Organizing for America | Amy Hamblin's Blog: The Weekly Address

Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 11:27 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:27 am EDT)

Got me a first!

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 11:32 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:32 am EDT)

... and sneeze into your sleeve!

Congrats on 1st. I thought you were going off to stimulate the economy! Get on out there!

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 11:44 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:44 am EDT)

Haha...I'm waiting for my friend to get here!

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By ObamaWorld2008 May 2nd 2009 at 12:18 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 12:18 pm EDT)

Swine Flu: Obama Strikes Right Balance Link

David Souter: Obama Vows Careful Replacement Link

White House Joins FaceBook, Twitter, MySpace Link

Obama's Letter To Pelosi: Act Expeditiously On H1N1 Flu Link

Lawmakers Advancing Obama's Budget Agenda Link

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Celtic May 2nd 2009 at 12:51 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 12:51 pm EDT)

VIDEO- HHS (Sebelius) and Commerce (Locke) Secretaries sworn in Link

Obama's Arizona State commencement speech may draw 63,000 Link

VIDEO- Study: Conservatives don't know Colbert is laughing at them Link

Poll-itics: Christians, Jews, Muslims back Obama Link

VIDEO- President Obama- Shoot Around with the Lady Huskies Link

VIDEO- Pat Robertson says Republicans "ought to filibuster every single one" of Obama's judicial nominees Link

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Celtic May 2nd 2009 at 12:55 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 12:55 pm EDT)

VIDEO- President Obama Breaks Into Gibbs Presser To Talk About Souter Link
How Each Cabler Covered Obama's 100th Day Link
Please help us keep on reporting! Link
Michael Steele Agrees That Obama 'Is The Magic Negro' Link
Consumer sentiment soared in April Link
VIDEO- What does Obama want in a supreme court nominee? Link

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By ObamaWorld2008 May 3rd 2009 at 7:01 am EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 7:01 am EDT)

Barack Obama, Michelle Obama Take A Walk Link

Swine Flu: Obama Calls Mexico President Calderon Link

Obama: Wall Street Will Play Less Dominant Role Link

Smithsonian Showcases Obama, Inauguration Link

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By junior May 3rd 2009 at 1:12 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 1:12 pm EDT)

Everybody white house is now on twitter we have to stay connected with the whitehouse since the republicans are trying to get into the game also they want to be like obama on technology but we wont let them no way

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Just another Dreamer (Jersey Girl ) May 2nd 2009 at 11:33 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:33 am EDT)

Congrats Vero

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Moses May 2nd 2009 at 11:33 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:33 am EDT)

Congratulations Vero

Link

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By junior May 2nd 2009 at 11:07 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:07 pm EDT)

On this swine flu thing why is cdc saying that doctor RICHARD is acting i wish he could stay on that job the guy is so well spoken he is so good i think he is the acting director of CDC i wish the obama admini would keep him

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Dave May 3rd 2009 at 3:59 am EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 3:59 am EDT)

It might be a position the senate has to confirm....so Obama might just be able to appoint...

The good news is, Obama doesn't really even have 2/3rds of the Health and Human Services top people confirmed but is still able to deal with this...

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By junior May 2nd 2009 at 11:07 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:07 pm EDT)

On this swine flu thing why is cdc saying that doctor RICHARD is acting i wish he could stay on that job the guy is so well spoken he is so good i think he is the acting director of CDC i wish the obama admini would keep him

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 11:17 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:17 pm EDT)

Here's the announcement when he became acting director. Has impressive credentials:

Link

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Professor Xavior-The Ultimate CZARINA Mutant in the Universe! May 2nd 2009 at 11:37 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:37 am EDT)

and I say visa versa. after you cover your mouth coughing was your hands.

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Professor Xavior-The Ultimate CZARINA Mutant in the Universe! May 2nd 2009 at 11:47 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:47 am EDT)

Congrats on 1st lol.

Re: Wash your hands and cover your mouths! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 12:08 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 12:08 pm EDT)

... and then can you sneeze into your sleeve?

LOL.

FLU | Report to Admin

By Marbwi May 2nd 2009 at 11:51 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:51 am EDT)

Swine Flu Information.....
Courtesy of HHS and CDC:
Link

FDA
2009 H1N1 Flu Virus
Link

Section from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" Snicky's Mama Loves this President and First Family May 2nd 2009 at 11:51 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:51 am EDT)

100 days of Limbaugh's attacks on Obama
Given all the outrageous comments and attacks of the last 100 days, Media Matters had a hard time choosing the worst media moment and asked our readers to decide. The winner was Rush Limbaugh's comment, "We are being told that we have to hope he succeeds, that we have to bend over, grab the ankles ... because his father was black."
Indeed, Limbaugh has spent the first 100 days of Obama's presidency repeating and elaborating on his claim that he wants Obama to fail, as well as attacking Obama for being "angry" and accusing him of wanting to "destroy" the United States of America. A review of his falsehoods and attacks illustrates his commitment to personally leading the charge against anything and everything Obama does as president:
• Day 3: Setting a disturbing tone for the next four years of his attacks, Limbaugh says: "We are being told that we have to hope he succeeds, that we have to bend over, grab the ankles ... because his father was black."
• Day 7: Limbaugh says that getting the "truth" out about Obama is "gonna be an epic battle, as Saddam Hussein said. Saddam Hussein Obama said."
• Day 21: In an all-too-common moment of self-aggrandizement, Limbaugh declares of Obama's first few weeks in office: "I've crashed the honeymoon. ... I've hijacked it, in fact."
• Day 25: Limbaugh declares: "I want the stimulus package to fail. ... I want everything he's doing to fail."
• Day 29: Demonstrating his deep disdain for Democrats, Limbaugh says of calls for "bipartisanship" in fixing the economic crisis: "Should Jesus have made a deal with Satan?"
• Day 39: Limbaugh throws Republicans under the bus: "The dirty little secret ... is that every Republican in this country wants Obama to fail, but none of them have the guts to say so. I am willing to say it."
• Day 40: Limbaugh speaks at the CPAC conference in Washington, D.C., thrashing Obama and the Democrats in front of a fervent crowd. Limbaugh says: "How did the United States of America become the world's lone superpower, the world's economic engine, the most prosperous opportunity for an advanced lifestyle that humanity has ever known? How did this happen? And why, pray tell, does the president of the United States want to destroy it?"

Re: Section from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By Mr. NOBEL President Obama & Vice-President Biden I Trust and RESPECT! May 2nd 2009 at 12:30 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 12:30 pm EDT)

I'm starting to think that maybe President Obama should only speak half as much because they only seem to hear half of what he ever says!

Sorry fellas, I HEAR President Obama who is speaking completely CLEAR English when HE speaks each and EVERY time.. for my own self! Thanks anyway but don't want or need you this time!

SUPREME | Report to Admin

By Marbwi May 2nd 2009 at 11:52 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:52 am EDT)

Senate Judiciary Committee
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Calendars
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United States Supreme Court

For more information about the Supreme Court, visit:

Official web site: Link

The Supreme Court Historical Society
The U.S. Supreme Court Justices Database -- Public database containing a wealth of information on individuals nominated (whether confirmed or not) to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Link

Re: SUPREME | Report to Admin

By Marbwi May 2nd 2009 at 12:51 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 12:51 pm EDT)

Supreme Court Nominations, present-1789 (1789-present)

The Constitution requires the president to submit nominations to the Senate for its advice and consent. Since the Supreme Court was established in 1789, presidents have submitted 158 nominations for the Court, including those for chief justice. Of this total, 122 were confirmed (7 declined to serve).
This chart lists nominations officially submitted to the Senate.
Link

Senate Committee on the Judiciary: Supreme Court Nomination Hearings (1971 - forward)
Link

Re: SUPREME | Report to Admin

By Marbwi May 2nd 2009 at 1:14 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:14 pm EDT)

by Meteor Blades
Some Photos of David Souter's Possible Replacement (15)
Link

Re: SUPREME | Report to Admin

By Marbwi May 2nd 2009 at 1:29 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:29 pm EDT)

Supreme Court Justices Without Prior Judicial Experience Before Becoming Justices

William Rehnquist (and 39 others)
Link

Re: SUPREME | Report to Admin

By Dave May 2nd 2009 at 4:04 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 4:04 pm EDT)

Yes...but all the justices picked over the last 20 years were on the federal appellate court...

The reason is because the first President Bush picked Souter thinking he was conservative then finding out he was liberal presidents don't want surprises....Someone who served on the federal appellate court votes on national issues (guns, abortion, civil rights, etc...) that aren't voted on in the state courts....that way the President knows their leanings...

Thing is, if he picks an academic (law professor, law school dean) they have a long publishing record, so it might be pretty clear where they lean based on that...

I like Kagan, who was Dean of Yale Law School...respect her but she is the solicitor general now...the Harvard Dean, Koh, works for the state department...Kagan has yet to try her first case...

Deval Patrick would be my next choice but he might want to stay as MA Governor...especially with the economy....guy is awesome...the conservatives will be afraid of him because not only is this guy black, but his daughter is gay, and they will be afraid he will push for gay marriage...

Over Obama's first term if he were to replace three justices they should be...

-Elena Kagan
-Deval Patrick

the third should be Harvard Law Dean Harold Koh, the first Asian justice...

the next possible appointment should be a latino woman to balance it off...

I doubt Jennifer Granholm is a candidate...she doesn't want to leave Michigan with all the problems the state has...Patrick even might not want to for similar reasons...

Kagan is really the safest choice....

I say pick Kagan now, then in 2 years when you replace next justice pick Deval Patrick, then next Koh, then for fourth one pick a Latino woman...

and then Supreme Court will have balance..

Any Governor he picks as first pick will be controversial based on whatever issues they supported as GOV, and because they would be a DEM governor...

Re: SUPREME | Report to Admin

By Marbwi May 2nd 2009 at 1:45 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:45 pm EDT)

A HISTORY OF THE SUPREME COURT
Link

SectJesus have made a deal with Satan?" ion from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" Snicky's Mama Loves this President and First Family May 2nd 2009 at 11:55 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:55 am EDT)

• Day 58: Limbaugh claims that "everybody in the White House is in over their heads in fixing" the economic crisis and says those in the White House are "perfectly timed, perfectly programmed, perfectly educated to destroy capitalism ... and they're in the process of doing it."
• Day 64: Limbaugh says of Obama: "He's taking away freedom incrementally each and every day."
• Day 66: A poll claiming Americans think Obama will raise taxes yet still support him provides Limbaugh an opportunity to bash Obama and display some sexism: "They know he is lying through his teeth and they still support him. It just means this, what women have always known: 'Cheat on me, just don't tell me about it.' "
• Day 67: Limbaugh issues a pseudo-apology for saying that: "[W]hile my closing comment yesterday was certainly a comment containing a large element of truth, it still perhaps was inappropriate and so for that, I apologize." Yet, later in the show, Limbaugh returns to the rhetoric, saying of Obama: "He's a cult leader. Battered liberal syndrome. 'Cheat on me, just don't tell me.' "
• Day 70: Limbaugh says: "Based on what we've seen with General Motors and the banks, if he fails, America is saved. Barack Obama's policies and their failure is the only hope we've got to maintain the America of our founding."
• Day 80: Limbaugh uses the kidnapping of an American sea captain by Somali pirates to attack Obama and the Democrats: "Piracy is rebounding precisely because of the American left and the European left's lack of intestinal fortitude -- gonads, if you will." He later added: "The Democrat Party -- enemies of America are friends of the Democrat Party."
• Day 84: Following the rescue of the sea captain, and after previously bashing Obama for his handling of the situation, Limbaugh says he "was confident this was going to get settled. It was going to be resolved on way or the other way and regardless how, President Obama was going to be given credit for it."

SectJesus have made a deal with Satan?" ion from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" Snicky's Mama Loves this President and First Family May 2nd 2009 at 11:55 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:55 am EDT)

• Day 85: Limbaugh predictably reacts to the leaking of a Department of Homeland Security report on "right-wing extremism" distorting the conclusions of the report, claiming Obama and DHS head Janet Napolitano are "extreme partisan radicals and they're ready to go war with a domestic enemy - conservatives - that they consider to be a greater threat than Iran, than China, than North Korea."
• Day 86: Limbaugh steers his listeners toward empathizing with right-wing extremists by falsely claiming that "Obama's DHS report" called "every mainstream conservative a right-wing extremist."
• Day 88: Limbaugh reacts to the Obama administration's release of previously classified Justice Department memos detailing interrogation techniques that were authorized to be used on detainees by claiming: "[I]f you look at what we are calling torture, you have to laugh." He went on to assert: "I just slapped myself. I'm torturing myself right now. That's torture according to these people."
• Day 91: In a comment emblematic of Limbaugh's frequent linking of Obama with Marxist and socialist leaders, Limbaugh asks: "Do you realize that Obama and [Venezuelan President Hugo] Chavez have more in common than they do not?"
• Day 100: Limbaugh gives Obama a "D" for his first 100 days, saying "We gotta allow room for more failure, cause it's gonna get worse."
There should be little doubt that for the next three years and nine months, Rush Limbaugh will continue his daily assault on President Obama. Limbaugh's attacks on President Bill Clinton in his first couple years in office were credited with helping Republicans take control of the House in 1994. If Obama does fail -- and the rest of America with him -- Limbaugh will deserve the credit he will be all too happy to accept

Section from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" Snicky's Mama Loves this President and First Family May 2nd 2009 at 11:59 am EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:59 am EDT)

WOw

Not sure what happend with the comment title but it should be what's above

Re: Section from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 12:10 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 12:10 pm EDT)

I think what happened is that when Satan got a look at the name Limbaugh, he jumped right into your comment title!

Wow - some list. Hopefully Rush will be GONE soon. When this type of person continually pushes his luck, he is bound to eventually FAIL.

Re: Section from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By Obama Grandmama May 2nd 2009 at 12:59 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 12:59 pm EDT)

My wishes are that the people who are constantly bombarded with these messages from Limbaugh will see the light. I wish that they will see what Limbaugh is saying is not true and that Pres. Obama is even working for their best interests as well as the country. If that happened I would hope that the consequences would be that Limbaugh lost his audience and was taken off the air. I might add the above is a dream but I am a realist and know there are so many people that follow Limbaugh blindly and believe that crap. Just look at the rumors during the campaign that were believed even though they were completely debunked.

Re: Section from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 1:02 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:02 pm EDT)

I'm a dreamer, too, but guess that won't happen for a while.

It's so funny that national polls (even one this week) show as high as 81% of Americans LIKE President Obama personally, even though they don't all agree with his policies.

Of course, we know too much about the other 19%.

Re: Section from Media Matters Limbaugh and President Obama's first 100 days | Report to Admin

By Lil Star May 2nd 2009 at 1:39 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:39 pm EDT)

I think that if the truth were known ( of course we would never get the TRUTH from these people) Rush and the Fox "news" idiots LOVE that President Obama is in office ! They are making SO MUCH MONEY OFF HIM !!! Rush makes a HUGE salary, and his rating went up from all his crap so he probably got a raise! I heard Fox "news" is # 1 in cable news stations now, so those guys probably got a raise. If a repub was President they would be out of a job !!! I bet next presidential election they vote for Obama !! By the way--wasn't someone going to go to the FCC about the potetially dangerous lies they are saying ? Wasn't there a list of sponsors we could boycott ?

Anyone read Rollingstone Magazine? | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein May 2nd 2009 at 1:02 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:02 pm EDT)

The latest issue has a really good piece on PBO's National Security team- you should check it out.

Re: Anyone read Rollingstone Magazine? | Report to Admin

By Bob May 2nd 2009 at 1:21 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:21 pm EDT)

linky linky?

Re: Anyone read Rollingstone Magazine? | Report to Admin

By Nancy who is still walking on air May 2nd 2009 at 1:26 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:26 pm EDT)

Here's a link to the excerpt. These folks acually want you to buy the magazine! Link

Re: Anyone read Rollingstone Magazine? | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein May 2nd 2009 at 1:28 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:28 pm EDT)

I actually don't have a link- I think it costs money to access their website.

I borrowed the magazine from a friend.

Act of crimial and barbarism by Meles Zenawi | Report to Admin

By Kebede from Sioux Falls, SD May 2nd 2009 at 1:19 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:19 pm EDT)

We Ethiopian Americans voted,organized fellow African Americans and other Americans who beleive in humanity and democray in Ethiopia support to elect Barack Obama. I hope Barack Obama knows what is going on in Ethiopia and the barbaric act and human right voilation commited by stalin minded Meles Zenawi and his loyal slave Bereket Simon.
We as your supporter and American citizin, want human right to be respected in Ethiopia the release of prominent opposition leader Birtukan Mideqsa from the solitery jail like that of in Germany commited on jews by Adolf Hitler.Also Meles Zenawi must be brought to ICC for the crimes he commited on humanity in Ethiopia, like Sudanis leader Al Bashir.
We also look forward to see concrete action by our presedent Barack Obama
May God bless United States of America.

Re: Act of crimial and barbarism by Meles Zenawi | Report to Admin

By Peg May 2nd 2009 at 1:58 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:58 pm EDT)

I, too, am hoping we can soon see the Presiendt and Scretary of State reveal more about US policy in this matter and in general about relations with countries in Africa. The current pressures domestically take much time and effort but I am betting the information anlaysis and planning for foreign affairs is going well, even if now upstaged a bit.

thanks! | Report to Admin

By Peg May 2nd 2009 at 1:43 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:43 pm EDT)

Thank you, President Obama, for your calm and caring leadership, good advice and effective actions.
An extra thank you today for your good example of giving credit when it is due: You showed yourself to be gracious and well-informed when you gave bi-partisan credit to the last administration and congress for the usefulness of the preparations they made based on the avian flu of 2005. We can point to yet another example of your rational, informed civility when the next knee jerk negativist uses extremes, dramas, and untruths. So thanks for yet another good example!
On immunity - Given the age demographics of H1N1 so far, it looks like some of us old folk might have a bit of immunity from exposure to some earlier somewhat similar virus. And I bet if that turns out to be true, a lot of us are ready to help wherever we can.

Re: thanks! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 2:09 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:09 pm EDT)

That was a sweet post (and if my instincts are right, you are probably a sweet person!).

Re: thanks! | Report to Admin

By Beryl May 3rd 2009 at 10:38 am EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 10:38 am EDT)

Thank you, Peg, for your succinct perspective in a heart-felt acknowledgement so many of us share. A lovely read, all sewn up in a nicely sized paragraph!

Re: thanks! | Report to Admin

By Peg May 3rd 2009 at 12:12 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 12:12 pm EDT)

Thanks to you for the kind responses, Jacqueline O'Boomer and pamelaanne!

Nora O'Brien Dies | Report to Admin

By NPP . . . You are "That One" President Obama!!! May 2nd 2009 at 1:44 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:44 pm EDT)

Did anyone see this? - NBC . . . hmmmmm!

Link

Re: Nora O'Brien Dies | Report to Admin

By Phil in CA May 2nd 2009 at 2:28 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:28 pm EDT)

Hi-

I am afraid I'm not familiar with her and had not heard this. Far, far too young.

Phil

Great Column From Hebert | Report to Admin

By Nancy who is still walking on air May 2nd 2009 at 1:59 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 1:59 pm EDT)

This one is spot on if you ask me. Link

Re: Great Column From Hebert | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 2:15 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:15 pm EDT)

Yes it is. Great column - you can feel how frustrated he is (as we are) with the Republicans.

I think we can add to the list the fact that the Republicans have taken our two-party system, destroyed it for lack of credibility, and now we have a one-party system. But, then again, when they were in charge, they did not participate in our Constitutionally-protected system of checks and balances anyway.

Grrrrr.

Re: Great Column From Hebert | Report to Admin

By Phil in CA May 2nd 2009 at 2:30 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:30 pm EDT)

Now if he can take on the 12 Democratic Senators that voted against the Foreclosure/Bankruptcy bill on Thursday night that would be great :)

Re: Great Column From Hebert | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 2:35 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:35 pm EDT)

He's the one to do it proud. Fingers crossed.

ANYONE IN THE DC AREA MAY BE INTERESTED .... | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 2:23 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:23 pm EDT)

There's no link, probably not until it's official, next week but for anyone in the DC area this is really cool!

The long-awaited first meeting
By JOSH GERSTEIN | 05/02/09 9:45 AM

Come one, come all to the long-awaited first meeting of the President's Economic Recovery Advisory Board. It will take place

May 20 at the White House and--believe it or not--the general public is invited, according to a notice to be published in the Federal Register next week.

"While the meeting room will accommodate a reasonable number of interested members of the public, space is limited," the notice advises.

President OBAMA approval rating at 67% at Gallup... | Report to Admin

By ♥♪Ben, a true evangelical for OBAMA; For PUBLIC OPTION♪♥ May 2nd 2009 at 2:27 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:27 pm EDT)

Link

SATURDAY | Report to Admin

By Stephen C. Rose in NYC May 2nd 2009 at 2:40 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:40 pm EDT)

ALL BLOG POSTS FULL NARRATIVE OF ALL OBAMA RELATED MATERIAL IOWA-PRESENT Link

NEW on the Blog:

Barack Obama by Gordon Brown Link

Hall of US Senate Shame -- 11 Democratic Senators Who Should GO Link

PPP Guesses Wrong on 2010 Methinks Link

US Needs A Global Pakistan Policy ... Now Link

RECENT TWEETS WITH SOURCE LINKS Link

SUNDAY TALK SHOW LINE-UP ... | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 2:44 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:44 pm EDT)

I put this up very early this morning but this one is a lot easier to read .........

Aside from hearing what Kathleen and Janet have to say I do believe I'll be busy during the other guests time on the air.

Guests for the Sunday TV news shows

___
ABC's "This Week" -- Sens. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., and Orrin Hatch, R-Utah; Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius; Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano; acting CDC Director Richard Besser.
___
CBS' "Face the Nation" -- Sen. Arlen Specter, D-Pa.; Besser; Sebelius; Napolitano.
___
NBC's "Meet the Press" -- Sebelius; Napolitano; Besser; Specter.
___
CNN's "State of the Union" -- Leahy; House Minority Whip Eric Cantor, R-Va.; former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney; Napolitano; Sebelius; Besser.
___
"Fox News Sunday" -- Napolitano; Sebelius; Besser; Sens. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and John Ensign, R-Nev.

Re: SUNDAY TALK SHOW LINE-UP ... | Report to Admin

By Moses May 2nd 2009 at 4:20 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 4:20 pm EDT)

Here comes Sebelius...........'16

American Banker Association owns the Senate? | Report to Admin

By Loretta May 2nd 2009 at 2:48 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:48 pm EDT)

Has any of the Senate Democrats that voted against legislation aimed at stemming foreclosures offered an explanation as to why they felt the need to vote against this bill.

If my (California) Senators had voted against such important legislation I would want to know why.

Alexander (R-TN)
Barrasso (R-WY)
Baucus (D-MT)
Bennet (D-CO)
Bennett (R-UT)
Bond (R-MO)
Brownback (R-KS)
Bunning (R-KY)
Burr (R-NC)
Byrd (D-WV)
Carper (D-DE)
Chambliss (R-GA)
Coburn (R-OK)
Cochran (R-MS)
Collins (R-ME)
Corker (R-TN)
Cornyn (R-TX)
Crapo (R-ID)
DeMint (R-SC)
Dorgan (D-ND)
Ensign (R-NV)
Enzi (R-WY)
Graham (R-SC)
Grassley (R-IA)
Gregg (R-NH)
Hatch (R-UT)
Hutchison (R-TX)
Inhofe (R-OK)
Isakson (R-GA)
Johanns (R-NE)
Johnson (D-SD)
Kyl (R-AZ)
Landrieu (D-LA)
Lincoln (D-AR)
Lugar (R-IN)
Martinez (R-FL)
McCain (R-AZ)
McConnell (R-KY)
Murkowski (R-AK)
Nelson (D-NE)
Pryor (D-AR)
Risch (R-ID)
Roberts (R-KS)
Shelby (R-AL)
Snowe (R-ME)
Specter (D-PA)
Tester (D-MT)
Thune (R-SD)
Vitter (R-LA)
Voinovich (R-OH)
Wicker (R-MS

Hmmmmm, a list of those self-serving Dems. No California Senators there.

Re: American Banker Association owns the Senate? | Report to Admin

By Nancy who is still walking on air May 2nd 2009 at 2:58 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:58 pm EDT)

Yes and Huffpo is saying that Ben Nelson is now railing against health care. We really need to replace him with an actual Democrat - I mean even the US Chamber of Commerce is pushing for healthcare reform. He doesn't care about his constituents and he doesn't care about the country so lets see what we can do to either pressure him into behaving like he cares or seeing to it that he loses in a primary to a Democrat that might consider representing the people. Can't believe Nebraska is standing still for this.

Re: American Banker Association owns the Senate? | Report to Admin

By Dave May 2nd 2009 at 4:34 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 4:34 pm EDT)

All the DEMS that voted for it are in very conservative states....states where a liberal Democrat couldn't hold that seat...

The exceptions are:

Carper (DE) but he has always been a conservative DEM..

Specter (PA) now a strong dem state, but Specter is probably now one of the 2-3 most conservative dems...he probably needs the money from these lobbyists to get re-elected...

Bennett (CO) This guy is in a tough position to get re-elected....he needs the money for his campaign in 2010 as he is unknown in Colorado picked to replace a Colorado Senator that went to Obama's cabinet..

Specter will get re-elected in 2010 but probably just serve 2 years of that term as he will be 81 by the start of his next term and has health problems...he will be replaced around 2012 with someone much more progressive...

Voters in CO will have an opportunity to pick someone more progressive then bennet...yet that person probably has to be pro-NRA to get elected there...

pretty much we need to gain 5 more dems in 2010, 3 progressives and 3 moderates would be great...

This vote just shows how uniformed the Americans are..they are upset over what happened with the economy but aren't following this vote....there should have been an uproar...

Re: American Banker Association owns the Senate? | Report to Admin

By Marbwi May 2nd 2009 at 4:51 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 4:51 pm EDT)

Vote 00174
Date 30-Apr
Issue S. 896(click)
Question On the Amendment S.Amdt. 1014 (click)
Link

Senators of the 111th Congress

Clicking on their names here will take you to their websitte. They usually post a statement/press release about the topic.
Link

Re: American Banker Association owns the Senate? | Report to Admin

By Loretta May 2nd 2009 at 9:48 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:48 pm EDT)

Marbw, I am so grateful for the information that you provide. Thank you so much for all of your research.

Re: American Banker Association owns the Senate? | Report to Admin

By Dave May 2nd 2009 at 5:09 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 5:09 pm EDT)

So no Republicans voted for the people?

What about Olympia Snowe, and Susan Collins?

My prediction is that by 2012 Democratic Registrations will surge even more over Republican voter registrations, Obama's approval rating will be over 80%, and the majority of this country being "progresive democrats".....

These Senators like Evan Bayh will be forced to be more progressive, as will Specter....as will the Republicans that want to get re-elected...

We need to start getting PROGRESSIVE democrats re-elected, get the Republicans out, and let the moderate DEMS know if they don't become progressive they won't get re-elected...

My hope is that in 2010 we gain 3 progressive Dems and 3 moderate Dems...

OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 2:51 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 2:51 pm EDT)

I just got this in my e news alerts!!!

Link

NO, NO, NO, NO, NO!!!!!!!!!!! If another Bush even thinks of running for President in 2012 I will lose my mind!!

ARLINGTON, Va. -- Three Republican leaders mentioned as possible presidential candidates in 2012 or beyond held a town hall-style meeting at a pizza restaurant to launch a series of listening sessions across America.

Former presidential candidate Mitt Romney, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and rising star Rep. Eric Cantor (Va.) explained their vision for reviving the GOP to a mostly young crowd that packed into a pizza restaurant on Saturday morning.

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By Nancy who is still walking on air May 2nd 2009 at 3:06 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:06 pm EDT)

Oh Marilyn - You went into a Bush coma. This is the funniest story I have ever read. The three big name - heavy duty Rethugs filled a PIZZA RESTAURANT??????? Second paragraph tells it all - oh and then later they note the "crowd" consisted largely of reporters, Republican aides and their friends. A PIZZA RESTAURANT. ROFLMAO - This just says it ALL. I may never breathe again.

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 3:10 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:10 pm EDT)

I'm hyper ventilating over here!! HELP!! HELP!!!

They're going to give a bad name to pizza!

Thanks for talking me down, I feel better!!

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By Standing Firm for President Obama May 2nd 2009 at 3:17 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:17 pm EDT)

This sentence does not bode well for the future of the republican party:

"On the subject of education, one attendee declared that "people learn more from listening to Rush Limbaugh than they do in high school or college."

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 3:24 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:24 pm EDT)

I guess according to Rush buying street drugs is considered a good education!

How pathetic!!

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By Standing Firm for President Obama May 2nd 2009 at 3:36 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:36 pm EDT)

It is pathetic. I'm just wondering what type of job someone would be qualified for after graduating for the Limbaugh School.

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 3:47 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:47 pm EDT)

Here's some positions:

Parking Lot Drug Dealer

Teeny Bopper Lurker

Screamer

OXY ( Contin or Moron) Advisor

News Fabricator

Just to name a few!

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By Dave May 2nd 2009 at 3:43 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:43 pm EDT)

Jeb Bush is MUCH smarter then his brother, but really has zero chance for the GOP nomination because of his name...

Both Jeb and George W. began as Governors in 1994, so some speculate on why Georg W. Bush ran and not Jeb...

To me it is pretty clear...George W. Bush has the exact same name as the last elected Republican President...

Romney will be the GOP nominee in 2012, but he has little chance of winning the General Election...

I think voters will see that he has the management/executive skills to be President, the intelligence, but that his far right policies would push our country off the cliff, the guy is cold, and cares only about the super rich...

The GOP if they are smart then need to let Independent Voters vote in all the primaries....otherwise the candidate will be elected by the far right and have not chance at getting voters in the middle...letting Independents vote is the smartest thing the DNC has done...

Eric Cantor is good at spinning information...almost as good as Bill O'Reilly...

Why Mitt Romney will be the GOP nominee in 2012...

1) He is the candidate of the party..the RNC voted him their candidate in Feb. 2009, Feb. 2008, and Feb. 2007.

2) The Republican Candidates enter the race in March of 2011. This is the same time the super rich will pay their higher tax bills after Obama repeals the Bush tax cuts..the super rich will be looking for someone to send their money to...It will be Mitt Romney, a former CEO, billionaire, and a guy whose tax policies make George W. Bush seem like a liberal...

3) Because he now has credibility as a conservative, he can run moderate on some issues and still get the conservative base...

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By Moses May 2nd 2009 at 4:28 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 4:28 pm EDT)

Revenge of the Bushes,

These guys are trying to live up the the Bush legacy.

It's interesting to note that Jeb is emerging on the national stage so soon after W settled back in in TXS.
W was a colossal failure, my own instinct is that this is Jebs attempt to redeem W & to salvage the Bush legacy.

Jebs re-emergence seems at first an absurdity after the sordiness of the mess his brother left for all of us, however I'd caution that W was himself an attempt to redeem their father's loss to Clinton in '92.

Bottom line - never misunderestimate a Bush!

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By dmgforchange May 2nd 2009 at 5:49 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 5:49 pm EDT)

KIDDING ME RIGHT!!!! OH NOOOOOOOOO!!!!

Bushes Era is OVA!!!!!!!
another Brother to RUN THE ECONOMY AND WAR CRIMES...

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT....................

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By Lifetime Democrat May 2nd 2009 at 7:50 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:50 pm EDT)

This country has seen enough of the Bushes for the rest of the history of this world.

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By sreeizzle May 2nd 2009 at 8:33 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:33 pm EDT)

Do you by any chance know at most how many more seats we can get in the senate in 2010? This includes democrats we have to vote out too since they can be just as corrupt as the nopublicans.

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By Moses May 3rd 2009 at 11:13 am EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 11:13 am EDT)

Thanks for the question Sreeizzle - I have not done all the math on this - I am working on it...

You are correct to suggest: we should really begin the process of growing our majority in 2010, and in the same process remove/weaken the likes of Ben Nelson & his ilk who are more beholden to special interests than they are to the people who elect them.

Critically and for 2010, if you listen to Cantor & Co we may not have the technology advantage that we enjoyed in 2008 as they plan to employ that same technology as well. We should, in my opinion, really ramp things up beginning now to ensure electoral center has shifted significantly to our side before the republicans regroup!!

Re: OMG!!! NOT ANOTHER BUSH!!! | Report to Admin

By Dianne May 3rd 2009 at 7:31 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 7:31 pm EDT)

Oh! I am confident David Plouffe has it all figured out, Moses, the math & the politics. David is a strategic thinker and an excellent one at that. That's exactly why David Plouffe remained in the "Private Sector", and is not in the Obama Administration. David will be looking ahead strategically at 2010 & 2012.

The Daily Show | Report to Admin

By Obama Grandmama May 2nd 2009 at 3:09 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:09 pm EDT)

I went away for awhile to catch some of the Daily Shows I had tivod to watch later. Just watched April 28th with Cliff May as a guest about torture. They only showed a small portion on the show and referred those watching to go to the website and they could see the rest. It was a lively argument. I did go to the site and found a three part video that is very interesting. It turns out Jon's defense and ultimate decision on what should be done is inline with what Pres. Obama has been saying all along. I am not into knowing how to do links so will just refer you to the Daily Show site to see the video.
I am very pleased the our Pres. is on top of everything with this flu.

Re: The Daily Show | Report to Admin

By sduncan May 2nd 2009 at 3:27 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:27 pm EDT)

To make a link-
go to the top and copy the address of the page
paste the address on the post you are making.
click Publish comment.

The Daily Show link:
Link

Re: The Daily Show | Report to Admin

By Obama Grandmama May 2nd 2009 at 6:10 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 6:10 pm EDT)

Perfect! Thanks sduncan for the link and info.

WOW! NOW THIS GUY'S GOT IT RIGHT!! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 3:22 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:22 pm EDT)

AFTER MY LAST POST ABOUT JEB BUSH RUNNING IN 2012 THIS BRIGHTENED MY DAY!!

Link

Out of Touch

By BOB HERBERT
Published: May 1, 2009
The incredibly clueless stewards of the incredibly shrinking Republican Party would do well to recall that it was supposedly Abe Lincoln, a Republican, who said you can't fool all of the people all of the time.

Not only has the G.O.P. spent years trying to fool everybody in sight with its phony-baloney, dime-store philosophies, it's now trapped in the patently pathetic phase of fooling itself.

Surgeon General? | Report to Admin

By Vegas May 2nd 2009 at 3:27 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:27 pm EDT)

Anyone know who the Surgeon General is?

Re: Surgeon General? | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 3:34 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:34 pm EDT)

It seems we only have an acting Surgeon General these days.

Link

They could just appoint Howard Dean and be done with it!

Re: Surgeon General? | Report to Admin

By Dave May 2nd 2009 at 4:57 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 4:57 pm EDT)

Dean would be awesome but it's not really a great position...it is more honorary...you are not involved at all in setting health policy...

I thought Sanjay Gupta would be perfect, but I think the reason he didn't do it is because he has two young kids and it would hurt his career as a journalist....If he is surgeon general for 2-3 years then goes back to being a journalist people aren't going to think he is able to be objective about discussing the same policies he promoted the previous 2-3 years...

I want someone younger and media savvy like gupta, someone who can use the internet in a new way...

This wouldn't really help out Dean....Howard Deans goal right now should be to become a figure that transcends the Democratic Party...Right now he is seen as a far left partisan figure because being DNC head and all...

He needs to team up with a Republican like Chuck Hagel pick a major national issue and tour around the country...Dean was a Governor, Hagel a Senator, Dean has executive experience, Hagel experience in Washington, in foreign policy...Dean was a doctor, Hagel had four purple hearts in Vietnam... They both are bi-partisan and represent new politics...

Dean will get a lot more attention even if just because of the spectacle, with a DEM and REP together, and can reach a broader audience...

He is really preaching to the quire...people that support him already support universal healthcare and all these other things...

He needs to be on a panel....or just pair him with Republican Governor of California Arnold Schwartzenegger, and Independent Mayor of New York Mike Bloomberg...have those three people go around....that shows bi-partisanship in action...

Dean was a great DNC head for four years but is now just waisting his time....He isn't helping Obama going around talking about universal healthcare....nobody is really listening to him...

You dont talk about bi-partisanship...you form a coalition with someone from the other party...

Re: Surgeon General? | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 5:15 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 5:15 pm EDT)

... and I love Chuck Hagel. Was hoping he'd be a part of the Obama administration, but no such luck.

Re: Surgeon General? | Report to Admin

By sduncan May 2nd 2009 at 3:36 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:36 pm EDT)

The Surgeon General serves as America's chief health educator by providing Americans the best scientific information available on how to improve their health and reduce the risk of illness and injury. The acting Surgeon General is Rear Admiral Steven K. Galson, M.D., M.P.H. RADM Galson is also serving as the Acting Assistant Secretary for Health.

Re: Surgeon General? | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" Snicky's Mama Loves this President and First Family May 2nd 2009 at 4:08 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 4:08 pm EDT)

Not sure who is in the running for SG now but I want to give another shout out to Dr. Oz!

A LITTLE INTERRUPTION FOR SOME INANE HUMOR! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 3:28 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 3:28 pm EDT)

Found this in "Odd News" category ......

Couple arrested for sex on lawn at Windsor Castle

LONDON - Queen Elizabeth II was at home at Windsor Castle, the sentries who guard her were on duty, and the large park surrounding the magnificent building was full of tourists on a Sunday afternoon. So it didn't take long for people to realize that something was out of order when an inebriated couple arrived from a nearby restaurant and began having sex on a grass bank outside the castle, according to witnesses.
"One window from the guardroom opened up and when a soldier saw what was going on he told his mates -- and lots of windows opened up," witness Mark Robinson told The Sun newspaper.
"The couple did not care who was looking and just kept going as if they were in their own bedroom."
Japanese tourists filmed the couple, who only stopped when police officers arrived on the scene, witnesses said.
Thames Valley Police said the man and woman were arrested and given a written warning about outraging public decency.
The queen was in the castle at the time, but her office declined Friday to comment about what had happened.

P.S. Japanese tourists do love to take their pics!!

Re: A LITTLE INTERRUPTION FOR SOME INANE HUMOR! | Report to Admin

By kim the first time voter May 2nd 2009 at 4:59 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 4:59 pm EDT)

good afternoon marilyn. Any good news while i was gone, i have been out picking strawberries for my canning today and working on my garden.

Bravo. Thanks. You delivered what was needed and promised. | Report to Admin

By John Gelles May 2nd 2009 at 6:02 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 6:02 pm EDT)

Within the comment by our President was a repeated commitment to use our common sense and the best that legitimate science has to offer. The President promised to do this-- and so I voted for him.

How about recovery and reinvestment? What does economic science offer? What is common sense?

There are at least two approaches offered by a mixture of common sense and legitimate economics: One approach favors the rich-- do as little as possible and wait for markets and law-makers to bring about a rebound (provided revolution does not hit the streets); the second and better approach favors the poor and whole middle class-- do as much spending without taxes as possible, and be prepared to mop up unsaved excess money if spiraling inflation seems to be inevitable.

Our President has not studied Abba Lerner and his functional finance and proof that taxes are not for funding-- but are rather to prevent inflation. If the President demands his team explain how to spend on the scale of WWII to immediately lead the global economy out of danger, following Lerner's and WWII financing tools, he may do as well for economic science as he has done for the flu.

Obamas a huge political figure. | Report to Admin

By Yesican May 2nd 2009 at 6:24 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 6:24 pm EDT)

"Look, you have to face reality. Barack Obama owns Washington. The Democrats own Washington. So a good place to be is out in the country.

"[Obama's] a huge political figure. I don't agree with him, but the guy blocks the sun. He won the election. He commands everything in sight. He's got a Democratic Congress with him. The media still likes him very much," Bennett said.
Link

Re: Obamas a huge political figure. | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 7:37 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:37 pm EDT)

The part of Bill Bennett's quote you used here is the best part of the remarks of that big, fat, bulbous blowhard - who's been dragged kicking and screaming into the 19th century.

Re: Obamas a huge political figure. | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 8:50 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:50 pm EDT)

Sorry for the venom - but I detest Bennett - first of all because I once bought his "The Book of Virtues" before I found out he has none. :)

Re: Obamas a huge political figure. | Report to Admin

By Obama Grandmama May 2nd 2009 at 9:58 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:58 pm EDT)

I read the article and it seems to me that Mitt Romney is planning to take Obama's message and tact of being outside WA DC and needing to change the status quo next time around. I may be wrong but do not think that simplistic view will work. I also noticed Jeb Bush said they need to listen a little bit and learn a few new things. I think the "little" is very telling since it projects that they think there is only a small change that is needed on their part.

Al Gore? | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 6:25 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 6:25 pm EDT)

Here's an interesting take on why "former President" Al Gore should be President Obama's SCOTUS choice:

Link

arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 6:29 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 6:29 pm EDT)

this is disgusting!

Link

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing May 2nd 2009 at 6:49 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 6:49 pm EDT)

marti, you are correct!

Email Sen Ben Nelson & let him know!!!!
Here's link to his on-line email:
Link

We've got to hold these guy's feet to the fire!!!

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing May 2nd 2009 at 6:57 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 6:57 pm EDT)

Looks like he's coming up for re-election in 2010!!!

About Ben: Biography

"Nebraskans knew five years ago they had chosen an independent centrist when they sent Nelson to Washington. He deserves credit for sturdily filling that role in Washington's bitter partisan atmosphere." - Lincoln Journal Star, May 25, 2005
Nebraska's Senator Ben Nelson has carved for himself a bipartisan role in a bitterly partisan Washington environment.
In a closely-divided Senate, Nelson's ability to cross party lines gives him an unusual amount of power and opportunity to impact major legislation.
Nelson has worked to forge compromises between the Bush Administration and the Senate on tax cuts, Medicare reform, and homeland security.
Link

Wonder if he's "D" in name only???

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 7:03 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:03 pm EDT)

AZgrammy - Thanks; I sent him this e-mail:

Sen. Nelson - In January, you promised to help President Obama build consensus on passing legislation in an attempt to "stop the obstructionism." You have joined the party of No! I hope you know that Democrats around the country will be supporting your challenger in the next election, if you can't support our President. First you voted against the mortgage cramdown - and now health care and the public option? Are you kidding? We put President Obama in office to get help for the middle class. I notice Nebraska didn't have any trouble taking stimulus dollars. Support President Obama now, Senator. Or go back home and we'll elect somebody who can.

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing May 2nd 2009 at 9:55 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:55 pm EDT)

Jacqueline O'Boomer,
That was a GREAT email!
Good job!!!
I copied/pasted it for reference...can tweak it a bit, & send one to Sen. Nelson too!
Ha!
Hope he'll be having "bad nights sleeping" for awhile!!!!

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 10:49 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:49 pm EDT)

Well, thank you, darlin'!

However, people like Ben Nelson probably have no sleeping problems. They're just carriers.

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 6:54 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 6:54 pm EDT)

Totally disgusting, especially since Sen. Ben Nelson of Nebraska promised to "stop obstructionism" and help President Obama build consensus, back in January:

Link

Maybe Nelson needs a trip to the White House wood shed with Sheriff Joey B.

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By dmgforchange May 2nd 2009 at 7:20 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:20 pm EDT)

No wonder repugs are fightin back hard because they know Dems cannot keep the party together fighting among themselves or go against legislative and cannot be the MAJORITY FOR TOO LONG..

this is my BIGGEST GRIPE ABOUT THE PARTY.

Name and Shame is the GAME!!!

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Rob from Arlington, VA May 3rd 2009 at 2:29 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 2:29 pm EDT)

I have a different take on this.

We Democrats are EXPANDING our party. If we want to sustain that expansion, then we need to be more and more respectful of a wider range of viewpoints. With so many center-right voters leaving the Republican Party to join the Democratic Party, there is now a substantial wing of the our party that is represented by the Ben Nelsons and Arlen Specters. In fact, the bottom-line reason why Arlen Specter is now a Democrat is BECAUSE so many center-right PENNSYLVANIANS left the Republican Party and joined the Democratic Party!

I see this as a cause for celebration. Our party has a great leader and we are continuing to expand because our leader's message resonates so strongly with such a broad swath of the electorate. I am thrilled to have the left, the center-left, AND the center-right all in the Democratic Party. If the Republican Party wants to become the exclusive domain of the right, let them. I, for one, welcome the rest of the country into our party with open arms.

Rob

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 3rd 2009 at 5:54 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 5:54 pm EDT)

Rob - Okay, in the light of day, I think you are probably right! I will try to "accept" the non-conformists, as long as they have a "D" after their names.

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Moses May 2nd 2009 at 7:06 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:06 pm EDT)

The true extent of the special interest corruption is at last revealed, and the shills exposed.

As Obama said, his election is our chance to fight for the change we need. The only way to stop Nelson & his ilk is to organize & elect somebody else.!!!!

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 7:14 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:14 pm EDT)

What's the point of universal healthcare if there is no public option. I don't know much about the ins and outs of the healthcare issue, but I don't understand how you make it widely available and affordable if it is still kept solely in the province of private insurance companies.

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 7:29 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:29 pm EDT)

Moses - I'm picturing a national campaign against the terrible 11 or 12, if they continue to join the Party of No. We can organize it ourselves.

Remember, we're the ones who gave our precious $5 (and well beyond) each time it was needed by President Obama's campaign. We can sponsor a rival Dem candidate right from here, without much fanfare, as soon as one presents a challenge in each individual state.

I, for one, can't wait.

P.S. Hope I'm not boring you, but may I say again that I love the way you write ("The true extent of the special interest corruption is at last revealed, and the shills exposed.")!

Re: organize fundraising for primary challenge to Nelson | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 8:21 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:21 pm EDT)

definately agree. I hope the DNC can help us organize this, but if they don't have the intestinal fortitude, we will need to do this externally. I highly recommend that the DNC stay in the loop, but that is the party's choice.

regards,
Lee

Re: organize fundraising for primary challenge to Nelson | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 8:35 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:35 pm EDT)

Agree about the DNC. Also visited the Nebraska Democratic Committee website where they claim they back "mainstream, common sense" candidates (I guess Nelson thinks he's one), yet their website highly touted Obama administration achievements.

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Moses May 3rd 2009 at 1:51 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 1:51 pm EDT)

As always, I'm in total agreement with you Jacqueline.
We must go after the 'terrible 12' and their ilk where ever they are and make it known once and for all that it's abt 'we the people' and not their special interest funders.

Like you, I'm really itching for this fight against the interests that have hijacked our government for too long and wrought upon us all the maladies that we must now correct or risk very serious detrimental consequences - from Health Care, to Energy/Climate to Education/U.S. leadership. These are serious serious matters.

Fortunately for us we are engaged in an deligent effort of effectively neutralizing their once all powerful PR machine (the MSM). From CNN, to MSNBC and Fox, from the NYT and Washpost and polito. 'We the people have said, 'ENOUGH!"

I think Obama should just lay out the strategic markers of this fight move out of the way and just let us loose upon the self-absorbed 'so-called leaders'

p.s. thank you for the compliments on the writing...appreciated

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 7:48 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:48 pm EDT)

thanks you guys...I thought that was the whole point, for there to be an option for those of us who can't afford the private type/for-profit healthcare

I am so mad, this is something we really have to fight for and I will not stand for the same old stupid arguments against it. I would welcome the end of for-profit healthcare.

Re: public health care option is necessary | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 8:14 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:14 pm EDT)

marti,

I agree.

We have a lot of flexibility on health care, but the public option is not on the table.

The public option is required for health care... anything short of that should be vetoed.

Barack would help the cause by making that clear now rather than waiting until they have dug in their positions.

We could help the cause by doing some serious fundraising. Perhaps a fund for democratic candidates that support the public option (to be used advertising on the topic against those who oppose the public option, such as a primary challenge for Nelson). I would like to see the DNC behind this effort as it could act as an extra whip for party members in Congress.

However, if the DNC doesn't deal with Nelson (and quickly) I think we have to do this on our own.

Nelson and others may not be interested in our opinions, but they will sure pay attention if we put a few million $ on unseating them in a primary challenge.

-Lee

Re: public health care option is necessary | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 8:47 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:47 pm EDT)

I have no money to help, but do you think writing to the DNC and the White House too, would help?

It maybe will help them to hear from all of us who are in favor of that option!

Re: public health care option is necessary | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 9:01 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:01 pm EDT)

Yes! Also think there are petitions already out there we could sign.

We can contribute in all kinds of ways, some with dollars - others with good old fashioned organizing and e-mail/letter writing/petition signing.

Many people don't have too many dollars to throw around (unless we're trying to get Barack Obama elected president, then we start selling things out of our garages to get the money to contribute - ha ha).

Re: public health care option is necessary | Report to Admin

By sduncan May 2nd 2009 at 9:21 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:21 pm EDT)

My post are always late but I found this on Michael Moore site- nothing like a big unbrella to get things done.

Tell Congress to Support Single-Payer Healthcare for Everyone in America!
You and your family could have guaranteed health care today, complete and comprehensive just as is available to families in other industrialized countries. Health coverage that won't bankrupt you if you get sick, discourage you from seeking preventive care because of high out-of-pocket costs, or put you at the mercy of insurance companies who will deny treatment you need because they don't want to pay for it. America's nurses see patients harmed and dying unnecessarily every hour of every day.
go sign up.
Link

Re: public health care option is necessary | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 9:04 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:04 pm EDT)

marit,
I think you would be preaching to the choir.

What we need to do is raise $ to give a dem challenger to Nelson a substantial financial advantage to overcome the incumbent advantage that Nelson enjoys (Senators enjoy a large advantage in that regard).

I feel the DNC should be organizing this (if we can't seem to get Nelson on board with the party platform). If the DNC doesn't want to support the effort then we will need to build our own organisation to do it.

We have time to raise money, but for it to be effective we need to get started very soon (and have a memory like an elephant).

Also, I think Nelson (and others) should be given a chance to change their position, but not obstruct in the process. Any face saving way Nelson changes his tune is fine with me, just so long as he changes his position to support health care reform.

After all, health care was one of the things we clearly voted on last November, it's not a change of plan here.

So I feel that in this case, writing and calling won't do it. We need to show we are more than a paper tiger, and one path is in raising $ to unseat those that oppose our platform within the party.

regards,
Lee

Re: public health care option is necessary | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 9:18 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:18 pm EDT)

Lee - It's probably also important to start the letter-writing and petitions early, if for no other reason than to let potential challengers know we'd support some of them. It's kind of a timing issue - my take. I agree about the greater importance of fundraising, but sometimes if an incumbent senator is running again, other Dems will decide not to run. Perhaps there should be a two-prong approach.

Re: letter writing | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 9:30 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:30 pm EDT)

oh yes, agreed.. I do think letter writing and calling has a place in this.

We need to remember that a threat means nothing unless we are prepared to follow through (of course it's necessary that not only will we follow through, but that they understand that we will follow though). 2010 is a bit away.. so Nelson may feel that things will blow over.

But yes, letter writing, calling, etc. is definately a necessary as well.

Lee

Re: public health care option is necessary | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 8:58 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:58 pm EDT)

He has made it clear. During the press conference, he expressly said that he thinks any health care plan should have a public option.

This was during the time when he was discussing bipartisanship. He said that he and Mitch McConnell may not agree on the fact that he thinks the public option should be part of the bill, but that they can agree on limiting malpractice insurance.

So, he's made it known in front of the country.

He also met with some Progressive Dems in either the House or Senate a week or so ago, and he reiterated to them his support for a public option.

It's not about him, it's about these Ben Nelson types. Reconciliation is necessary for DINOs not really Reps.

Re: public option with health care | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 9:12 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:12 pm EDT)

I would like to see the debate taken off the table about the public option... for whatever reason, like a grade B movie where the villian keeps reappeaing the public option debate keeps coming back. :)

regards,
Lee

Re: Nelson's insane anti-public health care option because it's better position | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 8:00 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:00 pm EDT)

I really should read the entire blog before posting! :)

Seems you are already all over this Nelson silliness.

What I have trouble with is that Nelson opposes it because he says it's a better option.

Frankly, Nelson's argument is insane.

One way we can have a voice that is heard by Nelson is to create a fund raising organisation for a democratic primary challenge to Nelson.

Nelson should reconsider his position (but don't take too long doing so).

-Lee

Re: arrrgh! | Report to Admin

By Dave May 3rd 2009 at 5:32 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 5:32 pm EDT)

We're stuck with this guy if we want a Democratic Seat in Nebraska...

Nebraska is a conservative state...Nelson is the most conservative Dem in the Senate, but if he wasn't there we would have a conservative Republican...it is better to have him...

If he hadn't voted for the stimulus bill it wouldn't have passed..if he votes with the GOP half the time on her issues, thats fine with me...If he were a Senator in a state like California, Id run him out but Nebraska is fine...

The main thing is to get Al Franken in and get Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins on board...two Republicans...that means if two Democrats filibuster he still had the 60 votes to get it passed...

President Obama's BEST BET is to get corporate America behind this...It seems like getting healthcare costs reduced in half would please corporate America...corporate america is drowning in these costs...

President Obama needs to get corporate America to push the GOP to support universal healthcare...

The GOP doesn't care about the people, but they will listen to corporate america as they will do anything for campaign money...

and award for dumbest argument of the week goes to....(reposted) | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 7:41 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:41 pm EDT)

The award for the dumbest argument of the week award goes to the gentleman from Nebraska, Senator Ben Nelson! (For brilliance in oppossing the public option in health care.)

So, check this out, this guy is opposed to the public plan option because it's a better option???

from Link

Nelson's problem, he told CQ, is that the public plan would be too attractive and would hurt the private insurance plans. "At the end of the day, the public plan wins the game," Nelson said. Including a public option in a health plan, he said, was a "deal breaker."
-----------

Of course the article mentions his office had no comment (so I won't bother calling his office for an explanation either, obviously they have nothing to add to that really dumb indefensible position).

Nelson is actually against what he thinks is the best option, unbelievable. Perhaps he needs to be awarded the 'dumb argument of the month' award (an upgrade). I was holding out on bestowing that award figuring the GOP had not weighed in yet.. but I think we have a winner right here in Nelson.

-Lee

Re: and award for dumbest argument of the week goes to....(reposted) | Report to Admin

By Reggie; Who Just Signed Up For An 8 Year Tour Of "O"-Duty!!! May 2nd 2009 at 7:57 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 7:57 pm EDT)

Send this to Keith, Ed, Rachel or Chris. I'm sure one of them will give it the attention it deserves.

Re: and award for dumbest argument of the week goes to....(reposted) | Report to Admin

By Nathan "Mr.Independent Democrat" Banks May 2nd 2009 at 8:03 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:03 pm EDT)

I think mostly Ed will address this on his radio show or TV.The three stooges aka Keith,Racheal and
Chris will continue to wine about torture.

Re: and award for dumbest argument of the week goes to....(reposted) | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 8:23 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:23 pm EDT)

The torture issue is important.. and they can stay on that issue.. we can and will multi-task.

-Lee

Re: and award for dumbest argument of the week goes to....(reposted) | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 8:02 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:02 pm EDT)

perhaps we can use him to lead the charge for "single payer"!

Re: and award for dumbest argument of the week goes to....(reposted) | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 8:10 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:10 pm EDT)

If the free market and capitalism is really great, then I imagine what would happen is that the private insurance companies would then do things to provide a better option, with better prices, services, etc. In other words, they'd compete with the public option, just like they compete with other private entities.

Re: and award for dumbest argument of the week goes to....(reposted) | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 8:46 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:46 pm EDT)

That's exactly what President Obama foresees - a little competition to bring down the cost and bring up the quality.

Re: competition | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 8:47 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:47 pm EDT)

Vero,
Exactly, private healthcare options would have incentive to become more efficient and more cost effective, which is the entire point of health care reform.

I think Barack would be well served to make it clear that the public option is required in anything he signs. They can then frame their debate and be 'flexible' on many other parts, but the public option is central to keep incentives in place for private companies to be more cost effective. Without it, we are just paying lip service to healthcare reform.

regards,
Lee

Re: competition | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 9:01 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:01 pm EDT)

I just wrote upthread in response to you that President Obama stated his support for a public option during this past week's presser. He said, point blank, he thinks the healthcare bill should have a public option.

He apparently stated the same thing to a group of Progressive members in Congress last week.

It's not him, it's these Dems that are the problem. I'm hoping they are just trying to make a lot of noise to play to their districts, but when push comes to shove, they'll do the right thing.

Re: competition | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 9:24 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:24 pm EDT)

I'm glad to hear it, but the message is apparently not clear enough. Perhaps a 'veto' threat can get the public option debate closed off. Or perhaps Rahm needs to pay a visit to Nelson's office.

I do think we can allow Nelson and others a bit of time to find a way of saving face while they change their position, but at the same time we need to prepare for the possibility that our dollars might be needed to unseat those that oppose our core agenda.

All the writing and calling does nothing, and the threat of unseating Nelson means nothing, unless we are willing to back it up with our own $ in contributions to unseat him, and votes against him. That's the bottom line, whether those in NE vote against him, and those not in NE contribute to his challenger.

anyway, let's see what the landscape looks like in a few days and review it then.

regards,
Lee

Re: competition | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 9:53 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:53 pm EDT)

politico is reporting that next week Obama meets with Baucus and Grassley who are taking the lead in writing the bill. So, he's getting into the weeds now.

I do think we need to be patient and see how things progress. I get the feeling that Obama, Rahm, and co. haven't really started turning the screws yet.

Re: patience | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 10:10 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:10 pm EDT)

definately.

Re: competition | Report to Admin

By Archaeology Jim May 2nd 2009 at 9:10 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:10 pm EDT)

Lee,

I pay $5,500 for my wife, son, and myself for health insurance. We have a combined $7,500 annual deductible (that isn't a type-o). Last summer my son had stitches and this cost us $3,500 out-of-pocket.

Oh, and my wife will deliver in June and our policy does NOT cover maternity, delivery, etc (that would cost us around $12,000 a year).

I say let every single congress person go find their own private health insurance policy for their families, and then pay for it out of pocket. And, see how many of them would be declined because of their age, pre-existing, etc.

The shit is broken in a big, big way.

In Obama We Trust!

Re: competition | Report to Admin

By Lee Church May 2nd 2009 at 9:50 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:50 pm EDT)

Jim,
Congrats on the upcoming addition to your family. Apparently not everything is broken. :)

Your story is compelling, and represents one of millions of people with similar healthcare stories. It is the story of why healthcare reform is so necessary to the competitiveness of american business in the global economy.

We will see how the Nelson opposition to the public option plays out, yet I think we should start preparing for battle (which means building a warchest).

Now, the important question: Have you have picked out a name for him/her?

regards,
Lee

Re: and award for dumbest argument of the week goes to....(reposted) | Report to Admin

By Loretta May 2nd 2009 at 9:45 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:45 pm EDT)

His (Nelson's) votes are bought and paid for. First the Bankers, and now the Insurance Companies.

This is sad. I hope the people of Nebraska are well informed. Probably not, the media will drop the ball on this story too.

The lobbyist OWN this man.

real journalism...please stand up | Report to Admin

By youth 4 obama May 2nd 2009 at 8:07 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:07 pm EDT)

It is stand..but so vindicative about what is happening to the newspaper industry and cable ratings for some channels...journalism died when journalists started trying playing GOD or some superior someone implying to the common reader trust me with every word i write for print..and, alll of that evaporated when journalists let fear and uncertainity took them over on and after 9/11...

it is sad to read and see a medium that should be disinfectant is also a pollutant itSELF...so ironic...eh? for example...chicago suntimes has an article and the heading is:"Obama cool and calm...--but also lucky...luck in that heading is a result of subjectivity...because if there was objectivity that word lucky would have been hope...

Re: real journalism...please stand up | Report to Admin

By youth 4 obama May 2nd 2009 at 8:15 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:15 pm EDT)

I dont believe in luck...but hope. When someone gets a break in life ...i beleive that break is like a present from life...perhaps destiny for the few good choices made and the due process during the making....

Re: real journalism...please stand up | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 8:19 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:19 pm EDT)

you're a very smart youth!

Re: real journalism...please stand up | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 8:27 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:27 pm EDT)

Hi youth4 Obama!

I told everyone last night you were a smart kid. I see I was right.

It makes me very happy the next generation is on the right track.

Keep it up and you never know, you may grow up to be the President of the United States some day! Anything is possible if you work hard enough.

Re: real journalism...please stand up | Report to Admin

By youth 4 obama May 2nd 2009 at 8:38 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:38 pm EDT)

thanks marilyn and o-fam....i got a kick out of the campaign last year man...made inform n involve in politics cool...

thanks o-FAM!!!

Re: real journalism...please stand up | Report to Admin

By Archaeology Jim May 2nd 2009 at 9:05 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:05 pm EDT)

Remember that journalism kind of fell off track in the early 1980's when CNN started broadcasting the 24-hour, non-stop news channel. This started others doing the same. And now, because of the need to fill every single 24-hour period with 24 hours of news, we hear all kinds of non-news items and plenty of drama...much of which is driven not by journalists but by TV personalities disguised as journalists (Hannity for one).

Keep reading between the lines.

Good job.

In Obama We Trust!

Re: real journalism...please stand up | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 9:06 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:06 pm EDT)

That's insightful on your part - the use of the word "luck" is subjective. One man's luck is another man's opportunity due to hard work.

I think newspapers, etc. are becoming obsolete because they cannot be trusted. There is always a slant to many news organizations, so you can't read the news and feel like you're getting it - straight up. Many news articles and tv reports almost feel like an opinion piece, when they're not supposed to be. I feel like almost every article I read from the big newspapers is quoting some anonymous source, or unnamed official from the administration, which, to me, gives each article an air of untrustworthiness since you don't know who is giving the information that forms the basis for the article, so you can't determine their motive.

Something has to change within the industry.

Nice article from Andrew Sullivan | Report to Admin

By CompassionateObama Supporter May 2nd 2009 at 8:15 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:15 pm EDT)

Link

Re: Nice article from Andrew Sullivan | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 8:43 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:43 pm EDT)

[spoiler alert] I like his ending, in favor of President Obama: "This eschewal of the quick rhetorical jab or news cycle victory in favour of a long-term readjustment is soothing to the nerves and curiously bolstering of the spirit ... The American people are wise enough to sense this. And they want more of it. What they want less of, so far as we can tell, is the shrill siren of the current opposition."

Re: Nice article from Andrew Sullivan | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! May 2nd 2009 at 10:09 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:09 pm EDT)

Amen. We want calm from our government, and someone who's just getting to work.

catholic bishops | Report to Admin

By sreeizzle May 2nd 2009 at 8:31 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:31 pm EDT)

I really feel catholic bishops have lost their mind. Do you really think this article is true? Why don't catholic bishops understand that criminalizing abortion will not reduce the number of abortions ? Mexico has a much higher abortion rate than the United states does and abortion is outlawed in Mexico. They also never say anything about the child molestation done by catholic priests. what a bunch of hypocrites. they are putting their feet in their mouth when they throw hissy fits about unchristian behavior or uncatholic behavior.

SOJOURNER TRUTH CEREMONY | Report to Admin

By Marcy Girl May 2nd 2009 at 8:56 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 8:56 pm EDT)

If you missed the Sojourner Truth ceremony at the Capitol earlier this week, TURN NOW TO C-SPAN TO CATCH IT. First Lady, Michelle Obama is due to speak soon!

Re: SOJOURNER TRUTH CEREMONY | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 9:03 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:03 pm EDT)

Off to turn it on - hopefully to still catch Cicely Tyson do Sojourner's "Ain't I a woman?" speech!

Re: SOJOURNER TRUTH CEREMONY | Report to Admin

By Marcy Girl May 3rd 2009 at 12:14 am EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 12:14 am EDT)

Sorry to be redundant but CSPAN right now (12:12am est) is re-running the Sojourner Truth tribute again. I'm excited and redundant because this is so important. Please tune in. If you tune in now, You have enough time to catch Cicely Tyson perform Sojourner Truth's speech, "Ain't I'm a Woman?"

it's a start... | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 9:15 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:15 pm EDT)

please go here, sign the pledge, also scroll down and share your stories. Please share your views on the healthcare reform

Link

Re: it's a start... | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 9:27 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:27 pm EDT)

Thank you so much. It's a great start.

Re: it's a start... | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 9:33 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:33 pm EDT)

DONE!!! Thanks! ;-)

Re: it's a start... | Report to Admin

By Loretta May 2nd 2009 at 9:37 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:37 pm EDT)

Done! ....and Thank you for providing me with direction to that site.

Re: it's a start... | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 9:43 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:43 pm EDT)

thank you all...this is so important!

Re: it's a start... | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 9:58 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:58 pm EDT)

marti - I'm sure President Obama is taking into account the gazillions of people in our country at this time who cannot afford health care - he spoke about that often during the campaign (he chided Hillary for talking about "mandates" when people couldn't afford the policies). I think he's looking out for everybody, and we'll help him fight for it! Thanks again.

Re: it's a start... | Report to Admin

By Peg May 3rd 2009 at 12:49 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 12:49 pm EDT)

Thanks for the link!
Hate to be greedy, but, please, may we have some more? A link to build a bankroll to fund a war room for advertisements and canvassing and phone banks to counter the misinformation that will be coming down the pike about the health-care bill - both negotiations and final form?

We are already seeing ads, interviews, floor speeches and press conferences filled with misinformation and innuendo that can manipulate opinions reported in polls. The polls, in turn, can provide cover for Congress members looking for cover to vote against the bill.

So, I and maybe others need to know about evaluations of relevant links so I can find one that I can trust that will fund strategic, tactical and rapid responses starting pretty soon.
I figure whitehouse.gov cannot do it; will OFA or DNC do this kind of specific use fundraising?
Is it better to go through move-on or organizations like aarp or unions or would that fragment us too much to be effective?

NOW WHO'S WALKING WHO IN THIS PIC? | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 9:24 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:24 pm EDT)

FLOTUS WATCH ...........

WASHINGTON - Michelle Obama is in full swoon over the newest addition to the First Family, but she's also learned what any dog owner with kids could have told her: when they promised to walk the dog, they lied.

Link

Healthcare reform | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein May 2nd 2009 at 9:26 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:26 pm EDT)

Just read on Politico that PBO will meet with Sen. Baucus and Sen Grassley to discuss healthcare reform.

Marc Ambinder on the different approaches being taken in the House & Senate:

'On health care, Obama expects substantive progress toward a bill in both chambers. The House's measure will likely include a significant expansion of government-run programs; the Senate will probably go in a different direction, coupling a mandate for insurance with expensive government subsidies for those who can't afford it.'

Link

It's a good this reconciliation is in the cards.

Re: Healthcare reform | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein May 2nd 2009 at 9:28 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:28 pm EDT)

*good thing

Re: Healthcare reform | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 9:32 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:32 pm EDT)

oh no...mandates

Re: Healthcare reform | Report to Admin

By marti May 2nd 2009 at 9:37 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:37 pm EDT)

how will they determine who can afford it?

the federal income guidelines determined once that I made $10 a month too much to get help with food...they were wrong. They decided this year that I paid too little in fed tax, and I owe $500. I am now moving to a one bedroom apt, with my son.

they don't know what they are talking about and they are breaking my heart. I'm afraid we are never going to get healthcare for all, no strings attached, no telling me if I can have it or not.

Re: Healthcare reform | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein May 2nd 2009 at 9:45 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:45 pm EDT)

I would be fine with mandates if there was a real public option- if there isn't I don't see the point.

I know the original 'Baucus Plan' was much in line with what PBO proposed as a candidate.

Re: Healthcare reform | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein May 2nd 2009 at 9:50 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:50 pm EDT)

Ezra Klein sums up the original (first draft) Baucus Plan:

Link

'Baucus's approach to the mandate is a hybrid of Obama's affordability concerns and Clinton's emphasis on universality. The mandate only kicks in once "affordable" insurance options are available to all Americans. The key here is what "affordable" means.'

Re: Healthcare reform | Report to Admin

By Dave May 3rd 2009 at 4:19 pm EDT (Updated May 3rd 2009 at 4:19 pm EDT)

We don't need a hybrid...Obama's plan was better then Hillary's and more likely to get Republican support...

The main focus needs to be on reducing the cost...that is the only thing Republican and Independent voters care about...we can increase the amount of people insured in another plan..the mandate will make it harder to sell the plan....

Obama's got to bottom line increase the amount of physicians...inspire them to work longer hours or something as we don't have enough..

Another thing...the bill that failed yesterday..obamas got to tell the banks, if they dont let this pass they get no more money...

Sen. Arlen Specter | Report to Admin

By Senior from Michigan May 2nd 2009 at 9:49 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:49 pm EDT)

I am not going to donate one dime to help Specter in his Democratic campaign.

Re: Sen. Arlen Specter | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein May 2nd 2009 at 9:57 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 9:57 pm EDT)

I will if he's with the Dems on the important issues (energy, healthcare, and education), but if he bucks the party I'll donate to his primary challenger.

I'm in 'wait and see' mode.

Re: Sen. Arlen Specter | Report to Admin

By Loretta May 2nd 2009 at 10:03 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:03 pm EDT)

Neither will I. I'm saving up for Senator Boxer.

Re: Sen. Arlen Specter | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 10:04 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:04 pm EDT)

I love her.

Re: Sen. Arlen Specter | Report to Admin

By Loretta May 2nd 2009 at 10:23 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:23 pm EDT)

She is wonderful, isn't she?

What some in Washington seem to not understand is that we are watching them like never before.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, those elected officials (regardless of party affiliation) that continue to work for lobbyist need to be voted out of office, and those who are working for the American people need our full and complete support.

Re: Sen. Arlen Specter | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 10:45 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:45 pm EDT)

I'm with you on that!

WE NEED TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR PRAYER | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 10:06 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:06 pm EDT)

Iraqi soldier kills 2 US soldiers, wounds 3.

THIS WAS TODAY!

Link

Dear Lord,
Please help the families who lost their loved ones and and for a quick recovery for the wounded. Let them find the peace in knowing the lost lives were not in vain and that we as Americans appreciate all they they did. Not a day goes by that we do not reflect on what our men and women in uniform are doing and continue to do in the name of our Nation. Their work and dedication is never forgotten.
Amen

Re: WE NEED TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR PRAYER | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing May 2nd 2009 at 10:16 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:16 pm EDT)

Amen...
Please Lord God of the universe, Who holds all things in Palm of His Hand, bring this long, sad conflict to a peaceful ending, in a speedily merciful manner.
Accomplish this we ask, in Jesus blessed Name, Amen.

Re: WE NEED TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR PRAYER | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 10:23 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:23 pm EDT)

Here's the article on Senator Kemp.

Spokeswoman: Jack Kemp, one-time VP nominee, dies.

Link

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing May 2nd 2009 at 10:37 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:37 pm EDT)

Here's a Happy thought!

Kemp, a former quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, represented western New York for nine terms in Congress, leaving the House for an unsuccessful presidential bid in 1988.

Now, Jack Kemp and Tim Russert can "pal around heaven" together, discussing politics and the Buffalo Bills!
As Tim might say, It's WILD"!!!!

I know there is heaven;
This world we're living in now is kinda a part-hell...

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 10:44 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:44 pm EDT)

AZgrammy - I always have pictured my loved ones greeting each other in heaven, and my Mother asking where the dessert tray is, so I really smiled when I saw this!

Go, Bills!

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 10:51 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:51 pm EDT)

And there's an unwritten rule .......

Even if you were a Republican, when you pass on all bets are off and you get our prayers!

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 10:58 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:58 pm EDT)

That dessert tray better have Pineapple Upside Down Cake on it!

You'll have to get the explanation from Cookemom.

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 11:09 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:09 pm EDT)

I've been watching you two laugh about it from afar for a while - I don't think I need a diagram! LOL.

My Mother was 84 when she passed away, but even at that age she was still falling for tall, good looking men in a big way (neighbors, doctors, my son's friend, etc.)! I'm sure she's charming them all up in heaven, offering THEM desserts! Even though I miss her so much because she was a fabulous person, all those thoughts give me an enormous amount of comfort and lots of smiles!

And you are the goddess of smiles and laughter, so y'all know what I mean!

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 11:38 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:38 pm EDT)

Just so everyone knows there really is a cake, here's the recipe ...

PINEAPPLE UPSIDE DOWN CAKE
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1 (20 ounce) can sliced pineapple
• 10 maraschino cherries
FOR THE CAKE (use the Bisquick recipe below)
DIRECTIONS
1. Melt the butter over medium high heat in the iron skillet. Remove from the heat and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly to cover the butter. Next, arrange pineapple rings around the bottom of the pan, one layer deep. Place a maraschino cherry into the center of each pineapple ring. Prepare the cake mix as directed by the manufacturer, substitute some of the pineapple juice for some of the liquid in the directions. Pour the batter over the pineapple layer.
2. Bake as directed by the cake mix directions. Cool for 10 minutes, then carefully turn out onto a plate. Do not let the cake cool too much or it will be stuck to the pan.
Plain Cake with Bisquick Flour (Use a large cast iron skillet if you have one) Grease and flour the skillet and bake for 45-55 minutes depending on your oven.
• •
• 1-1/2 cups New Bisquick
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup cold water or milk
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

SO THERE!!! Bet you all thought there was never a cake! LOL!

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing May 2nd 2009 at 11:14 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:14 pm EDT)

MARILYN;
Kinda don't think they have THAT Pineapple Upside Down Cake (that Cookemom referred to) in heaven! :)

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" May 2nd 2009 at 11:23 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:23 pm EDT)

Well, spiritual cake, then, AZgrammy ... spiritual. LOL.

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing May 2nd 2009 at 11:27 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:27 pm EDT)

:)

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 11:33 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:33 pm EDT)

Well then I'll just have to send one up there. They don't know what they're missing.

FYI ...... In the midst of all this joking, I really do make a killer pineapple upside down cake.

Re: Here's a Happy thought! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 11:41 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 11:41 pm EDT)

Here's the recipe ......

PINEAPPLE UPSIDE DOWN CAKE
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1 (20 ounce) can sliced pineapple
• 10 maraschino cherries
FOT THE CAKE (use the Bisquick recipe below)
DIRECTIONS
1. Melt the butter over medium high heat in the iron skillet. Remove from the heat and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly to cover the butter. Next, arrange pineapple rings around the bottom of the pan, one layer deep. Place a maraschino cherry into the center of each pineapple ring. Prepare the cake mix as directed by the manufacturer, substitute some of the pineapple juice for some of the liquid in the directions. Pour the batter over the pineapple layer.
2. Bake as directed by the cake mix directions. Cool for 10 minutes, then carefully turn out onto a plate. Do not let the cake cool too much or it will be stuck to the pan.
Plain Cake with Bisquick Flour (Use a large cast iron skillet if you have one) Grease and flour the skillet and bake for 45-55 minutes depending on your oven.
• •
• 1-1/2 cups New Bisquick
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup cold water or milk
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Re: WE NEED TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR PRAYER | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 10:19 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:19 pm EDT)

ADDED PRAYERS .....

This just in, no link yet.

Fromer Congressman and vice-presidential candidate Jack Kemp has passed away, AP is reporting.

Dear Lord,
Please take Senator Jack Kemp to everlasting peace and let his loved ones find peace in their loss.
AMEN

Re: WE NEED TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR PRAYER | Report to Admin

By Loretta May 2nd 2009 at 10:26 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:26 pm EDT)

Amen.

I'll be praying for his family as well.

Re: WE NEED TO TAKE A MOMENT FOR PRAYER | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing May 2nd 2009 at 10:27 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:27 pm EDT)

Amen.

OH! SO IN LOVE, SO MUCH IN LOVE ...... | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER May 2nd 2009 at 10:10 pm EDT (Updated May 2nd 2009 at 10:10 pm EDT)

This brought tears to my eyes.

Link

WASHINGTON - The first couple took full advantage of the cool spring night.
After a date night out on Saturday evening, President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama decided to take a stroll when their motorcade arrived back at the White House.
So they began walking on the driveway of the White House South Lawn while holding hands. First they passed the West Wing, then their children's swing set. They kept walking, swinging their hands together.
There were no Secret Service agents right behind them -- the agents stood off, in one of the rare moments that the Obamas had private space outside the White House walls.
As the Obamas walked behind shrubbery and out of sight, the unscripted moment left reporters guessing where they were going. To the vegetable garden? The basketball court? No final word, but they eventually came back the same way from where they started, rounding out their 8-minute walk.