-
It's that time of year again - our ISP is asking for money. If you have some spare change, please click the Donate link... Thanks!
- About Us
- Search
- Need Help?
- Donate
- Login/Register
Latest Entries
Actions Menu
Blog Roll
- 4F Facebook Page
- Turn Up The Night with Kenny Pick
- Stephanie Miller Show
- The Tim Corrimal Show
- The Rachel Maddow Show
- Angry Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
- Thom Hartmann Program
- Turnips! Fans of Turn Up the Night Facebook Page
- Snopes.com
- Factcheck.org
- Official White House Page, if you must.
- The Brad Blog / Green News Report
- The Poorly Written Political Blog (Joe Santorsa)
Dem Convention - Day 1
Author: BobR
Date: 09/05/2012 12:48:55
Last night was the opening night of the 2012 Democratic convention. It was quite the contrast to the Republican convention. One of the biggest differences is that the candidate's name was actually mentioned. There was also a thought out progression to messages and the speakers.
It started with current and former Democratic officials and politicians, including Harry "Romney Paid Zero Taxes" Reid, several women House members (including Nancy Pelosi), a video from Jimmy Carter, Ken Salazar, and Robert Wexler.
The video screens behind the podium announced the theme of the remaining speakers, some well-known, and some private citizens. First was "Choice" (as in "Reproductive Choice"). Nancy Keenan - the head of NARAL - delivered an impassioned speech about preserving women's health choices. She contrasted sharply the president's views towards women in general and choice in particular with the Republican's attempts to redefine rape, allow companies to determine whether contraception is covered, and severely limit (or eliminate altogether) the option of abortion.
The next theme was the military, and support for military families and veterans issues. First we heard from Nate Davis, a vet who made use of the new GI bill to attend college and become a liason for vets seeking to get the benefits they deserve. He was followed by veteran Tammi Duckworth, running for the U.S. House in IL. She made quite the impression walking out onto the stage on her two artificial legs, and told a stirring personal story of how her family has been dedicated to serving in the military since they arrived on these shores. She praised President Obama for ensuring that she and others like her got the respect and help they needed. This all contrasted sharply with the Republican convention where mentions of the military were essentially completely absent.
From there, the theme transitioned to health care. If Republicans feel that "Obamacare" is a chink in the president's armor, the Democrats didn't get the memo. The embattled legislation was rightfully celebrated and praised. The first to speak was a mother of a child with a birth defect. She drove home the reality for a lot of families that this new law is the only thing standing between them and their child's likely death (and/or bankruptcy). Ted Strickland and Kathleen Sebelius echoed the simple idea that a costly health problem shouldn't be a death sentence or a cause of extreme financial hardship.
Rahm Emanuel, actor Kal Penn, and the brother and sister of the First Couple also spoke.
The final theme was "Equal Pay", highlighting the president's first legislative achievement: the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. This was celebrated by none other than the woman herself. With a southern accent as thick as molasses, she described a situation all too familiar with women - getting paid less for doing the same work. She took her employer to court, and fought it all the way to the Supreme Court, who told her she needed to file a grievance within a time limit based on when it happened, not on when she found out. After losing that, the only option for other women was to change the law. The new - named for her - does just that. Her (literal) trials and tribulations trying to achieve equality resonated with the crowd.
Despite their practiced slickness, governors Deval Patrick and Martin O'Malley could not match Ms. Ledbetter's simple passion. They came off as ... politicians.
In a bit of stagecraft, the keynote speaker San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro was introduced by none other than his twin brother Joaquin. Castro gave a fabulous speech highlighting what the American Dream means to so many: giving your children a better life than the one you had. He contrasted the Obama administration and the Romney plan, and how each would affect the have-nots. In describing Romney, it could easily be summed up in on phrase he used during his speech: "he just has no idea how good he's had it".
It would be a hard speech to follow, but the star of the evening was yet to shine. First Lady Michelle Obama absolutely dazzled. I have always been impressed with her strength, intelligence, and passion for her causes, but I was blown away by her address to the crowd. She touched on all the themes of the evening, weaving them together with the idea that it is the president's values that drive his politics, not the other way around. She had several big lines during the night:
It was all well written, well delivered, and well received... not a dry eye in the house. My only concern was that it went about 7 minutes long, and I hope the national news networks didn't cut it off to switch to local news coverage. Every American deserved to see this.
We watched on C-SPAN to avoid the interuptions typical on the news channels. Afterwards, we flipped around to the news channels to see how it was being discussed. On MSNBC, there was no lack of praise, even from the Republican analyst, although he did try to invoke Reagan. Over on FOX "News" they made sure to show the one person in the hall who appeared to be asleep, and avoided talking about the speech entirely, instead trying to create some negative buzz about the Democratic platform, which apparently doesn't include references to God nor Jerusalem. If that's all they've got, then you know it was a pretty good night for the Democrats.
It started with current and former Democratic officials and politicians, including Harry "Romney Paid Zero Taxes" Reid, several women House members (including Nancy Pelosi), a video from Jimmy Carter, Ken Salazar, and Robert Wexler.
The video screens behind the podium announced the theme of the remaining speakers, some well-known, and some private citizens. First was "Choice" (as in "Reproductive Choice"). Nancy Keenan - the head of NARAL - delivered an impassioned speech about preserving women's health choices. She contrasted sharply the president's views towards women in general and choice in particular with the Republican's attempts to redefine rape, allow companies to determine whether contraception is covered, and severely limit (or eliminate altogether) the option of abortion.
The next theme was the military, and support for military families and veterans issues. First we heard from Nate Davis, a vet who made use of the new GI bill to attend college and become a liason for vets seeking to get the benefits they deserve. He was followed by veteran Tammi Duckworth, running for the U.S. House in IL. She made quite the impression walking out onto the stage on her two artificial legs, and told a stirring personal story of how her family has been dedicated to serving in the military since they arrived on these shores. She praised President Obama for ensuring that she and others like her got the respect and help they needed. This all contrasted sharply with the Republican convention where mentions of the military were essentially completely absent.
From there, the theme transitioned to health care. If Republicans feel that "Obamacare" is a chink in the president's armor, the Democrats didn't get the memo. The embattled legislation was rightfully celebrated and praised. The first to speak was a mother of a child with a birth defect. She drove home the reality for a lot of families that this new law is the only thing standing between them and their child's likely death (and/or bankruptcy). Ted Strickland and Kathleen Sebelius echoed the simple idea that a costly health problem shouldn't be a death sentence or a cause of extreme financial hardship.
Rahm Emanuel, actor Kal Penn, and the brother and sister of the First Couple also spoke.
The final theme was "Equal Pay", highlighting the president's first legislative achievement: the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. This was celebrated by none other than the woman herself. With a southern accent as thick as molasses, she described a situation all too familiar with women - getting paid less for doing the same work. She took her employer to court, and fought it all the way to the Supreme Court, who told her she needed to file a grievance within a time limit based on when it happened, not on when she found out. After losing that, the only option for other women was to change the law. The new - named for her - does just that. Her (literal) trials and tribulations trying to achieve equality resonated with the crowd.
Despite their practiced slickness, governors Deval Patrick and Martin O'Malley could not match Ms. Ledbetter's simple passion. They came off as ... politicians.
In a bit of stagecraft, the keynote speaker San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro was introduced by none other than his twin brother Joaquin. Castro gave a fabulous speech highlighting what the American Dream means to so many: giving your children a better life than the one you had. He contrasted the Obama administration and the Romney plan, and how each would affect the have-nots. In describing Romney, it could easily be summed up in on phrase he used during his speech: "he just has no idea how good he's had it".
It would be a hard speech to follow, but the star of the evening was yet to shine. First Lady Michelle Obama absolutely dazzled. I have always been impressed with her strength, intelligence, and passion for her causes, but I was blown away by her address to the crowd. She touched on all the themes of the evening, weaving them together with the idea that it is the president's values that drive his politics, not the other way around. She had several big lines during the night:
"We learned about gratitude and humility; that so many people had a hand in our success, from the teachers who inspired us to the janitors who kept our school clean, and we were taught to value everyone's contribution and treat everyone with respect."
"After so many struggles and triumphs and moments that have tested my husband in ways I never could have imagined, I have seen firsthand that being president doesn't change who you are -- it reveals who you are"
"He reminds me that we are playing a long game here, and that change is hard, and change is slow, and it never happens all at once. Many of us stand here tonight because of [previous generation's] sacrifice, and longing, and steadfast love because time and again, they swallowed their fears and doubts and did what was hard."
"Barack knows the American Dream because he's lived it, and he wants everyone in this country to have that same opportunity, no matter who we are, or where we're from, or what we look like, or who we love. 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."
It was all well written, well delivered, and well received... not a dry eye in the house. My only concern was that it went about 7 minutes long, and I hope the national news networks didn't cut it off to switch to local news coverage. Every American deserved to see this.
We watched on C-SPAN to avoid the interuptions typical on the news channels. Afterwards, we flipped around to the news channels to see how it was being discussed. On MSNBC, there was no lack of praise, even from the Republican analyst, although he did try to invoke Reagan. Over on FOX "News" they made sure to show the one person in the hall who appeared to be asleep, and avoided talking about the speech entirely, instead trying to create some negative buzz about the Democratic platform, which apparently doesn't include references to God nor Jerusalem. If that's all they've got, then you know it was a pretty good night for the Democrats.
Comments:
Order comments Newest to Oldest Refresh Comments
Comment by 
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 12:58:00
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 12:58:00
Until Bobber finished crafting the blog much like he lovingly crafts his tasty homebrew, I give you the Paul Ryan Marathon Calculator!
Using it I could run a marathon in 5:48 minutes.
Using it I could run a marathon in 5:48 minutes.
Comment by 
TriSec on 09/05/2012 13:12:23
TriSec on 09/05/2012 13:12:23
Greetings, comrades!
Elizabeth Warren is going to lose.
I'm sorry, she might be brilliant and a rising national star, but she is a terrible campaigner in this state. The whole effort seems haphazard and disorganized. The state senate candidate I'm working for can literally run rings around her campaign organization.
Again, the Warren campaign called me looking for help. "Can you come out Saturday?" Uhhhhh, no. Ever hear of advanced planning? I've known weeks in advance what events were happening for the State Senate and have been able to adjust my schedule accordingly.
(And then there's this whole "outsider" bit. She might be a Harvard professor, but she's not a native. I don't think we like carpetbaggers much, but that doesn't explain Deval. Also not a native, but he's been here since he was 13.))
Elizabeth Warren is going to lose.
I'm sorry, she might be brilliant and a rising national star, but she is a terrible campaigner in this state. The whole effort seems haphazard and disorganized. The state senate candidate I'm working for can literally run rings around her campaign organization.
Again, the Warren campaign called me looking for help. "Can you come out Saturday?" Uhhhhh, no. Ever hear of advanced planning? I've known weeks in advance what events were happening for the State Senate and have been able to adjust my schedule accordingly.
(And then there's this whole "outsider" bit. She might be a Harvard professor, but she's not a native. I don't think we like carpetbaggers much, but that doesn't explain Deval. Also not a native, but he's been here since he was 13.))
Comment by 
Raine on 09/05/2012 13:12:58
Good morning. I am still just delighted after watching the wonderful speeches last night!
Raine on 09/05/2012 13:12:58
Good morning. I am still just delighted after watching the wonderful speeches last night!
Comment by 
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 13:16:23
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 13:16:23
Morning 
okay I love that at 38 Julien Castro is considered a "young person" to speaker. Makes me feel not so old
okay I love that at 38 Julien Castro is considered a "young person" to speaker. Makes me feel not so old
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 13:18:46
:)
:)
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 13:18:46
Quote by Raine:
:)
:)
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 13:19:07
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 13:19:07
I have to say I am massively crushing on FLOTUS!
Comment by 
BobR on 09/05/2012 13:22:53
BobR on 09/05/2012 13:22:53
The blog is now up.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 13:23:27
Sorry in advance, Tri.That last paragraph makes you sound like a pelega infected , splay toed, toothless southern redneck.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 13:23:27
Quote by TriSec:
Greetings, comrades!
Elizabeth Warren is going to lose.
I'm sorry, she might be brilliant and a rising national star, but she is a terrible campaigner in this state. The whole effort seems haphazard and disorganized. The state senate candidate I'm working for can literally run rings around her campaign organization.
Again, the Warren campaign called me looking for help. "Can you come out Saturday?" Uhhhhh, no. Ever hear of advanced planning? I've known weeks in advance what events were happening for the State Senate and have been able to adjust my schedule accordingly.
(And then there's this whole "outsider" bit. She might be a Harvard professor, but she's not a native. I don't think we like carpetbaggers much, but that doesn't explain Deval. Also not a native, but he's been here since he was 13.))
Sorry in advance, Tri.That last paragraph makes you sound like a pelega infected , splay toed, toothless southern redneck.
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 13:28:36
No, it's OK. I make no apologies for that; you all know New Englanders are notoriously provincial. But then again, once you're "in", you are one of ours no matter what. Ms. Warren doesn't have that feel, IMHO.
TriSec on 09/05/2012 13:28:36
Quote by Mondobubba:
Sorry in advance, Tri.That last paragraph makes you sound like a pelega infected , splay toed, toothless southern redneck.
No, it's OK. I make no apologies for that; you all know New Englanders are notoriously provincial. But then again, once you're "in", you are one of ours no matter what. Ms. Warren doesn't have that feel, IMHO.
Comment by BobR on 09/05/2012 13:28:39
BobR on 09/05/2012 13:28:39
btw - Scoopster posted yesterday about a "register to vote" widget. I've added it to the blog; link is in the menu above.
Comment by BobR on 09/05/2012 13:30:18
BobR on 09/05/2012 13:30:18
Comment by 
Scoopster on 09/05/2012 13:34:48
Scoopster on 09/05/2012 13:34:48
Mornin' all & Happy torrential downpour Hump-dee! 
Glad to be of service!
She gotta man, playa! 
Quote by BobR:
btw - Scoopster posted yesterday about a "register to vote" widget. I've added it to the blog; link is in the menu above.
Glad to be of service!
Quote by Mondobubba:
I have to say I am massively crushing on FLOTUS!
She gotta man, playa!
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 13:40:28
TriSec on 09/05/2012 13:40:28
Hopefully I will be home tonight to see most of the festivities.
It's Primary Eve in this commonwealth, so it's our last night to phone bank.
Joe Kearns Goodwin - 3rd Middlesex
It's Primary Eve in this commonwealth, so it's our last night to phone bank.
Joe Kearns Goodwin - 3rd Middlesex
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 13:45:22
Raine on 09/05/2012 13:45:22
Well done Bobber.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 13:49:58
Just like Southrons. Seriously. My parents have been living in North Carolina for 25 years, in the past few years they have been accepted as "local." The key difference tween the two areas is the "in" concept you mentioned. I don't think my parents will ever be full accepted.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 13:49:58
Quote by TriSec:Quote by Mondobubba:
Sorry in advance, Tri.That last paragraph makes you sound like a pelega infected , splay toed, toothless southern redneck.
No, it's OK. I make no apologies for that; you all know New Englanders are notoriously provincial. But then again, once you're "in", you are one of ours no matter what. Ms. Warren doesn't have that feel, IMHO.
Just like Southrons. Seriously. My parents have been living in North Carolina for 25 years, in the past few years they have been accepted as "local." The key difference tween the two areas is the "in" concept you mentioned. I don't think my parents will ever be full accepted.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:01:17
Oh it is a total knight errant kinda crush, Scoop. Read your midieval lit.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:01:17
Quote by Scoopster:
Mornin' all & Happy torrential downpour Hump-dee!Quote by BobR:
btw - Scoopster posted yesterday about a "register to vote" widget. I've added it to the blog; link is in the menu above.
Glad to be of service!Quote by Mondobubba:
I have to say I am massively crushing on FLOTUS!
Oh it is a total knight errant kinda crush, Scoop. Read your midieval lit.
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 14:13:10
Hell -- I've got a crush on Michelle!
Raine on 09/05/2012 14:13:10
Quote by Scoopster:
Mornin' all & Happy torrential downpour Hump-dee!Quote by BobR:
btw - Scoopster posted yesterday about a "register to vote" widget. I've added it to the blog; link is in the menu above.
Glad to be of service!Quote by Mondobubba:
I have to say I am massively crushing on FLOTUS!
Hell -- I've got a crush on Michelle!
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:22:53
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:22:53
Raine, how are your cartooning skills? Would you be able to draw an athropomorphic beaver with large buck teeth, a weak chin and crossed eyes that looks like Chuck Todd?
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 14:24:44
Raine on 09/05/2012 14:24:44
Quote by Mondobubba:
Raine, how are your cartooning skills? Would you be able to draw an athropomorphic beaver with large buck teeth, a weak chin and crossed eyes that looks like Chuck Todd?
Comment by BobR on 09/05/2012 14:24:50
or a woodchuck
BobR on 09/05/2012 14:24:50
Quote by Mondobubba:
Raine, how are your cartooning skills? Would you be able to draw an athropomorphic beaver with large buck teeth, a weak chin and crossed eyes that looks like Chuck Todd?
or a woodchuck
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:25:28
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:25:28
Tri can explain another phenomenon involving your people (New Englanders)? I have come across many who when they move south, except for the sports team allegences, go totally native. I mean the become rednecks, but with New England sounding accents.
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 14:37:41
********Mala, this one's for you**********
So, my sister is definitely my sister. She posted this on FB last night.
And lo and behold:
I posted this on her link.
Raine on 09/05/2012 14:37:41
So, my sister is definitely my sister. She posted this on FB last night.
So...I'm driving down the road, mindin' my own business- Stop at the red light in the center of (town), When a woman in a Red SUV pulls away from the curb on the opposite side of the street stops next to me and says "Excuse Me Ma'am...Do you know you have a squirrel hanging from the front of your car??" Uhhhh No I did NOT!! What the heck are the odds of THIS happening? There was NO squirrel running in front of my car!
I posted this on her link.
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 14:38:30
No, that one is beyond me. By my experience is exclusively with snowbirds, not transplants.
TriSec on 09/05/2012 14:38:30
Quote by Mondobubba:
Tri can explain another phenomenon involving your people (New Englanders)? I have come across many who when they move south, except for the sports team allegences, go totally native. I mean the become rednecks, but with New England sounding accents.
No, that one is beyond me. By my experience is exclusively with snowbirds, not transplants.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:50:44
You like this idea don't you?
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:50:44
Quote by Raine:Quote by Mondobubba:
Raine, how are your cartooning skills? Would you be able to draw an athropomorphic beaver with large buck teeth, a weak chin and crossed eyes that looks like Chuck Todd?
You like this idea don't you?
Comment by wickedpam on 09/05/2012 14:51:01
So my car has a rival for the title of Christie of the Squirrel World?
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 14:51:01
Quote by Raine:********Mala, this one's for you**********
So, my sister is definitely my sister. She posted this on FB last night.And lo and behold:So...I'm driving down the road, mindin' my own business- Stop at the red light in the center of (town), When a woman in a Red SUV pulls away from the curb on the opposite side of the street stops next to me and says "Excuse Me Ma'am...Do you know you have a squirrel hanging from the front of your car??" Uhhhh No I did NOT!! What the heck are the odds of THIS happening? There was NO squirrel running in front of my car!
I posted this on her link.
So my car has a rival for the title of Christie of the Squirrel World?
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:51:28
It constantly leaves me scratching my head.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:51:28
Quote by TriSec:Quote by Mondobubba:
Tri can explain another phenomenon involving your people (New Englanders)? I have come across many who when they move south, except for the sports team allegences, go totally native. I mean the become rednecks, but with New England sounding accents.
No, that one is beyond me. By my experience is exclusively with snowbirds, not transplants.
It constantly leaves me scratching my head.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:52:18
Okay that picture is HILARIOUS!
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 14:52:18
Quote by Raine:********Mala, this one's for you**********
So, my sister is definitely my sister. She posted this on FB last night.And lo and behold:So...I'm driving down the road, mindin' my own business- Stop at the red light in the center of (town), When a woman in a Red SUV pulls away from the curb on the opposite side of the street stops next to me and says "Excuse Me Ma'am...Do you know you have a squirrel hanging from the front of your car??" Uhhhh No I did NOT!! What the heck are the odds of THIS happening? There was NO squirrel running in front of my car!
I posted this on her link.
Okay that picture is HILARIOUS!
Comment by wickedpam on 09/05/2012 14:53:30
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 14:53:30
poor squirrel
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 14:59:51
Raine on 09/05/2012 14:59:51
@RodrigoEBR
BREAKING: 7.9 earthquake off Costa Rica -USGS
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 15:00:41
I thought you would appreciate that you officially don't have the suicidal squirrel market cornered.
Raine on 09/05/2012 15:00:41
Quote by wickedpam:
poor squirrel
I thought you would appreciate that you officially don't have the suicidal squirrel market cornered.
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 15:01:24
and totally for real.
Raine on 09/05/2012 15:01:24
Quote by Mondobubba:
Okay that picture is HILARIOUS!
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 15:04:17
You and your sistahs are dangerous women!
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 15:04:17
Quote by Raine:and totally for real.Quote by Mondobubba:
Okay that picture is HILARIOUS!
You and your sistahs are dangerous women!
Comment by wickedpam on 09/05/2012 15:15:46
Maybe its a regional thing - she's got NY covered, I've got VA. Maybe only one squirrel Christine car can only exist per state and they can never enter into each other's territory! Oh no! it would be squirrel car havoc!
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 15:15:46
Quote by Raine:Quote by wickedpam:
poor squirrel
I thought you would appreciate that you officially don't have the suicidal squirrel market cornered.
Maybe its a regional thing - she's got NY covered, I've got VA. Maybe only one squirrel Christine car can only exist per state and they can never enter into each other's territory! Oh no! it would be squirrel car havoc!
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 15:19:08
What happens if the two cars are in the same state? Do they cancel each other out? Or does it get even more like a Stephen King novel?
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 15:19:08
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:Quote by wickedpam:
poor squirrel
I thought you would appreciate that you officially don't have the suicidal squirrel market cornered.
Maybe its a regional thing - she's got NY covered, I've got VA. Maybe only one squirrel Christine car can only exist per state and they can never enter into each other's territory! Oh no! it would be squirrel car havoc!
What happens if the two cars are in the same state? Do they cancel each other out? Or does it get even more like a Stephen King novel?
Comment by wickedpam on 09/05/2012 15:25:56
if King did a demolition derby! Like Thunderdome - 2 cars enter, 1 car leaves
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 15:25:56
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:Quote by wickedpam:
poor squirrel
I thought you would appreciate that you officially don't have the suicidal squirrel market cornered.
Maybe its a regional thing - she's got NY covered, I've got VA. Maybe only one squirrel Christine car can only exist per state and they can never enter into each other's territory! Oh no! it would be squirrel car havoc!
What happens if the two cars are in the same state? Do they cancel each other out? Or does it get even more like a Stephen King novel?
if King did a demolition derby! Like Thunderdome - 2 cars enter, 1 car leaves
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 15:26:31
TriSec on 09/05/2012 15:26:31
[woe is me]
I don't know what's up with this treatment cycle. I've tracked all the side effects meticulously this time around, and I still don't feel back to rights yet. I'm eight days in...guess this must be the new 'normal'.
[/woe is me]
We now return you to your regularly-scheduled blogging.
I don't know what's up with this treatment cycle. I've tracked all the side effects meticulously this time around, and I still don't feel back to rights yet. I'm eight days in...guess this must be the new 'normal'.
[/woe is me]
We now return you to your regularly-scheduled blogging.
Comment by 
Will in Chicago on 09/05/2012 15:46:44
Will in Chicago on 09/05/2012 15:46:44
Good morning, bloggers!! I hope that everyone is well.
I think that Michelle Obama and the other speakers were great. However, I am not certain if everyone will come together. I hear too much division on the left with some calling people Obamabots and others shouting Firebagger. Historically, this reminds me of some of the divisions during the siege of Jerusalem by the Roman empire, where some factions wanted to find a way to end the conflict and others -- the historical Zealots -- killed their foes as not being religiously and ideologically pure enough. As there was no peace, only devastation, later generations of the Jewish people did not remember the Zealots well.
Regardless of what we have wanted these past four years, I think we can perhaps agree that Romney will revive the disastrous policies of the Bush administration on several grounds and pack the courts, especially the Supreme Court, with conservatives. Perhaps we on the left can find some common ground before November. Otherwise, we will have to come together after November and learn to say President Romney.
I think that Michelle Obama and the other speakers were great. However, I am not certain if everyone will come together. I hear too much division on the left with some calling people Obamabots and others shouting Firebagger. Historically, this reminds me of some of the divisions during the siege of Jerusalem by the Roman empire, where some factions wanted to find a way to end the conflict and others -- the historical Zealots -- killed their foes as not being religiously and ideologically pure enough. As there was no peace, only devastation, later generations of the Jewish people did not remember the Zealots well.
Regardless of what we have wanted these past four years, I think we can perhaps agree that Romney will revive the disastrous policies of the Bush administration on several grounds and pack the courts, especially the Supreme Court, with conservatives. Perhaps we on the left can find some common ground before November. Otherwise, we will have to come together after November and learn to say President Romney.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 15:50:16
That would be bad.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 15:50:16
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:Quote by wickedpam:
poor squirrel
I thought you would appreciate that you officially don't have the suicidal squirrel market cornered.
Maybe its a regional thing - she's got NY covered, I've got VA. Maybe only one squirrel Christine car can only exist per state and they can never enter into each other's territory! Oh no! it would be squirrel car havoc!
What happens if the two cars are in the same state? Do they cancel each other out? Or does it get even more like a Stephen King novel?
if King did a demolition derby! Like Thunderdome - 2 cars enter, 1 car leaves
That would be bad.
Comment by wickedpam on 09/05/2012 15:51:00
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 15:51:00
Comment by BobR on 09/05/2012 16:00:16
This is "Goode" news for Dems - he could be a spoiler
BobR on 09/05/2012 16:00:16
Quote by wickedpam:
oh by the way this happened in VA - Virgil Goode make presidental ballot in VA
This is "Goode" news for Dems - he could be a spoiler
Comment by wickedpam on 09/05/2012 16:04:45
defiantly - they are crazy out there in the SW of the state
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 16:04:45
Quote by BobR:Quote by wickedpam:
oh by the way this happened in VA - Virgil Goode make presidental ballot in VA
This is "Goode" news for Dems - he could be a spoiler
defiantly - they are crazy out there in the SW of the state
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 16:07:23
Yep sound like my mom's chemo. She just had days after a cycle when she just felt off.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 16:07:23
Quote by TriSec:
[woe is me]
I don't know what's up with this treatment cycle. I've tracked all the side effects meticulously this time around, and I still don't feel back to rights yet. I'm eight days in...guess this must be the new 'normal'.
[/woe is me]
We now return you to your regularly-scheduled blogging.
Yep sound like my mom's chemo. She just had days after a cycle when she just felt off.
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 16:09:18
Just getting to this.
Oh, Dear.
It's high time we countered Shark week with Beaver Week.
Raine on 09/05/2012 16:09:18
Quote by BobR:
Here's one for the beaver stack
Oh, Dear.
It's high time we countered Shark week with Beaver Week.
Comment by 
livingonli on 09/05/2012 16:58:16
livingonli on 09/05/2012 16:58:16
Good day, folks. I'm actually off tonight but of course, it sucks the convention has to compete with NFL kick-off tonight and I do want to see the Giants crush the Cowboys on opening night and get off to a good start.
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 17:07:42
If the Yankees could somehow play the Cowboys, I think we all would win.
TriSec on 09/05/2012 17:07:42
Quote by livingonli:
Good day, folks. I'm actually off tonight but of course, it sucks the convention has to compete with NFL kick-off tonight and I do want to see the Giants crush the Cowboys on opening night and get off to a good start.
If the Yankees could somehow play the Cowboys, I think we all would win.
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 17:09:00
I;m half tempted to grab a free TV on Craigslist.
Choices choices.
Raine on 09/05/2012 17:09:00
Quote by livingonli:
Good day, folks. I'm actually off tonight but of course, it sucks the convention has to compete with NFL kick-off tonight and I do want to see the Giants crush the Cowboys on opening night and get off to a good start.
Choices choices.
Comment by BobR on 09/05/2012 17:11:37
There's always C-SPAN online streaming...
BobR on 09/05/2012 17:11:37
Quote by Raine:I;m half tempted to grab a free TV on Craigslist.Quote by livingonli:
Good day, folks. I'm actually off tonight but of course, it sucks the convention has to compete with NFL kick-off tonight and I do want to see the Giants crush the Cowboys on opening night and get off to a good start.
Choices choices.
There's always C-SPAN online streaming...
Comment by BobR on 09/05/2012 17:11:59
death match?
BobR on 09/05/2012 17:11:59
Quote by TriSec:Quote by livingonli:
Good day, folks. I'm actually off tonight but of course, it sucks the convention has to compete with NFL kick-off tonight and I do want to see the Giants crush the Cowboys on opening night and get off to a good start.
If the Yankees could somehow play the Cowboys, I think we all would win.
death match?
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 17:17:44
TriSec on 09/05/2012 17:17:44
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 17:19:36
My Tweet to Hank Williams, Jr.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 17:19:36
Are you stupid? "Obama is a Muslim who hates cowboys" or was that just the booze and Oxy talking. #asshat #gopdouche #DNC
My Tweet to Hank Williams, Jr.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 09/05/2012 17:22:10
Between Akins and Hank Williams, Jr, -- who convinces me that his father's talent skipped a generation -- I have to ask what world are some people living in?
Will in Chicago on 09/05/2012 17:22:10
Quote by Mondobubba:Are you stupid? "Obama is a Muslim who hates cowboys" or was that just the booze and Oxy talking. #asshat #gopdouche #DNC
My Tweet to Hank Williams, Jr.
Between Akins and Hank Williams, Jr, -- who convinces me that his father's talent skipped a generation -- I have to ask what world are some people living in?
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 17:22:45
OK, OK...I dug a little further. Not The Onion, but apparently a competitor. A lesser light over at Newsvine had actually presented this as a legitimate article.
Yeesh.
But not that farfetched now, is it?
TriSec on 09/05/2012 17:22:45
Quote by TriSec:
Somebody please, please, PLEASE tell me this is from The Onion.
OK, OK...I dug a little further. Not The Onion, but apparently a competitor. A lesser light over at Newsvine had actually presented this as a legitimate article.
Yeesh.
But not that farfetched now, is it?
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 17:30:18
One where there is too much Jack Daniels and Oxycontin for assholes like Williams, Jr to ingest and then go on tv
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 17:30:18
Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by Mondobubba:Are you stupid? "Obama is a Muslim who hates cowboys" or was that just the booze and Oxy talking. #asshat #gopdouche #DNC
My Tweet to Hank Williams, Jr.
Between Akins and Hank Williams, Jr, -- who convinces me that his father's talent skipped a generation -- I have to ask what world are some people living in?
One where there is too much Jack Daniels and Oxycontin for assholes like Williams, Jr to ingest and then go on tv
Comment by livingonli on 09/05/2012 17:31:11
A fantasy world although I believe Dungeons & Dragons is more realistic than the one they live in.
livingonli on 09/05/2012 17:31:11
Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by Mondobubba:Are you stupid? "Obama is a Muslim who hates cowboys" or was that just the booze and Oxy talking. #asshat #gopdouche #DNC
My Tweet to Hank Williams, Jr.
Between Akins and Hank Williams, Jr, -- who convinces me that his father's talent skipped a generation -- I have to ask what world are some people living in?
A fantasy world although I believe Dungeons & Dragons is more realistic than the one they live in.
Comment by livingonli on 09/05/2012 17:31:55
And they obviously don't mix with really bad side effects.
livingonli on 09/05/2012 17:31:55
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by Mondobubba:Are you stupid? "Obama is a Muslim who hates cowboys" or was that just the booze and Oxy talking. #asshat #gopdouche #DNC
My Tweet to Hank Williams, Jr.
Between Akins and Hank Williams, Jr, -- who convinces me that his father's talent skipped a generation -- I have to ask what world are some people living in?
One where is too much Jack Daniels and Oxycontin.
And they obviously don't mix with really bad side effects.
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 18:02:06
TriSec on 09/05/2012 18:02:06
[dreamy voice}
I was on oxycontins not that long ago....they're wonderful!
I was on oxycontins not that long ago....they're wonderful!
Comment by Will in Chicago on 09/05/2012 18:03:23
As someone who plays role playing games (Pathfinder primarily), I would argue that having a setting where fictional characters can have a variety of world views is more realistic than the either-or dichotomy of the Republican party. Of course in a fantasy game, magic works -- but I am not sure that a lamp with a genie could make Mitt Romney's economic policies work. Perhaps Hank Williams and Akins believe that there are shape shifters in Congress.
Will in Chicago on 09/05/2012 18:03:23
Quote by livingonli:Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by Mondobubba:Are you stupid? "Obama is a Muslim who hates cowboys" or was that just the booze and Oxy talking. #asshat #gopdouche #DNC
My Tweet to Hank Williams, Jr.
Between Akins and Hank Williams, Jr, -- who convinces me that his father's talent skipped a generation -- I have to ask what world are some people living in?
A fantasy world although I believe Dungeons & Dragons is more realistic than the one they live in.
As someone who plays role playing games (Pathfinder primarily), I would argue that having a setting where fictional characters can have a variety of world views is more realistic than the either-or dichotomy of the Republican party. Of course in a fantasy game, magic works -- but I am not sure that a lamp with a genie could make Mitt Romney's economic policies work. Perhaps Hank Williams and Akins believe that there are shape shifters in Congress.
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 18:06:22
The DAily Currant : The Global Satirical Newspaper of Record ( Look as the upper right hand top of the page)
It's really sad that Satire is so hard to spot these days.
Raine on 09/05/2012 18:06:22
Quote by TriSec:
Somebody please, please, PLEASE tell me this is from The Onion.
It's really sad that Satire is so hard to spot these days.
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 18:07:29
I like you Bob. Too bad your taken....
Raine on 09/05/2012 18:07:29
Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:I;m half tempted to grab a free TV on Craigslist.Quote by livingonli:
Good day, folks. I'm actually off tonight but of course, it sucks the convention has to compete with NFL kick-off tonight and I do want to see the Giants crush the Cowboys on opening night and get off to a good start.
Choices choices.
There's always C-SPAN online streaming...
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 18:49:15
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 18:49:15
Tri, what is your opinion on Carver, MA?
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 18:54:07
TriSec on 09/05/2012 18:54:07
Carver?
Nice little out-of-the way town towards the cape. Many cranberry bogs, and this vintage local attraction.
Next town inland from Plymouth....
Nice little out-of-the way town towards the cape. Many cranberry bogs, and this vintage local attraction.
Next town inland from Plymouth....
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 18:57:07
Raine on 09/05/2012 18:57:07
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 18:57:41
Raine on 09/05/2012 18:57:41
Oh, and FUCK YOU DAVID GREGORY.
Comment by wickedpam on 09/05/2012 19:02:06
what happened to him - he used to ask some really good questions when he was the WH reporter
wickedpam on 09/05/2012 19:02:06
Quote by Raine:
Oh, and FUCK YOU DAVID GREGORY.
what happened to him - he used to ask some really good questions when he was the WH reporter
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 19:23:38
The customer I was speaking with hates Carver. He's from Duxbury. I love these Mass. intertown rivalries! You being in Middlesex, don't have a dog in that race.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 19:23:38
Quote by TriSec:
Carver?
Nice little out-of-the way town towards the cape. Many cranberry bogs, and this vintage local attraction.
Next town inland from Plymouth....
The customer I was speaking with hates Carver. He's from Duxbury. I love these Mass. intertown rivalries!
You being in Middlesex, don't have a dog in that race.
Comment by TriSec on 09/05/2012 19:30:38
TriSec on 09/05/2012 19:30:38
Ah, but there's the whole Saugus/Revere thing that I grew up with.
And I do have a star on my belly. I'll have nothing to do with the plain-bellied sort.
And I do have a star on my belly. I'll have nothing to do with the plain-bellied sort.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 19:31:31
So, if Chuck Todd is stoop shouldered, cross eyed, bucktoothed beaver (or woodchuck). What cruel anthropomorpic animal chacature is Gregory? I'm thinking weasel, ferret marmet or mink.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 19:31:31
Quote by Raine:
Oh, and FUCK YOU DAVID GREGORY.
So, if Chuck Todd is stoop shouldered, cross eyed, bucktoothed beaver (or woodchuck). What cruel anthropomorpic animal chacature is Gregory? I'm thinking weasel, ferret marmet or mink.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 19:34:50
I don't really know of intertown rivalries in there parts. There are strong opinions on the towns by non-residents. Jacksonville Beach for example. Sailors and sunburned redneck beach trash. A shithole of a seaside town. Orange Park, inbred, bring your gun in certain parts. Ponte Vedra, rich dickholes who built wildly impractical suburban style houses on the friggin beach.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 19:34:50
Quote by TriSec:
Ah, but there's the whole Saugus/Revere thing that I grew up with.
And I do have a star on my belly. I'll have nothing to do with the plain-bellied sort.
I don't really know of intertown rivalries in there parts. There are strong opinions on the towns by non-residents. Jacksonville Beach for example. Sailors and sunburned redneck beach trash. A shithole of a seaside town. Orange Park, inbred, bring your gun in certain parts. Ponte Vedra, rich dickholes who built wildly impractical suburban style houses on the friggin beach.
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 19:38:24
You know what David gregory is to me?
THIS
Raine on 09/05/2012 19:38:24
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:
Oh, and FUCK YOU DAVID GREGORY.
So, if Chuck Todd is stoop shouldered, cross eyed, bucktoothed beaver (or woodchuck). What cruel anthropomorpic animal chacature is Gregory? I'm thinking weasel, ferret marmet or mink.
THIS
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 19:39:58
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 19:39:58
Quote by Raine:You know what David gregory is to me?Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:
Oh, and FUCK YOU DAVID GREGORY.
So, if Chuck Todd is stoop shouldered, cross eyed, bucktoothed beaver (or woodchuck). What cruel anthropomorpic animal chacature is Gregory? I'm thinking weasel, ferret marmet or mink.
THIS
Comment by BobR on 09/05/2012 19:42:15
He looks like some sort of chimp to me
BobR on 09/05/2012 19:42:15
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:
Oh, and FUCK YOU DAVID GREGORY.
So, if Chuck Todd is stoop shouldered, cross eyed, bucktoothed beaver (or woodchuck). What cruel anthropomorpic animal chacature is Gregory? I'm thinking weasel, ferret marmet or mink.
He looks like some sort of chimp to me
Comment by Raine on 09/05/2012 21:13:39
Raine on 09/05/2012 21:13:39
So....
I kinda thought this would happen.
I wish Romney would just release the tax returns on his own. I had a feeling that this would be a hacking thing. Here we are.
I kinda thought this would happen.
I wish Romney would just release the tax returns on his own. I had a feeling that this would be a hacking thing. Here we are.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 21:18:57
oh that is much more than hacking. That is breaking and entering.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 21:18:57
Quote by Raine:
So....
I kinda thought this would happen.
I wish Romney would just release the tax returns on his own. I had a feeling that this would be a hacking thing. Here we are.
oh that is much more than hacking. That is breaking and entering.
Comment by BobR on 09/05/2012 21:28:56
We get the "data security" seminars every year, and they mention that a lot of data theft occurs not online, but by someone posing as an employee and gaining physical access to data-sensitive areas. Whoever that person was who let them in is likely to find themselves on the unemployment line, and - believe me - they will find out who it was.
BobR on 09/05/2012 21:28:56
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:
So....
I kinda thought this would happen.
I wish Romney would just release the tax returns on his own. I had a feeling that this would be a hacking thing. Here we are.
oh that is much more than hacking. That is breaking and entering.
We get the "data security" seminars every year, and they mention that a lot of data theft occurs not online, but by someone posing as an employee and gaining physical access to data-sensitive areas. Whoever that person was who let them in is likely to find themselves on the unemployment line, and - believe me - they will find out who it was.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 21:39:40
I am borderline OCD on data security. Mostly it is working for banks and to lesser extend AOL. Plus there is that Security + Certificate.
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 21:39:40
Quote by BobR:Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:
So....
I kinda thought this would happen.
I wish Romney would just release the tax returns on his own. I had a feeling that this would be a hacking thing. Here we are.
oh that is much more than hacking. That is breaking and entering.
We get the "data security" seminars every year, and they mention that a lot of data theft occurs not online, but by someone posing as an employee and gaining physical access to data-sensitive areas. Whoever that person was who let them in is likely to find themselves on the unemployment line, and - believe me - they will find out who it was.
I am borderline OCD on data security. Mostly it is working for banks and to lesser extend AOL. Plus there is that Security + Certificate.
Comment by Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 21:47:49
Mondobubba on 09/05/2012 21:47:49
Banks do most of their data security stuff based on what is called "reputation managment." When you lose rep, you lose customers. That is bad as are the shareholder lawsuits.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 09/06/2012 00:05:59
Will in Chicago on 09/06/2012 00:05:59
So, I wonder did the hackers get Romney's actual taxes?
Comment by Raine on 09/06/2012 00:24:24
That is what I took away from this.
Bottom line, this is going to come out. -- I;m not a fan of hacking -- or theft, mind you. I have held a strong feelig that if Romney didn;t come forward, someone else will.
Raine on 09/06/2012 00:24:24
Quote by Will in Chicago:
So, I wonder did the hackers get Romney's actual taxes?
Bottom line, this is going to come out. -- I;m not a fan of hacking -- or theft, mind you. I have held a strong feelig that if Romney didn;t come forward, someone else will.
Comment by 
clintster on 09/06/2012 02:47:52
clintster on 09/06/2012 02:47:52
A-mazing evening of speeches. I am enjoying watching Big Dawg hit it out of the park, sink it from half-court and throw an 80-yard tight spiral at once!