Craig Crawford's Trail Mix

Yea hah! So long Bush!

Good morning all, trying to catch up with the posts , been in the kitchen getting ready for Thanksgiving-
Jamie- am in 110 % agreement with you, bring back the trains!
Jack- that was one of the sweetest things I've ever heard someone say about their spouse. You're both very lucky!
Sturge- love checking in and finding another quirky, off the wall, funnier than shit post of yours. You're a pisser!
Chloe- Anything arrive yet?

I disagree, Craig, the current administration has already shown no regard for the Constitution, but let's stick to the script. One President at a time, and an orderly transition on January 20th.

There's no magic bullet to turn the economy around, but if Mr. Obama's advisors can come up with reasonable ideas they can be floated anytime they feel it's prudent and the team can hit the ground running at the time proscribed by the twentieth amendment.

Bush isn't a lame duck, he is a "dead" duck. We are just marking time until Jan 20th. Officially there is nothing Obama can do, but as far as getting his message out about what he plans to do, that is important. And further, we are finally getting to see the reality of Obama, not just the vision he projected during the campaign.

It is ironic that there were so much discussion that Bush was going to completely shred the constitution and stay in office forever, now he can't wait for his term to be done. I wonder how happy they will be to see him back in Crawford.

EdVB,

Are the deer hunters out in force in Upstate NY?

"lame W duck" coined last week on pbs by niall ferguson made me lol.
not so funny however, the same prof niall had earlier warned (in a 2006 piece comparing shrub's lame duckness with outgoing hahvahd pres summers):
"....a second-term president is not necessarily a lame duck. He is also a man with nothing to lose."

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/main.jhtml?xml=/opinion/2006/03/12/do1202.xml&sSheet=/portal/2006/03/12/ixportal.html

"He is also a man with nothing to lose."

repeat over and over until jan 20

"I disagree, Craig, the current administration has already shown no regard for the Constitution, but let's stick to the script. One President at a time, and an orderly transition on January 20th."

I absolutely agree, Ed. The speculation is fun in a way -- but we are at our peril to shrug off shrub in these last couple of months. He can and is making changes that will be hard to reverse. It seems Pollyanna-ish to wish him away before Thanksgiving.

The Dark Side of the Universe finally shows up....

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/25/science/25dark.html?_r=1&hp

btw, niall ferguson would make a classy and charming guest for imus, craig.... don't mean to give you any competition and not that he could hold a candle to you our gracious host; but he would also be an entertaining challenge for ko and pretty arm candy for rachel.

see for yourself on his webpage cited at the bottom of that article. http://www.niallferguson.com/site/FERG/Templates/Home.aspx?pageid=1

So far as I can tell, Mr Bush is doing everything possible, excluding abdicating, in order to make the next couple of months accommodating to Mr Obama's legislative agenda and economic vision. If he had desired, he could have made it a hellish experience for everyone, including us.

If it would add some comfort to the process, give Jim Baker a key to the oval office--if there's any guru in the Republican Party, it is he.

I think Mr Bush sees the transition he provides as being the final chance for mitigating the horrors his administration has foisted upon the nation.

I think the first paragraph of Craig's post is off the wall. "...the imperative to take charge now." Them there's the words used to justify coups d'etat.

Bowmanc,

Yes, the hunters out early every morning. Restaurants and some churches and other organizations are running breakfast specials to take advantage of the increased pre-dawn traffic.

I haven't paid enough attention to know what Environmental Conservation did regarding permits this year, but I haven't heard any grumbling so I'm guessing permits were plentiful.

I haven't seen any deer on fenders, but that's just because I've been in the office all day.

Craig, Are you channeling Sarah Palin or Dick Cheney this morning? Obama hasn't been sworn in yet, so I challenge that he has "the right" until January. I don't want the new admin to have the same disregard for The Constitution as the current one.

That said, anything he can say/do to bolster confidence will help us all. Is this it's-time-to-tighten-our-belts statement he's supposed to give supposed to help? It may be the truth, but to say it a few days before the biggest weekend for retailers.... Sales are going to be pretty weak, even with all of the discounts & early store openings. (4 am? Are they nuts?)

"The Dark Side of the Universe finally shows up....

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/25/science/25dark.html?_r=1&hp "

Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | November 25, 2008 6:55 AM

Patsi, it could be something as Mr Cheney clearing his belongs from the Vice-Presidential Redoubt.

My last should be:

Patsi, it could be something as simple as Mr Cheney clearing his belongs from the Vice-Presidential Redoubt.

Im not sure that talking the current president into resigning early is a precedent we want to get started on..........Isnt that what they do in South America a lot?

sturge, i don't think "talking" a pres into resigning is exactly accurate re so. am. "strongly persuading" maybe.

impeachment, anyone?

Plan and preparation are fine. Working closely with people currently holding positions by those about to pick up the reins is fine. Until noon on January 20, I don't want any "taking over".

George Bush has failed upward his whole life. Right now he is dangerous simply because it's crunch time. He is already signing Presidential order one after the other to shift political appointees to civil service, releasing previously pristine lands to the oil muckers. We may not know the extent of the carnage for years.

The problem with "true believers" is that they don't doubt. To the rest of the world, he may be a disaster. To himself he is a misunderstood hero. His ethos will release its hold on government on Jan 20. Until then, there is no telling what he might do.

craig, before you get any more tar and feathers thrown at you this morning, maybe you should switch your first and second paragraphs so that it is clear that it's baker's and not crawford's apostasy bring proffered.

lame turducken.......4 elements.....lame, turd, duck and chicken......yup...........

Patd, that was Craig's interpretation of Baker's interview, which I also listened too. My take an Craig's are different.

The Title of this Salon article is "Why the Churches Fear Gay Marriage", but it is much more. It is an interview with Richard Rodriguez about the wholeness of a human being, their experiences and his analysis of "The Desert Religions".

http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2008/11/25/proposition_8_religion/index.html

I may have to buy his trilogy. They sound like a fascinating sociological treatise and interesting history of the immigrant experience, California, religion, and as a side mention being gay.

Sturg, does a lemon based sauce work well with the second element of your dish?

Yesterday's press conference and announcements and the various stories about the close working relationships now established with Obama appointees and the Shrubians...it's Obama now and Shrub is over. By the time Jan 20th rolls around -it will be just another day.

Normally on swearing in day you have pictures of the departing President and first lady heading for the helicopter as the incoming President and first lady (or gentleman someday) stand for the swearing in, all while the moving vans exchange one family's belongings for another.

I love the minutiae in the middle of all the pomp and circumstance.

I wonder if Obama is going to have a poet? There is a division in the ranks between poetic endorsements of Obama and Clinton.

Richard Rodriguez as well as having a fascinating story is a great writer. You will really like his books....worth the read.

Flate........more usual to find the second element in someone's punchbowl...............

The times are so threatening that Obama must step over (carefully) that line between administrations. Bush is totally discredited and Paulson inspires no confidence.

I did not support Obama for the nomination but I certainly wish him well in the biggest job of his life. I think he' made a good stgart and I like his view on the necessity for big, bold action to deal with the economy.

Good luck, Mr. President-Elect.

"Craig, Are you channeling Sarah Palin or Dick Cheney this morning? Obama hasn't been sworn in yet, so I challenge that he has "the right" until January. "

ROFL. Actually -- I think Craig's just on the same page as a lot of commentators are right now. This concept makes for conversation -- like we're doing right now.

But as I said earlier, keep your eye on Bush now more than ever!

Here is an article putting some perpective on how much our government is on the hook for with the bailout as it is so far.

"The $4.6165 trillion dollars committed so far is about a trillion dollars ($979 billion dollars) greater than the entire cost of World War II borne by the United States: $3.6 trillion, adjusted for inflation (original cost was $288 billion)."

http://www.ritholtz.com/blog/2008/11/big-bailouts-bigger-bucks/

Jack

"The problem with "true believers" is that they don't doubt. To the rest of the world, he may be a disaster. To himself he is a misunderstood hero."

Jamie -- That is spot on.

Also, I read that Richard Rodriguez piece this morning and it was EXCELLENT. E-Tom -- you should check it out...

The best nonperishable item to donate to your local food bank is cash. It is easy to store and very flexible.

Jack

" did not support Obama for the nomination but I certainly wish him well in the biggest job of his life. I think he' made a good start and I like his view on the necessity for big, bold action to deal with the economy.
Good luck, Mr. President-Elect. "

Skylark -- I could not agree more. I hope more people on both sides of the fence give him the opportunity to put his ideas in play. Not only do I read the right already discrediting him (that was expected) but I also see too many "progressives" second guessing his choices at every turn.

I believe he learned from mistakes both Carter and Clinton made when they brought newcomers to the White House. I'm impressed.

My charity of choice is the Salvation Army kettle.

As I buy gifts for friends and relatives, I match the amount I would spend on an individual with a gift to the kettle
They take checks too.
Jack

""coups d'etat"? Can we drop the PUMA hysterics for just one day, oh brother!"

For Christ sakes, You drop YOUR hysterics. The above posts had nothing to do with PUMAs...your new boogyman term.

Thought for the day :
" Toto, I've a feeling we're not in Kansas any more. "

1867 Alfred Nobel invents dynamite

Bush spent 8 years screwing the country, and we all want him to pull out now ?

Come on folks , climax is just 56 days away.

"As I buy gifts for friends and relatives, I match the amount I would spend on an individual with a gift to the kettle"

Good plan, Jack.

Patsi

Tacoma has several food banks open on different days of the week in different locations so that they can cover the majority of Pierce County.

I check in with them regularly to see what they need. You can either bring it to them or contribute money as most have bulk places to buy. I'm sure your area has similar church, civic, and government outlets.

Our local Safeway and probably the other supermarkets have a barrel where you can drop in contributions of boxed and canned goods. For a few months prior to the holidays, I pick up things on sale as loss leaders i.e. mac and cheese two for one, and then dump them in the barrels as soon as they come out.

"Come on folks , climax is just 56 days away."

ROFL, Bob -- and we're handcuffed to the bed!

"Our local Safeway and probably the other supermarkets have a barrel where you can drop in contributions of boxed and canned goods. For a few months prior to the holidays, I pick up things on sale as loss leaders i.e. mac and cheese two for one, and then dump them in the barrels as soon as they come out."

Same here, Jamie. My biggest concern this season - and for the last year or so, really, is that I've felt myself having to choose between the places I usually give to. I just don't have the money to give to five or six places unless I drastically cut it all down. I think that's what we'll see happening. People will continue to give, but to fewer charities.

Patsi -

Remember he told us he'd be gentle, when he talked us into this mess.

Bush is a lame fuck.

One of the other great tourist traps of the west -

The Royal Gorge.

CAÑON CITY — Eric Scott's Plan B was not pretty.

"There is no parachute. There is no safety net. There is no air bag. But there is 800 horsepower on my back," said the former TV stuntman who on Monday piloted his hydrogen-peroxide-powered jet pack across the 1,053-foot-deep Royal Gorge.

http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_11066141

-----------------------
21st century flag pole sitting.

word for the day:

priapism

Flag poles and goldfish ... Do wacka do wacka do

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxC4caeWGjQ

Ann Coulter's Jaw Wired Shut: Report

Huffington Post | November 25, 2008 07:39 AM

patd -

Somewhere long ago, I was taught that having to look up a word helped with retention of it's definition.

Thanks , thanks a lot.

obama needs one of those jetpacks...

Having a hard time with that word CB?

Sea,

I left you a post over the weekend, sorry you didn't see it. Yes, I got the candy on Saturday and it is so good...delicious. (I've over done it, of course, but can't help myself). Thanks so much, and I'll be ordering more before Christmas.

In Greek mythology, Priapus (Ancient Greek: Πρίαπος) was a minor rustic fertility god, protector of livestock, fruit plants, gardens and male genitalia. His Roman equivalent was Mutinus Mutunus. He was best noted for his huge, permanently erect penis, which gave rise to the medical term priapism.

wiki

Here's the Page 6 source on that Coulter rumor

http://www.nypost.com/seven/11252008/gossip/pagesix/we_hear_______we_hear_140601.htm

That Huffington Post head line of "Coulter Has Mouth Wired Shut" is either an early April Fool joke or absolute proof that there is a God.

I was floored when I saw that list of store closings yesterday (for some reason). It was worse than I thought. I've already stopped shopping at a lot of the stores on the list, and rarely go to the mall any more. Discount and membership stores are very popular in Texas. Ha...I fit right in. Love shopping with a cart.

I very much agree with CBobs post:
http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/11/obama-aide-targets-auto-jet-se.html#comment-176924

Before we left California, in the early 90s, there was a trend beginning in those last couple of years. They had just recently brought in a few Walmarts to Southern California (there was no Sam's Club, which I first saw here in Texas, although Ca. did have Cosco for a long time already). But they were experimenting there with the giant stores that carried everything under one roof (clothes, food, appliances, electronics, etc all in the same store) and and hoping they'd replace some of the more specialized (and expensive) stores that you find in malls. I guess that trend continued, because I didn't notice any discount stores on that list of closings (unless I missed them).

If you believe the numbers, the Walmart crowd is growing. :)

Let's all put kittens on our heads -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4l2LMVAzig

well, c-bob, you brought the.... hmm subject.... up.

jamie -
Here's yer "Atta girl".

Patd -
I'm starting to channel Rodney Dangerfield.

" I don't get no respect , I tell ya ...... "

Anyone up to the math? How much would it cost for the Federal government to pay $100,000 (less on those smaller or almost paid) on any mortgage for any household earning less that $100.000 per year (twice median income).

Probably prevent foreclosures on the majority of homes, pay off a large number of them (happy creditors), infuse a lot of money into the economy, Might be cheaper than the bail outs and would help the middle class.

Problems ?

"Let's all put kittens on our heads -"

Works every time. (cute video)

Chloe and all,

I wasn't sure of the accuracy of that list I posted yesterday and was hesitant at first to submit it. Sure enough, I got an email from Eddie Bauers (customer) late yesterday specifically referring to "rumors" on the net about their store closings. Seems they did close several in 2008, but are opening others in 2009. So who knows about the health of these stores? But I guess as always it's buyer beware about gift cards anyway.

Icelanders demand PM resign during violent protests

Sunday 23 November 2008
Thousands of Icelanders took to the street in violent protests in Rekjavik, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Geir Haarde and central bank governor David Oddsson in the wake of the country's complete financial collapse.

http://www.france24.com/en/20081123-protests-geir-haarde-resignation-financial-crisis-iceland

"buyer beware about gift cards anyway."

Ha....good advice Rez.

I bet they'll be some changes when those stores do reopen thought. A couple of years ago, all the Mervyns here in Texas folded up and went home....(I assume they're still in California).

But thanks for posting that list. If nothing else, it's a good indicator of possible trends to come. One thing we can bet on, things are changing, whether we want them to or not.

Here in Houston, things were at their worst in the late 80's (before we got here) and still bad in the early 90's but picking up. And it's been up ever since, because so many people have moved here. I just don't see the problems here where I am. People seem to be spending more money than ever and most seem to be working (so far).

Wolverine fights off 2 wolves from their kill -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VoKioxH-5Q

Chloe -

Mervyns went under this fall, everywhere.

oh.....

Well, I'm going to go shopping for an infant car seat. Got a new grand baby arriving in about a month or so. See you all later.

oops, forgot this:

A 'Wealth Effect' in Reverse
"But now the wealth effect is reversing. As stock and home values drop, Americans are scrambling to increase savings and curb spending. The plausible math is daunting. Since September 2007, Americans' personal wealth has dropped about $9 trillion, says economist Nigel Gault of IHS Global Insight. A common estimate is that every dollar's change in wealth causes people to change their spending by 5 cents. If so, the hit to consumer spending would be $450 billion ($9 trillion times .05). Gault thinks the effect would occur over several years

With time, economic slumps correct themselves as borrowers repay debts, surplus inventories are sold, industries consolidate and government policies promote recovery. They may now. But the mechanics of this cycle are sufficiently different from any since World War II as to raise doubts. Americans are less upset by hardships they've experienced than by those they imagine."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/24/AR2008112402120.html

Papercraft turkey

Here's something for the less culinarily-inclined this Thanksgiving: a beautiful, glistening perfect papercraft turkey for you to print and fold.

http://boingboing.hexten.net/2008/11/25/papercraft-turkey.html

Mervyns will remain open through the HOliday season with sales to liquidate stock. The prices should be good, but no returns will be accepted, so be careful what you purchase

http://www.mervyns.com/Aboutmervyns.aspx?id=1760

Bailout costs more than Marshall Plan, Louisiana Purchase, moonshot, S&L bailout, Korean War, New Deal, Iraq war, Vietnam war, and NASA's lifetime budget -- *combined*!

http://boingboing.hexten.net/2008/11/25/bailout-costs-more-t.html

Jamie, I'm 'assuming' they still own Target (which I frequent). If so, the discount end of their business is surviving (I guess).

key words: assume and guess. :)

this article hits it right on the money !!!!! good writing !!!
bushie is wagging his own tail away !!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-t7PmonBEA

goldieshouse.piczo.com

Thanks Jamie -

We lost the one here a few months ago.

obamas treasury secretary is going to be the same as
the bus policy on economics

Geithner is clearly a 47-year-old wonder boy.

A graduate of Dartmouth, he has a master's degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, did a turn with Henry Kissinger's consulting firm, a stint in the Clinton administration and, for the last five years, has been the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

Related Articles
Geithner, rescue-team veteran, has head start in seizing reins
Today in Business with Reuters
Fed announces $800 billion effort to unfreeze creditBHP drops hostile bid for Rio TintoGlobal stocks rise on Fed aid programsHe will effectively lead the team Obama has chosen to mend a crippled economy. That's important because they won't just be debating economic theory — they will be making deals Wall Street-style, negotiating billion-dollar bailouts and restructuring entire industries on behalf of their client, the taxpayers.

But Geithner's involvement in several ultimately ill-fated efforts to buttress the American financial system is the very reason some Wall Street CEO's — a number of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of piquing the man who regulates them — question whether he's up to the challenge.

"We have only two things to say about Tim Geithner, who we do not know: AIG and Lehman Brothers," said Christopher Whalen of Institutional Risk Analytics. "Throw in the Bear Stearns/Maiden Lane fiasco for good measure," he said, referring to the site of the New York Federal Reserve, where many rescue discussions took place.

"All of these 'rescues' are a disaster for the taxpayer, for the financial markets and also for the Federal Reserve System as an organization. Geithner, in our view, deserves retirement, not promotion."

Ouch.

"He was in the room at every turn of the crisis," said another executive who participated in several such confidential meetings with Geithner. "You can look at that both ways."

While Henry Paulson Jr., the current Treasury secretary, has taken a drubbing for the changeable nature of the government's efforts to bolster the financial industry — some of which clearly contradicted each other — Geithner has managed, for the most part, to remain unscathed. He's been widely praised as a bright, articulate out-of-the box thinker who is a bailout expert, to the extent anyone can truly be an expert at fast-changing emergencies.

Behind the scenes, Geithner was the point person for weeks of sleep-deprived Bailout Weekends. It was Geithner, not Paulson, for example, who put together the original rescue plan for the American International Group.

And, of course, Geithner also oversaw and regulated an entire industry whose decline has delivered a further blow to an already weakened American economy. Under his watch, some of the biggest institutions that were the responsibility of the New York Fed — Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers, Merrill Lynch and most recently, Citigroup — faltered. While he was one of the first regulators to smartly articulate the potential for an impending disaster, a number of observers question whether he went far enough to stop the calamity.

Perhaps what has most people on Wall Street stirring is Geithner's role in the fall of Lehman. At the time of its bankruptcy, he, along with Paulson, appeared to be the most vocal in supporting the government's refusal to bail out the firm, according to people involved in various meetings. With hindsight, many in the financial industry blame a deepening of the global financial crisis on the government's decision to let Lehman crumble.

Perhaps not surprisingly, there have been moves afoot in recent weeks by some in the New York Fed and Obama team to put distance between Paulson and Geithner, whose salary was $398,200 last year and who will take a pay cut to $191,300 in his new role.

A History Of Museums, 'The Memory Of Mankind'
All Things Considered, November 24, 2008 ·
If you add up the attendance for every major-league baseball, basketball, football and hockey game this year, the combined total will come to about 140 million people. That's a big number, but it's barely a fraction of the number of people who will visit American museums this year.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=97377145

RE: gift cards....

Rats, Rez -- I just bought a gift card from Brooks Brothers...is that company still solvent? That was the only thing my son wanted except the new foreign policy book from Brzezinski, Scowcroft, and Ignatius....

For those keeping track, HuffPo has a whole page dedicated to Cabinet appointments both named and rumored.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/news/obama-cabinet

Bailout costs more than Marshall Plan, Louisiana Purchase, moonshot, S&L bailout, Korean War, New Deal, Iraq war, Vietnam war, and NASA's lifetime budget -- *combined*!

greenback dollar
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9Jh4KjPP-o

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/11/the-presidentrightnowelect.html#comment-177012

The Bailout doesn't cost that much.
But the monitary commitment is that much. Much of that is in the form of loans, which we should get most of it back with interest.

Still it is a lot of money the American people have put at risk for a low rate of return.

Jack

lol @ Patsi,
I think that store closing list has several errors. Don't know who owns BB, but it appears Econ Chicken Little abounds on the net; so I wouldn't sweat it. If I had on my G Man hat, I'd bet the rumors are all from RWM and anti-Obama folks.

Craig, What is the definition of Change Again?

http://imustimes.wordpress.com/2008/11/25/imus-fat-larry-summers/

Are you going to be on Imus in the Morning soon? You should be warned, Imus has put himself on a course of prednisone and viagra according to Monday's show.....just a heads up.

Patd -
Kingston Trio - Greenback Dollar > Oh yeah.

arlo changing his name to chrysler
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daBx_PBrvSE&feature=related

The New Çhrîsty MînstreIs - Green Green

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXlS1hBueIE

tom paxton changing his name to fannie mae

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etUq7IY_7Mc&feature=related

Here's an addition to your YouTube collection:

Tapeworm removed from woman's brain....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjsbvyk-UUU

who run barter town

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hgq4w4dqKsU

That's what I love about the net, you can go from The New Çhrîsty MînstreIs to Tapeworm removed from woman's brain.... in 3 links.

"A number of policy changes at both state and federal levels have left basic cash assistance programs scarce... On the federal level, only about 40% of families eligible for cash assistance under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program actually receive it."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20081125/us_time/08599186184300

Did McCain step in it again? He just congratulated Janet Napolitano for her appointment to Homeland Security. Now this was pretty well known, but I don't think an "official" announcement has been made for the security team.

if i were a rich man
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBHZFYpQ6nc

Money Makes The World Go Around

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkRIbUT6u7Q

One Silver Dollar

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ynb8m8MNx8

I heard Obama today when he announced more of his cabinet folks. He also did a short press conference.

He sounds GOOD! He's saying the RIGHT things, and I'm liking it very much.

It's too damned bad that so many folks were oblivious to or ignored or didn't want to believe just how BAD Bush was back in 2003 and voted him in AGAIN.

The comparison between Bush and Obama is stark.

tt

Pennies From Heaven

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxVXNWdHDq8

I Found A Million Dollar Baby

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbPeLevi-uQ

"Ann Coulter's Jaw Wired Shut: Report:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/11/25/ann-coulters-jaw-wired-sh_n_146248.html

tt

Gold Fever

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzVM6Q4YwAA

Dr. Dealgood:
Listen all! This is the truth of it. Fighting leads to killing, and killing gets to warring. And that was damn near the death of us all.
Look at us now! Busted up, and everyone talking about hard rain! But we've learned, by the dust of them all...
Bartertown learned.
Now, when men get to fighting, it happens here! And it finishes here! Two men enter; one man leaves ......
Thunderdome's simple. Get to the weapons, use them any way you can. I know you won't break the rules, because there aren't any.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/11/the-presidentrightnowelect.html#comment-177035

TT

I put that up earlier as absolute proof that there is a God.

Yes, Jamie, there is a Santa.

tt

gimme some money
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-BYzaDwNoE

Useful site: Who knows who in politicas, business, and the Arts

http://news.muckety.com/

I know Santa Claus is real. It was God where I had severe doubts. :-)

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico -- Armando Rodríguez, at El Diario newspaper, was the top crime reporter in the deadliest city in Mexico. He had seen it all. But this was different. This was personal. Earlier this month, someone had hung the decapitated body of a local drug thug from a bridge on the airport road. Later the head appeared downtown at the Plaza of Journalists, wrapped in a plastic bag, carefully placed at the foot of a statue of a newsboy hawking papers.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/24/AR2008112402776.html?nav%3Dhcmoduletmv&sub=AR

Hmm....I can think of some cable types who are being wasted in Washington....send 'em to Juarez, where they can make a real difference.

This is for Solar if he is lurking out there. It just kid of reminds me of you. :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLFbBv5W9QI

I love Spinal Tap. I suggest anyone who hasn't seen the movie to see it. WARNING! Tongue should be planted firmly in cheek while watching this flick.

Isn't Obama going to put a stop to the building of that silly border fence between us and Mexico?

Typepad SUCKS ... I have written two posts that say I am not logged into Typepad even though I have been. Geez.

Elton Montello

JEY BOY JET GIRL

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KAXvTvO0TI

Also I am proud to announce that "I am HOMOSAPIEN too"
Thanks to Pete Shelley of The Buzzcocks
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FVDzCHqlqg

Hey ET-do you know anything about the future of the fence?

Oh ET- I still have that on an LP. :) Gonna take ya round the world!

"Anyone up to the math? How much would it cost for the Federal government to pay $100,000 (less on those smaller or almost paid) on any mortgage for any household earning less that $100.000 per year (twice median income).

Probably prevent foreclosures on the majority of homes, pay off a large number of them (happy creditors), infuse a lot of money into the economy, Might be cheaper than the bail outs and would help the middle class.

Problems ?"

Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | November 25, 2008 10:47 AM

Let's try this instead.

Give every family who's paid off their mortgage $100,000 to partially offset the loss of equity in their homes, and the loss of equity in their financial assets resulting from the unwise borrowings by current mortgagees
.

today's pirate fix

Why Don't We Hang Pirates Anymore?
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122757123487054681.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Two more songs to share that I loved in the past...

Peter Schilling
Major Tom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1Hs2AQwDgA&NR=1

and the lovely Kate Bush
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BW3gKKiTvjs
I bought her album "The Kick Inside" just because ... I liked the album cover.. hahahah

Craig,
Way off base on this one....this is a nation of laws and we have one president....PEO will have his chance soon enough....until then Bush is president and needs to do his best.
I think it is pragmatic and wise to consult the incoming president to ease the transition.

Flatus- do this math for me please. If the government gave a stimulus directly to the people of, say. three billion dollars, how much would that be for each and very American citizen?

Rosie, it would be about $1000.

The next question is, how much of that $1000 will go to making more American jobs, or protecting American's homes?

Oh, sorry Rosie, forgot the decimal point. It should read $10.00

$3 billion divided by 300 million citizens is $10.00
That's a couple of beers and a tip....laughs

Ok, ok so that wouldn't work. I just think about how it is up here around PFD time
You can't get into the electrionics stores, funiture stores , car dealerships and etc. It definatly works for us up here. People don't save it, they spend the hell out of it.

A good sized chunk of money, say $3000 per citizen would go a long way towards making a real difference. People could us it to help pay off their bills, or do what we Americans do best. Think of how many people would get that big screen tv they always wanted.

Rosie, the wealth in Alaska comes from Alaskan seafood and Alaskan oil that is converted into exports. That's not the way it works in the lower 48. Down south, everything is broken.

I know, but I get frustered and want to say "well, fix it." I just think some of the bailout money would be better spent going directly to the consumer.

"Think of how many people would get that big screen tv they always wanted. "

Interesting. Am I the only person who doesn't want a big screen television?

Instead of sending a check to people, cut their taxes. If they don't pay taxes they are probably already getting money/benefits from government programs.

This band, RUMORS OF THE BIG WAVE played live on my radio show once...
This song is about earth religion and how the church persecuted and killed women out of fear of their pagan practices and of the witches ... The song is called "BURNING TIMES"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCLN0cLybyw

And wow, I was looking for a Melanie song called CYCLONE and I found Cher doing a cover of Brand New Key... Brilliant animation, and Cher sounds like Melanie IMPROVED.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-0gs9xhjLw

:-)

Bow-there's just something different about getting it in one big chunk, like at tax return time. It's almost like 'free' money and people just take it out and spend it.
ET-you got me trippin' down memory lane again. :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4O1A-mmBWw

"Let's try this instead.

Give every family who's paid off their mortgage $100,000 to partially offset the loss of equity in their homes, and the loss of equity in their financial assets resulting from the unwise borrowings by current mortgagees"

Nice try Flatus, but you'll have to settle for this piece of settled law. --Virtue is its own reward.

Bob, thanks for the GREEN GREEN song.. Barry McGuire and The New Christy Minstrels. That was my second non-Peter Pan 45 rpm record I got as a little kid. The first was Herman's Hermits... Gram bought it for me from Zayre's in Columbia Heights, MN. A week later Zayre's burned down.

So this was my first non-Peter Pan record...

Actually, I may have had the Chipmunks version first. I had their Chipmunks a go-go album. Prepare to be horrified!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAiiaYV6Fb0

Meanwhile..> Herman's Hermits...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkK03OeCPfM

Jeez did Peter's mother know he was up so late? Looks like a kid!

Yowza! I never knew just how spot on Spinal Tap had it.

Bowmarc doesn't know too much about governmental programs if he believes that they are sufficient to live on...

I recommend reading this book:

Mean Season (Paperback)
by Fred Block (Author), Richard A. Cloward (Author), Barbara Ehrenreich (Author)

http://www.amazon.com/Mean-Season-Fred-Block/dp/0394744500

Description: "From Library Journal
This is a spirited reaffirmation of the humane values of the American "welfare state" as well as a sharp attack on the Reagan Administration for trying to dismantle the "safety net" that now protects the unemployed, dependent children, the aged, the disabled, and the very poor. The authors reject the charges that public welfare is a drag on the economy, an incentive to immorality, and ultimately a cruel hoax on the needy. Instead, they argue that there are still big holes in the "safety net," to be mended with better health insurance and adequate income support for the very poor. Liberals are chastised for falling into theoretical and moral disarray and thus failing to ward off conservative attacks on these issues. For larger collections. Harry Frumerman, formerly with Economics Dept., Hunter Coll., CUNY"

And on that note, I've got to say goodnight... sorry I didn't respond to your question on the Wall Rosie... and I was inspired to share songs because of C-Bob !! Thanks Bob... you're great and you got me thinking about the Green Green song again. And thinking of my Gram... who still holds a big space in my heart.

Goodnight all...

E-Tom

Hey question: If you have invested in mutual funds a 401.k .. and you pulled it out and put it into a money market savings account instead, do you think now is the time to put it back into the mutual funds?

Feel free to send personal notes via Facebook...

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1441770734&ref=profile

Oh and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Craig TOMORROW !!!

Patsi
I agree with you, we have to watch bush until that presidential pen he has --has been retired ,,,what also needs careful scrutiny is all the other busies----i seem to remember his little bro. getting a big gov,contract (education or something---books?

Rosie----youv'e seen my bottom-(spinal tap) ---what's that they say about ,,fair play,,,oh yeah,,,show me---never mind i already know :-)))

Jack ---thanks---the second guy( in front of the 2 women) when it starts is what i look like big ears and all,,only taller and bigger---im one third Greek--one third mexican-spanish---one third indian--
and hard to describe,, but that is close.

http://www.youtube.com/user/UISTMAN59

Pogo! Where are you when I need a lawyer??

Yowza! --turn that down---i can hear you all the way from chicago-----Palin can see the Ruszkeis form AK--and i can hear u all the way from ChicagoRidge il---have fun last night ?

Patsi---no word on our little hippo friend yet for little Maria----keeping fingers crossed

ET,
I never said that gov't programs are sufficient to live on. They aren't and they shouldn't be.

ahhhhhh....
back home from the hospital and my parents...... just sittin' here with some Crystal Lite and readin' the posts.....

I don't think Craig is serious about Obama becoming president now...... bet he just had a bit of fun this morning thinking "what if"..... and besides.... he's had to endure Bushy as much as the rest of us have had to for the last 8 years....

and if James Baker is embarrassed by Bushy...... GOOD!
he is the one who orchestrated all that crap down in Florida with the recount in 2000......

Flatus.... I think Pogo is down in Cancun.... but hey..... I like your idea about those of us who don't have mortgages.... :0)

Jack--wrong link,,this is the one

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TN3HTdndZec&feature=related#

Renee, absent Polo, you and I will have to shoulder the burden. Anyone else want to join in?

"and if James Baker is embarrassed by Bushy...... GOOD!
he is the one who orchestrated all that crap down in Florida with the recount in 2000..."

He sure did, Renee. And the Democrats just caved in, like on the military absentee ballot issue. No postmarks? Nonsense.

Flatus...
it's a hard job..... but someone has to play at being fiscally responsible....

I want special compensation for those us who don't carry any credit card debt too!....

back to the farm movement redux. iow, plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose

fascinating 1933 time mag article
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,745015,00.html

Patsi----

"The Dark Side of the Universe finally shows up"....

Cool stuff--------they can't prove it yet in mathematical language yet---but it is believed that ---- all there was in the beginning - was all black matter, with a tiny energy pin head (less---atom size pin head) that exploded 4 bill years ago,,,,they also say that at one point it will all go back (black holes absorbs all the existing energy ) to the way it was,,,and it will start all over again??? lots of questions,,,when, why etc...... like an off ---on switch.
Some believe that two of all the dimensions that existed rubbed, collided hard enough to cause the big bang?,

and Chloe....
did I actually read that you're expecting a new grand baby...... congrats!

ETom...... typepad is a bitch for me too.... I keep having to reregister every other day.....

Nice message from the ACLU on Prop 8:

"Here’s my biggest piece of advice for when Prop 8 and gay marriage come up over the Thanksgiving dinner table: Don’t shy away from the conversation. Do what I’m hoping thousands of ACLU supporters will do over the holidays. Talk to someone you’ve never talked to about same sex marriage and explain that it’s just not right to deny someone their freedom because of who they are or who they love.

And you can tell them something else: Tell them the fight to stop Prop 8 from disrupting people’s lives and denying gay couples the full measure of their freedom is far from over. Tell them your ACLU has gone to court to stop Prop 8."

ET, Renee

I got rid of every existing cookie for Typepad. There were like three or four of them. Then, once they were all gone, I allowed the browser to save persistent cookies for the Typepad site.

It took me about a week to sort things out, but it finally started working the way it's supposed to.

CHLOE,
Congrats!!

Chole---congrats on the new grand baby,,

" seem to remember his little bro. getting a big gov,contract (education or something---books?"

Yep, Solar....when NCLB went through, guess who had a brother just getting a standardized test company up and running?

PS -- don't worry about the Mac toys -- I'm still tracking them too!

Renee,
I've been meaning to congratulate you on being the featured artisan at one of your galleries, and doing so well with your designs. It's always nice to have your talents recognized and rewarded, and even better when you also love your work.

(Thanks for the congrats and thanks to Solar and Flatus too.)
.........................

"it is believed that ---- all there was in the beginning - was all black matter, with a tiny energy pin head (less---atom size pin head) that exploded 4 bill years ago,,,,they also say that at one point it will all go back (black holes absorbs all the existing energy ) to the way it was,,,and it will start all over again?"

Solar, I have a very hard time comprehending this type of information for some reason. I do know that I particulary don't like that part that says it will all go back and that blak hole will absorb all the existing energy again. Maybe I just don't want to understand it. :)

Solar,

Your linking that song above reminded me of my favorite Arlo Guthrie song.

Arlo Guthrie /City of New Orleans
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5EDJBhER0M

Chole---on C-span book tv---they had an astronomer, and some others that were discussing physical sciences-----about energy, and matter---i should have that taped and will look at to give a better picture of it

"no word on our little hippo friend"

Patsi, If Solar doesn't find your stuff, please list all three again and I'll look in my area.
..........................

"Oh and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Craig TOMORROW !!! "

Craig, How old? (if it's not too rude to ask - if it is rude of me, then don't answer). :)

"on C-span book tv---they had an astronomer, and some others that were discussing physical sciences-----about energy, and matter--"

It's time for me to start turning on my TV more again. I'll look it up and see if I can find anything. Thanks for telling me about it Solar..........it's something I would find very interesting (although unsettling)

"Am I the only person who doesn't want a big screen television?"

Patsi, I would have to say YES. :)
..........................

"Instead of sending a check to people, cut their taxes"

Waaaay too logical Bow...it'll never happen.

" Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. American ! "

- You've won :

" A couple of beers and a tip ....... !! "

Adios ,
George Bush
President of the United States of America

" - You've won :

" A couple of beers and a tip ....... !! "

Eight years and we've won?
I think we lost, and now we're trying to cut our losses.

Chloe

It is just an understanding like------everything that u see right now, like u and me will not exist at some point----the world is 4 bill years old---think about it in terms of---the world will exist for 100 years---it is 50 yrs old now-------no need to be unsettled bout things that u can't control------that is what makes us diff from all other animals,,we ask questions,,,when, where, how

The universe they say is expanding at a faster pace than ever (getting larger) our sun has used 50% of its energy also---nothing to worry about,,,oh until another 3-5 billion years----by then u will be a real old grammy,hahaha,,,and me not such a bright(smart ass) solar.:-)) I will find that program and give u the name of it.

This Greek drama this year has got to have some sort of cherry on the top .
I want Nancy to start impeachment proceedings. I don't want those people to come home until, until, ................ George Bush has to pardon himself.
Let that man pay some sort of price for the wreckage he's left in my country.

"that is what makes us diff from all other animals,,we ask questions,,,when, where, how"

I know you'll think I'm crazy for saying this, but are you sure that's a benefit. I actually know it is, and thought is what makes all this worthwhile, but it also gets in the way of living sometimes.

Del Shannon * RUN AWAY *

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OwkQPSsIxc

"I want Nancy to start impeachment proceedings."

CBob, after all these years and all the leadway they've given this administration, what's going to change now? And why now? I can't picture her doing anything that is not orchestrated.

Sure im sure it's a benefit -----if you look back at how things started,,,,,and some idea of the future---it can be exiting-----all of this b s in the middle that we are going thru right now will be in the past,,,cpl things----there is never any future ,,,,always stuck on the present.

We pray to live a long life------and then we are afraid die,,,,,,we are also the only animals that goes thru this type of fear.

that is afraid to die

You're takin' me too seriously , ........ boys and girls.

It's just steam coming off the key board.

Patsi - No, your are not alone in NOT wanting a big screen tv. My sister has a new sony 'bravia' (?) and it's about 40", I think, and it's not huge - plenty enough for me.

Socrates supposedly said that there were a number or things he neither needed or wanted - I agree with him.

"Adios ,
George Bush
President of the United States of America"

You know, the sorriest thing about these past eight years is that Bush truly believes he'll go down in history as the man who began the peace process in the Middle East. I listened to some of his speech in Fort Campbell today, and he is completely delusional. Obviously, he wasn't going to self-critique to the marines, but still....

let's get the party started!

hey all you Crawdads..... in honor of my French Canadian cousins down in the bayou.....

Tad Benoit with "Crawfishin'"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVRFii1j15M

Hey Chloe, Arlo just played in New Bedford., wished I could have gone, haven't been off this rock in a while. He is so great at a concert, he just sort of sits and sings, talks some, sings some more. Very clever.

Renee -- for your Cajun cousins...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moHdQAvsPe4&feature=related

Hey Renee, reading up thread (start form the bottom-a way of life) and I was thinking the same thing about Craig having fun with that post. Toss something into the lab, see what they do!

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/11/the-presidentrightnowelect.html#comment-177104
"all of this b s in the middle that we are going thru right now will be in the past.....always stuck on the present"

Solar, in an important way, the present is all there is. We're always taking someone else's word for the past. The further back we go, the more this is true.
....................

"It's just steam coming off the key board."

CBob, that steam coming off the key board is thought (energy). Right?

"haven't been off this rock in a while."

Sounds like a great rock to live on Sea. I wouldn't leave either. I don't know if I would have gone to that concert anyway. I like to remember things the way they were. (But I love that song) :)

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/11/the-presidentrightnowelect.html#comment-177110
"let's get the party started!"

P!nk- get this party started
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2-kWXlKTUA

Certification of Live Birth a clear forgery

"... in Hawaii, a Certification of Live Birth is issued within a year of a child's birth to those who register a birth abroad or one that takes place outside a hospital.

... documents posted on Mr. Obama's website www.fightthesmears.com, Daily Kos (a pro-Obama blog) and factcheck.org, (a pro-Obama political research group), were found to be altered and forged.

1. The problem of the pixels

2. There is no second fold line

3. There's a blurred border

4. The border is one that is used in 2007 COLBs

The seal and signature stamp are from a 2008 COLB

http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=81943

Patsi..... Chloe.....

YEEEEEHAAAAAAW!

now the party's going.....

classic Arlo....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g266Uwp6ZnI

"The problem of the pixels: When you have a green patterned document such as this, there should be a lot of green pixels from the background showing up between the letters that appear on the certification. But in this case, instead of green pixels, there are white and grey pixels between the letters, which result when you replace existing text with other text."

http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=81943

pixels?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qFRN_0qtmc

stan freberg......la canta de la barca banana..........

Hey Patsi.....

here's you Hippo.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g266Uwp6ZnI

oooooppppps....

Patsi......
here's your Hippo again.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVHc-Ts01ik&feature=related

Another Obama mentor, Dr. Khalid al-Mansour, calls for the murder of white people.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpnaZj6Bx1c&feature=related

Some of my friends:

Capt. Hoot man
Blacknuts Blanchard
Crustaceo
Snake
Stagger Lee
Eagle Beak
Round-head
Chainsaw Brain
Bugshit

I gotta get some new friends........
Boney DuBose

Who does Obama think we are?. . A Birth Certificate with only one fold. C'mon, that's BS.

I bet he doesn't know June Bug or French Fry. lol

What have you got against Whitey Shafer?

GORDO,

I think that all this is falling on deaf ears. This was in today's Nashua Telegraph. While you may not like it, Obama will be sworn in on January 20, 2009

Published: Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Panel rejects challenge against Obama's win

CONCORD- The state Ballot Law Commission voted to reject a challenge to President-elect Barack Obama's candidacy Monday. Joseph Haas, a Concord gadfly, had asked the five-member commission to disqualify Obama because only American-born citizens can be elected.

Haas produced copies of affidavits from African clergy members claiming that Obama had been born in Kenya.

Obama's father came from Kenya and returned there after divorcing his mother but the Obama campaign has produced records that show he was born in Hawaii. The commission voted unanimously against the petition. "We all agreed that we did not even have the jurisdiction legally to be reviewing this,'' said commissioner Brad Cook.

And Renee -- one more from South Louisiana --

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yg4N145CS74&feature=related

Here is some encouraging news

Blight-resistant chestnut tree on Seacoast.

http://granitegeek.org/2008/11/25/blight-resistant-chestnut-tree-on-seacoast/

In July 2007, the American Chestnut Foundation introduced pollen from a chestnut tree in Tennessee — one resistant to the fungus known as Asian blight — to cross-pollinate a hardy chestnut tree discovered on the 125-acre property of Bill and Nancy Yates, which is located along Chestnut Hill Road.

The tree from Farmington produced 154 viable seeds and 100 of them were planted in Shieling State Forest in Peterborough in May alongside a 19-tree control group made of American, Chinese and a hybrid American-Chinese chestnut trees. As of Sept. 15, 102 of the 119 total trees were still alive, including 87 from Farmington.

"A case that challenges President-elect Barack Obama's name on the 2008 election ballot citing questions over his citizenship has been scheduled for a "conference" at the U.S. Supreme Court.

The case, unsuccessful at the state level, had been submitted to Justice David Souter, who rejected it. The case then was resubmitted to Justice Clarence Thomas. The next line on the court's docket says: "DISTRIBUTED for Conference of December 5, 2008.

If four of the nine justices vote to hear the case in full, oral argument may be scheduled."

http://worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=81484

(On a netcast last night, Donofrio said he expects 4 or more cases like his to be at SCOTUS soon.)

Jesus--the real one

The crowd surrounding Jesus certainly had not had time to adopt a nonviolent lifestyle. Even his most intimate disciples were clearly not prepared to turn the other cheek. At least two of them had sobriquets which suggest that they were linked with militant activists. One was Simon, called the zealot, and the other was Judas, called Iscariot, There is an uncanny resemblance between Iscariot and sicarti, the word used by Jjosephus to identify the knife-wielding, homicidal dagger men. And in certain Old Latin manuscripts is actually called Zelotes.
Two others disciples had warlike nicknames---james and John, the sons of Zebedee. They were called Boanerges which Mark translated from Aramaic as sons of thunder.and which could also mean the fierce, wrathful ones, The sons of Zebedee deserved their reputation. At one point in the gospel narrative they want to destroy an entire Samaritan village because the people had not welcomes Jesus. The gospels also indicate that some of the disciples carried swords and were prepared to resist arrest. Just before being taken into custody, Jesus said, He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. This prompted the disciples to show him two swords---indicating that at least two of them were not habitually armed but had kept their swords concealed under their clothes ...like dagger men. All four gospels record the fact that the disciples put up armed resistance at the moment of Jesus capture. After the Passover supper, Jesus and his inner circle slipped away to a garden in Gethsemane where they prepared to spend the night. guided by Judas Iscariot, the High Priest and his men burst in on them as Jesus was praying and the rest were sleeping. The disciples drew their swords and a brief struggle ensued, during which one of the temple policemen lost an ear.As soon as the police grabbed Jesus, the disciples stopped fighting and ran away into the night. According to Matthew, Jesus told one of his disciples to sheath his sword, a command which the disciple obeyed but was obviously unprepared to hear, since he immediately deserted.

In the gospel narrative, the price given to Judas resembles Herodian denunciation of John the Baptist. If Judas was in fact Zelotes-a zealot-bandit-he might have betrayed Jesus for any number of tactical or strategic reasons, but never simply for money,( one theory is that Jesus wasn'tbieng militant enough.) By identifying Jesus motivation as pure greed, the gospels may simply have repeated the kind of distortion that Josephus and the and the Romans automatically employed with respect to all zealot-bandits. But zealot-bandits were prepared to kill without getting paid-that at least should be clear from the events described in the previous chapter.
Why did the disciples all run away, and why did Simon Peter deny Jesus three times before the night was over? Because as Jews they shared with Caiapohas the lifestyle consciousness of a peaceful messiah. Although the gospels clearly intend to deny Jesus the capacity to carry out violent political acts, they preserve what seems to be an undercurrent of contradictory events and sayings which link John the Baptist and Jesus to the military-messianic tradition and implicate them in the the guerrilla warfare. The reason for this is that by the time the first gospel was written, nonpeaceful events and sayings which had been attributed to Jesus by eyewitnesses and by unimpeachable apostolic sources were widely known among the faithful. The writers of the gospels shifted the balance of the Jesus cult;s lifestyle consciousness in the direction of a peaceful messiah, but they could not entirely expunge the traces of continuity with the military-messianic tradition. The ambiguity of the gospels in this regard is best demonstrated by arranging some of Jesus most peaceful statements in on column and the unexpected negations in an other. Blessed are the peacemakers (Matthew 5:9)--Think not that I am come to send peace on earth, I come not to send peace but a sword (Matthew 10:34)------Whosoever shall smite thee on the right cheek, turn to him the other also,(Matthew 5:39)---Suppose ye that I come to give peace on earth? I will tell you nay, but rather division.(Luke12:51)------All that take the sword shall perish with the sword. (Matthew 26:52)--He that hath now sword, let him sell his garments and buy one. (Luke 22:36)------Love thine enemies, do good to them that hate you. (Luke 6:27)-----And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove the them out of the temple....and poured out the changers money and overthrew the tables. (John 2:15)

At this point the obviously false construction traditionally given to what Jesus said when de was asked if Jews ought to pay taxes to the Romans.”Render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's and unto God that which is God's” This could mean only one thing to the Galileans who had participated in Judas of Galilee had said that everything in Palestine belonged to God. But the authors of the gospels and their readers probably knew nothing about Judas of Galilee, so they preserved Jesus highly provocative response on the mistaken assumption that it showed a genuinely conciliatory attitude toward the Roman Government. After they had captured him, the Romans and their Jewish clients continued to treat Jesus as if he were the leader of an actual or intended military-messianic uprising. The Jewish high court put him on trial for having made blasphemous and false prophecies He was quickly found guilty and turned over to Pontius Pilate for a second trial on secular charges. The reason for this seems clear. Popular messiahs in colonial contexts are always guilty of a politico-religious crime, never merely a religious one.The Romans had no interest in Jesus violation of the natives religious codes, but they were vitally concerned with his threat to destroy the colonial government.

"Donofrio said he expects 4 or more cases like his to be at SCOTUS soon."

Sure G Man, and I bought a MEGA Lotto ticket tonite and I plan on winning 96 million. Good bye cruel world! lol

"A lawyer who is playing a key role in a California lawsuit urging officials to prevent the state's 55 Electoral College votes from being recorded for Barack Obama until questions about his citizenship are resolved says he's organizing plans to challenge, even after the inauguration, every order, every proposal, every piece of paperwork generated by Obama.

"We will file lawsuits on his actions, every time. As long as we have money , we will keep filing lawsuits until we get a decision as to his citizenship status,"...

"We're already talking to groups who are willing to be plaintiffs," he said."

http://worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=82033

Solar,

i knows it doesn't jive with an immaculate conception but wasn't one of the disciples Jesius' brother/. . (James?)

Rez---i can't name nnow,,,but he had a few bros,,and sisters as well----all down the line form his father Joseph----that was in the lineage from King David------about immaculate conception-------remember that during this time women that had children out of wedlock would have been put to death------they did not know who would be the messiah until Jesus showed the ability to be the one...lots of things are accepted without proof---if the most of holy was to be told that his wife was cheating on he would demand proof of it----but yet they ask for no proof for anything that is outrages

"but he had a few bros,,and sisters as well----all down the line form his father Joseph-"

I can't remember what i read either, but was sure one or more was one of the 12 and he or they took up the banner after Jesus.

All of this week, and until next year , the history,discovery, pbs, Biography, geography channels will have many hours of , scholars presenting true history of these points----my favorite is who wrote the bible,,,and ramesees ---that takes in the true exodus,,,,,there is soooo much out there that refutes the bible that it is incredible to me,, how anyone doesn't know the truth---yes its by choice ----but interesting how the mind chooses what to believe and what not to---go figure

Christmass is coming up,,,and while it is a happy time cos we as a people make it be happy---it was a pagan holiday that was shunned by the church---it was outlawed----until they decided that they could make big$ money with it----and the idea of gift giving really took off with all the merchants selling toys, anything---like hot cakes----the church used it all to rip off the people----i both love the holiday(cos of the kids) and hate it at the same time----forgive them for they are stupid and not know what they do..

The Christmass tree originated with the Vikings,,,in the winter time they brought it in the cabins for the odor of it,,,children hung their pooooped diapers on them----no they did't just joshing---but they did hang little fun things in them

Shake off all the fears of servile prejudices, under which weak minds are serviley crouched. Fix reason firmly in her seat, and call for every fact, every opinion. Question with boldness even the existence of a God,because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear.

Thomas Jefferson

I think I'll make this my quote of the day.

http://www.ritholtz.com/blog/2008/11/coincidence/

" I am starting to get the sneaking suspicion that the same people who planned the war in Iraq and the occupancy are now hard at work, planning for the Federal credit crisis bailout . . ."

"I think that all this is falling on deaf ears.. . .. While you may not like it, Obama will be sworn in on January 20, 2009"

Gordo,

I agree with Bow on these sentiments, BUT,

Here's what I also believe from everything I've read;

1) Obama was probably born in HI

2) He was both a BC and US citizen at birth but later lost his British/Kenyan status and only retained his US after he was an adult.

3) He was not officially (legally) adopted by Soetoro only accepted as his son by "cultural law", so he used that ambiguous status in several situations

4) Whether he legally meets the Article II test is a matter of opinion which won't be decided with his case.

5) Most importantly. I don't care where he was born or who's his daddy. PLUS, my opinion and a couple bucks will get a cup of java in most places.

Flatus

That share of Berkshire Hathaway is starting to look like inspired genius.

Rez
I suspect that Obama could be the bastard son of Adolph Hitler and no body would care.

Why?
Because he ain't George W Bush!!

Jack

Jack

I think that most of what happened from the time of Nixon to the present has been planned by the same ones??,,,i wouldn't be surprised if all this financial mess was planned, by the same people also,,,the same names keep showing up over and over,,,the D's are minor league compared to them----cos they do care for the little guy---just saying??? night

Jack, like an old friend of mine used to say, "Sometimes even a blind chicken finds a kernel of corn."

R.I.P. EJG

Jack,

I agree!. My indifference has as much to do with my desire to be rid of W as it does with my harried opinion of our great nation of immigrants.

Immaculate conception? Didn't that happen in a football game between the Raiders and the Steelers?

Corey

There are no virgins in a Raiders game. At least not for long.

Jack

Corey,

Them refs can fuck up a wet dream.

Just set my recorder to tape Desperate Crossings, on the History Channel -----my time st 7 a.m. Central time,, showing again at 1 p.m.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/11/the-presidentrightnowelect.html#comment-177147

Not that I believe it either, but "Immaculate Conception" does not refer to Mary's virginity. It means that by the grace of God she was born without original sin (Adam and Eve's hijinks) and was therefor "clean" enough to bear the son of God.

Try to keep the giggling down to a minimum

lol@ Jamie,

Sounds like a bunch of lawyers got together at Nicaea. :-)

The Archeologists have been busy lately

They found the remains of a slave ship

http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-general/20081125/SCI.Slave.Ship.Found/

Craig's Birthday card is up on my site in case you would care to contribute pithy comments

http://jdurward.blogspot.com/2008/11/happy-birthday-craig.html

Yeah, ...be nice if we could kick Bush out now...but what about his mandate of 2004? The voters put the worthless bastard back in after a failed first term, so let them have him until January 20. That still grates on me, how of all presidents, Bush is one of the rare ones to repeat. He did NOT deserve it.
Obama can't jump in and save him, and of course Bush stil has all this dirty work left...authorizing oil drilling near pristine parks, letting mining in the West go unchecked, allowing poisonous dumping into Western rivers and streams...oh yes, Bush is our Demon Leader of Penna Avenue, and his work is not done...he needs every day to make goddam sure he fucks us every which way he can.

It is imperative that since gates is staying, he does not bring along his flunky...Obama must make this clear, cuz Gates won't be around much more than January 2010...

Gates may want Gordon England to remain as deputy Defense secretary, the official said. But some Obama transition officials have indicated they want that job to go to Richard Danzig, a top foreign policy advisor to Obama. Danzig then could be nominated for the secretary's position when Gates leaves.

..forgot the quotation marks...that was from LA Times....

a year ago gasoline was $3.07 a gallon here ...today it is $1.57.
A few months ago it was $4.29.
I heard oil my bottom out at $20 a bbl. Go figure.

I so love this that it bears repeating:

"George W. Bush is so unpopular, so discredited and so completely without authority to rule...". Especially the RULE part. Not govern. Not lead. But RULE.

YES!

Dex I paid $1.59 today for gas. YES!

tt

Jamie - I posted a comment for Craig's birthday card, but am not sure if I did it right or if I posted it twice - and if you think there's no way to do it wrong, you underestimate me.

I agree that W is more than useless and like Obama's activity so far, but as for his taking over now - setting
precedents is dangerous especially here in America. We tend to take them as permission, and we have to remember that some day another idiot will win, and I for one don't want to see a Sarah Palin-type see it ias her right to jump in. Let's just keep obeying the law.

" I am starting to get the sneaking suspicion that the same people who planned the war in Iraq and the occupancy are now hard at work, planning for the Federal credit crisis bailout . . ."

Jack, Of course, you're right.

..............................

"interesting how the mind chooses what to believe and what not to---go figure"

Solar, that's rationalization. It's what keeps us sane (in most cases).

...............................

"all of this b s in the middle that we are going thru right now will be in the past"

Solar, The present is already an evolution of everything that's happened in the past anyway. That is why it is already a good starting point, looking further back is superfluous, (since the present already (intrinsically) 'contains' and includes the past, including all it's successes and failures). Likewise, the past is and will be automatically combined with the present and therefore the future. We have no control beyond this.

No matter what we do or say (or think), it's all here to stay and will affect the future So we all have an important responsibility to do what is right. Call it karma or anything else. Whatever you call it, it's the most important law of nature. And our greatest responsibility.

In my humble opinion.

" CBob, that steam coming off the key board is thought (energy). Right? "

No, no it's not. It's more the realization that I'm not by the pool with Ann Margret , after having defeated Elvis for her attentions -

http://artfiles.art.com/images/-/Ann-margret-Photograph-C11797197.jpeg

Bow -
Thanks for that Chestnut tree story.

Thought for the day :
" A minister says matrimony should be enduring. It is. "

1912 Eric Sevareid Velva ND, newscaster (CBS Weekend News)
1922 Charles M Schulz cartoonist (Peanuts)
1938 Tina Turner [Anna Mae Bullock], Brownsville TX, singer (Proud Mary)

1778 Capt Cook discovers Maui (Sandwich Islands)

I woke - up to Errol Flynn on " Last Stand Hill " this morning.

Arrows flying
Cliche's dieing
Pass the syrup

"No, no it's not. It's more the realization that I'm not by the pool with Ann Margret,"

Ha, Gotcha CBob. I stand corrected. :)