Craig Crawford's Trail Mix

Wooo Hooo

Now what's the topic?

What's the inside scoop on Rick and Craig?

Yesterday, on the front page of the Grand Rapids paper they had a story about a Halloween costume that was pulled from the shelves of a store here (Meijer). The costume was an alien wearing an orange jumpsuit and holding a green card. It was called "Illegal Alien". The costume was pulled because some people found it offensive. I understand why people would find it offensive. However, some woman at work read the article and said, "Why is that offensive?! Why would anybody find that offensive?! People are SO SENSITIVE these days! That isn't any more offensive than a Fat Elvis costume! I mean, that offends Elvis fans AND fat people!" I just shook my head.

Just checking out the chapter titled "Watch Your Image: You're on You Tube" which lays out the story about William Howard Taft's "Tub Flub" (say, when was the modern shower stall invented, that might have saved him in more ways than one?)

It's a shame there's no modicum of privacy left in the presidency, if there ever was one.

"Sure, you can have a personal life -- if you don't do anything and just sit in the White House."

-- Eleanor Roosevelt

(p.58)

Cbob-good to hear the mt. lions are coming back down there. I love em. There use to be one on my parents land, used to track him, not too far though, they have a large territory.
Sturge- sorry you never got the munchies, they're rather fun.
Jamie- Just shipped out to Salem, so will be back on board. Am getting a bit pissed, have some ideas, will give you a ring.
Ed- glad you got home safe and sound!!
Does anyone know if 168 is for real?

I've always had a fondness for the skinny dippers in American history. Considering some of the things that have been done inside the WH, a little nude dip in the Potomac is practically puritanical.

283=>2920<*****

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267573

Sea,

If Craig is to be believed, yes.

Ivy- didn't know, of course he is. I'd have never believed it though, without his stamp.

OSH

He is real, no adult can fake an 11 yr old mind.

I'm gonna order some of that xhot chocolate one of these days. The wife wants to get some of the hot stuff if you will make it to give to friends for christmas.

Jack

Sea --

Craig said give the kid a break. No, I said that. Craig asked that we extend a warm welcome.

"Just remember I may not agree with your opinions or facts and some days I'm damn blunt about it."

Jack,
Your FAB and funny too...Love your bluntness,you get to the heart of the matter quickly...Your so much better than the talking heads on cable...

OSH,

me168 is my grandson, a real 11 year old going on 30. I got permission from Craig before he signed up. He is over confident but is very smart to the point of being scary. He was breaking my screen saver passwords at the age of 3, scary.

Mr. Bloggingham, in almost any other venue, I would agree with you about unattended youth meeting adults online. However, the large number of adults keeping a close watch on the threads seems a protection for our latest Trail Hand. We have a number of strong gals types who are richly experienced in mothering.

Your words about Mr. 186 reading the sometimes adult & even raunchy topics does trouble me. I hope that Mr. Tampa is keeping an eagle's eye out &expect that he does. Of course, the 'place' is much safer than it was in the days when He Who Must Not be Named and Brian were here.

I hear lads as they walk through the neighborhood on their ways home from school, and the vocabularies are much more crude than they were when I was 11 and living in a very tame part of the Cosmos.

PiT...
he seems like a smart kid. But I have to agree with lord bloggingham.... this is an adult blog and some of the subjects we discuss are not appropriate for his age. Just this morning we made sexual jokes about Cheney and discussed medical marijuana and about some Republican Senators voting against a rape amendment. These types of discussions happen here all the time and I would hate to see them restricted because of one 11 yr old. Just my opinion.

Grandpa,

Thanks. I owe you one.

OSH,

I am a legit 11 year old.

Your lordship (as if)

Are you afraid of an 11 year old? Why would you be? All you're saying is how immature it is to do that. I have Purple behind my back. anybody else with me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jamie

nicknames I like to be made up by your own self.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267586

me168

After that post I may just call you Master Feisty (You don't get to be a mister until you turn 12) :-)

Solar,
Agree with you regarding the President and war! I never thought he was this anti-war guy..I also remember him promising to do in Afghanistan what he is doing..I thought it was really odd during the primaries to here people like Brian and Dog completely justify Obama's surge in Afganistan, but decry the Bush surge in Iraq....Brian would say what about the woman and girls in Afghanistan and all I could think of was what about the woman and girls in all of the Middle East?

RebilRenee,

Good point. but you have a few flaws.

on monday-friday I get home at 3:30 pm. And I don't get on untill 4 Mostly. Also as long as your not talking about it when i get on i don't read it. i go to the last post to know what the heck is going on.

but let craig decide,it's his site

Jamie,

I likey :-D

Ivy- as I said I didn't know he was introduced- don't think I was riding on him, just asked.
Purple- thanks for the intro- have been in and out and not knowing the history your grandson seemed too mature to be real!
168- Good for you talking politics with your Grandpa. I did the same with my grandmother, no blogs to hang out with her back then, she just explained the way the machines, the big cities in the north worked, what side we were on and the lessons I remembered most was who our allies were. I miss my Nana.

Purple said well do OSH

Just sayin', but I think Sanchez ended the interview a little too abruptly--but then, Wolfman is higher on the pay scale soooo---

havent checked it out yet,but will

me.... yup... it's Craig's site. But he will let all of us discuss this and have our opinions. He also wants us not to call each other names when we disagree with someone.

Xrep.... He Who Must Not Be Named is Brian....

Tony,

You are familiar with the term. "kill em with kindness" Thats what Obama does...while the R's a nd others like Cheney call him a softie..he is expanding our war zone areas...pretty soon we will be fighting every nieghboring county to Afhganistan...and that includes Iran...but he is no dove...

Another thing Tony, he puncked out, on fixing the economy imo. He didn't want to hear the R's tell us that he kept adding to the deficit...he is already thinking about his next term.

So this is why he is a war president...he is building up the economy by doing it through the military...he is spending a lot of Money that goes to defense contractors..and to foreign country's..they are making a lot of our tax money....

He is getting to be as bad as Bush on this stuff....Cheney and company has him right where they want him..he is supporting their defense contractors just like they were.....and people like Sen Feinstien is making a killing....she is on the boards that passes laws to give her husband (owner) defense government contracts........and then some say that we don't need a third party,,its too hard..we have term limits when we vote them out...which is never......

You168:

Have you done your assigned book report? The book is titled, "Listen Up, Mr. President." It is required reading for blog participation.

My local school's library sent a letter just yesterday soliciting books for its library. I am inspired to donate a copy of "Listen Up." If Craig would consent to send me a second bookplate for the school copy, I will call it a done deal. (I will follow up my request with an e-mail).

(^_~)

I only wached 2 minutes and it's reiculus

" I have a crush on her"

EWW.......

"he's my brother"

lable him g for GAY!!!

Craig looks cooler

tony
the main dis agreement I have with Solar is when he said "just like Cheney". I don't think Obama ever came across as a peacenik but he isn't a promoter of war and confrontation like Cheney was and is.

One can say we should never have invaded Iraq but then say we need to be careful about leaveing.
I think there is a case to be made for increasing the troops in Afghanisstan but I want to see some change in the failing policy that is there now and not just send them because some pissant of an ex VP called Obama a coward.

Jack

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267595

Oops Renee,
I just named him too...Ha,oh well..Lov you too Renee,your a joy to read...

IG,

I'll save up for it,i'm broke like the econamy

I vote yes on the young lad......if he's happy commenting here, reading here and can learn a thing or two and perhaps teach a bit here and there, then fine.......it's not as if he will "lower the level of discourse"...........

Renee,

Purple said He who must not be named rimes with ritz

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267599

"but he isn't a promoter of war and confrontation like Cheney was and is."

Jack,
I most definitely agree,Obama is nothing like Bush or Cheney! I do think unless are mission has been redefined,we didn't go into Afghanistan to get rid of the Taliban or to nation build.I don't want more troops in Afghanistan period..I'm so tired of the US shouldering all the burdens with no real help from the Arabs in the region..I want to rebuild the US.I sound like I'm out to lunch i know...

Hey , Kid

"lable him g for GAY"
is very uncool, it maybe OK for middleschool back and forth where you come from, but not around here. You have just offended several people on this blog.

Jack

Gotta go guys...it's beddy by time :-D

peace and see you tomarow

me168...
tell grandpa that's the old one.... the one that rhymes with rian is a newer one...

Tony.... Lov you too....

168m

Im used to talking to a lot of kids about anything and everything. Im talked to yesterday, and it felt a little awkward; you are a very well informed kid to me,but here is the but; I have to now agree with D.L. and Renee:

This is an adult type of blog, and I sometimes get a little emotional; and I sometimes blurt out things....and tell some adult jokes sometimes also...so fair warning, and an apology ahead of time to you and you Grand Pa......hey did you hear the one......never mind... it will have to wait until later on....that is if I can still remember it...HA!

ooops.............lol

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267606

Make sure you take your book. Flashlight reading is permitted.

Renee

I don't think we need to limit ourselves or our discussion. This is an adult blog and if the Kid's parents let him hang out here they need to understand this.

For the most part he will either understand what we are talking about in which it is too late or he will not and it will go over his head.
And it won't be the first time around here where I've said something only to see it go whoooosh over a head.

Jack

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267601

Oh, "IG"! I didn't recognize that was me! Maybe somebody will donate a copy to your school library. I think that would be a great thing to do...

(^_~)

Tony

I'm so on the fence on the Afghanistan /Pakistan issue that it is hurting the backside. I understand everything you said and I'm not sure I don't agree with it but.........

lol
Jack

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267613

Jack,
Me too! I saw a poll yesterday that said most Americans think we should attack Al Quada in Pakistan...

Tony, Jack,

I sit corrected...I exaggerate a little for effect about him being like Cheney...not even close. But he has shown that he is more and more like any other President ( L B J) that won't do the hard and the right things.....

I we are to win in Afghanistan...we need at least a few hundred thousand troops over there...and we don't have them...we need them to hold what we win when we fight at some location...and not just leave it once we clean it up a little...

Given the global number of soldiers that are in other parts of the world...we don't have enough...so we use mercenaries...we can't win over there, and he knows it....so he is starting to look like Bush/Cheney to me a little...just saying

Craig,

I think it's cool that you and Rick S. worked together. Once he stopped jumping all over the place, his show is great; and a must watch. Twist his arm a little to get you on CNN. If I missed that you can only be on msnbc..b/c of your contract with them...sorry.

Tony
I'm not sure but what we aren't helping out the Pakistanis in their efforts in Waziristan. The Taliban and foreign fighters seem to be taking a stand there. I would be surprised at all if we were giving them a little covert help.

Jack

Piano music for the PM:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPDobvAU0dE

Now it's REALLY nite, y'all.

Tony,

It is very clear to me...either we send our money to the Pak countries so they can get rich..and im just talking about the leaders: Or we don't fix our economy, and see a lo more people out on the street....to me this should come as high on his priority list. Financial security in one of the most important things a President can do no?!!!

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267598

Hey there ME168,
I think you went to bed.I'm GAY....Words have consequences.I was at the store many months ago and 2 store clerks were talking about how gay an item was,hurt my feelings because GAY does not equal LAME...Glad your here and I look forward to reading your posts...

Fair......what did you write about the roman legions?

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267621

A ghost story for my 31 Days of Halloween series, Sturge. I never quite have grown up. :D

on your blog, i take it? If so, I shall amble on over there......

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267619

Solar,
I agree with you too! I think your correct regarding Obama,but I still will never be able to see him as the next Bush/Cheney..I'm still glad its a Dem that's President..In their worst days, I don't think the Dems will ever be as bad as those Republican's..I'm biased though having been a life long Dem until the crooked primaries..The President so far has been a huge disappointment,just take a look at the text of his Dem fund raising speech.The President was basically telling everyone to support a healthcare bill that was bad just so we could call something a WIN..Solar,thanks you make me think...

Cheney is a terrible speaker.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267623

Yep, it's there. And thank you. :)

You all have a good point on me168. I have asked Craig for his valuable advice. See below:

Craig,

See http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267608

I think the gang has a good point. Having my grandson around could have a restricting affect on the comments and issued discussed. You have a great bunch of people commenting on the blog and I would not want to hinder them in any way. I can explain what is happing to my grandson. He is having a great time here but he is still only 11. I await your advice.

Purple-in-Tampa

Some of this construction/stymulus stuff is just very slow. The wife worked on a bid proposal on a highway in Indiana. They lost . The contract was awarded last summer but the have yet to finnish negotiations and sign a contract with the company that won it.
The stuff she is working on now is the 8b directed toward high speed rail. The government just got the grant proposal from the many city and states together last month and now they are saying it will be January before they make a desision on what to fund. So it will be next year this time before any contract money is spent.

jack

purple.....i say let him ride for awhile and see how it goes.....my opinion......

Tony,

Thanks. What we need to do is to look at people like Ronn Paul, Dennis K, and other that do not represent either party. Do I like everything that they say: Not at all. What I do think; is that; they at least will do one or two things that they promised. They might not please all of the country, but they will please most of us. We keep electing people that won't even keep one fkn (had to go back and redo that full f word) promise......and then say...so what they all lie to us.....it is our own fault in the long run...we are like sheep and are used to it...we need to break free.....

Just the fact that an 11 year-old would wanna hang out here, is something in itself. So, I'm with Sturge.

11 is real young, Purple. An 11 year-old shouldn't have political opinions; if they do, they are just parroting those of the influential people in their life, hopefully their parents. You shouldn't be giving anyone else the opportunity to indoctrinate a kid besides them.

16 is old enough to have political opinions, by the way, and I might even entertain them from a really bright 15 year-old with experience beyond his or her years.

Sturge--oops on my part. The Roman legion story is actually TOMORROW's post--so won't be posted until after midnight. Sorry I misled you.

Jack,

Thanks, I too am waiting for funding of some projects...everything has dried up, and there is no regular work.....we have in Ohio, signed contracts for about 15 mil....but need start up money...we are waiting for a bid bond, and then the performance bond to follow...going to be a rough winter without them...will send info.as I get it to you thru e-mail.

the stimulus bill was designed specifically to to be spent in the late spring and summer of next year to create the illusion that the economy is improving leading up to the mid-term elections' it was never a stimulus bill but a political tool for the democrats

Fair,

Can you please supply a link to your blog..sound very interesting...hope to see a cpl of them...

fair.....thanks.....will check it tomorrow........liked the fence rider, though.......

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267627

Purple --

Maybe it's an opportunity for him to glean wisdom from the village. Maybe the village will glean some too.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267632

LB......are you really old enough to sound like such an old fa- uh.....fogey?

Mqw,

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267635

Thats correct, I think. There has been states that have been allocated money, and that what is being used now..or some of the states are using...what is hard is, if you are not a big contractor...your SOl any way...so it all goes to their buddies...but there is 30% of these projects that have to go to minority contractors...

.this is where the ones that can do , and have the talent to do them...can get the work, but to get back to you point...He is just like all of the others...he doesn't care,,,unless it is for himself...

Solar
It is kind of interesting about the minority contractors. If a company is big enough that the do all the work in house they don't have to worry about the minority set asides.
Are you mentoring with any of the big boys?

Jack

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267630

"it is our own fault in the long run...we are like sheep and are used to it...we need to break free....."

Solar,
Oh ya.I used to think the Democrats were almost perfect,not anymore.I will probably never vote Republican,but the Dems can't count on me to vote for them.I have no problem using the write in line or just leaving a spot blank or voting IND.I'm done marching lock step..

Solar
Send me your info when you can. The wife said she would pass it on to the company minority contracting rep in Chicago if you want. She is going to be working in your area quite a bit this winter with all this high speed rail coming out after the first of the year.

Jack

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267630
Solar,

People are afraid to think for themselves. They take their 'orders' or direction from radio and/or TV talk shows, pastors, or politicians and never ask WHY. They are too busy to think. It takes an effort to think. That might interfere with their creature comforts or life style.

Example http://www.gallup.com/poll/114544/darwin-birthday-believe-evolution.aspx
On the eve of the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin's birth, a new Gallup Poll shows that only 39% of Americans say they "believe in the theory of evolution," while a quarter say they do not believe in the theory, and another 36% don't have an opinion either way. These attitudes are strongly related to education and, to an even greater degree, religiosity.

i cant figure out why the christians don't just say "God created evolution" and let it go......

oh.....it's because they believe that book limits the age of the earth to a few thousand years......

another problem solved.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267636

Sure, Solar. It's http://fairweatherlewis.blogstream.com--and thank you!

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267637

Thanks, Sturge. Glad you liked it.

Jack,

Going ahead and tell you. At this point we have created two corps, that are 100% minority owned...we are have a third that will joint venture with and existing sewer, and concrete contractor....his work is still coming in..but he sees the potential of what Im trying to do..and will put in his contracts that are signed........

We have been invited by Walsh to bid with them, and thats exiting..we did not...so we missed out on it..cos we are waiting for the bond..that is taking for ever.....but I do want to do the same thing, in Indiana, Il, and in your area...I was waiting for the bond, and then talk to you about it...but at this point...all it is-is planning and waiting....look and see what Ohio has to offer and you can see why I want to start there..they do have $ in place, and ready to spend....and we are in touch with all the right people...and not the Chicago way of doing things...if you know what I mean...

Just need to get the first on off the ground and it will be a very nice future...there are lots of projects that are interesting...airport runways, and utilities, and we are going to be in the DOT in Ohio's bidding list..and then take this license to the other states that I mentioned....but just waiting for the Banks to release some $.....and that the tough part....

Jack,

I will send you all the info that I can...but only if I feel that it will not waste your time.and that of your wife....but I would like to meet you one day, and she sounds like a real pro. someone to learn from...so I will be in touch...never know where some of the roads take you...

the road goes ever on and on
out from the door where it began
now far ahead the road has gone
and i must follow if i can
pursuing it with eager feet
until it meets some larger way
where many paths and errands meet
and whither then? i cannot say.

JRRTolkein

Well first I would like to say hello to me168 and hope you stick around.

I know my two cents don't mean much, however I agree with sturg , corey and the rest who think you should all give me168 some slack and quit thinking he's too young to understand or even be able to carry on a conversation at your levels.

I think Pit made a very telling comment about him hacking her passwords at a young age. Though his spelling leaves something to be desired he is from what I have read of his comments a very smart young man.

And I don't mean that in a derogatory way either. Remember that you can not judge a book by its cover, nor can you judge me168 by his age.

I bet he is far more intelligent than some here give him credit for. Give him a chance and I don't think you'll be sorry for doing so.

But then again that's just my two cents for what its worth.

Well its time to watch K.O. on msnbc's website. Later, maybe.

Purple,

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267644

As you may know, or not...this is exactly what I have been saying...I have some very intelligent people in my family, that just believe anything that they are told by the people that you just mentioned...

the thing is that they are all so convinced and confused at the same time...that they won't let any logic enter their thinking when it comes to religion. They don't talk to me about these things to often, cos they know that they won't like what I have to say....but we are very close...and that is cos of the kids in all of our families....but yes I do agree with you...thanks.

Tony,

U can't afford to march in step...thats how someone trips up...but like Purple says, it takes a little work to walk on your own....

Sleep that knits up the ravelled sleeve of care
The death of each day's life, sore labour's bath
Balm of hurt minds, great nature's second course,
Chief nourisher in life's feast.

--shake

Jack,

That should have read....thats existing work that is going on...

Enjoy carving your pumpkins

http://www.cubpack81.com/images/carve_pumpkin.swf

Macbeth, Act II, Scene II

Macbeth:

Methought I heard a voice cry 'Sleep no more!
Macbeth does murder sleep', the innocent sleep,
Sleep that knits up the ravell'd sleeve of care,
The death of each day's life, sore labour's bath,
Balm of hurt minds, great nature's second course,
Chief nourisher in life's feast....

Sturg,

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267649

Thanks. I really like that....just booked it and will memorize.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267627

PIT

I don't believe in talking down to children. They usually come along just fine or ask questions if they are getting lost. The only concession I'll make is one that I prefer simply because it is entertaining and that is creating euphamisms such as the above

flying mouse guano insanity

when referring to Michelle Bachman

I just got this response from Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL). Names have been changed to protect the guilty!

Dear Purple-in-Tampa:

Thank you for contacting me about unemployment benefits.

Florida has been hit hard by the current recession. Nearly one million Floridians are out of work, giving us an unemployment rate of 10.7%. And this past August, more than half of our 67 counties had double-digit unemployment. People who are out of work and trying to find a job deserve help while they get back on their feet.

Last month the House of Representatives passed a bill to extend unemployment benefits. That bill was expected to quickly pass the Senate, but was held up by Senators who were concerned it would only benefit States with high unemployment. Late last week, an agreement was reached, and I am confident that the Senate will pass an extension in a timely manner.

Thank you for contacting me about this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact me in the future.

Sincerely,
Senator Bill Nelson

Remember he was better that Katherine Harris. There is just a LITTLE disconnect. He did respond. HERE IS WHAT WAS SENT.

Sent electronically on Sunday October 18, 2009 to The Office of Public Engagement, Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), Senator George LeMieux (R-FL), and Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL 11).

On Friday, October 16, 2009, it was reported that Florida's unemployment rate hit 11 percent, the highest it's been since 1975. A report the day before showed that the $334.6 million in federal contracts awarded through the federal stimulus package created 1,635 Florida jobs. In spite of the jobs created the number of jobless in Florida also topped a record 1 million in September. The jobs created eased Florida's jobless by 0.1635 percent, considered by many to be a drop in the bucket. The eight (8) month old stimulus package IS NOT WORKING!

The administration's inept economic team is he!! bent on helping Wall Street to the detriment of the American People. The Congress and the Administration coddle the big banks and shaft the U. S. manufactures that employs the middle class. The administration forced the labor unions of GM and Chrysler to renegotiate contracts while allowing the big banks to pay exorbitant bonuses because they had contracts. Congress chastised the automakers for using corporate jets to attend congressional hearings but never asked the big banks about their use of corporate jets for hearings and lunch with the President. That is a double standard!

The Federal Reserve even permitted the big Investment Banks to be classified as Commercial Banks in order to receive Fed aid and oversight. We have seen the aid pour out to the former Investment Banks but sure do NOT see any oversight by the Fed. The Treasury and the Federal Reserve even helped to reduce competition in the Global Investment Banking area with the demise of Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers, and Merrill Lynch. It looks like Goldman Sachs and the big banks are actually running the government.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DOW) went over $10,000 this past week. In news articles, economists are saying that the markets are ‘Irrationally Exuberant’ about the economy. The DOW was has increased in value by 155 percent since its March low. The US Banks have increase in value by 366 percent since there 52 week lows. The big five (5) banks (Bank of America (BAC), Citigroup (C), Goldman Sachs (GS), J.P. Morgan Chase (JPM), and Morgan Stanley (MS)) have increase in value by 444 percent since there 52 week lows. The greatest increase is Bank of America at 680 percent and the least is J.P. Morgan Chase at 308 percent.

No wonder the big banks, which cause this huge mess, with the help of Uncle Sam, in the first place, are doing so well. They are borrowing money from Uncle Sam for virtually nothing and then loaning it at a 300-400-basis-point margin. That should be very profitable! The government has committed $11 trillion and actually invested $2.8 trillion, that’s with a "T" in various programs.

As it turns out Goldman Sachs tops the list of financial institutions the Fed paid on behalf of AIG with taxpayer money. Of the original $85 billion AIG bailout loan, Goldman Sachs received $12.9 billion, the largest amount. Banks that bought credit-default swaps or traded securities with AIG got $22.4 billion in collateral, $27.1 billion in payments from a U.S. entity to retire the derivatives, and $43.7 billion tied to the securities-lending program. States led by California and Virginia got $12.1 billion tied to guaranteed investment contracts.

The economy is not doing nearly as well as the banks. Consumers and small businesses have trouble getting loans. Banks are increasing fees and interest rates, which they can borrow from Uncle Sam for virtually nothing, increasing credit card payments and decreasing credit limits. That tends to stymie consumers and small businesses. Besides the National Unemployment Rate rising to 9.8 percent and Florida's at 11 percent there is a lot more unpleasant news. As long as unemployment continues to climb foreclosure and bankruptcy filings will increase.

In Louisville, KY, the area where I was born and raised, at General Electric's Appliance Park, 10,000 people applied for 90 factory jobs. That is a BIG PROBLEM!

These were reported in just the past week:
o Apartment Glut Expands,
o September retail sales fall 1.5 percent post Clunkers,
o U.S. Foreclosure Filings Jump 23% to Record in Third Quarter,
o U.S. Michigan Sentiment Index Decreased to 69.4,
o Dollar Falls to $1.49, Lowest Against the EURO since 08/08/2008,
o Oil Rises to $78.67 per Barrel, Highest since 10/14/2008.

The Treasury and the Federal Reserve give only lip service to a strong dollar. The weak dollar helps the big oil and big international corporations. With a weak dollar the price of oil and gas goes up as does the cost of imported goods and raw materials. This increases inflation! Congress and the administration help big business and hurt the American People.

Please do something for the American People instead of the big corporation!

Respectfully,

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267622

Fair,

The ghost songs start tomorrow on Take This Tun http://takethistune.blogspot.com

oh c'mon folks, me168 might have some learnin to do about civil commenting, like just about everyone else here at times. and my guess is there's nothing so adult-natured ever said here that even competes with other stuff on the internet. but that's for his parents to decide. let it ride.

"don't wanna get there......just wanna ride."

---sturgeone

PiT,m
There's a tremendous amount of difference between a bright kid (of any age) and a wise one. We aren't close enough to help him in acquiring the wisdom that only years of interactions with other people will ultimately bring.

I suspect that by us encouraging him in joining 'our' adult world, it will be the child that suffers. Perhaps group activities with other special kids of his chronological age is more appropriate.

And, of course, when you want to take him fishing or go out to smoke a cigar with him, then that, to me, seems like a better route to go in leading him towards maturity. Better, at least, in the sense that he won't be going into an environment where he isn't equipped to deal with the diverse personalities that we have here.

i don't profess to be an expert of any sort on this topic, but seems to be we're over-thinking this one

43,42,41

Craig, I didn't see your last until I pushed the button on mine; which doesn't mean that I've changed my opinion. Please, don't get nasty with me because that will be elder abuse :)

Ha, Flatus, i'd never get nasty with you friend. Nite all.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267660

(gleefully rubbing hands together and chuckling an evil chuckle) GOODY!!!!

I agree with Craig.

It seems that some here are intimidated by someone like me168.

Thank God that Mozart and other prodigies were never allowed to play with the big boys.

Flatus...

My point on Windows 7was that they still have not fixed the main cause of there operating system problems.

That being that they tied their internet browser to the main core of there system, thereby allowing access to the very core of it.

I'm sure your aware of the amount of security updates that have been issued for Windows XP SP2. I just did a reinstall for someone and the updates numbered over 130 with the most being critical security updates on flaws that should have been fixed the first time.

And many of those same security threats carried over into Windows 7.

Remove the browser from the core and make the core secure form programs that run on the system and you remove many of its flaws that are a threat to the security of those whom operate Windows on their computers.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267663
Flatus

The family does take him fishing. That one thing that Tampa does offer. A couple of years ago we charted a boat that specializes in kids' fishing trips and had a great time. His dad smokes cigars but a very bad bout with five lobe viral pneumonia in 2002, the only thing I can do is enjoy the second hand smoke. He does lead a kid's life. Blogging and interacting with diverse people is much better than playing with a DS or video games, in my opinion. He has both. To balance things out he has a normal younger sister.

Good night all.

Soupy Sales Did...I don't know what was the bigger shock...that he just died or was still alive...RIP Soupy!

I assume that the kid will get bored with us old foggies and our dull ways and move on. that was the basis of my coment to his lordship last night. I doubt if we will cause serious metal harm for him and if people can scroll past Max's posts then they can scroll pasts the kids post too. I plan to treat him just like any other person in hear for the most part. If he says something interesting I will comment, if not I will move on to the next comment.
I am curious how long it will take him to say"quit calling me the Kid"

Jack

PIT
I think I see the problem
When writing your congressman remember the KISS princple. Address one issue at a time.
and let them know the issue up front.
You aren't talking to your congressman but to an intern who has a check list of issues that he/she will mark off, support or oppose.
Remember interns are young and they have short attention spans. Also they thought their internship would be something way more exciting than reading your long list of gripes.

Jack

R.I.P. Soupy and the New York Yankees.
Someone see if EdVB is dead yet from the heart attack after NYY lost this game. It was a nail-biter, but Ed's Yankees can come back and win Saturday or Sunday. World Series starts Wednesday.
Kids on the blogs ? Helifino...I never had a pc at home until I was 50. Now they teach little babies on computers.

Craig and Helen make a fetching couple.

tt

"The proverb says that Providence protects children and idiots. This is really true. I know because I have tested it."

- Autobiography of Mark Twain

Mary Chapin Carpenter - The Bug

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90SXjQEhXKE

---------
" Sometimes you're the Louisville Slugger, sometimes you're the ball "

Isn't Cheney in jail yet..

Hey Dex,

I'm alive and well. Took a bit of a nap after the game and am about to go back to a longer one soon.

It helped that we went in to tonight's game with a 3-1 lead. I was glad we had that big inning to go ahead, but the truth is, I didn't want to see Guerrero fail when he came up in the bottom of the 7th or whatever inning that was. The guy is a great hitter and I love to watch him swing.

Now, I'm hoping we can win one of the next two. If not, I'll tip my hat and root for the Angels in the WS.

Well, I have to say I agree with Flatus completely re
me168. I was one of those kids who conversed with adults and felt part of their groups a few times only. I also had kids like that in my classrooms over the years. I don't think I learned anything from my experiences but felt flattered. My students presented a real dilemma for me - I liked them so much and wished I could know them 20 or thirty years later, but was un-comfortable with the idea of their "hanging out" with adults. I'd like to see kids growing older with people more their own age.

I don't think his presence would put any restraints on me. I just don't think it's the right thing for him.

That being said, I also suspect me168 will probably get bored with us. I hope so. My thoughts only, and musings.

I just got back from Portland, a trip to see the intement of a cousin's ashes. He was 54 and went downhill after his parent's deaths - we are all kind of puzzled
by the dynamics of that family. A truly sad sad story.

I had no idea that Portland was a city of so many and so big hills! We really enjoyed the city and my niece
wouldn't mind moving there, which would break my sister's heart.

Jamie, Do you think Harborwoman would let you tell me her email address? I really would love to get some info and some opinions and the benefit of her experience about Asberger's syndrome.

bethy...

Just peeking in to see what's shakin' on TM and saw your note to Jamie. I'll be happy to share whatever I know with you. Email me at janblase at gmail dot com.

Have now seen several emails linking to a video claiming Jesus named Barack Obama the Anti-Christ (according to Isiah, by the way....)....it never stops and it never gets smarter.

I don't have a problem with any 11 year old reading this message board. I grew up talking politics and issues in a politically-oriented family. AND audited my mom's Abnormal Psychology college class when I was twelve. There were SEVERAL adult themes in that experience....

I "get" a few of the concerns people brought but, and think anon is being melodramatic yet again with the "intimidation" and Mozart comments.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/10/book-talk.html#comment-267672

The only thing I'd say about an 11 years old is that there's probably no need to be scathing or personal if you disagree with them. I think even our old bad-boy friend Brian would respect that....

"The only thing I'd say about an 11 years old is that there's probably no need to be scathing or personal if you disagree with them."

Dang Patsi, I was looking forward to some "scathing and personal". In the dag of balloon boy and the Gosslins, that is what sells sister.

Ya got to keep up with these 11 year olds these days just to know what's going on in the world. Are some of the words he spells wrong just mistakes like mine or are they the new texting language? And what does EWW mean? I couldnt find it on any of my text message shorthand lists.

And people are starting to talk and speak in that texting language, even at work and at business meetings. Someone used OMG when talking to me the other day. Get used to it.

I meant talk and write at work in that texting language...

Snipe hunting again I see. I really missed that sport.

CT,

In case it was a serious question, I'm pretty sure eww is meant to produce a sound, not necessarily of disgust, but at least derision.