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Ask a Vet
Author: TriSec
Date: 12/11/2012 11:17:59
Good Morning.
Today is our 4,083rd day in Afghanistan.
We'll start as we always do; with the latest casualty figures from our ongoing war, courtesy of Antiwar.com:
US Military Deaths - Afghanistan: 2,165
Other Military Deaths - Afghanistan: 1,073
We find this morning's cost of war passing through:
$ 1, 401, 827, 500, 000 .00
We'll start this morning in Afghanistan. As we ever-so-slowly start declining our activity and troop levels there, there is a shred of good news. It seems that the number of US casualties is dropping precipitously.
It's not known if the statistics are permanent or temporary; in any case, we've still got two more years before we know for sure, based on our estimated withdrawal date.
I've got a historic item that we've put the spotlight on a few times before. The Senate has passed a version of the Stolen Valor Act. Unfortunately, it's different from the House version, so it's back to a committee....but it's a rare sign of progress from the Senate.
Finally this morning...while we at Ask A Vet tend to focus on Iraq and Afghanistan, there's veterans still living from nearly all our 20th century wars. So we'll take a look back to the 1960s today. We're all familiar with things like IEDs and PTSD these days. Four decades ago, PTSD was a new concept, and many Vietnam-Era veterans were wrongly discharged. A new lawsuit is trying to correct that.
And so we go another week.
Today is our 4,083rd day in Afghanistan.
We'll start as we always do; with the latest casualty figures from our ongoing war, courtesy of Antiwar.com:
US Military Deaths - Afghanistan: 2,165
Other Military Deaths - Afghanistan: 1,073
We find this morning's cost of war passing through:
We'll start this morning in Afghanistan. As we ever-so-slowly start declining our activity and troop levels there, there is a shred of good news. It seems that the number of US casualties is dropping precipitously.
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — The number of U.S. deaths in Afghanistan is on track to decline sharply this year, reflecting the drawdown in U.S. forces and an expanded Afghan army that is playing a larger role in fighting the Taliban.
This year, 301 Americans have died in Afghanistan, down from a peak of 500 American deaths in 2010, a USA Today database shows. It is the second consecutive yearly drop.
“A year ago we were taking larger amounts of casualties than they were,” said Marine Maj. Gen. Charles “Mark” Gurganus, referring to Afghan security forces in the former Taliban stronghold of Helmand region in southern Afghanistan. “It is absolutely 180 (degrees) out now,” said Gurganus, head of Regional Command Southwest.
The Afghan Defense Ministry estimates that the Afghan military and police have more than 300 deaths per month. About 80 percent of the operations are led and planned by Afghan forces, the coalition command says.
The Afghan security force has grown to about 350,000. The number of U.S. forces has declined to about 68,000 from a peak of nearly 100,000. “They are really taking the fight now, and we are stepping back,” said German Air Force Brig. Gen. Günter Katz, the top coalition spokesman.
The U.S. and its allies are still in combat zones, providing critical support functions even as coalition forces are playing less of a role in direct combat. The U.S. supplies air support for medical evacuation, equipment to counter roadside bombs and intelligence and surveillance capabilities.
It's not known if the statistics are permanent or temporary; in any case, we've still got two more years before we know for sure, based on our estimated withdrawal date.
I've got a historic item that we've put the spotlight on a few times before. The Senate has passed a version of the Stolen Valor Act. Unfortunately, it's different from the House version, so it's back to a committee....but it's a rare sign of progress from the Senate.
The Senate moved Monday to make sure nobody profits from lying about being a military hero.
The Stolen Valor Act of 2012, sponsored by decorated Vietnam War veteran Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., passed the Senate as an amendment to the 2013 defense authorization bill.
Webb’s proposal makes it a federal crime to make a false claim about having served in the military or having received a military decoration if the object of the lie is personal gain.
Those caught lying for personal gain or for a tangible benefit would face a fine of up to $10,000 and up to six months imprisonment.
This could mean lying to get a job, either for the government or private sector, running for political office, trying to effect the outcome of a civil or criminal court case or getting an appointment to an executive position at a non-profit organization, under terms of Webb’s legislation.
Because people who serve in the military are held in great respect, lies about military service are especially harmful, the bill says. Employers often hire veterans ahead of others, the public often elects veterans, the government sets aside contracts for veterans and people who serve are held in great respect, especially for those who have received awards for valor, the bill says.
“False claims of military service or military heroism are an especially noxious means of obtaining something of value because they are particularly likely to cause a tangible harm to victims of fraud,” the amendment says in its findings.
The Senate-passed amendment, now part of S. 3254, is far from the final work on the bill.
Finally this morning...while we at Ask A Vet tend to focus on Iraq and Afghanistan, there's veterans still living from nearly all our 20th century wars. So we'll take a look back to the 1960s today. We're all familiar with things like IEDs and PTSD these days. Four decades ago, PTSD was a new concept, and many Vietnam-Era veterans were wrongly discharged. A new lawsuit is trying to correct that.
NEW HAVEN, Conn. — The military has failed to correct the wrongful discharges of thousands of Vietnam veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, an advocacy group says in a federal lawsuit.
Vietnam Veterans of America on Monday joined a proposed class action lawsuit in Hartford against the Army, Navy and Air Force. The lawsuit, first filed last year by a veteran, says the Vietnam veterans suffered PTSD before the condition was recognized and were discharged under other-than-honorable conditions that made them ineligible for disability compensation and other benefits.
The lawsuit says the military has refused to review or upgrade the discharge statuses of thousands of Vietnam War-era veterans with service-related PTSD.
“People did not understand PTSD during the Vietnam era,” said John Rowan, national president of Vietnam Veterans of America. “Now that we do, these service members must not be denied the recognition and benefits they long ago earned.”
The U.S. attorney’s office, which is representing the military in the lawsuit, said it’s reviewing the matter and will respond in court.
The initial lawsuit was filed by John Shepherd, a Vietnam veteran from New Haven, who says he was diagnosed with PTSD in 2004 but has been repeatedly denied a discharge upgrade.
Shepherd and the VVA, which has about 65,000 members, are represented by Yale Law School students who work at a veterans legal services clinic. The students say since 2003 the Army has approved fewer than 2 percent of applications by Vietnam veterans claiming PTSD to upgrade discharges, compared to 46 percent for all discharge upgrade applications in recent years.
Some of the veterans denied had at least one medal or had a PTSD diagnosis from the Department of Veterans Affairs, according to the students, who analyzed the Army data.
“The military has failed to apply consistent and medically appropriate standards to assess the impact of service-related PTSD on the conduct that led to discharge, resulting in the defendants’ discriminatory and near-categorical denial of discharge upgrade applications by Vietnam veterans who served in theater and developed PTSD,” the lawsuit states.
And so we go another week.
Comments:
Order comments Newest to Oldest Refresh Comments
Comment by 
Raine on 12/11/2012 13:43:50
good morning!
I hope the Stolen Valor act passes -- It's kinda common sense.
Raine on 12/11/2012 13:43:50
good morning! I hope the Stolen Valor act passes -- It's kinda common sense.
Comment by 
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 13:58:20
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 13:58:20
Good morning, bloggers!
Like Raine, I hope that the Stolen Valor Act passes. I think that this is one of the few things that Democrats and Republicans can agree on right now.
Also, I am pleased to see that we have PTSD in Vietnam Era vets being taken seriously and that benefits will be restored.
As for myself, I am busy with the job hunt. I have to visit the office of a local district to sign up for subbing with them after playing phone tag. In the mean time, I am looking for jobs in and out of teaching. I am seeing more jobs, and will be checking the postings for teaching and non-teaching work. As for teaching, I plan to start checking this week for any openings for next fall. (I hope to get something before then, but teaching has seasonal hiring.)
Like Raine, I hope that the Stolen Valor Act passes. I think that this is one of the few things that Democrats and Republicans can agree on right now.
Also, I am pleased to see that we have PTSD in Vietnam Era vets being taken seriously and that benefits will be restored.
As for myself, I am busy with the job hunt. I have to visit the office of a local district to sign up for subbing with them after playing phone tag. In the mean time, I am looking for jobs in and out of teaching. I am seeing more jobs, and will be checking the postings for teaching and non-teaching work. As for teaching, I plan to start checking this week for any openings for next fall. (I hope to get something before then, but teaching has seasonal hiring.)
Comment by 
wickedpam on 12/11/2012 14:04:12
wickedpam on 12/11/2012 14:04:12
Morning 
Comment by 
TriSec on 12/11/2012 14:05:09
TriSec on 12/11/2012 14:05:09
Morning, comrades!
I am pleased to report that I have practiced hard enough over the last week or so to recover enough of my chops so I can play some Xmas tunes at the pack meeting this week.
I've also switched mouthpieces - my Schilke sounds better on the highs and it's a little easier to hit them. (the Bach sounds pinched.)
I am pleased to report that I have practiced hard enough over the last week or so to recover enough of my chops so I can play some Xmas tunes at the pack meeting this week.
I've also switched mouthpieces - my Schilke sounds better on the highs and it's a little easier to hit them. (the Bach sounds pinched.)
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 14:11:58
That is an improvement. Hopefully, you will continue to see more signs of improvement.
Now a question for my friends in New England. I have heard that the winters around Boston are milder than Chicago? Today, I am looking at a high temperature of 37 degrees. (We have had some mild days of later and last week, we reached 70 degrees.)
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 14:11:58
Quote by TriSec:
Morning, comrades!
I am pleased to report that I have practiced hard enough over the last week or so to recover enough of my chops so I can play some Xmas tunes at the pack meeting this week.
I've also switched mouthpieces - my Schilke sounds better on the highs and it's a little easier to hit them. (the Bach sounds pinched.)
That is an improvement. Hopefully, you will continue to see more signs of improvement.
Now a question for my friends in New England. I have heard that the winters around Boston are milder than Chicago? Today, I am looking at a high temperature of 37 degrees. (We have had some mild days of later and last week, we reached 70 degrees.)
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 14:14:35
Raine on 12/11/2012 14:14:35
OMG! Rocky Mountain Mike has a compilation ! 
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 14:15:06
TriSec on 12/11/2012 14:15:06
Will, it was 60 degrees here yesterday. It was about 48 degrees this morning, but a cold front is expected later today. It seems that temps will be more "normal" for the rest of the week, with some rain expected Sunday.
Weather from Boston.com
Weather from Boston.com
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 14:17:02
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 14:17:02
Listening to the Rocky Mountain Mike song parodies on Stephanie Miller, I think that I would buy this as some of these parodies are better than the original songs.
So, does anyone think that John Boehner is going to have to fend off a challenge to his House Speaker position with a broken bottle of merlot in one hand and a can of spray tan in the other?
So, does anyone think that John Boehner is going to have to fend off a challenge to his House Speaker position with a broken bottle of merlot in one hand and a can of spray tan in the other?
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 14:24:45
From checking average temperatures for the different months, it seems like Boston averages somewhat warmer than Chicago in the winter. If I get a job in the Bay State, I will bring the Arctic survival gear but might not need it unless I go up to Caribou, Maine.
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 14:24:45
Quote by TriSec:
Will, it was 60 degrees here yesterday. It was about 48 degrees this morning, but a cold front is expected later today. It seems that temps will be more "normal" for the rest of the week, with some rain expected Sunday.
Weather from Boston.com
From checking average temperatures for the different months, it seems like Boston averages somewhat warmer than Chicago in the winter. If I get a job in the Bay State, I will bring the Arctic survival gear but might not need it unless I go up to Caribou, Maine.
Comment by 
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 14:25:54
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 14:25:54
Morning. I hope the Stolen Valor Act stands up to court challenges better than the previous versions of it. They were tossed on 1st Amendment issues.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 14:28:04
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 14:28:04
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 14:28:52
Oh, it's lower?
TriSec on 12/11/2012 14:28:52
Oh, it's lower?
Comment by wickedpam on 12/11/2012 14:53:42
wickedpam on 12/11/2012 14:53:42
Quote by TriSec:
Oh, it's lower?
Comment by 
BobR on 12/11/2012 14:56:20
and a cigarette butt hanging from his lip
BobR on 12/11/2012 14:56:20
Quote by Will in Chicago:
Listening to the Rocky Mountain Mike song parodies on Stephanie Miller, I think that I would buy this as some of these parodies are better than the original songs.
So, does anyone think that John Boehner is going to have to fend off a challenge to his House Speaker position with a broken bottle of merlot in one hand and a can of spray tan in the other?
and a cigarette butt hanging from his lip
Comment by 
Scoopster on 12/11/2012 15:02:49
Scoopster on 12/11/2012 15:02:49
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 15:05:41
Merlot? If I may paraphrase, Boehner isn't drinking Merlot! I can see him with a broken Early Time bottle, but no wine.
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 15:05:41
Quote by BobR:Quote by Will in Chicago:
Listening to the Rocky Mountain Mike song parodies on Stephanie Miller, I think that I would buy this as some of these parodies are better than the original songs.
So, does anyone think that John Boehner is going to have to fend off a challenge to his House Speaker position with a broken bottle of merlot in one hand and a can of spray tan in the other?
and a cigarette butt hanging from his lip
Merlot? If I may paraphrase, Boehner isn't drinking Merlot! I can see him with a broken Early Time bottle, but no wine.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 15:07:42
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 15:07:42
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 15:15:19
I was listening to the BBC this morning, and they are reporting that he is "responding to treatment", whatever that means for a 94-year-old.
Going to be hard to extinguish this one - everything he has been through and made it this far already?
TriSec on 12/11/2012 15:15:19
Quote by Scoopster:
Mornin' all..
It looks like we're about to lose a truly great man.
I was listening to the BBC this morning, and they are reporting that he is "responding to treatment", whatever that means for a 94-year-old.
Going to be hard to extinguish this one - everything he has been through and made it this far already?
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 15:16:03
I think most can count to four by stamping their feet.
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 15:16:03
Quote by TriSec:
Oh, it's lower?
I think most can count to four by stamping their feet.
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 15:25:41
TriSec on 12/11/2012 15:25:41
I must be getting soft. I made a "Lahj Regulah" just now. I rarerly put sugar in my coffee...don't know why I was motivated to do so this am.
Not icky, but not sure this will become a regular tipple for me.
Not icky, but not sure this will become a regular tipple for me.
Comment by 
trojanrabbit on 12/11/2012 15:31:34
Boston proper tends to be a little warmer due to the ocean. If you go a few miles inland it will tend to be a little colder.
It's typical for many winter storms to be mostly rain on the Cape, mixing with rain & snow in Boston, turning to all snow as you get to routes 128 and 495.
trojanrabbit on 12/11/2012 15:31:34
Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by TriSec:
Will, it was 60 degrees here yesterday. It was about 48 degrees this morning, but a cold front is expected later today. It seems that temps will be more "normal" for the rest of the week, with some rain expected Sunday.
Weather from Boston.com
From checking average temperatures for the different months, it seems like Boston averages somewhat warmer than Chicago in the winter. If I get a job in the Bay State, I will bring the Arctic survival gear but might not need it unless I go up to Caribou, Maine.
Boston proper tends to be a little warmer due to the ocean. If you go a few miles inland it will tend to be a little colder.
It's typical for many winter storms to be mostly rain on the Cape, mixing with rain & snow in Boston, turning to all snow as you get to routes 128 and 495.
Comment by wickedpam on 12/11/2012 15:35:41
wickedpam on 12/11/2012 15:35:41
How has Jim and Chris never seen Dogma!?
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 15:43:54
Raine on 12/11/2012 15:43:54
OK, I went down a bit of a bad rabbit hole. Bad Album covers. Specifically this:
So to further torture myself, I looked up the song. You don't have to listen so I am supplying the lyrics...
JULIE'S SIXTEENTH BIRTHDAY
SPOKEN
What's your hurry Jim? One more drink won't hurt nothin'
Well okay I said buth then I got to be runnin'
you see my little Julie just turned sixteen today
and tonight she is going out on her very first date
Lord knows I never been much of a father
Probably spent more time right here than I have at home with
my daughter
So tonight I'm making up for a lotta lost time
a lot of hurt feelings and a lot of broken promises
CHORUS
For once in my life I'm gonna do something right
I'm gonna be home for my Julie tonight
Its her sixteenth birthday (spoken) and you know its her first
date
This is one promise that I'm not gonna break
Aw come on, have one more Jim...you got plenty of time
But that one led to many and I lost track of the time
When I looked at my watch it was a quarter till eight
So I left in a hurry since I was already late
As I got closer to home I started to think
Won't do me no harm to have one more drink
So I reached for the bottle I kept under the seat
When I looked up, my whole life passed right in front of me
Next thing I remembered I was just comin' to
In a hospital bed and right then I knew
That I'd caused something awful to happen last night
On my way home to Julie to set myself right
At the foot of the bed stood my best friend Lou
He walked to my side and asked what he could do
I said, "Lou, I know I won't make it but don't let me die
Not knowin' the truth 'bout what happened last night
He said, "Jim, you lost control, crossed the yellow line
Hit a car head on and Lord I wish I was lyin'
Cause a young man was injured and a lovely girl died
And I thought about that last drink and tears filled my eyes
Ed note: You know what's going to happen next, don't you?
I said Lou, should I pass on before she comes in
Be sure and tell Julie how sorry I am for spoilin' her birthday
He said, "Jim, you can save your breath
Cause when you meet her in heaven, you can tell her yourself
So to further torture myself, I looked up the song. You don't have to listen so I am supplying the lyrics...
JULIE'S SIXTEENTH BIRTHDAY
SPOKEN
What's your hurry Jim? One more drink won't hurt nothin'
Well okay I said buth then I got to be runnin'
you see my little Julie just turned sixteen today
and tonight she is going out on her very first date
Lord knows I never been much of a father
Probably spent more time right here than I have at home with
my daughter
So tonight I'm making up for a lotta lost time
a lot of hurt feelings and a lot of broken promises
CHORUS
For once in my life I'm gonna do something right
I'm gonna be home for my Julie tonight
Its her sixteenth birthday (spoken) and you know its her first
date
This is one promise that I'm not gonna break
Aw come on, have one more Jim...you got plenty of time
But that one led to many and I lost track of the time
When I looked at my watch it was a quarter till eight
So I left in a hurry since I was already late
As I got closer to home I started to think
Won't do me no harm to have one more drink
So I reached for the bottle I kept under the seat
When I looked up, my whole life passed right in front of me
Next thing I remembered I was just comin' to
In a hospital bed and right then I knew
That I'd caused something awful to happen last night
On my way home to Julie to set myself right
At the foot of the bed stood my best friend Lou
He walked to my side and asked what he could do
I said, "Lou, I know I won't make it but don't let me die
Not knowin' the truth 'bout what happened last night
He said, "Jim, you lost control, crossed the yellow line
Hit a car head on and Lord I wish I was lyin'
Cause a young man was injured and a lovely girl died
And I thought about that last drink and tears filled my eyes
Ed note: You know what's going to happen next, don't you?
I said Lou, should I pass on before she comes in
Be sure and tell Julie how sorry I am for spoilin' her birthday
He said, "Jim, you can save your breath
Cause when you meet her in heaven, you can tell her yourself
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 15:44:38
Ahem :cough: How have Jim and Chris never seen Dogma?!
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 15:44:38
Quote by wickedpam:
How has Jim and Chris never seen Dogma!?
Ahem :cough: How have Jim and Chris never seen Dogma?!
Comment by wickedpam on 12/11/2012 15:45:47
Whatevah
wickedpam on 12/11/2012 15:45:47
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by wickedpam:
How has Jim and Chris never seen Dogma!?
Ahem :cough: How have Jim and Chris never seen Dogma?!
Whatevah
Comment by Scoopster on 12/11/2012 15:46:06
Scoopster on 12/11/2012 15:46:06
Comment by BobR on 12/11/2012 15:52:02
BobR on 12/11/2012 15:52:02
That song is as craptacular as the album cover
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 15:52:45
I saw some of that when I was in Quincy in March. There was a trace of snow in Quincy, more out west, and when I was in Sterling and Worcester, more snow. Still, the climate seems slightly more comfortable than Chicago, baring the rare hurricane.
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 15:52:45
Quote by trojanrabbit:Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by TriSec:
Will, it was 60 degrees here yesterday. It was about 48 degrees this morning, but a cold front is expected later today. It seems that temps will be more "normal" for the rest of the week, with some rain expected Sunday.
Weather from Boston.com
From checking average temperatures for the different months, it seems like Boston averages somewhat warmer than Chicago in the winter. If I get a job in the Bay State, I will bring the Arctic survival gear but might not need it unless I go up to Caribou, Maine.
Boston proper tends to be a little warmer due to the ocean. If you go a few miles inland it will tend to be a little colder.
It's typical for many winter storms to be mostly rain on the Cape, mixing with rain & snow in Boston, turning to all snow as you get to routes 128 and 495.
I saw some of that when I was in Quincy in March. There was a trace of snow in Quincy, more out west, and when I was in Sterling and Worcester, more snow. Still, the climate seems slightly more comfortable than Chicago, baring the rare hurricane.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 15:53:47
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 15:53:47
Comment by BobR on 12/11/2012 15:54:19
BobR on 12/11/2012 15:54:19
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 15:55:14
Holy depressing lyrics, Batman!!
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 15:55:14
Quote by Raine:
OK, I went down a bit of a bad rabbit hole. Bad Album covers. Specifically this:
So to further torture myself, I looked up the song. You don't have to listen so I am supplying the lyrics...
JULIE'S SIXTEENTH BIRTHDAY
SPOKEN
What's your hurry Jim? One more drink won't hurt nothin'
Well okay I said buth then I got to be runnin'
you see my little Julie just turned sixteen today
and tonight she is going out on her very first date
Lord knows I never been much of a father
Probably spent more time right here than I have at home with
my daughter
So tonight I'm making up for a lotta lost time
a lot of hurt feelings and a lot of broken promises
CHORUS
For once in my life I'm gonna do something right
I'm gonna be home for my Julie tonight
Its her sixteenth birthday (spoken) and you know its her first
date
This is one promise that I'm not gonna break
Aw come on, have one more Jim...you got plenty of time
But that one led to many and I lost track of the time
When I looked at my watch it was a quarter till eight
So I left in a hurry since I was already late
As I got closer to home I started to think
Won't do me no harm to have one more drink
So I reached for the bottle I kept under the seat
When I looked up, my whole life passed right in front of me
Next thing I remembered I was just comin' to
In a hospital bed and right then I knew
That I'd caused something awful to happen last night
On my way home to Julie to set myself right
At the foot of the bed stood my best friend Lou
He walked to my side and asked what he could do
I said, "Lou, I know I won't make it but don't let me die
Not knowin' the truth 'bout what happened last night
He said, "Jim, you lost control, crossed the yellow line
Hit a car head on and Lord I wish I was lyin'
Cause a young man was injured and a lovely girl died
And I thought about that last drink and tears filled my eyes
Ed note: You know what's going to happen next, don't you?
I said Lou, should I pass on before she comes in
Be sure and tell Julie how sorry I am for spoilin' her birthday
He said, "Jim, you can save your breath
Cause when you meet her in heaven, you can tell her yourself
Holy depressing lyrics, Batman!!
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 15:56:13
TriSec on 12/11/2012 15:56:13
Heh. I got caught by the magic weather dividing line last spring.
There was a late-season storm that dumped quite a bit in Worcester. In Waltham (30 miles further east) it was only rain.
It never even occured to me to call the weather phone - we had a delayed opening that morning. So I get here and the office is deserted.
There was a late-season storm that dumped quite a bit in Worcester. In Waltham (30 miles further east) it was only rain.
It never even occured to me to call the weather phone - we had a delayed opening that morning. So I get here and the office is deserted.
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 15:58:08
Well, that kinda blows. Won't stop me from shopping online, though. (I only cross state lines to make bulk liquor purchases, even though it's just as close to NH from home as it is to Worcester.)
TriSec on 12/11/2012 15:58:08
Quote by Scoopster:
Amazon cuts deal, agrees to start collecting MA sales tax
Well, that kinda blows. Won't stop me from shopping online, though. (I only cross state lines to make bulk liquor purchases, even though it's just as close to NH from home as it is to Worcester.)
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 16:06:16
This song doesn't even make it to my bad music I hate to love list.
Raine on 12/11/2012 16:06:16
Quote by BobR:
That song is as craptacular as the album cover
This song doesn't even make it to my bad music I hate to love list.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 16:13:09
Raine on 12/11/2012 16:13:09
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 16:13:16
Rum running is Massachusetts past time as well? It is for residents of Montgomery County, Maryland too. Why pay those high prices in the county's package stores when you can drive into the District to buy booze at lower prices and greater variety in the well stocked and numerous liquor stores that DC has to offer.
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 16:13:16
Quote by TriSec:Quote by Scoopster:
Amazon cuts deal, agrees to start collecting MA sales tax
Well, that kinda blows. Won't stop me from shopping online, though. (I only cross state lines to make bulk liquor purchases, even though it's just as close to NH from home as it is to Worcester.)
Rum running is Massachusetts past time as well? It is for residents of Montgomery County, Maryland too. Why pay those high prices in the county's package stores when you can drive into the District to buy booze at lower prices and greater variety in the well stocked and numerous liquor stores that DC has to offer.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 16:13:50
We have similar phenomena here. The North Suburbs can get hit with snow when the city is not hit. Northwest Indiana, which is at the southern end of Lake Michigan and parts of Chicago, often get lake effect snow.
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 16:13:50
Quote by TriSec:
Heh. I got caught by the magic weather dividing line last spring.
There was a late-season storm that dumped quite a bit in Worcester. In Waltham (30 miles further east) it was only rain.
It never even occured to me to call the weather phone - we had a delayed opening that morning. So I get here and the office is deserted.
We have similar phenomena here. The North Suburbs can get hit with snow when the city is not hit. Northwest Indiana, which is at the southern end of Lake Michigan and parts of Chicago, often get lake effect snow.
Comment by BobR on 12/11/2012 16:20:11
BobR on 12/11/2012 16:20:11
Quote by Raine:
This man is not right in the head. Seriously, not snark, Grover Norquist is not right.
Comment by Scoopster on 12/11/2012 16:27:19
As someone who doesn't watch Glee, I didn't know they did a version of this tune.
And now, my brain is
Scoopster on 12/11/2012 16:27:19
Quote by Raine:FINALLY!Quote by BobR:
Is this becoming a meme?
As someone who doesn't watch Glee, I didn't know they did a version of this tune.
And now, my brain is
Comment by wickedpam on 12/11/2012 16:29:17
it was very sweet between Blaine and Kurt
wickedpam on 12/11/2012 16:29:17
Quote by Scoopster:Quote by Raine:FINALLY!Quote by BobR:
Is this becoming a meme?
As someone who doesn't watch Glee, I didn't know they did a version of this tune.
And now, my brain is
it was very sweet between Blaine and Kurt
Comment by wickedpam on 12/11/2012 16:29:37
wickedpam on 12/11/2012 16:29:37
what hint did Chris give?
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 16:32:27
The 2 of them singing was sweet, the song creeps me out.
Raine on 12/11/2012 16:32:27
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Scoopster:Quote by Raine:FINALLY!Quote by BobR:
Is this becoming a meme?
As someone who doesn't watch Glee, I didn't know they did a version of this tune.
And now, my brain is
it was very sweet between Blaine and Kurt
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 16:33:34
He said he never met either of the guests in person. MAomma said she was surprised about one and thought he met the other.
I'm thinking One is Alan Grayson.
Raine on 12/11/2012 16:33:34
Quote by wickedpam:
what hint did Chris give?
I'm thinking One is Alan Grayson.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 16:35:20
Raine on 12/11/2012 16:35:20
Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:
This man is not right in the head. Seriously, not snark, Grover Norquist is not right.
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 16:36:22
Oh, this goes back to when the packies were closed on Sunday. You could always drive north of the border and get your fix. Of course, in tax-free NH, the prices are much better anyway. The price differential on single-malt is worth the trip in itself.
TriSec on 12/11/2012 16:36:22
Quote by Mondobubba:
Rum running is Massachusetts past time as well? It is for residents of Montgomery County, Maryland too. Why pay those high prices in the county's package stores when you can drive into the District to buy booze at lower prices and greater variety in the well stocked and numerous liquor stores that DC has to offer.
Oh, this goes back to when the packies were closed on Sunday. You could always drive north of the border and get your fix. Of course, in tax-free NH, the prices are much better anyway. The price differential on single-malt is worth the trip in itself.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 16:37:15
Will someone remind Norquist that he is not a deity. I would not mind if the reminder came as a bolt of lightning as Grover held some popcorn.
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 16:37:15
Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:
This man is not right in the head. Seriously, not snark, Grover Norquist is not right.
Will someone remind Norquist that he is not a deity. I would not mind if the reminder came as a bolt of lightning as Grover held some popcorn.
Comment by wickedpam on 12/11/2012 16:41:41
aahhh - can't wait to hear reports about the show, really, really wished they done this in the spring - but I can understand the reason for doing it the weekend of the inaugural
wickedpam on 12/11/2012 16:41:41
Quote by Raine:He said he never met either of the guests in person. MAomma said she was surprised about one and thought he met the other.Quote by wickedpam:
what hint did Chris give?
I'm thinking One is Alan Grayson.
aahhh - can't wait to hear reports about the show, really, really wished they done this in the spring - but I can understand the reason for doing it the weekend of the inaugural
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 16:42:46
TriSec on 12/11/2012 16:42:46
Mr. Norquist was born and raised in Weston, MA.
On behalf of this entire Commonwealth, I offer my heartfelt apology for this outrage.
On behalf of this entire Commonwealth, I offer my heartfelt apology for this outrage.
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 16:44:38
TriSec on 12/11/2012 16:44:38
Oh, and lest we forget...
Credibility = 0.
According to a 2011 memoir by former lobbyist Jack Abramoff, Norquist was one of Abramoff's first major Republican party contacts. Norquist and Americans for Tax Reform were also mentioned in Senate testimony relating to the Jack Abramoff Indian lobbying scandal which resulted in a 2006 guilty plea by Abramoff to three criminal felony counts of defrauding of American Indian tribes and corrupting public officials. Records released by the Senate Indian Affairs Committee allege that ATR served as a "conduit" for funds that flowed from Abramoff's clients to surreptitiously finance grass-roots lobbying campaigns. Norquist has denied that he did anything wrong, and has not been charged with any crime.
Credibility = 0.
Comment by trojanrabbit on 12/11/2012 16:45:11
Again, ANYONE signing this product of a 12 year-old's wet-dream should be immediately removed for violating his Oath of Office.
trojanrabbit on 12/11/2012 16:45:11
Quote by Raine:
This man is not right in the head. Seriously, not snark, Grover Norquist is not right.
Again, ANYONE signing this product of a 12 year-old's wet-dream should be immediately removed for violating his Oath of Office.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 16:47:48
Raine on 12/11/2012 16:47:48
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 16:48:00
Well, I am not sure that you need to go with highway signs like one of your neighboring states did:
Will in Chicago on 12/11/2012 16:48:00
Quote by TriSec:
Mr. Norquist was born and raised in Weston, MA.
On behalf of this entire Commonwealth, I offer my heartfelt apology for this outrage.
Well, I am not sure that you need to go with highway signs like one of your neighboring states did:
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 16:52:37
Raine on 12/11/2012 16:52:37
Comment by 
livingonli on 12/11/2012 17:02:20
livingonli on 12/11/2012 17:02:20
Good day, folks. I need to figure out if someone we know is going to the DC sexy liberal show (Perhaps Shane-O and Left Neck Chick). If no one in this group is going, we need an inside connection.
Comment by Scoopster on 12/11/2012 17:04:16
Scoopster on 12/11/2012 17:04:16
Well the anti-worker bill is on its way to the governor's desk in Michigan, in what will become the most epic flip-flop and another huge blow against the middle class.
But wait.. despite Snyder's best efforts there's a way to kill it by referendum!
But wait.. despite Snyder's best efforts there's a way to kill it by referendum!
Comment by livingonli on 12/11/2012 17:07:36
livingonli on 12/11/2012 17:07:36
Pap is filling in for Ed today.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 17:49:33
We have guests in town,and probably a party that night, that and some other things, means we probably aren't going.
Raine on 12/11/2012 17:49:33
Quote by livingonli:
Good day, folks. I need to figure out if someone we know is going to the DC sexy liberal show (Perhaps Shane-O and Left Neck Chick). If no one in this group is going, we need an inside connection.
Comment by 
clintster on 12/11/2012 17:58:40
I seem to remember a bit of wharrgarbl in conservative areas because Coulter dared to speak up for Log Cabin Republicans. Then again, someone who uses the other f-word to describe a former VP candidate is not solidly in the pro-gay camp, IMHO.
clintster on 12/11/2012 17:58:40
Quote by Mondobubba:
Ann Couler, gay rights advocate?
my head is esploding!
I seem to remember a bit of wharrgarbl in conservative areas because Coulter dared to speak up for Log Cabin Republicans. Then again, someone who uses the other f-word to describe a former VP candidate is not solidly in the pro-gay camp, IMHO.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 18:00:29
I think Grover's problem is he reads his own press and believes all of it.
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 18:00:29
Quote by trojanrabbit:Quote by Raine:
This man is not right in the head. Seriously, not snark, Grover Norquist is not right.
Again, ANYONE signing this product of a 12 year-old's wet-dream should be immediately removed for violating his Oath of Office.
I think Grover's problem is he reads his own press and believes all of it.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 18:04:57
Typical republican...
Raine on 12/11/2012 18:04:57
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by trojanrabbit:Quote by Raine:
This man is not right in the head. Seriously, not snark, Grover Norquist is not right.
Again, ANYONE signing this product of a 12 year-old's wet-dream should be immediately removed for violating his Oath of Office.
I think Grover's problem is he reads his own press and believes all of it.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 18:09:21
She's a broken clock if you ask me.
Raine on 12/11/2012 18:09:21
Quote by clintster:Quote by Mondobubba:
Ann Couler, gay rights advocate?
my head is esploding!
I seem to remember a bit of wharrgarbl in conservative areas because Coulter dared to speak up for Log Cabin Republicans. Then again, someone who uses the other f-word to describe a former VP candidate is not solidly in the pro-gay camp, IMHO.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 18:09:40
Raine on 12/11/2012 18:09:40
Hi Clint! how's things?
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 18:16:24
TriSec on 12/11/2012 18:16:24
Anyone a seamstress?
A buddy of mine is trying (and succeeding) to get me into hammock camping.
I've been crawling all over the net, and I've now just blundered across the DIY site.
So where can I get 1.7 oz ripstop nylon, and then I have to sew this thing all together. (by hand - anybody got a sewing machine?)
Anyway, I digress. I'll probably pick up a Warbonnet Traveler.
A buddy of mine is trying (and succeeding) to get me into hammock camping.
I've been crawling all over the net, and I've now just blundered across the DIY site.
So where can I get 1.7 oz ripstop nylon, and then I have to sew this thing all together. (by hand - anybody got a sewing machine?)
Anyway, I digress. I'll probably pick up a Warbonnet Traveler.
Comment by Scoopster on 12/11/2012 18:19:16
Hmm.. I imagine you can get the nylon at Jo-Ann or any other dedicated fabric store.
Scoopster on 12/11/2012 18:19:16
Quote by TriSec:
Anyone a seamstress?
A buddy of mine is trying (and succeeding) to get me into hammock camping.
I've been crawling all over the net, and I've now just blundered across the DIY site.
So where can I get 1.7 oz ripstop nylon, and then I have to sew this thing all together. (by hand - anybody got a sewing machine?)
Anyway, I digress. I'll probably pick up a Warbonnet Traveler.
Hmm.. I imagine you can get the nylon at Jo-Ann or any other dedicated fabric store.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 19:56:45
Raine on 12/11/2012 19:56:45
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
Designing ours.
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
ChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascardsChristamascards
Designing ours.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 20:09:13
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 20:09:13
Wow two Sirota columns in a row that haven't made me bang my head on the keyboard. It won't last.
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 20:28:09
TriSec on 12/11/2012 20:28:09
Circling back to knives....my manager just flashed a blade at me; she has picked up a new toy, a keychain knife.
So, of course I pulled out my "gentleman's knife" (Pocketknife with two small blades, but a very nice wood finish.) and did a little hand flip with it.
Neither of us batted an eyelash.
Think this all comes down to common sense?
So, of course I pulled out my "gentleman's knife" (Pocketknife with two small blades, but a very nice wood finish.) and did a little hand flip with it.
Neither of us batted an eyelash.
Think this all comes down to common sense?
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 20:50:50
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 20:50:50
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 21:11:30
Raine on 12/11/2012 21:11:30
I am looking forward to this evening, Jacob Dean is coming over tonite! 
Comment by TriSec on 12/11/2012 21:24:01
<---BANANA!
TriSec on 12/11/2012 21:24:01
<---BANANA!
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 21:41:09
needs more.
Raine on 12/11/2012 21:41:09
needs more.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 21:50:42
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 21:50:42
Oh dear lord, a drunk nutbag who is friends with our CEO.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 22:02:20
Raine on 12/11/2012 22:02:20
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 22:02:50
??? Details?
Raine on 12/11/2012 22:02:50
Quote by Mondobubba:
Oh dear lord, a drunk nutbag who is friends with our CEO.
??? Details?
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 22:15:42
Rambling, drinking vodka. :bang:
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 22:15:42
Quote by Raine:Quote by Mondobubba:
Oh dear lord, a drunk nutbag who is friends with our CEO.
??? Details?
Rambling, drinking vodka. :bang:
Comment by clintster on 12/11/2012 22:26:26
Doing okay. I'm waiting to hear on a teaching job that starts in January. In the meantime I'm drawing unemployment and trying to hang on to my self-worth.
clintster on 12/11/2012 22:26:26
Quote by Raine:
Hi Clint! how's things?
Doing okay. I'm waiting to hear on a teaching job that starts in January. In the meantime I'm drawing unemployment and trying to hang on to my self-worth.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 22:34:52
In Georgia?
((hug))
Raine on 12/11/2012 22:34:52
Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:
Hi Clint! how's things?
Doing okay. I'm waiting to hear on a teaching job that starts in January. In the meantime I'm drawing unemployment and trying to hang on to my self-worth.
((hug))
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 22:35:55
Dude is in the office?
Raine on 12/11/2012 22:35:55
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:Quote by Mondobubba:
Oh dear lord, a drunk nutbag who is friends with our CEO.
??? Details?
Rambling, drinking vodka. :bang:
Comment by clintster on 12/11/2012 22:37:02
Here in North Carolina. It's actually a temp job for the rest of the school year, but it might turn into a full-time. Even if it doesn't, that'd be one more semester's worth of experience I could put on my res for a potential job for next year.
clintster on 12/11/2012 22:37:02
Quote by Raine:In Georgia?Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:
Hi Clint! how's things?
Doing okay. I'm waiting to hear on a teaching job that starts in January. In the meantime I'm drawing unemployment and trying to hang on to my self-worth.
((hug))
Here in North Carolina. It's actually a temp job for the rest of the school year, but it might turn into a full-time. Even if it doesn't, that'd be one more semester's worth of experience I could put on my res for a potential job for next year.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 22:37:51
Now, that would have been entertaining! No, he was calling in.
Mondobubba on 12/11/2012 22:37:51
Quote by Raine:Dude is in the office?Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:Quote by Mondobubba:
Oh dear lord, a drunk nutbag who is friends with our CEO.
??? Details?
Rambling, drinking vodka. :bang:
Now, that would have been entertaining! No, he was calling in.
Comment by Raine on 12/11/2012 22:42:30
I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
Raine on 12/11/2012 22:42:30
Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:In Georgia?Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:
Hi Clint! how's things?
Doing okay. I'm waiting to hear on a teaching job that starts in January. In the meantime I'm drawing unemployment and trying to hang on to my self-worth.
((hug))
Here in North Carolina. It's actually a temp job for the rest of the school year, but it might turn into a full-time. Even if it doesn't, that'd be one more semester's worth of experience I could put on my res for a potential job for next year.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/12/2012 01:55:39
I have to do a few things soon to finish setting up sub work for a new district. So, I am hoping that both of us will be gainfully employed in the coming year.
Will in Chicago on 12/12/2012 01:55:39
Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:In Georgia?Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:
Hi Clint! how's things?
Doing okay. I'm waiting to hear on a teaching job that starts in January. In the meantime I'm drawing unemployment and trying to hang on to my self-worth.
((hug))
Here in North Carolina. It's actually a temp job for the rest of the school year, but it might turn into a full-time. Even if it doesn't, that'd be one more semester's worth of experience I could put on my res for a potential job for next year.
I have to do a few things soon to finish setting up sub work for a new district. So, I am hoping that both of us will be gainfully employed in the coming year.
Comment by clintster on 12/12/2012 03:27:07
Here's to both of us reacquiring gainful employ for 13-14!
clintster on 12/12/2012 03:27:07
Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:In Georgia?Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:
Hi Clint! how's things?
Doing okay. I'm waiting to hear on a teaching job that starts in January. In the meantime I'm drawing unemployment and trying to hang on to my self-worth.
((hug))
Here in North Carolina. It's actually a temp job for the rest of the school year, but it might turn into a full-time. Even if it doesn't, that'd be one more semester's worth of experience I could put on my res for a potential job for next year.
I have to do a few things soon to finish setting up sub work for a new district. So, I am hoping that both of us will be gainfully employed in the coming year.
Here's to both of us reacquiring gainful employ for 13-14!