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Another Tale of Two Cities
Author: BobR    Date: 02/20/2008 13:05:00

Perusing some headlines about Iraq and the deplorable conditions there, I was becoming more and more disgusted. We have turned a once modern city (and country) into a 3rd world cesspool. What lack of vision and leadership allowed this to happen?

At the same time, I was getting this creeping feeling of familiarity. All at once it struck me - Atlanta is creeping towards a microcosm of the situation in Iraq! Allow me to explain:

Medical Care Problems:
This was the Iraq headline, and the quotes: Iraqi Medical System Wrecked by War
Already a troubled system, Iraqi medical care has fallen to the brink of collapse since the U.S.-led invasion five years ago..... Specialists are hard to find. At one point, Baghdad — a city of more than 5 million — had no neurosurgeon, said Dr. Hussein al-Hilli, director of the Ibn Albitar Hospital in Baghdad.... Like so many areas of life in Iraq, the health care crisis is vast and complex, and there is no quick solution to improve conditions for doctors and patients.

This was the Atlanta headline, and the quotes: Grady near bankruptcy
The state's largest public hospital is near bankruptcy, struggling to pay its bills and overrun with faulty budget strategies.... Grady treats the lion's share of metro Atlanta's poor. In 2000 alone indigent care cost Grady $172.9 million, according to Agwunobi's report....

Not the same thing? True, although the end result could well be the same. Okay, let's try...

How We Treat The Poor:
Iraq: Iraq police to round up street beggars
The Iraqi Interior Ministry has ordered police to round up beggars, homeless and mentally disabled people from Baghdad's streets so insurgents can't use them as suicide bombers.... The people detained in the Baghdad sweep will be taken to social welfare institutions and psychiatric hospitals that can provide shelter and care for them, Interior Ministry spokesman Major General Abdul-Karim Khalaf said.

Atlanta: Atlanta Lawmakers Approve Panhandling Ban
ATLANTA — A ban on panhandling near downtown Atlanta's (search) tourist attractions was approved by the City Council (search) on Monday, despite hundreds of protesters who called the measure an attack on the poor.... the plan — approved 12-3 — sparked opposition from activists for the poor and civil rights groups, who complained the ban would unfairly affect black males....


Hmmm... in this case, it actually seems like Baghdad is doing better than Atlanta... One more:

The Water Supply:
Iraq: Half of Baghdad without water
Power failures and maintenance have disrupted running water supplies to almost half of the capital, Baghdad, home to nearly 6 million people.... A Baghdad Municipality source said the project supplying drinking water to Rasafa, the eastern half of Baghdad, was temporarily idle.... The source, refusing to be named, said running water supplies may not resume for a few days.

Atlanta: Do I need to even bother posting a link? We all know about Atlanta's water woes.


As a disclaimer, I am not trying to trivialize the suffering in Baghdad. Certainly it's in its own league that NO American city can ever understand. Rather, I am trying to raise points in the hopes that they will provoke thought. What are the similarities?... What are the differences? The biggest that stand out to me are that GA is run by Republicans (like the Administration that invaded Iraq)... and Atlanta didn't get to where it is by being bombed.

We have the option of voting the bums out on election day. What are the Iraqis' options?

 

228 comments (Latest Comment: 02/21/2008 04:33:25 by livingonli)
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Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 13:19:01
FIRST!!!



BobR, today's blog entry reminds me of a story that was reportedly first told by Confucius.



A man saw a family on the road, and asked where they were going. The head of the family told him that they were going to another province.



The man said "Wait, they have tigers there!"



"Yes, they have tigers there." the head of the family replied. "However, we have bad government here. Bad government is worse than tigers."

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 13:25:11
And now for something truly evil and horrid. One of the members at UNN posted this.



Iraq war vet faces trial on charge of raping 3-month-old girl



I don't know anything beyond what is in the story, but maybe some counseling would have found some problems in this man and this tragedy could be prevented.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 13:50:19
Good blog Bobr. Sad but very good.



I would however venture to say that the lower 9th ward may be able to compare or at the very least identify, to baghdad tho... here we are probably the richest country in the world... aww hell, you know what I mean...

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 13:51:51
Quote by will in chicago: And now for something truly evil and horrid. One of the members at UNN posted this.



Iraq war vet faces trial on charge of raping 3-month-old girl



I don't know anything beyond what is in the story, but maybe some counseling would have found some problems in this man and this tragedy could be prevented.
my god.



words fail me.



Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 13:57:23
Quote by Raine:
Quote by will in chicago: And now for something truly evil and horrid. One of the members at UNN posted this.



Iraq war vet faces trial on charge of raping 3-month-old girl



I don't know anything beyond what is in the story, but maybe some counseling would have found some problems in this man and this tragedy could be prevented.
my god.



words fail me.





Same here, save that I am keeping that poor child in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that she can recover from her injuries.



The UNN Daily Headlines are taking shape.





Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:04:12
We are watching the space shuttle landing.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:11:54
Momma hanging out with some real A listers last night! :clap:

Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 14:13:53
Quote by Raine: Good blog Bobr. Sad but very good.



I would however venture to say that the lower 9th ward may be able to compare or at the very least identify, to baghdad tho... here we are probably the richest country in the world... aww hell, you know what I mean...




Raine, BobR, Will, and others,

I must nominate the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota as a depolrable example of third world conditions within our own borders. If you all haven't already read Paul Krugamn's column in Monday's NYTimes (Poverty is Poison) I highly recommend it, but have a box of kleenex nearby, if you are anything like me, it will make you cry. Also if you'd like to see some vivid images of life on Pine Ridge, I recommend Aaron Huey's web site - he has some amazing photos (not just of Pine Ridge, but of other countries, too). Mornin' everybody - Obama's on a roll... :)

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 14:17:34
I will read it, m-hadley.



Sadly, we have failed to live up to our true promise as a nation. Yet, we can always try to work towards fulfilling that promise.



Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 14:19:27
If Producer Chris speed it up, the man would have sounded like Dino from the Flintstones.

Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 14:23:35
Quote by will in chicago: I will read it, m-hadley.



Sadly, we have failed to live up to our true promise as a nation. Yet, we can always try to work towards fulfilling that promise.





Will,

Please just call me faye or MF Thanks mucho!

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:23:53
Right Wing Hater, who usually posts over on C&L is a member here at Four Freedoms as well. RWH has given us permission to post his daily headlines.



"Obama wins big in Hawaii: Huge turnout overwhelms Democrats." From the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. - http://starbulletin.com/breaking/breaking.php?id=6743

With 100 percent of precincts counted, Obama had 28,347 votes, or 75.7 percent, to 8,835, or 23.6 percent, for U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York.

The tally totaled more than 37,000 votes, showing that turnout far surpassed even the highest estimates of Democratic Party officials.



Barack Obama is the Winner in Wisconsin by 17 Percentage Points. That's Nine in a Row. He Also Crushes Clinton in Hawaii (With Around 75% of the Vote), Which Makes It Ten. Hillary, Don't Destroy the Democratic Party, Please.

Take a Seat on the Supreme Court in an Obama Presidency (How Does Chief Justice Sound?) Or Become the Majority Leader of the Senate, And Let's Move On. We Need to Get the Republicans Out of the White House.

- http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23232655/



Hillary Clinton for Supreme Court Justice - http://www.buzzflash.com/articles/editorblog/051

And John Edwards as Attorney General, and Al Gore as Senior Adviser to Energy Secretary, Biden/Richardson as Secretary of State



Deval Patrick: "I asked Obama to use my words" - http://rawstory.com/news/2008/Deval_Patrick_I_asked_Obama_to_0219.html

Can we stop with his ridiculous 'plagiarism' nonsense now??? Our attention should be on the 'hula hoop express'....



Why solar? The numbers add up for solar power, whether you're in Seattle or Albuquerque. - http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2008/2/17/184235/277

Solar cheaper than coal and falling - http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2007/12/23/2919/8613



What should the next (Democratic) president do about Cuba? - http://www.buzzflash.com/articles/election08/080

Reason #142,857 why we need a Democratic president in 2009: The possibilities of Cuba. As you may have read this morning, Fidel Castro will not accept a new term.

The next U.S. president has to walk lightly on a number of issues (while ignoring the rabid old-time Cuban presence in southern Florida that has dominated U.S. politics for the last, well, 50 years), but reaching out a hand to Raul Castro and his successor. And John McCain as president would stall or destroy any chance of progress.



The Right Strengthens its Hold on McCain, the Media Refuse to Notice - http://http//www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/the-right-strengthens-its_b_87231.html

What is it going to take for the corporate media to snap out of its starry-eyed -- stuck in 2000 -- view of John McCain? Despite an avalanche of evidence showing that McCain the Maverick has long ago been replaced by McCain the Pandering Pawn of the Party's Right Wing, the press refuses to believe its own eyes.

Its a classic, the right wingnut noise machine villifies McCain...and then suddenly they'll 'have a change of heart' at the 'prospect of a (insert slander BS here) as president'..... their followers are exactly who PT Barnum referred to 'There's a sucker born every minute'



Homeland Security Won't Explain Why the Mexican Border Wall Bypasses the Rich and Connected - http://www.alternet.org/story/77320/

TX resident Eloisa Tamez wants to know why her land is getting a border wall, while a nearby golf course and resort remain untouched.While the border wall will go through her backyard and effectively destroy her home, it will stop at the edge of the River Bend Resort and golf course, a popular Winter Texan retreat two miles down the road. The wall starts up again on the other side of the resort.

In this area everyone knows the Hunts. Dallas billionaire Ray L. Hunt and his relatives are one of the wealthiest oil and gas dynasties in the world. Hunt, a close friend of President George W. Bush, recently donated $35 million to Southern Methodist University to help build Bush's presidential library. In 2001, Bush made him a member of the Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board, where Hunt received a security clearance and access to classified intelligence.



Under Republican Rule: US Cops Go Out of Control; US Citizens No Longer Safe - http://existentialistcowboy.blogspot.com/2008/02/us-cops-go-out-of-control-us-citizens.html

I grew up believing 'police officers' were sworn to 'protect and serve'. Since the GOP believes it has installed a dictator, the US has become 'Thug Nation', defending and practicing torture abroad while, at home, cops run wild and out of control. They apparently believe that martial law is a 'done deal' though Bush's prediction --a terrorist attack that will make 911 'pale by comparison' --hasn't yet come to pass!



Legacy of the Big 5 Corporate Media Kingdoms: Media Work Force Sinks to 15-Year Low; 'U.S. media employment in December fell to a 15-year low (886,900), slammed by the slumping newspaper industry'; How is the media supposed to cover the bad guys with fewer people? - http://adage.com/article?article_id=125141



Right Wing Commentator Supports Lieberman as McCain Vice Presidential Candidate - http://washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080219/COMMENTARY/879984502



Give Dennis Kucinich His Due: 'In the US, more than 100,000 people came to New York City to challenge the Bush/Cheney rush to war--and one of the speakers, one of the very few elected officials to speak that day, was Dennis Kucinich.' - http://www.thenation.com/doc/20080303/cobble



Bush Crime Family Legacy: The head of the audit and investigative arm of the US Congress announced his resignation Friday, citing "real limitations" on what he could do. "As Comptroller General of the United States and head of the GAO, there are real limitations on what I can do and say in connection with key public policy issues, especially issues that directly relate to GAO's client -- the Congress," Walker said in a statement. He did not elaborate but Walker last year issued an unusually downbeat assessment of his country's future in a report that drew parallels with the end of the Roman empire.

- http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5iff8NFNVugqI5oukb-nd55ai2SAw



Children Are Forty Percent of Cluster Bomb Casualties. Hillary Clinton Voted Against a Senate Amendment to Ban the Use of Cluster Bombs in Civilian Areas. Barack Obama Voted to Ban Them. Which Vote Better Represents Feminist Values and Caring About Children? - http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/NationalNews/Childrenarefortypercentofclusterbombcasualties/tabid/184/articleID/46598/cat/64/Default.aspx



Latest Poll: McCain Beats Clinton, Obama Beats McCain - http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jon-wiener/latest-poll-mccain-beats_b_87213.html



The Bush Big Oil economy: Crude Oil Prices to soar Above $100 a barrel - http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/business/AP-Oil-Prices.html?_r=1&oref=slogin



Reid, Pelosi Keeping Congress in Pro Forma Session, Preventing Bush End-Run on FISA, and Orwellian 'Protect America Act' BS - tp://www.politico.com/blogs/thecrypt/0208/Democrats_set_pro_forma_sessions_to_avoid_special_session_on_FISA.html

Remember House members....you run in 08 again....

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 14:24:45
As we could use some positive/interesting news, here is a story from the Christian Science Monitor: Across the Milky Way, more planet Earths?

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/20/2008 14:27:25
Good morning.



Oh, Will, that story you posted has truly depressed me. Gads! If true, I do hope that man rots away in a dark stinky prison in hell!! And I pray that child recovers.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:28:42
Michelle obama was born in 1964? Wow. She is young.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:30:18
I saw that interview with Chris Matthews it was very insulting. HE really attacked the person like a dog going in for the kill.. I think he even drooled more than usual.

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/20/2008 14:33:19
Faye, that article also depressed me.



Ya'll are dead set on keeping Velveeta close to the fainting couch this morning! And I start my first day of *actual* work for *actual* money later this morning.



*As opposed to the laying about on the porch, sipping tea and doodling kind.

Comment by BobR on 02/20/2008 14:37:38
Quote by velveeta jones: Good morning.



Oh, Will, that story you posted has truly depressed me. Gads! If true, I do hope that man rots away in a dark stinky prison in hell!! And I pray that child recovers.


I read that wondering how much of his actions were a result of his experiences in Iraq.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:39:56
CAller ... :Joe Biden: NO



poor momma no KO for her.

:P

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:41:18
Quote by velveeta jones: Faye, that article also depressed me.



Ya'll are dead set on keeping Velveeta close to the fainting couch this morning! And I start my first day of *actual* work for *actual* money later this morning.



*As opposed to the laying about on the porch, sipping tea and doodling kind.


HEre is something to cheer you up:



Daffodils and Forsythia are blooming here in Atlanta!


Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 14:43:16
Maybe Dick Morris can bet some toe nails and O'Reilly can beat a loofah or a falafel. (I hear he is still trying to figure out which is which. Here is a clue - a falafel does not work well for bathing and a loofah really has no taste. But then again, the same can be said for Dick Morris and O"Reilly.)

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:43:35
Oh, the fake Michelle obama outrage... :rolleyes:



I love how Billo is tell people what they should be proud of now. What a tool.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:44:54
Brit hume is really losing it!!!

Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 14:49:43
Quote by velveeta jones: Faye, that article also depressed me.



Ya'll are dead set on keeping Velveeta close to the fainting couch this morning! And I start my first day of *actual* work for *actual* money later this morning.



*As opposed to the laying about on the porch, sipping tea and doodling kind.






Velveeta,

Good luck as you start your new job - I hope it goes really well and proves to be more than just a paycheck (as all good jobs should be.)



Cheers,

mfaye

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:57:16
New information! Momma in DC?!?!?!

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/20/2008 14:57:24
What? When?

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/20/2008 14:58:12
Could it be......................



APRIL 26

APRIL 26

APRIL 26

APRIL 26



(keep repeating that so it sinks in to Chris)

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 14:58:53
Well Mala, you will certainly have to represent us!

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 14:59:50
G'morning all.



I need to adjust my commute to add a looooong walk across the parking lot every day.



The lot here is set up for all cars to park in a line and leave their keys for the attendants. The upside is that at the end of the day you have the chance of your car being near the front of the lot even when you leave if you parked at the back in the morning. The downside, generally, is that you have to find your keys and your car when you leave.



Unless, like me, you have a car with a broken seat that's very hard to adjust forward if it's been released all the way back. I put a little sign that says "don't move the seat" on the dashboard to keep that from happening.



For me, the upshot is that the parking guys don't like to move my car so they save me a parking place behind a pole so they don't have to move it all day long. It's out of their way and I take my keys with me.



The pole is waaaaaaay on the other side of the lot so I have to add at least five minutes to my commute daily just for getting from the car to the door. On cold snowy days, that sucks rocks.



OTOH, I guess I get a little exercise every day, eh?



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:00:20
3/12/2008 - Steph Visits 3WT in Washington, DC!

BlackFinn Restaurant and Saloon

4901 Fairmont Ave

Bethesda, MD 20814

(202) 895-5000

6pm to 9pm

BlackFinn Restaurant and Saloon in Bethesda, MD



:kickcan:

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 15:01:12
Quote by velveeta jones: Could it be......................



APRIL 26

APRIL 26

APRIL 26

APRIL 26



(keep repeating that so it sinks in to Chris)




If that happens, I won't need to go to Ohio next week or feel badly if I can't afford it (which it's looking like I won't).



Woohoo!



Fingers crossed!



EDIT:



Uncrossing fingers.



:(



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:01:40
:cry:



Why can't atlanta have ANY progressive Radio???

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:01:59
Good morning everyone.



Was very sleepy last night and am still sleepy.



Ah, second shift is brutal if you want to sleep at a normal hour.



AAP is still down. It was briefly back up last night. I have to coax mgm to come over and join us for the party.

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:03:24
Quote by Raine: 3/12/2008 - Steph Visits 3WT in Washington, DC!

BlackFinn Restaurant and Saloon

4901 Fairmont Ave

Bethesda, MD 20814

(202) 895-5000

6pm to 9pm

BlackFinn Restaurant and Saloon in Bethesda, MD



:kickcan:






Doesn't help me. It's in the middle of a week I'm working. I already got my April vacation time approved. Today I better get down to looking at hotels.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:05:23
Mala will be our Fourfreedoms REP!

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 15:06:08
Quote by Raine: Mala will be our Fourfreedoms REP!






What am I repping?





Morning btw - :hug:

Comment by BobR on 02/20/2008 15:07:47
Quote by shelaghc: G'morning all.



I need to adjust my commute to add a looooong walk across the parking lot every day.



The lot here is set up for all cars to park in a line and leave their keys for the attendants. The upside is that at the end of the day you have the chance of your car being near the front of the lot even when you leave if you parked at the back in the morning. The downside, generally, is that you have to find your keys and your car when you leave.



Unless, like me, you have a car with a broken seat that's very hard to adjust forward if it's been released all the way back. I put a little sign that says "don't move the seat" on the dashboard to keep that from happening.



For me, the upshot is that the parking guys don't like to move my car so they save me a parking place behind a pole so they don't have to move it all day long. It's out of their way and I take my keys with me.



The pole is waaaaaaay on the other side of the lot so I have to add at least five minutes to my commute daily just for getting from the car to the door. On cold snowy days, that sucks rocks.



OTOH, I guess I get a little exercise every day, eh?



Probably not the most scenic walk, but it will be good for you in the long run.

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 15:07:57
Quote by Raine: 3/12/2008 - Steph Visits 3WT in Washington, DC!

BlackFinn Restaurant and Saloon

4901 Fairmont Ave

Bethesda, MD 20814

(202) 895-5000

6pm to 9pm

BlackFinn Restaurant and Saloon in Bethesda, MD



:kickcan:




damit! I can't get to Bethesda! Why couldn't it be in VA! :grumble:



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:07:59
Quote by wickedpam:
Quote by Raine: Mala will be our Fourfreedoms REP!






What am I repping?





Morning btw - :hug:
Momma is going to DC on March 12. Details below!



Comment by BobR on 02/20/2008 15:08:22
Quote by livingonli:





Doesn't help me. It's in the middle of a week I'm working. I already got my April vacation time approved. Today I better get down to looking at hotels.


I thought we already picked the Holiday Inn @ Key Bridge?

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 15:08:57
Quote by livingonli:
Quote by Raine: 3/12/2008 - Steph Visits 3WT in Washington, DC!

BlackFinn Restaurant and Saloon

4901 Fairmont Ave

Bethesda, MD 20814

(202) 895-5000

6pm to 9pm

BlackFinn Restaurant and Saloon in Bethesda, MD



:kickcan:






Doesn't help me. It's in the middle of a week I'm working. I already got my April vacation time approved. Today I better get down to looking at hotels.






I thought we decided on a hotel

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 15:11:10
Quote by Raine:
Quote by wickedpam:
Quote by Raine: Mala will be our Fourfreedoms REP!






What am I repping?





Morning btw - :hug:
Momma is going to DC on March 12. Details below!





I saw that - unfortunatly I can't make that. I wish they had picked a weekend and something not so Maryland.



Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:11:26
Quote by BobR:
Quote by livingonli:





Doesn't help me. It's in the middle of a week I'm working. I already got my April vacation time approved. Today I better get down to looking at hotels.


I thought we already picked the Holiday Inn @ Key Bridge?


Oops. Silly me. Still waking up. Still looking for the best deal for that hotel. Of course with AAP down, I can't PM HBK and remind her to pop over here again and give her my details since I probably would be driving her at least one way.

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 15:12:06
I understand that Senator Clinton moved up her speech to time with Obama's speech, so she should not complain if the networks went to the speech of the winner. Mind you, I am sure she will grumble.

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 15:12:28
Liv - I'm guessing AAP is still down?

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 15:12:32
Quote by will in chicago: As we could use some positive/interesting news, here is a story from the Christian Science Monitor: Across the Milky Way, more planet Earths?




For anyone who hasn't yet, you *must* rent a TV series called Firefly and/or a movie called Serenity ASAP. Considering the state of things with our debt to China and this article it really does seem as if Joss Whedon, the creator of both, is either extraordinarily insightful or frighteningly prophetic.

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 15:14:05
Lilly Tomlin!



From Search for Intelligent Signs in the Universe - Saw that at the Kennedy Center it was Awesome!

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 15:14:28
Quote by livingonli:
Quote by BobR:
Quote by livingonli:





Doesn't help me. It's in the middle of a week I'm working. I already got my April vacation time approved. Today I better get down to looking at hotels.


I thought we already picked the Holiday Inn @ Key Bridge?


Oops. Silly me. Still waking up. Still looking for the best deal for that hotel. Of course with AAP down, I can't PM HBK and remind her to pop over here again and give her my details since I probably would be driving her at least one way.




Over at UNN, I did a thread on AAP's problems and rolled out the welcome mat. If HBK pops in over at UNN, I will ask her to contact you.



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:16:34
HEya Will, what about you? Any chance we can get you to DC?

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:18:48
Quote by wickedpam: Liv - I'm guessing AAP is still down?


It was up briefly last night but when I got home it wouldn't load up again.



HBK is a member of Admiral Rican's board. It may not be active but I may still be able to PM her there.

Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 15:20:22
Quote by wickedpam: Lilly Tomlin!



From Search for Intelligent Signs in the Universe - Saw that at the Kennedy Center it was Awesome!






Lily Tomlin is one of my all-time faves - I saw her and met her here in Tulsa last March - she did an amazing one-woman show with just a barstool and a bottle of water, but her characters were so convincing that it seemed the stage was full of people and props :)

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/20/2008 15:21:05
Velveeta has a crush on Jim Ward, especially when he does Darth Cheney, Sean Connery and Man/boy who lives in Mom's basement!



Grrrrrrrrrrrr!



I like him even more now that he's sober!!



and even







(but that might be a tad too unlady like)

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:21:32
Anyone know who won Hawaii's primary? MSNBC's coverage ended at 2 AM and they did not give the results.

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/20/2008 15:22:28
Quote by livingonli: Anyone know who won Hawaii's primary? MSNBC's coverage ended at 2 AM and they did not give the results.


O (not Oprah)

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:26:43
I was just reading that in HAwaii, the Democratic Party was bracing for huge turnouts. They were expecting 10,000 people to show up for the caucus.



They were wrong...





it was 37,000

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:28:07
Quote by velveeta jones:
Quote by livingonli: Anyone know who won Hawaii's primary? MSNBC's coverage ended at 2 AM and they did not give the results.


O (not Oprah)


With 100 percent of precincts counted, Obama had 28,347 votes, or 75.7 percent, to 8,835, or 23.6 percent, for U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York.
Huge landslide.

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/20/2008 15:28:24
I'm off to go learn my new "career". Werking a cash register. I'm a bit nervous cause I've never done this kind of work. But my dear wife reminded me that I can do a Rubiks cube practically with my eyes closed, so I'll be fine.



She is so sweet! :heart:

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:29:23
You know what I would REALLY love? I would love for people to call up and tell us why they like hillary, instead of why they hate Obama... and VICE VERSE.







Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:30:03
Good luck, Velveeta. Sounds like you are at least working the register in a cool place.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:31:54
Quote by velveeta jones: I'm off to go learn my new "career". Werking a cash register. I'm a bit nervous cause I've never done this kind of work. But my dear wife reminded me that I can do a Rubiks cube practically with my eyes closed, so I'll be fine.



She is so sweet! :heart:
The cash registers are easy to learn. You will do great Ms. Jones!!!



Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 15:32:09
Quote by velveeta jones: I'm off to go learn my new "career". Werking a cash register. I'm a bit nervous cause I've never done this kind of work. But my dear wife reminded me that I can do a Rubiks cube practically with my eyes closed, so I'll be fine.



She is so sweet! :heart:






Good luck! Have a great day and use the meeting of all those new people as fodder for a new film!

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:34:19
Lief! from Das Sveden!!!

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 15:35:07
Morning!



Ooh...a Swede on the line! I Swedes.



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:35:22
I find it amazing how other countries are so eager for a new president here in America.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:35:54
:heart: I think I love Lief!

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 15:37:56
Raine with the fun fact assist!

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:40:15
John McCain is the original Grump old man.

Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 15:40:49
Chris says : "Hillary was just trying to be sincere" Nice try, but you're a day late and a dollar short

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:41:37
:clown: that was hilarious! They eat....



Alot.



Huck is the king of shwag.

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 15:42:15
Quote by Raine: I find it amazing how other countries are so eager for a new president here in America.






I don't. I think a lot of them have been scared shitless that the shrub/Darth Cheney are going to drop a mushroom cloud bomb somewhere just to be snarky.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:43:49
Quote by Raine: John McCain is the original Grump old man.


I take that back... OUR Grumpy is the best grumpy mann... McCain is just old and hates hope.

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:43:52
Quote by Raine: that was hilarious! They eat....



Alot.



Huck is the king of shwag.


I guess they don't need money since it doesn't cost them anything to plug a squirrel.



They only need money if they have to get a new popcorn popper.

Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 15:45:24
*grumble*



I'm feeling a little more motivated towards Mr. Obama these days...



Not the least of which is to tangle with my abrasive aunt, who is full-bore for the Senator from New York...





Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:46:12
Quote by shelaghc:
Quote by Raine: I find it amazing how other countries are so eager for a new president here in America.






I don't. I think a lot of them have been scared shitless that the shrub/Darth Cheney are going to drop a mushroom cloud bomb somewhere just to be snarky.
yeah, that is true. I guess it is more of a compare/contrast type of thing. I could not imagine myself calling a British Radio Show talking about the upcoming elections tho.



It is amazing to me, in a really wonderful way how engaged people really are in this world, and a little sad that we in America sorta live in a bubble.



Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:46:14
Hi Tri, How's the salt mine?

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:48:07
Quote by Raine:
Quote by shelaghc:
Quote by Raine: I find it amazing how other countries are so eager for a new president here in America.






I don't. I think a lot of them have been scared shitless that the shrub/Darth Cheney are going to drop a mushroom cloud bomb somewhere just to be snarky.
yeah, that is true. I guess it is more of a compare/contrast type of thing. I could not imagine myself calling a British Radio Show talking about the upcoming elections tho.



It is amazing to me, in a really wonderful way how engaged people really are in this world, and a little sad that we in America sorta live in a bubble.



I remember back on Mike Moore's old TV Nation show when they compared what Americans knew about Canada with what Canadians knew about America. I think you can guess which side knew more.

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 15:49:37
New Haven, CT! Woot!



Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 15:50:46
Quote by starling310: New Haven, CT! Woot!



Do you miss 1300 AM there?

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 15:51:10
Quote by Raine:
Quote by shelaghc:
Quote by Raine: I find it amazing how other countries are so eager for a new president here in America.






I don't. I think a lot of them have been scared shitless that the shrub/Darth Cheney are going to drop a mushroom cloud bomb somewhere just to be snarky.
yeah, that is true. I guess it is more of a compare/contrast type of thing. I could not imagine myself calling a British Radio Show talking about the upcoming elections tho.



It is amazing to me, in a really wonderful way how engaged people really are in this world, and a little sad that we in America sorta live in a bubble.





Although a friend of mine was just in Australia for two weeks and was *completely* out of the loop on US stuff. Everything I asked her about ("did you hear about _______" - fill in the blank) was pretty much new to her.



Australian's by and large don't give a shit about US politics.



Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 15:51:36
Quote by livingonli: Hi Tri, How's the salt mine?




http://offthebroiler.files.wordpress.com/2006/05/IMG_4778.JPG


Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:52:02
Hillary ALLIES have set up a 527... IE... they are preparing to Swiftboat Obama.





From ABC news:
New Pro-Clinton 527 to Ding Obama in Ohio

ABC News has learned that a group of Democratic politicos have set up a new independent 527 organization called the American Leadership Project (ALP) with the express purpose of helping Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-NY, beat Sen. Barack Obama, D-Illinois, in Ohio, and possibly Texas and Pennsylvania as well.



Free from campaign finance rules, ALP will not be legally permitted to coordinate with the Clinton campaign, but it is clearly intended to help her.



The group is targeting through TV ads, mail, and phone communications white women under 50 in the Ohio area -- specifically Cleveland, Columbus, Youngstown, Charleston (WV), Wheeling- Steubenville, Zanesville, and Parkersburg (WV).



White men will also be a focus, and if there are any excess funds Latinos in Texas and middle class families in Pennsylvania will also be targeted.


Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 15:52:08
Quote by livingonli:
Quote by starling310: New Haven, CT! Woot!



Do you miss 1300 AM there?




I do. But, I used to stream it only. I am about 30 mins. North of New Haven, so I didn't get the Radio signal anyway.



Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 15:53:17
Quote by TriSec:
Quote by livingonli: Hi Tri, How's the salt mine?




http://offthebroiler.files.wordpress.com/2006/05/IMG_4778.JPG






What the heck is that?

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 15:53:35
They need change Houston. Houston we have a problem!



Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 15:55:10
Quote by Raine: Hillary ALLIES have set up a 527... IE... they are preparing to Swiftboat Obama.





From ABC news:
New Pro-Clinton 527 to Ding Obama in Ohio

ABC News has learned that a group of Democratic politicos have set up a new independent 527 organization called the American Leadership Project (ALP) with the express purpose of helping Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-NY, beat Sen. Barack Obama, D-Illinois, in Ohio, and possibly Texas and Pennsylvania as well.



Free from campaign finance rules, ALP will not be legally permitted to coordinate with the Clinton campaign, but it is clearly intended to help her.



The group is targeting through TV ads, mail, and phone communications white women under 50 in the Ohio area -- specifically Cleveland, Columbus, Youngstown, Charleston (WV), Wheeling- Steubenville, Zanesville, and Parkersburg (WV).



White men will also be a focus, and if there are any excess funds Latinos in Texas and middle class families in Pennsylvania will also be targeted.




This is *so* 2006 it's disgusting! And within our own party!



OTOH, what this group is planning is not *my *party!



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 15:57:56
Whenever the Clinton Camp says that Barck won't be able to handle the attacks from the Right wing, I just keep thinking that he certainly has recieved planty of on the job training from the Clinton camp themselves. IT is really sad, but they are acting a lot like the thing that we on the left hate the most.



And that is THEM.

Comment by BobR on 02/20/2008 15:58:34
Quote by shelaghc:





What the heck is that?


Would that be salted fish?

Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 15:59:37
It's a self-portrait in salt and cod.





Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 15:59:58
Hey! Got a new celly over the weekend and I was reviewing some of my numbers - Raine did your's change when you got a new phone?





Oh and I love my new ringtone - it's the theme from JAWS!

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:04:41
Quote by starling310: They need change Houston. Houston we have a problem!

::: chris Matthews ::: HA!



I was saying that myself last night while watching the speech!



Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 16:04:45
Quote by wickedpam: Hey! Got a new celly over the weekend and I was reviewing some of my numbers - Raine did your's change when you got a new phone?





Oh and I love my new ringtone - it's the theme from JAWS!




I want to get a Doctor Who ringtone. I'm getting drawn into the Who all over again since I found out that Sarah Jane has her own show!



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:06:02
Quote by wickedpam: Hey! Got a new celly over the weekend and I was reviewing some of my numbers - Raine did your's change when you got a new phone?





Oh and I love my new ringtone - it's the theme from JAWS!


It is the same! I am assuming your is as well.

Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 16:07:32
Say, I just noticed on my trusty aviation calendar that it's the anniversary of "Big Week".



With of course, elusive blog bonus points available for the first correct answer.





Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:07:58
:clap: Scandahoovia!

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 16:08:52
Quote by Raine:
Quote by starling310: They need change Houston. Houston we have a problem!

::: chris Matthews ::: HA!



I was saying that myself last night while watching the speech!





:: chris matthews :: Ha! It made my leg tingly! Ha!

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:09:48
Wow, the Stephanie Miller show™ performers... now performing at the Barfly Lounge, nightly.

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 16:11:13
Quote by Raine:
Quote by wickedpam: Hey! Got a new celly over the weekend and I was reviewing some of my numbers - Raine did your's change when you got a new phone?





Oh and I love my new ringtone - it's the theme from JAWS!


It is the same! I am assuming your is as well.






Yep all the same!

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:17:13
Quote by starling310:
Quote by Raine:
Quote by starling310: They need change Houston. Houston we have a problem!

::: chris Matthews ::: HA!



I was saying that myself last night while watching the speech!





:: chris matthews :: Ha! It made my leg tingly! Ha!


Chris Mathews literally DROOLING...
.









Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 16:18:31
Wasn't Mary Todd Lincoln alittle on the side?

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 16:19:55
Robert E Lee that bitch! :rofl:





Manassas! (my unfortunatly named town)

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:21:55
I think It is safe to say the Chris Mathews is a right wing Drool... :: ha ::











Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:25:23
Quote by wickedpam: Wasn't Mary Todd Lincoln alittle on the side?
Mos def. The woman was really a sick woman.



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:26:39
Good Question CALLER!!



I have been very nervous about taking a seated DEmocratic Senator for the VP position.

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 16:27:18
No you can't count on a Dem taking that seat again. VA has been swinging back and forth alot lately.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:28:34
I wonder if Momma will ever be asked on Dancing with the Stars.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:30:03
Quote by wickedpam: No you can't count on a Dem taking that seat again. VA has been swinging back and forth alot lately.
I say leave Webb where he is.



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:31:31
So listening to the news, The North pacific is where they are going to shoot the Satellite from... hmmm....

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 16:31:41
Quote by Raine: I wonder if Momma will ever be asked on Dancing with the Stars.








Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 16:31:51
Quote by Raine: Good Question CALLER!!



I have been very nervous about taking a seated DEmocratic Senator for the VP position.




I missed who was suggested. Which senator were they talking about?







Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 16:34:14
Quote by Raine: So listening to the news, The North pacific is where they are going to shoot the Satellite from... hmmm....




The North Pacific is also the route the Japanese Fleet used to sneak up on Pearl Harbor...



But since they're telling us where the shoot-down is supposed to come from, it's almost certain to be launched from elsewhere.





Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 16:34:14
OMG...I forgot to tell you guys. I was out at a CT lezzie bar, which is not a pretty site ( why did I break up with my girlfriend ), and there was a woman there who, seriously, could've been Momma's twin!!!



<---- Momma

:Drink: <----- Momma's Gay Twin



I was smitten of course, and then I talked to her and realized she was

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:34:37
A lot of people are suggesting Jim Webb for VP. I think it would not be wise simply becuase we MUST keep and GROW the majority we have in the House and Congress.

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 16:35:16
Quote by shelaghc:
Quote by Raine: Good Question CALLER!!



I have been very nervous about taking a seated DEmocratic Senator for the VP position.




I missed who was suggested. Which senator were they talking about?











Jim Webb.



Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 16:35:44
Quote by Raine:
Quote by wickedpam: No you can't count on a Dem taking that seat again. VA has been swinging back and forth alot lately.
I say leave Webb where he is.





I have to argee - a Gov probably be better or someone not in office right not. There is always Mark Warner former Gov of VA



Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 16:36:21
Quote by Raine: I think It is safe to say the Chris Mathews is a right wing Drool... :: ha ::











Fair enough! :: ha ::

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 16:37:01
YOU TALKED TO TRACY ULLMAN!!! OH MY GOD....I AM JEALOUS!!!



Tracy Ullman's new show, starting in March, has an Arianna Huffington character.



Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 16:39:59
Quote by wickedpam:
Quote by Raine:
Quote by wickedpam: No you can't count on a Dem taking that seat again. VA has been swinging back and forth alot lately.
I say leave Webb where he is.





I have to argee - a Gov probably be better or someone not in office right not. There is always Mark Warner former Gov of VA







How about Bill Richardson?

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:40:57
Quote by starling310: OMG...I forgot to tell you guys. I was out at a CT lezzie bar, which is not a pretty site ( why did I break up with my girlfriend ), and there was a woman there who, seriously, could've been Momma's twin!!!



<---- Momma

:Drink: <----- Momma's Gay Twin



I was smitten of course, and then I talked to her and realized she was


Well momma might have had too much wine last nite, and maybe when she took that wrong turn... Who knows?? :D

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 16:41:19
Quote by shelaghc:
Quote by wickedpam:
Quote by Raine:
Quote by wickedpam: No you can't count on a Dem taking that seat again. VA has been swinging back and forth alot lately.
I say leave Webb where he is.





I have to argee - a Gov probably be better or someone not in office right not. There is always Mark Warner former Gov of VA







How about Bill Richardson?


Good choice. But if he's still governor than that would be another seat that needs filling.

Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 16:41:36
I'd rather see Bill Richardson as Secretary of State...

Comment by BobR on 02/20/2008 16:41:44
Quote by wickedpam:



I have to argee - a Gov probably be better or someone not in office right not. There is always Mark Warner former Gov of VA



John Edwards is not in office right now.



Just sayin'...

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:42:53
WE need to get either Chris MAtthews OR PeeWee herman's laugh as a audicon here. (they are indeed one and the same)

Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 16:43:39
Quote by starling310:
Quote by Raine: I wonder if Momma will ever be asked on Dancing with the Stars.








I would pay top dollar to see that show :D



Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 16:45:59
Quote by BobR:
Quote by wickedpam:



I have to argee - a Gov probably be better or someone not in office right not. There is always Mark Warner former Gov of VA



John Edwards is not in office right now.



Just sayin'...




Yeah, but after 2004, would he ever even consider the "second banana" slot? And consider the "clever" names Fox Noise would start creating for him as settling for the second slot twice.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:47:39
Since we are doing fantasy politics?



I say John Dean as AG, The man is a true independent and is totally not corruptable.



John Edwards as VP.



Bill richardson as Secretary of state.



Wesley Clark as Secretary of defense... or Joe Biden... BUT only if delaware is guaranteed another Dem senator.



AND, create a new department of Peace giving Dennis a cabinet postition as head of that.



Also I would not mind seeing Mario Cuomo back in a cabinet Position.

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 16:48:22
It's your song Raine!

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:48:34
Seasons in the Sun!!!

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 16:49:26
Quote by BobR:
Quote by wickedpam:



I have to argee - a Gov probably be better or someone not in office right not. There is always Mark Warner former Gov of VA



John Edwards is not in office right now.



Just sayin'...




I would love that for him.



Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 16:50:01
Quote by BobR:
Quote by wickedpam:



I have to argee - a Gov probably be better or someone not in office right not. There is always Mark Warner former Gov of VA



John Edwards is not in office right now.



Just sayin'...




MMMMMHm!



Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 16:50:40
Quote by Raine:



... or Joe Biden... BUT only if delaware is guaranteed another Dem senator.







yes

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 16:51:23
Quote by wickedpam: It's your song Raine!


Maybe Raine can call in and defend it from the mooks.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:52:49
I never had to dissect anything. Thank goodness.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:53:50
McCain is a tool.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:55:33
Jonathon Turley might also make an EXCELLENT attorney General.

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 16:56:38
Quote by Raine: I never had to dissect anything. Thank goodness.


Neither did I. I am one of those queasy types, too.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:56:41
Was that ban Bush imposed regarding Cuba?

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 16:57:32
Quote by Raine: I never had to dissect anything. Thank goodness.




I was a conscientious objector to the 8th grade dissection.

I didn't go all "E.T." on their asses, or anything, but I refused to dissect my frog.



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 16:57:46
OR MARK PENN!!!

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 17:00:36
Quote by starling310:
Quote by Raine: I never had to dissect anything. Thank goodness.




I was a conscientious objector to the 8th grade dissection.

I didn't go all "E.T." on their asses, or anything, but I refused to dissect my frog.







Had to dissect an earth worm then we moved and my biology teacher thought it pointless when diagrams showed the same thing. Then we moved again and I made my lab partner do it cause I wasn't going to touch the thing.

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 17:03:45
Hey, I'm on Shillary's email list and just got something in my in-box with the subject line:

"What it takes to win in Texas and Ohio."



I'm half-tempted to reply saying "Please don't. I think the country is telling you who they want to win in droves."



Comment by BobR on 02/20/2008 17:15:19
Quote by wickedpam:





Had to dissect an earth worm then we moved and my biology teacher thought it pointless when diagrams showed the same thing. Then we moved again and I made my lab partner do it cause I wasn't going to touch the thing.


I had no problem with the dissecting...



The smell, on the other hand, was nasty. Formaldehyde - blech...

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 17:17:31
Quote by shelaghc: Hey, I'm on Shillary's email list and just got something in my in-box with the subject line:

"What it takes to win in Texas and Ohio."



I'm half-tempted to reply saying "Please don't. I think the country is telling you who they want to win in droves."



Especially this whole winning at all costs strategy seems so Republican.

Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 17:25:15
Quote by livingonli:
Quote by shelaghc: Hey, I'm on Shillary's email list and just got something in my in-box with the subject line:

"What it takes to win in Texas and Ohio."



I'm half-tempted to reply saying "Please don't. I think the country is telling you who they want to win in droves."



Especially this whole winning at all costs strategy seems so Republican.




I couldn't agree more... if Shrillary pulls this "I'm counting Michigan and Florida" crap and the Democratic Party let's her get away with it, then the Dems deserve what they get - even if it's presidunce mccain. Of course, I will have to leave the country (anybody know anything about taking doggies south of the border?)



Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 17:30:43
Now I'm scared of who McCain might pick as his running mate. All though it could be Lieberweasel so that he can project that "maverick" image by putting a "Democrat" on the ticket. Especially since he supports continuing that crappy war.

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 17:47:29
Time to head out and run some errands. I'm off today, but it's supposed to snow tonight. Not much, but it will be cold. Brrrr.

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 17:50:21
Quote by m-hadley:
Quote by livingonli:
Quote by shelaghc: Hey, I'm on Shillary's email list and just got something in my in-box with the subject line:

"What it takes to win in Texas and Ohio."



I'm half-tempted to reply saying "Please don't. I think the country is telling you who they want to win in droves."



Especially this whole winning at all costs strategy seems so Republican.




I couldn't agree more... if Shrillary pulls this "I'm counting Michigan and Florida" crap and the Democratic Party let's her get away with it, then the Dems deserve what they get - even if it's presidunce mccain. Of course, I will have to leave the country (anybody know anything about taking doggies south of the border?)





Go north instead. Canada only asks you to have documentation that your pets have had recent rabies vaccinations. Plus, the people there are some of the nicest I've ever met in my travels.

Comment by starling310 on 02/20/2008 18:46:09
Nothing annoys this Star more than when a caller just keeps talking while Thom is trying to say something. . . it hurts my ears.



:thud:

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 19:27:00
I am finished with the Daily Headlines over at UNN, and here is a late breaking story.



Teamsters to endorse Obama

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 19:37:56
You might want to read this over at UNN: Going to see Obama today in Dallas.





TexasLibGirl mentioned to Sensischolar that 30,000 TO 40,000 people are outside the Reunion Arena - so about 60,000 to 70,00 people total who came to see Obama. (Maybe he will speak to the crowd outside.)



So, does this look bad for Hillary Clinton?

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 19:42:38
will, thanks for that info. That is an amazing crowd. I think that yes, the people have indeed spoken. This is not Hillary's time.

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 19:45:55
Quote by Raine: will, thanks for that info.



That is an amazing crowd. I think that yes, the people have indeed spoken. This is not Hillary's time.






We should have photos later, so I will provide a link. Let's say that I am impressed by the size of the crowd.



I think Hillary Clinton and John McCain might be reaching for their favorite antacids.

Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 19:49:55
From Selectsmart.com:



Obama-

Business & labor issues: Obama supported the interests of the National Federation of Independent Business 12 percent in 2005-2006.

"Sen. Obama regularly supports legislation that we support. There have been no votes in the Senate on legislation we track, therefore our system may have reported 0% simply because no votes were cast. His actual support of NAGC issues is 100%." - J.R. Claeys, President, National Association of Government Contractors

He supported the interests of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 39 percent in 2005.

He supported the interests of the United Auto Workers 93 percent in 2005.

He supported the interests of the AFL-CIO 92 percent in 2005.



Trade issues: Has a mixed voting record of trade issues. Voted for free trade agreement with Oman. Voted against implementing CAFTA for Central America free-trade. In 2005-2006 USA Engage gave Senator Obama a rating of C. "USA*ENGAGE promotes responsible alternatives to sanctions that actually advance US humanitarian and foreign policy goals, such as intensified US diplomacy and multilateral cooperation."



Minimum wage: Voted for increases in the minimum wage.



Health care: "Too many hard-working Americans cannot afford their medical bills, and health-related issues are the number one cause for personal bankruptcy. Promoting affordable, accessible, and high-quality health care is a priority for Senator Obama." -Campaign site





Clinton-

Business & labor issues: Supported the interests of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 35% in 2005.



Trade issues: Supported the interests of the CATO Institute (free trade advocates) 50% in 2003-2004 and 17% and 2001-2002.



Minimum wage: Favors increasing the minimum wage.



Health care: She supported the interests of the American Public Health Association 80% in 2005 and 100% of the time in 2004.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 19:53:04
Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 20:15:48
Okay, I need to do some figgerin' today.



Move-on is asking for hosts for a "Yes We Can" calling day a week from Sunday and my apartment is *still* a disaster area.



Should I, in the spirit of "Yes We Can" pull the place together and offer to host a Move-On shindig?



My calendar for that Sunday is currently free.....



Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 20:16:44
All that tells me is that there are still 18 out of 100 of us that will defend the "president" if he kills, cooks, and eats a six year old boy after having sex with him on the South Lawn.



Delusional, retarded, idiots if you ask me.





Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 20:20:28
Quote by shelaghc:
Quote by m-hadley:
Quote by livingonli:
Quote by shelaghc: Hey, I'm on Shillary's email list and just got something in my in-box with the subject line:

"What it takes to win in Texas and Ohio."



I'm half-tempted to reply saying "Please don't. I think the country is telling you who they want to win in droves."



Especially this whole winning at all costs strategy seems so Republican.




I couldn't agree more... if Shrillary pulls this "I'm counting Michigan and Florida" crap and the Democratic Party let's her get away with it, then the Dems deserve what they get - even if it's presidunce mccain. Of course, I will have to leave the country (anybody know anything about taking doggies south of the border?)





Go north instead. Canada only asks you to have documentation that your pets have had recent rabies vaccinations. Plus, the people there are some of the nicest I've ever met in my travels.




But isn't it awfully cold up there? Brrrr



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 20:23:43
Quote by shelaghc: Okay, I need to do some figgerin' today. Move-on is asking for hosts for a "Yes We Can" calling day a week from Sunday and my apartment is *still* a disaster area. Should I, in the spirit of "Yes We Can" pull the place together and offer to host a Move-On shindig? My calendar for that Sunday is currently free.....
Sounds like a win win to me. Even if you don't get the whole place together, it would help give you a good jump on it... PLUS, you would be able to meet some of those progreesives you have been looking for. Hey, now I am wondering if I have been asked... (goes to check email)

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 20:25:18
Quote by m-hadley:
Quote by shelaghc:



Go north instead. Canada only asks you to have documentation that your pets have had recent rabies vaccinations. Plus, the people there are some of the nicest I've ever met in my travels.




But isn't it awfully cold up there? Brrrr





If St. John McCain winds up as pResident, it's gonna get more than cold around here.



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 20:28:54
What is that Randi? That is nasty dirty politikan. And this American is very tired of this. I really am.

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 20:32:56
By the way, for those who might be interested in how things work in Texas:



How the Texas Primary/Caucus Hybrid Works.



Complex, isn't it.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 20:38:57
Hey I got an invite too! For March 2nd. We may be visiting family that weekend, so I don't think we will host a party, but if we are around, I think we will be attending one somewhere. I always like the move-on house parties. You always get to meet great people.

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 20:42:24
I just got an email from B-Box and had a cool thought - although I'm sure it's not original.



What about an Obama/Boxer ticket for November?



Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 20:49:39
Raine, I gave you and Four Freedoms a shout out at Bush numbers going down on the UNN boards.

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 20:52:02
Raine, I referred people at UNN over to the site portal here, and the blog entries are not showing up in Firefox.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 20:56:05
Quote by will in chicago: Raine, I referred people at UNN over to the site portal here, and the blog entries are not showing up in Firefox.
They aren't? I am on Firefox right now. Strange.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 20:57:36
Quote by will in chicago: Raine, I gave you and Four Freedoms a shout out at Bush numbers going down on the UNN boards.
Will, I don't know if anyone has told you this lately, but you are a true ambassador of progressive good will.

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 20:59:12
Quote by Raine:
Quote by will in chicago: Raine, I referred people at UNN over to the site portal here, and the blog entries are not showing up in Firefox.
They aren't?



I am on Firefox right now. Strange.









If I hit the Home button from here, it looks fine. But if I hit site portal from the boards, the page I get does not display the blog. Maybe the database burped?



Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 21:04:33


I come home and this is what I look at.



Why can't some people just grow old gracefully? Not everyone's going to look like Sophia Loren.

Comment by shelaghc on 02/20/2008 21:07:52




She's the poster-child for Awful Plastic Surgery.com.



Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 21:11:45
Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 21:12:18
Quote by will in chicago:
Quote by Raine:
Quote by will in chicago: Raine, I referred people at UNN over to the site portal here, and the blog entries are not showing up in Firefox.
They aren't? I am on Firefox right now. Strange.
If I hit the Home button from here, it looks fine. But if I hit site portal from the boards, the page I get does not display the blog. Maybe the database burped?
Oh, I see what is happening. WE have not utized the Site portal thing... but if you click where it says Four freedoms Blog, it should work. (it is to the right of the site portal. )

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 21:15:36
HAH! At least she is eating!!! that was a classic!

Comment by TriSec on 02/20/2008 21:29:28
*snort*



Why, I know what Publix she was at, if she was on-island! (there's only one...)







Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 21:29:54
Quote by Raine:
Quote by will in chicago:
Quote by Raine:
Quote by will in chicago: Raine, I referred people at UNN over to the site portal here, and the blog entries are not showing up in Firefox.
They aren't?



I am on Firefox right now. Strange.









If I hit the Home button from here, it looks fine. But if I hit site portal from the boards, the page I get does not display the blog. Maybe the database burped?

Oh, I see what is happening. WE have not utized the Site portal thing... but if you click where it says Four freedoms Blog, it should work. (it is to the right of the site portal. )





Hmm, maybe you could have the site portal page redirect to the blog. The site portal may be what comes up first in a search for the site.



Comment by m-hadley on 02/20/2008 21:35:55
Quote by shelaghc:
Quote by m-hadley:
Quote by shelaghc:



Go north instead. Canada only asks you to have documentation that your pets have had recent rabies vaccinations. Plus, the people there are some of the nicest I've ever met in my travels.




But isn't it awfully cold up there? Brrrr





If St. John McCain winds up as pResident, it's gonna get more than cold around here.





Tru Dat



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 21:46:21
That is not a bad idea will. Maybe one of the other admins who uderstand how that works can do it. (I am pretty clueless...) But yeah, that is a great idea.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 21:54:01
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/photo/2007/10/19/PH2007101901653.jpg


Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 21:57:50
ooh Serious Slam from Randi about ed shilz.

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 22:03:13
Quote by Raine: ooh Serious Slam from Randi about ed shilz.


Damn, I missed it. What did she rip into him about? Besides that he sucks.

Comment by livingonli on 02/20/2008 22:04:03
It's snowing in the DC area right now. Safe trip home, Mala.

Comment by wickedpam on 02/20/2008 22:14:35
Quote by livingonli: It's snowing in the DC area right now. Safe trip home, Mala.






Thanks! You know how people get around here is someone spits on the street. :D



Have a good night all!

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 22:17:40
Blog project: I am seeking a picture of John McCain from his victory speech last night, preferably of the left side of his face.

Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 22:19:49
Quote by Raine: That is not a bad idea will. Maybe one of the other admins who uderstand how that works can do it. (I am pretty clueless...) But yeah, that is a great idea.






I do not know how the site's back end is set up, but it should be possible to do so. I had to do this over at Sarge's site, Unreported News.Net. Essentially, I did it through working with one of the control panels.

Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 22:33:33
I am seriously bummed that it is getting cloudy outside. I was hoping to see the Lunar eclipse tonite. :( :kickcan:

Comment by BobR on 02/20/2008 22:35:18
Quote by will in chicago:





I do not know how the site's back end is set up, but it should be possible to do so. I had to do this over at Sarge's site, Unreported News.Net. Essentially, I did it through working with one of the control panels.


I couldn't find any way to do that. There are control panel screens for setting up which features are enabled/disabled for the site portal (and whether it's the "default" page - which it isn't), but no place that I saw for a redirect.



Comment by Raine on 02/20/2008 23:13:25
Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/20/2008 23:13:36
Quote by BobR:
Quote by will in chicago:





I do not know how the site's back end is set up, but it should be possible to do so. I had to do this over at Sarge's site, Unreported News.Net. Essentially, I did it through working with one of the control panels.


I couldn't find any way to do that. There are control panel screens for setting up which features are enabled/disabled for the site portal (and whether it's the "default" page - which it isn't), but no place that I saw for a redirect.



I

Do you use C-Panel as a back end? If so, I could tell you. I can go to Unreported News.Net and double check. (It may have a similar name here. I can PM you so the blog does not turn into tech talk.)



Comment by BobR on 02/20/2008 23:40:30
Quote by will in chicago:

I

Do you use C-Panel as a back end? If so, I could tell you. I can go to Unreported News.Net and double check. (It may have a similar name here. I can PM you so the blog does not turn into tech talk.)



It's actually ACP (Invision Administration Control Panel). Feel free to PM me.

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/21/2008 00:14:00
Velveeta has returned from a day of ...............ACK............work.



:Thud:

Comment by velveeta jones on 02/21/2008 01:06:13
Comment by velveeta jones on 02/21/2008 01:16:07
Did I kill the blog? Fatal error, fatal error..........

Comment by Raine on 02/21/2008 01:17:43
ok.. I JUST turned on KO...What is this breaking news about McCain with a lobbyist and an affair?





Comment by Raine on 02/21/2008 01:20:37
I went and spent the past hour+ talking to my sister in NY. (WELL Worth the time...)

I turn on KO and see that he has been accused of having an affair with a lobbyist.



I trust KO. I want that trust kept.

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 01:40:32
There seems to be a time out error only when trying to read the posts on this blog. Figures it would happen with the McCain dirt coming out.

Comment by BobR on 02/21/2008 01:42:59
His dirt is out, but THIS BLOG ROCK ON.







WTF? Who put this out there to the NYT?







Comment by velveeta jones on 02/21/2008 01:48:56
Apparently, the Times has know about this for awhile but sat on the story. Why release now? Don't know.



I hope it doesn't propel Huck.

Comment by TriSec on 02/21/2008 01:51:15
: saunters into blog :



Well, good evening folks!



: eats chocolate , drinks alcohol :



Working on a blog entry for :drama sting: UNN tomorrow! and I've got interview #1 for Maine tomorrow at 11am, wish me luck!









Comment by Will in Chicago on 02/21/2008 01:55:03
I mentioned this earlier from UNN, but now we have a thread with some photos of the Obama appearance in Dallas:



OMG!! What an experience...OBAMA in Dallas!

Comment by Raine on 02/21/2008 01:59:27
This is stunning news tonight about McCAin. I still have not gone to the NYT peice, but I am left wondering... WHO floated it? I for the life of me, cannot believe that Huck would do this. For all his foibles, I do not see him as a hateful man. WRONG? yes. Hateful, no. This was the result of someone who wants to win at all all costs. I will go so far as to say this:(for speculation purposes only.) Hillary would lose to McCAin, but not to Huckabee. And that is the last I will say of that. Think about it, at the very least. ;)

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 02:06:53
Quote by Raine: This is stunning news tonight about McCAin. I still have not gone to the NYT peice, but I am left wondering... WHO floated it?



I for the life of me, cannot believe that Huck would do this. For all his foibles, I do not see him as a hateful man. WRONG? yes. Hateful, no. This was the result of someone who wants to win at all all costs. I will go so far as to say this:(for speculation purposes only.) Hillary would lose to McCAin, but not to Huckabee. And that is the last I will say of that.



Think about it, at the very least. ;)


What about the Righties in the Republican Party who have not wanted McCain to be the nominee? After all, Mittens has only suspended his campaign. Some of them are probably crazy enough to try and jettison McCain so the Republican base can have their crazy rightie.

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 02:17:23
Mike Malloy is talking about how Fixed Noise has edited the Michelle Obama speech to take it out of context because they want Hillary to get the nomination because that's the only way McCain can win.

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 02:42:21
Hello all. Whats up? Tri how was "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat" last night.



What is this about Banjo Eyes? (McCain)

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 02:47:52
Will Momma be on the next segment of Dan Abrams?

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 02:51:27
Quote by Mondobubba: Hello all. Whats up? Tri how was "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat" last night.



What is this about Banjo Eyes? (McCain)


He apparently is or was having an affair with a female lobbyist. The story is up on the NY Times website.

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 02:51:37
Oh Banjo Eyes is so fucked.

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 02:52:13
Quote by livingonli:
Quote by Mondobubba: Hello all. Whats up? Tri how was "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat" last night.



What is this about Banjo Eyes? (McCain)


He apparently is or was having an affair with a female lobbyist. The story is up on the NY Times website.




Just read it.

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 02:53:41
Raine! Have you and Bobber watched Das Wire???

Comment by TriSec on 02/21/2008 02:57:13
Hey Mondo.



Porkpie Hat was good. It's a nice, mournful ballad, but I'm playing it too fast. Gotta work on making it sound more "sappy". It's a great tune, actually. I've been looking for a "signature", and this has some serious potential.





Comment by TriSec on 02/21/2008 02:58:39
And since there were no nibbles on "Big Week" from hours ago, I reserve all the blog bonus points to ME!



Comment by m-hadley on 02/21/2008 02:58:52
Quote by velveeta jones: Velveeta has returned from a day of ...............ACK............work.



:Thud:






So Velveeta,

I hope it wasn't that bad ;( Congrats on getting through the first day :)

The McCain broohaha is a tempest in a teapot as far as I can tell - he's denied any shenanigans and so has she, so it's the word of a few disgruntled old campaign workers. I'm still waiting for the cancelled check or something else that links Johnny to crookdom (I'm not doubting that it's there, I just wish the NYTimes would pony up... let's see the goods). So will the Iseman cometh? (Sorry folks, I couldn't resist :)

Cheers,

mfaye

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 03:00:33
Quote by TriSec: Hey Mondo.



Porkpie Hat was good. It's a nice, mournful ballad, but I'm playing it too fast. Gotta work on making it sound more "sappy". It's a great tune, actually. I've been looking for a "signature", and this has some serious potential.









It is one of my favs from Mingus. I'm very fond of all of Mingus Um Ah.

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 03:01:52
Do the rest of feel that Banjo Eyes is good blog nickname for McCain? Discuss!

Comment by BobR on 02/21/2008 03:03:52
If you are inside, go ouitside right now and look at the moon!



It's a full lunar eclipse

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 03:05:10
I'm still partial to Grampa or Old Coot.

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 03:06:17
It's too cloudy to see anything here.

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 03:08:33
Quote by BobR: If you are inside, go ouitside right now and look at the moon!



It's a full lunar eclipse






Bobber you should be watching Das Wire! :modbat:

Comment by Raine on 02/21/2008 03:10:49
the lunar eclipse is VERY cool.

Comment by BobR on 02/21/2008 03:11:23
Quote by Mondobubba:



Bobber you should be watching Das Wire! :modbat:


Blow me.

Comment by TriSec on 02/21/2008 03:14:09
Ah, I was just out looking at the eclipse. It's a crystal-clear New England winter evening..and the moon is in close juxtaposition to Sirius. Looking very cool.



Of course, the last lunar eclipse in these parts was on October 27, 2004...



http://images.amazon.com/images/P/1572437413.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg


Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 03:15:23
I'm listening to Mike Malloy with the Dallas-Calgary game on in the background. CI is using the TSN feed from Canada.

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 03:16:03
Quote by BobR:
Quote by Mondobubba:



Bobber you should be watching Das Wire! :modbat:


Blow me.






I want a meal, not a snack! Watch it, a massive spoiler will be coming at you!

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 03:16:39
Yes the eclipse is pretty rockin! :metal:

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 03:41:56
Paul Reichoff on Real Time. I just stumbled on it.

Comment by Mondobubba on 02/21/2008 03:44:23
Reno 911 :rofl:

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 03:59:41
Sammy will be filling in for Randi during the AAR cruise.

Comment by livingonli on 02/21/2008 04:33:25
The US Navy is saying they hit the satellite.