Craig Crawford's Trail Mix

Here I am, first again! The stars shine down on me !

The Debt Trap

A series about the surge in consumer debt and the lenders who made it possible.

Given a Shovel, Digging Deeper Into Debt

By GRETCHEN MORGENSON
Published: July 20, 2008

NEW YORK TIMES

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/20/business/20debt.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&adxnnlx=1216548136-5dTXCXeQlk9Wqse%20XECrDg

A reminder on why I am so opposed to credit cards and unabated consumer credit consumption.

Don't be a SLAVE to your MASTERcard !!!

Here is a followup article:

Work Out Problems With Lenders? Try to Find Them

By GRETCHEN MORGENSON
Published: July 20, 2008
In times past, when a borrower fell behind on a mortgage, the lender was likely to try to help work out the delinquency.

But as many troubled borrowers are discovering, today’s lenders often sell the loans they make to investors, making it nearly impossible for homeowners to discover whom they should contact for a workout.

And the companies to which borrowers send their mortgage payments — known as loan servicers — are often hard to reach or unwilling to modify a loan that is delinquent.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/20/business/20debtside.html?ref=business

Tom -- The Ghent festival sounds wonderful!

Just wanted to throw this thought out before I forget it.....remember Ashleigh Banfield? We've talked about how the media -- especially cable -- has so much control. A few years back, Ashleigh was fired by NBC for criticizing cable news for wrapping itself in the flag.....just happened to think back on that little episode this morning...

Tom, thanks for posting today's NYT article regarding the credit crisis. Haven't gone out & picked up my copy yet this a.m.

Unfortunately, the story is typical. I see some version of those set of facts on a regular basis when meeting with clients.

Relating it to the upcoming election, that is why I continue to ask--Who speaks for the middle class.

Sadly, so far, neither candidate provides real answers to the economic disaster confronting many Americans.

Patsi,

I remember Ashley Banfield from her msnbc days, she was the rising star--then as you mentioned she dared to speak out.

Has she bounced back or faded into history.

Coreen -- here's what Wiki says:

In April 2003, in a speech at Kansas State University, Banfield raised concerns regarding media coverage of the conflict in Iraq. She also blasted "cable news operators who wrap themselves in the American flag and go after a certain target demographic", specifically naming Fox News Channel as an example. According to a New York Times article, her speech angered NBC management who rebuked her and lowered her profile. She was fired in 2004.

Banfield joined CourtTV (renamed TruTV) in 2005. She is the co-host of the trial coverage show "Banfield & Ford: Courtside" weekdays from 1 to 3PM ET with Jack Ford. She is the only non-lawyer among Court TV's anchors. She signed on to host celebrity gossip show "Hollywood Heat" in January 2007.

Bethy
I shop at Cooperfields in Sebastopol from time to time and I am curious to see the new one in Healdsburg tht has a restaurant as part of it and is now starting to have literary and food events. I didn't think it was fair of Calistoga to keep them out calling them a "chain."
Once the library system went on line and I could order up the books I want --I stopped buying.
Yesterday was mulberry picking -I have one tree- possibly the messiest fruit ever. And you have to pick them when they are just ripe, it's a window of about five minutes.

Rep Donna Edwards speaking about Obama
I was an early Barack Obama supporter and I'm really proud of that. But it doesn't mean that the presidential candidate that we have, the nominee that we have to stand behind now, that we have to be silent when that nominee is not saying the things that need to be said to our community, and doing what we need them to do for the country. So that's an important lesson....(more)
http://firedoglake.com/2008/07/19/donna-edwards-on-obama-and-the-netroots/#comments

This is a sentiment I have heard from a number of people. Get active!

either i was hallucinating last night or it was the half bottle of bad wine, but the young jimmy stewart in 1938's "you can't take it with you" sure looked a lot like bho. wow, the bodysnatchers must have invaded....i must resist... aaarghh

KGC, she's going to be in deep doo-doo if she keeps on saying things like that. That Don Fowler thing that Tom put up yesterday evening was chilling; he speaks for the organization.

Our apples became so messy, besides not being the trees that we expected (full size instead of dwarfs) that Stinky had me remove them. They were really hard for us to keep up with.

We've never done mulberries. What's your plan?

Flautus
I think Rep Edwards can take him! I'll have to go back and find Tom's post.

In the past, I've made jams but I learned recently you can dry the mulberries. I have a small dehydrater so I'm going to try. When picking them, I wear an old rain coat a hat and plastic gloves.

I have a lot of fruit trees and unfortunately much of it goes to waste. This year with a local group that has commercial kitchen we are going to try to make batches of apple sauce to freeze and then give them to a local food bank. It's harder to give food away because of liability issues but we are looking for ways to make it work. This area used to be plum, pear, and apple orchards and quite a few people have citrus as well. Now most of the commercial use is alcohol farming (:)) and orchards are left untended.

Credit card companies sidestep usury laws
By Lucy Lazarony • Bankrate.com

How we have found ourselves drowning in high interest rates, small payment requirements and an never ending debt load that seems to only increase over time...

(Those are my words)

http://www.bankrate.com/brm/news/cc/20020320a.asp

Banks and credit card issuers are EVIL...

(also my words) :-)

I really hope that somebody's watching Donna Edwards' back....I agree that the recent email sent out by Fowler was offputting. I still say that this crowd has become very Bush-like.

Having said that, KGC, I agree that Rep. Edwards seems tough as hell. A lot like Maxine Waters and Stephanie Tubbs Jones.

"When exactly was it that the U.S. became a can’t-do society? "

NYT

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/19/opinion/19herbert.html?em&ex=1216699200&en=28ddbf73215baa2d&ei=5087%0A

Coreen,

You've asked, several times, "Who speaks for the middle class?" And, I've been pondering that question for a couple of weeks.

I have several answers, none of which are satisfying. In every instance, it boils down to them speaking for themselves. Here's my list:

--They are the demographic that reads newspapers, listens to the local news, networks, attends meetings, and gets angry in a productive sort of way.

--They are the people retailers target. Retrenchment in their buying patterns are quickly recognized. The retailers, in turn, apply their lobbying pressure in an effort to have government make changes that are beyond the retailers control.

--They are the people who generally realize that, "but for the Grace of God...". In that spirit, they, at least in this part of the country, will help their neighbors.

--They sometimes have the ability to cut discretionary spending--something those people at the bottom can't do.

You have undoubtedly recognized, that, in my list, they speak for themselves. No one else is going to speak for them because they are taken for granted.

It's only when they become completely desperate and enter the, "I'm pissed off and I'm not going to take it anymore" mode that elected officials start taking notice--out of fear for their own jobs.

ET
I wish I knew who it was with but I saw a discussion about the Gooper policy of benign neglect regulation of the banking industry on Bill Moyers and how wrong it was.

Thanks for that article, Burrito....love this quote:

"Now we can’t even lift New Orleans off its knees."

Bush gazing out of his airplane at that mess and basically shrugging his shoulders. God a'mighty.

And Steve Schmidt - the guy who's running John McCain's campaign - is like Karl Rove's son.

Schmidt is probably one of the best targeter of voters in the country. He really knows how to connect one-on-one with voters.

He doesn't just do polling like other consultants - he uses commercial market studies.

He reduces voting to who shops at Wal-Mart, Target and Costco and how to talk to them. He doesn't give a damn about Wilkes Bashford or Nordstrom shoppers.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/07/19/BAD511PR2F.DTL&tsp=1

The SF Chronicle has starting publishing a column from Willie Brown, This is the first one.
Personally, I think Willie Brown should be in jail. If not for direct criminal activites for his malfeasance as mayor of SF.

Poor New Orleans - I can't believe how low our country has sunk, we can't even help our own. It's very disheartening.

(N.O. one example out of many)

Among the corporate sponsors of the Democratic Convention in Denver:

UnitedHealth Group, AT&T, Comcast, the National Association of Home Builders, Western Union and Google.

In return for donations, which can go up to $1 million or more, sponsors are promised prominent display space for corporate marketing and access to elected officials and Democratic leaders at a large number of parties and receptions.

AT&T..(and Comcast broadband phone service)
I guess that explains the FISA votes.

KGC,

Your orchard sounds wonderful. Before our farm was sold, we had about 20-acres of fruit, mostly apples. We made lots of apple cider!

My grandmother taught me how to bake pies. Did it with one of those collapsible ovens on top of the kerosene stove. That was before electricity arrived.

I was probably 8 or 9 at the time. I picked all the fruit myself. It was grand!

I just wiki'd mulberries. Ah, the possibilities!

Another note, my friends brother who was to be leaving for Iraq on Tuesday, has been told he is not going " there are too many soldiers there".....They tell him this after he has shipped all his stuff over, signed leases for storage, and his mother and sister paid to fly to Hawaii to say their good-byes...In addition, they told him that because of the change in plans, it will extend his tour of duty by 8months. Emotional roller coaster.

Nick,
If you're out there, I hope you are doing well. I really miss seeing you here. Please pop in soon.

Patsi,
reg. your post last night:
"Garth Brooks once told a journalist that if he was ever attacked in a back alley, there was one person -- male or female -- that he wanted with him...and it was me. So I guess my junk yard dog tendencies precede me...ha"Posted by: Patsi July 19,2008 11:38

I couldn't help but think about what an interesting life you've had. Knowing Garth Brooks, the superstar of superstars (and others like him) has to be the greatest experience ever.

Tom,
your boat tour of the canal sounds heavenly.

"In addition, they told him that because of the change in plans, it will extend his tour of duty by 8months. Emotional roller coaster. "

Unbelievable. Why give him extra duty? Did they explain that? Has to do more time since he won't be in the line of fire?

Good morning all. Very good discussion yesterday and today.

Flautus

Every once in a while I talk about getting a cider press. I should just do it!

Chloe -- It was all just because of how I make my living. Garth is one of the good guys of the entertainment business.

Flatus,

I have no disagreement with your observations, personal responsibility is required.

In reality, most of those at the bottom are dealing with their every day life, nothing else.

In the election context however, all sides pander for a vote & then once they win, it is back to business as usual.

I see no change on the horizon, regardless of who may become president.

They don't tell him anything, or maybe he didn't want to tell his sister? ( I am thinking Afghanistan)

They extended my neighbors' son stay as well, but I do not remember hold long....he heads back to Iraq this week..

Yeah Patsi,
But what a nice way to make a living.

I'm not a big county western person, but I love Garth Brooks,
It's easy to tell how nice he is. I remember a few years ago, he was on Oprah and spontaneously said he give the first month of his next Albums profits to her Children's Network fund (think that's what her fund is called, only watched that day for Garth).

Oprah was shocked. She asked him if her attorney's should contact his attorney's and he said: "no, you've got my word" and then they shook on it.

"...has been told he is not going " there are too many soldiers there"...."

UB, that's what happens when wars are run from the basement of the White House.

Obama’s Birth Certificate – CHANGE you can believe in.

"It is irrefutable, empirical evidence - Obama's birth certificate is a forgery. Why? Why a COLB forgery? That is the question.

The following analysis ... will focus only on the results from the March 2007 through June 2008 certificates for accurately comparing against the KOS image purportedly printed by the Health Department of Hawaii in June 2007.

(Very detailed analysis)

There are two obvious scenarios used to create the image that can be ascertained from evidence. Either a real COLB was scanned into Photoshop and digitally edited or a real COLB was first scanned to obtain the graphic layout then blanked by soaking the document in solvent to remove the toner. After rescanning the blank page to a separate image the graphics from the previously obtained scan could then be easily applied to the blank scan after some editing and rebuilding. It would also explain why date stamp bleeds through the paper and the various bits of toner located around the image as well as the remnants of the previous location of a security border.

So as I have been saying repeatedly since I first compared the KOS images to the Decosta image using the same tests and measurements – the image is a horrible forgery."

http://atlasshrugs2000.typepad.com/atlas_shrugs/2008/07/atlas-exclusive.html

Beijing's grand experiment has begun

"Hence, in very short order, researchers can measure a baseline level of pollution, see how it drops while abatement measures are in effect, and then see how long it takes the air to return to "normal" after the games are over. It's a rare opportunity, and with concern for the planet running high these days, it's an opportunity to learn more about causes and effects of emissions and drastic cuts in those emissions. Best of all, the study won't have to be vetted by the likes of Dick Cheney."

http://marykittneel.blogspot.com/

Yeah U B
It is very disheartening when we can't or won't even take care of are own.New Orleans is but one example and there's health care,energy and the list go's on and on.Ive been visiting Australia usually once a year for maybe the past ten years and the difference in what is done for their people is stark and amazing!!! I think if we weren't always trying to be the worlds policemen and had better leadership things could be different.Im beginning to wonder whether we will do the big things that are required to solve are problems???

Hey Tom
How's that weight loss program of yours going?I have been meaning to ask you for a while.I am getting ready to head off to the gym and i really don't feel like it this morning but its the only way that i can keep my weight at 180lbs.I do that Stairstep for an hour!! Oh God Id rather just lay by the pool!!!

Tony,
I think you're right. It's about leadership.

But 'the people" are working at doing the things required to solve problems. It's just hard to organize it.

In Texas, people are always trying to help those around them. I've been impressed since we got here years ago at the group efforts and charitable giving. If nothing else, no one has to go hungry here. And everyone works so hard and long here. It's amazing.

weight loss... well it's like 24 kilos
x 2.2 = 52.8 lbs. I'd like to reduce some more but I am most focussed on maintaining and then perhaps go further... maybe 5 - 10 more kilos max... I am not going to end up skinny.

Chloe
Oh you are so right!!The people are doing whats required of them.Its the government that we need to get involved and do the big things that it takes to do the organizing and bring us all together for one common goal!!Leadership there's the problem and Bush is just at the top of the list.Nancy Pelosi and Reid have also been a big disappointment to me. They promised change and we got nothing!! Not even an Impeachment vote. I only hope when Sen.Obama is elected that the so called Change is real and it begins to make a dent in all the problems we as a country face.Hillary as V.P. and in charge of health care would be a great start...........I know I'm dreaming on that one!!!

" I only hope when Sen.Obama is elected that the so called Change is real and it begins to make a dent in all the problems we as a country face"

So true, Tony. I think the people are doing everything they can. There's simply no leadership, and no governmental concern for the middle class.

IMO, the House and Senate should be a top priority for voters. I don't care who is president, we've got to have better control over those two houses.

Wow Tom
Amazing!! Yes the goal is maintaining and over all health and well being.Skinny well thats something thats not realistic to begin with for alot of us and shouldn't even be considered.I find setting goals that are attainable really is the best way to maintain one's weight.I try to avoid all things white that along with regular workouts it keeps me at 180lbs.Again 52lbs Great.....

If you aren't familiar with this book and this man's work I highly recommend this:

By Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin
VIKING Hardcover 2006 / PENGUIN Paperback 2007

“Three Cups of Tea is one of the most remarkable adventure stories of our time. Greg Mortenson’s dangerous and difficult quest to build schools in the wildest parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan is not only a thrilling read, it’s proof that one ordinary person, with the right combination of character and determination, really can change the world.” -Tom Brokaw

http://threecupsoftea.com/

Is Obama Speech Site Contaminated by Nazi Past?

"Finally, Barack Obama's campaign has settled on a site for his Berlin speech. But some German politicians have now criticized his choice as being one full of Nazi-related symbolism.

The column originally stood in front of the Reichstag, Germany's parliament building, but was moved by Adolf Hitler to its current location in 1939 to make way for his planned transformation of Berlin into the Nazi capital "Germania."

... "the Siegessäule in Berlin is dedicated to a victory over neighbors who are today our European friends and allies. It is a problematic symbol."

http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/0,1518,566920,00.html

Exactly Patsi
I am voting all down ticket Democrats here in Florida for sure.I have also just about decided to vote for Sen. Obama.The State of Florida usually goes Republican by a close margin and i want them gone from power.I don't trust or like Sen. Obama at all but i feel the same about McCain.Bottom line the Republicans need to go!

Dog
I agree not every problem has a government solution.That said government has to take the lead in solving the big problems of health care,energy,balanced budgets,wars etc.Hey just look at the example of giving $600 away to spur the economy.Why didn't we rebuild infrastruture and create real good paying jobs with that borrowed money? Have we anything to show for that?Oh ya silly fool Bush said we could buy more gas with the money.The Jokes on us........

"I actually don't think "the people" are doing everything they can - I think too many have been on autopilot and have been concentrating on their own families and lives in an uncertain time."

Maybe so. But you probably have a long list of the things you've done in the past few years, charity work, volunteerism, foundations where you donate money, etc....aside from this political campaign. Maybe it would give some of the slackers a few ideas.

Today's Doonesbury is great:

http://www.doonesbury.com/strip/dailydose/index.html

In 2006 Democ"rat"s took control of Congress,and Obama was elected to the Senate. Their motto was Withdraw from Iraq Now, Get out Now, etc,etc,

If Bush had listen to Obama, and the Democ"rats" their would be no serge and Maliki would be "DEAD".

Neville Chamberlain motto was "Peace in our time"
Obama's and the Democ"rats" motto is "Withdrawal in our time"

Think about it every time you take your shoes off as you go thru airport security or enter a office building in NYC or visit Congress in DC, etc,etc

VJ Machiavelli
http://www.vjmachiavelli.blogspot.com

" the Democ"rats" motto is "Withdrawal in our time"

VJ -- considering how many Dems get caught in sex scandals, I don't think that's a particularly good motto.

VJ......i've become somewhat curious about this "shoe" thing of yours.....tell me more.................

Just interesting & very effective move by Ms. Pelosi

Pelosi deflects criticism at the Netroots convention by bringing Al Gore.

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1824631,00.html

It's political theater, Dog, to provide the illusion of control.

If the populace realized how little control they had over the state of affairs, there would be revolution in the streets.

If the populace realized how little control they had over the state of affairs, there would be revolution in the streets.
Posted by: champ | July 20, 2008 12:50 PM

Champ,
We're a little slow, but I think we're figuring it out.
The question is, now what.

nothing easy chloe, sad to say

Thanks for pimpin' me, Chloe!

Other than that, I got nothing.

Enough people are just fat and happy enough to not want to up-end the status quo. With the state of technology these days (and into the future), I'm afraid absolute servitude is inevitable

Oh, the most peaceful solution would be for everyone to stop paying taxes. Watch how fast the pigs fall into line once the gravy train rolls to a stop.

VJ......i've become somewhat curious about this "shoe" thing of yours.....tell me more...-Sturgeone

My guess he's a Fireside Theatre fan.

Take your time with your witty reply, loser.

TCM.......carson mccullers , stanley kramer's

"The Member of the Wedding"

just starting......

Nobama for The New Yorker’s Correspondent

"By shutting out the New Yorker correspondent, is Obama engaging in a nasty little act of getting even, demonstrating contempt for a free press, or is it satire? Wilkommen to the whirlwind Obama tour! See the senator spend 24 hours in countries he’s never before visited. But “nein” to The New Yorker.

We’re just guessing that it wasn’t just the cover that enraged the thin-skinned Obama, but also the first long, factual account ever to appear in the media on Obama’s ruthless ambition, lack of principle, association with unsavory types in Chicago politics, and his empty record, devoid of any leadership on any issue. Ryan Lizza, former Obamaton party-liner, is now receiving his punishment.

Initially, Obama demanded to speak before the Brandenburg Gate, an honor only extended to heads of state.

After his absurd stumble, Obama picked another site for his photo-op in Berlin–the Siegesaulle. Clueless does not begin to describe Obama speaking at the monument to Prussian militarism.

Achtung, Obamatons! This fate is what awaits you if you so much as utter a critical word or attempt dreaded satire. Keep chanting slogans in unison! No thinking! Kein denken! Danger! Gefahr! Vorsicht!"

http://noquarterusa.net/blog/2008/07/20/nobama-for-the-new-yorkers-correspondent/

One of his campaign advisers told me recently: "Why should we take the time for foreign media, since there is Obamania around the world?"
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/18/AR2008071802612.html?nav=hcmodule
interesting tidbit on the grand touristo

More video of Sen. Obama-having breakfast with troops in Kabul, Afghanistan.

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/politics/2008/07/20/vo.afghanistan.obama.cnn

Rasmussen:

Obama lead 2 points..

descendant of fletcher christian, Andrew Randall-Christian on Pitcairn.......

http://www.lareau.org/Andrew.jpg

There you are, sturg! Are you getting any effects from Cristobal, or are you out of its path?

julian lennon:

http://img.skitch.com/20080408-desch3fih32uh4xh8t94kpqigu.preview.jpg

Just finished watching Member of the Wedding. Ethel Waters was such a phenominal actress. That last scene where everything will happen is all in her face and the humming of a song is brilliant.

heya.......been raining a good bit, but no big blow.....(with that name sc wont let it in............)

*laughing at sturg* (with that name sc wont let it in............)...but very pleased to hear that you're safe.

Off to see 'Mamma Mia"...catch you'uns later....

Craig'ers is on vacation?

Strange things are known to happen when the Bolo Pundit is away.

Hi there Mad,

Good to see you around again. What's happening?

Just stopped in to a minute to let everybody know I've got new pictures up of my garden. Had visitors to the sun garden, I got some good pictures,
http://showyourgarden.blogspot.com/

See you all later, still working on the bathroom.

Jack

Chloe - thanks for your nice comments, and you're absolutely right about the line re how not to be insulted - I was day-dreaming, I guess. That was very simplistic, and I'm shocked at myself, shocked I tell you. I'm usually SO right!

Maybe I don't provoke insults because I don't make statements about my opinions, but that's because I don't have many opinions - pretty deep idea there! I don't remember or never knew as much detail re political events here in the last century. So much happened!!!!!! I'm just not sure about a whole lot of things. I have suspicions, but as for knowing, I tend to hedge bets.

I don't 'know' a lot re Obama and that makes me suspect a lot re him. I don't like the way his campaign is being run, but that could turn out to be no big deal. I DO know I hate religion and politics being anywhere near each other, and that strikes at scotus. I am not willing to trust - I am suspicious of counting on a dem congress keeping a rep pres from slipping in another scalia, so I'll vote for Obama. Even then I suspect Obama might let one in also, just as a sop to reps, to show he's willing to 'work across the aisle.'

See, I'm not a conspiracy buff, but I don't trust many people very far which means I have to keep my eyes open, and that's why I like the people here - lots of new perspectives and ideas. That's also why I get frustrated with the insults - they're so empty.

That letter from the dnc is almost amusing - I don't think they thought it out very well. For one thing, I'm not a dem, I'm an indep, and they need to worry more about us than the party faithful, or so I've heard.

I just got an image of Sgt Schultz saying, Achtung!, and then announcing to Hogan and his men that they'd better stop being bitter about the war and support the fuhrer. I don't remember - was there a hint re what the punishment might be for not snapping out of it?

I guess those are opinions there, tho, huh? Well, maybe they'll get me in trouble - not that I'm looking for it.

Books - I want to add one of my favorites, Susanna Gregory. Her 'detective' is a lecturer in medicine at Cambridge ca 1315 (1352?), Matthew Bartholemew.
The author is a Cambridge grad and taught there so she knows her area.

Gotta go play with the adorable boys!

Bethy,
I think you were right.
I just don't think it always works for some.

I like your posts because they're more about feelings than detail. That they're honest and sincere and probing. You don't sound as though you've completely made up your mind on things yet, and therefore there's an openness. You have good opinions, but don't seem interested in enforcing them on others.

There, I think I just figured out why I like reading your posts so much.

We went to see Dark Knight yesterday. Heath Ledger was phenomenal. I think if he had lived, he would have become the worlds biggest movie star with this one.

Also saw Mama Mia, and loved it. Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan singing. Amazing.

"You have good opinions, but don't seem interested in enforcing them on others."

Completely agree with you about Bethy, Chloe. There's never a hint of a lecture in her posts.

Boop

Have you been to the Susanna Gregory website?

http://www.matthewbartholomew.co.uk/

Document forensics expert: Obama "birth certificate" a "horrible forgery"

"The latest examinaton of the purported documents is by far the most detailed and technically sophisticated to date.

... detailed report, which runs more than 3000 words and 20 pages with extensive magnified illustrations and comparisons, reaches the following conclusion ...

The purported birth certificate was published by the Daily Kos on June 12 ...

... will the mass media and mainstream pundits -- which so far have hesitated to touch the hot potato -- finally address the loaded issue of his possible unfitness to meet the basic Constitutional requirement for a President?

Perhaps the outspoken Israeli press corps will be able to do what their fawning American counterparts have failed to do so far."

http://web.israelinsider.com/Articles/Politics/12993.htm

Really sad story:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/military_the_enemy_within

Evening all. I'm back home. I posted some reunion pics to my blog. The rest will be in my blog slideshow. Of note: In the 4 person photo, the guy in the back wasn't supposed to be in the pic! Although, it is still a good picture. The woman in that photo (who is also in the bottom photo) is who I sat with at dinner. Score!

Chloe - And I just figured out why I like YOUR posts so much! Goodness, girl, you sure are nice!

How's this? Not insulting should minimize your chances of being insulted.

What's interesting is your using the word 'feelings' and I never realized that I do have 'feelings' much more than opinions. My family and friends might say I'm opinionated because of my delivery, but it's really that I say how I feel about something.

If we're watching tv and Suze Orman's face shows up, I'll say, Oh I can't stand her. but that's not true since I don't know here and she might be delightful, but her way of speaking makes me very uncomfortable because of her strong delivery - I feel battered. The ridiculous part of that is that I talk like that sometime, esp when I was teaching and I was mad at the kids. The irony of it all.

I guess that making up my mind makes me feel as if I can stop thinking about it then, and I want to think about stuff. That's what I like about here - you guys have so many new thoughts to consider. I love to think.

A friend said once that I carried on a rich monologue in my head, and I laughed - I think it's rich and enjoy it so much. All right, I never said I was fun, I tell people some time and they laugh because it's so true.

I am absolutely not interested in enforcing my ideaas on other people. Good God - I might be wrong, and then what???????I cannot imagine taking responsibility for other people's beliefs - besides, it would be so boring.

Consider my brain a giant maw that has to be fed a lot of ideas and, while it is pretty good at gathering its own food, it relies hugely on the kindness of strangers. In that way, you could say I'm open indeed.

Chloe - thank you for saying all that. I think I might not be so embarrassed at talking so much, now that I know at least one person isn't irritated by my continuous verbal flow.

Patsi - I'm glad you don't feel lectured at, but I feel as if I do slide into that mode. I have a few theories about history and life and while I don't actually believe in them factually, they are strong feelings and often take complete control of me. I'm serious - I have been mortified by my eagerness to put them into words and that's what nice about blogging. I know everyone can just scroll down if I get to be too much.

Jamie - I had not been to Susanna Gregory' s website in a long time so did just now. I will bo back and spend more time on it.

There is another website for all of us. It's www.fantasticfiction. I live by it. I will tell you about new books each month, and about all the books written by an author, categorized by series. The one flaw I found was that they had left out a medieval novel by Louis
L'amour, of all people, called The Walking Drum. I emailed them but don't think they added it.

I don't like the way the Brits have printed...published... the new Thomas Chaloner series (they're kinda square and chunky) so am reluctant to buy the very newest Matthew Bartholemew book, but may have to give in. the paperbacks are beautifully done.

"Last of the Breed" ruled; at least it did when I was 11.

" lectured at, but I feel as if I do slide into that mode."

Not at all Bethy -- at least I've never felt that's what you were doing.

Mamma Mia was WONDERFUL! I laughed or smiled all the way through it.

Thanks for the review. I won't be able to go until next weekend.

You'll love it, Jamie! What a fun movie. The cast and crew must have had a ball making it.

"Mamma Mia was WONDERFUL! "

harbor -- my daughter said she and her friend would have sat through it twice if they hadn't had to get back because of babysitters.

Patsi...Me, too! It's that good. And for those who plan to see it, don't leave after the first credits begin to roll.

In this photo released by the New York City Mayor's Office, NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg stands with Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., in New York City Hall, Thursday, July 17, 2008. Bloomberg is planning to host a party for Sen. Clinton to ease her transition back from the presidential campaign trail, where she waged a tough fight for the Democratic.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080721/ap_on_el_pr/campaign_money_3

World cultural treasures test, a promo for the Indiana Jones movie.
I had a perfect score.
http://www.friendsofworldheritage.org/multimedia/adventure-quiz.html

Jack

Jack

Fun quiz though you would have to be pretty geographically challenged to miss any of the questions.

Hell imo the majority of those 18 M just didn't want to black guy. They'e not going to send her any money.

You guys give your hard-earned money to millionaire power-brokers? Crazy times. I got in the wrong business.

Good point. Hillary's support was a mile wide and an inch deep, especially if she can't get her flock to ante up five dollars a piece. Meanwhile, the Obama campaign fund machine keeps a rollin' along.

I'm going to print PAY MARK PENN t-shirts.

You've got to pay to win, Champ. Hillary made a 12 million dollar bet on herself and lost. At least her fans and team could come back and help her out.

I did. I'm sure others did. But I'm not a PUMA just a backer of the person who shuld have been President but is still a loyal Democrat.

Jamie

True, Even if you didjn't know what one was the lame choices made it easy to eliminate the obviously wrong answers down to one right one.

Jack

Well, it appears that PUMA is either lying about their numbers, or not as loyal to Hillary as they say. Imagine how powerful it would be if they held a press conference and said that in one hour, they'd have all 4 million of their members give $6 to permanently retire Hillary's debt. That's political power. Everything else is bluster and folks who want to be in on the political story.

LOL

Don't you love it when sock puppets debate each other

Jack

oops Jamie..
lol

Girl, you fell for it.:-)

Jack

Nope, I love it when the Clinton folks have nothing but words for their candidate, and then beg Obama supporters to bail out their favorite candidate.

Did it ever occur to any of you geniuses quoting the "$25 million" beginning figure that just maybe a great deal of it has already been paid off but not yet reported or that the maxed out Obama folks are paying off her debt while the maxed out Clinton people are contributing to his finances?

Uh...no.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080721/ap_on_el_pr/campaign_money_3

It turns out that since Obama's support is both mile wide and a mile deep, his supporters are nowhere near maxed out. Her big donors are coming aboard the Obama campaign, but Clinton's small donors have dried up.

Mr.Democrat aka Bye Bye aka TROUBLE MAKER
I supported Hillary and still do!! I also am not a Puma but an Independent former Dem. I have given $200 since the campaign ended.Oh and I'm not a bitter ender.......

How about giving the $2300? She needs the money. She wants your money. Remember all those hard working white Americans? They were her vendors and they're waiting to get paid. How about ponying up some more cash and letting the champ of the shot glass make good on her promise to never forget them?

PUMA = Cheap ?

( Can Hillary expect another penny ? )

HI!!!!

It doesn't mention that she has stated that the $13 million she loaned the campaign is not to be paid off and that the contributions will go to the debt.

It's so much easier to continue taking mean pot shots. You are the bitter enders. Bye Bye, you were a constant spout of vitriol throughout the campaign and you are still nothing but a fountain of ugly slime.

Trouble maker? By pointing out that Clinton's supporters haven't each donated TWO measly dollars a piece to retire her debt?

I love you too, Jamie.

There is no PUMA movement.

PUMA's are maxed out for the primary

whoa.

Re JUNE: 2 million isn't very much compared to 52 million.....What did McCain raise in June? anyone know?

FREE Hillary from DEBT!!!
FREE Hillary from DEBT!!!
FREE Hillary from DEBT!!!
FREE Hillary from DEBT!!!

UB: He raised about $22 million, his best month ever.

I bought an over priced poster.....I hope I helped her a little bit.... : )

-but now it's time to donate to Obama.

Obama, who is Jeanne McCurdy?

"Other overseas contributors are making multiple small donations ostensibly in their own names over a period of a few days, some under maximum donation allowances, but others aggregating in excess of the maximums when all added up.

... it lists contributions made by a Jeanne McCurdy, who is always listed as unemployed, and who does not have an address at least as can be found in the files provided (and, as you might well expect, no phone number or email address either).

John did a computation of her contributions from roughly Aug. 07 through Feb/Mar of 08, and it is over $1200. She ranges from a $15 to a $400 contribution, most running $25/35 to $50. Several of her separate contributions are listed on the same day, a very curious way to make campaign contributions, which are usually in response to mailed solicitations.

It appears to us he is fronting the contributions to hide the contributors. Now, why in the hell would he do that? He doesn't want people to know who his contributors are? What an odd approach for a politician."

http://atlasshrugs2000.typepad.com/atlas_shrugs/2008/07/obama-who-is-je.html

What she SHOULD do is take all of her campaign swag and put it on eBay, right next to Confederate money, Buffalo Bills Super Bowl Champs t-shirts and the Chicago Cubs win the World Series hats.

Okay, I'll admit. That was pretty mean. But it was funny.

that's 30 million shy of Obama....I wonder how July will shake out....

If Hillery wants to raise money she needs to get out in front of the people and/or cameras.....is she still on vacation?

O-bots remain fixated on Clinton.

U B
I think 2 millions alot considering Hillary isn't running for anything and i don't feel the need to compare her numbers to Sen.Obamas since their not in competion anymore.Unity and all.......

Clinton has 23 million her donors will let her transfer to her senate campaign.

If I were Hillary, I'd get that bearded guy, you know the one who sells magic putty and orange furniture cleaner, to do a late night commercial for her. Here's how it would go:

"You've seen her in every state and you loved her on Saturday Night Live. Now, for a limited time only, you can contribute to her campaign debt. Send $5 to Help Hillary Heal and we'll send you this great t-shirt. But wait...there's more. If you send in a contribution in the next five minutes, we'll throw in the Mark Penn electoral map, absolutely free! That's one Help Hillary Heal t-shirt and one Mark Penn electoral map, all for one easy payment of five dollars. Operators are standing by. Call now!"

oh well, HIllary's debt isn't really important , but it is interesting she doesn't have enough support to get bailed out.......just like the old saying "everybody love's a winner."

tony - I was comparing McCain $ to Obama $ and Hillary to Obama.....delta 30 million and 50 million respectively.
It's only math. But her supporter should see that even a couple bucks could help her....and I think they should send it in....my opinion.....nothing more or less.

Must be a meeting of the Bitter Obots

UB

Why the spate of of bile? Supposedly this party is to come together, yet the Obama people keep up the constant slams against Clinton. Is this any way to encourage people to join in the support of Obama?

If giving money to politicians (rich ones at that) isn't insane, it's definitely irrational. No wonder the rich get richer.

Many of the Clinton supporters are maxed out and cannot give more. The remainder are struggling to pay everyday bills unlike the argula eating, suv driving Obots

Or kids who get money from their parents.

Jamie,
I said what I thought, Hillary is in debt, why not help her out? Where's the bile in that?

I suggested that she should get out in front of the people, you know the old saying out of sight out of mind?

geez....sorry you see bile in that....

Has it been a rough day here? or something?

Just felt as if you were joining in on the piling on. I'm sure scads of people such as myself sent money at the beginning of July. An awful lot of her supporters are on fixed income and sending a donation isn't easy.

Jamie,

Let's drop the pretense. Clinton folks on this list have no interest in supporting Obama. We give you an olive branch, you shoot us down by saying Obama is an Arab. We point out our candidate's virtues. You guys say that he's a phony. And then, you have the gall to cry crocodile tears when someone says something bad about St. Hillary. Personally, I could care less about trying to convince someone on this list about voting for Obama. If you're not smart enough to understand the difference between an Obama administration and a McCain administration, why waste time? It's like trying to convince someone that the earth is round, even as they spout pseudo science saying that it's flat. No bile. We first started by asking a simple question. If PUMA is so large, why can't they pay for her debt. You then decided that you wanted bile by saying I was a fountain of vitriol. Okay, now you get bile. But it's funny bile.

Typical Obama
Car and Driver says Hillary Clinton drives a Mercury Mariner Hybrid, a small SUV that gets 34 mpg in city driving. The Mariner Hybrid is a cousin to the same Ford Escape Hybrid reportedly driven by Al Gore and John Edwards.

Barack Obama picked the Chrysler 300C sedan as his running mate, according to Car and Driver. The 300C is a gas guzzler, relatively speaking, netting only 18 mpg in the city.

Btw I think the party is coming together....maybe not this tiny micro-cosism blog, but there are a lot of events and excitement starting up in Ohio - all which seems rather positive.

And there you go. This proves my point.

You guys are the political equivalent of those simpletons who send off their savings to the Sunday televangelists, hoping to buy their redemption. With all due respect.

And it's government, not a football game. I guess nerds have to cheerlead in their own way. You guys do realize you treat this shit like it's some sort of professional sport, right?

Wow.

Money associated with politics? I'm shocked, SHOCKED, that there's a connection.

The Obama supporters who post here are ignorant and willfully stupid. Water finds its own level -consider who they flock to.

People like to support winners...it's just human nature.

Hey Anon,

We won. So what does that make Clinton supporters?

Champ you certainly have fallen off the TAO wagon haven't you....?

Mocking Obama — Left, Right and Center

"Obama has no core convictions other than his own political welfare.

Obama is closer to being finished than many would like to think. I have really never thought that Clinton might be rehabilitated back into the nomination picture. Now I’d say people might be thinking, it is time to start looking for a way out of Obama."

http://noquarterusa.net/blog/2008/07/20/mocking-obama-left-right-and-center/

Wheeeee

It's a food fight!!!!!!!!
Battle of the Sock puppets!

In this corner, weighing in at not very much is long time champion sockpuppet,
MR. DEMOOOOCRAAAT

YEAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!

Assisting Mr Democrat with a hand in the sock iiiiiiiiiisssss ,
you know who!!!!!

In the other corner weighing in at(we don't know)

The eternal challenger

Anoooooneeeeemous

BOOOOOO!!!!!

Being assisted tonight with hand in the sock by, (take a guess)
Get ready to ruuuummmmmmmble

Wheeeee
Looks like fun
looks like fun
Looks like fun

Pop corn get you fresh hot popcorn.
Ice cold Coke A Cola, HEEEERE

Wheeeeeee
Your sockybaby is waiting for the action
Wheeeeeeeee

ZAP
POW
KABOOOOM

Boo hoo. Because you won't give anything but backhanded compliments to the Senator who beat her.

I think that seriously, it goes to the idea, of the very vocal group....maybe PUMAs maybe not, and why they are not helping their beloved Hillary out of debt.....2 million is nothing for 18 million voters. It's the numbers.

It leads one to believe they are a small but loud minority....and nothng more than a temporary distraction.

Let's see what the July report is before deciding that they didn't help.

We won? WE didn't win shit. You're just installing another puppet regime. Another example of how we live in a Plutocracy. I'm so happy arrogant assholes such as yourself will be responsible for the administration of our nation. Let me guess, you support Obama because you genuinely care about all people and their welfare, right?

And I said I was a Taoist, UB; never said I was a good one. Certainly no master.

One thing's for sure, I'm never gonna talk any sense to (most of, not all of) you. Holy shit. Bed time.

Jamie, what difference does it make what they think.
They're just playing you.

Any one see the video of Obama having breakfast with the troops? He looked like he really liked the food.....and he has excellent manors....but that food looked really gross.

I helped in June...July went to Obama - I hope they come through for her.

That is really what I think of the so called PUMAs. I'm not saying that the Clinton folks are overjoyed and flocking in droves to gleefully support Sen. Obama, but they will vote for him and be glad that a Democrat is in the White House.

July report? What would take them that long? It's $6 dollar a freakin' piece. A gallon and a half of gas. A couple of lattes. Five king sized Snicker bars.

These PUMA members are passionate! These PUMA members are determined! These PUMA members are vocal! But it looks like they ain't about to pull out the check book to pay.

My Phil Gramm whine of the day:

One medium Fuji apple, sold in bulk --- $1.19.
The chicken parts I boil for my dogs' dinner were $6.00 a bag last week...now they are $8.

Two lousy little plastic bags of groceries, stuff like yogurt and cottage cheese...$25.

At least we lose Bush in a few months.

"and he has excellent manors"

He acts like he is to the manor born

Wheeeee
Look for the puppet master.

They come and they go
They come and they go
They come and they go

Food fight!!!!!!!!!!

Wheeeeeeee

Oh my goodness. Good manors as a detriment! I love it.

Check the percentage of voters who give money to candidates. Most voters are clueless about almost everything political.

"They come and they go"

Can't wait until they go.

~~~~ Lattes! omg no fighting words allowed. ~~~~

DNC Cash Buys Bigoted, Anti-Choice Propaganda

http://firedoglake.com/2008/07/20/dnc-cash-buys-bigoted-anti-choice-propaganda/#more-28402

Isn't this Obama's DNC?

Yes , good manors are going to used against Obama...that takes the cake for me......lol

manor- large house

manners- something missing here

Ah, the art of the backhanded compliment. Others may say that he did this, but I choose to believe another. Great way to put that ad hominem attack out there, without appearing to be overly petty. Because you know others believe that, not you.

Wheeeeeee

Let them eat cake
Let them eat cake
Let them eat cake

Wheeeeeee

Manor born
Manor born

Wheeeeeeee
Food fight!!!!!!!!!

Numbers= assisting Mr.Democrat in his drive by tonight!!! Thats what he's been using to slam Hillary and her supporters tonight......

manners......you knew the intent....and if you didn't - it figures

B -rian, UB, and Mr D

I'm curious re your motivation when you post such caustic comments, especially in the midst of such a calm day of posts.

I figure you might be hoping to change the votes of the rest of us, or you might want to remind us of how you despise Hillary, or you might want to remind us of your faith in Obama, or you might just want to remind us of how stupid and backwards and evil you think we all are.

It's seems as if you arepicturing yourselves directing an artillery barrage down on our heads - it sincerely bafflles me.

If you really want to change our votes, it might work on me, because I've decided to vote for Obama so far, and frankly the things you say here do not speak well for your candidate.

If you just want to remind us of things you already said, it isn't necessary - or is it? I just cannot make any sense of such a strong drive to bug people.

I can't think of another possible motive for your angry talk, but I really do think you have some motive - you are doing it for a reason. that's just my opinion and I'm entitled to it,

As I said, I'm curious. This little tumor of bile that showed up so suddenly is so strikingly different from the rest of the blog that it interests me. I am very sincere in this, and am not trying to be a smart ass, or provocative. I really don't understand why you 'have' to do this.

I haven't seen Hillary is weeks, is she still on vacation?

Hillraiser Lady Lynn Forester de Rothschild whines on Fox News

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1EZJ2hN3a8

Boops,
and just what did I say that upset you? was it my mis-spelling? Or do you see my comment as "bile" like Jamie does?

I'd really like to know....

Obots - no sense of humor
and defensive

Clinton returned to the Senate over a month ago..
There was news coverage at the time. It was also recently reported she changed her hair style.

THE OBAMA MOVEMENT’S CALL FOR DEATH TO WOMEN WHO OPPOSE HIM WATCH

So far, my list includes these women.

Riverdaughter of the Confluence
Digby
Diane at JSND
Murphy at Puma PAC
Paula Abeles
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee
Patsy, Soldier For Hillary
Sugar from PA
IP from Puma PAC
Heidi Li of the Denver Group

Gang mentality.
It's nothing more than them amusing themselves.

link for 11:53 post

http://blog.pumapac.org/2008/07/16/god-will-guide-the-hand-of-judgment-that-will-strike-you-down/

Boop,

What you call bile is what we call truth telling. I'm not trying to convince you of anything. You need to convince yourself.

Once Clinton lost, she was no longer in position to call the shots. No roll call. Sorry, but that's just politics. There is no opening act.

Jamie,
no problem....I think I "got" that from a later post of yours

However, still waiting for miss Boops to spell it out to me

I hope Obama wins and wins big! So that there's no question at the end of the night.....no recounts, no waiting.....just a plain huge good old fashioned landslide.

Obama’s Birth Certificate – CHANGE you can believe in.

"As some of you may or may not know some asshat decided to track me down and vandalize my car and hang a dead mutilated rabbit from my front door in a lame attempt to intimidate me from proceeding with releasing any details of my analysis. They did succeed in delaying the report by a few days but instead of deterring me they just really pissed me off. To their credit, if I had not taken a few days off from the analysis I would have missed the most damning piece of evidence – the remnants of the previous security border. So to the demented retard who slaughtered an animal to make a point ..."

http://atlasshrugs2000.typepad.com/atlas_shrugs/

I note that every single one of the sites promoting Lynn Rothschild is a right wing, hard core Republican location.... Now you don't suppose they are trying to start trouble do you?

UB I'm actually expecting a landslide. IT would take something seriously wrong to derail this express train. That's one of the reasons I object to all of the nattering about Hillary. A man confident in his success and looking to take the reins of power shouldn't be quibbling over whether or not a lady a foot shorter than he is gets to wave at a crowd.

His supporters make him look weak with all this carping over what goodies she gets as a consolation prize.

Reporting Hillary's every move..HA HA. Obsessed the media is just Obsessed with Hillary and so it appears are some of the Obama supporters as witnessed here tonight..

Why can't we get back to the central question? Why can't all those Clinton supporter retire her debt?

It is possible for Repubs and some Dems to have a common enemy. There is so much those who only follow MSM do not know about BO and MO. The Repubs are extremely good at "opposition research" - most of what I know about the Obamas has not been posted here. The Repubs are prepared to "destroy" both of them - they have the info to do it. Hillary could survive the Repub attack/smear machine.

Mr. Destructive

Because it is not a question WE can answer. Just throwing out questions when there is inadequate information to resolve the issue, is just being a trouble maker for the enjoyment of the pastime.
For all we know everyone may have been paid in full already and we just haven't heard the report.

Oh Gordo. Just give it a break for a while. There's only so much nauseating repetition that anyone can stand. Just print the link of your latest drop off. It will be easier to ignore than the cut and paste.

We better hope for an Obama landslide. Because if he somehow loses, the Manson Family on this blog will be carving x's on their foreheads.

the amazing thing is that these 2 bozos think they're accomplishing something.....lol

leaving UB out of the bozo column, by the way.......

The best time to "hit" the Obamas (notice, I include MO) would be a few weeks before election day. The Repubs would want to create maximum chaos. The down-ticket Dems would be in turmoil - running away from Obama and the Dem party as fast as possible. The Repubs DO have the "dirt". Did any of you see Rove being very careful with his answer on H & C. (It's a DVD, not a tape!)

that's a different kind of bozo......that's ME.........saved it, did you? lol

Dear Sturgeone & DBCooper

The "shoe thing" is really very simple. It is was this election is really all about. Obama and the Appeasement Crowd of Democ"rats" want you allways to take your "shoes off" when you board a plane. Because they are afraid that a Terrorist will blow up a plane with a "SHOE BOMB" so their way of protecting you is to have "eveyrone take off the shoes and subject them to a search"

McCain wants you to keep your shoes on, and never have to take them off again because 'WE ARE GOING TO HUNT DOWN EVERY LAST ONE OF THE TERRORIST NO MATTER WERE THEY HIDE AND MAKE SURE THEY NEVER ARE ABLE TO BOMB AND KILL AGAIN.

VJ Machiavelli
http://www.vjmachiavelli.blogspot
ps You can NEVER,NEVER, show any weakness to the Terrorist. It is like the school bull, it you give in you are dead meat, but if you always fight he will one day lose and be no more.

Sorry for replying so late I was out most of the day,

that kind of bozo is under no illusions of accomplishing great things for anyone.......much less a political candidate.....

Ah, Peppermint Patsi is here! I was wondering what took you so long. Did your broom suddenly come to life and point you to the blog?

VJ.....thanks, I b'lieve i sees what ya getting at.....

The McCain campaign (or lack of one) almost seems as if he is doing one last service for his party by being a figurehead that can lose gracefully, and he's trying to do it as quietly and with as much residual dignity as possible.

What I worry about is that the coverage of Sen. Obama is so overwhelming that the crowd still controling the executive might do something horrendously stupid just to prove they aren't some residual appendix waiting to be excised from the body politic before it ruptures.

Many Democrats worry that Obama, with all his flaws, won't make the sale in November.

Polling only a 2% lead with both Gallup and Rasmussen is a problem.

His RCP average has slipped to the 4% range.

Democrats are beginning to worry.

Rasmussen also pointed out this week that both Hillary and Al Gore poll better against McCain than Senator O.

OD

A 4% popular vote lead is a comfortable electoral college win. If it moves to a consistent 6% to 8% popular, we are talking massive landslide in the electoral.

Sorry Jamie..the Democratic candidate should havea wide lead at this point.

Our only hope is that the Republicans also have a weak candidate heading toward the nomination.

We shouldn't be taking such a big risk.

OD

The Electoral college right now is 302 for Obama. That's 32 more than needed for the win.

Don't forget that Barr is taking votes from McCain.

Most President's go into office with only 42% of the popular vote.

Good Night All

Be kind to each other.

Well, it'll be an interesting few months. Usually it's Democrats against the thugs. This time we've got thugs v. thugs. Bush-team/Obama-team. Which twin has the Toni?

Obama will very possibly lose.

He has disillusioned his own supporters.

His shine is dimming.

He is just another politician in the worst sense.

His only chance of victory is his weak opponent.

We can dosomuch better.

He should be ashamed that his "new politics" is a fraud.

We can do much better.

Good Night

careful, OD.....mr bye bye will make a broom joke about you if you continue in this vein...............[shudder]

Al Franken stumbling in MN, according to CQ:

"One problem for Franken, analyst Shier said, is that the core Democratic activists who participated in the party’s caucus system are not representative of the general population.

“Doing well with a group of party activists in March in a church basement is a lot different than all Minnesotans voting on Election Day,” he said."

Sturgeone

Obama has a new official campaign plane it is called

'APPEASEMENT ONE'

http://weblogs.newsday.com/news/politics/blog/2008/07/barack_obama_new_plane.html

VJ Machiavelli
http://www.vjmachiavelli.blogspot.com
ps Look up in the sky it is bird, NO it is 'APPEASEMENT ONE"
pps I wonder if you take your shoes off when you board or can you keep them on when you fly in this plane ???

Boop, stop looking to me for validation. I'm not giving it to you. Make up your own mind and if you don't want to listen to me, then skip over my messages. And I'm not angry. I'm surprisingly chipper these days, especially when calling Clintonites cheapskates for not bailing out their candidate.

BTW, you may have maxed out, but "four million" PUMA members didn't. And we have the facts. Hillary needs cold hard cash, and for all the passion folks on this list have for her (she's got to have a roll call; Obama's disrepecting her; blah, blah, blah), it doesn't look like many are emptying their wallets for her. So we call you on it.

And spare me your "I so don't like how nasty it gets here". When I hear you pipe up against a Clintonite against Obama, you'll have a shred of credibility. I won't hold my breath.

Jamie,

Let's drop the pretense. Clinton folks on this list have no interest in supporting Obama.

Posted by Mr. Democrat

Sorry that is not true. Well wait, it depends what you mean by "supporting". I never give money to political campaigns anymore. Years ago I did. But since learning about all the high paid "professional political consultants" that rake in the dough even for their bum advice, I simply do not agree with an wealth redistribution for those living on an extremely tight budget (me) against the likes of people like Shrumm, Devine, Penn, and a cast of thousands (only in this case it is a cast of multi-millions).

And I agree with boop that we could all be a little less insulting and nasty here . It's not as bad as it's been, and I understand frustration on both side, but we should try to reign it in a bit. I am not angry that some Clinton supporters have refused to support Obama. I hope they eventually will because my Nutella Jar hasn't won any superdelegates yet! Obama does offer opportunity to take this nation in another direction; with McBush we will see just more of the same. But at the end of the day, it's everyone's own decision.

It's a long way from now to election day! Dialog is healthy!