Craig Crawford's Trail Mix

repost from last thread

"did you see when he is arriving? it was a lot more fun with the clintons' . we all knew when they would arrive and it was great fun to greet them at the airport."

sea, perhaps with the other bill blowing in they aren't able to announce an eta for a welcoming crowd. they should go by boat in that weather. and anyway our hawaiian pres would expect beautiful girls and boys swimming out to his boat with leis to greet him.

craig, you're being very mysterious.

...ah; I get it now.

Great piece by our great LL!

Craig
So glad you put up LL's piece!It was a wonderful way to start my day.Very good...

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/22/opinion/22herbert.html?_r=1&th&emc=th

"Voices of Anxiety"

"Mr. Obama, who has a command of the English language like few others, has been remarkably opaque about his intentions regarding health care. He left it up to Congress to draft a plan and he has not gotten behind any specific legislation. He has seemed to waffle on the public option and has not been at all clear about how the reform that is coming will rein in runaway costs. At times it has seemed as though any old “reform” would be all right with him."

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/bring-on-the-liberal-dumbikaze.html#comment-253560

Good morning all
Pat
Thanks for that.I always thought the term "Johnny cake"was a southern thing, as my grandmother was from Tennessee.I love corn bread especially with my homemade bean soup..Food talk is always a pleasure.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/bring-on-the-liberal-dumbikaze.html#comment-253555
"So, I repeat: Why has it come down to these six? Who anointed them? Apparently, the White House. At least that's what I'm repeatedly being told by sources both on the Hill and in the administration. "The Finance Committee is where the action is. They'll tee-up the final bill," says someone who should know."

Thanks Patsi
That Reich piece was very informative.The White House has given "The Gang of six"the power to decide what we get in a healthcare reform bill?I wonder sometimes what planet I'm on!!

Thoroughly enjoyed Lardo's latest story. Congratulations on escaping the clutches of the Mask

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253569

Tony, Patsi
That is simply insane.

I was at a League of Cities convention in Orlando. Reich and Janet Reno spoke at one of the major sessions. They were terrific--had me out of my chair! And, it was a hoot seeing them walking side-by-side into and out of the auditorium. Something like Stinky and me.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/bring-on-the-liberal-dumbikaze.html#comment-253532

Bethy,

You asked about the Congressional insurance plans. They are the same as for any Federal employee with a few added bells and whistles such as a clinic and pharmacy on site and access to military hospitals.

I don't know whether members contribute or whether the whole cost is paid by the government. It might be worth knowing which of these insurers contribute to a specific Congress person, but we know the total dollars for industry.

http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/planinfo/index.asp

Renee, I just made a comment on Sean's blog, without refreshing first, and I was shocked to see the first line I wrote was almost identical to yours. I sat there, looking at it, wondering if I should delete mine, not knowing what to think.

Take a look if you get a chance. I had the same thing happen to me on Corey's site a long time ago. I made a comment, then saw yours, and they were very similar. I guess we think alike, at least some times. :)

The media types who read this blog and might be going to or are already on the Vinyard, should go visit Old Sea Hag. Her candy is out of this world and there is a lot more than is on the web page. Lots of specialty items.

http://www.newmoonmagick.net/

Lots of synchronicity today Chloe! You'll realize what I mean later.

Patsi, I had missed that link on the last thread. So thanks to you and Tony for pointing it out. This is another paragraph from it, and since I 'don't get it' either, I feel compelled to quote it :

"I really don't get it. We have a Democratic president in the White House. Democrats control sixty votes in the Senate, enough to overcome a filibuster. It is possible to pass health care legislation through the Senate with 51 votes (that's what George W. Bush did with his tax cut plan). Democrats control the House. The Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, is a tough lady. She has said there will be no health care reform bill without a public option.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253572

Flatus
Insane is about right.I've always enjoyed Reich, even when he was supporting Obama over Hillary.Its great you and Stinky got to hear him and Reno speak.Why are the Democrats giving up their majority?I can understand Snowe being one of the six,but Grassley and Enzi,no way.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253577

Don't do that the be Carol Tell me! (or should I check your blog?)

" He left it up to Congress to draft a plan and he has not gotten behind any specific legislation."

The problem here is that he was so determined to not come at health care reform like Hillary that he has been "too" hands-off.

"That is simply insane."

Flatus -- you mean the Reich piece? I don't think so...I think he raises some very legitimate issues.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253578

Good morning Chloe
Its as Flatus says, insane.How can the Democrats be so inept at governing?

Oh, sorry Flatus -- I thought you meant Reich was being insane...ha....at least Tony "got" what you meant....

Yep

I'll have to give it to Obama. He wants bipartisan support for something as big as health care reform. This country is biparisan and it is better if we all can buy into something in order to make it work. We certainly had enough of the other for the last eight years and that didn't turn out too well.

Patsi, I'm sorry I was ambiguous--I often make leaps to conclusions without providing adequate bridging. My bad, no9t yours.

BTW, I hope Lard, or someone on his behalf, is working on a national syndication of his journey.

For those interested in high finance, this intriguing article was in yesterday's Journal:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125080949684547827.html

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253586

Carol
I think its nice the President wants bi-partisanship,i want it too.I just don't see any Republican's willing to go along?Should we squander are majority and do nothing in regards to healthcare?Its now or never,time for Democrats to govern.

Carol, I'm going over to read your blog shortly... My husband is leaving for the airport in a few minutes, and I'm going to see him off (for two whole days).

Beautiful description of the NHS in action. Republicans probably don't like it because there isn't any "special" treatment for the sake of money

http://www.salon.com/opinion/feature/2009/08/22/nhs/

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253581

Patsi
I agree.Hillary put her reputation on the line! Hillary took a stand on healthcare and had the guts to go for it,win or lose..

Looked up the movie Jeremiah Johnson and the history lesson by the commenter at the bottom is well worth the read. Seems the real man died of old age in Los Angeles

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068762/

And a Book to go with it

http://www.amazon.com/Crow-Killer-Liver-Eating-Johnson-Midland/dp/0253203120/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1250950986&sr=8-1

http://www.salon.com/opinion/feature/2009/08/22/nhs/

Jamie
Thanks for that brilliant piece.I sent it off to some of the wing nuts in the family.I get bullshit from them weekly about people in Britain and Canada dieing because of their NHS.

I love Snarky and I liked that line about wondering if the guy was walking around with a pant full of marbles.

After reading that article, I have to think that D.C. Dwellers those inside the beltway, have to possess hides like a rhinoceros.

Apparently, he actually died in Wyoming. Maybe Craig can arrange a book tour stop and go visit his hero's grave in Cody

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Trail_Town

Good Morning Ree.
Please be sure to leave a post for Craig, telling him that copy and paste yesterday was an error. There's no doubt in my mind, but he wanted to hear it from you.

Tony, Good Morning back at you too. I agree with you... of course, I most always do.

Craig, I was trying to fill in the gap- the explanation. I don't speak Legislator so I couldn't translate it :)

What I was trying to accomplish was to point to what we all could expect to come next, and here it is coming true. The Commerce Clause. The whole thing going on between the Dems and Reps, reminds me of a fencing match.

http://hotair.com/archives/2009/08/22/can-congress-force-me-to-buy-health-insurance/

Jeremiah Johnson factoid: A very young pre-star Tanya Tucker had a bit part in the movie. She was one of the three kids found hiding in the root cellar....

Yee hah! The boys just called from the farmers market and channel 7 news interviewed them about the Yes We Candy and Baracky Road Fudge. Will get it taped and post tonight. Thanks all, and a special thanks to Jamie and Jack.

Patd-LOL

Chloe....
don't you go deleting anything there, girl..... :0)
if those were your thoughts after reading lard's blog, let them stand....

Carol....
nice blog. I've tried twice to leave you a message and it wouldn't take....

OSH.... that's great news!.... you go, girl....

Craig.... you and Sean sound like you were a couple of mischievous imps....
and you still are.... LOVE it!

Music folks who happen to have Pay Per View or On Demand: Look for "The Great American Songbook" narrated by Michael Feinstein. It is a wonderful documentary with films of lots of original performances and music clips.

OSH

I put you up on Twitter as well and picked up several Retweets which means people who don't follow me will still get the message to beat a path to your door.

Don't you just love the tubes of the internets?

LL

The surgery is amazing...you are sharper than ever.

Inca pisco!

Great ideas do come from this place. The candy suggestions are just one example.

I liked Jeremiah Johnson and Legends of the Fall. Mountain Men are TUFF.

Jeremiah Johnson: [Jeremiah and Bear Claw hunt elk] Wind's right, but he'll just run soon as we step out of these trees.
Bear Claw Chris Lapp: Trick to it. Walk out on this side of your horse.
Jeremiah Johnson: What if he sees our feet?
Bear Claw Chris Lapp: Elk don't know how many feet a horse has!

Every couple of days I'm getting a more sickening feeling that this won't be the health care reform year.

We should have learned from the battles of the past on this issue that this would not be easy.

Most disconcerting is the lack of a clear message from the pro-healthcare reform forces.

The flip-flops by the administration on an almost daily embarrassment.

LBJ...is there any way you can channel some of your Civ. Rights and Medicare guts to our current leaders.

So we are painting the 1st sign now and planning second.

Listen Up Mr. Pres.
Greetings from Helen & Craig!
www.craigcrawford.com

Does that work? I'm sure you all can improve upon it.

I loved Patsi's idea yesterday for a health care reform ad. They can add to the end of her ad, "when nothing gets done to reform our current health care system and you get the opportunity to personally realize that, you can thank a Republican".

Listen Up, Mr. President: Tear down that MASK!

I liked the idea someone had for, just say no to drug and insurance cos.

OSH

It's Great As long as you can clearly see all three lines.

Jamie- we're doing them on 2 full sheets of ply. 4 x 8, side by side lengthwise. Nothing more intriguing?

LL - Wonderful story; great writing. Sending good thoughts your way.

Hey guys! It's been a while and I don't have much time, but I promised a friend that I would try to get a discussion going on oil refineries. Gas is over $3 a gallon up here now, and the oil companies are using the same sad excuses about not having enough refineries. Why isn't anyone in congress trying to get the oil companies to build new 'green' refineries. We WANT one up here so badly. Are the oil prices being jacked up in the lower 48, also?

Good one sturge, don't want to go negative though or my name will my mudd.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253618

Hi Rosie
Fuel here in Florida is $2.50 a gallon..

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253616

OSH, Let's see what others say, but starting with a hello isn't bad. I would get a sign up pretty fast with the names of the candies in his honor, "Yes We Candy" and "Baracky Road Fudge". Then you can get political.

I'm sure this crowd can come up with some great one or two liners.

The Public wants Public Option
What's the matter with Congress?

"Jamie
Thanks for that brilliant piece.I sent it off to some of the wing nuts in the family."

Ha -- same here Tony....plus my sister has a file she printed out for her bridge club. I call it her BS-Buster.

Rosie! So glad you are back!!!!!!

I know! I've missed you guys, too. I've just been soooo busy that I haven't had hardly any time to sit down in front of my screen. The father of one of the disabled girls I work with is very interested in politics and wanted me to to bring up the oil thing. I thought it was a good question.

Lard always has something to say that rings a bell. I am glad he also shed some light for me about Craig.
Thanks for posting his last installment.

http://www.defensetech.org/archives/004992.html

Are your kids good at video games? Maybe they'll be American's Next Top Guns...

Most interesting tidbit in Sean Holton's blog: Craig was once wriiten up in the "Style" section of the "Washington Post."

Rosie, God only knows why nothing really gets done about the oil situation. The players are just too deeply entrenched. I know an independent oil man in Texas and once asked him if some event was about oil. He answered: "It's ALWAYS about oil."

I think gas is around $2.70-something here.

re: "The Mask"

I've seen that face before in an exhibit of "Art of the Incas" in the Worcester, Massachusetts Art Museum.

Worcester is not much of a city but it's got a nice little art museum. Built by Yankee robber baron money.

when Obama lifts Bo up by his ears, I will know the public option will pass.

Yes, Nash -- I liked that Style section tidbit too....why haven't we seen a reproduction of the item and photo????

I've been beating up on Obama all week so I've decided to give the guy a break.

He didn't get to be President of the Harvard Law Review by being stupid, so I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. Eventually, he should be able to figure out how to pass a real health reform bill.

Yes, Obama has been off his game, but the Republicans have been so utterly insane that they are much weaker than they appear to be. They have captured the lunatic fringe but alienated everyone else.

rosie the cat

Hello! Good to see you.

Too make matter worse, the credit card companies and insurance companies are following in the footsteps of the oil companies. Raising rates before regulation. It is consumer rape after the pillage.

Rosie: I think the oil companies are so powerful and rich they have become nervous. They fear an uprising peasants with torches and pitchforks.

Gasoline is $ 2.85 in northern Maine.

Oh, dear. I must confess, if we're talking about psychopathic Indian killers, the one who always fascinated me was Lewis Wetzel--mainly because he's scarcely known outside West Virginia and Ohio--and everything--ABSOLUTELY everything--Zane Grey wrote about him was a lie.

Bethy, thank you for the "Sloop John B" and Kingston Trio mention yesterday. I thought I'd slipped a gear for sure on that one.

Michael Moore has a new film coming out that is a critique of U.S. capitalism & politics.

I think a lot of the anger at the townhalls (that is NOT astroturf) is anger over the government bailout of Wallstreet, not anger directed specifically at Obama.

There's a huge tide of "anti-corporate lobbyist" populism out there that the Dems could exploit, if they could get their heads out of their butts.

Patsi: I wonder if we can find the WaPo article on Craig through Google?

I'm going to try.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253604

Blonde --

If Lard's writing is "sharper than ever," maybe he's on to something. Perhaps we should all get some of our excess brain matter removed. It could be clogging up the pipes.

(^_~)

I tried to Google Craig + WaPo style section. Couldn't find anything but I only looked at the first couple of pages.

However, if you type "Craig Crawford" and search in "Google Images" you'll find a treasure-trove of pictures, many of which I recognize from this blog.

Bear Claw -
" He say's you fish poorly. "

Thought for the day :
" Early to rise and ditto to bed, make a man healthy, but socially dead. "

Craig, Thanks for the link and connections and of course most important is for Sean and Best on his treatments and the blessing of having the modern mask.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253631

Good post & thoughts, Nash.

1917 John Lee Hooker Mississippi, blues musician (Canned Heat)

1775 King George III proclaims colonies to be in open rebellion

Rosie -
Long time no see .

One of the standard phrases about energy is " We haven't built a new refinery in 25 years. "
As if we've a had static number, but the number of refineries has been going down as the big fish swallow the smaller regional ones. ( See the Milk Cartel ) as a template.

I have seen a few refineries owned by Indian Tribes the one that comes to mind immediately :
Giant Travel Center
I-40 Exit 39
17 mi E of Gallup

It's just across the road from the truck stop. Good showers there, very fluffy green towels.

Posted by: Patsi | August 22, 2009 1:23 PM

The lunatic fringe has always been there - on both sides.
What happened is the sleeping Giant is now awake and is not going to accept what has been put forward by Obama, Pelosi....
The game has CHANGED... And Barack knows it..
America wants real reform and the Next logical advancements. Barack has missed the mark.

tony and chloe, here's some history and recipes that you may find fun re journey cakes
http://whatscookingamerica.net/History/Johnnycakes.htm

and here's what wiki says about hoe cakes. wiki also calls them johnny cakes. but my hoe cakes are thin, bacon grease salty and crunchy and my johnny cakes are the thickness of the iron skillet they're cooked in, slightly sweet and cakelike.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoecake

craig, i think you and lard were innoculated against the mask's evil by that little sip of inca pisco. a magical vaccine.

sea, i agree with jamie. do the candy in his honor 1st. maybe even offer free samples to his entourage.

Over heard on Buddy Holly Ave last night -

" I may not be the shiniest marble in the bag, but I know a dead rat when I smell one. "

Ever wonder if you might have spent too much time doing something? Watching Michael Feinstein's "Great American Songbook" I mentioned above and there was exactly ONE song that I didn't recognize or know most of the lyrics and that was because it was cut from the original Broadway show. Then realized I had the lyrics on the book shelf in the Lorenz Hart compendium.

One bright spot of recovered memory: Groucho and Lydia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4zRe_wvJw8

a toast to lard. a toast to jeremiah

"and i helped him drink his whine"
joy to the world all the girls and boys

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtYnCmw2CWE

Henry Waxman wants the insurance companies to tell him just how badly they have screwed the American public. They don't want to do that.

http://thepoliticalcarnival.blogspot.com/2009/08/chamber-of-commerce-slams-waxmans.html

Forty Years Ago Today - The Beatles Last photo shoot

http://beatlestweets.posterous.com/the-beatles-last-photo-shoot-august-22nd-1969

Horsey -

http://www.seattlepi.com/horsey/viewbydate.asp?ID=1981

People are pissed about repugs saying no to EVERYTHING wheither it's good for the country or not. At least I am.

Fires rage unchecked near Athens

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8215772.stm

http://www.jimbeamclub.com/pictorials/inca/index.html

One of these looks like a Mrs. Butterworth's syrup bottle.

CBob Love the Horsey

He's fat, his relatives hate him, and he hasn't had a date since high school and that was his cousin paid to go to the prom..

Pass this one along to your nearest wing nut and talking tables everywhere

http://www.themudflats.net/2009/08/21/nazis/

Burning the Future: Coal in America Trailer

http://burningthefuture.semkhor.com/page.asp?s=burningthefuture&content_id=14092

damn, i should have offered up a tribute to the recently departed Sydney Pollack for helping Redford make the movie. rumor is they had to mortgage their properties to get it done because major studios had no interest. and they made the best honest-to-god movie ever done (although they chose to leave out the liver-eating parts -- yep, even mask rippers wear the mask now and then).. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sydney_Pollack

For cannibalism scenes I prefer "Death Hunt" with Charles Bronson & Lee Marvin.

Mountie looking for Bronson through binoculars:
"I don't see him."

Mountie Sergeant (Marvin): "You won't."

Artificial life will be created 'within months' as genome experts claim vital breakthrough
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-1208047/Life-order-Man-organisms-months-say-biologists.html

3 min opening sequence of jeremiah johnson
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=le0PV1I-T9U

he shore was a purdy 'un way back then...

good line

"ride due west to the sunset. turn left at the rocky mountains"

"I ate his liver with some fava beans and nice Chianti."
(slurping sound)
-Hannibal Lecter

cbob, artificial life's been alive and well on cable for some time now.

I think that Obama should take the Clintons and Jimmy Carter to Camp David and come up with a clear , short outline of what must be in Healthcare reform. Then they all need to hit the road and shove the truth down the opponents' throats.

These people have been through the healthcare wars and would be a great help. Obama needs to tell the obstructionists to get out of the way or we will run over you!

Include Michell too..knock off the fashion bologna and get to work...

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253669
"Artificial life will be created 'within months' as genome experts claim vital breakthrough"

Will it/they be eligible for Medicaid?

Patsi:

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/bring-on-the-liberal-dumbikaze.html#comment-253554

All powerful politicians have ties to big business. It can be a bad thing. But I don't think it is a bad thing automatically.

Grace Before Dying is an award-winning photographic documentary by Lori Waselchuk that chronicles the prisoner-run hospice program at Angola State Penitentiary, Louisiana's maximum-security prison.

http://gracebeforedying.org/

Flatus:

Ha! Can they run for POTUS?!

" sleeping Giant is now awake "

Sleeping giant my ass, Ping. MY ASS! The wing nuts always think they are the sleeping giants when they are really trolls snarling under the bridge.

I get it, but it's a bit of a stretch.

" I may not be the shiniest marble in the bag, but I know a dead rat when I smell one. "

"All powerful politicians have ties to big business."

Warren -- I love ya -- but you are an infant when it comes to politics. You've already said you'd have voted for Bush in 2000 but had no interest in it all. Pay attention for a few more years.

Working in Hell for $11 a Day

http://www.foreignpolicy.com/story/cms.php?story_id=4954&page=0

patd again makes Best Comments: http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/best-comments.html

as always, send your nominations anytime to cqtrailmix@verizon.net

and the finale: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKULLRKDjjU

"the way that you wander is the way that you choose; the day that you tarry is the day that you lose"

nite all, i'm off to read DK Goodwin's Lincoln on my kindle

In a story that didn't get much Press in the US, the Obama administration assured Brits and the international community that many dissident Iranians living at a refugee camp in Iraq called Ashraf would remain "protected individuals" as US forces pulled back from the Iraqi cities.

What followed was a brutal ISF foray into the camp that left 11 dead Iranians and many wounded. Human Rights groups are outraged. There has been an outcry even by Iranian nationals in Washington but Obama apparently didn't bring this up with Maliki when they met recently in Washington, not did he answer questions regarding the rules of restriction placed on US forces. Ironically, now Maliki suspects terrorists have infiltrated the ISF and were responsible for the wave of deadly blasts. If these terror connections involve AQ, he ought to be worried, yet the Camp Asharaf problem seems more Iranian inspired. To read more on this situation, Iran's role and what our commanders think, look here:

http://ncr-iran.org/content/view/7055/1/

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253682

I know Gore was sappy, but given the nasty campaign Bush ran against McCain, how could anyone more LIberal minded vote for George in 2000? Having listened to Bush call for a less arrogant foreign policy, smaller goverment (Bill actually reduced the size of government) and massive tax cuts that defy the typical Republican logic of tax cuts when times are bad, Warren still voted for Bush. When Hillary supporters like myself argued with Warren over LISTENING to all the vague and contradictory things Obama was promising and being suspect, he prefered once again to be guided what POLITICIANS say, not do. Certainly Obama's doing record was less impressive than Hillary's. And Warren also said he detested the CLinton Machine while ignoring the most incredibly corrupt CHICAGO MACHINE many Hillary supporters were screaming about. To say that Blogo, Rexko, Auchi, Right, and others played no role in getting Obama to the top would be in great denial. Obama went to co-op the biggest Democratic Machine around. To someone who IS and WAS paying attention, what has unfolded is no suprise.

Democrats have big ties to corporations and huge lobbying groups. They tend to be a bit different than the Republican resume of donors, but these days, everyone is tossing money to he Democrats. This is hardly nefarious in most cases. I dare say that many Liberals live life in as much splendor as do Republicans. Come to NYC sometime.

Also AxelGate: Given all the stuff people posted about the terrible ethical connection of Halliburton to Cheney, the Axelrod story of the 24 million in Healthcare ads to his former buddies including his son goes silent. I guess Axelrod can get that 2 million he is owed.

Last, 47 million uninsured obviously include the illegals who are uninsured. Obama always uses this number which generates suspicions that it is code for insuring illegals. If not, why else would he have to constantly deny wanting healthcare for illegals?

Good job, Pat.

Craig, I'm glad you don't hand out the award too often. Makes it all the more prez-teejeeus.

Must be Kearns Day. I just brought home "No Ordinary Time."

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253598

Ree, the Czars will want their own regulatory reforms and expansions. SCOTUS so far has not been keen to that idea. They are likely to defer to the Congress, but I do see regulatory reform as the real catch phrase over the underlying battle which is about the General Welfare Clause in part. There is also the Commerce Clause and a few other traditional jumping boards.

This is what one commentator said over at Hot Air said:

"He (Obama) may be a dope, but he doesn’t act the way he does because he fails to understand the Constitution. He simply does not want to be constrained by the Constitution. He said the following:"

“To that extent, as radical as I think people try to characterize the Warren Court, it wasn’t that radical. It didn’t break free from the essential constraints that were placed by the Founding Fathers in the Constitution“

"He believes the government needs to break free from the constraints of the Constitution in order to achieve social justice.

Prediction: There is going to be a power battle between his Czars and the Congress. He will attempt to strip Congress of its power by circumventing it with Czar power.

If my prediction comes true, then the results of the 2010 election may not matter. He will start implementing public policy and laws by executive order."

I think of this when I hear "make America what it ought to be". Sure, on a sunny day this could be just a benign declaration. If nothing else however, this language provokes fear from those more wedded to keeping it Constitutional. There are some Democrats who do not want to circumvent the Constitution by expanding the already widening loopholes. Still, the majority of Democrats seek going beyond. This why controlling the court has been a target of Liberals for years. This why the socialist meme got started in the first place and required a different strategy by Obama to create bipartisan reform, than keeping to the New Democrat story book.

Max, seems to me having umpteen million illegal taxpayers who never apply for benefits, and who do the menial jobs legals won't do, can't be all bad.

Fleur ~ You may be right. I read a little about Wetzel, and he appears to be the 19th Century equivalent of Hannibal Lechter, whom Nash alluded to, or maybe even Ed Gein. At least Johnson had a really good reason for his anger. it doesn't sound like Wetzel's family got much more than a scare, but it set him off on a terror for the rest of his life. Likely he already had a screw loose, or more than one. In a way he also makes me think of Blackwater or even rogue CIA agents, a perversion of the part played by Matt Damon in the Bourne trilogy ... trained killers gone horribly bad. Which is why, in these times, you can't give every nutcase a gun. You just never know.

Posted by: Flatus Author Profile Page | August 22, 2009 6:45 PM

Who said they're paying taxes?

Flatus

It's sort of like Iraq and Afghanistan. Half of the people representing the US are actually mercenaries hired by private corporations such as Blackwater and 80% of those are foreign nationals. But it's okay. If they die they don't show up in the official numbers. Ifthey commit crimes against the native population, the US didn't have anything to do with it. Sorry about those child prostitutes and murdered villagers.

Of course, getting back the billions of dollars in equipment purchased by the US tax payer for their use before it hits the black market is going to be a bear.

Kennedy symbol in health debate

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0809/26362.html

Posted by: AnnaMolly | August 22, 2009 7:02 PM

Hi, AnnaMolly, and thank you for your comment. I think you make a very good point about Wetzel as a sort of rogue agent--although he was considered to be a heroic type during the dangerous early years as settlers moved into the region, he eventually became a terrible liability and was in fact driven out after he brazenly killed a chieftain at a peace council, smack in the middle of the proceedings. It also speaks to his less-than-stellar citizenship that he ended up where he did--among the outlaws on the Natchez Trace. Not a good way to end up.

But as I mentioned, to Zane Grey he was a hero, possibly because he had fairly close ties of friendship with Grey's ancestors, the Zanes who founded Wheeling, WV, and Zanesville, OH. The Grey novels he appears in--a trilogy about the early Zanes--are all but hagiographic about him (and, to be fair, about the Zanes as well).

(There's some evidence in my mother's family history to indicate that one of her ancestors may married into the Zanes, but we've never been able to confirm this. Just an interesting possibility at this point.)

PS Wetzel doesn't bear comparison, though, to Hannibal Lecter or Ed Gein. He was a nasty piece of work, but he wasn't a cannibal.

Can the Wealthy Have A Separate Peace?

http://campfire.theoildrum.com/node/5702

You're right, Fleur, Wetzel wasn't a cannibal. I was thinking more in the cold-blooded lunatic sense. Maybe those weren't the best choices. Another name that came to mind right after I posted was Timothy McVeigh. The weapons were different, but the general idea -- acting out an irrational desire for vengeance -- was similar. Wasn't McVeigh motivated, at least in part, by Waco?

Ellen Glasgow observed, “The only difference between a rut and a grave are the dimensions.”

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253695

Fleur

We should probably compare some notes as my grandmother was a McKeehan. Write me at webthings at comcast dot net if you want to check family trees.

Your lordship

Everybody pays taxes.
Yes income taxes get paid on the money. If I pay some one cash for work I can't deduct it as a business expense so it get taxed as part of my income, both social security and income and at a higher rate then the worker would have been taxed.
The IRS they got you coming or going.

Jack

"Everybody pays taxes."

Posted by: whskyjack Author Profile Page | August 22, 2009 8:09 PM

No, they don't. Day-laborers especially. That's one of the reasons they work for less.

I loved the Kingston Trio and it's possible they're the only ones I was aware of doing the Sloop John B. All of their songs still move me today, but that Scotch and Soda - so languid and relaxed . WOW

The link to Groucho and Lydia was out of this world. I know the song but none of the words. The best part was watching Chico play the piano in the back.
Groucho was kinda nice-looking, huh?

Posted by: bethyboo | August 22, 2009 8:34 PM

The same here. I don't remember hearing the Beach Boys version, but I'm not really a big Beach Boys fan.

I agree, too, Groucho wasn't bad-looking at all. In fact the Marx Bros. were all quite handsome men. Chico was my favorite.;)

waylon tries his hand at that old sloop.............

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

Your lordship

You didn't read what I wrote did you. The taxes get paid.
I hired a couple of day laborers the other day. I will have the burden of the taxes.

Jack

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253690

It works to various group's advantage until it breaks the system.

Apart from the fact that not all illegals pay taxes, the far greater crime is when people employing them without free of worker comp and payroll tax costs exploit them for an unfair advantage over law abiding business.

Regulation seeks fair competition, not unfair competition. In my domestic watch repairing I see that the immigration gear of work place regulation and amnesty works well with the gear of universal healthcare for American citizens.

We talk about an unfair advantage government would have over private business and illegals have given an advantage to private business and individuals at the detriment of legal workers and businesses. I never said I wasn't in favor of Amnesty, but if we shut down the functionality of illegals, you would see how quickly they would be given amnesty.

Regulation baby, that's the ticket. And all areas of regulation must be opened up to reasonable reform. The Democrats can't stand up to trial lawyers while many experts think defensive medicine costs us hundreds of billions a year. Trial Lawyers deny there is anything called defensive medicine. Doctors of course must document such practice as necessary or private Insurance won't foot the bill.

I will say hope as wings but pragmaticism needs legs. The irony is that a good general needs only to be a decent salesman, but a great salesman need not be a very good general.

Flatus, http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253707 was a reply to you...

One reason the healthcare debate is a debacle...

You would think maybe people would be trying to inform themselves. Figuring out what the "public option" is all about or checking out "co-ops" - but nope.

Here are the top ten searches on Yahoo!

1. Joan Cusack
2. Chicago Cubs
3. Cupcake Recipes
4. Daniel Vosovic
5. Sharpie 500
6. Prince William
7. Rachael Ray
8. The Wolfman
9. Ramadan
10. Iolani Palace

(Man, you gotta love us!!)

The exception is those that are hired to do house hold chores. But that applies to both legal and non. Cash in the pocket paid to get your lawn mowed rarely gets reported.
But if a business hires them the the pay to the workers is counted as profit for the business.

Jack

Holy crap that was bad....

"Apart from the fact that not all illegals pay taxes, the far greater crime is when people employing them, free of worker comp and payroll tax, exploit them for an unfair advantage over law abiding business.:

and

"I will say, hope has wings but pragmaticism needs string legs. The irony is that a good general need only be a decent salesman, but a great salesman need not be a very good general."

A point I think HIllary argued...

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253699

I like that one Bob. I have a few friends who need to hear that.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253682

Patsi:

I was only a kid back then! Plus - I would of probably paid a bit more attention if I actually voted. I believe in informed voting. Not just voting for the sake of it.

I didn't vote Max.

I liked Bush cause he was plain-spoken - and yes - he campaigned on a humble foreign policy. Once I saw him in action - I was a strong Kerry supporter.

And I have never claimed to be anything more than an Independent max.

bobby waxes the boots:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9v0U8xWOQI&feature=fvw

Still crying over spilt milk max.

Get over it. I was not swooped up in Obama-mania. I started following Obama after the 2004 Convention speech. On MTP and Charlie Rose - he was one of the most intelligent and thoughtful politicians about foreign policy and other major issues.

And yes - I thought Clinton was more partisan than Obama. You people may think I am crazy for continuing to hope this Country moves beyond - even just a little bit - all this partisan nonsense.

And politicians talk for a living. So I am not surprised that you can find contradictions in the record. People change and so do circumstances.

And spare me the patronizing.

no nation has ever receded from the brink.........

--cicero

max:

"Given all the stuff people posted about the terrible ethical connection of Halliburton to Cheney, the Axelrod story of the 24 million in Healthcare ads to his former buddies including his son goes silent. I guess Axelrod can get that 2 million he is owed."

No bid oil contracts is a hell of a lot different than trying to pass healthcare reform.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253710

Right Jack and lots of people free lance off the books. The serious problem is when let's say a building allows people to enter and work. What if they slip in the lobby? Many buildings in NYC won't let a curtain be put up without liability insurance covering the hanger. Still, notice the flow of cleaning ladies going in and out? Someone sure as hell is making a dime and I don't mean the cleaning ladies.

Things would really change if the present 10 -15 million were given amnesty. The sytem could still tolerate the off the book stuff (which all groups enage in), but again, why should I have to pay liability insurance and under the table people under bid me?

Seems like regulation could fix this rather than ideology.

So Axelrod finding a way to recover his 2 million owed from the firm he left is quite ethically different than some no bid contracts to Halliburton because one involved Healthcare and the other removing Saddam?

Try again.....

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253709

OMG, Warren! Hilarious -- thanks for the top ten list!

Halliburton did not remove Saddam.

Axelrod is a political consultant. And now everyone is shocked, shocked that he has consulting ties.

Give me a break. Anyways, this talking point is nother but a distraction.

Crying over spilled milk Warren? I was laughing over your logic. You voting for Bush is spilling the proverbial milk.........

I brought this up under the heading "true colors" and pointed out my voting record is more loyal to Democrats than many here, but hardly all.

Seems you picked two that have huge gaps between words and behavior. The irony is that although I did not vote for Bush, I defended certain aspects of his efforts avoiding being nasty and I will do my best to encourage Obama's moving in the right direction when I see it. I look and have an idea of what I'm getting before hand and I don't whine when the predictable comes true. I try to I whine about it before hand.

I do bring up the past at times to put points presently argued in perspective.....

Sea, I'm enjoying watching the storm pix pf Hurricane Bill as he works toward you guys, but hope it doesn't make any problems for you folks. Your sign for the prez is fabulous. There have to be even more great names for your candy cuz I think that's a winning game! I'll check with the old ladies at our old ladies club tonight. Off to get a barbecued tri-tip at Oliver's!

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253680

Patsi -- you are so quotable -- I just love it! ~ Alicia

Warren,

Hiring a firm that owes him money and for which his son works is not cool. Well, it is not any cooler than no bids to a firm that owed Cheney money (almost the same amount). Were there bids for that commercial Warren? I would say that Halliburton was probably closer to the top of the hill than Axelrod's former firm which was doing what business at the time?

Funny. Republicans and I guess you were one at the time, dismissed the Halliburton crap. Do you get to do in both camps?

No sweat, I've got to run. You are right. There are more important matters as there were when the Left went after every scrap they could find. I was hoping things would be a bit different, but I won't whine that they are not.

Ron Paul is a riot on Healthcare. One thing he notes is that when Bush was in office the VA was a travesty and Medicare was going to run aground. In less than seven months they are now touted by former critics as having "outstanding satisfaction" and great examples of government at its best. I once thought that was out space program.

Later everyone........you too Warren.

Jamie, one quick question and I can probably tell you if we're related or not: what was your grandmother's father's name, and where was he born?

Fleur

Her father was Reuben Rose McKeehan (b 1842 in Claiborne, TN) and her grandfather was Weston Luper McKeehan (b 1805 Greenville, TN)

Solar --

Served up just for you...

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jeff-schweitzer/to-find-godjust-skip-lunc_b_266069.html

It's just possible, Jamie, that there is a family connection between us. Let me do some checking and get back to you.

Fleur,

Weston was married to Lucinda Armstrong Rose

Their children were:

William Sterling 1833
Anna Elizabeth 1836
John C. 1838
James D 1840
Reuben Rose 1842

I have almost all of their descendants

maxtrue,

My hope is when everyone gets back from recess they go the bipartisan route. Heney Stoyer has been sounding real reasonable the last couple of days. I wish he would take the lead.

I can't tell if Obama is right and the Republicans are trying to blow everything up to duplicate 1994 elections. Or the Republicans are taking advantage of Democrats stumbles-that's what politicians do. I heard yesterday someone say this Health Care Insurance Reform needs Policy separated from Politics.
Amen

I did go and see Inglorious Basterds with Brad Pitt today, he plays Aldo Raines a mountain man from the Smokey Mountains, descendant of Jim Bridger. It was a good movie but not for the kids.

Jim Bridger

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Bridger

Posted by: jamie44.myopenid.com | August 22, 2009 11:38 PM

I found your web page with that information, Jamie. I wish our genealogy was that well organized! Anyway, we are, as best we can tell, descended from a Samuel McKeehan (the number of variant spellings of his name could fill a book!) who died in Greene Co. in about 1786. Samuel, from the records we've been able to locate, only had one son; his name was James. I'm wondering, though, if Samuel had a brother from whom Weston might have been descended. I have a friend who's a professional genealogist, and I'm going to check with her and see if we can find out more about that possible link. This is interesting!

I know there are people here who hate Vista. Didn't someone say that if you have Vista on your computer
yoy can't ever get rid of it? It's too late to go any further tonight.

Hillary 2012..We need a fighter, not a motivational speaker..

Can the Wealthy Have A Separate Peace?

http://campfire.theoildrum.com/node/5702

Interesting blog, C-Bob...thanks....

" was only a kid back then! Plus - I would of probably paid a bit more attention if I actually voted."

Agreed, Warren...and I shouldn't have jumped on that. I voted third party in 1968 because of the Democratic convention...so I have no moral legs to stand on...:)

Sorry Solar -- I know you kind of like him...but Ron Paul is a NUT!

"I voted third party in 1968"

so now we know whom to blame for the mess we're in now. patsi, patsi, patsi...

woody guthrie:

"some will rob you with a six-gun
and some with a fountain pen"

Sorry Solar -- I know you kind of like him...but Ron Paul is a NUT!

Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | August 23, 2009 5:59 AM

What BS. He's not a "nut"... he's probably 10x smarter than you or I.

Posted by: Oregon Democrat Author Profile Page | August 23, 2009 4:37 AM

Hillary has no platform in 2012. What will she say, "Vote for me b/c I'll do a better job than the administration of which I was a part anyway"?

Hillary's 2012 platform

Hey! Suckers, How are you liking that change now?

Jack

"Hey! Suckers, How are you liking that change now?"

.. to which I'd have to answer: What change?
Love it Jack!

"What BS. He's not a "nut"... he's probably 10x smarter than you or I."

BS to your BS. He is a sexist pig who wants to take away choice. He sees government as THE ENEMY. But of course, he's part of that government.... He thinks people should just let the market decide everything, including health care. He is also a NUT.

"What change?"
Indeed! Wish I could see some...

"so now we know whom to blame for the mess we're in now. patsi, patsi, patsi..."

Yep...I take responsibility. By election time in 1968 I had damn near given up on this country. First MLK, then RFK -- and then that Democratic convention. I was getting ready to leave for Germany, and truly wondered if I'd ever want to come back.

ROFL, Jack! Now when I hear "change" all I picture is a dirty diaper.

As things now stand , I could see a 4 way race in 2012.
The wingnuts in control of the Republican party. Obama in firm control of the Democratic party. A coalition of libertarian and fisically conservative Republicans disgusted with both parties and the liberal wing of the Democratic party hell bent to teach Obama a lesson.
The candidates
Democrats ----------------- Obama
Republicans----------------- Sarah Palin
Real Republican party ---------- Chuck Hagel
New Progressive---------------- Ralph Nader

Jack

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/23/health/policy/23daschle.html?th&emc=th
Good Morning all
Here's some change we can believe in,joking of course.

"Daschle Has Ear of White House and Industry"

"But these days it often seems as if Mr. Daschle never left the picture. With unrivaled ties on both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue, he talks constantly with top White House advisers, many of whom previously worked for him.

He still speaks frequently to the president, who met with him as recently as Friday morning in the Oval Office. And he remains a highly paid policy adviser to hospital, drug, pharmaceutical and other health care industry clients of Alston & Bird, the law and lobbying firm."

"And he remains a highly paid policy adviser to hospital, drug, pharmaceutical and other health care industry clients "

Yep, yep, yep....

there'll be some changes made

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEXPL19UbqU&feature=related

With that group Jack, it's pretty easy to see who wins. But I think ) it will be a little less predictable than that. At least I would hope so. We need it to be an election that stirs things up (a lot), even if Obama wins. Someone may come along that will actually make us think, as opposed to hope..

The problem with change these days is it takes a lot of it to buy a cup of coffee.

Jack

Am I the only one that fears that Axelrod is running the country?

Chloe
It would be more interesting to see who come in second and third.

Are there more wing nut Republicans then there are pissed off progressives?

hey Pissed Off Progressive, good name.

Who wants to join the Pissed Off Progressive party?

Jack

"The problem with change these days is it takes a lot of it to buy a cup of coffee."

LOL Jack. I like it, but I'm trying to translate it into what you mean. Does it mean change is worth less? Or that we need a whole lot of change? or...

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253767

Chloe

Axlerod would do a much better job than what is currently happening.

my bet is on nobody is running the country.

Jack

Yeah Jack, I see what you're saying. It's pretty clear there are a lot of pissed off people. Now we just to see in which group they fall. It's obvious they don't all agree, and are pissed off for many different reasons.

Remember, during the primaries and elections, the media kept talking about how divided the country was. It's beginning to look 'worse' than ever.

"my bet is on nobody is running the country"

You are right on this morning Jack. Lovin' it.

"Pissed Off Progressive"

The POP party. It could work!

Chloe

It is a play on words so it is a Rorschach test.

So, lay here on the couch and tell me.
What do you see when you look at this?

Jack

Does this POP party have anything to do with Nader? Cause that's a deal breaker for me....

Here we go sports fans: What Would LBJ Do?

http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2009-08-22/how-lyndon-would-have-passed-health-care-reform/?cid=hp:mainpromo2

there used to be a woman here that posted under the nom de plume of Pissed Off Patricia. She is writing her own blog now last I heard.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253762

Good Morning Tony. It would be nice if Howard Dean had their ear right now, because of his stand on Health Care.

Howard Dean Is New Chairman of Progressive Book Club
http://www.usnews.com/blogs/washington-whispers/2009/06/03/howard-dean-is-new-chairman-of-progressive-book-club.html

Another POP dooty. I'd forgotten her.

"Does this POP party have anything to do with Nader? Cause that's a deal breaker for me...."

Noooooo!

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253775

I am with you Patsi on this one.

With the line of candidates Jack is proposing it looks like it guarantees the President another 4 years.

"So, lay here on the couch and tell me.
What do you see when you look at this?"

Oh no!! You mean you won't just tell me!
How about, what does it mean to you Jack. Talk to me. :)

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/donald-sutherland/stand-up-max-baucus_b_262288.html

"Stand Up, Max Baucus"

"t must finally be clear to us all that the stumbling block to successful health/disease care reform has been definitively reduced to two words. They're not "public option" or "single payer", they're "Max Baucus".

He was not elected to eliminate the Democratic Majority in the Finance Committee, but that's what he's done. It was not mandated that he exclude a representative expert on single payer from his 15-person advisory board but that's what he did."

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253778

Hi Chloe
Wish Dean had their ear, but he's on the out's with the Obama crowd.I really don't get why?Dean should be HHS not Sebeluis!

I agree Tony. Now I have to get to work ( I shouldn't have been here to begin with). My husbands out of town, and I have to do his share and mine.

See you all later.

Dooty

It is a long time till 2012 but currently Obama is the only one with a funtioning party behind him. Notice on healthcare nobody in his party is breaking from the pack and challenging him.

The republicans are in complete disarray. No leadership, no message. The Reagan coalition is busted.

Jack

"The republicans are in complete disarray. No leadership, no message. The Reagan coalition is busted"....Jack

Jack,

I agree.

RE: Nader. I've disliked and mistrusted him for years...although respecting his efforts for conservation. Then when he effectively handed the government to George Bush and even said it might do the country good to see what bad government can do....well...as some Italians might say "You are dead to me, Ralph."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/213173

"Time to Get in the Ring"by E.Clift

"Republican strategist Karl Rove was known for zeroing in on an opponent's strength, destroying John Kerry, a war hero, by portraying him as weak. Obama's strength is his calmness, his ability to bring people together. Rove isn't on the scene, but his signature strategy lives on. The last months have punctured the idea that Obama can forge working relationships with the enemy. What the people who voted for him are looking for now are passion and a willingness to fight for what he believes in, not a carefully calibrated compromise that is better for insurance providers than it is for patients and consumers."

Don't know if this has been posted: "Don't Save Me From Govt Heath Care"

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jon-soltz/hey-dont-save-me-from-gov_b_264098.html

Great Newsweek article, Tony -- thanks. That's the conversation Dog's Eye and I always had during the primaries. I said we better have a fighter and Dog wanted conciliation -- which I certainly understand. But even back in 2004, while I loved the speech Obama gave, I kept saying, "Beautifully said. Beautiful concept -- we are NOT red and blue America. We are ONE America -- but just BS. Of course we are red and blue. And the Republicans ain't gonna play nice."

The American government -- which we once called our government -- has been taken over by Wall Street, the mega-corporations and the super-rich. They are the ones who decide our fate. It is this group of powerful elites, the people President Franklin D. Roosevelt called "economic royalists," who choose our elected officials -- indeed, our very form of government. Both Democrats and Republicans dance to the tune of their corporate masters. In America, corporations do not control the government. In America, corporations are the government.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253759

Patsi

It sounds as if you were in the same political blue funk I was in about that time. Looking back to 1970, I can't see a whole lot of change for the better in the past 40 years outside of racial and sexual civil rights and that hasn't been as good as it should have been by now..

There are a whole lot of things that have gone severely down hill.

Woke up late and came in on the last 20 minutes. Is it my imagination or was there a whole lot of licking of Republican boots going on? At least the section I saw seemed to be reflecting an NBC corporate order to be nice to corporations.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253768

Jack

She hasn't been around in quite a while, but we used to have PoP "Pissed off Patricia". Maybe we should see if she wants to run for President.

Ha!!! Found PoP. Naturally she has more than a word or two for the birthers and earthers,

http://morning-martini.blogspot.com/

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253793

Yes to all you said, Jamie!

Patsi,

That Soltz article is what we should have been seeing in some major piece on Television. I may have missed it, but have any of the major anchors taken Soltz on a walk through a VA hospital or to a Tri Care doctors office.

Maybe if they actually SHOWED people the difference it would damp down some of the fear and Republican led anguish.

Yes -- and that's what I hear all the time from veterans. Especially here in Nashville where so many musician/vets would have no healthcare but for the VA.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253791

Patsi
I remember your conversation's with Dog and I wish that world of Dog's existed! Republican's will not ever play nice with Obama.I only hope the President figures it out soon..I miss Dog's intelligent post's and I often wonder what she thinks of the world now..

Watching State of the Union this morning is making me furious. The media is covering the fight not the issue.

At least Contessa Brewer put faces on the problems. Why isn't everyone? Stop listening to the politicos yammer and show the actual system in action both the good and bad.

patsi: I agree 100% with you about Ron Paul & Ralph Nader. A couple of dangerous fruitloops.

re: 1968. I couldn't BELIEVE that Nixon got elected. He was a miserable rat and everyone knew it. But he was a right wing rat, and too many people in this country LOVED right wing ideas.

And still do.

MSM coverage of the health care debate is ridiculous.

Anyone with half a brain and a few hours can research the issues and realize that our health care system is a horrible mess (because of the private insurance companies) and we need to do what other industrialized nations do: have some form of government-funded care for all. There are several different options: national health system (Britain), single-payer system (Canada) or hybrid variations (Switzerland). As I said, it's not hard to research the issue.

And yet, when these highly-paid MSM talking heads (with large production staffs) sit down to talk to Republicans or health insurance industry lobbyists, they sit there and listen to (what they know are) the most OUTRAGEOUS LIES with a straight face, challenging nothing.

By offering what they present as a "balanced" view of the debate, they give credibility to B.S. and conspire to mislead the morons out there who still believe in death panels.

Nash,

I actually got fired over that election. The morning after, I came to work and the owner was over the moon with joy and made the mistake of asking me what I thought. My answer: "At least 40% of the nation is pleased. I'm not one of them." A little too much honesty.

Still it would have been a complete Republican blow out if the Wallace vote had been in the Nixon column.

Nash

It is a lot cheaper to put five people with good sized paychecks around a desk in a room with a camera than it is to send a crew out to actually look at the problem and interview the people running the system.

Even this whole Twitter, Facebook stuff is a way to bring in other voices CHEAP. Only problem is that there is no value set on any of the voices as to accuracy or usefulness.

1 + 1 = 1

End result is a disservice to the public on these truly complicated issues. It is all talk and opinion without substance.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253792 "Both Democrats and Republicans dance to the tune of their corporate masters. In America, corporations do not control the government. In America, corporations are the government."

I can't believe how beautifully said that was Buford. Great post!

Thought for the day :
" Beware the man who can't be bothered with details. "

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253803

The way they cover things goes right back to the corporation that owns them Nash. They've always had an agenda and still do. Buford is right about the corporations.

"..show the actual system in action both the good and bad."

Remember when that's what the news was about?

1754 Louis XVI Versailles, king of France (1774-92); guillotined
1934 Barbara Eden Tucson Az, actress (Dream of Jeannie, Amazing Dobermans)

1617 1st one-way streets established (London)
1833 Britain abolishes slavery in colonies; 700,000 slaves freed
1869 1st carload of freight (boots & shoes) arrives in SF, from Boston
1904 Automobile tire chain patented
1963 Beatles release "She Loves You" in the UK
1972 Republican convention (Miami Beach, Fla) renominates VP Agnew but not unanimous-1 vote went to NBC newsman David Brinkley)
1977 1st man-powered flight of a mile (Bryan Allen in Gossamer Condor)

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253809

Chloe

Today on Sunday Morning they showed clips about high speed rail with reporters actually riding in Japan and Germany decades ago followed by the thirty year campaign to it hear with the end result that we now have arrows on the wall as to where they might be eventually.

This nation sold it's soul to oil and the automobile and destroyed one of the best rail systems in the world that must now be completely rebuilt because the infrastructure can't even handle the Acela at full speed.

That is what greed gets you and it could yet take this country down.

Thousands Flee Athens Fires

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/24/world/europe/24greece.html

Patsi,

"Sorry Solar -- I know you kind of like him...but Ron Paul is a NUT!"

There are only a hand full of honest politicians as I see it: Ronn Paul is one of them. Dennis K. is another, Chuck Hagel is one also. I would vote for any of these in a heart beat.

I have always liked Chuck H. He sounded and acted like a Senator should, and voted his conscience , and did not go along to get along. Have said that I would vote for him many times.

I know that R. v's W is very important for our country; but so is a lot of other issues, and one of them is the wars that we should not be in. If any of these three were in office we would not be losing the lives of our soldiers on a daily bases. ( I don't see any passion to stop the wars) I can't think of too many other D's or R's that would not have us in these wars:

I can't think of too many D's or R's that would not be in the pockets of big, banks, pharms, oil companies, the enrons, the halliburtons, etc, etc,. I think that we need a new start, we need a different kind of politician; strike that, we need a different kind of politicians, that we have had in office period.

I agree that he is a nut; but look who I voted for last time, McKinney, and she is a certified nut. In the Past elections, for Prof, Haglen ,,,and not once have I regretted my vote. I have seen a lot of regret here on tm, and all over the country. I think that we are the nuts for sending the same two party's, into the offices that they enjoy so much at our expense.........we are the nuts......

ps. I would have voted for Steve Forbes, if I knew that he would have kept his flat sales, and flat income tax, we would have had real transparency , no irs, no lobbyist........there are very many issues that are important, but I will always think that a women s right to choose is an important one also...........

Jamie, I agree stop the politicians yammering -it's to gin up their bases there is an Election in Nov 2010. Open up the system good and bad. Nobody is talking nuts and bolts. They say what we are watching is like sausage being made. They are only highlighting provisions in how many different bills?

If my sibling who is ill right now was dropped from her health insurance it would bankrupt her family. and cause (Another Foreclosure?) So there are provisions of the bill resonating with all, regardless of political ideology. The Republicans can talk kill the bill but what would they have people do about the status quo? Unemployment is too high -too many people are losing their coverage. There is no room - public patience for either side to play politics as usual. I guess I am saying as far as health care reform goes there are Republicans and Independents that are not happy with the satus quo and expect more than stone walling from the Republicans in Congress- we expect some bipartisan participation. In Ed's Hot Air article, in his summation he brought up Single Payer.

On a happy note my town is rated number #1 in Texas as desirable places to live. We are supposed to be getting a river walk like OKC and San Antonio. We are still planning on moving back to the Mountains -Colorado Springs area, it may take longer than we had planned because of sluggish housing market.

http://www.bruce-thompson.com/Blog/Flower-Mound-Named-1-place-to-Live-in-Texas-By-Forbes-Magazine

Plugging Australian oil leak could take weeks

http://www.seattlepi.com/national/1106ap_as_australia_oil_spill.html

----------------
" Drill Baby Drill "

I give Pat B. A lot of credit for helping the D's win when B. C. won.

I don't think that R. Nadar, lost it for Gore. He was much to timid; ( same with Kerry) and did not win his own state, plus did not use Clinton, who would have made the difference imo.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253802
Nash,
In the Florida 2000 election Gore lost to Bush by 537 votes. Nader got 97,488 votes. Gore lost because of Nader, not because of Bush.

On the 1968 election, yes Nixon was a rat. The Johnson administration represented by Hubert Humphrey was a bigger rat because of the escalation and management of the Vietnam War. I voted for Johnson in 1964 and was mad as he!! when he escalated the Vietnam War in 1965 on a LIE. I, as many did, voted against Humphrey, not for Nixon. I voted for the usual "lesser of two evils." Nixon won 32 states and 301 Electoral votes even with George Wallace running.

The Will Rogers's observation "I am not a member of any organized party - I am a Democrat" was true in Rogers' time, was true in 1968 and 2000, and is true today.

Alright Patsi, Here's my dream ticket:

Paul/ Nader 2012!

and here's the slogan:

"Let's get fuckin' nuts!"

Peggy Noonan is making a lot of sense in this article she wrote. Get past the title of the article. The explanation to what is going on right now is a very good analysis of what is going on with the health care insurance reform. I bet her editor picked the title to get attention.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204884404574362971349563340.html

#

#

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253802
Nash,
In the Florida 2000 election Gore lost to Bush by 537 votes. Nader got 97,488 votes. Gore lost because of Nader, not because of Bush.

Posted by: Purple-in-Tampa Author Profile Page | August 23, 2009 12:09 PM

Wrong. Gore lost the election because he didn't get as many votes as Bush (supposedly). Nader was supposed to give the citizenry one less choice and drop out because Gore wasn't popular enough to win by himself? What a sick and twisted line of logic.

jamie: I was a college freshman in 1968. My roommate had a big "Nixon '68" poster on his side of the room. I went to Boston's Chinatown and got a communist Chinese poster (showing triumphant workers trampling fat "capitalists" in tuxedoes.)

It just went downhill from there.

Purple is right, dark lord is wrong.

If Nader had pulled out of the 2000 race the week before the election, Gore would have won easily in Florida. Nader had NO CHANCE of winning but he lured a bunch of naive liberals into voting for him and gave the election to Bush.

Actually, Gore WON and a recount would have proved that, but Jeb Bush & the Supreme Court stole the 2000 election for GW Bush. This never would have been possible if the vote had not been so close due to Nader.

By the way, no less a source than the BBC reported that Gore actually won in 2000 in Florida, after conducting a thorough investigation several years later.

*rolls eyes*

I hate partisan liberals.

More than 4.5m people are short of water in northern China as a severe drought continues, state media say.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8216681.stm

Here's BBC video clip on how Bush stole the 2000 election. Sorry, I forgot how to do links. You'll have to cut & paste this address.

http://vodpod.com/watch/424947-bbc-newsnight-how-bush-stole-the-2000-election-greg-palast

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253820
Dark-Lord, we will never know if Gore had more Florida votes than Bush!

"That is what greed gets you and it could yet take this country down."

Jamie, What's so sad about it, is these decisions are made by so few, and yet affect all of us.

Nash, I see you noticed that copy and paste does give a link here.

Wait... so did Nader lose it for Gore or did Bush steal it? Make up your minds.

"we will never know if Gore had more Florida votes than Bush!"

But still, isn't it weird for a national election to be that unbelievably close Purple.

Leaking chemical stockpiles missing deadlines

http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/la-na-chemical23-2009aug23,0,6941231.story?track=rss

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253828

Actually, it doesn't really matter why it happened, it just did.
It's silly for us to look for excuses.

Lord, I get the feeling you hate partisans, because you hate rationalizations

"...because you hate rationalizations"

Posted by: chloe Author Profile Page | August 23, 2009 12:45 PM

That's one way to put it... slightly less colorful than I would have stated it.

LOL Lord. I'd like to hear your version.

Chloe

It probably involves the Muppets instructing children on the letters B and S

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253818

ROFL, Lord Blog.....

The 2000 election fiasco remains a sore spot for many of us---my nominee would be Justice Antonin
Scalia---but for his final call, we would have known
just how many votes went to Gore & Bush in Florida.

"Peggy Noonan is making a lot of sense in this article she wrote. Get past the title of the article. "

Ree -- aside from the title, what I can't get past is that Peggy Noonan couldn't give a crap about health care.

So let's see, Gore in 2000:

-represented the incumbency
-had the backing of DNC, and their hundreds of millions of $$
-had the support of Democratic rank-and-file
-enjoyed massive media exposure, not only for the 8 years he served for the very popular Bill Clinton, but also during the campaign as the Democratic nominee

and he (Gore) lost because Ralph Nader, who was ridiculed, barred from debates, and was getting pies thrown in his face, "siphoned" a few votes in one state out of 50? Ralph Nader was supposed to forgo his constitutional right to run for public office because liberal Democrats wanted the voting populace to have LESS choice? If that's your ideal vision of America, leave me out of it.

...bear in mind, also, that in November 2000, no one (besides a few insiders, perhaps) knew that the WTCs would be attacked and that would be used by the Republican administration to start two wars.

Dark Lord ~ Don't see how anyone can argue the point. Gore lost to Bush in Florida by about 700 votes. Nader got more than 97,000 votes in Florida.

http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0876793.html

Unless one supposes those 97,000 votes would have split evenly or even in Bush's favor, it's clear that Nader made the difference in Florida without any help from Bush. I sometimes wonder if that's exactly what he was trying to do. What has Nader done since 2000 to make any difference, except in election years, and then only for his own benefit?

1st sign-
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=644712&l=6c74aa55b2&id=1315243533

Obama is arriving shortly. Can't decide whether to go to the airport or not- it's hot and not even sure if they'll let anyone there. It is a lot of fun to watch the whole show though.

So I know a secret, along with the rest of the island.

What do you all think of a bar called- 5 Nutty Presidents Bark- Is that too disrespectful? Need to make it soon.

"What has Nader done since 2000 to make any difference, except in election years, and then only for his own benefit?"

Posted by: AnnaMolly Author Profile Page | August 23, 2009 12:59 PM

He speaks the truth, which is more than you're doing.

Ok, enough for now, before I get out of control. Politics aside, have a good day.

I would remind everyone that being intelligent, and being bat-shit crazy are not mutually exclusive.

See Ted Bundy

Have a good day Champ.

"97,000 votes would have split evenly..."

Posted by: AnnaMolly Author Profile Page | August 23, 2009 12:59 PM

No, wait... your argument is now "the opinions of 97000( NINETY-SEVEN THOUSAND) voting citizens of the state of Florida are irrelevant, because I disagree with them". Hey, that's fine, but don't ever let me hear you lament HRC's treatment concerning the Florida electorate in 2008.

...pulling the plug. Peace.

Double " Atta Girls" to Old Sea.

New media ( Facebook ) meets the old media ( Painted plywood ).

Ree -- aside from the title, what I can't get past is that Peggy Noonan couldn't give a crap about health care.

Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | August 23, 2009 12:53 PM

That's true she only cares about the politics but her analysis is good, and I guess I hung onto the President will come in the fall bring the health care insurance reform to fruition. My take, he will manage to force a bipartisan bill which I took would mean something incremental - not all at once and save the day. I don't think doing nothing is popular with Americans. The MSM is only going to show us the sensational because it's August "Slow News" Doldrums and they need ratings. I do believe there are folks out there of every political persuasion that actually expect them to do the People's business, they can go back to politics when they are done with the legislation. I guess the Republicans think they have nothing to lose but if I were them I wouldn't start fires, I couldn't put out.

Listening to Steny Hoyer the last couple of days, makes me think he's the guy to take the lead. Grassley and Specter are in some kind of twitter war of words...LOL! Only in America.

No, the question was only whether Nader stole the election from Gore. In the sense that 97,000 people who otherwise were probably more likely to vote for Gore than for Bush were persuaded to vote for Nader, he obviously made the difference. How is that not speaking the truth? The numbers speak for themselves. I didn't say they were irrelevant. They were highly relevant, regardless of my own opinion. No one should ever say their vote doesn't count, and everyone should think about then when they do vote.

"I wouldn't start fires, I couldn't put out. "

... always very good advice Ree.

Cbob- ain't that the truth. The storm didn't even come close so my beloved corn is still here. Wasn't ready to decorate with corn stalks just yet.

Gore did not even win his own state.....who cares why. The R's are supposed to be the dummies; at least that is what i keep hearing. How did they beat Gore, and Kerry? By out thinking them. I have been screaming. GREED for over a year now... and it has finnally started some to see t his also...we are the slaves of the Large Corps, that own both the D's and the R's......The only way to stop them is to elect some nut from either party, imo....later in and out.

Aug 23rd, 2009 | HAINES JUNCTION, Yukon Territory -- A veil of smoke settled over the forest in the shadow of the St. Elias Mountains, in a wilderness whose spruce trees stood tall and gray, a deathly gray even in the greenest heart of a Yukon summer.

"As far as the eye can see, it's all infested," forester Rob Legare said, looking out over the thick woods of the Alsek River valley.

Beetles and fire, twin plagues, are consuming northern forests in what scientists say is a preview of the future, in a century growing warmer, as the land grows drier, trees grow weaker and pests, abetted by milder winters, grow stronger.

Dying, burning forests would then only add to the warming.

http://www.salon.com/wires/ap/scitech/2009/08/23/D9A8M29O0_climate__09_beetles_and_smoke/index.html

For the blogger folks, the prompt is up for "Take This Tune"

http://takethistune.blogspot.com/

Just to put things in perspective

http://media.fukung.net/images/11238/301464d7c1b54c9447fd7ce0ad4ba611.gif

attention one and all, sea has asked for opinion on a time sensitive issue. so get over the 1968 and 2000
debacles already and answer her!

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253842

sea, re the new bar/bark name, imho not that it's disrespectful, but 1. it's a little confusing as to whom you're calling nuttyj and 2. just not catchy or kitchy enough.
your sign is beautiful. altho, bet some of the entourage think it has something to do with healthcare.

Making Your Opponent's Argument For Him

Consider the way our views normally evolve. We sort of hunker down in our ideological bunkers trying to fend off various attacks and challenges. Sometimes an especially forceful argument will require a modification in the fortifications—and on rare occasions, we’ll even be forced to abandon a position. Which is to say, we learn from other perspectives largely in a defensive mode, through a kind of Darwinian selection of arguments. But what if instead we tried to use the insights available from our own perspectives, not to defeat or convert the other guy, but to give his argument its best form?

http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/2009/08/making-your-opponents-argument-for-him.html

-------------------
Pogo is a master of this .

Sea,

Been thinking about it: Not it is not so disrespectful...it will catch attention. Also it might help for future sales from these same people, if you can get a form or something so they can give you their e-mail, and a line for friends and relatives........I will be thinking, and wishing you all the best. L & L

not=no

sea, just for fun on the political issue of the day, can you devise at the candy store some sort of choice poll? maybe jars with labels like "single payer" or "coops" or "status quo" or "death panels" or "say no to drug & insurance co" and for a penny/nickel/whatever they can vote by reaching in for a candy from the jar of their favored stance on healthcare.

We are getting squeezed tighter and tighter.

ocial Security to Fund $24 Million in Contracts for Electronic Medical Records

Social Security to Fund $24 Million in Contracts for Electronic Medical Records
(Printer friendly version) Get Acrobat Reader

Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, today announced the availability of $24 million in contracts to provide the agency with electronic medical records to improve the efficiency of its disability programs. Through a Request for Proposals available on www.fedbizopps.gov, Social Security is looking for health care providers, provider networks, and health information exchanges to participate in its Medical Evidence Gathering and Analysis through Health Information Technology (IT) program.

“With these competitive contracts, Social Security continues to be a leader in the use of health IT to improve service to the American public,” Commissioner Astrue said. “This technology will greatly improve the speed and consistency of our disability decisions.”

The contract opportunities announced today are funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. They will require awardees, with a patient’s authorization, to send Social Security electronic medical records through the Nationwide Health Information Network (NHIN). The NHIN, a safe and secure method for receiving instantaneous access to electronic medical records, is an initiative of the Department of Health and Human Services and is supported by multiple government agencies and private sector entities.

Social Security is seeing a significant increase in disability applications as a result of the current recession. The agency expects to receive more than 3.3 million applications in fiscal year (FY) 2010, a 27 percent increase over FY 2008. To process these applications, the agency sends more than 15 million requests for medical records to health care providers. The use of health IT will vastly improve the efficiency of this process, which currently is largely paper-bound.

For nearly a year, Social Security has been successfully testing health IT to obtain electronic medical records. Disability applications processed with electronic medical records from the test sites in Massachusetts and Virginia have significantly reduced processing times.

An excellent article in today's WashPost debunking five 'myths' about health plans in other countries.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/08/21/AR2009082101778.html

Wouldn't be it great if we could actually have a debate build around facts?

"Yeah, I stole it. So What?"
-GWB (Out on the patio, broiling some steaks.)

"Button it, George. I may want to run in 2012."
-Jeb (In the pool, with a flight attendant.)

"Come on guys. This is NOT funny any more."
-Karl Rove (crazy-glued to a deck chair while asleep)

OSH,

What's wrong with "The Congressional Bar" it's full of nuts.

Why I'm glad I'm not Chinese -

http://news.chinatimes.com/2007Cti/2007Cti-News/2007Cti-News-Content/0,4521,50102420+112009082300087,00,focus.html

today's bbc factoid:

"There are roughly 3,000 Brazilians in Martha's Vineyard, out of a population of 15,000.

Mr Brandao said: "The Brazilians are the engine of the island. They are the ones who make it happen."

Some in the local community claim the official figures do not fully reflect reality and that the correct number could be two times higher."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/8216840.stm

Rule of law:

Millions face shrinking Social Security payments

WASHINGTON — Millions of older people face shrinking Social Security checks next year, the first time in a generation that payments would not rise.

The trustees who oversee Social Security are projecting there won't be a cost of living adjustment (COLA) for the next two years. That hasn't happened since automatic increases were adopted in 1975.

By law, Social Security benefits cannot go down. Nevertheless, monthly payments would drop for millions of people in the Medicare prescription drug program because the premiums, which often are deducted from Social Security payments, are scheduled to go up slightly. more to read here

http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-general/20090823/US.Social.Security.Smaller.Checks/

Sea,

This is it.....don't look any further, by C. J.

OSH,

"What's wrong with "The Congressional Bar" it's full of nuts."

So true by the way, have a piece of paper asking for an opinion?

Justice denied in Massachusetts:

On this date in 1927, the anarchists Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were executed in Massachusetts for the 1920 murders of a pay clerk and a security guard. To their detractors, they were a couple of "anarchist bastards" who got what they deserved; to their supporters, they were martyrs to a wave of xenophobic and political hysteria that followed World War One and, more significantly, the Bolshevik takeover in Russia.

Whether you believe in their guilt or innocence, I think we can agree that that same hysteria lurks at the heart of our current troubles: demonizing positions held by opponents and flinging about labels like "socialist" and "Nazi" in highly inflammatory and unproductive ways. Remember Santayana?

Best headline today -

Obama's health care bill falls into a coma

http://voices.kansascity.com/node/5558

Sea,

The sign is great and is now up on the liberator site

http://94campaign.blogspot.com/

"Many of the Brazilians working in landscaping, serving tables or cleaning rooms in hotels prefer to stay off the radar - up to 70% are undocumented workers." [from bbc article linked above]

sea, is this true?

Fairweather is too modest.

http://fairweatherlewis.blogstream.com/v1/pid/409828_Justice-Denied-in-Massachusetts.html#TP

The same thing is about to happen to Chuck Grassley, Fair, just as it happened to Colin Powell, Scott McClellan, and anyone else who hasn't toed the party line.

The USA Today story about my friend Dave Nordhal has had me wandering around the net looking at some of his work again. I had the good fortune to visit Dave and Lori a lot in the 80's. I would always forget my shampoo on these visits. After a while I did it on purpose, as some sort of good luck charm.
If anyone has viewed Dave's paintings he did for Micheal Jackson , have a look at what Dave was painting before he met Jackson -

http://www.sherwoodsspirit.com/item/494

re: Brazilians

It's SO hard to find good servants.

" How did they beat Gore, and Kerry? By out thinking them. "

Both were out-Jesused.

Summer in Martha's Vineyard:

"Tall and tan and young and lovely,
the girl from ipanema goes walking,
and when she passes,
each once she passes goes..."

"Hey. Sweetheart. Another round over here, when you get a chance."

And in Tennessee, Gore was out-gunned.

Global warming is actually my revenge.
-Al Gore (Driving a Hummer)

"Both were out-Jesused."

So true! just in my family alone, we were out jesused, cos of the right to life crap, and still is a major topic for them, actually thats all they have to talk about....

I proudly supported Hubert Humphrey in 1968. I wasn't old enough to vote, but campaigned for him.

A worthwhile read from the weekend Journal. For me, the world of twittering had legitimized the lives of many, many otherwise useless twits to the detriment of society as a whole.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203550604574358643117407778.html

Posted by: AnnaMolly | August 23, 2009 2:44 PM

Why, much obliged, Miss AnnieMolly--but if'n th' knobite's abein' too modest, hit's fer the first time ever.;)

Meanwhile, though, I agree with you. I even catch myself demonizing my less liberal fellow Dems, not only GOP, for not toeing MY line and supporting the public option. It's creating an ugly, ugly cycle.

And I really should stick to music. . .:D

1968..I also remember Robert Kennedy speaking infront of my high school and Gene McCarthy winning the Oregon primary.

The November election was terrible as Humphrey lost our state and Senator Wayne Morse (D) was defeated by Bob Packwood by a very small margin.

In 1968 I worked for Bobby Kennedy in California. I was in Oakland the night he was shot in Los Angeles. By November, I was in DaNang and voted for Humphrey via absentee ballot -- without enthusiasm.

Fairweather Lewis -

Good screen name FL

CJ, while he was VP he spoke from a radio mike at a baseball game, I don't remember which one. I do remember, though, that he was pandering for support and votes by expounding on the distinctly American pastime of baseball,--while the country was at war.

I was really put-off by what I heard.

nash, you're on a roll today. 'specially liked your 2:20 bros bush at play. add to the scene barnie biting at rove's ankle just for those of us into karma kink.

Posted by: Colorado Bob | August 23, 2009 3:38 PM

It's the one I meant to use way back when I first signed onto Craig's blog, Cbob, but Typepad was at the time having a fit of the vapors which is why the knobite ended up here as KT. Well, no more. I'm finally able to use Fairweather no more KT, y'all) and all's right with the world.

Well, not all, but at least I'm using my right blog name.;)

All's well that ends Fairly well. ;)

Hubert Humphrey was a great man.

It is time for the Democratic Party to step out of the shadows of states' rights and into the bright sunshine of human rights..Then the Dixiecrats walked out of the Democratic convention.

I typed the statement from memory..think it is correct..

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253892

CJ

I was in Northern California and had voted for Kennedy in the primary. Such a beautiful night that turned into such horror.

Posted by: Flatus | August 23, 2009 3:58 PM

LOL, Flatus--;)

eagle has landed. sea, wave to the camera so we know you made the meet & greet at the airport instead of the 5 nutty pres bar.

http://www.necn.com/Boston/Politics/2009/08/23/Obamas-arrive-on-Marthas/1251057685.html

CJ & OD -- I think watching Dailey's machine in Chicago was the final straw for me. Both parties sickened me. I didn't think either one would take us out of the war, and the Chicago cops were clubbing protesters half to death. It was an America I never even dreamed could happen. .Then not long after we were in Germany the Manson massacres happened. I TRULY thought I might stay in Europe!

Looking at the video of the blow out on that rig off northwest Australia , that's not smoke coming from the rig , it's gas and condensate.

That is going to be one hell of a mess. Best guess is 50 days to plug it. If it doesn't just blow up.

"nash, you're on a roll today"

I agree. Nash, Are you a writer? If not, you should be.

"All's well that ends Fairly well"

Ha, You take what you can get.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253902
Patsi, spent all of '68 in Korea. It was a _very_ busy year beefing things up after the Pueblo seizure. I don't remember thinking much about politics. Simply too busy and too tired.

Hello all- got lots to tell you. Went to the airport to see them, they didn't come in on Air Force One- but about 4 helicopters. They landed out at the end of the strip , jumped in a car, didn't even leave by the main entrance, left by a fire gate I guess. Pretty disappointing. Don't quite it get why they were so very exclusive.

Patd- the illegal immigrants have negatively affected the islanders. It is an island and we can't just go to the next town over for work. I had gardening jobs for years, not so now. Bad subject.

So after he arrived I went up to his house to at least take a picture of that for you all, but the SS hollered at us "no pictures" and my friends finger slipped over the lens. Sorry.

Here is the big news. I went to the elementary school to check out the press area and there was Major Garrett, spoke with him for 10 minutes easy, told him all about you all and everything Craig has done to help the 94th. He said he will go to the site tonˆght and asked if he could get in touch with me via that. Sorry Jamie, I know that wasn't your first choice for publicity, but he was there and I just started spewing out as much info as I could.

The 5 nutty president bars is because they will all be here next week. Thought I ought to do something to commemorate that.

Am downloading the pics I have right now, will post shortly!

Here are photos.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=34712&id=1315243533&l=38252dc4d9

Cajunjoe- don't think there's enough nu ts around to make that !

Thanks for the pics!!!!!!

Sturg -
As one our resident classicists, you'll be interested in this picture -

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/aug/23/athens-greece-forest-fires

OSH,
That's okay, you can use phony nuts (nut produce?), that would be fitting, actually.

"[An] unlikely arrangement between a burgeoning Muslim congregation and a suburban synagogue is what happens when you combine the region's rapidly growing Muslim population with a serious shortage of worship space.

As the Muslims looked for a place to expand in Reston, members of Northern Virginia Hebrew Congregation learned of their plight. Although some in the congregation had reservations about leasing space for Islamic services, longtime members recalled that a Catholic church opened its doors to them years before they had built their synagogue. Their rabbi weighed in with biblical support. "The prophet Isaiah said our houses would be houses of prayer for all people," said Rabbi Robert Nosanchuk. "Now, I don't know if Isaiah could have imagined us hosting Ramadan in the synagogue, but the basic idea is there."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2009/08/22/ST2009082201059.html

Hi Sea
Thanks for taking the time to post the fab pics....

Sea -
How about " artificial nuts " ?

Sea -
Swap out chocolate with Ex-Lax , and use artificial nuts .

The world will beat a path to your door.

OSH

Garrett is perfect. The press was the way to reach him. You did that direct and he is the one who can make it happen. PERFECT.

Question of the day -
Are Americans too cynical ?

Vote here, and vote often .

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253906

Sea --

I was tuning in and saw Major Garrett dug in at the school...I had a feeling you were nearby, but not thinking you were just out of camera range.

Now that we know the reason to commemorate the 5 Nuts, we have to get really creative...Thanks for the great photos.

Sea -
Jamie's spot on, and that's the PERFECT venue , except you may have to meet Oliver North.

Sea --

Was there any sign of Bo?? Surely they didn't leave him at the WH kennel!

I nominated Liberal Lardass's site over at Boing Boing.

Did everyone see this story about the rare tiger slaughtered in its cage at the Indonesian zoo. Is it hypocritical to say, "Kill all the mean people"?

http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-world-asia/20090823/AS.Indonesia.Tiger.Killed/

A word about the Greek fires.

I followed the 07' fires very closely . Exactly 2 years ago. The Greeks have a law that says if protected forest is burnt down , private developers can build on it.

They are literally burning their country down for money.

Sea,

Great pics, all of them; except the one with Garret that had his arms around your shoulders, grrrrr........

Ivy,

Thanks for serving up that post, earlier, and for this last one at 6;24, going to read them and get back to you.

Fixing the "executive pay" mess

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0809/26327.html

Sticker in next Greek elections -

" Had Enough ? "

Speaking of Major Garrett and FOX, here is his "report" on the arrival of the Obamas.

http://thepoliticalcarnival.blogspot.com/2009/08/video-fox-news-snide-report-of-obama.html

The 07' fires.

That was the first time I ever really noticed the phrase :
" We've never seen the before "
used in a news story.

It popped up several times that summer, completely different reports, from Utah to Greece all quoting different eye witnesses about fires.

I wish I had kept count of that quote since then.
Fire and Ice
Those are the 2 subjects where you see it.

This not the.

SO glad you all aren't unhappy with me, especially Jamie. He seemed pretty interested in it all and so did his assistant who was writing things down as I spoke. Then I suggested some places to grab a decent meal. Maybe he'll contact Craig, it seemed as though he knows him. I told him how hard Craig has worked at getting national attention .
No worries Solar, he just isn't you.

Thousands flee as fire and destruction advance on Athens

Greek authorities in plea for help as they struggle to fight flames

"The destruction is enormous," Panagiotis Bitakos told Greek television. "They allowed one fire to destroy all of Attica. We had been begging the authorities since early in the morning to send forces... It is too late now. Too late."

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/thousands-flee-as-fire-and-destruction-advance-on-athens-1776495.html

A lot of people are being burned to death right now, may god have mercy on their souls.

Climate change is about to alter Greek political history, again.

Guess what side of the political spectrum is running Greece :

Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis and his conservative New Democracy party took a hammering in the polls in the wake of the 2007 blazes. Now, clinging to a one-seat majority in parliament, trailing the socialist opposition in the opinion polls, with a snap election around the corner, Mr Karamanlis cannot afford to repeat those past mistakes.

The Don Hewitt tribute on 60 Minutes is amazing.

Here's the video of my boys, young Will and Louis hawking the chocolates at the farmers' market.
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=566729352911&ref=nf

The Hope Diamond is getting a makeover and the public gets to choose its new setting

http://www.smithsonianchannel.com/site/smithsonian/hope.html

Jamie.
Of course, the winner will be cursed.

Bob, I was watching something on Korean TV a couple of days ago about a zoo in Thailand where they claimed having 200 tigers in captivity. They showed some tigers nursing piglets, and some sows nursing tigrets.

Sea, I wouldn't trust anybody who's been a major as long as he has.

My only hope on Garrett is that he is smarter in person than he sounds on the air.

Flatus

I think that only happens if you wear it. Were you planning on helping me do the Raid on Smithsonian?

"Sea, I wouldn't trust anybody who's been a major as long as he has."

Funny; I should have said that.

Chloe,

Now I really do feel like Im at 4 places at the same time.!

Flatus

It could be worse. His surname could have been Major.

Down in Panama there were some good name combinations. There was a Captain Skipper, a dentist named Dent, an optometrist name Eyeshy, and a Colonel Sergeant. And, more that I've forgotten.

Jamie, I couldn't read past the first chapter or two--it made me crazy.

And, on the Smithsonian, I'll keep lookout on the outside; you grab the stone and we'll meet over at the Washington Monument. Like noonish.

Ivy,

Thanks for that article. To find God; just skip lunch:

"The association between self-denial and God is common in most religions"
First: If there is a God; it would be a Cosmic; a God that would be too busy to notice some idiot abusing his creation. I would think that it should be just the opposite...take care of your self, and you are taking care of god......we are it...we are god.!!! You are it, we are it, it is it, and that is all. HA.!

2nd: Fasting a cpl, to a few times a year is good for your body: Not over 3-4 day's tho. I do the Seneca Indian Cleansing fast that allows you to eat during the cleanse......I highly recommend it.

Ivy,

Sorry, that sounds a little contradictive. It is not a diet, or a fast; it is a cleansing of your system, that allows you to eat. while being on it.

Link for the Seneca Indian cleansing step, by step.

http://www.ehow.com/how-to.html

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253956

Solar --

Do I really want to click on that link?

No, just info. for those who do......you eat like a bird already.

"Now I really do feel like Im at 4 places at the same time.!"

I know, it's confusing. Two different threads going on at Carols, this one and then at facebook occasionally. My heads spinning.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253951

Flatus

Have to stop off at the castle. There is a signed first edition of Little Women that I've had my eye on for the past quarter century. WA monument is fine, but I may have to take to one of the reflecting pools with snorkle gear.

Ivy, You need to get on facebook too, so we can all be confused together. How about it?

Cool video!

I've got a little vertigo too.

Ivy, I guess I'll never find God because I seldom, if ever, skip lunch. I'll just have to look for Jesus or Mary on my peanut butter sandwich and hope I don't bite into one of them before I notice.

I think it is called hyperblogosis. If it is not yet a dianosis, we ought to add it to the list of psychiatric disorders.

"I think it is called hyperblogosis"

Hilarious Carol. You can go down in history as the person to invent the diagnosis. You'll be richer than ever.

I'm going to read while I can still 'almost' see straight.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253961

Chloe - No SpaceBooks or MyFaces for me...my children might find out what I'm up to...

(^_~)

Solar, what is this "Seneca Indian Cleansing fast that allows you to eat during the cleanse" Is it a prune fast?

Chloe, the old fortune teller I went to over in New Orleans said I would never be rich, just comfortable.

Ok Ivy, but I'm disappointed. :)
Carol, Solar's over on your site talking to you as we speak.

Nite again.

Comfortable is good!
It's all relative, anyway.

Chloe,

98,97,96,....thought that I forgot huh?

Carol, no. look up for a link? It is not harmful...ive done a few, but far in between.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253956

Solar, I like the Seneca Indian Seafood diet.. . .

That's the one where you see food and eat it. lol

The ex is Seneca as well as our daughter. I back :-)

95, 94, 93.... snoooze.

Hey Rez-Man,

How------------how are you? haha

I'm at the point where I don't know where, who is, when. We need to all implant a GPS tracking device and make a blog map.

Where is she? She's over at Craig's place, no she left and went to Jamie's place, but she first stopped off first to visit Sean, but left to get lunch at the corn place but had to cook it over at the solar oven place..........

Before I dash off for the night, I thought I'd share one last bit from Estes Park...we visited the gallery of sculptor Victor Issa and were mesmerized by the featured display. It is titled "The Power of Thought."

"Through twenty one detailed features, the sculpture tells some of the stories of this human journey.
Below the figure are representations of architectural, engineering, scientific and artistic achievements...Included are: Jordan’s Petra, the Roman Coliseum, The Hoover Dam, Sydney’s Opera House, Shakespeare, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, Taj Mahal, Toronto’s CN Tower, The Great Wall of China, The Pyramids, Michelangelo’s Creation, Rodin’s the Thinker and finally Neil Armstrong Footprint on the surface of the moon."

The challenge is to see how many you can find.

http://www.victorissa.com/contentframeset/studioframeset.html

I will try this link one more time. If it doesn't work, I'll just be content to gaze at Inca Pisco. He's an example of fine art too.

http://www.victorissa.com/contentframeset/PowerOfThought.htm

The Third Man Factor, I was reading this and it gave me shivers. The catholic church has histories of Saints being in two place at once (bi location). But this is different. How many accounts of the third man factor are there in written history?

The first thing that will happen when you read this is your mind will try and rationalize the phenomena away, that's what brains do they order an acceptable reality. The First thing I "thought" was perhaps it was lack of oxygen to the brain causing a hallucination, but there really isn't any auditory or real visual hallucination involved.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204884404574361631588827614.html?mod=rss_opinion_main

Ree,

Very intriguing article.

People with terminally-ill family members often don't want to leave their loved ones for even a minute near the end. They are afraid that person might die alone, a terrible thought, to be sure. But a hospice worker told me families should be comforted because in all cases there is an "angel" or some benevolent spiritual entity with them.

That conversation has always stuck with me. Your link reminded me.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/08/washingtons-mask-of-deception.html#comment-253980

ivygreen, they really can't explain it. I am going to put this book on my Amazon wish list which is getting really long :)