owner’s manual in the glove compartment. He was flipping pages, trying to find out what that light was all about.
A middle-aged man with his arm in a brace was talking to a couple with a baby and they all glanced over our way. After a few minutes, he ambled over and asked if we were looking for a place to eat. As many people we don’t know also do, he assumed that we were, ahem; mature, retired ‘Haole’ tourists, maybe looking in a guide book for a restaurant. Well, he was right about most everything except the tourist part.
My husband told him about the light and they were both pouring over the manual. It said something about the engine’s electrical system, to the effect to not drive at high speeds and to get it checked out by the dealer. He then asked where we were staying and again, assuming it was a rental car, recommended we call the rental car agency.
That’s when we lapsed into “Pidgin’ the Hawaiian “Lingua Franca” that EVERYONE here speaks. We have learned to speak it fluently in the twenty years we have been here. We told him we were ‘Kama’ina’ and ‘talked story’ for a while. When we parted, we thanked him profusely for his ‘kokua’. He grinned, putting his fist over his heart and said, “That’s only ‘aloha’”.
Now, in our travels, we have gotten by nicely in French, Italian, Spanish, and even stumbled around with a little German. The only place we were at a total loss was in Russia. ‘Pepsi’ was the extent of our language skills there.
It all has to do with our mindsets. If the primary acquaintance one has is with a West Texas dialect, and if one has been carefully taught to expect a terrorist around every corner and under every Bush by the Fear Monger-in-Chief, then the world-view is that everyone has ulterior and sinister motives. I, for one, think that’s utter nonsense.
One of our biggest disadvantages here on a blog is that we only have the written word. We can’t catch nuances such as tone of voice, facial expressions and body language, which often say much more than mere words. Speaking of which, did any of you take note of the image on TV of Obama, Clinton and Bush together regarding the relief Aid for Haiti?
Obama was at the podium and Clinton was standing close to Obama on the right. Several paces AWAY stood Bush on the left. What does that tell you?
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 17, 2010
at 8:26 PM
yippppie yipppeeeee me tooooooo JJ
fingers crossed
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By: lori on January 17, 2010
at 7:12 PM
HURRAY, JuneauJoe–wonderful news!! You made my evening–many thanks.
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By: Donna on January 17, 2010
at 7:07 PM
STANDING ROOM ONLY A THE COAKLEY RALLY with hundreds of people outside trying to get in but Faux News reports there are empty seats! WTF!!!
Lie Faux Lie, Made up facts from Fox are to be expected – unfortunately.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/scarce/fox-news-coakley-rally-has-plenty-empty-sea
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By: JuneauJoe on January 17, 2010
at 7:01 PM
YES, O GREAT DECIPLE OF THE GREAT AL GORE……
When we see what we did at the climate summit in Copenhagen, this is the response, this is what happens, you know what I’m sayin’?”
thus speaketh Danny Glover
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2594693/danny_glover_haiti_caused_by_failure.html
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By: Anonymous on January 17, 2010
at 5:57 PM
Helen,
Are you OK honey? We’ve been waiting for more of your sagacious insights into “Going Rogue”. Hope you and lucky hubby are well and enjoying the new year. We mean it. Really.
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By: Cob on January 17, 2010
at 3:55 PM
I love you and thank you so much for posting what WE feel
OOOXXX please anyone who does not agree with this post is not looking through very open eyes
just saying
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By: hidelight on January 17, 2010
at 11:24 AM
Craig – Well you are spewing idiocy – come back when you have something to say. Or not.
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on January 17, 2010
at 10:46 AM
WWGKD.
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By: Donna on January 17, 2010
at 10:14 AM
“But honestly, why am I so nasty about this woman? First I called her a bitch and now I am suggesting her knees are together about as often has Hillary Clinton appears in public with Bill. Look. There I go again sounding like a dime novel. But her entire attitude and approach to life – the sheer hypocrisy of it all – just really gets my goat.”
spewing poison..I would say.
Margaret and Helen blog
…and there is no poison?
People here have drank the koolaid
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By: craigΔ on January 17, 2010
at 9:43 AM
Poolman–you are so right. This puts me in mind of the nonsense about “Hussein.” Remember how, during the campaign, the use of the President’s full name was done as a sneer? And then, when he used his full name when taking the oath of office, there was all of this crap about “gee–when WE said “Hussein” it was bad but when HE does it, it’s just fine.” The distinction is that they used his full name in an attempt to convey the “foreign-ness” and (to quote that strange woman who was parodied on SNL) “A-rab” image that they wanted. Most sane and rational people recognize the difference between using a statement or phrase for a legitimate purpose and using the same words for a destructive one.
I, for example, have been a lawyer for a very long time. I clerked during lawschool for a very fine firm in the deep south. There were people who made comments about how, a few years before, I’d have been doing their typing. It was an entirely correct observation. Then there were ones which would come out and say how it was better when they didn’t have to deal with women lawyers. It’s a close analogy and I never had one second of not knowing who was making a correct (and oftentimes affectionate) statement and who was being a jerk.
WWGKD indeed.
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By: Donna on January 17, 2010
at 8:24 AM
US M&H porch dwellers talked while back about how some of us were getting weary with the fight. We had a 2 year hard campaign, we had SP rearing her ugly head, and then we had prop 8, and last but not least we have the healthcare debate. Putting it simply we are battle fatigued. But we can’t stop now , we can’t let all our hard work go for not.
If any of you have anything left to give please consider helping out in the MA senate race. A poorly run campaign and complacency among democrats has left the democratic candidate ( Coakly) in a dangerously close election against her Republican challenger (Brown). Not only does health care reform hang in the balance, all of President Obamas agenda will be sabotaged. The republicans have shown us they have no intentions to work together, they will simply block and filibuster all new legislation for the foreseeable future.
The president has asked us, his foot soldiers, to rise to the call once again. Below is a call link to call MA voters. But if calling isn’t your thing, there are many more ways to help (YOU KNOW WHAT THEY ARE) but please do whatever you can ….. Yes we can. http://my.barackobama.com/page/votercontact/login?requested=%2Fpage%2Fvotercontact%2Fmake_calls%3Fcampaign_id%3DfnrU
and in case you need inspiration for YOU LISTENING ENJOYMENT..;-)
These help me REMEMBER .. namaste
YES WE CAN : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fZHou18Cdk
IT’S A NEW DAY: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpW4gLb3p8M
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By: lori on January 17, 2010
at 6:43 AM
Reid comments on Obama’s chances in the election, based on his skin tone, speech pattern and the American public’s observed behavior. Using outdated and unfortunate, but not pejorative terminology.
Trent Lott, in congratulating Strom Thurmond, states that the country would be better off if the Dixiecrats had gotten their way.
Just a quick reminder – the Dixiecrats were not only fighting Truman’s integration efforts. They were fighting his drive to outlaw lynching, which they defended as Southern culture and a state’s right.
These two statements are morally equivalent? I don’t think so!
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By: judith on January 17, 2010
at 2:21 AM
I think what Reid said about Obama was accurate. I do not see it as a racist remark, but rather a remark regarding the racism that does exist – big difference. I think what Clinton said regarding Obama was racist and elitist.
The right is just looking for some “points” because they are so far in the hole. Those that are calling for Reid to step down for his remarks are towing the party line, or ignorant as to what true racism is. I see it more as a tit for tat – nanny, nanny, booboo-type childish pissing match, that again is designed to throw us off of real issues.
If anyone listens to sp and actually believes anything she says, they are due whatever they got coming. It appalls me that she is given a platform and people actually pay her for her ignorance. Marketing is successful in America and the road to hell is wide and well paved.
That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it. 😉
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By: Poolman on January 17, 2010
at 12:26 AM
WWGKD
2000 to 2009 were the republican years of failure.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/bill-moyers-journal-thomas-frank-obamas-in
Thank You President Obama for your efforts this past year that you have been in office.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 16, 2010
at 11:19 PM
sockpuppet: A cowardly denizen of the internet, who uses the anonymity of an ever-changing handle to harass and malign others in a way she would never have the courage to do in real life.
Example: Having no self-esteem or particular knowledge of his own, the sockpuppet posts away ad nauseum, wasting bandwidth and contributing nothing to the community. from Slang Dictionary
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 16, 2010
at 11:16 PM
WWGKD
trolls: Evil cousins of a sockpuppet, the only thrill in their meaningless lives is to sign on to the internet and look for ways to cause trouble and incite flame wars. Disruptive and generally vile, trolls are one of the greatest negatives on any public forum. Anonymity is their great refuge, keeping them from being hunted and banished for good. from Slang Dictionary
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 16, 2010
at 11:11 PM
“Let’s move on, folks. I’ve seen a number of political races around the country which were influenced by progressive thinking and helped to defeat the candidate who could only offer what’s in the past.” Posted by vgmanΔ
I guess you all better keep that in mind this coming tuesday in Mass…or is she a better driver that the past guy?
vgmanΔ
I still work with my children at Brown Elementary.
And I assume you still work with your 10 year old’s?
And now you all want to talk about Poison…?
Lets see…..
Ohhhh..and no one speaks of others in negative
ways on this blog…?
Lets see…
Palin..and her entire family..not the least the child that cannot speak for itself are attacked over and over. Palin may not be the sharpest Republican,
granted. But you all have no other targets is seems.
Name a Republican that has not been castigated by your little band of warriors…Trent Lott had to resign..but oh no not your Sen. Ried ?
Double standards??????????
Oh yes let you raise your banners high ..you are above the fray…?
What you do not recognize your own
Democratic leaders words as quoted from the book? They were spoken by President Clinton to Ted Kennedy.
They were quoted several times in news shows a week or so ago. A new book I believe carried the poison you speak of?
Its better when you choose to ignore..it goes away like a seeping wound.
You all talk the talk but do not walk the walk.
Posted by KitKat early december 09
“I also think that you don’t realize that most of us haven’t felt that our voices were “heard” for the last 8 years. We understand what it is like to feel powerless and watch the government (pres and congress) make choices we don’t agree with and the desire to hold them accountable.”
Yes please HOLD them accountable.
Like I said, Walk the Walk.
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By: craigΔ on January 16, 2010
at 11:01 PM
WWGKD for sure.
No sympathy for someone (who volunteers time to read to children) who speaks about others in negative ways. He just passes on poison.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 16, 2010
at 9:59 PM
WWGKD
I almost did, but not before I recognized a snarky post geared to elicit negative response. For those who pray, please pray for the individual. I don’t give it a high likelihood of success but you never know.
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By: farsight Δ on January 16, 2010
at 6:01 PM
Greytdog: Another that I’ve heard wonderful things about is Direct Relief International.
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By: Donna on January 16, 2010
at 5:05 PM
How great to see our former three leaders standing shoulder to shoulder this morning confronting the disaster in Haiti.
Is it true that President Clinton leaned over to
President Bush and said..
” A few years ago, this guy “Obama”,would have been getting us coffee.”…
Or was that Harry Reid to Pelosi?
I get em all mixed up.
As an addendum..I would not donate to the Red Cross..they have a less than stellar past at getting true aid to who needs it.
I believe the Salvation Army would be another outlet instead.
http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf
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By: craigΔ on January 16, 2010
at 4:48 PM
Great Role models: Margaret & Helen, Grandma Katie, gramma rock, Jean . . .and the list keeps growing.
This is a nice place. really. I mean it.
Found another great charity – and these folks so rock that I am blown away by their passion and commitment.
http://shelterbox.org/
A bit more $$ than I personally can contribute, but damn – get a few friends together everyone chip in and bam! shelter for people. awesome.
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By: Greytdog on January 16, 2010
at 1:30 PM
I could not agree with you more Grandma Katie! God has gifted us and challenged us with a good place to live. Not his fault that we are making a mess of it. Thanks for the invitation to visit. I bet you are a fun person to be around. I do like to be around positive people and your positive spirit does lift this blog.
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By: Easier on January 16, 2010
at 1:27 PM
Bren – thank you for y ou ost. I don’t consider myself anything unusual. Just doing as man y interesting things as possiblle. I was lucky enough to inherit some tough female genes.
To bad your m om cou ldn’t have some of the GraditudeBeaDS I used to make.
EAsier – and th anks to you also.
I never saw the w hole movie but remember “Oh God” with George Burns and John Denver?
John Denver asked Burns as God why He allowed such things to hhappen. The reply has stuck in my mind ever since.
“It’s your world. I gave it to you. It is what you have chosen to do with it”
I live in Southern California. Any of you come to the area and want to visit, please do.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 16, 2010
at 11:26 AM
President Obama’s
Weekly Address 1/16/10
Getting Our Money
Back from Wall Street
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on January 16, 2010
at 10:18 AM
True Christians can make a huge difference.
http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/01152010/watch2.html
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 16, 2010
at 12:29 AM
I have been in and out of the car all week, so I was unable to watch Sarah Palin on Glenn Beck’s show, I did hear snips of the interview on satellite radio, my perspective therefore is based entirely on bits of the audio. That famous charisma, which even I concede she had every time she recited her campaign speech was entirely nonexistent, Palin was the most boring interviewee I’ve ever heard. And what’s with the “all of them” answer to the question, “who was your favorite founding father?” Gotcha questions like that are going to send her back to Alaska in a hurry.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 15, 2010
at 11:02 PM
Grandma Katie, you are so inspiring! Glad you are here. Tine, just perfect, that piece about satan. Hope Pat Robertson had the opportunity to read it. I was kind of getting tired of the message they have been feeding us forever, of this God who chooses favorites among his own creations and appear to throw others to the wolves. Just does not make sense to me.
I personally think that He has given us enough sense to know what is good and what is not good for us. There are certain laws he has created when he created the heavens and the earth. Without the mantle, the earth would not be the earth we know. However the mantle does move. With time, humans do discern where it is safe to be and settle. Way back when, our ancestors migrated from place to place when things did not seem to be working out wherever they have settled. Now, borders keep us rooted in places even when it is determined these places are not good for settlement anymore. Be it drought, desert gaining ground, seas rising, earthquakes, fires, floods, and what else have you. An so whereas humans in the past might have decided to leave an earthquake prone zone for greener pastures, nowadays, they are stuck. Don’t you even think about it! You have to sit there and suffer the consequence of being born wherever the calamity is occurring. Borders remember! God could not have intended such fate for his creations. Humans do seem to cloth God with designs he probably did not have when he made the earth and the universe for that matter. Pat Robertson did not get it.
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By: Easier on January 15, 2010
at 10:29 PM
Thanks for the warm “welcome back,” everyone. I do miss participating more often than I can right now. No big news here. Just up to my eyeballs in work, holiday detritus, and kid stuff. We’re all fine, including the little varmints.
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By: Δ¥ Tine on January 15, 2010
at 9:01 PM
Thanks to all of you for your kind thought s. Discovering this blog wh en I did has been one thing that has helped my recovery. You all have put up w ith my typing, and given me so much pleasure in reading all the posts. WEll most of them. I do scroll past certain ones.
DEmentia and Allzheimers are two terrible afflicions.
Finally one of the daughters called 9/11. When she told dispat ch that her mother had dementia and was threatening the staff, the fire department, paramedics and police were promptly here. She is now in the hospital, the staff is exhausted, the residents and her daughters too.
So now goodnight. CAn’t focus eyes too well, tired.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 15, 2010
at 8:57 PM
Yes, Auntie Jean–it sure makes one cringe when you hear someone say that they’re having a bad day. They don’t know from a bad day.
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By: Donna on January 15, 2010
at 8:38 PM
Hi gang, Grandma Katie, Tine, Greytdog and Whirled Peas,
So glad you are back, Grandma Katie and Tine. You were both missed. Tine, the letter from the Devil is a classic!
Greytdog, thank you for your continuing tips on how to help Haiti. My feeble efforts at no more than monetary seem so paltry when compared to the wonderful Search and Rescue, Medical Personnel and Volunteers who have dropped everything to go extend their skills and stamina in the midst of scenes of horrific suffering. I am in awe of them.
I have a home, which we think is quite nice. We have a pantry, refrigerator and freezer full of food. We have electricity at the flip of a switch and fresh clean water is only a tap away. I can take a shower and put on clean clothes anytime I want to. I can even luxuriate in a long bubble bath if I so desire. Our loved ones, family and friends are not only alive and well but only a push button away, or in the case of M&H, a click away.
Speaking of push buttons. This technology challenged Old Broad spent three days, off and on, with our Christmasgiftfirsteverbrandnewfullyregisteredandactivatedf- – -ingcellphone. Bruddah Peas, you are never around when I desperately need you!
Anyway, the next time I am tempted to whine, bitch and complain, I’m gonna tell myself,
“SELF, SHUT UP!”
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 15, 2010
at 8:05 PM
Bren–Grandma Katie IS the best. But I will say this: if your attitude is that you want to be like her, you are already there.
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By: Donna on January 15, 2010
at 6:17 PM
Grandma Katie – I fell in love with you just reading your little post. You have no idea how much it helps me to get through this evening to read that SOMEONE appreciates the care they are receiving and that they are receiving GREAT care. I wish you nothing but wonderful things, peace and that you continue to improve and gain strength. My poor old Momma has never been able to appreciate anything in her life. I want to be like you! xoxoxoxoxox
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By: Bren on January 15, 2010
at 5:40 PM
Gramma Katie, sorry you had that stomach bug that’s been going around. We experienced it over Christmas, got it from the little one who recovered very quickly but not before passing it to 7 other people, 3 of whom might have carried it back to Oregon and the rest of us spread it along the East Coast. Or maybe not if (I hope) we weren’t communicable any longer. The only good thing about it was it didn’t seem to last too long, though several of our digestive tracks were a bit iffy for days. The other grandfather quipped that he had used up his quota of ‘green house gasses”
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By: HRH sofia EQ on January 15, 2010
at 5:04 PM
HRH sofia–That’s something to alert Matthew to. Good catch.
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By: Donna on January 15, 2010
at 5:03 PM
HI everyone. Been reading, just nothing constructive to say right now. My mind has been on floor sanding and paint chips and endless closet cleaning so that someone else won’t have to do it when I’m gone. (Don’t worry, no imminent problems, just the fact that we all go sometime, often without warning and a couple of friends have new cancers they are dealing with and it reminds one of the brevity of life… and then there’s Haiti, too)
When I got here this evening, I noticed a new comment on “Now It Is Your Turn”
so I went over there and started reading the comment section. I picked up suggestions for some new reading and and noticed that the comments from a year ago are all still as relavent as they were a year ago. Thank you all again for coming here and being relatively sane and talking to each other and letting me talk to you occasionally, too.
When I finally got to the bottom, I found the post was for a “turbo cash machine” What the …..? I know it’s not something anyone should download and maybe it’s a virus spreader. Anyone know? And is there anyone who should be warned about it?
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By: HRH sofia EQ on January 15, 2010
at 4:59 PM
Anne–this is like when Limbaugh calls the president arrogant.
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By: Donna on January 15, 2010
at 4:45 PM
Irony = Rush Limbaugh telling a listener they’re close minded.
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By: Anne on January 15, 2010
at 4:19 PM
For folks who prefer to give to faith based organizations, Church World Service is a pretty solid group. They are already in Haiti (have been for more than a decade). Here’s a link : Assemble a CWS Kit http://bit.ly/5IiDcG
The CWS kits are much needed. CWS has a huge warehouse in MD to which churches send these kits – that warehouse is now empty due to the situations in Afghanistan, SE Asia (typhoons), Darfur, and now Haiti. so please do consider assembling some kits to send to CWS. Also a great project for kids and/or entire neighborhoods.
I remember receiving CWS kits when we lived overseas. I’d go with my folks to help distribute them – amazing to see how lives can be changed by the very items we just don’t even think about – toothpaste, toothbrushes, hairbrushes, soap, etc. –
Anyway. Just a thought. I know some folks are frustrated because the catastrophe in Haiti seems so overwhelming and that giving $$ isn’t enough. CWS kits are a small but important way of addressing the needed basics of life.
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By: Greytdog on January 15, 2010
at 2:45 PM
…muchmissom sorry/apologies for double post of endless rant…need an eraser button/post edit button !!!
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By: Buttons44 on January 15, 2010
at 2:20 PM
Poolman – Thank you for your prayers. Yes I am alive and well. In case you didn’t know two years ago I had a stroke. Am now in a wonderful Board and CAre REsidence. Have reached the point where I can do many things for m yself ut not yet ready to live alone. I have a wonderful family who seee to everything.
Donna, thanks for your care.
I am sick at heart at the inhumanness of what’his name and all the others following him. I believe there is such a thing as Karma. They shall reap what they sow.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 15, 2010
at 1:33 PM
Ugh, JuneauJoe… do you think Fox might send her to Haiti to ‘help’? The thought makes me shudder.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 15, 2010
at 1:13 PM
Here is hoping that you Margaret and Helen as well as George and Harold are all okay and fine.
Mathew (I guess it’s the grandson’s name) could you please give a short update so that we know that the ladies and husbands are doing well? Thank you and have a healthy 2010.
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By: Nelah on January 15, 2010
at 12:18 PM
What a great sahre , thanks Δ¥ Tine ..will be sharing with others as well/etc. Had the varioius on-air sorts in background yesterday , failed to properly note who suggested that in RL’s case, to attempt some meager amends for his latest comments regarding NOT to assist /donations, he should indeed contribute at least one million of his own “fortunate” fortune and came with suggestion the bankers should be donating their bonuses as well, thought were excellent suggestions. In regards to RL’s healthcare in Hawaii which he found to be excellent…besides all else, he has excellent full insrance coverage (in his contract) and beyond that, no sweat with his bank account to subsidize whatever it may lack IN coverage.
Still find it rather unfanthomable how too many make no correaltion to the issue of HC coverage/costs and employment–employers offered in place of wage increases, got tax breaks for the offer but they too find they can NOT sustain the additional costs even thou now too, they shovel much of the additional costs onto the employee as well as cut the coverage benefits…are NONE paying attention to it or the correalationaries of how the components intermingle and effect/affect each other …If the HC is NOT revamped and costs cut, there will be fewer andd fewer who WILL have coverage that meets the needs . It does little full “goog” to have a contingenct of medical abilities if none can avail themselves of such due to UNAFFORDABLILITY…ALL will “pay the price” if such continues, even those WITH insurance…not sure why that is so difficult/hard to figure out just from a practical stand point–truly a don’t worry about tomorrow attitude as long as some figure they got theirs –they too will suffer consequences .
Interesting hyping going on over the Mass special election coming up Tuesday…trying to figure if ACTUAL for real, that Mass folks would allow such as the T-bagger Scott fella slip into the seat once held by Teddy…Could happen for special E’s are notorious for low turn outs and why bother attitudes ….Would like to consider that perhaps the over-hype of “closeness” is meant to stir up the Dem /progressive base there…is indeed interesting and GBO, Scotty turns out was a former “centerfold” exhibitionist –reminds what a sideshow the poli-arena truly is . Will be interesting to see how that one turns out this next week.
A ps’er regarding the donatons/etc…seems that the TEXT donations have gotten a reprieve from usual fee’s so that all $$$ do go to the organizations/etc…but those monies will not BE available for up to 6weeks hence due to billing cycles–and oh, SPrint is the only carrier NOT waiving their text fee’s/etc. Perhaps is best to head to the listings of organizations and do donation more direct although, in the long run, funds are going to BE needed for a LONG RUN.
The horrendousnous of getting the assist to the people is extrememly hampered but mark it–there will be great dissctioning of how the O-Administration failed to be TIMELY/effective and all the various etc’s (as a partial way JUST to harangue and bang him and his but also as a corralary issue to example how PERHAPS (and do note big PERHAPS) Bush and his crew were “equally” stymied so a bit of rewriting of their historic flop in such regards as well. The logisticals are staggering, our Katrina was as well and NO EASY SOLUTIONS –Too many HERE stil struggling to recover and not all attempted has been effective or even corrective to prevent much of possibility could indeed occur again. NO EASY SOLUTiONS HERE OR THERE —sure hope folks fully comprehend that and all the implications.
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By: Buttons44 on January 15, 2010
at 11:54 AM
What a great sahre , thanks Δ¥ Tine ..will be sharing with others as well/etc. Had the varioius on-air sorts in background yesterday , failed to properly note who suggested that in RL’s case, to attempt some meager amends for his latest comments regarding NOT to assist /donations, he should indeed contribute at least one million of his own “fortunate” fortune and came with suggestion the bankers should be donating their bonuses as well, thought were excellent suggestions. In regards to RL’s healthcare in Hawaii which he found to be excellent…besides all else, he has excellent full insrance coverage (in his contract) and beyond that, no sweat with his bank account to subsidize whatever it may lack IN coverage.
Still find it rather unfanthomable how too many make no correaltion to the issue of HC coverage/costs and employment–employers offered in place of wage increases, got tax breaks for the offer but they too find they can NOT sustain the additional costs even thou now too, they shovel much of the additional costs onto the employee as well as cut the coverage benefits…are NONE paying attention to it or the correalationaries of how the components intermingle and effect/affect each other …If the HC is NOT revamped and costs cut, there will be fewer andd fewer who WILL have coverage that meets the needs . It does little full “goog” to have a contingenct of medical abilities if none can avail themselves of such due to UNAFFORDABLILITY…ALL will “pay the price” if such continues, even those WITH insurance…not sure why that is so difficult/hard to figure out just from a practical stand point–truly a don’t worry about tomorrow attitude as long as some figure they got theirs –they too will suffer consequences .
Interesting hyping going on over the Mass special election coming up Tuesday…trying to figure if ACTUAL for real, that Mass folks would allow such as the T-bagger Scott fella slip into the seat once held by Teddy…Could happen for special E’s are notorious for low turn outs and why bother attitudes ….Would like to consider that perhaps the over-hype of “closeness” is meant to stir up the Dem /progressive base there…is indeed interesting and GBO, Scotty turns out was a former “centerfold” exhibitionist –reminds what a sideshow the poli-arena truly is . Will be interesting to see how that one turns out this next week.
A ps’er regarding the donatons/etc…seems that the TEXT donations have gotten a reprieve from usual fee’s so that all $$$ do go to the organizations/etc…but those monies will not BE available for up to 6weeks hence due to billing cycles–and oh, SPrint is the only carrier NOT waiving their text fee’s/etc. Perhaps is best to head to the listings of organizations and do donation more direct although, in the long run, funds are going to BE needed for a LONG RUN.
The horrendousnous of getting the assist to the people is extrememly hampered but mark it–there will be great dissctioning of how the O-Administration failed to be TIMELY/effective and all the various etc’s (as a partial way JUST to harangue and bang him and his but also as a corralary issue to example how PERHAPS (and do note big PERHAPS) Bush and his crew were “equally” stymied so a bit of rewriting of their historic flop in such regards as well. The logisticals are staggering, our Katrina was as well and NO EASY SOLUTIONS –Too many HERE stil struggling to recover and not all attempted has been effective or even corrective to prevent much of possibility could indeed occur again. NO EASY SOLUTONS HERE OR THERE —sure hope folks fully comprehend that and all the implications.
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By: Buttons44 on January 15, 2010
at 11:54 AM
Tine: That was great!!!!
Haiti has 50,000 people who died from an earthquake and the big news on FOX is Sarah Palin. More time spent on Sarah than Haiti – sad.
Fox is just now starting to report about Haiti. Guess Fox is using the Bush rules: Wait a week.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 15, 2010
at 11:45 AM
TINE!!!!!! good to see you.. How’s the rug rats?
This is 10 kinds of awesome and I am gonna pinch it .. with proper props of course..;-)
take care
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By: lori on January 15, 2010
at 10:56 AM
Hello, porch friends! 🙂 Sorry I haven’t been around much lately. Busybusybusy. I’m reading, but rarely commenting.
Today, though, I just *had* to share something with you. Following is a reader letter published in yesterday’s Minneapolis Star Tribune. It is ten kinds of awesome. Enjoy!
———-
Dear Pat Robertson, I know that you know that all press is good press, so I appreciate the shout-out. And you make God look like a big mean bully who kicks people when they are down, so I’m all over that action. But when you say that Haiti has made a pact with me, it is totally humiliating. I may be evil incarnate, but I’m no welcher. The way you put it, making a deal with me leaves folks desperate and impoverished. Sure, in the afterlife, but when I strike bargains with people, they first get something here on earth — glamour, beauty, talent, wealth, fame, glory, a golden fiddle. Those Haitians have nothing, and I mean nothing. And that was before the earthquake. Haven’t you seen “Crossroads”? Or “Damn Yankees”? If I had a thing going with Haiti, there’d be lots of banks, skyscrapers, SUVs, exclusive night clubs, Botox — that kind of thing. An 80 percent poverty rate is so not my style. Nothing against it — I’m just saying: Not how I roll. You’re doing great work, Pat, and I don’t want to clip your wings — just, come on, you’re making me look bad. And not the good kind of bad. Keep blaming God. That’s working. But leave me out of it, please. Or we may need to renegotiate your own contract. Best, Satan
LILY COYLE, MINNEAPOLIS
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By: Δ¥ Tine on January 15, 2010
at 10:23 AM
Whenever disasters like this befall mankind, we realize how little power we truly possess on this spinning orb. God will be glorified and His power is mighty. We tremble at the small doses we get of it. Many will turn to Him from this. Others will wipe their brow and be happy they missed the judgment this time. Inevitably, we must all one day face our mortality. No one is guaranteed an easy passage. The row gets tougher to hoe when the earth is rocky and dry. Water the ground with prayer and soften the soil with compassion. Spend your time here wisely, for it truly is a short journey. Be a blessing in every way you can, and your eternity will be the peace that you truly desire. May He direct your path this day, and cause His face to shine on you. Though you sometimes feel you travel alone, truly there are a multitude of witnesses.
Yeshua Adonai. Shalom.
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By: Poolman on January 15, 2010
at 10:06 AM
Here’s a great list of the various organizations that are responding to the Haitian Earthquake catastrophe. For folks who prefer to donate/work with faith-based organizations, there are several on this list.
http://www.interaction.org/crisis-list/earthquake-haiti
As you all know, the global response is currently in the rescue/recovery mode. Every minute counts. the next stage will be security/assessment before rebuilding can begin. Once rebuilding begins, however, volunteers will be needed to help. Furthermore, many of the aid workers currently in or heading to Haiti have not dealt with disasters of this magnitude before- World Council of Churches & the Amer. Psychological Association are currently considering sending teams of pastoral & mental health counselors to work with the rescue teams & news crews – because yes, those folks can suffer PTSD from this. They are also working on sending volunteer clergy & lay people to help with the national grief and assist with funerals.
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By: Greytdog on January 15, 2010
at 9:00 AM
Wow, great posts, everyone, although I do miss (and worry a little about) M&H. Our resident Repug gasbag said of the earthquake victims/survivors that “they had had 150 years already to get it right.” Nice, huh?
(lol @ “Mooselini”)
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By: Claire on January 15, 2010
at 8:48 AM
You don’t think reading chapter one of Mooselini’s book caused Helen to need an extended vacation, do you?
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 15, 2010
at 8:34 AM
You don’t think reading chapter one of Mooselini’s caused Helen to need an extended vacation, do you?
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 15, 2010
at 8:34 AM
Margaret and Helen,
Where are you??!!
😦
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By: Suzy on January 15, 2010
at 7:31 AM
Margaret and Helen,
WHERE ARE YOU WHEN WE NEED YOU?!
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By: Anonymous on January 15, 2010
at 7:29 AM
Thanks to those who agreed with my opinion of Rush. Poolman, perhaps you could retrieve John Stewart’s clip from his show last night . Sorry I can’t do that. Guess what, he used the same expression I did about Rush not having a heart!!! It tickled me. I was glad I had written it before his show because some might believe I copied him. lol
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By: sunshine on January 15, 2010
at 7:27 AM
Yes Delurker, it is a little better today. Thanks for the pick up.
Grandma Katie, I am glad you are feeling better and back online. You have it right, it is just hard to believe we live on the same planet with some of the people who seemingly can’t feel compassion for their fellow man. Sad for the human condition, isn’t it? But I feel hope that the entire planet is not made up of people who feel like some on the right feel, about the compassion thing being a useless feeling. Just like a small ray of light brightens a dark room even just a few compassionate people do impact the bigger picture. Seeing some of the images of aid workers helping in Haiti wormed my heart today. Thank God, we all don’t have the missing piece of the body Rush seems to lack.
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By: Easier on January 14, 2010
at 10:03 PM
And Grandma Katie–so glad you are back and I am very sorry about your week. Thinking of you–XXO
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By: Donna on January 14, 2010
at 9:44 PM
It sure is, Delurker. This was a real insight into what is a genuinely dark soul. I should feel compassion for him (and a better person than I am–like Poolman) doubtless does. I’m just not able to feel anything but disgust and contempt.
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By: Donna on January 14, 2010
at 9:21 PM
Wow, Donna, that’s a scary mix of juvenile & hate!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 14, 2010
at 9:10 PM
(((((Grandma Katie))))) Good to hear from you and may the Almighty surround you with love and strength. May His presence warm your heart and comfort you, I pray. Get well soon! I’m glad your scrolling finger is being put to good use.
God answers prayer, my friends! My rep, the honorable mr. Shadegg has anounced his retirement and in this clip he actually sounds like a person of intellect! This is the first time I can recall that I agree with him.
vgmanΔ, I am glad I can keep the discussion going.
Donna, you have hit the nail on the head with the discussion of mr. Limbaugh. BTW, he is on my prayer list, too. Keep shining the light, sunshine.
It is a good day all around. Please keep those fellow humans in Haiti lifted in prayer. God will win at the end of the day. Praise His holy name!
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By: Poolman on January 14, 2010
at 8:44 PM
JuneauJoe and Donna thanks for your osts!! I’m still here , but not posting much past few da ys. My roommate has demetia and has gone off the deep end. Then I got a bug and as a consequence. (threw up)the carpet had to be shampooed.
So between the two, I have temporarily been moved to another room, my computer was in the hall. T hey took pity on me and moved it this evening so I don’t go nuts not reading all the posts.
Now after catching up , I have to tell you that my scrolling finger has gotten a work o ut. I am appalled about the GOP and religious right and their lack of compassion. So what can we e xpect after Katrina, health care bill, etc.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 14, 2010
at 8:11 PM
Well, Poolman, your links have once again provided much room for discussion.
Here, here! sunshine! Well said.
On Palin/Beck lovefest……..
I will always defend to the end the right of any American to express their inner beliefs along with supporting those who have no inner beliefs.
As for God playing a part in the founding of our country and constitution, I agree The Great One did. Many of the founding mothers and fathers received steadfastness in the face of adversity from a belief in God. And–
many also found the proper voice in the early representation of our organizational settings of Continental Congressess to realize that cooler heads would prevail if legitimacy would be given to non-believers as well. And so….
The Constitution was “breathed” into life by both believers and non-believers alike. Compromise to benefit the many. Freedom to worship and freedom not to worship are both equal and important precepts of our collective founding. One should never disparage the other.
But more teaching needs to be done. More people must understand this than are demonstrating in their “spouting off” in the media.
Anyone can care for another human being….if they really have a heart.
My church has but one altar. It’s wide as the world is wide. Good-hearted ones worship there, where billions of hearts reside.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 14, 2010
at 7:12 PM
And Sunshine–I couldn’t agree more.
Today someone called in and really was stern with him about his statements. He called her a blockhead and said she had tampons in her ears. HIS rationalization was that he “loves” to “tweak” the media and that he thinks it’s so funny when people get upset about what he says.
That to me sums the man up: he’s a cheap, immature bully who likes to rile things up. He is gratified by upsetting people. In other words, he’s a troll with a wider audience.
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By: Donna on January 14, 2010
at 6:58 PM
No wonder Rush didn’t have a heart attack, they couldn’t even find a heart. Look how he blames our President again for helping Haiti. Where’s is his heart and compassion? Is he even human? At least some other republicans have praised Mr. Obama and they want to help Haiti in their time of extreme need. What a bozo he is. I even suspect he went to the hospital so he could make more noise on his show over how he got such good care, but we don’t need a health care bill for us little people. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
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By: sunshine on January 14, 2010
at 6:29 PM
…reading thru, this from UAW, examples selective memory for sure…”buttons44…actually we’ve been under the control of the Dems except for six of the last sixty years….”….guess you use the rewrites of historical facts (btw, Cheney’s wife is a regular who has been editing the books used in the education system, books provided by Bush brother, Neil who has the contract to supply…no bid contracts perhaps uncancellable as well )Not too sure the various GOPs would agree that has been BUT Dem’s in charge/control…not sure what purpose it serves to try to claim such either other than grateful to point out that typical, some are incapable of handling the truthmaticals /factuals preferring instead to spin nonsense…w-h-a-t-e-v-e-r , perhaps needed to get you thru your day but really a rather ignorant remark that denotes slective stupidty by choice.
Adding, find it semi remarkable that even now, there are indeed those that cling to the notion that Bush/Cheney somehow got it right in regards to Iraq-use of “dems voted for it” is dithering as well …If incapable of recognizing/acknowledging just how manipulated into instigating that Iraq invasion and how so very egregiously errant and so willing to accept that NO ULTERIOR motive other than to get “bad guys”, well, such remains a major wowzerino at the naivete possessed. It was configured to get a footprint and control of OIL, –far plainer and simple if review …we had been told to get our dirty feet off of SACRED Saudi soil –The Saudi’s were having problems with their fantical fringers and wanted it contained –few cared much for Saddam , but he was NOT a major threat to any at the time and had been being rather contained and limited by far less costly means…It was indeed thought it would indeed be a BIG EZ and the oil folks were sure encouraging and remember when it was stated that the OIL would pay the costs and , well, so many blah, blah,blahs…so much rehashing and eventually it will all come out further as well. The Bush/Cheney?Neocons vast miscalculated and it has indeed cost ALL far more than ANY should have had to bear and the consequences keep coming home to roost. TRAGIC for sure, but reality.
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By: Buttons44 on January 14, 2010
at 4:12 PM
Every nation that can is stepping up to the plate to help Haiti. The air traffic above port au prince has become so busy as to endanger the planes. . .plus the tarmac is full of planes – so aid planes are being waved off to the Dominican Republic. Some earth moving equipment has arrived – but as noted, fuel is quickly becoming an issue. Likewise the longer bodies are buried in rubble and/or in the makeshift morgue, the very real threat of disease outbreak rises. Time is not on anyone’s side in this disaster.
Note: Credit Card companies are skimming deep fees off of donations to Haiti. While not as immediate as texting or going online to click/give, a check may better serve the relief organization of your choice. At least then you know they’ll get the full amount you’ve donated.
I personally find it very telling that the GOP has yet to chastise or condemn Rush or Robertson for their hatefilled remarks. On the other hand, I am not surprised either. The GOP is showing itself to truly be the KKK Party.
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By: Greytdog on January 14, 2010
at 3:49 PM
Sam Harris, Richard Dawkin, and Christopher Hitchens have nothing on the greatest evangelist of atheism today, Pat Robertson.
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By: Poolman on January 14, 2010
at 3:22 PM
That’s too bad about UPS but I can see that an initiative like that could be nearly impossible to manage.
Judith, I was proud of Hillary this morning, too!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 14, 2010
at 2:57 PM
Wait, UPS is not taking shipments from indivduals. From UPS.com:
“UPS is providing financial support and emergency logistics assistance to help survivors of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. We are working with relief organizations to transport much needed supplies and food to the area. If you wish to donate to the relief efforts, UPS encourages you to work directly with the following organizations:
The American Red Cross – http://www.redcross.org
CARE – http://www.care.org
UNICEF – http://www.unicef.org
UPS is not accepting shipments from individuals or local organizations due to the logistics challenges in Haiti. Service will resume as soon as conditions allow. Shipments to Haiti made prior to the earthquake are temporarily being held at UPS facilities in Miami.”
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By: Sue on January 14, 2010
at 2:22 PM
THanks Pamela for the UPS post and thanks Judith for the good news. And, JuneauJoe for the info about Haiti and the Jubilee bill.
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By: Sue on January 14, 2010
at 2:19 PM
Watched the news this AM b4 going off to work. I want to say how happy I am to have a Secretary of State who’s so obviously been up all night. Hillary looks like she’s been dragged under a bus – and I couldn’t be prouder.
I know we’re not the only ones helping, and there’s a long long way to go, but I got a little gloppy at the list of what’s been accomplished already. For one – Airport, including Air Traffic Control, is fully back and operational. (We still can’t get in heavy equipment, without landing in the Dominican Republic & then driving it over the high mountain ridge that separates the 2 countries. That’s going to be the worst part for rescue efforts).
Remember, the previous Secretary of State dealt with Katrina by going shoe-shopping. And their constant cry was “Don’t blame us, government can’t do anything right.”
It was them that couldn’t do anything right. The reason was, because they didn’t want to.
This is what it looks like when government works.
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By: judith on January 14, 2010
at 2:01 PM
New Yorkers beware.
Meet Harold Ford Jr.: Ann Coulter’s Favorite Democrat
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By: Poolman on January 14, 2010
at 1:49 PM
“President Barack Obama told banks Thursday they should pay a new tax to recoup the cost of bailing out foundering firms at the height of the financial crisis. “We want our money back,” he said.”
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/14/bank-tax-obama-seeks-90-b_n_422884.html
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By: Poolman on January 14, 2010
at 1:24 PM
UPS is shipping anything under 50lbs for free to Haiti. You can send food clothes or shoes…and American Airlines is taking doctors and nurses to Haiti for free. Please call 212-697-9767. Spread the word…Red Cross needs Creole speaking volunteers for a 24hr phone bank. Call Mr. Wilfrid @ 305-776-6900 ASAP..
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By: Pamela on January 14, 2010
at 12:58 PM
Palin buys into the Christian Zionist agenda hook, line, and sinker. She’s all for unbridled US military action. She’s for this because theologically speaking the more war the better, at least in the Middle East. Jesus needs war to fulfill “prophecy” so he can “come back”!
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By: Poolman on January 14, 2010
at 11:09 AM
Delurker–I am so glad to hear that!! Thanks and good for him.
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By: Donna on January 14, 2010
at 10:47 AM
Donna, there was a minister on one of the morning news shows today who blasted Robertson for his arrogance – presuming that he could interpret the actions of God & projecting his opinions onto God. Reading more into God than what scripture has to say is wrong. There was more to it, but as a Christian I was glad to hear what the man had to say and felt strongly that he was right about Robertson.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 14, 2010
at 10:43 AM
How long will this go on? If they are prophets, they are prophets of deceit, inventing everything they say. Jeremiah 23:26
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By: Poolman on January 14, 2010
at 10:37 AM
Have you noticed how little criticism of Robertson there has been from other members of the clergy? And so much has been made about how American Muslims have not criticized the rhetoric of the extremists that purport to share their faith?
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By: Donna on January 14, 2010
at 10:18 AM
The selfish, heartless Rush Limbaugh’s craptastic response to the Haitian suffering:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/14/limbaugh-weve-already-don_n_422958.html
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 14, 2010
at 10:18 AM
Here is information about the poverty in Hait. It is not like Pat Roberson is telling the world.
Pat Robertson thinks that Haiti is poverty stricken (and earthquake-stricken) because the country made a deal with Satan to help them overthrow the French.
Back in May, the Times Online provided some slightly better insight into Haiti’s past. Beyond a vague assumption that Imperialism had probably screwed Haiti somehow, I didn’t know much about the country’s history. Reading this story has been nothing short of nauseating.
Summary: Haiti was forced to pay France for its freedom. When they couldn’t afford the ransom, France (and other countries, including the United States) helpfully offered high-interest loans. By 1900, 80% of Haiti’s annual budget went to paying off its “reparation” debt. They didn’t make the last payment until 1947. Just 10 years later, dictator François Duvalier took over the country and promptly bankrupted it, taking out more high-interest loans to pay for his corrupt lifestyle. The Duvalier family, with the blind-eye financial assistance of Western countries, killed 10s of thousands of Haitians, until the Haitian people overthrew them in 1986. Today, Haiti is still paying off the debt of an oppressive dictator no one would help them get rid of for 30 years.
The rest of the world refuses to forgive this debt.
So, in a way, maybe Robertson is right. Haiti is caught in a deal with the devil, and the devil is us.
Update: mgfarrelly points out another thing I didn’t know—the U.S. Congress is currently considering a bill called The Jubilee Act for Responsible Lending and Expanded Debt Cancellation. Part of what this bill would do is help countries like Haiti get their debt canceled, without making that cancellation conditional on things like closing down free schools or raising the cost of fresh water. May be a good time to contact your representatives about about this bi-partisan measure.
Sounds like a useful thing to do to help Haiti. Call your Congress critter and tell them you support the Jubilee Act.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 14, 2010
at 10:04 AM
IMHO, Maxine ranks right up there with M&H on many topics and here’s a jewel of an idea for our seniors as they try to afford health care insurance.
Senior Health Care Solution
So you’re a senior citizen and the government says no health care for you, what do you do?
Our plan gives anyone 65 years or older a gun and 4 bullets. You are allowed to shoot 2 senators and 2 representatives. Of Course, this means you will be sent to prison.
There you will get 3 meals a day, a roof over your head, and all the health care you need! New teeth, no problem. Need glasses, great. New hip, knees, kidney, lungs, heart? All covered.
And who will be paying for all of this? The same government that just told you that you are too old for health care. Plus, because you are a prisoner, you don’t have to pay any income taxes anymore. And you’ve done us all a favor by disposing of 4 worthless politicians..
Well, it’s a thought!
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By: Pamela on January 14, 2010
at 9:27 AM
Thanks for the update, Greytdog. I hope that you are doing well.
To everyone making contributions, if your employer has a matching gifts program be sure to use it! Some match 100%.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 14, 2010
at 9:22 AM
Aid now starting to come into Haiti. Doctors Without Borders was already in country & though their facility was badly damaged and several of their staff seriously injured (& some dead), they have already set up triage tents and administering medical care. They are running out of supplies however – Oxfam and Heifer Intl are also in place and already working to provide relief and assistance. All the hospitals in Port-au-Prince are down- either collapsed or so badly damaged that they can’t be used. there are patients and medical staff in those bldgs but can’t be reached due to lack of heavy equipment. The global community is organizing and already S&R teams are at the airport ready for deployment at first light. US Special Forces have gotten the airport control tower up and working again; France, England, Germany, Netherlands are sending in medical supplies as well as clothing, food, water purification systems, etc. The biggest need – body bags. there are not enough body bags for the dead in Haiti.
If you can give, whatever you can give, please do so. Among the most reputable organizations now working in Haiti: Doctors Without Borders, Heifer Intl, Oxfam Intl, Intl Red Cross, American Red Cross, UNICEF, USAID, and numerous religious groups. Several mainstream denominations have missionaries in Haitii – if you prefer to give to a faith-based organization, pls contact your national HQ for your denomination and ask about their relief outreach to Haiti. World Vision, AmeriCare, World Council of Churches, and the Red Crescent society are also coordinating relief efforts. The Mogan David & Hadassah are likewise doing the same.
You can also text a donation: text to 20222 with HAITI as the message. $10 will be charged to your cell phone bill – but the money goes directly to the Intl Red Cross. Wyclef Jean has also set up a text-to-donate line through his charitable foundation, YELE Hati. To donate, simply text “YELE” to 501501; $5 will be automatically donated to the foundation & later billed to your phone. If you have teens, this is a great way for them to use their phones in a global way. For more info go here: http://www.yele.org/
Thanks all.
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By: Greytdog on January 13, 2010
at 10:03 PM
Here is the GOP blog (Gods Own Party) with a great read. She is thrilled that Palin got a Press pass so she can crash and burn.
http://godsownparty.com/blog/2010/01/our-prayers-get-answered-too-palin-w-a-press-pass/
Interesting thought.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 9:58 PM
(((Easier))) Tomorrow should be better!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 13, 2010
at 9:41 PM
Looks like someone is back from his latest bender.
WWGKD
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By: farsight Δ on January 13, 2010
at 9:19 PM
Poolman, I was having the kind of day Delurker Girl was having until I saw your “stolen car” comment. Brought a big smile to my face. Thanks. I am just so sad about the people of Haiti.
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By: Easier on January 13, 2010
at 9:12 PM
Cheney swore on a bible that it was the same car.
According to his lawyer, Alberto Gonzales, The car just had Normal wear and tear. He vouched for the honesty of Cheney.
(I think it is a different car myself.)
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 8:37 PM
Delurker: Not a thing in the world wrong with Snocaps!
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 8:36 PM
Here was the same car when Bush/ Cheney stole the car in 2000
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 8:26 PM
Hi gang, Poolman and Judith,
Loved your ‘fix the car’ analogy, Poolman. It sure is gonna need plenty of tune-ups before we get it running smoothly!
Thanks Judith for the links to Haitian relief. They need all the help they can get from any quarter. We have been to Haiti. It is a beautiful, beautiful little island with some of the sweetest and most gentle people we ever met. Also the most wrenchingly impoverished, even before a devastating earthquake. My heart goes out to them.
I sincerely hope we will keep up the relief and not forget about them in the weeks and months to come. This is a disaster of gargantuan proportions!!! It will take YEARS for the people to rebuild their lives and their country.
What say we vow to stay on it with regular reports like we did with the Alaskan people when their plight was in dire straits. The needs are of course immediate to save lives. It looks like the world community is on board to rush aid to them. But the aftermath of disease is coming if they don’t get clean water and sanitation in an on-going basis. Also desperate situations are always the breeding ground for violence and chaos.
And for heaven’s sake, let’s not get bogged down in the political gossip of he/said/she/said/he said/blah,blah,blah. That’s all a waste of valuable time.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
P.S. I will allow myself one parting shot however. I heard on CNN this morning that someone was considering putting the head of AIG in charge of coordinating relief. Sheesh!!!! Why not call in ‘Brownie’ with his sterling experience and expertise.
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 13, 2010
at 8:24 PM
Vgman, Donna, JuneauJoe, Grandma Katie, Greytdog, and so very many more… I have so many favorites here. But Poolman, you’ve made me smile about 4 times in the last few minutes of reading alone, and for that I’m so thankful. I want to know what you had for dinner because you’re in rare (& fine!) form. 🙂
I think I’ll have a glass of wine & some fine chocolates. (OK, they’re Snowcaps… it’s what’s on hand, ROFL!)
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 13, 2010
at 8:07 PM
vgman: Great quote!
Here are quotes from the Bush Admin re: Katrina
http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/currentevents/a/katrinaquotes.htm
That car was 10 feet under water too
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 7:53 PM
Here’s what we started with this year.
😉
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By: Poolman on January 13, 2010
at 7:47 PM
I also wanted to leave behind a quote on the porch before I dash off to a play performance this evening–
In honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr……..
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
He said many wise words.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 13, 2010
at 7:19 PM
Well, it’s nice to come home and check out what’s going on on the porch. I scroll to the beginning of entries for today and find UAW is his old, cantankerous self. 8:56 am shows him railing away about sliced bread or something.
It’s good to read about other people’s opinions. Helps me form my own.
You know, we can talk all day about which president has done what for this country and who is to take credit for this or why this one did this…..
But at the end of the day, it’s the one who did something for the common man and woman among us. We are the vast majority in this nation. Which of those among us helped others in need? It will be noted by many who helped and who just took from society.
A good president listens to the vast majority in this country who want to live peaceful, productive lives. A bad president intentionally does things that they know are not good for the people of our country.
Do I want a president who knows what it is like to struggle to live?
Heck yeah!
Makes the job more real for the president, if he or she has experienced struggle in life.
So, I leave you with this.
Look over the past decades and look at what the presidents have accomplished to help the vast majority of us–those that want to live peaceful and productive lives.
And then tell me who deserved your vote and followed through with their promises.
Good day.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 13, 2010
at 7:15 PM
-The car was under how many feet of water when Brownie was doing a great job?
-How many bodies were floating in the water?
-The people left had no water or food
but Brownie was doing a heck of a job.
Brownies big concern – wearing the right tie for TV, with matching cuff links of course.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 7:10 PM
Actually, Clinton kept it clean on the outside and didn’t put much mileage on it. He pretty much just drove it on special occasions and was was more familiar with the back seat.
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By: Poolman on January 13, 2010
at 7:08 PM
Sunshine–Grandma Katie is a regular (but not often enough for my taste!) poster here. She is smart, sane, funny, and all around wonderful. It is an acronym which would be meaningless outside of this blog (or any blog on which our beloved Grandma Katie posts).
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 7:07 PM
Heck of a job Brownie:
WWGKD
What would Grandma Katie Do?
Grandma Katie has a golden rule: IGNORE TROLLS
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 7:05 PM
Please tell me what WWGKD means? Am fairly old, but new at cyber lingo. lol Thanks
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By: sunshine on January 13, 2010
at 7:02 PM
actually Bush had to jerk the wreck out of the ditch after Clinton/Gore got done driving it in……
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 6:50 PM
Poolman: Excellent Point!!
Reader: The typical American diet is disaster!
I just read that the advertisements make big bucks for Big Pharma – the ads are here to stay.
I am thankful that my kids are considering diet seriously and teaching me too.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 6:44 PM
JJ, It was a stolen car.
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By: Poolman on January 13, 2010
at 6:37 PM
Poolman:
Right: That car sure was beaten up the 8 years of the Bush/ Cheney administration..
Running it off a cliff a time or two was crazy. The idiots then turned it back in saying it is better than new. We were fools to let them turn it back in all beaten up, but we did.
Why they got the keys the last 4 years is beyond me.
WWGKD
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 6:30 PM
RE: health care just read Dr Andrew Weil’s book “Why Our Health Matters”. I found it a good read to get a different look at our health care problems and possible ways to start to fix it. One thing that caught my attention right off was – and I quote – “We do not have a “health-care” system at all. Instead, we have a disease management system that is horribly dysfunctional and getting more so every day.” Medical students do not spend much of their time learning about nutrients and how they affect the body, FDA in may ways has failed us by allowing many new drugs on the market without enough testing which have harmed many people, Big Pharm is everywhere – in the doctors offices, and all over the TV suggesting we ask our doctors for their products. Next time one comes on pay special attention to the side effects listed. Then wonder how many side effects they are not listing. Have you ever watched one of these ads and after it was over you didn’t even know what it is for – high blood pressure, allergies, acid reflux or what??
Speaking of health H & M–we all hope that yours is just fine and you are just too engrossed in Palin’s book to post.
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By: reader on January 13, 2010
at 6:27 PM
In most every way this administration has taken a more open and “higher ground” approach on the issues and crises of today than the last bunch. We have a long way to go, and there is still much that needs to change to achieve the transparency and accountability that we voted for, but we have certainly pulled a 180.
Now if we can change the oil and filters, tune the engine, rotate the tires, replace the shocks, clear the windshield, adjust the brakes, clean the trunk, fix the scratches and dents, restore the chassis, and keep it on the pavement for the next few years, we may actually arrive intact and safely at a place where we would like to be.
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By: Poolman on January 13, 2010
at 6:25 PM
cpac having problems….wouldn’t be a problem with Barry Goldwater…..
good thing the DNC isn’t having any problems with their reps……Hint…Bart Stupak and his problems with gov paid abortions…..
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 6:23 PM
Delurker Girl,
A person needs to have those sucky days to appreciate the good days.
You did call it right though.
I am amazed at the stupidity people use to justify the unjustifiable.
Wish people could see a tragedy and deal with it humanely. It is sad to see some crazies making brownie points (and money) out of a tragedy which will end in the death of many thousands of innocent people.
Hope you have a good evening.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 6:20 PM
“I’m having a ‘people can really suck’ day today. :(”
Guess I called that right.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 13, 2010
at 6:07 PM
CPAC is having problems… How sad…
http://www.themudflats.net/2010/01/13/trouble-in-cpac-paradise/
Wingnuts can’t decide who to trust it seems.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 6:06 PM
Donna,
Glen Beck is drooling over Sarah Palin…
http://mediamatters.org/mmtv/201001130033
Wingnuts are out in force.
WWGKD
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 6:03 PM
Donna…..
yes it is sad that limited people keep blaming the prior administration
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 5:49 PM
It is quite sad actually.
Donna,
There could be 100,000 people who are dead or trapped and people act as if we should do what Bush did during Katrina. Those are some sad people.
Thank God President Obama had the good sense to get right on it.
President Obama was also right on the underwear bomber but he was getting real information instead of making stuff up.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 5:43 PM
not sure which is more distasteful to me, JuneauJoe:
1. Limbaugh using Haiti to attack the president.
2. Robertson attributing the earthquake to a God that apparently exists to exact retribution in the most violent and destructive ways possible.
3. Sad and limited people who use the tragedy to make jokes about how people with opposing political viewpoints will somehow blame a natural disaster on the prior administration.
WWGKD.
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 5:31 PM
Rush is so full of crap!
http://crooksandliars.com/john-amato/i-predicted-conservatives-limbaugh-woul
WWGKD?
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 5:24 PM
Donna, I didn’t say I was finding entertainment in the tragedies of a country.
Just amusing in the way in which people invoke their belief’s whether it be religious, historical or political views involving the destruction and death caused by the earth just shifting plates.
Oops..thats science..better leave that alone or we’ll be messin with Darwinian theory.
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By: craigΔ on January 13, 2010
at 5:08 PM
call congress……NO HIDDEN HEALTHCARE TAXES…..
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 4:56 PM
Beautifully put, Poolman. Thank you for being the person that you obviously are.
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 4:55 PM
The people of Haiti are our close neighbors and now find themselves in great need. Their sin is not at all greater than our sin. Their lives are not less important than our own. We had better respond with compassion and devote whatever aid we can offer them as soon as possible. To do otherwise is immoral. We are not in the position to judge others or assess their value. It is how we respond to these “tests” that show our true colors. History records our actions and inactions. We definitely need to start getting more points in the positive side of the scorecard, imho.
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By: Poolman on January 13, 2010
at 4:54 PM
Hi Craig….
and they accuse me of rewriting history….
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 4:54 PM
http://www.cagle.com/politicalcartoons/pccartoons/permalink.asp?artist=payne&date=100112
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 4:49 PM
Hey Juneau Joe: WWGKD? Darn, she’s one smart lady!
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 4:44 PM
How sad that you are finding entertainment in the tragedies of a country.
And, in response to your question, my synagogue is very actively taking donations and I have given and will continue to do so.
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 4:43 PM
I love it.
Reading this crap is better than a
front seat at a demolition derby.
It’s obvious.
There are two extreme 180 deg. of thought being
being spewed here.
Margaret and or Helen or whoever writes this post that “he” may be..better get to writin cause the youngins are feastin on their own.
…and Donna is a lawyer?
God help us.
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By: craigΔ on January 13, 2010
at 4:42 PM
guess I kicked the tires enough….
yes I did call in my donation…did you…..
glad your listening to Rush…I was outside for awhile……
I guess tomorrow it will be Rush,Bush,McCain, and Palin’s fault….got to give huffpo & mediamatters a day to think about it….ROTFLMAO……
going fishing tomorrow…..got a lot of bites today…..
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 4:36 PM
last thing (can you tell I’m pissed?). Robertson did not say he was repeating folklore. The author of the politico article said that this was folklore. If you listen to the video, Robertson flatly says this is true.
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 4:33 PM
I apologize for being long-winded but I do have more to say. This is the same Pat Robertson who blamed 9/11 on gays. So we have one person who blames 9/11 on actions by our government (expressing disagreement with this country’s policies) and another who claims that God killed 3000 people because of God’s supposed irritation with people’s sexual preference. I view one as the expression of political views and the other as a hurtful destructive perversion of religion.
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 4:30 PM
You know, I don’t doubt that you don’t give a damn, UAW, but that is so incredibly offensive. I don’t believe anyone, anywhere has suggested that Haiti is anything but a natural disaster of horrible proportions. Are you trying to be a jerk today? Can you just feel a little compassion for the people who are dead or maimed or orphaned or homeless or who don’t have water or electricity or medical care or shelter? Maybe take a rest from the temptation to indulge in what you perceive as a zinger out of respect for these people?
Apart from that, yes–Robertson did say to pray for them. But so frigging what? This follows what was not conveyed as “folklore” but which he said was a “true story”–that the people were cursed because of a long-ago “deal with the devil.”
Now, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. I don’t disagree with Jeremiah Wright. The statements which are repeatedly quoted, when taken in context, are a bit hyperbolic but defensible. And September 11 was the result of actions by people (benighted and wrong though they were). Does this mean that I defend the 9/11 bombers or anyone who would advocate for that? Not in a million years. But disagreeing with a government’s actions and policies is a far cry from claiming that God is punishing a society because of that society’s supposed sins. Perhaps the distinction escapes you, perhaps you disagree with it.
I believe there is a difference between doing what Robertson did here and what Wright said. What Robertson said is the equivalent of Falwell’s statements that Hurricane Katrina was God’s reaction to New Orleans’ tolerance of gays. And I believe that is reflective of the most abominable and hateful misuse of religion imaginable.
What you said is the equivalent of the crap that Limbaugh is spewing today–using Haiti to claim that the President responded to it sooner than he did to the attempted bombing on Christmas; that this will “ingratiate” him to “light and darkskinned blacks;” and that Americans already gave to Haiti because they paid income taxes.
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 4:23 PM
The earthquake is a natural disaster befallen on our sinful planet. It is not the fault of any human. The reaction to these disasters can be helpful or hurtful. Compassion or condemnation. Out of the fullness of the heart, the mouth speaks.
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By: Poolman on January 13, 2010
at 4:22 PM
watching the news and still haven’t seen where the earthquake was the fault of Rush, Bush McCain, or Palin…..WTF
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 4:08 PM
Even Cheny has said there was no connection.
If you looked at the financial backers of the terrorists – check out Saudi Arabia. However, they got a free ride by Bush and Cheney. All air travel was suspended except for flying the Saudi Arabian Carlisle Group of Bush backers who were in the US.
We are still looking for Bin Laden??? Weapons of Mass Destruction – that is what we went into iraq for. Still looking too.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 4:05 PM
what disgusting comment about Haiti
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 4:01 PM
juneayjoe….
have some more koolaid
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 3:58 PM
to bad the health care folly isn’t on C-SPAN—-Donna wouldn’t have to watch CBN….
and any attempt to equate some money and the death of over 3000 in the twin towers is sad…..
and yes the US military is doing a good job in Haiti…
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 3:54 PM
Republicans are rewriting history… the new game
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/rep-alan-grayson-responds-giuiliani-republ
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 3:40 PM
Sadam would not allow the Jhihadists into Iraq. They came after we invaded – quit trying to rewrite history.
That was a disgusting comment you made about Haiti.
Saddam was a bad man but we could also take out Iran, North Korea or Zimbabwe for having crazy rulers. WE WENT IN FOR THE OIL! That is the little secret.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 3:32 PM
I think all politicians should be limited to two terms……one in government and one in jail…
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 3:31 PM
UAW: Any attempttTo equate a few words to the death of 100,000 is very sad.
I thank President Obama for getting help to Haiti so quickly. The Red Cross is taking donations.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 3:28 PM
juneaujoe….
the radical Islamic jihadists got us into an expensive war….and how many Dems voted for the war before they voted against…..
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 3:26 PM
Donna…
Pat Robertson repeated some Haiti folklore….
you forgot to add that he said “we should pray for them”
http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0110/Robertson_Haiti_cursed_since_Satanic_pact.html?showall
then again is what he said any worse than “God Damn America” or “the chickens have come home to roost”
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 3:22 PM
UAW: Bush got us into a VERY EXPENSIVE war. Remember that.
That is a lot of cash spent on a war started with lies.
The Republicans did a great job of shuttting down debate on Iraq!
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 3:16 PM
buttons44…
actually we’ve been under the control of the Dems except for six of the last sixty years….
as for being obstructive did you forget about being “Borked”….remember the word Gridlock…how about “Nuclear option”(which they never used) and they had debate….
I hope you have a lot of money to pay the taxes with (but you’ll probably blame it on Palin and Bush)(typical lib bull)
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 3:08 PM
That complete fool, Pat Robertson, stated today that Haiti made a deal with the devil and therefore are cursed. In other words, they brought the earthquake on themselves.
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By: Donna on January 13, 2010
at 2:56 PM
I love the harlot, Judith! I hadn’t read her blog recently, so thanks for pointing out that information.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 13, 2010
at 2:30 PM
Off topic, but on to a very important one – Haiti relief.
Another blog I frequently visit is The Yarn Harlot. She is organizing help, as she has done before. Knitters Without Borders links to Doctors Without Borders, an organization which was already in Haiti when the earthquake struck.
If you are interested (even if knitting bores the cr-p out of you), please visit:
http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/archives/2010/01/13/the_knitsignal.html
You can contribute directly to KWB, MSF (Doctors Without Borders) or read the comments to find links to other relief sites.
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By: judith on January 13, 2010
at 2:19 PM
..an mmm’er to UAW, your snark to Pelosi/Reid…denotes the contempt opinion …it brings back to mind such as Frisk, or Gingriche and others of the GOP when they held similar positions and these days, the minority party does have their “leaders”, Bohner and Mitch……any chance that GOPs TRULY be;lieve in transparency and practice such ? WOuld enjoy some examples of them “exampling” such in their past/present behaviors with a note, am indeed in favor of transparency for sunshine/light/etc -can serve a purpose but in the REAL WORLD, GBO, do YOU REALLY expect it 24/7 or is it a mere gimmicky request knowing it will not likely EVER be ? To harp on it comes off as just another whine frankly. HOW would such truly be implemented other than rather “facaded” where the “internal” meetings would happen anyway–we all know that unless there is a way to prevent ALL conversations/communications and blah, blah, blah etc’s Rather a grandiopse gimmick that sound great but impossible to fully implement–likely you actaully know that but it is one of the standard whines that goes out in attempt to malign campaign promises/etc. Want to know a REAL TIME GREIVENCE of a BROKEN CAMPAIGN PROMISE by McCain who put out that COUNTRY FIRST line….he had the bodacious audacity to select the very incompetent Sara Palin, without even fully vetting her or her background and to this day claims she has been great for the GOP party and was fantastick for his attempt to become CIC of the nation to the point has indicated that he would do it again in another heartbeat…FECKLESS and more and outrageous and can but figure he is tied in that waddle cuz the GOP has NOT fully backed him for sometime and his resentment/revenge mode is showing with such outrageousnousings !!! He cared so little regarding the NATION and it surely , sorely shows !!! There is no way a truly thinking person can truly figure Sara IS qualified to hold office–but there are those that cling to that absurdity even now, even with her record exposed, without a doubt, lump such with Mac as truly NON PATRIOTS OF HIGH ORDERING !!!
Back to Nancy and Harry, think the disgruntlement over them is more along partisan preferences for actually both have been quite effective in their positions –similar discontent and contempt was felt for the likes of those that held same positions by GOPs…Presently, really out to tear Harry to shreds for he did manage to secure those 60 votes and hold off the last shard of filabustering blusterings from the stalwarted obstructionista that are willing to do ANYTHING to impeded ANYTHING and be considered vaguely relevent in their minority positon which is rather an absurdity for the voters did indeed give the majority to those they felt would accomplish something in our favor best…We’ve been under the GOP thumbs , that has NOT worked out too well…Know classic take is that the Dems will lose seatings come this fall but if voters go savvy and instead INCREASE the majority to point of being able to get something done over at least the next three years–if such proved still feeble, then in 2012 , could arise a possibility of either GOP resurge or perhaps an entirely FRESH prospect a in truth, the true majority are NOT “stalwartly” thrilled with EITHER major party and the T-baggers are too far fantically fetched too often than not, the Greens are not truly viable either –it an opportunitical moment but in past, third party sorts do NOT fare well, the GOP has NO ONE of apropos-ness on their horizon and are rather in dismal disarray, so the’ likelihoodness’ remains, Obama will get a second term , and the Senate and House will get some shake up as voters will take it local–does not bode all that well for any in those ranks nor for that matter, for the voters either for the choices that do get on the ballot are usually more of the same sorts that want replaced, which is indeed unfortunate in the worlds (supposedly) greatest democracy !!! It is a conundrum, but semi understandable, that while there is a need, those that could vote and make a difference figure more and more why bother so guess that gives a possibility but to only those that can stir up a core base to be faithful and presently, the GOP see Sara as fulfilling that need for them just as Obama fills that void for Dems.
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By: Buttons44 on January 13, 2010
at 1:42 PM
DeLurker Girl: Great comment. Thanks. I am with you.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 12:15 PM
Still no new post? Bummer. I wish Matthew or someone would just put up an ‘open thread’ type post. This thread has gotten so long that it takes a very long time to load the page. Discussion is good though, and I’ll keep coming back regardless.
Overheard some really disturbing conversation today about Obama sending aid to Haiti. The tone was very ‘we’ve got ours, go find your own’. This angered me, so I spoke up and asked specifically what was so upsetting about assisting people in such desperate need. The response was that we don’t help our own people, here in our country. Wwwwwwait, I thought government helping people was that evil socialism? So I probed further. The next argument was that we still have people living in FEMA trailers in New Orleans. Yes, that’s bad, but those people are still better off than the people in Haiti were BEFORE the earthquake. And what does one crisis have to do with the other? The next argument was that we don’t have the money to help them. So we should turn a cold shoulder to Haiti because we’re broke from Bush tax cuts, wars, and bailing out fat cats?
Don’t get me wrong – I believe assistance to New Orleans was badly blown. I believe criminal investigations should be done (maybe they are being done?). I believe assistance to struggling Americans is also blown on a regular basis – often because of Republican obstructionism, IMO. But all that doesn’t mean that Obama is wrong to be a humanitarian to other nations for no other reason than it being the right thing to do.
I’m having a ‘people can really suck’ day today. 😦
My prayers go out to the people of Haiti, the rescue workers and the missionaries there.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 13, 2010
at 12:03 PM
Anyone heard from Helen recently? I’m getting worried…
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By: Lucy on January 13, 2010
at 11:25 AM
Imagine: The Teabagger Convention is running into problems: Distrust and $500.00 cost
http://theimmoralminority.blogspot.com/2010/01/teabaggers-so-mistrustful-of-organized.htmlinto
Helen and Margaret: I hope you are well and I also hope you post soon.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 10:53 AM
Screaming for Screaming sake: The new politics and news.
http://www.alternet.org/story/144118/why_do_conservatives_love_sarah_palin_because_she_never_stops_whining
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 10:32 AM
I don’t believe a single syllable that Rush spews.
NO credibility whatsoever.
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By: Claire on January 13, 2010
at 10:30 AM
Rush has health insurance. Don’t kid yourself. With a 400 Million dollar contract, he could easily pay for his own health care though.
16% of the current US budget goes to health care. We are spending LOTS on health care. 20 to 30% goes into profits to the mega insurance companies.
Those insurance companies have the right to set monopolies and set rates.
Bush gave the wealthiest among us huge tax breaks. I am hoping that some of those tax breaks for the wealthiest among us are taken back.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 10:25 AM
Rush said he had great health care,got that-CARE….he wrote a check for the charges….he doesn’t have insurance….and since he paid cash it cost less than if charged to an insurance company…
since we had so much transparency tell me how they are going to lower the charges for x-rays, blood tests,MRI,etc….they haven’t done $hit to lower costs…..what they have done is come up with new taxes….
(T)axed (E)nough (A)lready party
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 9:56 AM
uaw-
I agree with you.
The posturing and so on that has gone on so far AND the filtering which occurs via normal media coverage have skewed what we understand to be going on.
I have attended a lot of local assembly meetings and then wondered what-the-heck when they were reported in newspaper…
Journalistic style and devices of style showcase some squib which is likely to create a stir first and then a day or 2 later the meat of the meeting comes out in a mid-paper local news item… and no one pays attention…
I don’t care WHO- in terms of majority/minority leadership..
I care that it is ALL open when the Congress is on the floor
An educated, attentive populace…?
How do we break some of the spells which bind us now?
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By: alaskapi on January 13, 2010
at 9:40 AM
The right wing are making the case for Al Qaeda
http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/archives/individual/2010_01/021866.php
-We have 40,000 people who die because they have no health insurance – that is the major issue.
-Insurance rates are going up by 10% yearly under the present system.
-60% of bankruptcies are medical bill related.
-Insurance companies can drop a person whenever at present.
-Even Rush Limbaugh was bragging that he had great health insurance and inferred that all people should have the same.
We had transparency when in the house and the senate. It is time to get health care reform. Changes need to take place for the good of the nation.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 13, 2010
at 9:37 AM
you are all trying to bull$hit yourselves….”whose wants to sit and watch C-SPAN all day”
Obama campaigned on transparency and on national TV promised that the health care debate would be on C-SPAN(the committee meetings also) doesn’t look good for the prez….is he maybe lying ….maybe he forgot to get Nancy’s OK
I don’t want to watch C-SPAN 24/7 but I’d like to check in once in a while and not have it behind closed doors…..how much is the next “deal” going to cost me….money to NE and LA……MI could use some…..
Look in the mirror and say “Nancy and Harry are the next best thing to sliced bread”…..
Come on M&H….tell me just how great Nancy and Harry are…
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By: uaw tradesman on January 13, 2010
at 8:56 AM
Hi gang,
I have decided to make a concerted effort to eliminate two words in my vocabulary as I did long ago with all variations of the h— word. I really loathe the h— word. Now I’m working on the f— word, “fact”’; and the t—- word, “truth”. I have come to believe there are no such things.
A Harvard University psychologist, Mahzarin Banaji, is a leader in what is called “Implicit Social Cognitions.” These are deep-rooted assumptions we all carry around and even act on without realizing it. All of us. We learned them early on and it takes plenty of effort to un-learn them.
Uh, as to ‘transparency’ in government. None of us has either the time or the inclination to sit in front of the tube or the computer for hours on end, day in and day out, to personally keep tract of what’s going on in the world. Somewhere along the line, we have to trust somebody else’s judgment. That usually involves people whose ‘Implicit Social Cognition’ mirrors our own. Only with time, effort and critical thinking do we start questioning what the ‘f—s’ and the ‘t—-‘ are without our almost inborn atavistic thinking. I have not mastered it yet – not by a long shot.
I do feel however, that when the United States started traveling down the well-worn path of Military Imperialism we began to voluntarily give up our ideals of democracy.
The National Security Act of 1947, under the explicit direction of the National Security Council (NSC), is focused on making decisions about war and peace. So this principal has continued through both Democratic and Republican Administrations. Under the NSC, the CIA was created and became in essence the private army of and accountable to none but the President. (All too similar to the Praetorian Guard of the Roman Emperors.) So contrary to Constitutional requirement, the CIA has often been sent into ‘battle’ without Congress declaring war. (Covert operations.)
Everything the CIA and all the other FIFTEEN intelligence agencies do is secret, including their budgets. This goes against Article 1, Section 9, of the Constitution, quote, “…..a regular Statement of Accounts of the Receipts and expenditures of all public Money shall be published from time to time.” There is no oversight and thus no accountability whatsoever by Congress or to the American people. Further, 40%, that’s FORTY PERCENT, of the Pentagon defense budget is secret.
Much of the above information is paraphrased from the book, “Nemesis” by Chalmers Johnson. He has 54 pages of fine print notes, documenting his sources. Many of them were obtained by the FOIA (thanks Donna!) by the ACLU in lengthy, snarled up suits.
Access to information requires a Security Clearance, which is a complex individual process plus a ‘need to know’ assurance. Therefore, if there is anything the government wants to do, all it has to do is slap a “Top Secret” stamp on it, and Voila! No one has to know unless somewhere along the line, someone kicks up a fuss.
During the past decade when the Bush Administration ran amok, the system got completely out of hand. It isn’t going to turn around on a dime. At the time, many of us suspected there was a lot of deceit going on, but we are only just beginning to learn just how much. HOW or WHEN it can be turned around and our faith in government can be restored, I don’t have a clue.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 12, 2010
at 9:56 PM
Dear Margaret & Helen,
We miss you. We hope all is well with you and yours.
Hugs and best wishes from your faithful readers,
All of us. We mean it.
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By: Shash on January 12, 2010
at 5:40 PM
“The battle for transparency at the Federal Reserve just ratcheted up a notch. Edolphus Towns, the chair of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, just issued a subpoena to the New York Federal Reserve Bank, asking for documents related to AIG and their counter-party payments.”
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By: Poolman on January 12, 2010
at 3:59 PM
Terrorism and ‘the Primitive Brain’
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By: Poolman on January 12, 2010
at 2:47 PM
Some of the fear felt by many can be placed on the doorstep of the 24/7 news. If we hadn’t been told about the H1N1 flu every 3 mins. Then told the serum is coming – the serum is delayed – the first batch will only be enough for this small number or people. People went into a panic “Oh God I won’t be able to get mine or ours” Oh yeah also how the serum was being “rushed” (in other words untested) to the public. Take any news story and the news media can turn it into a panic.
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By: reader on January 12, 2010
at 2:23 PM
And Mr. Lauer should have said “Senator–I understand you don’t want to talk about your campaign. However, if the statements concerning that campaign are substantially true, do you believe they reflect on your competence to serve as a United States senator?” And when McCain refused to answer, Mr. Lauer should have said “You believe that your decision to select a potential Vice President without looking into her qualifications is not a reflection on your competence to serve as a United States senator?” At which point, the well-known McCain temper likely would have shown the truth: that McCain is wholly incompetent to serve as a senator and that canned soundbites are far less significant than either an actual decision which would have affected the country or his inability to take responsibility for his actions.
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By: Donna on January 12, 2010
at 2:05 PM
( originally posted to another thread, but had meant to offer it here as this regards SP…)
Daily Dish | By Andrew Sullivan
“I Wouldn’t Know”
John McCain ran one of the most cynical and – surprise! – doomed presidential campaigns in memory. His soul is now on eBay somewhere (Mark Salter got a cut of the proceeds). He foisted on the country a person whom he had barely met and whom his campaign had barely vetted as presidential material if he, a 72 year-old survivor of torture and cancer, were to kick the bucket in office. And when asked perfectly legitimate questions about how he committed this act of supreme recklessness, he won’t say. Matt Lauer asked the obvious question and McCain bridled:
Lauer: From page 363, it says, and I’m combining two quotes here, in judging Palin, ‘was relying on vetting so hasty and haphazard it barely merited the name.’ ‘No one had interviewed her husband, no one had spoken to her political enemies, no vetters had descended on Alaska.’ Is it a fair assessment?
McCain: I wouldn’t know.
The fact is that I’m proud of Sarah Palin, I’m proud of the campaign we waged, she energized our party, she will be a major factor in American politics in the future, and I’m proud of our campaign–
This crap is a formula he has adopted to avoid taking responsibility for his criminal negligence as a presidential candidate and contempt for the office of the presidency. Lauer, to his enormous credit, kept pushing:
worth a read http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com
http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/2010/01/i-wouldnt-know.html#more
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By: Buttons44 on January 12, 2010
at 1:42 PM
another good read offerring….
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2010/01/11/chopra011110.DTL
Fake Fears and Why You (Probably) Believe in Them
Is there a solution to America’s current addiction to fear? The near-hysteria over the Christmas Day airplane attack shows how overblown our anxieties have become. A gloomy, jittery public seems willing to believe in alarmist stories, even when they amount to demagoguery. Consider the following hyperbolic or even fake sources of fear and outrage……..
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By: Buttons44 on January 12, 2010
at 1:35 PM
I’m getting worried. Are Margaret and Helen all right?
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By: KateInMichigan on January 12, 2010
at 11:16 AM
I did want the White house visitation logs to be open to the public.
I want to know who Obama and Biden are talking to. B&C refused, and Obama was a little hesitant to release ALL names, but finally conceded.
The rest of this transparency bull shit is just political fodder as far as I’m concerned.
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By: lori on January 12, 2010
at 10:17 AM
UAW frankly speaking transparency was never a big issue for me. Maybe I’m just more cynical that I realize – but we’ve had transparency laws in Florida for a good long while – and what the politicos mean by transparency is more along the lines of “through a glass dimly” – there will be certain things/issues that will revel in the bright light of day, others not so much, and even others to which the bright light is totally anathema. I don’t think it has anything nefarious attached to it – I know if I want to find out something about my government – be it local, state, or national – I just have to dig. I may run into a few brick walls, but I can still find out a lot during that process.
I can also watch C-Span – they carry the house and senate proceedings, and even committee meetings. I’m not such a wonk that I relish sitting there for hours listening to ppl trying to score political points or defend their district’s right to a bigger share of the pig.
Maybe it’s because I just think there are more important things than seeking false transparency from my govt when I know that there will always be things that should not, for the nation’s sake, be brought into the sunlight.
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By: Greytdog on January 12, 2010
at 8:39 AM
greytdog…
I agree…..enough of Palin….McCain stepped in it when he chose Palin……most conservatives will agree with me(good to poke liberals in the eye with but nothing else)…..the liberals are going to be in for a surprise this fall if all they talk about is Palin,Bush,Palin,tea-baggers,&Palin and the conservatives start talking issues…..
Hope everyone is happy with the transparency in government the liberals promised…change we can believe in??????
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By: uaw tradesman on January 12, 2010
at 8:07 AM
Palin as a Fox “pundit”??
Margaret and Helen, where art thou wise words?
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By: hot_shuz on January 12, 2010
at 8:00 AM
Rick Steve’s and his trip to Iran.
http://www.brasschecktv.com/page/781.html
people are people.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 12, 2010
at 7:15 AM
Stories of innocent put in Gitmo
http://crooksandliars.com/suzanne-ito/justice-denied-eight-years-and-countin
never tried, never convicted and then let go after being the ‘worst of the worst’
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By: JuneauJoe on January 12, 2010
at 4:31 AM
“Who is this coming from Edom, from Bozrah, with his garments stained crimson? Who is this, robed in splendor, striding forward in the greatness of his strength? “It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save.” Why are your garments red, like those of one treading the winepress? “I have trodden the winepress alone; from the nations no one was … See Morewith me. I trampled them in my anger and trod them down in my wrath; their blood spattered my garments, and I stained all my clothing. For the day of vengeance was in my heart, and the year of my redemption has come. I looked, but there was no one to help, I was appalled that no one gave support; so my own arm worked salvation for me, and my own wrath sustained me. I trampled the nations in my anger; in my wrath I made them drunk and poured their blood on the ground.” Isaiah 63: 1-6
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By: Poolman on January 12, 2010
at 2:20 AM
May the violence done to our flesh be upon Babylon,” say the inhabitants of Zion. “May our blood be on those who live in Babylonia,” says Jerusalem. Therefore, this is what the LORD says: “See, I will defend your cause and avenge you; I will dry up her sea and make her springs dry. Babylon will be a heap of ruins, a haunt of jackals, an object of horror and scorn, a place where no one lives. Her people all roar like young lions, they growl like lion cubs. But while they are aroused, I will set out a feast for them and make them drunk, so that they shout with laughter– then sleep forever and not awake,” declares the Lord. “I will bring them down like lambs to the slaughter, like rams and goats. “How Sheshach will be captured, the boast of the whole earth seized! What a horror Babylon will be among the nations! The sea will rise over Babylon; its roaring waves will cover her. Her towns will be desolate, a dry and desert land, a land where no one lives, through which no man travels. I will punish Bel in Babylon and make him spew out what he has swallowed. The nations will no longer stream to him. And the wall of Babylon will fall. “Come out of her, my people! Run for your lives! Run from the fierce anger of the Lord. Jeremiah 51:35-45
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By: Poolman on January 12, 2010
at 1:18 AM
Agreed Greytdog. Hope you are healthy. Pam had recommended collodial silver and that has kept us all healthy. That and God’s grace. 😉
This is Murdoch and Dobson bundled in one nice marketable package to stick up there to percolate their persuasion and continue to dupe the good ole home educated masses yearning to ignite.
Marketing is king, baby. This will boost their ratings even more.
Welcome to the American Fascist movement. Call it whatever you like, but it has that c e r t a i n flaaavor…
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By: Poolman on January 12, 2010
at 1:14 AM
“Then they retreat sucking their thumbs for a while and come roaring back with more outrageous examples of their tunnel vision.”
Priceless Auntie Jean!!!
I’m sure Craig’s thumb is getting sore and he’s well stocked up on paper towel rolls. I’m sure he is peering through them as I type. He reminds me of a dry drunk with unresolved issues. I sometimes believe that he really thinks his victim act will bring out guilt in those who peg his behavior and call it what it is. If he acts like a dick, then calling him a dick is a legitimate response (or any of the other descriptive labels that have been used in relation to his behavior.)
Sorry if I have offended anyone’s sensibilities.
Being a progressive liberal doesn’t dictate that I behave in a prescribed manner, and as I am come from a blue collar background, I have absolutely no compunction calling a pig a pig (or worse.) When the pig comes back and tries to belittle me for name calling, I chuckle and think that naming things is what humankind has been doing since the beginning of time. The fact that the naming is appropriate and the named party is unhappy with the naming (the truth) is a fortuitous coincidence. However, in the case of responding to a troll, I believe that reflexive response gives the troll a position of power. Calling out a jackass is an act best performed cold without even a trace of anger!!!
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By: farsight Δ on January 12, 2010
at 1:07 AM
UAW, I think it’s a great bumper sticker. I really want one for my car.
Personally speaking, I’m tired of Palin. I’m tired of talking about her, hearing about her, etc. I scroll over the online newsy bits about her and her grifter clan. Will she be a potent force in the elections? Who knows? Woman can’t seem to fulfill any obligations to anyone – including her kids. If someone thinks she’s a role model, then I hope they stay in their trailer park sucking on the dole. The woman has taken enough time and energy from all of us – and for what? She’s the t-baggers T&A show. I’m surprised McCain didn’t enter her in the Sturgis wet tshirt contest. He probably would have gotten a lot more votes.
McCain – and Palin. One senile old man, and one floozy. BFD.
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By: Greytdog on January 12, 2010
at 12:01 AM
Palin is being marketed to America, boys and girls, as the latest and greatest fascist puppet.
“Fascism should rather be called corporatism, as it is the merging of government and corporate power.” –Benito Mussolini
Facism Anyone?
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By: Poolman on January 11, 2010
at 10:25 PM
Hi gang and Greytdog,
While we are waiting for a new post from Helen, I am reminded of a story that was making the rounds some time ago. Grandma (not me!!!) was notorious for being a slow, all-over-the-road-lousy driver. She had just come from a rousing Fundamentalist prayer meeting and was all excited, filled with religious fervor. She picked up her grandson and was telling him all about it when she forgot to ‘Go’ when the traffic signal changed from red to green to red again. Drivers behind her had been honking so she thought it was because they all loved Jesus too! So she kept honking back! Finally a driver got out of his car and gave her the ‘finger’.
Her grandson was dying laughing and tried to tactfully explain that the gesture was the Hawaiian ‘Shaka’ sign. (Here in Hawaii, when a driver is courteous and let another driver into traffic, they both acknowledge by exchanging the ‘Shaka’ sign, that is, waving the hand with the index and little fingers extended.) Grandma thought the ‘finger’ was a local variation of the ‘Shaka’ so she waved it back.
Sooner or later, traffic ultimately got unsnarled and everybody went merrily on their way.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 11, 2010
at 9:41 PM
Hi Sistah Donna and and Sistah Clayo,
‘Sistah’ is a Hawaiian term of endearment or affection for people we admire and care about. I’m assuming from your avatar, Clayo, (Claire)that you are a ‘sistah’. If you were a guy, I would address you as ‘Bruddah.’
Thanks to both of you for clarifying. I can use that when I get around to a post I have in mind sometime about just such shenanigans the Bush-Cheney-Rumsfeld crowd of thugs and hoodlums pulled – and got away with most of it.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 11, 2010
at 9:34 PM
Back to some of the recent posts (just catching up) where ELSE would Scary end up, but on FAUX News?? Perfect.
As far as the Blinky’s go, we have a resident troll at my after-work place, he NEVER stops talking in his deep drunken voice. He didn’t vote, so ?? Nobody care what he THINKS. If ya didn’t vote, you got nothin’ to say as far as I am concerned. And if you troll without facts, then it is just what YOU THINK. And we do not care! Get it? Everyone has an opinion and some only stink up the porch.
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By: clayo on January 11, 2010
at 9:28 PM
FOIA = freedom of information act
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By: TBNTJudy on January 11, 2010
at 9:27 PM
Correct, Clayo! Sorry to slip into jargon, Auntie Jean–there’s no reason you’d have heard of it.
The premise is that records of government agencies, with very few exceptions, are to be available to the public. There is a federal FOIA and most states have some version of it as well.
This is one of the reasons that it’s so distasteful that Palin used a personal email account for communications relating to her time as governor. It was a deliberate (and admitted) effort to keep people from knowing what she was doing. Unfortunately, it appears that the Alaska court that’s considering the issue may well agree that it was permissible to do so–that would not be the result in most states.
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By: Donna on January 11, 2010
at 9:14 PM
Auntie Jean,
It stands for the Freedom of Information Act.
Claire
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By: clayo on January 11, 2010
at 8:58 PM
Hi Sistah Donna,
What’s FOIA?
Aloha! 🙂
auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 11, 2010
at 8:52 PM
Hi gang and greytdog,
Love the bumper sticker! I’m going to send that one on around.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 11, 2010
at 8:13 PM
yep true that buttons… and you have the facts to back it up. good post..;-)
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By: lori on January 11, 2010
at 4:49 PM
BTW, HNY all, so very GLAD the holidays are over …seemed as if they went on F-O-R-E-V-E-R….and do hope M & H grace us with the next chapter update soon…next up will be the latest tome, GAME CHANGE that have all in their frenzied tizzies this week making the round-abouts and full of the various umbrages and whatever by the two reporters who were frequent on air “opiners” all thru the campaign season but who saved their supposed juiciest INSIDER observations for their book …another rehash and many trying to make “hey’s” out of it all –vast hopes to derail Reid especially in likeliest intention to give d-railing HCR a fatal blow and al the more reason for Dems to hang together to get SOMETHING passed ASAP /etc or it will be cause for full fledged consternation whether ANYTHING can ever get skinnied on by with a majority in WH, and both houses/etc ….(would think that if anything, most would be able to descern that the weak majority in Senate PREVENTS a great deal what with the filabuster issue and the general obstructionismaticals of the grand ol’ NO party in full forced motion…tiresome as they squawk cuz they really do NOT provie an alternative other than returning them to ‘power” to continue their SAME-O and WE KNOW THAT DOES NOT WORK and why/how in large measure we got to where we ARE !!! THe prudent thingy to do would be to INCREASE the MAJORITY, give them till 2012 to ACCOMPLISH something or not and if INCAPABLE, toss them out –logic would have it that way if any stopped to give it due consideration for onl;y a fool thought that there would be an INSTANEOUS turn around of all that has gone so horrifically bad/wretched and etc.
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By: Buttons44 on January 11, 2010
at 4:43 PM
GBO, from over at Mudflats, offered up titles of SP’s new Fox gig :
Talking Turkey with Sarah Palin
Impaling with Palin
Palin Drone
and of course, noted was that as Fox did their best to promote her basically from the git-go/etc, they certainly deserve to be stuck with her and paying her freight as well (which IS primarily what she and TOdd are concerned with as well as the expected continuation of her celebrityhood(winking) . They do have the perfect audience for her and for what it is worth, the numbers always touted expressing they beat all others—uh, the righteous right is LESS than 25% o fthis nation–realize that is difficult to grasp for many that they truly are NOT THE MAJORITY–they’ve been allowed to be vocal and have their voices heard far and wiee for sure but they are NOT the majority by any legit numberings !! The truer majority in this land are NOT really whacked overtly LEFT NOR RIGHTEOUSLY RIGHT…we the TRUE majority are far more centered and centristically inclined and will be found to “double dip” …we take a bit from either left or right of CENTER depending on subject/circumstance/etc. WE ARE A TRUE MORAL MAJORITY, WE ARE TRUE PATRIOTS and TRUE Americans who cling to our basic principles and with that noted, prefer OUR CONSTITUTION and what it lays out as our guiding princpled principles which we desire to be upheld for they do truly serve the GREATER COMMON GOOD OF ALL and NOT just the few who manage to skew so much in their own favor for a variety of reasonigs that too often get obscurred the intentions/motivations actually pursued by “some”-some of whom truly do NOT have THE best of intentions aimed strictly FOR the greater common good just their own good(and that of perhaps their “chums” who can assist them /etc…) Not likely to tune in to Sara , rarely can take too much of FOX as well find Sara’s mere voice an irritant , but can actually laugh at what she dithers , well aware , that sadly , there are those who actually find her “credible” which frankly is INCREDIBLE if any did actually any fact checkings but seems her core groupies will cling ever onward no matter what is exposed or explained in detail, they will not be swayed from their delusional illusions regarding her or for which she stand for. Tis sadly true, there are those who simply can NOT handle the truthmaticals and will remain one of those qaundrified SoBeIt’s !!!
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By: Buttons44 on January 11, 2010
at 4:27 PM
Is everything OK? We haven’t seen a new post from you in more than a month, and knowing you’re old like me makes me wonder if you might be having some difficulties.
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By: oldnslo on January 11, 2010
at 4:03 PM
I think M&H have decided to quit “beating a dead horse”(Palin)
Maybe they’ll take on the “Transparency” in government that Obama promised.
GO C-SPAN
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By: uaw tradesman on January 11, 2010
at 3:18 PM
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34809566/ns/entertainment-television?GT1=43001
OMG!!
I so cannot stand this winch!!
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By: OceanGypsi on January 11, 2010
at 3:18 PM
greytdog….
do we have the same people e-mailing us,,,,got that one about 3 days ago
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By: uaw tradesman on January 11, 2010
at 3:00 PM
Poolman–as a lawyer, I sometimes do FOIA requests for clients. I have one which was stalled for 5 years and (long after the docs would have had any relevance) got a letter asking if I was still interested and explaining that there was roughly another 2 year backup. And this wasn’t a terribly controversial or complex matter.
Auntie Jean–couldn’t agree with you more! But hasn’t it been nice to have a Craig-free few days? He really offers nary a thing.
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By: Donna on January 11, 2010
at 2:51 PM
just popping in for a sec but HAD to share this with you all. From a bumper sticker my SO saw & had to call me right away:
“Honk if you love Jesus; text if you want to meet Him”
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By: Greytdog on January 11, 2010
at 2:50 PM
Hi gang, jsri, Donna, no one’s puppet, farsight and sunshine,
Just when I think that our ‘Binkys’ or trolls have run out of bullshit, they turn up again. Is there anyone here who has not encountered them in life from time to time? There is no way that I know of to get through to them. Fortunately, for the most part, on a blog we can scroll, scroll, scroll. But occasionally, when they get too egregious even for them, they need to be taken down a peg or two. Then they retreat sucking their thumbs for a while and come roaring back with more outrageous examples of their tunnel vision.
I too am becoming concerned about Helen and Margaret. We care very much about them and hope they are fine. But we need our New Year’s M&H fix!
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 11, 2010
at 2:34 PM
uaw, I like FDL also. They pull no punches. I could spend almost all day there with the amount of info that they put out as well. Obama has a lot to answer to. He is not going to get a free pass with me. Mudflatts is great, but definitely leans left, as does this site for the most part. I also enjoy Andrew Sullivan.
Part of the problem with our Freedom of Information Act is the Glomar Response. I guess all our branches of government need to be beat into shape. We have much work to do.
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By: Poolman on January 11, 2010
at 2:13 PM
Like that firedoglake.com
“For almost the entirety of the health care debate, the Obama Administration has relied on economist Jonathan Gruber to make the public case for its idea of reform – even the most unpopular parts. But as Firedoglake revealed on Friday, the Obama Administration has failed to disclose that it paid the same economist more than $780,000.
This is a huge ethical violation that undermines the entirety of health care reform.”
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By: uaw tradesman on January 11, 2010
at 1:59 PM
Palin got a new job at FOX! Figures.
http://www.themudflats.net/2010/01/11/palin-signs-deal-with-fox-news-and-were-all-shocked-shocked-we-say/
That anon above was me. I had to reinstall my operating system so I came out as anon.
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By: JuneauJoe on January 11, 2010
at 1:46 PM
Trolls put me in mind of an obnoxious old bully who would say awful things, then smile in what she thought was a charming way and say “you’re being teased.” No–the hostility was there. In fact it was emphasized by the effort to treat her “zingers” as humor and anyone who didn’t appreciate them as lacking a sense of humor.
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By: Donna on January 11, 2010
at 1:28 PM
I agree jsri, dismissing the violent part, trolls are the same as bullies. They take such glee when things go bad for someone else, even so, I for one am not totally unsympathetic to them, because I realize they have unresolved issues, but we aren’t in a position to fix their problem(s). The best we can do is support a public mental health plan as a part of overall healthcare.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 11, 2010
at 1:25 PM
Margaret and Helen, I am really getting worried about you. It has been over a month since your last entry with no updates or explanation. I pray you are either on vacation or just plain resting after the holidays. Just hoping to get a word before too long. I know we all miss you, your insight and enjoyable humor dear ladies.
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By: sunshine on January 11, 2010
at 1:02 PM
Binky Burns was a school bus bully, and not a very bright one. He was in the 4th grade when I was in grade 2 back in 1935. On a cold, rainy March day, my 7th birthday, I was on the bus ride home fully expecting to find a birthday cake when I got there. Much to my horror, when the bus stopped at my house, I found my mother sitting in the middle of our now soggy furniture that had been moved out of our house after it was taken over by the bank. The next day, Binky Burns could hardly wait to tell all the kids on the school playground about my family getting kicked out of our house. Then he punched me around for a while just for good measure.
But Binky was so stupid, he forgot about my brother in grade 5 who caught up with him the next day and kicked the living crap out of him. But Binky was terrible at connecting the dots and totally missed the connection between tormenting me and the whipping my brother would lay on him the following day. It was only as I moved through the grades that Binky’s attention became directed to smaller and smaller victims. Basically, he was a coward but could wail louder than his victims whenever he got caught.
As we moved through the grades, Binky stayed in place and never got beyond fourth grade. This was long before Special Education came on the scene and education was still grounded in academics and was not yet seen as a means of dealing with special needs. Even after I moved from grade 6 to a new school, Binky was still in grade 4.
One of his specialties was breaking into play groups that came together based on some common interest, e.g., playing tag, baseball, or hide and seek. He never understood that he was unwanted but usually managed to bring the play activity to a halt, one way or the other. And if you tried to ignore him he would get loud and vulgar or resort to using his fists to get his way.
So for the past 75 years, beginning with Binky Burns, I have met a host of Binkies along the way, all just as intolerant, just as unwanted and just as non-functional. Mostly I try to ignore them but on occasion one arises who is so persistent that I feel a need to respond. But I’ve also found that a direct response is futile. The Binkies of the world never seem to get the message and it seems only encourages worse behavior.
For the past couple years I’ve become a great fan of H&M’s blog, principally because I share many of their ideas. And I’ve come to appreciate their keen humor and their ability to use language so adroitly and creatively. I also appreciate the intelligent comments and insights offered by the contributors here as they grapple with trying to make sense out of our dysfunctional political system. What I don’t appreciate are the comments by the Binkies of the world who barge in here and try to take over. So far I’ve seen nothing of substance offered by any of them that would cause me to reconsider my stance on any given subject. Bumper sticker slogans do not substitute for intelligent commentary.
My scroll wheel is my best friend.
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By: jsri on January 11, 2010
at 12:30 PM
Here is an opinion about Palin from a teacher who has very thoughtful and articulate students. The conservative kids go from rational and critical thought re: Pres Obama to star stuck belief with Palin. Quite Interesting:
http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/2010/01/palin-and-the-kids.html#more
I saw this in the Immoral minority blog and followed the link
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By: Anonymous on January 11, 2010
at 12:22 PM
Firedoglake’s Prop 8 Trial Coverage
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By: Poolman on January 11, 2010
at 9:35 AM
I understand that there are additional clips that are available but weren’t included in the show that address McCain staffers’ views that, if McCain were elected, Palin would have to be a largely ceremonial VP because of her lack of competence.
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By: Donna on January 11, 2010
at 6:45 AM
what farsight says!
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By: lori on January 11, 2010
at 4:17 AM
It is easy to say you predicted something that you didn’t and especially when you know no one will waste their time looking up what isn’t there. Then to selectively point to those things you predicted that actually did come to pass, ignore those that didn’t and pay no heed to those that you didn’t predict but did come to pass is child’s play. Almost a sadder sack than the more prolifically posting troll from who we have had one of our welcome periodic respites!!!
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By: farsight Δ on January 10, 2010
at 11:27 PM
Donna, folks over at the mudflats really said that it did not reveal much that we did not already know or that was given away in the tidbits leading up to the show. I missed it, but I will probably watch it online just to be familiar with it. It does help paint a scary picture of how much the GOP was willing to overlook to get their man elected.
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By: Poolman on January 10, 2010
at 10:44 PM
60 Minutes, thanks for telling us what we already knew! Liar, liar, pants on fire Palin.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 10, 2010
at 10:44 PM
Was that the interview on 60 mins. where the man (I beleive he was on the McCain staff) said that Palin was veted (sp?) over the internet?? No one actually went to talk to her????? Says to me that our beloved canidates don’t give a hoot about what is best for the country just get me elected any means possible to include picking a running mate out of a hat.
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By: reader on January 10, 2010
at 10:37 PM
Anyone watch the Steve Schmidt interview? Yowza.
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By: Donna on January 10, 2010
at 9:30 PM
http://www.cagle.msnbc.com/news/Yemen2010/3.asp
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By: uaw tradesman on January 10, 2010
at 11:46 AM
http://www.cagle.com/politicalcartoons/pccartoons/permalink.asp?artist=breen&date=100110
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By: uaw tradesman on January 10, 2010
at 11:33 AM
http://www.cagle.com/politicalcartoons/pccartoons/permalink.asp?artist=ramirez&date=100110
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By: uaw tradesman on January 10, 2010
at 11:15 AM
Girl?!!!! You are my new found hero!!
Loved every word.
Agreed with every word and more.
EXCELLENT.
Personally, I am not gonna waste my money on anything Rogue…she’s… well…..an A$$ to put it lightly.
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By: Hootin' Anni on January 10, 2010
at 6:29 AM
Dammit.
I meant Dear Helen!
(but not to exclude Margaret from affectionate aand admiring address).
Great writing Helen.
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By: 5thstate on January 9, 2010
at 11:23 PM
Dear Margaret,
“she should have been the poster child for the waning popularity of Jay Leno and late night television. I guess there’s not much to do on cold nights in Alaska except watching out for Russians and wooing Palins”
You write like Samuel Clemens. Lovely.
BOOKMARKED!
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By: 5thstate on January 9, 2010
at 11:18 PM
“I think Obama should be remembered as a great man because of the blow he struck against white racism,” Allan Nairn says. “But once he became president…Obama became a murderer and a terrorist, because the US has a machine that spans the globe, that has the capacity to kill, and Obama has kept it set on kill. He could have flipped the switch and turned it off…but he chose not to do so.”
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By: Poolman on January 9, 2010
at 11:12 PM
I think I put the word rigor in Trigornometry on purpose.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 9, 2010
at 10:02 PM
Jean,
Ha-Ha. Since I stayed as far away as I could from Calculus and Trigornometry in high school,
I don’t think I’d ever feel comfortable with tools of math instruction.
Give me the humanities! Oh, the humanity!
For that’s where the story is! To teach the students to use their brain and think about their place in history. That’s a good tool. The good, old brain. And some common sense.
You do know they are the ones who will be making decisions about the kind of world we left them.
Sarah Palin–what could she accomplish in the Executive Branch?
Go ahead, make a list if you dare. It would be scary indeed!
Imagine….if you will……a world where people paid more attention to their neighbor than the media onslaught aimed at them?
Ooohhhh…..the power to do the right thing with so much freedom and responsibility.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 9, 2010
at 10:00 PM
LMAO! Auntie Jean. That is great! Made my night as the rest of the stuff I have been reading has been so depressing. But it’s like watching a car wreck, I can’t NOT look.
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By: Poolman on January 9, 2010
at 9:58 PM
Oops!
Correction. Al-Gebra was banned, actually OUTLAWED, in Europe for only two hundred years, not the four hundred as I stated above. Sorry about that.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 9, 2010
at 8:58 PM
Hi gang and especially vgman and jsri, take heed.
Please read very, very carefully. Considering that certain such methods were conceived in Arabic countries during the ‘Dark Ages’, Europe wisely banned them in medieval times for roughy four hundred years.
New Group to Fear.
A public school teacher was arrested today at John F. Kennedy International Airport as he attempted to board a flight while in possession of a ruler, a protractor, a compass, a slide-rule and a calculator. At a morning press conference, the Attorney General said he believes the man is a member of the notorious Al-Gebra movement.
He did not identify the man, who has been charged by the FBI with carrying weapons of math instruction.
“Al-Gebra is a problem for us”, the Attorney General said. “They derive solutions by means and extremes, and sometimes go off on tangents in search of absolute values. They use secret code names like ‘X’ and ‘Y’ and refer to themselves as ‘unknowns’, but we have determined that they belong to a common denominator of the axis of medieval with coordinates in every country.
As the Greek philanderer Isosceles used to say, “There are 3 sides to every triangle”.
When asked to comment on the arrest, the President said, ‘If God had wanted us to have better weapons of math instruction, he would have given us more fingers and toes.” White House aides told reporters they could not recall a more intelligent or profound statement by a President.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 9, 2010
at 8:44 PM
I’d like to forget the last decade, too. However, I can’t.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 9, 2010
at 4:52 PM
Perhaps the great prognosticator would care to go on the record? Enough of the “ I predicted, I was right,” blah blah.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 9, 2010
at 3:11 PM
The occupied government of Afghanistan and the United Nations have both concluded that U.S.-led troops recently dragged eight sleeping children out of their beds, handcuffed some of them, and shot them all dead.
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By: Poolman on January 9, 2010
at 1:26 PM
A good post at FDL setting the record straight on Cheney, the true criminal of our nation and destroyer of our freedom. May justice prevail, I pray.
http://firedoglake.com/2010/01/09/did-you-read-them-dick/
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By: Poolman on January 9, 2010
at 1:02 PM
boy that “you are so afraid of her” routine has gotten far past stale. Do people think that, if they repeat it often enough, it will actually be true?
Nothing about Sarah Palin is scary–or rather, she is no more scary than any other sociopathic fame-glutton is. What is scary is not Palin but is the fact that there are people who actually would want someone like her in a position of authority. It was scary that there were people who wanted Bush to be president. It is scary that David Duke actually drummed up a measure of support.
But I think the Schmidt interview will be a real blow to Miss Wasyphilis. Couldn’t happen to a more deserving person.
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By: Donna on January 9, 2010
at 12:36 PM
Good morning all. A gorgeous Saturday morning here in Arizona. Mild, sunny, and supposed to be in the upper 60’s today. I’ll send some of the warmth to yall.
James, good to “see” you back on the porch. I hope all is well in your world. I think you bring up the ex gov everytime you post. She is certainly a household name, as you predicted. She is the gift that keeps on giving, and certainly controversial. Between her FB posts that are obviously not written by her, 19 year old Bristol’s new lobbying firm, the secret Tripp custody battle, the illegal private emails while gov, the paternity of Track, the true mother of Trig, the Zig Ziglar motivational speaking circuit, Todd’s banning of bloggers, and on and on and on.
And you must know she is one of the keynote speakers in the tea party convention coming up, charging her 100,000 speakin’ fee. I think the cost to attend is around 400 to 500 per person. Not bad for a “grassroots” movement, eh? She turned down a request to speak at cpac. No pay, I guess.
The latest controversy is Steve Schmidt calling her out after her criticising him in her book. His book is coming out soon. Everyone is writing a book. Michael Steele is even on the bandwagon. It is all about the money and the spin. An attempt at rewriting history.
Rudy Giuliani can’t remember the past decade, nor can Rove. Cheney’s like a zombie that keeps getting MSM coverage. Who are the sane republicans anymore? The whole bunch seem just pathetic.
Yes, it is like palinitis spreading like cancer throughout the entire right wing. The GOP is attacking and eating itself from within.
Grab some popcorn, the show isn’t over yet. 😀
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By: Poolman on January 9, 2010
at 11:38 AM
The Right Wing Nuts are cheerleaders for Al Quida!
They are helping the enemy – Why?
There is a rewriting of history of the GW Bush years by the Republicans. Have you noticed?
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 9, 2010
at 10:30 AM
Teabagger Convention: Tickets $450.00, with 350.00 going to Sarah the error. They are only selling 600 but still quite a few still available.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0110/31284.html
WWGKD?
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 9, 2010
at 10:27 AM
How to talk teabag!
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2010/1/8/823014/-American-Cartoonist-Getting-Death-Threats-from-Tea-Baggers
The cartoonist is getting death threats. Sarah Palin is still spouting out about death panels when it is the insurance companies denying care that are death panels. Now we have tea baggers who are threatening to kill a cartoonist – tea baggers now have death panels.
WWGKD?
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 9, 2010
at 10:02 AM
To Karen January 7 – 10:21AM:
Your clip doesn’t play in the US. Here’s a link:
Colbert 8/29/08: “Who the f*ck is Sarah Palin?
~
“For the first time in America, a woman has reached the highest level of being used as a cheap political ploy.
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on January 9, 2010
at 9:20 AM
Juneau JoeA, your insulting reference to the Tea Party movement makes me wonder whether you were fit to teach if you let your biases sneak into the classroom.
Why does anyone care about Sarah Palin? She is now a private citizen selling her book which I don’t intend to read. According to Hotline, “A poll of GOP insiders suggests that ex-Ak Gov. Sarah Palin (R) has little support among the party’s professional class–and maybe that’s just how she wants it.”
Hatred and fear are related. Do you hate Palin because you fear her? Why would anyone who dislikes her waste time on a book written to settle old scores and to make money? She is just a has- been politician making herself rich.
Its true she is influential among a large percentage of energized voters, and a Gallop poll shows the majority of Americans now identify themselves as conservatives. Its unlikely but even Ted Kennedy’s old seat may theoretically go Republican according to the Democratic Public Policy Polling. It is a sign of the times I predicted.
Is that what you fear? Do you think the rising conservative tide will sweep her into the presidency or Congress when so far, Palin has shown little inclination to running for anything? Her supporters and enemies have ignored reality and turned her into a caricature. Why waste your time on Sarah Palkin? Perhaps someone can enlighten me if I revisit sometime.
I’d concentrate my fear and hatred on the Tea Party movement. It is the sleeping giant which will “rattle the walls” of both parties. “With your freedom comes great responsibility and…use the power that comes with it to do the right thing.” I’m doing what I can.
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By: James on January 9, 2010
at 8:59 AM
President Obama’s
Weekly Address 1/9/10
How Health Care Reform will help American families
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on January 9, 2010
at 8:25 AM
Jean,
Your post reminded me of a book I read about a year ago.
It’s called
Takeover: The Return of the Imperial Presidency and the Subversion of American Democracy. (I know….long title)
The Executive Branch has been expanding its powers since the 1970’s. When Congress reigned in the branch after Watergate, Cheney was the most instrumental politician to pick the branch up and wipe the dust off and begin the long trek toward full power and then some. Each successive president since Nixon has expanded the branch in some capacity–with Bush II capping it off with secret wiretapping of just about everyone.
Another thing…..it’s probably not going to shrink in any way. Even Carter, Clinton and now Obama have felt the power that comes with the office.
Truly gives a renewed sense of urgency to the phrase “With your freedom comes great responsibility and…..use the power that comes with it to do the right thing.”
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By: vgmanΔ on January 8, 2010
at 9:35 PM
Hi gang,
Here is some food for thought.
The chief author of the Constitution, James Madison wrote this:
“Of all the enemies of true liberty, war, is, perhaps the most to be dreaded because it comprises and develops the germ of every other. War is the parent of armies, from these proceed debts and taxes; and armies, and debts, and taxes, are known instruments for bringing the many under the domination of the few. In war, too, the discretionary power of the Executive is extended; its influence in dealing out offices, honors and emoluments is multiplied; and all the means of seducing the minds, are added to those of subduing the force, of the people. The same malignant aspect in republicanism may be traced in the inequality of fortunes and the opportunities of fraud, growing out of a state of war, and in the degeneracy of manner and of morals, engendered in both. No nation can preserve its freedom in the midst of continual warfare… War is in fact the true nurse of executive aggrandizement. In war, a physical force is to be created; and it is the executive will, which is to direct it. In war, the public treasuries are to be unlocked; and it is the executive hand, which is to dispense them. In war, the honors and emoluments of office are to be multiplied; and it is the executive patronage under which they are to be enjoyed and it is the executive brow they are to encircle. The strongest passions and most dangerous weaknesses of the human breast; ambition, avarice, vanity, and the honorable or venal love of fame, are all in conspiracy against the desire and duty of peace.
It should be well understood that the powers proposed to be surrendered [by the Third Congress] to the Executive were those which the Constitution has most jealously appropriated to the Legislature…The Constitution expressly and exclusively vests in the Legislature the power of declaring a state of war…the power of raising armies…the power of creating offices… A delegation of such powers [to the President] would have struck not only at the fabric of our Constitution, but at the foundation of all well organized and well checked governments. The separation of the power of declaring war from that of conducting it is wisely contrived to exclude the danger of its being declared for the sake of its being conducted. The separation of the power of raising armies from the power of commanding them, [is] intended to prevent the raising of armies for the sake of commanding them. The separation of the power of creating offices from that of filling them is an essential guard against the temptation to create offices for the sake of gratifying favorites or multiplying dependents.”
My thoughts: I feel that over 200 years later and especially in the past century, our involvement in almost continual wars or the threshold of the next one, have created a dangerous mindset of American Imperialism that has eroded the Constitutional guarantees of individual freedom. The power of the Pentagon has certainly outstripped by far the prerogatives of the Executive and the Legislative combined, under the guise of the secrecy of ‘National Security’.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 8, 2010
at 8:54 PM
Hi folks – Orlando is on the hit list for snow flurries/sleet tonight. ORLANDO.
Have friends over & the kitchen is cranking. Over the last several days, I think my journeyman stove has given birth to over 100 gallons of soup. Sigh. It’s like being back in the restaurant kitchen. Same chaos, same wonderful smells – and the same tired satisfaction of feeding people. From a small group of 7 folks, our outreach group has grown to almost 25 adults (count in the kids and we’re up to about 30), three kitchens, and folks chipping in for groceries, blankets, and clothing. Whew. Just goes to show – ppl are good hearted and want to pay it forward – you just have to show them a path to take. . .
If temps are abnormally low in your area, pls consider contacting your local homeless shelters & churches to see what is needed and how you can help. EVERY thing helps – used clothing, used clean blankets, food, and water. Or check on your elderly neighbor, leave some warmed puppy chow (warm with hot water, stir) out for the wild critters – weather doesn’t discriminate – so pls help your fellow humans (and their pets) according to their need and your abilities.
Thanks!.
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By: Greytdog on January 8, 2010
at 8:42 PM
Hi gang,
This is lovely even if it is a pitch for Starbucks. It really could be that easy if we all put our minds and hearts into it.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 8, 2010
at 7:38 PM
Where’s Margaret and Helen lately? Sure do miss their posts!
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By: Teresa M on January 8, 2010
at 7:24 PM
Where’s Margaret and Helen lately? Sure do miss her posts!
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By: Teresa M on January 8, 2010
at 7:24 PM
Oh no, I was hoping she’d recover. She lived a good life, but it’s still a loss.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 8, 2010
at 7:19 PM
Hi, all–back in town. I am sad to see that Joe Biden’s mother has passed away. May she rest in peace.
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By: Donna on January 8, 2010
at 4:22 PM
How to speak teabag! Quite good!
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2010/1/8/823014/-American-Cartoonist-Getting-Death-Threats-from-Tea-Baggers
The person who did the How to speak teabag is now getting death threats. Death panels – teabag style.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 8, 2010
at 3:47 PM
I didn’t know if everyone is familiar with this yet. I am going to do this with my business and personal accounts. Of course, they are pretty miniscule right now, but things are picking up.
http://moveyourmoney.info/
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By: Poolman on January 8, 2010
at 3:40 PM
Letterman: The word of the week.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/cspanjunkie/late-show-word-week
This is pretty sick in my mind: I just read a comment on another forum about the 45,000 people without health insurance dieing every year.
The comment was: “Everyone dies; with or without health insurance. ”
That was the end of the discussion in his mind. He then went into comments about “illegal aliens” and all must deported immediately. Another point: 4 of his grandkids are from son or daughter in laws whose parents are from Mexico.
The mindset among the teabag crowd is pretty pathetic.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 8, 2010
at 3:27 PM
Funny, Alaskapi! 😀
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 8, 2010
at 12:51 PM
Dear Helen-
I had an email from a friend in the Dallas area that it was a nippy 25 deg this morning.
If you had to burn Going Rogue to heat your parlour up some, we would all understand…
Hoping all is well with you and Margaret.
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By: alaskapi on January 8, 2010
at 12:06 PM
Jean,
The book I was referring to is Idiot America by Charles Pierce. It was a good read. It gives some insight into why Fox News is so successful.
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By: Anne on January 8, 2010
at 9:24 AM
Poolman,
I agree with getting the neocons out of power except then they join lobbying firms and are behind the scenes instead of in front of them. Chertoff now is in the “consulting” business, and he represents one of the firms that sells the full body scanners that will keep us “safe”.
Education is another ball game. As an active parent in a school where there are 29 languages and 67% poverty, NCLB has helped us to change some of our focus, but it’s mostly a bad law that needs to be significantly changed if not scrapped.
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By: Dawn on January 7, 2010
at 10:52 PM
This latest post from Shannyn Moore is a video done by a friend of hers that recaps how far we have come.
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By: Poolman on January 7, 2010
at 9:52 PM
Thanks vgman. I keep finding these great sites that are so full of information. I end up spending hours in front of this damn computer – many times going from one link to the next and covering a vast array of topics.
My pool work is starting to pick up, as the economy is improving. I am somewhat torn between wanting to get outside and back to work and spending my time searching the intertubes in search of knowledge. Additionally, my book reading list is now huge after all the great recommendations from everyone here on the porch and those at the mudflats.
It would be in the best interest of all in power for our economy to pick up again and get us all busy. That way we would be less apt to scrutinize their jobs. I hope we can reel them in and take control of this country. We need to get the neocons out of positions of power. It seems they are still running things and promoting their agenda. I hope we are able to get more transparency and accountability from government.
I wish we would spend more resources on educating our kids and giving you teachers the tools and freedom necessary to do what you are called to do. If we turned this country around and spent on education what we spend on our military industrial complex, the entire world would reap the benefit. But alas, that’s the dreamer in me. That flies in the face of human nature.
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By: Poolman on January 7, 2010
at 9:31 PM
Excellent article, Poolman!
Corporate America–the face behind the mask of corporatism wants to leave almost all children behind. Except those they choose to prop up.
It’s sad.
My favorite line from the article………
“An enlightened populace is their nightmare; an ignorant citizenry their wet dream.”
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By: vgmanΔ on January 7, 2010
at 8:49 PM
Hi gang, Judith, jsri, lori, Easier, Poolman, alaskapi, and Anne,
Anne, thanks for the tip about the Will Bunch book. As most of you already know, I am a voracious reader and always on the lookout for good, meaty books.
Shoot, I really should start taking notes and jotting down names as I read comments instead of relying on my not so reliable memory. However, I think most of here are on the same page on a number of pressing issues, most recently, education. I appreciate the input of all of you. It makes me THINK! Thinking is a good thing. The tea baggers and what’s left of the GOP ought to try it some time. It can be hard at times but once you get the hang of it………
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 7, 2010
at 8:38 PM
Ah yes, the dumbing down of America… “The time to retake the American mind is upon us, and this starts with telling our children the truth of what our indifference, subservience and inability to act is condemning them to. For knowledge is power, the kryptonite that weakens the energy leading us to nothingness.”
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By: Poolman on January 7, 2010
at 7:45 PM
jsri:
What frustrates me is that they always say that we can’t afford this or that because it would be ‘bad for bidness’. (They mean bad for rich people, but let’s allow ‘bidness’ for the sake of the argument).
If you think it out logically, the right thing to do is also the only thing that will be ‘good for bidness’ in the long run. You’d think they’d see this, but instead they go for the quick buck by any means and gleefully cut their own throats.
If it was just them, I’d award them a mental Darwin Award and let them go – but they’re taking the rest of us with them.
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By: judith on January 7, 2010
at 6:36 PM
The tea baggers got pranked by Rachel Maddow?
http://theimmoralminority.blogspot.com/2010/01/taking-tip-from-sarah-palin-national.html
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 7, 2010
at 3:55 PM
Judith:
When I started teaching at the University level in the mid-60’s the slide in standards had already begun, fueled partly by a lowering of standards to allow potential draftees to avoid military service in a war that many saw as unjust. But there is no question that there has been a downward acceleration during the past ten years, exacerbated by the concept of governance and regulation by the least intelligent among us. Even that was a ruse by the political manipulators behind the scenes who used the concept to get citizens to vote against their own best interests.
And you are dead on in your concern about our country’s future inability to compete in the Global Market. But this too was predictable. When my wife and I visited China the year before the Tiananmin Square debacle there was a quiet but steely resolve among the people we met there to do better for the future of China. And they have carried it off. The difference between China 20 years ago and what it is today is staggering. In fact, by the sheer weight of their population size they are producing ten times more engineers and scientists than we are. And India is in a similar situation. There is no way we will ever be able to keep up and I feel we are destined to become a second tier nation on the world stage before the middle of this century.
But I feel there is some hope when I watch my teenage grandsons and their cohorts, exceptionally bright youngsters who have well developed social consciences because their parents care about them and the future of this country. They may be too little and too late but the absolute worst part about all these future uncertainties is the fact that at my age I will never know the results.
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By: jsri on January 7, 2010
at 3:28 PM
And Sarah is shorter than these other women, and I think she is also all legs, with a short torso. Well Levi said, he knew things that he would most likely never reveal, and Trig’s welfare would be at stake if he wasn’t covered by health insurance.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 7, 2010
at 2:02 PM
IMO, the conservatives have been just as busy over the last decade trying to destroy public education as they have everything else. Defunding schools, defunding and eliminating available public monies, etc…….
The end goal has seemed to be to eliminate higher education for all but the kids of the top percentages, whose parents can pay their way without loans.
The problem (aside from the civilized humanitarian issues, which these sorts of people simply don’t care about) is that these are not the kids who are going to study engineering, medicine, science. They go to legacy schools and get the ‘gentleman’s C” in business, without studying. Or even showing up for class. Why should they, if they don’t have to? Their degree was bought and paid for from day one.
I cannot see any way a country who is not producing graduates in difficult fields will be able to compete with even the Third World in the global market.
Long story short – if we had to depend on the likes of Paris Hilton, Nicole Ritchie or GW Bush to cure a single disease, we’d all be dead already. Including the rich. You can’t buy something at any price if it hasn’t been invented.
Just another example of them taking the short view, instead of working in their own self-interest. Drunken children of billionaires, none of them seeing beyond next week. Of course, their allies, the fundies, don’t think there’s going to be a next week. And intellectuals make them feel real bad.
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By: judith on January 7, 2010
at 2:00 PM
Sarah Palin: In AK blogs, the question of Sarah being Trig’s mom keeps coming up. Will Sarah show the birth Certificate?
http://palingates.blogspot.com/2010/01/everybody-and-her-daughter-looks-more.html
She keeps popping off about Obama and the birth certificate.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 7, 2010
at 1:54 PM
Greytdog, Jean, Lori, et al
Thanks for your responses. As you all know, the pursuit of financial aid is an on-going, never-ending, mind-bending process. GS already has a substantial offer to a top tier school but I think he’s holding out, hoping for a better deal, – or maybe better weather. But submission deadlines have just about run out and now the real waiting begins. He passed up one Ivy because his parents and grandparents all went there and he wants a different experience.
We’ll just keep our fingers crossed but he is pretty realistic about it and will accept whatever comes along. He is quite independent and I think he’s looking to broaden his academic experience prior to declaring a major which we all think is wise.
Vgman and Jean: When I see something like “Third Position Party” my imagination kicks into gear and I can’t resist a comment.
Sorry I can’t hang around. Gotta go off on a run for the blood bank.
I wish H&M would come up with a new post. The longer the delay here, the more the regular commentators have to put up with those obnoxious trolls.
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By: jsri on January 7, 2010
at 10:57 AM
Hi Helen,
I love the blog and hope you write again soon! On the subject of Palin, I saw this today and thought I share the laugh.
http://watch.thecomedynetwork.ca/#clip87510
Cheers!
Karen
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By: Karen on January 7, 2010
at 10:21 AM
What government handout? Do you mean healthcare? That’s no more a handout than military protection is, or the mail, or roads & bridges.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 7, 2010
at 9:48 AM
greytdog….
sorry about your bills….but everyone has them……kinda like death and taxes…..
still haven’t seen where this 2000-2700 page bill lower cost of medical care….the care itself ….not the gov. handout…..
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By: uaw tradesman on January 7, 2010
at 7:47 AM
10 moments in GOP terrorism accountability
http://www.perrspectives.com/blog/archives/001717.htm
The Republicans like to conveniently forget the Bush decade
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 7, 2010
at 7:33 AM
It was so cold out today that I saw a Democrat with his hands in his OWN pockets!!
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By: uaw tradesman on January 7, 2010
at 7:26 AM
Vgman, I apologize in advance for those posts. Your red pen must have been burning more than it usually does with me! LOL I am blaming it on the lack of coffee and hour of the day.. 😉 That’s my story this morning and I am sticking to it! 🙂
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By: lori on January 7, 2010
at 3:54 AM
*national merit scholar
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By: lori on January 7, 2010
at 3:41 AM
OH and Jrsi, I am sure you already know this but with your g-child’s psat scores he is a national scholar and will receive monies for that as well.
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By: lori on January 7, 2010
at 3:40 AM
and Jean, The Scholarship Book 13th (there may be a newer one now) edition is one of several good resources for private sector monies. Also Jsri, please do encourage your family to not be discouraged by the listed price. I found many of the “ivy” league schools were just as affordable, if not more, as some other “very competitive” schools. By the time you factor in the money the ivy schools knock off your tuition (all Ivy’s do this”). In fact Cornel was less expensive than one state school.
Also depending on your g-childs interests some “state schools” are great values. For example Michigan State University has the number one supply chain management program in the country. All depends on on what they want to major in.
Finding the right fit is a full time job! LOL Take it from someone who has one down and one to go!
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By: lori on January 7, 2010
at 3:38 AM
Hi gang and jsri and vgman,
Oh, jsri, you are at it again with your “American Third Party Position.” That’s right up there with your Orally Titz! You are the sly and crafty one.
We can certainly relate with you and your grandson. We have two coming up through the ranks, (ages 15 and a granddaughter, age 12). All three kids are straight A students as well as being outstanding in sports, student government and other extra curricular activities. Like your grandson, they are good kids, conscientious and hard working even if they are our grandkids. So one could assume they could almost write their own tickets when it comes to college choice. The problem is, and I’m sure vgman could confirm this, there are plenty of other kids out there with very similar qualifications.
Here’s the catch. One of the dads is freelance so his work has been intermittent for the past year. That DIL works full time. The other DIL was laid off the week before Christmas. So each family is down to one income now. These parents have been planning for their kids’ education almost from the day they were born. Their resources have obviously taken huge hits since the economic down turn. How about grandpa and grandma? We are certainly involved and would be willing to help any way we can, but our own financial picture is down 50% since the economy hit the skids. So our pitching in for the foreseeable future is somewhat iffy.
Don’t worry. None of us is going to starve and we won’t lose our homes or health insurance but we have all tightened our belts of late, for sure. With several years to go, all of us have our heads together looking into scholarships, grants, and what have you. Apparently, there are quite a few out there, but you have to know where to look to find them. That’s where grandpa and grandma come in. We have the leisure time to do a lot of the legwork for them on the computer and report back.
I am confident that our grandkids and yours will find a way to realize their potential and in so doing, make positive contributions to society. I also believe this applies to millions of households across the country. But plenty of the kids will be paying off their student loans until they are 50! And of course, many of them will not make it to college at all.
This is NOT ginger peachy for the ‘richest, most advanced country in the world!’
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 7, 2010
at 3:04 AM
Wonderfully said, Auntie Jean! These people are so wrong and give true Christians a bad name. I credit these types with the bad taste most people have in this nation and across the world for Christianity. I was so hopeful that after what we had experienced in previous generations would enable us to teach our children that we could all live in peace. I don’t think we are moving in that direction, nor have we learned from our past.
Good night and may God bless all who pass through this site, I pray.
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By: Poolman on January 7, 2010
at 1:20 AM
Hi gang and Easier,
Obviously I didn’t make myself clear originally. I sincerely apologize for that misstep. I stated that 9/11 was caused by religious fanatics, (not a state sponsored attack.) As for our religious fanatics, certainly I do not mean American soldiers. I would be referring to the likes of the Christian Fundamentalism of Televangalists Jerry Fallwell and Pat Robertson right after 9/11 that “liberal civil liberties groups, feminists, homosexuals and abortion rights supporters bear some responsibility for [the] terrorists attacks because their actions have turned God’s anger against America”……
“Also army Lieutenant General William. G. “Jerry” Boykin, deputy undersecretary of defense for intelligence, argued in public in full uniform without subsequent official reprimand that
‘they hate us because we are a Christian nation,’ that Bush was appointed by God, that the Special Forces were inspired by God, that our enemy is ‘a guy named Satan’, and that ‘we defeat Islamic terrorists only if we come at them in the name of Jesus.’ ”
The above is quoted from Chalmers Johnson’s book, “Nemesis”. If anyone likes, I can also cite the references to the original public statements of Fallwell et al and the army General who have had and some do now have huge followings and influence. Now, if their remarks above are not religious fanaticism, I don’t know what is. I think that is the kind of rhetoric in the same category with any fanatical Islamic Imam. The intent is to incite. Unfortunately, as we have seen, too often it is successful.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 7, 2010
at 12:49 AM
You have me pegged, a fellow juror told me after a criminal case in which I checked each piece of physical evidence for myself before I would vote, it they were ever in trouble they’d want me on the jury.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 6, 2010
at 9:46 PM
Thanks Jean. I did not believe you said American soldiers were religious fanatics. That is why I reprinted your sentence. But, did not seem to have worked.
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By: Easier on January 6, 2010
at 9:23 PM
You are definitely the resident skeptic, for sure. But that’s okay. Time and the internet is on my side with this one. I bet when you do finally get a hold of a concept, there is no turning you around.
Funny about the DNA thing. But then even the miracles did not convince many in His time on earth. If they had DNA testing, they would have discounted those findings, too.
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By: Poolman on January 6, 2010
at 9:15 PM
Without a doubt Poolman, I am the resident skeptic. Nothing I read here convinces me, remember I am still waiting for Jesus’ DNA to prove he is the son of God, no offense to Christians or Christianity intended, but I really am that hard to convince. If I can not prove or disprove something, I remain on the fence. Interesting article though, we’ll see where it leads.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 6, 2010
at 9:02 PM
jsri–
American Third Position Party
Another way to screw Americans.
Hilarious!
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By: vgmanΔ on January 6, 2010
at 8:34 PM
I found this link at the mudflats. I can’t wait to get no one’s puppet’s take on this. I think it is all about to fall apart.
Okay, Who’s Your Enemy Now?
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By: Poolman on January 6, 2010
at 8:05 PM
Did you all realize that we have less than 99,311 to hit 3 million? What a New year’s present for M&H!!
Anne, can you review the book about the REagan myth so we won’t have to read it? The subject to me is more than I can face.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 6, 2010
at 7:50 PM
Sign the letter asking Judge Vaughn Walker to televise the Prop 8 trial
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By: Poolman on January 6, 2010
at 7:36 PM
I forgot to put that in. He is a professor ar CalState University LB>
Sorry I forgot that, No Ones Puppet
SDince I had never heard of before, I thought it was something new.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 6, 2010
at 7:12 PM
jsri, does your grandson have any ideas as to his major? There are a lot of great smaller colleges with outstanding financial aid programs including grants and full scholarships (tuition, room & board).
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By: Greytdog on January 6, 2010
at 6:32 PM
Helen, where are you? Are you ok? I certainly hope so.
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By: Rae on January 6, 2010
at 6:28 PM
It comes in all sizes and flavors. We are the melting pot for Crazy
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By: Poolman on January 6, 2010
at 5:51 PM
My lord? How do people get so crazy?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 6, 2010
at 5:30 PM
American Third Position Party Website
Even made David Duke’s front page: http://www.davidduke.com/general
Wonder if Sarah will join this one. And where does that put Steele? Anyway…
another day in watching the GOP fall apart. Divide and conquer. Should be a good year for dems.
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By: Poolman on January 6, 2010
at 4:54 PM
Grandma Katie, it sounds like the skinheads renamed themselves and went political., bet most of them are already going to tea parties. It is a scary sad thing for our nation that there are so many ignorant people on the loose. Where is this professor from?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 6, 2010
at 4:07 PM
Does anyone remember the first set of debates between the Democratic candidates followed by the Republican candidates? Remember the Democrats were a bi-racial man, a woman, a hispanic man and one white man? Remember the Republicans were 6 white men? Does anyone still wonder why the Republicans are becoming increasingly less representative of the population?
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By: Anne on January 6, 2010
at 3:52 PM
Grandma Katie
American Third Position??
Sounds like another way to screw the American voters.
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By: jsri on January 6, 2010
at 3:48 PM
LOL Ohhh Grandma Katie that’s old news that party has been around for 100 years. It’s called the GOP..;-P
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By: lori on January 6, 2010
at 3:40 PM
In disgust I just read this mornings local paper. A professor is director of a new political party. It is called American Third Position. It’s mission is to represent the political interests
of White Americans.
Scary.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 6, 2010
at 3:13 PM
Great political cartoons!
http://allhatnocattle.net/1-4-10_gas_attack.htm
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 6, 2010
at 1:59 PM
Rachel Maddow discusses Glen Beck and the Birthers.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/rachel-maddow-show-beck-vs-birthers
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 6, 2010
at 1:39 PM
To: Greytdog on January 6, 2010 at 12:01 PM
When I was in grad school in the 1960’s Norma and Mel Gabler and their influence were already well known. These and others of their ilk are poisonous to rational discourse and should be banished to a desert isle someplace. It makes me very happy to live in the Northeast.
On the other hand I see some hope for the future, I’ve been watching from the sidelines as our oldest grandson applies to college. This kid aced the math SAT (800) and scored in the high 700’s in everything else and could be a candidate for admission almost anywhere. Unfortunately, our son and DIL saved diligently in order to give him and his brother a leg up only to see their savings essentially wiped out during the Bush era and now they make too much to qualify for very much financial aid and yet can’t afford the 50 grand per year for top tier schools. But our GS is sanguine about what it all means. He has several acceptances in hand already from second tier schools but I think he will be successful wherever he decides to go. The reason for my enthusiasm is that he has a very finely tuned social conscience to go along with his math and music skills.
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By: jsri on January 6, 2010
at 1:02 PM
From Chris Hayes of The Nation:
“Want your kids’ textbooks to be written by a bunch of Texas wingnuts? You’re in luck!”
http://bit.ly/4CU9HF
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By: Greytdog on January 6, 2010
at 12:01 PM
The Palin Train Wreck continues!
http://theimmoralminority.blogspot.com/
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 6, 2010
at 11:16 AM
Heres a funny! I call this the best way to win both wars lol!
http://blogs.ajc.com/mike-luckovich/2009/10/01/oct-2-cartoon/
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By: ddddd on January 6, 2010
at 11:04 AM
Morning, all–I’m heading out of town for a few days. In my absence, remember: WWGKD? Cheers–D.
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By: Donna on January 6, 2010
at 10:25 AM
Donna, I am sure I will share my thoughts after I read the book. I also discovered a book called Tearing Down the Regan Myth by Will Bunch, which I am looking forward to. I’ve never understood the worshipping of Regan and hopefully this book will give me some insight.
Jean, I strongly suggest a book called Idiot America by Charles Pierce, which talks about how rediculous believes gain traction. John Oliver from The Daily Show was on NPR yesterday talking about talking to Tea Baggers and how scared they are about things the rest of us think are totally silly. He gave the example of Tea Baggers believe Obama was Muslim and how they were scared of that.
Lori, I am aware of why McCain had to change personalities. Sacrificing his principles to get elected was why I became disillusioned. That and Palin thinking Creationism…I’m sorry, I mean “Itelligent Design”…should be taught in school. Everyone should read a short book called Only A Theory by Kenneth Miller which talks about the agenda Creationists have to turn science political. It also does a thorough job of explaining how intelligent design is all bunk. Richard Dawkins does the same thing in The Blind Watchmaker, but it’s much longer and more techinical. Only a theory is only 221 pages.
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By: Anne on January 6, 2010
at 8:54 AM
I am beginning to think one of the first things President Obama has to do in this New Year is sack David Axelrod.
I understand rookies make mistakes no matter how good they are at their craft but IMO David has screwed up TOO many times in too many critical points in Obama’s first year.
This latest boo boo, Obama not addressing the the underwear bomber incident IMMEDIATELY is almost unforgivable. Then when he did address the public he was in a golf shirt? Unforgivable political blunder.
GWB was a horrible president. He sent us into an unjust war, he drove us into a depression, he destroyed our reputation around the world, but do you know the ONE thing he did/said that brought him down in the American people’s eyes? It was one phrase. “Heck of a job Brownie”. It was a political blunder GWB would not recover from.
Axelrod should take note.
Obama is a deliberate thoughtful man and he likes to take his time and collect his thoughts before he speaks. I GET that and I LOVE that about him ……. When it comes to his decision making….. HOWEVER in politics you HAVE to fill the void with SOMETHING.. even if it’s nothing… You can NOT allow dead air to hang out there in this day and age because SOMEONE will fill that air and you can BET it’s not going to be your friend.
Obama needed to put on a tie, get his handsome mug in front of a camera and tell us everything was gonna be OK.. He should have promised to get to the bottom of the problem and fix it Immediately.
Come onnnnnn David you know better than this..
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By: lori on January 6, 2010
at 4:30 AM
Steele also said the Rebups won’t win back the house in 2010 and boy the purse strings in his party are hopping mad at him! …
Ooooooh Mr. Steele the democrat’s gift that keeps on giving. We couldn’t have bought a better holiday gift.
One of the biggest problems the GOP has, besides no message, is no one to carry the message. When the GOP relinquished the party to the extreme right (their wingnuts) they gave their podium to the the wingnuts as well. When a moderate Republican does try and take center stage they are yanked off faster than Sarah can say you bectha!
So they are a party without a leader, a message or star. The only demographic they own is old white men who live in rural areas, which is a demographic I’d love to have. The problem with that though is their demographic is dying… literally! LOL They have lots of work to do.
That is a position my party has been in several times and it isn’t fun. History tells us until they address the problem and FIX it they are in for a decade of lost elections. Let me add IF the democratic party stays vigilant. If they win the house or White House in the next 12 years we have no one to blame but ourselves.
BTW Anne, the reason McCain changed when he ran for president is because he had no choice BUT to change. When you are at the top of the ticket you HAVE to run the way the ticket wants you to run. They control the money hence they control you. And as I said up there ^ THE party is right right at the moment.
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By: lori on January 6, 2010
at 3:25 AM
Hi gang and farsight Δ,
I just read your lovely, informative post. Whew! I’m glad I got your name right! I was having a senior moment there.
Thank you SO MUCH for all the info. I will be passing it on to my husband and your gift to him too. As I’m sure you know, we will probably be wingin’ it for a while. I’ll keep you posted and we sure know where to go for advice now!
You are a sweetie to care. Thank you.
Aloha! 🙂 and off to beddie-bye.
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 6, 2010
at 1:40 AM
Hi gang, Judith, DelurkerGirl, Anne, no one’s puppet, Donna, Grandma Katie, Easier, Greytdog and whoever I missed,
Oh, dear sweet Greytdog, I’m so sorry you lost your beloved Frangipani tree. Out here we have lots of them – huge – and they are by far my favorites. We call them Poinciana or ‘Ohai. In the spring into early summer some of them are enormous umbrellas of beautiful red or orange blossoms.
I saw on the news about your cold snap and how the orange orchards and strawberries are threatened with being wiped out. How anyone can hide under the bed and deny climate change is beyond me. More later on that general subject.
Easier, by all means spread the word of anything I write that might spark some interest somewhere.
Donna, DelurkerGirl, Anne and no one’s puppet, I always enjoy your informative and thoughtful posts. Keep ‘em coming.
Judith, you are so right about Socialism, Communism and Capitalism as economic systems vs. political systems. I just want to add that Socialism is pretty benign and has been around forever, not just in the past century or so. Some would say that early Christianity was an exercise in Socialism. But for heaven’s sake, both Communism and Facism are polar opposites!!! Any student of history or old timer like me who lived through that era, know that. In fact, Hitler rose to power because of his ravings AGAINST Communism. He was clever enough to include the name ‘Socialism’ in his propaganda because he knew most people didn’t know the difference.
That’s what scares me. To have an effective Democracy, BY THE PEOPLE, the electorate has to be educated and informed. When I see the tea party folks tramping around with their signs protesting Socialism and Nazism in the same breath, I shudder. To just regurgitate what they hear from the likes of Fox without a clue as to what they are talking about is frightening.
My generation is showing. But I am alarmed by the decline in education in the past decade or so. Granted, kids are taught to read, write, and do basic math so they can go out and make a buck. But I am appalled at how little they seem to know of United States Geography let alone World Geography. History, Political Science, all the Sciences, the Humanities, Art, Music, even Physical Education, forget it. Phys. Ed. has more to offer than just learning how to play games. It is basic to Proprioception and Kinesthesia, which we need to have, even to drive a car safely.
I’m not sure what can be done about educating people with essentially native intelligence but seem to be systematically deprive of what I consider a solid education. Well, here at M&H we can keep beating the drums about it at least.
I have just started reading an excellent book, “Nemesis” by Chalmers Johnson about American Military Imperialism. It is kind of a downer, but so far it is confirming a lot of what I have suspected has been going on in our country for quite some time. I was aware of this, as I am sure all of you are too, but I never knew the numbers before. Did you know that we have 737, that’s SEVEN-HUNDRED AND THIRTY-SEVEN military bases with more than a half million troops in some 30 countries? I’m not sure you will want to get me going on that subject.
Aloha! 🙂 and nighty-night,
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 6, 2010
at 1:27 AM
Auntie Jean,
Yes, I am the one who recommended the digital hearing aids. Thanks for your post. Your appreciative post gave me goose bumps.
I do hope your husband is looking forward to his new hearing aids and appreciates them as much as I do and have. He should not be bashful about going back in if he thinks they need adjustment. Sometimes it takes several tries to get them right. I think some folks get the idea there is something wrong with them and give up before they get them dialed in. Of course, he may be fortunate and feel they are right from the get go.
Things just sound different at first and might be somewhat disconcerting as sound hasn’t been heard correctly for a very long time: crinkling paper, light switches sound very different, walking on dry leaves, walking on rocks/pebbles, traffic sounded kind of like it was in a big tube for a while to me. He can have the audiologist turn them down a few decibels if it is just too much.
I put mine on and never looked back. I wore them for an average of 14 hours a day from the get go which is a very high average for new wearers. Even considering my level of desire for and acceptance of the hearing aids there were times that I felt entirely over stimulated with noise. If it were light, it would be like being in a room with many strobes and brightly flashing lights to an almost blinding degree. (Note that it is not a harmful amplification because they have built in dampening for loud noise.)
One of the really great things in environments with excessive background noise is the improved ability to focus on a particular conversation. The ability to separate the wheat from the chaff should really be improved.
I’ll just bundle up a big ole bunch of how I feel about my hearing aids and send it to your husband as a gift from me and sincerely hope it ‘takes’.
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By: farsight Δ on January 6, 2010
at 1:13 AM
Greytdog, thank you for caring.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 6, 2010
at 12:29 AM
greytdog – I loved the new word you coined – hatriots. says a lot.
Vgman – finally someone spelled out your and you’re!! Thanks.
Night all.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 5, 2010
at 11:48 PM
WWGKD
Why are we in Iraq again???? OIL maybe??
Weapons of Mass Destruction – we are still looking?
Bin Laden – Forgot, he was in Afghanistan
Al Quida – No, not Iraq, they were in Afghanistan.
A trillion dollars spent on Iraq so far. We are obligated for a lot more. A million dollars per soldier to keep them in Iraq.
Iraq was started with lies!!!!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 5, 2010
at 10:54 PM
Such a sick train of thought…
I pity all of you.
“3000 innocent Americans were killed in a vicious attack by religious fanatics on 9/11. (There are American religious fanatics too.) I don’t know the precise number but I think the number of American soldiers killed in Iraq is well over 4000. ” JeanΔ ¥
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By: craigΔ on January 5, 2010
at 10:11 PM
vgmanΔ ..Where is Auntie M when you need her?
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By: craigΔ on January 5, 2010
at 9:57 PM
you’re right
your right
My right?
No, you’re right.
I know.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 5, 2010
at 9:33 PM
When I first moved to FL over a couple of decades ago (Oh dear god it’s been that long?) I could and did grow papaya, frangipangi trees, and several other tropical plants – in my yard – plants that I only know the Filipino name to – anyway, my pride and joy were my calamandine orange tree and my meyer lemon tree. My bane was that with the sandy soil I couldn’t grow those wonderfully tasty beefsteak tomatoes. . .
tonight it is 37 degrees in Central FL. Now January we will usually have maybe at the most 2 or 3 nights of cold (for Florida) weather. About 15 years ago we did have a hard freeze for a couple nights with below-normal temps that killed the orange groves and literally paved the way for the overdevelopment in this area.
Anyway we’ve had, like the rest of the nation, abnormally cold temps in our region. Tonight the central FL region is under a hard freeze watch for the third night in a row – with more to come. My frangipangi that I nurtured all these years – well it finally bit the dust this afternoon.
The summers have been exceptionally humid and dry – with our water aquifer still abnormally below normal. Water resources are now the focus of rivalry and litigation between bordering states (GA & AL). This hurricane season was extremely mild as to be almost non-existent – which makes Floridians very nervous for the season in 2010.
We are dredging beaches like crazy trying to keep our shoreline – but the sea keeps rising. We’ve had multiple outbreaks of red tide that have adversely impacted our oysters, crab, and shrimping industries; red snapper is overfished and now seem under attack by some unknown fungus. . .
all of this is just that whenever I hear someone declaim the idea of global warming I realize I am hearing someone who, like the US intelligence community, has failed to look at not just the little pieces but failed to put them together to see the big picture and all the connections. Sorry for the rant – I just came in from delivering over three hundred blankets to the homeless shelters, and will be heading back out in an hour to deliver soup and hot drinks to folks who can’t get into the shelters. This is NOT typical Florida weather. These “weather patterns” are directly tied into the crap we are pouring into our atmosphere & our oceans. And I’m really tired of jerks who sit in their warm homes and mock those of us who go out and try to help others.
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By: Greytdog on January 5, 2010
at 9:04 PM
DELurker Girl Scrolll s exactly what I am doing!!
JuneauJoe_ if you don’t get enough sun in Tahoe, come on down!!
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By: Grandma Katie on January 5, 2010
at 8:40 PM
Autie Jean, thanks for your recent posts. With your permission, I would like to repost this portion of your post:
“3000 innocent Americans were killed in a vicious attack by religious fanatics on 9/11. (There are American religious fanatics too.) I don’t know the precise number but I think the number of American soldiers killed in Iraq is well over 4000. ”
It was needed and I rest my case.
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By: Easier on January 5, 2010
at 8:06 PM
Poolman your right.
More later.
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By: craigΔ on January 5, 2010
at 7:58 PM
350 teabaggers with guns in New Mexico – just your normal crazy!!!
http://crooksandliars.com/john-amato/do-you-need-any-more-proof
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 5, 2010
at 7:48 PM
JuneauJoe–when the King of Crazy Conspiracy Theories thinks someone’s conspiracy theory is nuts, that should be a litmus test.
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By: Donna on January 5, 2010
at 5:42 PM
Anne–I thought the book was terrific! Will be very interested to hear your thoughts.
By the way, my husband could have written your post re McCain, the initial reaction to his winning the nomination, and then the response to the selection of Palin.
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By: Donna on January 5, 2010
at 5:36 PM
Anne, you’re right. I was thinking only of existing Republican voters, and even if they unified those voters it wouldn’t be enough – they’d need to grow the party. To do that, their values need to align with what people want… and you’re right, apparently they want a more progressive agenda if the substantial margin the Democrats achieved is any indicator.
My assumption is that any Republican leaders who want to ‘fix’ the party are talking about moving it more to the right. I think a more moderate position would be much more effective at increasing their numbers.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 5, 2010
at 4:44 PM
Bill Maher actually IS an entertainer and HAS a show, support him or not, his fans and sponsors CHOOSE to. That is how he makes a living. If you don’t like him or agree with him, change the channel and don’t support him.
Cheney DOES NOT hold office or have his own show, but he can call a news conference to spout his garbage and won’t take questions or allow a rebuttal. Why do we allow him a free platform and MSM attention to spew his propaganda and treasonous bile?
Palin DOES NOT hold office or have her own show, but tweets and posts to facebook and the media runs with it, even though she allows no rebuttal. Why do we allow her a free platform and MSM attention to spew her propaganda and treasonous bile?
If we were a country that truly believed in justice, like we claim to be, these last two would be in prison for their illegal activities and harm inflicted on this nation.
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By: Poolman on January 5, 2010
at 4:37 PM
An actual discussion of Yemen and a comparison to Iraq and Afghanistan! Real information instead of sound bites and fear mongering!!!!
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/democracy-now-threats-yemen-prove-america
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 5, 2010
at 4:15 PM
WWGKD?
It is kind of funny!
Teabaggers are upset with Glen Beck!!
http://crooksandliars.com/john-amato/right-wingers-are-finally-upset-glenn-b
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 5, 2010
at 4:06 PM
JuneauJoe Δ writes…
“Kind of weird really! Also: Fact Checking on Sunday talk shows. Why are people allowed to spout (or email) nonsense (like Cheney or Palin) and there is no one to have a rebuttal of facts?”
Kinda like the Bill Mahr show ..huh now?
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By: craigΔ on January 5, 2010
at 4:01 PM
Delurker Girl, I agree with your second comment. They need to unify under one set of principles. Although I don’t think the Democratic Party does that either. Their diversity is how we ended up with the so-called Blue Dogs, which in theory is not a bad thing. Variety is good in both parties. Similarity gives us fewer choices.
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By: Anne on January 5, 2010
at 3:59 PM
Yeah, Sarah Silverman is for sure a potty mouth. I cannot stand much of that myself, so I normally don’t pay her much attention. I do like her concept and it does point to the hypocrisy of the church. I was visiting another blog and found the link and came here to share it. I did enjoy that one, even though it probably DOES need a warning label. Then again I think the whole past decade needs a warning label. Everything just about comes with a warning label today, anyway. I don’t think we even see warning labels anymore. They tend to be ignored since they are so commonplace. What would we do without lawyers?
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By: Poolman on January 5, 2010
at 3:57 PM
HIYa HIYa HIYa..step right up folks
and watch me dance…
I just learned that Yemeni prisoners are from Yemen..
Therefore I will not send them home for more training.
President Obama
Imagine that..da ya think he thought that one up by himself or his “Brownie” Napalatano?
Doubt either one.
His daughters must have clued him in.
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By: craigΔ on January 5, 2010
at 3:57 PM
Delurker Girl:
I guess I would argue that voters have already spoken by voting in Obama and voting in a Democratic congress. Political commentators have been saying since the election that it’s now time for Republicans to take a look at their party and figure out how to win back support. There is an increasing number of minorities in the US who tend to vote Democratic. If Republicans want to continue to be voted in to office, they’re going to need to appeal to this growing demographic. Right now, their approach seems to be waiting for people to get frustrated with Obama and they’ll come back without making any fundamental changes to the party. That won’t fix the underlying problem.
When McCain announced his candidacy, I was initially thrilled. I’d always liked him. He’d been a moderate Republican who was able to work with Democrates. But as I watched and listened to him, I became increasingly skeptical. Then, when he nominated Palin, and I began to listen to the things coming out of her mouth, my choice was clear. I spoke to sereral friends who had exactly the same reaction, initially supporting McCain, then changing their minds. McCain changed his personality because he had to appeal to the Republican base. There are people who will always vote Republican no matter what, and those who will always vote Democratic, no matter what. But there are a large number of people who could go either way, and if the GOP continues to put forth candidates who represent only an increasing minority of people, they will continue to lose power.
I believe that’s what Steele was talking about. I don’t believe he’s criticizing the Republicans for not being conservative enough. They’ve grown increasingly more so, as moderate Republicans have been voted out of office, and they are appealing less and less to independants. Their platform has been seized by Christian conservatives, which holds no appeal for secularists and athiests such as myself. I’m about to start a book called The Death of Conservatism which addresses this issue.
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By: Anne on January 5, 2010
at 3:55 PM
JuneauJoe, that reminds me of a recent Jon Stewart show where he showed clips of the media saying “we’ll have to leave it there” when blithely wrapping up a segment, after some wingnut has had something outrageous.
“THERE? You’re leaving it THERE? THERE is a TERRIBLE place to leave it!” (may not be an exact quote)
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 5, 2010
at 3:53 PM
WWGKD?
Grandma Katie: Looks like I might be in the Reno/Tahoe area in Feb or Mar. If I don’t get enough sun, I might make a run to CA.
Wingnuts seem to be getting nuttier? They had control the past decade but I have yet to hear about the accomplishments of the Republican decade.
They only talk about the last year!!!!! Then they blast Obama when just a few years ago the same person was saying how unAmerican it is talk about Bush. (We are in a war! – they yelled.)
Kind of weird really! Also: Fact Checking on Sunday talk shows. Why are people allowed to spout (or email) nonsense (like Cheney or Palin) and there is no one to have a rebuttal of facts?
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 5, 2010
at 3:43 PM
Another thought, Anne… in order for Steele’s theory to work, the party needs to have principles they agree on. It’s not like the party is unified and the candidates are out of step… the party is not unified and the candidates reflect that. He can say that the party has compromised on their principles, but that would imply that the party agrees that decade-old principles should still apply and the people are just not obedient. It’s like a total reassessment is in order. Instead of “how do we become the party of Reagan again”, it should be more like “what do we really stand for TODAY” and once they know that they can decide what the party really should look like.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 5, 2010
at 3:41 PM
Anne, I saw that and pretty much agree with Steele’s assessment up until he says the VOTERS are supposed to ‘withhold support’? How? Not vote at all? Vote for a Democrat?
For example, McCain’s pretty moderate for a Republican, depending on the day and what he had for breakfast. If voters should withhold support for him for not being conservative enough for their party, how would they do that? Vote for Obama instead?
Getting the party some traction is going to require better selection and promotion higher up in the food chain than the voters.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 5, 2010
at 3:29 PM
Despite Obama pledging to have open forums about health care..Nancy Pelosi says no to having it broadcast on C-SPAN.
Imagine that who woulda thought otherwise ?
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By: CraigΔ on January 5, 2010
at 3:17 PM
I knew there would be no right answers from this group. Keep pickin….
“One can argue that Nazism and communism are close relatives since both are totalitarian in thought and share socialism along with
the ideal of a collective state as well.” Thats why I did not use the term facist.
Did I call them economic systems…NO.
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By: craigΔ on January 5, 2010
at 3:16 PM
Yes Judith, it does sound familiar and we all know which political party leans that way. Sarah Silverman carries the potty mouth to extremes in my opinion, and I am not particularly sensitive to crude language normally, so I won’t be joining her fan club either.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 5, 2010
at 3:07 PM
Grandma Katie, I almost answered WWGKD with ‘scrolllllll…..’ 😀
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 5, 2010
at 3:04 PM
Check out what Rupublican GOP leader Michael Steele had to say. I’m not against Republicans on principle, I’m just against the direction the party seems to be going, so reading this was refreshing:
Steele’s new book, “Right Now: A 12-Step Program for Defeating the Obama Agenda,” released Monday by Regnery Publishing, offers his blueprint for the party’s resurgence. The first step for Republicans, he says, is admitting that they have compromised their principles in the past decade.
“We must support Republican officials who assert these principles,” he writes. “When elected Republicans vote against Republican principles, the voters must withhold their support — withhold it vigorously and consistently.”
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By: Anne on January 5, 2010
at 3:03 PM
I never heard Sarah Silverman’s act before and watched a few clips after watching the one you linked, Poolman. Good vocal and facial inflection, pretty good comedic timing, but so verrrry offensive! She’s an equal opportunity offender, I’ll give her that much! LOL! She really brings it with the raunch, too! I was so offended I had to laugh at myself!
I imagine many love her but I won’t be joining her fan club.
Not blaming you, Poolman… just sharing my observations!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 5, 2010
at 2:58 PM
Donna, DElurker Girl, JuneauJoe – glad you enjoyed my Resolutions.
and as for WWGKD – still laughing over that one.
Oh how I would like to meet you in person!
BTW – my scrolling finger is developing a callous!
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By: Grandma Katie on January 5, 2010
at 2:57 PM
End World Hunger
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By: Poolman on January 5, 2010
at 1:49 PM
In fact it DOES sound familiar.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 5, 2010
at 1:00 PM
For information purposes only, Hitler and the Nazis were Fascists, not Communists or Socialists. The word “Socialist” in their name was an example of deliberate rebranding or redirection, making them look like something they weren’t.
Fascism is a economic philosophy defined as ‘Goverment by Business Interests, for Business Interests”. (Mussolini himself said it might better be called “Corporateism”). And they ran it as a dictatorship.
Sound familiar?
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By: judith on January 5, 2010
at 12:53 PM
Delurker–great link! He is wonderful. Thanks.
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By: Donna on January 5, 2010
at 12:39 PM
WWGKD?
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By: Donna on January 5, 2010
at 12:25 PM
For information purposes only, Communism, Socialism, and Capitalism are economic systems, not political systems. Examples of political systems are: Democracies, Monarchies, and Dictatorships.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 5, 2010
at 12:14 PM
Delurker Girl Δ, most excellent Jon Stewart. Thanks for sharing. I love his show. I too miss him when he vacations.
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By: Poolman on January 5, 2010
at 12:04 PM
Oh my history school.
First socialism and communism are very simillar in that both are theories. Practiced in different countries and for the past almost 100 years.
Be it Germany in WWII..or the the Marxist movement in early Russia. There have also been many variants in other countries since the origination of both forms of governments.
Socialism, If you were making cookies, would be a process where the way of producing , distribution or sale of the cookies would be
owned by the community “people” or “government” in power.
Communism is the reality of socialism in its truest form. All cookie manufacturers would be owned by the state of Obamaland. Obama workers would then be paid according to their contribution and needs as observed by the supreme leader.
And both are close to Nazism.
One can argue that Nazism and communism are close relatives since both are totalitarian in thought and share socialism along with
the ideal of a collective state as well.
Now you want to get personal.
AS for my time, I volunteer. I volunteer at a school that is under-privledged and I work with the Special needs children. Thats without pay.
I’ve done this for the past 4 years. two times a week and 3 hours a day. I would like to ask how many do volunteer in some form or fashion?
No wars are not good.
However with your stance we would have forked over the Hawaiian Islands and the rest of the Pacific after Pearl Harbor.
No I did not serve in the military. My son has made two deployments in 2006 and 2008
and is a Lt. in the Navy Reserves.
I have not diminished anyones service to their country. Anyone who has put on a uniform and been away from their families are deserved of our most profound respect.
“There are American religious fanatics too.) I don’t know the precise number but I think the number of American soldiers killed in Iraq is well over 4000.”
Are you calling our men in uniform religious fanatics?
“Question: Do you personally think the death and destruction of war, any war, on either side is nice?”
Auntie, Why don’t you ask those who lost parents or children in the twin towers?
Question(s): Has that avenged the 3000 of 9/11?
I do not look at the current war as revenge..those are your words..words for your peace at any price rally.
How many innocent Iraqi citizens have been killed by American bombs? I’m not sure there has even been an accurate tally.
How many have been killed by bombs?
Probably not enough since some are continuing to strap bombs to themselves to kill their OWN people.
You do know that we ..the US..have not killed all those who have died in Iraq…or Afghanistan or Pakistan or Indonesia.
How say you for the murder of their own children just to wreak mayhem ? To drive a truck laden bomb amidst children?..And you want us to turn our heads away?
Do you think these religious zealots are going to go back into their caves and live happily ever after IF we were to return all our soldiers home?
Are you that naive?
Do you personally know a soldier or sailor or Marine who has been killed in the current fight?
I have. Two from my sons military school and one injured. I know six or more personally, that are somewhere over there now. And they are all volunteers.
Question: Is Iraqi blood any less red than American? Nope red is red.
It is certainly not nice..but it may be unavoiidable. And when the dirty bomb explodes in times square or a ship blows up in Houston harbor what say you Auntie?
How many innocent Japanese were killed in the firebombs? What numbers game do you want to play Auntie?
“War is hell” is that what Sherman said?
I realize your baiting Auntie.
But yep some of the Iraq people have been killed. How many were by the hands of their former leader Sadam? Can you imagine a guess?
No I didn’t think so.
He used poison gas on his own people.
Were you hollaring then Auntie?
As for Donna and Jenuae Joe ..I don’t give a rats dingy? Attacked… I attacked Donna? And your going to defend her for why..is she not capable herself ?
How many times has your little Minch called for my expulsion from this blog and for why?
Just because I wanted to express myself on “YOUR” porch Auntie?
“Whatever Craig may or may not have to offer to the tire kicking has become lost in endless posturing and word games…”
Well I feel like I just finished a word game.
Have a great day!
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By: craigΔ on January 5, 2010
at 11:34 AM
It’s so good to have Jon Stewart back from vacation. So much good stuff in this piece about the attempted plane bombing in Detroit.
http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/mon-january-4-2010/terror-2-0-by-yemen
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 5, 2010
at 11:19 AM
Donna
The judges were put in their positions by a Democrat and their terms are up soon. They now have a Republican to sign the judge’s paper to keep their jobs. (Parnell took the Gov position after Sarah resigned – cute.)
Reminds me of Jeb Bush giving Florida to his brother back in 2000.
Those hearings need to be open because of the political pressure. Go Levi!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 5, 2010
at 10:02 AM
An addendum to Auntie Jean’s well thought out remarks and questions :
There is a distinct difference between tolerating differences (and growing toward acceptance of differences) in THOUGHT and choosing not to tolerate BEHAVIOR which is off the wall.
The first grows out of an openess , the second grows out of a sense of what can or cannot be endured.
Working towards a new civility is hard work.
For all his crotchety -ness ( nothing to do with private parts! ) UAW’s tire kicking is a necessary work. Thank you neighbor. This bus we’ve packed ourselves onto may or may not be sound…
Whatever Craig may or may not have to offer to the tire kicking has become lost in endless posturing and word games…
I’m worn out and done with it after the latest snarky remarks about why all the fuss about the gone gov…
Sarah Palin was a crummy governor- we got her because 48% of the folks here thought the remedy to what we thought was the crummiest gov ever was her “fresh’ face. She divided us as she divided the country.We are healing. Gov Parnell has done more in a few short months than she did in 2 1/2 years to sort out some of our troubles. I don’t agree with some of his methods or ideas but he is truly working to knit us back together and face some of our issues…
Folks who want to say it’s a”girl” thing or a conservative/liberal thing or all such foolishness are missing what SP really is. And I’m tired of it.
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By: alaskapi on January 5, 2010
at 9:56 AM
JuneauJoe–this is precisely the sort of thing that caused real problems for the fabled Orly Taitz. Judges do not like this sort of thing one bit.
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By: Donna on January 5, 2010
at 9:37 AM
Palin Update: Palinbots are going to harrass the judges involved in the Levi – Bristol, Tripp custody hearing.
http://divasblueoasis.com/diary/968/palins-hairdresser-among-those-who-think-harassing-judges-is-a-good-idea
Levi wanted an open hearing just because of external pressures such as this.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 5, 2010
at 9:35 AM
Love you, Auntie Jean
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By: Donna on January 5, 2010
at 6:19 AM
Hi gang and farsight Δ,
It’s been a while and I hope I remember that you, farsight, are the guy who tipped me on to the new digital hearing aids.
My husband finally agreed to be tested for them. His hearing loss is 58% in one ear and 40% in the other. He is going to spring for them!!!!! He is being fitted for them. Hooray!!!!!
His hearing loss is related to the roar of the B-47’s during the Korean War over 50 years ago. He could get them through the VA for free, but it could take up to a year to process the paperwork and get them. At age 80, almost 81, we figure that’s a year of hearing better – now.
We thank you for putting us onto them. I think they will improve both of our lives.
Aloha! 🙂 and nighty-night all,
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 5, 2010
at 1:01 AM
Hi gang and Craig,
Well, well, well. I have stayed out of the recent spate of foolishness from you, Craig. So I went back and read some of your, ahem, ‘astute’ comments.’ Now, when a troll buzzes around like a mosquito, I usually put on insect repellant and go on about my business. But when the little pest starts attacking my friends, especially Donna and Juneau Joe, it’s time for this old broad to step in. (The mosquito analogy is used as a METAPHOR, not calling you a name. You do know what a METAPHOR is, don’t you? If not, look it up.)
Craig, you seem to have plenty of leisure time on your hands so I would recommend you go back to the very beginning of Margaret and Helen’s blog and start reading. That should take you about a year. You have made several unfounded assumptions about how and why this blog was set up. You have also stated that you have come here to learn. Here’s your chance. If you do your homework and some research here, especially about Juneau Joe, you will learn that he is a fine man who had done a lot to help some of Alaska’s citizens whom their governor neglected shamefully while she was off either kissing up to the oil industry or campaigning for Vice-President. (The Alaskan citizens were starving and when it was called to her attention, she volunteered to fly down and take them a plate of cookies. Sort of Marie Antoinette-ish with the ‘let ‘em eat cake remark’.)
As for Donna, she is a well-educated and articulate lawyer and has demonstrated remarkable instincts into human nature.
There are plenty of others here I can’t take the time to name.
I am about to ask several pointed questions in rebuttal to some of your statements Craig, which is standard procedure in a legitimate debate. The questions require straight-forward answers. No spin, no waffling and no whining excuses.
Question(s): What is Socialism as you know it and understand it? What is the difference between Socialism and Communism?
On 1/4 at 4:16P you wrote…….”those who should be held accountable for their time and contributions for making our country work for all… not just some.”
Question: Would you please account for YOUR time and contributions for making our country work for all..not just some?
Question: Have you personally ever served in the United States Armed services?
Details of the following information can be found in the early archive comments of Margaret and Helen’s blog. My father and my father-in-law served in WWI. My only brother served in WWII and had 384, that’s THREE-HUNDRED-EIGHTY-FOUR FRONT LINE FIGHTING DAYS in North Africa and Sicily when he was killed at the Anzio Beachead at the beginning of the invasion of Italy. (He was wounded once, sent to a field hospital for three weeks and then back to the front lines.) My husband served five years in the Air Force during the Korean ‘Conflict’ on a B-47, armed with a nuclear warhead. He agonized over the prospect of ORDERS to drop it and rain that kind of death and destruction on hundreds, maybe hundreds of thousands of people. Fortunately, for him and for all those people he didn’t have to. That war ended. All these members of my family served back in the days of the ‘draft-or-find-a-way-to-weasel-out-on- deferment.’ As impressionable young men they had no way of knowing what they were getting into and they had nothing to do with the policies that brought on the wars. So don’t try waving the flag in my face and telling me to ‘support the troops’. I think my families have done and now do our fair share.
Question: Do you personally think the death and destruction of war, any war, on either side is nice?
3000 innocent Americans were killed in a vicious attack by religious fanatics on 9/11. (There are American religious fanatics too.) I don’t know the precise number but I think the number of American soldiers killed in Iraq is well over 4000.
Question(s): Has that avenged the 3000 of 9/11?
How many innocent Iraqi citizens have been killed by American bombs? I’m not sure there has even been an accurate tally.
Question: Is Iraqi blood any less red than American?
That’s all the questions – – for now. I’m sure everyone on the porch eagerly looks forward to your answers.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
P.S. For all the gang, as you know Rush Limbaugh was recently in Queen’s Hospital in Honolulu and has stated with words to the effect that America’s healthcare system is the just fine and doesn’t need fixing. For his information, Hawaii’s hospitals are about as close as you can come to Socialized Medicine! And they are the finest. We have the dubious distinction of having had to avail ourselves of the services of four of them, three in Honolulu for high tech stuff. Further, over the years, we have had medical care and/or hospitalizations in California, Texas, Louisiana, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, including the Ivy League HUP, (Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania). So we are in a position to make comparable comparisons. Hawaiian medical care can stand up to the best of them.
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 5, 2010
at 12:44 AM
DG Δ,
Great airport video post. You helped make my night.
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By: farsight Δ on January 4, 2010
at 11:47 PM
New Resolution:
Follow Grandma Katie Rules
1 Do Not Read Trolls
2 Do Not Respond to Trolls
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 4, 2010
at 11:15 PM
“There is a dirty little secret in the text book publishing trade, two states California and Texas pretty much have all the say in what goes into all the books in the nation, since they are the ones who make the biggest buys of these books.”
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By: Poolman on January 4, 2010
at 9:57 PM
Glenn Beck has wingnut derangement syndrome.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 9:36 PM
This made my day! What’s a guy to do when in the midst of a lot of people stranded at an airport? He gets them to sing!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 9:34 PM
That is, Grandma Katie, if you don’t mind me (us?) taking your esteemed name in vain.
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By: Donna on January 4, 2010
at 9:34 PM
Poolman: when the term “full sheep dip” is applied to a human female, it NOT a reference to verminating!
[and we never dip our cats!]
By the way, I have a new response in the event (and chances of this occurring are excellent I sadly say) of troll postings: “WWGKD?” It stands for “What Would Grandma Katie Do?” and means ‘IGNORE IT.’
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By: Donna on January 4, 2010
at 9:32 PM
I meant ticks. But tics is apropos also, too. Poor kitty.
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By: Poolman on January 4, 2010
at 9:30 PM
Does that “full sheep dip” take care of fleas and tics? Just curious. I dipped my cats once and got scolded by my vet. One of the cats was never the same after that. Some of what we do out of ignorance sure impacts the lives of others.
Good for Glenn. I knew he was a whiner…winner.
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By: Poolman on January 4, 2010
at 9:29 PM
Greytdog: Go to mediamatters and you’ll see the Glenn Beck whining today about having been named the Misinformer of the Year. After having spent his time spouting the most outrageous, false, putrid crap, his response is “what ever happened to debate?” “Why can’t we just engage in a civil exchange of ideas?” Well….here’s a thought: look in the mirror, Glenn.
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By: Donna on January 4, 2010
at 9:21 PM
As a group you are strong as you remain together..having lost some of your strength, because of the “CHANGE” you expected has not materialized and so all is status quo.
You all are interesting as a representation
of what the “other” side of Americana looks and
sounds like.
So the communication comes out as
“Don’t bother me with commentary.
I’m safe within my womb.”
“I can strike out and make judgement calls
about people I only know from media outlets”…thus your only knowledgeable
and safe when with like kind.
That makes it safe for you to condescend,
mock and yet stay within your sphere of
knowledge.
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By: craigΔ on January 4, 2010
at 9:19 PM
no one’s puppet–you are most welcome to it! A friend of mine’s husband coined it years ago when his usually low maintenance wife got a manicure and pedicure, and I’ve always thought it summed “primping” stuff perfectly.
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By: Donna on January 4, 2010
at 9:06 PM
Interesting that the only regular dose of “hatred” and self-righteousness seems to generate from craig. Kinda funny how the hatriots can dish it out but boy! They have real hissy fits when challenged, ignored, mocked, snickered at, etc. . . I can almost see the crossed arms, the indignant stance, the pathetic pouting lip jutting forward, the nose in the air offended at being surrounded by “libruls”, the bristling anger, and most of all, smell their fear. How very sad to live a life whose undercurrent thrums with fear. . .
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By: Greytdog on January 4, 2010
at 9:05 PM
Grandma Katie and Donna, I concur. Donna, may I have your permission to appropriate your phrase, “full sheep dip” ? I love its simplicity!
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 4, 2010
at 9:04 PM
A friend sent me to your blog on Thanksgiving, and it is one of the things I am thankful for this year.
So, I am in a bookstore and a woman walks up to the counter and asks for Sarah Palin’s book…I will try to spell it the way she said it “Rouxge”…kind of a mix between a gumbo roux and rouge. The clerk stifled a chuckle and pointed toward the book’s location. I am sure that particular woman will love the book.
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By: Dianne on January 4, 2010
at 8:27 PM
Hi Grandma Katie. I hope you had a nice day.
I keep checking back for a new post from Margaret or Helen. I suppose it’s a lot of pressure, to have to keep hitting them out of the park!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 8:26 PM
“Full sheep dip” in my parlance means (a) blowdried hair and (b) makeup. Not much but certainly more than I would choose to do!
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By: Donna on January 4, 2010
at 8:25 PM
Grandma–I couldn’t agree more and intend to studiously observe those resolutions. And I wish you a very happy New Year.
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By: Donna on January 4, 2010
at 8:23 PM
Full sheep dip???? Ya lost me!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 8:23 PM
New Years REsolutions
1. Do not read trolls.
2. DO Not respond to trolls.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 4, 2010
at 8:20 PM
you and me both, Delurker. Pantyhose and the full sheep dip after 4 days in sweats and no makeup. Blech.
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By: Donna on January 4, 2010
at 8:10 PM
Man, the first day back to regular routine is exhausting! YAWN! My kids are wiped right out and so am I!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 7:58 PM
So JuneauJoe Δ ..I guess you believe this country only operates on the premise of going to war to get oil?
I don’t know your background and have not followed your comments long enough..but I presume your possibly a “native american”
possibly living in Alaska? Or at the least a native son of the great North.
Where and when did you drink the cool aid?
Did you march on washington in 67-72?
God forbid Mr. JOE ..I have no wishes for any more killings of americans..but from what I read here on this blog…people want to just lay blame for a war and a statement of “job well done”..when we know it wasn’t.
I cannot believe that a President would put our servicemen in a position just to accomplish a field of oil. That is abhorrent to me. I think the last little man was Hitler that had those wishes.
Are we as a nation…what to do with a religious/political movement that is hell bent on hurting Americans as much as they can?
At this point are you saying we should just pull our heads back into our shell and become a nation of people who will just have to wait for the next terrorist activity to be visited upon us?
I have to beg the question…
What is your position? Just say NO?
Act like we did not have 3000 plus killed?
Believe that “we” were all duped by our government and that THEY actually orchestrated
the attack on America that day?
The Cole Bombing
Embassies in Africa bombings
KobalKobar Towers in Saudi Arabia
The terrorist attacks in Pakistan visited upon their own people.
Bombings in Indonesis
Attempted repeat attacks on american airliners..
With all of the above…should we just put our hands up and say so sorry?
I just don’t understand the mindset that says..
“give peace a chance”
They want our throats cut on U-tube and airliners falling out of the skies and with no care as to how many innocents they have to kill.
They have no care as to driving a truck bomb amidst innocents playing soccer. And you want to
sit down and smoke a peace pipe?
They can not get enough blood..they are insatiable. I don’t know if you live in a teepee
had your head butted by a moose…?
And believe all white men speak with forked tongue..oh..and that goes back to the indian treaties..etc etc…
YOu got a hard on for this country it appears.
You think all people right of your center are out to get you and whatever you have..
I don’t think Margaret and Helen or whoever runs this blog site, designed it as to be a hate filled
site that is unforgiving to people to be so critical of others that they basically do not want a civil discourse..but want to rant and call people names.
As to feeling sorry..I feel sorry for you and many others..because there is a lot of pent up anger and hate being spewed.
I vote for the person and back the party that I feel may best protect my values and hopefully
taking into account that maybe not all voted for them..but are willing to save a place for them at the table and to share…not take away..
BUT also give to those who wanted to have a piece of the pie, with reservation, for those who should be held somewhat accountable for their time and contributions for making our country work for all..not just some.
But not a government give away. Socialism no!
You work and are rewarded.
YOu work harder and are rewarded more
But I cannot or do not want to see our country taken apart so that all whether they contributed or not get equal shares of pie.
I have not and do not intend to go to another right wing blog site.
This site from the start had some interesting and compelling issues. But lately hate has filled these
pages.
I have observed and perhaps misspoken at times
without knowing the full extent of another’s view.
My bad. I have made some non PC related remarks. I have repeated some jokes that have come my way..But I have not thrown out hate speech. I have not used the N word or the F word. I have seen my words taken out of context
and misinterpreted.
And that is what I have seen more lately than
original discourse. My wife has been attacked..
My comments about my personal history are true.
I have a son just out of the Navy and still remains
possibly for recall. I have led a professional life amidst a corporate civilian / military aircraft manufacturer. So what ever I may be called or labeled..I can and do sleep well at night.
But finally I do pray for many of my son’s friends who are still deployed. They are all volunteer..and I’m sure would much rather be home. But they are far more aware of the worlds threats than you or many others who do not give them credit.
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By: craigΔ on January 4, 2010
at 4:16 PM
Here is the link to that headline I posted.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/04/bush-officials-admit-they_n_410446.html
It’s not a great piece, so I didn’t post the link earlier, but since the discussion has continued I thought I’d share it and point out the reference to people being unwilling to support Obama’s policies for fear of Cheney.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 3:13 PM
If we listened to the NeoCons, we would be at war in Iran, North Korea and Yeman.
We would not go to war in Zimbabwe because they have no oil, even though the leader is a tyrant. There are probably a few more good wars which I missed.
I am with Poolman – pull them out. I think Bush kids and Cheney should be sent to fight as well, if we keep the wars going, which we will. Being a Neo-Con should mean they are off to war.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 4, 2010
at 3:01 PM
LMAO Donna. If that is what Bill Kristol said, then I believe it actually was a good idea. As a matter of fact, if we take everything Bill Kristol says and we do the opposite, we are probably going in the right direction, IMO. He thinks S’error is what this country needs. Many think he is her new ghost writer.
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By: Poolman on January 4, 2010
at 2:58 PM
Actually, Poolman–Bill Kristol said today that closing the embassy in Yemen was a “sign of weakness” and a “victory for Al Qaeda.” Unbelievable.
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By: Donna on January 4, 2010
at 2:48 PM
Reading in the NY Times: Lax Oversight Caused Crisis, Bernanke says (Fed Chief Is Seeking Greater Authority)
Then it goes on to say that regulatory failure, not low interest rates, was responsible for the housing bubble … and financial crisis.
Finally….
Any charges pending anywhere???? Curious.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 4, 2010
at 2:46 PM
That is pretty scary, Delurker Girl Δ. I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.
I think we ought to revisit Bush’s “Mission Accomplished” from May of 2003, declare the war is over, and get our fine young men and women back home. Then all those private contractors can play tiddly winks instead of profitting from our war status.
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By: Poolman on January 4, 2010
at 2:16 PM
Stepping around the bait pile…
How’s this for a scary headline? “Bush Officials Admit They Support Obama’s Counterterror Policies”
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 1:43 PM
Martha Unalaska Yard Sign
My we are brave on the internet now are we?
Whats with the shove it part..what did I say to you..?
Everyone today is concentrating on the anal side of things..
Lots of negativity.
Speaking of which are you all now deputies of Ranger DONNA?
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By: craigΔ on January 4, 2010
at 1:27 PM
Oh to feel the love.
JuneauJoe Δ FYI..
I actually applied,tested and was offered a job at TSA..Only issue was it was a split shift of 4 hrs on 2 hrs off and f hrs on again.
They actually do test you.
Doubt you could do it.
But the pat down I’ll leave to you.
AS far as 911 is everyone feeling that it was a US led effort?
Thats some crazy shit…of course..Pearl Harbor
and FDR..?
And Johnson throwing a parade for Kennedt inn Dallas ..so stranger things have happened..
But I’d really like to know about the nastiness
that is being pursued lately?
What gives …Is this not the caring Left?
And why the nasty attitude.
Seems like everyone has their panties in a wad here..as If I had shit in your rice bowl or something.
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By: craigΔ on January 4, 2010
at 1:23 PM
One final note: UAW – observations 1&2 were my chats with you. The final point – not directed to you. Just wanted to clear that up. Are you still up in the frozen north? No snow here in FL – but it’s almost 2PM here and the temp is only 42. UGH
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By: Greytdog on January 4, 2010
at 12:56 PM
Welcome to 2010. UAW glad to see you posting after the holidays – even in my drug-befuddled state of mind, I disagree with you 🙂 Wouldn’t we have a fun time shooting the breeze?
Anyway, everyone, – let’s review:
1. Rush Limbaugh, Nancy Pelosi, Newt Gingrich, the Late Ted Kennedy all enjoyed the same access to healthcare. Whoopee. Healthcare reform is NOT about making sure the wealthiest among us have access to healthcare. It’s about making sure that poorest among us have affordable access to the same quality of healthcare. Oh i can access top quality healthcare through my ER – in fact had to recently. A CTScan at the ER is apprx. $1700 – does not include radiology fees, radiologist reading, or his consult w/attending physician. That’s just for the act of laying on the table and scanning. Same test done offsite or w/insurance: $275. That’s what healthcare reform is about – AFFORDABILITY. As it stands now, when I do have my next heart attack and/or stroke, I cannot go to the ER – because I will be paying off this bill (not just the CT Scan bill) for at least the next 3 years. As Grayson said, if you get sick, die quickly. Cuz otherwise without reform, the costs will kill you.
2. Weather patterns are not the same thing as global warming. GLobal warming, on the other hand, does have a direct affect on weather patterns – which is why climatologists also look at such things as ocean temps, acidity of the ocean, depth of polar ice, measuring ozone, carbon emission layers (amazing to read and frightening) within the atmosphere & the affects of pollutants on such things as species adaptation & mutation, species extinction & its impact on ecosystems, etc. So learn to look at the big picture – learn to connect the dots.
You don’t have to like the facts. You can spew your verbal diarrhea all you want to – but it won’t change the facts. But if you would rather slop through your own feces, feel free to do so. But please, don’t keep expecting us to pick up your shit and dispose of it for you. Be responsible & learn to scoop your own poop. It’s the very least you could do for the world.
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By: Greytdog on January 4, 2010
at 12:53 PM
Came back to shove Craig’s piece of pie up his nose. There, it’s done.
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on January 4, 2010
at 12:36 PM
Cool site, Poolman. It was new to me.
Factcheck.org is non-partisan, Craig. Don’t be so passive.
JuneauJoe, don’t let yourself be manipulated into a reaction. Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig likes it! 😀
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 12:33 PM
craigΔ, you seem to have a lot of time on your hands. Here is what I consider an excellent source for learning some facts and history regarding current events and news from the last few decades. I have concentrated mainly on the 9/11 stuff, but this site is chock-full of all kinds of stuff, all referenced with nice links and well organized. Dig in.
http://www.wanttoknow.info/911information
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By: Poolman on January 4, 2010
at 11:56 AM
“waiting for the next airliner to fall out of the skies”
Craig: You are one sick individual. I feel sorry for you! Very sorry!
Facts are facts!
Craig: You can put in for the job to feel people crotches at the airport!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 4, 2010
at 11:33 AM
Another look at the Bush – Cheney decade.
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2010/01/04-8
THERE WERE NO WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION FOUND!! The Iraq war was started with LIES!!
The cost of the Iraq War is 1 Billion and climbing. A bit higher than the 500 Million total cost we were told to expect.
I think we could have bought a lot of health insurance for that. Actually, uninsured folks truly could have gotten the help that Rush got if we had used the Iraq War money.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 4, 2010
at 11:11 AM
Facts don’t lean left or right. Choosing to ignore them doesn’t change them. Thanks Delurker Girl Δ for the fact check on social security. Apparently this misinformation is some of the stuff being passed around in right wing circles. This ss stuff is in addition to all the other garbage that is untrue being passed around. I guess it seems if you hear it or read it enough, somehow bullshit becomes credible. It sure is the Palin way, as has been noted. We saw that big time with the health insurance debate. I don’t think the voters on the right know how to fact check, and their leaders are using that to whip them into a frenzy. Lemmings, I say.
I also think, like in WMD and Al Qaeda, there is an large effort by the leaders on the right to provide this misinformation. Propaganda. It is intentional and counter-productive, causing us to get side-tracked on nonissues. I am growing weary of this game perpetrated by the real criminals of our freedom.
Thanks JJ for the list of criminals that in a true democracy or republic would be in jail for what they did, and in some cases are continuing to do to undermine America and humanity. It is a mockery to justice. May God deliver to them swiftly their due rewards, I pray.
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By: Poolman on January 4, 2010
at 11:08 AM
Smug are we not.
Gosh..Had no idea there was a one stop shopping place for debunking…as long as it fits your
beliefs.
Thanks.
I guess that Fact check will say there is no OBAMA birth certificate..as well as no Osama bin Laden
or Easter Bunny.
If you don’t look for WMD’s there won’t be any.
Just waiting for the next airliner to fall out of the skies…and CHANGE
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By: craigΔ on January 4, 2010
at 10:53 AM
No problem, JuneauJoe. It took less time to debunk it than to read it. 😀
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 10:46 AM
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2009/12/22-6
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 4, 2010
at 10:17 AM
DeLurker girl: Thanks for the fact check!
Here is another The 10 worst of the Bush Decade:http://www.commondreams.org/view/2009/12/22-6
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 4, 2010
at 10:16 AM
Iraq: The Bush admin said it would cost less than 500 Million and it would be short. We would be greeted as liberators. Weapons of Mass Destruction and Bin Laden!!! Republicans and truth?????
http://thinkprogress.org/the-architects-where-are-they-now/
At least Soc Security helps people and does not blow up their homes.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 4, 2010
at 9:59 AM
http://www.factcheck.org/2009/03/fdrs-voluntary-social-security/
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 4, 2010
at 9:57 AM
Our Social Security
Franklin Delano Roosevelt
(Terms of Office March 4, 1933, to April 12, 1945),
a Democrat, introduced Social Security (FICA) Program.. He Promised:
1.) That participation in the Program would be Completely voluntary,
2.) That the participants would only have to pay 1% of the first $1,400 of their annual Incomes into the Program,
3.) That the money the participants elected to put Into the Program would be deductible from their income for tax purposes each year,
4.) That the money the participants put into the Independent ‘Trust Fund’ rather than into the General operating fund, and therefore, would Only be used to fund the Social Security Retirement Program, and no other Government program, and
5.) That the annuity payments to the retirees would never be taxed as income.
Since many of us have paid into FICA for years and are now receiving a Social Security check every month — and then finding that we are getting taxed on 85% of the money we paid to the Federal government to ‘Put Away’ — you may be interested in the following:
Question: Which Political Party took Social Security from the Independent ‘Trust Fund’ and put it into the General Fund so that Congress could spend it?
Answer: It was you bet: Lyndon B. Johnson
(Democrat, Term of Office: 22 November 1963 to 20 January 1969) and the democratically Controlled House and Senate.
Question: Which Political Party eliminated the income tax Deduction for Social Security
(FICA) withholding?
Answer: The Democratic Party.
Question: Which Political Party decided to start giving Annuity payments to immigrants?
AND MY FAVORITE:
ANSWER: That’s right! JAMES EARL CARTER, JR. (JIMMY CARTER) DEMOCRAT, TERM OF OFFICE: 20 JANUARY 1977 TO 20 JANUARY 1981 AND THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY.
IMMIGRANTS MOVED INTO THIS COUNTRY, AND AT AGE 65, BEGAN TO RECEIVE SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENTS:
THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY GAVE THESE PAYMENTS TO THEM, EVEN THOUGH THEY NEVER PAID A DIME INTO IT!
Then, after violating the original contract (FICA), the Democrats turn around and tell you that the Republicans want to take your Social Security away!
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By: CraigΔ on January 4, 2010
at 9:37 AM
From Mike Lupica calling Cheney a “has been”
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/2010/01/04/2010-01-04_only_cheney_would_now_spew_poison_hasbeens_rants_vs_obama_politicize_terror.html
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By: Dawn on January 4, 2010
at 5:20 AM
Been lurking for over 2 months now. I find it positively and absolutely amazing at the behaviors one will sink to for attention.
I must applaud the current level of restraint and discipline being practiced by the regulars. However, as with Ann Coulter, a platform is extended eventually.
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By: farsight Δ on January 4, 2010
at 12:22 AM
John Brennan tells Cheney he is full of crap!
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/34672954#34672954
Cheney deserves it! He had 8 years of failed policies and now he knows all.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 3, 2010
at 11:56 PM
UAW man..I must say you have a way with the lady..I mean Ranger of this blog.
She can cut ya off with just a word to Matthew.
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By: craigΔ on January 3, 2010
at 11:00 PM
Gosh I’d love to interject, but its amusing just to watch the carnage.
Better than a car race at Talladega.
Just waiting for the wreck.
Gosh Donna.
Your talking “Johnson’s”
What depth next?
And you want to call me out?
What lady is thou?
…and Your glad he’s back?
My our standards have changed in the last 24 hours.
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By: craigΔ on January 3, 2010
at 10:46 PM
The decades missed opportunities
.http://www.reasongonemad.com/columns/2010/1/1/the-decades-missed-opportunities.html (Another look at the past decade.)
I find it interesting that right wingnuts only want to consider the last year. They are silent on the republican accomplishments of the last decade.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 3, 2010
at 10:06 PM
well, UAW, aren’t you the crabby one tonight? If I recall correctly (and doubtless you’ll let me know if I’m wrong), you’ve provoked some strong negative feelings and words. But you’ve also provoked some strongly positive ones. And I truly don’t recall discussion of your johnson.
Be that as it may, glad you are back.
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By: Donna on January 3, 2010
at 9:12 PM
rush limbaugh got the same medical coverage as nancy pelosi and ted kennedy
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By: uaw tradesman on January 3, 2010
at 8:52 PM
Rush Limbaugh (400 Million dollar contract) got the same medical treatment as the 50+ Million uninsured! Really???
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/kurtz-and-panel-mock-limbaugh-saying-he-di
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 3, 2010
at 8:40 PM
Palin Update: http://theimmoralminority.blogspot.com/2010/01/turth-and-consequences-in-blogosphere.html
Palin is great at telling lies. After her book, it has been interesting to see Alaskans mentioned in her book, as well as McCain campain folks reaction.
Palin talks about birth certificates of Presidents but will not show the birth certificate of her baby.
She trashes Levi as a Porn Star but does exactly the same thing with her wonderful dresses and sexy heels. The winks are wonderful too – very Presidential.
Here is Bree Palin’s blog for additional Alaskan input about Sarah.
http://breepalin.blogspot.com/2010/01/questions-and-curiosities-about-tripp.html
The Palin Soap Opera continues…….
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 3, 2010
at 8:17 PM
love that global warming going on right now
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By: uaw tradesman on January 3, 2010
at 8:07 PM
donna….do you really want me to go through all the post since appx 1-01-09…..
I’ve not only had my privates put up for discussion I’ve also had my racist ideas,my homophobia,etc. brought up for discussion….. and if you need a hint I probabaly said something about you having some intelligent DNA in your head but you then spit it out…..
and I still don’t put up with BULLSHIT after my wife passed away….
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By: uaw tradesman on January 3, 2010
at 8:02 PM
Beautifully put!
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By: Donna on January 3, 2010
at 6:17 PM
Donna and Delurker Girl Δ, I think it is good that the right has become observant. But you are correct, they do not know anything about recent history or small things we like to refer to as facts.
In all fairness though, they were traveling first class with Elephant Airways for the past 8 years. They could see us in the back, but chose to close the curtain and plug in the headphones and enjoy the movie. Not really concerned how high or fast the plane was flying. Everything was peachy, as long as they could have a pillow and a snack. They didn’t have to discomfort themselves in their plush and roomy lazyboys, and could snooze in luxury in between martinis.
Not until that flight had landed and they were in the airport terminal, did they notice that their wallet was stolen, their baggage was missing, toilet paper was stuck to their shoe, and their connecting flight had been canceled. Now they’re angry and taking it out on the ground crew that just came in to start the new day shift.
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By: Poolman on January 3, 2010
at 5:37 PM
Delurker–you are so right. And, of course, Bush waited 6 days before uttering a peep about Richard Reid and the same people were criticizing President Obama for waiting half that time (and allowing there to be a determination of what happened) before commenting on the underwear bomber.
But it isn’t just the talk show folks–it’s the politicians who were fine having terrorists tried in civilian court before. But not now.
The inconsistency and hypocrisy are stunning.
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By: Donna on January 3, 2010
at 4:48 PM
Rookie president Bush was not blamed for 9/11… in fact the biggest attack with the largest loss of civilian life on American soil was viewed as a time when Bush stood up and ‘kept us safe’.
Will the same be said about the President Obama and the failed underwear bomber from Yemin, who never stood a chance of killing as many people as were killed on 9/11?
Somehow the radio shock jerks will attempt to declare the opposite. Out of thousands of warnings arriving every day, this one should have been viewed as immediately important when the 9/11 bombers couldn’t have been seen coming from a mile away.
Interesting contrast.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 3, 2010
at 4:31 PM
Fortunately UAW man..No ..
I have not seen anything like that.
Targeted yes..and because I’m the stink on the porch in the brown paper bag that someone lit and stomped on.
I think most..I think most do not want to go there.
I don’t usually like to give someone the pleasure that “they” have gotten to me.
If so… then I have empowered them.
Ya know…I have tried to be cute,comical..dry witted and even push buttons. And when I have asked questions more often than not..I’m ignored. Which I guess is their way of communicating with the “other side”
I have challenged some..and every one has an opinion..its just that theirs is always right and YOU are some dumbass who should just go away and get on back to your right wing ,republican blog. Of which I have never visited.
I find it more intriguing to listen to what my detractors have to say.
But the Palin thing seems to be a hang up on this blog. I think that mostly its because probably 85% of the participants here are female and left of center.
You can always find fault with someone.
And that is easily done here.
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By: craigΔ on January 3, 2010
at 2:47 PM
UAW: I defy you to find one instance where anyone has ever said a word about your private parts. And you know perfectly well that you are loved here even when people disagree vehemently with you.
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By: Donna on January 3, 2010
at 1:24 PM
JuneauJoe….
first smart thing every mentioned on Countdown——-course Keith was not there……
yes….we need to profile these people……some people would disagree with this….we don’t have to “pat-down” grandma…….we just need to make the”tarrerist” disappear….
as far as Rev. Wright and his “GOD DAMN AMERICA” and “THE CHICKENS HAVE COME HOME TO ROOST” I feel he was talking about the educational system in the U.S. and I think we could eliminate more waste and fraud from it than from Medicare……maybe M&H should write about schools(and shit-for-brains teachers) instead of Palin…..do some good for once instead of “feel-good” issues…..
craig…I haven’t noticed if they’ve attacked your penis size yet…..it’s a habit with “them”
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By: uaw tradesman on January 3, 2010
at 12:31 PM
As a Canadian living on the U.S.-Canada border, I follow the American news closely. (sad to say, but I probably know more about American politics than Canadian)
I looove your blog. You always seem to hit the nail on the head. ( You two should run as a team in 2012)
I was soooo relieved when Obama became President.
I watched with amusement, whenever Sarah Palin spoke.
Imagine my shock and horror when I heard she was coming to speak in Canada – Hamilton, Ontario in Feb. for a hospital fundraiser!! (this has since been changed to a Children’s Charity, after strong protests – here was someone who criticized the Canadian medical system, speaking at a hospital fundraiser!)
I can’t imagine anyone would pay $200.00 to hear her speak.
She says the Canadian government run health care system should be dismantled. She has NO clue. It’s bad enough that she thinks she knows American politics, but she should butt out of ours!
(I know she feels because she lives next to Canada that she knows a lot about our country)
Please, Margaret and Helen, what can we do??
I would much rather have either of you two come and speak.
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By: misskizzy on January 3, 2010
at 11:56 AM
This history of the current Christmas Bomber is quite good.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036677/#34636625
there is so much about the background that the Cheney/ Bush folks want us to forget.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 3, 2010
at 11:24 AM
Here is a site which makes reading on your computer easier. You can enlarge the print pretty easily.
Check it out. It seems to work too.
http://lab.arc90.com/experiments/readability/
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 3, 2010
at 9:09 AM
An article about the past decade and how Republican rules negatively impact job creation.
Aughts were a lost decade for U.S. economy, workers, Washington Post, By Neil Irwin
January 2, 2010
For most of the past 70 years, the U.S. economy has grown at a steady clip, generating perpetually higher incomes and wealth for American households. But since 2000, the story is starkly different. The past decade was the worst for the U.S. economy in modern times, a sharp reversal from a long period of prosperity that is leading economists and policymakers to fundamentally rethink the underpinnings of the nation’s growth.
It was, according to a wide range of data, a lost decade for American workers.
http://1boringoldman.com/index.php/2010/01/02/3747/
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 3, 2010
at 8:52 AM
Enjoying the posts!
On another subject, it looks like “preserve the sanctity of marriage” applies to only preventing same sex marriage. Karl Rove has blown through his second marriage. Not that I’m gleeful about a marriage ending, but geez, concentrate on preserving your own, not preventing someone else’s.
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By: dawn on January 3, 2010
at 1:11 AM
It is hilarious. I just cracked up.
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By: Donna on January 2, 2010
at 8:22 PM
LiladyNY over at the Mudflats posted this link from NPR’s “Wait, wait…don’t tell me” Sarah Palin Surprises Again
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By: Poolman on January 2, 2010
at 7:39 PM
I have been reading your posts oon tolerance. I much prefer the way I was raised. Everyone was to be treated with respect regardless of their beliefs, color or religion. My parents were raised in the earle part of the 1900’s in the middle west when predujice was the excepted way of thinking. I had been married and had children when I found out sideways that they were very prejudiced. It never had been a subject for discussion. My mother would have been totally shocked to face the fact of biracial great grandchildren. BUT she would have accepted them gracefully , bit her tongue and you would have never known. When she got to know them she would have been proud of their accomplishments.
Again, RESPECT.
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By: Grandma Katie on January 2, 2010
at 7:07 PM
Hey Poolman,
The Teaching Tolerance link is a good one. I am a subscriber to their magazine. It has great articles and I love the artwork. I’ve used the artwork as a basis for many an art project with my students.
Tolerance and Acceptance. Feels like two different things to me. I’ve usually seen them as positions with a line in between. One goes up to a line and the other steps across with an open hand. As an educator, I’ve always tried to expand the tolerance so that it overlaps that line and blends in with acceptance. It’s a difficult concept for young kids to understand.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 2, 2010
at 5:09 PM
Rachel Maddow speaks about wingnuts past, present and future.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/rachel-maddow-vows-keep-shining-light-righ
She is on the job for us!!!! Thank You Rachel!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 2, 2010
at 3:57 PM
UP North the black eyed peas were reserved for slopping hogs…never as a food stuff reserved for the dinner table.
Then the Civil War…
The practice of eating black-eyed peas for luck is generally believed to date back to the Civil War.
At first planted as food for livestock, and later a food staple for slaves in the South, the fields of black-eyed peas were ignored as Sherman’s troops destroyed or stole other crops, thereby giving the humble, but nourishing, black-eyed pea an important role as a major food source for surviving Confederates.
Today, the tradition of eating black-eyed peas for the New Year has evolved into a number of variations and embellishments of the luck and prosperity theme.
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By: craigΔ on January 2, 2010
at 2:17 PM
Happy Saturday everyone! These holidays do make it hard to know what day it is. I hope we are all ready to make this year a good and productive one. No silly superstitions for good luck here. I am not real fond of black-eyed peas – the legume or the group – but I tolerate them. However, the Italian male in me finds one Fergalicious, I must admit. 😉
Sherri Δ, I guess I understand a broader meaning of tolerance, more like alaskapi described and as linked here: 1. acceptance of different views: the acceptance of the differing views of other people, e.g. in religious or political matters, and fairness toward the people who hold these different views
I found this site for teachers and was curious if you or vgmanΔ are familiar with it and what your opinion might be.
http://www.tolerance.org/
We had nothing similar way back when I was still in school. Of course the internet didn’t exist. Attempts were made to educate us on race primarily, but those were feeble and handled poorly. I did read the book “Black Like Me” and that made an impression. In all fairness though, I attended ten different schools, so much time was spent adjusting to different curriculums, making new friends, and playing catch-up or Déjà vu.
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By: Poolman on January 2, 2010
at 1:35 PM
Sherri, not to worry. I posted only to have my voice heard in the argument over banning people from posting. I prefer my discussion to be philosophical and in diverse face-to-face groups. My two cents was over with my previous post. So post away!
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By: Gale on January 2, 2010
at 11:17 AM
Tolerance is much more than
“Tolerance, by definition, means “I am right and you are wrong , but I will not actively oppose you. But I’m still right and you’re still wrong.””
By definition it implies openess to the Other.
If we have allowed the used definition/meaning to contract to the thin shell of animosity contained above , we have work to do to make the broader meaning live again – in language and action.
I do not think we are going to get to inclusion and the parity of all without getting to tolerance first.
I’m not sure we’re going to get there anyway… but we are not going to get there without tolerance.
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By: alaskapi on January 2, 2010
at 11:07 AM
Bilnd Side is the best movie I’ve seen in a very long time. I really enjoyed it, Sherri!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 2, 2010
at 10:25 AM
Last post of the day, lest Gale starts thinking I’m the host/moderator…
Speaking of acceptance & inclusion, if you have not yet seen “The Blind Side” you should! I know the criticisms it is receiving are vast, but it truly is a beautiful story of acceptance and inclusion simply for the sake of valuing the humanity in one another. May we all be so inclined!
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By: Sherri Δ on January 2, 2010
at 10:22 AM
Before anyone else corrects me, of course “ti” should be “to” and “whoever” should be “whomever” — darn arthritic fingers this morning!
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By: Sherri Δ on January 2, 2010
at 10:16 AM
Sherri,
I’m sure the Black Eyed Peas (music edition) will be enough! It’s the spirit that counts!
Lori,
Your stories of traditions had me smiling this morning. Thanks.
Have a good weekend everyone. The holidays make the days seem a bit off. It feels like Monday morning today.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 2, 2010
at 10:16 AM
Poolman — you are well-intentioned, and I give you kudos for that. However, I do not wish to either give or receive tolerance in twenty-ten.
Tolerance, by definition, means “I am right and you are wrong , but I will not actively oppose you. But I’m still right and you’re still wrong.” The problem with that is no one’s thinking changes — the “tolerant” one simply decides to “tolerate” offensive actions quietly instead of vocally.
What is wrong with expanding one’s worldview enough ti believe neither of us (“us” being whoever has differences of any sort) are right or wrong — we are simply different? Instead of, “I tolerate you” why not, “I accept you!”?
I do not wish anyone a year of tolerance. I wish everyone a year — a lifetime — of acceptance and inclusion.
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By: Sherri Δ on January 2, 2010
at 10:14 AM
Donna, JuneauJoe, vgman — I’m a bit late responding to your posts, but thank you for your kind words.
vgman — I am also an English teacher. I wish you the best of luck finishing up your grading this weekend and a wonderful return to the classroom Monday!
Lori — I listened to the Black Eyed Peas on 1/01 for good luck — does that count?!?
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By: Sherri Δ on January 2, 2010
at 10:05 AM
Ohh I almost forgot. On Christmas eve we burn bayberry candles all the way down to the socket of the candle stick holder. The candles go into the bathtub while we go to midnight mass if not completely burned to the socket by the time we leave. 😉
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By: lori on January 2, 2010
at 4:52 AM
Honey, yep pork on New Years Day so that we root ahead and no chicken so we don’t scratch all year. My family was Italian and we lived in an area of the country that was rich in many cultures. Polish, Hungarian, Czech, Irish… we had it all…It runs in my mind that you eat pork so you root ahead comes from the Slovak culture. I only say this because I know my childhood neighborhood was mostly Slovak and they all followed this tradition too. We also put coins on the window sill before the New Year and bring them in on New Years Day to make sure we bring in money all year round. We sweep the house clean and throw away the broom the first thing on New Years Day. 😉 We are busy bees on New Year’s Day aren’t we???
When we relocated to Texas from NY my husband’s new employer gave us a Christmas food basket. In it were all the things needed to ensure a lovely Christmas/New years holiday. Included in the basket was a can of black eyed peas. Me, being a Yank had never heard of black eyed peas let alone know what to do with them. I soon learned black eye peas were eaten on New Years Day in the south to bring good luck. My new Texan friends shared their favorite recipes with me and faithfully every year I would put the dish on my New Years table and every year I made everyone at least put a spoonful on their plate and every year after dinner I would scrap the peas into the trash hoping I hadn’t doomed us to a year of misery. 😉 I have since relocated to Michigan and I did LOOK for the black eyed peas at our local grocery store this year but they were no where to be found in my little village. Hopefully the New Years spirits will understand my dilemma and be spared any doom!
Anyone else have any strange traditions for New Years?
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By: lori on January 2, 2010
at 4:42 AM
“and this supposed “Christian” is the one who, on tape, made jokes about Karla Faye Tucker (“pwease dont’ kill me!”). Now she did murder and I can appreciate that not everyone shares my opposition to the death penalty. But he was making fun of someone when the state was going to kill her–reflective of what a callow person he really was”
Donna – THANK YOU!!!! I’m always stunned that more people aren’t bothered by this. I would think that even people who are adamantly pro-death penalty would still believe in the sanctity of human life eough to not make fun of someone just before you execute them. And these are the same people who want the legal right to stake claim over a woman’s uterus based on the sanctity of human life. Again, oh the inconsistency!!!
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By: HoneyJoRumples on January 1, 2010
at 9:57 PM
Donating blood is easy and not very painful. If anything, it’s a bit boring. And I say this as a person who has ‘cocker spaniel veins’ – hard to hit, with a tendence to roll away at the slightest encouragement.
I’m AB neg and donate when I get the chance. It’s a little harder now, since we’re only a one-car household and I don’t work at a place currently that supports blood drives. During the eighties, when both my DH and I got laid off, I actually sold blood at a plasma center. They showed movies during the process. Once, it was “The Shining” – a film I would never have seen otherwise. My feeling is, if they advise viewer discretion, they mean me……..
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By: judith on January 1, 2010
at 9:15 PM
Dear Helen, Margaret and gang,
I trust your holidays turned out to be as wonderful as you had hoped. We had a great time with the part of our family that came out from California. I must admit, though, that these two old octogenarians had a hard time keeping up the pace and didn’t want to cramp their style. So we just turned them loose on the beaches or whatever and took a nap until dinnertime. Worked out fine for everyone.
Now….. thud. There is nothing quite so OVER as the holidays when they are over. We are caught up in the mess of Christmas debris and denuding the house of decorations. It’s starting to look downright naked around here! How come it is so festive putting them up but such a drag taking them all down, packing them away and storing them for another year.
At least we have stored away a lot of beautiful memories of these holidays to tide us over through the inevitable rough patches that will surely arise in the New Year.
I would like to say that this past year has been a memorable one for me, partly because of this blog almost from its inception and the dear friends I have made. It is a privilege to have been invited, first into Helen and Margaret’s parlor, and then when so many showed up, to have moved out onto the porch. We have had delicious varieties of pies and conversations. Perhaps most important, we have learned to know each other personally and I think I speak for most when I say we truly care about one another. I have had an opportunity to meet my friends here from many walks of life and from all over this vast country of ours. That is something rare that few of us would otherwise have a chance to do.
Let’s face it. Most of us go through our lives pretty much in one locality with its mores and customs, and a limited circle of family, friends and work. Thanks to you, Helen and Margaret; for the most part, many of us here have expanded our horizons through sharing our experiences and sometimes intimate thoughts in a warm, accepting environment. We have given each other information that we would not otherwise have access to. I appreciate and value our relationships.
With these musings, I wish all of you a very Happy New Year. I think we have helped make a difference by talking not only here on the blog but out and about the country with our compatriots. Lets keep it up, get out there and give ‘em a lick in 2010!!!!!
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on January 1, 2010
at 9:10 PM
A new website just launched and I wanted to invite anyone interested to check it out.
“The Whisper of Native American stories, the Thunder of stories that demand to be told… ”
http://www.whispernthunder.org/WhispernThunder_Welcome.html
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By: Poolman on January 1, 2010
at 4:26 PM
OK…Then is 2 wage earners and 2 kids
300K in the middle or above the middle class level or is that rich?
below 70K with two children and both wage earners..considered poverty?
Is 500K the demarcation of rich?
Do we go by the persons house who has 4 bedrooms 2 mercedes in the drive and say
he should not have that much?
I’ve just been trying to find out who the takers are.. and who the distributors are?
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By: craigΔ on January 1, 2010
at 4:25 PM
jsri, good to hear from you again. Giving blood is a very noble cause. My eldest daughter gives blood all the time. Me, not so much. I can count the times I have donated on one hand. I have always had a problem with needles. I even have to close my eyes in the movies when shots are being administered. It makes me queasy and causes my skin to crawl.
My wife used to donate blood all the time until once they claimed she had hepatitis non A – non B, now known as C. Even though she was cleared by her physician and that was over 20 years ago, she is still black-listed and no one will take her donation.
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By: Poolman on January 1, 2010
at 3:53 PM
JJ, I am good with the top ten list you posted a link to today at 11:17 AM, except for number 10. I will hold out on my opinion of Obama for a bit longer. I know how determined and articulate he is and I am hopeful he will make the changes he campaigned on in time. There are minor tweaks in the right direction, and I am praying that we are moving in a more righteous path. I haven’t given up hope, despite how muddy the water still is.
Cheney should be imprisoned, IMO. He is trying to put a spin on his legacy and knows if all the truth is revealed, he won’t be able to stop the masses from demanding he pay with his own cold blood. W was just a puppet manipulated by Cheney and company to advance their agenda. Their agenda has been documented in many sources over many years, and much of our recent history has followed its very layout.
I support bringing criminal investigations and charges against them. A true independent investigation. Not like the sham that was done with 9/11.
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By: Poolman on January 1, 2010
at 3:40 PM
Time out folks!!! The negativity flowing through this blog is becoming depressing.
Even though I agree with most of the assessments laid on the resident trolls by other commentators, I’ve decided that the time to ignore the trolls has arrived. There are too many positive things to do that don’t involve continually revisiting their ugly negativity.
My absence from the blog for the past few months has been due to my involvement in activities at the nearby regional blood bank where I am one of a number of volunteer couriers, transporting blood from donation sites to the Blood Center’s processing facilities. It is a time consuming but satisfying activity simply because it may actually help save someone’s life.
I’m not a stranger to donating blood. I began in 1946 when I was still in the Navy and donated on and off for the next 45 years. But when my wife was first taken ill in 2001 I began to schedule donations on a recurring 8-9 week basis and during the intervening years have managed to leave behind about five gallons of blood. And I have never had an adverse reaction from donating.
It is an unremarkably simple procedure and the whole process takes less than an hour from beginning to end. And one hour every second month is not a significant time commitment. Although potential donors make up about 45% of the population, only about 5% participate. Age is not an issue and medications are rarely disqualifying.
If anyone has any questions about eligibility I’ll take a shot at an answer. But think seriously about it as a New Year’s resolution. It beats troll baiting.
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By: jsri on January 1, 2010
at 3:27 PM
To answer the question about redistribution, one could do it with factual checking of income levels and argue about the assigning of class nomikers to any group of people……
But the general idea still remains. We can all agree that the flow of money in this country went straight to the top with the manipulation and encouragement of the former administration.
That can not be denied.
Bush, IMO, did nothing to help the American people improve their overall lot in life. His intention was to fill the pockets of those who propped him up.
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By: vgmanΔ on January 1, 2010
at 3:13 PM
Amen, Poolman.
And happy 2010 to all! 🙂
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By: Δ¥ Tine on January 1, 2010
at 3:11 PM
As a Christian, I am instructed to be tolerant of others, whether I agree with them or not. It is a lesson that needs to be practiced and revisited often.
“Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing TOLERANCE for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1-3
Without tolerance, we practice oppression. And we know where that leads, if we have studied any history. Tolerance requires that we must always watch where we step, as the path can sometimes be dimly lit.
“The tolerance paradox arises from the problem that a tolerant person is antagonistic toward intolerance, hence intolerant of it. The tolerant individual is by definition intolerant of intolerance, but in so being must be intolerant of himself. This problem is at the heart of the dilemma faced by pluralist societies who wish to embrace diversity, but in doing so ostensibly exclude those who do not embrace diversity, which includes a large portion of the world’s population.”
By choosing to ban one or something we find offensive, we are curtailing our own freedom. I have said before that I prefer variety. When I turn on the TV or radio, I can find a lot of offensive programs. I choose the ones that appeal to me, but acknowledge that the others have their audience. As long as they are not forced on me, I can tolerate them. The same holds true when I go to a bookstore, a grocery store, or clothes shopping. Not everything on the shelf is my cup of tea, but I can find the things I want among the variety that is available. That is one of the things that make this country great. Variety. Tolerance.
May this new year give us all a greater gift of tolerance, I pray.
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By: Poolman on January 1, 2010
at 3:03 PM
Quotations from the last decade:
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2010/01/01-1
10. “They frankly own the place.” — Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill., in 2009 admitting the taboo about banks’ influence in Congress.
9. “Haven’t we already given money to rich people … Shouldn’t we be giving money to the middle?” — President George W. Bush in November 2002, acknowledging to advisers that he knew his tax cuts were giveaways to the super-wealthy.
8. “Keep your government hands off my Medicare.” — Anti-health care protester at an August 2009 congressional town hall meeting in South Carolina — the single most succinct sign that our country has become an Idiocracy.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 2:50 PM
JuneauJoe Δ
“Donna: Another change was the redistribution of wealth from the middle class to the top 1 %. The Republican way!!!
By dollars ..Please define middle class?
Two family 2 kids wage earner family.
What is middle class? Dollar wise?
Would really like to see what people think is the middle income bearing class?
Then also what salary and up is the top 1%?
I would also like to know that?
Its a legitimate question.
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By: craigΔ on January 1, 2010
at 2:27 PM
One last link: Cheney is talking crap and he is called out! He blew it during his 8 years in office and he has no credibility.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/tanya-acker-slams-terry-holt-his-defense-d
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 2:22 PM
I hope Helen and Margaret’s next post is about the past decade.
I see it as a time when crazy was normal as long as the wealthy made more money. The gain in wealth came at the expense of the middle and lower class.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 1:47 PM
I see Cheney at the one who set the policies.
Bush was the hand puppet which Cheney would hold with his hand. Bush was on vacation and Cheney and Rumsfeld set the policy, in my mind.
Bush was there for the ride and to show Daddy Bush that he was a kick ass guy. Jr had to prove he was Mr.Macho.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 1:24 PM
Sorry but I want to respond to a blog from a couple of weeks ago
To James, posted Dec. 11, 8:22 am
The problem here is a failure to communicate. I agree with your premise that we need to come together, but then you try to get real witty with your writing. What exactly are you trying to say? In one breath we need to come together, and the next has a snide remark.
Your on a mission of peace and next your gnashing your teeth wanting to wipe the smirks off their faces.
You go on and on about hypocrisy and how things have got to change, while at the same time insulting us … ” You probably thought I meant you. You did. Didn’t you? ( some more insults) but I wasn’t. You were, but I wasn’t.
sorry but you would have to read it.
Maybe you were just setting the stage to get your point across.
But in the end your going to do better,do something different. Even in your conclusions, your hurling insults and being combative. I guess the most reveling was your defense of Glen Beck.
You should read your own letter to yourself. Especially the part on being objective and digging for the truth.
I myself am in my fifties, and have to say, you don’t sound like you are.Where is your wisdom? As far as being jaded, everyone has their point of view but the idea of a democracy is to respect the other view. Even cherish it. Then maybe you can come to some form of agreement.
For the people, by the people.
You say hypocrisy. I say respect.
Once you have respect, that takes care of hypocrisy. Your left and right shows, no matter how right or wrong, are lacking in respect. Find a format w/respect and your going to hear both sides in a civilized manner. Only then are you going to find YOUR TRUTH.
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By: tanya on January 1, 2010
at 1:22 PM
and Bush paved the way for the “Muslims are evil” and “gutter religion” and similar canards.
So, why is Cheney so vociferous in defending what they did? As opposed to quietly going away?
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 1:14 PM
Here is another link about the Stolen 2000 election.
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2009/12/31-0
The Palm Beach Post, which conducted its own review of the ballots and also participated in a review by a consortium of media outlets, concluded: “Uncounted ballots and voter confusion cost Gore the election.”
Actually, that’s not quite right.
The Supreme Court’s blocking of the full and consistent recount that could have sorted through the confusion cost Al Gore an election. But the consequences were far greater for the republic, which lost a decade of its promise and possibility to the excesses and abuses of George Bush’s illegitimate presidency.
Bush was big on the ‘My God can kick the shit out of your God’ mentality. Muslim = enemy. Muslims make up 1/2 of the worlds population
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 12:54 PM
and this supposed “Christian” is the one who, on tape, made jokes about Karla Faye Tucker (“pwease dont’ kill me!”). Now she did murder and I can appreciate that not everyone shares my opposition to the death penalty. But he was making fun of someone when the state was going to kill her–reflective of what a callow person he really was.
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 12:41 PM
Donna,
I am with you there. I had some surreal discussions with relatives.
They were playing the religious card.
I tried to point out that if you want religion running a country, go to the middle east or Utah.
Then I was in Juneau when Palin was picked and she was disaster. I am just so glad that she did not become VP.
The whole Republican Run needed to end.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 12:27 PM
JuneauJoe–I just remember my naivete in believing that anyone could possibly take Bush seriously. And how stunned I was that those who wanted him in power were able to persuade enough people that they could manage to take the election away.
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 12:14 PM
Donna: I am hoping that today others will come off with their interpretations of the past decade.
Another thing taken from us during the last decade was our freedoms. Cheney/ Bush could look at all of our personal and economic information and it was actually illegal, but they did it anyway.
Bush – Cheney sure were liars, but we had the ‘you love terrorists’ lies thrown at us. They sure lined their pockets while taking away our rights and our money.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 12:09 PM
good for you, JuneauJoe! Love to bike, never skiied or snowboarded (we are not in an area for snow).
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 12:06 PM
Resolution: Stay in shape. I want to be able to bike ride 20 miles or ski, snowboard or hike when the weather conditions are right.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 12:01 PM
Has anyone here ever picked cotton?
Really..perhaps because it was not a job to be done..but to just stand in a field and pick some
cotton.
The bowls are sharp. The cotton so very soft.
Reaching for the cotton and extracting it without getting hurt is quite a job.
In short what our history of the land and America
demonstrates is what Honney Jo’s people had to do to eeek out a living. They had no gloves and were many times paid according to the weight of their bags.
I live in the middle of cotton country. I decided to take some back to my original home where they only see the cotton in t-shirts.
If you can and are passing a cotton field someday, stop and pull yourself some cotton.
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By: craigΔ on January 1, 2010
at 11:56 AM
that is an absolutely fantastic link–and summary. Thanks.
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 11:47 AM
Donna: Another change was the redistribution of wealth from the middle class to the top 1 %. The Republican way!!!
5. The fact that 2/3 of all economic growth went to top 1%. John Kennedy’s social contract had a rising tide lifting all boats. But over the last decade 2/3 of all economic growth has gone to the top 1% of income earners. Meanwhile the middle class has suffered a $13 trillion writedown in wealth as a result of the housing collapse. The banking bailout and the health care “reform” debate showed as never before the extent to which corporations have captured government and use it to redirect national wealth to themselves and their owners.
6. The Neo-Feudalization of the American economy. The top 1% of wealth holders own 41% of all the assets in the country while the bottom 40% own absolutely nothing. Meanwhile, workers are saddled with $12 trillion of national debt, an effective indentured servitude that will bind them to their corporate masters for the rest of their lives. This is the working definition of feudalism, where the rich own everything and everybody else has nothing but their proffered labor and their obligations to their masters. The Hapsburgs, the Tudors, and the Bourbons would be jealous.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 11:44 AM
and yet the Hannitys and Palins of the world thank Bush for “keeping us safe.”
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 11:32 AM
That stolen election, got us into Iraq.
That stolen election made the terrorists the king pins they are today. Bush was so inept in putting Rumsfeld in charge and then taking our top troops out of Afghanistan.
Bin Laden is still around – planning. His goal was to get the US and UK into a protracted war – he won.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 11:27 AM
JuneauJoe–I have always viewed the election as stolen but didn’t know that it was actually determined that Gore would have won in Florida. My gosh–what a different world this would have been.
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 11:19 AM
And so I suggest we change the subject. Resolutions? Mine is to exercise more, save more, and travel to Alaska.
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 11:17 AM
We have a new decade and it is time to look back.
2000: It started with a stolen election by Bush.
Here is a link showing some significant decisions made 2000-2090.
The Supreme Court hijacking the 2000 presidential election. This isn’t even a historical controversy anymore. Al Gore won the national popular vote by 570,000. And we now know he would have won the Florida vote as well if the vote counting had not been stopped by the Supreme Court. This was literally a right wing judicial coup d’ etat, so it’s understandable that it’s never mentioned in the “right” kind of circles.
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2010/01/01-0
Go Ducks!!!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on January 1, 2010
at 11:17 AM
Giving attention in the 3rd person is still giving attention. Please don’t allow yourselves to be manipulated.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on January 1, 2010
at 11:14 AM
And we move into the second day of this blog being dominated by the very manipulative Craig, and not for the first time. Fool me once (and he did) shame on him, fool me twice (no way) shame on me.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on January 1, 2010
at 11:04 AM
Gale, I join in with Donna in discusing Craig. I do no find him funny or amusing or anything else. I still equate im with a school yard bully drawing a line in the sand and daring anyone to cross it. Then whining when no one does. Age jokes, racial jokes, (at least jokes to him) are rudeand show lack of manners. By the way, we hear his wife iis a Dr. What does he do?
I wrote Happy New Year to all of you last night but hit wrong key and it went sailing off into cyberspace.
So again many thanks to all of you for the enjoyment of all ( well most) of your posts. And most of all not critizing my typing or spelling!!
I have the HOPE that this y ear is going to be better ffor us all.
Critizing our President because of who he is, what he has done etc is reprehensible. Compared to the previous years that left us in such a mess that is.
Happy New Year!
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By: Grandma Katie on January 1, 2010
at 10:59 AM
“and if you are not a pork eater that’s OK too you just CAN NOT eat chicken or you will scratch all year”
LOL What??!! That’s a new one on me. I had turkey sausage this morning, does that count? I don’t feel any itchier yet!
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By: HoneyJoRumples on January 1, 2010
at 10:48 AM
Ok fine peps enjoy your holiday. I for one am off to lose myself in a day of football watching and pork eating (you HAVE to eat pork on New Year’s Day, and if you are not a pork eater that’s OK too you just CAN NOT eat chicken or you will scratch all year) 😉
Namaste’
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By: lori on January 1, 2010
at 10:35 AM
Gale, you might not have been offended by the joke and see nothing wrong with it but others were.
You may think the country has become to PC.
Maybe, maybe not, but I think good manners and just being “nice” to someone or trying to not intentionally HURT someone’s feelings never goes out of fashion.
When a person hurts someone’s feelings or offends them, intentional or not, don’t you think the polite thing to do is apologize and try NOT to do it repeatedly?
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By: lori on January 1, 2010
at 10:27 AM
Gale–I’m happy to respond to your question. I have no role here at all. I am a frequent visitor but, with the exception of the last few days, rarely post.
Now, I do believe that ugliness warrants–no, requires–an objection. To tolerate it is to countenance it. And when that ugliness is repeated, I believe a strongly worded objection is appropriate. Finally, I believe the ugliness says a great deal about the person conveying it.
In that context, I disagree with you that anything posted by Craig remotely equates to anything that Helen or Margaret have posted. They are genuinely funny. They are capable of pointing out the hypocricy and inconsistency of certain people without making ethnic “jokes.” Indeed, I am unaware of them ever making a statement that is derogatory of anyone’s racial background.
I don’t believe there are “rangers” and I certainly am not one. That’s simply another Craig attempt at manipulation. If you have followed his postings since he first appeared on this blog, insulting the hosts, he follows a regular pattern. Arrive and insult. Get response. Come back and appear conciliatory. Engage. Then say something ugly and hateful. Be slapped for it. Then whine about how nobody tolerates different viewpoints or how people “can’t take a joke.” Or the ubiquitous “lighten up.”
My dear, I don’t believe this is a question of what is or is not “PC.” I believe this is an issue of someone who is, purely and simply, looking for attention and willing to say anything that will result in a focus on him. And then he can do the “poor, poor Craig” routine.
Not sure when you started to read the blog or if you have seen the history of his postings. But please–if you have time, go back for a bit and see. And I believe you will understand why I (and apparently others) think so poorly of him–he has earned it.
There are people who post who are conservative that are always welcome. Even a crusty curmudgeon like UAW is genuinely loved. If you saw some of HIS postings, you’d be shocked. BUT he is basically a good and decent person and it comes across.
I guess we disagree that Craig’s postings aren’t racist. And I guess we disagree that he is not an absolute ass (e.g., responding to my query about whether anyone had seen “Precious” by saying he thought it was “adorable”–as though the story of an HIV-positive incest victim was the equivalent of Bambi). We also apparently disagree that he has ever posted anything remotely humorous. But that’s ok–I am (as best as I can tell) not alone in my viewpoint that he is someone whose posts are unworthy of consideration. And (as best as I can tell) you are not alone in your viewpoint that they are.
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 10:23 AM
I realize your not defending me..but any inkeling will get you a less than desirable welcome.
But Thanks. I feel the same way about this blog and what “it” was suppose to accomplish.
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By: craigΔ on January 1, 2010
at 10:12 AM
I’m actually not defending you (Craig) so much as posting my request that you NOT be banned from posting here. I think the calls to do so are irrational and felt the need to speak from the other side. (And of course it’s way to late to save myself from the Rangers! That would have involved NOT hitting the “submit comment” button!)
I also don’t understand Donna’s role here. Donna, are you the host/moderator? With your commentary on what seems like just about every post, I am just curious.
If any reader here does not see the vicious attacks on Craig, perhaps you should read some of the commentary again! Read from my perspective this morning, it was pretty ugly!
Quite frankly, I love the M&H posts. I certainly agree with their take on things! But surely my compadres on the left MUST see that Helen pokes humor in the same way as Craig! No I have not seen his comments as racist – just less than PC (and I for one think there’s way too much PC going on these days, anyway!!!)
(Oh dear. I shall be banned for sure now!)
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By: Gale on January 1, 2010
at 10:02 AM
Gale..YOu don’t want the Blogger Rangers out for ya…
They will threaten to have your mouth taped and shut and banned from the porch if you show the slightest sign of of not falling in behind their way of thinking.
It’s their Blog and they don’t like outsiders who
make waves. Marshall Donna will have to pay you a visit or run to Matthew if you keep it up Gale.
Don’t defend me Gale..I’m OK.
Great New Year ahead..with Great Prospects for CHANGE.
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By: craigΔ on January 1, 2010
at 9:33 AM
Sorry, I had to see what all the fuss was about…
“President Obama will be making no more public speeches in Texas ….
He claims every time he gets up on stage, behind the podium, to make a speech, some damn West Texas cotton farmer starts bidding on him.”
I suppose it depends on how you take this. It could be a jab at the President for being black, or it could be a jab at ignorant, hateful, prejudiced Texans who still think black people should still be in chains. But in any event, it does make light of a very serious and sad part of our country’s history, and not many of us here would find this joke funny. I think a joke is funny if the audience thinks it’s funny. Craig knows his audience, and knows few here would find it funny, therefore his intention was obviously NOT to simply tell a joke. It was, as Donna said, to make people here angry. The irony of it is, Obama is a member of a small percentage of African Americans whose ancestry does not include slavery, since his father was from Kenya and his people were most likely never slaves here in America. I guess it is true that some white people see a black man, any black man, anywhere, and just think “he’s mine to subjegate and own, and beat down to keep from getting too “uppity”.” And that’s not funny, that’s sad. It seems Craig is perhaps one of these white people, which is why he thinks this joke is funny. I think many white tea baggers are also of this frame of mind. I personally know at least one, and personally know someone whose sister is also one.
I must admit I’m torn. Whle I really don’t want to see this site become riddled with long pointless, fruitless debates back and forth ad nauseum, but on the other hand, Craig allows us to get a good close up look at how a conservative’s heart and mind work and what’s behind it all. It’s very hard to resist not holding it up and saying “look, see, this is what they think, and this is why they are wrong!”
Of course, that’s preaching to the choir here. And no one here is going to reform him, and he’s not going to reform anyone here.
Gale, I respect your feelings as well, but I can’t really see where he has been subjected to anger or “knives” that he did not deserve. You come into someone’s home and start telling them how stupid they are and start insulting them and making silly jokes at the expense of things they hold dear, you kind of bring any wrath you may receive on yourself.
I guess I see both sides, and will defer to the wisdom of the monitors here.
As for the Gingrich quote, it’s obviously not true, as anyone who takes the time to research just a little bit knows what good work Obama did as a community organizer, and the good legislation he got passed as senator, and of course the hope of many much better things to come in the future. But even if it were true, we still saw him as the better choice, and I for one still think he was. And that’s much of an indictment of McCain and Sister Sarah than Obama.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on January 1, 2010
at 9:27 AM
Admittedly there are some people’s posts I just skip right over when I see the name. So I am kind of outtta the loop when it comes to the latest M&H scuttlebutt. However, I take it from the people’s posts I do read, there have been racist remarks posted. I join Donna and her zero tolerance for those types of posts. IMHO those remarks should be removed from the porch, even IF (and I doubt) they are meant to be funny. For me reading and participating in internet forums mimics my behaviors in real life. If I enjoy being around someone I seek them out and engage, if I don’t, I avoid = scroll, and when that isn’t possible I compartmentalize them in a box labeled “not worth it”. UNLESSSSSS they are bullies, racists, or harming my family. Then watch out brother. You have to know I am a double Libra Scorpio rising though … soooo I look for peace… most of the time..;-)
It goes without saying not everyone is a double Libra Scorp (what a shame.. ;-p) and approach life differently than I (imagine that!) , to those people I say be true to yourself. Peace all.
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By: lori on January 1, 2010
at 8:49 AM
Gale–obviously you are entitled to your opinion and I respect that. However, I believe that someone who posts “jokes” about Native Americans and “beads and Maker’s Mark” or about “bidding” on the President has crossed the line. If you don’t believe those sorts of statements are racist, I’m not sure what is.
The fact that he posts such noxious things, much less purports to do so as “humor” is not what causes me to believe he is mentally ill–and I do. That is based on a pattern which has existed since he first posted (an insult about the hosts’ age and supposedly impending death): the frantic efforts to get people to pay attention to him.
Please let me be clear. I do not give one whit about the fact that his views purport to be different. Some of the people I love and admire most in the world are politically conservative. But I deeply object to racism and it’s even more offensive when someone attempts to justify it as “humor.” Really? The situation of Native Americans is funny? Slavery is a good laugh?
I believe that Craig has no interest whatsoever in a civil or respectful exchange of ideas and that he is here for one purpose: to try to get people to pay attention to him. I also believe that, in that effort, he has crossed a line that I hope the hosts of the blog will not tolerate. Perhaps they will–it’s their blog and their decision.
If Craig is not blocked, then people need to make their own choices how to respond. You apparently believe Craig has something to say–if so, engage away. But for those like myself who believe he is beyond the pale, I urge you to scrupulously ignore him. Don’t take the bait, recognize that all he wants is someone to upset and anger, and that there is nothing more or other than that at play.
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By: Donna on January 1, 2010
at 8:06 AM
Thank you Gale, you expressed my sentiments better than I could have. I have enjoyed this Blog since the beginning. However, on this last post of Helen’s the turn that has occurred holds no interest to me anymore. I may not have offered much but I have learned a lot and broadened my horizons.
Several posters that I respect have even had their posts criticized as to the information they are providing. One example was Poolman’s information on conspiracy theories. He was asked to move the information elsewhere. To me that is like banning books from the library. Freedom of speech is an important freedom that all must defend and uphold.
It’s time to take the high road like Werner did. Helen, you created a great journey and I wish you and Margaret and your family a Happy New Year.
Namaste`
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By: Raji on January 1, 2010
at 8:00 AM
vgmanΔ, I thought of you this morning when I read this.. 😉
http://theoatmeal.com/comics/misspelling
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By: lori on January 1, 2010
at 7:32 AM
I’m not sure why there’s so much brouhaha about Craig. He freely admits he likes to push buttons. You can allow your button to be pushed, or move on; that is your choice.
I read through Craig’s comments this morning because there are a few who have asked that he be removed. I fail to see why. He does not agree with the political views of the left (raising my hand here, indicating membership in the left as a proud liberal), but his comments show reasoned thinking, occasionally peppered with less-than-politically-correct humor.
I find Craig’s comments to be less offensive than many of the reactions to Craig’s posts. I, for one, do not want to see ONLY my own belief structure spoken back to me: I already know what I believe and why. I want to hear opinions that make me stretch my brain cells to think deeper. The reason we have two major parties is because opposition is healthy & keeps “the other side” in check. If there is no CIVIL discourse, we end up with bad law. Craig is mostly civil until he responds to some of the unbelievably viscious attacks I’ve read this morning. If you disagree with Craig, do so civilly and with respect – you will probably get the same treatment in return.
I disagree with calls to ban Craig from these boards even though I may disgree with Craig’s political views. I do not see his comments as racist or mentally ill. What I personally would like to see more of is CIVIL discourse rather than the fiery knives thrown back at Craig by some of you enjoying the banter on this blog.
(CRAIG: Yes, a book sale is a book sale. Doesn’t matter if one person on “the right” bought a million copies; that is still considered one million books sold. And – yes, as a matter of fact, the Bible IS the best-selling book of all time.)
Happy New Year, all. May this decade enjoy more civil discourse than the last.
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By: Gale on January 1, 2010
at 7:05 AM
Happy New Year All!
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 31, 2009
at 11:36 PM
Matthew–Happy New Year to you and your dear grandmother and her friend. I love this blog. I love Margaret and Helen’s posts. And I love virtually all of the posts that I read here–of all viewpoints and opinions.
But, I have to respectfully ask you to consider blocking Craig. He admits that his purpose in coming on here is to “push buttons.” In other words, he is an admitted troll–someone who comes on to this blog in order to get a response. It’s sad, it’s pathetic. But it’s a colossal waste of time and space and it does a real disservice to the genuinely decent and intelligent people who frequent this wonderful blog.
Moreover, he actually defends the dreadful, insulting things he says as “humor” and equates his nonsense to the tradition of such comedic geniuses as Mel Brooks. Now, Mr. Brooks’ humor is salty and it’s sometimes based on ethnicity. But it is never, EVER mean-spirited or hateful. Moreover, because behind it is a genuine love of and appreciation for others, it really is funny.
In contrast, this jackass is wholly lacking in humor. Instead, he spouts this ugly, bigotry and then rationalizes it as “humor” and tells those who are understandably offended to “lighten up.”
The fact is that the person who refers to himself as Craig is a garden variety troll, who lurks on this blog for his own sad and pathetic reason but, in the process, distracts from the insights, wisdom and genuinely funny observations of your grandmother and her dear friend. The question becomes–should it be tolerated? This isn’t a situation of an opposing viewpoint. It is one where a single individual freely admits that he says things for no purpose other than to provoke others. That, purely and simply, is a desperate bid for attention at the expense of well-meaning people.
I am not prone to diagnosing others, much less from a distance. But I believe that anyone who has seen more than a few “Craig posts” can recognize him as someone who is deeply troubled. While one can feel compassion for him, there’s no reason to tolerate ugliness, bigotry, immaturity, and the other bullshit to which he subjects others in his sad effort to have someone acknowledge that he exists. This is an extraordinary blog and he simply doesn’t deserve to be permitted to share it.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 9:50 PM
Happy New Year everybody! Hope 2010 brings good tidings to all! Poolman, thanks for being on this porch. Your wisdom is amazing.
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By: Easier on December 31, 2009
at 9:40 PM
Same here, Poolman! Lord, hear our prayer.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 31, 2009
at 9:30 PM
Happy New Year to our gracious hosts, Helen and Margaret! Peace to all the gang and visitors to the porch!
Here we are with an end to a year that had many victories and many defeats. All in all, it has been enlightening. The long and winding road we take always brings us back to the beginning. For those of us enslaved by this calendar, here we are, back to square one. A chance to start fresh. A renewal of sorts. Resolutions. Repentence. Hope. Some of us get that chance every day.
“Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new. The old life is gone; a new life burgeons! Look at it!” 2 Corinthians 5:17
I wish everyone that visits here blessings in the coming year. May the Creator smile on you and shine His wonderful glory in your presence as we step through this journey. May He go before you filling the potholes, striping the pavement, and providing the correct signage, to enable you to follow the most equitable path, I pray.
Happy New Year! 😀
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By: Poolman on December 31, 2009
at 9:25 PM
And p.s., no one threw any kind of a hissy fit when Nixon actually BOWED to Hirohito. I don’t mind the hate, the blind fear, the closed mindedness anywhere near as much as I mind the INCONSISTENCY!!!
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 31, 2009
at 9:22 PM
“It’s just that I think Rev.Wright might be the meanest person, maybe even a pig..Nope Make it an absolute ass who should be sent to a place where he would be more comfortable …
perhaps with HoneyJoRumpels….
Sorry Honey JO to drag you into this..but I had no place to put him where he would be comfortable…”
LOL I thought my ears were burning!! Actually, I don’t know how comfortable Rev. Wright would be at my place, or how comfortable I would be with him here, but I can’t entirely disagree with his sentiment, either. That is, when you actually take the trouble, as I did, to read the whole sermon in its entirety. The Tuskegee experiments were in fact horrific and really something every American should be ashamed of. I think those of us who actually have a conscience and half a brain are. The same with the Japanese internment camps, where American citizens, some with as little as 1/16th Japanese blood, were stripped of their rights, freedoms, property, businesses, assets, etc. etc. etc. because of knee-jerk fear mongering. And as for Fat Man and Little Boy, yes, Hirohito hit us first, but didn’t take out anywhere near as many innocent civilians as we did, and he didn’t hit us with anything so toxic as to kill all flora and fauna and still cause birth defects three decades after the fact like the stuff we nuked them with. And yet when I visited Honalulu about 12 years ago, the workers at the Polynesian Visitors’ Center were so openly rude to Japanese tourists, even ones too young to even have had parents who were alive during WWII, it was embarrassing and awkward. C’mon people, we got them back times 10, it’s time we let that one go. “God DAMN America!!” is pretty strong, theatrical language, indeed. But, I still can’t imagine the Lord I understand and love was smiling down on us with approval on those fateful points in history. Those 70,000 innocent Japanese men, women and children, those unwitting black men who thought they were getting medical care and were not even told they were being allowed to die and being deliberately denied health care, or even told they were sick, those American citizens who happened to have had Japanese ancestry at the wrong time in history, they were all God’s children, too.
Cheers and happy new year to all!
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 31, 2009
at 9:19 PM
Fingers crossed!!! Do we dare to hope for an inability to reach an agreement for the next year?
http://money.cnn.com/2009/12/30/news/companies/time_warner_cable_fox_kerry/index.htm
Chloe, I’m glad that you all had a great time in the snow. Our weather says it could happen again.
Donna, LOL! I was looking through squinted eyes and laughing. Then, I got that “surprised” look with my eyebrows raised when I read your comment. Tis so true, my friend. Tis so true.
I didn’t like the “bigging” joke either. He’s like my nine year old nephew. He thinks his bathroom humor is funny. I have more tolerance for a child than an alleged adult, though.
Folks, let’s be safe. No drinking and driving. And remember: They never, ever look (the next morning) like they did the night before at closing time. ha ha!!
CHEERS to us all!! ¥
Godspeed to Afghanistan where it is already Twenty-Ten!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 31, 2009
at 8:47 PM
Happy New Year, everybody. Wishing for a better 2010, with unemployment continuing to drop and the US continuing to rejoin the civilized world. We’ll have some more labor pains (pun intended), but I think we’re on the right track.
With regard to haters like Rush and others – I don’t think it’s good for my karma to wish harm on anybody, even those who actively work to inflict it on others. (Stopping them is another matter – we have to do that). But they always remind me that ‘beauty is only skin deep, ugly goes right to the bone’. I wouldn’t touch them with a gazillion foot pole, and I won’t miss them when they go.
And with regard to recipes and travelogues….I feel sorry for the one-trick ponies, but you know, their trick will come around again. They could just wait for it. If branching out is too hard.
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By: judith on December 31, 2009
at 8:25 PM
Must say, without his wife, the Troll would be just another loser waiting for the next teabag event.
I would not be surprised if his wife were ready to divorce his worthless butt. Then he would have to go back to being a greeter at the WalMart.
Poor Troll. You really are a sad piece of work.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 31, 2009
at 7:57 PM
Happy New Year Margaret and Helen and all your family and extended family here. Folks like you come along once in a New Year’s Eve Blue Moon.
And write a new post soon, please. This one is getting pretty long in the tooth for dial-up. Hope you are all staying well.
Love from Alaska.
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By: A Nana Moose on December 31, 2009
at 7:53 PM
Rachel Maddow calls out that hypocrite Cheney!
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/rachel-maddow-shameless-cheney-ignores-own
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 31, 2009
at 7:52 PM
Craig, STFU already. We do NOT care what you think.
I mean it, really. Really. I mean it.
Find some other troll space where they might think you are clever, obviously, this ain’t it, cowboy!
Adios already. Have a nice life.
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By: Claire on December 31, 2009
at 7:44 PM
OK..One more time…
I’m sure you all have watched “Blazing Saddles”
many times.
Perhaps most of you even have DVD’s or VHS copies.
But humor is humor. Hell watch the National press club videos and see your own nations President take heat.
Mel..and I’m not Mel Brooks..nor pretend to be..but he made fun of every race, creed, color and gays..yet it rates as one of the best comedy movies of all times.
So I pass along a joke that came to me..and none of you in your “glass houses have not made fun of Palin and her children?
So lighten up..OK Rangers?
Adios.
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By: craigΔ on December 31, 2009
at 7:17 PM
The Sarah Palin 2009 news letter.
http://www.rumproast.com/index.php/site/comments/palin_family_new_year_newsletter/
Enjoy!!!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 31, 2009
at 7:17 PM
I, too, was offended by the “bidding” joke.
And, again…..
your
you’re
Getting to the end of a two week holiday vacation can get me going when I see spelling mistakes.
A whole set of essays to grade before Monday and my red pen is just rarin’ to go!
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By: vgmanΔ on December 31, 2009
at 6:44 PM
Donna, perhaps we can both submit a suggestion to the “Ask” section that Balloon Boy’s Dad should be permanently banned for the racist joke. I for one am particularly offended by it, and I apologize for not taking this action a long time ago. If anyone else has had enough, feel free to join us.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 31, 2009
at 6:03 PM
Its amazing. I read Helens comments about her language and she has no problems with cuss words or most rants.
But I have never used the N word or the F word.
So its been amusing to observe how you treat visitors to “your porch”.
But what I have seen on this board..when prompted is really a lot of intolerant people.
Yes I write to see what buttons I can push.
Many of you are already primed with ammunition that you have used time and time again.
Your rhetoric is consistently anti everything
prior to President Obama. Cheney this..Bush that…Tea party BS and knocking Palin.
Oh and I must not forget the numerous menus,
recipes, crystals and potions posted and available for every need or want. And the travelogs as well…I almost know everything there is to know about Alaska. And all from the comfort of my office.
Then finally there are the self appointed rangers for this blog. You know who you are. Your here to
diagram, translate and spew what you consider to be the proper responses to people who do not line up appropriately on the porch.
And yes DONNA I truly am married to a doctor. A very good one and one who fixes your kids when you break them.. .and she is half Italian…so lasagna is ready for New Years EVE.
Have a safe one…
and we will talk again in 2010.
Regards,
Craig
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By: craigΔ on December 31, 2009
at 6:02 PM
All are invited..!
/31/2009 10:20 AM
By: The Associated Press
ALAMOGORDO, N.M. (AP) – The Otero Tea Party Patriots and two other groups are planning a rally in Alamogordo on Saturday for people who want to voice their dissatisfaction with health care reform legislation, big government and the Obama administration.
Aside from the usual poster board signs, participants are encouraged to bring their guns.
Police Lt. Hal Alton says a permit allowing the Otero Tea Party Patriots, the Alamogordo Second Amendment Task Force and the Sons of Liberty Riders to hold the weekend rally was approved Wednesday.
Alton says officers will monitor the rally, but he expects it will be a lawful assembly.
It’s legal to openly carry a firearm in most places in New Mexico. Exceptions include bars, schools and a few other places.
Alton says at least 150 people are expected to participate.
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By: craigΔ on December 31, 2009
at 5:44 PM
no one’s puppet: better put than I did. Thanks!
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 5:29 PM
Understood–and we all share that impulse. But this troll wants attention and behaves atrociously (I personally think Matthew ought to block him for that business about “bidding” on the President). We validate the bad behavior by even acknowledging him.
I suppose there are people who can gain insight and become better people if you don’t validate bad behavior. But this guy is not one of them–it’s too deep-seated, too much of a pattern, and I say just ignore the twisted SOB. Yes, he’s pathetic. Yes, he has all sorts of problems and is doubtless a complete failure. But, to be blunt, I don’t give a crap. He doesn’t belong on this porch, with these fine hostesses, and this great group of bright, interesting, and worthwhile people.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 5:28 PM
Donna speaks the truth that I only hinted at, but we are lay people, and even professionals don’t treat mental illness at a distance. Granted it isn’t likely that this individual of whom we speak will ever seek the help he desperately needs, to say he doesn’t know he is off kilter would be wrong, but still he gets his jollies from exploiting the illness. He is the same person who writes bizarre letters to the editor of small newspapers, because they are still willing to print them. He, and his ilk, come here for any reaction, good or bad, because in real life he doesn’t exist, as for me he doesn’t exist.
I am a fan of Rev. Wright, because I watched the entire sermon, and I would remind everyone, that the snippet that caused all the controversy was, (if I recall correctly the individual he quoted a former Republican appointed to the United Nations), a quotation. The good reverend explained who he was quoting and even held up fingers from both hands in quotation marks at the beginning and at the end of the quote.
If he wants a real life without the imaginary wife, the one who lives with him in the middle of the junkyard, he needs an incentive to quite acting like an ass and get some help for himself. I handled my two-year olds’ tantrums by placing them in their cribs and leaving the room. I guess this particular troll is long overdo.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 31, 2009
at 5:25 PM
Donna,
After Buttons and Grandma Katie got involved, I just could not resist. I might add that in the media, I am amazed at how much air time Repub zealots are getting. Dear Troll is just spitting out the usual stupidity of Cheney, Newt and Palin. It is easy to knock down their arguments. Those fools are simply trying to rewrite history to make themselves look wonderful to teabaggers.
Mentally Ill – I agree!
Whacked out Rev: Check out Palin’s Rev Muthee!
He declared a woman a witch and her home was burned and she was run out of town. He said some pretty crazy stuff too.
Our Troll is like a student I had that got kids to beat him up because of his attention need. That boy would call kids super filthy names in the hall and stairs. A little girl blasted him after his filthy mouth and she had a cast on her wrist. A big black and blue eye by a little girl. She got in trouble, inhouse suspension. That little girl was cheered when she got back to class because so many wanted to do that.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 31, 2009
at 5:17 PM
U.S. Offers An Official Apology to Native Americans
Article
Washington Wire HOME PAGE »
By John D. McKinnon
Buried in the billions of dollars of spending on new weapons and other items in the 2010 defense appropriations bill is a little-noticed expression of regret over how the U.S. had in the past used its power.
The bill contains an “apology to Native Peoples of the United States.”
The multi-year effort to pass the language was bipartisan: Sens. Sam Brownback (R., Kan.) and Byron Dorgan (D., N.D.) led the campaign, which began in 2004. President Barack Obama signed the language, apparently the first official apology to Native Americans, into law on Monday.
Congress has previously approved apologies to Japanese-Americans interned during World War II, and to native Hawaiians for the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. The House and Senate recently have passed different resolutions apologizing for slavery in the U.S.
The just-approved language says, in part, that “the United States, acting through Congress…recognizes that there have been years of official depredations, ill-conceived policies, and the breaking of covenants by the Federal Government regarding Indian tribes.”
The U.S. “apologizes on behalf of the people of the United States to all Native Peoples for the many instances of violence, maltreatment, and neglect inflicted on Native Peoples by citizens of the United States,” the statement says, adding that it is committed “to move toward a brighter future where all the people of this land live reconciled as brothers and sisters, and harmoniously steward and protect this land together.”
The statement adds, however, that it isn’t intended to support any lawsuit claims against the government (and there are still plenty).
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By: gramma rock on December 31, 2009
at 4:57 PM
Spot on! Donna, you called it exactly the way I saw it as well. When Grandma Katie responded, the troll ‘jumped’ all over the response with a
“Yes! Finally! I got the attention!” And then probably did a victory dance in front of his computer.
Poolman,
Thou art a wiseman. What you have to say always brings us treasures in words.
I remember learning about a prophet in the Bible (was it Jeremiah?) who spoke to the people of Judah and Israel and said in paraphrase,
“Repent! You are an abomination to the Lord. Your nations do not deserve the grace which awaits those who honor and fear the goodness of my name.”
How is that any different than Rev. Wright? He’s only seeing what has happened to our society around us. The ignorance, the looking away from the poor, the greed, etc.
What other words would a man of God speak as a representative of the Lord?
“Look, America….you’re doing a fine job?”
Please.
Happy New Year everyone!
I’m glad we have a President who THINKS things through.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 31, 2009
at 4:49 PM
I share your ambivalence. The fact is that no matter who or what it was, the worst elements of the right wing media would exaggerate, distort, and exploit. And the ignorant would run with it (remember how Mrs. Obama said in an interview that they didn’t let the girls run wild with Christmas presents? That was turned into a sign of their “Muslim-ism.”).
But how do you effectively dispute someone who speaks from the “cover” of a religious position?
There is a large (but thankfully still a minority) percentage of the population who will continue to pray for the President’s death, fight his policies even if they benefit them, and strut behind the notion of “the greatest country on the face of the earth” to justify the worst sort of actions and atrocities. And there will be those–like Limbaugh and Hannity and Beck and Palin–who will get rich off of them.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 4:18 PM
Donna and Poolman… I agree whole heartedly.
The rev said nothing unture or hateful when read in context..
There are alternative worlds when it comes to politics and just about everything else, especially now in the world of sound bites and 24-7 “news”. Obama’s peps should have known that and did a terrible job of handling that situation… politically…..
The problem has always been that the democratic candidate would shy away from calling religious leaders out on some of the more controversial stuff they have said. And lord knows there have been tons we could have exploited… we never have…. Perhaps that will change in future elections…. I have to say I am not sure I want it to though… Do you?
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By: lori on December 31, 2009
at 4:10 PM
He is indeed.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 4:09 PM
You’re a good man, Poolman.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 31, 2009
at 4:08 PM
Poolman–thank you! I couldn’t agree more. I have always thought the exploitation of Rev. Wright’s sermons was the cheapest sort of peandering. When considered in context, I very much agree with what he says. It is the preening fools like Hannity who carry on about how the President is “apologizing” and about “American exceptionalism” that are the ones who are so wrong and so dishonest.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 3:50 PM
I have listened to some of the Rev. Wright’s sermons and must say I do agree with them. Of course everything can be twisted in meaning when taken out of context. And that is how the majority of Americans operate. Whether we are talking about the bible and religion or our constitution and founding documents. I was always taught to read ALL the instructions and to read the the complete chapter of a book. That same can apply to a sermon or a conversation. In that way, knowing the full context and perspective of the author will help one gain a more full understanding of the message as intended.
Politically it is not correct to bash this country or point out our many wrongs and misdeeds over our history. This is all seen as merely inflammatory rhetoric. So, as a politician, this is not acceptable. Politicians are like salesmen in that they always are pushing their product and showing it in the best light and situation.
But from my pastor, I want the truth, regardless whether it is good or bad. It greatly encourages me to know our president sat through many of these sermons for so many years. Many of the rose colored glasses crowd will be offended, but then they will have to face the truth one day – ready or not. I look at our record in this land and on the world stage and see the munipulation our government has done over the years and is still doing. It is not a pretty picture, no matter what name you give it.
As far as Rush is concerned, I did pray for him when I heard of his situation. I cannot wish harm on anyone, as I believe strongly in karma. He has made his own bed and will have to sleep in it. All his money cannot fix his health or alter his eternal destiny. The wealth may even hinder the best results, IMO. I don’t have to listen to his babble, though I generally have to address some of his misinformation with those I know who listen to him religiously. To them, he’s a prophet. To me, he’s a pompous ass.
As far as Guantanamo and our war on terror. Everything we have done so far, with the exception of a few minor things, has made us less safe on the world stage, IMO. We imprisoned some people with no cause other than others were rewarded for turning them in. Those that we have held for so long, whether justly or not, now have a very good reason to call us an enemy and aid others in our demise. We have created much more chaos and hatred toward us than we had prior to 9/11.
So go ahead and keep the rose colored glasses on. Life can be too painful and scary sometimes when taken in large doses of reality. Dillusional is most folks favorite state of mind anyway. We have so many distractions and alternate realities that we all function in to avoid the real world.
To me, our worst criminals, those that have affected the most lives, have been in our government. We seem to reward them instead of punishing them. We let them operate outside of our law. There is a long karma train coming around the bend. Room enough for everyone to ride. All aboard!
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By: Poolman on December 31, 2009
at 3:41 PM
JuneauJoe–I am laughing. It is so hard to ignore, isn’t it? But scroll back over the troll’s posts of the last two days and it is so obvious that the only thing this is about is demanding attention. Whether it is a feigned attempt at pleasantness or a ghastly “joke” about someone “bidding” on our President, that’s all it is.
As you step back and read the post, then one in a few minutes, then an attempt to try a different tack, then a juvenile attempt at humor, then something really obnoxious, then “THANK GOD–GRANDMA KATIE ACTUALLY ACKNOWLEDGED MY PRESENCE!!! I EXIST!!!” it’s as clear as can be. In fact, if you take a few minutes and do that, I think it will be very apparent why it truly accomplishes nothing to respond or engage. The troll is like a tick and any reaction allows it to gorge.
Craig is mentally ill–there’s no two ways about it. But why feed the illness?
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 3:08 PM
Troll: Please check out Jonbathan Turley on the legal system vs torture. (Reid the shoe bomber was tried and convicted under Cheney bush.) It took bush 7 days to respond when Reid had his shoe bomb incident.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/jonathan-turley-takes-tom-ridges-hackery
Troll: I feel sorry for you!!!! Let me see: We should go to war in Yeman, Iran as well as continue Iraq and Afghanistan. TROLL – JOIN THE MILITARY PLEASE – they need more folks to go kick some Muslin ass.
Happy New year and I thank God we have Obama as President to make decisions.
Who got all they wanted from 2000 – 2010: Terrorists! They got the US (and allies) into unending wars to empty our pockets. The leaders were basically let go by Cheney/Bush and they have been rebuilding steadily since the initial bombing in Afghanistan. (Bush could have finished them off but decided to go invade a country which had nothing to do with the bombing of the Twin Towers. LIES GOT US INTO IRAQ!)
Happy New Year all!!!!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 31, 2009
at 2:57 PM
Let us give thanks to Obama…
as he wants the terrorists treated as criminals with “rights”. Praise be to Allah, huh Hussein Obama.
As a prisoner at Guantanamo, Said Ali al-Shihri said he wanted freedom so he could go home to Saudi Arabia and work at his family’s furniture store.
Instead, al-Shihri, who was released is now deputy leader of al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, a group that has claimed responsibility for the Christmas Day attempted bomb attack on a Detroit-bound airliner.
His potential involvement in the terrorist plot has raised new opposition to releasing Guantanamo Bay inmates, complicating President Barack Obama’s pledge to close the military prison in Cuba.
It also highlights the challenge of identifying the hard-core militants as the administration decides what to do with the remaining 198 prisoners.
Like other former Guantanamo detainees who have rejoined al-Qaida in Yemen, al-Shihri, 36, won his release despite jihadist credentials such as, in his case, urban warfare training in Afghanistan.
He later goaded the United States, saying Guantanamo only strengthened his anti-American convictions.
Hell…next time the ball drops, I hope its not full of explosives. What a nice neat gathering
and televised as well. What better target for the enemy….I mean criminals.
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By: craigΔ on December 31, 2009
at 2:22 PM
(just an uh, uh-ohing for craig ….you missed the point of the quotation points evidently in regards to “tarrarist”…no need to offer a spell check, just offering in return an obvious comprehension check for you to avail yourself of , but w-h-a-t-e-v-e-r and thensome !!
TO ALL , here is to a New Year , some great rogress made in this past one and a line comes to mind, “be grateful the thornbush gives of roses…” comes to mind for indeed , we did get soe mingled inbetween the thorns !! We DID make a bit pof progress, know we still have long way to go and often it has seemed like one stepforward, mixed with backwarded steps –still can not diminish that we have achieved a bit here and there and some, quite important oves forward as well. NO MAGIC WANDS…bet hey, colleectively , the actual majority realizes/knows it and knows just a new /different /IMPROVED administration is not able to get us all on an immediate betterized path…We surely got thrown in the trenches and sorry, reality check…we were far to altruistic in thinking surely would not/could not REALLY get worse but it did and we left alot to OTHERS to fix as we concentrated on our own concentric circles of various endeavors , trying to hold on and bide time and etc….
Some mention how DO tune in to the ‘conservative” voices…IS important , it gives insight and information that IS pertinent as IS best to “know thy enemy” , best way to fortify against their attempted strikes. It is semi shocking to hear/listen in to the drivel and even more shocking to find that so many swallow unquestioningly while they cling to outdated notions that THEY perceived as allies to their own comfort levels and are easy to dismiss anything that seems to rock their boats out of those comfort levels. Find it astounding what a stain some have incurred to those of Christian or other religious beliefs as well –major tenet of doing NO HARM comes to mind and to treat others as would want to be treated are so tossed aside and ignorred to EVERYONES detriment …goes for the claims of patritoismaticals as well(especially if one HAS delved into our ACTUAL, FACTUAL history–We’ve gien ourselves too much credit and ignorred our foiblings and follies but on the whole, we’ve TRIED to accomplish our idealized principles and that counts in our basic favor. Still remains thou, hard to “correct” what is NOT acknowledged or relize as a “problem” .
Still goping to be many thorns in the New Yer, but we’ll have sme roses as well and so worthwhile cultivating to the best of our ability, working “together” we stand a greater chance of accomplishing some of what needs accomplishing…it’s a never ending chore but does benefit the real greater common good that all are seeking . Truly ‘nice” when able to do so civilly, respectfully but frustrating with the barrage of onerynessings —consequently too, there comes a time when is quite apropos to return the fire with fire and why calls for HEARING /etc . a response that does delare enuff is enuff !! The “subtle ” approach does not work for all, obviously !!!
HNY one and all…fasten seat belts , for it will continue to be a bumpy ride but we can indeed persevere–note how “bored” the massess have indeed become with the assess of repetitious repugnuncy that has gone beyond the pale in so many instances from the righteous right constiuency. Onward and forward and indeed , be thanful the thornbush does indeed give us roses !!!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 31, 2009
at 2:13 PM
SUPPOSED TO ..WHAT?
Ya know I check my spelling most of the time.
I missed your notation. Sorry but thanks anyway.
OK..so I’m on the porch..and its New Years Eve.
And then Lori i her divine wisdom utters..
“Rush…… He is a nasty, mean spirited pig and I see no reason to waste positive energy on a man who is a menace to society. AS far as I am concerned he is more dangerous and has DONE more damage than any “tarrarist” that attempts to blow up a plane over Detroit.”
Now you know, as far as opinions go Lori..
WE each have one….
It’s just that I think Rev.Wright might be the meanest person, maybe even a pig..Nope Make it an absolute ass who should be sent to a place where he would be more comfortable …
perhaps with HoneyJoRumpels….
Sorry Honey JO to drag you into this..but I had no place to put him where he would be comfortable…
I myself would keep GIT-MO open and take a few more of these radicals down there…and perhaps with a little persuasion we can find out when and where the next bomb plot will HIT, since Obama takes three days to think about it.
Thank GOD we have Generals who can make decisions in less than three days. Then you have Napalatano and this guy that OBama wants to head up the TSA and make it a union run organization. Socialize everything. Huh Obama?
What was it that Rev. Wright said..?
“GOD DAMM AMERICA”.
yep and ya tell me Obama went to that AntiChrist
Preacher’s church for 20 years and never heard a comment like that..?
Yea right.
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By: craigΔ on December 31, 2009
at 2:11 PM
Wishing Margaret and Helen, as well as all of their readers a very Happy 2010! May the new bring all of us peace, joy, happiness, love and every good thing!
Also wanting to thank Margaret and Helen for this great blog. You ladies rock! I hope all is well with you and your families, I miss hearing from you when we go for a while without a post. Keep up the good work and fight the good fight! You ladies are my heroes.
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By: Don in Kansas on December 31, 2009
at 1:58 PM
Sherri,
You and I could be cut from the same blueprint in many ways. Same family relationship issues.
I hear you and feel for you on so many levels.
I’ve been with my SO for 8 years now and my parents have yet to speak to or acknowledge him.
You know, the ole’ “superficial phone conversations” and “cards addressed only to me” syndrome. I’m so glad I’ve got other ‘family” I can love and cherish. We are family!
A good friend of ours passed away two years ago. His parents (divorced) lived in Texas. Another couple (good friends) helped the parents beyond measure with the funeral arrangements here in Washington. We all helped. From beginning to end. Had to let the dog out on the morning of the death and helped pack up things before the final sale of the house months later.
It’s the small things that count when people matter to each other.
As long as spelling was brought up–I would suggest the resident troll look in the mirror–
I offered up a lesson in the spelling of
SUPPOSED TO weeks ago and he still hasn’t learned.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 31, 2009
at 1:02 PM
Sherri – I know a gay couple who have been together 30 years. One has 5 siblings. If anyone needs anything – money or kind words – he is right there. 2 of his siblings slam him constantly.
Got to say, he and his partner are the greatest people! They have helped the ‘haters’ more than anyone else too.
I just spent time with the kids of ‘the hater’ siblings. They feel closer to other relatives than their hating father.’ I had to tell them why I have little or nothing to do their dad. The kids are learning to live without the negative influence of their dad and other ‘hating’ uncle.
Sherri, I applaud you!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 31, 2009
at 11:32 AM
Sherri–thank you for your post. It’s difficult for me to fathom since we have dear gay and lesbian friends and I can’t imagine anyone not wanting such good people to be part of their lives and family. I’m glad you have the strength to have created your family-of-choice and I wish you all good things for the new year.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 11:14 AM
Oh and so much for the compassionate left.
..And Lori..Thats spelled “Terrorist”. May a nice young man with a powder in his pants find his way to your door.
Just don’t sniff it up your nose…other wise have a safe one out there.
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By: craigΔ on December 31, 2009
at 10:59 AM
DeLurker Girl,
Family get-together’s are fine, actually…..of course, I’m not welcome to attend. When my beloved grandpa passed away, my mom said, “Please don’t come to the funeral b/c your dad and your sister can’t handle the whole gay thing on top of losing grandpa.” The gay thing? What gay thing? Ohhhhh…you mean THEIR prejudices, intolerances, and hatred.
Haven’t been to a family get-together since my sister’s HS graduation in 1985. At times, that makes me sad and hurt…..mostly, I have to remember it is their choice and they are missing out on a darn good relationship.
I am blessed to have a loving, nurturing partner of fourteen years and to be surrounded by a good number of friends who accept me, value me, and love me for exactly who I am — they are my family-of-choice, and I am immensely grateful for them.
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By: Sherri Δ on December 31, 2009
at 10:19 AM
I like twenty ten
I hope in this coming year, the dems call out the repubs for their hypocrisy and lies
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/matthews-and-walsh-slam-ron-christie-chene
Happy New Years everyone
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 31, 2009
at 9:45 AM
Twenty Ten! Two thousand ten sounds awkward.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 8:34 AM
Happy New Year everyone! I’m making lemon poppyseed muffins with lemon ice glaze frosting for a party this evening.
I took a course in Linguistics back in college and I was curious as to which way we say 2010?
Twenty Ten
or
Two Thousand Ten
If you break them down by sound formation,
twenty ten is faster (by one syllable) but also easier on the tongue (less work).
Whatcha think?
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By: vgmanΔ on December 31, 2009
at 8:31 AM
Happy New Year, OceanGypsi. But think how 2009 would have been if McCain had won.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 8:06 AM
~long sigh~ The last day of 2009……
Adios, M-Fer!!! You were better than 2008 but not by much!!!!
Happy New Year, all!!! Really. I mean it!!! ¥
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By: OceanGypsi on December 31, 2009
at 8:03 AM
Happy New Year to one and all! Margaret & Helen, you have brightened yet another year for all of us with your acerbic wit and pugnacious honesty. Thank you for your invitation to share the porch & parlor. And to all who comment here: may the new year bring you joy, love, health, and laughter, and may your hopes and dreams prosper. Slainte!
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By: Greytdog on December 31, 2009
at 7:58 AM
I sometimes make myself listen to conservative talk radio so that I keep a realistic perspective on what a substantial part of the country believes and likes. It saddens me when I do because Limbaugh, Hannity, Levin and our own local Limbaugh wannabes are such ugly people. I absolutely have no problem when a conservative–even a vehement one–is on NPR and offers his/her opinions in a reasoned manner. It’s interesting and it gives me something to think about and possibly research. But the mean-spiritedness, the juvenile “humor,” and the dishonesty sicken me.
No, I don’t wish anyone harm. But I also don’t wish these folks a continuation of their bully pulpits.
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By: Donna on December 31, 2009
at 7:29 AM
Rush…… He is a nasty, mean spirited pig and I see no reason to waste positive energy on a man who is a menace to society. AS far as I am concerned he is more dangerous and has DONE more damage than any “tarrarist” that attempts to blow up a plane over Detroit.
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By: lori on December 31, 2009
at 6:51 AM
Have a safe, healthy and Happy New Year Margaret and Helen (and all my blog buds)! Thanks again for allowing us the use of your front porch as we wait for your newest gem.
namaste
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By: lori on December 31, 2009
at 6:46 AM
Undoubtedly, while Rush was in Hawaii, he investigated Barrack’s birth certificate. It was probably the shock, of realizing it is legit and The President is indeed an American citizen, that short-circuited his ticker.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 31, 2009
at 12:12 AM
On Limbaugh, we all have to go sometime, if he dies, he dies, I’m neutral. I’m with Sherri on this one.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 31, 2009
at 12:06 AM
Sherri, your family get-togethers must be tense!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 31, 2009
at 12:05 AM
My conservative Christian, right-wing, fundy, tea-bagging family is all in a dither over Limbaugh. They are already holding prayer meetings for him.
As a female, as an independent, as an Obama supporter, and as a lesbian, I have been marginalized, ridiculed, excluded, and oppressed countless times by “El Rushbo.” I cannot find it in my heart to wish him well. I do not wish him harm, but neither do I wish him well. This country could stand a few weeks without his hatemongering.
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By: Sherri Δ on December 30, 2009
at 10:53 PM
For Rush’s situation, only the Wizard can help.
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By: Poolman on December 30, 2009
at 10:47 PM
Donna, I see from TPM that Rush Limbaugh has been rushed to the hospital with chest pains and is in serious condition. I wouldn’t wish the worst on anyone, and for sure that includes the nurses who are caring for him. I hope he’s out of their hair soon!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 30, 2009
at 10:35 PM
Obama must have done a Elin Nordegren on him.
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By: craigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 10:31 PM
10:15 CST
HONOLULU – Conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh was taken to a hospital with chest pains on Wednesday, a Honolulu television station reported.
Paramedics responded to a call at 2:41 p.m. from the Kahala Hotel and Resort where Limbaugh is vacationing, KITV reported. The station, citing unnamed sources, said the 58-year-old Limbaugh was taken to The Queens Medical Center in serious condition.
Queens spokeswoman N. Makana Shook says the hospital is unable to comment on the report.
Emergency Medical Services spokesman Bryan Cheplic said paramedics took a male of unknown age to an area hospital from the Kahala Hotel and Resort. He said he had no further information.
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By: craigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 10:28 PM
OK Granny come on down as Bob Barker would say.
Grandma Katie..You will have Obama for at least another 2.5 years.
You Try and hang in there now with Sen.Byrd .
I like Newt Gingrich. So there.!
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By: craigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 10:19 PM
The post that urges to Try, Try reminds me of the school yard bully who draws a line in the sand and keeps daring anyone to cross it. I keep hoping those days were gone for ever but I guess there will always be bullies around.
A VEry Happy New Year everyone. I’m with JuneauJoe. I like Obama.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 30, 2009
at 9:40 PM
You can go to talkingpointmemo and search over the last few days. Trust me on this!
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By: Donna on December 30, 2009
at 8:51 PM
Festive? LMAO! OK, I will go look, this sounds funny!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 30, 2009
at 8:48 PM
OK–she was having a torrid affair with her paralegal, who’s a disbarred lawyer. He drafted all of her pleadings (I know, I know). It’s quite festive.
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By: Donna on December 30, 2009
at 7:41 PM
Donna, no, I haven’t been following Orly’s situation lately. I guess even lunacy can become boring!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 30, 2009
at 7:09 PM
You are most welcome–Happy New Year to you!
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By: Donna on December 30, 2009
at 7:05 PM
Thank you Donna, first I cried, when I posted a link on my facebook page, when I made a donation. Bless you for telling us about this link, Happy New Year!
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 30, 2009
at 6:47 PM
I watched the movie..well done
It was good and hopefully will get greater play.
There was a good story with many happy endings about some of Vick’s dogs.
I also would recommend War dogs of the Pacific.
and a follow on that shows the connections our soldiers are making with dogs in Iraq and Afghanistan. And another that helps our soldiers…
see below..
Veterans Day provides us the opportunity to honor and thank all those who have committed their lives to serving the country, and the documentary No Dog Left Behind, which airs this Sunday on the Military Channel, introduces us to some canine companions who have helped servicemen and women cope with life on the frontlines and back home. The film looks incredibly heartwarming and reveals how animals can provide a vital comfort for those dealing with the stress and dehumanizing conditions of war.
The abandoned and stray dogs (and some cats) are found in the streets of Iraq by military personal, then Operation Baghdad Pups, a program of SPCA International, provides the animals with veterinary care and in some cases coordinates complicated transportation logistics to bring them back to the U.S. to be reunited with the returning troops. More than just pets, these animals offer tremendous mental and emotional support for troops in combat and those returning, particularly troops facing post traumatic stress disorder.
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By: craigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 5:09 PM
Greytdog–I know you are active in animal rescue. Google “Just One Dog” if you haven’t seen it. I hope you enjoy it. Regards.
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By: Donna on December 30, 2009
at 4:23 PM
This is a test.
This is only a Test.
Do not try to adjust your set.
We have an announcement:
Have you heard…. ?
President Obama will be making no more public speeches in Texas ….
He claims every time he gets up on stage, behind the podium, to make a speech, some damn West Texas cotton farmer starts bidding on him.
That is the end of this test.
You may now resume your normal programming.
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By: craigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 4:07 PM
JuneauJoe–I couldn’t agree more in your wishes for both the President’s year and health care for this country. Thank you for your continued intelligent and informative posts.
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By: Donna on December 30, 2009
at 4:06 PM
OOOOhhhh noooooo My color of red is faaaadinggg
to a new bluish grey.
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By: CraigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 4:03 PM
AlaskaPi: Thanks for the info about Alaskan Natives. I spoke to an elder in the Alaskan Village where I taught and he said there were only 5 or 6 houses in the village 40 years ago.
The YuPik are amazing people staying in one place. Being transient and living in 30 and 40 below zero is even more amazing.
The natives in the lower 48 are learning a lot about the Alaskan tribes/ villages and so am I.
Thanks….
Happy New Year all. There was 4 inches of snow in Portland, OR>
I think President Obama is pretty amazing and I wish him well for 2010. Health Care for all in 2010.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 30, 2009
at 3:54 PM
I thought it was adorable.
But that’s just me.
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By: CraigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 3:49 PM
Has anyone seen the movie “Precious” yet? I had read the book and it was extraordinary. I’d be interested in the reactions of those who’ve seen it.
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By: Donna on December 30, 2009
at 3:25 PM
BEST QUOTE OF THE YEAR..
NOT AN ORIGINAL THOUGHT THOUGH…
“As an American I am not so shocked that Obama was given
the Nobel Peace Prize without any accomplishments to his
name, but that America gave him the White House based on
the same credentials.”
**Newt Gingrich**
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By: craigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 2:43 PM
Delurker–have you seen the latest Orly/Lincoln filings? It’s getting wilder and wilder–if that’s possible.
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By: Donna on December 30, 2009
at 12:30 PM
INFORMATION..?
What copying web sites for people to go to, rather than actually communicating with your own brain?
Any original thought still left out there?
Come on try….TRY.
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By: craigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 11:45 AM
Well if I guess I wanted attention I would launch
a diatribe at any of the locals here..but why?
It seems that the only attention getting person on this blog is one who which continually strives to paint me with a broad brush..
Now comes the “oh my she’s beating me up card”
I know she won’t want to miss that one.
..and they all fall in line…..less they be also painted for aligning with the Troll.
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By: craigΔ on December 30, 2009
at 11:41 AM
Thank you Donna. By now all of us regulars should be familiar to with his many ploys, to seek attention. Look I am as sorry as anyone that he or anyone else is so needy of attention, but we aren’t helping him by giving in to his weird behavior.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 30, 2009
at 11:38 AM
Juneau Joe-
I’m happy the tribe is helping too and it sounds like they are reaching out in a broad way.
We were still a territory in those days and many of those who died would have come from no fixed place. While well under way, pushing nomadic native folks into fixed villages was not complete.
What we think of as tribes here now did not exist in the 40s and 50s…
These kinds of projects are important . Having closure on dark chapters releases people to move forward.
Happy 2010 tp you too!
Wind is howling out of the basin this morning, sky is clear and we have started gaining over a minute of light a day!
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By: alaskapi on December 30, 2009
at 8:16 AM
no one’s puppet–you rock.
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By: Donna on December 30, 2009
at 6:59 AM
And the winner of the Jon Gosselin attention seeking award is…. Sorry poolman, but the fool isn’t here for information, anyone can google including this idiot.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 30, 2009
at 2:04 AM
Happy New Year to all.
Helen, I miss you and Margaret, and am looking forward to your next post. I get worried when you go too long in between them.
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By: ValleyIndependent Δ on December 30, 2009
at 12:50 AM
AlaskaPi: I believe they have been contacted but I will send it on to the folks at the Puyallup tribe.
I am just so pleased that the tribe is helping to bring closure to this situation.
Even today, TB is a concern for villages – I had to take a TB test before going out to the village.
Corporations are getting the word out as well as ADN, Tundra Times, etc. They have gotten lots of calls from NW folks but still not hearing much from AK yet.
When AK natives died: The paperwork gave the name, date and from Alaska. When a native from the lower 48 died, it had the name, date, tribe and even state.
Thanks for the information Pi !!
Have a great new year and 2010.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 30, 2009
at 12:15 AM
I hope everyone had a warm Christmas! I, for one, am ready to kiss this year goodbye. Bring on 2010! Brighter days ahead, I pray. Stay warm! Healthcare for all, and to all a good night.
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By: Poolman on December 29, 2009
at 11:29 PM
Preorders made it Number 1. It proves people will buy anything if it is marketed well. Marketing is king, especially in America.
With Harper-Collins and all of Murdock’s other media means, he could give it all the exposure and hype needed to guaranty a best seller. They didn’t care if it was full of bull. It is all about the money. Those that support Palin don’t care about little things like facts. Facts just get in the way of the fantasy. Anyone who has followed this blog for a while or any of those from Alaska that keep an eye on all things Palin, will see that the emperor has no clothes.
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By: Poolman on December 29, 2009
at 10:37 PM
Greyt-
That’s a lovely collection of Sitka photos!!
Castle Hill perspective is stretched- presumably to give a wider view… It’s a rock , right off the town plaza . The view, from there ,rain, snow or sun is beyond any words I can think of.
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By: alaskapi on December 29, 2009
at 10:17 PM
This is a sorry state of affairs.
A blog which no one wants to communicate
except to hear what they want to hear.
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By: craigΔ on December 29, 2009
at 9:54 PM
Y’all were talking earlier about Sitka Alaska. Here’s a great site if you want to see some photos of the area
http://bit.ly/8jVy58
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By: Greytdog on December 29, 2009
at 9:16 PM
Happy almost new-year, my friends. We had a nice Christmas and are enjoying a few days of down time to recover from the activity and various winter illnesses. I’m looking forward to 2010, and glad to know you’ll be here!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 29, 2009
at 9:09 PM
Juneau Joe-
If the folks in Puyallup haven’t found them already, someone there should contact AFN.
http://www.nativefederation.org/about/index.php
Happy New Year to all!
Especially Helen and Margaret…
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By: alaskapi on December 29, 2009
at 7:14 PM
anne…. to cobell lawsuit plaintiffs are in the process of accepting a settlement. the case of the royalties and land leases involves over a century of fraud by federal agents. bia employees were still destroying evidence during the investigations…….
this situation in south dakota is a multiple whammy. the tribal burial land was stolen, the sioux bought it back, the bia advised the band that they did not need to pay federal income taxes on a tribally run business, the i.r.s. billed for the taxes, seized the land again, and sold it at auction. even though the band has money in trust account, they are only allowed to draw on the interest. the tribe planned to use the land for wind turbines. such a lucarative idea, uncle sam figured out a way to make it his, again…… and again….. and again……..
the name of that bottomless shaft is the department of the interior.
i will pass the word about the remains in puyallup, we network with native vets all over this turtle island, many of them separated from cultural roots by relocation programs.
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By: gramma rock on December 29, 2009
at 6:30 PM
Juneau Joe–would you mind elaborating? I would be very interested in your thoughts.
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By: Donna on December 29, 2009
at 6:26 PM
It’s a sad commentary and interesting yet that a blog which is suppose to promote communication is shut down by one person who speaks collectively
for all..and all go down the path she has laid for you. I do not think that is how Margaret or Helen would want this blog to be utilized.
Or is it?
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By: craigΔ on December 29, 2009
at 5:36 PM
Any one want to take a shot at answering
the question?
How about you Donna?
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By: craigΔ on December 29, 2009
at 5:32 PM
Would someone…i.e. the national book sellers or who ever ranks books by their sales really
justify a book as being a #1 best seller simply by
taking bulk sales tallies and using those #’s as
the system to rank a book.
Then the Bible would be #1 all the time as being for books purchased in bulk and handed out for free..would it not?
I know know one wants to answer the Minch has decreed it so…
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By: craigΔ on December 29, 2009
at 5:31 PM
So ..Donna is the herder of the sheep?
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By: craigΔ on December 29, 2009
at 5:26 PM
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! This blog and you folks, especially Helen and Margaret, have kept people sane during 2009.
gramma rock: I was just at the Puyallup Indian Tribal Offices talking to them about the Cushman Hospital ( Native TB Hospital) and the hundreds of native skeletons found on the old hospital property. That was my playground when I was a kid.
Natives from Alaska and the lower 48 were sent to this hosp back in the 40s and 50s. When they died, the bodies were buried unmarked.
The Puyallup Tribe Historical Office is trying to get a history of the Hospital and the Church.
They particularly need Alaskans who had relatives that were sent away with TB and never returned to the villages.
Happy New Year’s one and all!!!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 29, 2009
at 3:25 PM
My sister spent a few years living on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. At one point she lived in a trailor with no electricity or plumbing. The situation she described there was dismal. There were few jobs on the reservation. To prosper you had to leave, but that meant leaving behind your culture and losing your bearings. From the experiences she described, white people who live near the reservation treat Native Americans as though they’re all degenerates, thieves and dead beats. There is a case that’s been in the courts for years. Oil and gas companies have been using the resources on Native lands and are supposed to pay compensation for it, but haven’t. Why it’s been in court for so long is beyond me. Taking advantage of Native Americans is something that’s still going on. I could be wrong, but I believe the recent protest referred to previously in this blog was partially in response to this ongoing case.
Donna, I was going to say something along the lines of people being attracked to car crashes and burning buildings as well, but I’ll leave it alone. I’m sure there are people who read and agree with Ann Coulter as well, but that doesn’t make her opinions any more valid.
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By: Anne on December 29, 2009
at 3:22 PM
Agreed Donna.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 29, 2009
at 3:01 PM
donna, et al….. i am still hanging in here waiting for the uncle sam to finish their side of the paperwork for my widow’s pension. i am sending a small box of fire supplies to the crow creek chairman as prayer participation in his stand.
ironic, ain’t it, this is the anniversary of the massacre at wounded knee where chief bigfoot and his band were gunned down under a flag of truce.
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By: gramma rock on December 29, 2009
at 2:58 PM
Happy New Year, Chloe!
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By: Donna on December 29, 2009
at 2:48 PM
sorry Donna! I agree, I will show discipline from now on!
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By: chloe on December 29, 2009
at 2:36 PM
arrghhh….chloe!
Gryphen at IM had a wonderful post about why one should never EVER respond to a troll. I believe it’s particularly appropriate when someone has a demonstrated pattern of (a) a conciliatory (happy holidays) overture or “hey–let’s discuss X” one, followed by (b) ugliness and insults, followed by (c) “gosh–what did I say?” or “you just can’t tolerate a different viewpoint.” Craig has repeatedly engaged in that pattern and it is precisely the mentality of the disturbed 5 year old about which Gryphen writes.
Having made that observation (and I was hoping like hell that nobody would respond to yet another “hi, I’m here–pay attention to me!”), I don’t intend to respond further. I really hope the rest of you will consider doing likewise.
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By: Donna on December 29, 2009
at 2:35 PM
Craig, it is because rightwing organizations buy in bulk then pass them out when members make contributions. I live in the reddest state, not a single county voted blue last election yet, when I go into the bookstore (which I do almost every weekend) I have yet to see a single person even pick one us, much less buy one. They certainly aren’t leaping off the shelves here.
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By: chloe on December 29, 2009
at 2:29 PM
Gramma–your guess is as good as mine.
I hope you had a good Christmas–I do love it when you post.
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By: Donna on December 29, 2009
at 2:20 PM
If Sarah Palin’s book is so bad, harmful or just anti whatever you believe in…
Then why is it a number 1 best seller…?
I have not bought it and don’t intend to.
Biography’s are for people who don’t know the person or the background and want to learn more.
At least that is the way I see it.
But with the way Palin and her book have been attacked here and I would not expect any less..I was just wondering why it’s a BEST SELLER?
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By: craigΔ on December 29, 2009
at 2:14 PM
http://www.indiancountrytoday.com/national/plains/80058582.html
again, this gramma is asking…. is there a bottom to that shaft of federal indian policy ?
why isn’t this story on mainstream news ?
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By: gramma rock on December 29, 2009
at 2:06 PM
Chloe, what fun! Sounds like you had a blast!
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By: Claire on December 29, 2009
at 11:55 AM
OceanGypsi,
Yes, we made it thru okay, thanks for asking. We ended up getting 5-6 inches of snow at my house, it was so beautiful! We live on a hill with a steep, long & curvy street (perfect for sledding yet difficult to drive up/down, so no traffic!) Man, you could really get flying! We spent 3 hours sledding with the neighborhood kids. After a few climbs back up the hill, I decided I was too old, too lazy and too out of shape for that, so I backed the 4runner out of the garage and my hubby and I took turns transporting people back up the hill. We had soooo much fun! There were no injuries reported, we got to meet people from our neighborhood that we didn’t know, I made hot cocoa for everyone, it was a great day! We are supposed to get another 1-3 inches tonight and I’ve got my sled ready to go! It’s pretty hilly over there too, get your sled out sister!
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By: chloe on December 29, 2009
at 11:30 AM
I just found out the employees at my children’s daycare center don’t have health insurance. I felt horrible. The owner has tried to get it but it’s too expensive. If the health care bill does nothing else, I hope it can establish some sort of state-wide pools where self-employeed or employees of a small business can pool together for affordable health insurance by spreading around the risk. The government would only have to organize it, not subsidize it.
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By: Anne on December 29, 2009
at 10:59 AM
Just a quick follow-up because I believe that it was on this blog that someone suggested making cranberry sauce with bourbon: I followed your suggestion. Instead of white sugar and water, I used the same amounts of brown sugar and bourbon with the fresh berries. I also added a touch of cinnamon and cloves and grated orange peel to the finished product.
I have never seen cranberry sauce so popular! It disappeared the first day … no leftovers! Even those who don’t usually like cranberry sauce took TWO helpings.
Thanks so much for adding to the cheer of the season.
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By: Voltairesneighbor on December 29, 2009
at 9:25 AM
I second Angie’s concern and hope that all is well with M & H and families. We do miss you terribly.
For Christmas, my son and DIL gave me a copy of Going Rogue (as a joke) and then filmed my reaction (which was entirely predictable)! Arrggh!
It’s a good thing that I love them dearly and that they are the parents of my adorable grandson or I might have had to disown them.
I send greetings of the season to all M & H fans and their loved ones, human and otherwise. Have a Happy and healthy New Year, all!
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By: Voltairesneighbor on December 29, 2009
at 9:16 AM
Update…update….update! What happened to you two? We MISS YOU! Hope you are enjoying your holidays! ❤
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By: Angie on December 29, 2009
at 9:08 AM
Here, here, Imaginista! And, amen. LOL! ¥
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By: OceanGypsi on December 28, 2009
at 7:50 PM
A belated Merry Christmas from the resident “troll”..and wishing everyone a safe New Year celebration and hopefully a prosperous one as well.
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By: craigΔ on December 28, 2009
at 6:04 PM
Belated Merry Christmas to all of the M & H family; and best wishes for peace, prosperity and a good healthcare bill in 2010. May Sarah Palin reach the last seconds of her 15 minutes. Amen.
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By: Imaginista on December 28, 2009
at 4:26 PM
Ahh the weird frenzy week between the ending of this year and the beginning of the new one. Today is clean up day for me – clean the house, clean the dogs, end-of-the-year paperwork, etc. It was a good holiday with edges of sadness that comes when someone is no longer with us to laugh and love . . . I thought of UAW and hoped his family was celebrating and remembering with smiles, laughter, and love on Christmas Day – we toasted all of you & we toasted my new “penpal” an Italian college student who graduated with summa cum laude honors! And we toasted our lives – the fullness & joy there of. Happy New Year everyone! May 2010 bring you peace, bring you joy, bring you love.
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By: Greytdog on December 28, 2009
at 7:07 AM
You know, for a while now Letterman has been doing a bit called “Top Things More Fun Than Reading the Sarah Palin Memoir” that’s hysterical.
Things like playing in traffic, sticking your head in a microwave, sticking jumper cables in your mouth, etc.
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By: Mira on December 26, 2009
at 11:02 PM
Dec. 26 and all is well.
Survived the last two days.
House of overnight guests–one a toddler–and four dogs. Christmas Eve burrito dinner, huge breakfast on Christmas morn and roast beef with all the trimmings at 5:00.
Today, the house is quiet and clean.
And I rested.
Here’s to the end of 2009.
Have a happy new year everyone!
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By: vgmanΔ on December 26, 2009
at 7:27 PM
But Lulu–think of the Hawaii Really Bad pictures!
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By: Donna on December 25, 2009
at 4:33 PM
Merry Christmas everyone!
Merry Christmas wingnuts!!
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/michele-bachmann-welfare-queen
Wingnuts: Michele Bachman collects her welfare: $250,000 worth. She and her republican hypocrite friends collect welfare but hundreds of thousands of dollars instead of hundreds.
They vote NO on Unemployment Insurance for those out of work and they vote NO for health insurance for those without but THEY COLLECT THEIR BIG WELFARE CHECKS!
Merry Christmas All!
(Sorry to inject politics but this one was too important!)
Helen: BURN THAT BOOK!!!! Enough torture!!
Lulu: I would hate that part of your job!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 25, 2009
at 1:41 PM
Yech… I had to catalog it for our library, and even the flyleaf was obnoxious. How many will buy this book and opt for just looking at the pictures, which are a propagandist’s triumph? Talk about image-making!
Our library is in a very progressive town, and I’m looking forward to the check-out statistics.
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By: Lulu on December 25, 2009
at 10:49 AM
uaw-
wishing you the very best too. take care!
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By: alaskapi on December 25, 2009
at 7:13 AM
merry christmas all. it’s 4:13 am in raleigh NC – happy new year too! Helen hope you are enjoying your holidays.
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By: barbara on December 25, 2009
at 3:13 AM
Merry Christmas to each and everyone of you! Thank you Margaret and Helen for the gift of laughter during 2009.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 25, 2009
at 12:13 AM
Chloe, are you guys okay over there? We have blizzard conditions now, too.
I just got off the phone with my nephew in Afghanistan. He was able to call and wish me a Merry Christmas. How cool is that?
Happy Holidays, all!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 24, 2009
at 10:15 PM
Have a warm, wonderful and safe holiday, everybody. Peace on Earth. Please.
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By: judith on December 24, 2009
at 8:54 PM
Merry Christmas everyone! Peace on Earth!
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
This is an interesting clip I found. Bing Crosby and David Bowie – Little Drummer Boy. It seemed odd that two total opposites could create such harmony. What better time for us to put aside our differences and work in harmony for the greater good?
I pray everyone that visits this site is warm, healthy, and well-fed this Christmas. Please help those less fortunate, as you are able. May God bless all those that are overseas and otherwise separated from family. Keep them safe, I pray.
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By: Poolman on December 24, 2009
at 1:59 PM
Merry Christmas, uaw. I hope you are doing ok.
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By: Donna on December 24, 2009
at 1:36 PM
It seems as though Helen didn’t want to spoil the Holidays by starting chapter two of Sarah’s fairy tales ! Either that, or she did start reading it and is being sedated. Have a wonderful holiday everyone & best wishes for 2010 !
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By: Dee - NJ on December 24, 2009
at 1:25 PM
just thought I’d pop in and wish everyone a Merry Christmas
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By: uaw tradesman on December 24, 2009
at 1:07 PM
Off topic, Merry Christmas to Margaret, Helen and all here.
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By: TomCat on December 24, 2009
at 12:19 PM
Merry Christmas Margaret and Helen!
Helen: Put the book down! Enjoy your Christmas Season.
We have a health care bill. It needs some work but at least there is something to work with.
Happy Holidays everyone!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 24, 2009
at 10:07 AM
Sneaking back on really quick b4 family awakes: Congratulations America: Your Senate just passed an historic Health Care Reform bill. Because as Ted Kennedy calls us:
” the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die”
May you all have the peace and joy of the season now and throughout the coming year.
Happy Holidays, My Friends!
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By: Greytdog on December 24, 2009
at 7:55 AM
Donna,
I was blown away by how Monsanto has patented a new soybean that is immune to herbicides and pesticides. This patent has taken over the farmers and if you even dare to save your own seeds from year to year, they come after you!
I’m going to ask my dad more about this, since I’ve been removed from the agricultural midwest living since 1987.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 23, 2009
at 10:48 PM
vgman–I totally buy local and look for small farmers. You can’t avoid it all, but you can minimize it.
Tonight we had a salad with local greens, a pot roast from a local farmer. Potatoes from the coop. Absolutely delicious AND I wasn’t making ?Cargill richer.
Merry Christmas to all! [and the noxious Sarah Palin is on the cover of one of the tabloids looking butt ugly. Now, I take a great deal of pleasure in that since the only asset that buffoon has is her manufactured image–and it’s imploding.]
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By: Donna on December 23, 2009
at 8:12 PM
OK. Topic if anyone is interested–
The movie/documentary “Food, Inc.”
I was vaguely aware of how corporations had taken over food production (being born in Iowa).
I’m about to go shopping for last-minute things needed for holiday meals and 9 guests coming for dinner. The grocery store has a whole new “look” in my eyes.
Happy Holidays everyone!
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By: vgmanΔ on December 23, 2009
at 8:02 PM
you made my day. glad i stumbled across your blog. it’s going into the regular rotation!
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By: jessica on December 23, 2009
at 6:45 PM
I’m so glad Greytdog let us know she’s going offline for a few days. I’d hate to have the death rumors start up again!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 23, 2009
at 11:33 AM
Wishing Margaret & Helen and their families and all of my friends here and their families Peace and Joy. I hope you all get to share some pie with your loved ones.
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By: Claire on December 23, 2009
at 11:32 AM
Please remember our troops overseas during the holidays.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS, everyone!! I really enjoy visiting on Margaret and Helen’s porch with you all. I have learned a lot from you guys. YOU ROCK!!!
Ho ho ho!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 23, 2009
at 9:59 AM
Echoing Greyt and others
Best wishes to all!
Helen and Margaret-
Thank you for having us all in..
Here’s a small slice of Alaskan pie for you as a thanks ( and to give Donna yet more reasons to come see us…)
http://alaskaimagery.com/Home.html
This young man is one of our REAL ambassadors ! Forget the gone gov…
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By: alaskapi on December 23, 2009
at 8:49 AM
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Bright Blessings to all! Going off line for a couple of days but wanted to wish each & everyone of you a warm & loving holiday, however you celebrate.
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By: Greytdog on December 22, 2009
at 11:29 PM
Happy holidays Helen and Margaret and all friends on this blog! This is the only blog I post on because for the most part, I know it is a place where intelligent people gather and I do learn quite a bit here. Thanks Helen, for another good year, keeping this place going for us and putting up with the nonsense from some. Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Happy New Year everybody!
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By: Easier on December 22, 2009
at 11:10 PM
trop a la mode. tres pratique, tres amusant!
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By: Nikeairmax 90 on December 22, 2009
at 7:18 PM
“Helen…See me, Helen…See me”
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By: Margaret N Maine on December 22, 2009
at 6:10 PM
This is to wish Margaret and Helen, their families along with all of us who enjoy their blog so much, a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!!! What a wonderful group of people you are.
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By: sunshine on December 22, 2009
at 6:09 PM
You too, Juneau Joe–my very best to you and yours. And I look forward to many posts from you in the future.
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By: Donna on December 22, 2009
at 3:41 PM
Merry Christmas everyone!!!! You are a great group of folks!
Grandma Katie! You really are great!!!
Donna: Have a great Christmas!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 22, 2009
at 3:16 PM
Grandma Katie–I truly love when you post. I think you are a terrific person and wish you all the best. Thank you for being here.
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By: Donna on December 22, 2009
at 2:11 PM
To Marfaret and Helen and al the porch gang.
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, to all of you.
I was directed to the M&H blog by my oldest son shortly after I was able to get my computer bacl, not too long before the last election.
All the posts on this blog have helped me keep my mind busy , feel as tho I know all you wonderful people (minus the trolls). And most of alll, you have helped me keep my sanity. (losing it is easyywhen surrounded by Alzheimers and dementia).
Tho I haven’t cooked in some time, still enjoy the cooking stories and reciiiipes.
Happy Holidays to all of you and a Very Happy New Year!
And as a sign of a better New Year, granddaughter has a job in her field starting January 4, and her father has one also after unemployment for 9 months.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 22, 2009
at 10:28 AM
Very good article.
Wall Streets 10 biggest lies of 2009
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/les-leopold/wall-streets-10-biggest-l_b_399759.html
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 22, 2009
at 10:22 AM
You know, one has to wonder what Palin’s family rap sheet would have looked like had they lived in NYC during Rudy’s “zero-tolerance” reign! One also hopes that anyone seeking the highest public office in the world would have a greater respect for the law and those who enforce the law. One could extrapolate her disrespect for this officer doing his sworn duty to how she might view the military.
Keith in NM
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By: Keith in NM on December 22, 2009
at 9:51 AM
Helen, I just knew you’d take one for the team and read this book. (Thanks.)
My daughter is visiting over the holidays and has brought her pitbull along. Not that I dislike dogs, but, I’m not partial to dogs, and my cat is none too fond of them either. The only thing that makes me smile each day is that I imagine it in lipstick.
Happy holidays to fellow wedgies and all readers of M&H. A special hug for Margaret and Helen for keeping this blog going in 2009 and hopefully into 2010.
Maven Δ
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By: Maven Δ on December 22, 2009
at 8:52 AM
Well, dinner is in the oven.
Wine glass is full.
I need to spend some time with wrapping paper and cellophane tape.
Secret gift for SO is tucked away in neighbor’s garage. He-He-He…..
Ho-Ho-Ho!!!!!!
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By: vgmanΔ on December 21, 2009
at 9:06 PM
And nothing wrong with that! I’m just looking forward to the next chapter of the book review.
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By: Donna on December 21, 2009
at 6:54 PM
All’s quiet on the western front.
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By: Poolman on December 21, 2009
at 6:43 PM
Quiet here today!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 21, 2009
at 6:37 PM
“In his Senate floor speech on the health-care bill, the Rhode Island senator accused the GOP of fomenting the kind of paranoia that led to Kristallnacht and lynchings.”
An excellent link I got from Mudflats.
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By: Poolman on December 21, 2009
at 11:17 AM
hahahahahahahahaha! Palin wins the lie of the year!!
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/politics/2009/12/20/levs.lie.of.the.year.cnn
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By: OceanGypsi on December 21, 2009
at 9:49 AM
Terrorists really should work for insurance companies instead of strapping bombs to their bodies.
http://crooksandliars.com/logan-murphy/open-thread-28
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 21, 2009
at 7:01 AM
Helen, I hope you are well and spending your days happily preparing for Christmas. That said, I’m looking forward to your take on Chapter Two after the festivities are over.
Happy holidays to all in the pie club!
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By: ValleyIndependent Δ on December 21, 2009
at 1:20 AM
The Senate just passed healthcare, do Republicans have hearts?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 21, 2009
at 12:24 AM
Poolman, it would seem she has two choices in life, because of her dysfunctional personality, be a common criminal or be a politician. In time, she’ll have a sad end I predict.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 21, 2009
at 12:17 AM
no one’s puppetΔ, I’ll agree with you there. For someone who has really only been “known” for a little over a year, she has remained in the media and has become a world-wide personality. Much is bad publicity, but in marketing, all publicity is good if you can become a household name.
But like is common with how folks feel about cats, people either love her or hate her. There is really no middle ground. If she is to be the “mascot” for the tea party movement, we’ll be seeing her for a long time. Of course if she doesn’t improve her nutritional habits, she may not be around that long. She seems to have a pretty fast burning fuse, for sure.
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By: Poolman on December 20, 2009
at 11:52 PM
I’ll grant Palin one thing, she is interesting in a perverse sort of way.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 20, 2009
at 11:12 PM
JeanΔ ¥
It sounds like Glacier Bay…
A place of extraordinary beauty …
Most are tidewater glaciers and calving is fairly common…
And terribly exciting to watch!
My lil sis kayaked for a week there when she turned 30… even more exciting when you’re in a kayak I gather. I always go in a bigger mode of transport, myself . 🙂
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By: alaskapi on December 20, 2009
at 9:47 PM
Hi gang, Whirled Peas, Donna and Alaskan folks,
Thank you Bruddah Peas for putting up the Gene Lyons piece so FAST. How’d you do that? Never mind. I really don’t want to know. After spending a whole day’s session following your instructions on how to do an avatar, I don’t want to learn anything else about computing. Henceforth, I’ll just dump stuff like that in your lap to do for me.
Donna, I remembered something spectacular that happened on our Alaska trip. We took a lil’ ole boat somewhere up an inlet where there were dozens of glaciers on each side of the water. This was 12-15 years ago and I can’t remember exactly where it was. Can some of you Alaskan folks help me out here? It is a pretty well known place. Anyway my husband just happened to be video-taping the breathtaking scenery when a massive chunk of one of the glaciers broke loose and slid quietly into the water. It was about the size of a three-story building! We have it on tape! The skipper said it was called ‘calving’ when a glacier does that. They were talking about global warming up there even back then.
Also one of the most fun things was up close watching a bunch of sea otters cavorting all around the boat. They were playing with each other, swimming and doing the backstroke. Some of them had a fish or something in their little paws and were munching on it as they paddled around floating on their backs. They are the most adorable critters I have ever seen. A trip to Alaska is worth the sea otters alone!
We are pretty much all set to go to the airport to meet and ‘lei’ our family when they get here tomorrow. We are excited! I do hope all of your holidays will be as lovely as we plan to make ours.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 20, 2009
at 9:35 PM
While we are Sarah Palin:
Read about Sarah’s abortion of Tad.
http://palingates.blogspot.com/2009/12/sarah-palins-abortiongate.html
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 20, 2009
at 6:47 PM
Pathological liar works for me when I think of Sarah. The lady is nuts – glad she is no longer governor.
You will enjoy an Alaskan vacation though – very spectacular place.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 20, 2009
at 6:18 PM
JuneauJoe–I’ve been following that today as well. These are the same people who (as I understand it) basically turned the State upside down out of “fear” of the former brother-in-law? And they don’t even report something which purportedly was such a serious threat that they had to move?
There is something so pathological here.
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By: Donna on December 20, 2009
at 5:33 PM
Palin Update: Sarah took Willow out of school in Juneau because there was a threat of gang rape according to her book. HOWEVER: School Officials, Local Police and State Troopers did not hear about this incident until the book came out. it just does not make sense – the usual lies.
http://www.juneauempire.com/stories/122009/loc_537591017.shtml
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 20, 2009
at 4:54 PM
Okay, an ATVer died after falling through the ice in Minnesota. So apparently Palin believes that cops should have better things to do than ensuring that people follow the laws designed to ensure that they don’t have to knock on someone’s door late one Christmas night, a job I’m sure is absolutely on the top of their list, and a visit families don’t like to receive.
Selfish, stupid and shortsighted. But she’s gonna split the repug ticket, so I guess we should be grateful.
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By: PartyPiper on December 20, 2009
at 4:19 PM
No one’s puppet: During the Bush years, any organization spewing the anti-government, anti-President venom would certainly have been considered UnAmerican and Anarchists.
The hate filled rhetoric which comes from the tea bag group makes them hate filled anarchists in my mind.
Buttons44: The 10 uses for Palin Books was great!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 20, 2009
at 4:13 PM
Correct me if I am wrong, but aren’t “tea baggers” anarchists?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 20, 2009
at 3:42 PM
Buttons44, I enjoyed the links, thanks! Those 10 uses for “Going Rogue” was funny stuff. 😆
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By: Poolman on December 20, 2009
at 3:17 PM
A bit back, from Craig , a grand bit of truth “Ya see there really are Americans who have good jobs,pay taxes but are just plain unhappy with having legislation and agendas pushed down their collective throats. “, course he was attempting to justify T-baggers, whereas if these words applied more in general perspectivity, would find they describe a goodly majority who are indeed quite DISATISFIED and DISGUSTED WITH the gneeral status quo –with a caveat to insert, NO WAY , NO HOW ready to bring back those that helped so insidiously to get us to where this nation presently quagmired unparrelled–those from the previous administration are recognized as NOT the answer to the woes that begot us one and all !! The notion that TB’s are somehow THE AMERICAN RESCUE TEAM is delusional at very best for even IF intermingled with some of reputable repute, they were usurped and come off as a major travesty, misplaced delusionals who are way too fanatically fringed to be found “acceptable” . The dissatisfaction that is round and about has bits and pieces of reality but it has elements of viral infections as well. Frankly , as disgusted as many are, those based in reality do indeed KNOW there is NO QUICK FIX and that recovery IS going to be painful–made even MORE painful (needlessly) by those that are but out to obstruct ANYTHING and EVERYTHING with no care to the cost and the cost IS DEAR TO EACH , even themselves whether they realize /comprehend or not.
True, times are indeed “tuff”, for many quite dire in fact. True not every whim or desire is going to be met…as IF they ever actually are . The baldersashings going on , the bashings seem non stop –so much wsted effort that could indeed be put to great cause that COULD INDEED benefit the greater common good. Some are wonking hard at keeping the divisivnous rampant and roiling–THAT IS THE BIG EASY of it all–the hard work is in actualizing some actual progress which is the heaviest load of all but CAN BE accomplished and done easier when more put forth their effort to make it so.
The present HCR is rather seen as a sham, need those “blessed” 60 votes , then, well then comes THE COMMITTEE CONFERENCES , and if any think this bruha has been raucous, wait til that hits BUT, in those committee “reconcilliationaries” are where options can make some adjustments–best shot at this point and indicates not all is lost just yet.
Here’s an old read, written back in April, but seems apropos presently…..SFGate.com – Wednesday, April Great American Detox
Which is better: To be rich ‘n’ slothful, or lean ‘n’ panicky?
By Mark Morford
(Full URL: http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2009/04/15/notes041509.DTL&nl=fix)
and here is anothers’ take on proper GR use….
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2009/11/25/notes112509.DTL
Top 10 uses for “Going Rogue”
You have found/run over a copy of Sarah Palin’s “book.” Now what?
Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2009/11/25/notes112509.DTL#ixzz0aFzAJ79X
…….borrowing from Poolman, “MERRY CHRISTMAQUAZIKA” …and then some , of course !!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 20, 2009
at 2:26 PM
Well, that was certainly worth looking at. I’m pretty sure I never heard that bit about the mutiny
in Washington’s army. The history books given our children rarely mention the other side from the powers that be, even though their numbers are much greater.
I have a terrible head for names. I had to go look up who Vanzetti was. As soon as his name came up with Sacco, I at least remembered the names. Reading Wikipedia was a revelation. Didn’t know that so much information was out there about them. Not what I was taught in school. But then, Howard Zinn wasn’t taught in my school either. I’ve been reading some of his work lately, lots more to go.
Just another thing this internets machine is good for. Updating elderly brains. What a wonderful tool it is. And NO, I don’t believe everything I read here, just as I don’t believe everything thing I read in the newspapers. Like someone on that show said, each of us has a different perspective and (paraphrasing) each of us will have a different understanding of an event. So I guess it pays to try to understand where someone’s coming from.
So, where do you suppose Glen Beck’s brain has been to put him in the place he seems to come from? Too scary to contemplate.
Vgman, Reps should certainly review their job descriptions. But then, WTP should be doing the same. Of course, this last presidential election brought out a lot more voters. It would be a shame if they all just quit the job again since so little real change has been made, and many of us have very short attention spans. It’s very, very difficult to turn the great Ship of State. darn.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 20, 2009
at 1:23 PM
I agree, Whirled Peas–
The People Speak was a good, thought-provoking show. I was waiting for the initial broadcast last weekend.
Given that we all come from varied backgrounds, I wonder what comments would be made about the show from conservatives? social justice advocates? liberals? libertarians? teabaggers?
democrats? etc.
One thing is for certain–representatives in Congress should review their job description.
The People Speak is a good reminder for everyone that the power is in the hands of the people.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 20, 2009
at 11:48 AM
My pleasure HRH sofia EQ, literally!
Bill Moyers has the best guests and Matt really got me jazzed yesterday when I saw it.
Then, totally by accident, I flipped on the TV, to a program on the History Channel, that grabbed me by my patriot soul. I cannot find another airing date for the show, but I did find this tidbit. It only scratches the surface of how powerful the 2hr show was for me.
The People Speak
Our current crop of ‘politicians’ and wingnuts should be embarrassed.
8) ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 20, 2009
at 10:19 AM
re: Alaska visit. Good to hear all those questions and answers about travel to that beautiful state. Back when I was a travel agent (24 years agent, 3 years airline employee, reservations) I booked quite a few people to your area. Most, sadly were content with the mega cruise along the coast giving them a few hours in the port and not much else except classes in napkin folding or line dancing. My favorites were the people who actually got into the state itself. A few went by ferry, a few took the small boats (“explorer” class)
some when independently. If I ever went myself, I would want to do the “explorer class” boat but they are quite a bit more expensive. (though after you settle up your bar and excursion bills with the big guys you might find you spent more)
Probably my most memorable booking was for a local writer for National Geographic who asked me to get him and crew and ocean going kayaks to Dutch Harbor to catch a boat to the jumping off point to kayak to the last islands in the Aleutians.
Pretty rugged stuff.
Donna, I hope you get to take your trip and have a wonderful time. Research is really the best way to start and you have certainly asked the right people for advice.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 20, 2009
at 9:56 AM
Whirled Peas Δ, thank you (once again) for the link to
the Bill Moyers piece etc. Rational thinking and discussions are more entertaining to me than so much of what is out there today. I still can’t understand the general public’s fascination with the “star of the minute” who has mostly done nothing but show up and do something dumb and therefor, is “newsworthy”
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 20, 2009
at 9:46 AM
good info on that pesky health care stuff. It’s from a local paper http://www.tomifobia.com/lcc1.html
I started looking at because they have a genealogy column about the area my ancestors came from.. Canada/Vermont border. They occasionally have other columns of interest, life in their area is not really so very dissimilar to Alaska except their weather might be a tiny bit better.
http://www.tomifobia.com/frank_bernheisel/health_care_bill.shtml
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2009/12/14/091214fa_fact_gawande
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 20, 2009
at 9:41 AM
Here you go Auntie Jean,
Weathering the storm of stupidity.
~
For an different “elitist’s” perspective:
Global Dimming
*I started it at the 16:55 mark (how air pollution is masking real effects of global warming/climate change)
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 20, 2009
at 9:38 AM
I am so grateful to all of you for your suggestions–can’t wait for this trip!
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By: Donna on December 20, 2009
at 8:32 AM
http://www.suntimes.com/news/otherviews/1948554,CST-EDT-open20a.article
Alaska: Cross Country skiing into Mendenhall Glacier and going into an ice cave is amazing. The ice cave is super slippery though.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 20, 2009
at 7:16 AM
Hi gang, Donna and Whirled Peas,
Donna, you have done a beautiful job of trying at least to get through to the boorish troll, but of course, to no avail. But nice try! I scroll past his drivel, but of course, I read your responses to him. My dad had an expression for men like him (and I use the term ‘men’ in the loosest possible way). “Useless as tits on a boar.”
As for a trip to Alaska, go for it! We have been there and would go back in a heartbeat. Others here at M&H, especially people who live there have described it so well. Except that it is BIG! I won’t give you any tips on where to go except to Mendenhall Glacier. We took a helicopter and landed right on the glacier. It was one of the most awe-inspiring experiences we have ever had. But one of the best aspects is the people. Warm, friendly and ever so helpful. They will stop whatever they are doing to visit with you, answer any questions and give you right-on wonderful descriptions on what to do and where to go.
I read an exceptional article in today’s newspaper that explains a lot. I wish I could post a link but I wouldn’t have a clue on where to find it or how to do it. That’s more up our resident computer genius Bruddah’s Peas’ alley. It was written by Gene Lyons, who is an award-winning columnist for the Arkansas Democrat Gazette. It is rather lengthy, so I will only quote a few paragraphs.
It is entitled, “Weathering the Storm of Stupidity.”
“So what’s next? A series of essays by Sarah Palin about the Large Hadron Collider and the mysteries of dark matter? An MIT lecture series by Rush Limbaugh regarding the thermodynamics of black holes? A Festchrift of Sean Hannity’s scholarly articles on plate tectonics and volcano formations? Glenn Beck performing live heart-lung transplants on Fox News?
Everybody understands that these things couldn’t happen. That when it comes to serious scientific endeavor, years of study and professional apprenticeship are required. In a word, expertise. Ex-beauty-queen contestants, drive-time DJs, TV sports announcers, hairstylists, newspaper columnists – basically anybody whose math skills topped out in the 10th grade – rarely have anything substantive to add to the sum of technical and scientific knowledge. That’s what they most resent about it.
……Unless and until, that is, scientific endeavor impinges upon either (a) religious belief “ [fundamentalism, be it Christian or Islamic]
“or (b) the ability of tycoons to keep making money in precisely the way they (or their ancestors) have always made their money. Then it’s every man or woman a climatologist, and every genuine expert an “elitist” enemy of God and the American Way – creationism with a thermometer.”
Lyons goes on the quote P.B. Medawar, a British Zoologist. “…..the spread of secondary and latterly tertiary education has created a large population of people, often with well-developed literary and scholarly tastes, who have been educated far beyond their capacity to undertake analytical thought.”
Analytical thought, that’s what’s missing.
This seems to me to explain why the right wing conservative senators and representatives and ‘tea-baggers’ continually spout off on subjects like climate change and health care reforms when they actually have absolutely NO expertise whatsoever to back up their claims. The only expertise they exhibit is the ability to drag their feet and say ‘no’.
Now, please, please, please don’t say anything interesting for the next few weeks that I will feel compelled to respond to. I have a jillion things to do and just can’t spend that much time on the computer.
Aloha! J
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 20, 2009
at 1:11 AM
I’m sure the troll will be back and he’ll grovel as usual, just enjoy the show folks, don’t assume he’s had an epiphany, and is suddenly a real nice guy.
Darn your Alaska questions Donna, now I want to visit Alaska.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 20, 2009
at 1:10 AM
STUNNING Photos!
I too would one day LOVE to see Alaska with my own two eyes. After moving here to Arizona back in the early ’90’s, my family took a trip up to Lake Powell which we enjoyed very much. From there we went on up to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and all I could think was that NONE of the gorgeous photography I’d seen my whole life did what I saw justice.
I’m sure “seeing” Alaska would elicit the same overwhelming sense of awe. It was very humbling, and a “weighty” matter if you catch my meaning. My experience the 1st time I went to the Hawaiian Islands was the same.
Some day! In the mean time I’ll look at all the wonderful photography and dream!!
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By: Azgrandma on December 20, 2009
at 1:03 AM
One day alaskapi, one day. I gotta build a few more concrete swimmin’ holes first.
Leroy The Redneck Reindeer
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By: Poolman on December 20, 2009
at 12:38 AM
Bundle up and come see us Poolman!
All pie served in the parlor here!
It’s a nice slideshow you found and here’s
http://sitkaphotos.blogspot.com/
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By: alaskapi on December 20, 2009
at 12:29 AM
Alaska is one place I would love to see sometime. All the pictures I have seen are pretty awesome. I am not a fan of cold, so I would not be able to tolerate being there year round, but it looks so amazing that I would really get up there to visit. I googled Sitka and found this slideshow of Sitka.
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By: Poolman on December 20, 2009
at 12:20 AM
There is still hope for the tea partiers.
The Wizard Can Help 😉
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By: Poolman on December 20, 2009
at 12:03 AM
I am sorry – I meant Mass, not Maine. I believe it was filmed mostly in Rockport.
http://www.completely-coastal.com/2009/08/sandra-bullock-in-proposal-rockport-and.html
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on December 20, 2009
at 12:02 AM
LOL Martha – I stand corrected. But wow, even prettier than THAT?? Pretty amazing. What about those aerial shots?
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 19, 2009
at 11:45 PM
“His wife, a fiery little 57 yo red head is going back to get her nursing degree after being let go from J&J as a regional pharma rep.”
LOLOL wow – that explains a LOT. No, not every tea bagger is an illiterate backwoods bubba. Some are big pharma and big insurance company folks, toeing the company line. Much the same way I imagine R.J. Reynolds employees just HATE the annual great smoke out day. But I am grateful she’s going into nursing. There may be some hope for her, as she might just get a big taste of the other side of the coin.
“And call Ben Lighthorse Campbell.”
Just for the record, it’s Ben Nighthorse Campbell.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 19, 2009
at 11:40 PM
Honey JoRumples – sorry to break the news that there was no Sitka in that movie. It’s so expensive to film up here (especially Southeast towns with no roads in or out) that they just find some other coastal town, this time in Maine, and pretend it is Alaska.
Sitka’s shoreline absolutely does not resemble that in the move in any way shape or form. Sitka is more visually stunning & dramatic, with much Russian cultural influence and completely different architecture than eastern coast towns. And best of all, no one in the whole state speaks that stupid fake accent of Palin’s!
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on December 19, 2009
at 11:39 PM
alaskapi – I’d never heard of Sitka before, but Sandra Bullock’s movie The Proposal put it on the map for those of us who were unaware. It does look VERY beautliful!
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 19, 2009
at 11:15 PM
Donna
Thanks for keeping the obnoxious troll at bay. I gave up long ago. Don’t have the time for it any more and it’s not worth the effort. It takes time away from doing things that are more significant.
But I have to admit, I didn’t get the meaning of his rambling bar party scenario. If he was implying that drunks would be less guarded in their speech and therefore one would hear a lot of ethnic pejoratives, he probably believes all people think at the same septic tank level he does. I used to go to ethnically mixed parties much like the one he projected and the discussions never sank to the level he predicted. In fact, even after copious amounts of booze, conversations stayed on high level of substance and propriety that never wavered. Of course, the difference between attendees at Craig’s party and the ones at the parties I attended was their education level. At the parties I attended, I was in the company of intellectuals, and I can only infer that Craig’s would be populated by more gutter dwellers than thinkers.
I’m too old to put up with non-thinkers like Craig. I don’t have a hell of a lot of years left and I’d rather spend my time doing more positive things in the world rather than dealing with social cretins. Thanks for keeping up the fight.
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By: jsri on December 19, 2009
at 10:05 PM
Bears, black and brown (Alaskan for grizzly), mountain goats, orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, seals, silly whistle pigs (marmots), deer (ours are tiny compared to Outside ), and eagles… lots and lots and lots of eagles.
Treeline at around 2000 feet so you can get up to see beautiful subalpine flora easily, BIG tides so you can walk wayyyy out on the beach and across the usually hidden land bridge to Shaman island at low tide…
I hope poor Helen is reading some of this to wash the taste of the gone gov from her mouth…
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By: alaskapi on December 19, 2009
at 9:40 PM
Martha–I am betting she hides out for a while because of the Cottage Cheese Thighs photos!
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 9:30 PM
I was driving to the end of the road and I saw this head poke through some bushes. i thought, dog, but then realized it was a baby bear. He took off when i got the camera.
The end of the road: you go about 18 miles and it says, ‘road ends’ and it does. It is beautiful wherever you go in Juneau. You can hike 4 miles into herman Glacier.
You can even rent a forest service cabin in the woods.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 9:29 PM
Donna, if you come to Southeast Alaska, the Interior, Denali Park, the Kenai Peninsula, Valdez – you won’t stand a chance running into the twit from Wasilla fer sure fer sure. She doesn’t stray far from home, and now when she does, it’s off to spread dissent and lies in the Lower 48 (she won’t be back in Hawaii anytime soon – LOL!)
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on December 19, 2009
at 9:19 PM
The eagles are a huge part of what we want to see! I think they are the most spectacular birds in the world.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 9:15 PM
Juneau also has a great music festival!
Perseverence Theater has great plays with talented local folks – you would be very impressed.
In the summer – extended daylight is quite unique and worth experiencing.
Eagles: Lots of them too in and around Juneau.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 9:13 PM
eeyew. Now, I simply cannot imagine acting like that–or wanting to–about anyone! I mean not Mahatma Gandhi or any of the true heroes of the world. I’d be honored, certainly. But that sort of gooey, “crush” stuff? blech.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 9:12 PM
“and we had planned to take this trip before but wouldn’t go as long as Palin was governor”
——————–
We sure could have used you here during the last year…
We got flooded with palinistas.
OMG- reaching over the fence at the Governor’s Mansion to touch the shrubs with reverence, standing and staring at the door, hoping she would come out…taking pictures of the kids’ toys in the yard…
I go by there everyday- on the way to work. I usually walk- drove for months to get some space from those poor deluded souls…
We got asked endlessly “Where’s Sarah’s house?”
A lot of us, me included, got to where we snapped “Sarah lives in Wasilla, her tanning bed lives at our Governor’s Mansion, she comes to visit it once in awhile… ”
Boy we could have used some fresh air… whew.
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By: alaskapi on December 19, 2009
at 9:06 PM
you guys are amazing. Many thanks!
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 8:58 PM
Donna,
Juneau has world class hiking – everything from the glorious June wildflower walk across the Pt. Bridget meadows, to many peaks with breathtaking vistas. My favorite peak trail has a trail so narrow at one point, you pull yourself up with an existing rope. Well, usually it’s there. Peak hikes are better in July on to encounter less snow and to get above thick vegetation below tree line.
You could be here for a month and be hard pressed to hike half of them. We have bears, but you can get pepper spray and good advice locally. Lots of dogs on trails, mostly always awesome dogs (leaving lots of dog poo to stick Sarah Palin flags in).
Juneau is lovely, but I agree with Pi that Sitka is even prettier. Not as many trails, though.
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on December 19, 2009
at 8:41 PM
THANK YOU! [and we had planned to take this trip before but wouldn’t go as long as Palin was governor]
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 8:35 PM
Alaska is a huge place with distinct areas. I am partial to where I live… Southeast Alaska.
In Southeast you are in a temperate rainforest by and large. You can fly in or come in on the state ferry. We are a place of land and sky and sea in ever changing and always dramatic intersection here in Southeast.
I love where I live but we are inundated with cruise ships in the summer… If you want to add Juneau to your list come prepared to avoid a few blocks downtown and bring your rain gear.
You can rent kayaks, you can hike lots of places and we have good food …The State Museum is here, a cool mining museum is open in Last Chance in the summer, the Mendenhall Glacier is here to marvel at . There are B&Bs and hotels and a hostel…There are charter boats for hubby to fish…
If you rent a car you can drive out the road to hike Bridget State Park- acres and acres and acres of wildflowers, you can go to the Jensen Arboretum, the Shrine of St Therese…
You can take a catamarran to Glacier Bay and see one of the most stunning places on earth…
Sitka is a jewel- no other way to put it. Look it up online… it is the star of Alaska as far as I am concerned 🙂
Skagway , Haines, Ketchikan, and Petersberg are all worth visiting- if only the few hours the ferry is in port.
Anchorage has good food and amenities and you can make day trips to see areas nearby. The train is worth looking at…but I’m just partial to Southeast.
Nome and places that far north are a whole ‘nother world… stunning beauty .
You won’t likely run into the gone gov anywhere here in Southeast since she burned her bridges in Ketchikan and dissed us here as corrupt ( couldn’t be the corrupt dimwits folks voted for and sent to do their work, has to be us according to the Liar Queen- sigh. ) so think about it !
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By: alaskapi on December 19, 2009
at 8:24 PM
this is exactly the sort of thing I was hoping for!
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 8:19 PM
Alaska: Juneau is a great place to be outdoors and see Alaska. You could go out to a glacier. Mendenhall Glacier is one of my favorite places. You could get on a ferry and travel to Haynes too. Ferry rides are great. You could also take a ferry to Hoonah, a native village. Juneau also has great museums and hikes. Weather: You catch good weather – Juneau if heaven. If it rains – it rains HARD AND HEAVY!
Anchorage: If you fly into Anchorage: Rent a car and drive the Kenai to Homer. You have to look out for moose. Quite Impressive.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 8:08 PM
and no giant cruise ships!
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 7:48 PM
we aren’t going to camp and we absolutely don’t hunt. My husband does love to fish but he’ll cope if he doesn’t.
He’s 60, I’m 55. Both in good shape. Love being outside, love animals. He kayaks and I’d love to try it.
We also are very interested in history and love to learn about other cultures. Oh–and we LOVE good food!
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 7:47 PM
The war on Christmas is real – Sarah Palin knows
http://theimmoralminority.blogspot.com/2009/12/war-on-christmas-is-real.html
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 7:46 PM
Donna –
WHAT do you want to see?
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By: alaskapi on December 19, 2009
at 7:44 PM
And JuneauJoe, he will. :>)
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 19, 2009
at 7:42 PM
Juneau Joe–a little advice? Where would you go on a first trip to Alaska? Thanks for any thoughts that you, AlaskaPi, or anyone else with knowledge might have.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 7:41 PM
listen to all the jealous people.. I am so tickled by this nothing else to write..
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By: Francesca on December 19, 2009
at 7:16 PM
AlaskaPi: I must say that I do miss seeing the Gov Mansion – it really was quire a great sight.
I also miss the tree at Douglas, not much really but gave the place a warm, small town feel.
I also miss the ski resort being so close: I have a 10 hour drive on Mon to get to skiing in OR. 15 minutes up to Eaglecrest was great.
Have a great Christmas AlaskaPi.
Trolls: Trying to argue with a troll is like trying to teach a pig to sing.
Realistically: Ignoring is best – watch him talk to himself.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 6:21 PM
No one’s puppet–I am persuaded!
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 5:57 PM
I like the troll best when he is spinning, because no one will pay any attention to him, then he comes groveling back until some pays him a little attention, it is his pattern, it doesn’t have to be ours. Accept the fact that he is a asshole, with no family or friends, and befriend him or ignore him. Either way don’t let him bother you, because he is a total nothing and he knows that even better than us. I vote to ignore him, he is most interesting when he spins.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 19, 2009
at 5:45 PM
Merry Christmaquazika!
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By: Poolman on December 19, 2009
at 5:24 PM
Juneau Joe-
We have fresh snow . Lights up all over the gov’s Mansion… our beautiful mansion. I’m sorry you are not here to see how much brighter they shine this year… 🙂
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By: alaskapi on December 19, 2009
at 5:22 PM
And as for the INDIAN THING HAVE THEY ALWAYS NOT GOTTEN A % OF THE OIL REVENUE IN ALASKA AND DISTRIBUTED IT TO THE PEOPLE IN THEIR TRIBES?
Same for the Indian casinos?
ENLIGHTEN ME?
———–
craig –
No and no. Where did you come up with those dumb ideas?
No… never mind, don’t really want to know.
The rest of your remarks about Alaska Natives and the First Nations show a pronounced smart assed attitude and deep lack of information …
Go home and sleep it off.
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By: alaskapi on December 19, 2009
at 5:18 PM
But stupidity can’t be fixed–and neither can someone who’s so desperate for attention that they continue the sort of behavior in which you engage. So regardless of what you try or buy or do, you’ll remain an ignorant, boring, socially inept buffoon.
You don’t piss me off. You bore the crap out of me. And doubtless do the same for whoever is unfortunate enough to cross your path.
I do take offense when you make one of your clumsy attempts at humor about something such as the truly desperate plight of native Americans.
A drunken, stupid, racist old in law used to behave much like you do. He’d barge into a conversation and say something that he knew full well would hurt or offend or insult someone. If someone voiced an objection, his response was that they had no sense of humor. No–it was that they found ignorance and bigotry and childishness to be obnoxious. I don’t doubt that I’ve summed up the way in which most people respond to you. And please enjoy your imaginary party–I doubt you’re asked to many actual ones.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 5:11 PM
From Donna…You make offensive statements and then retreat into either of two modes:
“a. Awww, gee…what did I say that was so bad?
b. Well, it’s just because I voted differently from you did! [variation: because I have different beliefs].”
Nope I think I have been consistently pissing you off
so it must be both.
Donna. It can be fixed with a pill.
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By: craigΔ on December 19, 2009
at 4:58 PM
OOps sorry about that imaginary party..
I forgot the Gays and the Irish ..Can’t have a party without the Irish.
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By: craigΔ on December 19, 2009
at 4:52 PM
Well, the people on this blog–other than trolls and jerks such as yourself–don’t have to go onto blogs to try to provoke a response. They don’t keep returning when people have made clear they are giving offense. So I don’t think it is anyone other than yourself who needs to, in the vernacular, “get a life.”
I imagine you’d be as tiresome and socially inept at your hypothetical cocktail party as you are in your posts. Anyone whose social antennae are that dull is hardly a success in person.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 4:40 PM
PEACE TRAIN..I DON’T KNOW IF ANYONE ON THISD BLOG KNOWS OF ANYTHING EXCEPT TO STRIKE OUT OUT AT OTHERS WHO THEY KNOW NOTHING OF THRU THIS IMPERSONAL THING CALLED THE INTERNET.
It would be interesting to see how everyone would look at a quiet piano bar party with free bar and heavy Hors d’œuvres. See the mix and the mingeling. Overhear the conversations about that WASP or that JEW..how about the Black dude cutting the ivories. Or the fat lady telling the young girl how her mother use to make davinity.
Watching the news on the mounted tv abouve the bar with the audio turned down and the crawl across the bottom about another
N. Korean missile test…followed by a count down of this years top ten moments including Obama receiving the Peace Prize. But losing the Olympics
and not getting anything in concrete for world emissions control. Yep it would be a interesting party of republicans, democrats, tea party participants without guns, black, white, indian…jews and gentiles. Do you think it would happen if everyone were to be sent a invitation to such a party that they would come?
Or would they rather hide behind their anonymity?
Dear Resident Troll: (Mr Skunk)
YOU CAN CALL ME CRAIG..OR TROLL,WHATEVER.
You got yours because of your wife – got it.
I GOT WHAT? HOW WOULD YOU KNOW WHAT I GOT? BECAUSE OF MY WIFE?
YEP, I GOT A GREAT SYRINGE IN THE BUTT ONCE OF PENICILLIN FOR STREP, WHEN SHE WAS A INTERN, AND SHE COULD NOT AFFORD TO GET SICK.
To hell with everyone else – got it.
I DON’T THINK I SAID THAT. WHERE?
The US has 5% of the population but we use over 25% of the resources by the way.
OH..I GET IT… ITS A COMMENT ABOUT WHINNING. CUTE.
GO PLUG IN YOUR ELECTRIC CAR AND ALSO FIND SOMEONE TO BUNDLE UP WITH, AND QUICK.
You are a sad individual!
I’M JUST LAUGHING MY ASS OFF AT YOU .
MAN YOU PEOPLES HAD GOTTAS GET A LIFE.
HAVE TO GO..THE THERMOSTAT IS SET TOO LOW.
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By: craigΔ on December 19, 2009
at 4:34 PM
Well, if your wife is, indeed, a child psychiatrist (which I do doubt), I can understand the attraction to you. You have the insight and maturity of a badly behaved 4 year old who had sugar on his breakfast cereal and needs a nap.
I am well aware of Don Rickels and Mel Brooks. But here’s the deal: (a) they are Jewish and (b) they are smart. This allows them to make jokes about a shared cultural heritage AND to do so in a genuinely funny way. When they go beyond Jewish humor, they are still bright and it’s obvious that there isn’t a basis of ignorance or condescension in their humor.
You are neither Jewish nor bright. What you attempt to pass as humor is based on both ignorance and hostility.
As for “hatred,” you aren’t worthy of that level of emotion. What you are is, as Juneau Joe correctly notes, sad. You repeatedly come on this blog. You make offensive statements and then retreat into either of two modes:
a. Awww, gee…what did I say that was so bad?
b. Well, it’s just because I voted differently from you did! [variation: because I have different beliefs].
On the very slim chance, that your spouse genuinely is a medical professional, she doubtless can confirm your passive aggressive nature. And I’m sure she has tolerated your very thinly veiled hostility and your rather astonishing immaturity. While you are a sad person, I feel genuine pity for her having to put up with someone who is so lacking in admirable qualities. On the other hand, if she’s drawn to troubled children, you may be exactly what she wants.
But let’s be very clear. Your entry on this blog was insulting. You regularly insult the participants. You offer nothing of interest or value. And your attempts at wit are puerile at best.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 4:11 PM
Get Onboard the Peace Train
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By: Poolman on December 19, 2009
at 3:57 PM
Dear Resident Troll: (Mr Skunk)
You got yours because of your wife – got it.
To hell with everyone else – got it.
The US has 5% of the population but we use over 25% of the resources by the way.
You are a sad individual!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 3:44 PM
Ohhhh.ladies and gentiles.
Believe me. Married to a shrink for over 35 plus years. Although she does specialize in Child Psychiatry. Here is where I should insert her professional card for some on this blog.
I remember a comedian..probably before your time Donna.
Don Rickels. A Jew. A JEW DONNA.
He could crack jokes about any and everybody and their religions and races.
Sometimes people in Las Vegas would even pay to be insulted and tipped to be front and center.
Then comes along Jew, Mel Brooks with “The Producers” with its great song of “Springtime for Hitler”. And his all time best comedy I think “Blazing Saddles” where he takes a swipe at everybody including the Irish.
Now unless you have been under a tree..at some point in time you made or someone made a reference to someone being Jewish on this blog.
Now no one that I know of ..including me have made any ANTI Semitic comments. Have I?
Did I make any?
I made a holiday reference to go play Christmas movies or hum Hanukkah songs..and or go play with the dreidel. Because someone’s blood pressure was getting up.
Is that being venal and or attention getting? ..Except I got your attention and wrath for what?
My god Donna..I’m not playing the pity card..Cause I don’t need your pity or anger..but you are definitely one angry woman..make that person.
You really have a hate thing for me..and ya know Tell Martha Unalsaka to chill as well.
Way too much anger here on this blog..
It must be pent up frustration with your
60 senators…and Obama’s sell out.
Finally…”Stop Global Whining” and see if you can keep Obama in the continental U.S for more than a week.
I thought we had annexed Denmark..he’s been over there so much.
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By: craigΔ on December 19, 2009
at 3:29 PM
Indian Casinos in the lower 48. I happened to know the first Indian to open an Indian Casino back int eh 50’s.
He got put in jail a lot.
Before the Casino: The tribe was able to fish in the Puyallup River for Salmon without restrictions.
White man got upset because they had limits. The Tribe finally had limits put on them and there were many court cases.
With time, the Indian Casinos were finally allowed.
The Tribe I grew up with in the 50s would prefer the old way, fishing, hunting and subsistence living instead of the Casinos. They had no choice but to change after their way of life was taken from them.
Martha Unalaska = Your note to Craig was great!
Thanks.
Sarah Quit again: She quit her Hawaii vacation after 2 days. She probably got sick of being around Todd.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 3:08 PM
Donna, I am sorry if you thought I was including the trolls, I’m on the same page as you.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 19, 2009
at 3:04 PM
We have a bridge here, that crosses the Delaware River. It’s been there for ages and still has the huge nean sign that says, “TRENTON MAKES THE WORLD TAKES”. What a joke ! 80% of the area factories are deserted, because- the WORLD took the jobs. Not only the cheapo stores, but the huge department stores are selling mainly imported goods of every kind. I am sick thinking about the millions of people without jobs and a government that let it get this way. It kind of kills the Holiday joy ! Sorry – this is one of my sad days – will still manage to enjoy Christmas with my loved ones. Hope you all do the same.
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By: Dee - NJ on December 19, 2009
at 3:02 PM
You’re welcome Poolman.
If you want more: Matt Taibbi’s blog.
I’m sure you’ve seen or heard
about his Rolling Stone article:
Obama’s Big Sellout
The president has packed his economic team with Wall Street insiders intent on turning the bailout into an all-out giveaway
[Good read. Watch the video too.]
8) ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 19, 2009
at 2:53 PM
Whirled Peas Δ, thanks for the most excellent link to the Bill Moyers interview.
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By: Poolman on December 19, 2009
at 1:45 PM
Thank you, Martha–better put than I did. And “fool” is an understatement.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 1:19 PM
Hey Craig! Up yours, and I’ll do the twisting. Only a fool makes stupid statements about that which he knows naught. Ya know, just like Sarah Palin.
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on December 19, 2009
at 1:15 PM
No Indian Casino’s in Alaska!
Gas was $7.00 a gal when I was there. Heating oil was $7.00 a gal. Last winter it got up to $9.00 a gal for heating oil and gas.
Of course they use snowmachines and boats to survive.
If you see how the native people live, you would be amazed. I could only last 6 months – it is extreme living.
A troll can mock them but in reality, you would not survive in such conditions. They are an amazing people and I appreciate them for doing what i could not do.
Their way of life should be allowed to continue but us white folks are making it more and more difficult by altering the climate and increasing their cost of living. they cannot just go out and kill a moose or fish whenever the fish run any more. they have tight restrictions on hunting and fishing, which was not the case in the past.
Money from oil – Every Alaskan gets a PFD check every year. I could have but did not put in for it.
If the natives alone had gotten that money, they would be doing much better.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 1:06 PM
Bill Moyers Journal with
economist Robert Kuttner
and journalist Matt Taibbi.
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 19, 2009
at 1:06 PM
and No One’s Puppet–I have to disagree, dear. Not everyone on here is so bright. While most are, Craig clearly is not. Other than having the ability to parrot a few talk radio’isms and the sense of humor of a 7 year old, there’s nothing there. Roughly the intellectual horsepower of the average hamster.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 12:58 PM
Craig–you stupid, boring, venal, attention-seeking asshole. I should have expected a few anti-Semitic attempted jabs in return. Of course, they (like virtually everything you say) are so lame as to be worthy of a second grader.
When I deal with someone who is offensive, acist, and insulting, I will call them out on it. What’s next? Jokes about the holocaust? Maybe a few Matthew Shepherd limericks? Yes I take your bullshit literally–because you are hardly a satirist. You simply aren’t smart enough to be one. I’m sorry you don’t have much of a life but you’ll do far better to find a decent psychiatrist and see if you can deal with your very apparent mental issues.
Quite seriously, I do think you are mentally ill. It’s obvious that you are a lonely, bitter miserable person who completely makes up your tales about a physician wife (why on earth would an accomplished professional waste one minute in your company?).
You have come on this blog and insulted homosexuals, Jews, and Native Americans at various times. There really isn’t much of a person there, and it’s too bad that you simply lack character or intellect or any other worthwhile traits. But my God–you must drive people from you in droves with your tedium and your ham-handed attempts at humor. Have you always been a social outcast?
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 12:46 PM
“The native Alaskan peoples are paying severely for white man wants.”
So the Indians do not have to fuel their 4 wheelers and snowmobiles?
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By: craigΔ on December 19, 2009
at 12:28 PM
Donna..Please take a deep breath.
Put on Chevy Chaes’s Christmas Vacation
or hum some Hanukkah songs..and or go play with the dreidel.
…but just chill lady.
You take everything I say so literally.
And as for the INDIAN THING HAVE THEY ALWAYS NOT GOTTEN A % OF THE OIL REVENUE IN ALASKA AND DISTRIBUTED IT TO THE PEOPLE IN THEIR TRIBES?
Same for the Indian casinos?
ENLIGHTEN ME?
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By: craigΔ on December 19, 2009
at 12:25 PM
Congratulations Sarah Palin for winning Politifact’s Lie of the Year Award
“You know, GOP used to stand for Grand Old Party,” said Rep. Edward Markey, D-Mass., on Nov. 7. “Now it stands for Grandstand, Oppose, and Pretend. They grandstand with phony claims about nonexistent death panels. They oppose any real reform.”
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By: Poolman on December 19, 2009
at 12:15 PM
I spent a winter in a YuPik Eskimo village and they live off the land to this day.
Palin was Gov at the time and it was White Man laws which made it difficult for them to survive. Bi-catch laws and limiting the salmon fishing caused great hardships for the YuPik people.
The mining and taking the oil also has spoiled the waters and air of those I lived among.
The pollution of the lower 48 is part of what is causing the warming of the perma-frost. The Yukon River 20 years ago was permafrost all around it. Today, it is not Permafrost because of the warming. They are seeing new bugs which could not have survived in the past because of the warming.
The native Alaskan peoples are paying severely for white man wants.
Gov Palin did take a plate of cookies and bibles to the starving villagers though.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 12:13 PM
“In all, there are 389 ratified U.S.-Indian treaties, and majority of these have been broken by the U.S. … The Indian believed that he was a steward of the Earth, but the white man had a different understanding of land.”
The Indian had a more scriptual view of the earth than any of the “christians” that came to occupy it.
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By: Poolman on December 19, 2009
at 11:56 AM
skunks can be cute but they sure stink.
Same holds true for trolls.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 19, 2009
at 11:27 AM
Thank you for displaying what a true pig you are. No, this is not a “difference of opinion.” This is patently offensive and a reflection of an ugly and limited person trying to pass for human.
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By: Donna on December 19, 2009
at 11:18 AM
Poolman did ya say the Indians are back and they want compensation for what? Miles and miles of dusty ole rangeland?
Gosh I thought we had treaties with them..they always keep comin back for more. Give em some beads,medicare cards and some Makers Mark.
And call Ben Lighthorse Campbell.
Thats like the ole Alamo saying “Col. Travis the gardeners are here and boy are they pissed.”
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By: craigΔ on December 19, 2009
at 10:30 AM
You mean Craig can be literal and then play dumb..Oh its like playing goober in Mayberry.
Shazam.
Dumb like a fox not faux. Jus messin with ya some times.
I’ve personally not gone out and hung out on street corners with signs. Got other things to do.Like watch it on news coverage..it’s much warmer and dryer.
Now I went to James the site that Poolman suggested and it appears that James is a normal red blooded American without a job in catering it appears.
Me and James the same. Nope. Ask someone who knows Pools.
I visit and spout off because I cannot believe that some people are offended that people like me did not vote the way “they” did. Some like davinity..I like peanut brittle…
So in each of us something stirs us differently and get involved passionately at times.
As to the sterotypical Tea Bagger. My friends or associates are comprised of a husband and wife who is an attorney and she a 66 yo retired exec secretary living in Fort Worth. The other couple I know are in St. Louis and husband is in marketing of electronic heart catheters and monitors. His wife, a fiery little 57 yo red head is going back to get her nursing degree after being let go from J&J as a regional pharma rep. She already had her masters in business.
So I think the stereotypical vision of bubba with a misspelled sign and a gun rack in his truck or wearing on their hip is just not exactly true Virginia.
Ya see there really are Americans who have good jobs,pay taxes but are just plain unhappy with having legislation and agendas pushed down their collective throats.
Be careful out there. My new chines neighbors who moved in three months ago…well the elder lady of the house, a classic Steinbeck portrayal of a Chinese woman dowager, was hit and killed at a busy intersection last week. So just look up be alert and drive slowly.
Peace.
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By: craigΔ on December 19, 2009
at 10:18 AM
and Craig.
“Tea Party participants.
Or in other words, people who wanted their country back.”
I guess we’d better hope the Native Americans don’t start tea parties of their own, just because they “WANT THEIR COUNTRY BACK”
I keep wondering just what that sound bite means. “want their country back” What?
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 19, 2009
at 10:03 AM
Craig, I never said Faux News is financing the TEA BAGGERS. I said they’re supporting them…. as in giving them tons of coverage and manipulating the number of attendees to make their cause look like it’s more than it is. I’m almost as tired of tea baggers as I am of SP. They are a group of malcontents who don’t want to pay taxes but also have a number of other gripes. I can understand their disaffection with the government. It does seem like our govs do a lot of posturing and talking with very little result. Sometimes seems they’re in the business of creating sound bites to feed the maw of Faux News.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 19, 2009
at 9:52 AM
President Obama’s
Weekly Address 12/19/09
I just deliver the it. 😉 ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 19, 2009
at 8:33 AM
Now that the standard seems to be sixty votes to pass anything of note in the Senate, the US will be unable to deal with any remotely divisive issue. Compromise will create long watered-down monsters with pork for everyone.
When I heard Obama say we were leaders in fighting AGW, I thought for the first time that I had heard him break with reality.
I can’t believe I’ve come to the conclusion that the health bill is probably more bad than good.
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By: tomgnh on December 19, 2009
at 7:32 AM
I hate to say it, but I’d miss him if he was gone, same as when you remove a splinter.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 19, 2009
at 12:29 AM
I already have a mental image, it makes me chuckle every time I see their posts, when Chuck Grassley spoke at a town meeting there was a short chunk of a man in a red sweat suit hogging the microphone. James was hanging around at the time, then he left us forever, not, Craig step up to the plate just a couple of posts later to tell us James was right on everything. Coincidence, I doubt it. Craig has this thing of going all illiterate on us every time we guess his persona, then he flips, and displays the fact that he is literate after all. Too funny, too weird, for words. I can’t understand what’s in for him, but then I am vaguely normal, so I just study his abnormal psychology from a distance. There is no reason to be offended by anything he says, because he doesn’t believe a word of it himself, its just his game. Really he is just like a kid who makes prank phone calls, immature.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 19, 2009
at 12:26 AM
It is like tag team wrestling. When one goes away, another comes in to save the day. See if you can pick them out in the crowd of tea party protestors.
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By: Poolman on December 19, 2009
at 12:06 AM
Not really a conspiracy if there is only one of them. They both play people, everyone on here is as bright as a new penny, but over and over they are had.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 18, 2009
at 11:42 PM
And you claim to not believe in conspiracies.
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By: Poolman on December 18, 2009
at 11:14 PM
I still think Craig and James are the same person, and their only joy in life is twisting other peoples tails.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 18, 2009
at 11:11 PM
Using the defense spending bill to hold the health care bill hostage reminds me of that shrew Cindy McCain accusing Obama of being unpatriotic and turning his back on the troops.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 18, 2009
at 9:42 PM
Poolman, thank you for the link to the Christmas at the White House photos & video. Impressive photography! I just love all the gradeur!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 18, 2009
at 9:37 PM
“With funds for the troops fast running out, and the clock ticking towards a deadline on healthcare, Republicans tried to block a key defense spending bill last night in order to delay Senate debate on a major health reform bill.”
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By: Poolman on December 18, 2009
at 9:32 PM
Craig, the Native Americans showed up and said they wanted their land back. What, pray tell, do we tell them?
Indian Land Cessions
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By: Poolman on December 18, 2009
at 8:51 PM
Talking to Craig – the troll, is like wrestling with a skunk.
Stinks the place up! I
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 18, 2009
at 8:33 PM
Christmas at the White House
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By: Poolman on December 18, 2009
at 8:29 PM
NO wait…!
YOu know the difference..?
The Tea Party participants showed up.
THey were not bussed in.
No body paid them.
The only difference is they showed up and the left did not.
The left had the President.
They did not have to show up.
But who got the air time for showing up?
Tea Party participants.
Or in other words, people who wanted their country back.
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By: craigΔ on December 18, 2009
at 8:20 PM
Any different than say Bill Mahr?
MSNBC..?
NPR..?
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By: craigΔ on December 18, 2009
at 8:16 PM
And a toast to this fine Friday evening with a glass of merlot!
Dinner out with friends, exchange of gifts, and call it a night.
I agree with Her Royal Highness Sofia, purple has been associated in the past with monarchal positions–but we would be using the term regal as it pertains to head held high with the respect that all humans deserve.
Not the crap that corporate America shoves down our throats. We do not have to be what they want us to be. We are our own people.
Purple Convention is an awesome idea. Think of how many different people would attend. And such a fine mix! There’s so much to learn from others. We could send a strong message to Washington and this Congress.
Craig,
If we analyzed how much air time that Faux News gave to the Teabaggers last summer, it would come down to sponsorship. Corporate sponsorship like the Wizard behind the curtain.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 18, 2009
at 7:22 PM
One of the main organizations of the tea party http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FreedomWorks
Fox is making it into a movement featuring our favorite person, none other than the divider and the quitter – Sarah Palin
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/12/15/tea-party-movement-evolves-political-force/
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By: Poolman on December 18, 2009
at 7:15 PM
HRH sofia EQ, They want to be called Tea Partiers now. They didn’t research that one either. That’s usually the problem. Making them gut decisions. Not enough research. Can’t trust the history teachers or them. Gotta forge a new path. Bushwacking. Following the herd. Hell, its our damn country, we’re payin the taxes – we own it. There’s still some grass left. We don’t want them illegals getting what’s ours. Its our butt, you hear? Me, mine, ours – not theirs.
Give us our country back? The land is older than this country. It sure would be nice to have that land restored to its prime.
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By: Poolman on December 18, 2009
at 6:57 PM
As I see it Faux news is always asking for you to buy stuff..so Where is the connection to this Tea Party connection being financed by FOX news come from?
I personally know a couple of them and no body paid them to stand in the rain with signs.
The FCC would also be on their case and believe me if OBAMA had any thought,..correct that..Rom Emanuel had any notion that FOX was financing the Tea Party he would have them shut down..which is what I believe they would like.
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By: craigΔ on December 18, 2009
at 6:18 PM
Minor correction… They are TEA BAGGERS, not partiers. They are definitely not a grass roots movement, there was too much manipulation and support from the likes of Glen Beck and his bunch.
Purple is a much better concept for a new party, but please don’t call it a regal color. Some tea bagger will start saying we want to start a monarchy or some such idiocy.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 18, 2009
at 5:02 PM
Or it could have been that the sixty democratic senators were listening to faux news.
Or there again, they heard from their constituents of which they want votes from next November.
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By: craigΔ on December 18, 2009
at 4:20 PM
AS I understand it. And this is just me.
But I have heard it takes two to Tango.
And 60 democratic senators to pass a bill.
As I also understand it, the democratic senators could not come to an agreement about what the Health Care Bill should and should not have. They spent most of their time arguing about a pig in a poke.
Meaning:A common colloquial expression in the English language, to buy a pig in a poke, is to make a risky purchase without inspecting the item beforehand. The phrase can also be applied to accepting an idea or plan without a full understanding of its basis.
It took the other side of the aisle to open this bag to the country and reveal that it was full of false promises and much more costly in terms of Medicaid cuts.
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By: craigΔ on December 18, 2009
at 4:17 PM
Color me schocked, but I have to say you’re right, Craig. Passing the bill would be a hollow victory. The good has been sucked right out of the bill. I wonder how that happened?
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 18, 2009
at 3:54 PM
You mean there is no Santa?
Guess so. I don’t have that little seven year old runnin around.. and the house with all the presents under the tree. Not decorated as much this year..I’m finding ways to say Merry Christmas though.
Giving people who I would never give to before. Better than relatives to some chagrin.
These people don’t expect it and don’t even see it coming..So it’s more rewarding to see their reaction. Maybe a gift card to a grocery store..or a little spirits to someone else.
So if we are blessed and have not expected to be..then someone has received a little spirit of Christmas where there was none.
I guess people on the site would wish for the passing of a health care bill. But as I have heard..this bill or any bill that is coming out by or before Christmas is going to ring somewhat hollow.
Would it not be worth it to wait till January? I have heard that democrats are worried that if it goes to January..that would give time and momentum to people on the right to make it disappear completely.
So the way I understand it…Is that Obama just wants to say, “look we passed a health care bill”.
What good is it if its been gutted and not providing for all of the people originally intended?
I have heard that Republicans have stalled and Leiberman has wavered…but are we spending Trillions for something that will only cost more down the road …with revisions over and over for the next two years, in order to get the health care bill that was really “the original” all encompassing
one?
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By: craigΔ on December 18, 2009
at 3:30 PM
Happy Anniversary judith! I remember fondue. I believe it made a comeback a few years ago, but not near as big a hit as when it was popular in the 60’s.
Dominionists = American Taliban, for sure. I think there are more of them than there are true Christians in this country. A scary scenerio.
Claire, Chuck Norris, like most of those comments suggest, has been kicked in the head one too many times. The comments there are funny. I think Chuck is Sarah on steroids.
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By: Poolman on December 18, 2009
at 1:48 PM
http://rawstory.com/2009/12/norris-obamacare-killed-jesus/
LMAO @ the comments!
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By: Claire on December 18, 2009
at 1:11 PM
Well, we’re having a very fancy 30th wedding anniversary dinner in 2 days, so Christmas dinner will be a simple potroast with lots of trimmings. (Note to self – unearth the fondue pot from the attic before Sunday. Hand scrub, dishwasher, then boil the sucker. God only knows what’s been on it. We do get bats from time to time).
The Christmas pie will be the green tomato mincemeat which I canned during DH’s 6 month layoff. It’s really good, when you add extra apples and raisins. (I add extra apples to regular mincemeat, too).
I am so glad he’s employed again. The freezer and pantry are emptying out from all my summer’s work and we would not have made it til spring. I worry about all the people who haven’t gotten jobs yet – how will they ever manage mac and cheese, let alone a holiday feast?
Wonder what the fundie senators are praying about that. I’ll bet it doesn’t even rate a mention.
Christians, my ass. American Taliban is more like it.
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By: judith on December 18, 2009
at 12:59 PM
Greytdog: That Peppermint bark pie makes me hungry!
Read THE POLAR EXPRESS if you have a doubt about Santa Claus
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 18, 2009
at 12:30 PM
Greytdog: ANY chance of a recipe for the peppermint bark pie? pretty please….
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By: Donna on December 18, 2009
at 12:13 PM
Making a peppermint bark pie & a grasshopper pie for Christmas, in addition to the traditional mincemeat with rum sauce. . .
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By: Greytdog on December 18, 2009
at 11:58 AM
Santa is NOT a myth. NO No No. . . cuz who’s been eating those cookies and drinking that milk I leave out on Christmas Eve, and furthermore, who’s leaving the reindeer crap on my roof that I have to shovel off every Christmas morning????
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By: Greytdog on December 18, 2009
at 11:56 AM
$5,50, a Pie, and canned goods to feed the hungry, count me in. When one wears red velour sweats and is drug through life by the wife, I suppose, it easy to surmise Santa’s mode of transportation. This troll is the gift that keeps on giving, in reality, I don’t think he gives a hoots about politics, he just need attention.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 18, 2009
at 11:38 AM
You ladies are awesome!
AND 500 comments for this one post???
amazing….
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By: Mr. Manju on December 18, 2009
at 11:26 AM
JJ, absolutely! These people are not seeking God’s will. Rather they are seeking their own will and calling on God to act against His very nature.
Craig, you do realize that Santa is a myth, right?
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By: Poolman on December 18, 2009
at 10:43 AM
The Praying that GOD will kill health care reform is unchristian!
Seems that GOD would be more in favor of them if:
-They would pray for the sick and dying.
-They would pray that people can get hospital care.
-They would pray that people not lose their homes because of medical bills.
-They would pray that insurance companies stop cancelling policies when people need them.
-God would also ask that people have insurance even if they have a pre-existing condition.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 18, 2009
at 10:32 AM
According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, while both male and female reindeer grow antlers in the summer each year, male reindeer drop their antlers at the beginning of winter, usually late November to mid-December.
Female reindeer retain their antlers till after they give birth in the spring.
Therefore, according to EVERY historical rendition depicting Santa’s reindeer, EVERY single one of them, from Rudolph to Blitzen, had to be a girl.
We should’ve known….. . ONLY women would be able to drag a fat-ass man in a red velvet suit all around the world in one night and not get lost.
Merry Christmas.
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By: craigΔ on December 18, 2009
at 9:52 AM
The Tea Partiers..a corporate sponsored group?
If so..You would have thought they corporations would have given them better spelling on their signs. And better looking ones as well.
And if they “TEA PARTIERS”,are corporate sponsored then the whole of congress is corporate sponsored as well..which it is.
Would anyone want a health care bill that would come out of Washington at this moment?
It would be the biggest mess and not accomplish what the democratic party “really” wanted to cover in terms of health care.
Right now they would give the American people
another pork barreled loaded bill. And I think
everyone on the hill are coming to realize that. any
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By: craigΔ on December 18, 2009
at 9:50 AM
Unreal:
Conservative Republicans and the Religious Right have prayed that GOD will stop health care reform!
This is over the top!
http://thenewcivilrightsmovement.com/maddow-prayercast-religious-fundamentalist-senators-literally-praying-to-god-healthcare-reform-fails/politics/2009/12/17/6165
Helen: You ever thought about running for Congress? Things are getting crazy!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 18, 2009
at 9:41 AM
Helen and Margaret could be the leaders of the purple party.
I like the idea. Purple Party convention: A pie display is a must. Convention fee: $5.50 but you must bring a pie.
Have a great Friday
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 18, 2009
at 9:06 AM
vgmanΔ,
I’m down with Purple!!!
Happy Friday, all!!!!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 18, 2009
at 8:34 AM
The Troll had to take a break to spend $549.00 to sign up for the teabagger convention.
From The Minnesota Independent:
******
Organizers of the National Tea Party Convention tweeted that Bachmann
would be a speaker at the Feb. 4–6 event in Nashville. Palin keynotes
the convention, which is “aimed at bringing the Tea Party Movement
leaders together from around the nation for the purpose of networking
and supporting the movements’ multiple organizations principle goals.”
********
The Nashville Post reports that Palin’s keynote address will be closed
to the press.
Tickets for the convention are available for the bargain price of
$549. The fine people at the Opryland inform me that the ticket does
not include the price of the hotel, where a three-night package starts
at $436.99.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 18, 2009
at 6:51 AM
Oh damn, that thud I heard wasn’t the door hitting the troll in his soft Squishy butt, someone must have dropped their pie.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 18, 2009
at 1:50 AM
Craig,
Shouldn’t you be standing with the Tea Partiers in red, white, and blue–yelling to go back to…..what?
Let’s move on, folks. I’ve seen a number of political races around the country which were influenced by progressive thinking and helped to defeat the candidate who could only offer what’s in the past.
First up, let’s get our collective weight together and flush the “independent” senator from Connecticut.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 18, 2009
at 12:41 AM
Precisely, Poolman.
The Tea Party is a herd without a focus. They follow but only bleat nonsense. Look over here!
Look over there! Repetitive, nonsensical fluff.
And–if a leader did ever step forward to lead them? You can bet it would be to serve their own self-interests first. Think Gingrich and there you have it.
Progressives seek solutions, articulate them, and celebrate the coming together of ideas. Division is not a tool in the progressive’s toolbelt.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 18, 2009
at 12:32 AM
Craig, If the tea partiers had a clue, I would join to protest this corporate control of our country. Unfortunately the tea partiers are corporate sponsored and controlled by the very ones who have placed this country in the crapper. Yes, ythey are angry, but they don’t have a solution.
Tell me what is their solution?
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By: Poolman on December 17, 2009
at 11:47 PM
http://rethinkafghanistan.com/?utm_source=graysonread
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By: Poolman on December 17, 2009
at 11:44 PM
“The Beltway would tremble if a wave of focused, progressive thought rolled toward it.”
That was the Tea Party you felt.
And the quake continues………
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By: craigΔ on December 17, 2009
at 11:31 PM
http://cryptome.org/info/afpak-archive/afpak-archive-16.htm
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By: craigΔ on December 17, 2009
at 11:29 PM
Being from a western state, as you are Poolman, I always took pride in the fact that Montana elected the first woman to the House of Representatives–oh, some 90 years ago. Now, that’s progressive! The western states also initiated the people’s initiative process in state government. Here in Washington state, we have used the initiative process to have the voice of the people heard. Let’s get a nation-wide initiative that limits the power of our elected representatives. Take back the perks. Make them sweat! Hell, let’s wipe the slate clean and start over.
I’ve always thought that the western part of our country embodied the true spirit of tenacity and we could set an example for the rest of the country…….Progressives push east!
In a representational democracy the real power lies in the hands of the people.
But let’s not forget that true progress comes as a result of smart decisions. Not irrational emotions.
The Beltway would tremble if a wave of focused, progressive thought rolled toward it.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 17, 2009
at 10:56 PM
vgmanΔ, I’m on board with the Purple Progressive Party. Purple IS a regal color. Maybe a horse as a symbol. Beats any donkey or elephant for looks and agility.
Promoting People – not Politics
People over Politics
Power to the People (retro)
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By: Poolman on December 17, 2009
at 10:22 PM
You know what?
When you mix blue and red you get purple. Let’s move on. Purple Progressives would show that there really is a group of people in this diverse country who recognize that good-hearted people want what is best for the people.
Not corporations. Not lobbyists. Not the same ole’ donkeys and elephants of the Dems and Repubs. Purple is a great color! Who can come up with a mission statement, slogan, and logo for the Purple Progressive Party? Anyone….?
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By: vgmanΔ on December 17, 2009
at 9:35 PM
Once again, an excellent analogy, Poolman, at 11:08 am.
Buttons–I loved your post at 11:00 am. The Dems have no backbone as a group. The Repubs know it and used this as a wedge to force the destruction of what the people wanted.
And all of this in light of the looming elections far away on the horizon. When will we truly have representation?
I also took note of Ocean Gypsy’s prediction of Joe Lieberman taking an insurance company provided comfy position in a few years.
Joe Lieberman is a cry baby who didn’t get what he wanted in the last congressional election of 2006 and should be shoved into a corner and forgotten. Unfortunately, he knows it and is paving his path to regal retirement at the expense of we the people.
What we need is NEW party that shines a light on the ignorance of the Tea Party. Forget the Dems. Forget the Repubs. Progressive Party step up! Where is Teddy Roosevelt when we need him?
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By: vgmanΔ on December 17, 2009
at 9:29 PM
And I not only know you are an idiot, I know you are boring.
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By: Donna on December 17, 2009
at 7:46 PM
But I think Margaret is a woman.
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By: TL Hanover on December 17, 2009
at 7:38 PM
And I know you are an idiot.
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By: Donna on December 17, 2009
at 7:07 PM
I think Helen is a man.
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By: TL Hanover on December 17, 2009
at 5:55 PM
Delurker Girl Δ, I had no idea JV was doing these. Thanks for the head’s up. I’m in.
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By: Poolman on December 17, 2009
at 5:18 PM
Thank you Azgrandma. I’ll take my merlot now and dessert after dinner. 🙂
So did anyone watch Jesse Ventura’s conspiracy theory show? It sounds entertaining, if it weren’t for the part about how some people believe him and might be motivated to take action!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 17, 2009
at 4:36 PM
Good morning all and the blessings of God with each of you this beautiful day! And yes, I do mean ALL!
For those that are having a challenge with just the perfect gift for the season may I suggest giving something from Heifer International? For very little $$$ you can gift a family with a goat for milk, heifers (of course, hence the name!), pigs, sheep, rabbits, chickens, ducks, geese, bees, Llamas, water buffalo, guinea pigs, camels, oxen, and trees!!
For example, a flock of chicks is only $20. Or a share of rabbits, $10. This is what I’ve done this year in lieu of stressing over what to get for family and friends. The grandboys will be SPOILED ROTTEN by their other grandparents with every imaginable thing they think they want…ha!
This grandma wants them to know and progressively learn that the season is NOT about them, but what WE bring to the table for OTHERS…for truly the measure we use towards others is the measure that will be used back towards us, individually and personally. It’s a lesson my Texas grandma worked hard to instill in me all those years ago when I was but a little one in her care. To treat others the way I want to be treated…..
On that note, I must beg the pardon of Craig. Please forgive me the anger I lashed out at you with. I took that bait of offense and ran with it. As they say where I came from, “that dog’ll hunt, baby”. LOL! I could have addressed your response to Honey Jo in a different manner. But no, instead of waiting til the next day after my blood was no longer boiling, I just jumped in with both feet…damn the torpedoes! Such is my passion….After reading this blog and following the thread for the past year I feel I’ve gotten to know you all somewhat and really enjoy the wide range of personalities in evidence here. Honey Jo’s story was very compelling to me this past early spring when she told of her experiences growing up. She needed no defense from me! But true to the old German origins of my given name (spear wielder) I ran to the battle line!! Once more, mea culpa.
I raise a glass of Sutter Home Merlot to you all and bring an offering of blackberry cobbler, deep dish with lots of butter, nutmeg, cinnamon and sugar! Oh how I enjoy your acerbic wit and wisdom Helen! I too remember Molly Ivans, Ann Richards, and several of my aunts who raised white face cows and farmed cotton in “west” Texas when I was but a babe…..you remind me of them all and cause me to miss them!
Have a wonderful day all! God Bless!
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By: Azgrandma on December 17, 2009
at 11:46 AM
JJ, Reagan began the spiral by cutting the taxes of the wealthy in his “trickle down economics” which greatly increased our national debt. Add to that all the deregulation that began with his administration.
For some time we were riding a great wave. The swell was a fun ride until it crashed on the shore a few years ago. Now we are all beached far from where we paddled out from. Some are caught in the undertow without the ability to stand on the unstable and shifting sand.
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By: Poolman on December 17, 2009
at 11:08 AM
THANKS, Poolman!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 17, 2009
at 11:04 AM
(…Personal theory is that Mac was p/o about alot but kept trying to fanthom WHY Palin, and phanthomed up the only “semi-logical”, giving Mac credibility for being somewhat a straight hsooter (which no longer believed to be the case, now just a truly grupey ol’man but do for some reason keep thinking MAYBE…) At anyrate, as the right was NOT REALLY supporting him , think the contenders that WERE thought apropos were not up to snuffables, think it decided to whack the all, choose Palin , figured he was going to lose no matter what and ergo, deliberately played a part in having Obama succeed for the choice was just too grossly obvious that Palin in second chair was “HIGHLY INAPPROPRIATE” , thinking he allowed it all” get whacked out to expose the ridiculous straits of the righteous rights stranglehold on “his” party as a wake-up call –he failed unfortunately for look where his party has been plunged due to that stranglehold . GBO over the chortling due to the latest “polls” that has the GOP REALLY LOW , the Dems slightly better but the T-Party’ers supposedly MOST respected…THAT is a bit of a stupefyable –but should alert the Dems that at least the TP’s have the respect fr standing up and strongly presenting their dessent while the D’s seem INCAPABLE of representing those that did put them in position of majority so that they WOULD accomplish something of value for WE THE PEOPLE but what WTP’s have gotten is just being rather sold out , lock, stock and barrel by them instead !!
OUTRAGEOUS to be a MAJORITY and SO INCOMPETENTLY INCAPABLE that a MIORITY grouping gets what THEY want ans WTP’s are left adrift and told basically to be happy we get something/anything and blah, blah, blah !!
Sorry, here can NOT support the current “bill” but do support Howard D. (and Keith as well ) and we all should be in the majority’s faces telling them we will not accept this as “change” for OUR betterment !!
Am also at the point, after having stretched and wiggled and etc, that finding due fault with the WH, primarily figure the “staff” have NOT served O all that well and had expected him to do far better. Can indeed foresee Dems losing seats, will not VOTE GOP here , not with their record either. Not sure where that has this country heading , but we all sure seem to be in helle’s handbasket with incopetency funning amouck as rather than concentrate on CURRENT IMPERATIVE ISSUES, all are more concerned with 2010 and 2012 which all started before the last election was finalized last November in 09. REPLSIVE DOES NOT BEGIN TO DESCRIBE IT, egregiously repulsive .
RECONILLIATION I STHE ONLY OPTON OF WORTH LEFT , suggest informing your reps that for the current bill will cost US, THE PEOPLE far more than we can afford !!! If somehow they insist on it–need to strip them of their benefits so that ALL endure the rigors of THEIR “bill”(and would suggest proper pay cuts as well , am tired of hearing how tuff it is for them to exist on that mere, meager $170,000 a year that has various additonal perks that we ordinary sorts will not likely come close to equalling ever due to a variety of reasons. HURUMPHABLE HUMRUMPHS !!
The AUDACITY for chastising Dean and letting Lieberman slither on by, that is repulsive as well !!
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By: Buttons44 on December 17, 2009
at 11:00 AM
The Republicans used budget reconciliation to pass these Cheney/Bush bills: It took the republicans 51 votes to pass the republican bills
Despite their howls against Obama, Republicans employed the same procedure to pass major Bush agenda items (which were supported by all four aforementioned Senators):
– The 2001 Bush Tax Cuts [HR 1836, 3/26/01]
– The 2003 Bush Tax Cuts [HR 2, 3/23/03]
– Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 [HR 4297, 5/11/06]
– The Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 [H. Con Res. 95, 12/21/05]
I feel those tax cuts for the wealthiest and two wars exploded the debt and crashed the economy!
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 17, 2009
at 10:42 AM
http://news.yahoo.com/s/huffpost/20091216/cm_huffpost/394694
I guess Costco felt the need to protect Palin from the consequences of her bullshit!
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By: ddddd on December 17, 2009
at 10:42 AM
McCain was advised to pick Palin. He needed the religious right support and wasn’t getting it. That is why he was told to select her. Here is an interview between SP and James Dobson of Focus on the Family. It is fun to read her word salad and the comments are fun also too. 😀
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By: Poolman on December 17, 2009
at 10:38 AM
Bernie Sanders will not vote for the Senate Health Bill now!
http://crooksandliars.com/logan-murphy/senator-bernie-sander-says-he-wont-vo
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 17, 2009
at 10:30 AM
Well…….
As I was not in the room when he threw his “fit of anger” nor has any evidence been presented, I just can’t believe that he picked her. As to his POW experience: if it did not give him wisdom it sure as hell probably gave him perspective.
The undercurrent of their stint as running mates has been brought to the surface. I’m just saying that I don’t believe HE picked her. In lieu of the way the GOP is going, I think it highly possible and even probable.
Have a good day!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 17, 2009
at 10:30 AM
I completely believe McCain choose Palin, he has a long record of reckless impulsive behavior. When he was told he couldn’t have his best bud, Joe Lieberman, as a running mate, in a fit of anger he choose her. Why would the POW experience give him wisdom, and why hasn’t he displayed any wisdom in his Naval or political careers?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 17, 2009
at 9:17 AM
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/
Always innocent and always the victim…… Whatta bitch!!
And another thing, I really don’t think that McCain picked her. I think they made the choice for him. Honestly, a Vietnam POW running for an election that will inherit him not one but TWO wars and he picked her as his running mate? Not a chance! The GOP was trying to pick up the votes that A) would have gone to Hilary and B) did not want to vote for a “black” man. Luckily, the Palin pick screwed the pooch!
I honestly try to always look for at least some good in people. When it comes to Palin, here is what I surmise: she boosted local economy with T-shirt sales and now book sales….. Thanks for taking one for the team, Palin…..
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By: OceanGypsi on December 17, 2009
at 9:00 AM
I look forward to the reconciliation process, to see the final healthcare bill.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 17, 2009
at 8:37 AM
Whirled Peas and HoneyJo, Sadly, I agree as well about KO’s comments. As I said before, big boondoggle all for healthcare/pharma. They’ve lost their way.
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By: Dawn on December 17, 2009
at 6:20 AM
Yes, I saw KO’s comment. Can’t really disagree too much with anything he said.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 17, 2009
at 12:17 AM
KO’s Special Comment:
Not Health,
Not Care,
Not Reform!
“I will begin by saying the most unpopular and most unwelcome thing: that we have sustained a total and unmitigated defeat, without a war.”
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 16, 2009
at 9:31 PM
Huh?
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 16, 2009
at 8:58 PM
HoneyJoRumples ……
“and stop standing in the way of the reform we all,”
Yeah……Me and Howard Dean
and that’s why we need for the republicans to get a clue and stop being the party of “no”
someone forgot about being “Borked”
Do you remember when the Repubs. talked about using the “nuclear option” because the Dems were the party of “NO”
why do liberals complain when conservatives act like liberals….
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By: uaw tradesman on December 16, 2009
at 8:46 PM
Harold – welcome and well met! Always nice to have a new voice to add to the porch. Good writing too – enjoyed your blog. Lots of grist there for the old cranium mill.
HoneyJo, I learned a while ago there isn’t such a thing as a perfect gift – now I give gifts that a) express my feelings about the other person 2) come from the heart & 3) bring some joy to the recipient.
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By: Greytdog on December 16, 2009
at 8:29 PM
James – You do not have an open mind. With as much Alaskan media / news that I fed you awhile back about Sarah Palin, you still regurgitated her own lies and talking points til the very end of the post. I spent many hours gathering that information especially for you since you pretend to want to talk the truth – most of it was from conservative bloggers & media, and all of it from Alaska. So forget the open mind stone throwing – you are locked in to your own mindset far more pronouncedly than most liberals.
Most of my family are conservatives, and I love them all but we still can’t talk politics these days because they all watch and believe Fox, Hannity, Beck, and Limbaugh. Palin – not so much since I buried them with horror stories of her. I, like many here, tried very hard to open dialogue with these foks but I have never felt so disgusted and disappointed in my entire life to find the closed, hateful minds who do not think for themselves and verbally spit on everyone in fear. They will go further than spitting, and you know it. I do not know what conservatives stand for anymore, nor do they apparently.
I long for a good two party system with healthy debate – but the whack job whiners have hijacked the conservative party and nothing good will come of that for true conservatives until they fight back. It’s not progressives who are dragging you down. Speaking of true conservatives – they hardly speak out anymore and let the whackies do all the yelling and throwing of threats and hate bombs. Disgusting.
The day that you finally see Sarah Palin for the insane monster she is, you may stand a chance. But I don’t think you will, due to the conservative solidarity where all speak and think the same. Grow a self, it will help the country in the long run.
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on December 16, 2009
at 8:27 PM
Harold, read a lot of your blog…. I think i’m in love (blush…I’m sure my husband would also approve of your ideas) Welcome to the porch, pull up chair and have some pie and a little whine if you want.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 16, 2009
at 7:50 PM
Greytdog, can’t make it this year, we’re going to Williamsburg (it wasn’t my idea but it should be entertaining) Don’t usually go anywhere but am willing to change, and who knows what next year will bring. Sounds like a really wonderful event.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 16, 2009
at 7:47 PM
Greytdog – thanks for the idea!! I’ve been wracking my brain trying to think of what to get family members that won’t put me in the red. I thought about baking, but thought “eh, I don’t have the time” but I probably would if I did my baking instead of running all over creation trying to find “that perfect gift” which doesn’t exist or will be forgotten by next year anyway.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 16, 2009
at 6:52 PM
I’m so glad you’re reading the book for all of us. I’m sure your posts will read better than the book, and better than a Cliff Notes of the book, for that matter.
You go, girl.
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By: Harold on December 16, 2009
at 6:51 PM
“you didn’t mention the black man in Arizona with a gun at a health care protest……”
UAW – the article, which I admit I just skimmed, says he was at a pro-reform meeting, but it doesn’t say on which side of the debate he was. To be brutally honest with you, though, UAW, I have seriously considered bringing my gun to a rally, to stand in front of the right wing nutters who would do our president harm, and show them that we won’t stand for that. After all, why should the right wingers be the only ones bringing guns? If gunfire breaks out, do YOU want to be the only one without a gun? I didn’t think so. Do you see how easily things get amped up and out of control? NO ONE should be bringing guns to these things, but if the right is going to insist on it…it’s like nuclear disarming. It doesn’t work if only one side dismantles its bombs. The man’s color has nothing really at all to do with the issue. the fact that Obama is black is what I’m getting at, and the fact that this country has a long history of black leaders ending up asssassinated. And not by delusional nutjobs who want to impress some actress, but because of what they are trying to do and the changes they are trying to implement. By someone who wants to martyr him, by a racist nutwhack who just wants him dead, by his own people who think he has betrayed them, whatever. But when the right started bringing loaded guns to these rallies, they upped the ante way more than it should have been.
“you mentioned the riots in LA but didn’t say anything about the white truck driver who was dragged out of his truck and beaten with a fire extinguisher…”
Yes I did, you just didn’t hear me. I said it would be a great threat to NATIONAL SECURITY if anything were to happen to Obama. In short, hell would break loose, and many many innocent people, black, white and everything inbetween, would get hurt in the melee, just like that white truck driver did. That truck driver should not have been hurt, but the black community was waiting on justice that day, and didn’t get it, and all hell broke loose, because, also as I said before, there can be no peace where there is no justice. How many whites vs. how many blacks were hurt during the LA riots is not the point. A grave injustice was done, and people who were desperately counting on that justice flipped out. Race is not even the main issue, really. I don’t know why keep insisting that I’m saying it is.
“yes I am scared….
that someone on the left will feel that they need a martyr for “the cause”….”
As you should be. I’m scared of that too, as it is certainly a possibility. Not nearly as likely as some hate filled nut whack tea bagger who “wants his country back” taking a shot at him, I don’t think, but still a possibility. That’s how strongly people feel, and that’s why emotions are running so high, and that’s why we need for the republicans to get a clue and stop being the party of “no” and stop standing in the way of the reform we all, like my collegue, desperately need and most of us want, stop whipping the nutwhacks already on the edge into even more of a frenzy, and start caring about something other than the 2010 and the 2012 elections and making Obama look bad at any cost no matter what, and start serving their constituants.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 16, 2009
at 6:44 PM
Poolman, Hartmann’s posting on The Mudflats is absolutely frickin’ excellent! Thanks for the heads up! I hadn’t wandered over there today, so . . .really appreciate it!
Found some photos of my mom and dad when they were engaged. . .he was just out of the service post-WWII…still in uniform tho. About seven photos – having them all mounted together and sent to her. They had the kind of love that spans the ages. . .
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By: Greytdog on December 16, 2009
at 5:16 PM
Sarah Palin’s link to the John Birch Society
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By: Poolman on December 16, 2009
at 5:09 PM
Well honestly – if any of you are going to be in the Central FL vicinity over the holidays pls let me know and I’ll send directions! more the merrier really! My stepson plays banjo, another friend is bringing along their guitar, so we should be making some fun music. . .
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By: Greytdog on December 16, 2009
at 4:31 PM
Most excellent read. I found this posted over at the Mudflats. The main article by Thom Hartmann.
http://www.themudflats.net/2009/12/16/kill-the-bill/
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By: Poolman on December 16, 2009
at 4:17 PM
Greytdog your Christmas get together sounds like so much fun, careful or we all drop everything and fly in for it. Good people, good food, and Celtic Harp music…. I especially hope this next year is a better year for you!
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 16, 2009
at 2:39 PM
HoneyJoeRumples, thank you for saying so well what I think. We need articulate people like you.
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By: Taint E Z on December 16, 2009
at 2:12 PM
UAW, glad to have you back you scamp! Too bad you’re not closer to FL, I’d tell you to stop in on Christmas Day – gonna be quite the get together. My cousin just called and he’s definitely coming to town – he’s currently in Asheville, then he has a gig in Savannah, but will be Christmas Day. I am so excited – he plays Celtic Harp and goes to the various Irish/Scots festivals around NA and UK. His biggest gig though was playing for the Queen at Balmoral. No matter your politics, Conor gets along with everyone – he’s truly one of the good old souls.
Can you tell I’m excited???
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By: Greytdog on December 16, 2009
at 2:03 PM
“From the start, assuaging the health insurance and pharmaceutical industries was a central preoccupation of the White House”
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By: Poolman on December 16, 2009
at 1:54 PM
JJ I agree, nothing here for anyone I know. Time to kill the bill. Sad, though, I had such hopes.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 16, 2009
at 1:50 PM
-The health care bill does not have a public option or the ability to buy into medicare.
-The senate bill takes away SCHIP which provides health insurance to children. (They will be part of the pool)
-You cannot get reduced price drugs from Canada.
-The insurance companies can put a yearly cap on costs for major medical expenses – like cancer.
-The Insurance companies can charge whatever they want – no built in oversight.
-People with Pre-Conditions can be charged
3 times what the average person is charged!
**All people must buy into the new Health Insurance system or be fined
THERE IS NO COST CONTAINMENT OR COMPETITION INVOLVED WITH THE SENATE BILL.
Lieberman and friends are giving the insurance companies whatever they ask for – I feel it is time to kill the bill and start over.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 16, 2009
at 1:38 PM
Hello UAW, guess you did not check out my link on December 14, 2009 at 11:46 PM. This is my backyard. Hate knows no color. I’m sure HoneyJo will set you straight, but from my perspective, you missed the point.
Good to “see” you, though. I hope you are warm and are surrounded by family. May God richly bless you, I pray.
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By: Poolman on December 16, 2009
at 12:21 PM
greytdog…..
good post….
kinda like getting “Borked”
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By: uaw tradesman on December 16, 2009
at 12:14 PM
HoneyJoRumples …..
I am also scared…..
of people that try to use race to prove something….you didn’t mention the black man in Arizona with a gun at a health care protest……
http://www.nowpublic.com/world/msnbc-turns-black-man-gun-obama-rally-white-man
you mentioned the riots in LA but didn’t say anything about the white truck driver who was dragged out of his truck and beaten with a fire extinguisher…..
yes I am scared….
that someone on the left will feel that they need a martyr for “the cause”…..
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By: uaw tradesman on December 16, 2009
at 12:11 PM
I was just wondering what was left in the bill. I guess not much of use to any of us. It’s discouraging. If they passed a bill requiring all to sign up with the insurance companies or suffer penalty, I would have to take to the streets. I don’t see how that could be legal but I’m probably naive.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 16, 2009
at 12:09 PM
The HealthCareReform Bill in the senate contains no healthcare, no reform. It does contain mandates requiring the uninsured to buy insurance – under penalty. To coerce votes, they gutted out the legal right to buy drugs from Canada – merry christmas Big Pharma –
It’s interesting that the GOP are getting everything they want in this bill without having to concede anything. Obstructionism really does work in Am Politics – unless you’re a taxpayer, uninsured, or part of the working/rural poor. Then it’s penalties, higher fees, and potential federal charges.
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By: Greytdog on December 16, 2009
at 11:11 AM
I am salavating because of the recipes on here. Thanks folks.
But Politics is still out there so:
I am now thinking Howard Dean may be right on Killing the Senate Health Care Proposal. It is nothing but a give away to Insurance Companies and Big Pharma thanks to Lieberman and Nelson.
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/howard-dean-kill-senate-bill
The Health Care Proposal has been gutted.
Kill it and start the reconciliation process.
I predict Lieberman won’t run in 2012 and will get a multi million dollar consulting package from insurance companies for his destruction of true health care change.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 16, 2009
at 10:56 AM
Thanks OceanGypsi! I have seen that awhile ago and wife and I signed the petition, but I had forgotten all about it. It sure would be nice to take our country back from the corporations and put it back in the hands of the people. Keep fighting the good fight! Have a blessed day!
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By: Poolman on December 16, 2009
at 9:50 AM
Poolman, I thought you might like this.
http://www.bornagainamerican.org/index.html
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By: OceanGypsi on December 16, 2009
at 8:17 AM
Delurker Girl Δ we’ve been setting up that kind of “get together” for a few years. My parents always did it and when I was flying solo & unable to get home, I’d just invite the other holiday orphans over – usually college kids then – and serve up a traditional Christmas dinner. Later on, in my 1st marriage we continued the tradition, only adding in my ex’s Jewish traditions. . . my SO is German, so we’ve added in some traditional cuisine from his childhood, but still open the house to folks. We couldn’t do it for a couple of years due to being at hospitals over the holiday time. . .but the last time we did this, we had over 50 folks – friends & family. It was very joyous. It was also the last Christmas spent with my dad (now deceased) and mom. I think we also had about 8 dogs in attendance too!
So I do love this tradition. The difference this year is that everyone is pitching in on the cooking. It won’t be traditional Turkey or ham, but it will be fun & full of yummy food, good conversation with interesting folks.
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By: Greytdog on December 16, 2009
at 7:51 AM
Welcome, foreverwbg,
I’m sure there is room on the porch for you!
Margaret and Helen have a porch that is as wide as the world is wide–where millions of hearts abide!
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By: vgmanΔ on December 16, 2009
at 7:30 AM
Greytdog, you may end up liking this sort of Christmas best of all, and continue it even after your financial situation improves – without the pressure of bills casting a shadow. It should be greyt!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 16, 2009
at 6:09 AM
My first time posting, but have been here several times. Thanks.
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By: foreverwbg on December 16, 2009
at 5:36 AM
Arrgghhh… I am afraid the corporate/healthcarepharma lobby has such an incestuous relationship with the politicians, that healthcare reform will be an even bigger boondoggle.
That being said, I am sorry to report that another person has died because she chose not to seek treatment due to lack of health insurance. The school crossing guard at my son’s elementary school apparently had not felt well all week. She died unexpectedly at the hospital while finally seeking treatment.
This from the country with the “greatest healthcare in the world”. It’s very frustrating.
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By: Dawn on December 16, 2009
at 3:32 AM
ICED ALMONDS
In a large heavy skillet place 2 Tbsp butter, 1 cup blanched almonds, and a ½ cup of sugar; Cook over med-high heat until the syrup and almonds are very brown, and the syrup is clear. Remove from heat, add ½ tsp vanilla. Pour onto aluminum foil, immediately sprinkle with salt. Cool and break into two-three almond clusters.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 16, 2009
at 2:17 AM
Hi gang and Judith,
I can relate to your marble story. My very most prized possession is an antique walnut marble top ante-bellum buffet from my mother’s family. That marble got a workout over many, many years. She used to make yummy peanut brittle and spread it out all over the marble. Heavenly! Unfortunately, that recipe got lost in the shuffle somewhere along the line.
Here’s the Hawaiian Fudge recipe:
Boil together:
2 cups sugar
½ cup cream
½ cup crushed drained canned pineapple
Mix and melt sugar mixture. Then boil gently, stirring only enough to prevent burning until a test in cold water forms a soft, firm ball.
Add one tablespoon of butter, a pinch of salt and a teaspoon vanilla. Cool a little and beat until creamy. Tint a pale green and add chopped nuts. Pour into a buttered platter and cut when cool.
This curdles as it cooks but it doesn’t hurt it.
One of our sons and his family from California are coming for 10 days through the holidays. Naturally, we will want to spend every waking moment with them. So unless there is some world-shaking event that requires my attention, ahem, I will be checking out here until after New Years.
I want to wish every one of my dear friends here at M&H a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah or whatever your persuasion. We intend to spend time counting our blessings, which when you come right down to it, are far more than we bother to realize most of the time.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 16, 2009
at 1:10 AM
HRH Sofia, Greytdog, Grandma Katie, and Judith, THANKS!!! I needed that culinary break in content!!
I’m going to try some of the candy recipes posted here. I’m stocked on pies… My daughter’s school fundraiser was pie sales. We had to sell 21. They aren’t bad pies. But, they were sold for 10 bucks through the school. There is a local store chain that sells the same pies for 6 bucks. Needless to say, my freezer if filled with my quota. I think I will take 5 or 6 of them to the Salvation Army. They can probably use them.
Anyhoo. THANKS, again!! With the way the conversations were going, I was feeling all of the love get sucked out of the porch!
Nite nite!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 15, 2009
at 9:53 PM
Judith–we in this part of the world call it Fairy Food. Love it! But I’m a caramel gal.
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By: Donna on December 15, 2009
at 9:36 PM
Sounds like a good table, Greytdog. Grandma Katie & HRH Sofia EQ, I’m going to have to try the OK Brown Candy. It reads kinda like penuche, but different.
Ever try molasses angel food? Not the cake, but a candy. You can also make it with dark corn syrup, which is a little milder. The sugar and molasses are boiled with a little vinegar to make it acid; then at the end, you stir in baking soda and it puffs up and hardens like foam insulation. Amazes the kids and freaks out the adults. You break off irregular chunks and either eat them as is, or coat them in chocolate. I think the recipe goes back a long way, as it’s all very basic ingredients available in any pioneer cupboard (except for the chocolate). And it has regional names. DH knows it as ‘ambrosia’.
Some day, when I can afford to try an experiment that might end up in the garbage, I’m going to try a Yankee variation with real maple syrup. More water content means it’ll have to boil longer to get to temp and I’ll probably use more syrup at the outset to offset the loss of volume. But if it works, it could be fantastic.
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By: judith on December 15, 2009
at 9:31 PM
Greytdog, I agree it is bad for the blood pressure keeping an eye on these shills. Can we list the good ones we want to keep?
We got no one in my district that I want to keep.
Grayson is tops. I will say Weiner, Sanders, Cao, Congers, Kucinich, who else?
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By: Poolman on December 15, 2009
at 8:53 PM
WOW. Seems even the mention of Palin brings out the cockroaches and slugs. . . amazing drawing power that woman has, eh?
Right now I am dancing around most political talk – because I’m just treading water as best as I can to get through this holiday season with my brain intact and my sense of manners. Right now I am so angry I’d like to drive up to DC and Mossad-whip Lieberman until he’s a slimy puddle oozing on the floor. And then I’d like. . .{{{{INHALE . . .EXHALE}}}} okay. sigh.
I’m baking so much this year because between medical bills, cost of living, being semi-unemployed etc, buying presents is out of the question. But everyone needs food – and cheering up. Also busy sewing dog coats for doggie friends, and making/painting birdhouses for my birding & gardening friends. . . at this pace, I’ll be surprised if I’m still able to think by Christmas Day.
We can’t travel this year, so spending Christmas with friends who also aren’t close to family – so far it’s a potluck – we have folks from the North (mostly Ohio and NY), plus a couple from the Philippines, two from Netherlands, and a couple German citizens coming. I’m hoping my cousin from Scotland will be with us – but it should be interesting. Just asked folks to bring their favorite dish. Who knows what the table will be like?
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By: Greytdog on December 15, 2009
at 8:45 PM
I didn’t know! Thanks–it was the epic posts that threw me.
I shall live a rich full life without reading James II’s thoughts on Carrie Prejean.
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By: Donna on December 15, 2009
at 8:35 PM
Donna, you know that is not the same James that we had all come to know, right? In his last post, James II left a link to his blog. There you can find his take on Carrie Prejean along with some political dribble. Seems he is an out-of-work chef. Anyway, a lot of similarities, but not the same, just sayin…
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By: Poolman on December 15, 2009
at 8:33 PM
Hope springs eternal, Grandma Katie. Although he did another “this is the last you’ll hear from me” recently. If only….
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By: Donna on December 15, 2009
at 8:04 PM
Even we Jews would agree with you on that, Poolman!
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By: Donna on December 15, 2009
at 8:03 PM
Did James really mean it when he said he wouldn’t be back?
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By: Grandma Katie on December 15, 2009
at 8:03 PM
Delurker Girl Δ, lol. Yes it is the season for Luke. The James gang ought to read from their namesake also. A lot of wisdom in that short book.
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By: Poolman on December 15, 2009
at 8:02 PM
delurker Girl – yes, that is the recipe for Oklahoma candy. I can’t do any cooking now, b ut one of these days!! I hope the little book the reciiiipe was pasted in didn;t get lost when m y apartmetnt was packed up. I had lime pie recipe my mother got at a cooking school t hat is fabulous. She gave me a pizzelle iron for Christmas back in the 50’s.
Hope our recipe request doesn’t give our troll
fits, WTH. WE enjoy the discussions!
Thanks again.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 15, 2009
at 8:00 PM
We’ve been thru James I and II, but tis the season for Luke. Hello!?!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 15, 2009
at 7:36 PM
Well, Helen. Anytime you are ready we can get your take on more of SP’s book. We need a dose of your humor about now.
We have been through James version I and version II. As with Microsoft, I am unsure if the upgrade is any better or any more stable than what we had before. These could be just beta versions foisted on the masses, for all we know. “Don’t worry folks, we’ll work the bugs out and provide patches as we go along, just buy into it because the older versions will be obsolete soon.” Marketing is king.
Some folks seem to need more stroking than others, IMO. And someone said this was not a political blog. We sure tend to get back to that everytime. And is this a liberal blog? Why do we want to paint it black or white? I don’t think it is that simple. That does make it more comfortable. We sure do like comfort.
Oh, and HoneyJo, you are surely one of the most calm and together people here. I for one, appreciate your wisdom and expression.
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By: Poolman on December 15, 2009
at 7:19 PM
In terms of James’ “I’m out of here,” I am reminded of the old saying “from your lips to God’s ears.”
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By: Donna on December 15, 2009
at 6:59 PM
James, paragraphs would be nice too. We lose our place so easily, if we need to look away for a moment. It looks like all the sentences run together as we have to hunt where we left off. I don’t know about anyone else, but I would appreiate it.
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By: sunshine on December 15, 2009
at 6:52 PM
Once more, with feeling. People are not labelled trolls for disagreeing. They are trolls for their rude behavior or unoriginal thought. The trolls that get that work hard to perfect their craft, then try to act like they have no idea what they’ve done worng.
I don’t know any regulars here who don’t welcome thoughtful discussion.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 15, 2009
at 6:40 PM
Don’t know if you mean that James, but in any case,
“And yes, I’m talking to all of you, Craig, Honey, and AZgrandma, and anyone else here who continues to propagate the idea that those with different opinions are somehow beneath them. I see it as this; none of us in this insignificant corner of cyber are any better than anyone else. I’m sick of both sides claiming the moral high ground. Having studied ethics, history, and philosophy, I can tell you that none of your arguments from either side rank significantly higher than the other in terms of a “debate score”. Honey, I totally understand your fear. That doesn’t mean I find it rational or warranted,”
If you think my fears are not rational or warranted, then you don’t really understand them.
It’s like I said before, it’s beyond politics. I’m a very rational, calm, and probably the most non-confrontational person you will ever meet in your life. Until someone tries to hurt me. And that’s what it boils down to. I think everyone is scared, and sad, and angry. If we can’t work together, then one side must roll over the other or get stuck in a hopeless gridlock. I think this is where the nation is.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 15, 2009
at 6:33 PM
so leave already….
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By: T.J. Maxx on December 15, 2009
at 6:25 PM
No worries. Outta here, wont be back. Said what I said.
http://averageamerican-james.blogspot.com/2009/11/back-togetheragain.html
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By: James on December 15, 2009
at 6:16 PM
Donna,
Mindless drivel.
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By: James on December 15, 2009
at 6:13 PM
Yep, James..While making bed this pm heard Beck
on boob tube in background talk about the amazing facts that the very people Obama was talking about FAT CATS…that is,
are among many of the Czars that operated at the banks and Wall Street he is condemning.
But please keep it short.
Their attention span is nill.
And so it goes.
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By: craigΔ on December 15, 2009
at 6:03 PM
James–is it remotely possible for you to express your opinion without doing so at such excruciating length? And no, I have no problem with differing opinions. I do have a problem when people repeat themselves tirelessly or hog the blog.
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By: Donna on December 15, 2009
at 5:49 PM
I’ll be making pies too this Christmas. Right now I’m trying to finish up the nut/fruit breads and the cupcakes. I offered to make 100 cupcakes for a charity bash. . .not a good a idea this time of year – so my oven has been getting quite the workout. But we also have a convection oven that has made all this baking more possible than normal. I LOVE my convection oven. Would love to have a professional grade one – but at 5K that’s a bit steep!
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By: Greytdog on December 15, 2009
at 5:27 PM
HR,
The question is, who is who? Honey said, and I’m paraphrasing, that she felt better about our current administration than the previous because the Bush administration was so beholden to the corporate “fat cats” that you made reference to. She also asked for evidence that Obama is indeed beholden to special interest alluding that it is better that we have a President beholden to an environmental group than one who is in bed with corporate “fat cats”. Well……….here is one link among thousands that show where HIS money has come from. He would like you to think that individual Americans paid for his campaign. The truth is a bit seedier.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080212082543AAf0CS4
The fact that Goldman Sachs is his number one supporter should surprise no one since his administration is overflowing with former GS employees. During 2008 Goldman Sachs came under criticism for an apparent revolving-door relationship in which its employees and consultants have moved in and out of powerful US Government positions, where there may exist the potential for a conflict of interest. Former Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson was a former CEO of Goldman Sachs. Additional controversy attended the selection of former Goldman Sachs lobbyist Mark Patterson as chief of staff to Treasury Secretary Geithner, despite President Barack Obama’s pledge to limit the influence of lobbyists in his administration.
Read this from the Seattle Times, hardly a right wing rag lol;
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/PrintStory.pl?document_id=2008722353&zsection_id=268883724&slug=opina09sirota&date=20090209.
My point is this, AGAIN. Neither the GOP or the Dems run Washington. Washington indeed is run by the same group that our President railed against on 60 Minutes. Oh yea, the same group that financed his campaign and has his ear on all matters pertaining to our economy. Am I in favor of regulating corporations that use unscrupulous tactics and cheap overseas labor to line their pocket with no regard to anyone except their stockholders? You bet I am. But how do you propose to enact such legislation when our politicians are ALL on the take to these same companies? IT IS MADNESS! Wake up! Until our political process is changed at the core with a complete ban of any sort of lobbying coupled with significant tax reform, term limits, federal financing of ALL Federal campaigns, and a balanced budget amendment, there will only be temporary change of the sort that in the long run solves nothing.
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By: James on December 15, 2009
at 5:06 PM
James, I don’t think it’s the decisiveness that will do us in, but rather the CAUSE of that separation. Some of us want what’s best for the people, others want what’s best for the corporations that fund their wealth, ie, they care more for their life style. I do agree that our system needs changing before anything will get done. It has already changed some, but in the wrong direction, especially when the courts decided that corporations are equivalent to the people and had similar rights.
Have more thoughts on that but must run or will be late for class.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 4:17 PM
Grandma Katie, I made pizzelle once, but formed them into fortune cookies for a baby shower. By carefully turning the plate when offered, the mom to be chose the one saying “you will soon meet a short, bald stranger” Have wanted to make them again but haven’t gotten around to it yet. I hope I can find my iron when I finally decide to do them.
Never heard of Oklahoma brown candy but being a Yankee, I’m not surprised. Is it a molasses or brown sugar candy?
Going to Tai Chi class now, will check back later.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 4:11 PM
Grandma Katie, is this similar?
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/oklahoma-nut-candy/Detail.aspx
There is another here, but it’s a little hard to read. It’s in newspaper column format. It starts at the bottom of one column and continues at the top of the next. Might be best to print it.
http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1368&dat=19800918&id=wnoWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=ABIEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4863,3214597
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 15, 2009
at 3:41 PM
Thank all of you who replyed to the response by Honey to my post. She is scared. I am sad. I’m sad that so many good Americans can be so mean and spiteful to each other. You have made my point in ways I could never dream of. And yes, I’m talking to all of you, Craig, Honey, and AZgrandma, and anyone else here who continues to propagate the idea that those with different opinions are somehow beneath them. I see it as this; none of us in this insignificant corner of cyber are any better than anyone else. I’m sick of both sides claiming the moral high ground. Having studied ethics, history, and philosophy, I can tell you that none of your arguments from either side rank significantly higher than the other in terms of a “debate score”. Honey, I totally understand your fear. That doesn’t mean I find it rational or warranted, but I do know that feelings are never “wrong”. This site, these issues are a microcosm of what is happening in our country. I’m a bit afraid as well, Honey. Not of the Tea Partiers gunning for me, nor of those on the left who hurled rocks and got 280 of themselves arrested at the GOP convention. I’m afraid of what the acrimony is doing to our country. We go on these sites and spend valuable time writing witty and heartfelt essays intended to show the other side why we are either better, have higher moral standards, cleverer, more intelligent, kinder, more compassionate, on and on ad infinitum. Or maybe our intentions are to show our peers how well we can verbally dissect the idiot troll who dared show his face in “our” neighborhood. Then we flinch at the suggestion that our diatribes might have been hurtful to the other person and suggest that they, again, just aren’t as educated or worldly as us. How presumptuous is that? We watch the talking heads bloviate and by showing us carefully edited sound bites and moving pictures they whip us into a frenzy of ideological madness. Do I exaggerate a bit? Surely, but the point is that we don’t respect each other any more. Craig, you said things in a way that are hurtful. Honey and AG, you did also. Retaliation to the umpteenth power. It never stops. There was a time before the 24 hour news cycle and the internet where people of different persuasions debated the issues of the day in a way that was respectful and understanding. Not to say there weren’t passions, there were, but still I long for a society where everyone can quit being so DAMN RIGHT all the time. Where I could perhaps make a point to someone and they would respond, “Hey! I never thought of it that way. Maybe you have a point, let me look into it.” Or they could point out to me that my arguments could be perceived another way by a person who was raised from a different cultural perspective. Neither conservatism or liberalism has all of the answers for our country. The right answers are found in our hearts, not our heads. The are common sense ideas. These types of ideas philosophers call “a priori” or knowledge that is known in the heart rather than from deductive reasoning (my definition). The answers to all of our country’s problems are out there. Its too bad that when one of them goes against our favored party platform we start up the insult machine, hit the soapbox, and cover up and merit contained in the thought like so much waste in a litter box. I KNOW that most liberals in this country love their country and their fellow man, just like most conservatives do. Let’s stop throwing mud in the water by making grandiose, exaggerated, and often dis honest statements about each other based upon the actions of the radical fringe of the other side. All I am trying to do is find some common ground between us so that we can actually DO something rather than continue the insanity of voting one party in, one party out, one party in, one party out. Come on! Look at history! Look at recent elections! Look at the polls! Americans were absolutely fed up with Bush. They voted for change. They didn’t get it. Washington still works in the same manner. Guess what, Honey? The Democrats are about to have their ass handed to them in 2010. Hell, Harry Reid is losing! Am I happy about this? No, absolutely not. It tells me we have learned nothing. If the Republicans get back in power, they will start the same old shit over again. It is time for something different. I, for one, will not stop speaking out until that day comes.
James
As far as cookie talk, I’m all for it! My Grandmother’s peanut brittle recipe will rock your world! Maybe we all could make cookies together? There are worse ways to spend an afternoon.
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By: James on December 15, 2009
at 3:31 PM
ALl your comments about the past–l have been having a great time the past few weeks. Students from the local universityy have been visiting asking questions about the past.
They have to visit seniors and interview one and write a paper. The one question that was on th eir list was “what have you done since retiring? Couldn’t answer that since I had never retired!
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By: Grandma Katie on December 15, 2009
at 3:19 PM
My mother made lots of cnnnnnnay at Christmas. Divinuty, penuche, fudge, stuffed udautesu etc. Does anyone have a recipe for Oklahoma brown candy? Got the recipe from Ladies Home Journal back in the 50″s.
I have m ade pizzlles for many years. In fact had the butter softening in the mixer bowl. Thanks to my daughters packing in a recent move I couldn’t find the bea ters! The day progressed with some physical oddities. The next day found me in ER with st roke,
Do hope my cookie iron is some where in storage with the rest.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 15, 2009
at 3:14 PM
ps, Greytdog, I suspect there’s quite a bit of editing in the dog video. Still, very clever dogs and editing, and training.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 1:52 PM
Thank you Delurker Girl, the pecan butterballs look just right. (also, how could anything called ‘butterballs” be bad? Reminds me of the panda nicknamed ‘butterstick’)
I’ll let you know how they come out. Maybe bring a few back to the porch since no one seems into baking pies just now.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 1:50 PM
Delurker Girl Δ, I agree, Leiberman is a real toad. (I don’t mean to disparage toads, I love toads, maybe he’s a real wolf in toad’s clothing)
Found this info somewhere in my morning read, then found the source by Google http://voices.washingtonpost.com/44/2009/12/liberal-blogger-targets-lieber.html
Thought that if we could get the wife p.o’d at him we could further the cause. Sadly, I can’t think of any men or women who might want to lead him astray, causing her to be annoyed at him. (only partly joking) I’m afraid he will continue to be a thorn in everyone’s side. Just another example of corporations having much more pull than any group of just people. (Ct is the insurance capital of the world so one could say he’s just looking out for the interests of his home state)
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 1:42 PM
Sofia, these look close to what you’re talking about:
http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/butter_pecan_cookies/
or
http://pies-cookies-squares.suite101.com/article.cfm/pecan_butter_balls_recipe
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 15, 2009
at 1:40 PM
throw
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 1:26 PM
Yeah, Greytdog. I collect old cookbooks, I do have an obsession with food, after all. Have learned a lot about the migration of recipes over the years. I know I saw at least 3 recipes for filled raisin cookies in our search for the right Mexican wedding nut cookies that we all love. Still can’t decide which one to use. (didn’t have time to make them this past weekend so will make them at home at take to Christmas because they are the other Grampa’s favorite.) It’s amazing how many different recipes one can find for the same cookie and since I don’t have time or appetite to try them all until I get it right, I might just through them in a hat and pull one out.
Unless anyone here has the perfect recipe for those powdered sugar covered cookies? with pecans? that are mostly butter, pecans, not too sweet but very melty in the mouth.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 1:25 PM
Wow, Gretydog! You sure are making me… thirsty!
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 15, 2009
at 1:05 PM
And for you fruitcake fiends (and yes we do live among you) – I just wrapped up the whiskey fruitcake that I’ve been “aging” for 3 months. Shipped it off to big bro with his traditional bottle of Glen Livet this morning.
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By: Greytdog on December 15, 2009
at 1:03 PM
So Lieberman doesn’t think that 59 senators should make decisions based on the agenda Obama was overwhelmingly elected for, and the districts they represent, but that HE can determine the fate of the health care bill all by himself. He is so hell-bent on being right that he’s requiring 59 other senators to compromise on what is already a compromise, just to satisfy HIM and his colossal ego. I hope this is a career ender for that obstructionist pig. The souls of people who die because he didn’t think they deserved health care better be serving him some karma for the rest of his financially secure and government-insurance covered days.
I won’t even get into the public option issue and instead will stick to just the part about making Medicare available for purchase at 55. How many people do you personally know that are in the 55+ crowd, too young for Medicare and too old to hire? My own mother put off a trip to the emergency room (for a suspected heart attack) because she didn’t have insurance. I’ll grant that it wasn’t her most shining moment logically, but she was very ill at the time. My father had a stroke that made him permanently disabled. He had to live on disability payments but couldn’t get Medicare because he was too young. Cobra took all his disability money until the Cobra expired, and then he was uninsured after that. A severely diabetic patient recovering from a stroke and later heart bypass surgery, unable to get coverage. Doctors provided samples of whatever medications they could, and tried hard to stick to the cheap or free prescriptions. God bless them, they did as much as they could. The cost of insulin, however, kept them living in total poverty and at times in great medical peril when the insulin couldn’t be obtained. They lost their house. Now both parents are on Medicare, but live for a long stretch of each year in the ‘donut hole’.
It’s a crappy, crappy life. They aren’t lazy. They just got sick & older. Joe Lieberman thinks he alone should stand in the way of taking the first step towards helping them.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 15, 2009
at 12:59 PM
HRH Sofia – Yes I saw it – it still makes me smile – partly because my dogs would never ever be so helpful (they’re better at unwrapping gifts) & partly because the dogs just look so happy and pleased with themselves.
Speaking of cookies – my grandmother made raisin filled cookies. They were awesome. Whenever we were coming to visit she’d make tons of them, and we’d each get our own tin. Mainly because none of us, including my dad, wanted to share the bounty of Grandma’s cookies. My aunts have tried duplicating her recipe but their dough was tougher, their raisin mix sweeter, and just not right. Several years ago I was experimenting around and finally managed to make a cookie that, to me, tasted just like grandma’s. The real taste test was to have my dad try it. So I filled up a tin and took him some. . . he was so ecstatic! He thought I’d somehow unearthed Grandma’s recipe – I guess in a way I had – I’d found the “bare bones” recipe in an 1912 cookbook at a flea market. So now I am the official Christmas raisin cookie person – just sent out 22 tins of cookies to family and friends. Also included were chocolate raspberry brownies, homemade marshmallow, hazelnut creme truffles, and peppermint bark. I think I gained 20 lbs in the process. . . sigh.
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By: Greytdog on December 15, 2009
at 12:58 PM
“Yes Virginia there is a black president and he has a target on him just the same way Ford and Regan (sic)did..”
No, the target on Obama is about 400 times larger than the target on any president before him. what can I say…it’s just a very foolish person who can’t see that, or that, like Frank Schaeffer, the author of Crazy for God said, the Limbaughs, Becks, Coulters and Malkins of the world are trying to get him killed or what it will do to our national security if they succeed.
*sigh* some people will just never get it. Thanks Donna and Azgrandma and all for your support. But seeing as there’s really no sense in having a battle of wills with an unarmed person, or trying to reason with the unreasonable, and since other members seem to be growing weary of the debate, I will do my best to cease. I can’t promise anything, though!
Cute youtube, HRH.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 15, 2009
at 12:50 PM
Oh, I forgot to list my street creds. Born 2nd of 7 children, worked summers from age 12 outside my home, first on tobacco farm then child care, then whatever I could make an honest dollar from. Occasionally dinner was nothing more than browned flour gravy with home grown potatoes. Never had a new car except the VW we bought in 1970. Since then always tried to spend $500 or less annual on car. Wash and reuse plastic bags. Hang clothes of the line rather than use dryer, line in upstairs room in winter. Saved change in ‘piggy bank’ and raided it often when gas was needed to get to work. Used food stamps when DH was unemployed back in 70’s. Had only one child because we felt we couldn’t support and educate more. Don’t watch TV. Don’t listen to advertising.
Don’t buy stuff unless I need it. (hate shopping)
Owe nothing to anyone. Have credit card and pay off every month. (since 3 years ago) Sleep well, exercise regularly (no excuses)
Still have a sense of humor and easily ignore people who annoy me. (though GWB and crew did send my bp into the higher regions.) Don’t want to know anymore about SP, know more than enough already. Same goes for Tiger, and all those other “stars” who’s names I don’t even recognize.
Suggest other’s also boycott the idjits out there trying to take over you mind and try thinking for yourselves instead. Remember, if someone wants to sell you something, it’s because they will make money on you. It’s not because they love you.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 12:49 PM
Greytdog and other good kids, I know you’ll like this if you haven’t already seen it.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 12:32 PM
And I doubt anything the troll says about his personal life. Wife? I doubt it.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 15, 2009
at 12:30 PM
Aren’t you guys finished yet? It’s been days since anyone has said much other than complaining about each other. How about some cookie talk. I spent the weekend at my son and daughter.i.l’s place, taking care of the slightly cranky baby so they could do the traditional maddd cookie bake. My DIL is in love with Christmas. (my tradition is to ignore as much of it as possible except for little children) Her tradition is to make a bunch of cookies from her grandmother’s recipes (she’s been doing it since 7 or 8, with recipe cards typed by her GM) She was getting cranky because with the 6mos old little one needing still a lot of attention, it looked like they couldn’t do the job. So, I became COMMUTING GRAMMA, left my DH on his own and stayed with them for the weekend. My job was to amuse the baby, (and I can’t think of a more rewarding job). Result was, happier parents, happy baby, happy Gramma and lots of cookies.
Which brings me to an almost FREE gift to give anyone you love. Like I said above, DIL is still using the recipe cards her GM gave her. How about writing something down (memories, recipes, how to instructions, almost anything you feel worth passing on to the next generation) and give that gift to them. When you’re gone, all your knowledge goes with you, unless you’ve made provisions. Since none of us know when that will occur, consider leaving a piece of your brain behind. Unless, of course, there’s nothing up there to leave.
Happy Holidays to all. And in the interest of Peace on Earth, Good Well to All (men, women, children, animals, vegetables, and minerals) could we please stop the sniping? I, too, really, really mean it.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 15, 2009
at 12:23 PM
The recent persistent troll comes on like good cheese for awhile, then after a bit switches to the stinky Limburger. All the same it’s a trap, to grap our attention.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 15, 2009
at 12:22 PM
mmm, and a semi uh-oh, Craig showed his innate orientatio and surprise, he is being victimized –NOT !!!
Honey and A and others , greatly appreciated fou to “bother” the attempt for a momentito, Craig came off as “inclined” to a fuller conversation but could not help himself and digressed to what seems to be his essence !!! NOT all that unusual to see one so flounder and cling to their notions despite reality and factuals and actuals–too many of the overly righteous righties share that trait and continuously stick heads deep into sand pits–it has grown wearisome and tiresome but unlikely to suceed beyond their smallish base as most folks truly do learn “mo’ better” from hard lessons, others simply refuse and l;ikely never will much to their own detriment. Its almost a SoBeIt as they will NOT prevail. Survival of the fittest will reign and they do NOT equate to THE fittest for sure !!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 15, 2009
at 11:11 AM
yea HoneyJo, Azgranma, Poolman,JumeauJoe and all the rest
If our current troll is sooooon upset as to our beliefs etc, why the %&### does he keep coming back here? I have been choosing to ignore him because he makes my stomach turn. and my scrolling finger can only take so much.
His family and friends m ust be also sick of listening to hisi rants. That is if they are not of like ilk.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 15, 2009
at 11:02 AM
Not all the participants, just the “idjits”
who go to teabagging parties, lol! Morans!
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By: Claire on December 15, 2009
at 10:57 AM
Yep the You tube took a broad paint brush swipe and thus was to be a condemnation of all who participate in the conservative camp.
And people talked about killing Kennedy for being Catholic.
Your Malcom X killed by three of his own people of color.
They are now out and walking the streets.
And we wonder where the next 911 participants might come from? Plus they have passports.
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By: craigΔ on December 15, 2009
at 10:50 AM
cute You Tube.
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By: craigΔ on December 15, 2009
at 10:46 AM
“Her princes in the midst of her are like wolves rending and devouring the prey, shedding blood and destroying lives to get dishonest gain. And her prophets have daubed them over with whitewash, seeing false visions and divining lies to them, saying, Thus says the Lord God–when the Lord has not spoken. The people of the land have used oppression and extortion and have committed robbery; yes, they have wronged and vexed the poor and needy; yes, they have oppressed the stranger and temporary resident wrongfully.” Ezekiel 22:27-29 Amplified Version
“Ain’t that America for you and me
Ain’t that America we’re somethin’ to see baby
Ain’t that America home of the free
Little pink houses for you and me…….”
-Mellencamp from “Uh-huh” 1983
See above in JJ’s post………
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By: Azgrandma on December 15, 2009
at 10:46 AM
Fact deniers and truth ignorers are wasting our time and energy. Truly they are the roadblocks and speedbumps of life. Craig, you can wipe your own butt this time.
Welcome Azgrandma, we are neighbors with much in common.
Juneau Joe, keep up the good fight. These ignorants should rightly be the ones that die off, if justice was the rule of the day. Too bad we can’t offer them a tour of Afghanistan. Many are of the same mind as the Taliban.
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By: Poolman on December 15, 2009
at 9:56 AM
LOL, Juneau Joe, you beat me to the punch, I was just about to post the same link.
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By: Claire on December 15, 2009
at 9:49 AM
What a troll looks like!
Which one is our resident troll?
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 15, 2009
at 9:44 AM
A troll is to be ignored! They add nothing – I do feel sorry for him.
45,000 die per year because of no health insurance!
So, the teabaggers have a die in!!!
http://crooksandliars.com/jon-perr/tea-baggers-ignore-us-health-care-daily-die-in
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 15, 2009
at 9:31 AM
So if it is seen on TV or said on TV then it is true?
You must take all the books and tv broadcasts as face value?
Just because Oreilly says it does not make it true.
Oberman says it and its true?
Yep I saw the signs and tea parties on TV and a lot of people were rightfully angry.
Yes Virginia there is a black president and he has a target on him just the same way Ford and Regan did..by nut cases who should be in locked wards. Just like the nut case in DC who took down the “black” guard.
Why did you concentrate only on the blacks got this and blacks got that?
I don’t think I saw a white only crowd in the tea parties…Of course its also OK for Two black men with bully clubs to stand outside a polling place..and not mention that.
If you wanted to talk about the issues between the conservative and democratic parties ..why did you have to bring race into it?
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By: craigΔ on December 15, 2009
at 9:13 AM
I would confirm everything you said HoneyJo, but my rule is to ignore trolls, until or unless they say something that should be reported to the FBI.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 15, 2009
at 8:46 AM
Azgrandma–he just wants attention. That’s why he keeps showing up and doing this. The minute anyone engages with him, it’s this same crap. Then it’s “oh, poor me–you just can’t accept disagreement.” Completely boring, completely predictable, completely worth nothing OTHER THAN getting close to 3 million.
As for being bored with his life, you are right. But imagine how bored others in his life are having to deal with him?
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By: Donna on December 15, 2009
at 6:59 AM
ooooohhhh I have to jump into this one sir….Craig, if I still lived in Lubbock I’d be at your house at this moment with the wooden spoon I use to discipline my 6 and 4 year old grandsons, busting your sorry ass as only a grandma can do!!!!! You are so wrong on SO MANY LEVELS and completely out of line on this one bud. Oh so out of line sir. Where do you get off addressing Honey Joe in such a manner? Your disrespect is absolutely disgusting. The venom you spew with this missive put me over the edge and for the first time made me angry enough to actually post to this thread. I’ve been a follower of this thread for a long time now and have seen how you’ve been defended by one and castigated by the majority of the others….sometimes deservedly so, at other times for no reason other than posting a missive that was reasonable and seemingly well thought out IMO. This time you crossed the line and deserve to have your balls shoved down your throat.
I live in Phoenix and was a witness to the incident that Honey Joe makes reference to. And that poolman posted a link to. I too witnessed on live tv JFK’s assassination and Bobby’s also. I saw Lee harvey shot by Ruby…once more on live tv. I was deeply affected by King’s assassination. Had I been older I would have been one of those in the streets hurling the tear gas canisters back at the cops. BTW I’m a military brat. Love my country deeply…..but have become myself quite scared at where things are going with the atmosphere propagated by the extreme right. At one time I was a repub. Until the loss of so many of our rights due to the patriot act. Which was anything but in my book. Oh, and guess what…I call myself by the name of Christ. But what passes as christianity on the extreme right revolts and repels me and IMO hinders the very cause of Christ and His church in our country.
You sir owe Honey Joe an apology……and yes you do deserve everything that’s coming down on your head.
What were you thinking?????? I certainly hope that when you disagree with your wife that you’re much more respectful. But then I’m sure she has her ways of keeping your BS cleaned up.
I’m beginning to think you have a serious personality disorder that compels you to diarrhea of the mouth. Or maybe sadomasochistic tendencies. I can’t imagine any other reason that would cause you to write such unbelievably inflamatory rhetoric. You just seem to crave being lambasted. Are you so bored with your life that you just can’t control these tendencies to lob shit bombs?
Honey Joe, Im so very sorry. I step aside and trade in my wooden spoon for a baseball bat. I hand of to you…….cause I’m so angry that if I took a swipe at Craig you guys would have to pull y off. Because I’d mistake him for a rabid skunk and my Grandpa taught me how to kill those critters.
GGGRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!
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By: Azgrandma on December 15, 2009
at 1:20 AM
{“But after what I witnessed this summer at the town hall meetings, and people with loaded weapons within shouting distance of the first African American president…”}
“I very VERY seriously doubt that statement.”
Wow. Well, this just proves how unaware you are of what’s been going on. It happened in several states around the country this summer. I’m sure a halfway decent search on the net can get you some footage of it. The police did nothing because technically, no laws were broken. But the intimidation was as thick as pea soup.
“Honey Lamb has just carefully documented every angst moment in her life.”
LOL Hardly. Only personal experiences and anecdotal evidence to better illustrate my point of view.
{“I was just a little baby when Martin Luther King was killed, and I wasn’t even born when Malcom X was killed, but my parents taught me all about them, and I saw on the news how the cops would bash in the heads of unarmed black demonstrators and protesters.”}
“Wait a minute..did you see or were you told?
Which is it?”
I was told of the assassinations, and learned of them in school of course. I saw civil rights protests of various kinds myself in the very early 70s, the movement was still going on.
“Lady we all saw and witnessed these events.
But how do they relate to Obama?”
Mister, yes, we all saw them, but apparently only some of us understood their significance. Obama is the first African American president, and by some accounts has received 400 times the number of death threats than any other president. An airport security guard was arrested in Jersey a month ago for stating out loud how easily he could kill Obama through a hole in the fence. Do I really need to spell it out for you any better than this?
{“Holocaust museum being shot up and a black security guard being killed in the process,”}
“Is this a racist thing?”
Well, you’d have to get inside the mind of the sicko who did it to know for sure, but if it quacks like a duck…
“…and she continues..blah blah blah.”
Yeah, that’s tolerant and respectful. That will really get people to listen to your point of view.
“..but this Honey Jo is making this a us vs, them… a black vs, white thing. A white conservative vs. her. As if I’m standing in the doorway of her getting ahead. Hey lady we are all in the same life boat. You just need to row like the rest of us, rather than just sit in the middle seat.”
No. I’m not making this a black vs. white thing, you are, a tactic you no doubt learned from Fox News. Point the “playing the RACE CARD!!!!” finger. I said that I fear for the life of the president because he’s a black man and in light of Medger Evers, MLK Jr., Malcom X, and even just common folk like James Byrd, it’s clear what happens sometimes in this country to black men that are getting too “uppity.” But this is NOT related to my fears regarding health care reform. I never said the health reform issue has to do with race. My coworker is white, college educated, and probably works harder than you do. I know just how hard he works because I do his job when he’s gone. There really aren’t enough hours in the day for him to work much harder than he already does. You’re suggesting he just needs to row harder, like you, and that will, what, suddenly, miraculously make our insurance cover things it now doesn’t? We get the best plan availabe that we can afford, put a little extra away every month, and when a serious illness hits, it’s still not enough. I suspected I would get the usual, typical conservative response – you’re just not working hard enough. I would recommend you read a book that just might open your eyes a little bit. The Appeal by John Grisham. Yes, it’s fiction, but largely based in the reality of the way things work, as seen by the author during his tenure in the Mississippi House of Representatives. I also find your terminology rather telling. You said I thought you were keeping me from “getting AHEAD.” Ahead of whom, I wonder? Ahead if the unwashed, uneducated, lazy rabble who spend all their time looking for a hand out? Well, that’s why the republicans lost so badly last year. And that’s why the republican party is in such disarray. They are seriously out of touch with reality, and out of touch with the hard working back bone of this country, the people who serve the meals or ring up the sales or clean the floors and drive the buses and cabs and handle the luggage. I never said you were standing the way of my “getting ahead.” But you and your ilk are standing in the way of our fixing a broken system that is leaving more and more people smart, college educated as well as the blue collar laborers, in unconscionable dire straits. And yes, I worked hard and put myself through college and got my education, graduated cum laude and worked my butt off to get where I am, and maybe there are waitresses and janitors and manual laborers or non-professionals who are uninsured or underinsured who didn’t work in school as hard as I did, who didn’t get through college or go on as many job interviews as I did. But they are still here. They are still human, and they still have families who need them, and lives to lead. Unlike you, I don’t believe that not being good in school or not being a go-getter Type A person should be a capital offense. When you boil it down, what you’re really saying is “I got mine, to hell with everyone else.” If we are indeed in this boat together, it’s that very attitude that causes mutiny, chaos, violence, and ultimately, the boat to sink.
{“and what could happen to this nation if some Limbaugh-loving, Beck-bowing, Fox follower decides to take Bill O’Reily’s subtle advice and take him out.”}
“Please, just please tell me where and when Bill said such a thing. I believe he would be in a locked cell if even intimated. ”
Well, the easiest way to see how he rallied his troops to get one of off Dr. Tiller would be go to MSNBC and watch tonight’s Keith Olbermann. He just happened to have a good deal of video of it, and there is a LOT more. His coverage of the tea baggers and such, and his take on their joker and Hilter posters fall along the same lines. And the clip of Glenn Beck saying Obama has “serious issues” with white people and is a racist. LOL I loved Murdock’s response “mmmm *mumble mumble* Glenn never said he was racist, brrrmmmm but the statement (Obama)mmmmade, what he said about blacks and whites and such, what have you, mmmmm clearly racist.” WTF? People seriously bought Murdock’s malarchy.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 15, 2009
at 12:48 AM
Craig, this bud’s for you….
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/cspanjunkie/why-i-hate-barack-obama-pastor-steven
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By: Poolman on December 14, 2009
at 11:46 PM
“But after what I witnessed this summer at the town hall meetings, and people with loaded weapons within shouting distance of the first African American president…”
I very VERY seriously doubt that statement.
If so, Honey JO should have notified authorities.
Did President Obama go to any Town Hall meetings that were not carefully organized and choreographed? Thus secured?
Honey Lamb has just carefully documented every angst moment in her life.
“I was just a little baby when Martin Luther King was killed, and I wasn’t even born when Malcom X was killed, but my parents taught me all about them, and I saw on the news how the cops would bash in the heads of unarmed black demonstrators and protesters.”
Wait a minute..did you see or were you told?
Which is it?
I saw Kennedy the night before at Carswell AFB.
I watched the three Presidential planes from my classroom as they went east to Dallas.
I watched Oswald shot on TV…
I watched Bobbie on TV dying.
I heard and watched on TV also about the KING.
Lady we all saw and witnessed these events.
But how do they relate to Obama?
Then throw in the names of
Tiller and O Reilley. That had to be there.
“Holocaust museum being shot up and a black security guard being killed in the process,”
Is this a racist thing?
..and she continues..blah blah blah.
I Don’t argue the insurance issues..they are there..but this Honey Jo is making this a us vs, them… a black vs, white thing. A white conservative vs. her. As if I’m standing in the doorway of her getting ahead. Hey lady we are all in the same life boat. You just need to row like the rest of us, rather than just sit in the middle seat.
“and what could happen to this nation if some Limbaugh-loving, Beck-bowing, Fox follower decides to take Bill O’Reily’s subtle advice and take him out.”
Please, just please tell me where and when Bill said such a thing. I believe he would be in a locked cell if even intimated.
OMG, I can’t believe I’m taking the bait on this one….
Go for it. Give me your best shots..I know they are coming.
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By: craigΔ on December 14, 2009
at 11:21 PM
Hi gang and HoneyJo,
Amen! I hear you and I hope the American people do too.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 14, 2009
at 9:40 PM
Yes, Grandma Katie!!
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By: Donna on December 14, 2009
at 8:38 PM
BTW – can we h it 3,000,00 by Christmas as a Christmas to M&H?
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By: Grandma Katie on December 14, 2009
at 7:41 PM
Yea HoneyJo for your post. It says almost everything I believer. Just add BigPharma to your list. Their ads with long lists of side effects to watch ffor, now tat scares me!
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By: Grandma Katie on December 14, 2009
at 7:39 PM
I’m a little late here, but anyhow, great summary of the first chapter of “that persons” book.
I am glad I don’t have to suffer through it.
Love the dialogue on here, keeps me company on these long nights!
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By: David Craig on December 14, 2009
at 7:16 PM
Trust me James, I really am just as open minded as anyone else here, for the most part. And of course I would welcome any well wishes and prayers for my coworker and anyone out there who is finding him or herself in the same situation.
But am I interested in debate? I would be if I honestly felt it would prove fruitful. But after what I witnessed this summer at the town hall meetings, and people with loaded weapons within shouting distance of the first African American president…I was just a little baby when Martin Luther King was killed, and I wasn’t even born when Malcom X was killed, but my parents taught me all about them, and I saw on the news how the cops would bash in the heads of unarmed black demonstrators and protesters. I see these people with loaded guns, and signs saying the tree of liberty needs to be watered, implying with Obama’s blood, and I remember the L.A riots after the Rodney King verdict, and I know that’s just a walk in the park compared to what we could be facing if anything happens to Obama, I hear chilling stories about the murder of Dr. George Tiller, and I see Bill O’Reilly actually say, literally “I’m sorry there was loss of a life BUT…think of all the babies that will now get to be born now that he’s gone” and stories about the Holocaust museum being shot up and a black security guard being killed in the process, and I don’t mind telling you, I’m afraid. I’m scared shitless. And I have to ask myself, where are the good, righteous, God-fearing conservatives?? Why aren’t they standing up and saying “this is insane!! Take a chill pill, people!! Don’t bring loaded guns to an event where the president is going to be speaking!!” They are NO WHERE to be found. Instead we get Sen. Wilson screaming “YOU LIE!!” and and Boehner egging them on, while misquoting the constitution, just pouring more gasoline on the fire.
I’m scared. I’m scared for myself, my future, my family, my coworker and any other coworker/friend who could find themselves in the same situation tomorrow. I’m scared for the life of the man I elected. I’m partly responsible for putting him in office, and how will I feel if anything happens to him? I’m scared to death for his lovely wife, his beautiful little girls, and what could happen to this nation if some Limbaugh-loving, Beck-bowing, Fox follower decides to take Bill O’Reily’s subtle advice and take him out. I wish someone on the right, McCain, Steele, Boehner, Kantor, SOMEONE gave a crap about how scared I am. But they don’t. How else can I react but to see them all and anyone who stand with them as an enemy?
To answer your questions, I think any and every politician is beholden to special interests to some degree. That’s just the nature of the beast. But, do those special interests have interests that are the same as MY interests? I think any special interests that the current administration may be beholden to have my welfare and interests at heart much more than the special interests that the previous administration’s special interests had. Big business, big insurance corporations, where the money is, those are the special interests of the right, and historically, they trample on the little guy. I’m much more afraid of Aetna or United and the power and pressure they are exherting over the right , over Fox news, than I am afraid of some tree hugging environmental group. If you want to be more specific as to WHAT special interest groups you think Obama is cowtowing to at the expence of the welfare of the public…
And yes, I think reform of this system is critical to our nation. How does it help our economy to have people going bankrupt, dying, or skipping mortgage payments in order to pay medical bills or because they CAN’T pay their medical bills? More and more people getting sick and not being able to get well enough to work and provide for themselves? Keith Olbermann called for donations and scared up almost 2 million dollars and he helped put on two free health clinics and thousands showed up. Diseases like diabetes were discovered and given a treatment plan, and a handful of people found out they had suffered a heart attack and didn’t even know, or simply weren’t able to do anything about it. That’s just a drop in the bucket of people who still medical care and aren’t getting it until it gets so bad they have make an ER visit they can’t pay for, and our premiums go up again. As I said, my company’s medical insurance premiums and deductables have just doubled. How does it help this country to have more and more people priced out of being able to see a doctor, because the insurance companies are in the business of making money, not making sure people get medical treatment. Denying claims and making insurance too expensive to be affordable to people who eat Mac and Cheese more often than they eat organic veggies and brown rice, who work two jobs and don’t have time to hit the gym four times a week, not that they could afford the dues, that’s how insurance companies can afford to pay their CEOs tens of millions of dollars a year. More and more wealth, and health, being hogged by fewer and fewer people at the top, no, I don’t think that benefits our country as a whole.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 14, 2009
at 7:14 PM
I posted the petition on my facebook.
Conservatives who say they want to talk are so full of crap.
They talk and talk and then vote NO on even watered down legislation. Just a waste of time trying to reason with them. Lieberman and his ilk will make millions while they vote against the interest of their constituents.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 14, 2009
at 4:02 PM
I posted the petition on my Facebook.
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By: Claire on December 14, 2009
at 3:33 PM
If anyone is interested, here is a petition to protest Joe Lieberman’s blocking health care reform:
http://boldprogressives.org/poRescue
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By: kitkatΔ on December 14, 2009
at 3:29 PM
By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 14, 2009
at 5:59 AM
JJ Haven’t seen that clip for a while. Glad to be reminded. The story behind the production of the video and the aftermath are as moving as the song itself.
If anyone is interested, check out this link.
http://www.playingforchange.com/journey/introduction
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By: jsri on December 14, 2009
at 2:22 PM
Honey,
I’m sorry about your friend. I mean it. I know you don’t care, but sometimes in this acromonious debate, we forget that we are ALL just human beings, some would say God’s creatures, just trying to do the best we can. I do feel empathy for anyone that is struggling in life. I am at this moment preparing the menu to feed 700 people on xmas day who have no where else to go. We all have to do more to help each other. I have no hate for you or anyone. I’m sure that I could learn a lot from you and I am willing to do so. The main premise of my post was never addressed however, which is do you believe that the current Congress and administration are beholden to special interests and that reform of this system is critical to the success of our Nation? Like I said, I have no interest in debating you here. Honestly, I am probably not speaking to you. You made it clear you have no interest in discussing these issues further with conservatives. Fine. Then go on. I am speaking to the majority of liberals here who are open minded and are willing to enjoin in a reasonable debate with no calling, one sided blathering, etc. about reforming a system that is rife with corruption. That’s it.
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By: James on December 14, 2009
at 11:22 AM
What a great story, Judith. Thanks for sharing. Your mom sounds like she was ahead of her time. Reminds me of my own mom, the pedestals supporting her oak coffee tabletop are corner granite pieces salvaged from a building being torn down. Not sure where she snagged the tabletop, lol.
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By: Claire on December 14, 2009
at 9:03 AM
Oooh, candy! I’ll take all the recipes you care to give.
One of my father’s business ideas when I was very young was to start a candy business. Even a small home business takes some special equipment and we had squat for capital. Especially, you need a marble slab.
My mom was driving through town where they were tearing down Union National Bank. This was back when nobody recycled anything. She screeched to a halt, backed up a little and got out to find the foreman. Pointing at the growing pile of marble coming down from the walls, she asked if she could take a little. The guy looked at her with the dead eyes that indicate that he’d just heard the stupidest thing in a very long day of stupid things and droned, “Lady. Take it all.”.
The candy business never got out of the planning stage, but our kitchen acquired a work table of 3.5’x2.5′ marble. I grew up cooking on it – the family motto was “Trivet? We don’t need no stinkin’ trivet”. At 7 or 8, I could crank out a very respectable batch of fondant and still make Union National Fudge.
I inherited the table and slab when my older sister cleaned out some of my parents stuff and told me I could either come get it that week, or it was going in the garbage. It had been used to store cleaning and laundry supplies for years. Now, it goes where I go. I got the recipes, too.
Trivet? Hah!
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By: judith on December 14, 2009
at 8:32 AM
Here is an interesting article on wages and whether the job benefits society.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8410489.stm
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 14, 2009
at 6:41 AM
Stand By Me by Playing for Change
is dedicated to Margaret and Helen
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 14, 2009
at 5:59 AM
Jean,
aftershave, not so much….
coffee mugs? way too many!
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By: vgmanΔ on December 14, 2009
at 2:29 AM
Martha, Thank you for pointing out how dangerous SP is. I cringe with sadness and fear each time she purposely says something to gin up her audience against President Obama. I feel she is baiting them to do the worst imaginable…
And calling him ‘un-American’?! Isn’t her husband a successionist? She’s such a phony.
Did you see her on Oprah? SP got all victim-like & tried to spin things, so Oprah had to remind her that Barack had actually defended her kids against the media.
It’s a dangerous game she’s playing, and I don’t know how that woman sleeps at night. She’s a delusional, dangerous, nasty demagogue twit, indeed.
And Helen is wonderful for providing us an outlet to laugh about her instead of cry. So, yes. Thank you, Helen! Thank you.
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By: ritu on December 14, 2009
at 2:20 AM
How rude of me Margaret & Helen! Thank you for finding humor in one of the nastiest people alive, and for your great blog overall!
You have given us a precious gift – laughter! It will be one of my faves this holiday season, and long remembered.
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on December 14, 2009
at 1:56 AM
@ no one’s puppet
Why, I must disagree! The two traits you named of Palin’s are some of her nicer qualities. The rest is much worse!
From an Alaskan who will never stop opposing the Nitwit from the North. She is a dangerous, nasty demagogue and a twit to boot.
Believe me, there are no visions of sugar plums dancing in her empty head!
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By: Martha Unalaska Yard Sign on December 14, 2009
at 1:54 AM
I have two things against Mrs. Palin, she is an habitual liar and a hypocrite.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 14, 2009
at 12:30 AM
Hi gang,
Me again. Oops! I should have proofed better. In the divinity recipe, it’s 1/4 TEASPOON salt, not 1/4 CUP. Can you imagine that much salt? I hope not!
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 13, 2009
at 11:57 PM
Jean – I loved your divinity stttory and recipe!! I was telling someone about divinity just a day or so ago!
My mother used t o beat the egg whites wilth a wire beater. not a whisk but a wire beater. Then m y dad would sloowly o[pout in the hot syrup. Mother would tint it pink with maraschino juice and then chopped maraschinos, and sometimes green maraschinos’ And nuts. You”’re making me hungry!! Thanks for the memory.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 13, 2009
at 9:37 PM
Hi gang,
Me again. The Divinty recipe may be a little confusing. “II” means Roman numeral “Two”. “I” means Roman numeral “One”. You put “Two” together and start cooking first. But “One” goes into the egg whites first. Got that?
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 13, 2009
at 9:27 PM
Hi gang,
Something just occurred to me that might be of interest to some of you. Any of you looking for ideas for holiday gifts that are really inexpensive, here goes. Back in the days when we were raising our boys and were on a tight budget, (more like scraping by!), I made candy and gave it to their teachers, as well as the rest of our family and friends. I created a candy monster because it has always been a big hit. I’ve been making the damn candy ever since, like 56 years! I even give it to our dentist and his staff. They expect it every year and don’t care if it rots their teeth. They are in the right place for rotten teeth! (Vgman, I’ll bet you have received enough aftershave to open your own store.)
Anyway, these are fourth generation recipes from my mother’s family of the Deep South, southern Louisiana. I learned how to make them at my mother’s knee. (Well, like under foot.) They are quite quaint as handed down to me. For instance, use a ‘lump of butter the size of a walnut’ or ‘boil until the syrup spins a 6” thread. (???) I have updated them however using a candy thermometer. They are not foolproof. And for heaven’s sake, DON’T make candy on a humid or rainy day. It will sugar on you. Also handle carefully because the syrups are EXTREMELY HOT!!!! Burns could be serious.
You can make a ton of candy with no more expense than the ingredients. It is kind of a production and takes quite a bit of time and mess. I throw in my labor since I have always worked really, really, really, really cheap.
There is ‘Divinity’, ‘Date Nut Loaf’, ‘Hawaiian Fudge’, made with pineapple and of course ‘Creamy Chocolate Fudge’. The fudge is easy. And yes, Hawaii was known even back several generations before my mother’s day. How DID they do it back then without electric mixers?
Here’s the ‘Divinity’ recipe. If you are interested, I will put up the other three.
DIVINITY
II 3 cups sugar
¾ cup white karo syrup
¾ cup water
¼ cup salt
I 1 cup sugar
½ cup water
1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar (prevents
sugaring)
3 egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup+ chopped walnuts
food coloring as desired
Mix II and stir until sugar is dissolved before letting it begin to boil. DO NOT stir after it begins to boil. Keep the sugar from crystallizing around the edges of the pot by wiping with a damp cloth wrapped around a knife blade. (If great-great grandma says so!)
As II boils, put I together. Keep a lid on this cooking mixture until all the sugar is dissolved entirely. Boil I until it spins a 6” thread. (Dip the spoon in the mixture, turn sidewise and let syrup drop off the spoon. It will spin a thread when ready.) (260 degrees with a candy thermometer.)
Pour I in a slow stream into stiffly beaten egg whites as the mixer is going.
When II has cooked until a test is like a piece of glass, very brittle, doesn’t bend but breaks when tested in a cup of cold water. Beat into egg white mixture. Pour a very fine stream into the egg white mixture until it gets warmed up. Beat until very stiff. Add vanilla and nuts.
Pile up on a buttered platter. Cut into pieces with a knife dipped in hot water before the candy is too cool. If everything went smoothly, the Divinity should be snowy white.
Beat eggs after II starts boiling and just as I begins. Any sugar begins to solidify just before its ready to boil.
Note: Timing is of the essence. Each mixture is easy to scorch if not watched carefully. If this happens, it does not affect the taste. You can tint the batch pink with red food coloring or a pale green and get away with it. If you make several batches, it makes for a colorful box of candy.
One last thing, if the mixtures are boiled with a gentle rolling boil rather than a robust furious boil, they are less likely to scorch.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 13, 2009
at 9:20 PM
People, people, people…..we are here for the funny.
Margaret and Helen are FUNNY.
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By: T.J. Maxx on December 13, 2009
at 7:10 PM
I was unaware that Ms. Palin was with child before marriage.
So I guess everyone is right in tossing the first stones.
I have not read her book. Don’t intend to. Never was. Don’t like bio’s. They, I would think, most of the time come up with some fiction in them.
There are so many of us “that there but for the grace of God go I”.
Goodnight all.
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By: craigΔ on December 13, 2009
at 6:31 PM
From Craig : ” go out of town and all hell breaks loose here.
Where is the civility Poolman that you say is here .. I read the missives here and wonder what season tis this?”
followed up with ”
Just a question here..?But why is Sarah Palin morally lacking?Did she pull a “Tiger Woods”? I know she is a lightweight at a national level but what the hey?.” lol, as to pulling a TW…her first was conceived most likely before the vows for starters in THAT particular respect so is a “pot-to-pot” call with points in favor of TW who has NOT lectured all others on THEIR family values and what THEY should or dhould NOT do whereas, Sara….good thing she got herself a witch doctor to lay hands /etc and really far too much else !!!
The season was rolling along, enjoyment and thanks given for someone else taking on the task of delving into Sara’s missve which she really did not write (known factoid and not even a blush from her regarding it and likely does not care as long as the checks keep filling her coffer and not a bad gig that goes with it –the book signing tour , stokes her ego quite nicely while they ponder what the next schickt will be to keep the cash pulling in . She has an apitude for marketing–not doing half ba for such amatuer rankings but she remains a true amatuer–a fortunate one cuz soe of the pro’s were “wise” enough to see the potential., likely KNOW it is /remains mediochre but are satisfied for they consider themselves well enough endowed and figure they have a firm enough chain hold even with the various precarious bump SP tosses /come with. The pro’s know how to yank chains and the main party itself is in SUCH disarray, this is simply time fill. Sara will be allowed only just so far for she remains UNRELIABLE , a bit too “mavericky” and uncontrollable when/where it really, REALLY counts and they, the pro’s know it. Her leash is shorter than realized but she is having a lucrative ride and that is what matters to her and the family who willing to take what they CAN get and who basically would not-(answerable, but most already “know” and etc so no need to get totally boorishly boring !!)
THen there is this one “The only thing negative..I would say is that anyone with right wing or tea party participation are not given any credence when they espouse their stand on issues, thus they are castigated.We’re suppose to be one people under GOD,indivisible with liberty and justice for all.” With…”Somehow we have been polarized…” ….polarized for sure and rankerously as well but tiresome is the righteous right playing the “victime” card far too often and so hyporitically at that. OF COURSE there was snap back at such as Sharon on this particular thread, understandable if one did grasp her perspectivity used to attempt to castrate others here who , true, found a bit of gleeful alignment in interpretives offered by Helen who took on the project that others refuse to bother fully with after already drawing their own conclusions via excerpts and appearances by SP on the varous outlets to attempt to weave her spell having long back already assessed the lack of credibility in so much she dithers and blathers even if it does resonate with some…Problem with the disdainment Sharon epitomizes, she goes out of her way to wallow in it and attempts to be sanctomoniously inclined when her examples show elsewise and thensome !!! NONE are forced to be here, it is a choice and the choice can be for good or elsewise. Have not seen where “others” are slam dunked without what can be construed as due causetives–It is more than obvious where the majority here mindset lies, no secret so when another attempts to blastercize , they really should already figure a lost cause and not until truly rude is there “retorting” snorted snortably for really, speaking as a FORMER GOP myself, have little recollection of outright snide nastiness that is spewed so frequently to those not of same persuasions as what goes on these days eminating from the righteous right , gop-aligned folks and find it truly atocious . There is a vast disconnect and frankly have seen the emanations grow disporportinately , find it amazing so many on the left or dem ranks have kept basic civil tongues far more in check. Am inclined to feel that more “fly’s” need to be swatted down cuz their fly-bys do have the potential to spead desease that may have no cure anytime soon. If a plague CAN be halted, responsible folks need to do so.
COnversations further down, in regards to lastone Criag…have to so AGREE, that is really somewhat a WHAY THE HEY /aw shucks for indeed, would only be worried if was a bad guy and NOTHING is very private thou do get irritated with such as IF a victim of something like identity theft, where another usinng such as YOUR SS #, YOU are not allowed to be privvy to the information so as to track back and halt them –The GOVT contends that is private information hence, it continues–another being employed using YOUR private info/etc , a whole doppleganger sort of life and one wonders, just why the IRS and etc does not step forth for YOU obviously not paying taxes on THAT particular portion of income and , well blah, blah, blah.
Have NO problem with ocnversations with others with differing positions/views..find it nformative on many levels and find useful information and can change points of strongly held views even–It becomes rancourously tedious when the hypocritical obnoxiousnous diatribes start–am exhausted with such and so entirely fed up and more and where in past was more inclined to BE/remain “silent”, patience has worn too thin. Jus own IMO’s,validated but by me.
SO MUCH EEDS DOING, it does seem quite overwhelming but it does start with words, sharing words and conversations and all that can get heated , but it can “help” as well.
In commerce, there was the old bit where one complaint indicates/represents 1-300 for not all who felt “complainable” BOTHERED to complain, was extrapolated out …It’s done coast to coast –NOT always accurate and these days overplayed for tis hard work, getting a REAL grassroot effort in motion–it’s far too often just perception and how well manipulatively “sold”.
Now, back to the SEASON–wrapping up the end of the year, making “wishes/prayers” , etc for a far better NEW YEAR –and mean that for ALL !!
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By: Buttons44 on December 13, 2009
at 4:54 PM
GrandMa Katie and Poolman
My take on mental health care and Monies
and the “Patriot Act”
First on Mental Health Care, Its true. O asked my wife. No so for Children. The Mental Health facilities you are talking about are long term for mostly mentally retarded. Now where should we warehouse these people? I’m open to suggestions..and I pay the taxes also..but I would imagine it would be a spec on the wall compared to all the other government expenditures. We can’t even get parity for mental health coverage.
The
“Patriot Act”
Do we know if this act has produced results?
Would we know?
How many of these mini Al Queda wanabes
has the government broken up..Or how many Islamic radicals have been born and raised here and are planning via internet or phone to gun us down or blow us up and all for 72 virgins?
Hell ..More information is probably gleamed from Face book than anywhere else. And we elect to put it there with our own little hands.
I’ve had me and my sons first names on the terrorist watch list for almost two years and that was four ago. Finally off.
If the government can pick up a threat from my amblings to web sites and deduce if I’m a threat or not, then great. I would not want to have another 911.
I know this smacks of big brother..But department stores and stores on the web have as much info on you as well, your spending habits
likes and dislikes. The government knows me from my tax returns, applications for government jobs,social security, etc.
So I think the Patriot Act just enlarged and allowed the government to share between agencies information as well as secure legal means the rights to tap our lines if they had suspicions about my “covert” activities.
I would only be worried if I were a bad guy.
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By: craigΔ on December 13, 2009
at 3:15 PM
Just found this on the Immoral Minority Blog and had to share this about a Sanitation Crisis. 😀
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By: Poolman on December 13, 2009
at 3:13 PM
The national guard took on a whole new purpose and meaning during Bush, also. Bet many were wishing they rethought that decision, eh?
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By: Poolman on December 13, 2009
at 2:47 PM
Grandma Katie: Don’t worry about typing errors – you are doing great!
Bush Started jobs: Prison guards.
lots of jobs in the military to take care of two wars.
Lots of work for Private Military organizations like Blackwater.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 13, 2009
at 2:34 PM
Craig, amazing the strip is gone! That means all the Baptists that owned all those liquor stores (another major hypocrisy) got voted out. And yes a church on every corner. We used to attend Trinity, on the south loop. Mondo church. My kids were born at Lubbock General. I built pools in Lakeridge, which was so “exclusive” at the time, but had the very worst soil conditions. I built a few out at Lake Ransom Canyon, and in all the towns off the hub. I still have many good friends there. Click on my name and go to my website and leave your email address on my contact form and I can communicate more regarding Lubbock.
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By: Poolman on December 13, 2009
at 1:59 PM
judith, very smart observation and I agree. I am in the pool business, as many know. I have been in that industry since 1975, though went to college for 4 years and got back into it. Most of my life was work, party, consume, obtain – the American way. As long as government stayed out of my way, I could care less what was going on or who was in power. I always voted republican because that was my “team”.
Everything was peachy until 9/11. I was still isolated from the tragedy for the most part, but began to question the powers that be as we saw freedoms taken from us – think Patriot Act. The mislabeling of our actions. Like 1984 doublespeak. The marketing of our actions to the people. Operation Freedom, yeah right. Whose freedom? I was beginning to feel the heat of the water we were in from the boiling pot that had been heating for quite sometime. I began some researching and paying closer attention to what was going on and looking for the motivations behind the public facade. It is all a front. The white wash on the walls. The cover of the book. Propaganda. The deception that was put in place by the elite to keep us duped and benefitting them.
Until 2 years ago, I was very consumed with work. I am a workaholic, always have been. It has been detrimental to my family and I lost much of pleasure and interaction in my children’s early lives. When the economy began to deteriorate and business began to slacken, it is as judith describes. The 240 pool builders here in the Phoenix area began to lower prices to compete for the fewer clients. Many went by the wayside. You can’t cover overhead and expenses if you aren’t making money on the work you do. Logical business sense. Many kept cutting prices and were “robbing Peter to pay Paul”. That is not sustainable. I refused to build pools for less than cost or even at cost. Needless to say, I wasn’t getting the jobs. I even had customers ask me if I could build for a certain contract price they had from a competitor that was now no longer in business. “Of course not”, I would say. Why do you think they are no longer here? “We’ll just wait to you are hungrier”, they would reply. Not going to happen. I can make that kind of profit staying at home and not wasting my gas or exposing myself to the liability.
So now there are approximately 30 pool builders in the area. I only built 2 pools this year, and those were for a small amount over cost. This is not sustainable long term. I do not have unlimited funds to hold out for another year or 2 like this. That is why credit cards are maxed. We even had to pull out all our retirement funds to live. So now at 52, I basically have lost everything it took many years and hard work to obtain. And I am not the only one in this position.
This present crisis here is primarily due to the banks that got bailed out, but are not lending money. I can contract pools, but cannot get them financed. Most folks that have the money are not spending it on “luxury” items.
So that is why I even have the time to spend here in cyber world. I have been consumed with looking for truth and solutions to try to know how best to proceed in this economy and in this mess we have gotten ourselves into.
I was listening to Shannyn Moore’s radio show last night and watched her TV show. Not only is my industry suffering, but the fishing industry is in deep doodoo too. By allowing corporations and politicians to sell us out to the highest bidder, we have mortgaged our future.
One point was made that really struck me. Did you know Conoco/Phillips is only paying 2 dollars a barrel for oil they are getting out of Iraq? Now tell me again why we took out Saddam? If you really believe these wars we are fighting are to keep the terrorists at bay, you bought the whole spiel – hook, line, and sinker. Follow the money. Always, follow the money.
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By: Poolman on December 13, 2009
at 1:34 PM
IN that last post excuse the misspelling or rather typing. Tryting to keep m y fingers up It should have been Obama with my racing thoughts is not my best typing.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 13, 2009
at 1:20 PM
IMO we must go further back to see where this mess began.
REagan clsed m entl hospitals. Just Friday I heard a tale of wha t it costs the goovernment to keep a person with mental problems in a Board and care residience. Then we have all the jobs sent to China for cost cutting. Never seemed to see many of the savings passed down.
One of m y former students was retraining for a new career. She had worked for a company for all allmost 40 years. Had a crew of 90 young women she trained to do the new designs. Suddenly two of their biggest clients, both well known companies ,cancelled their contracts, and took their business to Cina. Now this lady and 90 others plus how many more employees are unemployed and the company is out of business.
So Oamma is attempting to do too much? I don’t think so. Some thing drastic neede tobe done. At least he is attempting to do somehthing instead of running of to his ranch.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 13, 2009
at 1:17 PM
Poolman,
Lifelong resident of Fort Worth. Thats 52 years.
So you know what a culture change it was for me when we landed in Lubbock in December 2002.
However even thought I have a lot of friends and one brother still there, the people are friendlier here.
You can engage in a conversation without someone looking at you or ignoring you for fear that you want
to rob them. It had been some 27 years since my wife graduated from medical school here. And there was no loop just a series of cross streets
with 50th being the end of the world.
Finally Lubbock came into the 21st century this past month. We now have liquor and beer sales within the entire city. The STRIP is dead.
Yep its one of the cinches of the Bible belt and most right of center here. Probably more churches per capita than many cities.
I learned several years back,while my new dentist had her hands in my mouth that her husband was a real cowboy working stock pens here and ranches all over as needed.
I have a ten acre lot that use to be a dump behind my house in south middle of Lubbock. Just jack rabbits and a couple of fox’s…
It was so stark that I decided it needed help. that I put up a fake tree, use my pumpkins as painted presents and spread corn for geese every morning for the past 7 years. They continue to come for the four months that they are here.. Its my little give back to the city. People have wondered how a tree and brightly colored pumpkins came to be in former dump.
I enjoy the smiles as the neighbors had no idea for the longest time how it came to be and who does it.
In Fort Worth it would be bypassed in a heart beat. Yep I enjoy Lubbock, never short of political intrigue as being a smaller town 225K population..
You can’t fart but it doesn’t start to get notice. And the weather is very nice some 355 days of the year. And finally, how many towns can you live in and be on the other side in less than 5 miles and to the airports four gates in less than 14 minutes.
Seasons greetings Poolman.
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By: craigΔ on December 13, 2009
at 1:12 PM
There are 2 sides to the spectrum of ideas on the economy. Here’s why I’m on one of the sides.
There is an economic model for businesses which start to fail when income slows. Your first instinct is to cut costs. This can be a great instinct at first, if there are costs that can be cut without compromising quality. Once that point is passed, many business owners elect to keep cutting, reducing quality. Business drops even further. Costs get cut even more. The technical term for this is “Death Spiral” – I kid you not. It ends with the closing of the business.
In our federal and local government, income comes from taxpayers who work and buy goods, paying income and sales tax. Without these people, we have no income. I think we passed that first period some time ago. I don’t think we can cut any more costs without losing even more jobs. What is it, 1 in 6 who aren’t earning a living now? 17%, counting those who’ve given up.
We can’t save our way out of this one, folks. The Death Spiral began during the last administration, and ‘closing our doors’ would only benefit those who dream of the old robber baron days when a few people could make obscene wealth on the backs of starving people desperate to get out of shantytowns. The ironic part is that even their benefit would be temporary, as nobody could afford their products. This is truly an economic philosophy dreamed up by the drunken sons of billionaires. It makes no sense. My problem with the Teabag movement is that we have lower income people fighting to achieve this outcome, whether they see it or not. The corporate interests are Not Your Friends. Never have been, never will be.
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By: judith on December 13, 2009
at 12:21 PM
No, Craig, I don’t include you in the above. I don’t think you’d be here if you were. But it isn’t just paying that should get one a voice. I feel like the problem these days is those who can pay, primarily corporations/insurance companies, are the only ones being listened to at all. I’ve gotten so discouraged as this healthcare bill has progressed as there are those on both sides of the aisle that just don’t seem to listen to anyone but the insurance companies. It is like they are getting advice from the sharks as to how to get out of the water. I really wish we could force all members of congress to go to these free health fairs and talk to the people forced to use them. I wish we could take away their healthcare for six months and see how they fare.
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By: kitkatΔ on December 13, 2009
at 12:03 PM
kitkatΔ
“For me, what bothers me about the teabaggers is their unwillingness to listen to facts, their willingness to listen to lies and repeat them without question, and their hypocrisy of not wanting to pay taxes but using all the benefits that tax dollars provide to them.”
Just don’t include me with the above as a generalization. I pay taxes and with that I expect to get a word in as well.
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By: craigΔ on December 13, 2009
at 11:48 AM
Craig, I wasn’t slamming you. I was pointing out that what you didn’t seem to see. I also think that you don’t realize that most of us haven’t felt that our voices were “heard” for the last 8 years. We understand what it is like to feel powerless and watch the government (pres and congress) make choices we don’t agree with and the desire to hold them accountable. It isn’t just teabaggers who feel that way. Heck, I still feel pretty powerless and unheard; just less than I did during the Bush years. For me, what bothers me about the teabaggers is their unwillingness to listen to facts, their willingness to listen to lies and repeat them without question, and their hypocrisy of not wanting to pay taxes but using all the benefits that tax dollars provide to them.
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By: kitkatΔ on December 13, 2009
at 11:34 AM
Stubborn, stupid, simple, and insipid why do we even bother with these bottom feeders?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 13, 2009
at 11:26 AM
Imagine that. While I was writing..two posted
slams at my feet and political association. Not realizing I’m in the back of the same lifeboat.
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By: craigΔ on December 13, 2009
at 11:21 AM
Poolman you have a pretty good grasp on history. Is that your hobby or your education? I have been impressed with the global or diverse explanations for current issues.
I do ask, is it terrorism..or a war? Would it be better if we had a declaration of war? I also ask what false name of freedom? whose? Ours or the the Afghanistan people? When and where do we stop these radical religious zealots who want to destroy all things good.
With a son who has just finished his final tour with the Navy, he was offered a 75K bonus to stay in, since he’s a specialist and an officer. He still got out.
They still gave him 10K to stay in the Reserves.
I tried to tell him to stay in due to the economy,but he got out and does have a civie job paying about 25 less than the Navy. He was lucky.
Me a Republican yes. A person leaning to the right more or less. I do not feel the policies that I have backed would have put this country in any worse shape as would a person who leaned left. I think we all woke up one fall morning to see our country’s financial system and our own
self worth going down the crapper. To lay the responsibility at one mans foot or a whole political party is self deceiving. I’m sure there were canaries singing warning signs in the lower blocks of Manhattan though for a long time prior.
Now we have Trillions of dollars going where in this new stimulus? Now more is wanted. An equal sum is evidently going to be needed to “fix” the health care system, or is it to build a whole new one?
And the Senate is going like a freight train with no siding in order to get something passed..just so we can it passed.
Look, I don’t want people looking thru the hospital’s door wishing like a child on Christmas morning, wanting to get in for treatments.
I wonder where I will be in something less than five years in terms of dollars needed to supply my need for heart,thyroid and continual back pain medicines and treatments.
But being a Tea Bagger is nothing more than aligning with a group of people who identify with a movement, who feel like they have not had “their” voices heard.
Its not like I’m against the person to my left..but to me its all about making the politicians accountable. I’m sure to be bashed by someone
who decries my association with former presidents and vice presidents, but I’m in the same crapper as they and I both are trying to stay afloat and just hoping someone does not pull the chain on it again real soon.
To have a war,economic issues and health care quandaries is a plate full. As I said above in an earlier post. Do we just max out the credit cards?
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By: craigΔ on December 13, 2009
at 11:19 AM
““When the voice of the people throw off the mantle of irresponsible governance”…
Could that also be part of what Tea Baggers are trying to say. Kinda LIke the canary in the coal mine.”
Agreed, kitkat, that’s what the voters said lsat year. But I must say I don’t really get Craig’s canary in the coal mine analogy. The tea baggers are not the canary in the coal mine, the polar bears are. The tea baggers are the poisonous gas in the coal mine that killed the canary and will kill everything else if we let it.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 13, 2009
at 10:58 AM
Craig said: “When the voice of the people throw off the mantle of irresponsible governance”…
Could that also be part of what Tea Baggers are trying to say?
No, I think that is what the VOTERS did last November.
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By: kitkatΔ on December 13, 2009
at 10:45 AM
The thievery started with the establishment of the fed in 1913. Progressed slowly until WWII with the build up of the military industrial complex. Moved on schedule to Reagan who sped up the dismantling of regulations. The move to allow the free market to police itself, and on into the present. The last administration allowed corporate domination and greed to usurp us our rights. In the name of terrorism. In the false name of freedom. So yes it was both the left and the right.
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By: Poolman on December 13, 2009
at 10:39 AM
We didn’t get to this place over night and had from both sides of aisle to help. I give yo Mr.Frank who watched sallie may and freddie mac go under, and then stand there and say”who me”.
It takes a congress to raise a people.
Bush helped yes but I don’t think he had a majority.
“When the voice of the people throw off the mantle of irresponsible governance”…
Could that also be part of what Tea Baggers are trying to say. Kinda LIke the canary in the coal mine.
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By: craigΔ on December 13, 2009
at 10:14 AM
President Obama’s
Weekly Address 12/12/09
Learning from History to Reform Wall Street
Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 13, 2009
at 8:21 AM
And trolls plug their tires with bubblegum and then don’t understand why they totaled their car when they skid into another vehicle. President Obama has the responsibility of not only fixing the American economy, but mending the world’s economy, because Bush let the tires go and spent on fancy hubcaps and other expensive, but needless, auto accessories . That is as simple as I can break it down for the trolls, if they still don’t get it, it isn’t ignorance, but stupidity clouding their thinking.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 13, 2009
at 2:05 AM
No, Craig, it’s very ‘group’ serving to shape our future by making rules up as we go along. And it’s not an experiment any longer. I believe we have the longest lasting Constitution in the world.
Representative democracy slams the door shut on oppression. When the voice of the people throw off the mantle of irresponsible governance, life can breathe, change, grow, and reflect the wishes of the people.
Question is…..where do we go from here?
Glad you showed up to join the conversation.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 13, 2009
at 12:48 AM
Wow Craig. Comparing someone dying for lack of a comparatively simple medical procedure to a tire alignment. You just made me all warm and fuzzy.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 13, 2009
at 12:13 AM
No Christmas gifts at my house this year. No Christmas cards going out, either, so don’t wait at the mailbox for it. Credit cards have been maxed for some time now. We usually donate gifts or money or livestock to needy families around the world, but we are not able to do that this year, unfortunately. But we are healthy and warm and close to family, so we count that as blessing. A good time to focus on what is really important. I do wish we were bringing all our service people home. I’ll keep praying…
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By: Poolman on December 12, 2009
at 11:30 PM
Well in my family or the one next door, perhaps all we can do is get is get the radiator work done this month and wait till next month’s paycheck to do the new tires and alignment.
Or I guess we could just get out the credit cards and max then out to get the work done as well as provide for everyones wishes under the Christmas tree.
Does this mindset sound familiar?
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 10:07 PM
So tea baggers are concerned that Obama is fixing all the problems he inherited too soon and at the same time, they just don’t realize everything is connected and if you don’t fix all the problems the result is none of the problems go away. Bet they ignore their auto maintenance too, of course they replace one bald tire at a time, replacing the full set would be rushing things. That type of ignorance deserves no one’s respect, and I for one have no time for them or their complaints.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 12, 2009
at 9:14 PM
So, what people are saying here is that we make the rules up as we go along in order to fit our own values and goals.
Thats very self serving.
I think the framers of our Bill of Rights and the Constitution were very careful in their wording so that all had their butts covered in their own little way. The South got what they wanted,Middle Colonies the same and so on up North.
Then we add the amendments as move along in this great experiment and Bingo.
We’re right back where we started.
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 9:06 PM
Good evening Jean and vgman! Hope all is well.
Trolls are an interesting breed, indeed. I think they help us appreciate the better things in life. Afterall, if everyone was cheery and pleasant, it would become “the norm” and less wonderful. We need to see the bad to really cherish the good.
That “one nation under God”, and the “in God we trust” – not part of the original theme, as you noted. All added later. What always gets me is that people feel because we say these things and put them on our symbols – we’re covered. The old book vs. its cover adage. The whitewashed wall comparison, comes to mind. If we package it well and market it right, it will sell. It has been proven over and over and over…
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By: Poolman on December 12, 2009
at 8:46 PM
Craig,
We are not supposeD to be one people under God.
We are supposeD to be a people who live and breathe a living document that allows for ALL of us to believe what we choose to believe.
That–is a cherished part of the Bill of Rights that many in this country will die to defend.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 12, 2009
at 8:09 PM
Hi gang,
Comin’ up for air between addressing cards and batches of candy making.
My, my! We have certainly had a spate of Trolls of late. I wonder what brought that on? I was curious as to who and why someone coined the term ‘Troll’ anyway, which prompted me to do some exhaustive research into the origin of ‘Trolls’. So, please listen up and pay attention! This is vital stuff!
According to my ‘Encyclopedia of Mythology’ and several other sources, a Troll was a huge giant with magical powers in early German and Scandinavian folklore. Although a Troll doesn’t seem to be gender specific, I will refer to him in the masculine. He was nocturnal and always prowling around after dark because if he were exposed to sunlight, he would burst or turn into stone.
In later tales, a Troll became smaller and was depicted as short, fat and ugly; similar to a dwarf or an elf. He usually lived underground, in caves or in the mountains but sometimes under bridges where he harassed travelers, exacting tolls and such. In the plays by the Norwegian dramatist, Henrik Ibsen (“Peer Gynt”) and (“The Master Builder”) a Troll was used as a symbol of destructive instincts.
Trolls are somewhat akin to the ‘Little People’ of the Irish Leprechauns and the Hawaiian Menehunes, although these are fairly benign mischief-makers. The Menehunes would come out at night of course, and build fish ponds and lava-rock walls. If their work were not finished by daybreak, they would abandon it – forever.
Our current crop of Trolls here on this blog are relatively harmless, just irritating. They are the ultimate spin meisters and love to spout off their ‘versions’ as ‘facts’ and ‘truth’ when actually they have zero credibility. More often than not, the spin is a pitiful but vain attempt at self-aggrandizement.
Ah well, it seems that Trolls have been with us since time immemorial and apparently will continue to pop up. They can scurry onto the porch, scavenge for pies and otherwise make messes. Then they invariably make a hasty retreat to regroup.
I personally don’t have a problem with any of them. It doesn’t take long to recognize the name and writing style. Like Grandma Katie, as soon as I spot the name, I give my scrolling finger a workout and go on to something of substance from most of the fellow bloggers here. So lets lighten up folks, and don’t bother to take any of them seriously.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 12, 2009
at 8:02 PM
Yep Mr. Poolman.
For some reason or other I could not get on.
SP is an interesting topic and as a person from the right side of the aisle, I will listen. But the time for voting is a long way off.
I believe President has taken too many roads and too many issues that Americans if he were their child, as a whole would at least say wait a minute.
This blog attracts an interesting group.
The only thing negative..I would say is that anyone with right wing or tea party participation are not given any credence when they espouse their stand on issues, thus they are castigated.
We’re suppose to be one people under GOD
indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
Somehow we have been polarized not by the color of the Presidents skin..but by the many fundamental changes to our country. We are asked to accept new health care laws, new but questionable stance in the war on terror..or should it just be WAR. We are at WAR. My personal feelings here are that the prisoners we have should be tried by a military court.
The national debt,the questionable ethics of many of our leaders and that is both sides of the aisle.
I guess what the tea party or right is objecting to is the speed to which our President and left are trying to adapt to a very non centrist stance and accept the “do it our way or get out of our way mentality.”
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 7:22 PM
Ah yes, love that weather out there. If you don’t like it, wait 30 minutes and it will change.
I won’t get into the morals of SP, as we have been there plenty over the past year. Many are keeping score and there has been much posted and discussed both here and on other blogs regarding her shortcomings.
As far as civility is concerned, I don’t see any less or more than any of the other threads on this site. Though I will say this time of year does tend to bring out the best and worst in people.
You must have changed your email address if you got a new “quilt” pattern.
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By: Poolman on December 12, 2009
at 5:12 PM
craigΔ-
As you have gone and gotten your own lil quiltie perhaps you are here to stay…
If so, get real about the gone gov.
She’s LESS than a lightweight policy wise but she is a heavyweight when it comes to appealing to unhappy fearful Americans who want to hang onto their vision of an America which never was.
She’s also a liar of the first order… spin is not what she does.
Lying- straight out and boldfaced…
Who cares about Mr Woods’ messy personal life?
I don’t even care about the gone gov’s messy personal life.
I care that our gone gov is still collecting money through an illegal trust fund and demanding to be addressed as Governor when she couldn’t even finish a 4 year stint at the dang job .
I care that she is solicting money from people who can ill afford it and selling them snake oil dreams…
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By: alaskapi on December 12, 2009
at 5:08 PM
Poolman…Southplains..?
Tuesday started with black ice.
later am some rain and the snow…
Sun …
Then later pm at 2 rain turning to ice pellets followed by clearing and dirt storm of 60 plus winds.
But thats what we get for the other 350 plus good days.
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 4:43 PM
Just a question here..?
But why is Sarah Palin morally lacking?
Did she pull a “Tiger Woods”?
I know she is a lightweight at a national level
but what the hey?
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 4:40 PM
Thanks..
I go out of town and all hell breaks loose here.
Where is the civility Poolman that you say is here .. I read the missives here and wonder what season tis this?
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 4:37 PM
craigΔ, I’m not a member of the “board”, so I wouldn’t know. However, judging from the fact that you can post here, I would say you are safe as long as you aren’t crappin’ in the corner. Many may ignore you and have labeled you as a troll, so don’t expect total privileges. But then I am fairly tolerant of others and tend to hope for the best. I suggest you tread lightly. But you’re an adult. You can forge your own path. I hope all is well for you and yours out there in the south plains.
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By: Poolman on December 12, 2009
at 4:26 PM
So one of the owners of this blog says something critical of Palin and Sharon quotes Reagan.
Tell me, Sharon, when are you going to acknowledge the fact that Palin doesn’t follow that particular Reagan quote?
Your chiding of the people on this blog would be a lot less hypocritical if you bothered to apply that apparent disdain to both sides of the political fence.
Sarah Palin is an intellectual lightweight and morally lacking. She is not qualified to be county dogcatcher much less anything that actually requires accuem and ability.
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By: Nick Kelsier on December 12, 2009
at 3:17 PM
uh, Sharon, may it be suggested it is overdue for you to get a REALITY CHECK…especially when you dare to spout “You know nothing of me, and you make more assumptions about me than I have ever made about you. Here or in the real world.”…..Perhaps you could re-read just what you have posted here, take your time, give it some critical thought as you seem to have base intelligence just not always put to best use !! You are taking offense that others JUDGE YOU –wonder why what is good for such goose/gandering’s that does not resonate more firmly with you but can but figure you are not totally reality based and firm in your convictions no matter how delusionally inappropriate and rather unjustified. Does not mean you need to “conform” , but YOU started out haranguin others hear , making assumptive judgements and broadly (de) based but now further want to assert umbrage that others swipe on back ‘atcha….GET OVER YOURSELF dearie, and perhaps, just perhaps might consider that there’s an admonition in Christianity that proclaims “judge least ye be judged” and realize ON THE MARKER !! DO ‘do unto others as would have done unto self” –honest, there actually are those praying for you–you need to be given opportunity for handling it with grace if capable of mustering up from the depths of your chirstian soul !!! You infer other incapable of comprehending you–would dare say, no, actually easily say that is something you need for/to do for/to yourself….but somehow doubt you will as you come across too prone to cling to notions you have embraced about yourself and others and little give is evident. Perhaps you coe hear for you figure tis your duty to admonish others–consider your mission accomplished but be advised, does not mean your admonishments are acceptable or accepted. That’s how reality works. Hang if you like, but be forewarned, you hand abusives out, you are lkely to find them returned much in justifiable kind. NONE demand YOU agree with all or ANY for that particular matter but if you come just to toss insults to those gathered , well, reality is that you are subjecting yourself up for proper retortings and thensome so at the very least, cut the whiney sniveling and victimology –surely does NOT float well in this boat !!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 12, 2009
at 2:58 PM
Hey Poolman..Have I been ousted from the board?
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 2:21 PM
We all have come to know SP and her reputation of Burning Bridges.
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By: Poolman on December 12, 2009
at 1:46 PM
I second what AlaskaPi said.
Palin was horrible for Alaska.
Pi: Hope all is going well. I am hiding out in the lower 48.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 12, 2009
at 1:25 PM
That was hilarious Poolman!
Thing is the gone gov can’t stand being handled for very long…
Maybe not long enough to develop any real shine…
We REALLY thought the whispers (rumors ) from Wasilla were wrong the 1st 18 months and sort of gave into the idea she wasn’t good but wasn’t too bad either
Until she fired John Bitney .
We found out he kept her on task and quiet.
Poof!
Overnight, we found we had a harridan at the helm…
Our state Governor’s webpage came to look like a snarky teenager’s blog and you know the behavior she indulged in around the country down there on the VP run… disgusting.
It’s going to take me a long dang time to forgive her for the stunts she pulled when she came back- including depriving my district of a voice in the State Senate for most of last session because she was mad at the person put forward as a replacement of the gent who was hired by the new federal administration…
She was mad at that gent too and lashed out in a nasty open set of comments to the press about him. He was on the Legislative Judiciary Committee which authorized and conducted the REAL Troopergate investigation.
Anyone who thinks she can be handled for any length of time should be wary…
That being said, her current handlers deserve whatever they get.
Jerks.
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By: alaskapi on December 12, 2009
at 1:00 PM
alaskapi, I agree with you and have come to know all about he ex-gov, primariliy through Alaskan bloggers. I see also that she is getting coaching and retooling her image. It only goes to prove you really can Polish a Turd!
😉
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By: Poolman on December 12, 2009
at 12:12 PM
Poolman you out there?
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 11:32 AM
Poolman ..whats going on these days on this blog?
People sure sure are throwing out a lot of crappola.
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 11:31 AM
“Just an FYI for the trolls – Glenn Beck is now proposing to his followers that they sell their houses to pay off whatever debt they may have accrued, and invest in gold in whatever is left over following the sale of their home. ”
Astounding, but not too surprising, when you know that a few of Glenn Beck’s most important sponsors are companies, that – wait for it – sell gold. A good chunk of the rest are – wait for it again – insurance companies.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 12, 2009
at 11:26 AM
Poolman- this is for you
http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/2009/12/the-tragedy-of-hope.html
The gone gov is a divider… pure and simple.
I just wish the sigh of relief which whooshed through Alaska when she stepped down had carried her away to Mars or Pluto or somewhere…
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By: alaskapi on December 12, 2009
at 11:19 AM
Well that’s true, Sharon. I don’t know much of anything about you, because you’ve never revealed anything real about yourself. But the truth is, what do I need to know? I state that Bill O’Reilly should be in jail for the part he played in the assassination of Dr. George Tiller, and if he were not a public figure, he probably would be (take for example that woman who was gang raped in a bar, that Jodie Foster played in the movie The Accused. Not only the actual rapists were found guilty, but the men who never touched her, but goaded the others into doing so, just as O’Reilly goaded Scott Roeder into killing Tiller) and you tell me to get over myself and not everyone is going to see it the way I do and that doesn’t make them wrong. That sure sounds like defending him and his followers to me, and I think to everyone else here with a brain. That’s all I really need to know. Defending the indefensible. And yes, I have every right to believe and state that Bill O’Reilly’s actions are indefensible. I don’t require that you agree with me. If you don’t like it, you’re free to go where you can’t “hear’ me.
As I stated before, there’s a war going on here. There are serious, serious stakes involved. And when all one party can say is “NO!” then that severely limits the responses the other party can give.
What I find most interesting about you, Sharon, is that for all your bluster and posing, you didn’t address in any positive way the issue of my coworker struggling to find a way to pay for the chemo and radiation he needs, but that our insurance doesn’t cover. It’s time for us all to re-opt for our insurance for the new year, and guess what? The premiums and deductables have DOUBLED. Let me say that again. DOUBLED. Yet, wages have remained the same for two years. I am a cum laude college graduate who has worked my butt off all my life, and if this happens again next year I won’t be able to afford insurance, and neither will many of my coworkers. That’s big, big stuff. And all I hear from the right is counter proposals without even any numbers or figures in it, and tea bagging, he’s-a-socialist-marxist-secret-African-muslim and “YOU LIE!!” drivel. Want to prove yourself more than just a hateful, trouble making troll? Address that.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 12, 2009
at 11:17 AM
S’error actually read from William Shatner’s autobiography on the Tonight Show, after he did a reading of her book. Got to give her credit. She is learning. She’ll be able to gather more into her flock if she is able to make light of herself and garner a sense of humor. Be forewarned.
“You will be assimilated. Resistance is Futile”
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By: Poolman on December 12, 2009
at 11:11 AM
People sure are getting a little snarley and testy this close to Christmas or what ever you celebrate this time of year.
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 10:57 AM
@ Sharon on December 11, 2009
at 10:46 PM
“…You know nothing of me, and you make more assumptions about me than I have ever made about you. Here or in the real world.”
—————————-
I’m making no assumptions about you .
However, I am making a judgment.
You tell nothing about yourself .
You invite yourself in here and take right up insulting folks- and doing the finger pointing thingy.
Then you insist others are casting you as something you are not.
We don’t know who you are except that
you are a bore.
craigΔ is full of crap with his gratuitous crack about Thomas but at least he vests something of himself here…
and deserves being pie-ed for some of his shenanigans.
Consider yourself splatted craigΔ.
@ judith on December 11, 2009
at 9:00 PM
– well said. I am less kind in nature than you and if it offends you I apologize.
I live in a very different world than many who stop here to visit .
Twenty five years in blue collar jobs and ten years behind a hardware counter have given me a whole different take on what could be said to be civil than what I hear here…
And Sharon you ARE a bore.
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By: alaskapi on December 12, 2009
at 10:42 AM
And here I thought that Chapter one of the book would trace her family tree back to the time that they were living in it. Darn, we know she’s not human.
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By: Anonymous on December 12, 2009
at 10:22 AM
Watching an OLD Law N Order last night.
There were a couple of references that bsahed the right.
But I guess we have it coming for every little person who does not make it to the top.
What’s with the medical Bills in the Senate?
They are seeming to get more and more expensive and less effective.
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By: craigΔ on December 12, 2009
at 9:34 AM
Ms. Palin is going to be fundraising for a hospital in Canada that is run by the socialist health care system, performs abortions and has end of life counseling … I’m sorry, death panels. Just proves that she will do just about anything for money.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036677/#34386916
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By: kitkatΔ on December 12, 2009
at 7:57 AM
Just an FYI for the trolls – Glenn Beck is now proposing to his followers that they sell their houses to pay off whatever debt they may have accrued, and invest in gold in whatever is left over following the sale of their home. Query: How many teabaggers will follow his sage advice? As for the rest of us, if you’re in the market to buy, I’d wait a few more weeks and see what the teabaggers do – might be able to find some good rental or flip properties when the t-baggers sell en masse. And if you OWN rentals, you might get prepared for a deluge of renters. . .
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By: Greytdog on December 12, 2009
at 7:14 AM
Honey Jo, you don’t know anything about me.
You tell me that the difference between you and me is that I make excuses for the likes of Bill O and the tea baggers, that I know the damage that they do, and I stand by them and defend them.
No. Just no. I’ve lived too many years rejecting lies by close-minded people who think they have the license to tell me what I am to start believing lies about me now.
Here’s a difference though –
I’ve read all about your dealings with bigotry and the pain it caused you. You know nothing of me, and you make more assumptions about me than I have ever made about you. Here or in the real world.
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By: Sharon on December 11, 2009
at 10:46 PM
Back from a vacation.
Thomas,I appreciated what you had to say. Just don’t know how it will play with this audience.
Seasons blessings Everyone.
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By: craigΔ on December 11, 2009
at 10:39 PM
My computer would not cooperate last night so I am late with my birthday wishes. Happy belated birthday Helen and Faith! May you have many more!
Interesting posts all! Glad you are all here taking care of things. I always thought that people who keep coming back here feel a certain kinship with Helen and Margaret and the other posters as well. If you come here and do not feel at home, I think that maybe you are in the wrong house. If you want to come here to know your enemy, I say you are in the wrong place because the spirit of this blog is not mean, it starts with humor, from Helen. There is a lot of good natured laughter engineered by Helen’s posts and most of the material is provided by the people this humor is directed at. Ms. Palin provided a lot of the material Helen uses. Just like beauty is in the eye of the beholder, some of us like Helen’s take on things. But depending on which side you are on, I grant you that, if you are at the receiving end of that humor, you probably would not like it. But people, seriously, it is getting viral out here. Why?? Why do some people subject themselves willingly to unpleasantness? Why come on Helen’s blog if you do not like what she has to say? I do not mind hearing differing opinions from people’ from all walks of life. That is what makes things interesting down here. However, much I like the diversity, I’d rather be in the company of people I have something in common with, especially when it comes to spirituality.
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By: Easier on December 11, 2009
at 9:55 PM
“The blame you lay at the feet of every Republican or Conservative is just fingerpointing. And it’s as bigoted and ugly as the response of the woman who clutches her purse as the black man lunges towards her to reach for the door to hold it open for her.”
Well, yes, I point a finger at Bill O’Reilly and say “he’s guilty of pushing some on the edge wack job over the edge to kill an innocent, law abiding American citizen.” Hell yes, I point a finger at guilty people.
As someone who actually is part black, (I’m half black mix, half Mexican American) and doesn’t have to theorize about it, it is a horrible thing when I see a white person cringe away from my brother, or me even, or assume I’m not as smart or as clean or as law abiding as I am simply because of the color of my skin. BUT…there is another side to that coin that you have forgotten, Sharon. When I watch the news, and I hear about a rape or a murder or a burglary, I’m praying the suspect whose picture they are about to show is not black or hispanic, because I know that, fair or not, it will reflect on me. I know I am held responsible for the actions of my people, right or wrong. That’s why for decades my father was regional vice president of a national organization dedicated to the advancement of education, opportunity and betterment of Mexican Americans. That’s why I helped volunteer with that organization. That’s why my father spent his free time teaching English to immigrants, to help them better assimilate and be an asset rather than a burden to this country.
Yes, the woman who clutches her purse at the sight of a black man. And even ignorant. But the gang banger who car jacks a nice SUV from a middle class white woman with her baby still in the back seat is ugly, too. And that’s the difference between you and me, Sharon. I don’t make excuses for the black or hispanic gang banger who car jacks or does drive by shootings or who rapes or murders. But you DO make excuses for the likes of Bill O’Reilly and the tea baggers as they strive to keep my co-worker from getting the health care he needs. Knowing the damage they do, you stand by them and defend them as they do it. And that is uglier and more ignorant and hateful than anything.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 11, 2009
at 9:44 PM
As a church, we are always encouraged to invite others to attend services. At this time of year, more folks have the desire, but are not sure where to go or what to expect. Since most of you are across many miles from where I live, I am posting a link to a recent message we had regarding The Importance of Community.
Though many scholars argue that Jesus was more likely born in August, September, or October, we have come to celebrate His birth with the time of the winter solstice. Just another way religion is organized to appease man. So this time of year, we reach out more than any other. We are all unique. I celebrate our individuality and hope that we all find peace within our hearts. May our days be filled with finding ways to improve our lives and those in our community and those whose paths we cross. May we learn to be a blessing to others, I pray.
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By: Poolman on December 11, 2009
at 9:33 PM
Donna- I am glad that you are not offended by that. I hear what you are saying by saying that some of the finest people you know are gays and lesbians. My uncle is gay. I also sat next to a gay guy who is the funniest nicest guy you will ever meet in my Pol Sci class. Thomas said some other things that irked me…. There were a few swallowing references and others.
Of course maybe I ahouldn’t let trolls like Thomas tick me off so much.
But then I see on TV the teabaggers with Chuck Grassley and others spewing their shit… realizing the lies they spread. Also realizing the fact that their lies are poison. Finally realizing that if the Teabaggers have their way… I might as well be checking into the local nursing home with my MS and the wicked course that the disease has taken lately!
Ok I am exaggerating there a little… But not by much… And I am only 26! Sarah Palin spewing shit about the healthcare plan and promoting her book makes me sick. These are the reasons why I let Thomas get under my skin so much. I will admit that I am very passionate about healthcare reform, education and research.
I have an idea! Lets start a fund to spring tomato boy out of jail! Then lets get him some throwing lessons from major league baseball pitching coaches! ha ha ha!
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By: ddddd on December 11, 2009
at 9:07 PM
James, I wish I could take you up on your offer, but I can’t. I don’t trust you.
I, too, dislike acrimony, hateful speech and divisiveness. (Incidentally, I’m married to an old progressive white guy who, when he’s on a roll, makes George Carlin sound like Bishop Tutu. Old, white and male isn’t the problem). If you read my old posts, I don’t generally call names, and try to keep it reasonably civil even when I”m trying to be satiric.
I view most of our problems as complex, and would like to discuss our differences as differences of priorities. I used to think the deficit was higher on the economy list – until jobs went bust. Now I feel that until people are working and paying taxes, economically we’re just circling the drain. Doesn’t mean the deficit stopped being important, but jobs became more of a crisis. I could list other examples until morning, but the point is – Anyone might have their list in a different order, and that can be discussed as long as both parties agree that the other person is capable of good points and serious thought.
You and others have sometimes been our more serious commentators on the conservative side. (You only earn the title “Troll” when the mud starts to fly). But it’s a conservative tactic to call for compromise from others when not intending to give any ground yourself. Your leaders admit it publicly again and again. When have you given any ground? You soften briefly and call for reasonable discourse, only to come crashing back with names and implications that, frankly, we have our heads in our shoes, poor dears.
There’s nothing to talk about, because you’re not listening. You’re not listening because you believe we can’t possibly have anything of importance to say. So why are you here? If we were what you think of us, you’re just pulling the wings off flies. There’s an image you want people to remember you by.
I would talk to you, but I’d be wasting both our times.
Happy Holidays to all.
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By: judith on December 11, 2009
at 9:00 PM
Scrolling back to the trolls’ posts, WHAT is your point? I don’t listen to hate radio or FAUX News. I get my facts from many different sources, not the crap that most conservatives suck up and never challenge. Here is a clue: IT AIN’T NEWS if someone is waggin their finger at you or calling people names at the tomp of their lungs! What the hell does that have to do with journalism??
If you are not happy here, then by all means, move on. Go to church if it makes you all happy about your hating self. Cheese and crackers!
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By: Claire on December 11, 2009
at 8:54 PM
Perhaps the self-righteous gnawers could meet somewhere else where they can reassure each other how above it all they are and lick up the vomit spewed on the Senate floor and MSNBC, don’t really care! It’s too uncomfortable, hits too close to home and I refuse to look in the mirror, just wonder why they roost here except to roll around in their own feces on the porch…so unlike us.
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By: Anonymous on December 11, 2009
at 8:51 PM
Perhaps the unhappy trolls could meet somewhere else where they make sense to each other and repeat the vomit spewed on Hate Radio and Faux News, don’t really care! It’s too boring, no point to it and I can’t be bothered, just wonder why they wander in here excpt to poop on the porch…so mundane.
Great to be with my friends on this page and to read M&H, hilarious! I wish peace to all and happy holidays. Hope you all have a great time being with your families and friends.
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By: Anonymous on December 11, 2009
at 8:31 PM
dddd-I’m the one Thomas called a Lesbian. And guess what? I don’t view it as an insult. I happen not to be attracted to the same gender but it certainly doesn’t in any way offend me to be equated with someone who is. In fact, many of the absolute finest people I know are gay or lesbian. So, sorry, Thomas–it’s like calling me “smart” or “attractive” or anything else that doesn’t carry a negative connotation.
On another topic, I would like to wish a Happy Hannukah to all.
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By: Donna on December 11, 2009
at 8:24 PM
Thank you Helen! I love your book reviews! I’m looking forward to reading the next chapter.
And happy belated birthday!
Happy Holidays to you all, whatever winter holidays you celebrate 🙂
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By: ChiCat on December 11, 2009
at 8:19 PM
Poolman- I didn’t quite make the connection when I watched the Republican unveiling of Palin…. However, Now that I think about it…. Its true! ; )
Thomas just ticks me off more than any other troll that has ever surfaced on this page… Thats why I went on my Sarah Palin is a bitch because….. rant.
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By: ddddd on December 11, 2009
at 8:03 PM
Oh yeah and Thomas-
You have been getting downright nasty… Calling people Lesbians and other connotations… Helen would never do that. Theres a difference between calling people a bitch or an ass and questioning their sexual orientation.
Another thing.. Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize by undoing pretty much everything that Bush did in Europe and engaging in dialogue with our allies and others. The Nobel Peace Prize is voted upon by a panel of qualified judges in the UK from all around. He did not try to negotiate with Al Quada as you seem to think. He realizes that Bin Laden is the enemy and that he must be caught….
Heres an idea! Read the newspaper before you spew anymore shit on this blog… Until then, Leave the real talking to the grownups!
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By: ddddd on December 11, 2009
at 7:57 PM
ddddd, she was the one who first referenced herself as a bitch. When she compared herself to a pitbull with lipstick. And that bitch will hunt.
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By: Poolman on December 11, 2009
at 7:38 PM
thomas…
I think you are the one who doesn’t read so well…
Yes Helen calls Sarah Palin a bitch… several times in fact. The difference is that Helen justifies why she calls Palin a bitch by referencing some of her idiotic acts and statements. The people who really pay attention have already established the reasons why Palin is a hypocritical bitch and have moved on!
Sarah Palin is a bitch because she claims to be such a reformer, but yet has so many ethics bullshit scandals in Alaska that I don’t know where to begin. She is a bitch because she lies about the healthcare bill to scare Americans into thinking Obama is going to kill off their grandma. She is a bitch because she claims to know about foreign affairs but yet cannot adequately talk about them to the American people. Sarah Palin is a bitch because she claims to care about education but yet ran with a candidate who proposed nothing for post secondary education, because frankly she didn’t even care about her own education referenced by how many schools she attended to get a bachelors degree….
I think I will stop now…. Sarah Palin is a hypocritical bitch. Read back on Helen’s blogs if you want a better list than what I can give you right off hand… Speaking of which my hands hurt… Theres just too many reasons why Palin is a bitch and I don’t have the time or the energy to write the book it would take to fully justify why she is a HYPOCRITICAL BITCH!..
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By: ddddd on December 11, 2009
at 7:34 PM
Father God, I lift Sharon up to you. I do not know her, but You know her – even better than she knows herself. I pray that You comfort her and meet with her as she seeks to know You and tries to make sense of all the madness that is in this world today. I ask that You begin to heal the hurt she is experiencing. I pray that You will give her answers to some of the questions she has. I do not know what her needs are, but You are the supplier of all our needs, through Christ Jesus. Please cause Your face to shine on her and bless her as she travels through this earthly journey, I pray. In Your holy name. Amen.
I do try to face the world armed with the full armor of God, Sharon. If that means I hide behind religion, so be it. Charge me as guilty. As a mortal, I have many faults. Please don’t judge my God by my failings. He is perfect. I am an imperfect image of His glory.
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By: Poolman on December 11, 2009
at 7:25 PM
God doesn’t have a religion, so I, myself, wouldn’t know which one to hide behind.
ps: You actually seem quite reasonable, Sharon, and I’m feeling not-so-proud-of-myself for being rude to you.
Please just allow us to be ourselves and don’t bother reading if this isn’t your cup of tea. There are so many other places on the web for you to be happy.
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By: Ritu on December 11, 2009
at 5:40 PM
Oh, ok. Just as long as you’re not hiding behind religion. Because now that would be hypocritical.
Right. Back to the hilarity. Lick it up now. Don’t spill a drop.
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By: Sharon on December 11, 2009
at 5:38 PM
We’re angry and judgmental here at this blog… and we own it. So does Helen. We don’t hide behind religion.
btw: I meant ‘pray for you’ figuratively.
See ya, Sharon!
Now back to reading more of Helen’s indredible, raucously hilarious posts!
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By: Ritu on December 11, 2009
at 5:34 PM
It always amuses me when people announce they are ignoring.
As far as finding a place for my anger and judgments – I’d say this is the place. This is the most scornful, carping, and trivial dog returning to its own vomit scene that I’ve ever run across.
Admittedly I don’t spend a lot of time on right wing blogs though. None, actually. I hear they can be pretty ugly. But I wonder how different they really are.
So you’ll pray for me. I’d like to hear your prayers. I’ll bet you pray for those less enlightened and free from faultfinding as you are. Well, thanks.
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By: Sharon on December 11, 2009
at 5:28 PM
Well, I’m a bit late to the party, but just let me add how much I laughed reading this. Helen, you have a magical way with words. Took me forever to read through all the posts, but realized that the better your post, the larger number of trolls that crawl out of the woodwork.
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By: kitkatΔ on December 11, 2009
at 5:25 PM
Thank you Ritu. . . I was mimicking my grumpy little corgi who never really does anything vicious but does growl a lot threateningly. . .we all ignore her too. . .Sharon, really – you’re just not that important.
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By: Greytdog on December 11, 2009
at 5:19 PM
I think Greytdog was being sarcastic to make a point.
We wish you success in finding a place where you can be angry and judgmental while hiding behind religion, Sharon. I’m sure there are millions of options away from us/Helen’s blog and closer to Sarah Palin. We’ll pray for you.
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By: Ritu on December 11, 2009
at 4:22 PM
That’s deep. And so wise and insightful. You and Palin ought to team up.
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By: Sharon on December 11, 2009
at 4:14 PM
too tired for smack downs today – besides I think you all covered it. As for me, I’ll just say this to folks like Sharon. . . .”grrrrrr,,,back off bitch”
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By: Greytdog on December 11, 2009
at 3:52 PM
[…] folks, sometimes my faculties bail on me so I turn to my hero, Helen from Margaret and Helen, who extols (?) this great intelligence thus: Chapter One of Going Rogue by Sarah Palin ends on […]
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By: Sarah Palin A Bull Shit Artist….? « The Daily Ping Pong on December 11, 2009
at 3:22 PM
uh, Sharon….YOUR fingerpointing says a great deal , perhaps more than you comprehend. Many diverse thoughts and opinions expressed but if you have read thru this site, you will see there is indeed a shared experience and in sync thought patterns but frankly, still finding THE most negative and nastiest emanatons come from those who take ubrage at what expressed. FInd such outrage rather hypocritically inclined and indicates decisive blindspots. There IS some proper fingerpointing when aimed at some of the professed conservatives /gops and will give that inddeed can get a bit raucous but nothing comperable to what nastiness is pewed so readily from the good self professing christians who truly DO fail to practice what they preach and frankly, presently Sara P has definitely earned a top spt on that sort of listing if factuals are utilized in making the evaluations–unfortunately, there is no enforceable law regarding using FACTS, so hence lots of verbaliges tossed back and forth and only those inclined to seek out the facts/veracity/etc really come close to having a REALTIME clue.
Glad you had the opportunity to express your objections, duly noted and well, pardon as most here move along . BTW, there ain’t NO comparison between Helen and Annie C when it comes to opinions of actual worth. Annie C has a deal similar to Sara where the publisher buys back the books for give aways so even the “book sales” are a bit fraught with “irregularities” . Helen is a pure joy, and not raking in illgained dollars thru repetitive nastiness & twisted so called facts and is likely far wealtheir than Annie can but dream of being so accomodated !!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 11, 2009
at 2:57 PM
ps: Helen, would you travel to a fundraiser, in your honor, so we can raise money to donate to Sarah Palin’s 2012 campaign? Let’s get her nominated so only 20% of the country can vote for her!!!!
Just an idea a few of us were toying around with earlier today. You inspire us. Wish you were my grandma.
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By: Ritu on December 11, 2009
at 2:34 PM
Poor Sharon. If this blog insults your morality, why do you read it? Go find someone or something that inspires you, rather than wasting our time with your (unChrist-like) judgments.
Of course not everyone draws the same conclusions as Helen. It’s a big world.
Get over yourself, Sharon. And leave the rest of us in peace to laugh our asses off with Helen as she spouts her words of wisdom and insight!
Helen for White House Press Secretary!!!! Viva la Helen!!!!!
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By: Ritu on December 11, 2009
at 2:28 PM
Thank you Helen for providing the forum for so much needed therapy in our world. I’ve decided it must be therapeutic to post a rant on this blog. I hope it helps all these wandering souls looking for a scapegoat. You know, those that we “force” to come in here and read what is written.
Here, let me help. I’ll show my other cheek, smack away. Give it your best shot. Glad we could help.
Now please get out there and pass on the favor. And yes, there are a lot that call themselves Christians that do not recognize Jesus. Thank God He is all-knowing and willing to forgive us when we fall short, if we humble ourselves and admit our shortcomings.
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By: Poolman on December 11, 2009
at 2:23 PM
HELEN IS A GODDESS!
YOU PEOPLE WHO SAY SHE IS NOT WILL GO TO HELL.
Peace in the light of our Lord.
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By: T.J. Maxx on December 11, 2009
at 2:09 PM
The blame you lay at the feet of every Republican or Conservative is just fingerpointing. And it’s as bigoted and ugly as the response of the woman who clutches her purse as the black man lunges towards her to reach for the door to hold it open for her.
I put Helen in the same category as Ann Coulter. I can listen to both of them in very, very small doses. I’m tired of the bitch and evil and stupid and you you you of it all.
Not everyone draws the same conclusion as you do about the things we witness. That doesn’t make you good and them bad. Get over yourself. You sound like the Christians who wouldn’t know Christ if he knelt in front of them and washed their feet.
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By: Sharon on December 11, 2009
at 1:48 PM
Yea, Honey Jo!!!
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By: Donna on December 11, 2009
at 1:12 PM
James – I think, while your post is a nice idea, I have to say that at least for me personally, and I’m only speaking for myself here, you’ve made several erroneous assumptions.
You assume I’ve nver watched bill O’Reilly objectively. That is wrong. I actually used to like him. But as his schtick got more and more venemous and incendiary, I saw him for the closed minded blow hard he is. I have to assume, and perhaps, I sincerely hope, erroneously, that since you suggest I watch his show, that you are ok with him calling for the assassination of law abiding American citizens. I’m different. I don’t think it’s ok for a public figure, who knows his following is on the edge and armed, to call for the assassination of a private, law abiding American citizen. I’m sure you shed no tears at all over Dr. George Tiller’s assassination, at the command of Bill O’Reilly, and I’m sure you don’t hold Mr. O’Reilly accountable at all. But I’m just not wired that way. You see, I take the time to think it through a little more than that. I know that you would not be comfortable at all with Keith Olbermann or Rachel Maddow going on their show for a year and saying every day, “You know, that James, so-and-so, who lives and works at such-and-such, he’s a serious threat to our society and our way of life. he’s a danger, he’s akin to Hitler, he’s just that dangerous. He may even cause the killing of our President!! What hell will be loosed on our country if that happens!!??? He needs to be stopped. He really needs to be stopped.” See, you probably have not even for one second taken the time to think about how you would feel if the shoe were on the other foot. I have. and I hold bill O’Reilly accountable. He should be in prison for the role he played in the murder of Dr. George Tiller. That’s how I see it, that’s how my moral development causes me to see it, and I’m not inclined to change my views, and I’m not interested in changing my views, and I make no apologies for them.
You see, the thing is, I think where we are as a country right now, we are not just in the midst of a political war. Most of us, on some level, believe we are in a moral war. passions riun high and convictions run deep. Most people would not die for a politician, but most people WOULD die for a principle, a moral or religious conviction.
As much as I would love to sit around, hold hands with you and sing kumbia, James, that’s just not going to happen. I have a coworker who was diagnosed with cancer a few months ago. He works full time, and works very hard, but the insurance we get through our company will not pay for all his chemo and radiation. We had to take up a collection for him and it still isn’t enough. I believe strongly that no working American citizen should have to beg his coworkers, or anyone, for his life. I blame you, James, and every damn tea bagging yelling town hall disrupting conservative in this country for the fact that he can’t afford to properly treat his cancer, and I will blame every single one if he dies, for standing in the way of the reform that would save him. And there is nothing you can say except “Obama is right, let’s reform health care the way the dems want, with a single payer system or a public option, and let’s do it NOW” that will change not only my mind, but my heart.
You see, we are talking about a lot more than just simple politics. The stakes are too high for nice, polite, cool discourse. I’ll be honest with you James, I’m no longer even interested in it. We’re at war, not with Afghanistan, not with Iraq, but with each other. And wars are not fought politely. Youmay call it hypocritical of me if you like, though I disagree. You look at Keith Olbermann and you see an commie, unhinged, irrational, bleeding heart bully. I see a kind, briliant, compassionate, enlightened man fighting to make our country a better place. There is no middle ground in that. It may be unreasonable, but not hypocritical, not to my mind anyway. You see, I can call Carrie Prejean a dumb ass, hate filled bimbo and still be incensed when you call Nancy Pelosi the same thing, because I know one truth you don’t. Carrie Prejean actually IS one, Nancy Pelosi is not. Now, I suppose you could argue that truth is relative. Obviously. Your truth is not the same as my truth. But we both believe we are fighting for the safety, sanctity, moral fiber, well being and betterment of our country. There just is no middle ground that I can see.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 11, 2009
at 12:57 PM
Hi Ladies. One of my favorite readers, Lisa G, recommended that I add your blog to my blogroll, and after seeing it, I agreed and did. I’d appreciate a place on yours.
On topic, I’m shocked that the map on page 1 was centered on the North Pole and not on her front porch. 🙂
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By: TomCat on December 11, 2009
at 12:52 PM
HI Ladies and gentlemen,
Back in town.
Enjoyed James disertation about being on this blog and will be curious as ti the reception he gets.
James…I think you hit out of the park.
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By: craig on December 11, 2009
at 12:44 PM
Good morning everyone. I got this link from the mudflats. I thought it was a good read and deserved sharing here for those who do not frequent that blog.
The Exaggerated Victimhood of Sarah Palin
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By: Poolman on December 11, 2009
at 11:06 AM
Here is a video of interviews with Palin supporters waiting for their books to be signed.
I cringe at the shallowness of their thoughts…
Glad to be Canadian!
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By: Patricia on December 11, 2009
at 10:59 AM
LOL! Thanks, Shelly. I was noticing a difference in tone. But, there were similarities in length. No matter if it is James 1.0 or 2.0. My message remains the same. Palin needs to heed the words of my grandmother (God rest her soul) when I was a little girl, “Get somewhere and sit your a$$ down” hahahaha
Thanks, again!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 11, 2009
at 10:43 AM
Um…Ociangypsi…I don’t think that is the same “James” you are thinking about….this new “James” seems to be coming here with an open mind and a willingness to discuss…unlike the other “james”.
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By: Shelly on December 11, 2009
at 10:31 AM
Hi, James. I’ve been wondering how you were. My nephew was home from Afghanistan on R&R in October. We had a wonderful time and celebrated Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, Mardi Gras, and Super Bowl all in one week!! We would break down one holiday and put up the next while he was asleep or out. He even took me to dinner for my birthday! He seems to be doing very well. But, he is different, changed. The boy that I helped potty train is now a man who has seen things that I cannot begin to fathom. I love him all the more!
He and I do not see eye to eye politically. But, he is respectful of my views and I of his. We discussed our differences, saw the point of view of the other, and found common threads of truth in each. I think that is what you were getting at. In reality, one needs the other to coexist. It is what makes this wonderful country the beautiful thing called democracy. And, I believe that OUR soldiers (past, present, and future) have given us the freedom to have the opposing beliefs.
That being said, I still cannot stomach Palin. When I protested her book signing, I was asked how I felt about her views on certain things. To which I replied, “I don’t think much about her views as she quits. How can one stand on a soapbox and expect any credibility when they stepped off of the post (two in her case) that afforded her the ability to have a soapbox in the first place?” I think that she has deluded herself into believing that she is capable of something that she is not. To me, that is terrifying.
To tell you the truth, I would love to see a strong conservative woman in the political arena. Thankfully, I believe that we have some very strong liberal women. That is the basis of my problem with Palin. She is a negative representation of women in politics. You betcha!
Anyhoo. Happy Friday to all!!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 11, 2009
at 10:24 AM
To the porch and parlor folks, Merry Christmas – to Secret Talker, Happy Channukah, and to all our pagan friends, Blessed Be.
My favorite saying: I in Thee, and Thou in Me, together Blessed Be.
Couple that with “Whatever you do for the least of these, my brethren, you do for me”
and
“Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me”
Change doesn’t happen without us. Peace doesn’t come without our welcome. It’s up to us.
Shalom.
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By: Greytdog on December 11, 2009
at 10:06 AM
M&H…I m off to paradise soon, so I am sending my holiday greetings and sending all the yellow this season has to give your way. Your blog has been one of my many gifts of 2009.
To all my M&H “posters”… You guys are true love.. I am so appreciative of your intellect, wit and common sense… I look forward to 2010!
UAW I will hold you closest to my heart this season and send all my positive energy your way….. xoxox
Peace on earth…… Namaste’
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By: lori on December 11, 2009
at 9:59 AM
Tis the season….
To Helen…Margaret….James…..all here…
Peace.
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By: Lady Dada on December 11, 2009
at 9:42 AM
I apologize in advance for poor grammar and punctuation. It is late, and I’m tired and unhappy. I am also what is called a troll. I just read Helen’s blog, scrolled through the comments, and read several of them. I soon realized that, as a conservative, I was in the right place. A place where white, kind of older (lol) guys like me are generally denigrated and verbally emasculated for even considering visiting a place overflowing with such profound wisdom. BUT, really, I am here on a mission of peace. I am at this very moment gnashing my teeth in frustration at not being able to wipe the cyber smirk off of all of your faces with my witty rejoinders and stinging hyperbole. If you want to go one on one sometime, well anytime kids, give me a shout. I digress. My purpose here is to offer a challenge to you, the liberals, progressives, and fair minded people of this great country.
The challenge I propose that you consider is this; step back for a moment and ask yourself if the acrimony, divisiveness, and hate that we view daily on TV, the web, or in the paper is actually helping to make our country a better place? Are we setting good examples for our children when the hippest game in town is hurling insults mixed with something we call humor, but smells more like feces, at those who do not march in lockstep to our political righteousness? I think not. I mean, we roll around in this crap like my dog rolls on some stinking raccoon carcass, taking the ranid odor with him wherever he goes.
We celebrate those who can be the nastiest to their political enemies while only using a minimum of expletives (don’t say the F word here kids, Helen and I are much more sophisticated than that). Oh yea, don’t say the N word either or the thought police will get ya! Of course if certain colored people shout the N word at the top of their lungs on stage to our children, that’s ok. They are entertainers, you know! What about the C word? You know, the one that a certain blogger called a certain beauty pageant contestant? What about the R word, dear Helen? You know, Racist? The word that some radio blowhard threw at our President like so many “throwed rolls” and then was used by a former President to describe white, older guys like me who respect the office and the man but disagree with the blueprint. Really? Is that where we are? It is certainly where I have been lately. It is an addicting pastime taking liberals to the woodshed for a dose of Uncle Jimmy’s tasty, old fashioned, right wing tonic! What an idiot. Yea, me. And you. What the hell are we thinking? Is this the type of debate that most of our country’s leader’s have used for the last 200 years? The answer to that is no. At least not until the last couple of decades.
But I’ve been thinking. That word again, hypocrisy. You probably thought I meat that you were being hypocritical by claiming to be progressive in your thinking, but being archaic in your actions. you did. Didn’t you? Well guess what? I wasn’t. You were, but I wasn’t. I was thinking about the use of the word in reference to Palen. How hypocrisy in our leaders, wanna be leaders, celebrities, and other Neo-deities, creates a certain visceral rage among us that is then bloviated around the world in the form of blogs, news, websites, radio waves, and periodicals. I know. I feel it whenever Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi, and Kieth Olbermann open their collective pieholes. Just as you do when Rush, Cheney, or yes, Palen speaks their mind. I’m over it. Past it. Our country is too damn important and there is serious shit (I think I am cleared for takeoff on that one) that needs to be done. It is only going to get done if you and I unite against one common enemy, hypocrisy. Well, ok, not JUST that, but it is a start. Its going to be very hard for you see, I have come to realize that one cannot hurl the H word at others unless one examines their own behavior and opinions to make sure that perhaps we haven’t been a little hypocritical ourselves. I know I have been. I am going to do better. I am going to engage reasonable liberals and conservatives and remind them that it is our POLITICAL system and the hypocrites, liars, cheats, and thieves that currently inhabit that system, that are the REAL enemy. Not you. Not me. It is time for liberals and conservatives, Americans, if you will to make a stand and insist through our collective, newly found, political juice that the system is changed. REAL reforms concerning ethics (or lack of), campaign finances, lobbying, length of terms, salary cuts for Congress. It is time that we held their collective feet to the fire. For once. All of them Dems, GOP, Indeys, whatever. I for one do not intend to do nothing.
So what happens to you, the liberal Democrat, if we don’t? Well, you might get some interesting legislation passed that the current majority thinks is a bad idea. You can bet your bottom dollar that you will be left with more national debt than Cheney has cronys (maybe that’s a good thing, huh?) and at the end of the day, your party will be thrown out of power, again. Then the cycle starts AGAIN and at some point between 4 and 12 years, the GOP is thrown out because they have screwed us and we elect the Democrats back into office. Groundhog day, all over again.
I’m a Dad. I’m a guy who lives the American dream then had it snatched away with the help of an unresponsive Government. You are parents, lovers, friends, siblings, aunts, and uncles. We have KIDS for crying out loud! Yet instead of trying to come together as rational, sane, caring people do, we insult each other. I glibly snark about Pelosi’s botox bill and Helen twitters on about the number of descendants guilty of premarital sex in the Palen clan. What a pair!
Do something different today. Talk to a conservative. You might find that you agree on more than you thought. Watch O’Reilly and Beck like I watched Olbermann’s show last night (little less painful cos he was off). Try and be objective. Dig for the truth. Do you really think that you are so right and I am so wrong? I am willing to admit that my views have been jaded by my experience in small business. What else what explain the fact that I lived the first 30 years of my life as an ardent left winger and the last 20 as someone who really does think that Bush meant well and didn’t create the WMDs? What about you, Helen? Are you so cocksure that you are right that you are willing to gamble your Grandkid’s future on it? Is being a liberal so important to you that are unwilling to even ascertain the suggestion that YOUR views are jaded as well?
Don’t throw someone under the bus because they say they like Glen Beck and I promise I won’t stick my finger down my throat in mock vomit mode when Chris Mathews rails on about his tingles. Could be a good day today. I hope so.
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By: James on December 11, 2009
at 8:22 AM
Peace on Earth
and always believe in good will.
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By: vgmanΔ on December 11, 2009
at 7:34 AM
Happy Birthday Helen. You are a treasure indeed and we want you around for many many years.
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By: sunshine on December 11, 2009
at 7:27 AM
Margaret for White House Press Secretary!!!!!
(I wait on the edge of my seat for each and every post! You are amazing!!!)
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By: ritu on December 11, 2009
at 1:39 AM
Happy Birthday Helen! Hope your pie was awesome!
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By: Dawn on December 11, 2009
at 12:46 AM
There have been many come here and post angry and lewd comments over the time I have been reading here. A few have legitimate points, but see all of us as their enemy. Some stick around for a time and even try to play nice. They don’t know us – that we each have our own opinions and creeds and come from all backgrounds and races. Yet they spew their vile just the same. Generally without cause or concern for any innocents that may be on the porch or just passing through. Once you put it up there, it is permanent. Captured in time. You own all those words. Are those words meant for good? Uplifting? Helpful at all – even if in a critical way? Are they meant to sting and hurt? Evil intent?
Better watch the next incoming wind. Karma is a reality, baby. It is biblical, too. Reap what you sow. These concepts are not new. Nothing is new under the sun. This conflict between good and evil is a continual theme throughout our lives. Really it is a reality with every breath we take. God lets you suck it in, but you choose what you let out. Is it for good? Or are you ready to kill somebody? That is your free will. You are doin’ the plantin’. Your choice. Choose wisely. You’re promoting someone’s agenda. If it is yours, you should understand it and be able to defend it in a reasoned way. May the most reasonable receive the lion’s share of the pie.
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By: Poolman on December 10, 2009
at 11:41 PM
Just made it in under the wire! Happy Birthday Helen!
And buttons, don’t forget Obama’s signing the Lilly Ledbetter fair pay act. It didn’t get a whole lot of press, but it was huge in my eyes, and yes, a big step toward peace. Anyone with half a brain knows there can be no peace where there is no justice. No unicorns or rainbows, just a proud American, proud daughter of two Navy Korean war vets, and proud Obama supporter, hoping for a better tomorrow.
I for one like the trolls. They give us a first hand up close and indepth look at what exactly is in the minds and hearts of the republican party and its supporters. Fear, hate, anger, bitterness and selfishness. Lest we forget why we’ve made the choices we’ve made.
Thomas, being in service or being a conservative hasn’t seemed to have served you well, as you are a very angry, bitter, hateful person. I will pray for you.
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By: HoneyJoRumples on December 10, 2009
at 10:44 PM
Poolman,
One of the ways I unwind after a day with 10 year olds is to read this blog. Your post at 10:17 am was rootin’ tootin’ cute!
Loved your rhyming.
I just had to scroll to the end and tell you that–
now it’s back up to read the rest of the day.
and…Tony and Thomas are two toes on a toad.
Happy Birthday, Helen!
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By: vgmanΔ on December 10, 2009
at 9:02 PM
Thomas.. If in fact, both you and your wife are in the military, I can understand that you would be very frustrated with your situation. I know it’s extraordinarily hard to take care of 2 children in the best of circumstances. Being away from them and arranging for their welfare must seem insurmountable.
No one here looks for rainbows and unicorns. That’s exclusively the realm of the under 12s. We’re pretty much all past that age. As Greytdog said, we’ve all pretty much been there and done a lot more than one might think. Your’re new to the scene here, and you’ve taken a superficial look at some of us and decided we’re the enemy. You’re wrong. It seems something has gone horribly wrong with your world. I don’t presume to know what it is or even what to do about it. You’re obviously very angry. I’m sorry about that. I hope you will take steps to keep your children from feeling that anger. My father was also a very angry person and I felt that when I was young. For some reason, I developed a way of looking at the world with humor rather than anger. Don’t know why. It does take some distancing.
Two days after the World Trade Center was bombed, I was at the dollar store when a very young man was walking around, ranting about how we should just get out there and bomb Sadam. He was with a young woman with a baby. I talked to him and found out he was 17 and this was the second child he had fathered, both without marrying the young woman (different each time) or taking responsiblity for either one. He swore he would just really love to get out there and join up, except he was just too young. Don’t know why you reminded me of him.
I sincerely hope you love your children and want to do what’s best for them. Living in a world where one ‘war’ follow another so that the power brokers can make a few more bucks from the rest of us is not the kind of place I want any child to have to live in.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 10, 2009
at 8:51 PM
God, you are funny! Always a chortle or a snicker, frequently a guffaw: Please never stop.
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By: alanscottus on December 10, 2009
at 8:47 PM
Happiest of Happy Birthdays to you Helen.
You are a National Treasure.
LONG MAY YOU RAVE!!!!
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By: Lady Dada on December 10, 2009
at 8:25 PM
Thomas, there is a pill that you can take that will kill that bug up your ass.
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By: Frank on December 10, 2009
at 8:23 PM
Happy Birthday Helen!
We love you and Margaret here in Seattle!
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By: Tess in Seattle on December 10, 2009
at 8:21 PM
Miss Gretchen, alaskapi, Greytdog, HRH Sophia, Buttons, lori–you guys are so great!
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By: Donna on December 10, 2009
at 8:19 PM
Lord love a duck!
The trollie wannabe has yarfed all over the carpet in the parlour here!
Greyt has done a good job tidying up but we need a window open for a bit… whew!
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By: alaskapi on December 10, 2009
at 8:13 PM
Listen, Tom Tom, We are all sorry that your manhood was shot off in the war. It was obviously painful. We still respect you. You do need help. You are one sick bastard.
Your poor poor wife. We will keep her in our thoughts and prayers.
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By: Miss Gretchen on December 10, 2009
at 7:16 PM
What greytdog says..!!!!!!!!!
The “i’m more American” than you bullshit makes my blood boil. Who the HELL do you think you are?
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By: lori on December 10, 2009
at 7:06 PM
Every time Senator Mc Cain is asked to comment about Mrs. Palin he’s always so diplomatic. Just say it John, she’s and idiot and I made a big mistake and I apologise for unleashing her on America and the rest of the Planet.
Thank God he didn’t win the election last year. Sarah Palin is an absolute idiot….but I hope she runs against Obama in 2012….he’s winning that for sure!!!
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By: Patricia on December 10, 2009
at 7:00 PM
Tommy thinks that because he claims to be a marine, he’s the only one who ever served, ever had family members serve in war time , ever lost anyone in wartime, ever been a combat zone. Sorry bucky boy, but I’d say the majority of us here have either served, lost family members, live with/married to former service personnel, currently have family/friends in service in Iraq/Afghanistan. Claims to military service are nothing more than weak attempts to be More Patriotic and therefore More American than the person you’re attempting to belittle. Semper Fi – you besmirch that honor with your paltry patriotism.
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By: Greytdog on December 10, 2009
at 6:43 PM
Funny funny stuff Helen! Thanks for taking one for the team.
Relax and enjoy your natal return!
namaste’
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By: lori on December 10, 2009
at 5:57 PM
My wife, for those curious, found this site.
I had to look as it was so fundamentally wrong
in assertions, lies and wishes for rainbows with unicorns.
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 5:49 PM
HRH sofia EQ
You have been measured as well.
Your on the target list.
Its just that some of us are taking that heat for you.
So rest comfortably tonight. Others including myself currently home with wife have two sons who are deployed in Navy and Marine Corps.
They are keeping you in peaceful slumber.
Never a Marine..?
No one would understand Semper Fi
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 5:46 PM
We love Margaret and Helen in Philly!!!!
Happy Birthday Helen!!!
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By: Fran in Philly on December 10, 2009
at 5:45 PM
A peace seeking people could not have stopped Hitler…
and the same can be said about negotiations
with Al Queda…
Thats paraphrasing our Commander in Chief
as he accepted the Nobel Peace Prize.
I just hope he has the fortitude to back our officers and men in the field till the job is complete. That will probably happen after the next President takes office in three years.
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 5:39 PM
Buttons44, loved your comment “easy to ignore but responded to for sport ” I realize it’s the “sport” that keeps me looking at the really dumb stuff that Sarah says and does. I swear I’ll leave it off but she is just sooo entertaining, I can’t help myself. (I do realize she and those who mindlessly follow her cannot be ignore totally, since they are so dishonest, they could manage to do some real damage to the rest of us before they reach their expiration date.)
I believe the trolls are also just looking for ‘sport’
However, Thomas, I have a great deal of respect for those who are fighting the Neo cons war. Obama and the rest of us inherited it. I know that in spite of the mess that was made, we will continue trying to straighten it out. Shouting out SEMPER FI doesn’t make anyone believe you could actually be one of those who protect the rest of us. I’m sorry, You have been weighed, you have been measured, and you have been found wanting. In what world could you possibly beat us?
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 10, 2009
at 5:37 PM
Hey, here it is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xorVOdMWrkU
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 10, 2009
at 5:31 PM
Happy birthday to youuuuuu! Happy birthday to youuuuuu! I would queue up the Beatles song, “They say it’s your birthday” which is what we normally do when it’s a family day to celebrate but I have no idea how to do that. Wait a minute, I’ll go look on the Youtubes to see if they have it. Well, it should be a wonderful day for you anyway.
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By: HRH sofia EQ on December 10, 2009
at 5:28 PM
Happy birthday Helen. We love you here in the SF Bay Area, where we also love the gays and lesbians, much to that idiot Thomas’ dismay!
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By: Martha Garcia from the SF Bay Area on December 10, 2009
at 5:25 PM
Bring on Chapter Two!
🙂
Happy Birthday!
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By: JSZ on December 10, 2009
at 4:29 PM
Happy Birthday Helen!
We Love you here in Nashville!!!
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By: Tammy Lynne on December 10, 2009
at 4:28 PM
And the goofiness continues…..
The silly trolls share several attitudes. First is that being called female is an insult. Never mind bitch or hag – “ladies”, “girls”, and “women” are all used as put-downs. (Please note, there are men who comment here, and I don’t understand what the problem is with shoes, sensible or otherwise, but I digress). The message is “we’re just women”. Honey – we’re women. There ain’t no ‘just’ about it. I would think you’re implying that we’re not up to your usual standard of a mail-order bride in 5 inch stilettos, but I really don’t think you’d respect us then either, so screw it.
Second, there’s the age thing. In Troll World, anybody above a certain age must have officially left this world and is just taking up space. Television is restricted to reruns of Murder She Wrote and Lawrence Welk. Music is only Big Band or whatever was popular when the subject was young. (I fantasize, with heavy metal and tats, what the nursing home of the future will be like). Perhaps a person may have been an anarchist from the teens or twenties, a labor organizer or civil rights worker – whatever. They pass that critical birthday and their interests turn to oatmeal and defecation. Modern slang? Could bring on a violent fit of the vapors. Current events? Who cares, I’ll be dead soon anyway, let the kids look out for themselves. And, of course, they must all turn ultra-conservative.
Unless the trolls are themselves stuck in the past and are just projecting, they should really get out more. If they want to think anybody over the age of, say 90, is a doddering old fool who couldn’t kick their ass physically and intellectually, I’d like to introduce them to Pete Seeger. Or Ronnie Gilbert.
Personally, I think they’re projecting.
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By: judith on December 10, 2009
at 4:08 PM
I think responding to crass commenters is exactly what they want. If we totally ignore them, they’ll go away ! Happy Birthday, Helen – I mean it !
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By: Dee - NJ on December 10, 2009
at 3:52 PM
Tommie, evidently too much time on your hands and trite remarkings do not do much to raise whatever —coming off more foolish than ever with a slight chance you may readilky know it jsut can not control yourself which altogether another issue and really, its all your to own as you really are too easy. Might want to try differnetly, but chances are you not so inclined –you will need to get over MUCH , as for the most part you and your banalities are really quite irrelevant and honestly, easy to ignore but responded to for sport . Glad you accomodate so easily, you examaple “eloquently” why so very irrelevent but you are not a full fledged star in that either no matter how you keep on keepig on attempting to worm your way into some position, you repeatedly coe off foolish and frankly, rather quite stupid. That’s not being derogatory, just stating simple fact/factual offered up by your own wordings for provability. Your contempt is misplaced but whatever and thensome, however you wish to whyle away is your choice no matter to others for is not of our consequence-you have to live with yourself, we gratefully do not so , that makes the “point/game” ours ! Sputter and spew and oh sure, clamor that it is others who defame prescious you , can only suggest is time for you to get over it all and move on but doubt you capable of accepting good advice so will likely but continue to wallow wastfully in your own misery. Good to be NOT YOU–sorry if that offends, it is but the truth,shmg !!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 10, 2009
at 3:06 PM
May the Lord above bless you and your dear friend and may you enjoy the blessings of this the day of your birth some eighty odd years ago.
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By: Sister Mary Catherine Joseph on December 10, 2009
at 3:02 PM
Happy Birthday Helen!
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By: Why bother... on December 10, 2009
at 2:54 PM
Really? You are going to continue to argue with a troll?
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By: Why bother... on December 10, 2009
at 2:53 PM
Thomas, if what you claim is true, thank you for your service and please get to your closest VA hospital to get treated for your obvious PTSD.
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By: chloe on December 10, 2009
at 2:52 PM
Roger that Donna
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 2:51 PM
The predictable “you must be a lesbian” response, which–of course–validates my observation that Thomas has serious issues with his masculinity and ability to perform.
Well, actually, I am very heterosexual; however, I don’t consider being called a lesbian any sort of insult.
Thomas–trolls are pathetic people. They are so emotionally stunted that they actually are gratified going on to blogs and insulting people and saying inflammatory (and, in your case, trite and banal) things to get attention. I’m sorry that you don’t have much of a life but why not go out and try to obtain some semblance of one?
I seriously doubt you actually have military experience since, in my experience, those who actually serve don’t need to lurk around blogs and insult people.
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By: Donna on December 10, 2009
at 2:50 PM
Just found your Blog thru a friend.
What a hoot!!!!!
You two are great…and funny as hell!!!
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By: Barbara Anne on December 10, 2009
at 2:45 PM
I am so glad you are reading that book so that I don’t have to waste my time and money doing it.
Hope you put it down long enough to enjoy your birthday.
You are one funny lady. Can’t wait to read what you have to say about chapter two!
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By: Tom on December 10, 2009
at 2:44 PM
Happy Birthday Helen!
You always make my day with your posts!
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By: Nancy in VT on December 10, 2009
at 2:42 PM
Donna go play in the sandbox with the other lesbians.
Buttons44..assuming your 44 years old.
In Lebanon,Iraq and Afghan land.
I’ve been on the line for you before you whacko.
I’ve seen the other side of the world rather than reading it from the USA Today or NY Times.
I’ve seen oil wells burn and soldiers dead.
I’ve seen the rag heads as they fire and run.
They prefer to dial your cell phone and BAM MAM.
SO GET OFF YOUR LIBIDO TWISTED SKIRT AND GET WITH THE THE PROGRAM MAM.
SEMPER FI.
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 2:40 PM
Amen, Buttons44.
:o)
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By: Claire on December 10, 2009
at 2:32 PM
Chloe–what sort of fool actually says “Point made. Game.”? ooohhh…..he thinks that he actually topped anyone on this blog.
Thomas–please don’t feel bad. Many of men have problems sustaining an erection. You can get help for that.
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By: Donna on December 10, 2009
at 2:28 PM
( Find it rather typical ignorance showing in regards to Tommie’s assertion that Obama got the NPP for doing nothing…has difficulty comprehending substance and yes, Obama has indeed made substantial contributons to restoring USA presence as a partner in the world NOT just the super power out to dictzte with disregard to any any/all others !! Obama himself states he is at but the beginning of a long journey and others agree knowing it is a long tuff slog to make the trek but an important one in regards to our natonal security and ability to survive while thriving. There will remain minds that find the concept too difficult to grasp and T seems so inclined–but that is not unexpected, given the drivel espoused to date. Whiney little sort, isn’t he and frankly, a major whatevering. Say Tommie, what have you actually contributed to peace on this earth, anything your Mama would be proud to recite in public ? Well, that is not actually a fair question for just about any Ma-sort would be inclined to find something or other whether worthy or not so consider it withdrawn. We’ll just make our own assumptions from what posted to date and to that, well Tommie, you’re ratherly “zilched” !!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 10, 2009
at 2:28 PM
Happy Birthday Helen!!
and many more!
These two n ew trolls have nothing intelligent to say, so SCroll, baby, Scroll.
At least their spewings are not so long that my scrolling finger gets exhausted.
WE cn only hope that when theyget to the ripe old age of Helen,Margaret and a number of the rest of us, that they get some the treatment
many of us get from DRs and y ounger professionals -who don’t listen!!
And I bet they are not kind to their grandmothers either!
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By: Grandma Katie on December 10, 2009
at 2:27 PM
And Glenn Blecch will be coming on soon, too!
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By: Claire on December 10, 2009
at 2:23 PM
Thomas, you are boring. Say, aren’t you missing Limbaugh’s program?
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By: chloe on December 10, 2009
at 2:10 PM
Claire – agreed. But he seems to know alot about Helen and her blog, I suspect he lurks here often…jkind of like a pervert watching young girls through their bedroom windows.
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By: chloe on December 10, 2009
at 2:08 PM
Obama receiving the Nobel award for doing nothing.
It should be going to the men and women standing between him and some of the radical terrorists that are trying to organize and kill 3000 more Americans. That could include you Claire.
Point made. Game.
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 2:08 PM
LMAO @ Tom Troll!
Gucci shoes? You ARE confused!
Have yet to hear you make a point…..yawn….
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By: Claire on December 10, 2009
at 2:01 PM
Tommy seems truly “clung” to bitterness and it shows in his drivelings, sorry but GBO over such irrevelency that he and another one choose to spew as if elsewise !!! Inadequacies for some are so truly difficult to overcome so instead they entrench themselves in more of the same and evidently soewhat surprised it gets the same-O response , never realizig how little folks really don’t care whatever they drivel and snivel repetively ! They remain an insignificant smattering and easily ignorable and are but examples of WHY so !!!
Vote here for BOTH pie and cake and lots of good cheer for the birthday celebration !!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 10, 2009
at 2:00 PM
AhClaire..It may stink a liitle but jes not get any on your gucci shoes and track it in off the porch.
Better get use to the Teabaggers.
They may be your next government and one which
may the take “give aways” and the trillion dollars spent on Helen keeping her upright in her motorped. Just living for one more day of blogging drivel,
huh Helen?.
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 1:52 PM
LOL, I love it when Thomas the Troll says “teabaggers”! hahahahaha
Sorry for the troll droppings on the porch, but they will be gone soon enough when they go to tune into FAUX News for some more spewing lessons.
Anyway, Happy Birthday and many more!
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By: Claire on December 10, 2009
at 1:28 PM
Happy Birthday, and many more! The conversation is a lot brighter & more fun since you showed up.
Have pie and cake, no reason not to. Whatever you want, all day.
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By: judith on December 10, 2009
at 1:26 PM
Hi Helen,
Happy Birthday! I hope you will put down that damn book, put your feet up and relax today. You deserve to rest on your laurels on your birthday.
Aloha! 🙂
Auntie Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 10, 2009
at 1:22 PM
Stacy is right.
Happy Birthday Helen!
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By: Mike P. on December 10, 2009
at 12:46 PM
Just IGNORE the trolls.
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By: Stacy on December 10, 2009
at 12:44 PM
Thomas–does insulting the elderly help with your sexual inadequacy? It must make you feel so powerful to toss around terms like “hag.” And how terribly original the phrase “moronic morons” and the imitation of a sheep bleating are!
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By: Donna on December 10, 2009
at 12:28 PM
Helen,
Pie or Cake for you Birthday?
You deserve both!
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By: Patsy on December 10, 2009
at 12:19 PM
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HELEN!!!!!!!!!!
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By: Candice O on December 10, 2009
at 12:16 PM
Tommy – shhh, the grownups are talking.
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By: chloe on December 10, 2009
at 12:04 PM
ddddd
You must not read so well.
I suppose you just swallow and do not read where Ms. Margaret called Palin a Bitch.
Tell me dddd do you do a complete job?
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 11:52 AM
Buttons44 seems to have issues with others in her sandbox.
Did not mommy teach you to play with people of all colors and beliefs?
You drivel away about your democratic cronies and the likes of Nancy Pelosi.
Surely some one of these ladies in”comfortable shoes” could find something more concrete to discuss than some old hags birthday.
And Tony as I said earlier…most of these moronic morons just follow like little sheeep
Baaaaahhhhhhhhh.
Baaahhhhhh Butttons44 Bahhh
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 11:50 AM
Poolman- The issue with the baby with downs syndrome is how long will the ins pick it up…. After so long (at least without adequate healthcare reform) the baby will get dropped, denied services etc… and fall victim to the ills of title 19. Theres no way that any ins company would want to take the risk….
Tony, Thomas and the rest of the trolls…. It is inconsiderate to call these ladies bitches… You should be ashamed. Respect your elders!
Also…. We would respect you more if you would say something of substance instead of this trollage and namecalling…. We generally here say our kudos to Helen (and Margaret when she makes her appearances) and then have intelligent conversation about the topic. Yes we are liberal. That is not a bad thing. But there have been conservatives come on here with enough brains to say something of intellect and engage in rational debate. We welcome that. We don’t really like to argue with trolls as much… it makes us mad. We get further with arguing with brick walls. We will however call you out when you are being irrational….
Understand????
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By: ddddd on December 10, 2009
at 11:46 AM
(The two T’s are too typical and too dense to realize they matter little and incapable of interrupting with their driveling dithering s !!)
Happy Birthday Helen, and wishes for many , many more. You and Margaret are great voices of REALITY that lurks far and wide and IS/remains prevelent despite the blathering righteous rightries who attempt to hijack whatever for their destructive purposings !!
Do hope you enjoying your day, bets are you are indeed aware of the sincere sentiments extended and know you are wise enough to bypass the sniped tripe !!
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By: Buttons44 on December 10, 2009
at 11:40 AM
Happy Birthday Helen! May your day be filled with joy and scrumptious cake!
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By: chloe on December 10, 2009
at 11:19 AM
When is Margaret’s Birthday?
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By: Mary on December 10, 2009
at 11:05 AM
What a great gift for Helen on her Birthday!
A Health Care Bill!!!!!
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By: Pearl on December 10, 2009
at 11:04 AM
I read this morning that we are close to a final health care bill in the senate.
What joy to have what congress has.
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By: Teal on December 10, 2009
at 10:58 AM
Happy Birthday Helen! Long may you reign!
And our deepest apologies for allowing the children to soil the porch. . .but with funding cuts, some parents simply cannot afford work and paying for daycare. . .and so they send their kids around for the neighbors to clean up after them. . .and they say it doesn’t take a village to raise a child! HA! Oh well, I’ll ask David Vitter if he could spare a couple of diapers for Tommy and little Tony.
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By: Greytdog on December 10, 2009
at 10:43 AM
happy birthday Helen!
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By: barbara on December 10, 2009
at 10:37 AM
Thomas–are you not taking your meds? You know what the doctors have told you about controlling the schizophrenia.
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By: Donna on December 10, 2009
at 10:28 AM
Happy Birthday Helen! May your day be filled with joy and peace, I pray. Let tony baboon and doubting thomas go out to play. Today. In their tea-baggery way, also too, I say.
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By: Poolman on December 10, 2009
at 10:17 AM
Helen,
Why should we be so careful about Palin. She has a book. What else?
I have read many of the characterizations of Ms. Palin on the blog and some are quite nasty,
as well as some of the other viewers who have opined here. What is the stress about.
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By: Teal on December 10, 2009
at 10:05 AM
Tony..don’t worry about Donna I think thats a pen name for the other fantasy character in this ruse named “Margaret”.
Believe me Tony you hit it right on the head.
These ladies as they call themselves are the most trash talking self serving Bitches to date,and all in the name of Liberal anti-Tea bagger mentality.
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 10:00 AM
alaskapi: You are right! It’s Trolls for Dummies time!
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By: Donna on December 10, 2009
at 9:59 AM
Donna-
I think those 2 are trying to pass a Trollies-R-Us 101 class.
Don’t think they’ll make it…
Could be they are 12 and should get points for Brat-itis …
But they lack the originality of colorful, the venom of the wierd Hilary cult types of last fall, and the whini-ness of James…
C- and dropping with each comment…
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By: alaskapi on December 10, 2009
at 9:53 AM
HAPPY BIRTHDAY. If she was in my neck of the woods today I would throw a tomato at Sarah Palin to celebrate your big day.
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By: Fred S on December 10, 2009
at 9:51 AM
oh, and that idiot Thomas. Thomas–can you find your own ass to wipe it or is that beyond your abilities?
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By: Donna on December 10, 2009
at 9:48 AM
How nice–another of those fine “Christians” has made an appearance. Tony–I’m glad that your beliefs have made you feel that it is appropriate to attack the elderly. Of course, if this is not simply another fundamentalist hypocrite, he’s just an asshole who gets off insulting old ladies. He must be so proud.
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By: Donna on December 10, 2009
at 9:47 AM
Tony…?
An old Hag?
This broad or blog is made up by a bunch of liberal
left wing female fruitcakes up North.
Don’t buy into the Helen old lady crap!
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By: thomas on December 10, 2009
at 9:45 AM
My Helen…… Happy Birthday.
You seem so admired I’m glad I found your site.
I will have to read more to see where your principles come from.
Here in Alabama, ladies are expected to keep their thoughts to themselves. You obviously have broken the mold.
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By: Teal on December 10, 2009
at 9:43 AM
One yer closer to death which means this blog is one yeaar closer to death as well. I’ll toast to that you old hag.
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By: Tony Barron on December 10, 2009
at 9:37 AM
Happy Birthday Helen! Thank God you were born. We need you.
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By: Wisdom on December 10, 2009
at 9:36 AM
Happy Birthday honey. Put your feet up and relax today. No reading Palin’s book today. You deserve a day off from that crappy book. We can wait for the next post. I mean it. Really.
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By: Merl on December 10, 2009
at 9:35 AM
Big Whoop its Helen’s birthday.
Got enough oxygen left in your tank to blow the
candles out?
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By: Thomas on December 10, 2009
at 9:34 AM
Gotta admit this blog has many reviewers.
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By: Teal on December 10, 2009
at 9:31 AM
You are the best, Helen!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!
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By: Pearl on December 10, 2009
at 9:30 AM
Happy Birthday Helen!
(and Faith)
Helen and Margaret’s post from this date last year was a gift to us all…
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By: alaskapi on December 10, 2009
at 9:22 AM
Happy Birthday Helen!
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By: Michelle T. on December 10, 2009
at 9:17 AM
Today is Helen’s Birthday….Dec. 10th….same as mine….I remembered from last year’s post on this day!
Happy Birthday Helen…May you have many many more!!!
We love you!!!
🙂
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By: Faith on December 10, 2009
at 9:13 AM
What is it with this Helen “broad” and the fact that so many quiver at her name and bow before this pagan Princess?
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By: Thomas on December 10, 2009
at 9:11 AM
Thomas-
So?
Who cares?
(Sheesh- My name is getting too long to remember these days…)
Alaska Hippie Commie Liberal Wierdo Moonbat Political Leftist Hack Pi
(What did I forget?)
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By: alaskapi on December 10, 2009
at 9:10 AM
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HELEN!!!!!!
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By: Susan on December 10, 2009
at 9:07 AM
I’m back ladies and Political leftist hacks.
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By: Thomas on December 10, 2009
at 8:53 AM
I’m back ladies and Political leftist hacks.
Missed ya all..Vgman Poolman all of ya ..Greytdog.no one’s puppet,Delurker Girl Δ
and Lori…and DONNA.
Seasons greetings
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By: CraigΔ on December 10, 2009
at 8:50 AM
Poolman-
Our polar bears are already close enough to being endangered we don’t need the gone gov anywhere near em!
My sister had a bumper sticker made last year :
” Don’t want to pass her on, Don’t want her back!”
Helen-
That sister of mine and her hubby attended a dinner as guests of a friend shortly after SP became gov- a meeting of sports and charter fishermen which SP had many campaign promises to.
SP blazed in to make a speech towards evening’s end. Sister doesn’t know much about issues facing that group of fishermen and kept whispering to hubby and their host ” what is she saying?’ to which both whispered back “nothing…”
When SP wound up her talk and left abruptly (something which we came to see as part of her style- you know, the talk at others but don’t talk with them/answer questions routine ) sister asked out loud “what DID she just say???”
Folks at all the surrounding tables all hollered “NOTHING!!!!”.
So , other than snarking at people she thinks done her wrong and trying to wax poetically about the Alaskan outdoors ( she should save that goo for waxing her skis… ) she does not really say anything…
I’m sure you have figured that out already . It’s just that being exposed to too many of the gone gov’s undiagrammable sentences can mess with your head.
Be careful Helen ! 🙂
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By: alaskapi on December 10, 2009
at 8:20 AM
Hi all … just had to drop by to post this YouTube. Sarah Palin might just be qualified to be … Miss Teen South Carolina.
But for US President or Veep … never in a Million years! Even Bill O’Reilly’s face says it all.
Enjoy!
For those who have difficulty watching YouTube videos, this is a side-by-side comparison of Sarah, in her own words, with a Miss Teen South Carolina candidate. Sarah might be just marginally better, but I have little doubt that this MTSC candidate will end up on a Republican campaign ticket somewhere when she is a bit older.
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By: Voltairesneighbor on December 10, 2009
at 1:47 AM
alaskapi, nice avatar! Wishing S’error would go frolic with the polar bears.
JuneauJoe Δ, a lot of “christians” claim that same thing. Fortunately they are not accurate. God is in control, but He gave us the keys to the kingdom. Otherwise, what is the point of prayer?
“I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 18:18
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By: Poolman on December 9, 2009
at 11:28 PM
Hi Folks,
I just spent 4 days hanging out with some right wingers. One was in the hospital. I said, “Hey, I will buy you a book or a magazine.” He said, “I don’t read.” He watched a lot of Faux News.
When we discussed global warming which he called a hoax, he agreed with what I saw: carbon is dirty and we are using more and more of it.
After the discussion about global warming. “It is all in God’s hands” and said we have no control. This was after he and I talked about the choices made by man to create the mess.
The conversation was fine but the conclusion was weird.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 9, 2009
at 10:55 PM
Buttons 44-
Your take on the gone gov and the folks who are besotted by her is great!
The gents who are somehow fooling themselves that she would allow someone to manipulate her from behind the scenes are real and they are wrong. She can keep her head down and charm the masses for only so long.
We were pleasantly surprised here that she stayed on task the first (almost) 18 months.
Her detractors were mostly old guard Alaskan Republicans who we’re pretty sick of anyway…
and the whispers from Wasilla were too wierd to give much credence to…
Then she fired her chief liason with the legislature , the fellow who basically got her elected and , whooo, didn’t take any time at all to start seeing he had kept a witch under control.
It’s odd to look back and think about the timing of McCain tapping her to run for VP.
It’s highly likely that another 6 weeks and without the Mc Cain campaign interjecting itself into the picture that the Legislative investigation of so-called Troopergate would have unravelled her here.
Darn.
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By: alaskapi on December 9, 2009
at 10:30 PM
From Buttons 44
Re: Palin
“Long ago concluded she was truly an empty skirt –actually an offensive one to skirts that are actually brimmed with ability–
Oh..and the likes of Pelosi are the model your Politico should follow?
Oh we’re in real trouble here.
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By: CraigΔ on December 9, 2009
at 9:57 PM
“But honestly, why am I so nasty about this woman? First I called her a bitch and now I am suggesting her knees are together about as often has Hillary Clinton appears in public with Bill. Look. There I go again sounding like a dime novel.
And that, dear Margaret, sums up my issue with Sarah Palin and so many others like her. They are so quick to look for the “bad guys” in everyone else never seeing the one staring back at them in the mirror each morning.”
Helen ..God we’re quick to condemn.
Take a look in the mirror some day.
Might bring ya back to reality that we’re all God’s children. To have such a vendetta about one woman…Wow..How about pickin on Tiger?
There is some fresh meat for ya.
I’m back ladies and Political leftist hacks.
Missed ya all..Vgman Poolman all of ya ..Greytdog.no one’s puppet,Delurker Girl Δ
and Lori…and DONNA.
Seasons greetings
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By: CraigΔ on December 9, 2009
at 6:22 PM
Buttons44 – when are you going to start blogging?? I could read your writing everyday!!! (This is a HINT) I really enjoy your “voice” and thought process – very succinct w/out being boring. Thanks for speaking up here!
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By: Greytdog on December 9, 2009
at 5:32 PM
“This scandal obviously calls into question the proposals being pushed in Copenhagen,” added Palin in The Washington Post. “Our representatives in Copenhagen should remember that good environmental policymaking is about weighing real-world costs and benefits — not pursuing a political agenda.”
Speck and the beam???
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By: OceanGypsi on December 9, 2009
at 4:29 PM
I think Bill Krystol wrote the piece, he wrote her acceptance speech for R convention. Funny thing is I seriously doubt Sarah understands a word of it, she too lazy to crack a dictionary.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 9, 2009
at 4:21 PM
Posted by Sharon on Dec. 7:
#
or a quick buck.
*
By: Hayden on December 7, 2009
at 11:03 AM
#
“I’ve always believed that a lot of the trouble in the world would disappear if we were talking to each other instead of about each other. (April 11, 1984)”
-Ronald Reagan
Well, Sharon, perhaps you should send this quote to your beloved Sarah. Or have you not noticed all the people, media, and our President she talks about. Not to mention the abhorrent words she uses when she does.
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By: claire on December 9, 2009
at 3:24 PM
Just by simple reveiw of her “records” to date, NOT likelhy she is composing the wordings/etc. She does a great job at delivering scripts and hey , she don’t mind as long as properly compensated/etc–In that particular area she ain’t no fool and is grateful there are enough fools so willing to put out so she can fill her private coffers(special needs babies and grandchildren cost alot these days and even more once tasted “brite lites” etc/off the farm (NO NOT knocking Alaska, is beautiful countryside and REALLy alot of great folks but IS like anywhere, peculair sorts are there too and sure wish they had kept SP and her family all to themselves and spared the rest of us.
The depth of ignorance being displayed is truly amazing –astounding actually !!! and might readily add, frightening for Mac and P actually came closer than that pairing ever should have in a sane , rational world with added doubts emerging as the MINORITY party still seems to be able to blunderbust everyones chops and the MSM sure is willing to help promote them even if NOT the actual, factual reality that rejects such. With MSM , who needs enemies–they need to fill their void and such as Palin and other ridiculous remaining GOPs -few to none who are moderate or willing to admit to being “moderate” survive enountering that comes with any authentic gusto so we are left with these rather amazing folks who are far too delusionally inclined and have little actual grasp of reality !!! Mac let loose this Palin character and he has no ability (bets does have an inclinaton but is not able) to throttle her and her groupies at this point so the rest of us get assaulted far too often UNNECESSARIRLY !!!
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By: Buttons44 on December 9, 2009
at 3:03 PM
no one’s puppetΔ, they had a lot of people on the mudflats commenting about that piece in an open thread this morning. Apparently it is a reprint of her Facebook note. Many there are calling for a boycott of Palin and now Wapo. They posted an email address to complain about the posting and for giving Palin press and credibility when she is insignificant for the most part. I am seeing a lot of evangelicals distancing themselves from her now. ‘Bout damn time! Just when we are starting to renew our credibility on the world stage, we have this nincompoop standing up as a “representative” of the American people. With some rather persuasive players behind her propping her up, she is a threat. Until this past year, I didn’t realize the depth of ignorance in this country. We’re in pretty deep doodoo.
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By: Poolman on December 9, 2009
at 2:28 PM
There is a editorial in Washington post today by Sarah Palin, she didn’t write it though, because it is readable. Already there are forces of evil propping her up.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 9, 2009
at 12:50 PM
Tina….you are correct. And I knew that. When I wrote it, I hadn’t had my morning shot of caffeine yet. I came here first…lol
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By: Katrina in Ohio on December 9, 2009
at 12:17 PM
Have only but read excerpts and seen the enormous amount of media coverage and heard THEIR toutings (often snide but still extolling…) Would NOT pay a dime for the book but think perhaps there are those that will indeed “treasure” for various reasons–some , DO NOTE SOME, are “sincere” in their woebegotten admiration–the sorts that “think” they truly want an ordinary to hold THE worlds most important governing reins, somehow configuring such would indeed somehow do better even thou/if so vastly ignrnant on way too many levels of the complexities that are truly a primetime cocerncernment to us all and OUR actual security, viability and etc, etc, etc…Others are ost likely figuring perhs they can turn a buck IF autographed/etc or into novelties !!
Thanks for doing the heavy lifting of reading thru the drivelings…Long ago concluded she was truly an empty skirt –actually an offensive one to skirts that are actually brimmed with ability–think she set women BACK for sure and for some of the males, think for them , that IS ok cuz they truly , deep down figure NO ONE would actually let her truly “govern”, they figure somehow, soeway OTHERS would actually be in control and she would /is justified as their version of a pretty face and so go along with the song and dance cuz they think it truly rattles “OTHERS”/dems/etc , not realizing the “rattle” is due to the thought that we truly do have far to many really stupid people who are so willing to insert a bimbo like Sara into a top seating with ability to reak quite a bit of havoc on all of US–other and elsewise and realize just how spuriously that would be !!
Helen and Margaret, you BOTH are true treasures , and the major majority of commenters too are a bonus–semi similar to even those that spew their version of “spite” for they serve the purpose to remind all that such do actually exists no matter how delusional they truly are.
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By: Buttons44 on December 9, 2009
at 11:45 AM
Dee, unfortunately we don’t have to imagine it – because McCain really really did choose this dingbat as his VP. And still supports her. Thinks she’s wonderful.Of course we can also write off McCain’s comments about Palin by pointing to his untreated PTSS – but we would be foolish indeed to write off Sarah Palin. Laugh at her we will, but keep an eye on the manipulative bitch too. A very close eye.
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By: Greytdog on December 9, 2009
at 11:29 AM
Your review was scary, to say the least. Can you imagine McCain selecting her to be his VP ??
I think she and hubby definitely have pre-existing brain defects, that – most likely – can be transmitted to their offspring. I almost pity her & the children. However, your humor is priceless !
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By: Dee - NJ on December 9, 2009
at 9:32 AM
I saw Going Rogue by Sarah Palin in the library last week. I wasn’t in the mood for fiction. Didn’t get it. Thanks for the review now I don’t have to read it.
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By: jeffg166 on December 9, 2009
at 8:29 AM
Katrina…Helen wrote it…Margaret is her side kick.
🙂
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By: Tina on December 9, 2009
at 8:13 AM
The Knower, you call her nasty, but the things you called her are even worse. Pot, meet Kettle. Just because you are on the “kiss Palin ass” train doesn’t mean we all have to be sheep and join you.
Margaret, you hit another one out of the park! Hilarious! Since when is it a cops job to help old ladies carry in firewood? LMAO…The ignorance Palin exudes is just too much. I have a friend that said she’s happy Palin ‘wrote’ (and I use that word loosely) because she missed the entertainment. The woman is comedy gold.
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By: Katrina in Ohio on December 9, 2009
at 8:07 AM
Dawn, so true, regardless of how we aquire our children, we have a duty to them. KEEP THEM IN SCHOOL SARAH!
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 9, 2009
at 8:05 AM
Delurker–you are SO right!
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By: Donna on December 9, 2009
at 7:30 AM
Nearly 3 million hits, wow! Smart, funny, talented AND popular. No wonder people feel threatened by you ladies, when all they have to contribute is petty swipes.
Stay warm everyone.
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By: Delurker Girl Δ on December 9, 2009
at 6:09 AM
Knower,
Look in the mirror…
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By: Dawn on December 9, 2009
at 6:08 AM
Funny, funny, funny!!! Thanks for reading it because I don’t think I probably have the stamina for it.
Poolman and No One’s Puppet, I always wondered if her last baby wasn’t really Bristol’s.
Regardless, I wonder about her priorities. She has some huge parenting issues to deal with just in the family realm. I thought that was why she quit the governor’s job… to be a parent and grandma…
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By: Dawn on December 9, 2009
at 1:56 AM
You’re a nasty and ignorant bitch. I couldn’t read past the 1st paragraph. Sorry I wandered on to this page. Good thing people like you have no influence because if people who mattered actually listened to the crap you spew, the world would be worse off than it already is.
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By: The Knower on December 9, 2009
at 1:49 AM
My children were put on my health insurance, and I never was asked for their birth certificate.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 8, 2009
at 10:44 PM
no one’s puppetΔ, I think the insurance would cover that pre-existing condition somewhere in their fineprint one way or the other, but wouldn’t they need to see a birth certificate? I think the child makes a good prop for her and boosts her cred. Sounds like a perfectly plausable conspiracy to me.
😉
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By: Poolman on December 8, 2009
at 10:19 PM
Poolman, do you think Sarah and Todd were able to put Trig on their health insurance, or is Downs considered a pre-existing condition? I suspect insurance coverage would be the reason they claimed him as their own. And of course Briston deliberately turned arround and got pregnant again, because she is a empty armed mom, so to speak.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 8, 2009
at 9:59 PM
I just discovered your blog, ladies. I love it! Keep on writing because you are very talented and hilarious! It gives me a little break in the night when the kids get to bed to come here and read something truly enjoyable.
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By: Stacey on December 8, 2009
at 9:43 PM
*he*
Show us the birth certificate! 😉
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By: Poolman on December 8, 2009
at 9:28 PM
Oh, that was me. 😀 I’m with you no one’s puppetΔ on the Triggers. No way is her hers.
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By: Poolman on December 8, 2009
at 9:16 PM
Shirley you Jest!
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By: Anonymous on December 8, 2009
at 9:12 PM
Here’s a thought, Bristol gives birth to a premature baby with Downs, baby stays in hospital,when it time for it to go home Sarah shows up to fake labor and delivery. Confusing? Sure, but it makes more sense than her water breaking in Texas and the long trip home before she checks into a hospital. This gives Bristol plenty of time to get pregnant again.
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 8, 2009
at 8:54 PM
I’ll spot you one chapter, particularly because I didn’t know the 8 month thing, I’m damned if I’m going to read it, and it’s nice to know it’s a family with multigenerational traditions, but yes, you are wasting your time. Close the book. Get some hazelnuts, in the shell, and feed some squirrels. They are far more deserving, enjoyable, and intelligent creatures to spend time with than Palin. And they are better tail.
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By: Greg on December 8, 2009
at 7:13 PM
Do you think Todd’s obession with getting big Trooper Wooten fired originated with the big trooper with the gun the scolded Todd and Sarah on a lonely road on Christmas day 30 years before?
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By: Kate on December 8, 2009
at 7:06 PM
I have just found your blog a couple of days ago and I love you. If you weren’t married, oh boy! I have been pasting your posts all over Facebook and you are becoming quite the celebrity. Thanks for your humor and your wit…maybe Sarah Palin can come visit you on her book “tour” and learn something. I doubt it, but we can always dream!
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By: Salsaram on December 8, 2009
at 6:45 PM
You are so full of sour grapes Helen!
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By: Shirley on December 8, 2009
at 6:33 PM
[…] Going Rogue Without a Condom Margaret, Chapter One of Going Rogue by Sarah Palin ends on page 62. That’s about 61 pages after it should […] […]
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By: Top Posts — WordPress.com on December 8, 2009
at 6:11 PM
I hope you didn’t actually PAY for that book. :o)
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By: AngelMay on December 8, 2009
at 4:36 PM
Helen,
LOL LOL LOL! Thanks for falling on the sword for all of us. Trust me, you are the real patriot for attempting to real that drivel.
Look forward to reading about chapter 2.
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By: 2Legit on December 8, 2009
at 4:25 PM
Quoted from the book:
“It was Christmas Day; we were out in the middle of nowhere, a couple of kids on a snowmachine up against a big dude with a gun and a badge. I couldn’t help but wondering about his priorities, if he really didn’t have more important things to do, like catching a bad guy, or helping a poor old lady haul in her firewood for the night. Looking back, maybe that was my first brush with the skewed priorities of government.” Page. 18
So the job of the state trooper does not involve protecting the lives of teenagers who have no better sense than to go joyriding on a snow machine? I’m just sayin’.
Thank you Helen for doing these reviews so I will never have to read this book!
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By: Lucy on December 8, 2009
at 4:01 PM
I’ll be first in line to buy YOUR book, Helen!
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By: Sherri Δ on December 8, 2009
at 3:53 PM
OT but VERY IMPORTANT!
Here’s an action you can take today to show your support for progressive politics.
Former Governor Sarah Palin’s book went on sale November 17 and even though a man got arrested at the Mall of America signing event yesterday, her book’s selling – well. Despite the errors already revealed, it’ll be tough to topple. But for just one day, Tuesday, December 8, let’s try to make the sales of David Plouffe’s The Audacity to Win — his inside account of President Obama’s historic victory — overtake Palin’s Going Rogue.
If you haven’t bought Plouffe’s book yet, purchase your copy today, Tuesday, December 8. If you have, spread the word to everyone you know — and consider buying your family and friends copies as holiday gifts!
Buy your copy of The Audacity to Win today. I did it. Join me.
Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders – wherever you get your books. Spread the word: #beatpalin4aday
David Plouffe is asking us to buy today 12/08 to send Palin and her rabid followers a message. Pass it on!
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By: MadCity Chick on December 8, 2009
at 3:22 PM
All I gotta say to Mrs. Turk and Herpes…. What you see is what you get. SNL didn’t even have to try that hard for material….. Palin is the gift that keeps on giving… Great for laughs upon laughs! (not much else though)
Helen I can’t wait for Ch2!
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By: ddddd on December 8, 2009
at 2:59 PM
this gramma heard on radio news that there is a “palin/bachmann in 2012” faction/cult perculating in the twin cities ‘burbs. just what the western world needs a couple of snotty menopausal cheerleaders with veto powwow.
ick!
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By: gramma rock on December 8, 2009
at 2:48 PM
this gramma heard on radio news that there is a ‘palin/bachmann in 2012’ faction/cult perculating in the ‘burbs of minnesota. just what the government needs, a couple of snotty menopausal cheerleaders with veto power.
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By: gramma rock on December 8, 2009
at 2:42 PM
I am convinced that Alaska’s valley is really the Fertile Crescent. Enjoyed your blog.
When you are finished reading Sarah Palin’s memoir, please put the book in the outhouse so that it can serve a useful purpose.
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By: MOInkslinger on December 8, 2009
at 2:39 PM
A friend sent me your blog site today and I love it! My best friend and I sound just like y’all. Texas dem vs borderline Texas rep discussing politics and family. I blog but since still (barely) in the employment realm, can’t put on the www quite everything I would like to. I’ll keep reading y’all. Have a wonderful holiday season.
Patt Barrington, Orange, Texas
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By: Patt Barrington on December 8, 2009
at 1:50 PM
Her description of the state trooper equates to “rules are for other people.” This mentality is often found in the religious right, really dumb or border line psycho’s who would like EVERYONE else’s actions/thoughts/deeds/desires controlled but they are smart enough to make their own rules. UUUGGGHHH
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By: Juls on December 8, 2009
at 1:25 PM
Thanks Margaret. I would rather you give me a synopsis of this work of fiction than having to read it myself.
God help us all if the fools of this country come together and vote this Alaskan dipshite into office.
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By: Anna B. on December 8, 2009
at 1:04 PM
Thanks! And Jan is right on: Molly Ivins would be proud of you, Helen. Write on.
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By: Dearie on December 8, 2009
at 12:55 PM
First time I’ve commented, I’m a lurker, but had to say, God i love you. You just crack me up. I’d just love to sit down with you & share a few beers. Oh and please ignore the flying monkeys, I’ve heard they’ve had some sort of device implanted in their little brains that causes them to lose all human traits, like civility, respect, manners, & honor. Poor little things.
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By: sdragon on December 8, 2009
at 12:52 PM
Like so many other posters here, I find it a treat to get your review of “the book” — which under no circumstances would I read for myself. Having worked as an editor in a law firm, reviewing every legal brief that left the office, I am amazed that her book was ghost-written and still contains (if your quotes are accurate) horrendously ill-written sentences. “. . . I couldn’t help but wondering . . . ” ????? How did this woman/man? get hired to make Sarah look half-way intelligent? Oh wait . . . maybe this was an upgrade from what she really said that day? OK, now I get it.
Keep up the fantastic work, ladies. You are the highlight of every occasion where commentary is called for. You really do fill the void left by Molly Ivins’ sad demise!
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By: Jan on December 8, 2009
at 12:15 PM
I’m sorry that you have to plow through this garbage. It sure makes it easier & more pleasant for us to laugh as you write about it. Thank you Helen.
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By: teacher on December 8, 2009
at 12:05 PM
“It was Christmas Day; we were out in the middle of nowhere, a couple of kids on a snowmachine up against a big dude with a gun and a badge. I couldn’t help but wondering about his priorities, if he really didn’t have more important things to do, like catching a bad guy, or helping a poor old lady haul in her firewood for the night. Looking back, maybe that was my first brush with the skewed priorities of government.” Page. 18
Folks, thats called whining, what a spoiled child is most likely to do. No wonder McCain recently called her irrelevant in a recent interview.
Yet more is coming out about her priorities. By resigning as Governor she is now eligible for the money in a special fund that was instituted during her “tenure”. Yup. That and all that she takes in from “her” book (???) and the $15 per picture she is charging the faithful who want to stand next to her for fifteen seconds and say sleaze. And the publisher is picking up the tab for the overdone ego-bus and the $4,000/day private Jetstream. Why, didilly doo! She really is just like the rest of us!!!
Helen, you need something akin to a Nobel for doing this “review”!
Really! I mean!
Now – – must have pie!
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By: Mageen in Old Virginny on December 8, 2009
at 11:38 AM
Dear Mrs. Turk; The truth hurts, but don’t worry, you will never hear it from Sarah Palin. 🙂
Dear Helen; Please do not bother to read any further, there is no further in the dribble from Alaska. Your spot on analysis of the first chapter is hilarious, though. Bless you, and your sense of humor.
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By: panicbean on December 8, 2009
at 11:17 AM
Andrew Sullivan: “There Are So Many Bizarre Questions When It Comes To Sarah Palin”
You betcha! ~ Δ ~ 😉
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 8, 2009
at 10:52 AM
Helen, love your review! Thank you for having the stomach for it. I was at Borders this weekend and saw 3, count ’em 3, of her books on the shelf, all scrunched in tight between other right wing drivel. I was expecting something a little more grandiose for such a literary giant, but nope, 3 little books, that was it. I’ve decided the best use for her book is using it to line my niece’s parakeet cage, on second thought, that could be considered animal abuse!
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By: chloe on December 8, 2009
at 10:43 AM
Helen, you are far too talented to be giving this stuff away free. You should be paid to write.
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By: Stan Lanston on December 8, 2009
at 10:34 AM
I’m confused…
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By: Mother Janson on December 8, 2009
at 10:07 AM
Remarkably stupid in their unsuccessful attempts at humor.
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By: Donna on December 8, 2009
at 9:48 AM
That you, Santa Claus?
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By: Honkemyer on December 8, 2009
at 9:44 AM
Whirl this you porch dweller.
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By: MJT on December 8, 2009
at 9:41 AM
Is Greytdog okay?
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By: Kathy on December 8, 2009
at 9:41 AM
What is going on here???
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By: Mary Travis on December 8, 2009
at 9:39 AM
Truthiness, Realness and The American Wayyyyy!!!
All poster children for birth control.
8) ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on December 8, 2009
at 9:39 AM
Matthew. A little help?
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By: MJT on December 8, 2009
at 9:36 AM
I’m sorry. Could you repeat that please? I could have sworn you just said you wanted to take a hot, steamy dump on me. By the way, is that your mother sitting at the foot of the bed? What does hshe have? Coffee? Did she make us breakfast? Sorry. I have to run. I just remembered I have a friend waiting for me at the airport. His flight got in 3 hours ago.
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By: Jimmy Zee on December 8, 2009
at 9:34 AM
See any Ticks?
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By: George Cerney on December 8, 2009
at 9:30 AM
hhHHOCCKK TEWey……
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By: G. Cerny on December 8, 2009
at 9:28 AM
Want to see my magazine collection?
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By: Carl Jeck on December 8, 2009
at 9:28 AM
No really Chris. I’ve gto more research to do on the novel. Don’t wait up.
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By: Jimmy Zee on December 8, 2009
at 9:26 AM
Greytdog has more lives than my cat.
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By: Cindy R. on December 8, 2009
at 9:25 AM
Remember me? How did we know each other again? FFA? or was it Football?
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By: Nancy Mayfield on December 8, 2009
at 9:25 AM
I love reading your posts and take on life. Refreshing and hilarious! Thank you.
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By: lustermonkey on December 8, 2009
at 9:23 AM
Oh my. Who let the dogs out? Who? Who? Who? Who?
Clean up on isle 7.
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By: Dee Dee on December 8, 2009
at 9:23 AM
HAHAHAHAHHAAHAHAHHAHAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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By: R. Benavidez on December 8, 2009
at 9:22 AM
It is with a sad heart that I must let you all know that Greytdog has indeed passed away today. Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers.
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By: LL Sinclair on December 8, 2009
at 9:19 AM
HAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAAH
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By: R. Benavidez on December 8, 2009
at 9:19 AM
Touch me in the morning, Stacey. Touch me in the morning.
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By: Tony the Bus Driver on December 8, 2009
at 9:18 AM
Shut your Pie Hole, Stacy and pierce your other nipple while your at it.
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By: Hector P. on December 8, 2009
at 9:16 AM
Matthew? The porch is under attack…again.
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By: Stacy on December 8, 2009
at 9:16 AM
Hey…..his belt buckle is crooked!
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By: R. Benividez on December 8, 2009
at 9:14 AM
Melissa!
What?
Bam!
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By: K Thorp on December 8, 2009
at 9:14 AM
Who keeps yelling that?
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By: Porky on December 8, 2009
at 9:13 AM
Sarah Palin is a wonderful woman. I think you two old bags are just jealous and angry that your lives are just about over and you have nothing to show for it.
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By: Mrs. Turk on December 8, 2009
at 9:13 AM
I can’t believe we dated in HS. Was it my earrings? Was that the problem? Because I could have taken them off you know.
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By: Karen Kaddle on December 8, 2009
at 9:13 AM
Commenter Herpes is most aptly named. A bad STD that never goes away; you carry around like luggage the rest of your life. Go away troll!
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By: Lisa G. on December 8, 2009
at 9:07 AM
Could we re-name Herpes “Hemorrhoid?”
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By: Donna on December 8, 2009
at 9:05 AM
OMG Sarah Palin had to dodge not one, but two, tomatoes while annoying the shoppers at the Mall of America. Unfortunatel the tomato thrower ended up missing his target and nailing two police officers (oops!) Well I guess some things in life are worth it. . .he’s probably wishing he’d brought three tomatoes!
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By: Greytdog on December 8, 2009
at 8:55 AM
Helen, you are doing God’s work by reviewing that book for us so we don’t have to actually read that drivel. Please take plenty of breaks – all that idiocy could drive anyone insane. I mean it. Really.
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By: Lisa G. on December 8, 2009
at 8:53 AM
Darling Birds,
I hope you continue to give us a chapter by chapter run down. For one, I can’t be bothered to read the book, and for two, your version is much much better.
I love you guys so much, I’ve just put an advert for you on my blog.
love from
Shadyticker.
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By: Shadyticker on December 8, 2009
at 8:40 AM
[…] Read it here. […]
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By: I’m a fan of Margaret (and Helen) « Shadyticker on December 8, 2009
at 8:36 AM
I´m floored. You do always find a new angle! Good luck on reading. You are so brave!
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By: lettersfromeurope on December 8, 2009
at 5:31 AM
helen i love you but i do object to my children being termed “illegitimate.” i think it is long past time to retire that expression to describe children born out of wedlock.
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By: barbara on December 8, 2009
at 4:13 AM
Brava, Helen! Like Greytdog, I needed to wipe off my computer keyboard. You are clearly a danger to my electronic means of communication. LOL
I have read the Mudflats reviews, which were excellent. Even Mudflats, who knew so much of the background from close-up needed planty of wine and other breaks to come through the experience with any sanity remaining.
Specious drivel and patent hypocrisy indeed!
The truly frightening aspect of this is that McCain foisted this disaster on us all. The fact that she even had a shot at the second highest leadership post in our country is mind-boggling. Thank God for the internet because our so-called “liberal” media would have gone right along with the McCain campaign’s script. We could literally be living a tragedy today.
Poster Herpes above is exceedingly well-named, btw. Excellent comment, Poolman!
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By: Voltairesneighbor on December 8, 2009
at 1:12 AM
Poolman~ toooo funny..Glad someone else picked that up…
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By: Star on December 7, 2009
at 10:18 PM
Aww Helen..You made my day..Thanks for taking one…You are sooo brave…rotflmbo…
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By: Star on December 7, 2009
at 10:16 PM
Please, Helen, can I be you when I grow up?
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By: Judy Schultheis on December 7, 2009
at 10:14 PM
The latest Shannyn Moore teevee show. A better example of Alaska, you betcha! 😉
MOORE UP NORTH
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By: Poolman on December 7, 2009
at 10:12 PM
What amazes me is how our “liberal media” cater to Palin’s every move. I had a hard time finding a local news outlet that wasn’t talking about all the rules to have media stay away from her book signing event at the MOA today. Heck, 50 miles away was too close for me.
How interesting that her first child was, umm, premature for her marriage. I guess she taught her daughter the same family values she goes by.
I am not surprised that she would diss a police officer that was doing his job when she was snowmobiling. He obviously should have realized how special she was even back then. She is “special” isn’t she?
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By: Shash on December 7, 2009
at 10:06 PM
Oh my, your review was not only good but funny as well. I really enjoyed it. You have a way with words and “call it like you see it”. I loved your review. Hang in there. Looking forward to reading more…
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By: Lonnie on December 7, 2009
at 10:06 PM
Helen, we might need that condom. Looks like we got exposed to a sexual disease a few steps back.
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By: Poolman on December 7, 2009
at 9:57 PM
Who are you? Really. The NYT Book Review should be this spot on.
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By: Fred Savage on December 7, 2009
at 9:30 PM
You belong on the evening news.
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By: Barney on December 7, 2009
at 9:29 PM
Keep ’em coming, Helen! I need the good laughs at the end of the day.
I wonder if Sarah envisions herself holding a debate with President Obama in a few years?
That would be the event of the season!
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By: vgmanΔ on December 7, 2009
at 9:29 PM
I woul dhave never read the book but I will keep reading your review. Perfect. As always…
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By: Hair and Nails on December 7, 2009
at 9:27 PM
Dear Helen,
Your review of La Palin’s book is even better than yours of Coulter’s; considering that you had even less to work with, if that’s possible. Some of your choice nuggets there.
We porch sitters are grateful for your taking the time to read it. I couldn’t. If I had my druthers, I’d rather read the phone book.
Carry on!
Aloha! 🙂
Jean
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By: JeanΔ ¥ on December 7, 2009
at 9:27 PM
You disgust me. Sarah Palin wrote a great book. I dare you to really read it rather than fake read it. bitch on you
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By: Herpes on December 7, 2009
at 9:26 PM
Helen, you’re the greatest. You must be channeling the late, great Molly Ivins, or is it something in the water in Texas?
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By: Alison S on December 7, 2009
at 9:13 PM
Helen, back in fine form! I have been mopping about lately and you had me laughing quite hysterically I might add. Wish you did not have to do it but I would be a hypocrite to say I was not looking forward to your take on this book. You did not disappoint. Thanks!
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By: Easier on December 7, 2009
at 8:48 PM
Thanks so much for reading “Rogue” so I don’t have to, and for giving your readers such delightful amusement.
Just saw online where a displeased audience member threw tomatoes at Sarah at a book signing…
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By: Hallie on December 7, 2009
at 7:56 PM
Well done, Helen…I enjoy reading what you have to say as you have a no-nonsense way of saying things. 😉
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By: Kilia on December 7, 2009
at 7:13 PM
Well thought out review. I’m still laughing… You pulled apart weak points with the wit of Cyrano.. continue to skewer, but only at your own pace..
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By: Joyce on December 7, 2009
at 6:29 PM
My family has resorted to gag gifts since the recession ensued…the more insulting the gift, the better. Thanks for making my gift list easy. Now, where can I get donated copies? Surely, even Republicans are too discriminating to keep crap like this on their bookshelves. I should be able to pick up a few copies at the book drop at Curves by next week. Keep on truckin’, Helen. You’ll be giving The Fruitcake Lady lessons.
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By: Nance on December 7, 2009
at 6:07 PM
Please thank that idiot son-in-law of yours for wasting his money to buy the book for you! I’m so happy to see you posting on your blog again!
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By: Mary A on December 7, 2009
at 4:49 PM
You deserve the highest medal of bravery for lasting through the first chapter. I hope you have a “puke bucket” handy, just in case. No one wants to see you suffer, dear Helen, so if the task becomes too gruesome, please feel free to back out anytime. I know I don’t have the stomach to read Palin’s drivel. Best of luck to you, and fantastic job of writing, as usual!!
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By: Joni Δ on December 7, 2009
at 4:43 PM
LOVE your writing. I was curious about why anyone would buy the Sarah Palin book but didn’t want to dare touch it and knew none of my friends would either so it’s great to get this viewpoint.
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By: Robin on December 7, 2009
at 4:29 PM
We all thank you.
For reading / reviewing her book for us and for the hysterical laughs that start our day.
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By: auburn on December 7, 2009
at 3:07 PM
OMG. You are the FUNNIEST person in the whole world. You did not write that patriot, patriotic and patriotism populate her paragraphs like illegitimate children populate her family tree. THAT my friend is comedy gold. Who are you and where have you been all my life?????
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By: Maryann on December 7, 2009
at 2:38 PM
I am SO glad I found your blog!! You are the bright spot in my day – keep it coming please!
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By: Sue H on December 7, 2009
at 2:09 PM
Dearest Helen and community, sharing another view: (must-read)
http://www.amazon.com/review/R35WSCBIWF503D/ref=cm_cr_pr_cmt?ie=UTF8&ASIN=0061939897&nodeID=#wasThisHelpful
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By: Catherine Jackson on December 7, 2009
at 1:55 PM
please keep up the review (as long as you can stand it). it’s hillarious how you sum it all up!
franzi
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By: lifestartsnow on December 7, 2009
at 1:43 PM
LOL, great stuff!
So – illegal joyride on a snow machine, to my mind, means that the snow machine was stolen!!! But she’s not a bad guy? Can you imagine what her reaction would be if somebody took her stuff? Reading – really? No, really???! Did Vogue & Nat’l Enquirer count? Cuz anything else would have been, like, you know, hard. And she doesn’t do hard. Any more than she “worked” her way through umpteen colleges by anything more than dressing up and walking pretty. (I do enjoy the mental picture of her in a fast food uniform, working the line – but you know that didn’t happen. She’d have quit before her first shift was over.)
Please take care during this project. Overexposure to the permanently entitled can be toxic.
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By: judith on December 7, 2009
at 1:13 PM
Sarah Palin is a disgrace to this country; she should be waiting tables at a truck stop. Kudos to you, Helen!
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By: Brenda on December 7, 2009
at 1:12 PM
Thanks for taking one for the team, Helen and wow, you can really take it.
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By: The Furry Godmother on December 7, 2009
at 1:02 PM
I just love reading your posts. Sorry that you have to read the Palin book, but enjoy your review. Looking forward to Chapter 2.
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By: kat on December 7, 2009
at 12:39 PM
Helen, I’ve got tears running down my face from laughing so hard. I’m afraid the way you put your posts together might kill me one of these days. Have you ever heard of someone dying of laughter?
I’m a writer and the fact that Sarah Moosekill Palin is earning millions off her “writing” blows my mind. The only thing good about it is the publishing industry is hurting, so I’m hoping the dollars she’s sending their way will help the rest of us “non-ghosted” writers.
And, Helen honey, I’ve got a request: Could you maybe keep your overviews of the following chapters a little less funny? I’m way too young to die.
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By: Debbie Schubert on December 7, 2009
at 12:24 PM
I won’t be buying the book. Thanks though for the review!!! I nearly ran off the road and hit 2012 crazies in line for her book signing a week ago in my zip code. What were they thinking….
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By: kitkatknit on December 7, 2009
at 12:23 PM
OMG! I should know by now to NOT be drinking anything in the vicinity of your posts! Damn – I have to clean the monitor & the keyboard! I lost it on
” Her defending us from Russia would be about as effective as Todd Palin’s preferred brand of condoms.” then another: “Sarah’s favorite words – patriotic, patriot and patriotism – populate her paragraphs like illegitimate children populate her family tree.” After that I just dumped the few remaining drops of coffee in the sink and came back to finish reading. Thank you Helen! Needed this laugh break today ~ please don’t overdo “reading” the book though; we do want you to enjoy your holidays!
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By: Greytdog on December 7, 2009
at 12:23 PM
I love you, Helen. And, if I live to be 83, I hope I can be half as witty and sharp as you are. You’re my inspiration.
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By: KateInMichigan on December 7, 2009
at 12:18 PM
Hello from the Great White North. I started reading your blog a few weeks ago and even though some of of the political references mean very little to me in Toronto I love your style. I have come to the conclusion that the Christian Right is neither! Keep writing please, I enjoy it immensely!
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By: Pat on December 7, 2009
at 12:04 PM
I liked the comment about Dancing with the Stars.
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By: EM on December 7, 2009
at 11:55 AM
Like I said when you were reading Ann Coulter….better you than me….thanks for being the point person!!!! She’ll never write a book like Obama did, rich with history and substance, no matter how long she lives, or who writes it for her!!!
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By: Chris on December 7, 2009
at 11:55 AM
Thank you for relieving us of this chore. Thank you for letting me know this so called book is not worth reading on any level.
Maybe you can let yourself off the hook after ch2. How much more could she have to say?
Happy Holidays.
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By: Susan Sarabasha on December 7, 2009
at 11:42 AM
Oh, Helen–I feel sorry for you as only a fellow-sufferer can feel: I finished Going Rogue this weekend after agreeing to read it for pay (I received a six-pack of very good beer and $9.00; I should have held out for more).
I don’t want to discourage you, but it doesn’t get any better from here. It gets worse in various ways, and I went from finding Sarah Palin to be someone I disagreed with to finding her generally disagreeable–she is a horrible, horrible human being, worse than I ever believed possible, petty, vindictive, small, ignorant, dishonest. I will say that reading her awful book may have at least made me a slightly better human being in that I now feel full of an urge to be more forgiving of friends and colleagues than Palin is, and not just enemies.
I enjoyed your review of chapter one. Stay strong.
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By: Eric on December 7, 2009
at 11:40 AM
or may be you can rig a laughter sound when you first open the cover. Give your visitorsa laugh for the day.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 7, 2009
at 11:37 AM
Poolman – toquote oyou – there’s no proof that stupidity is contagious but these days you can’t be sure. Not exactly what you said but but it was wonderful comment. Lots more th is morning from everyone. Made Monday morning star t the week off just fine. And to top it off – IT IS RAINING in SO CAl.
Helen – please hide that thing when you are having company.
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By: Grandma Katie on December 7, 2009
at 11:36 AM
“I’ve always believed that a lot of the trouble in the world would disappear if we were talking to each other instead of about each other. (April 11, 1984)”
-Ronald Reagan
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By: Sharon on December 7, 2009
at 11:20 AM
I think her editor should be arrested (hell, fact checking, anyone?). New York publishers would do anything for a quick buck.
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By: Hayden on December 7, 2009
at 11:03 AM
A medal for your bravery! This sounds like the perfect gift for my brother, who has been hypnotized by FOX Phnews. I figure my only hope at this point is to give him something so outrageously asinine as to wake him from the evil spell. Judging by your review, this may qualify. Hate to buy one though. How ’bout I give you his address and you can send him yours. It’s not like you want to leave it lying around where children may see it.
Wait–nevermind. You’ll probably want to put off reading much more of it until after Christmas, now that I think about it. It might curdle your eggnog.
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By: merrilymarylee on December 7, 2009
at 10:59 AM
I have always thought that stupid people shouldn’t breed…. Obviously Ch1 proves why I believe that….
Kudos to you Helen for briefing the book for us… Too bad your son-in-law supported her mouth. I hope you gave him a hyperbolic slap in the face for encouraging her stupidity financially.
No matter how many years you have left, remember the good you have done in briefing us on this and spreading your wisdom. Remember all the numerous good things you have done in your life. It is only a waste of time if you make it so… In other words you can turn this extremely negative thing (Palins stupidity on a published book) into a positive experience (briefing us and spreading the word of intelligence)….
I kind of look at my college experience as an example of this. I will never use my Criminal Justice degree due to the fact that my multiple sclerosis has taken a major tole on my body. However the things I learned in college in spite of that I will take with me for life. I hope that someday when I get as old as you I can spread wisdom to others based on my experiences in life.
Unfortunately that wont make me rich financially… but I know it will make me rich in other ways… by my ability to sift through the bullshit of life.
I admire you and your bravery of sifting through this bullshit… I hope you have plenty of ibuprofen for the migraines of both Coulters book, and now Palins!
Shit on a page… it has lowered the standard of what we call a book…
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By: ddddd on December 7, 2009
at 10:44 AM
Helen, you tell it like it is. What it is is nothing. Not even much ado about nothing. Just nothing. Full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. I hope old John McCain is proud of himself for unleashing this fury on what is left of civilization.
I am so glad I found out this party was going on, and sorry that I came to it so late.
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By: Terraplane on December 7, 2009
at 10:44 AM
Helen, I know that much excrement can form gas that is harmful to breathe. I hope you are careful to read that in an area where there is good ventilation.
We want you to remain healthy and sane. Please take it in small doses. Also keep it out of the reach of any children or those with feeble minds – not that there is any proof that stupid is contagious, but one can’t be too careful these days. Even though it has a picture of S’error on the cover, she hasn’t officially replaced the skull and crossbones we all know as the universal symbol for poison. Close. But not there yet.
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By: Poolman on December 7, 2009
at 10:43 AM
Juneau Joe, bite your tongue. I love Dancing with the Stars and don’t want to have to look at Sarah. Besides, their rigorous schedule would be too much for her, and she’d probably quit.
Helen, I’ve read the review by AKM at The Mudflats, and I hate to tell you, Sarah’s book doesn’t get any better. That attitude toward the police though is interesting. So, at age 18 she had the idea that whatever she did was OK and that if it wasn’t then the fault was someone else’s. Hasn’t changed much, has she?
Hang in there. I admire your bravery in tackling this thing that Sarah has created. I can’t call it a book – I have too much respect for real authors and I love to read real books.
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By: Pat, Washington state on December 7, 2009
at 10:26 AM
Thank you, Helen, for reading that mindless garbage. I swear!!!
They talk about how she is for the common people and that she is so sweet and down to earth. WHAT-thefrench-EVER!! They talk about her policies on the military and to cut taxes. They seem to want to forget that she QUIT. She QUIT the Oil and Gas Regulation Board. She QUIT the governorship of Alaska (mid-term) that she swore on her beloved Bible to uphold. When they asked me what I thought about those policies, I replied that her policies were irrelevant in light of the fact that she QUIT. They refuse to recognize that a book deal was more lucrative than the governorship and that helping the “common people” waned in light of the almight dollar.
She makes me ill!
Happy Monday to all!!!
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By: OceanGypsi on December 7, 2009
at 10:19 AM
Helen,
Thank You for reading it. Sarah needs a spot on Dancing with Stars also too.
Glad you did not have to spend your money on the book.
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By: JuneauJoe Δ on December 7, 2009
at 9:57 AM
Great read Helen, one question to anyone who knows, does Sarah still have her school-age children in tow?
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By: no one's puppetΔ on December 7, 2009
at 9:47 AM
So Sarah has no respect for law enforcement officers? They are just another example of “the skewed priorities of government?”
Wow, her followers are gonna have a fit about that, huh? Just like they had a fit when they thought President Obama dissed that cop who arrested his friend – IN HIS OWN HOME!
Sheesh..she is such a whiner!
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By: Divababe on December 7, 2009
at 9:46 AM
Come on she’s great comedy, look at the material she’s given all of us.
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By: lulu labonne on December 7, 2009
at 9:44 AM
I can’t tell you how glad I am that you reviewed the first chapter today — the very day that Her Roguishness is visiting my neighborhood. It’s quite satisfying to be reading this instead of paying attention to *that.*
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By: Δ¥ Tine on December 7, 2009
at 9:44 AM
I just feel sorry for all the fools that actual WANT this book and will buy all of the drivel she spouts as Gospel instead of the hooey it actually is. Maybe they should read your blog first and save themselves some money.
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By: delaney55 on December 7, 2009
at 9:41 AM
Helen-
I know there’s little , if anything, of substance in the gone gov’s memoir and it’s rough reading but you have showed, once again, that you have a remarkable gift for cutting through the BS…
Yes, “the sheer hypocrisy of it all “…
Yup.
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By: alaskapi on December 7, 2009
at 9:18 AM
“An exercise in fertility!” ROFLMAO!! I do love you, Helen!!
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By: Gramiam44 on December 7, 2009
at 9:10 AM
Snowmobiles are dangerous machines, Sarah Palin. You should drive them responsibly. An idiot, all around!
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By: expat on the go on December 7, 2009
at 9:02 AM
You must have a strong stomach Helen to be able to read through that drivel. I bet you have never been squeamish about cleaning up vomit, dog poop or exceptionally dirty diapers….three things I can think of that I would rather do than read Sarah Palin’s book. Thanks for reading it so that we don’t have to Helen.
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By: Mary on December 7, 2009
at 8:48 AM
Excellent post, as always. I always think that a nice skim of the cover of glossies in the line at the supermarket gives me about as much popular culture as I need for the month. I imagine the first chapter of Sarah Palin’s “book” is about the same.
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By: 5280point5 on December 7, 2009
at 8:42 AM