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Ask A Vet
Author: TriSec
Date: 12/30/2008 11:26:55
Good Morning.
Today is our 2,113rd day in Iraq.
We'll start this morning as we always do, with the latest casualty figures from the Warron Terra, courtesy of Antiwar.com:
American Deaths
Since war began (3/19/03): 4219
Since "Mission Accomplished" (5/1/03): 4080
Since Capture of Saddam (12/13/03): 3758
Since Handover (6/29/04): 3360
Since Election (1/31/05): 2781
Other Coalition Troops - Iraq: 316
US Military Deaths - Afghanistan: 629
Other Military Deaths - Afghanistan: 413
Contractor Deaths - Iraq: 445
We find this morning's cost of war passing through:
$ 583, 935, 750, 000.00
Skimming Antiwar.com this morning, I ran acrorss a truly alarming story. Part of the world is rife with economic turmoil, and the local army is planning on deploying in the streets to ensure that desperate people don't riot in the streets. It's not Somalia or Zimbabwe, but right here in the USA.
I suppose this is just one of the many things our new President is going to face in his first weeks in office. But like nearly all before him since 1946, President Obama's policy focus is likely to be the Middle East. Every president since I can remember has always campaigned like Israel is the most important country in the world, often to the point of ignoring American needs. But God Forbid that a politician would alienate the Jewish vote in this country. In turn, what thanks do we get from Israel? Despite everything he campaigned on, the Israel/Palestinian conflict is likely to dominate President Obama's first hundred days.
So....as 2008 draws to a close, we here at "Ask a Vet" hope that one day soon we can stop writing this column. But given the state of the world, it seems unlkely. All we can do is keep getting the word out and keep working for peace. Maybe one day all our troops will come home.
Remember our soldiers in your prayers and hopes for a better 2009.
Today is our 2,113rd day in Iraq.
We'll start this morning as we always do, with the latest casualty figures from the Warron Terra, courtesy of Antiwar.com:
American Deaths
Since war began (3/19/03): 4219
Since "Mission Accomplished" (5/1/03): 4080
Since Capture of Saddam (12/13/03): 3758
Since Handover (6/29/04): 3360
Since Election (1/31/05): 2781
Other Coalition Troops - Iraq: 316
US Military Deaths - Afghanistan: 629
Other Military Deaths - Afghanistan: 413
Contractor Deaths - Iraq: 445
We find this morning's cost of war passing through:
Skimming Antiwar.com this morning, I ran acrorss a truly alarming story. Part of the world is rife with economic turmoil, and the local army is planning on deploying in the streets to ensure that desperate people don't riot in the streets. It's not Somalia or Zimbabwe, but right here in the USA.
Deepening economic strife in the US could lead to civil unrest and violence that would require military intervention, warns a new report from the US Army War College.
"Widespread civil violence inside the United States would force the defense establishment to reorient priorities in extremis to defend basic domestic order and human security," writes Nathan Freier, a 20-year Army veteran and visiting professor at the college.
A copy of the 44-page report, "Known Unknowns: Unconventional 'Strategic Shocks' in Defense Strategy Development," can be downloaded here. Freier notes that his report expresses only his own views and does not represent US policy, but it's certain that his recommendations have come before at least some Defense Department officials.
The author warns potential causes for such civil unrest could include another terrorist attack, "unforeseen economic collapse, loss of functioning political and legal order, purposeful domestic resistance or insurgency, pervasive public health emergencies, and catastrophic natural and human disasters." The situation could deteriorate to the point where military intervention was required, he argues.
"Under these conditions and at their most violent extreme," he concludes, "civilian authorities, on advice of the defense establishment, would need to rapidly determine the parameters defining the legitimate use of military force inside the United States."
While the scenario presented is "likely not an immediate prospect," Freier concedes, it deserves consideration. Prior to 9/11, no one in the defense establishment would have envisioned a plot to topple skyscrapers with airliners, and the military should not be caught so off-guard again, he says.
To the extent events like this involve organized violence against local, state, and national authorities and exceed the capacity of the former two to restore public order and protect vulnerable populations, DoD would be required to fill the gap," he writes. "This is largely uncharted strategic territory."
I suppose this is just one of the many things our new President is going to face in his first weeks in office. But like nearly all before him since 1946, President Obama's policy focus is likely to be the Middle East. Every president since I can remember has always campaigned like Israel is the most important country in the world, often to the point of ignoring American needs. But God Forbid that a politician would alienate the Jewish vote in this country. In turn, what thanks do we get from Israel? Despite everything he campaigned on, the Israel/Palestinian conflict is likely to dominate President Obama's first hundred days.
Israel's massive three-day aerial assault on Gaza is likely to complicate President-elect Barack Obama's hopes of aggressively pursuing Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations, and it risks inflicting greater damage to Washington's standing in the Arab world, according to analysts.
Indeed, if the current campaign goes on much longer and the Israelis launch a major ground invasion of Gaza as they now appear to be preparing to do, Obama could face a major international crisis – comparable to Israel's failed 2006 war against Lebanon's Hezbollah – just as he takes office in three weeks' time.
"With this assault, the fallout has already started to spread considerably beyond the constituency of people who are Palestinians," noted Helena Cobban, a veteran Middle East analyst, who cited popular protests in Egypt, Jordan, and elsewhere in the Arab world since the Israeli campaign began Saturday.
"It has already started, and we can confidently expect that the longer Israel's assault is maintained, the higher the regional stakes will rise."
The Israeli attacks, which came a week after the expiration of an increasingly shaky six-month cease-fire, have so far reportedly killed more than 300 Palestinians, while two Israelis have died in rocket attacks launched from Gaza.
While Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak initially insisted that Israel's war aims were designed to reinstate and strengthen the cease-fire, the former prime minister, who hopes to reclaim that post as head of the Labor Party in Feb. 10 elections, appeared to broaden them in a speech to the parliament Monday in which he pledged "war to the bitter end" against Hamas, the Islamist party that controls Gaza. Deputy Prime Minister Haim Ramon said Israel aimed to "topple Hamas."
As with the 2006 war, the administration of President George W. Bush has offered strong backing for the Israeli attack, demanding that Hamas stop firing rockets into Israel and agree to a "sustainable and durable cease-fire."
"The United States understands that Israel needs to take actions to defend itself," said White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe at Bush's ranch in Texas, where the outgoing president is spending the Christmas holiday. Johndroe called the leadership of Hamas "nothing but thugs" during a briefing on Sunday.
So....as 2008 draws to a close, we here at "Ask a Vet" hope that one day soon we can stop writing this column. But given the state of the world, it seems unlkely. All we can do is keep getting the word out and keep working for peace. Maybe one day all our troops will come home.
Remember our soldiers in your prayers and hopes for a better 2009.
Comments:
Order comments Newest to Oldest Refresh Comments
Comment by 
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 13:32:56
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 13:32:56
I think an upset tummy and "Designing High Availabilty Database Solutions Use MS SQL 2005" might not mix.
Comment by 
m-hadley on 12/30/2008 13:39:32
m-hadley on 12/30/2008 13:39:32
Mornin' Everybodee, :yawn:
Looks like Steph is a "best of" this morning (I visited the live blog and learned that Steph and Jim have both "taken ill" (read "hanged over"). It's back to bed for me...
Cheers,
mfaye
PS - Feel betters Mondo :hug:
:gobama:
Looks like Steph is a "best of" this morning (I visited the live blog and learned that Steph and Jim have both "taken ill" (read "hanged over"). It's back to bed for me...
Cheers,
mfaye
PS - Feel betters Mondo :hug:
:gobama:
Comment by 
TriSec on 12/30/2008 13:54:19
TriSec on 12/30/2008 13:54:19
oh, foo.
Well, guess I'll dial up WGBH and listen to the sympony, then.
<-- not the BSO
Well, guess I'll dial up WGBH and listen to the sympony, then.
<-- not the BSO
Comment by 
Scoopster on 12/30/2008 13:58:49
Scoopster on 12/30/2008 13:58:49
Ooof Mondo.. hang in there man, grab a couple antacids if you think it'll help.
Speaking of which, I could use a couple tablets myself.. stomach's burnin' me up today.
Speaking of which, I could use a couple tablets myself.. stomach's burnin' me up today.
Comment by 
Raine on 12/30/2008 14:14:01
Raine on 12/30/2008 14:14:01
Good Morning!
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 14:14:58
Raine on 12/30/2008 14:14:58
Wow... everyone seems to be a bit *off* today...
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 14:21:12
TriSec on 12/30/2008 14:21:12
Ah, even better than the symphony. Local Treasure Eric Jackson is now available online.
[Eric in the Evening...a long-running jazz show produced here by WGBH radio.]
Say, some jazz neophytes out there might benefit from a listen, it's a great show, lots of interviews, artists, live performances...they really drill down into the music and help you understand what's going on.
[Eric in the Evening...a long-running jazz show produced here by WGBH radio.]
Say, some jazz neophytes out there might benefit from a listen, it's a great show, lots of interviews, artists, live performances...they really drill down into the music and help you understand what's going on.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 14:22:39
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 14:22:39
Thanks guys, I did take a whatchamacallit helps to stop stomach acid over production pill this morning. I'm starting to feel better.
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 14:34:21
I put it up on facebook and gave it a tweet.
I think this is long overdue...
Raine on 12/30/2008 14:34:21
Quote by Scoopster:
Do this! (Vote it up I mean)
I think this is long overdue...
Comment by 
livingonli on 12/30/2008 14:44:30
livingonli on 12/30/2008 14:44:30
Good morning everyone. 
Figures I get up early and Momma is a repeat. And this week I have several late shifts.
Figures I get up early and Momma is a repeat. And this week I have several late shifts.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 15:01:17
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 15:01:17
I, Mondo, have just cause a SQL cluster to failover! It was very cool, the application running to retrieve records didn't even burp, hicup or stop. It is nifty keen, neato!
Comment by 
BobR on 12/30/2008 15:03:38
Who might that "neophyte" be, hmmm?....
I know I've heard plenty of jazz in my lifetime - enough to know what I like and what I don't like.
BobR on 12/30/2008 15:03:38
Quote by TriSec:
Ah, even better than the symphony. Local Treasure Eric Jackson is now available online.
[Eric in the Evening...a long-running jazz show produced here by WGBH radio.]
Say, some jazz neophytes out there might benefit from a listen, it's a great show, lots of interviews, artists, live performances...they really drill down into the music and help you understand what's going on.
Who might that "neophyte" be, hmmm?....
I know I've heard plenty of jazz in my lifetime - enough to know what I like and what I don't like.
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 15:04:13
Raine on 12/30/2008 15:04:13
So, all the boys in the Palin Fmilly seem to be required to have a name that starts with a *T*.
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 15:05:53
TriSec on 12/30/2008 15:05:53
Well, that's the beauty of jazz, actually. There is something out there for everyone, if you look and listen hard enough.
I'll just sit over here with Mondo in the bebop section....your mileage may vary. :peace:
I'll just sit over here with Mondo in the bebop section....your mileage may vary. :peace:
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 15:06:35
"Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic." - Arthur C. Clarke
BobR on 12/30/2008 15:06:35
Quote by Mondobubba:
I, Mondo, have just cause a SQL cluster to failover! It was very cool, the application running to retrieve records didn't even burp, hicup or stop. It is nifty keen, neato!
"Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic." - Arthur C. Clarke
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 15:07:22
Raine on 12/30/2008 15:07:22
Speaking of Jazz... Freddie Hubbard has left...
Freddie Hubbard, the Grammy-winning jazz musician whose style influenced a generation of trumpet players and who collaborated with such greats as Ornette Coleman, John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins, died Monday, a month after suffering a heart attack. He was 70.
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 15:10:33
I think that's probably true for ANY musical style...
BobR on 12/30/2008 15:10:33
Quote by TriSec:
Well, that's the beauty of jazz, actually. There is something out there for everyone, if you look and listen hard enough.
I think that's probably true for ANY musical style...
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 15:22:15
Raine on 12/30/2008 15:22:15
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 15:35:15
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 15:35:15
I was trying to get signed up for the change.org website and it failed. Here's the error message I got:
Oops! You've encountered a minor issue we must have overlooked. We'll get on it right away.
In the meantime, could we interest you in returning to our lovely homepage?
How very polite :)
Oops! You've encountered a minor issue we must have overlooked. We'll get on it right away.
In the meantime, could we interest you in returning to our lovely homepage?
How very polite :)
Comment by Scoopster on 12/30/2008 15:39:47
Scoopster on 12/30/2008 15:39:47
:clap: Aces for Tom Tomorrow!
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 15:44:41
I just put it as the new background on my desktop..
livingonli on 12/30/2008 15:44:41
Quote by Scoopster:
:clap: Aces for Tom Tomorrow!
I just put it as the new background on my desktop..
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 15:51:17
That is Mika's Dad totally dressing down the idiot Joe Scarborough.
Raine on 12/30/2008 15:51:17
That is Mika's Dad totally dressing down the idiot Joe Scarborough.
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 15:51:41
oof - it seems like that plus the icons would make for big mess...
BobR on 12/30/2008 15:51:41
Quote by livingonli:
I just put it as the new background on my desktop..
oof - it seems like that plus the icons would make for big mess...
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 15:54:36
TriSec on 12/30/2008 15:54:36
Bouncing around a bit now....switched to WWOZ (New Orleans), and the morning show hosted by Katrina survivor Bob French. The station was virtually destroyed by Katrina, and Mr. French himself was thought dead for several days afterward while he was unaccounted for, but both are back stronger than ever!
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 15:58:32
My icons are far enough to the left that they don't clash with the cartoon.
livingonli on 12/30/2008 15:58:32
Quote by BobR:Quote by livingonli:
I just put it as the new background on my desktop..
oof - it seems like that plus the icons would make for big mess...
My icons are far enough to the left that they don't clash with the cartoon.
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 16:02:00
Great.
I wonder what our Compliance folks will have to say about this; I passed along the link.
TriSec on 12/30/2008 16:02:00
Quote by Raine:
They are selling our Health Records...
Great.
I wonder what our Compliance folks will have to say about this; I passed along the link.
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 16:14:39
I figured you would be interested in that one Tri.
Raine on 12/30/2008 16:14:39
Quote by TriSec:Quote by Raine:
They are selling our Health Records...
Great.
I wonder what our Compliance folks will have to say about this; I passed along the link.
Comment by Scoopster on 12/30/2008 16:25:50
Scoopster on 12/30/2008 16:25:50
Palestinian relief boat carrying former Rep. Cynthia McKinney rammed by the Israelis
I don't think that hardline nutcase Tsipi Litvi can claim the boat was full of terrorists OR near Israel's coastline this time. It won't stop her from doing it tho.
I don't think that hardline nutcase Tsipi Litvi can claim the boat was full of terrorists OR near Israel's coastline this time. It won't stop her from doing it tho.
Comment by 
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 16:26:47
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 16:26:47
Morning! :hug:
Comment by Scoopster on 12/30/2008 16:34:34
Scoopster on 12/30/2008 16:34:34
Howard Stern's first station.. still rockin' hard even tho he's gone to nothing.
Where else can you still hear Soundgarden's "Rusty Cage" in regular rotation? :metal:
Where else can you still hear Soundgarden's "Rusty Cage" in regular rotation? :metal:
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 16:36:44
Thank goodness she is ok.
Rick Sanchez said that he may be interviewing her this afternoon.
Raine on 12/30/2008 16:36:44
Quote by Scoopster:
Palestinian relief boat carrying former Rep. Cynthia McKinney rammed by the Israelis
I don't think that hardline nutcase Tsipi Litvi can claim the boat was full of terrorists OR near Israel's coastline this time. It won't stop her from doing it tho.
Rick Sanchez said that he may be interviewing her this afternoon.
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 16:38:14
Morning!
busy bee today?
Raine on 12/30/2008 16:38:14
Quote by wickedpam:
Morning! :hug:
busy bee today?
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 16:40:12
Raine on 12/30/2008 16:40:12
So here it is... The GOP is divided over whether or not Negro is a slur.
This is what that party has become.
This is what that party has become.
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 16:42:30
Good morning...
... or should I say: good afternoon?? :waiting:
:rofl:
BobR on 12/30/2008 16:42:30
Quote by wickedpam:
Morning! :hug:
Good morning...
... or should I say: good afternoon?? :waiting:
:rofl:
Comment by Scoopster on 12/30/2008 16:43:44
Scoopster on 12/30/2008 16:43:44
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 16:44:58
Practically any word can be used as a slur, depending on how it's used. For Republicans to use the word "negro" in any sense would be a slur...
BobR on 12/30/2008 16:44:58
Quote by Raine:
So here it is... The GOP is divided over whether or not Negro is a slur.
This is what that party has become.
Practically any word can be used as a slur, depending on how it's used. For Republicans to use the word "negro" in any sense would be a slur...
Comment by wickedpam on 12/30/2008 16:47:15
:p
Mom had a dentist appointment this morning
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 16:47:15
Quote by BobR:Quote by wickedpam:
Morning! :hug:
Good morning...
... or should I say: good afternoon?? :waiting:
:rofl:
:p
Mom had a dentist appointment this morning
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 16:47:49
I am amazed that they are even trying to defend this.
Raine on 12/30/2008 16:47:49
Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:
So here it is... The GOP is divided over whether or not Negro is a slur.
This is what that party has become.
Practically any word can be used as a slur, depending on how it's used. For Republicans to use the word "negro" in any sense would be a slur...
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 16:48:16
Lincoln must be spinning in his grave when he sees what the party has become.
livingonli on 12/30/2008 16:48:16
Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:
So here it is... The GOP is divided over whether or not Negro is a slur.
This is what that party has become.
Practically any word can be used as a slur, depending on how it's used. For Republicans to use the word "negro" in any sense would be a slur...
Lincoln must be spinning in his grave when he sees what the party has become.
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 16:53:22
erm, if the bought it, it's not an apartment...
TriSec on 12/30/2008 16:53:22
Quote by Scoopster:
Your taxdollars at work... at Park Avenue & E 70 Street.
erm, if the bought it, it's not an apartment...
Comment by wickedpam on 12/30/2008 16:56:06
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 16:56:06
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 16:59:15
I would call it a condo, but in NYC, they still call them apartments..
BobR on 12/30/2008 16:59:15
Quote by TriSec:
erm, if the bought it, it's not an apartment...
I would call it a condo, but in NYC, they still call them apartments..
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 17:00:08
Raine on 12/30/2008 17:00:08
While Rome burns...the RNC fiddles.
Republican Party officials say they will try next month to pass a resolution accusing President Bush and congressional Republican leaders of embracing "socialism," underscoring deep dissension within the party at the end of Mr. Bush's administration.
Those pushing the resolution, which will come before the Republican National Committee at its January meeting, say elected leaders need to be reminded of core principles. They said the RNC must take the dramatic step of wading into policy debates, which traditionally have been left to lawmakers.
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 17:00:42
In this litigious society, I can understand his concern, re: the insurance. Still - this could have been worked out without the BS...
BobR on 12/30/2008 17:00:42
Quote by wickedpam:
jeeze what a jerk of a neighbor
In this litigious society, I can understand his concern, re: the insurance. Still - this could have been worked out without the BS...
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 17:13:05
TriSec on 12/30/2008 17:13:05
Ah, that's our GOP, always working on the issues that matter to ordinary Americans!
Somebody tell me again what's wrong with a Social Democracy? I don't think there's one among us that except for the weather, if we had the chance to move to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, etc....we'd go for it.
Somebody tell me again what's wrong with a Social Democracy? I don't think there's one among us that except for the weather, if we had the chance to move to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, etc....we'd go for it.
Comment by wickedpam on 12/30/2008 17:13:44
litigious yes, but when it comes to someone's pet stuck in your tree for 9 days if he wasn't going to let others go up and get the cat he should have got his ass up the ladder and gotten the cat. For 9 days he let the cat be there, wouldn't even let the neighbor put out food to try and entice the poor thing down.
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 17:13:44
Quote by BobR:Quote by wickedpam:
jeeze what a jerk of a neighbor
In this litigious society, I can understand his concern, re: the insurance. Still - this could have been worked out without the BS...
litigious yes, but when it comes to someone's pet stuck in your tree for 9 days if he wasn't going to let others go up and get the cat he should have got his ass up the ladder and gotten the cat. For 9 days he let the cat be there, wouldn't even let the neighbor put out food to try and entice the poor thing down.
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 17:18:41
Considering that the quality of life and living standards as well as ability to move up are now better in these countries than the United States the only thing that discourages me from ever going to them is the bitter cold winters.
livingonli on 12/30/2008 17:18:41
Quote by TriSec:
Ah, that's our GOP, always working on the issues that matter to ordinary Americans!
Somebody tell me again what's wrong with a Social Democracy? I don't think there's one among us that except for the weather, if we had the chance to move to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, etc....we'd go for it.
Considering that the quality of life and living standards as well as ability to move up are now better in these countries than the United States the only thing that discourages me from ever going to them is the bitter cold winters.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:19:02
Rachel made mention of Saltsman's little "joke" yesterdee. Here is my riff on what is wrong with the GOP. Okay here it goes.
As people like Gingrich (who by all means is a dick, but a
careful dick) age out of power they are replaced by people who are a quantum level of dickishness higher than those before them. As we have seen, these folks have a lower lever of filtering for their dickish behavior, Saltsman and they other party appartchiks quoted here are a perfect example of their level of dickishness. Some other examples of the heightened dickhood of the Republican party: Mitch McConnell threatening the Obama stimulus plan cause it doesn't have any tax cuts. Flying in the face of the reality of the fact that frontloading a stimulus package with tax cuts doesn't do dick, these dicks continue to stridently ask for more tax cuts. We all know the level of dickishness of the dick enablers of the GOP (you know who I mean, David "I'm a dick AND a fish-lipped Weasel" Frum), the think tank people and the conservative media in general (Dicks to the enth degree to a man. Yeah I mean you Andy...um Ann Coulter, you have a dick and are a total dick).
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:19:02
Quote by Raine:
So here it is... The GOP is divided over whether or not Negro is a slur.
This is what that party has become.
Rachel made mention of Saltsman's little "joke" yesterdee. Here is my riff on what is wrong with the GOP. Okay here it goes.
As people like Gingrich (who by all means is a dick, but a
careful dick) age out of power they are replaced by people who are a quantum level of dickishness higher than those before them. As we have seen, these folks have a lower lever of filtering for their dickish behavior, Saltsman and they other party appartchiks quoted here are a perfect example of their level of dickishness. Some other examples of the heightened dickhood of the Republican party: Mitch McConnell threatening the Obama stimulus plan cause it doesn't have any tax cuts. Flying in the face of the reality of the fact that frontloading a stimulus package with tax cuts doesn't do dick, these dicks continue to stridently ask for more tax cuts. We all know the level of dickishness of the dick enablers of the GOP (you know who I mean, David "I'm a dick AND a fish-lipped Weasel" Frum), the think tank people and the conservative media in general (Dicks to the enth degree to a man. Yeah I mean you Andy...um Ann Coulter, you have a dick and are a total dick).
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 17:19:41
Raine on 12/30/2008 17:19:41
Always Klassy, those Palins are.
MSNBC is reporting that the Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston may receive up to $300,000 for the first pictures of their son Tripp.
The price didn't soar immediately, according to the sources, because Sarah Palin stories just didn't sell all that well for the weeklies on newsstands.
...
The drug-related arrest of Johnston's mother, however, caused the price tag for the photos to go up.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:21:47
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:21:47
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 17:26:35
Raine on 12/30/2008 17:26:35
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 17:27:42
A most AWESOME rant, Sir Mondo...
Raine on 12/30/2008 17:27:42
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:
So here it is... The GOP is divided over whether or not Negro is a slur.
This is what that party has become.
Rachel made mention of Saltsman's little "joke" yesterdee. Here is my riff on what is wrong with the GOP. Okay here it goes.
As people like Gingrich (who by all means is a dick, but a
careful dick) age out of power they are replaced by people who are a quantum level of dickishness higher than those before them. As we have seen, these folks have a lower lever of filtering for their dickish behavior, Saltsman and they other party appartchiks quoted here are a perfect example of their level of dickishness. Some other examples of the heightened dickhood of the Republican party: Mitch McConnell threatening the Obama stimulus plan cause it doesn't have any tax cuts. Flying in the face of the reality of the fact that frontloading a stimulus package with tax cuts doesn't do dick, these dicks continue to stridently ask for more tax cuts. We all know the level of dickishness of the dick enablers of the GOP (you know who I mean, David "I'm a dick AND a fish-lipped Weasel" Frum), the think tank people and the conservative media in general (Dicks to the enth degree to a man. Yeah I mean you Andy...um Ann Coulter, you have a dick and are a total dick).
A most AWESOME rant, Sir Mondo...
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 17:27:55
That's why People got the story first. And that's why it was so hard to find anyone who reported anything before People posted it.
livingonli on 12/30/2008 17:27:55
Quote by Raine:
Always Klassy, those Palins are.MSNBC is reporting that the Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston may receive up to $300,000 for the first pictures of their son Tripp.
The price didn't soar immediately, according to the sources, because Sarah Palin stories just didn't sell all that well for the weeklies on newsstands.
...
The drug-related arrest of Johnston's mother, however, caused the price tag for the photos to go up.
That's why People got the story first. And that's why it was so hard to find anyone who reported anything before People posted it.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:29:03
The extended Palin-Johnston clan, money chasing total dicks. Dicks without a clue.
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:29:03
Quote by Raine:
Always Klassy, those Palins are.MSNBC is reporting that the Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston may receive up to $300,000 for the first pictures of their son Tripp.
The price didn't soar immediately, according to the sources, because Sarah Palin stories just didn't sell all that well for the weeklies on newsstands.
...
The drug-related arrest of Johnston's mother, however, caused the price tag for the photos to go up.
The extended Palin-Johnston clan, money chasing total dicks. Dicks without a clue.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:31:38
I was barely even going. Just imagine what I could do if I was amped up on Five Hour Engery Shots, No Doz and coffee.
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:31:38
Quote by Raine:Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:
So here it is... The GOP is divided over whether or not Negro is a slur.
This is what that party has become.
Rachel made mention of Saltsman's little "joke" yesterdee. Here is my riff on what is wrong with the GOP. Okay here it goes.
As people like Gingrich (who by all means is a dick, but a
careful dick) age out of power they are replaced by people who are a quantum level of dickishness higher than those before them. As we have seen, these folks have a lower lever of filtering for their dickish behavior, Saltsman and they other party appartchiks quoted here are a perfect example of their level of dickishness. Some other examples of the heightened dickhood of the Republican party: Mitch McConnell threatening the Obama stimulus plan cause it doesn't have any tax cuts. Flying in the face of the reality of the fact that frontloading a stimulus package with tax cuts doesn't do dick, these dicks continue to stridently ask for more tax cuts. We all know the level of dickishness of the dick enablers of the GOP (you know who I mean, David "I'm a dick AND a fish-lipped Weasel" Frum), the think tank people and the conservative media in general (Dicks to the enth degree to a man. Yeah I mean you Andy...um Ann Coulter, you have a dick and are a total dick).
A most AWESOME rant, Sir Mondo...
I was barely even going. Just imagine what I could do if I was amped up on Five Hour Engery Shots, No Doz and coffee.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:37:25
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 17:37:25
See its true, Ann Coulter is a dick.
As is Sean Hannity How can you not be a dick when you have a Fred Flintstone sized head on a Billy Barty sized body (tip o the hat to MGM for that phrase)!
As is Sean Hannity How can you not be a dick when you have a Fred Flintstone sized head on a Billy Barty sized body (tip o the hat to MGM for that phrase)!
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 17:45:46
I remember when Police officers actually meant it when they said to protect and to serve.
That guy is an ass.
Raine on 12/30/2008 17:45:46
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by BobR:Quote by wickedpam:
jeeze what a jerk of a neighbor
In this litigious society, I can understand his concern, re: the insurance. Still - this could have been worked out without the BS...
litigious yes, but when it comes to someone's pet stuck in your tree for 9 days if he wasn't going to let others go up and get the cat he should have got his ass up the ladder and gotten the cat. For 9 days he let the cat be there, wouldn't even let the neighbor put out food to try and entice the poor thing down.
I remember when Police officers actually meant it when they said to protect and to serve.
That guy is an ass.
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 17:55:29
Raine on 12/30/2008 17:55:29
MSNBC is reporting that Blago has chosen Roland Burris to fill the Senate seat.
::: who ? :::
::: who ? :::
Comment by wickedpam on 12/30/2008 17:59:24
isn't that her brother's name?
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 17:59:24
Quote by Raine:
Always Klassy, those Palins are.MSNBC is reporting that the Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston may receive up to $300,000 for the first pictures of their son Tripp.
The price didn't soar immediately, according to the sources, because Sarah Palin stories just didn't sell all that well for the weeklies on newsstands.
...
The drug-related arrest of Johnston's mother, however, caused the price tag for the photos to go up.
isn't that her brother's name?
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 17:59:49
Raine on 12/30/2008 17:59:49
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 18:00:47
That was Trigg.
And Trak
:P
Raine on 12/30/2008 18:00:47
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:
Always Klassy, those Palins are.MSNBC is reporting that the Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston may receive up to $300,000 for the first pictures of their son Tripp.
The price didn't soar immediately, according to the sources, because Sarah Palin stories just didn't sell all that well for the weeklies on newsstands.
...
The drug-related arrest of Johnston's mother, however, caused the price tag for the photos to go up.
isn't that her brother's name?
That was Trigg.
And Trak
:P
Comment by wickedpam on 12/30/2008 18:03:20
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 18:03:20
Roland Burris Wiki it is the Wiki so take it was a double shot of salt.
You know everyone is going to wonder how much he "paid" for the seat even if he was appointed fair and square
You know everyone is going to wonder how much he "paid" for the seat even if he was appointed fair and square
Comment by wickedpam on 12/30/2008 18:13:24
maybe all the boys have to have one syllable names?
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 18:13:24
Quote by Raine:Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:
Always Klassy, those Palins are.MSNBC is reporting that the Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston may receive up to $300,000 for the first pictures of their son Tripp.
The price didn't soar immediately, according to the sources, because Sarah Palin stories just didn't sell all that well for the weeklies on newsstands.
...
The drug-related arrest of Johnston's mother, however, caused the price tag for the photos to go up.
isn't that her brother's name?
That was Trigg.
And Trak
:P
maybe all the boys have to have one syllable names?
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 18:14:37
This just boggles my mind. Bad decisions all around.
TriSec on 12/30/2008 18:14:37
Quote by BobR:
This is just bad all the way around...
This just boggles my mind. Bad decisions all around.
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 18:33:10
TriSec on 12/30/2008 18:33:10
OK, I've got my disaster geek hat on.
Does anyone know what a bascule lock is?
Today is the anniversary of the Illinois Theatre Fire (c. 1903) and one of the accounts I read stated that many of the doors had "bascule locks" that were new in the US at the time, and contributed to the fatalities, since people didn't know how to operate the doors.
Searching through the interwebs, I see plenty of stuff for Bascule lock bridges, but nothing about this mundane piece of hardware.
Any ideas?
Does anyone know what a bascule lock is?
Today is the anniversary of the Illinois Theatre Fire (c. 1903) and one of the accounts I read stated that many of the doors had "bascule locks" that were new in the US at the time, and contributed to the fatalities, since people didn't know how to operate the doors.
Searching through the interwebs, I see plenty of stuff for Bascule lock bridges, but nothing about this mundane piece of hardware.
Any ideas?
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 18:43:17
Thanks Mom!
BobR on 12/30/2008 18:43:17
Quote by Raine:
Always Klassy, those Palins are.MSNBC is reporting that the Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston may receive up to $300,000 for the first pictures of their son Tripp.
The price didn't soar immediately, according to the sources, because Sarah Palin stories just didn't sell all that well for the weeklies on newsstands.
...
The drug-related arrest of Johnston's mother, however, caused the price tag for the photos to go up.
Thanks Mom!
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 18:45:11
Raine on 12/30/2008 18:45:11
Don't say I did not warn you....
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 18:52:12
BobR on 12/30/2008 18:52:12
40 CCs of insulin - STAT!
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 18:55:46
Us what? We didn't do it. :wide eyed kitten innocense:
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 18:55:46
Quote by Raine:
Don't say I did not warn you....
Us what? We didn't do it. :wide eyed kitten innocense:
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 18:58:02
Psst, Bobber that would kill you!
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 18:58:02
Quote by BobR:
40 CCs of insulin - STAT!
Psst, Bobber that would kill you!
Comment by wickedpam on 12/30/2008 19:01:27
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 19:01:27
aawwww!!! cuteness :D
Comment by Scoopster on 12/30/2008 19:22:19
Scoopster on 12/30/2008 19:22:19
Amagad!! I am a slave to the cuteness!!
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 19:24:34
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 19:24:34
Kute kittens killed the blog! 
:thud:
:thud:
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 19:33:17
bbb... what about Kizzie?
Raine on 12/30/2008 19:33:17
bbb... what about Kizzie?
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 19:33:46
Raine on 12/30/2008 19:33:46
Can I haz home?
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 19:35:06
Raine on 12/30/2008 19:35:06
They promise not to get into ANY trouble!
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 19:36:46
Raine on 12/30/2008 19:36:46
4 Kittens walk into a bar...
Comment by wickedpam on 12/30/2008 19:37:18
wickedpam on 12/30/2008 19:37:18
I'm not so sure about that little orange one in the back - looks like he's planning something
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 19:43:37
Raine on 12/30/2008 19:43:37
Senate Dems are not going to Seat the Burris Pick on the Dem Caucus.
It is truly regrettable that despite warning from all 50 Democratic senators and public officials throughout Illinois, Gov. Blagojevich would take the imprudent step of appointing someone to the United States Senate who would serve under a shadow and be plagued by questions of impropriety. We say this without prejudice toward Roland Burris's ability, and we respect his years of public service. But this is not about Mr. Burris; it is about the integrity of a governor accused of attempting to sell this United States Senate seat. Under these circumstances, anyone appointed by Gov. Blagojevich cannot be an effective representative of the people of Illinois and, as we have said, will not be seated by the Democratic Caucus.
Next week we will start one of the most important debates of the year outlining an economic recovery plan to create jobs and invest in America. And in the coming weeks, we will be working to protect homeowners and consumers, make America more energy independent, strengthen our national security, and improve health care and educational opportunities. There is much work to do and a lot at stake. It is thus critical that Illinois and every other state have two seated senators without delay.
We again urge Gov. Blagojevich to not make this appointment. It is unfair to Mr. Burris, it is unfair to the people of Illinois and it will ultimately not stand. The governor must put the interests of the people of Illinois and all Americans first by stepping aside now and letting his successor appoint someone who we will seat.
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 19:48:01
TriSec on 12/30/2008 19:48:01
I must say, I don't think I have quite enjoyed the symphony this much in quite some time. Nov 4 still resonates...it's a sobering world still, but the crushing weight of hopelessness and despair is no longer there.
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 19:48:50
I'm sorry, that looks like some kind of ritualistically severed dog head...
TriSec on 12/30/2008 19:48:50
Quote by Raine:
bbb... what about Kizzie?
I'm sorry, that looks like some kind of ritualistically severed dog head...
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 19:58:37
She's just hoping that those sugar cookies aren't still looming in her tummy.
livingonli on 12/30/2008 19:58:37
Quote by Raine:
bbb... what about Kizzie?
She's just hoping that those sugar cookies aren't still looming in her tummy.
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 19:59:47
I would worry about the one who's winking.
livingonli on 12/30/2008 19:59:47
Quote by Raine:
4 Kittens walk into a bar...
I would worry about the one who's winking.
Comment by 
MMB on 12/30/2008 20:20:02
MMB on 12/30/2008 20:20:02
Those kittens are PURRRRFECT!!!!! and so sweet by the way 40 ccs of insulin will only kill non-diabetics that is my dose 3 times a day. With 100 at bedtime of course I am VERY sweet!!!! 
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 20:24:45
Yes, we are all old enough to be in here, sir!
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 20:24:45
Quote by Raine:
4 Kittens walk into a bar...
Yes, we are all old enough to be in here, sir!
Comment by 
clintster on 12/30/2008 20:31:35
clintster on 12/30/2008 20:31:35
I've been "upgrading" my computer to Vista this AM, and out shopping with my mom and buddy (Ian). I get home, turn on the TV, and...
THis has been a Clintster Soundrant. Thanks for listening.
THis has been a Clintster Soundrant. Thanks for listening.
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 20:40:14
Raine on 12/30/2008 20:40:14
Clint! that was AWESOME!!!
that was AWESOME!!!
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 20:40:50
BobR on 12/30/2008 20:40:50
Nice soundtrack Clinster! :D
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 20:44:38
The Beatles have reunited!
BobR on 12/30/2008 20:44:38
Quote by Raine:
The Beatles have reunited!
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 20:48:43
Raine on 12/30/2008 20:48:43
You may want to sit down for this...
Bush signs gay rights bill
Call it a Christmas present for gay and lesbian couples. President Bush signed the Worker, Retiree and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 (WRERA) two days before Christmas. The new law makes it mandatory for businesses to roll over retirement benefits to a same-sex partner in the event of the employee’s death.
Previously, employers could decline and surviving same-sex partners would have to pay tax on the inheritance of the deceased partner’s retirement savings. Legally married heterosexual couples automatically avoid that tax penalty.
National LGBT rights groups hailed the move. “This legislation secures much-needed protection for lesbian and gay couples,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “Our community faces unique challenges in preparing for retirement because we are denied Social Security spousal and survivor benefits. Protecting our hard-earned retirement savings is even more crucial to us, and until now, the tax code made it that much harder.”
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 20:53:50
Raine on 12/30/2008 20:53:50
On the wires, looking for a link:
STUDENTS STORM BRITISH EMBASSY IN IRAN. (BULLETIN)
=========================================
That does not sound good.
STUDENTS STORM BRITISH EMBASSY IN IRAN. (BULLETIN)
=========================================
That does not sound good.
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 20:56:52
Found a link.
As if the Shit could not hit the fan any harder.
Raine on 12/30/2008 20:56:52
Quote by Raine:
On the wires, looking for a link:
STUDENTS STORM BRITISH EMBASSY IN IRAN. (BULLETIN)
=========================================
That does not sound good.
Found a link.
As if the Shit could not hit the fan any harder.
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 21:03:01
livingonli on 12/30/2008 21:03:01
And off to the salt mine I go.
Comment by Scoopster on 12/30/2008 21:07:38
:thud:
Scoopster on 12/30/2008 21:07:38
Quote by Raine:
You may want to sit down for this...Bush signs gay rights bill
Call it a Christmas present for gay and lesbian couples. President Bush signed the Worker, Retiree and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 (WRERA) two days before Christmas. The new law makes it mandatory for businesses to roll over retirement benefits to a same-sex partner in the event of the employee’s death.
Previously, employers could decline and surviving same-sex partners would have to pay tax on the inheritance of the deceased partner’s retirement savings. Legally married heterosexual couples automatically avoid that tax penalty.
National LGBT rights groups hailed the move. “This legislation secures much-needed protection for lesbian and gay couples,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “Our community faces unique challenges in preparing for retirement because we are denied Social Security spousal and survivor benefits. Protecting our hard-earned retirement savings is even more crucial to us, and until now, the tax code made it that much harder.”
:thud:
Comment by TriSec on 12/30/2008 21:12:40
TriSec on 12/30/2008 21:12:40
Well, I'm going to be heading home in a few. A slight smugness in saying I don't have to work again until next year.
Pity I can't say that on June 30th instead of December 30th, though...
Pity I can't say that on June 30th instead of December 30th, though...
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 22:16:38
One year in 40 seconds. It's hypnotic.
Raine on 12/30/2008 22:16:38
One year in 40 seconds. It's hypnotic.
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 22:34:51
awesome!
BobR on 12/30/2008 22:34:51
Quote by Raine:
One year in 40 seconds. It's hypnotic.
awesome!
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 22:50:56
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 22:50:56
Raine! YOU A DEVIL WOMAN! Posting pictures of insanely cute kittens! I am this close to driving up to ATL on New Year's day for a kitten. :thud:
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 22:53:24
Do not tease! I would LOVE it if they went to the homes of friends.
Raine on 12/30/2008 22:53:24
Quote by Mondobubba:
Raine! YOU A DEVIL WOMAN! Posting pictures of insanely cute kittens! I am this close to driving up to ATL on New Year's day for a kitten. :thud:
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 22:53:33
Devil Woman, that was a balm for my soul.
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 22:53:33
Quote by Raine:
One year in 40 seconds. It's hypnotic.
Devil Woman, that was a balm for my soul.
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 22:54:16
Raine on 12/30/2008 22:54:16
Mondo... I have a video of them on my FB page... :D
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 22:58:41
This is yet another example of the dickishness that I was ranting about earlier. Dickish, scorched earth stuff that doesn't win them any converts. I say this, keep being dicks, dickheads. Your dick behavior will lead your dick party to the extinction that is so justly deserves because nobody likes a dick. Got it dickweeds?
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 22:58:41
Quote by Raine:
Senate GOP's may block Seating AL Franken.
This is yet another example of the dickishness that I was ranting about earlier. Dickish, scorched earth stuff that doesn't win them any converts. I say this, keep being dicks, dickheads. Your dick behavior will lead your dick party to the extinction that is so justly deserves because nobody likes a dick. Got it dickweeds?
Comment by Raine on 12/30/2008 23:17:48
Raine on 12/30/2008 23:17:48
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 23:21:38
Devil Woman! :makes warding sign:
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 23:21:38
Quote by Raine:
Mondo... I have a video of them on my FB page... :D
Devil Woman! :makes warding sign:
Comment by livingonli on 12/30/2008 23:34:18
Surrender and give in to the cuteness of kittens.
livingonli on 12/30/2008 23:34:18
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:
Mondo... I have a video of them on my FB page... :D
Devil Woman! :makes warding sign:
Surrender and give in to the cuteness of kittens.
Comment by BobR on 12/30/2008 23:38:39
this should come with a big "TIME WASTER" alert. Most of them do not; however, I think there should another choice besides "Dead on" and "way off"... perhaps a "sorta"...
BobR on 12/30/2008 23:38:39
this should come with a big "TIME WASTER" alert. Most of them do not; however, I think there should another choice besides "Dead on" and "way off"... perhaps a "sorta"...
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 23:51:35
I was thinking they should add somebody who was being very kind agreed with them.
Mondobubba on 12/30/2008 23:51:35
Quote by BobR:
this should come with a big "TIME WASTER" alert. Most of them do not; however, I think there should another choice besides "Dead on" and "way off"... perhaps a "sorta"...
I was thinking they should add somebody who was being very kind agreed with them.
Comment by TriSec on 12/31/2008 00:42:41
TriSec on 12/31/2008 00:42:41
Hmm...I have been told that I look like the deceased Raul Julia, especially prior to my shaving off the wee little mustache I once had.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/31/2008 00:54:55
Yeah, you do. I can see it. We need to see one of you to do a separated at birth.
Mondobubba on 12/31/2008 00:54:55
Quote by TriSec:
Hmm...I have been told that I look like the deceased Raul Julia, especially prior to my shaving off the wee little mustache I once had.
Yeah, you do. I can see it. We need to see one of you to do a separated at birth.
Comment by TriSec on 12/31/2008 03:04:52
TriSec on 12/31/2008 03:04:52
Here's an evening video for ya.....has anyone ever been to a Tattoo?