Margaret, the next time you go on one of those cruises, you’re just gonna have to take me along because I need a vacation. Fine wine may mellow with age but I sure as hell haven’t. I watched the dedication today for that architectural oxymoron known as the George W. Bush Library. That man was and remains an idiot. In fact, the only one in the family who seems to have any brains at all is the mother, Barbara Bush, who said the country has had enough Bushes’ in the White House. I couldn’t agree more. I hear, however, that she’s a real bitch. That’s certainly alright by me. It takes one to appreciate one.
While watching the dedication I was reminded of his idiocy (I know the human being and fish can coexist peacefully) as well as his arrogance (I am the decider). Lord help me. I wonder if that man’s library even has books. I bet nobody ever has to be ssss-hushed in that place. It’s probably filled with paint-by-number sets.
It just kills me that we put that idiot in office… twice. But I guess there has never been a shortage of idiots in politics.
And speaking of idiots, it seems like every time there is an explosion in the world, Ann Coulter and a bunch of other old white Republican men crawl out of their caves long enough to thump their chests for the cameras. Funny how a bunch of yahoos clinging to the 2nd Amendment after kindergarteners are murdered, suddenly want to throw the rest of the constitution to the curb because this time the culprit was a Muslim using a pressure cooker. That monkey of an author, Ann, summed it up best when she said that the bomber’s wife “ought to be in prison for wearing a hijab.” I had to look that word up. It’s that religious veil worn by Muslim women. I guess the constitution only applies to Christian Americans – you know, value voters who seem to have no values beyond the latest sale at Wal-Mart. Give them time and they’ll argue that you should be allowed to yell “fire” in a crowded mosque.
I am tired of idiots. Could the real Republican party grow a pair and clean their house so this country can finally get back on track. I mean it. Really.
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Do we really want to allow these “people” to obliterate this site because they are more relentless than we are? (Don’t forget: They’re no better; they are just more relentless…) These “posters,” IMHO, are not “people,” but programmed machines who just crank out crap assembled from all over the place. (I find some of the “posts” incredibly funny, BTW, as are their “email addresses.”)
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Okay… Maybe there are no longer – and never were – a Margaret and Helen, and maybe there never was a Matthew. But I believed in all of them, and in you, in an “internetish” sort of way, and I loved all of it, and still do. (Hell; I was even considering the possibility of going to Hawaii, or Alaska, or Texas, or to NY, which is right around my corner…)
Things are heating up in this country… We are becoming ever more of an armed society. We just don’t seem to care if children kill each other because they thought a gun was a toy. (Just so “unfortunate, isn’t it?”) Even the US Department of Agriculture (AGRICULTURE!! We’re talking plants here) now feels they “need” some big guns, and, as I was reading that, I thought, “Well, I suppose now the USPS will also feel the need to arm its carriers,” and was kind of laughing about it, and, in the next paragraph, I read that the USPS has also asked for the same… REALLY…? My letter carrier is going to show up in her funny little truck, every day, at my mailbox, with a rifle strapped behind her? Really…?
Ah, yes; those carriers need to be able to defend themselves from armed mail recipients who just don’t like that latest CC bill they’ve received, and they feel… threatened… So they gotta “stand their ground.”
Corporations have now been ruled to be “people.” The Texas GOP has decided to include, in its “platform,” the recommendation that “reparative therapy” should be available for people who have been “damaged” by their homosexual “lifestyle.” Bowe Bergdahl’s father is being labelled a Taliban sympathizer because he grew a beard and learned to speak their language.
Well, gee whiz; I might want to know what my son’s captors had to say about how he was doing, but that might just be me. Guess a Real American wouldn’t give a shit about his kid, if it meant learning to speak to his captors… (And, never mind those “duck people.” They were wearing stars & stripes bandanas, so we don’t care about their beards, or anything else they say or do.) “Second amendment defenders” seem to think they can order a couple of dogs at Chili’s while having an assault rifle strapped over their shoulders. (Restaurant managers are now the only voices of reason in the Greatest Country In The World…? Evidently so. Nothing wrong with that…)
I have neglected my own blog for quite a while, because I – like you, apparently – sometimes get goddam weary just doing what seems like pissing into the wind.
I don’t have kids, but I do “have” my husband’s granddaughter, and I’m goddamned if I’ll let her inherit a world like this without giving it a seriously good fight. I want her to know that speaking truth is a good thing, and a necessary thing, and I’m giving her everything I can to let her know that she can, too. No guarantees… But it’s worth doing.
Ask Lori. Texas may be the front line of everything. Or maybe Alaska. Or Hawaii… We just don’t know.
AND… This is a message from myself to myself, as much as it is to any of you. I miss hearing from you, and i have been remiss in replies, myself. Thank you all for listening. You are my sisters.
Gato (the verbose)
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Chris, Thank you for sharing this. I read it all but will have to watch the videos later. I’m always up for a Bill Moyers interview. I also posted this site to my Facebook page. I’ve been signing petitions concerning labeling. We’re up against some big players so it takes a lot of signatures to get our message across.
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POOLMAN……And ALL….
Here is Dr. Mercola and people worldwide speaking of the harms of GMO foods, and read the comments.
Monsanto and the GMO seeds with human DNA makes MadCow Disease, and isbeing attributed to the NWO….WoW!
Really!
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/06/25/glyphosate-residue.aspx?e_cid=20130625_DNL_art_1&utm_source=dnl&utm_medium=email&utm_content=art1&utm_campaign=20130625
There really is a conspiracy going on.
So much of what affects us could not be happening and CONTINUING to go on without it being a conspiracy. Under normal circumstances, when one thing happens, it is found out, and eventually corrected, That correction on all levels IS NOT TAKING PLACE, even though the “finding out” is taking place.
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BE SURE AND READ THE COMMENTS BLOG AFTER THE ARTICLE, THEY ARE BLAMING NWO.
Peace..
Chris
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Chris, agreed. I just want to be a conduit for my Lord. For some insight on the effectiveness of prayer and the power of words and thought, google ‘miracle of water’. If you haven’t seen what prayer can do for water, and science has proved everything in the universe is surrounded by a water barrier, some as thin as one molecule, it is very enlightening. And they have proven water is quantum coherent. Now that goes a long way to explain how homeopathy works. Humans are 60 to 75 percent water, and we know our atmosphere is mostly water. Just think how much we can affect!
~~~~~~~~~~
Gato, I agree with what I have seen of Network. I have to rant. It just baffles me how folks would rather not know the truth if it messes with their comfort zones. That is just foolishness to me and really helps enable those that are working against us. I don’t advocate violence and I am not a violent person. My Lord showed himself violent one time of record, though it was more acting out of anger. You know the story, it’s when he took the time to construct a whip and turned over the tables of the money changers (banksters) and ran them out of the temple. Otherwise, he was not violent at all. That’s my example to strive to follow. We war not against flesh and blood and our weapons are not carnal. Spiritual warfare is where the real battle is at. Unfortunately, we modern humans don’t put much effort or confidence in the supernatural as a rule. We’re basically a nation of spiritual weaklings, even with the vast amount of churches we possess.
Keep fighting!
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By: poolman on June 25, 2013
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Hey, Poolman – Gotta say this reminds me of the movie “Network,” where the news anchor leans out the window and starts yelling, “I’m mad as hell, and I’m not going to take it any more!”
And I think I know where you’re coming from. (You, too, Chris…)
But I’m not sure responsive ranting does any of us any good, ultimately. If “they” are violent, and we are violent in response… Then we just have twice as much violence – violence of the soul, of the heart, of the spirit. Not that I haven’t gone there, myself. And, when I do, I am not uplifted, and I don’t feel any better – nor does anyone else. We are then all just combatants. Nobody learns much of anything from an exchange of blows, other than – maybe – how to survive a blow…
So… WWBD? “What would Buddha do?” I think the Buddha would embrace all this distress and, in so doing, would absorb it into something so much greater that we see ourselves, all of us, for the small squabblers we are…
Gato
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By: Anonymous on June 24, 2013
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POOLMAN…
AMEN…..
LET US PRAY..for all mankind. We are at God’s infinite mercy…
Now is the time to Pray…as prayer does work….
Even if people do not believe in prayer, the energy we colaborate and aim in our minds, will make mountains move…
That is science of today….try it….
We must put our minds to stop all this nonsense we are experiencing.
I choose to give credit to the creator, but, this works otherwise, as well.
If we clear our minds with no negative intent of our goals, or to anything else, it works. Jesuis told us we could heal and create even more miracles than he..
We are all energy. That is why positive energy is so important to send out into the universe..
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Peace to You, Poolman..
Chris….
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By: Anonymous on June 24, 2013
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After listening to today’s msm coverage, Snowden is definitely a dog and pony show. Nobody’s paying attention to TPP negotiations and the fed is all but forgotten. Metals are being MANipulated™ and fiat currencies are inflating stealing hard-earned wealth from what’s left of the middle class. Politics is now morphing with Hollywood and serves up masturbation for the masses while we club each other to death for shoes constructed by barefoot and starving child slaves, the holy capitalist way. Rah! Syria is being diced up as sectarian genocide is being served by our proxy mercenaries and arms supplies while our intelligence apparatus pushes Russia’s and China’s buttons. And not the ‘easy’ or ‘happy’ buttons, either.
But things are looking up. 🙄 Just keep shopping and voting, folks. Hell, if you need any virtual valuables you’ve accidentally deleted, the NSA’s probably got a copy in your file. Nothing’s gone, nothing’s sacred. No need to call information. We have an entire agency with a mother ship’s worth we, the people, have already bought and paid for. Well, I guess we’re still paying, as will our kids, and there kids, and there kids – if we survive till then.
I’m sure this will all blow over, right? The lies. The murders. The wastes. The immorality. The crimes against humanity. The crimes against nature. Someone will understand we did what we had to do no matter the consequences. Short term gains for some, long term agony for all.
We know the white-hatted cowboy wins the day and rides off into the picturesque sunset, and every princess gets her prince, and the all the happy ever afters will keep us safe through night…
Drones in the sky, uncle’s got our back. What could possibly go wrong?
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Hi, Terri – Haven’t gotten back atcha for quite a while… My bad! Still reading though…
Actually, most of those questions weren’t mine, although I probably would have asked them, if I’d thought of them. The whole thing just seems to be too well orchestrated to be just a spontaneous act of conscience. It’s obvious that Snowden just LOVES being interviewed, and likes to make clever comments (like the one about how he could have been in a palace on mainland China, petting a phoenix), or emphasize the melodrama of his situation (the government is going to try to kill him, but “the truth” will come out), and so on.
Compare this with Bradley Manning… To me, the story that Manning really did just have a crisis of conscience makes much more sense. He WASN’T “clever” about what he did; he didn’t seem to have a lot of high-placed “helpers,” although he certainly has supporters these days; he didn’t give a lot of interviews explaining his high moral position – at least not that I can remember. And he got hammered… And is still in prison, as far as I know. It’s possible that Snowden took a lesson from Manning’s experience… But I think Snowden is, first and foremost, a manipulator, and a self-serving one. If it turns out that’s not the case, so be it.
It is warped to keep presenting this as an “Obama administration” issue. Does anyone remember W? Aluminum tubes? Dick Cheney? Rumsfeld? Even (darn it) Colin Powell…? There is SO MUCH to be gained by keeping the populace perpetually terrified, paranoid, and afraid to open our mouths… Remember those color-coded “terror alert” warnings…? Today is only yellow; tomorrow could be red… And the idea that we should all buy protective “kits” so we could put plastic wrap over all our windows, in case of a germ warfare attack?
As long as people are scared to death, we aren’t going to risk much of anything. We’re not going to ask a lot of questions… That’s why I’ve really got to hand it to Lori in TX, and Pi in Alaska, and all the rest here who really put themselves on the line to make things happen in their own back yards. Fearless!
It’s odd that I can’t give Snowden the same credit, isn’t it? That’s because, at least so far, it all seems to be about him. I’m waiting to be proven wrong… Sort of. My gut instincts tell me that won’t happen.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 24, 2013
at 8:36 PM
Gato, all friends, jump to the 2012 review thread to continue our conversations. Cynthia has trouble downloading large threads and we don’t want her (or anyone else) to miss out on our stimulating conversations LOL LOL right? . 😉
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By: lori on June 24, 2013
at 8:21 PM
Hi, Cynthia – NOT a “waste,” at all! Sharing a story of loving and caring can never be a waste…
And what a little sweetie you’ve evidently found! Our neighbor here has FIVE rescued pits (or “blockheads,” as she affectionately calls them). When she first moved in with them, I have to say that my husband and I had a few qualms. But they are some of the best-trained, most well-behaved, and eager-for-strokes-and-scratchings dogs we’ve ever known.
Congratulations to you; I hope you’ll be very happy together for many years!
Thanks for sharing…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 24, 2013
at 8:05 PM
Cynthia..
Interesting about your puppies and their ends.
I had a cat that was 21yrs. old when it passed.
My friend’s dog lived to be 17 yrs. old.
I understand the gluten in the grains are causing the kidneys in these small animals to clog and shut down. It is also happening to humans, as well.
It just takes us a longer time to die from the GM corn and gluten, since we have a larger body masses than animals.
Feed your cars and dogs chicken, rice and vegetables that you biol on the stove. They will live a lot longer. Also, provide distiller water. The poisons in the water is killing all living things that partake, as well.
One food advertised.. Is purdue? Is this in a pet food ?
They use GM corn in the chicken feed. We CANNOT use this either, if we wish to live a longer life.
I have two thick volumes to read tonight on the Rothschilds…
They sold in Great Britian, the highest priced HOME EVER SOLD IN THE WHOLE WORLD…Wow !
I will share info…
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 24, 2013
at 7:59 PM
Fesser – With all due respect, I doubt it would be possible to leave you “speechless”…!
Neither you nor I know what Snowden’s motivations were/are. You like to portray him as a selfless young patriot, shocked by what he discovered – at a spy agency, no less! – and who was willing to “sacrifice” his future life as an American (whatever that might mean to him), and “give up all” to warn his fellow citizens of the travesties being committed by our government.
It is equally possible that he, a young man of 28 (and how many of us at that age really know what we’re doing?), saw an opportunity for fame and a brief period of Significant Importance, and maybe a book deal, and inroads to people of influence… And took it. (At his age, his amygdala has only been functional for a year or two…)
The jury is still out, IMHO. The fact that there is apparently documentation that he and Greenwald were in contact well before Snowden signed on with Booz Allen; the fact that he was given access to highly-sensitive material with so little experience, and accumulated it so rapidly; and the fact that he’s been so well-protected ever since his great revelation; make the notion that this all just “happened,” and his highly-developed moral sense just carried him along, a suspicious one, indeed. It’s “possible,” of course; and so is the Zombie Apocalypse.
BTW, I DID “scream [my] head off” from the moment the accursed Patriot Act was put into motion, some twelve or so years ago. It was a dangerous program then, and it is now. (I doubt I have to remind you of that quote about giving up liberty for security, and consequently deserving neither.)
This whole thing is not an “Obama Project;” it’s been going on for quite some time. I didn’t like it when W suggested that we all just go shopping, or go to Disney World, days after 9/11, and let “the government” take care of “protecting” us from everything. And I don’t like it that this administration is turning itself inside out to try to get their mitts on this relatively insignificant player. Makes me think there’s undoubtedly a hell of a lot more going on. (See earlier articles I’ve linked…)
So that, sir, is some clarification of “what’s ‘wrong’ with [some of us] people.”
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 24, 2013
at 7:58 PM
Gato …..
Everything in the mainstream media is staged at this point.
Remember, they mention little of the 2 million marchers against Monsanto, who are committing genocide on our people and those around the world.
They do not speak to any degree on the jailed and wounded and dead in those marches in some 400 cities around the world.
They do not mention the picketing of the Bildeberg Meeting in London a few Saturdays ago.
WHY Do they harp heavy and focus on stories THEY choose? To create disturbances within the world community; to meet their ultimate agendas.
Why is is so difficult to understand when the majority of movies being provided to the masses shows JUST that conspiracy going on everywhere on every level…
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 24, 2013
at 7:47 PM
lori – sounds good to me.
For my bday my darlings bought a Chromebook for me and wire-less Internet. But the wire-less is on a 30 day trial and ran out yesterday (I think they forgot to renew it). New passwords, email, new thingies to remember, and an updated cell phone. By the time she was through explaining everything I was so confused with information overload; I went out an mowed the lawn because I knew how to do that. I am getting used to it but not comfortable yet and keep come back to this old thing. Hard to teach an old nag new tricks, eh? I also have a newer computer sitting here but not hook up yet.
They want me to be connected to the world…I can take it everywhere…constant contact with all. Now does someone who lives on 3 acres surrounded by cornfields in upstate NY sound like someone who wishes to be connected to the world???? Do you think the Corner Store has wireless? Time is going by fast enough no reason to speed it up more.
Sound like I am an ungrateful, complaining witch….just overwhelmed. It is a great gift; being able to view a video is fantastic. Not taking 5 minutes to download an article to read is heaven!
And I have a new dog too. I put my 16 yo lab down about a year ago. Adopted an 11 yo dog who needed a home in Dec but unfortunely had to put her down in May – cancer the vet thinks. So I am in the process of adopting another dog. She was found starved, had been bred but no pups with her and burn wounds on her. http://www.pitcityrescue.com/Events.html
go to the bottom of the page. These pictures were of her two years ago. I just can not understand the people who can abuse an animal in this manner. She is such a sweet dog.
Talk about wasting space…sorry.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 24, 2013
at 7:36 PM
I agree PF. It does not matter what party is in office. This is an attack on our government from outside sources.. THE CORPORATIONS who are multi national…the government gives contracts to these corporations because of the influence they have ( control )
I am not sure ANY president would ever even know this is happening.
( like I said before, 25 of our presidents are related….only a few certain families have had control of the presidency, so, maybe, they are part of the plot…as it thickens, if not, the corporations are the culprits, alone.)
The government got so big, even the enemy…whomever they are can hide from within, and never be totally detected.
The government is SO BIG…it runs without anyone at the helm. A President CANNOT know all the details of the function of our government. If any of us thinks so, get elected, ( you could not, even if you wanted to, unless you got the blessings of the powers that be ) and be lead around as a figurehead…..You may NEVER know what is being done behind the scenes…like a Saudi Company CONTRACTED ( sourced out ) to PROTECT THE EAST COAST….and not our own United States Coast Guard..
Katherine Austin Fitts, acting Asst. Secretary of HUD during the Bush Adminstration, spent her entire career in the financial system and the stock market and was a patriotic American.
She was put in charge of paying the bills provided to her on behalf of the HUD contract corporations.
She wanted to see the files she was to be responsible for, and with each file she reviewed, she noted NONE of the bills had a listing of what services were performed by each service provider.
She claimed she was to sign checks to Bank of America, Chase Morgan, and Citibank and many other banks……the amounts were for millions and millions dof dollars to each corporation….with no list of services provided.
This is what she claimed was black holes in the government budget.
Would any of us provide a blank check to any company, not knowing what we were paying for?
She is a super interesting person to listen to, and read about. She has first hand knowledge of what is happening within the American Corporate Government.
http://www.coasttocoastam.com/search/?search=Search&query=Katherine+Austin+fitts
Here is a list of some of the many interviews she has given on the subject, however the one I remember was some 5 to 6 years ago.
Point…This government is SO LARGE, with so many facets, we can NEVER keep track of the divisions and departments with their powers to do whatever and charge the budget with however much it decides to charge.
Peace….
Chris
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By: Chris on June 24, 2013
at 7:36 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
In light of the Snowden Saga, I think some of you might be interested in our Moscow adventures on a Uniworld River Cruise, the “Litvinov” cruise ship in August 2007 from Moscow up the Volga River to St. Petersburg. We had been to St. Petersburg before but there is never enough time to see and do everything so we wanted to go back! This river cruise was perfect because we “did” Moscow and lots of other cities and towns along the Volga River up to St. Petersburg. I have told some of this in the Kitchen/Bin before. But some of the nitty-gritty might make more sense now.
Our decision to go on this trip was almost spur of the moment. Of course, we needed a Russian visa. We were advised to send our passports with the applications and $150.00 per person to the Russian Embassy in San Francisco and allow 30 days. That was a bit of a nail biter since we are always a little skittish about handing our passports over to bureaucrats. (Registered mail, return receipt requested of course.) Further, our departure date was only five weeks away. Much to our surprise and delight, the visas came through stamped in our passports in only three weeks. The Russian Embassy was more efficient than our U.S. passport office! Fortunately, our passports were still valid. I don’t know what the procedures are now but for a long, long time, U.S. passport used to cost $45.00 and were valid for 10 years.
Countries in the E.U. as well as a number of other countries do not require entry or exit visas for visitors but do require passports.
My husband ordered some Rubles from the bank here. They had to get them from the Honolulu branch. He got 4,200 rubles for $200.00. So we were all set.
Since we have sons and their families on either coast of the U.S., we have always hippity-hopped from here to San Francisco, spent a few days visiting and to get over the jet-lag. Then on to Philly and do the same thing before going on to Europe. Coming back we reversed the itinerary.
It has been our experience on cruise ships, large and small, that their security systems are much more efficient than airports. When you boarded the first time, it was similar to an airport with this exception. They took your picture and on the spot issued you a credit card sized card with all the info on it, including your stateroom number. Then whenever you either got on or got off the ship, all you had to do was swipe the card in their machine! Simple and easy.
I’ll get back with more details later and how my husband got lost in Moscow.
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 :- ) Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 24, 2013
at 7:13 PM
I have to tell you, gato et al: sometimes you all really do leave me speechless. Here a young man exposes himself to — well, basically ends his life as an American, gives up all he has or ever hopes to have in this country in order to reveal a government agency’s spying on ALL Americans – something that, if it were done by Bush or any Republican, you would be screaming your head off.
But because it was exposed under Obama’s administration and embarrasses him, the spying is A-OK and you question the whistleblower’s motives.
Are you all really that partisan? Is Obama really that important to you that you think this kind of attack on the American way of life is OK? Progressives are the very people who should be screaming to the high heavens about this stuff.
What is wrong with you people?
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By: PFesser on June 24, 2013
at 6:32 PM
How bout this one Cynthia? https://margaretandhelen.com/2013/01/06/2012-in-review/#comments
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By: lori on June 24, 2013
at 6:30 PM
Gato – The Republicans would think it was a great idea. No worse then some of their other ideas to destroy this country. Don’t see them being deep thinkers or thinking things through on many of the matters this country faces. However, they are experts in corruption, selling their souls to the highest bidder and getting into lady parts just to mention a few issues.
Maybe Snowden did not think it through, just saw his 15 minutes of fame and a best seller book. Or someone made him an offer he could not refuse.
lori – great idea to move it to a smaller thread. I tried but could not find the number of comments to pick a thread with fewer comments. Can you?
pf – Another side to fracking:
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/16962-the-price-of-sand
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 24, 2013
at 6:22 PM
Absolutely Lori, the second attorney has a lot more on the ball. I am also impressed with the judge.
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By: No One's Puppet on June 24, 2013
at 6:20 PM
Hey Gato!
I think you raise a lot of valid questions and I think there is a lot we don’t yet know about Snowden. I think there is more to come. I do, however, from what I know now, question his motives. Those who are trying to make a hero out of him should wait until we know the full story. And we should all wonder what damage he has done to national security as he travels to various countries who have access to him and his computer files.
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By: Terri in NY on June 24, 2013
at 5:26 PM
Oh and Gato I meant to tell you the other day, please tell your friends that are relocating to Austin, if they have any questions or need anything I will be happy to help in any way I can. You have my e-mail address.
I think they are going to LOVE Austin. it is a lovely city. Hook’em Horns! 😉
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By: lori on June 24, 2013
at 5:25 PM
Hi friends!
NOP, so far, I have not been impressed with the defense. But like you say, I’m not sure they have much to work with. The guy that is doing the cross exam is better than the guy who did the opening statement though, don’t you think?
Cynthia, do you wanna jump to a different thread, while we wait for Helen to post again, since it’s difficult for you to load? I’m sure others have the same issue.
Auntie Jean, 😉 why yes, I remember Colorful. I was just thinking about him, how cowinky! LOL LOL
Gato I agree, all good questions. Not sure we will ever know all the answers though are you?
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By: lori on June 24, 2013
at 5:20 PM
“If this is in fact an attempt to somehow hurt or even bring down the Obama administration, it’s at best a ham-handed affair, and at worst gives the president to once more burnish his national security bona fides.”
Let me get this straight: a 28 year old man with his whole life ahead of him willfully exposes himself to the full weight of the United States Government, to include but not limited to, torture, jail time, likely execution………………………………………………………………………….
.
.
.
in order to embarrass Hussein Obamba.
.
.
.
.
What have you been smoking, anyway?
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By: PFesser on June 24, 2013
at 4:58 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Anybody here remember “Colorful”? Wonder whatever becaue of him/her.
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 24, 2013
at 4:47 PM
“Fracking is unacceptable in 2013. We can do better, much much much better.”
Care to elaborate?
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By: PFesser on June 24, 2013
at 4:22 PM
Fesser – You are correct to plop me in there with the “progressives,” because I certainly consider myself to be that.
Here’s another article for everybody… Yes; it’s from The Obama Diary, and here it is. As I keep thinking, Snowden and Greenwald are minor players in whatever’s going on…
“chat away – questions
By Liberal Librarian 32 Comments
Crossposted on The Peoples View.
The biggest news of the day is the confirmation by the South China Morning Post that Edward Snowden went after the NSA job with the express purpose of accessing and leaking US security secrets. He has gone from “whistleblower”—which he never was—to pretty much of a spy and traitor.
Now he’s holed up in Russia, where it’s quite certain that the FSB is pumping him dry, at least as dry as Chinese intelligence did. And his whirlwind tour of quasi-democracies and outright dictatorships puts paid to the idea that he’s a starry-eyed defender of democratic ideals.
But this real-time John Le Carre novel begs several questions:
How did Snowden get by background screening to get a job at Booz Allen?
How did Snowden even get past screening with his paltry CV?
Why did Booz Allen contract him for sensitive intelligence work?
What political strings were pulled to get Snowden that job, and who pulled them.
Who benefits from secrets being spilled to the Chinese and Russians?
Who’s the patsy? Snowden? Greenwald? Or are they both quite aware of what they did?
We’re going to be entering the looking glass on this one. If this is in fact an attempt to somehow hurt or even bring down the Obama administration, it’s at best a ham-handed affair, and at worst gives the president to once more burnish his national security bona fides. High school dropouts with spurious claims of having taken “computer courses” do not—or at least should not—gain access to the keys of the security kingdom.
I’m not a conspiracy theorist; usually the simplest explanation is the right one. And I’m not going to speculate on these still-developing events with my theories. To be frank, I have none, just questions. But the fallout of this escapade will last all summer. I’m quite curious to see how this plays out, and how the administration works to bring Snowden and any accomplices / enablers to justice.
This is your “spy who came in from the cold” open thread.”
Some pretty good questions, IMHO.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 24, 2013
at 4:16 PM
Chris – I believe I was the one who thought you were a “yahoo”. Your mentioning Alex Jones, Glenn Beck and the Biedenburg(sp)/Bankers taking over the world IMO was a bit over the top. Especially the Beck “tells the truth” comment. (I think he is a fraud and crazy as well.) Then I realized you are sincere and passionate in your POVs however I can not join you. I do agree with some of what you think, just not the who, why, where and when.
I do not believe every comment needs a return comment, especially for those with dialup and old computers. It makes the thread too long and since Helen rarely posts these days they take up too much space.
We have problems in the country but most are man made and there are solutions if we were to put our minds to solving them. Instead we fight each other as if fighting is going to change any thing.
I believe our most serious problem is the mess we are making of this planet. It will not matter who is in control if it can no longer support life as we know it. I just heard a conversation/report on the nuclear disaster in Japan and how it is affecting the ocean. They still have no solution to the problem at this time and it will only continue to spread.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 24, 2013
at 2:43 PM
Lori, the defense looks like one hot mess in my opinion. Thoughts?
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By: No One's Puppet on June 24, 2013
at 2:30 PM
PF…
I blogged an answer to Gato…a few minutes before your comment was posted.
I just would like you to forget the conspiracy..idea….as this is such new insight that it shuts down the brain makng it unable to take in any new information.
I watched a documentary on the brain which concluded the above.
The average person has been conditioned ( especially by the time we are 60+ years old ) to hold whatever information we have as a truth. ) It is ALSO difficult to accept new information as a truth, by that time, unless one is of the open minded variety. no matter what age we are..
Remember the old saying ” It is hard to teach an ole dog new tricks” ?
Those folks knew something that people probably do not take into consideration..
Please read my other comments, as they are NOT showing up on the blog, unless you go to the complete list of comments…
Thanks…
.
Chris
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By: Anonymous on June 24, 2013
at 12:32 PM
OH BTW Auntie Jean , Snowden’s Passport was revoked by the US. NK allowed him to leave, and Russia allowed him in, anyway.
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By: lori on June 24, 2013
at 12:31 PM
Hi friends!
I admit I am exhausted and haven’t read all posts so I don’t know where my friends stand on these issues. With that said, my opinion hasn’t changed from day one Snowden has been bought and paid for by the person who had/has the most political gain by “embarrassing” Obama. Period… If one thinks that is an action of a hero, so be it.
Personally I can name 50 things off the top of my head Obama has accomplished so far. I can name a few he hasn’t. My hope springs eternal he will get er done. 😉
Fracking is unacceptable in 2013. We can do better, much much much better.
In TX the war on women continues. Stay alert … Thanks for the support my friends, it’s appreciated, especially on morning like this. 😉
I am vegging in front of the TV with a few glasses of ice tea watching the Zimmerman trial today. I have to agree with NOP, day one is going to the prosecution, thus far. One thing for sure, George needs to get off his meds, or back wayyyyy off, for the duration of the trial.
Waving to alllll….love yinz much.
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By: lori on June 24, 2013
at 12:27 PM
Just watching the Zimmerman trial, his defense strategy seems to be boring the jury to death.
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By: No One's Puppet on June 24, 2013
at 12:13 PM
Chris – Believe me, there ain’t no “tightly knit group” here. To my eye, things are as follows: on this blog there is a group of like-minded individuals, highly “progressive” – loosely defined as Grandma, gato, lori, maybe one or two others, a group of more independent thinkers such as pi, and then a group of folks who have no party affiliation and think BOTH parties couldn’t possibly be more worthless and more alike: poolman, James, me. James, I think, is more Republican; poolman and I are Libertarian. (If I mischaracterized anybody, somebody correct me here.) Obviously, folks who think both parties are FOS greatly irritate Hussein’s minions (group 1), who IMHO think he is The Messiah.
Those groups above don’t toe the same line very often, but this NSA stuff is so scary that it is blatantly obvious to anybody of any political persuasion that something has to be done. (well, maybe not obvious to lori, but independent thinking is not her strong suite) As they say, “My enemy’s enemy is my friend.”
As for picking on Grandma, our mutual irritation goes way back. From my admittedly very biased POV, I’ve tried to stop it several times, to no avail. Maybe she feels the same way; I don’t know. What I DO know is that, when attacked, I will respond. Every time. No exceptions for age or anything else. It’s sad, but on the Internets, that’s how it has to be. My preference is to not have to waste time on such bullshit.
As for nobody much supporting your POV, to be perfectly honest, I think your take on things has such a “grand conspiracy” ring to it that not many folks, except maybe poolman, are comfortable with your conclusions. I am certainly very circumspect about a great deal of it.
That’s my take on it. Others please feel free to pipe up.
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By: PFesser on June 24, 2013
at 12:09 PM
Gato…
The comment made does not reflect on you, at all.
I am referring to the lack of acceptance of the information I offer to the blog as a whole…
No intent toward you individually.
Please re-read what I have stated over the past 2 months and you will understand more, the subject matter, and how revelant it is beoming as the days move on..
We are in dire times…when our govenment is doing all these things to us, while claiming transparancy .
It is a lie…we are living a lie…
I do believe the end times may be on the way or beginning, and I am not a revelationist by any means. I always thought that the bible book refered to the then times of the Romans and what their people were going through with the evils of the Roman government….but, now…I am not sure ???
Peace…
Chris
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By: Anonymous on June 24, 2013
at 12:08 PM
Gato…and the Gang….
It is one thing to work for your country as a spy ( agent). It is entirely another thing to find that the oraganization you work for is spying on ALL AMERICANS…..
Any inteligent person would assume that something is not right.
Spying and counter- spying within, has been taking place for years.
It is apparent J. Edgar Hoover used his authority to crush his opponents, and anyone else he wished to desroy, even if you ONLY came to know this from the movie…of the same name..
This is not business as usual procedure…what is happening with Snowden.
Of course, the internet has created freedom never before realized, that is why it is SO important for them to violate all of our privacy rights to oversee and at some point shut down the internet.
Most of our people woud not be whistleblowers. They are afraid of loosing their jobs, or the reprocussions of coming against our government; which is another sign of decay from within a free nation…
This whole affari may be a ploy to create unrest and revolution from within, which could cause Martial Law to be declared. ( which IS their goal ).
ASt this point and time, we do not know what to believe, as they bombard us with crap in the news to smokescreen what they are really doing.
Peace….
Chris
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By: Anonymous on June 24, 2013
at 12:00 PM
Chris – I have no idea what I said earlier that indicates I think you are a “yahoo.” Actually, I didn’t mention you at all, which is perhaps the thing to which you object – the fact that I pointed to a McClatchy article, and didn’t say, “See? Chris has been right, all along!”
It’s a shame that your feelings have evidently been bruised…
I agree with some of your premises, and disagree with others. The McClatchy article is very specific about its subject matter: A particular government program. It does not extrapolate its remarks on that program to indicate any world-wide deliberate conspiracy.
Whether or not it “should have” is something on which I suspect the two of us would also disagree! We all draw our own conclusions…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 24, 2013
at 11:53 AM
BTW……..
I did not hit ANNON… it did not have me even signed in…on my last comment to you Gato…
?????
Chris
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By: Anonymous on June 24, 2013
at 11:38 AM
Gato…You say the same things about our government that I tell you all, but, the only information you adhere to MUST come from within your tightly knit group, all while, you try to ;make me sound like a yahoo…
There must not be an actual Margaret and Helen, but rather a mediator within your group….who started this blog..
Some one who makes fun of old women…????
Peace…
Chris
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By: Anonymous on June 24, 2013
at 11:35 AM
gato – super article. Thanks. I’m emailing it to all my friends.
How long has it been since you read, “1984?” I’m going back and re-reading it ASAP. They say sales of 1984 have shot through the roof since Snowden’s revelations.
God, let’s hope something good comes of all this and the PATRIOT Act just becomes another bad dream from the Bush years.
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By: PFesser on June 24, 2013
at 11:02 AM
Hi, Cynthia, and other posters on this subject – I’m starting to think that Snowden is small potatoes in this “game” – and an alarming “game” it is.
Here’s a link from Charlie Pierce’s blog this morning:
http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/06/20/194513/obamas-crackdown-views-leaks-as.html#.Uchl2xaf_wx
Something called the “Insider Threat Program,” which basically encourages people to snitch on their co-workers if they suspect someone might be becoming even a POSSIBLE “threat.”
This atmosphere of potential and ever-present “danger” serves some very well – and the rest of us, not at all. To say that I’m not happy about this kind of thing would be the Understatement of the Year!
I still think that what Snowden personally “has” is probably, in and of itself, not very significant, and I suspect that if the government basically just ignored him the whole thing would disappear pretty quickly – until he just couldn’t stand being ignored any longer, and blurted out some new “revelation.”
So why isn’t the government just doing that? I suspect that they feel a real need to present themselves as trying to be “legitimate” about what they’re doing, while all along they are doing the kind of reprehensible stuff mentioned in the McClatchy piece.
What’s that old saying…? “Even paranoids may have some real enemies…”
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 24, 2013
at 10:43 AM
CYNTHIA……
The Govt. IS controlled by the Corporations. That is why we are Corporate outsourcing the GOVERNING of our country to private companies.
The Coast Guard should be protecting our shorelines, but, I remember after 9/11, hearing that a Saudi Company was PROTECTING our New England Shorelines ????
PEACE…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 24, 2013
at 10:25 AM
I am not sure what to think of Snowden. Some of it sounds fishy so I am waiting to hear the whole story. But one positive thing he did is to make us aware of what is being done in the name of protecting the US and how we are being spied on. And that is a big thingy!!
I don’t believe the government needs to know everything we have to say or write. We Americans, on the whole are not the enemy. The Patriot Act should be eliminated. (And how did a 1500 page act get completed and put on the table in +/- 30 days?) As I understand it the government has just phone numbers and times etc. but not the content. Others think differently, who is right? But anyway how can they process all that information in any useful way. Seems to me like looking for 1of 2 grains of blue sand in 10 tons of beach sand.
However, what I find more disturbing is that these private security corps have the contents of said numbers/emails. What is to stop them from using/selling this information for other purposes like blackmail or using it to discredit a politician, person, or another corportation etc. There could be unlimited use for information from phones or emails if you had a target in mind.
Also there is big money to be made in security and defense. If there were no “enemy” there would be little need for this type of business. I am sure if you put Blackwater/Z, a security corp, and a defense contractor in the same room together they could come up with a number of new enemies even if they had to invent or create one. Why should we trust them or their information? There way too much money to be made to give it up for a peaceful world.
The government we have some control over but a private corp we have no control.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 24, 2013
at 10:01 AM
PFESSER….
You are getting it. When any U.S. citizen does anything to upset their apple cart by speaking out, they are demonized and discredited, or worse.
Remember this premise in ALL your media coverage.
You are on the right track.
Our media does not tell us the truth. The medias owners and advertisers are in control of what we are presented as “TRUTH”.
PEACE..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 24, 2013
at 9:48 AM
Terri in NY: “Actions speak louder than words.”
Yep. Such as, for example, the universal collection of wired and cell-phone data, in the face of public statements that it isn’t happening. All in the most “transparent administration ever.” Feh.
“We need to watch his behavior and draw conclusions from it.”
Agreed.
“So far, going to China, Russia, Cuba and Ecuador does not speak well of his motives.”
Why is that? Where should he go?
“These are certainly not bastions of democracy”
Nor is the USA anymore. That is exactly why he doesn’t want to come back here.
“or friends of the U.S.”
precisely. Our “friends” – read that vassals – would turn him over immediately, wouldn’t they?
“Why did he not use the whistleblower laws we have in place in the U.S.?”
That’s a joke, right? The moment he puts himself in US hands, it’s all over. Since everything is now done in secret (contrary to our Constitution, I might add) there is no telling what they would do to him. Drugs? Waterboarding? Forced confession? Transport to Guantanamo? Complete flouting of habeas corpus?Things that the govt never used to be able to do, but thanks to the PATRIOT Act, things they do daily. Thanks, but no thanks. If I were he, I’d take my chances elsewhere. He’d be a lunatic to come back to the US.
“How qualified is he to judge our national security needs?”
Based upon the things he’s revealed, I’d say DAMNED qualified.
Now the trashing of Edward Snowden begins. I’m glad to see that many Americans are doing what they usually do: be led around by the nose. It’s a shame that most are too dumb to even be embarrassed by their own credulity.
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By: PFesser on June 24, 2013
at 9:41 AM
Re Snowden. Actions speak louder than words. We need to watch his behavior and draw conclusions from it. So far, going to China, Russia, Cuba and Ecuador does not speak well of his motives. These are certainly not bastions of democracy or friends of the U.S. Why did he not use the whistleblower laws we have in place in the U.S.? How qualified is he to judge our national security needs?
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By: Terri in NY on June 24, 2013
at 9:16 AM
re: Snowden. He’s not Snow(den) White, but he’s what – 28 or so? How much world experience can you have at that age? I’m sure he knew the NSA was a “spy” agency, and like most of us, had a vague idea that they were doing things that benefited the US, but no idea the real depth of their evil, particularly the depth of their spying on US citizens.
Just take “news reports” about him with a grain of salt. The govt’s job now is to demonize him, and manipulate the public’s perception. Just be aware that it’s happening even as we speak and none of us is immune. Somewhere Joseph Goebbels is having a little grin, I’m sure…
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By: PFesser on June 24, 2013
at 5:56 AM
Cynthia – the Grist piece says the oil spill was due to a ruptured pipeline; I didn’t see anything in it about “fracking.”
A couple of years ago I read Tom Friedman’s, Hot, Flat and Crowded. Really, really good look at the next fifty years or so, vis à vis energy needs and environmental considerations. His take is that we must convert to an all-electrical transportation system.
We have most of what we need already in place: electric three-phase motors that are over 90% efficient, and the controllers to run them. (A gasoline engine tops out at about 50%, meaning at least half of the energy is lost as heat.) What we don’t have are good batteries that charge quickly and have good range, but there have been recent breakthroughs in fuel cell technology, making them about 3/4 cheaper. They run on hydrogen, but the “exhaust” is pure water, and hydrogen is made with electricity.
As for right now, until the public stops demanding gasoline engines, engineers will continue to drill and transport oil. Folks can’t have it both ways.
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By: PFesser on June 24, 2013
at 5:47 AM
Imagine: the US has a problem with
Snowden using Cuba to bypass US law.
I wonder where he got that idea? 😉
Peace ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 24, 2013
at 1:38 AM
Auntie Jean…
When we get stuck in our own believed truths, we are not truth seekers.
Seek the truth… It is out there, and not necessarily what we have been taught.
The powers that be have their own personal reasons for teaching us their ideas.
Their ideas created our world which we believe in, while we live in complete which confusion. The REAL truth does not leave one in confusion.
Your opinions on the truth may not be the truth, just as you tell me.
Study new information, as it becomes available.
The Rothschilds…spelled many different ways, depending on their country of origin, sold the most expensive home in England that has ever sold anywhere in the world. It would be safe to assume they probably have the most wealth in the world…See??
We NEVER hear about the means of their wealth…wonder why?
PEACE..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 24, 2013
at 1:31 AM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Gato.
Oh.
That’s Greenw-A-ld of the Guardian in Great Britain, right? Now I’m up to speed.
I am “presuming” (and I presume a lot of the time!) that Snowden is traveling on a valid U. S. passport. It seems to me that the State Department could yank his passport across the board and that would prevent his boarding a flight from just about any airport in the world and perhaps have him detained for questioning. That happened to us, sorta, once in Paris because we were traveling from Rome en route to the U. S. and had checked all our baggage in Rome. Pretty suspicious, traveling without any carry-ons beside my purse, huh. We did have our passports though. But the Paris security man was very nice. After a thorough interrogation he let us go and board anyhow.
Well, at least Snowden has made it as far as Istanbul from Moscow and Hong Kong and is “presumably” on his way to some “undisclosed destination” in Central America for asylum. He would be well advised to stay out of dark alleys though, when and if he gets there.
Which reminds me of another story. (Don’t they all?) In September 2006 we went to Cappadocia, Turkey and then spent a few days in Istanbul before embarking on the Wind Spirit yacht of the Windstar Cruise Line of the Greek Isles in the Aegean Sea down to Crete and then back up to Athens. Istanbul is a beautiful, beautiful modern city with delightful people. We were moseying along a street on our way to our hotel from the Hagia Sophia. A couple of men were sitting on the stoop of a house, smoking a Hookah, (water pipe). Hashish maybe??? We of course spoke no Turkish and we “presume” they spoke no English. We smiled and nodded. They looked up, grinned and gesturing, offered us a puff from their pipes. We smiled again and nodded our regrets as we walked on. But wasn’t that gracious of them?
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 24, 2013
at 12:12 AM
The Snowden story is all over mainstream media. That means they want this story out there, and since all the msm outlets are censored and are only allowed to broadcast what is government approved, the Snowden story is presented to us as they intend. I see it as a diversion and its purpose will be to further reduce our freedom of speech and internet access. That has been the agenda followed before 9/11, and has been the one accelerated since.
I think the correct term is a dog and pony show.
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By: poolman on June 23, 2013
at 11:15 PM
That’s for sure. My grandparents were the ones who taught me that early on. The wife and I compost religiously. I’m enjoying sliced tomatoes right now that I picked earlier today. Store bought cannot compare.
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By: poolman on June 23, 2013
at 11:06 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Uh, Chris, there are two words I rarely use at all and when I do, it is with circumspect and always in quotes: “truth” and “facts” as to whose “truth” and which “facts”, as well as in what language, what time frame and just who is telling the “truth” and revealing what “facts” and why.
Aloha! 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 23, 2013
at 10:59 PM
Hi, Auntie Jean – You’re up on plenty of stuff – no worries!
Glenn Greenwald is a columnist for The Guardian newspaper, and the one who “broke” this story. He evidently focuses on “civil liberties,” which, I guess, sort of makes sense in this situation.
Apparently there is some evidence supporting the idea that Greenwald and Snowden had contact well before Snowden went to work for Booz Allen, a company that was hired by the NSA to provide it with staff. Snowden also evidently had previous contact with the woman who is apparently filming a “documentary” about all this. (Snowden worked for the NSA for only THREE MONTHS before coming up with all of this, BTW…)
Now, if one is into conspiracy theories (which I certainly can be, from time to time), there are a couple of possibilities. One is that Snowden came up with the whole “let’s expose the NSA” thing all on his own, and approached Greenwald with it – a proposal that many a “journalist” would certainly find delicious – especially one who is riveted on showing all the ways that government overreaches its authority as far as “civil liberties” are concerned. Or, perhaps it was all Greenwald’s idea, and he found a willing cohort in Snowden. Maybe there were even some promises of fame and fortune for an ambitious young geek… Who knows?
At any rate, as you pointed out earlier, somebody is certainly giving Snowden plenty of assistance as he jets around from country to country, granting televised interviews whenever things get too quiet… (Wikileaks is evidently involved, too; that’s what they do.)
What is impossible (for me, anyway) to believe is that this young man “innocently” went to work for a spy agency, and then was suddenly “shocked” at the scope of how much spying they were actually doing, and on whom. (Was he thinking they’d just be all “nicey-nice,” and never do anything they shouldn’t…?) I also find it questionable that a “newbie” in the system would be able to get his hands on a vast amount of highly-controversial material, in such a short time – information which both Snowden and Greenwald insist that Snowden has.
So that’s what I know, or have heard, about this whole thing, so far…!
Best,
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 23, 2013
at 9:21 PM
CYNTHIA……
PBS, like many other media, used to tell the truth.
Now, since it has Corporations funding them, there are beholding to their sponsors. What a shame for America…..It does not tell the truth, either.
I was on PBS viewers advisory board 40 years ago.
Peace…..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 23, 2013
at 9:20 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
gato, who is Mr. Greenwold? (sp?) Cynthia, the Koch bros. couldn’t be publicity hounds too, could they?
Silly me. Obviously, there are plenty of things I’m just not up on.
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 23, 2013
at 8:36 PM
“Here’s what PBS, hardly a right-wing shill, says:” – pf
Well unless you consider this :
PBS cancelledCitizen Koch (money politics and Wisconsin uprising in 2011 and 2012) – and Park Avenue – Money, Power and the American Dream – both with negative views of the Kochs.
David Koch sat on the board of PBS WNET – NYC
David Koch has donated upwards of 23 million to PBS – you get to dictate the on-air programming.
http://www.truthdig.com/…/citizen_koch_directors_reveal_how_pbs_quashed_...
truth-out.org/…/17991-nyc-pbs-president-freaks-out-over-documentary-…
google – PBS cancels Koch Bros special for more information
http://grist.org/news/pipeline-spills-oil-waste-over-more-than-100-acres-of-alberta/
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 23, 2013
at 8:07 PM
Hi, Auntie Jean – Yes; that’s a fascinating question isn’t it…? Who IS picking up the tab…? Mr. Greenwald, maybe? Just a thought… Seems possible, especially if, in fact, the two were in touch before Snowden ever went to work for the NSA – or that company that was hired by the NSA – and there does seem to be some evidence that such is the case.
Of course, I’m sure we can be confident that Mr. Snowden’s high moral principles would never let him “bargain” his incredibly valuable top secret information (or whatever he says he’s got) in exchange for anything like asylum, or a plane ticket, or even that room in the Chinese palace, with the pet phoenix, he was talking about a couple of days ago…
Now that I think about it, he’s acting more and more like the Kim Kardashian of Secret Agent Man Wannabes… She’s holding out on the “exclusive baby photos” until the highest bidder comes through; he’s hinting at all the other cool stuff he’s got, and possibly doing exactly the same thing…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 23, 2013
at 6:28 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
WAY TO GO, LORI!!!!! Texas is turning bluer by the minute. All the good and decent folks there needed, was for people like you to get the word out. Keep it up!
I wonder who is picking up the tab for Snowden’s globe trotting plane tickets, hotels, meals, etc. His credit card must have maxed out by now.
Talk about “persona non grata”. No legitimate government wants to touch him with a ten foot pole.
Aloha! 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 23, 2013
at 6:04 PM
#BGTX has come together and are making our voices heard. BGTX is making u proud Helen. Maybe you are there even? Lol lol http://t.co/kYDNSdoDLr
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By: lori on June 23, 2013
at 4:17 PM
re: hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) and ground water contamination. Here’s what PBS, hardly a right-wing shill, says:
“Shale-based fuel production should be one of the most benign forms of energy production. It uses the least water of any mode of hydrocarbon production and generates the lowest CO2 emissions. And there is only one documented case where the “fracking” — the process of opening up deep underground seams in the shale rock by hydraulic pressure to facilitate product flow — has contaminated underground water supplies.”
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/businessdesk/2013/06/comeback-why-the-us-sits-at-th-1.html
Remember, nothing is risk-free. This seems a quite-acceptable risk to me, in order to get the energy we need. Anybody have a different number?
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By: PFesser on June 23, 2013
at 4:13 PM
B http://instagram.com/p/a6hm-Hk6ni hope that worked.
Big day for #BGTX #teamBgtx and all Texas Women!
TX proud and loud.
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By: lori on June 23, 2013
at 4:07 PM
United States Geological Survey on energy independence:
http://www.usgs.gov/blogs/features/usgs_top_story/usgs-releases-new-oil-and-gas-assessment-for-bakken-and-three-forks-formations/
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By: PFesser on June 23, 2013
at 4:05 PM
WP – thanks for the “Soldier’s Last Words.” If there were ever evidence that we need to get back control of our government, that was it.
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By: PFesser on June 23, 2013
at 10:41 AM
I’ve found, quite by accident, that the key to gardening happiness is compost. My older brother lived on our parents’ farm after they died and tended their 3/4-acre garden. The soil was always poor and it took a tremendous amount of tending to get a really good crop every year. My father collected manure from the barnyard and spred it each year, but the soil was clay-ey and tough to till. He and Old Pete (our Belgian horse) would spend days preparing the soil every year.
One year my brother and I lost a full crop of hay (about 150 bales) to rain, but we baled it anyway to get it off the field and stacked it at the garden’s edge. That fall I collected all the leaves from his yard and my parents’ and, as luck would have it, the power company had cleaned the right-of-way and needed a place to dump a couple of truckloads of chips. We had everything we needed, and that fall mixed the hay (nitrogen) and leaves/chips (carbon), using my endloader to stir it about twice a month during the winter. I buried a thermometer just as an experiment, and the temperature in the compost pile averaged 120-140 degrees all winter long – always increasing when I stirred the pile.
The next spring I knew we were onto something; where the winter rains had soaked the pile, the runoff area was brilliant green with grass and weeds, as soon as the air temperature allowed.
We had enough mulch to spread over half the garden; I later flew over my brother’s garden and it was striking: where the mulch had been was a bright green; the rest of the whole garden was a sickly yellow. That was over ten years ago; that part of the garden is still easily-tilled loam and his wife gets bumper crops every year. We haven’t used chemical fertilizer the whole time.
Natural gardening: good stuff.
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By: PFesser on June 23, 2013
at 10:37 AM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Oh, Peas. The “Soldiers Last Words” are so tragic and touching. He went through so much more than any of us can ever imagine. I hope he at long last has found the peace he longed for.
Thanks so much for putting up the links I asked for. You said to ask you for something tough next time. That’s easy for you to say! You are the computer genius around here.
Before I launch into my bell pepper story, this is a little background music. Our island is situated in the Tropics and since a volcano formed it millennia ago, the soil is very rich broken-down volcanic magma. You can grow just about anything that doesn’t need a dormant season. Just stick it in the ground and stand back. This makes for an almost year-round growing season. It didn’t take long for agriculture in general to recognize that fact.
Initially it was sugar cane and pineapple that was grown commercially. Both were and are labor intensive despite mechanization. But cane couldn’t compete with mainland beet and cane sugar partly because of shipping costs across the Pacific. So, almost all of the pineapple and the sugar cane were moved to the cheaper labor markets in the Philippines. Sugar growing was still limping along even after we retired out here 23 years ago. It is completely gone now. There is some pineapple grown for local consumption though.
The latitude and soil brought the big seed companies here because they could harvest 3 sometimes 4 crops a year as opposed to maybe only once a year on the mainland. We knew a young man who worked for one of the big seed producers. One time they were harvesting the seed of big ripe beautiful bell peppers. He managed to salvage several bushels of them before they were plowed under to plant the next crop for seed. The company was only interested in the seed, not the distribution of the mature peppers. Several gals got together, cut them up, marinated them in large mason jars and gave them away to family and friends. It was a shame to waste them. But of course they are perishable like any other fresh fruit or vegetables.
We like bell peppers very much. I use them in a variety of ways, cooking and in salads and such. Not too long ago, I got a package of red, green, yellow and orange peppers at a local store almost exactly the size and taste of those peppers grown here for seed only. Here’s the catch though. I absently happened to notice the origin of these peppers from the label on the plastic packaging. They were grown on a farm in the Netherlands!!! Say what!!! They were nice and fresh!!! So they would have to have been either flown or shipped in refrigeration from halfway around to world and distributed to ultimately get to our store. Don’t planes and ships operate on fossil fuels? It seems to me there is an odd circularity going on here with plowing under perfectly good locally grown peppers from across about 20 miles on the island, to shipping the same things across two oceans and a continent with the inherent costs passed on to the customer.
Now there are plenty of products we cannot grow here. How about potatoes for instance? But Georgia Vidalia Onions are quite favorably comparable to Maui Onions. I have used both varieties when we lived in PA and out here. I can’t tell the difference either raw or in cooking. But the Vidalia’s are designated as such by LAW and a CFR (U.S. Code of Federal Regulations) Can you grow bananas, mangos, papayas, lychee and macadamia nuts? Nope. But we can and we ship ‘em to ya. You can grow blueberries, apples, peaches and walnuts because they need a dormant season. We can’t. So you ship’ em to us. That seems like reasonable tradeoffs to me.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 23, 2013
at 2:18 AM
This left me speechless.
“I Am Sorry That It Has Come to This”:
A Soldier’s Last Words
by Daniel Somers
I am sorry that it has come to this.
The fact is, for as long as I can remember my motivation for getting up every day has been so that you would not have to bury me. As things have continued to get worse, it has become clear that this alone is not a sufficient reason to carry on. The fact is, I am not getting better, I am not going to get better, and I will most certainly deteriorate further as time goes on. From a logical standpoint, it is better to simply end things quickly and let any repercussions from that play out in the short term than to drag things out into the long term.
…
I really have been trying to hang on, for more than a decade now. Each day has been a testament to the extent to which I cared, suffering unspeakable horror as quietly as possible so that you could feel as though I was still here for you. In truth, I was nothing more than a prop, filling space so that my absence would not be noted. In truth, I have already been absent for a long, long time.
My body has become nothing but a cage, a source of pain and constant problems. The illness I have has caused me pain that not even the strongest medicines could dull, and there is no cure. All day, every day a screaming agony in every nerve ending in my body. It is nothing short of torture. My mind is a wasteland, filled with visions of incredible horror, unceasing depression, and crippling anxiety, even with all of the medications the doctors dare give. Simple things that everyone else takes for granted are nearly impossible for me. I can not laugh or cry. I can barely leave the house. I derive no pleasure from any activity. Everything simply comes down to passing time until I can sleep again. Now, to sleep forever seems to be the most merciful thing.
…
Thus, I am left with basically nothing. Too trapped in a war to be at peace, too damaged to be at war. Abandoned by those who would take the easy route, and a liability to those who stick it out—and thus deserve better. So you see, not only am I better off dead, but the world is better without me in it.
This is what brought me to my actual final mission. Not suicide, but a mercy killing. I know how to kill, and I know how to do it so that there is no pain whatsoever. It was quick, and I did not suffer. And above all, now I am free. I feel no more pain. I have no more nightmares or flashbacks or hallucinations. I am no longer constantly depressed or afraid or worried.
I am free.
.
.
.
PEACE ~ Δ ~ I mean it. Really!
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 23, 2013
at 1:06 AM
The blogs are being highly monitored by I suspect government monkeys intent on slowing the flow of truth. No lie. The conservatives are griping about it.
http://fellowshipofminds.wordpress.com/2013/06/22/is-wordpress-censoring-conservative-blogs/
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By: poolman on June 23, 2013
at 12:56 AM
Chris, I am aware. I experienced similar posting problems some time ago when I spent much time here. A few links would never stick. There is only so much truth that can get through in a given time. Too much too fast and the filter clogs. 😉
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By: poolman on June 23, 2013
at 12:50 AM
Here ya go Jean,
Hooser introduces GMO bill
and
Bee healthy, bee happy.
Glad to help. Please continue.
How about something tough next time? 😉
Peace ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 23, 2013
at 12:42 AM
POOLMAN…
My comments are not being registered through the site on answering other folks comments…I believe that is on purpose…Why ?
I hope you see this comment and answer me…
I hope the rest of the folks learn more about what is really happening.
Here is some information on the Philadelphia and Montauk Experiment..
Are you aware of this?
Al Bielek…One.of severa; Survivors of the Philadelphia & Montauk Experiments..by U.S. Government…
He is a survivor of the experiments by the Nazi scientists our govt. welcomed after WWII.
Nazi scientists were involved…in these experiments…
Our Govt….secretly use this MK ULtra…Mind Control…It is the same ontrol used on the German peoples up to and including WWII.
mind control.. wow…
This mind control….. is what they did to James Holmes…the P.H.D. Neuro- Science student, used to create the smoke screen to stop his father from giving testimony to congress against the bankes in Libor Scandal….( which was to take place within a few months of the Aurora, Colorado theatre masacre ) The Elder Holmes testimony was to implicate the top world bankers and how they deveated the world in all the circumstanes leading up to the crash of 2008. ) He was a top math scientist working for FICA, the credit bureau agency…..working for the bankers to keep the populus from getting low interest rates…thus making the bankers in charge of mankind…and keeping contol of the world, by keeping the populus poor…and beholding to them..
check out what this man, Al Bielek is saying….
He us quite old now…but, brighter than most folks are at ANY age..
LIsten to this interview…..
There are lots of other sites on utube relating to Al Bielek, Preston Nichols, and Duncan Cameron; all survivors of these drastic government experiences..
Peace…
Chris…
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By: Anonymous on June 22, 2013
at 11:57 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Peas, ole buddy, need your hep – again. Could you please track down two lengthy but timely articles starting on the front page of the Kauai Garden Island Newspaper for June 21, entitled:
1.) “Hooser introduces GMO bill” and
2.) “Bee healthy, bee happy.”
I’m hoping people here will take the time at their leisure to read through both of them carefully, as they are related. They have to do with the use of pesticides, specifically “neonicotinoids”, and GMOs by several agricultural seed producing companies here on our island. Pioneer BASF and Syngenta are two of the biggest ones.
“Neonicotinoids” have been banned altogether in Europe. The effect on the honey bee population is devastating. You do remember about the birds and the bees and pollination, don’t you? The bees can be compared to the “canary in the mines” a long, long time ago. When the air quality became so bad down in the mine that the canary sickened and/or died, that was the wakeup call that maybe it wasn’t very good for human health and life either.
I have told my bell pepper story here before but it bears repeating in light of these articles. I’ll put it up after Peas does his duty, (uh, a favor to me.)
Just sitting in the corporate board room or in front of our computers to tally up the numbers can lead to a condition called “myopic tunnel vision” that cannot see beyond the financial bottom line. However, our world is somewhat more complex than that. The money and profit angles are only a small part of the multifaceted factors in the patchwork quilt of life.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 22, 2013
at 9:57 PM
Way to go, Lori! I’m sending the BGTX link to two friends here (of the progressive persuasion) who are moving soon to Austin. Maybe they can get an early start before they’re on the ground there in person!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 22, 2013
at 10:58 AM
HTG, James – I really appreciate your taking a bit of your very occupied time to even reply to my points! I can certainly agree with your remark that “thunderstorms are more important than political arguments,” as are granddaughters, planting green beans, and any number of other Real Life Things! (Not to say that “politics” doesn’t affect people’s real lives, but “timing” is everything…)
Your granddaughter is lucky to have such an attentive grandpa!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 22, 2013
at 10:54 AM
Hi Gato, and thanks poolman for asking about our grand daughter. She seems to have all of her marbles, and her head has grown 2.4 centimeters since birth. The left side of her head is a bit flat, so she is supposed to lie on her right side.
I played Al Stewart’s “The year of the cat” three times. On the first day, she stopped crying and went to sleep. Yesterday morning, her eyes widened, and she repeatedly made pseudo smiles. She also looked at the video camera playing the music.
We will be back there tomorrow, and I think I will try joik music next.
Doctors still want to sedate her to conduct an MRI scan and do a genetics test.
Six months to a year will tell the tale.
I am sorry. I tried twice with a long argument, but each time, I mistyped something, and the computer ate it all. I can’t spend any more time on it right now. Google The Daily Republic. SD landowners support Keystone pipel lline or are resigned to it.” It tells much of the story including the large sum of money the project will bring to just South Dakota.
It also tells how the company tried to intimidate Canadian and domestic landowners until they united and got an above market place settlement.
The article also cites several oil spills along the pipeline already in place.
The gist of the article supports my view that the Keystone Pipeline will benefit more than cost the local region economically through payments to land owners, taxes, and the economic muitiplier effect.. Risk is a relative term, and subject to one’s own outlook. Thus, I can’t argue against your private opinion of risk because it is as valid as mine. A cold cost- benefit scenario favors the pipeline as the article shows. If I had more time, I would cite more articles.
“My candle burns at both ends
It shall not last the night
But ah my foes and my friends
it casts a lovely light.” Edna st. Vincent milay.(SP)
That is my opinion of risk.
More later. We are catching up with things before we go back to Omaha and right now, a strong thunderstorm has moved over. The rain has washed the Colorado smoke from our air. Thunderstorms are more important to me than political arguments. We could have done more yesterday evening, but the heat index was over 94, and the power was out. it was still 88 at 10 PM.
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By: James on June 22, 2013
at 10:41 AM
We are fighting hard in TX .
“Update on the fight for women’s rights in Texas. The State Affairs Committee met again today, with no public testimony allowed. Bills now go to calendar and the 20 week ban that the Senate took out of #sb5 is back in the House bills. We will keep you posted on next steps. The fight is far from over! In the meantime, Rachel Maddow is now covering the history made in Texas. The eyes of the nation are upon us. ” Texas Democratic Party (yesterday) @TXDemParty
http://maddowblog.msnbc.com/_news/2013/06/22/19076693-texas-republicans-meet-the-citizens-filibuster-and-update-schedule-new-abortion-vote-anyway
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By: lori on June 22, 2013
at 8:44 AM
Damn! I respect strong women.
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By: poolman on June 21, 2013
at 7:17 PM
The articles in this series and an online database at topsecretamerica.com depict the scope and complexity of the government’s national security program through interactive maps and other graphics. Every data point on the Web site is substantiated by at least two public records.
http://projects.washingtonpost.com/top-secret-america/
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 21, 2013
at 11:58 AM
Way to go you Texas women !
http://juanitajean.com/2013/06/20/i-am-woman-hear-me-talk-and-talk-and-talk-and/#comments
Moon Watchers – Supermoon this weekend ?
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 21, 2013
at 10:36 AM
PFESSER…
In regards to water quality..
We in America are being poisoned daily by way of our water. ( and food sources by only 5 major agri corporations )
It is mentioned in the news on how different countries are being charged with possible chemical warfare.
We in America, are being subjected to chemical warfare by our own government.
( the government has been approving the chemical poisoning of water for several years, which has helped genocide for many decades. The increase of diseases of many types has NOT been authoritatively linked to the water, but, it has to be at least one of the culprits, no ?)
There are significant scientific studies that indicate fluoride, and other chemicals added, to our water systems, are poisonous to human life, and animal wildlife.
Why is our government doing the opposite of protecting it’s citizens, but rather putting us in danger, as to the status of the health of our future generations.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 21, 2013
at 10:34 AM
BTW….
the Rothschilds…
They have Protestant Christian and Jewish affiliations, as well as heavy control of the Vatican Bank…
This info is not meant to be anti Semitic….read how it encompasses every religious faction…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 21, 2013
at 10:12 AM
ALASKAPI..
This Rothschild Banking family has control of ALL the world’s natural resources.
They OWN most of the world’s CORPORATIONS, as well.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rothschild_family
The De Beers family married into the family…they control the majority of the world’s diamonds, having killed the African people for them..
Africa is starving, even though the continent has the wealth of the most diamonds In the world… How can that be?
It is easy, if a country cannot utilize its own natural resources, it will never succeed in overcoming poverty.
THEY ARE DOING THE SAME GENOCIDE ON US.
The world is at their mercy, by the power and wealth it has attained in EVERY field and business and resource and commodity.
They and their families are in control of every type of corporation..
Read for yourselves…Note, even Gore is a family name…
Their tentacles reach beyond our imaginations.
There are different factions of the same family…..
BTW..there are many spellings of their name, depending on which of the German, French, or British families they belong to…
Peace
Chris
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By: Chris on June 21, 2013
at 10:08 AM
re: energy efficiency. The bleeding edge these days belongs to “velomobiles.” Based on commercially-available pedal-powered trikes (like my wife and I have), they are enclosed with carbon-fibre cockpits and offer all-weather trike-ing.
There are available 3-phase electric wheel motors that match one’s pedal effort: if you pedal with 20# effort, the bike matches with 20#. When you quit pedaling, it quits. Completely transparent to the rider; extremely long battery life.
These are sweeping Europe these days as grocery-getters or just all-round fun machines. One of these machines (pedal-only, no motor) just set a new world record: over 50mph average speed over 24 hours, human power only. Over 1200km!
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By: PFesser on June 21, 2013
at 9:51 AM
Maryam Namazie is probably the most prominent supporter of women’s rights in the Muslim world. She risks her life daily to help end the Islamist oppression of women. Good article about the Left in Europe and how their multi-culti nonsense supports Muslim oppression:
http://www.onelawforall.org.uk/siding-with-the-oppressor-the-pro-islamist-left/
(She has a companion publication equally scathing about the Right.)
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By: PFesser on June 21, 2013
at 8:36 AM
re: water quality. Tennessee official tells citizen group that complaining about water quality could be considered by Homeland Security as an “act of terrorism.”
Still think the PATRIOT Act is “keeping us safe?”
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/06/21/official-says-water-complaints-act-of-terrorism/2445071/
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By: PFesser on June 21, 2013
at 7:19 AM
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/energy-and-resources/northern-alberta-pipeline-was-only-five-years-old-before-toxic-spill/article12536856/
Pffft!
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By: alaskapi on June 21, 2013
at 6:39 AM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Thank you Peas sooooo much for putting up the link for me to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s article on the Texas oil company’s buy-out here. It is interesting that the Middle East North Africa Financial Network picked up on it so quickly, obviously from the wire services. Also thank you for the visuals on the Koch piles by-product of refining tar sands oil. A few pictures are worth several million words, aren’t they.
We had a wonderful day! We made a trek into the Big City of Lihue for some appointments and errands. As we usually do, before we started home we swung by Nawiliwili Harbor. A picture postcard day. It is such a serene setting with the mountains as a backdrop to the azure sky with a few puffy white clouds reflected in the calm blue waters at low tide. As often happens, there was the NCL “Pride of America” cruise ship at anchor along with some small pleasure and fishing boats.
A common sight there is to see a few fishermen along the dock. Today there was a man and a boy about 6-7 years old. The man had a rather long line stretched out into the water. We absently watched for quite a while. All of a sudden he apparently had a bite and began to reel it in. From our vantage point in the car not far away, it appeared to be a fish about 4-5 inches long thrashing away on the hook. The man cast it out into the water again right away. At first we thought he might be using it for bait to catch a bigger fish but no…….
He handed the pole to the boy and let him reel in the small fish for a second time. The boy stood there proudly holding the pole and the line with his fish while the man dropped to one knee and whipped out either a camera or a cell phone to record this obviously historic moment in the boy’s life. The lad posed with his little chest stuck out as the man took his picture. We are sure this is a moment they will both treasure forever. We will certainly not soon forget being witness to it.
A great dad!
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 21, 2013
at 2:15 AM
Whirled Peas..
You are smart. I like your comments.
Deutsch Bank ? A German Bank….is also known as………Bank of America.
Go to the Bildeberg Secret Society and see how they fit into the elitist group.
The Bank…BOA is always an invitee to this yearly secret meeting.
The World Bankers are the investors across the world buying up all the world’s natural resources.
Read my earlier comment on resources in my state of Missouri.
Thanks for your knowledge. Keep up the good work.
I will read further what you posted.
Peas…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 20, 2013
at 6:41 PM
POOLMAN….
You are correct with ALL you say.
I only say that because, if one studies and gets daily emails from the many points of view, has an historical background to any of the subjects you address, one can ONLY come to your same conclusion.
I only wish these folks would study some of this information, and add as they go along.
Fear is the greatest motivator.
Every Great Conqueror knew that. Atilla the Hun did horrendous deeds to his enemy and the fear was passes around the world. That is how he conquered his next enemy. He came to control much of the world because of fear.
Ghengis Khan created victory over much of the world in the same way.
The old world alliances and elitists are in control of the printing and distribution of ALL the money of the MAJOR countries of world, except for North Korea, Cuba, and Iran.
As they squeeze the last dollar from the entire world; they continue to instill the FEAR of Iranian bombs, Communist Cuba, and the ever growing enemy of N. Korea.
We will eventually be brainwashed to the medias, and go to war out of the continual FEAR they instill in the daily news propaganda. We are being told these NEWS CREATED ENEMIES are bad guys and must fall, in order for us to be free.
The truth is these are the only last 3 major countries that do not have a Rothechild Central Banking System, after the FEAR created 12 year war, after 9/11.
Thanks, POOLMAN keep telling the truth..
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 20, 2013
at 6:21 PM
NOP..
I told the story already about how the plat drawing on land in the Farmington area in Missouri is owned by the U.S. GOVERNMENT. ( why do we not know about this…either locally, or nationally ?)
THEY have been using a private citizen to buy up all the small farmers land and paying a bulldozer around the clock 24 hours a day to clear the land of trees and vegetation. ( small farmers lands are being bought up by our government and this one party, as well )
This is taking place throughout the center of America, both North and South in a straight line through Missouri.
I understand the old mines in the area indicate it is pre-Cambrian.
Many of the newest, most importantly used minerals are in this area, such as uranium…computers………plutonium…weapons……..and the blue mineral ?are all here in great quanities in Missouri.
The minerals are coming to the surface of the earth, with each Vocanic action and shifting of the earth.
We, in America, are losing the use of our natural resources.
Who is running this shadow Government we call our Government ?
I saw on PBS that if a third world country wants to come out of poverty, it MUST be able to utilize its own natural resources.
( you will note what took place in the case of Africa and its BLOOD Diamonds, and how cruel the rich are with taking over natural resources around the world )
When I googled the name of the buyer of all the land in this particular locale…I found them to be an old German family, part of the German aristocracy of the 1800’s.
By the way, this family owns several new car dealerships in St. Louis.
This information fits in retrospect, to the elite old aristocracies controlling this government and every other.
According to info given by Alex Jones, a Verticle Superhighway from South America, through the entire North American continent is to be built.
That is why illegals are NOT stopped by our government, and instead our border guard was charged with murder, after doing his job, telling an illegal to stop, and shooting him, for not doing so.
That is why there will never be a 2000 mile ? fence constructed to keep the illegals out of America.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 20, 2013
at 5:50 PM
Oh, for heaven’s sake… We GET your point of view.
“Can we just get back to the topic now?”
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 20, 2013
at 5:32 PM
When you think it can’t get worse it can. I don’t have an answer but I don’t think this is an answer.
When Bei Bei found out she was pregnant, she was excited to start a family. But things took a turn for the worse. Her boyfriend abruptly left her and said he didn’t love her anymore, and she fell into a spiral of depression. It got so bad that she tried to kill herself on Christmas Eve.
Bei Bei survived, but after an emergency C-section, her baby — whom she named Angel — didn’t survive. Now an overzealous prosecutor is putting Bei Bei on trial for murder.
Bei Bei lives in Indiana, which has a law that was meant to criminalize people who attack pregnant women. This law has never been used to convict a pregnant woman of harming herself — and suicide is not even illegal in Indiana. Bei Bei went through a personal tragedy, and now she could face 45-65 years in prison.
http://indianalawblog.com/archives/2013/01/ind_courts_two_38.html
google BeiBei Terry Curry Murder charge for more information.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 20, 2013
at 5:08 PM
Anon.
Your comment reminds me of the study that was made many years ago in school with 5 yr. olds. The males were inherently MORE aggressive, and girls took a back seat to them, even at that age. Both behaviors have been conditioned by men toward themselves, and women throughout history.
Women have been trained throughout history to walk behind the men.
Lately, there has been a lot of buzz about Moslem men treating their women so badly, and the abuse they sustain at the hands of their men.
I remember driving along Delmar Boulevard in St. Louis on a Saturday and seeing a family of an Orthodox Jewish sect walking to Temple, with ALL the women several steps behind the men.
Also remember, that women in America only received the right to vote some 100 years ago.
America has NOT always stood for equality of women, or blacks, nor, the poor.
MEN have ALWAYS controlled women and the lack of education women received throughout the history of MAN. Even after the somewhat freeing of women, with the sufferage movement, a lack of education was just another reason for women to be looked down at with lesser value to society than men.( in the eyes of mankind, as a whole )
Some men are very evolved and do not think of women as less, but, many men are not.
The Christian faith is also guilty of misinterpreting of the Bible as to the treatment of women.
I do understand that during the last 100 years, the changes to society due to womans sufferage, has created a confussion to our men, as to their roles, in regards to women and the families they both created. ( this confusion is seen amoungst the children brought forth after the suffrage movement, as well. )
I IMMAGINE, if one was born closer to the previous 100 year mark, your view of women will mirror MOST LIKE the social mores of 100 years ago.
Yes, ANON! There are many women more intelligent than men.
Intelligence is inherent, and cannot be measured by the formal education afforded a person.
Women may not have the educational background that societal pressures afforded men, but, that does not determine which sex is smarter.
There are a lot of educated idiots, who have been trained like monkeys to do a job, but do not have a clue as to how the world works and how they fit in.
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By: Chris on June 20, 2013
at 5:07 PM
pf – “It’s really a lot simpler than that. Be nice to me and I’ll be nice to you. Be a bitch, even an old bitch, and I’ll take your head off.”
Pf – likewise – if you wish to behave like an assh*le you will be treated as an assh*le.
Laissez les bons temps rouler.
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By: PFesser on June 20, 2013
at 4:06 PM
Here ya go Jean,
Par Petroleum agrees to buy Tesoro refinery
And here’s a bonus link for some visuals:
The human cost of Detroit’s petroleum Koch piles
Peace ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 20, 2013
at 12:18 PM
These are not done for nothing. The pipeline will literally divide the nation and will be monitored 24/7, like our borders. This divide and conquer activity is a daily act by tptb to control us. Why else do you think the fear factor has been hyped and continually plays in the background? Fear is the best herder ever found. Check real history. Check the progress of the TPP and see how our rights, those that we think we still have, are systematically being eroded. The secretive negotiations have had a few leaks that should anger even the mousiest among us. That, and this new NSA ‘crisis’ will be used to crush any dissent.
This beast is at full throttle. Step away from the vehicle.
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By: poolman on June 20, 2013
at 12:07 PM
Hi Gato,
Thanks for commenting. I will answer later, but I can’t now, because we will soon be leaving to help our daughter with our grand daughter while her husband is at work. I am planting several more rows of string beans first.
I was the one who mentioned the potential number of workers. Nebraska said most in that state would be US citizens or some sort of variant. The jobs would last as long as it took to construct the pipe line, maybe several years. During that time, wages would impose a multiplyer effect on the economy. Once completed some workers would still be maintaining the pipe line and performing other duties. Even two or three years means a lot to unemployed or under employed families, and a paying job means the state doesn’t have to provide unemployment or other aid.
The economy might be better and more conductive for job hunting at the end of the construction period. It isn’t a problem in Nebraska because the unemployment rate is about 4.5% or so. In some places bought time might be beneficial, and could mean the difference between keeping a house or losing it.
We also have a fiber optics line under our land. It was upgraded last year and took a week or less to cross our farm. I imagine it would take somewhat longer to lay down the pipeline in any one place.
As far as risk, Everything we do is risky. Cost-benefit analysis tells us when the risk outweighs the benefit. You know the old joke. Something or other will happen if I don’t get hit by a bus or truck. It happened to me, but I assume chances of a repeat are remote,
“Talk” to you later.
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By: James on June 20, 2013
at 12:00 PM
Hi, James – I’d like to respond to some of your points here.
First of all, as you state, this is “Canadian oil,” and not even really “oil” yet – it’s shale with oil in it. I see no reason to assume that we, as a nation, will necessarily profit from their oil simply because we sell – or lease – our land to them, on which they can run THEIR pipeline. In fact, our doing so will make that land THEIR land, so a large multinational oil company will essentially own, and control, a great swath down the middle of our country. And do you think they will dutifully adhere to “our” environmental and safety regulations on “their” land, especially if those regulations and standards cut into their potential profits…? Hardly!
As you also say, China is already buying that oil. Again, there is no reason to think they will not continue to be among the high bidders, whether the supply comes directly from Canada (or anywhere), or from a tanker out of New Orleans or Galveston. Where have we gotten the idea that somehow we are going to be given a “deal” on any of this oil, simply because we’ve been “nice enough” to let them run the pipeline through our country? (I’ve never seen much “nice” in ANY oil dealings, ever.)
I wish that your statement that “greater supply lowers prices” were true in practice. In theory, of course, it is – but that assumes that the market is truly “free,” and everyone is willing to put everything they’ve got out there for sale, at every given moment. That is never the case. What controls “market prices” is the manipulation of supplies by those who hold them. When there is too much supply, and prices start to drop, the producers simply hoard what they’ve got, and/or stop producing, until supplies get tight again, and the price rises again to what they’d like.
Auntie Jean commented on the age of many current refineries, and the pipelines that serve them. Of course these should be upgraded, especially due to the particularly corrosive nature of shale oil. Again, they won’t be – until some disaster strikes and the damage has been done. There is always a risk/reward equation at work, and nobody is going to spend one dime they don’t absolutely have to spend, until they are forced to do so.
As for your statement that the “odds favor relative safety”… That may be so about the odds – but even if the “risk” is one in ten, the catastrophe that would result from just that one are potentially devastating. One contaminated aquifer or other water source will never be replaced.
I’m glad that your farm did not suffer from the oil and gas breaks nearby. BTW, in our Community, we are replacing every single water main and pipe, because the system is more than fifty years old, and things were starting to break. Old pipes have a much shorter lifespan than newer ones. That’s something you might want to investigate. (Obviously, the KXL will be laying new pipe, but I would imagine that it would connect to some older ones, as well.)
Someone – perhaps you – mentioned that this project could create “42,000 new jobs” during the period of construction. Any idea how long that period might be? Ten years? Fifteen? And what makes anybody think that these will be “new” jobs, given to unskilled American workers, currently unemployed? My guess is that a great number of those jobs will go to highly skilled pipeline workers currently at work on some other project possibly nearing completion. (The parent corporation will certainly not be interested in taking some former lawn maintenance worker, currently unemployed, and spending the time and money necessary to train him or her to do highly-skilled pipeline work. No; they will say they “have to” hire people who already know what they’re doing, for the sake of efficiency.) And many of the workers will probably be Canadian, because those workers are not going to quietly let themselves be laid off just because “their” employer happens to have a project going on US soil.
In sum, there is absolutely no guarantee, in any area, that this pipeline will have any long-term benefit for this country. In fact, it is my opinion that we are fools and idiots to sell off our land and risk our irreplaceable natural resources so that a few very wealthy corporations can become even wealthier and more powerful.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 20, 2013
at 11:27 AM
pf – “It’s really a lot simpler than that. Be nice to me and I’ll be nice to you. Be a bitch, even an old bitch, and I’ll take your head off.”
Pf – likewise – if you wish to behave like an assh*le you will be treated as an assh*le.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 20, 2013
at 10:50 AM
Hi NOP. I hope you enjoyed your trip.
The pipe line will be no more a target for terrorists than the numerous other pipe lines crossing our nation. Large dams and city water supplies are also potential targets.
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By: james on June 20, 2013
at 9:56 AM
The Keystone Pipeline will be a 5,000 mile target for terrorists.
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By: No One's Puppet on June 20, 2013
at 9:42 AM
“I haven’t noticed too many decapitations of those who aren’t “nice” around here, either, have you…?”
Well, when you are incapable of walking and chewing your cud at the same time, it’s tough to notice what is going on in front of your very eyes, isn’t it?
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By: PFesser on June 20, 2013
at 9:05 AM
Hi, Cynthia – Enjoyed the “math” link. Every month, Consumer Reports magazine has a page of advertising ridiculousness of the same ilk. One of my favorites is the “warning” on packages of FireStarters: Warning! Risk of fire!
As for what’s-his-name’s remarks about those with whom he will “not play sex games” – as if we’re all just dying to know – that sentence gets trotted out (verbatim, I might add) whenever even the flimsiest “opportunity” to do so seems to present itself to him. Must be from some reference guide to “Phrases You Think Will Be Shocking and Clever” that he picked up somewhere in his studies…
I haven’t noticed too many decapitations of those who aren’t “nice” around here, either, have you…?
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 20, 2013
at 8:57 AM
Cynthia – nice math link. Let’s have some fun.
#1 $4 for two and $1.69 for one? I’ll have the other one.
#2 10 per 8oz and 20 per 20? Let’s drink the 4 oz that have no calories!
#3 must be that metric oz in one…
#4 ah, those chickens with three nuggets each
That’s enough for now. Anybody else?
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By: PFesser on June 20, 2013
at 8:33 AM
Cynthia opined: “And as for your remarks about old women.” &c.
Nice try at generalizing, but transparent as a windowpane.
It’s really a lot simpler than that. Be nice to me and I’ll be nice to you. Be a bitch, even an old bitch, and I’ll take your head off.
Can we get back on topic now, please?
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By: PFesser on June 20, 2013
at 8:22 AM
Some sad pathetic little men can’t handle a woman who is as smart as they are. They don’t seem to realize how much they diminish themselves by so obviously revealing their apparently deep seated insecurities. What a pity..
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By: Anonymous on June 20, 2013
at 7:52 AM
pf – since you are soooo good at math I thought you might enjoy this:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/18/work-math-fails_n_3442834.html?utm_hp_ref=mostpopular
And as for your remarks about old women. If you think a +/-50/60 year old man is as physically attractive as he was in his 20’s you need to put your glasses on when you stand before a mirror. The only thing that makes an older man more attractive than a younger man to a young woman is the size of his bank account.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 20, 2013
at 7:47 AM
Economics rule that the Canadian oil will be extracted because there is a demand for it. We either profit from the oil or someone else does. The Canadians are our allies, and in the event of an emergency that oil would be ours to buy.
Otherwise, as I noted, without the pipeline, someone else, notably China will buy the oil. The Chinese are our potential rivals for world power. Oil tankers hauling oil across the Pacific Ocean are at greater risk, in my opinion than a Texas tornado. The North Pacific gets very stormy at times.
The oil, no matter who buys it prevents energy prices from rising to levels they would reach should the fracked oil not exist. The reason is that the oil increases the total world supply. Greater supply lowers prices. Such potential supplies also have a psychological effect on the market. If war starts in the Middle East or other oil producing area, the knowledge that other supplies exist and can help take up the slack mean there is less panic bidding of energy prices on the futures market.
Jean has a good point about aging refineries. Companies should build new ones or repair the old.
Nothing is without risk, but the odds favor relative safety. An oil pipe line has been under our farm for at least fifty years. The 2011 flood broke a natural gas pipeline within fifteen miles of our house and an oil pipeline in Montana. Neither caused enough damage to make the national news.
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By: James on June 20, 2013
at 7:16 AM
Grandma, former piano-player and newly-minted petroleum engineer, after waxing eloquent about the intricacies of oil refining, begged and pleaded: SpankMe!
No thanks, Granny; none of us play sex games with the aged; it’s too disgusting. Perhaps you could salve your erstwhile urges with an appropriate Google search. They say there’s something for everyone there…
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By: PFesser on June 20, 2013
at 6:32 AM
http://www.habeascorpus.net/hcwrit.html
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By: PFesser on June 20, 2013
at 6:25 AM
poolman@10:34 – It is just beyond belief. Habeas corpus predates the Magna Carta. That it would be flouted in this way, by MY country, and given tacit approval by my fellow Americans, makes me want to vomit.
Since our country came into existence Americans have always deservedly held the moral high ground – and to think that now we are holding men without charge or trial… What is worse is the lack of public outrage; politicians are congenitally corrupt, but I thought better of my countrymen.
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By: PFesser on June 20, 2013
at 6:23 AM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Peas, I’m gonna need your help again. This time for an article buried in the business section of the Honolulu Star Advertiser Newspaper for Tuesday, 6/18/2013. The headline was on the front page, reading “Texas Firm to Buy Refinery.” The lengthy article is entitled ”Par Petroleum agrees to buy Tesoso” refinery by Alan Yonan, Jr.
(ayonan@staradvertiser.com.) Looks like Texas oil interests are up to their old tricks yet again.
This should be of great interest to you lori (about a small Texas oil company, Par Petroleum); Cynthia (in relation to the excellent book you recommended on the Bush Dynasty and their big oil connections. And gurl, since you live in a state bordering Canada, you should find this interesting as well as gato, Terry W., Poolman and Chris and anybody else who gives a big rats’ ass about the environment.
Tesoro is a small local oil company that has had the refinery, distribution and gas stations throughout the state of Hawaii for a long time. Let me explain. We have no access to fossil fuels except by crude import in tankers. Now, it is very easy to fall into the provincial thinking that everything has to do with ME and what goes on in MY on backyard and of course what affects MY bank account. It is the ole stuck in a place and time warp mentality. We are all gulilty as charged. Also gato and Terry W, you already know how easily distracted SpankMe is from the subject at hand by anything suggestive of women’s lingerie and/or pornography.
I think we are all aware of just how dependant we are on energy sources. Out here, there is little chance of people freezing to death without heat in the winter. Some of us might sweat a little without air conditioning, but that’s not fatal. However, most of us know that there is a finite amount of fossil fuel and sooner or later alternate sources of energy must be found. Plenty of good people are working on that in wind, solar and out here waves and as endless, safe source of energy. For us, hydro-electric is out of the question. Some are looking into geo-thermal. During the transition interim though we may have to depend on fracking somewhat to take up the slack even though it is potentially an environmental nightmare. Unlike nuclear power plants (read Chernobyl and Three Mile Island), people world wide are more aware of the pitfalls as well as the benefits of energy sources.
Out here we are seeing more and more charging stations at individual parking spaces in parking lots for hybrid cars. They are being used!!! Of course there is the problem of how to dispose of old batteries, large and itty-bitty, but it is not nearly as ominous as nuclear waste disposal.
I don’t see why it is necessary to build the Keystone Pipeline bisecting the continental U.S. to get Canadian and other fracking oil to aging refineries in Texas. Especially across states prone to tornadoes, floods and other natural disaster that could quite possible disrupt the flow in the pipeline. BTW, as I understand it, it takes a great deal of energy and manpower to extract the fracted oil in a ratio to the amount of energy in the finished product. That would certainly not result in lowered fuel costs. Perhaps short pipelines from Canada and other fracking fields could be built simultaneous with new small state of-the-art refineries in some of our northern Midwestern states. There is no reason why the oil has to be piped all the way to Texas’ tired old refineries just because the traditional Texas oil interests and politicians say so. Maybe it’s about time senators and representatives in those northern Midwestern states got on it!
I have plenty more to say on this topic another time. But it’s getting late now, so nighty-night.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 20, 2013
at 2:49 AM
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By: poolman on June 19, 2013
at 10:34 PM
Yes, Terry W. it is about greed and power.
I like your song lyrics. They remind me of what some soldiers sang as they landed in Saigon. ” Well its one, two, three what are we fighting for? I don’t know, I don’t give a damn. Next stop is Vietnam. Whoopy We’re all gonna die!”
I agree Pfessor. In fact two Democrats tried to warn about the mass spying, but they couldn’t say much as long as the program was classified. Progressives and conservatives can unite on this issue.
Obama appears to have united Catholics in Ireland. He spoke to 2000 Irish and told them Catholic schools are divisive and turn towns against each other. Catholic schools should go,
We may be back in Omaha helping with our grand daughter tomorrow . If a political explosion in our home town isn’t contained life will become even more interesting. We live out of town, but we have property in town. So far, it is not affected.
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By: James on June 19, 2013
at 9:44 PM
Gato opined: “aying that “fracking is here to stay” is about the equivalent of saying “slavery is here to stay,” or “polio is here to stay”… Only if we let it.”
I don’t think it sounds like that at all! I think it’s more like: Energy independence is here to stay, and the money we used to send to the Middle East so gato can have gas for her car – which we KNOW will not run on piss – will not be sent; therefore it will not be used to fund madrasas that teach little boys how to kill westerners, or to buy the weapons which they will use to do it. Their cars won’t run on piss either, and they find it hard to stage jihad without money. Win/win.
“The word “fracking,” itself, sounds remarkably like another word that accurately describes what the whole process really is.”
Paraphrasing Jim Garner in “Murphy’s Romance,” I think that’s an ugly expression for that particular pleasure – and that particular process.
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By: PFesser on June 19, 2013
at 9:43 PM
I know a little about the Keystone Pipeline because it will be near our home.
Viewpoint Keystone Pipeline is an economic slam dunk for America”
They describe it as a line in the sand issue for those who want to stop development of fossil fuels and those who want energy self sufficiency and a growing economy.
The pipeline would carry nearly a million barrels of oil per day. It would transport oil from Alberta oil sands and also oil from the new fields in North Dakota and Montana,
The Department of Energy estimates that energy if used here would eliminate or reduce our dependence on Middle East oil.
Construction of the pipe line would create an average of 42, 000 jobs over the time of construction. Many labor unions support the pipeline.
The State Department started its NEPA review of the original permit showed construction to be safe.
Canadian oil will still come to the surface Keystone or not. The Canadians are already preparing to sell the oil to China. If they did, tankers would haul the oil away. They of course run the risk of leaks and spills . The ships will burn carbon based energy and send more green house gases into the air.
I know about the water wars in California and Mulhullen’s work. World- wide energy production is the same. it goes to the highest bidder. The more energy we and our friendly neighbors produce, the stronger will be our economic position relative to some of our enemies’.
Chris, no one will make most of our family die in our seventies unless they use guns or poison. Most of us live and are active well into our nineties. Two relatives missed 100 by two hours and two weeks respectively. One was still driving at age 98.
.
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By: James on June 19, 2013
at 9:35 PM
Jim Hightower on commondreams.org says, Repeal the PATRIOT Act!
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2013/06/19-2
See? Most Progressives are not asleep at the wheel. Just some.
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By: PFesser on June 19, 2013
at 9:35 PM
Social Security has two trust funds. Income excluding interest-earned interest is not accounted for. I may be wrong, but I think it earns about 4.5% interest. Through 2033, projected income is less than what is owed. As soon as the trust fund is depleted in 2033, the program can pay for 73% of scheduled income.
We are exporting good paying jobs, and the economy remains sluggish. This lowers the inflow of money and accelerates spending. America Blog predicts the fund will be depleted within twenty years. A surge of baby boomer retirements will further strain the system.
Much of the trust fund no longer exists. The government has been borrowing from it since LBJ to finance other operations. When it has to repay the loans, the government will be forced into a real sequester with serious cuts in programs perhaps including support for old people.
My earlier figures still stand until some one can prove them wrong. I don’t mean by a few thousand dollars. I mean by showing that the hypothetical people I cited would earn less than they paid .Poolman’s inflation scenario does alter the equation, but inflation affects the entire economy making some increases relative.
People do get more than they pay into the system. My citations prove it. Time Magazine Business and Money Social Security Now Takes more than it gives ” Aug 7,2012. “But it is now official. Social Security is a lousy investment for the average worker. People retiring today will be among the first generation of workers to pay more in Social Security taxes than they receive in benefits over the course of their lives. according to a new analysis by the Associated Press.”
. Programs will have to be cut beyond our wildest dreams, or taxes will rise. it won’t matter to most of us, because most of us will be dead. As I wrote before, younger people are getting a raw deal..
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By: James on June 19, 2013
at 9:13 PM
Gato, I saw some video of the Trans Canadian folks cutting through private land in Texas to make way for this pipeline monstrosity. A gal down in Texas was pretty upset, and rightly so. This contaminators don’t care and government is behind them in the name of cheap energy, jobs, and capitalism. The crap they want to ship is garbage and we, the people, are not even going to benefit from it. Jobs? Right. These are not hiring trades. These crews are always going where the work is. The only permanent jobs will be in government paid caretakers over corporate stockholder’s investments, stockholders often foreign investors. I believe the Koch brothers are big on pushing that pos. I think they got foreign buyers standing by. These people are raping the land and upsetting the ecosystems and have been doing so for decades, often with full government approval. It’s a sick joke. These are crimes against the planet. It’s time to reverse the entire process. Just keep prayin’…
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By: poolman on June 19, 2013
at 8:43 PM
How Social Security Trust Funds earn interest
http://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/404/~/how-social-security-trust-funds-earn-interest
If you want to argue about where-the-extra-money-comes-from and math and all , be sure to include the understanding that the money we pay in does not just sit there. it is invested -by law. It earns interest.
if you want to argue that we tap it for too many things by all means do so but forget the stuff about how people get more than they are due as per what they put in. Is an awful lot like the “extra” money one gets from savings accounts. We all expect to get that dab o dough . There is nothing unreasonable about expecting that monies invested for 30-50 years in SS to yield a bit more than what was put in.
Why does everything have to be about about people-getting-more-than-they-are-due when it comes to everyday people and crickets over all the bazillion tax credits and special assessment deals and the like big business gets when it deigns to start up in an area? THAT costs us a hell of a lot but what a frickin sacred cow it has become!
Pfft
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By: alaskapi on June 19, 2013
at 7:22 PM
Gato, Or you could say we can’t see the oil spills for the oil or the means justify the end. It’s all about greed and we get sucked in by their glib phrases concerning jobs. Cleaning up after their messes will certainly create jobs but it could also be a “water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink” scenario as they pollute the water table and/or use it up while they frack. I’m thinking of a Disney follow-up with the dwarfs singing, “Hi, ho, hi, ho it’s off to frack we go”. I’ve also picked up on the way we’re being “fracked”.
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By: Terry W on June 19, 2013
at 5:58 PM
Hi, Poolman – This bloody KXL pipeline, as far as I can tell, does absolutely nothing to benefit this country. “Provide the US with much-needed jobs”…? Sure, a few thousand construction workers for a few years. (Not to be scorned, but hardly a long-term benefit.) “Provide our country with energy independence”…? Yeah, if we happen to be the highest bidder. They’re not going to just give it to us at bargain-basement rates, as long as China and Dubai are willing to pay more – which they will.
The only potential for future “job creation” is for those that will inevitably be necessary to clean up their messes – probably substantial. And those are jobs that will be paid for by all of us, as taxpayers.
You are no doubt aware that the pipeline proponents have been moving to try to get protesters labeled as “terrorists” who are “threatening vital infrastructure.” These people have no shame. They want this, and they want it bad. They’re going to get even uglier in order to try to get it. (Again and again these days, I’m remembering that great movie, “Chinatown”… Getting water for California agriculture, and what people were willing to do to make that happen. If you’ve never seen it, or haven’t seen it in a while, do so. IMHO, it’s prophetic…)
Saying that “fracking is here to stay” is about the equivalent of saying “slavery is here to stay,” or “polio is here to stay”… Only if we let it.
The word “fracking,” itself, sounds remarkably like another word that accurately describes what the whole process really is.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 19, 2013
at 5:49 PM
James correctly noted: “That extra money has to come from somewhere.”
Careful, now – you are dangerously close to math.
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By: PFesser on June 19, 2013
at 5:27 PM
POOLMAN..
Check out the damage the EPA is about to allow in our feed to animals.
Oil…does that surprise you?
Oil is in everything from plastics to the plastics in our foods, itself.
No wonder the human body cannot utilize within each cell, nor digest the plastic.
Our cells are dying a slow death of starvation…from no nutrition, along with the other toxic poisons on our vegetables, and fruits.
See how the EPA is OWNED by Monsanto and the other chemical companies.
http://www.naturalnews.com/040842_glyphosate_EPA_regulations_contamination_levels.html
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 19, 2013
at 11:55 AM
James,
The complete Corporate Government System we live in will not allow us to live beyond the years the Secret Corporate Bildebergs have outlined in their agendas. ( men 75….women…..78….Ameica is # 47-49 in life expectancy )
The main systems of our government, political ( you see what a mess that is, worse condition in the history of man. Or is it the same ? ), medical
( poisonous drugs and protocols at such gravely high costs ), the educational ( teaches the children to work for the corporations and be beholding to them for their very existence ), the financial ( the bankers stealing every investment dollar from those who believe their lies on growing money, by pulling the plug each time they decide to devastate, from the fools who save in their institutions ) all systems have the same negative outcome.
We are rats running in the maze constructed with the institutions that the money they stole from society built and controlled, all along. The mom and pop companies our grandparents built have been bought up by the big guys and are no longer. The freedom to do so is being diminished even more with each upcoming generation. The goal is to take us back to the dark ages, and it IS happening.
Bad mouthing each bad political element, whether on this or other site, still does not lump the problems as a collective effort being used to control and devastate our American and all encompassing World societies.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 19, 2013
at 11:19 AM
Good morning, James. I’m glad your grand child is doing well. Don’t let those medical ‘experts’ turn her into their latest research project. They are not doing mother or baby any favors by satisfying their own curiosities and jacking up the medical expenses. When did we become so clinical?
Fracking is a crime against nature. Precious water sources are being contaminated, sometimes even flammable. For what? There are huge natural gas reserves being discovered everywhere. Nikola Tesla had devised the ability for everyone to have free power, but JPMorgan, among others, put the kibosh to that. Welcome to the tailings of the age of capitalism.
SS money I payed in, along with others, during our years of employment had greater value when we all started. The dollar in 1970 was worth much more than that dollar is worth today. So, getting more than one paid in ought to be the case. Of course, the money wasn’t put into an investment account, rather spent as quickly (or prior to) being collected. Those that promote privatization have that going for them, but the guarantees of gain via stock market investments are mostly pie in the sky. After all, our pols get insider info which has made them rich and you can see how well that has played out for the rest of us.
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By: poolman on June 19, 2013
at 10:29 AM
Here is documentation from US News Money and Retirement Planning to Retire.
If a single man earns an average of $43,100 during his career from 22 to 64, he will have paid $345,000 into the system. He will likely get back $72,000 more than he paid in. A single woman with a similar work history will do even better because of her longer life expectancy. She will net $192,000 more than she paid. Medicare benefits also let those people get more money than they paid in.
That extra money has to come from somewhere.
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By: James on June 19, 2013
at 10:17 AM
Re Obamacare: The media is noticing that the government is having trouble persuading young people to sign up for Obamacare.
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito noted that healthy young adults pay an average of $854.00 a year on health care. Obamacare would require them to pay roughly $5,800 because they would have to pay for services they wouldn’t need. “The mandate is forcing them to provide a huge subsidy to the insurance companies… to subsidize services that will be received by somebody else.”
The new government system of insurance will be good for some people just as we old people are bleeding the younger generations dry with our tax funded benefits. People say they deserve current Social Security payments, and many need the money to survive, but they are receiving and spending money they did not pay into the system. If one got exactly what he/she paid plus interest, the payments would soon stop.
We are getting more back than we put in. This cannot last forever.
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By: james on June 19, 2013
at 9:56 AM
One Monday afternoon, while her parents slept, our grand daughter began breathing irregularly without displaying distress for about five minutes. We nearly woke someone to get a doctor’s number, but then she was fine. It only happened once that we know of.
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By: James on June 19, 2013
at 8:55 AM
During the months doctors were sure the baby had Down’s Syndrome, our daughter and son-in law investigated after birth care with several groups and pre – schools. They joined a support group.
Our daughter noticed many of the babies had a certain look in their eyes, as if their eyes were somewhat vacant. Our grand daughter’s eyes sparkle and they follow sounds and people.
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By: James on June 19, 2013
at 8:52 AM
Pfessor, anything we do is a trade off isn’t it? Even eating. Cheap energy has also brought millions or billions of people into the middle class.
As far as big boy or girl pants, few can match the standing man in Istanbul or the standing woman in Ankara. They mirror the approach of China’s Tank Man.
Our grand daughter is doing better. Before the last appointment on Monday, doctors worried because she was one ounce away from real concern about her weight loss. On Monday, she had gained four ounces and she was where she should be.
I don’t remember how much her head had grown in the first week. It gained four centimeters from Thursday to Monday. Now, her head is on the charts–the 20th percentile. Her ears are still pretty small.
Doctors still want to do a genetic test and an MRI but unless the information found can actually find something treatable, what is the point? Our daughter said she will ask detailed questions. Whether she does or not is another matter. A CT scan was negative and one of the doctors said a negative score meant an MRI was not necessary. Now, they want to proceed.
A new theory is that maybe her head wasn’t denied nourishment after all. Maybe her head was jammed in a tight space because of our daughter’s misplaced placenta.
One of our daughter’s fellow counselor’s father is a noted infant etc brain surgeon. His daughter had been relaying some of our daughter’s questions to the doctor.
My wife and I are getting this information second hand, so we only know our daughter’s interpretation.
Baby was at Red Robin as we ate with some of our son-in law and daughter’s friends. The little girl stared at everything and it was the first night she let her parents sleep. Our son in law took her to the TV station, and her picture was on the air. She slept much of the time, so she still woke parents up in the night,
She recognizes faces and voices and has passed the benchmarks the pediatrician listed for a new-born infant. I tried playing Sami music to calm our grand daughter early in the morning because one of its uses is to calm reindeer and infants. Her eyes opened wide and then, she went to sleep, However, she probably would have done so anyway.
We came back home yesterday afternoon because we have to manage our own lives too.
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By: James on June 19, 2013
at 8:47 AM
James – I agree that fracking is here to stay. One has to laugh at the schizophrenia sometimes; folks want cheap energy, but somehow they think it can be had with ZERO risk. I’m reminded of a ‘seventies comedian, Robert Klein. He did a little ditty on oil drilling, which he finished with, “Oil: organic, natural, necessary. After all, your car won’t run on piss.” Neither will your furnace.
*********
On another front: great interview with David Stockman, budget director under Reagan, on Edward Snowden. Calls him a “hero.” I couldn’t agree more.
http://finance.yahoo.com/blogs/daily-ticker/edward-snowden-heroic-says-david-stockman-150758788.html
As I’m sure you remember, he and Reagan butted heads over Reagan’s fiscal irresponsibility. He is scathing in his assessment of the NSA’s spying on American citizens, and the current (and previous) admins’ attacks on the Constitution. I’m reading his book on the fiscal irresponsibility dating back to before Roosevelt, to include Nixon, Carter, Reagan, and especially Hussein and his minion, The Bernank. He hails Eisenhower and his treasury secretary, William McChesney Martin, and interestingly enough, also Bill Clinton. The more I read, the more I think Stockman is right on the money.
I’m pulling most of my retirement out of the American market and putting it into Canadian bank stocks. We are SOOOOOOO riding for a fall…I just hope I can keep my kids out of most of it. They don’t have the experience to ride it out, I don’t think.
How’s the new baby?
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By: PFesser on June 19, 2013
at 4:52 AM
Terry W – “The same applies, by the way, to people who have no recourse other than the ER for their routine health needs. We pay for that in our insurance premiums and whatever isn’t covered by the insurance.
I know the “Obama Care haters” will argue with that logic. I have on my big girl panties and I can take it.”
Did you say, “panties?!” Say it isn’t so! Someone will be on you like a duck on a June bug. LOL
No, I agree that there are many folks who simply have no other recourse than just go to the ER. I watched (from inside!) this whole system unravel for more than thirty years; it has to be rebuilt from the ground up, and believe me, making it even more complex and expensive (Obamacare) is NOT the solution.
The biggest problem is cost, most of which can be traced directly to the govt’s pouring money into the system. If you want more of something, subsidize it, and that’s what they’ve done. When my mother was in the hospital in the late ‘sixties, it averaged about $40/day.
The same thing has happened to college costs: distortion of the market by very cheap money, provided of course by the govt via grants and loans. If college had to be evaluated as a REAL expense, and that expense balanced against expected benefit, there would be many fewer college students and the cost much lower. Majors without significant financial benefit, like “Women’s Studies” or “Men’s Studies” would fall by the wayside.
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By: PFesser on June 19, 2013
at 4:39 AM
Auntie Jean, They had your phone number because they, like us, have caller ID. I’m glad you didn’t repeat the info to the later caller. I often order stuff online myself and was scammed at one time by a book seller. Fortunately my credit card company picked up on the charges made in England. I told them it certainly wasn’t me since I was teaching Vacation Bible School those days! I would have enjoyed being in England again but was happy they saw that red flag and contacted me. Of course the bottom line is that we end up paying for the criminal activities be it shop lifting or identify theft. The businesses or credit card companies aren’t going to just eat those losses. The same applies, by the way, to people who have no recourse other than the ER for their routine health needs. We pay for that in our insurance premiums and whatever isn’t covered by the insurance.
I know the “Obama Care haters” will argue with that logic. I have on my big girl panties and I can take it. :o} – Terry W.
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By: Terry W on June 18, 2013
at 6:09 PM
Culver City Patch on May 8, 2013 wrote that the environmental concerns associated with fracking cannot be ignored, but the potential economic benefit is “staggering.”
Fracking would benefit the Fresno, California area which has the highest unemployment rate in the nation, according to the Huffington Post.
The Gazette of Colorado Springs wrote that most of the environmental problems occur after the fracking has ended. Spills and seepage are documented.
The Washington Times reports that Democrats as well as Republicans support fracking, and some environmental groups such as the Environmental Defense Fund believe the best strategy is to campaign for production in an environmentally sound way.
Salon.com April 24, 2013 “Fracking’s coming boom” Experts note that we can potentially become energy independent and Middle East and other oil producers will no longer get so much of our money. The natural gas glut is holding domestic prices down, but if we export more of our energy, it will be depleted sooner, and prices here will rise.
Fracking is here to stay.
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By: James on June 18, 2013
at 3:29 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
While the subject of security leaks is so much in the news, here is a related happenstance that has been occurring right along for about a year now. I have enjoyed the convenience of mail order and/or online shopping for a long time but actually prefer to see and touch for myself in person the items I buy. I have had long time accounts with Amazon and several cosmetic companies that we don’t have out here.
Recently I have ordered a few things online and gone through all the steps they DEMAND including passwords, etc., etc. Twice this has occurred afterwards. I received multiple automated phone calls from a party that did not identify itself saying that my order (not specified) could not be shipped until I verified my name, address and credit card number. Say what? Naturally, I did not disclose any of it. Further I don’t recall giving out my phone number with the online order either. I never received the things I ordered and they did not show up on the credit card bill. No great loss. They were items I can easily do without.
Here is my point. Big companies can cut down, way down, if the more business is handled by automation, the less they have to hire and train real live people to service their customers. If they overdo it though, in the long run it will hurt their business. The robo calls turn people off!
And so there was the Industrial Revolution when people left the farms to find work in urban areas with the inherent problems that Revolution caused.
Now we are in the midst of the Technology Revolution. There are always some up sides and some down sides to every type of revolution. It will be interesting to see how this one plays out.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 18, 2013
at 1:58 AM
Now why does a payroll card instead of pay check sound like a bad idea? What will they think of next to nickle and dime every penny they can get from you!
Morgan Chase payroll cards charge:
$1.50 min. for ATM
$5.00 for over the counter cash withdrawal
$1.00 to check balance
$0.75 for online bill payment
$15.00 for lost card replacement
(I’m sure there is more)
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/pa-mcdonalds-franchise-sued-payroll-cards-19420312
And this is done at a minium wage job no less!!!!!
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 17, 2013
at 11:33 AM
HI, again, Cynthia – Yeah, this idea of using water for fracking in areas suffering a drought is pretty thought-provoking isn’t it? The phrase “…an opportunity to make money by selling water…” makes me feel quite unsettled, just by itself – something just not right with that concept.
Who’s going to consume all this newly-created “energy” when people start dying from dehydration, or starving because crops could not be irrigated…? (May sound a bit melodramatic, but it’s what’s happening all over central Africa, right now, for example, and, IMO, is the underlying reason for all the slaughter taking place in that area. “Ethnic,” or “religious,” strife would not be so necessary if there were enough water for all.)
This subject is very close to my heart since I live in a small private Community with its own water system, which we manage ourselves. In fact, the Community Association was originally formed, decades ago, for the specific purpose of supplying water to its members. Recently, we were approached by a large regional private water management company, looking to take over our system. (They originally tried this ten years ago, and were turned down.) We face ever-increasing quality and monitoring requirements from the State, the Department of Public Health, and the EPA – all of which are expensive and require the endless slogging through the kind of paperwork only multiple governing agencies can engender. The management company jumped on this situation, suggesting they could “help us out,” and “take over the problem,” by dint of their vast experience and expertise. Fortunately, IMO, the Community rejected them, once again, by a margin of ten to one. (I have the nagging feeling, though, that they have no intention of giving up, even so…)
We are a real anomaly in the area, reminiscent of a David and Goliath situation. In our case, our small group of homeowners has been willing to commit to holding on to something we feel is absolutely essential to our well-being, and equally willing to shoulder the work and considerable cost required to do so.
And, yes, I’m damned proud of us!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 17, 2013
at 9:37 AM
Hey, Cynthia – FASCINATING site! I’m sure we’re not the only country that does this kind of thing, but I’m confident we’re right up there among the most active. And Congress is UPSET!!! This is a SCANDAL!!! WORSE THAN WATERGATE!!! AND IT’S ALL OBAMA’S FAULT!!! KENYAN SOCIALIST WHERE’S HIS BIRTH CERTIFICATE NO OBAMACARE DON’T TRY TO TAKE OUR GUNS FREEEEEDOOOOOMMM!!!!
Members of Congress should be upset – they should be upset because not a single one of them has paid much attention to this proliferation for the last twelve years, and none of them have any idea what’s actually going on with it now.
Kind of makes you realize how totally inconsequential that little “leaker” twerp (whose name I’ve already forgotten) and his “explosive information,” and his buddy Greenwald, really are, doesn’t it…?
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 17, 2013
at 8:31 AM
I was wrong about Brazil. Their system started as a pay-as-you-go but has been corrupted by – guess who – the politicians. Now The Netherlands ranks as #1, Australia # 2. US is # 10.
http://www.advisorone.com/2011/11/07/top-10-countries-with-best-retirement-systems?t=the-retiree&page=1
I would like to see the US system changed so that anybody who gets a pension contribution from work gets Real Money, which goes into his own private pension fund. He could then take the pension with him to his next job. Nowadays the pension funds are accessible by the corp itself and raided, leaving the employee high and dry. Two brothers I knew who worked at J&L Steel in Cleveland ended up, after it went out of business and was the target of a corporate raider, each with about $60/month pension, after working there thirty years each. Jesus.
Stockman really goes off on the corporate and Wall Street co-opting of congressional politicians. Promises to be a good book.
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By: PFesser on June 17, 2013
at 8:27 AM
Gato – money paid into the system will not come close to paying for healthcare when one gets older. And Jean, there is no “Medicare Trust Fund.” There is supposed to be, but in actuality it is all financed out of current taxes or borrowing.
Nobody is opposed to taking care of old folks (I’m getting there myself!) or anybody else, but the numbers have to add up. They either add up now or they add up later. TANSTAAFL always applies.
My argument with both Dems and ReBiblicans is that they are too spineless to do what is right for the long term. Social Security, for example. There is no trust fund there, either; they spent it all. If you were a lawyer taking care of somebody’s estate for the benefit of their kids and you started taking money out and putting IOUs in its place, you would go to jail. The same should apply to Congress.
I’ve been reading David Stockman’s book, “The Great Deformation.” It is a scathing indictment, but interestingly his greatest criticism for fiscal irresponsibility is of Republicans. (He was Budget Director under Reagan)
So I’m told, the Brazilians are the poster children for setting up a responsible retirement system for their people. Happened just recently. Apparently it is solvent, and will be so for the foreseeable future. We’re smart; we can do that too. If there were ever a reason to “Throw the Bastards Out!”, we have it here, now.
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By: PFesser on June 17, 2013
at 8:16 AM
How we got to this point!
Top Secret America describes huge national security buildup in the US after the 9/11 attack.
http://projects.washingtonpost.com/top-secret-america/articles/editors-note/
and/or
topsecretamerica.com
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 17, 2013
at 7:54 AM
“We use the very element to maintain our lives,
water….to destroy the environment we require for life.”
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/16/colorado-fracking_n_3450170.html
“I think it’s one of the worst occasions in my memory of somebody with access to classified information doing enormous damage to the national security interests of the United States.” – Cheney
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/16/dick-cheney-edward-snowden_n_3450006.html
I have an even worse occasion in my memory….Dick.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 17, 2013
at 7:53 AM
Hi Congenial Gang,
That’s it, Peas! How’dja do that? I’ve said it before and I say it again. You are a GENIUS!!! When are your cat, your lovely wife and you coming out and moving in? We’ll feed you and do your laundry in exchange for computer guru advice. You can even get in lots and lots of beach time and snorkeling. Scuba maybe?
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 17, 2013
at 1:57 AM
Here you go Jean.
Army major guilty in data leak.
Peace ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 16, 2013
at 11:08 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Army major guilty in data leak – Honolulu Star-Advertiser1 day ago … An Army officer who worked for U.S. Pacific Command was found guilty Friday by a military jury of … Saturday, June 15, 2013 … Army major guilty in data leak.
http://www.staradvertiser.com
http://www.staradvertiser.com/…/20130615_US_security_Army_major_guilty_in_ data_leak.html?.
Ah ha!!! Success, ( I think.)
Aloha! 🙂 Namaste. shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Aunie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 16, 2013
at 10:23 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Thank you much, Cynthia, for your link on June 16, 2013 at 11:06 AM. Very comprehensive. It dovetails with our experience. In a nutshell, we paid into FICA for the premiums and for supplemental insurance for 50ish years. I don’t have the numbers handy off the top of my head. There were and are hefty annual deductibles for both. And of course, premiums are still deducted now from our pensions and Social Security (for Medicare.) For most claims, Medicare pays 80%, supplemental picks up some and the rest is out of pocket.
I did see a report on CNN about 5% of physicians going for cash only patients. That reminds me of three doctors that I knew of personally a while back but not as a patient, thank heaven! One in Colorado and two out here lost their hospital privileges through incompetence. They each tried to go it alone in the private practice only route for a while but didn’t attract many patients. Don’t know what became of them. One was an internist; another, a cardiologist and the third, an “ecology” allergist, whatever that is.
Is congress still wrangling over keeping their fingers outta the Medicare Trust Fund to “privatize” it and “invest” it in the stock market?
On to another topic, this timely article was on the front page of the Honolulu Star Advertiser Newspaper yesterday, (June 15). lori, I tried to find the thingy to highlight to link it but couldn’t. Lost my newly acquired computer skill pretty quick, dontcha think? Looks like I’m only good for YouTube so far. Anyway, the title of the article is “Army major guilty in data leak.” It is fairly long. Here are some excerpts. For the rest of it, you’ll just have to track it down yourselves if you’re interested.
“An Army officer who worked for U.S. Pacific command was found guilty Friday by a military jury of illegally possessing and passing classified national defense information, an Army official said.
“The jury Friday night sentenced Maj. Selvrak Inson to 10 years in prison, forfeiture of pay and dismissal from the Army.
“Inson passed classified intelligence assessments about Cambodia to an unidentified person not entitled to have them between 2009 and 2012, and had unauthorized possession of a U.S. Pacific command maritime strategy document, which he ‘had reason to believe could be used to the injury of the United States.’ The Army said.
“Capt. Leslie Waddle, a spokeswoman for the Army’s 8th Theater Sustainment Command in Hawaii, said Inson was found guilty of those charges as well as a charge that he had unauthorized possession of a Defense Intelligence Agency intelligence report, and that he failed to report to his chain of command that he had contact with Cambodian military and government officials.
“Inson was found guilty of a charge that he cheated on his wife – a criminal offense in the military – but was found not guilty of beating her, Waddle said. [???] He also was found not guilty of the accusation that he compiled information about U.S. service members of Cambodian descent with the intent to transmit that information to the Cambodian military, she said.
“Maj. Kevin Landtroop, the prosecutor, told the seven-member panel of high-ranking military officers during closing arguments Friday morning that the case was about loyalty and trust.
“He urged the jury to find Inson guilty on all charges.”
The rest of the article is about the juicy details of the trial and personal info on Inson.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 16, 2013
at 10:09 PM
I think I read that we older/wiser/funnier people won’t have to take off our shoes at the airport anymore. For that I’m thankful but I have pretty much given up travel. My kids in Texas come up here every summer for a nice long visit. The last time I did travel I got the wand treatment and when I got to the gate I realized I’d left my coat behind! I guess I’m lucky I realized it before I got on the plane. – Terry W
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By: Terry W on June 16, 2013
at 4:25 PM
Lori, I assume you’re talking to me about the Corey Booker video. It was a leadership summit that’s held every summer in August. I’ve never been able to attend because I’m taking care of my granddaughter. Church members bought the series and shared them with us. His talk was very inspiring.
Now I’m going to finish fixing Chicken Kiev for my son and his daughter in honor of Father’s Day. We’d be getting into my pool but a month after opening it it’s still not completely ready. I have to depend on others to help me with it and the pool guys kind of dropped the ball this year. – Terry W.
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By: Terry W on June 16, 2013
at 3:44 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Oooooo lori, Segovia. He is sooooooo mellow! We have several of his CDs.
On this day when we honor fathers everywhere, I remember my dad with so much love. He was always so proud of we kids’ accomplishments but mostly all we had to do to gain his approval was breathe!
We were a musical family. He played the valve trombone. He was also very good looking. Many people compared him favorably to the matinee movie idol of the day, Tyrone Power. In a local Passion Play similar to that of Oberammergau, my dad played the part of Lazarus, (the one Jesus raised from the dead.)
One of our grandsons who is quite musical too with a beautiful baritone voice certainly takes after his great-grandpa! Must be in the genes.
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 16, 2013
at 3:33 PM
Thanks, Lurker – Great info. Fortunately, I’ve never heard of most of them!
Most of my charity $$ goes to Doctors Without Borders, to Sojourners (an evangelical Christian group focused on “social justice” – and, believe me, I never thought I’d support an “evangelical Christian” ANYTHING!), and to FINCA, a micro-financing organization – even though providing funds for loans is not technically “charity.”
And, of course, my local Police Athletic League and both the City and volunteer fire departments, with the admission that my doing so probably has an element of the self-serving in there… (I guess I’m thinking that if my house catches on fire, they’re going to check first to see if the address is on their list of recent donors!)
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 16, 2013
at 1:48 PM
Fesser – My husband’s and my premium for our long-term-care insurance went up almost fifty percent this year, and it has nothing to do with Obamacare. It has to do with their trying to stay in business in an ever-dwindling market “niche.”
Insurance companies raise rates (or at least propose raising them) for any number of reasons, not the least of which is making a profit. No judgement there – at least not any I’m going to mention – just a statement of “market reality.” Any change of anything, in any direction, can be used as “justification” for raising rates.
It is inaccurate to say that older people get Medicare, or any form of medical care, “for free.” (What do you think most “old people” were doing during all those years it took for them to get “old”? Sitting around eating bon-bons, from adolescence onward…?) Most of us paid into it for three, four, or even five, decades, just as we paid into Social Security. And we paid, all those years, for those who were “old” before we were, and receiving the benefits of our labors, just as still-working citizens are doing today, to pay for ours.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 16, 2013
at 1:31 PM
Cynthia, I see your point. Yes, multiple people can borrow from the same source. Some times, they even lift similar phraseology. Liberals have done it too and also twisted the truth. Cutting and pasting is a wonderful thing, isn’t it?
I’m waiting for tonight’s KETV news report about Canadians coming to Omaha for medical treatment.
Our son – in law is a producer at the station. Thus, our week old grand daughter’s picture was on television this morning.
We will be helping care for her in a few hours to give the parents some respite. Better yet, the size of her head was off the charts when she was born. Not now. Her head is growing measurably this week, and so are her ears.
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By: James on June 16, 2013
at 12:25 PM
James – I will agree that it is difficult to determine the truth these days. I did a bit of research and found a few sites just cut and pasted the WTimes article. But these two sites at least put some effort into their opinions.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/06/12/1215746/-Ohio-s-Lt-Gov-lies-about-Obamacare-rate-hikes
http://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2013/06/obamacare_to_make_rates_soar_s.html
I do expect more of pf since he is so good at that math thingy.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 16, 2013
at 11:06 AM
ugggg… Terry W & Terri!!!! one more time sorry for the confuzzlement! I just need a free get out of jail pass for the year please! LOL LOL
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By: lori on June 16, 2013
at 8:59 AM
Love it Delurker! I saw a funny pic on Twitter last night that I so wanted to post here but Im not sure of the proper etiquette so didn’t. I need to look that up! I think many here would enjoy the funny memes.
Terri I heard that show too! In a perfect world it would be nice to have a non partisan discussion about all this stuff wouldn’t it? Ill take odds that isn’t going to happen. ;(
Have a wonderful day all! I’m hitting the pool and a good ole fashion TX country bqq today! Yinz can start hating me now. 😉 xoxoxo all
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By: lori on June 16, 2013
at 8:34 AM
Pi I LOVE it! The Cry Of The Wild Goose was a song we sang around the campfire (or anytime we were together and someone would pull out a guitar, which was every time!) with my extended family growing up! LOL LOL My Uncle John is a bit of a wild goose himself and always requested that song at our get together’s. In fact he lived in Alaska for a time. Along with They Call the Wind Maria, You Are My Sunshine, She’ll Be Coming Round The Mountain, all good memories! LOl Thanks!
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By: lori on June 16, 2013
at 8:26 AM
My mother could play multiple instruments, and in her younger years, she taught music. She could also play “by ear.” After she heard a song on the radio or elsewhere, she plunked about on her piano, and soon there it was.
We cared for my parents in our home near the end. One day my mother insisted she wanted her accordion which she had not played in years. I searched through her house until I found it, and she spent the afternoon playing music.
Then, she was done and said I could return it to her house. We didn’t know my mother was seriously ill, but her funeral was less than a week later.
The Washington Times is as legitimate a source as any of the liberal publications. As with any other publication,, one can check and verify somewhere else. Usually the facts are true, but the interpretation may be biased. Even rags like the National Enquirer can be credible as we learned during John Edwards’ adventures.
So, bring on the Washington Times and Mother Jones.
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By: James on June 16, 2013
at 8:14 AM
Parenthood is forever. We glory in the children’s successes and suffer their pain. In time, they tell you “you’re smarter than we thought you were.”
Its also time to remember the ones who didn’t make it, for parts of them will live inside us for the rest of our lives. If we are lucky and the timing is right, we are able to convince our parents how important they were to us before they die.
Since our son-in law works for the television station, her picture was on air a few minutes ago. We will be helping with the kid later today and tomorrow. I am besotted.
Tonight, the station will show a story about the large number of Canadians coming to Omaha for medical care. A woman interviewed for the teaser said it costs money, but it is worth it.
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By: James on June 16, 2013
at 8:01 AM
Sorry for the unexplained link. It’s just a fun example of Sean Hannity’s hypocrisy, somewhat emblematic of the times.
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By: delurkergurl on June 16, 2013
at 7:59 AM
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By: delurkergurl on June 16, 2013
at 7:56 AM
lori- that was lovely !
it was my Ma who loved classical guitar.
My Dad had totally different music likes/loves . He loved Frankie Laine’s stuff , esp this one:
He played the harmonica himself. He and his harp got thrown off the sub he was on during WWII. The other guys got tired of something he was learning to play. 🙂
Loved when he would pull it out to play myself. Family dog always sang along to Red River Valley . Nothing else , just RRV 😉
Happy Father’s Day to all.
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By: alaskapi on June 16, 2013
at 7:55 AM
Oh come on pf. There is nothing in this article to support their statement about Obamacare. Every freakin link takes you back to the same article. And you can click here for permission to reprint so you can hand out to all your uninformed friends and neighbors! The Washington Times!!!!!! Quit peddling Bullsh*t.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 16, 2013
at 7:52 AM
Happy Fathers Day JSRI, and all the other male lurkers. 😉
This is my memory of my Dad.
He was many things, one of which was a classical guitarist. His favorite pieces was Paganini’s Romanza played by Andres Segovia . Happy Father’s day Daddy . ❤
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By: lori on June 16, 2013
at 6:30 AM
I think it was Jean who was so happy with her new Obamacare…it seems that folks in Ohio are having a bit of a struggle with it…
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/jun/11/obamacare-rate-shock-hits-ohio-88-percent-insuranc/
Of course those are people who are actually working and pay for it all; not old folks who get it for free.
It’s just a little dose of TANSTAAFL; somebody has to pay for everything. It’s math, you know…
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By: PFesser on June 16, 2013
at 5:35 AM
Super article in The Atlantic on how “affirmative action” injures the very people it is designed to help.
http://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2012/10/the-painful-truth-about-affirmative-action/263122/
Nobody can accuse this magazine of a right-wing slant. Anybody who has been through college can remember minority students who just couldn’t keep up, and professors who were terrified of flunking them out. I still remember Dr. Ashby, who, in the whole time I was in med school, I don’t think ever had a successful kidney transplant – hardly a tough surgery even in those days. He had clearly gone through school on the affirmative action program – or at least WE thought he had; a lot of med students knew more medicine than he did. Wanna be his patient?
This exemplifies what I believe are the problems of well-intentioned gub’ment programs – nobody takes the time to assess whether they REALLY accomplish their goals. It also highlights one of the criticisms of the Left – if anyone suggests their programs aren’t working, then he is a “racist,” “bigot,” — take your choice.
No, sometimes he is just somebody who doesn’t believe gub’ment solves social problems very well.
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By: PFesser on June 16, 2013
at 5:21 AM
Here is more. its true a minority supported the American Revolution. Some of my ancestors fought on the winning side. Others supported the Crown and became Canadians.
However,our revolution was not fought in isolation. It was part of a larger European conflict, and many countries, especially France gave the rebels aid. Some historians have written that the French Revolution was an indirect result of their helping us.
Most revolutionaries, but not all, win because they have foreign help. We are not immune. I am not advocating anything of the sort, I am thinking theoretically.
The Romans coped with an income disparity by giving “bread and circuses” to the masses. We are in our way, doing the same thing.
Revolution is entirely possible here, and we are well-armed.
Our son and daughter in law just called from California to wish me “happy Fathers Day.” He works for a large multinational company and is one of a crew who keep the computer system functioning. A large number of e- mails, billings and other business work passes through his office.
Our son said that he recently figured how to snatch any given communication from the large amorphous mass and read all words and numbers to and from one individual in less than a minute. It saves the company a lot of time. If he can do it, our government can do it as well.
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By: James on June 15, 2013
at 9:38 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
It is a foregone conclusion that the Big Data Bank in the Sky has a dossier on each and every one of us starting with exactly where our mothers were and what our fathers were doing nine months before we were born. So what else is new? Saint Peter has one. Santa Claus has always had one.
So here is another one of my rhetorical questions. Why then are each and every one of us required to get to the airport at least two hours before our flight departure time, stand in endless lines to go through security and TAKE OFF OUR SHOES? But we can check-in the day before on the computer and breeze through the airline check-in line in no time.
(But just ask a gun happy right-winger to go through a background check and register his guns and he goes ballistic. National Security has nothing to do with Domestic Security for little grade school kids.)
My husband has two stents in his heart and a titanium hip, (bought and paid for!) Whenever he goes through airport security sans shoes, it lights up like Christmas. The security people take him outta the line and frisk him up and down and between his legs with a wand. They won’t accept printed and signed cards from his doctors documenting his medical devices. At one U.S. airport and one in Europe they even put him in a glass phone booth type structure and blew puffs of air on him that were analyzed on the spot for any traces of explosives he might have been handling.
Well, actually as a retired octogenarian and veteran flying in a B-47 during the Korean “Conflict” I suppose he does fit the profile of a dangerous looking character at that.
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 15, 2013
at 9:34 PM
Progressives worthy of the name:
Bold Progressives deliver anti-spying petition to Senator Lindsey Graham’s office, only to be met with “no filming in the front office!”
To which they replied, “We don’t like our phone calls being spied on either!”
http://www.examiner.com/article/no-filming-deliverers-of-100000-spy-petitioners-to-congress-were-told?CID=examiner_alerts_article
No cud-chewers there. Way to go, guys! Now if we can knock some of the lazy-asses off their couches to get involved, we’ll be doing a great thing for our country.
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By: PFesser on June 15, 2013
at 9:11 PM
Cynthia, thank you and others for the Fathers Day wishes.
I was a history major, so I already know about what you wrote. Here is what Paul Harvey would say is “the rest of the story.”
Smedley Butler ” The fighting Quaker” was a genuine war hero. He won two Medals of Honor in two operations, as well as numerous other awards for valor.
He was a Republican who supported Hoover until the Bonus Army was forceably disbanded. He like many who believed Obama would change the world, put his hope in FDR. He also made a name for himself with lectures warning against war profiteering, military adventurism, and nanscent fascism in the US.
He like many people disappointed with Obama later became disenchanted with President Roosevelt. After the attack on veterans, Butler spoke to veterans groups and asked them to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars because he believed Wall street controlled the American Legion and was betraying veterans.
In 1934, Butler testified to Congress that business interests approached him during his activities among veterans’ groups. They knew of his developing hostility toward the president, but more importantly the Wall Street interests understood Butler’s popularity. They planned a peaceful coup d’etat with the help of the American Legion. Butler could with his popularity persuade the American Legion to revolt. A delegation would approach FDR and tell him to resign to protect the country from extended violence.
Smedley pretended to agree, but he later turned the conspirators in. Congressional committees failed to reach a conclusion about the validity of Butler’s testimony, and no charges were filed. Some charged that Wall Street money and a slanted press killed the case, or not.
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By: James on June 15, 2013
at 9:06 PM
Lori, I did hear something interesting on NPR today. In the past we got phone bills listing all the numbers we had called including the duration of each call. I don’t personally have any problem with anyone knowing whom I’ve called or how long the call lasted. I would hope it would alert the authorities to suspected terrorists engaging with anyone in our country. I think it’s like anything else in our hum-drum lives: if someone’s up to no-good I hope someone figures it out before that person can act on it.
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By: Terry W on June 15, 2013
at 6:12 PM
Happy Father’s Day to all you dads out there!
An interesting observation:
Waiting for the Revolution.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bob-burnett/waiting-for-the-revolutio_b_3441375.html?utm_hp_ref=politics
An FYI – I remember this from a Ken Burns documentary but didn’t realize MacArthur, Eisenhower and Patton were involved.
“The fate of the Bonus Army is a clue what would happen to a revolution…”
http://www.eyewitnesstohistory.com/snprelief4.htm
The Bonus Army
“…President Hoover ordered the army to clear out the veterans. Infantry and cavalry supported by six tanks were dispatched with Chief of Staff General Douglas MacArthur in command. Major Dwight D. Eisenhower served as his liaison with Washington police and Major George Patton led the cavalry.
By 4:45 P.M. the troops were massed on Pennsylvania Ave. below the Capitol. Thousands of Civil Service employees spilled out of work and lined the streets to watch. The veterans, assuming the military display was in their honor, cheered. Suddenly Patton’s troopers turned and charged. “Shame, Shame” the spectators cried. Soldiers with fixed bayonets followed, hurling tear gas into the crowd.
By nightfall the BEF had retreated across the Anacostia River where Hoover ordered MacArthur to stop. Ignoring the command, the general led his infantry to the main camp. By early morning the 10,000 inhabitants were routed and the camp in flames. Two babies died and nearby hospitals overwhelmed with casualties. Eisenhower later wrote, “the whole scene was pitiful. The veterans were ragged, ill-fed, and felt themselves badly abused. To suddenly see the whole encampment going up in flames just added to the pity.”
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 15, 2013
at 4:06 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Happy Father’s Day tomorrow to all you terrific dads out there. We love you!
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 15, 2013
at 3:52 PM
Chalk up another one for offshoring our jobs! When will these guys have to play fair? Why aren’t they penalized tax-wise for doing this? And what about offshore accounts that so many use to avoid paying their fair share of taxes as well?
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By: Terry W on June 15, 2013
at 1:22 PM
I agree. it is almost like scratching a black board with your fingers. My wife taught English, and she notices such things as you do.
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By: James on June 15, 2013
at 12:17 PM
James, the other thing that drives me crazy/crazier is when I see a sign such as “The Brown’s”. I want to knock on their door and ask them if only one person named Brown lives there! They also use it on pre-printed Christmas cards.
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By: Terry W on June 15, 2013
at 12:06 PM
It was I because I forgot to sign in,.
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By: James on June 15, 2013
at 11:38 AM
Another rule. Gerund takes the possessive.
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By: Anonymous on June 15, 2013
at 11:35 AM
Lori, thanks for sharing this. I was shocked to see who was actually saying that quote! Who would have thought it? Also, taking into consideration the time when the “who” questions were posed, I think a lot of water has passed under the bridge in the interim. Also, shame on those “educated” men’s grammar snafu in not using “whom” as the object in those declarations.
I would have made a mean English teacher if given the opportunity! I don’t hesitate to correct my children and grandchildren though. I see it as doing them a favor in the long run.
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By: Terry W on June 15, 2013
at 10:13 AM
Good morning friend!
I came across this this morning. I have one question. Are they really THAT ignorant that they don’t even understand how racist their statements are? SMH
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2013/06/14/2163661/minority-outreach-gop-faith-freedom-romney/
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By: lori on June 15, 2013
at 8:14 AM
I don’t like tea. I drink grape juice.
If people read this, they will read once again that Delurkergurl and Pfessor offered to help our food pantry when we were recovering from the flood. I don’t forget kind acts like that. Our area is thinly settled, and as its reputation grows, people come from as far as fifty miles for aid. That covers an area as large as our school district,
Sarah Palin is returning to Fox. That should set some hearts a flutter and raise some bile.
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By: James on June 15, 2013
at 8:10 AM
Gato:
You can buy Constant Comment Tea by Bigelow at amazon.com. This place has just about anything you could ever want or need to buy and free shipping and no tax on many items.
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By: CraftyLadyinIllinois on June 14, 2013
at 11:33 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Terry W, I dub thee “Terry M&Ms” for “Magnificent, Magical and Mom” because you are sweet! It fits you.
Yep, gato, consider yourself officially adopted as of now. The paperwork will be submitted forthwith.
I’ve been brewing and drinking “Constant Comment Tea” brand name forever. If I can get it out here, anybody can get it anywhere. They have even put it out in decaf now. But I like mine straight up with a little lemon. The aroma wafts throughout the house, doesn’t it, like it did in your childhood memory of that shop. (My kind of shop! Don’t need to buy anything, just browse and look to your hearts’ content.)
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 14, 2013
at 10:04 PM
Auntie Jean… And can you really adopt me, and hold me as one of your own..? The mention of “Constant Comment” tea brings back so many wonderful thoughts and memories to me… (And, of course, that’s what the best of us are all doing here, aren’t we – commenting constantly?)
When I was a young girl, in my midwestern home town, we had one really cool shop nearby – full of hand-made ceramic things, jewelry made of stones and silver, scarves of silk, little elephants made of jade, and so on… It was run by a woman who was undoubtedly one of the first real goddesses I’d ever met. Her name was Helen Winnemore, and her shop was named the same. What a wonderful woman she must have been. I kind of knew that then; I know it even more, now.
My mother and I would go there together, for a special treat. And there was always “Constant Comment” tea available. I can smell it right this minute… I never drank tea in my life, when I was a kiddo, except there.
Can I find that tea again today? (I’ll bet I can!) “Seek, and ye shall find.”
You know… It used to be that you’d have to seek “the source” to find the thing that meant so much to you… Now all you have to do is hit the internet to (maybe) find it.
I’m not sure that’s a good thing…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 14, 2013
at 8:29 PM
Hi Gato,
You have a lovely way with words. Always a pleasure to hear from you. Thanks.
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By: Terri in NY on June 14, 2013
at 8:26 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
OMG!!! Didja hear? Fox is trotting out Sarah Palin again. The far right must be getting really, really desperate. More major embarrassment for mainstream conservatives. They just can’t get a break.
Terry M&Ms, (Magnificent and Magical Mom). I think that fits you. I’m proud of all the everyday things you and the other gals do here all the time. Actually, all in a days work, right?
Gato, sounds like your month is shaping up to be something like ours was last month. Oh, well, c’est la vie. Anytime it gets to be a little too heavy, come on out and join me any afternoon for some Constant Comment Iced “Tea and Sympathy” out on the Dinky Deck. I keep a pitcher in the fridge all the time. (After 5:00PM, I’ll even spike it if necessary.) That goes for all the rest of the porch dwellers, well, with three exceptions.
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 14, 2013
at 7:29 PM
I pray you two have never procreated
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By: Anonymous on June 14, 2013
at 6:46 PM
F&F Terry, you are both of those things! My Daddy use to tell me the same. LOL LOL so funny..
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By: lori on June 14, 2013
at 5:57 PM
Not if the “M” stands for Magnificent or Magical. Actually Mom and GrandMa are even better. As my dear old dad use to say, “Call me anything as long as you remember to call me to dinner.”
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By: Terry W on June 14, 2013
at 5:54 PM
ha ha Terry W! But not by better? LOL LOL and trolls don’t count!
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By: lori on June 14, 2013
at 5:48 PM
I’ve been labeled worse!
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By: Terry W on June 14, 2013
at 5:32 PM
Hi, Terri – and Terry W, and Lurker, and Lori, and Auntie Jean, and all the rest of you great goddesses (and guys) who just keep truckin’ on and doing great things for your neighbors, and for all the rest of us (and, if I’ve neglected to mention any of you by name, you sure as hell know who you are…)
Mid-June is the “perfect storm” of celebrations around here. Always has been, and this year it’s even a bit grander: A big birthday party (more than forty people) here for my husband tomorrow (his birthday this year ends with a “5,” and more than that I will not reveal); granddaughter’s birthday (twelve); and Father’s Day. All so worth celebrating. But they all arrive at once!
Meanwhile, I’m reading all your wonderful posts, and thank you for them.
Here in our Community, one of us is going through a few months of chemotherapy for some serious cancer. A neighbor set up a cooking schedule. Each of us cooks twice a month for her and her family. We leave the meal, with instructions, in a cooler by her front door. Works!
And it certainly makes all that crap about stun guns, and throat-cutting, and whether or not one’s anatomy is functioning, quite clear as the garbage it is, doesn’t it?
Thanks, Wonderful M&H Friends, and bless you all… You are joy in my life.
Back soon!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 14, 2013
at 5:04 PM
LOL LOL Sorry Terry “W” my Dyslexia kicked in. 😉
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By: lori on June 14, 2013
at 4:52 PM
Peas, that little boy is one amazing talent. Unfortunately he has had to witness the underbelly of what our social media has to offer wayyyy to early in his little life.
GO SPURS!
Terry M such great projects you are involved in. 😉 I’m humbled and impressed with your good works.
It reminds me of what our beautiful FLOTUS said about her husband…”And he believes that when you’ve worked hard, and done well, and walked through that doorway of opportunity…you do not slam it shut behind you…you reach back, and you give other folks the same chances that helped you succeed.”
I think many here on the porch not only believe that, but live it everyday.
Namaste!
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By: lori on June 14, 2013
at 3:49 PM
Lori, My denomination supports an organization in the inner city that now requires it’s clients to take cooking classes, money management classes and possibly others. They’ve been donated a space for a community garden as well. When I volunteered at another food pantry I often thought that cooking classes would be a great help to their clients and a community garden takes it one step further. Any volunteer or mission work I’ve done has blessed me in ways I never imagined they would.
We, as a church, are also supporting a new program in the city that takes in homeless people, finds them an affordable living space, teaches them how to bake bread and pays them a salary. When they “graduate” they have a skill and work ethic to take them further in life. My church orders the bread and sells it every Sunday during our fellowship time. It’s referenced as “a hand up rather than a hand out.”
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By: Terry W on June 14, 2013
at 2:19 PM
Here’s one for ya lori…
Sing it again Sebastien
…a Latino boy in a mariachi suit quickly became a controversy, with social media users asking why an “illegal alien” was singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” and why he was “dressed like such a little Mexican.” One Twitter user posited that “They prolly made this Mexican sing to stay in America.”
De La Cruz was quick to respond , as was San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, who wrote in a Facebook message that De La Cruz “represent[s] the best of our nation’s future!” Spurs coach Greg Poppovich blasted the critics as “idiots” who were for some reason “proud of their ignorance.” But the Spurs organization itself had the best response, because it asked De La Cruz to come back and sing the national anthem again before Game 4 Thursday night.
Peace ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 14, 2013
at 2:17 PM
I see that senator Jeff Flake’s son had racist and homophobic remarks on his Facebook page. I wonder where those attitudes come from?
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By: Terri in NY on June 14, 2013
at 1:07 PM
It swings both ways, James. Remember Mercede Johnston, Levi Johnston’s little sister. (Levi was the stud who got Bristol Palin preggers.)
When my wife and I were doing a lot of investigation into BabyGate, Mercede’s computer was hacked and all – ALL pictures of her and the Palins removed.
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By: PFesser on June 14, 2013
at 12:04 PM
Pfesssor we are in deep trouble. CBS News hired a cyber security firm which determined that Sharyl Attkisson’s computer was invaded on multiple occasions by unknown parties in late 2112.
One of the few reporters to care about why four of our men died at Benghazi had a hacked computer. ;Who do you suppose could have done that? “SATAN?” Or maybe someone who didn’t want to discuss the raid. What at this point does it matter?
I support tax funded elections. Obama does not.
When she was teaching, my wife rummaged through school trash cans at the end of the school year. She repaired back packs, jackets etc and gave them to students the next year.
One of my favorite low budget meals is Kraft Dinner and hash alternatively eaten with a can of salmon.
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By: james on June 14, 2013
at 11:07 AM
Terry W that is a really good idea about the casseroles for down times. I am going to look into that around here!
I took you ladies advice a while back and contacted our extension office about holding cooking “classes” for new/young mothers. It is really all about stretching a buck with just a few pantry items and affordable cuts of meat, but still being nutrition. Casseroles fit that bill. I currently take meals to an abused woman’s shelter a few times a month but I think the classes are really something that will really fill a void.
It is still in the planning stages but we are hopeful it will become a reality by fall.
Just goes to show what a difference a few ladies on a blog can make a big difference in their communities doesn’t it?
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By: lori on June 14, 2013
at 10:31 AM
Re: charities. There’s a really good website called Charity Navigator that evaluates charities. It’s a good place to check if you have doubts about any organization. Really useful.
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By: Terri in NY on June 14, 2013
at 10:16 AM
My church is talking about helping a local organization do the backpack program as well. When I shared some of our plans with fellow church members they were surprised/shocked to learn that there are a number of children in our affluent suburbs here in St. Louis who are eligible for free or reduced price breakfasts and lunches during the school year. And, as you know, the weekends and summers are not addressed for them as well. We’ve talked about providing casseroles for the “down times”. I think it takes a church to raise a village.
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By: Terry W on June 14, 2013
at 10:06 AM
Peggy Noonan on the Surveillance State:
http://online.wsj.com/article_email/SB10001424127887324188604578543721259199626-lMyQjAxMTAzMDEwNDExNDQyWj.html?mod=wsj_valettop_email
“The purpose of the surveillance is enhanced security, a necessary goal to say the least. The price is a now formal and agreed-upon acceptance of the end of the last vestiges of Americans’ sense of individual distance and privacy from the government. The price too is a knowledge, based on human experience and held by all but fools and children, that the gleanings of the surveillance state will eventually be used by the mischievous, the malicious and the ignorant in ways the creators of the system did not intend. For all we know that’s already happened. But of course we don’t know: It’s secret. Only the intelligence officials know, and they say everything’s A-OK.
Yes, knowledge held by all but fools and children.
And the bovine.
Just keep chewing your cuds, girls. The stun gun doesn’t hurt a bit. You won’t feel a thing when they hang you by your hind leg and cut your throat. And they will. And you will help them.
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By: PFesser on June 14, 2013
at 10:03 AM
Terry W, I have contributed food to a church program that fills backpacks with food for kids. It’s a neat program. The backpacks are quietly slipped into kids lockers. They are pretty good about returning the empty backpacks each week. It is rewarding in a different way than contributing to food drives and food banks. There’s something more personal about it, with the participation in the filling of the bags. Looking forward to startup in the fall.
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By: delurkergurl on June 14, 2013
at 9:48 AM
I have been screaming for publicly funded elections for years now.
These bills aren’t perfect IMO, but it’s a step in the right direction and likely the closest we will ever come to publicly funded elections. Please read and consider. Thanks!
http://boldprogressives.org/2013/06/progressive-groups-launch-campaign-for-citizen-funded-elections/
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By: lori on June 14, 2013
at 9:15 AM
Thank you so much for posting this. I printed out the list so I can be on guard against future pleas. I have given to one of them but will not do so again. My own denomination is one I’m always happy to give to as 100% of donations go to the relief efforts they address. They, UMCOR, can do this because member churches contribute to their overhead. We also have ongoing food drives for the area food pantries.
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By: Terry W on June 14, 2013
at 8:50 AM
That charity list should be printed in all of our newspapers and should be on the television news. We once gave some money to two of those groups. Now, much of our money goes to our local food pantry and local causes.
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By: James on June 14, 2013
at 8:18 AM
Put your money (and your time) where it will do the most good.
Here’s a list of the top 50 worst charities in the country:
http://www.eclectablog.com/2013/06/get-informed-americas-top-50-worst-charities.html
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By: delurkergurl on June 14, 2013
at 8:11 AM
President Obama has finally found a way to thin out the bloated Washington government workforce: force them to accept the same health care coverage they forced on everybody else!
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/jun/13/hurt-obamacare-has-federal-work-force-panicked/
Yep, just make’m use Obamacare for their health care insurance. That’ll make ‘em head for the exits!
Thanks, Hussein. Nice job.
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By: PFesser on June 14, 2013
at 7:26 AM
I decided to do some research on San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro to see if he is as good as advertised., The examiner April 2, 2013 reports that the mayor and some city council members are being investigated for multiple violations of the Texas Election law. They were given until April 18 to correct their campaign reports or explain them.
Cahnman’s Musings “The Hollow Mayor: Updates on Julian Castro” Monday June 10, 2013.discusses a new hit site with statistics showing a less than stellar record.
“A surprisingly honest piece from Al Jazeera takes the cake. The reporter noted the parallels between the lives of Obama and Castro, including Jeremiah Wright and Bill Ayres. Rosie Castro, the mayor’s mother plays the same role. She is associated with La Raza Unida party and could like Wright become a “lightning rod.”
She told the New York Times Magazine that the real heroes at the Alamo were the Mexicans.
MY SA “The Castro Internet Takedown” April 28 2013 mentions the attack web site “The Hollow Mayor.” What follows is a scrupulously sourced but extremely slanted take down,.. These points are at least backed up by statistics, but no such case can be made for the cheap shots on racial issues.”
Eva Longoria supposedly has given him Spanish lessons.
Most articles gush about Castro and similarities to Obama. Some even write he might be our first Hispanic president. Maybe unlike Obama he is what he seems. Anyone with the time and inclination to do the research knew before the 2008 election that Obama was not fit to be president. Reality and time have proven people like Stanly Kurtz to be right,
Maybe Castro is different and really does fit his press clippings. Then again, maybe not. I don’t know and don’t really care because I don’t live in Texas though cousins do. One should do a little research before voting.
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By: James on June 14, 2013
at 7:25 AM
President Obama has finally found a way to thin out the bloated Washington government workforce: force them to accept the same health care coverage they forced on everybody else!
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/jun/13/hurt-obamacare-has-federal-work-force-panicked/
Yep, just make’m use Obamacare for their health care insurance. That’ll make ’em head for the exits!
Thanks, Hussein. Nice job.
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By: PFesser on June 14, 2013
at 7:23 AM
Gato hummmm I don’t know. I prolly didn’t do something correctly. Sorry, if you are really interested you can youtube the Castro brothers at the Democratic convention. Joaquín Castro introduced his twin brother Julián as the keynote speaker. They are super stars!
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By: lori on June 14, 2013
at 7:16 AM
Here are some good pixs of the rally for Ed Markey MA – Senate, Special election, June 25!
I am sure they could use all hands on deck so if anyone is in MA hook up with the Markey campaign. Good luck!
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/06/12/1215768/-Scenes-from-Ed-Markey-s-Boston-rally-with-President-Obama
Auntie Jean, I hope you enjoy the book! I’ll pass your story on to the authors. I’m sure they will be pleased to hear the buzz. I see they were on Lou Dobbs (uggg LOL) the other night. Their book tour blitz continues.
Anon I ❤ Pi too. 😉
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By: lori on June 14, 2013
at 7:10 AM
Hi, Lori – Whatever you sent appears just as a black box on my screen, with no apparent way to access it. Any ideas or suggestions…?
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 14, 2013
at 6:52 AM
Oops! Forgot to log in I guess. That below is me.
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By: waialeale on June 14, 2013
at 1:50 AM
Hi Congenial Gang,
What a coincidence, lori! The book you recommended “America 3.0” by your relative, James Bennett and Michael J. Lotus was highly recommend to us by one of our closest young friends out here. Well, actually he is in his
late 50’s but to us that’s pretty young.
He is probably the best read person we have ever known! He spends half his life on airplanes so has a chance to read a lot. He is a Princeton PhD Educational Economists and is a consultant for the World Bank as a liaison with local governments throughout the Pacific and Asia. His wife is from Zimbabwe, where they met. He is of Eastern European Jewish heritage and she is of Christian but both, like us would be considered by many as “heathen.” We met through out mutual interest in music. She is a talented flautist.
They have turned their backyard into a veritable Garden of Eden. Whenever we get together at their place, we dine on their deck overlooking such an idyllic spot. Fine wine, superb food and great discussions! They do a mean leg of lamb on their barbeque! On rare occasions when the conversation turns to the national or world economy, he just laughs and shrugs it off as “Not my specialty in economics.”
So we have ordered “America 3.0” from Amazon.
Nothing new going on here at M&H’s. I am amused by the frequent and frantic efforts of the “Terrible Twos Trio” to appear relevant (note the alliteration there) as I scan on by. They don’t seem to have been able to round up any pals. But these three do serve a vital purpose. With the hits count here at roughly 11,000+ to 3, their example of conservative and tea-party thinking will certainly drive those readers, their families and friends to the voting booths in the mid-term elections toward progressive liberal candidates. So these boys are the gifts that keep on giving! (They must be an embarrassment to mainstream conservatives though.)
Aloha! 🙂 😉 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: Anonymous on June 14, 2013
at 1:47 AM
Hi, Whirled – I’m not sure I’d say it’s exactly “adorable,” but it’s interesting that there is so little hesitation in telling the world how this or that suggestion, or some thought they might have, precisely affects their…anatomy. It takes a lot of people a long time to reveal that kind of thing even to their proctologist, let alone share it with everybody on a blog…
Gotta give ’em credit for “candor,” that’s for sure!
Have a good evening…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 9:25 PM
Great article in The Journal that sums up quite well the feelings most Americans have toward Hussein’s administration and their use of govt power – and that is precisely what the govt is, isn’t it? Power, raw power, and nothing else – to silence their opponents.
http://online.wsj.com/article_email/SB10001424127887324688404578541503659850678-lMyQjAxMTAzMDEwMzExNDMyWj.html?mod=wsj_valettop_email
couple of memorable quotes: (Hussein:) “We’ve got congressional oversight and judicial oversight. And if people can’t trust not only the executive branch but also don’t trust Congress and don’t trust federal judges to make sure that we’re abiding by the Constitution, due process and rule of law, then we’re going to have some problems here.”
(Author:) ‘Uh-huh.’
also: ‘In January the pollsters at the Pew Research Center reported that for the first time a majority of Americans—53%—now agree that “the federal government threatens your own personal rights and freedoms.”
This is far beyond concerns about the size of government. A majority of people now see the government of Madison, Jefferson and Franklin as a direct, personal threat.
So yes, we have “some problems” here.’
***************
Yes, my girls, we do. Just keep chewing your cuds. The stun-gun is completely painless. You won’t feel a thing when they cut your throats.
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By: PFesser on June 13, 2013
at 9:11 PM
I ❤ Pi. So much better than cake.
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By: Anonymous on June 13, 2013
at 8:59 PM
Hey Gato,
Isn’t it adorable when
‘IT’ gets all worked up?
I love the way ITs eyes bug out when IT grits his teeth.
Dance monkey, dance!
😉
Peace ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 13, 2013
at 8:11 PM
Only if they are a combination of gross incompetence and malignant narcissism as Hussein. But if you prefer Zero, Bongo or Asshole to Hussein, I will grant your wish.
You know what’s really great? When Lori sues me, I won’t have to travel very far. 😀 We’re like practically across the street half the time and my probable son-in-law is right there in hometown. I think he nullifies Lori’s vote.
Um Gato. I know I’m now off your friends list 😉 and I am almost sure I speak for my boyfriend Pfesser too, but I promise you from the bottom of my heart that when I enter this blog, the last thing on my mind is being a peacock to attract your affection, drab or no drab.
In fact, the thought of your affection makes me shudder and flaccid.
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 8:02 PM
ok my last one. LOL LOL sorry for the shameless pride 😉 But they are both just so damn cute!
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 6:42 PM
My congressman 😉
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 6:38 PM
gato here are a few peeks at the bros. 😉
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 6:38 PM
Hey, Terri – Don’t know much about the Castro brothers, but, from what I have seen, they are both quite engaging.
Have to wonder if their surname will get as much play as POTUS’ middle name does from the poster boys, should they start to come into some real prominence. (BTW, the poster boys seem to have gotten going on trying on different personas, haven’t they? I’m reminded of those birds who walk around looking pretty drab, day after day, and then, when they want attention – especially from the females of their species – they puff themselves up with a great display of multi-colored tail feathers, luminous wattles, and loud, crowing calls… Most of the females just wander off, anyway, paying no attention whatsoever, to their displays.)
Have a good evening…!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 6:34 PM
Lori,
We agree again. The Castro brothers are very talented and engaging. Definitely two to watch.
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By: Terri in NY on June 13, 2013
at 5:50 PM
😆 😆 😆
There is nothing I can add to that wisdom.
————
I suspected Hussein was just a touch full of himself and highly overrated when he announced to the genuflecting bed wetters here and abroad, “This was the moment when … the rise of the oceans began to slow and our planet began to heal.” 😯
And the rubes screamed with great joy and inspiration, “Now our rent and gas will be free” as they danced around like park monkeys.
Remember that when they tell you about their deep well of talent.
Pfesser, when a majority of America’s citizens are this confused and hoodwinked, I’m afraid the writing about our future is written in granite.
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 5:33 PM
LOL LOL WELllll Cory is ONE of the rising stars. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my two home town guys. Joaquin Castro and Julián Castro are equally qualified and certainly stars in the making. We are so lucky to have a deep well of talented “ladies and gentlemen in waiting” .
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 4:46 PM
Dirk noted: “How does President Hussein say it? That’s out of my pay grade.”
Everything is out of his pay grade.
BTW, speaking of ‘out of my pay grade,’ I see the Rupert Murdoch is divorcing his concubine, er – wife. If your son ever asks you why he should get an education, show him this picture:
If your daughter asks you the same question, you should show the same picture to her, too.
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By: PFesser on June 13, 2013
at 4:43 PM
Make that inflict and not inflect…
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 4:41 PM
They’ve already reached the speaking in tongues, Pfesser. Babbling is the rule of law on this here fine blog.
As to getting them to talking sense? Now that would take the omnipotence of our Maker. How does President Hussein say it? That’s out of my pay grade.
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 4:36 PM
We all accuse each other of being long on ideology, short on concrete ideas. Here’s a concrete idea for you: Get rid of this government program.
http://online.wsj.com/article_email/SB10001424127887324063304578525871827319936-lMyQjAxMTAzMDEwMzExNDMyWj.html?mod=wsj_valettop_email
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By: PFesser on June 13, 2013
at 4:34 PM
Isn’t he terri? I’m telling you I am impressed. I don’t know much about NJ politics but I am hoping they come through with the money he is going to need to win this special election. Christy gave him a gift – he just needs to unwrap it.. Fingers crossed!
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 4:34 PM
Here’s another one you’ll like, James. Because it’s the second shortest verse and most applicable to the brethren of bubbly here… 😈
Luke 17:32
Remember Lot’s wife!
🙂
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 4:33 PM
Bravo Anon! Fortunately for you, I’m not your judge nor worthy to be one. But I am capable of discernment.
However, apparently you missed one very important part…
I see no act of contrition or repentance. Or did I miss something?
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 4:29 PM
Lori,
I pretty much agree with you about Cory Booker. He’s super smart and articulate with a really impressive education. He’s one of the most energetic politicians out there.
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By: Terri in NY on June 13, 2013
at 4:26 PM
Thank you Terri and I yours. 😉
Terry, he really is an amazing man. I know I go on about twitter , butttt, LOl I follow him on twitter and I will tell you I have never in all my years in politics seen a more dedicated individual to their constituents than he. During hurricane Sandy he was literally leaving his home open, while he was riding around dragging people out of flooded areas, to strangers to seek shelter. He is one hell of a man. I look for him to go far.
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 3:50 PM
Jesus wept. John 11:35. I like it because it is short.
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By: james on June 13, 2013
at 3:34 PM
I too admire him. I saw a video about his moving into the inner city and working with people. I didn’t know his political leanings but would have supported him for his values and his ability to relate to all people.
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By: Terry W on June 13, 2013
at 3:24 PM
Hi, all
Hi Hussein
Hi Eric
My God, Dirk – you’ve got ’em quoting Scripture. What’s next, talking in tongues? What are you shooting for next, talking sense?
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By: PFesser on June 13, 2013
at 3:16 PM
lori opined: “Scott Walker says he doesn’t have a problem with transvaginal ultrasounds. Hmmmm I wonder how many he has had?”
Or done? Or heard some of the comments that the more liberated, um…earthy – ladies make? LOL.
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By: PFesser on June 13, 2013
at 3:12 PM
I like that passage. But I still like the verse from the Reverend Mr. Black.
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By: James on June 13, 2013
at 3:07 PM
John 8
New International Version (NIV)
8 1 but Jesus went to the Mount of Olives.
2 At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. 3 The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4 and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” 6 They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
9 At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10 Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”
11 “No one, sir,” she said.
“Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”
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By: Anonymous on June 13, 2013
at 2:48 PM
Hey Lori,
I really respect your commitment and activism. Keep on keepin’ on. Cheers!
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By: Terri in NY on June 13, 2013
at 2:46 PM
“yeah, he kicked open the meeting house door and he cussed everybody up and down the floor! Then when things got quiet in the place, he walked up and cussed in the preachers’ face! He hit that reverent like the kick of a mule and to my way of thinking it took a pure fool to turn the other cheek, but that’s what he did, The Reverend Mr. Black. He stood like a rock, a man among men, and he let that lumber jack hit him again, and then with a voice as quiet as could be, he cut him down like a big oak tree.” “The Reverend Mr Black by the Kingston Trio.
I just like the song and its reference to turning the other cheek.
Rutherford is a good man, and as Dig Diggler wrote, he has nothing to do with any retaliatory attacks.
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By: James on June 13, 2013
at 2:42 PM
I simply corrected the record of the faith mentioned by name.
Why would I show you love when you’re wicked and evil? Why would I show compassion when you’re a brood of vipers and Pharisees? Why should I give when your ideals do nothing but steal? Frankly, you’re not worthy of my own demonstration because you’re absolutely and completely unedifying.
There is a time and a season for everything. This is not the place and you are not the one to demonstrate good works. It’s one thing to turn the other cheek or to allow for simple ignorance; it’s quite another to let wickedness you propagate go unchallenged.
Before you lecture me if you are truly serious in your statement, perhaps for the first time in your life, you should take a moment of introspection about your own circular reasoning and false sense of worth, though I don’t think you capable in your hubris and haughtiness. Perhaps you should contemplate your zealotry and activism in its content and the damage in conveys. Do not make demands of others that you yourself are not willing to do first.
But if you are serious and you really want to get rid of me, you can make a sincere apology to Rutherford, a member of your own political party and by the way and someone far, far more eloquent than you in carrying a message of your desires. I tell you that as somebody completely and totally unbiased about progressive politics which I loathe.
Rutherford did absolutely nothing to deserve what you attempted while playing bully and attempting to inflect damage to him. Nothing.
He didn’t send me here. He is perfectly capable of shooting you down, but that is not Rutherford’s nature. I do this of my own accord.
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 2:21 PM
Cory Booker is running for the newly vacated NJ Senate seat. This was his facebook status a while back. I ❤ him!
Before you speak to me about your religion, first show it to me in how you treat other people; before you tell me how much you love your God, show me in how much you love all His children; before you preach to me of your passion for your faith, teach me about it through your compassion for your neighbors. In the end, I'm not as interested in what you have to tell or sell as in how you choose to live and give.
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 1:13 PM
Ah, shucks. There’s something else I have over on you. Cute.
If there is anything more “not cute” than many of you, I have never personally witnessed it. Hideous, haggardly, Medusa, nasty, skank, ammonia, and in your unique case stink star come to mind.
But not cute.
But see Squirreled Sleaze, I actually believe I invoke this response in you…
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 1:12 PM
Hi Gato,
Look…
…“ITs” trying to communicate.
He’s soooooo cute!
Peace ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 13, 2013
at 12:22 PM
———
Good gawd. If the premise of this blog isn’t pure hedonism on display, I don’t know what is. This blog is an anathema to any god, even if your god capitalism, take your pick.
As to getting better? 😯 Look around, sister. This nation hasn’t been this polarized in 150 years. It’s way overdue to admit, it’s broke and needs reformation back to its original basic principles.
The imminent economic collapse will change everything. And many of you will be taken in its wake.
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 12:04 PM
Gato, you’re so incredibly observant. I changed my name to make it easier for you. You won’t get that one either.
———-
I’m just wondering what is Jesus would say to those who are actively participating in not only creating a dependency amongst the multitudes in the twisted name of fairness, especially after $16 trillion of Great Society hasn’t made a dent in poverty rate, but “joyfully” passing the bill to future generations in doing so.
I feel quite confident Jesus would not only disapprove, but turn your tables over with whip in hand. And I could prove that from the New Testament alone, a hundred times over.
You don’t want to go there, girls.
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 11:58 AM
Gato, your analysis of the man’s name having a feminine ending is precious. My brother’s name is Fred and when he was 6 and wanted me to play cowboys & Indians I made a deal with him: in return he’d pretend to be my little girl Penny, wear a ribbon around his buzz cut head and one of my dresses. I didn’t make him go outside where his friends might have seen him but we still laugh about my being “Penny’s Mom”. Had I known I could have called him “Fredette”.
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By: Terry W on June 13, 2013
at 11:47 AM
Right Gato, I think we are bright enough to think of many ways these costs of research & bring to market can be offset.
You know its just NOT the cost of one person getting tested. For example, if the parent tests positive, each individual child of that parent must be tested. A negative result for one sibling doesn’t guarantee a negative result for the other. So some of our relatives have families of 5 children. That’s 15k! And what parent could just test one or two children and leave the rest? It really is out of most American’s reach. It’s just not right.
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 11:23 AM
Keeping up with the latest GMOnsanto crimes against humanity.
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By: poolman on June 13, 2013
at 11:20 AM
Hi, again, Lori – Or maybe corporations should be required to “tithe” ten percent of their income to the public good, the way some churches require their memberships to do.
I know that’s what “taxes” are supposed to be, in a way, but as long as the payers (i.e. the corporations) have the power to buy and sell the lawmakers, the laws are inevitably going to be skewed in their favor, and more and more so, all the time. Hard to imagine the membership of a religious organization “buying” their clergy, and then saying, “Okay. Now you’re in, thanks to us, and we only want to give eight percent this year, and six percent next year.”
(May it please the goddess that none of the usual suspects out there takes this as yet another opportunity to point out to me all the differences between secular and religious organizations. I’ve used the above example with full awareness of those differences! I’d even go so far as to say that if corporations had some of the moral conscience that groups of faith are at least supposed to have, we might have a whole different society… And a better one.)
Hope all continues to go well with your family…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 11:10 AM
Loved your comments but I laughed at myself when I read “wile and determination”. I thought it said “vile and determination”! Let’s reword that to “vile determination”. For people who claim this is a Christian nation many have evidently never read the story Jesus told about “the least of these” as they raise themselves on the backs of those very people. You and others make reading these comments so worthwhile. It gives me hope that we can become a better nation, a nation under God – everybody’s God no matter what their beliefs are or lack thereof. We’re guaranteed “freedom OF religion” not “freedom FROM religion” after all.
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By: Terry W on June 13, 2013
at 11:09 AM
Yep Gato, I agree.
I get the whole cost associated with “research & bring to market ” thing but it seems to me there should be a limit on how MUCH money these companies can make on those types of “findings”. Im all for making a profit but not endlessly and unlimited on things related to life and death.
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 10:52 AM
Hi, Lori – Yet another example of the kind of “financializing” of almost everything, which Max Haiven addresses so well in his “Truthout” piece this morning. (Thanks again, Cynthia, for that!)
The things some people think they can, and should, “own” is just mind-boggling to me. Surprised the first cave dweller who managed to light a fire didn’t try to patent that. If there had been “cave lawyers” in the bunch, or some large multinational “cave-poration,” it probably would have happened…!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 10:49 AM
Hi, Terry – Sometimes I just delete that sort of thing; sometimes I read them and THEN delete them… And sometimes I snark right back. Just depends on how I’m feeling at the moment. Must be my “woman’s brain,” or something like that… 😉
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 10:40 AM
The SCOTUS ruling on if synthetic DNA may (not) be patented is particularly interesting to me.
My husband’s family members carry the BRACA 1 and 2 genes. Having two children, daughters, my husband’s need to be tested was critical for my daughter’s (and husband’s) future healthcare decisions.
The costs associated with the tests, needed to determine if one carries these genes, is well out of the reach of most American’s. ( over 3k including DR’s visits) Not to mention the surgeries that may reduce the likelihood of contracting these types of cancer the tests isolate. None of which are covered by insurance (which is a different issue).
Many of our relatives found these costs to be out of reach for now. They have had to roll the dice and hope for the best until funds can be found. I found this unacceptable.
I think the Court got one right this time. At least partly. 😉 I think there is hope for millions of people out there that can now, maybe soon, gain the information they need to determine their personal well being and PERHAPS cost won’t be as much of an issue.
One down, 3 more important decisions to go! Fingers crossed.
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 10:30 AM
Gato, Well put, not that it will stem the vile comments. I just delete his posts without reading them.
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By: Terry W on June 13, 2013
at 10:24 AM
Hi, Lurker – So I guess that means that someone like Christine LaGarde, for example, current head of the IMF bank, must have had a brain transplant or something, huh?
The old, traditional, “folk wisdom” (for whatever that’s worth) says that even though it may be the man who “brings home the bacon,” it’s the woman who knows what to do with it. Fortunately, this, like so much “folk wisdom,” often is not the case in reality.
I love it that the dude’s name ends in “…ette,” the French suffix designating both the diminutive and the feminine! Maybe that’s why he feels compelled to point out that he has a “man’s brain”…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 10:09 AM
now that’s the dumbest piece of shit yet!
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By: penny abrams on June 13, 2013
at 9:59 AM
andddddd the counter on the number of days Republicans go without insulting women keeps clicking back to zero – zip .
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 9:58 AM
Your sound remarkably like a couple of the other poster boys here, especially with “:razz”…
How interesting!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 9:55 AM
Pfffffffffffftttttttttttttttt!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😀 😀 😀
Maine GOP Leader Boasts That His ‘Man’s Brain’ Makes Him Think More Rationally About Costs
http://thinkprogress.org/health/2013/06/12/2147031/maine-gop-leader-mans-brain/?mobile=nc
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By: delurkergurl on June 13, 2013
at 9:53 AM
Pfesser,
I don’t suppose this will do any good for these lovely genuflectors to Obama.
But in the slight chance there is hope for the lesser, newer entry of these sorority sisters from Delta Upsilon Mu, I am going to provide this approximately 10 minute video so that by chance, they could listen to something or someone who actually has an understanding of free enterprise and liberty, that might possibly set one of them on the road to freedom from the shackles of dependency before they join their leaders in the impending doom.
Oh, and I snickered at the misandry. As an evil white male, you should join me in granting them their wishes of having only Brucie, Abdul, Trayvon™, and Obama in their midst to govern. I can’t think of a more just payback than leaving them with that. 😛 It would look like Afghanistan within months.
I ask the military men to drop their arms and grant these ladies their wishes….
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By: Dirk Diggler on June 13, 2013
at 9:46 AM
think Cynthia??? LOL LOL There certainly seems to be a LOT of desperation out there. 😉
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 9:19 AM
White Americans will become the minority nationwide within about 30 years.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/13/us/census-benchmark-for-white-americans-more-deaths-than-births.html?nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_th_20130613&_r=0
Do you suppose this is what is getting these old white man’s panties in a bunch. Abortion, BC, immigration, keeping the average person poor and powerless and ???.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 13, 2013
at 9:14 AM
Interesting concept, and several great people involved.
Call in the B Team: Richard Branson’s big idea for building a better version of capitalism
http://www.economist.com/node/21564197
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By: delurkergurl on June 13, 2013
at 8:37 AM
opps sorry Good morning gato didn’t see you there. 😉
Yes, seriously? The Grand Ole Party just cant seem to get enough of ladyparts can they? LOL LOL SMH
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 8:06 AM
Good morning friends!
There is lots of work to be done .. I best get to gettin’ I hope everyone has a wonderful day. I know I will.
I will leave you with one last link.
Rand Paul needs to dump his Dad’s political advisors if he ever hopes to be taken seriously, me thinks.
Rand Rand Rand…
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/for-conservative-republicans-immigration-becoming-a-political-balancing-act/2013/06/12/8ae4c3e0-d370-11e2-a73e-826d299ff459_story.html
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 7:52 AM
HTG, Lori – Is there no end to this kind of garbage? (Evidently not!)
And, no, most people are NOT “just fine with [transvaginal] ultrasounds”… How on earth would he know…?
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 7:49 AM
More info on the SCOTUS case Shelby County, Alabama, Sec 5.
http://www.thenation.com/article/172685/why-are-conservatives-trying-destroy-voting-rights-act
I am beginning to see a connection here? LOL LOL Anyone else?
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 7:44 AM
Baby is fine, but her parents are exhausted. Doctors are still trying to understand why she is normal, since given what happened before she was born and her slightly small head, she should have problems. Every test has proven negative. Next, they want to do an MRI scan in a few weeks. She stops crying when I hold her and then she falls asleep. I must be boring her.
I haven’t had time to read all of the previous comments.
Maybe someone can discuss this. The Daily Caller:” House committee looks into IRS seizure of 60 million medical records.”
Investors.com says “Obama’s Snooping Excludes Mosques, Missed Boston Bombers. Since October, 2011, mosques have allegedly been off-limits to FBI agents without approval from a secret committee.
Politico “Jeff Duncan questions IRS gun useage” He toured a federal law enforcement in February and saw IRS agents training with semi-automatic rifles. He questions if that level of fire power is necessary when the IRS can coordinate with the FBI and other agencies during our time of austerity.
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By: James on June 13, 2013
at 7:43 AM
Scott Walker says he doesn’t have a problem with transvaginal ultrasounds. Hmmmm I wonder how many he has had?
http://www.nationalmemo.com/5-things-scott-walker-and-wisconsin-republicans-are-doing-instead-of-creating-jobs/2/
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 7:37 AM
Hey, Cynthia – That is an absolutely TERRIFIC article by Max Haiven. (And, alas, I cannot find a single point with which I disagree…) The term “financialization” has never been in my vocabulary, but it sure as hell is now… The friends I have who consider themselves “Libertarians” are inevitably of that “every man for himself” stripe, and adamantly so. Ironically, they blame “the government” for any and every difficulty in their lives, and are convinced that every large corporation is worthy of admiration and trust, since each one has obviously been very “successful”… And they argue that it’s just human nature to want to be “successful” in that very same way – by beating out everybody else, by being solely responsible for every factor in their lives, by pulling themselves up with their own wile and determination…
And the financialists do everything they can to make sure people keep thinking like that – because doing so robs people of some of their greatest strengths: The strength of cooperation, of mutual support, and the very formidable power of common will.
We are, and always have been, a “tribal” species, and have survived, for the most part, through cooperation, not competition. The “lone wolf” may hunt alone, but he is always hungry…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 13, 2013
at 7:32 AM
So disappointed in Carl Levin’s decision to vote against Kirsten Gillibrand’s legislation regarding sexual assault in the military.
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By: Terri in NY on June 13, 2013
at 6:28 AM
Its a new day in America! 😉
Watch for the SCOTUS ruling/s . Some are expected as early as next week.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/13/minorities-in-america-census_n_3432369.html
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By: lori on June 13, 2013
at 6:05 AM
Okay, now you two assholes have shown who you truly are. The vitriol and poison you have in you is almost unbelievable. And PF, the way you follow and copy your friend is pathetic and sad. Your insults say way more about you than anyone here.
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By: Anonymous on June 13, 2013
at 6:05 AM
‘morning all.
‘morning, Hussein
‘morning, Holder
‘morning, Clapper
Want to see the kind of stuff that takes place under the PATRIOT Act? Oldie but goodie:
http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2007/06/librarians-desc/
This is what I mean about not even being able to talk about it. IMHO a clear, egregious violation of the First Amendment. Hussein did not start it, but he has the bully pulpit; he could definitely stop it. Not going to happen; he likes the power.
Note to NAGS: just scroll by and keep chewing your cuds. There’s nothing to see here.
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By: PFesser on June 13, 2013
at 3:32 AM
‘morning all.
‘morning, Hussein
‘morning, Holder
‘morning, Clapper
(Would you guys mind tapping into my son’s computer and telling him to quit screwing around and get his English paper done? Thanks.)
Pretty funny, Long Duc Dong – not a single attempt at answering a single question by a single leftist. It\’s because there are no answers – the same tired socialist rhetoric has been tested, re-tested, re-tested. We’ve run this experiment before – in dozens of times and places – and the socialist totalitarian model does not work.
And as always, when it begins to fail, the govt begins to take off the gloves, and By God – FORCE everybody to be equal and happy, whether they like it or not.
Don’t worry, gals. Just keep chewing your cuds. The stun-gun doesn’t hurt a bit. When they hoist you by your back leg and cut your throat, you won’t know it.
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By: PFesser on June 13, 2013
at 3:07 AM
lori opined about TX: ““don’t get angry get active”
You’re barking up the wrong tree. Texans long ago discovered that a market economy is what it takes to prosper. (Which is why, until recently, TX and my state, VA, have dueled for first place in the National Chamber of Commerce’s annual poll of the best places to do business. Lately, though, due to our unfortunate Siamese twin, Northern VA (NOVA, as we call it), TX is now running away with the ball.)
Your lame attempts at infecting the Lone Star State with the Welfare State spirochete, while laughable, are entertaining. Do carry on! We’ll get the popcorn and some Jim Beam and watch!
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By: PFesser on June 13, 2013
at 2:55 AM
Δ Al Fonz looks like IT could suck grape fruit thru a garden hose… 😈
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 13, 2013
at 1:52 AM
Δ Squirreled Sleaze
One of the founding members of Δ at Reject U, still living in the
whorehouse with the tattooed brand…the sorority that catches all the ugly, spurnedgirlssquirrels.You want to take a stab at my questions, squirrel?
Gato is like Fat Granny’s MENSA when compared to Δ Squirreled…
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 13, 2013
at 1:36 AM
Hey, Whirled… I know, I know…
Many times in my life I have tried “just one more time”… Sometimes I get whacked; and, occasionally, I do not. I have learned that a whacking might sting for a minute, but it never kills me – and, the few times it has opened a door are moments for which I am always grateful.
Now… The next thing I need to learn (and there’s always something) is how to not waste my time – or any of yours!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 12, 2013
at 10:08 PM
Hey Gato (and everyone else),
Ignore ‘IT’.
He’s an IDIOT!
Peace ~ Δ
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By: Whirled Peas Δ on June 12, 2013
at 9:44 PM
Hey! Where’s the outrage at the meanies pointed toward me? Goat….
I said it was pointless as you’re unteachable and unreachable in the deep abyss of abysmal failure. But Aunt Liki Liki made the point this blog is read by thousands (cough, cough), so it worth distinguishing how utterly contemptible and mindless you gals are – without capacity to understand anything above what’s for dinner and read the Media Matters meme.
The fact that I called you a step up from the 9th grade pom squad doesn’t mean I’m impressed with you, ‘Gato.’ Like the rest of the Philpot Delta Upsilon Mu sorority sisters, I still think you’re a low information Obama voter and rube.
I was just giving a bleater like you a chance to take a shot at answering any of my questions in a civil manner as you insisted. The truth of the matter is, you can’t. Baaaaahhhhh…
The country is broken irreparably. Let’s get rid of each other and start anew. If I have to bait you a little to make you mad enough to act into separating from me for real, then I have accomplished my mission here. We don’t belong in citizenry together. You need Marx, Mao, Mad Dog, and Michelle Antoinette.
I trust that this is a really low priority item for the blog owner with the rare appearance, who will accept the accolades to boost his or her own fragile lefty ego, but is probably embarrassed at the profound inanity it attracts from his or her side. I really think that Private Pyle Jumping Jimmy Wright is the same way. He’d like to attract a little better crop of genuflecting dolts, but his writing too lame to attract the small pool of talent on the left. It’s the mirror image of abject stupidity you read here with a little G.I. Joe smoke thrown in.
Bottom line is you’re weak, Gato. Real weak. But I knew that the first night.
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 12, 2013
at 9:02 PM
I do appreciate your referring to me, for the first time, by the name with which I have chosen to post here. And, for a few moments, I actually considered the possibility of a potentially reasonable exchange with you.
However, your following post, to someone else, (at around 5:20 pm, I think) has now eliminated that possibility entirely. Among the reasons I make this decision are the following quotes, all from the aforementioned post – just one – of yours:
“anonymous stooge”
“unique reasons to disdain each of you”
“the lair of forked tongue snakes and filthy roaches trafficking in lies and innuendo”
“I find most of you evil and wicked”
“your ignorance and duplicity”
“incorrigible and unteachable”
“rank cowards”
“utterly and morally bankrupt, hypocritical, disingenuous, and truly ignorant”
“goats”
“my intent oozes in your slimy pores”
And that’s not the entirety of it.
I, therefore, decline any further dialogue with you, from this point forward. Even ninth graders know this is a pointless exercise.
In short, thanks, and no thanks.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 12, 2013
at 7:29 PM
A troll who makes no sense!!
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By: Anonymous on June 12, 2013
at 6:20 PM
This is worth reading IMO.
http://truth-out.org/news/item/16911-financial-totalitarianism-the-economic-political-social-and-cultural-rule-of-speculative-capital
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 12, 2013
at 5:51 PM
Garden variety troll. Don’t feed them.
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By: Anonymous on June 12, 2013
at 4:45 PM
I’ll answer your question. But which Anonymous stooge do I direct it to? Can you take a number so I can be very specific? I have unique reasons to disdain each of you. Like Anon #1, Anon #2, Anon #3?
Why am I am here you ask? I will answer your question of my motive and my intent. It is multifaceted.
To expose you. I come to the lair of forked tongue snakes and filthy roaches trafficking in lies and innuendo. To challenge your mendacity and your lame propaganda – to characterize you as a blight on our country. To face those who market in the game of personal destruction and give them a taste of their own medicine. I find most of you evil and wicked, without any redeeming value. You say thousands lurk here? Well let them read the challenges I’ve posed that you avoid in your ignorance and duplicity.
But I am also not without a degree of moderation and after the last thirteen years, frankly tired of trying to educate your type. I have decided most o you not only incorrigible but unteachable. I want a divorce from you – not on a blog – for real.
I’ve come to the lair to request each of you leftists to help me as it takes two to make this work and separate us permanently without physical war so we can avoid another Civil confrontation. I want to shake your dust from my feet in this birthright we unfortunately inherited together and return it to where I believe it was meant to be without your carcass in the way. I don’t want to smell the stench of failed liberalism and mooches any longer.
I want you to go your way and I want to go mine without any relationship, without any common identity. I do not want to share the same country. I want to build a real wall where your ilk a distant memory. And I want you to have the country you wish so you can prove me wrong.
I want you to have no more influence in any capacity on the lives of my children, grandchildren, wife, parents, friends, and anybody the least bit interested in morality, the Constitution and the rule of law. I want to hold no allegiances to you. I do not need to care what happens to you, nor do I want to care for you. I loathe you…
There’s your answer.
Now, are any of you rank cowards game to take a stab at the questions I posed clearly demonstrating how utterly and morally bankrupt, hypocritical, disingenuous, and truly ignorant you are as low information Obama voters?
I thought not, goats. Let our small little world read that so that my intent oozes in to your slimy pores, head to toe, and removes any doubt of why I am here.
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 12, 2013
at 4:20 PM
I’ve seen Trent Franks speak a few times. He seems to be a Tea Partier, and not too bright. This proves it.
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By: Anonymous on June 12, 2013
at 3:20 PM
opps LOL try that again
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2013/06/rep-trent-franks-claims-very-low-pregnancy-rate-from-rape/
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By: lori on June 12, 2013
at 2:07 PM
Oh boy here we go again!
Another old white GOP man giving us all a lesson on rape. Apparently Trent Franks didn’t get the “new GOP ” memo.
I guess I will be turning the counter of how many days the GOP can go without talking about rape back to zero.
http://www.comfortsuites.com/hotel-san_marcos-texas-TX905?listpos=3
FAIL!
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By: lori on June 12, 2013
at 2:07 PM
Hmmmm, short dong. I’m wondering about all the “anal” references. Is there something you’re keeping from us?
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By: Anonymous on June 12, 2013
at 1:52 PM
Short dong: Ha, ha, ha. That’s the laughter part. Here’s a question for you, hot dog. Why are you here? I demand an answer to my question. Who are you to demand people answer you, or even talk to you? How much longer before you learn nobody is interested in you, your questions, your opinions, and your insults (except you and your boyfriend, of course). Cheers!
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By: Anonymous on June 12, 2013
at 1:11 PM
PeoplesView: A few thoughts on Snowden, Greenwald, and the NSA
http://www.thepeoplesview.net/2013/06/a-few-thoughts-on-snowden-greenwald-and.html
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By: delurkergurl on June 12, 2013
at 12:15 PM
GrottoGato,Ah, but I guess you don’t realize your own circular logic and its conclusion?
How would we know how I would respond to an answered question when there have been none answered? You have arrived at a false conclusion without support, Dear Lady. I could be sweet. A real gentleman. Chivalrous, in fact. 😉
Would you like to take a stab at those questions I posed, mam? You seem to be a step up from the ninth grade pom squad. You want to give a whirl? All you’ve got to lose is admission you either know or you don’t.
I have to admit I’m somewhat amused at how much “laughing” is going on at me with the threat of suit hanging out in space. 😈
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 12, 2013
at 12:14 PM
Well, the great thing is – the way you’ve done things so far, anyway – that it doesn’t matter one bit whether or not anyone answers your questions. If someone does reply, you take the opportunity to call him or her an asinine idiot, in your own colorful way. And, if someone DOESN’T answer… You take that opportunity to call him or her an asinine idiot, in your own colorful way, as well.
So, you can hardly be wondering why so few bother to “answer” you: It’s because it’s quite apparent that it doesn’t really make much of a difference to you, whatsoever, one way or the other. You’ll just keep being… You!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 12, 2013
at 11:57 AM
You forgot Rambo. 😛
Your responses don’t indicate laughing, sad sack. They indicate rage and profound inanity. However, I’ll leave it to the audience lurking to decide who understands the situation and the math, and who doesn’t. But if you’re laughing, you can quit bitching, can’t you?
Now listen up Jimmy Jr, Village Idiot Apprentice. Undoubtedly, my insults aren’t the only thing incoherent, pathetic and nasty – I mean, besides their Chatty Kitchen panty drawers.
I’ve been here the part of three weeks asking you sages questions and calling you on your mendacity when I wasn’t popping your balloons, and so far all I’ve received in attempt at real response is either fleeing, bleating or bloating – including the most lame of all. That would be you, sport.
Let’s face the facts, Anon. You’re a bunch of dopes and sad sacks who just happened to shit bricks when a couple of jokers came in and interfered with your group think, while in conjunction busted your sorry, bubble gum asses in the process.
I don’t know about legend, but I do know this much for sure. I can beat you in debate, effete.
Now, why don’t you take a stab at my questions if you’re so good?
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 12, 2013
at 11:17 AM
PFESSER….
The Monsanto Company is not the only culprit. All chemical companies are poisoning us. Reported as of 2010, and growing, there were some 80,000 regulated chemicals in our total environment, according to the EPA.
( supposedly, during the approval stage, the EPA banned a total of five chemicals since the agencies inception in 1977.)
A little research shows the chemical Aspartame was originally accepted by 90 countries. All regulatory agencies accepted the company
sponsored research without ever having completed independent studies.
Here is the link…
http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Aspartame
My point….the EPA approval of chemicals and drugs take place everyday by the FDA, headed by the past CEO’s of the same drug and chemical companies that stand before them for current approvals of their poisons.
They are either company or independently sponsored clinical trials.
Either way, it must pass only two positive clinical trials to pass. It may have 18 cases stating negative symptoms or outcomes, but, that does not hinder the FDA approval of the drug or chemical.
Peace..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 12, 2013
at 11:08 AM
I know you’re a legend in your own mind “Scorpion King”, but it’s sad you don’t realize everyone is laughing at you. Your insults are incoherent, pathetic and just plain nasty. Mwah!
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By: Anonymous on June 12, 2013
at 10:57 AM
A. Mousse, I need no backup – just you for an audience so that I can use my new cattle prod. You probably climax at the experience….
If you’re not Jimmy Wright’s Village Idiot apprentice, he should pay you royalties. I haven’t read such lame attempts at insult since I dumped a load at Private Bradley Manning’s Stoned Kibbles’ blog.
I fully admit, Anal Mousse. Short isn’t the half of it. The dong completely retracts when I enter this blog. When I previously talked about the attempts at shuffling through their panty drawers? You can’t imagine the horror that was pictured in the theater of my mind.
I can’t speak for my boyfriend – only to say it’s my estimation if I tallied up the aggregate IQ of Chatty Cathy Kitchen bouquet herd that roam here, which of course I’m sure includes the effete like you, and shoved the collective IQ up a gnat’s ass, it would be like dropping a B B in a boxcar. 😉
But you’ll note, Jimmy Jr.. I didn’t use The Blaze. I used your own feckless government against you sad sacks. What’s wrong? A little over your collective heads to recognize you were just busted for lying about ‘Boner’ and the economy? Why don’t you take a stand at my questions directed towards the Chatty Kitchen crowd, Jimmy Jr.? I need a good laugh.
XOXXO,
Short Dong
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 12, 2013
at 10:33 AM
“As we say, “don’t get angry get active”
Amen, Lori! Do not get distracted by noise. 😉
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By: delurkergurl on June 12, 2013
at 9:30 AM
Short dong: I think you are barking up the wrong tree when you turn to your boyfriend for backup about ” primitive propaganda.” He just posted a link to The Blaze! That’s About as primitive as you can get. No need to thank me. Kisses.
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By: Anonymous on June 12, 2013
at 9:20 AM
Pi, Friends,
Yep the TX Gerrymandering/voter suppression is astounding. Recently at a Dallas event featuring Steve Munisteri, the Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas, Ken Emanuelson, a leader in the Tea Party, said: “I’m going to be real honest with you – the Republican Party doesn’t want black people to vote” The REAL kick in the ass is he was speaking to an African American minister attending HIS event which was about community outreach when he made that statement!
The good news is we are fighting back. The numbers aren’t in their favor. We will run quality Democrats at every level and we will change the TX Constitution by 2020.
Although the SCOTUS case doesn’t directly effect us down here, it’s a shot across the bow. We are gonna take it anymore. Lawsuits are already being filed.
As we say, “don’t get angry get active”! LOL
Here is another great diary relating to TX demographics. 😉
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/06/11/1215457/-Republicans-either-support-immigration-reform-or-they-kiss-Texas-goodbye#comments
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By: lori on June 12, 2013
at 9:05 AM
They told me if I voted for Mitt Romney, they’d be shuffling through my personal records and they were right!
Why, why, why wasn’t Hussein Obama the President in 2008 that promised the most transparent administration in history?
Question for the libbies, moonbats, and progs to verify their definition of “transparent.” You guys always love to play the semantics game, so we need specific definition.
Did the word “transparent” during the first Obama term mean transparently corrupt? Repeat after me for old times sake: “You Are the Generation We’ve Been Waiting For!!!!”
——–
The FBI has dramatically increased its use of a controversial provision of the Patriot Act to secretly obtain a vast store of business records of U.S. citizens under President Barack Obama, according to recent Justice Department reports to Congress. The bureau filed 212 requests for such data to a national security court last year – a 1,000-percent increase from the number of such requests four years earlier, the reports show.
The FBI’s increased use of the Patriot Act’s “business records” provision — and the wide ranging scope of its requests — is getting new scrutiny in light of last week’s disclosure that that the provision was used to obtain a top-secret national security order requiring telecommunications companies to turn over records of millions of telephone calls.
Taken together, experts say, those revelations show the government has broadly interpreted the Patriot Act provision as enabling it to collect data not just on specific individuals, but on millions of Americans with no suspected terrorist connections. And it shows that the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court accepted that broad interpretation of the law.
———-
Are Barack Obama and Eric “New Black Panther” Holder swell guys or what, gals?
Who knows. Wait around long enough, and we might discover they’ve been shuffling through your panty drawer too. 😉
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 12, 2013
at 8:47 AM
Pfesser, see this primitive propaganda from the nags™?
Once again preaching to the choir, but you’ll note that not one of these superstars of nanny government has taken one stab at eve one of my questions. The lip service they provide you about civility? 😀 That means you mind your Ps and Qs about staying on message concerning the framing of Lori’s ‘Turning Herself Blue’ narrative.
Because I also provided something last week that absolutely blows away what Lori just posted as utter bullshit and outright KKKos lies. I can’t speak for John ‘Boner’ (remember that when they scold you about your use of Hussein), but perhaps ‘Boner’ should register as Dimocrat.
Last week here, I provided for the mathematical geniuses that not only did Hussein’s tax increase do nothing for the deficit, but it has actually further slowed the entire macro economy of the United States. Surprise, surprise.
And since you and a few of a our buddies are the only ones with even a rudimentary knowledge of basic mathematics, I will once again provide unbiased material documenting just how untruthful these “ladies” really are – courtesy of their own government bureaucracy called the Federal Reserve:
(Excerpt)
http://www.frbsf.org/economic-research/publications/economic-letter/2013/june/fiscal-headwinds-federal-budget-policy/
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 12, 2013
at 8:31 AM
Well put, Chris. It sounds a lot like Congress and the lobbyists, don’t you think? We’re the pawns in these games and we need to be more aware of the back room, under the table deals. Our livelihoods and our very lives are at stake.
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By: Terry W on June 12, 2013
at 8:09 AM
That was great fun. I clicked on another one – Hot Girl with Hairy Chest and went on a wild ride for 16+ minutes of other funny videos. Thanks!
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By: Terry W on June 12, 2013
at 7:59 AM
Good morning friends!
It’s always a good start to a day when Boner admits he was wrong!
According to Official Republican Dogma™, raising taxes on the wealthy increases the deficit because in their world, rich people apparently would prefer to make less money than to pay higher taxes. Of course, in the real world, it doesn’t work that way, but I wasn’t expecting House Speaker John Boehner to acknowledge that fact:
BOEHNER: The deficit is coming down. Because the president got a tax increase on January the 1st.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/06/11/1215381/-Boehner-admits-Obama-s-tax-plan-reduced-the-deficit
Don’t forget to read the comments. They are always the best part of Kos’ site. 😉
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By: lori on June 12, 2013
at 7:30 AM
Good morning, all.
Good morning, Mr. Obama, Mr. Holder.
Thank God for The Guardian. It’s pretty bad when you have to learn these things from a foreign newspaper:
“The Guardian revealed last week that seven technology companies – Google, Facebook, Skype, PalTalk, Microsoft, Apple and Yahoo – were involved in the Prism surveillance scheme run by the NSA.
The Guardian understands that the NSA approached those companies and asked them to enable a “dropbox” system whereby legally requested data could be copied from their own server out to an NSA-owned system. That has allowed the companies to deny that there is “direct or indirect” NSA access, to deny that there is a “back door” to their systems, and that they only comply with “legal” requests – while not explaining the scope of that access.”
Yep – the most TRANSPARENT administration in history. I know that’s true, because President Hussein said it’s true.
Know why these companies are asking for permission to reveal the NSA requests? Because under the PATRIOT Act, even telling anyone they got the requests is a violation of the law and carries jail time. For those of you unfamiliar with your Constitution, that is a violation of the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights, but hey, who cares? They’re keeping us safe.
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By: PFesser on June 12, 2013
at 7:11 AM
Homeowner with gun thwarts TWO would-be armed robbers, is shot, but kills one.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2013/06/03/two-would-be-robbers-no-match-for-homeowner-and-his-gun/?utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=may#
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By: PFesser on June 12, 2013
at 6:48 AM
Auntie Jean…
That was laugh out loud.
Loved when she rolled her eyes and then
raised her eyebrows, and the guys were so shocked.
Very Funny…
I needed that. So funny !
Chris
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By: Chris on June 12, 2013
at 2:29 AM
Auntie Jean…
Good job..
I wiil read your link..
PFESSER talked me all out.
I am so tired…
Peace…Chris
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By: Chris on June 12, 2013
at 2:23 AM
Whoopee!!! It worked!!!
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By: waialeale on June 12, 2013
at 1:52 AM
Hi Congenial Gang,
lori, thanks for the tips on how to post links – I think…..OK, I am about to set sail on my maiden voyage into the treacherous waters of posting my very first link. I am following your instructions TO THE LETTER so if it doesn’t work, it will all be your fault.
Be sure to turn up the sound.
https://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=sls5M5YWIOQ&feature=youtu.be
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 12, 2013
at 1:47 AM
PFESSER..
You are right. Certain plants can be dangerous in more than minimal amounts, but, you are loosing sight of the losses incurred by Man made chemical drugs. ( I do understand that most of the conventional drug compounds have a natural base ..it is just the man made stuf that is of concern. )
Many times the use of man made chemicals cause damage to the body filtering organs, like liver damage and sometimes liver failure and death.
The human body is NOT made to assimilate foreign compounds. You cannot improve on the wonderful machine, we have at birth. One thing that most doctors do not know is that the body is made of some 93 elements, if there is a shortage, we need to supplement the shortage ( which can be indicted with a simple smack blood test. ) We can replace the food source of the elements, which heals the body in a lot of instances. Given the proper situation, with NO chemicals, modified foods, chemicals in the environment, and proper balance of the bodys elements, the body can heal itself. That is what a doctor is to do; help it get clear of all detriments. Old time doctors were scientists, they studied everything to heal the body. Many modern doctors merely ,listen to the drug salesmen for the latest drug fix, to do their jobs.
Doctoring is a science, not an exact science, but one, just the same.
There are various variables with each person. What works on one person, will not work on another.
In Chinese medicine, which is viable in most instances. It should be used before western medicine is indicated.
When one is treated either by native American or Chinese medicine, three different plants are used simultaneously, for each body adheres to different chemicals, and collectively they work, or, one or another.
Instead, the chemical companies push the man made chemicals which give a myriad of further negative symptoms, requiring another drug to combat the next symptom, and as the symptoms pile up drug upon drug, we can be on as many as 15 or 20 drugs which will eventually drag down the body, by eliminating many necessary minerals and elements from our systems, which eventually, may causes death.
The drug companies tell the Health professionals that death is eminent, thus covering up for themselves for bad drugs… ( most drugs get recalled eventually, after thousands to hundreds of thousand of lives are lost )
In America, we lose upward of 100,000 people a year, to wrongful scribing, interactions, and various drug issues within the medical system, itself.
Your Grandpa was hurt by too much of the natural heart medication.
See how you look at the loss from a natural compound standpoint. It was unfortunate.
The drug system covers up the losses of millions of people due to the government sanctioned LEGALLY Prescribed DRUGS, while the natural vitamins and alternative plant healings get ALL the bad rap.
BTW, drug companies cannot patent
Can you see the government control?
The medical system disassociates itself from legal Dr. prescribed drugs in order to perpetuate the doctoring profession.
Drug companies own and run the medical schools, either directly, or, indirectly through grants and gifts. SO, they are perpetuated in their practices and sell the drug use, as part of the teachings which will be continued long after the doctors begin practicing medicine. Later the drug salesmen pitch the uses, while maybe only two positive trials ( with a possible 18 negative trial against the drugs use ) are conducted for the FDA to approve the drug. Then you and I know that somewhere down the line, some 100,000 patients will be damaged or killed before the drug company has a class action suite filed against them. Then the drugs production is ceased only to be reincarnated as a new drug treatment for other symptom which starts the whole process of FDA drug approval. ( that is how a bird poison used in in the 1980’s, freezing the bird’s muscle, making him shriek, and chasing the others away, can be reincarnated as an MS treatment called Avonex …at the cost $2,000-$5,000 per shot. )
Do you think pest control companies paid 2-5K to kill the birds?
BTW, Monsanto or, another chemical company made the raw extermination chemical, decided to make real money from its use, and sold it to the drug companies to compound as an MS drug, which in most cases, not only does not work, but, why would a doctor prescribe a drug which FURTHER paralyses an MS patient that already does not have use of his legs? See where I go here?
PF… I know you are looking for proof that Monsanto is bad.
I just had a short conversation with someone.
Monsanto sells 5 + gal containers of chemicals to the drug companies who make the drugs your profession prescribes to its patients. That sounds correct. My ex- husband worked for Monsanto for many years as a manager.
I know how the plastic came in. All their chemicals are shipped in like manner. They are at least partly responsible, either directly, or indirectly for the manufacturing of many different drugs. There are only so many large chemical companies, and Monsanto is a GIANT.
My iPad is tired..
My screen is frozen…Ha!!
Peace..
Chris.
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By: Chris on June 12, 2013
at 12:52 AM
Chris, I don’t spend as much time commenting as I once did. Rutherford’s blog is where some of us hang out: http://rutherfordl.wordpress.com/ He is not as involved as he once was due to working full-time, but we can pretty much post whatever we want. I build swimming pools and this is turning into a busy year for me, so I have less time to devote to
beating my head against the walltrying to wake people up. 😀LikeLike
By: poolman on June 11, 2013
at 11:23 PM
POOLMAN..
You are refreshing and are more like the knowing people I enjoy sharing information.
The folks on this blog are knowledgable, but just talk about everthing without knowing how it is all connected.
Most blogs appear to be more hip to the world as it is in real time.
A few here are somewhat hip to how the current events are manipulated and then reported as ,news.
We must keep telling them the truth…
I never have a problem with people who disagree,
only those who refuse to investigate and learn for themselves.
I would like to open a book and lead them to the big picture.
It realize 13+ years ago, when I had my ahah moment, about the illuminati, it seemed so kooky. Not so, anymore, the movement with its agendas are happening very quickly, ever moving toward its push toward a one world government.
I think it was Ghandi who said…
First they ignore You…
Then they laugh at You…
Then they fight You….
Then You Win…..
I pray we win the fight for mankind.
To do nothing, and not even spread the word, will help them accomplish their goal.
A lady I met recently , escaped many years ago from Communist Russia. She claims America is becoming very much like Russia was 25 years ago.
She had to exchange her identity papers with another girl at the time, to leave legally. She escaped with false papers to Rome, where they would not let her stay. She reunited with her family and was later sent on to St. Louis.
The bathrooms and public areas, and everything within their Russian apartment, were bugged. Their every word was heard. They were forced to lowly whisper and motion with their eyes to communicate. She was an eleven year old girl, at the time, and was terrorized by the practices of her Russian government.
Her father was a Jewish-Christian, who was a minister in her area.
In order to worship, they would meet at some home, or outside, where the parents ripped a page of the Bible and told to her to memorize it, for if they were ever found with the page, or the book, they would be punished..possibly killed.
She loves America, and the freedom she enjoys from living here, and all that America has done for her. She thanks God everyday for her life in America,
Many of our people do not even know what is happening to America.
The systems we have come to accept under this government are so entrenched in souls of these folks. They do not see how we are being stripped of our freedom. They do not see the duress we are living under and have come to accept as normal, since the Terrorist Act.
The powers that be have a large number of bloggers that attend the Bilderberg meetings.
Many are speckled throughout the Internet, as well.
I must kick the dust from my sandals, and move on.
I think I have accomplished what I was sent here to do.
STUDY LIKE YOUR LIVES DEPEND ON IT…. It does….
POOLMAN…
What other sites can one share info on?
I will visit you, if possible.
Please reply….
I am Your Friend in Peace and Joy….
Chris……
..
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 10:55 PM
Interesting, Pfesser. I had often wondered your inspiration to pursue the practice medicine. I had no mentor on the path that I chose, and in fact I was pretty much first generation college grad white trash, which eventually led to nothing but payment due. 😉
However, I would like to think that my sojourn did spark an idea for my smart daughter to become a physician. Step 1 was yesterday. She said, “Dad, it was miserable and long.”
I told her, “Baby, even for the smartest of med students (she is), boards are meant to be miserable. Don’t lose sight of that fact.”
If my sweet daughter has a fault, and it’s also an asset that makes her so good, it’s that she is too much the perfectionist and driven. That’s a real nice quality to have – as long as it doesn’t destroy you in the process. But today, she was back to feeling good.
———
I can appreciate Chris and Poolman’s concerns, but I am a simple man.
I always want to ask many of those who worry so much about the environment and the like, “If we are killing ourselves, why are most of us living longer than we should?”
If you get right down to it, the bottom line of the strain of medicine is the geriatrics for the most part. Don’t mean to be lurid and ghastly, but in quiet whispers, we all know it to be the truth.
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 11, 2013
at 10:51 PM
Chris – actually I have a little second-hand experience in pharmacognosy – medications derived from natural sources and compounded by the practitioner.
Medicine has been a tradition in my family for several generations, and when I was about eight, I found one of my predecessor’s medical texts on methods for the preparation of herbal remedies. I showed it to my father. He told me, yes he knew about the practice – quite well, in fact.
In the 1940’s, HIS father – my grandfather – had developed “dropsy of the heart,” now known as congestive heart failure. It’s a generalized weakening of the heart muscle, usually from bad coronary artery circulation, often related to smoking or strong drink. The doctor, Ross P. Daniel, riding his horse, came to see Grandpa. He made the diagnosis and prepared a drink from the foxglove plant – digitalis – to strengthen the heart.
He came back several days later and examined the Old Man, who was now worse, and told his family, “Well, I’ve poisoned him. I gave him too much. He will live or he won’t.”
He did not.
Bad doctor? Bad medicine? Ignorance? No, not at all. Digitalis has a very narrow therapeutic index, which is to say, 2mg won’t do anything for you, 3 is just right, 4 will kill you.
And that is why we prepare digitalis in sterile environments, with scales and scientific instruments, and carefully assay the dose. So we can be sure the dose we give is clean, uncontaminated and accurate.
So you see, natural healing ain’t always all it’s cracked up to be.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 10:19 PM
Chris, the mainstream does not promote whole health and neither do its institutions. Everything is set up as corporations would have it to better their bottom line, human welfare be damned. The accumulative radiation alone is killing us and plastics and other toxins in our water and food supplies only increase our agony and decrease our life expectancy. I just learned I should have said no to the electric smart meter they put on the house. This world is getting so superficially charged, it is often difficult to maintain a spirit of calm.
Add to that the chemtrail crap they release in the atmosphere in the name of controlling weather. Nobody needs ingest that much aluminum and barium. We wonder why our foliage is damaged and our own physical energy is zapped?
There are mountains of accounts where our government, in one of its multi-faceted personas, has stricken and poisoned its own citizens. We’re all just some of uncle sam’s personal guinea pigs. More than half of Americans are medicated with manufactured remedies doled out by our government’s approved and sanction pharma industry. It apparently kills over 60,000 per year and damages many, many more. Where is the outrage? It isn’t what the media hypes. We go bonkers over what they tell us we should. Terrorism as they make it out to be. It is something that rarely occurs and 9 times out of 10, one of our alphabet agencies incite and enable or let happen. That is how power mounts up when psychopaths are allowed to run things. There are way too many at the helm.
The true sciences have been hijacked to benefit industry that support and profit from their studies. Most college campuses have been cleared of their controversial personalities. The published research checked for industry approval. It is the same with news, censorship is rampant.
The internet has surpassed the campus, yet requires continual scrutiny. There is much more disinformation than good information to be found, but that is the nature of the beast. Seek and you shall find applies to the google, but it takes digging. We at least have that freedom to point these things out so far, as others have mentioned.
The swinging door between monsanto and the various administrations are well-documented and our FP has always been in the interest of industry, as we are it’s bulldog. I only wish all the bricks in this wall would break loose to help tumble this irreverent beast we’ve unleashed.
In my area of the country pharma and the war and tech industry has poisoned the underground water supplies. There are plenty of super fund sites out here. It seems ludicrous to have done so where water is so precious, but industry was allowed to operate as it so chose. Super fund site. Crazy name for a contaminated natural and necessary resource.
The world system has turned things upside down and until all is once again upright there is little time for rest. Carry on!
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By: poolman on June 11, 2013
at 9:38 PM
This is the Ancient Hypocratic Oath in large part.
It is a noble attempt to strive for..to LOVE AND CARE for one another at all costs.
I wish to share it..
THE CAPS ARE MY ADDED COMMENTS…
I will apply dietetic measures for the benefit of the sick according to my ability and judgment; I will keep them from harm and injustice.
(PLANTS USED AS FOOD WAS THE NATURAL CHEMICALS USED TO HEAL FOR 5000 YEARS, UNTIL THE DRUG COMPANIES TOOK OVER THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION AND IT MADE IILLEGAL FOR DOCTORS TO USE NATURAL CHEMICALS IN THE PLANTS. )
( KEEPING THE PATIENT FROM ALL HARM AND INJUSTICE IS WHAT THE MEDICAL SYSTEM IS KEEPING THE DOCTORS FROM DOING. THE SYSTEM IS FAILING FROM MANY PARTS OF THIS OATH, FOR SURE, ESPECIALLY, AGAINST THE DAMAGE TO MANKIND FROM THE DRUG AND CHEMICAL COMPANIES INCLUDING….MONSANTO…)
I will neither give a deadly drug to anybody who asked for it, nor will I make a suggestion to this effect. Similarly I will not give to a woman an abortive remedy. In purity and holiness I will guard my life and my art.
I will not use the knife, not even on sufferers from stone, but will withdraw in favor of such men as are engaged in this work.
Whatever houses I may visit, I will come for the benefit of the sick, remaining free of all intentional injustice, of all mischief and in particular of sexual relations with both female and male persons, be they free or slaves.
What I may see or hear in the course of the treatment or even outside of the treatment in regard to the life of men, which on no account one must spread abroad, I will keep to myself, holding such things shameful to be spoken about.
If I fulfill this oath and do not violate it, may it be granted to me to enjoy life and art, being honored with fame among all men for all time to come; if I transgress it and swear falsely, may the opposite of all this be my lot.
—Translation from the Greek by Ludwig Edelstein. From The Hippocratic Oath: Text, Translation, and Interpretation, by Ludwig Edelstein. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins Press, 1943.
PEACE….
Chris.
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 9:28 PM
from Chris-
“ALASKAPI…
All the conversations on liberalism and libertarians are rhetoric. It is the nonsense the elite want us to babble about, while they take further control of natural resources and make us and the rest of the world 3rd world countries, beholding to them for our very existence.”
——————————–
Chris- I absolutely disagree with you. While I respect your right to think and feel as you do, I disagree on many, many fronts on multiple points.
I’ve read plenty about some of the ideas you have, mostly because I am interested in what other people think, but there are too many problems with sloppy causal-correlation-hasty generalization type stuff with most of it for me.
As for dismissing folks’ political/social orientations as mere diversionary rhetoric. No- I do NOT think so. The ideas which people have about self, society, personal agency, statism, and the like inform many, many decisions- public and private.
I would request you read this;
Click to access fisheriesifq.pdf
which is likely completely out of your normal orbit.
THIS is an extremely well thought out and biting overview of a set of policies which we live with here , everyday, in ways much more close to home in all ways than much of what else gets talked about here on the porch. The underlying attitudes and ideas which formed the law and the way this is all managed matter very, very much and none of it has anything to with the Bilderbergs.
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By: alaskapi on June 11, 2013
at 9:04 PM
PFESSER….
Since your expertise is in the arena of the health of mankind, I would suggest that you involve yourself in the scientific studies of the chemical poisoning of our food and water sources for the good of all mankind.
I would hope the good work you administered in medicine, during your lifetime, would encompass a current concern for your fellow man, and include leaving a legacy of knowledge, and work tward the betterment of the state of health for all mankind.
Being a Doctor, having taken the hypocratic oath, it should be certain you would take a stand against the slow death and eventual genocide of millions of people the Monsanto poisonous business practices will AND ALREADY HAVE PRODUCED.
Does the hypocratic oath declare you will do your best to save lives, by keeping them from harm and injustice. Neither are you give a deadly drug to anybody who asks for it? How about the unsuspecting, who do not want the deadly drugs, are you suppose to allow it as a doctor?
This subject is one you should not have to think twice concerning in reference to making a decision, after having reflected on the comments and information provided by the porch dwellers on M&H.
I do not understand why an educated person, in the medical field, would not have enough knowledge about chemicals and GM plants and the effects on the human body, to make a decision on whether a chemcal company is good or bad.
I do study the science brought forth by Dr. Mercola, Dr. Sinatra, and many experts in their fields in regards to Monsanto and GM seeds and plants.
I would hope you could look into the subject more deeply, if you truly care for mankind.
I am scratching my head on this….
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 8:27 PM
FYI – …”I’m (Alan Grayson) introducing a bill that I call the “Mind Your Own Business Act”. This bill prohibits our government from spying on us, or collecting data on us, unless there’s probable cause that you have committed or you will commit an act of terrorism or similar criminal offense.
I submitted this provision as an amendment to the House Rules Committee today. I am attempting to attach it to the National Defense Authorization Act, which will come up for a vote in the House later this week. If you wish to show your support for the Mind Your Own Business Act then go here:”
http://mindyourownbusinessact.com/
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 11, 2013
at 8:21 PM
Wanna see where Hussein’s medical hegemony is headed?
http://fox8.com/2013/06/11/cash-only-doctors-abandon-the-insurance-system/
Glad Grandma is having such a bang-up experience with HusseinCare; she seems to be in the minority. I just spoke to my ex-sister-in-law. Her health insurance (She is fifty, unmarried) just went through the roof; her employer had to pass most of the cost down to the employees, so she had to drop it and has none now. No, she has no illnesses of any sort. Sound as a renminbi.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 7:49 PM
gato opined: “This makes no sense whatsoever. A “brat” is a “horse”, of whatever color?”
gato – “Horse of a different color” means “something totally separate and different.” It’s an American idiom.
And that is a horse of a different color from “American idiot.”
God this is so easy that it almost, but not quite, takes the fun out of it. As another idiom (For your education, there will be three.) would go, “like taking candy from a baby.”
Put that in your pipe and smoke it.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 7:43 PM
How the hell should I know? Is that polite enough? 😀 Apparently, you’re not familiar with the John Hughes teenage bopper movies of the ’80s. I just thought it worthy for this worthy blog.
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 11, 2013
at 7:36 PM
How to Know the Government is Watching You
http://juanitajean.com/2013/06/11/how-to-know-the-goverment-is-watching-you/#comments
Is your state one of the 15 states against Citizens United? And why not?
http://truth-out.org/buzzflash/commentary/item/18020-the-big-momentum-against-citizens-united-rolls-on-delaware-is-15th-state-to-call-for-its-reversal
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 11, 2013
at 7:11 PM
What does the “Duc” part mean? And please put it as politely as possible.
Thank you.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 11, 2013
at 7:01 PM
Fester… This makes no sense whatsoever. A “brat” is a “horse”, of whatever color? Not your best. Look again at my comments about dealing with issues, and your position about how we should all do that – and then respond to those comments, or not. So far, you haven’t.
Gato
BTW, as long as you insist on referring to the POTUS as “Hussein,” I will continue to address you as “Fester.” The instant you have some other idea in mind, I’ll join you. Really. Not kidding.
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By: gatodicima on June 11, 2013
at 6:59 PM
Actually Sidney,
You’ll note that questioning had nothing rude or nasty, nor was intended to be insulting other that to specify if you can’t answer those questions with reason and differentiate why y’all apparently hold one group to a completely different standard than another, you’re rank hypocrites and primitive propagandists.
However, in your special case, I make exception. Not only do I find you to be illiterate, ignorant and simply stupid, I find you Sidney to be an abject coward. And your real beef is, you don’t like being busted for it. 😉
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 11, 2013
at 6:56 PM
gato opined: “Any attention is better than no attention at all, isn’t it? Just like a toddler.”
Well, a toddler should be excused, because he can’t help himself. A sixth-grade brat, well, that’s a horse of a different color, isn’t it?
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 6:39 PM
Chris –
“Obviously, In regards to Monsanto and the GM seeds, and the stopping of labeling the poisons, you do not have enough information, come to the only rightful conclusion against Monsanto.”
–You are right; as I have said, I don’t have information, or personal experience with Monsanto. Therefore, honesty would dictate no opinion, wouldn’t it?
“I honestly find it rather strange that you would not be up to speed on most subjects, as the scholar I see you to be.”
–Appreciate the compliment, but nobody can keep up with everything.
“Since you cannot see the evil of Monsanto, do you owe allegiance to the company ?”
–No.
“Being in the Medical field, you possibly are an ardent backer of Monsanto, who is also closely related to the drug companies.”
–Possibly, but not actually.
“Are you a Monsanto stock holder?”
–No.
“I also know that doctors get monthly or quarterly kickbacks from the individual drug companies , for the scripts they write under their license numbers….”
–You are mistaken. That would be a felony.
“This drug pushing amounts to hundreds of thousands of dollars in a doctors pockets, paid for by drug companies.”
–As above.
“Doctors are Legalized Drug Pushers…who are subjected to drug selling, or possibly loosing their licenses…”
–Again, you are mistaken.
“A pharmacist once explained this to me…”
–A doctor is explaining it to you now.
“Monsanto and its affiliates companies are heavy into the drug manufacturing business, as well.”
–I was not aware of this.
“Under either of these circumstances, it would explain your reluctance to make negative statements concerning the vile corporation, Monsanto.”
–It might, but it does not.
“Why would an intelligent professional or anyone, not take a stand against a company who is promoting the slow death of human beings, with their poisons?.”
–They would, if they knew what they were talking about. I do not. Nor, I suspect, do many others. I choose to remain silent about that of which I am ignorant. A good policy.
“I do notice when I make statements against chemical, and drug companies PFFESSOR….. you deflect by changing the subject, or comment on someone else’s statement, and just outright refuse to answer my comments.
That is really funny to me.”
–It shouldn’t be. Refusal to indict someone or some-thing you know nothing about is a virtue.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 6:38 PM
Fester – The questions are not over anyone’s head, nor is anyone “afraid” to answer them.
When someone chooses to post, using a juvenile version of an “Oriental name,” which we all know is meant to imply the possession of a large male organ, I would think that you – proponent of civilized discussion that you present yourself as being – would be the first to suggest to that person that doing so is not such a good idea, and not conducive to eliciting any civilized and adult response. Well… Gee whiz. THAT isn’t happening.
You’re either for adult conversation, or you’re not. I suspect you’re not, after all, no matter what you’ve said, and I’ve known that for a long time.
Any attention is better than no attention at all, isn’t it? Just like a toddler.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 11, 2013
at 6:34 PM
PFESSER…
Obviously, In regards to Monsanto and the GM seeds, and the stopping of labeling the poisons, you do not have enough information, come to the only rightful conclusion against Monsanto.
I honestly find it rather strange that you would not be up to speed on most subjects, as the scholar I see you to be.
Since you cannot see the evil of Monsanto, do you owe allegiance to the company ?
Being in the Medical field, you possibly are an ardent backer of Monsanto, who is also closely related to the drug companies. Are you a Monsanto stock holder?
I also know that doctors get monthly or quarterly kickbacks from the individual drug companies , for the scripts they write under their license numbers….
This drug pushing amounts to hundreds of thousands of dollars in a doctors pockets, paid for by drug companies.
Doctors are Legalized Drug Pushers…who are subjected to drug selling, or possibly loosing their licenses…
A pharmacist once explained this to me…
Monsanto and its affiliates companies are heavy into the drug manufacturing business, as well.
Under either of these circumstances, it would explain your reluctance to make negative statements concerning the vile corporation, Monsanto.
Why would an intelligent professional or anyone, not take a stand against a company who is promoting the slow death of human beings, with their poisons?.
I do notice when I make statements against chemical, and drug companies PFFESSOR….. you deflect by changing the subject, or comment on someone else’s statement, and just outright refuse to answer my comments.
That is really funny to me.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 5:56 PM
Sidney – Actually, Long Duc Dong has some pretty good questions. Over your head, or just afraid to address any of them?
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 5:41 PM
Long dong silver…….NO, nobody wants to explain anything nasty, rude questions. You come to this board to be an ass. And your doing that quite well.
Please don’t feed the trolls, especially THIS DICK.
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By: sidney18511 on June 11, 2013
at 5:25 PM
WAIALEALE..
If the jailing of people speaking their peace would have taken place 200 years ago, our founding fathers would have called this oppression. .
That is the exact reason we declared our independance. We wanted freedom of oppression.
OUR FOUNDING FATHERS WOULD HAVE CALLED that which we are experiencing….TREASON.
We have been warned throughout our history to be vigilant in order to protect our uniion.
But, because it is done by these corporations, it is ok. ??
We have lost our freedom, if no one sees this an act of oppression.
It looks like Iceland will take in the young man. They are pretty strong on freedom, in Iceland.
The wikki leaks guy went there, I understand.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 5:25 PM
Chris…isn’t it amazing how the GOP pulls the wool over the eyes of their followers by saying that they want to “shrink government”. Sounds so good to them doesn’t it? They think that this shrinking will save their tax dollars. What they don’t comprehend is that they will still pay taxes, but it will go into the pockets of the 1% who are playing them for dupes.
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By: sidney18511 on June 11, 2013
at 5:21 PM
Hey Righteous Cynthia or any other of you pious progressives. You want to really exchange discourse without insult? You say you do. Let’s see how truthful and honest you really are.
Maybe you can help me understand why it is leftists that I find such rank hypocrites; Lori, Gato, Aunt Liki, DeLurker, and a few others come to mind.
I’ve got a million questions for any of you but will only trouble you with a few of the easier ones. Perhaps you’ll take a stab at any of them:
(1) Why did the Bush tax cuts lead to the financial crisis of 2008 according to you and the media you love, but by 2012 the very same tax brackets pertaining to the middle class if not approved would have caused a Depression according to Obama and the media?
(2) According to Obama, why was it unpatriotic for George Bush to accumulate $4,100,000,000,000 of national debt in 96 months, but Obama accumulated $6,200,000,000,000 of national debt in 51 months and there is silence from the Left?
(3) Why is waterboarding three thugs, including the mastermind of 9/11 by the name of Khalid Sheik Mohammed, worthy of a trip to the Hague for the POTUS and ruining the United State’s reputation across the globe, but President Barack Obama has killed an estimated 4,100 people alone in Pakistan with drone strikes including women and children, and there is no demands that Obama be tried in the Hague for war crimes nor charges that Obama is also damaging the U.S. reputation across the globe?
(4) Why was GITMO so bad under Bush but okay under Obama? And if GITMO so bad, where is your scathing criticism of Obama still housing prisoners on M&H?
(5) Where is your criticism of Barack Obama who now defends surveillance programs he opposed as Senator and campaigned against while first running for President?
I’ve got many more that really are probably beyond your time and expertise, but if you can answer just a few of these demonstrating you’re not a person of duplicity and double standard with a gift for the non sequitur, I’ll be most impressed.
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 11, 2013
at 5:17 PM
CYNTHIA…
This subcontracting of all of the Departments of American governement is part of the corporations plan to disassemble the U.S. ( just like they buy up small corpanies and sell off the pieces before closing the companies down and oursourcing our jobs, leaving us with no company and no jobs.)
The government is being decompartmentalized, and disassembled, just as our Constitution is being set asid, at eery turn. .
We are becoming the United States of Corporations.
I remember hearing under the Bush Administaration, immediately after the passing of the Patriot Act, that a privately owned Arab Company was contracted to provide surveilance and security of our New England easterly shoreline, instead of the Coast Guard, which is normally given that responsiblilty.
What is all this nonsense we are being subjected to.?
Do any of you ever come to any conclusions about what is happening to our beloved country?
Peace…..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 5:10 PM
Exactly Auntie Jean! Sounds pretty fishy eh? LOL That is why I said he is a paid operative by someone who has the most to gain by this “SCANDAL”… Damn sure SOMEONE is paying him. Time will tell…
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 5:02 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Let me get this straight. We’ve got this 29 year-old “kid” who gets a job with the super secret something or other government agency for three months. He has lots of experience reading James Bond type spy stories and playing computer games. He finds out that he “knows” and/or has access to a whole bunch of stuff. He romanticizes and envisions himself the big super hero on TV, etc.
But…….in real life, it’s different than running to mommy to tattle on what the neighborhood kids did that was naughty.
Now if he had the same job for three months with say Monsanto and “leaked” anything that could be construed as “patent infringement” or maybe a big pharmaceutical company with a 17 year patent precluding cheap generic manufacture of any of its patent protected drugs …… well, I think the first thing the corporation would do would be to send some goons to break both his legs.
This “kid” got himself a tiger by the tail. When all is said and done, he won’t have to worry much about his next job. He may very well get free room, board and medical care at gov’mit (read taxpayer expense) for the next 30-40 years. (China and the U.S. may have differing political philosophies but they do have reciprocal extradition agreements.)
Picture this dichotomy. A company (Monsanto?) develops a product based on largely government financed university R&D research grants, applies for and receives a patent to sell the product. The patent is issued and protected legally by the government as company proprietary rights. That’s how it is in the here and now.
Back up a few hundred years to George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, both of whom owned large plantations and slaves to work them. Rhetorical question. What do you suppose their words would be TODAY regarding National Security secrets laws to protect the citizenry from enemies both foreign and domestic; and patent laws protecting the proprietary information secrets of large corporations.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 11, 2013
at 4:58 PM
NSA – Why have we outsourced a portion of our national security to a private corporation? If you do not trust the government to do the job why would you trust a corporation? I understand Booz-Allen-Hamilton made a profit of 1 Billion plus last year. How much more did this cost the tax payers? At least we have some control over the government but we certainly have no control over a private corporation.
There are those who wish to shrink the government but by simply outsourcing to private corporations how does that shrink it. Privatizing has been proven to cost more so what is the point?
http://www.npr.org/2013/06/10/190453537/booz-allen-hamilton-a-major-player-in-intelligence-community
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 11, 2013
at 4:39 PM
Chris – sure. But I also know there are always two sides to a story. And every time I have been absolutely sure that one side was evil and the other angel, and I had the opportunity to subsequently hear the other side – it didn’t sound so one-sided. That’s all I’m saying.
I’ll stay out of the Monsanto pool, for now.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 4:18 PM
PFESSER..
We are still fighting the battle that the small guy had during the industrial revolution, when he took his invention to the patent office, only to have his patent stolen. This happens yet, today, by those who do not have the many thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars to invest in order to secure patents on their ideas.
Once again, the rich get richer, and the poor get to do the work of rich.
What a deal..
Peace..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 4:17 PM
I understand your point Chris, I do. In a perfect world we wouldn’t have corporations that are = to people in our courts eyes. We wouldn’t have K street lobbies, we wouldn’t have perpetual elections, we would have publicly funded elections. But we don’t . We need to work with reality fi we are going to achieve anything.
I threw a couple of dollars occupy Monsanto’s way and wish them the best. I do. But honestly they need to get much more organized, they need to control a better more organized message, and most of all, not make perfect the enemy of the good if they are going to succeed.
I appreciate organizations that drag MY Party to the left on these types of issues. They are needed and welcome. Unfortunately, most times they over play their hands too. Then no one gets what they want.
Be careful of the conspiracy stuff. It’s not necessary to get the attention of the masses. That’s just my opinion. that and 5 bucks will buy you a coffee 😉 … good luck.
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 4:15 PM
PFESSER..
If one is proven to be less trustworthy by deeds committed, one should not be trusted.
To listen to one who has commited horrendous deeds is one thing, to believe in one that has committed horrendous deeds, is bad judgement.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 4:10 PM
Gato, You’ve got it pegged; it’s what our country should be about. Sadly the “haves” are running the show and they could not care less about the “have-nots” unless they don’t show up to clean their mansions or raise their kids for them.
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By: Terry W on June 11, 2013
at 4:07 PM
Lori..
Because of the lack, of media coverage, up to NOW, of the seed modification process, and exactly what it entails, there is an abundance of misleading misinformation , in regards to the importance of stopping them.
The mainstream media, because of its lack of honest reporting of the entirity of the subject, creates only a minimal cloud of distrust for Monsanto.
The rest of the world appears to be more knowledgable on the subject.
The majority of our more intelligent people in America are foggy as to what the term GM really means.
The media a day or two ago, reported the FDA making statements discounting the dangers of the GM seeds, so as to mimimize the importance of Monsanto Demonstrations, in the eyes of Americans.
If the more educated are confused about the subject, due to the lack of good information, what conclusions are those without cable or satellite or internet suppose to believe?
The majority of the U.S. population are totally misinformed as to the full scope of the dangers of GM seeded plants and it’s impact on future generations.
This food poisoning will eradicate through various forms of Cancers and Heart Disease the majority of the world’s population. It is creating long painful deaths to those who have been ingesting these poisons.
Peace..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 4:04 PM
Cynthia –
“This is, for the present, a free country and Lori has the right to vote as she sees fit.”
Good point. And everyone also has the right to an opinion, and the right to express it, whether flattering to lori, you, me, or anyone else.
“However, I do agree with you to a certain extent of why people vote party line. Why in hell did those people vote Bush a second term?”
Or Obama a second term?
“Why did they vote Bachmann 4 terms?”
You got me there.
“Why did they vote the Tea Party in?”
Because they were frustrated with the direction the country was going, and the Tea Party was neither Democrat nor Republican, which they – and I – consider to be two sides of the same coin. Unfortunately, the Tea Party was co-opted later by the loonies. That doesn’t mean it wasn’t originally a good idea.
“Why did they think so highly of Palin?”
You got me there, too.
“Why are the Republicans so good at lining up all their followers to vote against their own best interest?”
Funny question. If you remember your history, that has been said about the Democrats for the last forty years, until they got it together about seven years ago.
“Why did you think the answer was Ron Paul?”
He’s not The Answer; he has his faults, too. Fortunately, they are trivial when compared to those of everyone else running in the last two elections, in my opinion.
“They did because you/they have the right to think as you/they believe is in you/their best interest.”
Agreed.
“Or do advocate telling people what to think?”
I advocate that everyone express his opinion and, – and this is a big one – everyone keep an open mind. You don’t see that much, I’m afraid, which was of course, the whole point.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 3:46 PM
also too Chris, please hear my heart when I say I welcome your interest and attention you have given to this matter. I too am interested. I have a little more nuanced opinion than yours, but none the less still interested. It goes without saying M&H have been gracious enough to welcome us all in to talk about whatever floats our boat, no matter the content.
I was just suggesting that perhaps you wouldn’t feel so alone if you joined in one of those organized anti Monsanto sites as well.
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 3:44 PM
Chris – suppose that every word of what you say about Dr. Franklin is true. Does that make what he said untrue, or less wise?
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 3:32 PM
Chris, please forgive me but please do a google search for CNN, NBC, CBS, MSNBC, ABC Monsanto reporting.
I think you will find the “main stream media” IS giving attention to this issue. Now, the question is, are people listening? Is it enough attention? That is a different matter entirely.
There are organizations, facebook pages, twitter hashtags specifically dedicated to anti Monsanto efforts. You might feel better if you join in those discussions. Stay calm and organize if you want to make a difference! It has been my experience the conspiracy approach is seldom helpful.
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 3:27 PM
Helen Imma thinking you should apply! LOL LOL But seriously!
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/06/11/1215398/-Help-Turn-Texas-Blue-One-Blog-Post-at-a-Time
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 2:46 PM
PFesser.
Hidden history on Ben Franklin says he was a pedophile, and thief of the many patents that came across his desk at the patent office which he worked at or ran during the industrial revolution. ( that is why He is known as the
” Father of Invention” )
Most of the history we have been offered over the recent ( 100 years ) has been slanted by the educational textbook publishing owners , to whitewash that which makes individuals weary of the real men that these names represented.
Franklin, as well as most of the founding fathers had dual citizenships with the mother country, and some were simultaneous members of the House of Commons.
Their posts and citizenship were never denied after their so called break from England. ( one revolutionary was a Secretary department head, while having a position in the British House of Commons at the same time.
Not sure who ? ).
Much of our world’s history in the last 100 years, has been tainted and falsified. many history officianados like the older books, as much has been erased, by simply not mentioning occurances in current publications.
Franklin’s London home was owned and kept intact long after his movement to America. Thousands of bones were found under his basement floor, long after he was dead and gone. ?..? There was speculation that some other owner of Franklin’s home had been a laboratory doctor or student who performed autopsies and buried his subjects there ..?
Not sure, but, there is still a possibility that Franklin had been involved.
I believe he was a member of the Masonic Order, which back then, was an off shoot of another secret organization, The Knights Templar. Correct me, if you actually know that he was not a member of the Masons.
Much of the far fetched information I refer to is in documentaries, several of which are from the History Channel and PBS.
The Internet appears to be narrowing down the amount of listings and references available to study the subjects I google. That was not so, a year and more ago. What is that all about? I do have copies of most of the documentaries revealing the information., but what is to become of this information for the future students of history?
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 2:11 PM
Senate votes 82 – 15 to proceed to debate on #immigrationreform bill. Let’s keep the momentum going! OFA
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 2:01 PM
Gatodicima..
Amen…my hat is off to you.
You are absolutely right on Monsanto.
Please read what I commented on the,
a few moments ago.
Monsanto is always at these secret meetings, that the media does not cover.
People march, are arrested, and still no mention in the mainstream media.
The march against the Monsanto Protection Act was worldwide in 400 some cities, with some Two Million Marchers, with arrests and people hurt by police, but, still very little, if any, mention in the mainstream media.
See how much power they have?
Please read my previous comment.
Peace..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 1:11 PM
ALASKAPI…
All the conversations on liberalism and libertarians are rhetoric. It is the nonsense the elite want us to babble about, while they take further control of natural resources and make us and the rest of the world 3rd world countries, beholding to them for our very existence.
I spoke of the Bilderberg secret society, a few days ago.
Check out the photos on the link below, at meeting that took place in The UK last week end.
There were I believe, 130 delegates from 21 countries, composed of prime ministers, heads and past heads of states, as well as, chief executives of the most powerful corporations. ( Monsanto is always included on the guest list. )
Their agenda this year is to utilize the most advanced technology to achieve their goal of world domination. That means they will be sending drones to watch and possibly kill their foe, viewing us in our homes and sending out electro magnetic waves to control our minds, sending radiation to kill us with Cancers, and other diseases, while taking our monies, and freedoms and rights away.
Most of the population We will see this agenda take place, without knowing this was their plan. The majority are being blinded from the truth, by listening to the planned confusion being injected by the media.
The Bilderberg agenda of 2005, ( look it up ) has been realized, as of 2013, while the majority gaggle over each detrimental accomplishment that negatively impacts America and the World..check it out for your self.
Read on the Bilderbergs..the secret society that NEVER has mainstream media coverage. These are the gatekeepers of the elite.
This IS what is really happening in secret.
That is why nothing is ever accomplished no matter what party is in power.
The elite run the world, and always have..even in our country.
The coast to coast broadcast of Saturday night with two investigative reporters stating that the model of this NWO is similar to the Nazi plan.
( my studies say the New World Order are the money Banksters who funded and empowered the Nazi regime. I say they never went away, just the group’s name changed. )
These Bilderbergs should be scrutinized and studied, not the political rhetoric on which party is better. Nothing of any great importance changes, no matter which party either steals, or legitimately wins the election.
On this iPad, I will not be able to add wiki on the Bilderbergs, or I may loose all that is written. I will list the wiki link for the Bilderbergs, on my next blog.
Wiki states that the Bilderberg is a secret private group consisting of people of influence. It includes one-third of its invited guests from government and politics, and two-thirds from finance ( world bankers ), industry ( multi-national corporations ), labour, ( ? ) education ( dumbing down the world ), and communications. ( which is why WE the people never hear of this secret society…and why we should never believe any propaganda they condition us with through every media source.)
Through their ownership and control of the media, we are lead away from any information that brings focus to the conspiracy they are creating against …We the People.
http://www.infowars.com/photos-from-bilderberg-2013/
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 11, 2013
at 12:58 PM
How damn pinko and ignorant is the magnitude of one to make this kind of statement? Pfesser, can you imagine why anyone would ever think of seeking compromise with somebody this illiterate and dishonest? You’d do better to bargain with the devil. You think I’m joking when I call many of these stooges here Dear Leader material?
Good grief…quoting Vann Jones to boot – a self avowed Communist and so radical he was kicked off Zero’s Czar list when Jones record came to light out of embarrassment. Like that hag Anita Dunn using Mao as someone she admired before they cut her loose as damaged goods. How long before Obama’s commissars start managing this place? 🙄
I used to think many of these M&H people simply confused, unhinged and maladjusted. But their hypocrisy goes way beyond stupid. Their vision is not a Republic. It’s North Korea with Kimberly Jong Il as leader.
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By: Long Duc Dong on June 11, 2013
at 12:58 PM
Hi, Cynthia – And, of course, if one were really only so nobly interested in civil conversation, among adults, about “issues,” one might cease referring to the POTUS with the entirely disrespectful use of the President’s middle name… Wouldn’t one?
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 11, 2013
at 12:33 PM
(Not sure what went wrong but I have the cart before the horse.)
pf – So what! Did your mother never tell you the only person you have any hope of controlling is yourself? This is, for the present, a free country and Lori has the right to vote as she sees fit. Perhaps you can think of it this way you can cancel her vote.
However, I do agree with you to a certain extent of why people vote party line. Why in hell did those people vote Bush a second term? Why did they vote Bachmann 4 terms? Why did they vote the Tea Party in? Why did they think so highly of Palin? Why are the Republicans so good at lining up all their followers to vote against their own best interest? Why did you think the answer was Ron Paul? They did because you/they have the right to think as you/they believe is in you/their best interest. Or do advocate telling people what to think?
I read R’s blog. With one exception I have not heard one other say anything positive about Obama or condemn the GOP for anything yet. And they are trying their best to hold R responsible for everything Obama does and won’t be happy until they have R dancing the jig as punishment for voting for Obama.
You have admitted on several occasions you love to debate and have taken either side. I am not confused and I have been paying attention, thank you very much.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 11, 2013
at 12:28 PM
ooops – With one exception I have not heard one other say anything positive about Obama or condemn the GOP for anything yet.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 11, 2013
at 12:18 PM
Hi, Mageen – Wise counsel, I’m sure. I can sometimes get into the what-the-hell-we’ve-got-to-fix-this-right-now mode… And, other times I can be incredibly patient… It’s a mix!
Thanks for the reminder…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 11, 2013
at 12:14 PM
Hi, gatodicima! All of this ability to sue or not sue Monsanto was “born” with the invention of franken food, so the issue is bigger than the iceberg that hit the Titanic inasmuch as most of it is still hidden. This will be going back and forth for awhile and possibly resolved by the time our children have kids of their own. Its a long hike, so get some rest now.
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By: Mageen in Old Virginny on June 11, 2013
at 11:48 AM
cynthia opined: “pf likes to debate/discuss and will take either side of the issue just to do so”
No, Cynthia, you haven’t been paying attention. And the reason you are confused is because there are some – very few – people who are interested only in WHAT is right, not WHO. They understand that nobody has a lock on the truth, and that sometimes the Left is wrong and sometimes the Right also. Sometimes it means agreeing with one side, sometimes the other, sometimes neither.
Slavish adherence to party, instead of Love of What Is Right, is what got us where we are. I challenge anyone to find a single post by lori, for example, where she either: a) praises a Republican or b) criticises a Democrat. That kind of mentality is the problem, IMHO.
In the current debate about Hussein’s attacks on the Fourth Amendment, both the Dems and Repugs are wrong; Bush started it; Hussein could stop it, but he likes the power. Power corrupts, and students of history know that enslavement is always done the same way: manufacture a “threat” and tell the people you can “keep them safe” if only you will just give up your rights and give them more power.
The President does not swear an oath to keep us safe. He swears to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” Nothing else.
Now, in the name of “keeping us safe,” the dupes on the Left and Right have given the Executive power that any tyrant would drool over. Our job is to take that power from them.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 11:10 AM
Hey, Cynthia – Let me see if I’ve got this straight…
Monsanto (and, BTW, “santo” means “holy” in Spanish; in this case, we can only suppose that “mon” might mean “un-“…) refused to execute a written, legal, contract, promising NOT to sue farmers whose crops were “accidentally” contaminated by some of their “exclusive” and patented biotech seeds. The court ruled that a paragraph on the Monsanto website offered “sufficient” protection for the farmers against Monsanto’s going after THEM.
And THEN a court said that those farmers could not sue Monsanto if Monsanto’s stuff accidentally contaminated their own organic crops.
Is this essentially the gist of the situation?
Krikeys! Isn’t the real ISSUE here that the very stuff that those organic farmers worked for years to avoid having contaminate their crops “accidentally” got in there, and THEIR CROPS HAVE BEEN COMPROMISED?! Am I missing something here, or is this really total madness…?
How is this any different from a scenario of BP’s “promising” not to sue anyone along the Gulf Coast for improperly “using” any of “its” oil that they “accidentally” dumped all over the place? (You know – somebody might have just been waiting for the opportunity to kill fish or coat birds, and “improperly” seized this opportunity to do so…) And then the courts ruling that nobody along the coast could sue BP for damages caused by that oil, because BP had already been so nice to them…?
I have been a working creative professional most of my adult life, and have been party to literally hundreds of contracts involving copyrights of “intellectual property,” which are not dissimilar to protections granted in a patent. And I’m all for those protections. But, for heaven’s sake, if something I created “accidentally” damaged, or compromised, or destroyed, the valuable property of someone else, I would sure as hell expect to be sued by the owner of that property, for the damages my work had caused, “accidental” or not.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 11, 2013
at 10:57 AM
penny abrams – I believe you are new here. I appreciate your desire to be civil. I have been reading this blog from the beginning of M&H. IMO it has always been 10% politics and 90% social. On occasion there is an issue that gets people fired up and discussion takes place. This is the nature of this blog.
There have been people who have tried to change this nature and have been met with resistance, especially those who come to degraded and intimidate. Their behavior does not lend for reasonable conversation. There are others that wish to get into long drawn out debates and eventually declare themselves the winner. Others make statements as if it is fact yet give nothing to support it being a fact.
pf likes to debate/discuss and will take either side of the issue just to do so and is disappointed and critical that no one joins him. He has in the past assumed the role of self appointed moderator. pf on another blog admitted he comes here to shake up the “fat grannies” and “nags” and invited the others to join him. There are very few here he has respect for or considers to be his equal intellectually. I don’t understand why he insists on coming here, do you?
He is the person who teases the dog until it bites then declares it viscous and shoots it.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 11, 2013
at 10:27 AM
WTG Cynthia! yes yes and yes..
and if you haven’t already, check out what Van Jones has to say about the pipeline on moveon.org a few days ago. We need to keep pushing the pile and putting pressure on the powers to be!
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 10:11 AM
… “Monsanto officials specifically refused to sign a covenant stating it would not sue the growers, but the court said the website statement was sufficient and would be binding.
(You can trust us..really you can!)
Monsanto filed 144 patent-infringement lawsuits against farmers between 1997 and April 2010, and won judgments against farmers it said made use of its seed without paying required royalties.”
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/10/monsanto-wins-lawsuit_n_3417081.html?ref=topbar
*****
Vokes’ allegations on Thursday against TransCanada, the Canadian company leading the controversial proposal to send tar sands oil from Alberta to the Gulf Coast via the Keystone XL pipeline, were sobering: a “culture of noncompliance” and “coercion,” with “deeply entrenched business practices that ignored legally required regulations and codes” and carries “significant public safety risks.”
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/11/transcanada-whistleblower-pipeline_n_3415701.html?ref=topbar
John Boehner has heavily invested in a bunch of companies that are connected with this Pipeline. He spread out the investments so that it would not draw the attention of the Ethics Committee. And John Boehner is trying to force this pipeline bill into as many bills as he can in the House….he would see a huge wind fall profit if this goes through
http://www.politicususa.com/2012/01/22/john-boehner-keystone-xl.html \
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 11, 2013
at 9:52 AM
gato: your starters would make me totally happy. i can hear the harps now. man…and it could b so possible…so possible. sad, eh?
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By: penny abrams on June 11, 2013
at 9:47 AM
pf: we can get together…extreme anythings to ultra conservative but first we must agree to some things. we have to start w/some agreement of some sort. for example:
we sit down to discuss (insert A topic)
we do not make personal remarks
we know, going in, that everyone will have to make some adjustment
and
we know we need to be patient…all of us
after that there will be weeding out of some topics. we recognize that there are some areas we will never agree…at least not this century.
who, in this blog, would refuse to sit down with those conditions? be honest.
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By: penny abrams on June 11, 2013
at 9:35 AM
Personally I think Snowden is a paid Rand Paul “contributor” operative.
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 9:03 AM
Politically Delurker,(because after all that is what we are talking about with ALL of these manufactured “SCANDALS”- is political posturing for the midterms) the dems are on firm ground going forward. The GOP wanted a distraction from the Obama agenda they got it. 😉
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 8:59 AM
I’m having a problem with the term whistleblower. The traditional definition of the word implies that the information revealed is about illegal wrongdoing. You can find a definition to fit your agenda, I guess. What this guy did is allegedly violate confidentiality agreements and regulations, and potentially gave away information that compromises the capability of the agency. I hope there is a trial.
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By: delurkergurl on June 11, 2013
at 8:54 AM
Delurker, I’m not surprised . Politically, Boner and company have no where to go. That is why I said what I did about Paul watching his Ps & Qs the other day. They made their bed in 2005 while you and I were jumping up and down SCREAMING at the top of our lungs NOOOOO.
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 8:49 AM
PS – I referred only to Republicans because they are the ones with the most to gain by screaming “SCANDAL!” Plenty of Dems are on board the stinking garbage barge along with them.
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By: delurkergurl on June 11, 2013
at 8:44 AM
The government is not SUPPOSED to reflect only the will of the majority. It is supposed to reflect the principles of the Constitution, and that’s a very different thing.
– which, by the way, states explicitly that the majority shall not go too far in forcing its will on the minority.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 8:43 AM
Lori, I have seen several Republicans defend the NSA practices, including John Boehner this morning on GMA. While it’s gratifying to see the “scandal” card falling apart over this legitimate outrage, it’s a crystal clear sign that it’s that it will not change.
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By: delurkergurl on June 11, 2013
at 8:43 AM
lori: “Also too, according to the most recent polls most Americans are okie dokie with the Patriot Act and even more are ok with the NSA collecting our metadata and even listening in on our conversations, if it keeps us safe.”
“Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.”
(From the man who helped make the country whose freedoms you enjoy, Miss Lori – Mssr. B. Franklin)
Also from BF: “Well, Doctor, what have we got—a Republic or a Monarchy?”
“A Republic, if you can keep it.”
Hope to God the attitude above is not widespread, or we won’t keep it.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 8:41 AM
exactly Gato. F&F!!!!!
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 8:39 AM
HI, again, Lori – For some reason, I’m leaping to the bigger picture of “what keeps us safe,” now that you’ve mentioned that phrase.
IMO, what would really do the MOST to keep us “safe” is dealing with some – or all – of the following:
Stop the heedless destruction and pillaging of our natural resources – our land, our water supplies, and our forests, our air.
Make sure that a majority of our citizens have real “work,” and can earn a living wage for themselves and/or their families.
Reduce the huge and ever-growing disparity between the “haves” and the “have nots.”
Make it a national priority that no citizen, of whatever age, ever goes to bed, or wakes up, hungry; make sure that our national food supplies are safe and healthy, and available.
Guarantee that every resident has access to affordable and high-quality medical treatment, from preventative care to urgent intervention.
Make sure that our young people are educated.
Treat every citizen with respect and dignity, regardless of race, gender, age, physical abilities, or sexual orientation.
Understand that the “free market system” will not function for the good of both itself, and society as a whole, without some social restraints applied to it. (And reject the idea that corporations are “people.”)
Make sure that every citizen has the right, and obligation, to vote, and that our government reflects the will of the majority.
That’s for starters!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 11, 2013
at 8:37 AM
Speaking of books Pi, all others, I shamelessly mentioned a good read the other day. I don’t know if you caught it. If so my apologies for repeating.
It’s called America 3.0 by James Bennett and Michael J. Lotus.
Talk about pushing my boundaries! LOL BUT let’s just say I have some, ahem, blood involved in that book. 😉 Check it out.
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 8:32 AM
oh, I forgot… afraid you are correct on the tool-to-keep-us-safe dealie,lori.
sad but probably how it is gonna shake out…
gotta go !
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By: alaskapi on June 11, 2013
at 8:29 AM
lori- I know! We did try! Often!
gotta go. weather still holding. too many things to do before it shifts tomorrow or the next day .
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By: alaskapi on June 11, 2013
at 8:18 AM
PFesser and anyone else who really wants to play around with ideas and look from a wholly different angle at a number of things , this guy dumps a whole heap of sacred cows on their heads, including some of mine 🙂
This one is a starting place-
http://web.inter.nl.net/users/Paul.Treanor/libertarian.html#conflicts
Watch your blood pressure whilst reading him but test your boundaries…
For all who are talking about the leak stuff- I’m waiting too but am also joining lori in asking where the hell are some/all of the folks who rammed through the legislation and programs that made this mess ?
This is from the authoritarian right, a place Mr Obama has governed from all too often regardless of all the hoo bobby crap about what a socialist he is.
Centrist philosophy has contributed to this.
gato- the whistleblower ? Waiting to hear more. Not impressed at some levels, impressed at others.
PFesser- be careful of Greenwald. Be real clear where you and he depart in ideology. He’s got some super duper blind spots. You’ll see them if you look. He’s not necessarily wrong but he’s often making conclusions based on “facts” which are not facts,
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By: alaskapi on June 11, 2013
at 8:16 AM
LOL LOL We tried to tell them Pi that Obama was a Centrist, but did they listen???????
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 8:13 AM
Yep Gato I agree with you. Also too, according to the most recent polls most Americans are okie dokie with the Patriot Act and even more are ok with the NSA collecting our metadata and even listening in on our conversations, if it keeps us safe.
So nothing will be done. What politician (especially National candidates) wants to be the one who TAKES AWAY tools that “keep us safe”? I am sure you can just sit in your chair and imagine what the campaign ads would look like. Nope not going to happen. I think there MAY be a little bluster about taking a peek at the Patriot act – maybe even renaming it, but essentially we are stuck with it.
This is the harvest the GOP reaps when they use their favorite political tactic of “keep em dumb and keep em skeerd”.
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 8:12 AM
pi – thanks again. Looks like I’ve got some work to do!
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 8:04 AM
NYC rally to support Snowden:
http://www.examiner.com/article/hundreds-of-i-stand-with-snowden-new-yorkers-gather-for-1st-u-s-rally?CID=examiner_alerts_article
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 8:03 AM
PFesser-
distinctions in libertarian thought are important.
The minarchist school has a lot of appeal to folks who would traditionally fall into basic conservative values and quite frankly a lot of left libertarian thought tracks that direction -but with very different notions of property, money, and the like.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minarchism
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By: alaskapi on June 11, 2013
at 8:01 AM
The judicial lynching of PFC Bradley Manning.
http://www.truthdig.com/report/item/the_judicial_lynching_of_bradley_manning_20130609/
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 7:57 AM
lori- I went and looked round at articles about Texas redistricting flaps. Holy moley! Texas has a different method for redistricting than Alaska. I’m not fond of ours but Texas’ stinks. Would no matter who was in the majority. Time to change the state constitution?
Had to laugh at your leftier than me dealie. I like having found someone who is at least on the same street as me… 😉
Cynthia, gato, James-
for you
http://www.alaskadispatch.com/article/20130609/farm-flourishes-alaska-tundra
Mr Meyers is doing the so-called impossible and doing it well. He is a hero of sorts to a lot of us away from the half-the-state-population-all-in-one-place-in ANC-and-the-Mat-Su .
Please note the cost of fuel in his area and his remarks about housing viability. There is a whole nother bunch of folks working on cold climate housing here who are coming up with region specific designs which are pretty dang cool.
I have a friend who is working to get a farm going out in Bristol Bay who got to spend a week with Mr Meyers. He is as crusty as he sounds 🙂 but truly full of workable ideas and methods.
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By: alaskapi on June 11, 2013
at 7:56 AM
Morning, Lori – That’s a pretty darn good “definition” of liberal and progressive positions, IMHO – I like it!
As for the NSA “leaks scandal,” it seems to me that the only “secrets” that have been leaked are things that every member of Congress has known about – and APPROVED – for years and years. (The whole idea of having “national security” based on a bunch of activities known by only a few, instead of eliciting the cooperation of every citizen in same, seems to me like a pretty dumb idea overall.) To be perfectly honest, I have a problem with “secrets” in general, other than refusing to reveal the location or contents of birthday presents prior to their distribution on the appropriate day. In my personal life, I can’t think of a single “secret” that anyone tried to keep that (1) almost everybody else already knew, anyway; (2) ever did anyone any good by “keeping” it; and (3) wasn’t revealed sooner or later.
As others have mentioned here, anyone who lives in the contemporary electronically-connected world has very few “secrets,” anyway. The headlines on our computer home pages gradually evolve to feature more and more of the subject matter we once clicked on (lordy, I’m SO sorry I EVER looked up anything about Kim Kardashian…!); our cell phones know where we are at every moment; our banks have electronic records of every transaction we ever made; every on-line retailer we frequent knows what we last purchased, and has several ideas of what we “might also like”; and on and on and on.
Many are concerned about the “misuse” of this information, and that’s a legitimate concern. I happen to think that getting my “news” pre-filtered by Yahoo! according to what I last looked at, is a form of “misuse.” But nobody’s jumping up and down about that…
Everything was okey-dokey when we’d just suffered the horrendous losses of 9/11, but now that OBAMA’s “in charge,” democracy is suddenly under siege by our own government, and Al-Qaeda is just a wannabe… Maybe we should have given that possibility a bit more serious thought twelve years ago. And we have another excuse for our congress critters to get all worked up about the latest “scandal,” instead of actually doing anything… At least until the next Congressman is discovered behind a locked bathroom door handing over cash to an under-age member of the same sex…
The more I see, and hear, about young Mr. Snowden, the more questionable I’m finding his motives, the potential scope of his knowledge, and his behavior. He’s just a little too high on his “moral horse,” a little too bravely self-sacrificing, and a little too obviously full of his own importance, to convince me he’s simply done a noble thing for the good of the American people… And, of course, both he and Mr. Greenwald are hinting that Snowden may have even more “secrets” to reveal… Probably a record of everyone who frequented the office water cooler, when, how often, and how many paper cups each one used. We’ll just have to wait and see.
Oh, and this is certainly yet another example of the wonderful benefits of “outsourcing” government work to “independent contractors”!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 11, 2013
at 7:55 AM
pi: ““The “libertarianism” entry in Mark Bevir’s Encyclopedia of Political Theory holds the three types of libertarianism are right, left, and “consequentialist” as promoted by Friedrich Hayek.”
I have never read much on the theory of Libertarianism, I read Hayek’s “Serfdom” several years ago, and “Why I am Not a Conservative” – of course, conservative meant an entirely different thing back then and would be unrecognizable in what the ReBiblicans call conservative today. My politics are probably closer to Eisenhower, to wit: yes, the State has a role to play in people’s lives, but every program must be carefully thought out and provide benefit worth the expense. The Interstate system, started by Eisenhower, is the best example of money well-spent. Johnson’s War on Poverty is probably the worst.
Thanks for the link; when I get a little time, I’ll educate myself.
*********
Chris: Yes, young people DO get cancer, but without modern medicine, they would invariable die and be removed from the gene pool – having had no children. Once you get old, Nature and evolution don’t care if you die; you’ve already done your genetic duty. Hence, cancer is not selected-against in old people, and is primarily an old person’s disease.
**********
lori opined: “… still waiting for Boehner and Mike Rogers to call for full congressional disclosure and repeal of or at least reopen the PATRIOT ACT. Yeah still waiting.”…. &c &c &c…..
Perhaps they can hold hands with Diane Feinstein, who is vociferously defending the NSA domestic spying. I’d pay good American money to hear you criticize a Democrat even once…LOL LOL
By the way, we are on the same side on this one, except IMHO both the libs and conservatives in Washington deserve a thorough ass-kicking.
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By: PFesser on June 11, 2013
at 7:32 AM
Auntie jean an easy way to copy and paste a link.
Go to the page you want to copy. Place your curser (the little arrow thingie) in the address box at the top of the page. Click it, the address box will turn blue.
Press the Ctrl key (usually at the bottom left) then press the “c” key. You have copied the link.
Now go to the comment box you want to paste it to. Press the Ctrl key and the “v” key. It will paste the link your comment box. 😉 eazie peazie
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 7:23 AM
Yes you are right Auntie Jean Liberalism and Progressivism are pretty dang close. Both came out of the Age of Enlightenment and both are based on liberty and equality, social justice, equal rights, freedoms from religion yadda yadda yadda. The principles overlap in many areas. A Prof once explained to me – Progressivism mostly speaks to the changes needed to achieve Liberalism! LOL LOL I suppose that’s as good of explanation as any. Today both “labels are used interchangeably.
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 7:00 AM
Day 6 now since the Guardian first reported the NSA surveillance leaks.
… Still waiting to hear where the Tea Party rallies against the PATROIT ACT will be taking place. … Yeah still waiting.
… still waiting for Boehner and Mike Rogers to call for full congressional disclosure and repeal of or at least reopen the PATRIOT ACT. Yeah still waiting.
… still waiting to hear from the GOP about how wrong they were when they went after and attacked Russ Feingold as “un American” when he correctly predicted how the Patriot Act would be used and abused if put in place. Yeahhhhh still waitin…
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By: lori on June 11, 2013
at 6:46 AM
Hi Kitchen Crew,
Pi and lori, I always appreciate your comments and especially your links to informative stuff. As you well know, I have limited computer skills. I can FIND just about anything, often more than I wanted to know and get sidetracked onto something else. But I would have to back up about 20 years to get up to speed on how to do a lot of things, including posting links. I know, I know, if I really get in a bind I can send up a flare to computer geniuses like delurkergurl, brudda Peas or good old jsri to come to my rescue with help.
I have almost always claimed my status as a progressive liberal as far as political ideology goes which may or may not conform to any particular political regime “du jour” and certainly not to any totalitarian concepts of any stripe. I feel conservatives are way too tradition bound and especially consumed with power and money. And then the self-styled libertarians are all for which-ever-way-the-wind-blows-my-way-for-ME!
With two back-to-back family graduations, numerous graduations of the kids of friends and two family back-to-back surgeries for necessary but non-life threatening conditions, May and early June were a bitch! I’m giving serious thought to taking the summer off, stretching out in a lounge chair on the Dinky Deck with a nice glass if White Zin and my trilogy of historical novels about the slave trade, starting in Bristol, England to the Gold Coast of Africa to Central and North America. Ten generations of the same family. Ahhhhhh!
I would like to say something about the medical, scientific and technology PROFESSIONS. We have the dubious distinction of having had way more than our druthers with them recently. Father of one of the recent graduates and a daughter, our youngest son in PA had successful surgery for a fairly large painless, movable mass on his knee that turned out to be BENIGN! Whew!!! It took four pathologists putting their heads together to figure out just what the hell it was. A strange anomaly. He is sending us the pathology report, like we will be able to read it???? Since it was attached to muscles, tendons and even bone, the aftermath of the surgery to remove it was extremely painful. He is not a complainer, but we could hear the pain in his voice over the phone. He has kicked the walker and the oxytocin (sp?) two-week habit and gone back to work. This is the robust guy who hasn’t had any health problems since an appendectomy when he was a kid.
My husband had cataract removal and can now see (just a wee bit too clearly) that old woman he has been living with for lo! these 60 years – as well as dust on the furniture. I think I’ll tell the opthamologist to “Put ‘em back!!!” As some of you know, he has a chronic neurological condition that requires IVIG infusions at the hospital every six weeks. He has been getting them for over two years and no doubt they have kept him mobile and out of a wheel chair, thanks to medical research, up to the minute technology and superbly trained medical personnel to dispense it. Over time we have gotten on a first name basis with all of them. Besides being thoroughly professional, they each one ooze TLC and inspire confidence.
We have become aware over these past two years of just how much more coordinated and efficient the whole procedure has become. Imaging, blood work, physical examinations. Practically EVERYTHING is digitized now. Very little is done by hand except of course for the work the personal does with every conceivable instrument at their fingertips.
All of these medical manouvers are and have been covered at least partially by Medicare and private or supplemental health insurance. Naturally, we follow the statements and billing carefully. Thanks to Obamacare, the bills have been steadily DECREASING as the efficiency for the same care delivered has INCREASED.
I find it quite interesting that initially the conservatives and especially the extreme right dubbed the health reform legislation “Obamacare” in the belief that it would fail and be a blight on the record of President Obama’s administration. It is my opinion from this first hand knowledge that the legacy of “Obamacare” may very well go down in our history as one of many of the greatest advances ever in the well-being of our citizenry.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 11, 2013
at 2:27 AM
Thanks for the link Pi, that’s a blog I always forget to check, and I shouldn’t.. It’s a good one.
if you have time check out what the TX legs is doing about redistricting.. Ugggggggg , will it ever end? N/M unfortunately we know the answer.
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 7:55 PM
Yup Pi you are one of the very few people I have met in my political life that is SLIGHTLY further left than myself. LOL LOL But you are.. and I love it. I am finally not the only weirdo in the crowd! Having declared all that, I do self identify Liberal and surely do identify with Progressivism, which I think are like chicken and waffles. They are just made for each other! I find them all perfectly co-habitable, most of the time. 😉
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 7:44 PM
PFesser…
Not so, about Cancer being for old people.
I know that the medical system ( in America, for sure ) has been desensitized, teaching that old people do not count. They are on their way out, so do not do as much to save them.
Cancer is happening to our young people and the very young, as well.
Our foods are being poisoned. That is the main cause of Cancer…through drug medications and the chemical screwing up of our foods.
My then 27 yr. old son, Christian moved to Denver 10 years ago.
He had sinus trouble, and was sent to 3 oncologists, who could not figure out what his illness stemed from. (I thought his immune system had been compromised from Acetone and Poly Resins from the nail business he was involved in years before.)
They thought it was some form of borderline Leukemia, and of course, wanted to swing into the killing mode of chemo and radiation.
He did the chemo pills for a short time…and decided it was making him even more ill.
I first asked if there were any chemical or mineral dump sites, in Aurora, or the Denver area?
He said he did know of any. ( a few years later, I again viewed Michael Moore’s Bowling for Columbine, in which he mentions that within a few miles of Columbine High is a weapons factory, which dumps their uranium and plutonium outside of Denver..He also mentioned that our boys carrying the guns made of those same two materials were coming home with various forms of CANCER.
I sent him tons of info, that I researched.
I told Christian to eat organic, STOP the fructose MONSANTO poisons, no sugars and little or no grains.
Chris’s wife finally agreed that I was probably right with what I was telling him.
He went on a phase I diet from Doug Kaufman, and changed his lifestyle that much.
I also found in my studies that Denver has up to 27% less oxygen, because of the altitude. ( I also knew a Neurologist many years ago that claimed as a young student that IF he could put oxygen in a pill, he could cure all known diseases to man.
Cancer grows in a 60% oxygen environment.
If you subtract the oxygen level of Denver, from the normal range of oxygen humans, you get the condition that Christian was suffering from, borderline Cancer. ( now why couldn’t the 3 or more CANCER EXPERTS he visited figure this out? )
He later, went to the Mayo Clinic in Arizona to consult, because of the lack of knowledge of the locals in Denver. Before he left, I reminded him that IF he felt better in Arizona, and there were positive changes to his blood work, he needed to leave Denver to survive. I told him to check the levels upon returning to Denver.
The Mayo found blood work was high, but, within a normal level. It did not read at a Cancer level. But upon his return to Denver, it was once again high and indicated Cancer. ( Do not live in Denver if your immune system is compromised, or are prone to Cancer. I know I have a hard time breathing the entire time I am there. )
With the changes made to his diet..mostly veggies and fruits…no fructose corn syrup or CORN..or sugars…he and his liver are within a normal range.
I did not mention that his spleen was first removed 1 year before his blood work became alarming. It had grown to twice it’s normal size., and was about to burst. ( the spleen swelling was another mystery to the surgeon, which I accounted for, by studying a very simple anatomy book named Stephen Biesty’s Incredible Body. )
The red (?)blood cells are sent out to kill bacteria and usually die as soon as their job is performed. Since the fructose in the bloodstream and throughout the body was chemical and foreign, and unrecognizable by the body, the blood cells ran back to the spleen, engorging it with the build up of red blood cells,causing the swelling of the spleen to twice its normal size.
Why couldn’t the doctors even think this through.
Christian is doing fine, as long as he eliminates Corn and hidden sweeteners, and SODAS from his diet, and eats lots of ORGANIC fruits and veggies.
( Of course, he has little left of an immune system…so, he must stay away from bacterial infections, and anything that compromises his immune system.)
See…PFESSER…
I have personal knowledge of this poison. I KNOW HOW BAD MONSANTO GM CORN AND SEEDS ARE FROM MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.
I pray the rest of the world comes up to speed in this knowledge, or we will ALL die, young and old from CANCER.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 10, 2013
at 7:44 PM
lori- here you go. best description. WC is pretty polite considering what a doofus the State comes across as here :
http://wickershamsconscience.wordpress.com/2012/08/27/captain-zero-and-the-voting-rights-act/
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By: alaskapi on June 10, 2013
at 7:40 PM
oh crap- I forgot that/the link…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Left-libertarianism
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By: alaskapi on June 10, 2013
at 7:29 PM
I am a far , very far left libertarian – most closely identifying with the Steiner-Vallentyne school of thought. It is very, very different than a right libertarian POV.
I am not an anti-statist. I don’t buy that BS
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By: alaskapi on June 10, 2013
at 7:28 PM
http://www.politicalcompass.org/reading has complied reading lists of thought in all 4 main areas of political theory/thought.
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By: alaskapi on June 10, 2013
at 7:23 PM
PFesser- lori is correct that there are 3 basic libertarian styles recognized by political theorists. Within each style are multiple viewpoints as you undoubtedly know from the right side libertarian view, which includes minarchist thought ,anarchist thought , and the like.
Both left and right libertarian thought includes substantial numbers of anti statists – anarchists.
“The “libertarianism” entry in Mark Bevir’s Encyclopedia of Political Theory holds the three types of libertarianism are right, left, and “consequentialist” as promoted by Friedrich Hayek.[30]
Herbert Kitschelt and Anthony J. McGann contrast “right-libertarianism” with “right-authoritarianism.”[31]”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Right-libertarianism
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By: alaskapi on June 10, 2013
at 7:22 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Anbody here ever heard of St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN? It has been operating for years, researching the causes of and treating children with cancers.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 10, 2013
at 6:51 PM
gato –
http://www.dailywritingtips.com/is-%E2%80%9Cthey%E2%80%9D-acceptable-as-a-singular-pronoun/
Note the ref. to Chicago Manual of Style. That sits by my easy chair when I work. The use of “their” to refer to a singular antecedent is not technically grammatical, particularly in older texts, but in informal use it is quite OK.
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 5:51 PM
lori – thanks for the link. Interesting article; of course what it does is give you its definition of libertarianism and then tell you why its own definition is wrong. That is called the “straw man” argument.
Look: We need to find common ground. Not everybody on the Left is for a communist regime. Not everybody on the Right is for fascism (although some are). And, along those lines, no Libertarian I know is in favor of anarchy.
Most Libertarians are in favor of a small government and low taxes. They believe that every government program must show that it, on the net, benefits all of America, not just the people it employs. That’s Libertarianism. Probably the last president who took that POV was Eisenhower.
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 5:35 PM
Hey, Terri – That’s never going to happen, as we all know. Even an accusation of possibly being incorrect is apparently quite alarming to Himself, and must be dealt with at once!
It is also evidently necessary to include, at the end, some sort of gratuitous
“instruction” as to which subjects – if any – should more properly be the focus of the corrector’s study and attention.
Whaddya gonna do…?
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 10, 2013
at 5:23 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
This is a great day at M&H’s for sharing insightful info. I’m learning plenty!!! Sure beats reading the phone book! This is a piece I found pretty interesting so am sharing it with you.
These are excerpts for a June 3 New York Times Editorial entitled “On Smart Change in Iran Policy”. Intriguing idea. It will be interesting to follow and see where it goes. There is more than one way to skin a cat.
“The Obama administration has made a useful modification to its Iran policy by lifting sanctions on companies that want to sell cell phones, laptops, encryption software and other similar technology to ordinary Iranians. This should improve the ability of Iranians to circumvent their government’s unrelenting crackdown on dissenting opinion and communicate with each other and the outside world without reprisal.
“The decision, announced by the State and Treasury Departments on Thursday, [May 30?] is a major departure from the administration’s general approach, which over four years has been to increase sanctions in an effort to persuade Iran to abandon its nuclear program.
“The Obama administration has definitely not repudiated that approach…….
“The technology decision, which comes two weeks before Iran’s presidential election, inserts the United States into Iranian politics on the side of political freedom in a way the Obama Administration did not during the last election in 2009. That election was denounced as fraudulent by the Iranian opposition, which, using various social networking services and websites, staged months of protests that, in turn, triggered a vicious government crackdown.
“Just what impact the technology decision might have on the presidential election on June 14 is unclear…..
“This should have been done sooner. Tensions between Iran and the United States – over Syria and terrorism, as well as the nuclear program – will almost certainly get worse, barring some unexpected new policies in Tehran. But America will be in a stronger position if it is seen as standing with the Iranian people.”
Once again President Obama demonstrates his skill as a master politician.
Aloha! 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 10, 2013
at 3:13 PM
While we continue our national discussion about our privacy and personal liberties, it’s interesting to understand, at least for me, political labels. Here is an interesting article on right wing – Libertarians. A completely different beast from a left wing- Libertarian which is really three different parallel schools of thoughts. Right Pi? LOL Personally, I have many left wing Libertarian views. Humans are a complicated lot aren’t we???? LOL
http://www.nationalmemo.com/libertarianisms-achilles-heel/
Ok now I am really really done.. LOL maybe
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 2:59 PM
Jeez, PF, you know she got you. Just admit it.
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By: Terri in NY on June 10, 2013
at 2:23 PM
Chris – Sure, cancer and heart disease are the primary killers of Americans, but that could be because they are diseases of old people, and Americans as a group are aging rapidly. All old people die.
Cancer is not strongly selected against evolutionarily because it is a disease of old people. Once you have your children, nature couldn’t care less what you die of, because that doesn’t figure into survival of the offspring or the species.
Cancer of the soul? Now, that’s a different thing entirely.
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 1:40 PM
Nice try, gato, but you’re over your head. “Their,” while technically not correct according to the old rules, is quite often used nowadays to agree with singulars. Language evolves.
Stick with what you know – whatever that is.
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 1:32 PM
D’oh!
Mean IRS Manager Who Picked On Innocent Conservatives Is A Conservative, Not Trying to Holocaust America
http://wonkette.com/519132/mean-irs-manager-who-picked-on-innocent-conservatives-is-a-conservative-not-trying-to-holocaust-america
“In an official interview transcript released on Sunday by Democratic Representative Elijah Cummings, the manager said he and an underling set aside “Tea Party” and “patriot” groups that had applied for tax-exempt status because the organizations appeared to pose a new precedent that could affect future IRS filings.”
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By: delurkergurl on June 10, 2013
at 12:56 PM
Cynthia..
Good to see interest on the food issue.
It is really a serious one.
Most of America’s corn is Monsanto’s GM, which, if you check the REAL science, not just that which is being provided by Monsanto, you will find that corn and all it dirivitives..( along with other pesticides and Round-Up ) are causing most of the Cancers we are suffering from.
Cancer is now the number 1 cause of death in the U.S.A.
Heart disease used to be, but, now Cancer has taken over first place.
It was also in the news just this week, I believe on the BBC that 41% of the Brits will get Cancer.
That is a lot of folks with Cancer, when the disease was hardly found in the Egyptian Mummies. That means it is an environmental disease, brought about by and in, either our food, air, or water.
The EPA at its inception in 1977 was to regulate the safety of some 60,000 chemicals within the U.S. environment. It was reported in 2010 in the St. Louis Post Dispatch, it is now regulating some 80,000 chemicals.
20,000 new chemicals were added to the environment….in the FOOD, AIR, and WATER since 1977 in America. Is it no wonder our death stats have climbed for Cancer? ( We havealso lost 2 years off our life expectancy men..75…women….78…)
Corn in its current state of being genetically modified, is not considered a food, but rather a TOTAL chemical product.
Corn is suppose to be a grain, which the powers that be (MONSANTO) tells us that THEIR CORN is a vegetable. Actually, Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences says it is a veggie, fruit, and grain.
Monsanto’s GM CORN is far more dangerous than we might think. It is in EVERY PROCESSED FOOD ON THE GROCERY SHELF.
It is being currently being sold to us thoughout the grocery isles in the varouis forms stated below, in most of processed food products our people consume.
It is used as a grain and flour in totillas, as a vegetable ( corn on the cob, and in cans ), as a snack (pop corn ) as a breakfast cereal (corn flakes),as a vegetable (corn) oil, AND the most dangerous of all, in MOSTLY every sweetener in every prepared product we buy. ( even if you bake your own,goodies, you get GM beet sugar, if the package just states SUGAR
Real sugar is Pure Cane Sugar….(and we do not really know what we are buying if the labeling is not regulated by law)
Monsanto does not want to EVEN label their POISONS. LABELING would bring to light the fact that ALL processed foods contain the poisons they provide to us in America to eat, and it would become manditory for processors to state that on every item we consume.
tied into this discussion….
I am reading a book, The Magnesium Factor, which states magnesuim is a mineral required for the proper function of all body organs.
It states that when we ingest man made chemicals of most sorts, our magnesuim is depleted automatically.
It names sugars and stress as main culprits of magnesium deficiency,
It has 120 alternative names of sugars listed which also deplete the magnesuim from our bodies, helping to cause many of well known diseases we are plagued with today. ( names like natural sweetener,, barley malt, rice malt, lo-sugar, mannitol, corn anything, pure sweetener, etc.)
Most of the sugars mentioned ARE MONSANTO SUGARS FROM CORN.
There are some 77 pages of footnotes..in reference to the contributors of the book’s contents.
CORN SUGARS are mostly contributing to the obesity in America, for we are offered ONLY Monsanto’s POISONS on the grocery shelf.
CORN SUGAR IS ALSO LINKED WITH HEART DISEASE, WHICH IS THE #2 KILLER OF AMERICANS.
WE MUST STOP MONSANTO…
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 10, 2013
at 12:38 PM
pf: there was never a need to brandish…the editor and i discussed, sometimes we went to the publisher to discuss…we always came up w/a solution. it was not, however, that the editor had the final word. that was my point.
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By: penny abrams on June 10, 2013
at 12:30 PM
Fesser – In the second paragraph, change “they” to “he or she,” to provide consistency with the third person singular (“the author”) used in the preceding paragraph. Also change “their book” to “his or her book,” for the same reason.
Using “they” is unclear here. If, in saying “they,” you are referring to the publisher, that word is, indeed, commonly used as an implied plural, even though it is technically a singular noun. But, of course, since the word “publisher” appears in neither the quote to which you refer, nor in your response itself, there is no antecedent referenced.
Both editors and authors are bound by contracts with a publisher, even those working for pay on a freelance basis. Although specific terms may very contract by contract, it is the publisher who generally has the final word on whether or not a book is printed, distributed, and promoted. After all, it is known commonly as “the publishing business,” rather than “the editing business,” or even “the authoring business.”
In that sense, I think we can agree that it is, in fact, the publisher who most often has the final decision-making authority on all publishing decisions – even on whether or not to “pull” a particular book.
I hope that clarifies things a bit.
Also, may I suggest that you look for some more interesting way to end so many of your posts, other than a “statement,” followed by an unnecessary “question”?
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 10, 2013
at 12:29 PM
The only problem, lori, is that I don’t have a single registered firearm (and I have an arsenal), nor can I name a single individual who owns any registered guns whatsoever.
Looks like the gun-grabbers drilled a dry hole, eh?
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 11:59 AM
lori – It’s hilarious to see you try to spin the NSA domestic spying scandal as a left-right issue – with, of course, the Left in the, er…right.
Believe me, the conservatives are doing plenty of self-examination and saying to themselves, “We could have stopped this, and didn’t.” As a Libertarian, I find both of you culpable, with only we Libertarians saying, STOP THIS CRAZY TRAIN! when it could be easily stopped.
The erstwhile “nannies” on the left and the “daddies” on the right share equally the responsibility for this abortion called PATRIOT Act. One side wants a fascist hegemony, the other a socialist one. The only difference is how they plan to seize everyone’s rights. Not a nickel’s worth of difference otherwise.
Now, are we going continue to play sixth-grade blame games and let this abomination continue, or are we going to work together – Left, Right, Libertarian – and do something about it? I’m ready to roll up my sleeves. You?
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 11:57 AM
ok last post for today, I promise. LOL LOL But I couldn’t resist!
Watch out Virginians. The Republican party is gonna open those damn flood gates for the black helicopters to take your guns away! YIKES! Scary stuff!
[Before it becomes the law of the land, Republican Party of Virginia Executive Director Anthony Ready did what he does every year. He FOIAed the name, mailing address, birth date, country of citizenship, telephone number and date of registration of every permit holder in Virginia. The only piece of information they asked to have redacted was the permit holder’s Social Security Number.
This request was dated June 6, 2013 less than a month before the release of this information in this fashion will be illegal in Virginia.]
read all about it. 😉 http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/06/07/1214576/-Shady-government-tied-organization-making-list-of-every-registered-Virginia-gun-owner
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 11:54 AM
“as a published author, let me assure you that while the editor has a great deal to say, and edits freely, the author has the final word. ”
Yes, they can pull their book. Of course, depending on the contract, that could be a real problem, couldn’t it?
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 11:49 AM
my son has an interesting way of refocusing discussions; he asks, do we want to do an autopsy or do we want to decide what to do with the body?
while reviewing the autopsy might be of value so we don’t repeat mistakes, i think the goal is what to do with the ‘body’. after all, here we are now and we can’t go back anyway.
i agree with those who oppose the patriot acts, both of them; i agree that left or right any extreme is an obstacle to progress; i agree that our education of late seems to have ignored or given short shrift to classes in american history and government.
we can dismantle (i hope, and pray) the patriot acts. we can improve our education. its doable. it takes hard and persistent work and will take time, i grant you.
even extremists have rights (i’m trying to smile) and we must protect everyone’s rights.
i do think that the one thing we can do right now, all of us, this moment, is to receive whatever information there is and consider it BEFORE the anger and fear take over.
if you will recall the last weeks on this blog alone, you will see the trend to anger (partly out of fear) that is taking over what might otherwise be sane and logical thought.
if you pay sharp attention you will see the various politicos jockeying for power all seek that fear button and push it til it breaks.
of what are we afraid? someone might have more? we might have less? someone’s going to take yours? so you may as well take theirs first? really take away the gloss of fancy words and look for the meanings.
does it hurt you that the run-down school in the next town gets repaired first? or is it a sign that we’re ready to repair all the schools? if we don’t help the victims of storm sandy, will we help the victims of oklahoma tornados…or you when your frightening weather hits?
there is such a larger picture that we are losing. this nation is geographically rich, huge, full of opportunites, enough for all IF we all help one another. it’s such a simple fact of life.
the farmer’s grange, like the labor unions, started out with all good intentions, staffed by good people, working for the benefit of all. everyone got a shot. everyone could make a living.
it’s when a few had more and then misused that more that the problems began and the problems were of ‘separation’ of the classes of ‘most’ and ‘not enough’. it could’ve been enough and a little more. or more than enough and some more than that.
and we let it happen. it just doesn’t sprout. we let it happen by buying into the me first attitude.
were we ‘hip’ with fashion, did we jet set, did most of us ‘do’ broadway or read all the latest books or know what moules gribiche on the menu was? no. and that was ok. it was truly ok, with all of us.
i’m old enough to have lived in neigborhoods of returning veterans, small houses in rows (like the monopoly game), little yards; everyone sharing cars to get to work or do errands; baby sitting for one another so doctor visits could be arranged or emergencies taken care of; cooking for one another when someone was really ill or hauling in your neighbor’s laundry when it started to rain or everyone joining to put up one garage after another; block parties where the dads grilled the food and the moms kept count of the children. bucolic? yes. saturday evening post? yes. peaceful, yes. we argued politics with respect. we valued one another. altho we are not catholic my children were taught to play quietly on Easter sunday and that Christmas was a special holiday for some of their friends and we invited those friends to celebrate our holidays with us. it was a normal, respectful, way to live with neighbors.
we cared about one another. as humans. as sentient beings. it didn’t matter who john voted for, if his family was hungry how much could you stuff into your face without sharing? it was a natural reaction to share life with one another.
we have lost the value of life. of respect. it doesn’t matter who you are or how much you have or even if your name is monsanto at one time or another you will feel exactly like i have. and i, you.
i am asking all of you to give up the vitriol and find another way to express yourself. hate takes so much energy. anger blinds us in so many ways.
i hope no one is offended by my presuming to ‘guide’ you to what i see as a smoother and more joyful road.
in love and light, pennyabrams
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By: penny abrams on June 10, 2013
at 11:46 AM
Ut oh Hillary Clinton is now on twitter. A sign of things to come??? me thinks soooooo .. take a look at her profile! ;-D
Wife, mom, lawyer, women & kids advocate, FLOAR, FLOTUS, US Senator, SecState, author, dog owner, hair icon, pantsuit aficionado, glass ceiling cracker, TBD…
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 11:32 AM
Right on, Penny – Editors weigh in on grammar, punctuation, and so on (as The Lord of Erudition In All Things feels free to do here on a regular basis, with anything anyone else posts – and occasionally even Himself). A good editor will quickly grasp an author’s style, and evaluate accordingly. I’m sure James Joyce even had an “editor” for “Ulysses”!
And, as you point out, the best work comes out of a mutually respectful dialogue between author and editor – with the author having final say, at least until the publisher takes a look… Then there can sometimes be another interesting “dialogue”…
Have to remember that some people inevitably feel that the particular thing they are doing at the moment is not only the Most Important Thing In The Universe, but that they are also the absolutely most knowledgeable individual about that subject, whatever it is.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 10, 2013
at 11:26 AM
F&F Delurker.. I sure do… don’t think there is a snowballs chance in hell it will happen, buttttt I sure would like to see it happen.
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 11:14 AM
I do think it’s OUTRAGEOUS but it’s not a SCANDAL, KWIM? It’s been outrageous since the currently-screeching critters approved it, and as they repeatedly renewed it. The scandal spin sure seems to be working in my corner of the world, though. I hope we can get a handle on that but the media works against us. ZOMG! Cell phone data isn’t private? Uh – no – even your weather app knows where you are. Do these people think it’s a coincidence that ads are delivered that happen to match items you’ve been looking at recently? We don’t have privacy.
The Patriot Act and Citizens United BOTH need to go. I think it’s time to say “I told you so!”, don’t you?
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By: delurkergurl on June 10, 2013
at 11:08 AM
pf: as a published author, let me assure you that while the editor has a great deal to say, and edits freely, the author has the final word. everyone of my contracts reads that way. i would never give up that final word. grammar, structure, etc are all-important until they get in the way of the intent of the author. most often editor and i have debated and compromised. the final word? fat chance.
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By: penny abrams on June 10, 2013
at 10:59 AM
yeah I know Pi, different but still all the same.
Have fun outside! LOL
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 10:12 AM
different issues here lori. will see if I can find some info if I can sneak a bit of time (good weather , especially in the long light, means one MUST work on outdoor projects here since they stack up in all the not-good weather 🙂 )
gato- please note as you hunt round about the VRA case that each of the covered entities can opt out by meeting the law. also, that Congress in 2006 found problems still big enough to reauthorize the pertinent sections for 25 more years instead of their earlier 5 yr reauths.
and yes- hand in hand with redistricting fiascos… at least here it is.
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By: alaskapi on June 10, 2013
at 10:08 AM
Hey, Cynthia – LOVED the “revised” children’s books! And was extremely bummed by the now-and-then food varieties chart…
But thanks for both!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 10, 2013
at 9:38 AM
Hi, Pi, and Lori – I haven’t been paying any attention to the SCOTUS case involving Shelby County, but thanks to the two of you, I now am! Appreciate the heads up. I’m somehow thinking this is right in there with the vigorous “redistricting” activities that the right is (ever so quietly, but diligently and continuously) pursuing…
Remember when all the Real ‘Murrican Patriots really LIKED “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to be free…”? What on earth did they think was going to happen when that invitation was accepted, legally and not…? Did they think it actually meant “Give me your tired, under- appreciated Caucasian men, your poor WASPs, your huddled masses of European descendants, so long as they’re not Italian or Irish, yearning to be free…”?
I’m right with you, though, in suspicion toward Monsanto, and all the other big agribusiness corporations. The things that make me the most furious are their objection to even labeling GMO products, AND not allowing farmers to keep any seed, once they’ve bought the accursed stuff and have to use it. Refusing to allow that is like a dog breeder selling a bitch to someone, only on the condition that he/she then has to additionally give back, or pay for, any puppies she produces…
Engineered “high-yield” crops may, indeed, produce the higher yields they promise – but, most often, with the cost of greatly diminished nutritional value. So fine; you now need to eat four cups of “frankenwheat” to get the same true food value out you would get from one cup of the “old-fashioned” item – and at four times the cost, of course! Guess who benefits from that…?
Also, the biggest problem for most agriculturally difficult countries is usually a combination of depleted soil from over-farming, and LACK OF WATER. Although “drought-resistant” crops are touted, at some point, nothing will grow, anywhere, without sufficient water. I recently read a very interesting book by Jeffrey D. Sachs, called “Common Wealth,” in which he spends a fair amount of time talking about hunger, starvation, and what might possibly be done about it. Monoculture is a disaster, for many reasons, and there are endless ways to provide much more efficient irrigation, soil replenishment, and so on – just planting the same “high-yield” crop, over and over again, and losing vast amounts of water through evaporation and inefficiency, is a short-term “solution,” at best. Every home gardener worth her beans (such as yourself, Pi) knows that full well.
Anyway, it’s quite a thought-provoking book. Sachs is an economist, BTW, and may or not be a certified tree hugger!
Ironically, given this subject matter, we are anticipating our fourth straight day of rain around here in the northeast US of A…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 10, 2013
at 9:33 AM
Pi, all
RE: the SCOTUS decision in Shelby County, Alabama case.
As everyone knows, lol, I have been working with BGTX for the last couple of months now. After being out of TX for a few years I wasn’t aware until I became involved with BGTX of the changes that were made to TX law regarding how and WHO can assist people in the registration process.
In 2011 the TX legislature passed a law requiring people to become “deputized” in order to assist people in the voter registration process. A person needs to go through a rather long application process and then pending “approval” by the government a person then must take a 3 day class, held in the middle of the work week/day, only then, can a TX resident become a “voter registrar”. What a load of crap.. isn’t it? I hear tell there are lawsuits pending. Surely this goes against the voter rights act of ’65 … but in the mean time we are hauling butt to these “classes”…. grrrrrr
If anyone EVER questioned the need to vote DEMOCRATIC party line in ALL levels of politics there is a prime example.
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 9:32 AM
NSA Surveillance as seen through children’s books.
http://juanitajean.com/2013/06/09/oh-crap-its-almost-monday-morning-relief/#comments
http://www.upworthy.com/we-used-to-have-307-kinds-of-corn-guess-how-many-are-left?c=tkp1
Answer: Once had 307 varieties of corn – now we have 12
Check out how many varieties of vegetables we once had and how many we now have.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 10, 2013
at 9:20 AM
Pi I have been thinking of you as I too await the findings of the SCOTUS decision in Shelby County, Alabama thing. Geeeze.. fingers crossed!
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 8:46 AM
Good morning friends!
I’ve been outta da loop for a few days and haven’t read many posts so if I am repeating what has been already said I apologize in advance!
It has been an interesting week watching members of the GOP base turn to the extreme left on issues we Progressives have been furious about for years! I distinctly remember being outraged May – 2006 when the USA Today reported the “National Security Agency had been secretly collecting the phone call records of tens of millions of Americans, using data provided by AT&T, Verizon and BellSouth”. And before that in 2005 when the New York Times broke the story that the NSA had been collecting data on American citizens without a court order. The Bush administration officials insist at that time, the collection was VITAL in breaking up terrorist plots, it also marked a new OVER EXPANSION of NSA authority – directly listening to American citizens.
Yeah, I remember being really pissed. I was also pissed when GOP’s in congress, TWICE voted to keep all this stuff secret secret… BUttttt I guess desperate times call for desperate measures for the GOP. When you know you are going down, throw everything you got at the wall and see what sticks I guess. Try and manufacture as much outrage and “scandal” as you can. But at what cost for your future candidates is the question?
Personally, I will REALLLLLY enjoy watching the GOP get their tightie whities in a knot trying to navigate their way through this national dialogue our President has called for. Politically, this is a far far far worse problem for the GOP than it is the Dems and their potential 2016 candidates. Paul better watch is Ps&Qs if he wants his base with him in the run up to the election. He will need their money & support. He can’t turn too much to the left on this issue. But Paul being Paul, like his Father, will indeed do just that.
This is not what a political advisor would call a “one issue vote”. Meaning, there aren’t many voters out their that will make this issue a litmus test for their candidate and even if they did – the Dem candidate will surely hold the same position. It’s a no net gain for sure and potentially a loss for the GOP candidate when it comes to their cred on “keeping the country safe”. Paul won’t be able to count on picking off Progressive voters for this issue, especially considering Paul’s horrid civil rights record. So if Paul loses his base by over reaching on this issue????? He is in big big trouble IMHO.
I’m popping my corn and watching! As usual the GOP is over playing their hand in their manufactured outrage and SCANDAL! LOL LOL I love it!
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By: lori on June 10, 2013
at 8:44 AM
Life is busy here in the short Alaskan summer so haven’t been by here for a bit.
Sure hope to hear from Helen and Margaret soon…
Congratulations James and family!Sending very best wishes for the new grand girlie and all of you.
PFesser-
there are tons of links at :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monsanto
There are no really unbiased accounts of Monsanto and its products but attention to detail provides a decent picture if you read widely enough. Some of the studies and info provide specific criteria for judgment, others not so much but generally, as with other human endeavors, enough looking round makes the criteria obvious.
Yes, they are very aggressive. They are also firmly entwined in policy and law making as regards agricultural issues. One can argue they engage in “crony capitalism” at the least and prop up one side of an “iron triangle ” as well.
There are multiple issues of concern with their products, many of which we haven’t had a true public discussion about. If you track down the glyphosate info, you will see there are concerns about monoculture ( notoriously vulnerable in unaccounted for stressor environments), reformulation made necessary by resistant weed varieties, concerns about ability to cross pollinate across Roundup ready seeds and non-GMO seeds, etc.
Personally- I’m anti monolithic corporation having too much say in how the rest of us do business and one that sues endlessly about how they might be done harm whilst only trying to earn their lil bucks here and there tick me off big time.
BTW, when there are multiple conversations going on, it is not a red herring to bring up yet another point of conversation. Is only when there is a limited conversation and something is brought up to answer THAT that a red herring can occur.
lori- waiting for SCOTUS decision in Shelby County, Alabama case. Our dippo Governor joined the suit. Whatever happens will have huge consequences here.
Best to all.
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By: alaskapi on June 10, 2013
at 8:41 AM
James – congrats to you and yours. Your wife’s intuition that “something is wrong” bothered me greatly. I have had personal experience with something very similar to that; it turned out to be right. I always pooh-poohed “women’s intuition” but boy, sometimes it seems to be right on.
Changing gears: I ran across an article on Monsanto this morning. Guess you don’t notice things most of the time until you are looking for them:
http://communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/liberty-our-times/2013/jun/9/let-free-market-not-fearmongering-dictate-gmo-poli/
Seems pretty partisan, but makes some good points; personal “Monsanto” research goes on. So far, Monsanto seems to be a pretty big player with a real reputation for aggression. Hmmm…….
Changing again: I see that the govt has begun its smear campaign against the NSA whistleblower. Of course the first process is to turn public sentiment against him. (Remember how Clinton began calling Monica Lewinsky a “predator” – that’s a laugh – until he found out she had certain “DNA” evidence?)
Sometimes this “transparent” administration is really transparent as a windowpane, especially in revealing their baser instincts. I wonder if they will get him with a drone, before he is convicted of anything, since that’s now our official policy. I see that Michael Moore and Glenn Beck are BOTH raising hell. When two polar opposites like that join forces, or at least agree, it is possible – just possible – that we could repeal this crazy PATRIOT Act.
partial dup @ Rutherford’s
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 6:32 AM
Grandma pleaded: SpankMe!
No thanks, Granny; I don’t do sex games with the elderly; it’s too disgusting.
Then Grandma proceeds to wax eloquent about proofreaders: “speaking of proofreading…”
We’re not speaking of proofreading; only you are doing that. You are confusing proofreaders with editors. They are two very different creatures. Look it up. It’s in the dictionary.
And then goes on: “Few among us however would take the eugenics stance to hasten the extinction of any species including “Homo Sapiens” through either greed or ignorance.”
What? That whole sentence makes no sense. It’s just word salad; sounds like Sarah Palin. “Eugenics stance?” What the hell are you talking about?
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By: PFesser on June 10, 2013
at 6:17 AM
James..
Congratulations…
I will continue to pray for your baby girl.
God Bless Your Family!
Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 10:58 PM
Thanks all for the good wishes. Our grand daughter is beautiful. She had been crying and as I held her for over two hours, she fell asleep She weighs 6 pounds 14 ounces and has reddish hair.
Our daughter told us our grand daughter nearly died because the embylical cord was tied around her neck, and she came out bluish. Doctors told them something wrong with the placenta could have killed her too. Her head is a little small, but she does have nasal bone.
They are trying to get a urine sample, but the nurse couldn’t say why. She didn’t understand the code. The first attempt failed while we were there. Both parents are drained after having little sleep. We cleaned their house, took care of their dog who had been alone for ten hours and visited with our son in law’s parents after they arrived.
My wife is leaving again tonight to stay with a friend who had rotator cuff surgery six days ago. Tomorrow, we will be back in Omaha to see the kid and to help take care of the dog.
So far, the parents haven’t named the girl yet. Our son suggested a raffle to sell chances to name our grand daughter. Ha!
We lost a child too. I’m sorry for your loss.
After seven months of worry, we are happy and relieved.
Thank you again, everyone.,
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By: James on June 9, 2013
at 10:53 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Speaking of proofreading, we had a very dear friend for many years who was a proofreader for a major publishing house. Talk about a dream job!!! To sit all day and read great books, often before they were released, and get paid for it!!! One of the books our friend proofed was Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring.” Some say her book was instrumental in beginning the environmental movement’s awareness of the damage being done to eco-systems world-wide. It resulted, for one, with the banning of deadly DDT in 1972. This has expanded exponentially now to include other factors such as acidification and pollutagens in the oceans from land sources.
Who among sentient beings, in the sense of both Western and Eastern Philosophies here at M&H’s are not acquainted with the concepts and progression of natural evolution~mutations~extinction. Few among us however would take the eugenics stance to hasten the extinction of any species including “Homo Sapiens” through either greed or ignorance.
Perhaps SpankMe could benefit from a post-doctoral tutorial on the “Replacement”, “Assimilation” and/or “Hybridization Theories” into the sources of “Homo Sapiens” based on recent DNA analysis. Anthropologist, Geneticists and other scientific disciplines are still trying to figure out where we came from. So what makes us so cock sure we know where we are going.
Aloha! Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 9, 2013
at 10:41 PM
Gato and PF..
Here is link talking about French Study of RATs on GMO’s.
http://www.coasttocoastam.com/show/2013/05/01
It speaks of splicing bacteria, and other foreign items to the fruits and vegetables. BAD ….BAD…Stuff..
Peace.
Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 10:41 PM
PFESSER…
Here is what can be found on Coast to Coast..
For Monsanto GMO’s
http://www.coasttocoastam.com/search/?search=Search&query=Monsantohttp://www.coasttocoastam.com/search/?search=Search&query=Monsanto
Please check out this info.
This is for everyone sittin on the porch swing…
Peace…Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 10:32 PM
often send, not sending
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 9:21 PM
Grandma opined: “An “editor” would not dare to tamper with the content of an author’s creative work. Often a writer uses colloquial language to express him/herself.”
You, my geriatric darling, are full of shit. Editors often rewrite long sections of copy, and they have the final say about what is published, not the author. They often sending large sections back for rewrites, with instructions on how it needs to look. Or, as above, they rewrite it themselves. That’s their job. If a colloquialism is appropriate, it stays; if not, then not. Editor’s call, nobody else’s.
Stick with what you know – whatever that is. I suggest piano-playing. You should be safe there.
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 9:20 PM
Gato….
And….
Here is an article from Food Inc.. Site..
I get emails from them..
It is from the Food Inc. Movie
This is concerning the King Korn Movie….
http://www.takepart.com/article/2013/06/05/diy-artisanal-high-fructose-corn-syrup?cmpid=tpfood-eml-2013-06-08-Bolivia
Peace…Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 8:29 PM
Hey, Chris – I’m not sure you need to do anyone’s homework for him or her, but if you’re willing, god bless. I did see that doc, “King Corn,” and it’s pretty appalling. No; let me put it another way, more honestly… It’s disgusting.
And we eat this…
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 9, 2013
at 6:14 PM
Penny…
I am sorry for your misunderstanding about me.
I am a woman, not a gay woman.
Not that there is anything wrong with gay women.
If there was some type of misinformation, or misrepresentation, on my part, I apologize.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 6:06 PM
Which version of the phone book, Auntie Jean? I have volumes by various publishers. Remember when they promised us a paperless world? lol. I think they only succeeded in making paper less valuable. Where would we be without our instant messaging? My google works as a phone book anymore, and this way I get the supervision of the government and custom marketing to aid in my searches. Can it get better than this?
Remember when phones were something you had to go find? It was a much bigger world.
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By: poolman on June 9, 2013
at 6:04 PM
PFesser…
I will check and see if there is any other info available, but, Monsanto is HUGELY powerful, and stop the advertising of anything negative towards themselves, and other chemical companies.
There is one documentary called FOOD INC.
The movie was on Public Television, a couple of years ago, until Monsanto, being a sponsor of public television, pulled the movie from the website, within a few weeks.
One could go online to watch it, before the Monster MONSANTO pulled e documentary, which is why it is very hard to find information against them, except online.
There are 5 major Multinational Agra food growers and processors. These
Corporations who grow and process most of the worlds foods. They ALL use the same poisoned GM seeded foods, with Roundup and pesticides and preservatives, which we ( average people ) are marketed in ALL the mainstream grocers.
Monsanto provides the corn (GM) which the chicken growers feed the baby chicks. They grow in ungodly crowded conditions, with no areas in which to walk, making the poor chicks legs weak. The abhorent conditions are shown in this documentary, with the GM corn making them sickly, yet, obese with large breasts to satisfy the consumers.
Our people are obese and just as sickly as the poor chickens…
We did not have the great numbers of obese people in America, until corn syrup was added to the sodas in the 1980’s.
Now, the majority of Americans are sickly and obese from the FRUCTOSE GM CORN SYRUP..
The problem is not only do we have GM corn, we have GM EVERY FOOD SOURCE….with no way to stop them.
The lady farmer in the documentary allowed the film crew to view her farm, knowing her contract with chicken growers would be cancelled once the documentary was released. Of course, that happened. THE CHICKENS ATE MONSANTO GM CORN as their feed. Beef was also shown, and we’re sent to slaughter sickly with the antiboitics they we shot up with, as well.
WE EAT THESE FOODS? IS IT NO WONDER WE ARE DYING FROM CANCER ? AND THE NUMBERS ARE EVER GROWING !!!!!!
I am reiterating some same info from above…
She allowed her farm site to be photographed, for the documentary showing the ungodly crowding of the chicks, the nasty conditions under which the chicks are raised, showing how the chicks grew so fat with large breasts that their poor little legs would not allow them to stand.
Our people have the same medical conditions, as the poor chickens and beef, having eaten this GM corn based and other GM vegetables and fruits.
Obesity is an absolute for ALL who consumption of the GM produced foods.
Look around. That is what is filling the grocery store shelves.
That is ALL that the average family can afford.
They took work and money away to devastate America, and the world in order to force them to die a long painful death, or, die of starvation, which is the norm in much of the world today.
20 % of our own American children go to bed hungry. What will happen to them, when all they are offered is the GM foods.. That is where we are heading. ( actually, we are ALL offered this poison, as a primary choice of foods )
PF..I will patch you into some info on Monsanto..I will look.
Most of what is to be found is farmers reporting..TO OTHER THAN MAINSTREAM MEDIA, as Monsanto does not let the negative info out of their hands and sue the organic farmers that come up against them..and put GAG orders against them, as well.
Peace..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 5:51 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
It’s gratifying to hear that the PFesser has at long last found gainful employment as an “editor”. It has been my experience that the “job” of a proofreader is to spot errors in spelling and occasionally syntax AFTER publication. It is not the same as grading classroom papers. An “editor” would not dare to tamper with the content of an author’s creative work. Often a writer uses colloquial language to express him/herself.
Any “editor” who would even attempt such a breach of professionalism would prompt instant dismissal by management.
Now, back to my reading the phone book, page by page. I’m up to the “G’s”!!!
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 9, 2013
at 5:42 PM
I also say that grandchildren are our reward for allowing our children to live through their difficult years! I lost two preemies so I don’t say that lightly. Those were dark years but we ended up with three healthy children.
Prayers for you, James, and your family that all is well.
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By: Terry W on June 9, 2013
at 5:04 PM
Why not just look around on the web, like the rest of us do?
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 9, 2013
at 4:13 PM
James…
God Bless You, and your entire family.
I will pray for your family..
Peace….
Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 4:05 PM
Hi Congenial Gang,
Congratulations to James’ and his wife’s daughter and son-in-law on the birth of their child. It reminds me of our favorite refrigerator magnet.
“If we had known that grandchildren were so much fun, we would have had them first!”
Aloha! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Namaste. Shalom. Saalam. Peace.
Auntie Jean
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By: waialeale on June 9, 2013
at 3:49 PM
Anon…
I type on an iPad, and sometimes spelling is corrected, sometimes not.
It is not always corrected. The same goes for punctuation, and grammar.
I just type away.
The contents which I attempt to communicate are much more important than the manner in which it is presented.
Anon….when I write my books, you may proofread for me.
I could hire you to do that.
This am before leaving for church, I wrote PFesser a good report on the info from the late night radio show….and the iPad swallowed it up….not yet to be found. ( George Noory )
I will rewrite the info hopefully today.
iPads are great tools for instant messaging, but not so for long notes and letters.
Peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 3:44 PM
Officials sought to quash or downplay public criticism of key firms and negotiations between the seed companies and foreign governments “over issues like patents and intellectual property,” Reuters said, citing the report.
As if marketing to U.S. consumers wasn’t enough, now Monsanto wants to bring GM foods to the rest of the planet – and make you pay for the effort.
According to cables, U.S. diplomats were acting as surrogates for Monsanto, which is the world’s leading seed maker, in foreign companies – this after the agri-business giant paid a $1.5 million fine for allegedly bribing an Indonesian official, in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Business Practices Act of 2005.
A cable from 2009 indicates that the U.S. embassy in Spain sought “high-level U.S. government intervention” at the “urgent request” of Monsanto to battle bio-seed opponents in that country, the Food & Water Watch report found.
The report was based primarily on cables sent between 2005-2009 released by Wikileaks in 2010.
This site compiles reports from others with commentary:
http://politicalvelcraft.org/2013/06/07/obama-still-goes-free-obama-spends-u-s-taxpayer-dollars-promote-deadly-monsanto-gmos-in-other-countries/
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By: poolman on June 9, 2013
at 3:27 PM
Monsanto certainly seems to have a poor reputation. Is there a recent documentary where one can get a (at least somewhat) unbiased report on this huge company?
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 3:02 PM
Hi, Cynthia – Somehow the idea of being able to “patent” seeds seems a little weird to me, although not entirely unfounded, but the idea of being able to prohibit a grower from keeping seeds from a crop he/she has already harvested, is even more weird…
How do they do that? Do Monsanto reps go around to every farmer’s seed repository and inspect what’s in there? (Actually, it’s not so difficult to imagine that happening, now that I think about it…) And, if they find some secretly-hoarded bunch of seeds, do they confiscate it? Do they say, “Throw that out, or we won’t give you any of our stuff”? It’s doubtful that any large-scale farmer – and that’s pretty much most of what’s left these days – would be able to keep enough seed for the next year’s crop, without some augmentation from somewhere. And I’m guessing that the contract any farmer has to sign with Monsanto, or any other large agribusiness supplier, includes all kinds of restrictions on what the farmer can’t do, along with what he or she must do. All of this has little to do with food, and everything to do with profit, as usual.
And, when you’re the only game in town, you get to make the rules.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 9, 2013
at 2:11 PM
Hi, Penny – You don’t sound that much like a “newbie” to me, must say! I’m sure you already know the wisdom of taking anyone’s description of “what things are like” on this blog, or any single poster’s characterization – including my own – of any other group of posters here, with several BIG grains of Kosher salt, and draw your own conclusions.
Seems like you’re already doing that, and doing it very well. I’m not worried!
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 9, 2013
at 1:55 PM
pf: perhaps i didn’t make myself clear. what would be the point of a blog if all agreed? (there’s another term for that which i deem improper here.) even anger can be displayed, emotion, passion, also acceptable. however, nasty insults, name calling, derogatory labels, snide slurs, untruths…are all unacceptable to intelligent conversation/discussion/debate…even harangue.
at tender ages, from baby kakapoopoo to teen m-f***ing a-h is for the streets, for babies and teens, for moms whose kids have just dumped the last half gallon of milk on a thrice washed floor or for dads whose kid has just wiped out the yet unpaid for second hand car.
for intelligent, productive conversation we are short enough of words without limiting ourselves to smutty junk. there are times when i use those words, btw, but not if i want to be understood, nort if i want to understand.
my great grandmother said that one who uses unsavory language exhibits how limited their vocabulary is. lol…she was a divorced mother of (home schooled) three daughters who supported them as a musician, smoked and carted a soap box to the street corners of Boston exhorting people to support women’s suffrage. she was all of 5 ft and maybe weighed 100 lbs. let us say she was not run of the mill.
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 12:18 PM
I believe it ignorant to believe that all digital messages have not been preserved for “national security” purpose. I believe where there is the capability there is the actuality. It has been documented by whistleblowers for some time now. That it has overflowed to mainstream is the same reason Bilderberg has. It can’t be denied, but needs to be controlled. Handlers. Marketers. PR. White wash.
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By: poolman on June 9, 2013
at 12:06 PM
once we left our own back/door yards we lost control of what we eat. the baker gets his flour from where? and how does he keep it? who inspects it for living animals? the green grocer’s suppliers grow the produce in what? where? how fresh is it? we know it’s picked for shipping so doesn’t mature sufficiently to give us the best nutrition. the fish industry? it’s all frozen. all. every last shred that u did not personally catch is frozen before u get it. the meat industry? and poultry? if u knew,u would never eat another bit of poultry again. i won’t even go there. how about the processing plants? wanna eat off their floors? u eat out of their machines. then there’s shampoos, toothpastes, mouthwash, deodorant…there’s a good one…specially the ones that stop perspiring…that’s really healthy. we haven’t even mentioned fast foods, movie house popcorn, lunchables…wow…that alone can ruin an entire generation…paper goods which either contain bleach or take your skin off and in any event wind up destroying rain forests. shall i go on? r all ur laundry products green? or r u polluting the earth and water along w/the rest of the world? r u a fanatic about separating ur recyclables and avoiding plastic as much as possible? do u drink bottled water daily? what do u do with unused medications? flush em down the toilet? where do u suppose that goes? and the thing is that if each one of us did what we were supposed to, as close as we can, it would make a shocking difference…shocking!
monsanto? a piddle in the puddle guys.
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 11:58 AM
There is no agreement as to what the problem is. That is the problem. So folks, a lot of folks, like problems as they are, because it isn’t their problem… First they came for the Jews, mentality. All these poisonous waters can be followed to the same source, but that source is also the source of that holy paycheck and therefore we dare not reveal or disable it.
That’s the problem in a nutshell, and since all realms of nature operate in similar fashion and function it’s the nut we still fail to crack.
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By: poolman on June 9, 2013
at 11:57 AM
i am praying and vibing for ur baby and that ur wife’s forebodings r a result of worry and fatigue…and sending ur daughter waves of healing white light. keep us posted.
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 11:46 AM
i’m sitting here shaking my head…what!
the whole deal here is the coming together of divergent opinions and goals to arrive at a compromise which is best for the entire country. that’s always been the road to take. that’s the job of the congress…state and federal. that’s how we get things done. i give a little,you give a little, no one gets all of what they want, everyone gets some of what they need. this is not rocket science. if you watch little kids play you’ll see it in action all the time. ok, one will agree, you can be the hero but then i’ll be the king…or some such deal. ok, i’ll help u keep ur military base in ur state, u help me get help on our corroding coast line. that’s a good thang folks. that’s how it gets done. each gives a little, each gets a little, the military folk don’t lose their jobs and the coast line is preserved. if neighbors are sharing a fence one will acceed on the color, the other on the material, they put up their fence, they each save money and they each have a fence. i’ll cut ur hair, u hem my pants. same deal. u’ve been making these deals all ur lives. y is this such a pothole now? this is the road. drive it, f’godsake, and get the job done. maaaaaaaaaaaan, wot wud u do if u had a real problem?
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 11:44 AM
“besides the actual conversations are not being recorded. the data…phone #s and time on that # are.”
Boy, THAT makes me feel A LOT better…
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 11:35 AM
it would certainly appear that IRS employees are guilty of theft…of u.s. tax dollars in outrageous expenditures. that does not imply guilt of violation of other laws. no court would accept the guilt of one thing in the charge of another and, unless i’ve forgotten it all, would not even permit mention of a prior guilt declaration. i’m all for finding law breakers, trying them and making sure they pay the penalty. please note order of due process. first you collect the information to accuse, then you accuse, then there is a trial, then a verdict which is sposed to be carried out by the law. if we are a land of laws, which we claim to be, we do not try in public without proper data.
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 11:27 AM
lollllllllllllllllll, your comment: “Good morning, Chris. Good morning Mr. Obama, Mr. Holder. (Since we know they are tapping all the phones and every blog conversation)” reminded me of the day my 3 year old first born came into the kitchen looking very worried. he told me that his little playmate from next door told him that jesus would shrink his thumb if he kept sucking it. i splained him that jesus was much too busy w/important things to worry about one little boy’s thumb.
besides the actual conversations are not being recorded. the data…phone #s and time on that # are. i dunno how many times you need to learn that one.
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 11:20 AM
pennyabrams- By your own admission you are new to this game, so I’ll give you a little leg up:
Yes, theoretically it is the proper thing to do, to turn the other cheek and ignore attacks. But I am NOT new to the game, and Real Life experience shows that if you allow attacks to go unanswered, it only serves to embolden the attackers and they get worse. There have been some fine people leave this blog because the moment they suggested that there might be two sides to the argument, the Liberal-at-all-costs crowd started piling on them.
Just FYI – I don’t care much for bullies – man or woman. Mobs and mob mentality don’t scare me much either; I can take them all on simultaneously or one at a time; doesn’t matter to me — that DOES seem a bit of a problem for the few nags and bigots who call M&H home. If you perceive that as not being nice, sorry about that.
There ARE AT LEAST two sides to everything, and as long as I am permitted to remain here, contrary opinions will be heard. Attacks will be met with force, niceness and frank discussion met with the same kind of seriousness and respect. That’s just how it is. If and when I’m gone, the bullies can take over again; won’t be my problem then.
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 11:16 AM
how does one address only one of this blog group? i.e. if i want to ask a more personal question of, say, jeanne, how do i do that?
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 11:05 AM
are you serious? are you out of your mind? or just deluded? u speak of ur wife, and ur a woman—today. o, wait…ok, i apologize. of course you can have a wife and be a woman. see what this crazy blog has done to me? i leapt before i even thought. o, chris, forgive me…i also ask forgiveness of ur wife. how stupid of me. o, gee, i am embarrassed, something that doesn’t often happen to me…to be so insensitive and i thought i was so liberal and accepting…i really did…i am! i never, ever really cared about a person’s color, ethnicity, religion or lack thereof, social or financial position—none of that—it was something we never learned growing up—that a person is prescribed by genitalia or heritage. sheesh. i always saw what was there and didn’t care…not one whit…and i don’t now. i’m sorry chris.
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 11:03 AM
this is the first blog i ever spent time and energy on. at first i found it marvelous. specially my contemporary margaret and helen…where are they lately? hope they didn’t get my cold…it’s a terror, still.
then those who will be devious, insulting, and plain mean became very active. at first i responded. then, mostly, i stopped.
this is not how i imagined a blog to be; why lower myself to those who obfuscate and denigrate? i took hope and encouragement from those who said what i was thinking…but mostly they didn’t do what they said…they carried on ‘the war’ one way or another.
so is all this a comment on our society? is this pettiness the root of all our evils? beginnin’ to look that way.
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By: penny abrams on June 9, 2013
at 10:53 AM
PF. You’re such a big phony.
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By: Anonymous on June 9, 2013
at 10:23 AM
Pussy Anonymous asked: “PF. Please explain why Chris’s posts are not subjected to the same spelling/ grammar scrutiny as others.”
If you are nice to others, they will be nice to you. If you are a bitch, they will take your head off. Right now I make my living as an editor, and your English skills are so poor that it’s just the easiest way to nail you. Laziness, I suppose…
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 10:10 AM
Congratulations Grandpa James and Grandma James! Hope all is positive and good news.
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By: Cynthia on June 9, 2013
at 9:58 AM
PF. Please explain why Chris’s posts are not subjected to the same spelling/ grammar scrutiny as others.
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By: Anonymous on June 9, 2013
at 8:59 AM
As James mentioned Monsanto does not allow a farmer to keep the seeds from this year’s crop to plant next year’s crop thus allowing him to save money. He must buy seeds each year allowing Monsanto to control the price and the supply. As Gato mentioned there is evidence Round-up may cause cancer. And you may be interested to know that Monsanto has invested in cancer treatment clinics.
You should see the movie/video King Corn for information. In the 70’s? Earl Butz felt we should pay farmers to plant rather than not plant. He wanted cheap food so there would be no hungry people. So farmers planted a variety of corn that can not be eaten but must be processed into high fructose corn syrup to be consumed. If you read the labels in your kitchen cabinets you will find most every thing contains HFCS. So Mr. Butz got his wish for cheap food but it is actually killing us. HFCS has been linked to obesity, diabetes and more??. The hamburger you eat and the soda you drink you’re really consuming corn.
IMO Monsanto controls a part of our food supply, along with Commercial Ag. We have lost the control over what we eat.
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 9, 2013
at 8:31 AM
I had already read the article, and also the comments from readers of Mother Jones who suggested it is time for liberals and conservatives to unite.
Nothing matters now. Our grand daughter was born about ten minutes ago. This has been a pregnancy filled with foreboding and stress. The specialist said “you just cant’ seem to catch a break.” He also said he had no clue about what was happening to the at risk baby. They were being checked every other day after last month.
Then, our daughter was potentially at risk. The baby decided to come early, and it didn’t take long. She is being tested for any worrisome conditions right now.
My wife said she woke at six this morning with the feeling of a disturbance in the force.
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By: James on June 9, 2013
at 8:15 AM
Wow, Cynthia – I hadn’t read the whole article. Absolutely the best thing I’ve read so far. Here is, IMHO the operative quote:
“This isn’t a argument about how tyranny is inevitable. It is an attempt to grab America by the shoulders, give it a good shake, and say: Yes, it could happen here, with enough historical amnesia, carelessness, and bad luck. We’re not special. Our voters won’t always pick good men and women to represent us. Some good women will be corrupted by power, and some bad men will slip through. Other democracies have degraded into quasi-authoritarian states; they didn’t expect that to happen until it was too late to stop. We have safeguards to prevent us from following in their footstep. Stop casting them off because you fear al-Qaeda. Stop tempting fate.”
Amen. Let Libertarians (like me) and their Liberal and Conservative friends come together to bring this abomination to an end. It means nothing less than the fate of our Republic.
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 8:01 AM
Cole Younger was not in my family tree, though people around here still repeat old legends about him and the James gang.
A member of the Hole in the Wall gang (Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid) is buried in our county. He lived here for awhile and had relatives. Johnny Carson also still has relatives in our county, and my father knew his grandfather “Kit.”
My mother’s side of the family were Viking enforcers in the Outer Hebrides A term (family name) Justice is still recorded in history.
My father’s part of the family was on the wrong side of the Salem Witchcraft trials.
Geneology can uncover many rascals.
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By: James on June 9, 2013
at 7:49 AM
I agree with Cynthia’s Atlantic Magazine quote.
I also agree with delurkergurl that killing or altering the Patriot Act would require the cooperation of people who voted for it.
I am not defending Monsanto. I am mentioning cause and effect,.
Tornadoes are reported more frequently than they once were so we now have more tornadoes than we once did, though we really don’t
More people have Alzheimer’s disease than they once did, but part of the upsurge is due to better reporting and longevity The connection is not necessarily all from Monsanto’s genetically altered seeds. That doesn’t mean some of the increase is Monsanto’s fault.
Monsanto fills a need, and they produce the seed because it earns them a lot of money. Not only can they sell the seed but they can sell the pesticides which protect the crops.
The price of a bag of corn seed was once $20 or $30, and now it can be over $200. Now, a farmer in effect buys a license to use the seed and can get into trouble if he/she saves some of the seed to plant next year’s crop. They used to do it with non-hybrid crops like soybeans and wheat.
The higher price is not entirely due to Monsanto, of course, The seeds, like modern cars are better and naturally more valuable than they used to be. However, companies like Monsanto make a ton of money,.
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By: James on June 9, 2013
at 7:36 AM
good post, Cynthia. Thanks for the info. It’s good to see the libs and conservatives in America working together for once. It’s critically important to do so; these frontal assaults on the Constitution are alarming to say the least. Terrifying might be a better word. And yes, it started with Bush-the-Lesser, but Obama can stop it, if he will.
gato – I’m not defending Monsanto; I don’t know much about it, but nearly everything, except maybe water, is carcinogenic in a high enough dose over a long enough period of time. What were the conditions of the experiment suggesting carcinogenesis? Can you point us to the data?
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 7:34 AM
I wrote before that the NSA spying may be legal and is in a different class than other administration scandals( without quotation marks). If we give the administration the benefit of the doubt, rouge elements have committed malicious acts while other parts of the administration have displayed incompetence and a broken chain of communication.
Given the administration’s poor record, the NSA’s collecting everything from private phone conversations to credit card records is a legitimate cause for concern. For example, are the judicial restraints legitmate or are they rubber stamps? As I wrote earlier, Mother Jones charges that a secret court opinion ruled part of the NSA action to be unconstitutional.
The IRS can’t even find its records of over spending for parties and conferences. Are we sure the NSA data is so secure that foreigners cannot hack into the storage vaults?
Delurkergurl cited Senator Marco Rubio who wasn’t upset about the revelations. I produced others who were. They, by themselves are not relevant. How the NSA operates and the safeguards it uses are relevant. We need to know how it can safeguard itself from an incompetent administration now and in the future.
Congress people have shown bi- partisan support for and concerns about the present operation, Discussion was muted because the eves dropping was secret, I heard on the news this morning that the entire House will look at this and discuss the pros and cons. That is what we need.
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By: James on June 9, 2013
at 7:17 AM
Well, Fesser, one of the things to know about Monsanto is that both their “weed killer” Roundup, AND their very own GMO “Roundup-resistant corn” (which is now 70% of the corn grown in this country) have both been found to be carcinogenic in lab-tested animals.
Now, why would they manufacture anything like that, and risk being in “a world of trouble”…? $$$$$$$, plain and simple. With enough money, you can fight that potential “world of trouble” for a very long (and nevertheless profitable) time. A company calculates its risk/profit margin on a product, and that often determines their decision.
I don’t intend to get into a long and detailed discussion about this with anyone; just thought I’d let you know.
Gato
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By: gatodicima on June 9, 2013
at 7:09 AM
…”For the national-security state, loosed of the Constitution’s safeguards, is a far bigger threat to liberty than al-Qaeda will ever be. Vesting it with more power every year — expanding its size, power, and functions in secret without any debate about the wisdom of the particulars — is an invitation to horrific abuses, and it renders the concept of government by the people a joke. The ruling class is trying to keep us ignorant of what it’s doing on behalf of us, because it doesn’t want us to object!”…
http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2013/06/all-the-infrastructure-a-tyrant-would-need-courtesy-of-bush-and-obama/276635/
Peace.
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By: Cynthia on June 9, 2013
at 7:09 AM
Oh, sorry – I forgot.
Good morning, Chris. Good morning Mr. Obama, Mr. Holder. (Since we know they are tapping all the phones and every blog conversation)
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 6:59 AM
Chris – I have certainly come to be more wary of environmental hazards lately, but a couple of things come to mind: Firstly, I don’t know that genetically altered plants necessarily represent a looming monster. Remember, every plant and every animal has been doing the same thing since time began – altering its genetics to gain an evolutionary advantage. And they also have been altering their own DNA to protect themselves from the environment.
Secondly, not all things natural are benign, either. Ask Socrates about hemlock. Or tree frog arrow poison. Or “Loco Weed.” Or rattlesnake venom. I am bothered by the idea that we just need to return to nature and it’ll be all right. (not that you said that, but lotsa people feel that way)
Lastly, I am very wary of the idea that corporations are bad just because they are big. It’s all in the corporate culture – some are great, some not so hot. Don’t know a thing about Monsanto except they have developed seeds that produce some pretty amazing, hardy, disease-resistant plants. I don’t see what their motivation would be to take the risk of producing something heinous and releasing it. Sooner or later someone would figure it out and they would be in a world of trouble.
Thoughts?
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By: PFesser on June 9, 2013
at 6:57 AM
PFESSER…
Check this out on Monsanto’s Round-Up linked to the evergrowing numbers of Cancer and Alzheimer’s ..
Date: June 9, 2013 12:09:28 AM CDT
Subject: The Invisible Poison You’ll Eat Today – Monsanto ‘s Roundup..Linked to Cancer and Alzheimer’s
The GM seeds, and foods are doused with Round-up……Monsanto’s Poisons…
That is linked with Cancer and Alzheimer’s…..
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/06/09/monsanto-roundup-herbicide.aspx?e_cid=20130609_SNL_Art_1&utm_source=snl&utm_medium=email&utm_content=art1&utm_campaign=20130609
From: “Dr. Mercola”
June 9, 2013 – Issue 2486
The World’s #1 Natural Health Website†
The Invisible Poison You’ll Probably Eat Today – Linked to Cancer and Alzheimer’s
You’re told it’s as “safe as aspirin,” yet a new report suggests it is perhaps the most important factor in the development of multiple chronic diseases and conditions that have become prevalent in Westernized societies – find out how to avoid it…
You’re Probably Forced to Consume This Toxic Poison Daily, But People in This City Aren’t
And that’s because, despite the campaign to deceive them, they were smart enough to say “no” to the misleading ads and editorials promoting a substance known to lower the IQ of your kids and is linked to brain damage, chronic fatigue, cancer growth and arthritic symptoms..
Check this site out…
Peace….Chris
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By: Chris on June 9, 2013
at 12:28 AM
Chris, again..
Here is some info on James Holmes…
He is pleading insanity.
Subject: NUTS is a legal way to eliminate him…after MK mind control made him kill those innocents.
The chemicals will kill his brain. They will eliminate their future competitors. He is one of the highest intelligent persons that they may have come up against them. He was one of 6 chosen out of 1000 applicants to this PHD program, he was accepted for.
HE WAS NOT INSANE??? When he applied..they would have found he was not stable a lot sooner than when they announced…many days and weeks after he was arrested.
He dad is a CEO and mathematician for FICA, who was to testify in Congress, within a few months of the Aurora Theatre shootings, in the LIBOR Scandal against the Bankers.
The Bankers set this up…
UNTIL THEY DID THE CHEMICAL things ON HIM, he was not insane. It was a neuro science program he was enrolled in, which has to do with the brain…
They do that to their opponents….wipe them out, discredit them..kill them???
A great program was on Geo Noory, on MK mind control, about a week ago.
Remember, the first words James Holmes said standing next to his car with 2 sets of gas masks and guns……”How did the movie end?
The one common denominator that most of the MK murderers had memory lapses of hours to 3 days, where they felt they had been used, and said they would receive phone calls and would either pack a bag, or just go as they were, not remembering what they had done during their memory lapses.
http://www.naturalnews.com/040680_James_Holmes_psychiatrists_insanity_plea.html
I pasted this from email..and used my iPad…hope it does everything right.
Peace..
Chris
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By: Chris on June 8, 2013
at 10:18 PM
PFESSER…
25 Years + ago I took some counseling.
I engaged in a lot of healing from several sources.
One tape, I listened to was on Mothers and Daughters.
It seems that because of the conditioning through the centuries, women treated their sons like kings on a pedestal, and were themselves conditioned to treat their daughters, not so well. This perpetuated the conditioning of the next generations, to create low self esteems, etc, etc.
Because women had low self esteems, from their conditioning, and were not deemed as important as men, by the societies they lived in, pthey passed the baton to the next generation..and on and on.
My Italian Mom babied my brother and created an irresponsible and helpless person in him, depending on women for everything throughout his life. I remember being sent out by her to beat up a boy, Dennis Martin, for continually picking on my 5 1/2 yr. younger brother.
I was at 12..sucked into this nurturing, protecting behavior, which she modeled. Her special treatment of him silently taught me that my needs were secondary to a man’s needs.
I found myself in a victims role…protecting, nurturing without expectations of my own needs being met.
With counseling, I learned to love myself in a healthy way, not use or be used, unless it was my own decisssion, and to demonstrate real love and appreciation of others, without grandiose expectations.
Women have been conditioned by society for thousands of years, to be subservient to men, and a lot of the anger and manipulation takes place because they have no other tools to work with, if they have not yet healed from the negative conditioning of old ancient societies of mankind.
It would help all of mankind if their women were seen in a different light.
I am sure the manipulation and anger from women creates an unhappy environment for the relationships between men and women.
Men must go through a lot of confusion and distrust of women, when women turn on them, as they move into the anger stage. ( the result of societal pressure and bad treatment. )
I try to see things from both sides. It is difficult whether one is a male or female, when one thinks about the history each has had to experience due to societal expectations, up to now. Dwell on that thought for a moment.
Peace….
Chris
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By: Chris on June 8, 2013
at 9:38 PM
gato said: “shear fatigue”
It’s “sheer fatigue.” Shear fatigue is a section covered in a “Strengths of Materials” course, and deals with fasteners that fail under chronic shear load.
No need to thank me. Pfesser is my job.
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By: PFesser on June 8, 2013
at 9:30 PM
First city in America to ban spying, drones, red-light cameras.
http://www.examiner.com/article/first-city-banning-spy-tech?CID=examiner_alerts_article
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By: PFesser on June 8, 2013
at 8:45 PM
delurker – I took the poll so I could see the results. They are running between 3:1 and 7:1 against the PATRIOT act, surveillance, phone tapping – every question. The only question I have is who the hell is on the :1 side? How can somebody be that ignorant of history?
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By: PFesser on June 8, 2013
at 8:36 PM
Chris – I had to chuckle at your comments vis à vis women/men. My older brother used to say that baby girls took in deceit with their mothers’ milk. LOL.
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By: PFesser on June 8, 2013
at 8:27 PM
POOLMAN…
I pray those on this site will check this out…
Thanks for your Post…
Excellent…
This type of information is the path for those who do not understand, to open their eyes to how the Morgans and other elitists have formed the civilization into what we have today, a lot of which could and would be better, if not for their greed, and power mongering.
http://www.veteranstoday.com/2013/06/07/nikola-tesla-calling-all-freethinkers/
peace…
Chris
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By: Chris on June 8, 2013
at 7:47 PM
Gato…….
And everyone…
What we say about others says more about us, than what we say about others.
When the subjects of men turns toward sex..
Do not address it, or, just minimize it.
Do not give fodder to the fire. Change the subject, or, expound on that which is being discussed.
Stick to the subject of conversations, , and you will be heard as a person and it will insure against future sexual defamations.
There is a male tendency of calling women on this site, gaggles, hags and such, but, with real information for thought, this can be turned around.
The guys like information to be tethered back and forth.
They see the big picture. Many of them probably like this as a site to discuss politics.
I think they see small talk as feminism. Men think in larger term of things, and not with a lot of emotion. A lot of them see emotion as a weakness, so they steer clear of any talk about such things.
Girls, I empathize with you concerning the negative female innuendos, but, I still understand the men.
Guys, negativity tward women will not make you happy campers in the end.
Remember, if Mama ain’t happy….ain’t nobody happy.
This is true in all your dealings with women in real life.
Smooz the girls, with all your charms.
It is that which you b