AUTHOR: Stefan
TITLE: No Southerners?
BASENAME: no_southerners
STATUS: Publish
ALLOW COMMENTS: 1
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DATE: 12/19/2008 03:51:49 PM
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Obama's picks show a distinct lack of regional representation, well, this region anyway.
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AUTHOR: Jen B.
EMAIL:
IP: 68.184.85.136
URL:
DATE: 12/19/2008 04:17:20 PM
Why is Atlanta pink? It should be a combination of red, pink, blue and brown with some granola West Coast for good measure.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: TBS
EMAIL:
IP: 158.111.5.34
URL:
DATE: 12/19/2008 04:29:50 PM
And since the South has become HQ of the GOP, where is our bench? Who among serious southerners were interested AND available for cabinet consideration? Other than Shirley Franklin, who?
The South is reaping what it sows.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: Zaid
EMAIL:
IP: 68.219.3.174
URL:
DATE: 12/19/2008 04:30:39 PM
Maybe they should vote for him first? You know that whole democracy thing.
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AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed
EMAIL:
IP: 74.232.67.236
URL:
DATE: 12/19/2008 04:47:04 PM
Appointments aren't democratic, why would we be worried about "that whole democracy thing" which I think people are starting to realize is BS...
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: Zaid
EMAIL:
IP: 68.219.3.174
URL:
DATE: 12/19/2008 04:57:35 PM
Yeah, it's so common to reward people who don't do anything for you in democratic politics.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta
EMAIL:
IP: 208.65.91.113
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 02:16:38 PM
That map ain't accurate - I can state with authority that the coast of the Florida Panhandle should be pink, not red. You won't find a boiled peanut on 350 miles of coastline.
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AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed
EMAIL:
IP: 74.232.67.96
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 02:39:45 PM
Also, carpetbaggers have infiltrated much of NoVa and none of WVa should be considered Yankee territory.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: RuralDem
EMAIL:
IP: 207.171.241.43
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 03:02:59 PM
"Yeah, it's so common to reward people who don't do anything for you in democratic politics."
You're right Zaid, Sanford Bishop and other southerners did nothing for Obama. Nothing but campaign their tails off for the guy like his supporters in the northeast and other areas.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: RuralDem
EMAIL:
IP: 207.171.241.43
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 03:05:24 PM
"Who among serious southerners were interested AND available for cabinet consideration? Other than Shirley Franklin, who?"
Um, Sanford Bishop. Know him? Congressman from our state. Yeah.
As far as the reaping what they sow part, I take it you'll support the idea of Obama not hiring anyone from any states where he lost.
Wait, let's go a bit further, how about not hiring anyone from a Congressional District he lost, or county commission district, or precinct!
Blah.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: Zaid
EMAIL:
IP: 68.219.13.154
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 06:31:58 PM
"You're right Zaid, Sanford Bishop and other southerners did nothing for Obama."
If he's not qualified, he's not qualified; making selections by affirmative action by regime is stupid. No one cares about Bishop on a national scene.
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AUTHOR: RuralDem
EMAIL:
IP: 207.171.241.43
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 07:39:09 PM
How is he not qualified Zaid?
I'm definitely not arguing in favor of affirmative action, instead I believe his experience representing such a large agricultural district during his 15+ years in Congress is a good qualification to start. If you've ever had a discussion with the guy you'd know that he is in tune with his constituency, therefore he's knowledgeable on agricultural issues.
Interesting that you're coming out against affirmative action. I've met few Democrats who would say such a thing.
Oh wait, you're not a Democrat :)
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: odinseye2k
EMAIL:
IP: 76.121.155.77
URL:
DATE: 12/21/2008 01:04:21 AM
I'm with TBS. The South has who, Democratically speaking, again? The political "innovation" from this place consists of the FairTax and Contract with America.
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AUTHOR: TBS
EMAIL:
IP: 158.111.5.34
URL:
DATE: 12/22/2008 10:24:06 AM
By all accounts, Sanford Bishop was a finalist for Agriculture, but I'm not sure he's any more qualified than Vilseck...who is from the state that launched Obama and certainly understands agriculture issues. I'd be Shirley's problems with the Atlanta budget might have knocked her out of consideration. But she could end up a Deputy Secretary or something. I understand that the outgoing governor of NC was under consideration for a cabinet post (not sure which one), but he told Obama's team he didn't want to go to DC. You might see Kaine in something once he is through being Governor in VA.
The bench ain't all that deep in the South... and considering how racist the white vote turned out to be in the Deep South, it's no wonder there's no cabinet-level picks from this area.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: Mouth of the South
EMAIL:
IP: 74.7.10.169
URL:
DATE: 12/22/2008 10:46:31 AM
The secretaries are only loosely about "qualifications". And since some of the guys were from Texas, it isn't about paying back either. (Obama lost Texas in the general and in the primary, sort of.) However, much of his Super Tuesday success came from the South. Regardless, this seems to be a tactic that relegates the Republicans to a Southern party, by appearing moderate and taking away the rest of the areas. Sucks for those of us who live here.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: Drew
EMAIL:
IP: 69.180.19.180
URL:
DATE: 12/22/2008 05:23:13 PM
If George Bush can be called a southerner, then I think Ron Kirk and Lisa Jackson can easily be counted, too. At least they were born, raised, and educated in Texas and Louisiana, which is more than one can say for our New Haven-born, Andover-prepped, and New Haven-educated president.
I think the critics at Tapped are right: the "problem" isn't a lack of southerners, it's a lack of "real" Southerners - white men. Which isn't really a problem at all.
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AUTHOR: Jen Brock
TITLE: A little Friday cheer.
BASENAME: a_little_friday_cheer
STATUS: Publish
ALLOW COMMENTS: 1
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DATE: 12/19/2008 05:30:40 PM
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In honor of Stefan's "No Southerners?" post, I'd like to present Pajiba's list of the 5 Worst Southern Accents in film. Personally, I'm with the commenter who nominated Nicholas Cage in Con Air for an Honorable Mention.
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AUTHOR: PaulaG
EMAIL:
IP: 67.35.9.92
URL:
DATE: 12/19/2008 05:48:02 PM
I *love* Varsity Blues, and James van der Beek's fake Texas accent: "I dawn't whant yo' life!" Tee hee.
My nomination for worst southern accent in TV? Kyra Sedgwick's supposed Atlanta accent on The Closer.
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AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara
EMAIL:
IP: 69.25.8.138
URL:
DATE: 12/19/2008 05:48:38 PM
I'm sorry, any list that leaves off Sean Penn in All the King's Men is woefully incomplete. THAT is the worst southern accent on film ever. Kate Winslet and Anthony Hopkins serve to compound the travesty, too.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: Mouth of the South
EMAIL:
IP: 74.7.10.169
URL:
DATE: 12/22/2008 11:44:30 AM
Nominations closed? I hope not:
1) The White Dude (Lucas Black) in Fast and the Furious Tokyo Drift
2) Alicia Silverstone in Beauty Shop. A terrible movie filmed in Atlanta, that somehow has Queen Latifah, Kevin Bacon, Andie MacDowell, and Mena Suvari in it. And Kimora Lee Simmons and Rudy from the Cosby Show.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: nicolette
EMAIL:
IP: 204.152.235.216
URL:
DATE: 12/22/2008 12:41:57 PM
i second the nomination of the white dude in fast and the furious tokyo drift....that was jab a fork in your eye awful.
what made it worse was that it was totally unnecessary to the plot line that he had a southern accent. he could have been white trash from anywhere in the US
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AUTHOR: Mel
TITLE: What's cooking?
BASENAME: whats_cooking
STATUS: Publish
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DATE: 12/19/2008 08:53:39 PM
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Levi Johnston's Mother Arrested on Drug Charges, via Cajun Boy and Paula.
She could have made more money by just telling all to the National Enquirer.
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AUTHOR: RuralDem
EMAIL:
IP: 207.171.241.43
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 03:44:51 PM
The deception site is pretty pathetic.
Not a Palin fan by any means, but come on.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: MelGX
EMAIL: melaniegoux@mindspring.com
IP: 68.154.121.166
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 11:02:12 PM
Well, today was the "due date" so we'll know soon enough.
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AUTHOR: RuralDem
EMAIL:
IP: 207.171.241.43
URL:
DATE: 12/20/2008 11:11:46 PM
Um, not the Governor.
That second site focuses more on her than her kid (the one that's having the child).
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AUTHOR: Dimitri U.
EMAIL:
IP: 121.97.230.184
URL:
DATE: 12/29/2008 03:28:14 AM
Why some people are tempted to do some illegal acts and are contrary to law? Those can ruin their respectable image to the society. There wasn't a payday for Sherrie Johnston; instead there were felony arrest warrants for possession of narcotics. She was arrested for possession of the prescription drug Oxycontin, which has garnered a lot of national attention for rampant abuse of the narcotic painkiller. Ordinarily, an oxy bust, even a felony oxy bust, wouldn't get a lot of attention. The thing about Sherrie is that it isn't so much what she did; it has more to do with who she is. Who she is, is the mother of one Levi Johnston. Levi got a lot of attention as the fiancé of Bristol Palin, daughter to Sarah Palin, governor of Alaska and former candidate for the Vice Presidency of the United States. Yes, the guy who got her preggers. The Bristol Palin saga has been a subject of a lot of debate and coverage in the media of the course of Palin's campaign, and it appears that the show will keep going on. Sarah Palin may have the extra cash to bail her out, but this is something most people would have the good sense to stay out of. You can read more in the article posted on the payday loan blog at personalmoneystore.com.
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COMMENT:
AUTHOR: Jen B.
EMAIL:
IP: 68.184.85.136
URL:
DATE: 12/29/2008 11:07:26 AM
I realize this is spam, but I felt part of this needed to be addressed.
"Why some people are tempted to do some illegal acts and are contrary to law?"
Addiction and/or money.
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AUTHOR: Bernita
TITLE: Rick Warren does King Celebration
BASENAME: rick_warren_does_king_celebrat
STATUS: Publish
ALLOW COMMENTS: 1
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DATE: 12/21/2008 12:31:47 PM
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While checking out activities for the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration week, I found this gem on the King Center's (pdf) list of activities:
THE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. ANNUAL COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE Monday, January 19, 2009 - 10:00 A.M. Open to the public. (Limited seating) Ebenezer Baptist Church - Horizon Sanctuary, 407 Auburn Ave., NE, Atlanta, GA The Commemorative Service is the spiritual hallmark of the King Holiday Observance, and features tributes to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. from national and international leaders. Also included is a 12' x 19' JumboTron which will broadcast the Commemorative Service live. It will be positioned in front of the Martin Luther King Historic Site Rose Garden for visitors in the Historic District. Keynote Speaker: Rick Warren, Pastor, Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA. For More Information Contact: Barbara Harrison at (404) 526-8911.Looks like the great Reverend Rick is all down with the people. On Monday, he celebrates Dr. King's life and legacy and then on Tuesday he's doing the invocation for Obama. My mind is confused about how Rev. Rick will talk about Dr. King's legacy of equal rights and then still preach about who is excluded from God's love. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 68.219.14.229 URL: DATE: 12/21/2008 06:33:17 PM Are you going to call out the African American ministers who preach homophobia on a weekly basis at their churches that will no doubt be in attendance and have participatory roles in this service? Remember, if were only white religious Christians who supported Prop 8, it would not have passed, and the Georgia marriage amendment would have been a lot closer than 75-25. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Smitty EMAIL: IP: 71.56.127.98 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 01:38:52 AM "Are you going to call out the African American ministers who preach homophobia" - I'm not even sure how to even answer this question. Are you asking this question because the author of the post is also African-American or are you asking this question to open up another line of debate? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 10:14:54 AM Hi all, I would like to reiterate the question Decaturguy asks, not because the original poster is an African-American, but because several local black ministers enjoy quite a high profile during the King Week celebration of Dr. King's life and legacy and yet they preach hate and intolerance instead of the civil rights for all that Dr. King, and later in life his widow, called for. For example, in 2004, their youngest daughter, Bernice King, participated in a march against same-sex marriage in Atlanta. This is directly against what her mother, Coretta Scott King, and her older sister, Yolanda King, worked for. Both were very outspoken supporters of gay rights saying that gay rights are a civil rights issue. Why should we take certain people seriously, i.e. the black ministers and in particular Rev. Bernice King, when it seems that they only want to trade in on the legacy of a man who worked tirelessly for what these people are so adamantly against – that being civil rights for all people? If I am reading the schedule of events correctly, this is a day to celebrate Dr. King’s birthday as a national holiday and to act on “his teachings and principles of nonviolence and human rights.” Do these ministers that are so quick to jump on the King legacy bandwagon when the cameras are rolling not believe that gay people are human and deserve the same rights are heterosexuals? Do these ministers who are so quick to scream for equal rights when it benefits them not think that black gays and lesbians deserve equal rights too? Equal rights for everyone are just that – equal rights for everyone. They can’t just pick and choose. I have a hard time with the hypocrisy and I really want someone to ask them these questions and I want them asked every day, not just on a Monday in January. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 10:27:56 AM Agreed, we all seem to accept MLK's life and legacy as leading toward acceptance and openness, but there are many who do not share that view close to home. "Bishop" Eddie Long was super fun about that in 2004, along with Bernice King. I don't think we can call out Warren and his Porpoises without at least mentioning that his views go over quite well with many of the cloth in his audience. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 74.224.113.222 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 01:35:06 PM Smitty, I think that Rubyduby and MOS appropriately answered your question about why I said what I said. Rick Warren will not be the only minister who will be there on Jan 19 who does not support gay equality. We just wonder why you're singling out Warren. Is it because he's white? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 01:49:21 PM Oh, I just want to be clear about Rick Warren. I don't wonder why he's being singled out. He's being singled out because he is a hot topic right now and that's fine. I happen to believe in my little heart of hearts that he's one of the biggest pieces of excrement to ever grace this state's presence (and that truly is saying something). But my little semi-logical mind tells me that he's just another charlatan taking the sheeple for all they aren't worth and then some and if they are stupid enough to fork over their money and blindly follow this snake oil salesman cum religious “leader,” then they really do deserve their places in their own private Idaho. But then again, I don't particularly have a very nice opinion on any of these megachurch ministers. Ya know, Bezerko went to high school with Creflo... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.80 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 04:38:58 PM I don't understand the question. Is it that if we are going to criticize someone, we have to criticize EVERYBODY who does the same thing? I know we're all supposed to fight injustice wherever we find it, but we can't ALL fight EVERY BIT of injustice ALL THE TIME. I think we are allowed to pick examples that are more meaningful to us some times. Besides, it's not like this is the US Justice Department. it's just a blog. Is criticism of white people only legitimate when it comes from white people? Are Latino's not allowed to speak about discrimination at the hands of white people? How about straight people? No criticism of straight people by gay people? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Smitty EMAIL: IP: 71.56.127.98 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 10:37:02 PM Massa Decaturguy, I is just gonna sit right over here from now on until you tell me what white folks I'm allowed to criticize. Lordy Bee, I must have bumped my head on that ol' tree in the field. I apologize for my uppity words cuz I know as a black person that I'm only allowed to call out my own kinfolk. Now I do know that there are some black preacher folk who don't speak good of the gay folks, but what you need remember is that Dr. King spoke highly of everyone. But, this fella Rick Warren he sho' nuff don't like the gay people. So I guess I wuz just trying to show the hypocrisy (that sho' nuff is a big word) of how that Rick fella can speak on behalf of Dr. King when Dr. King preached day and night about equality of all folks. Now I'm a gonna go back in the field until Massa Decaturguy tells me when I can speak not so highly of the white people. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 74.224.113.222 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 10:48:49 PM Nice Smitty. Way to raise the level of the conversation. I stand by my statements. How can I be shocked and outraged by Warren, when Bernice King will be there as well? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Smitty EMAIL: IP: 71.56.127.98 URL: DATE: 12/22/2008 11:07:00 PM who was looking for "shocked and outraged"? I bet Bernice, Eddie, Creflo, and whole bunch might be there as well - so go ahead and get your protest on. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 09:48:47 AM I don't know why Decaturguy is trying to turn Rick Warren coming to speak at the King Celebration and the ensuing criticism of such into a black/white thing - clearly it should simply be 'a bigot of gigantic proportions coming to speak where he most certainly would not be welcome if Mama King were still alive' kind of thing. I could care less what color Rick Warren is, his heart is a black hole, completely devoid of tolerance and that's really all I meant. When I mentioned Bernice King yesterday, I was trying to point out our very own homegrown hate (and also to point out the situation where a direct descendant of MLK, Jr. actively preaches against what he stood for). To try to answer Jerry, I agree that we can't fight every battle every time, but I also think we have a responsibility to ourselves and our community (be it the GLBT community, the progressive community, etc.) to call out bigots for the whole world to see whenever we get a chance and we most certainly have a chance to pile on this flaming bag of dog poo (the Right Reverend Rick) when he comes to town in January. I most certainly do not agree with the invitation for him to give the invocation at the inauguration, but then again I don’t agree with there being an invocation at the inauguration at all. That being said, since he accepted the invitation, he now needs to accept the criticism that comes with it from every person who is opposed to his version of religion (be they black, white, red, green, etc…). Will he change his mind? No way, that would be bad for business, but at least the people who are opposed to him get a chance to voice that opposition. Here. On this blog. And everywhere else on the intertubes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.115 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 10:59:13 AM I agree Ruby. I'm just sayin' it's not hypocritical to call out one example of injustice but not another. We all do what we can. In the other thread on this someone tried to dismiss the criticism by saying it wasn't important enough, and here someone seems to be trying to dismiss it by saying that your criticism has to be perfect or don't bother. Neither argument is convincing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 74.224.113.222 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 12:11:59 PM In the other thread on this someone tried to dismiss the criticism by saying it wasn't important enough, and here someone seems to be trying to dismiss it by saying that your criticism has to be perfect or don't bother. Neither argument is convincing. I'm really trying to let this go, but I must respond. First of all, I'm not saying that anyone's criticism of Warren is not important or should be dismissed. All I'm attempting to say is that when you do criticize him, and you do so because of where he is speaking (this time at a MLK event), but you gloss over all the other hypocricy of the folks who will be there (including certain members of the King family) then your criticism loses a little bit of credibility. Lets remember that this is the same King family who decided to have Coretta's funeral, a woman who passionately spoke in favor of gay rights, at Eddie Long's church a couple of years ago and allowed him to preside over the ceremony. Therefore, my initial point was that given all of this history, to single out Warren for hypocricy over his views about gay rights and speaking at a King event, yet not mention all the other stuff, seems like you have a grudge, and weakens your overall argument. My preference is to accept his presence there, and try to use the opportunity to influence his and others views, much the same way that Rev. Lowery did at Eddie Long's church the day of Coretta's funeral. But I'm not criticizing the approach of others on this. Just my preferance. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: juliana@illari.net IP: 208.63.53.34 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 02:21:37 PM Perhaps someone showed Warren a copy of that tape (Lowery-calling out Bush) cause his church has removed "some" of it's homophobic language from it's website. ( sorry no link-you all use teh google) I can't help but think Saddleback Church would make a wonderful name for a gay bar.. sorry it makes me giggle just thinking about it, maybe The Eagle should have "saddleback nights". ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Botanical Garden to assist Injured Workers BASENAME: botanical_garden_to_assist_inj STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/22/2008 11:15:07 AM ----- BODY: Story here Otherwise known as please don't sue us or hire an attorney. Bridges fall by themselves and that's all you need to think about it. I grant you that the contractors involved in this incident have had OSHA violations and deaths at their jobsites before, but don't worry about that. Workers Comp will pay your initial medical bills and for your flights back to wherever you are from. Have a good day! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Prop 8 stops marriage, not hate BASENAME: prop_8_stops_marriage_not_hate STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/22/2008 10:23:12 PM ----- BODY: Apparently the warm glow the homophobes of California must have gotten when Prop 8 passed didn't last too long - a lesbian woman living in the San Franscisco area is reported to have been gang raped by four men. To all our GLBT friends, I hope you are safe and warm somewhere, and please keep yourselves safe, ok? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: rptrcub EMAIL: IP: 24.131.39.95 URL: http://rptrcub.blogspot.com DATE: 12/23/2008 12:36:46 PM I waver between carrying a switchblade, baseball bat or a gun. Seriously. These people have been emboldened by Prop 8 and will not stop until we're marginalized, and the most extreme elements won't stop until we're dead. That's not histrionics; that's the truth. I am not going down without a fight, and I refuse to let them cower in fear. I hope they find these bastards and nail them to the wall. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: juliana@illari.net IP: 208.63.53.34 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 02:15:09 PM If this had happened here, we don't have a hate crimes law to prosecute this criminals with. I hope the victim was treated with respect and dignity at the hospital. Maybe folks in GA will remember to support Sen. Forts Hate Crimes bill when it comes up again in 2009. I know Atlanta Stonewall will be keeping a close on it. We really need to be loud about this. If half the folks who march in Gay Pride parades showed up at the capitol to support a Hate Crimes bill it would be amazing and powerful! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 04:21:39 PM Just be sure you're properly trained on that Glock! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 04:23:25 PM And if this same attack happened here, the AJC would likely ignore it... or they would not point out the hate crime aspect of it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 04:29:25 PM http://www.sovo.com/2008/12-19/news/localnews/9577.cfm Appropriate story for this thread. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: New media, no thanks BASENAME: new_media_no_thanks STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/23/2008 08:11:21 AM ----- BODY: Newspaper Shuns Web and Thrives, from NY Times:
"Why would I put anything on the Web?" asked Dan Jacobson, the publisher and owner of the newspaper. "I don't understand how putting content on the Web would do anything but help destroy our paper. Why should we give our readers any incentive whatsoever to not look at our content along with our advertisements, a large number of which are beautiful and cheap full-page ads?"Although much smaller, the TriCityNews is an alternative weekly, similar to Creative Loafing, only it's "just published the biggest issue in its history" and "is double-digit profitable." Related: The New Loaf, sorta same as the old one! Excerpts from a re-organization, from Atlanta Magazine. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: What would MLK do? BASENAME: what_would_mlk_do STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/23/2008 08:37:55 AM ----- BODY: Certainly not this.
Pumping fists and chanting "no justice, no peace," about 200 people marched through Cherry Tree Crossing housing development Monday in a demonstration against police brutality, led by shotgun-toting members of the New Black Panthers Party's Augusta chapter.
Yusuf Shalid, a family friend of Mr. Elmore who'd spoken at his funeral earlier, watched the march disapprovingly. When it ended, he tried to talk members of the crowd into going home. He told them the Panthers shouldn't be carrying guns through a neighborhood where children live, nor should marchers be walking around with cups of beer and drinking from bottles in paper bags.The last thing Augusta needs is some Bobby Seal wannabe who's caught in a time warp. What happened to Justin Elmore wasn't right, but these protesters dishonored the memory of a man who, whatever else he might have done, reportedly cared about his community. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.115 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 09:48:11 AM Let's be careful about casting aspersions on Bobby Seale. Frankly, I think the world would be a lot better with a crop of Bobby Seale wannabes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: melaniegoux@mindspring.com IP: 68.154.121.166 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 10:00:54 AM Sorry, but I don't. A drunken mob with guns in a residential community is not my idea of an ethical protest. It sets a horrible example of community action for the kids and runs the real risk of leading to more senseless violence. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.115 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 10:08:43 AM What does: "A drunken mob with guns in a residential community is not my idea of an ethical protest." have to do with Bobby Seale? That was my question. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: melaniegoux@mindspring.com IP: 68.154.121.166 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 10:40:45 AM I see your point. A wannabe, (by my definition), is someone who attempts to emulate the behavior of others, but gets it wrong. Presumably, Seale would be a role model of someone who's founded a new chapter of the Black Panthers. Although Seale has totally moved on from his radical youth, I wonder how many people use his early behavior as justification for violence. Even though the Black Panthers were founded for self defense. Beyond that, I find resurgent groups like this very troubling. They seem out of place and time, and way more virulent than the originals. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 91.151.145.146 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 02:59:15 PM "Although Seale has totally moved on from his radical youth, I wonder how many people use his early behavior as justification for violence. Even though the Black Panthers were founded for self defense." Mel, while I agree that groups like this are troubling, especially with your assertion that they seem out of place and time, I disagree with you about the NBPP justifying violence. While they are doing a disservice to the mechanisms in place that work to ensure justice for all, their actions by themselves are not necessarily violent. They are most definitely not non-violent, but I see their show of force as a declaration of their right to defend themselves as a community *against* violence and injustice rather than as promoting those things. And for the sake of perspective, lets not forget that the original Black Panther Party raided the capitol building in Sacramento in a highly public attempt to conduct armed protest, an event which effectively ended the gun-toting-in-public era of the BPP. For what it's worth, the folks out in Augusta only exuded a perception of militancy rather than an all-out assault on social and political order in the halls of government. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.115 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 03:16:13 PM With a record number of young African American males in prison; record number of African American children on school lunch and public health care; and numerous other inequities;it hardly seems surprising that a resurgent Black Panther Party would form. We should be so lucky to have leaders the likes of Bobby Seale and Angela Davis emerge now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.115 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 04:57:50 PM Might need a Gay Panther Party too. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: melaniegoux@mindspring.com IP: 68.154.121.166 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 05:34:01 PM "We should be so lucky to have leaders the likes of Bobby Seale and Angela Davis emerge now." I'd hope instead for new leaders the likes of MLK, Rosa Parks, Thurgood Marshall, Ralph David Abernathy, Shirley Chisholm, Barbara Jordan, and on and on. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: melaniegoux@mindspring.com IP: 68.154.121.166 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 05:37:11 PM I would have added Abraham Lincoln to the list, but Obama might be his heir. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: juliana@illari.net IP: 74.224.120.17 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 10:31:43 PM Well come early 2010, we'll have "the MLK papers brought to you by Coca Cola" right next to the fish tank... all sanitized for your historical protection, ugh. Every movement needs it's militants and it's radicals.. they are just as necessary as the moderates and the negotiators. If everyone showed up in buttons downs, phi beta kappa pins, blue blazers, briefcases and saddle shoes we'd just be bored into submission, sometimes ya just gotta throw an elbow to make a point. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.6 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 11:47:15 PM It is detrimental to causes when those contain "militants and radicals". I am going to really crudely channel Iris Marion Young here and say when you have passionate rhetoric it causes people to exclude the messenger. if you are dispassionate and use reason to bring your arguments to the table, people listen to you and take into consideration what you have to say. Having militants does nothing but stir up passions and cause antagonism between parties instead of solving issues. (I'm about to go anti-democratic here, fair warning) I know its real easy to say get people involved and that is somehow a good thing, but it is simply false. Adding more voices to discourse (and ones that are militant or radical--which is different from extreme--to boot) will only exacerbate problems. Having people whose mission is to incite riots can not be considered healthy discourse or even deserving of a seat at the table. If your goals are wrapped up in these individuals or you use them even as mere vehicles for your message, you will be no where near successful and probably won't have your agenda even heard. Ok so taht was kind of rambling, what i hope to convey is that having certain people speak for you, or try to garner support for your cause is not good. Radicals who wish to incite violence aren't good (read: not just poor messengers but bad people). They aren't. And they are even worse in the framework of our democracy. It is nice to think that voicing the concerns of the disenfranchised through these agents is good because more people get involved or what have you, but that is bad political theory (and mainly because we need fewer voices at the bargaining table but I digress). So yeah, don't think having provocateurs is a good thing. There is a much more articulate argument against democracy I'll make at a later date. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.6 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 11:49:31 PM btw: http://books.google.com/books?id=Gonp8GXTxb0C&dq=iris+marion+young+deliberative+democracy&printsec=frontcover&source=bn&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=4&ct=result#PPA65,M1 page 56 on if you haven't read it. It's good (albeit a little unconvincing at the end of the day). Your local library may even have a copy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.6 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 11:56:50 PM Alright, one last post... Building on the above, the people who are disenfranchised and need someone to speak for them, aren't getting involved with the law making process to begin with (due to time constraints, lack of interest or whatever it may be). If they do have a uniform set of concerns, does it do anyone good if their messengers marginalize their views? Wouldn't it be better to keep their views at least on the backburner so that when they can be brought up appropriately and addressed, rather than having them permanently ignored? I bring up the Jesse Jacksons to show how this works. They want pretty much the same thing. Yet they approach their tasks antithetically toward each other. Which one is more successful? (Hint: not the father) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 74.176.35.218 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 06:21:28 AM In the 50's and 60's I think you would have been hard-pressed to find a mainstream American who did not think these folks were passionate militants. "MLK, Rosa Parks, Thurgood Marshall, Ralph David Abernathy, Shirley Chisholm, Barbara Jordan". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.35.218 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 07:50:17 AM “Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” MLK Jr. I'm going to be in the middle here. I think groups like Greenpeace do militant things and get results from that. I think militant groups sometimes do stupid things that marginalize themselves and ultimately hurt their cause. I would say that there are also different levels of militancy. I don't think carrying guns like that is good, but there are other acts of civil disobedience that could achieve the goal. How long have the protests been going on down at Ft. Benning for SOA Watch? 18 years? Although they have probably forced some changes there, what would they have to do to escalate the effort? If you believe that hundreds- if not thousands- of murders are being committed with that place's sanction, wouldn't you be willing to get pretty militant to end it? MoveOn tried to get (relatively) more militant with that stupid "General Betrayus" ad, and I think they shot themselves in the Birkinstock instead. MLK and John Lewis and a bunch of others were pretty militant when they walked across that bridge against the orders of all those cops with sticks and dogs and even guns. But that event, coming shortly after the "I have a dream" speech, probably did more to galvanize peoples' perception of the injustice going on than any other. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 09:12:57 AM And Catherine brings up something I could have mentioned. There is a big difference between concerned and empathetic and passionate. Jesse Jackson the First (JJI) is passionate. His son is empathetic. The point about passion vs. reason is about more than how to get one's message across. It is more how make the failed system of system of democracy "work". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 11:35:11 AM I also think MLK Jr and John Lewis were successful because they were peacefully protesting injustice. They marched and civilly disobeyed unjust laws. Had they marched with guns, clubs or other weapons, the public's sympathy to the injustice of discrimination might not have been forthcoming for quite some time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 12:32:13 PM If you were to ask me, they epitomize dialogue without passion. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Santa Claus Bailout Hearings BASENAME: santa_claus_bailout_hearings STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/23/2008 10:02:41 AM ----- BODY: I give it one out of three hos. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 10:09:11 AM That's fair, Eliot Spitzer has the other two. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: juliana@illari.net IP: 208.63.53.34 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 02:06:16 PM Now that's an economic indicator I'd like to see.. has the economy reached a level in which the service industry that provides personal attention like Elliot requested-is that down too? I'm not being flip-I'm really curious. Are sex workers also seeing business drop? They say everyone is staying home more.. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Overheard in the cubicle farm BASENAME: overheard_in_the_cubicle_farm STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/23/2008 04:02:48 PM ----- BODY:
Southern and western states are poised to snatch more congressional seats from the rest of the country as Americans pursue open spaces and warmer climates.
Brace projects Arizona to add two seats, while Georgia, Nevada, South Carolina and Utah could add one each. States projected to lose single seats are Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.Does anyone know how this works? Will all the seats be redrawn, or will the new district be carved from one or two existing districts? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.2 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 05:39:47 PM Depends who is in charge at the time. They get to decide how it works. Wouldn't be surprised if the GOP gives up on Barrow and focus on getting rid of Marshall. It makes their job easier because its easier to pick off one seat than two, but it doesn't look like JM is defeatable. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 98.134.55.123 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 12/23/2008 06:10:58 PM Don't forget the Justice Dept gets a say so too. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.2 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 06:12:08 PM I came back to say that grift, the courts will probably be the ONLY voice to be honest. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: juliana@illari.net IP: 74.224.120.17 URL: DATE: 12/23/2008 09:53:39 PM cough*Chip*cough*Rogers is counting on this new seat... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 09:16:45 AM When the 2010 Census is complete, I think it's a law of Congress that goes into effect to reapportion seats. There are 435 seats in the House, and that is divided by the population of the United States according to the Census. That tells you how many people are supposed to be in each House District. Then they divide that number into the state population according to the census to see how many seats that state gets. I'm not sure the procedure for the partial seats... you know, places like Montana that didn't quite have enough for a 2nd seat last time. But there is a formula to decide that stuff. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 09:20:21 AM OH! Federal law requires the Clerk of the House to notify each state government of its entitled number of seats no later than January 25 of the year immediately following the census. Sorry, it was going to bug me who was actually in charge of the divvying up :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 11:46:21 AM Sorry, you made curious Mel! Here is the current method of apportioning seats (prettier version at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Congressional_apportionment#The_Equal_Proportions_Method ): The apportionment methodology currently used is the "Equal Proportions method"[5], so called because it guarantees that no additional transfer of a seat (from one state to another) will reduce the ratio between the numbers of persons per Representative in any two states. In this method, as a first step, each state is automatically guaranteed at least one seat in Congress. That means there are a total of 385 seats left to assign. The remaining seats are assigned one at a time, to the state that "deserves" another seat the most. Thus, the 51st seat always goes to the most populous state (currently California). The apportionment method uses a mathematical formula to express the priority ordering of states for an additional seat. For instance, in the example above, California has already received a second seat and thus "deserves" a third one less. The formula used by the method of equal proportions is A=\frac{P}{\sqrt{n(n+1)}} where P is the population of the state, and n is the number of seats it currently has. An equivalent, recursive definition is A_{n}=\sqrt{\frac{n+2}{n}}A_{n-1} where n is still the number of seats the state has, and for n = 1, A is explicitly defined as A_{1}=\frac{P}{\sqrt{2}} A sequential definition may likewise be given where the n = 1 case is defined as above, but the formula is A_{n+1}=\sqrt{\frac{n+1}{n-1}}A_{n} When all states have one seat, the largest value of A corresponds to the largest state. But now that California has two seats, its priority value decreases, and it has to take a step back in line. The 52nd seat goes to Texas, the 2nd largest state, but the 53rd goes back to California, and so on until all the seats have been handed out. Each time a state gets a seat, its priority drops and another state comes to the top of the list. Here is how the Clerk of the House divvied up the seats after the 2000 census: http://www.census.gov/population/censusdata/apportionment/00pvalues.txt ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 12:52:29 PM This math probably changes a little bit if Washington, D. C. gets a seat. Also, I'm guessing that it's North Carolina, not South Carolina, that's getting another seat. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: chris EMAIL: IP: 71.56.34.124 URL: DATE: 12/24/2008 12:58:38 PM Mel, to answer your question partially: there is no statutory requirement to fashion new districts from the old ones. For the most part, states are either redistricting a body such as a state legislature or county commission where the new body has the same number of members as the old one (in most states, this is also the case for Congress). Out of political necessity and ease of drawing the districts they are generally remolded to adjust population as needed to retain the "cores" of the old districts. Georgia's House has generally been renumbered starting with 1 in the NW corner of the state and ending with 180 after going across, down, across repeat. The Georgia Senate does something a little more interesting, they have historically started with 1 in the SE corner of the state and numbered up, although they have made a habit of "moving" districts to other parts of the state when the area they originally came from can no longer sustain the population. Case in point: Districts 5 and 6 were once in South Georgia and were moved to Gwinnett and Cobb counties respectively because map drawers decided to eliminate one of these districts in a reapportionment and "give" the remaining senators the territory carved up. If you were the Senator from Districts 2, 3, and 4 and your districts ate up the territory that used to be 5, the fact that your number was retained meant that those in power thought the new district was still "yours" as opposed to whoever the unlucky guy that used to be 5. Although this has been the tradition, there is no statutory basis in the law for this method which means if you so desire you can start completely from scratch. That can really come into play when a body's size (such as Georgia's Congressional delegation) grows or shrinks. We are likely to see Georgia add one seat. However, population growth in the state is most certainly not uniform and each existing district would have to have increased its population by about 10% in 10 years in order to be drawn the same way in a 14 member map. Will Republicans in the legislature try to more or less retain existing districts, with the caveat being that South Georgia's districts (which are losing population relative to the rest of the state) will encroach further north towards Atlanta and North Georgia's districts will shrink because of population growth - leaving a carve out somewhere around metro Atlanta of a new district? There may also be some pressure to try and draw a "Cobb" or "Gwinnett" district that is wholly contained by one of those counties as they are going to be large enough to get their own district, if mapmakers so decide. Of real note, since the Voting Rights Act was passed in the '60's, Republicans and Democrats alike have tried to use it's various provisions to maximize their political gains. But...every census year since then ('71, '81, '91, '01) a Republican President and Justice Department has overseen the early stages of interpretation of the Act, at least before the courts become involved. Thanks to Barack Obama's election, 2011 will be the first time a Democratic Justice Department is in place to oversee the initial interpretations of the law which will be interesting. I mentioned the fact that there is no statutory requirement that districts be retained, in other words mapmakers can start from scratch and now honor any previously drawn districts if they so choose. This is easier to do now because of advanced computer technology, the older practice was mostly followed because it was easier to do the math from a starting point such as that. There is one slight caveat here: if a court intervenes and draws a map they almost always start as a basis point with the most recent legal map adopted by an actual legislative body. When Georgia's districts were thrown out in 2004 and a special master was appointed to draw new ones, he used as his basis the last legal map passed in the 90's and modified it based on the census. Thus the 2004 map of the House and Senate looked like an updated version of the '90's map (which the Republicans were starting to make great gains on) and 2004's elections were basically what would have happened had that original map been in place for 2000 and 2002 (ie the Republicans were heading for a takeover). When the Republicans modified the court maps in 2006 by changing a few districts like HD 48 in Sandy Springs, that made the current map the most recent legally drawn map passed by an elected legislature. So, I would expect that it is highly likely that our remapping ends up in the hands of a judge (particularly if a Democrat is elected governor who can veto any Republican maps) which means a special master would be appointed who would modify our existing maps to account for population changes, a few lost districts and a few new ones (in the legislature) and carve out a 14th district in Congress. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Happy Holidays! BASENAME: happy_holidays STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/24/2008 08:51:25 AM ----- BODY:
The world's official timekeepers have added a "leap second" to the last day of the year on Wednesday, to help match clocks to the Earth's slowing spin on its axis, which takes place at ever-changing rates affected by tides and other factors.What will YOU do with that extra second? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tony EMAIL: IP: 38.116.2.4 URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4O9DXxfsYtE DATE: 12/29/2008 12:55:40 PM Consummate my nuptials, not counting foreplay. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Time to get back to work BASENAME: time_to_get_back_to_work STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/29/2008 12:26:27 PM ----- BODY: Politics is like bad crack without a good rehab program. As exhaustive as the last election season was and as much as I have enjoyed uninterrupted sleep, David Broder writes a piece that pulls me back in. In Broder's article "The GOP South" he writes:
The Southern domination of the congressional Republican Party has become more complete with each and every election. This year, Republicans suffered a net loss of two Senate and three House seats in the South, but they lost five Senate seats and 18 House seats in other sections. No Republican House members are left in New England, and they have become ever scarcer in New York and Pennsylvania and across the Midwest.Georgia has been in this 6/7 congressional seat stalemate for too long, Icky Chambliss has been re-elected, and Johnny's seat is up in 2010. So what are Georgia Dems going do to end this streak? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.151.85 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 12/29/2008 01:14:02 PM Make it 7/7 through re-apportionment? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.121.155.77 URL: DATE: 12/29/2008 01:30:57 PM I think it is less about what Georgia Dems do and what non-Southern Republicans do. As long as the Republican brand can be tied directly to the political attitudes of the South, they are going to be strong here. Outside of the Perimeter, our only victors are conservative "Democrats" like Marshall and Barrow, or old hold-outs like Porter DuBose who will keep going on his incumbency until he eventually retires and leaves his seat to a Republican. I think it is only when the Republicans make a play to be relevant in the rest of the nation that cracks will form in the Southern version of the conservative coalition that can be exploited. That will probably happen with the epic fail of Sarah Palin, Huckabee, or a similar politician and their "dumb as I wanna be" followers. Then the country club set will be tired of who they've allowed to loaf on the practice greens for so long. Meanwhile, the South will unfortunately be bringing up the rear as we finally get to moving into the 21st century. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.42 URL: DATE: 12/29/2008 02:18:41 PM odin....are we mixing apples and oranges? Congressional or State House? We are stretching OTP. Just very slowly. The pickups will be in the exurbs first. The rural areas will be tougher to win. We need to win from the urban areas out, not the rural areas in. The urban,suburban & exurban Democratic leaders should find some issues that impact the rural areas and work to increase their image with a populist message. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.98 URL: DATE: 12/29/2008 02:55:53 PM much of the talk about how hard it is for Dems to win in rural georgia is balderdash. You have dozens of counties that are majority aa yet rural (Stewart County comes immediately to mind. SC, you will of course remember, was the sight of a pivotal scene in "Ulysses" by Joyce, J.). Also, DB's seat was drawn for a Dem (as most seats are wont to be, drawn for a specific party). If, and I mean IF we are in power w/redistricting, watch for Dems to "suddenly" become more competitive in rural areas. "Each and every" is such a p*ss f*cking poor phrase that ever serious writer who uses it should be shot. That's your lesson from the Department of Redundancy Bureau. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.121.155.77 URL: DATE: 12/29/2008 03:05:17 PM SnDeak, Yeah, sorry - I was referring to the national Parties. Statewide is a totally different spectrum. I guess my point is that Dems to the federal delegation are barely recognizable as Dems around the rest of the country, and this will probably continue to be so. I am reasoning that is so because Southern Dems have to compete for Southern hearts and minds while having a different national brand. The GOP gets to play on their home turf, so long as the Southern GOP *is* the national GOP for all intents and purposes. That's also why you won't see culture warriors dominating the Connecticut or California delegations anytime soon. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.121.155.77 URL: DATE: 12/29/2008 03:07:24 PM And yeah, I realize that my mention of DuBose mixed my metaphor, except to say that even statewide, Dems will be pretty conservative compared to the national spectrum. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.42 URL: DATE: 12/29/2008 03:20:51 PM I have to wonder how much longer this so-called southern Dem will be around. Look at the migration patterns in VA and NC. The same pattern is taking shape in the major cities in GA. The suburb and exurb areas in GA are filled with people from the midwest and northeast. We hit the right themes - Transportation and Education - and the moderate Rs from other states will start voting for Democrats. I think we have a chance with a Maryland or Pennsylvania approach in 2010. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.42 URL: DATE: 12/29/2008 03:21:52 PM Oops- I mean and VA,NC or PA & MD approach in 2010 ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Hostilities Continue Between Israel-Palestine BASENAME: hostilities_continue_between_i STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/29/2008 12:47:17 PM ----- BODY:
Palin's daughter Bristol gave birth to the healthy 7-pound, 4-ounce baby in Palmer, the magazine reports on its Web site. The full name: Tripp Easton Mitchell Johnston.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 207.171.241.43 URL: DATE: 12/29/2008 11:46:08 PM Glad to hear everything went well and both the mother and baby are healthy. Unfortunately, I think the conspiracy nutjobs will come back out of hiding and create all kinds of unneeded drama. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.176.126 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 01:10:13 AM Regardless of whether they believe in conspiracies, people should leave Palin's family alone it's not their fault she's an ass. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 12/30/2008 10:49:15 AM I'm still confused about what people were claiming who was whose baby-daddy or what the whole paranoia was about. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.109 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 11:14:05 AM You don't have to be a conspiracy nutjob to be entertained by that family. It's like the Beverly Hillbillies North. It's a made-for-TV movie in real time. Can a "Palin's On Ice" tour be far behind? Skating moose (mooses?); Tripp, Trig, and Track triple axles, Levi's mom spilling OxyContin out of her Spandex; Sarah with the rifle that matches her outfit; Levi in a hockey mask... many possibilities. They ooze drama. It's got to be better than Jon and Kate Plus 8. Maybe even better than Tyra Banks. I'm waiting for them to start their own band. They could use the same agent that Joe the (sic) Plumber uses. Call themselves 'Klondike' or something. Tie in with Rock Band. In fact, they could be a band created by Rock Band. Kinda like the Monkees were created so that a TV show could be made about them. Sarah's already got the clothes apparently. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 12:55:50 PM I'm shocked the name wasn't "Snowblower" or something else recreational. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 02:39:42 PM Jon and Kate plus 8 is terrible. The shot of her with her submarine stomach makes me want to hurl. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 04:13:55 PM I despise Jon and Kate plus 8. They way they snipe at each other all the time... I don't even know why they married. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.250 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 04:27:49 PM Again I think their family should be left alone and the newspapers should butt out. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 74.202.140.155 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 06:25:41 PM They apparently sold the baby pictures and story to People magazine for $300,000. Once you do that, you are fair game. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.250 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 06:49:32 PM That brings up a great point, we ought to stop buying that crap People Magazine. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 74.202.140.155 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 09:44:44 AM You'll have to pry my People magazine from my cold, dead hands. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 12/31/2008 09:51:37 AM Speaking of magazines, the best magazine I discovered recently was the nearly unfortunately named Japanese rag, Men's Ex. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Israel plays rough with Cynthia BASENAME: israel_plays_rough_with_cynthi STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/30/2008 08:43:10 AM ----- BODY: For once, Cynthia McKinney is the sympathetic character - the AJC reports that she was on a boat full of peace activists (and humanitarian supplies) bound for Gaza that came under attack by the lovable Israeli navy in international waters. (Apparently three Al Jazeera journalists were on the boat as well, so you can imagine that they're not amused by the incident.) I guess when your dad is Billy McKinney, you can expect some rough treatment from Israel... although I have to ask, how much longer until Olmert is out of there? (Answer: some time in February, i.e. too long.) ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 12:18:21 PM Sympathetic? Cynthia? You cannot tell me that she did not plan this and HOPE to be attacked, harassed, or whatever by the Israeli navy. She put out a notice that she was going to run the blockade. There are legitimate ways to get medical supplies (if that's all Cynthia was carrying) to the people of Gaza. She just wanted to have a high profile means of slamming Israel, a country she has long despised. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 12:42:34 PM Yeah, they didn't need Cynthia to help carry the stuff. This was entirely a public relations ploy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.250 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 03:53:08 PM People have been doing this for a long time, trying to break through the Israeli blockade to feed the starving people. I don't know if it's a "public relations ploy" because the average American probably won't have their opinion boosted of McKinney because of this. "There are legitimate ways to get medical supplies" Actually there are none. That's the whole point of a blockade. I know her personally so maybe my opinion is biased (but then again people who think she hit a cop [she didn't] probably don't know her well either). Also, I don't think disagreeing with Israeli policies means you "despise" the country. We get enough of the "antisemite" slur from the right wing, its disappointing to see it from Democrats. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.34 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 04:03:04 PM Hey, I'm not the only one who remembers ol' Billy McKinney getting on the evening news to say the "J-E-W-S" were responsible for her losing her seat. I also remember a significant number of her contributors being people whose goal is to have a map without Israel on it. There's a reason the entire Jewish population of West DeKalb demanded that the General Assembly REMOVE them from Cynthia's 4th District into John Lewis's 5th. Did the blockade also successfully keep out all international aid organizations? If so, how did we get reports on what was going on in Gaza? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.250 URL: DATE: 12/30/2008 04:12:55 PM A lot of Jewish money did come in against Cynthia McKinney. So we're allowed to talk about black votes, and women votes, and money and organizing but not Jewish? OK. That makes sense. Considering AIPAC and the rest openly decry candidates as pro jewish or anti jewish themselves and organize people by their religion, that doesn't make any sense unless you know absolutely nothing about the Israeli lobbies. Second of all, that was a comment her aging father made, not her. Sins of the father sins of the daughter? And you've never said anything embarrassing? Wow, I must be talking to Jesus Christ. How's pop? "Did the blockade also successfully keep out all international aid organizations? If so, how did we get reports on what was going on in Gaza?" They've blocked all international aid for months on end. That's what a blockade is. They recently let in I think ten shipments of aid, which might feed a Palestinian block for a week. You haven't been following this story, it seems. But then again, you seem to equate criticism of crimes against humanity with "despising" a whole country, so I'm not surprised. They recently expelled the UN special envoy on Human Rights, Richard Falk, an American professor at Princeton. Reporters Without Borders (RWB) also issued a scathing reprimand of the Israelis following them expelling AP, Reuters, BBC reporters during the embargo because they weren't covering the story like they like them to. The Israelis also turned back a Libyan aid ship. Of course the Egyptians are responsible too. They are shooting Gazans trying to escape into Egypt. These are one of the most tortured people on the planet, no doubt. The reason that the boats announce they are going before they go is so they can get press coverage so the press will cover it when their boats are blocked. They know they have no chance of getting through, the Israeli Navy will see them from many kilometers away and stop them. Trying to break the embargo is an attempt to point out that the embargo exists more than anything else. This one had someone notable on it so the press reported it. Oh, and I just read a report that Al-Aqsa TV station in Gaza has been bombed. RWB has condemned the attacks, and especially Olmert's justification for bombing it -- that it's a propaganda voice. I expect before the ground invasion Israel will try to remove the rest of the foreign press if they can, probably try to block internet access as well. They don't want word getting out of the inevitable massacre, much as they stopped the press from going into Jenin in 2002. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 09:22:36 AM Zaid, Did you ever read Cynthia's bio when she was in Congress? It was all, Cynthia singlehandedly did X and stood with the peoples of Y against Z. This is her MO. You say, the reason they tried to bring aid was not to bring aid, but to bring attention to the blockade? THAT'S A PUBLIC RELATIONS PLOY. I assume you have been to Israel and the Middle east since you speak so eloquently about it. If so, you also know that nobody wants the Palestinians. Jordan is a Palestinian state and they won't even accept them. Is it terrible what's happening to the people of Gaza right now? Yeah, it is. Unnecessary suffering and death is always tragic. But when you are talking about affairs between states, and you refuse to discuss how both sides erred to get where we are, you lose any credibility you might have had. You think you are speaking truth to power, but instead you are coming across as that kid in the class that causes everyone to roll their eyes when he raises his hand. By the way, "Jewish money"? I think money from Jewish people might be better, but I am sure the subtlety is either lost on you, or you are intentionally being caustic, either way, pointing it out won't do a thing. And if you actually knew anything the electoral history of Cynthia McKinney, you would know that a lot of her campaign money her first term (and maybe her second, cannot quite remember) was raised by Jewish people and through fundraisers at Jewish people's houses. I have attended meetings with Cynthia back when she was in office in 2005, and trust me, she is the last person you want representing your Congressional district. The 4th is much better off with Johnson. You act like Gaza was super awesome before Israel began this campaign. They have been launching rockets and threatening Israel for months through the cease fire. They could have extended it, but they didn't. They increased the rocket fire by 10 times when it officially ended (though they had been violating it for months). The Israeli military campaign began 4 days ago, and already they are completely out of supplies? That speaks to poor governance. I know what you are going to say: People from Gaza could not move freely in and out of the country and nor could goods. That's true, but why was that? When the Palestinian Authority was in control things had loosened up a good bit. Then Hamas essentially drove Fatah out through force, a pretty grisly effort as I recall. (Once again, this is their thing, did you see that an Israeli bomb hit the prison for political prisoners, and when reporters got there, all of the political prisoners had been shot in the head? Think long and hard about who you are defending here.) Then they pissed off Egypt and got that border closed. So, the government consistently and continuously fired missiles at the country next to it (or, at its own country since it is essentially a semi-autonomous region) and threatened its neighbors to the point that they closed their borders. Then when the forecast retaliation came (Israel had been warning for months, the Gazan government had been telling its people and everybody else that Israel wouldn't do anything before elections), they were completely ill-prepared and had alienated all that could help them. People suffer when they put their government in the hands of terrorists, that is unfair but it is what occurs. Even France supported the Israeli action, that's how ridiculous Hamas is being. Only those whose stands are not based on a realistic view, but on emotion see it otherwise. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: groundloop EMAIL: IP: 68.219.69.102 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 09:27:46 AM The Israeli navy doesn't care who they rough up, if anyone gets in their way then watch out. Look up information on the USS Liberty - a US recon ship the Isreali Navy attacked during the Six Day War, killing 34 US sailers and injuring over 170 more. Israel made claims of mistaken identity, but documents and facts have disproven that claim. Could it be that Israel decided to take action in Gaza now because they're reasonably sure Bush will turn a blind eye? I gotta think they're afraid that Obama will call them out on the fact that there's plenty of blame on both sides for what's happening over there. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 09:45:19 AM Obama will call them out that both sides are to blame? What the hell kind of weak call out is that? Look, either Gaza is a semi-autonomous region, it's own country, or just a province of Israel. It's certainly not its own country, so we will get rid of that one for the time being. If it's any of the other two, then "under maritime law" as that aid organization is so fond of saying, Israel can close their port and deny access to anyone they want. End of story (well, unless they did something to injure a vessel to the point where it cannot return safely to port, but since Cynthia is now in Lebanon that doesn't quite work). You realize Bush has been in office for eight years, right? And the Six Day War? What is that, 1967? You are suggesting that one event in 1967 and another in 2008 form a continuous chain of events sufficient to prove an Israeli policy despite the thousands of ships that come and go freely each year? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.62 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 10:57:07 AM So what if it is a publicity stunt? Is that bad? practically everything Greenpeace or Code Pink or MoveOn or a thousand other issue advocates do is a publicity stunt. Wasn't John Lewis et.al getting arrested a publicity stunt? Isn't the nuns crawling under the fence at Ft. Benning a publicity stunt? That doesn't mean it isn't a good deed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 11:36:10 AM JerryT, They took donations in order to deliver humanitarian aid. According to the poster above they had no intention of doing so. But I was speaking about McKinney's involvement being for publicity's sake, which was disputed above. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.62 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 11:40:51 AM OK, so it's not the publicity aspect of it you object to, it's the alleged deception. That's cool. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.213 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 03:41:11 PM "Mouth of the South" I hope you realize that just because Gaza doesn't have statehood doesn't mean it is not protected by international law. There's a reason they are expelling the press and UN officials right now. " It was all, Cynthia singlehandedly did X and stood with the peoples of Y against Z. This is her MO." So you mean she's basically like any other politician? ". They have been launching rockets and threatening Israel for months through the cease fire. " But you say nothing about the fact that Israel carried out operations and an embargo (violates 33rd article of Geneva Conventions) as soon as Hamas was elected and entered into a ceasefire with them. Of course, it doesn't make the news when the IDF raids a refugee camp and kills half a dozen people, but Palestinians remember. " Then they pissed off Egypt and got that border closed." What are you reading, the Jewish version of Stormfront? Egypt is shooting up refugees fleeing bombing. I don't know why you're trying to rationalize all this. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.213 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 03:43:47 PM Also, MOTS, your noninterpretation of history and law in this region deserves a Zbigging: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/12/30/zbigniew-brzezinski-calls_n_154211.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.213 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 04:33:40 PM Update on the case: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZeNdIGI8os Boat was clearly rammed in "international waters" CNN says. Considering this means an illegal attack and endangering of US citizens, if Israel was any other country they'd have a few Hellfires up their ass right now. I don't believe in violence though so I'll say that the State Department should jam all their TV signals and replace them with the Rickroll. I don't think Rick Astley is part of the Geneva Conventions. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 06:26:54 PM "international waters"? Under what, UNCLOS? Israel isn't a signatory, neither is Turkey (the "Dignity" left from Cyprus, I am guessing as to its flag), and as I recall under its own language it is not self-executing, so what are you referencing? Article 33? I assume you mean of the 4th convention. it reads: No protected person may be punished for an offence he or she has not personally committed. Collective penalties and likewise all measures of intimidation or of terrorism are prohibited. Pillage is prohibited. Reprisals against protected persons and their property are prohibited. I don't know that Israel violated that but I am sure Hamas did. "all measures...of terrorism are prohibited." Firing rockets randomly into towns and hitting a kindergarten class in Monday certainly qualifies. Also, suicide bombers on buses, are you kidding me? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.213 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 06:38:33 PM ""international waters"? Under what, UNCLOS? Israel isn't a signatory, neither is Turkey (the "Dignity" left from Cyprus, I am guessing as to its flag), and as I recall under its own language it is not self-executing, so what are you referencing?" International maritime waters. Israel is not exempt. There is a reason their navy is vehemently denying it rammed the ship despite the presence of CNN crew "Also, suicide bombers on buses, are you kidding me?" When was the last suicide bomb by Hamas? Are you fucking kidding ME, by bringing up an act that last was used well before Hamas was even elected and abandoned by Hamas (though they are hinting it may return) years ago? You don't know the facts of the conflict, you just know the crimes of one side and not the other (and not attaching that to any sort of timeline makes it even more of a failure). "I don't know that Israel violated that" I'm sure the well-known conspirators against international law in the Hague and the UN who have said they have, wait, what the fuck? Arguing with you like slamming your head against the wall repeatedly hoping that Yahweh will activate the rules of quantum physics and let you go right through. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.213 URL: DATE: 12/31/2008 06:45:51 PM http://airamerica.com/blog/2008/dec/31/richard-falk-israels-war-crimes Richard Falk, professor emeritus of international law at Princeton University, special investigator for the United Nations Human Rights Council: "Certainly the rocket attacks against civilian targets in Israel are unlawful. But that illegality does not give rise to any Israeli right, neither as the Occupying Power nor as a sovereign state, to violate international humanitarian law and commit war crimes or crimes against humanity in its response. I note that Israel's escalating military assaults have not made Israeli civilians safer; to the contrary, the one Israeli killed today after the upsurge of Israeli violence is the first in over a year." "Those violations include: • Collective punishment: The entire 1.5 million people who live in the crowded Gaza Strip are being punished for the actions of a few militants. • Targeting civilians: The airstrikes were aimed at civilian areas in one of the most crowded stretches of land in the world, certainly the most densely populated area of the Middle East. • Disproportionate military response: The airstrikes have not only destroyed every police and security office of Gaza's elected government, but have killed and injured hundreds of civilians; at least one strike reportedly hit groups of students attempting to find transportation home from the university." Next will you come up with a rationale why it is not illegal for them to target Islamic University or Al Aqsa TV station? Or do you know international law better than Falk? Man, the UN and Princeton should hire you instead. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 65.83.135.167 URL: DATE: 01/01/2009 03:49:37 AM Wow, interesting. I was looking for a "liberal" Atlanta site and stumbled upon neo-con lite (or in this case, heavy). We're honestly going to talk about Irael's legitimacy of action in international waters and ignore that Israel has broken more UN resolutions than any nation on earth? Ignore the human toll of decades of occupation for some semantic talk of what's legal in this certain situation and ignore that Israel's current existence is illegal, and has been for decades, under the UN? I'll pretend for now that some republican trolls have gained access to the messageboard. Btw, what exactly, as somebody has said, is wrong with a "publicity stunt"? Cynthia Mckinney was invited, because of her long standing support of Palestinian and human rights, unto that ship as plenty of high profile people have in these missions to break of the brutal, unjustifiable blockade against an entire population. And what did I see this morning on the news? Not footage of the hundreds of Atlantans and millions nation/worldwide that rallied against Israel yesterday, but the story of the boat that rammed Cythina Mckiiney. In this media bought off country, if that's the only message we could get across about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza than so be it, unfortunately. Saturday, at 2pm, there will be a pro-Palestinian protest in front of Cnn. I'm hoping a few hundred more people show. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: matthewAPN EMAIL: IP: 68.155.139.117 URL: http://www.atlantaprogressivenews.com DATE: 01/01/2009 01:42:10 PM It saddens me that the discussion has centered around whether McKinney was part of a publicity stunt, when in fact she and others were risking their lives in attempt to bring aid to other people. She was invited as part of an international delegation. McKinney is no longer 4th District Congresswomen, she has moved on to the national and international stage. Cynthia continues to make bold stands for issues she believes in, and that has required a lot of personal sacrifice and risk-taking on her part. I doubt many BFD commenters would be willing to take medical aid into a warzone. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.158.211.54 URL: DATE: 01/01/2009 04:40:21 PM I think many people's personal hatred of McKinney for whatever reason sort of gives her a "damned if she does or if she doesn't" reflection in the eyes of many. Unfortunately the bigger issue here is that Gaza has literally been "starved to death" (Jimmy Carter, April 2008) and now being pummeled with bombs with a casualty ratio 100:1 to its opponent. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.221.60 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/01/2009 07:11:44 PM "Wow, interesting. I was looking for a "liberal" Atlanta site and stumbled upon neo-con lite (or in this case, heavy)." Victory is mine! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Reggie EMAIL: IP: 24.30.95.223 URL: DATE: 01/01/2009 08:41:03 PM I think it's important to put recent developments in the broader context of the situation in Gaza and especially the role of Hamas in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 1. Hamas is an extremist organization whose goal is to eliminate Israel and replace it with an Islamic state governed by Sharia law--i.e., no rights for women, no freedom of religion or expression, and severe penalties for violators including execution by stoning for adulterers. Do you agree with these goals? 2. Hamas has been systematically firing rockets and mortar shells into Israeli towns and villages with the intent of killing and maiming as many civilians as possible. In recent weeks they have acquired longer-range and more accurate missiles threatening a much larger part of the Israeli population. How would you feel if your homes, schools, and places of worship were being targeted by rockets and mortars on a daily basis? Would you be okay with your government taking no action to stop the attacks? 3. Hamas has a policy of deliberately locating its military facilities in the midst of large concentrations of Palestinian civilians in order to maximize civilian casualties in the event of a military strike by Israel. The following excerpts from the Hamas Charter and quotations from Hamas leaders demonstrate how virulently anti-semitic and extremist this organization has always been and remains: Article 7 of the Hamas Covenant states the following: "The Day of Judgement will not come about until Muslems fight the Jews (killing the Jews), when the Jew will hide behind stones and trees. The stones and trees will say O Muslems, O Abdulla, there is a Jew behind me, come and kill him. Only the Gharkad tree, (the Cedar tree) would not do that because it is one of the trees of the Jews." (related by al-Bukhari and Muslem). Article 22 claims that the French revolution, the Russian revolution, colonialism and both world wars were created by the Zionists. It also claims the Freemasons and Rotary clubs are Zionist fronts. "You may speak as much as you want about regional and world wars. They were behind World War I, when they were able to destroy the Islamic Caliphate, making financial gains and controlling resources. They obtained the Balfour Declaration, formed the League of Nations through which they could rule the world. They were behind World War II, through which they made huge financial gains by trading in armaments, and paved the way for the establishment of their state. It was they who instigated the replacement of the League of Nations with the United Nations and the Security Council to enable them to rule the world through them. There is no war going on anywhere, without having their finger in it."[98] Furthermore, Article 32 of the Covenant makes reference to The Protocols of the Elders of Zion: "Today it is Palestine, tomorrow it will be one country or another. The Zionist plan is limitless. After Palestine, the Zionists aspire to expand from the Nile to the Euphrates. When they will have digested the region they overtook, they will aspire to further expansion, and so on. Their plan is embodied in the "Protocols of the Elders of Zion", and their present conduct is the best proof of what we are saying." Expressions by Hamas prominent figures and scholars: A report by MEMRI from 2002 states that the Hamas monthly Falastin Al-Muslima published a series of articles by Ibrahim Al-'Ali on how Allah punished the Jews by transforming them into animals such as "apes, pigs, mice, and lizards". According to MEMRI, the author stated that "The transformation was actual" and not metaphoric.[99] In an editorial in The Guardian in January 2006, Khaled Meshaal, the chief of Hamas's political bureau denied antisemitism: "Our message to the Israelis is this: We do not fight you because you belong to a certain faith or culture. Jews have lived in the Muslim world for 13 centuries in peace and harmony; they are in our religion "the people of the book" who have a covenant from God and his messenger, Muhammad (peace be upon him), to be respected and protected." "Our conflict with you is not religious but political. We have no problem with Jews who have not attacked us — our problem is with those who came to our land, imposed themselves on us by force, destroyed our society and banished our people."[6] In an interview aired on Al-Aqsa TV on April 9, 2008, Hamas Culture Minister Atallah Abu Al-Subh stated that "The Protocols of the Elders of Zion is the faith that every Jew harbors in his heart".[100] In 2008 Imam Yousif al-Zahar of Hamas said in his sermon at the Katib Wilayat mosque in Gaza that "Jews are a people who cannot be trusted. They have been traitors to all agreements. Go back to history. Their fate is their vanishing."[101][102] Sheik Yunus al-Astal, a Hamas legislator and imam, in a column in the weekly newspaper Al Risalah in 2008 discussed a Koranic verse suggesting that "suffering by fire is the Jews' destiny in this world and the next." Astal concluded "Therefore we are sure that the Holocaust is still to come upon the Jews.[101][102] Holocaust denial According to MEMRI, In 2003 Hamas leader Abdel Aziz Rantisi published an article in the Hamas weekly Al-Risala in which he called the Holocaust "the false Holocaust" and "the greatest of lies". In this article Rantisi expressed support to Holocaust deniers Roger Garaudy, David Irving, Gerd Honsik, and Fredrick Töben, and to the idea that the gas chambers were a myth. Rantisi also stated that "the Nazis received tremendous financial aid from the Zionist banks and monopolies, and this contributed to their rise to power", and accused the Jewish owned Berlin-based investment bank Mendelssohn & Co. of funding the Nazis, calling it a "Zionist bank".[103] In 2005, Khaled Mashaal described Ahmadinejad's Holocaust denial as "courageous" and stated that "...Muslim people will defend Iran because it voices what they have in their hearts, in particular the Palestinian people."[104] ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.54.174 URL: DATE: 01/01/2009 10:12:06 PM So, ignoring grift's trolling, this new user's argument is basically, the starved and occupied population has people that say mean things about Israel, thus that gives us perspective? If I remember correctly, the Israelis repeatedly said they were going to "bomb Lebanon back into the Stone Age." Taken literally, this is a statement of genocide. You can also find just as many quotations by Israelis about the sort of things about Palestinians. Thus are the Israelis irrational actors that can't be negotatied with? I don't think so. Second of all, MEMRI is a hate site dedicated to creating demonizations of Muslims and Arabs. They've been caught too many times fabricating quotes or making things up. Such as one of the quotes you provided yourself, saying Ahmedinijad denies the Holocaust when in a 60 Minutes interview he clearly says he believes it happened. What, do you work for AIPAC or something? Trying to make a war of quotations is not going to be productive to bring about peace. This is becoming a joke. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.54.174 URL: DATE: 01/01/2009 10:20:53 PM http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=MEMRI "Issues of reliability and veracity MEMRI is operated by a group closely associated with the Israeli intelligence organizations. Now, in an article in Haaretz, we find that the Israeli Army has sought to plant stories about "terrorism" in the press, and "Psychological warfare officers were in touch with Israeli journalists covering the Arab world, gave them translated articles from Arab papers (which were planted by the [Israel Defense Forces] IDF) and pressed the Israeli reporters to publish the same news here." --Amos Harel, IDF reviving psychological warfare unit, Haaretz, January 25, 2005." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Reggie EMAIL: IP: 24.30.95.223 URL: DATE: 01/01/2009 10:35:04 PM The quotes and excerpts are all accurate. They come directly from the Hamas charter (read it yourself) and from statements by Hamas leaders. Why are you skeptical? Do you deny that Hamas is an Islamic fundamentalist organization dedicated to the destruction of Israel and the creation of an Islamic state governed by Sharia law? They freely acknowledge this and their actions have been entirely consistent with these goals. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.54.174 URL: DATE: 01/01/2009 11:05:35 PM "Do you deny that Hamas is an Islamic fundamentalist organization dedicated to the destruction of Israel and the creation of an Islamic state governed by Sharia law?" First of all your literacy of the region is so low that you don't even understand that Sharia is simply the Arabic word for law. While they are definitely Islamist, they aren't fundamentalist. There are Christian and secular members of Hamas, and Wahabbis and the like hate them. There's a reason the Saudis are bankrolling Fatah. As far as I know, their charter uses plenty of inflammatory rhetoric, it was created largely when Hamas was starting out as a very militant organization, before its transition into a political organization. They should probably amend their charter so idiots like you stop quoting it as their aim or intention, which is quite obvious in recent interviews Messal and others have given to SKY or mediations through the Carter Center, which point out that Hamas will accept any long term truce or peace deal that is approved by referendum of the Palestinian people. As even Wikipedia points out: "The possibility of a ceasefire with Israel Hamas omitted its call for the destruction of Israel from its election manifesto, calling instead for "the establishment of an independent state whose capital is Jerusalem."[38] On 8 February 2006, Hamas head Khaled Mashal speaking in Cairo had clarified that "Anyone who thinks Hamas will change is wrong", stating that while Hamas is willing for a ceasefire with Israel, its long term goal remains: Israel must withdraw from all land occupied in 1967.[66] On 13 February 2006, in an interview in Russian newspaper Nezavisimaya Gazeta,[39] Mashal declared that Hamas would stop armed struggle against Israel if it recognized the 1967 borders, withdrew itself from all Palestinian occupied territories (including the West Bank and East Jerusalem) and recognized Palestinian rights that would include the "right of return". He reaffirmed this stance in a 5 March 2008 interview with Al Jazeera English,[67] citing Hamas's signing of the 2005 Cairo Declaration and the National Reconciliation Document, and denied any rejectionist stance. Critics of this offer[who?] suggest that Israel would never accept the Palestinian refugees right of return, as it would create a demographic majority of Muslims in Israel, and thus cancel its Jewish nature. Hamas does not feel bound by the "Road Map to Peace" promoted by the Diplomatic Quartet, since in its view Israel is not abiding by it.[41] Hamas rejects the establishment of a "Palestinian entity [...] with no true sovereignty, whose principal duty is to maintain Israel's security."[67] After coming to power, some Hamas leaders have announced that Hamas was giving up suicide attacks and "offered a 10-year truce [with Israel] in return for a complete Israeli withdrawal from the occupied Palestinian territories: the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem."[68][69][70] Hamas also declared a unilateral ceasefire with Israel which, after Israeli air strikes in response to Hamas smuggling weapons into Gaza, was formally renounced.[71]" Why was none of this included in your rant? It reminds me of the idiocy of when the ANC would be make inflammatory statements and then people would say we can never let the blacks have rights in South Africa, they'll kill all the whites. Third, you never bring up the fact that Kadima, Labor, and Likud certainly have not shown they believe Palestine has a right to exist. After all, they've expanded settlements deep into Palestinian territory faster than any of the Israeli governments before them. Their wall cuts deep between cities and towns, and highly-subsidized condos and palm-tree laden subdivisions are going up behind electrified fences not 20 yards away from refugee camps (though I be remiss, I should point out that is from Amira Hass, an Israeli Jew who lives in Gaza amongst Palestinians who writes for their largest paper, Haaretz). In 1996 Netanyahu's government (as the major Israeli press is reporting, the reason Kadima is striking irrationally at targets that have nothing to do with anything is to show "it is tough" so they don't lose to Netanyahu in the upcoming elections) was honest enough for their information minister to say exactly what he thinks about Palestinian statehood: "The Palestinians can have a state if they want, or they can call it fried chicken." You are cherrypicking the worst of Palestinian statements and also you are elevating words to the levels of actions, which is particularly absurd with this conflict in this region where harsh rhetoric from all sides is common (you conveniently ignored the Israeli high command's statements of "bombing Lebanon back into the Stone Age," which I don't hold against them because I understand it was simply saber rattling). If Kim Jong Il says he loves Democracy, his country is even called Democratic Republic of Korea, should we take that at face value? You keep mentioning the fact that they say "Jews" when they talk about Israel. That doesn't mean they are antisemitic. These are people who grew up in refugee camps not allowed to go into certain roads, or having to go into their homes on curfew, things that Jewish people didn't have to do because Isreal elevated them to positions above. Israel calls itself the "Jewish State." Put 2 and 2 together, when they say Jews they mean Israelis. If they really wanted to kill all Jews or Israelis, I wonder why they never killed Amira Hass who live smack dab in the middle of Gaza or they don't kill B'tselem or other Israelis who mean them no harm? It seems so easy. But I suppose heated rhetoric from a handful of blowhards defines the Palestinian cause better than their actions, yes? No, it no better defines the Palestinians than Bibi's info minister's fried chicken comment or the comment about throwing Lebanon into the stone age. Your war of quotations is a war of slander, and it has no place in real negotiations for peace. Hamas was repeatedly told, as Fareed Zakaria and other commentators have pointed out, "put down the bullet, pick up the ballot." They did precisely that, as the US and Israel urged them, and they won the elections. The first thing Israel and the US do is start arming and funding Fatah to start a civil war ("The Gaza Bombshell," Vanity Fair). Instead of engaging with Hamas's moderates, they take actions that will only further alienate and radicalize the Palestinians. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.221.60 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/02/2009 02:18:59 AM You really have no sense of humor do you. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 11:38:48 AM I like how Wikipedia is now our best source: "even Wikipedia", I actually guffawed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 216.119.48.101 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:01:45 PM This argument is very much like the Middle East situation in some ways, so in order to make it more closely resemble reality, I propose that the Moderators (acting out the role of the U.S.) express complete support for MOTS regardless of hir actions, and restrict Zaid to 20 words or less per post. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:02:37 PM Zaid, National Security Adviser Zbigniew Brzezinski on CNN at 3 today. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 65.83.135.167 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:04:18 PM People keep condemning Palestinians not acknowledging Israel's right to exist on their (Palestinians) native land- do you also expect high profile Israeli politicians to recognize a Palestinian state, as hardly any do? Hamas has extreme members and has made extreme statements, as does the Republican party of the US, but I don't think that justifies bombing and starving us. I agree, though, let's put things into perspective: You're a 26 year old Palestinian (Palestine is a very young population). You were born and raised without a national citizenship, in land controlled by a foreign power currently occupying your grandparents' old land. You have not been able, your entire life, to leave the square miles that constitute either Gaza or the West Bank, never had a trip to Paris or Disney World or even 30 miles north of your home, because Israel controls who comes in and out of your borders and aren't liberal about it. If you're in the West Bank, it may have been months since you've seen other Palestinian family members, your mosque or church or business because Israel has built and controls a huge wall in the West Banks that cuts communities in half. You are probably unemployed, but it may take you a day to get from one West Bank city to another because the West Bank is crippled with hundreds of Israeli checkstops at any moment. If you have a heart attack and need to get to a hospital quickly, you're pretty much screwed. You can only use the one crumbling road with many checkpoints in your own land than a much fancier, checkpoint free road system built on your own land to help Jewish settlers illegally living in the West Bank zoom from town to town. If you live in Gaza, you've been one of 1.5 million people deprived of electricity, basic cooking supplies, insulin, chemotherapy, etc., for 18 months. Because Gaza is the most condense populated strip of land in the world, whenever Israel drops a missile or bomb on anybody, assuming they're trying to avoid civilian casualties in the first place, which they rarely care about, a member of your family or friend is probably killed or maimed. You've probably had at least one house demolished by the Israeli military on suspicion you were sitting on top of a tunnel, harboring terrorists, or somewhere a Jewish settlement wanted to be. When some of your people, tired, angry and with nothing to lose, fire homemade rockets into the south of Israel it's used as another reason to continue the decades long wiping out of your population, to the outrage of all of the world except the US and a few small pacific nations Israel has been able to buy votes from in the UN. The real marble in this situation is how every Palestinian isn't Hamas at this point. Long live Palestine. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:17:13 PM "Israel's right to exist on their (Palestinians) native land" All depends on when you draw the line in history. Isaac or Ismael. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 65.83.135.167 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:23:50 PM Well, we're not all biblical fanatics that give a crap about Ismael or Isaac. Israel, the biggest breaker of international law in the world, with not less than 65 UN violations: UN Resolutions Against Israel, 1955-1992 1. Resolution 106: "...‘condemns’ Israel for Gaza raid" 2. Resolution 111: "...‘condemns’ Israel for raid on Syria that killed fifty-six people" 3. Resolution 127: "...‘recommends’ Israel suspend its ‘no-man’s zone’ in Jerusalem" 4. Resolution 162: "...‘urges’ Israel to comply with UN decisions" 5. Resolution 171: "...determines flagrant violations’ by Israel in its attack on Syria" 6. Resolution 228: "...‘censures’ Israel for its attack on Samu in the West Bank, then under Jordanian control" 7. Resolution 237: "...‘urges’ Israel to allow return of new 1967 Palestinian refugees" 8. Resolution 248: "...‘condemns’ Israel for its massive attack on Karameh in Jordan" 9. Resolution 250: "...‘calls’ on Israel to refrain from holding military parade in Jerusalem" 10. Resolution 251: "...‘deeply deplores’ Israeli military parade in Jerusalem in defiance of Resolution 250" 11. Resolution 252: "...‘declares invalid’ Israel’s acts to unify Jerusalem as Jewish capital" 12. Resolution 256: "...‘condemns’ Israeli raids on Jordan as ‘flagrant violation" 13. Resolution 259: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s refusal to accept UN mission to probe occupation" 14. Resolution 262: "...‘condemns’ Israel for attack on Beirut airport" 15. Resolution 265: "...‘condemns’ Israel for air attacks for Salt in Jordan" 16. Resolution 267: "...‘censures’ Israel for administrative acts to change the status of Jerusalem" 17. Resolution 270: "...‘condemns’ Israel for air attacks on villages in southern Lebanon" 18. Resolution 271: "...‘condemns’ Israel’s failure to obey UN resolutions on Jerusalem" 19. Resolution 279: "...‘demands’ withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon" 20. Resolution 280: "....‘condemns’ Israeli’s attacks against Lebanon" 21. Resolution 285: "...‘demands’ immediate Israeli withdrawal form Lebanon" 22. Resolution 298: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s changing of the status of Jerusalem" 23. Resolution 313: "...‘demands’ that Israel stop attacks against Lebanon" 24. Resolution 316: "...‘condemns’ Israel for repeated attacks on Lebanon" 25. Resolution 317: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s refusal to release Arabs abducted in Lebanon" 26. Resolution 332: "...‘condemns’ Israel’s repeated attacks against Lebanon" 27. Resolution 337: "...‘condemns’ Israel for violating Lebanon’s sovereignty" 28. Resolution 347: "...‘condemns’ Israeli attacks on Lebanon" 29. Resolution 425: "...‘calls’ on Israel to withdraw its forces from Lebanon" 30. Resolution 427: "...‘calls’ on Israel to complete its withdrawal from Lebanon’ 31. Resolution 444: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s lack of cooperation with UN peacekeeping forces" 32. Resolution 446: "...‘determines’ that Israeli settlements are a ‘serious obstruction’ to peace and calls on Israel to abide by the Fourth Geneva Convention" 33. Resolution 450: "...‘calls’ on Israel to stop attacking Lebanon" 34. Resolution 452: "...‘calls’ on Israel to cease building settlements in occupied territories" 35. Resolution 465: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s settlements and asks all member states not to assist Israel’s settlements program" 36. Resolution 467: "...‘strongly deplores’ Israel’s military intervention in Lebanon" 37. Resolution 468: "...‘calls’ on Israel to rescind illegal expulsions of two Palestinian mayors and a judge and to facilitate their return" 38. Resolution 469: "...‘strongly deplores’ Israel’s failure to observe the council’s order not to deport Palestinians" 39. Resolution 471: "...‘expresses deep concern’ at Israel’s failure to abide by the Fourth Geneva Convention" 40. Resolution 476: "...‘reiterates’ that Israel’s claims to Jerusalem are ‘null and void’ 41. Resolution 478: "...‘censures (Israel) in the strongest terms’ for its claim to Jerusalem in its ‘Basic Law’ 42. Resolution 484: "...‘declares it imperative’ that Israel re-admit two deported Palestinian mayors" 43. Resolution 487: "...‘strongly condemns’ Israel for its attack on Iraq’s nuclear facility" 44. Resolution 497: "...‘decides’ that Israel’s annexation of Syria’s Golan Heights is ‘null and void’ and demands that Israel rescind its decision forthwith" 45. Resolution 498: "...‘calls’ on Israel to withdraw from Lebanon" 46. Resolution 501: "...‘calls’ on Israel to stop attacks against Lebanon and withdraw its troops" 47. Resolution 509: "...‘demands’ that Israel withdraw its forces forthwith and unconditionally from Lebanon" 48. Resolution 515: "...‘demands’ that Israel lift its siege of Beirut and allow food supplies to be brought in" 49. Resolution 517: "...‘censures’ Israel for failing to obey UN resolutions and demands that Israel withdraw its forces from Lebanon" 50. Resolution 518: "...‘demands’ that Israel cooperate fully with UN forces in Lebanon" 51. Resolution 520: "...‘condemns’ Israel’s attack into West Beirut" 52. Resolution 573: "...‘condemns’ Israel ‘vigorously’ for bombing Tunisia in attack on PLO headquarters 53. Resolution 587: "...‘takes note’ of previous calls on Israel to withdraw its forces from Lebanon and urges all parties to withdraw" 54. Resolution 592: "...‘strongly deplores’ the killing of Palestinian students at Bir Zeit University by Israeli troops" 55. Resolution 605: "...‘strongly deplores’ Israel’s policies and practices denying the human rights of Palestinians 56. Resolution 607: "...‘calls’ on Israel not to deport Palestinians and strongly requests it to abide by the Fourth Geneva Convention 57. Resolution 608: "...‘deeply regrets’ that Israel has defied the United Nations and deported Palestinian civilians" 58. Resolution 636: "...‘deeply regrets’ Israeli deportation of Palestinian civilians 59. Resolution 641: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s continuing deportation of Palestinians 60. Resolution 672: "...‘condemns’ Israel for violence against Palestinians at the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount 61. Resolution 673: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s refusal to cooperate with the United Nations 62. Resolution 681: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s resumption of the deportation of Palestinians 63. Resolution 694: "...‘deplores’ Israel’s deportation of Palestinians and calls on it to ensure their safe and immediate return 64. Resolution 726: "...‘strongly condemns’ Israel’s deportation of Palestinians 65. Resolution 799: "...‘strongly condemns’ Israel’s deportation of 413 Palestinians and calls for their immediate return. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:30:06 PM You understand those aren't laws, right? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 65.83.135.167 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:35:57 PM Is there any such thing as international law, really, at this point? Humor us with the closest thing to international justice we can look towards at this point. Everybody, come to CNN 2pm Tomorrow! Fwd: Friends and Comrades! On Tuesday, 400 Atlantans protested in front of the Israeli Consulate demanding an end to the US-funded Israeli massacres in Gaza and to allow humanitarian aid into the region. With our collective voices, we refused to be silenced, stopped traffic during rush hour and marched through Atlanta's streets in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in Palestine. With the death toll at 428, Palestinians continue to endure relentless state-sponsored Israeli terrorism. As Israel threatens a ground invasion of Gaza, we must continue to demand an end to the massacres of Palestinians and demand that CNN not invisibilize the death, suffering and displacement of Palestinians. Please join us on Saturday, January 3rd @ 2 pm in front of the CNN Center located at 190 Marietta St NW Atlanta, GA 30303 Meet on Centennial Olympic Park Drive side in front of the big red CNN letters. (if taking MARTA get off at CNN Center Station on East/West line) 2:00 - 3:00 pm- Demonstration in front of CNN Center 3:00- March to Woodruff Park 3:30-4:00 Rally in Woodruff Park Tell your friends, families, mosques, churches and synagogues! Bring signs, banners and your voices to demand an end to the massacres! Free Palestine! End Israeli Apartheid! In Love and Solidarity, Emory Advocates for Justice in Palestine, Athens for Justice in Palestine, International Action Center Please call Vanessa Faraj @ 404-405-7703 with any questions! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:47:04 PM International Law = treaties & conventions What I win? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:48:05 PM invisibilize isn't a word. why are you pissed at CNN? why don't you protest at the Israeli consulate, I think it's on Spring. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:53:54 PM (Ahem, MOTS, if you read her entire post you'd see they protested there on Tuesday!) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.21.154 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:56:47 PM "This argument is very much like the Middle East situation in some ways, so in order to make it more closely resemble reality, I propose that the Moderators (acting out the role of the U.S.) express complete support for MOTS regardless of hir actions, and restrict Zaid to 20 words or less per post." My own modest proposal would be to restrict Zaid to posting no more than 51% of the current total number of comments in any given thread. Just to give the other kids in the class a chance to say something. :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 65.83.135.167 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 01:57:47 PM I didn't write the flyer, but the last two protests have been at the Israeli consulate, if you bothered to read it. It also explained why people are pissed at CNN. Interesting how this debate is centering on semantics and pedantic shit rather than concentrating on the human toll of this tragedy and imperialism and colonization worldwide and most tragically in Palestine. What a joke of a blog (and it's supposed to be to the left, is my understanding? Just shows how far neoconservatism has reached). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:11:10 PM Maybe, just maybe, we are keeping it light here because arguing with strangers on a blog about the Israel-Palestinian conflict achieves absolutely nothing? I know that's a very neocon thing of me to say, so feel free to call me some bad names now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:19:06 PM My mistake. Anyway, I will withdraw from the fray. If you do choose to post here again, please refrain from name calling: neo-con, biblical fanatics, etc. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.139 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:21:17 PM No, no, it's cool, I didn't realize people started public blogs to be insular but it's cool if the bloggers here can't debate on the merits but rather pendatics of the situation in the Mid East with strangers in Atlanta. I'm sure between the ten of you can can mobolize a progressive movement. Thank Goodness, or thank Isaac's God, for Atlanta Progressive Blog for the rest of us, who believe discussion and facts can achieve something. I'm out! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:24:00 PM There's the plug I knew you were waiting to drop! ...and scene. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.139 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:25:25 PM Oh, because I know it'll be mentioned I meant "mobilized". But, I do with you all power on the issues we do agree on. Later. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.139 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:27:31 PM Hey, I've never blogged on APN, nor am I a blogger, but like most progressive Atlantans I'm glad to see progressive voices on the web in our city. What are you guys, really? Have you looked on your blogs and realized what a bad joke this is? Wow. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:29:19 PM pendatics? hmm is it like semantics with pendantic? I think it must be, that word is awesome. Anyway, I am no Israel defender, but I think it is a mistake to be one-sided about this conflict. But keep in mind, I do not speak for the members of this blog. I would guess many of them agree with you, but you might want to give them time to speak. The same charge could be leveled at me as well. How ironic. and sarcastic. or ironastic. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.221.60 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/02/2009 02:30:16 PM Feel free to continue calling me names. It's been a long time since I've been called names in these parts. It's fun. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.139 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:31:35 PM Dude, why are you being so cute and sarcastic about a grave situation? Don't you realize something is deeply disturbing about your reactions to all this - and in large the US reaction to all this? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:33:53 PM All the more reason to put aside ridiculous statements and name calling and actually discuss it. And as far as cute and sarcastic, I think you mean sarcutic. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:35:51 PM What a twisted group this is! Stand aside and let the left of this country do their thing. In fact, you guys are aside, being silly online. Keep it up! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:41:29 PM How is supporting Hamas a leftist ideal? I don't think it's that clear cut. How does it jibe, with say, a pluralistic state and women's rights? Aren't we in favor of those too? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.221.60 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/02/2009 02:41:44 PM I'm being cute and sarcastic about an open thread on a blog. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/02/2009 02:47:19 PM Grift: Zaid does have a sense of humor but your ignorance is so glaring that you don't realize you can't joke about this stuff. Too bad you don't even know the basic facts about anything, you must work for AIPAC and you refuse to acknowledge Israel has done anything wrong. Next time stop your bullshit character assassination and stop being such a huge asshole for a minute. Love, IRE imitating Zaid. PS: I bet a dollar that Giselda and Zaid are posting from the same IP, or that they are friends. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:47:59 PM You know, we had a pretty active discussion going on here with actual facts and stuff...right up until someone showed up and started calling us names like neocon. Meanwhile, that other website that you plugged as the promised land of progressives who care and discuss things with actual figures and facts and such...no discussion at all about these topics. I wonder what that could mean? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/02/2009 02:50:02 PM Sarawaraclara: Stop your bullshit character assassination unless you just want to troll. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:51:17 PM IREasZaid, you're such a cute little puppy when you get excited! But please, try not to pee on yourself. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:52:04 PM "How is supporting Hamas a leftist ideal? I don't think it's that clear cut. How does it jibe, with say, a pluralistic state and women's rights? Aren't we in favor of those too?" Do you really think opposing the decades of occupation and oppression of Palestinians equals supporting Hamas's view? There were plenty of posts here about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Palestine and this is how you chose to respond: "is it like semantics with pendantic? I think it must be, that word is awesome." "invisibilize isn't a word. why are you pissed at CNN? why don't you protest at the Israeli consulate, I think it's on Spring." "I like how Wikipedia is now our best source: "even Wikipedia", I actually guffawed." "You understand those aren't laws, right?" And then, after all those non-engagements on the real issue, you say this: "All the more reason to put aside ridiculous statements and name calling and actually discuss it. And as far as cute and sarcastic, I think you mean sarcutic." Are you kidding me!?! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/02/2009 02:54:07 PM Too late. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:55:18 PM By the way, whoever said I know Zaid or we're the same person is wrong, and owes a dollar. Perhaps the majority of the world that condemns Israel is also Zaid? What a joke. Who are you guys, liberal activists of Atlanta? My name is Giselda Rendon and I'll gladly defend my links in this community and what I've done in the past. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.8 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:55:40 PM I don't really care for Grift and IRE gladhanding eachother and I don't know who Giselda is, but I found something probably everyone can agree with, including the one person who is caring to actually debate the facts (Mouth of the South). White House Deputy Press Secretary needs a shoe in the face: http://thinkprogress.org/2009/01/02/gaza-humanitarian-crisis/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.8 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:58:26 PM "You understand those aren't laws, right?" I already posted a high official of international law's views on the subject, I wonder do you want Ban Ki Moon to come here and tell you personally about all this? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 02:59:23 PM "including the one person who is caring to actually debate the facts (Mouth of the South)." Wow - how off can you be. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/02/2009 03:01:18 PM That would be pretty cool so yes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.8 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:03:16 PM "why are you pissed at CNN? why don't you protest at the Israeli consulate, I think it's on Spring." So when protesters march on broadway in NYC, probably the biggest sight for mass protests in the US other than DC, they're protesting broadway right? It's called visibility. "Wow - how off can you be." I mean, I've proved him wrong maybe a dozen times in this thread but he's respectful enough to actually debate the issue. Innerredneck, the quotation guy, and grift and basically here to masturbate to the sound of eachother's voices. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/02/2009 03:06:31 PM I can only speak for myself when I say yes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:07:53 PM Yeah, you see how my statements go to your arguments whereas yours go to me as a person? That's the difference. Those were not laws, I don't understand your point. You were using words that don't exist. How is that not fair game? I really do appreciate Zaid's sourcing, not a joke, but wikipedia on a topic like this is not going to be credible, and "even wikipedia" makes it sounds like it was a reach to get to wikipedia from the sources he was talking about, as in, "this source is unimpeachable". You implied that your views represented the left, I am suggesting it is not a left/right issue, because right now, Gaza's government is Hamas. The people of Gaza have elected terrorists to govern them. That totally sucks for them as well as for everybody else. I am not an Israel supporter, but feel the need to drag the views on this thread more towards reality. As I said before, if you think the Left supports Gaza/Hamas, I again ask you how that view can comport with other views of the Left like women's rights and pluralistic society? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: bankimoon EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://www.un.org/ DATE: 01/02/2009 03:09:07 PM I agree with Sarawaraclara. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.139 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:09:09 PM Ok, Zaid, I apologize for misunderstanding you. The whole carnage has me on edge, yet it's fly paper (or perhaps the online world) for other types, apparently. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.221.60 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/02/2009 03:09:13 PM I love a good debate. Let's take a look back at our last attempt, Zaid. "Bookman summarizes my feelings nicely" "Bookman shows no literacy in the conflict here." Debates are fun. Talking to walls? Not so much. But hey! I'll give it another swing. Actually my views pretty much match President Carters including agreeing with his statement that Hamas needs to stop firing rockets. Both sides have responsibility here. And if that is seen as kowtowing to Israel or however you want to put it, then once again, there's really not much point in continuing our conversation. Stridency of any political stripe will never attract me to engage. But I do like the name calling. The last time that happened I think I was branded a corporatist. Not that neo-con is new but at least I know I've got both economic and foreign policy covered. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:11:56 PM Regarding Broadway: I think protesting on Broadway is only appropriate when they shut down the musical Cats. I cry for Mungo Jerry. As far as CNN: Spring actually turns into Centennial Olympic Park, so maybe marching from one to the other? But it seems to me its not CNN's actions that you wish to condemn but Israel's, so protesting them at their consulate would seem better. However, I have already been corrected on that point. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 170.170.59.139 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:16:44 PM Alright, MoftheSouth, we're onto something now. The bombing, occupation and murder of both Gazans and Palestinians in the West Bank trascends Hamas, to most of us. It's something that's been ongoing for decades. Hamas's view, any Iraqi's view, any Afghan's view or republican's view of women's rights or any social issue is not a pretense for war, for starving and bombing civilian popuations, ever. Have you tried to be a woman and pray at the West Wall? Have you been a gay right's protester in the heart of Orthodox Jewish Jerusalem? That's beyond the point. What we have here is what the world, entire world aside for US/UK and six small countries condemns as a brutal onslaught of a population. If opposing war, colonization, imperialism isn't a left value than I don't know what is. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.8 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:18:54 PM "but wikipedia on a topic like this is not going to be credible" That's why you go to the Wikipedia article and they have these numbers on the top right of every sentence. They're called superscripts. You click on the superscript and it takes you to a weblink of a newspaper article or BBC interview or whatever. Do you want me to link you, if you can't find it I'll get you there. Also I feel kinda bad about insulting quotation guy. He was trying to argue a point, actually, and I doubt he's enough of an asshole to get invited to IRE-Griftdrift circle jerk sessions. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:20:32 PM I am not arguing that Israel is a super awesome society for the left. But I think a member of the American left can have a view other than supporting Hamas. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.221.60 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/02/2009 03:20:56 PM Well so much for that. Bake to sarcastic and cute. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.8 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:21:32 PM This is the most recent Human Rights Watch report on the fighting: http://www.hrw.org/en/news/2008/12/30/israelhamas-civilians-must-not-be-targets An excerpt: "Israel and Hamas both must respect the prohibition under the laws of war against deliberate and indiscriminate attacks on civilians, Human Rights Watch said today. Human Rights Watch expressed grave concern about Israeli bombings in Gaza that caused civilian deaths and Palestinian rocket attacks on Israeli civilian areas in violation of international law. Rocket attacks on Israeli towns by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups that do not discriminate between civilians and military targets violate the laws of war, while a rising number of the hundreds of Israeli bombings in Gaza since December 27, 2008, appear to be unlawful attacks causing civilian casualties. Additionally, Israel’s severe limitations on the movement of non-military goods and people into and out of Gaza, including fuel and medical supplies, constitutes collective punishment, also in violation of the laws of war." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.8 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 03:24:41 PM "I am not arguing that Israel is a super awesome society for the left. But I think a member of the American left can have a view other than supporting Hamas." I have yet to meet someone on the left who supports Hamas, including myself. I don't think any of us actually support Hamas or Kadima or Likud, but we understand you make peace with the conditions that exist, not the ones you hope exist. Heck, ideally the Israelis and Palestinians would both elect Swedish Social Democrats and solve their problems through competitive Bingo, but we're not dealing with what's ideal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: shelby EMAIL: IP: 24.145.64.244 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 04:00:31 PM I have no desire to debate Israel-Palestine, I just dropped by to say Zaid can suck it for putting that circle jerk image in my head. Charming as ever, you child. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.24.8 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 07:16:47 PM Eh, it's democratic blogger porn night. I found something interesting over at Glenn Greenwald's blog: "This Rasmussen Reports poll -- the first to survey American public opinion specifically regarding the Israeli attack on Gaza -- strongly bolsters the severe disconnect I documented the other day between (a) American public opinion on U.S. policy towards Israel and (b) the consensus views expressed by America's political leadership. Not only does Rasmussen find that Americans generally "are closely divided over whether the Jewish state should be taking military action against militants in the Gaza Strip" (44-41%, with 15% undecided), but Democratic voters overwhelmingly oppose the Israeli offensive -- by a 24-point margin (31-55%). By stark constrast, Republicans, as one would expect (in light of their history of supporting virtually any proposed attack on Arabs and Muslims), overwhelmingly support the Israeli bombing campaign (62-27%)." By a large margin Democrats oppose the Israeli siege. That's incredibly heartening, giving that their leadership seems to fall lockstep behind any thing Israel does, ever. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 74.0.64.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 08:19:16 PM "I am not arguing that Israel is a super awesome society for the left. But I think a member of the American left can have a view other than supporting Hamas." Do you believe, if one opposes the Iraqi war, civilian death toll and occupation one supports ba'athists? If I want an end to the occupation in Afghanistan do I support the Taliban? The West Bank is not controlled by Hamas, even though they democratically voted for them, yet Israel occupies them, commits daily raids and killings just the same. This is way beyond Hamas. Like most screwed up civil strife in the Middle East, the US and Israel actually supported Hamas in arms at one time against the PLO. This is about the worst occupation in the world, currently, and the slow, drawn out ethnic cleansing of a people. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 74.0.64.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 08:27:50 PM Well, anyway, I apologize if I got over-heated and insulted people. If anyone would like to get off the internet, turn off the biased, bought off news and do something about this Palestinian massacre join the hundreds and perhaps by tomorrow thousands of us in front of CNN at 2pm tomorrow (after that we'll march to Woodruff (sp?) Park and have a rally there. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 74.0.64.138 URL: DATE: 01/02/2009 08:38:10 PM This march, btw, is being called and endorsed by many groups including Amnesty International and Georgia Peace and Justice Coalition. According to this thread and others, though, there's leftists supporting Israel or "both sides". What groups those would be...I have no idea. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/02/2009 10:38:39 PM I meant to post some of this earlier, but most of it you are getting now. At any rate look, Zaid makes me look smart, and Zaid, that means you have to rethink a lot (read: everything you've thought about your existence thus far). All you liberals: think about this, Israel has broken more non-binding resolutions than any other country in the world. Now, I do want to say this, y'all have made my day off much more interesting. As far as the substantive issues go, I've often felt, move all the Israelis to Argentina, and all the Palentinians to rural-China. No on can move back until there is a peaceful situation. Of course no one listens to me but I think that's the only way to go. Now, Zaid, you are welcome to our circle jerk but keep in mind, grift has rejected all my invitations (and it is really starting to hurt my feelings). Really what I am trying to say is, Zaid if you want to hurl invectives, learn wtf you are talking about s*ithead, cause if you don''t I'll take you down. Now for y'all other dudes, there is drinking to be had. Good night. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.66 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 08:48:15 PM Reflexively ignoring IRE (figuring its trolling), I find that Greenwald hit it out of the park on the issue: http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2009/01/04/terrorism/index.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/05/2009 01:19:11 PM Zaid that's not a nice thing to say at all! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/06/2009 05:05:00 PM IRE you're the most fucking immature older person I've ever had the unfortunate time to associate with and I thank the stars I only have to interact with you on a website because I don't think I could resist laying you flat on your ass. Is that nice enough for you redneck? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.135.219 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/06/2009 05:07:01 PM :'( ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.211.97.28 URL: DATE: 01/07/2009 09:22:14 AM Zaid, Please email me ASAP at catherine (at) georgiafordemocracy.org Thank you. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Happy New Year to you all BASENAME: happy_new_years_to_you_all STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/31/2008 01:40:59 PM ----- BODY:
Charles Stadtlander, president of the political organization for gay, lesbian and bisexual Republicans, says he now has reason to believe that homosexual sex occurred after the show. "Those actors wore revealing outfits, used inappropriate language and simulated sex acts," said Stadtlander. "Pretty inappropriate. But it pales in comparison to what they did later that night." Stadtlander says he has learned that two of the show's participants had consensual sexual intercourse at a motel. "Two dudes doing it is just — nasty," said Stadtlander.Oh well, at least he actually lives in the district this time. ----- EXTENDED BODY:
Jen & Tony Get Hitched | (12/31/2008) Powered by: CoveritLive |
8:41 | CatherineAtlanta: Hello out there! Got started a little early. |
8:42 | CatherineAtlanta: Weather is lovely here at Tybee. Sea breeze and fireworks. |
8:43 | CatherineAtlanta: Thunder, do you want me to invite you to produce? |
8:43 | [Comment From Thunder] Thunder hates being on the other side of a CiL |
8:44 | CatherineAtlanta: Where are you tonight, Thunder? |
8:45 | CatherineAtlanta: just sent the invite. |
8:46 | [Comment From Thunder] Sure but I mightn't be here for long. |
8:46 | Thunder: if you sent it to my hotmail ihate using hotmail. |
8:47 | CatherineAtlanta: where do you want it? |
8:47 | CatherineAtlanta: that's the only address I have. |
8:48 | Azure: Hi all. This is so exciting. I actually just watched the previous two weddings and feel like a complete voyeur. |
8:49 | CatherineAtlanta: Wow. cool. |
8:49 | CatherineAtlanta: i'm going to watch on my iPhone and blog here. |
8:50 | Azure: Oh you are becoming such an iPhone snob. |
8:50 | CatherineAtlanta: I love it. I played with all the way down here in the car. |
8:50 | Azure: Did you email Rusty, Amber, et al? |
8:50 | CatherineAtlanta: well, til the battery ran out and then I used Jerry's. |
8:50 | CatherineAtlanta: Jen is going to twitter them. |
8:51 | CatherineAtlanta: or is that tweet them? I never know. |
8:51 | CatherineAtlanta: I pulled a "Jay" and we got a better room for the same price. |
8:52 | Azure: That's funny. Nita texted the same thing recently. |
8:52 | Azure: It seems to work. |
8:52 | CatherineAtlanta: We have a balcony and can sorta see the beach. |
8:53 | Azure: More important, can you smell the ocean? |
8:53 | Thunder: My ATR email is the one I prefer. |
8:53 | CatherineAtlanta: YES! It's great. |
8:53 | CatherineAtlanta: Thunder, sweetie, I don't have that one. |
8:53 | Azure: Seven minutes until the nuptials. From now on, I'm only attending weddings virtually. |
8:54 | Azure: This is the business. |
8:55 | CatherineAtlanta: Yes, I think it's the bomb. |
8:55 | CatherineAtlanta: I'm so happy for them. I think it's cool that they were able to do this the way they wanted to. |
8:56 | Azure: It's so modern of them. |
8:56 | CatherineAtlanta: No family. That's the way! LOL |
8:56 | Azure: We had a small wedding too. It's the only way to go. Every big wedding I've ever attended has ended in divorce. |
8:57 | Azure: I'm convinced small weddings are good luck. |
8:57 | CatherineAtlanta: Whenever I go to a big wedding it seems like the bride and groom have a miserable time. |
8:58 | Thunder: Hi Azure! Hi CatherineAtlanta! |
8:58 | CatherineAtlanta: did you roast a chicken? |
8:58 | Thunder: Me? |
8:58 | Azure: One of my dear friends was so nervous during her wedding, she remembers nothing. Absolutely nothing. Total wedding amnesia. |
8:58 | CatherineAtlanta: thunder, welcome! |
8:58 | Thunder: BTW: Twitter users, you can participate! Just post your username! |
8:58 | CatherineAtlanta: No, Azure was going to roast a chicken for the first time. |
8:59 | Thunder: Azure it is so easy! |
8:59 | CatherineAtlanta: OK, it's time! Where is that gorgeous bride. |
9:00 | Azure: There are green bars! Where's the picture? |
9:01 | CatherineAtlanta: They never start on time. What are we thinking? |
9:01 | CatherineAtlanta: Thunder, what are you up to tonight? |
9:02 | Azure: My parents were married on New Year's Day. Easy to remember the anniversary. |
9:03 | Benson: Can someone post the link? People at the party (Juliana) want to watch. |
9:04 | Azure: I'll email you the link Benson. She doesn't want it posted. |
9:04 | Thunder: BENSON I MAY HEAD UP THERE I am waiting for some chums to arrive. |
9:04 | CatherineAtlanta: Well, Jen said not to post it on the blog, but here it is: http://webcasting.cashmanpro.com/wy/watchliveevent.cfm?eventID=100917 |
9:04 | Benson: Thunder, just give it up, you already dissed me!! |
9:04 | Thunder: NAH BRO! |
9:05 | CatherineAtlanta: oops |
9:05 | Thunder: Who all is there now. |
9:05 | CatherineAtlanta: Hey, Ed, can I delete a comment that I made? |
9:06 | Azure: I'm getting antsy. Where's the picture? |
9:06 | Thunder: Don't think so. |
9:06 | Thunder: It hasn't started if there are green bars. All I know. |
9:06 | CatherineAtlanta: Oh, don't worry, Azure. I'm sure it's all fine. |
9:08 | Thunder: So what is everyone' resolution? |
9:09 | Azure: Focus on friends and family in 2009. No more politics. |
9:09 | CatherineAtlanta: I don't do them. But, I have begun to exercise regularly and will continue. We made a little home gym in our basement. |
9:09 | Thunder: Azure you serious? No more of the Game? |
9:09 | Azure: Done. Stick a fork in me. |
9:10 | Thunder: No way. I can't believe that for some reason. |
9:10 | Benson: hi, jules here.. what's up with this wedding? |
9:10 | CatherineAtlanta: how 'bout you Thunder? What's upfor you for 2009? |
9:11 | Thunder: Don't die. |
9:11 | CatherineAtlanta: dunno, jules. probably just the typical delays. |
9:11 | Azure: Not sure Jules. I'm getting a little freaked out. The other weddings started on time. |
9:11 | Thunder: HI JULES! |
9:11 | CatherineAtlanta: LOL Thunder. That's a good resolution. I'll join you in that one. |
9:11 | Benson: oh, I want to see the dress! |
9:11 | Azure: Whew! There it is. |
9:11 | Thunder: I tried to find a plaid dinner jacket for tonight but I was SOL with thrifting. |
9:12 | Azure: Yea! Can I zoom this picture? |
9:12 | CatherineAtlanta: Cool! music begins. |
9:12 | Thunder: does anyone else have no audio? |
9:12 | Azure: Beautiful. Nat King Cole. |
9:12 | CatherineAtlanta: I have audio! Oh i'm going to cry. |
9:13 | Azure: Oh my God. She's stunning. |
9:13 | Thunder: awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww |
9:13 | CatherineAtlanta: She looks great! What a dress! |
9:13 | Thunder: is she crying? |
9:13 | Azure: Smile Jen! |
9:13 | Thunder: I'm glad he has a waistcoat. |
9:14 | Azure: Her hair looks amazing. |
9:14 | CatherineAtlanta: Oh, the Prophet. LOVE IT! |
9:14 | Azure: I love this. |
9:14 | Thunder: I like Khalil Gibran |
9:15 | CatherineAtlanta: How cool that their friend gets to officiate. |
9:15 | Thunder: it is the second most translated book in the world. I have no audio so I can only critique the aesthetics. |
9:15 | CatherineAtlanta: Tony looks really happy. Jen looks gorgeous! |
9:17 | CatherineAtlanta: Aw, very cool. |
9:18 | Azure: I'm crying. |
9:18 | Thunder: It is melting my heart of stone. |
9:19 | Azure: Short and sweet. Lovely. |
9:19 | Thunder: AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW |
9:20 | CatherineAtlanta: Perfect. Lovely. How cool. They looked so happy. |
9:20 | Benson: DFI loves the dress |
9:20 | Thunder: It was nice! |
9:20 | CatherineAtlanta: I want to see that dress in person. |
9:20 | Azure: Congrats to the new bride and groom. May they have many years of happiness. |
9:20 | Thunder: I believe I can now speak for the DFI and we will withhold judgement on the tux. |
9:21 | Benson: I love attending wedddings this way, half in the bag and in my pj's |
9:21 | CatherineAtlanta: Yeah, me too, Jules. |
9:21 | Thunder: Congratulations to the two of them! |
9:21 | CatherineAtlanta: Ahem, you don't congratulate the bride, people! |
9:21 | Benson: Thunder, my bad cause I couldn't consult.. |
9:22 | Thunder: Jules I'll be up there soon! |
9:22 | CatherineAtlanta: Best wishes to the bride. Congratulations to the groom. |
9:22 | Azure: Catherine is so old school. OK, best wishes to the bride. |
9:22 | Benson: Best Wishes to the bride, congrats to the groom |
9:22 | Azure: Good night all. Back to my photo organizing. Catherine, please consider deleting this CIL when you guys are done. |
9:22 | CatherineAtlanta: Yes, I am old school, but it does make sense! |
9:23 | CatherineAtlanta: Jen wanted to see it. I'll figure it out. night folks! |
9:23 | Thunder: OK I am out of here! Jules, there is much we must discuss. Do not leave until my arrival! |
When a group of pundits gathered for a recent Oxford-style debate, the proposition alone was provocative: "Bush 43 Is the Worst President of the Past 50 Years." But when you consider that one of the panelists defending President Bush's legacy was his longtime adviser Karl Rove, the night became even more interesting.NPR article here, podcast here. FWIW- I'm not sure I care if he is or isn't, the fact remains that there is a lot of work to do in the 111th Congress, in our communities and on President Elect Obama's plate. Even if Bush was the 10th worst President, does a label really matter? Discuss. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 04:10:10 PM Yes. Take Reagan. Gave the conservatives a chance to polish any of the bullcrap from Bush's shoulder and they will. We probably won't have a Cult of W like we do with Reagan, but there should be no illusions as to how disastrous this Republican rule has been ten years later. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.170.25 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 04:33:17 PM I listened to the entire debate, which was hard because anytime Bill Kristol or Rove was speaking all I could do was scribble furiously on a piece of paper the best ways to kill myself if their propagandizing was to ever succeed and Bush was seen as triumphant as they portray him. I have to say the most hilarious part was when Kristol basically tried to character assassinate the Guardian journalist by pointing out he was British, and then saying something to the tune of, "How DOES the world feel about the United States? Do they hate us in East Asia? No! It's Liberal Elites from Western Europe! Those Liberal Elites from Western Europe hate us no matter what we do and hate George W. Bush!" I don't know if Kristol remembers, but Bush's approval ratings in the US are the lowest of any President since Truman, and I don't think there's a country on earth where he's more (relatively) popular than here, so either Those Liberal Elites procreate rather fast or maybe, just maybe, Bush is unpopular past the New England-Western Europe nexus of Marxists and hippies. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/03/2009 06:10:38 PM Got to put Clinton and Carter in any of these discussions. Actually other than LBJ they are all racing to be the worst of the last 50 years. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.163.19 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 06:20:33 PM Bush being named "the worst" is important to the extent that the publicity it generates should (or could) serve to discredit some of the disastrous things he stands for. That is probably our job here in the blogosphere; identify bad policies, connect them to people or a party, and don't let people forget. Cronyism, greed, deregulation, war, anti-intellectualism, faith-based policymaking, deception... all these things are generally bad. As long as Republicans continue to accept these things as a means of achieving their ends, we need to try to make them take responsibility for the consequences. I wish they would stop eating babies too. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 07:16:29 PM Carter, I might be persuaded to give some bad marks to, but Clinton? Naw, the guy wasn't a progressive by any means, but the trains run solidly on time. Clinton may have not had huge moments of inspiration, but he was an excellent administrator. I don't think he saw the writing on the walls in terms of "free" trade, but again, not many others did. And compared to the parade of lamers like Bush I, Nixon, and Ford, he definitely stood above that particular crowd. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/03/2009 07:25:20 PM Clinton caused more destruction the the Democratic Party in Dixie than anyone else. Plus he enacted the deregulation of the financial sector that caused the BS we are in now. He basically sounded the death knell for unions. He f*cking LIED UNDER OATH. You want me to go on? Look, who cares he didn't see the writing on thewall w/r/t free trade. That is still admitting it was sh*t legislation. If our standard for good POTUSes is that he is better than Reagan or Bush I, whoop dee f&cking dee. I'd like to have some higher standards. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 07:50:57 PM Dixie was lost to the Democrats with or without Clinton. In fact, his victory in the Presidency (along with Carter) is probably what kept the electability = white Southern male alive far beyond its time. And totally fuck that Lewinsky tripe. I don't know how Clinton specifically screwed the unions. Yes, manufacturing went overseas to lower wages, but I'm not sure that it wouldn't have gone to "right to work" states down South here otherwise. He also took a pretty serious shot at getting us to a better health care system, shifted the tax code in a progressive direction, and presided over S-CHIP (which is a good wedge to open to further government-backed health care). His crew also did a pretty well-reviewed job in Bosnia in halting ethnic cleansing without bogging down in a massive mess. And of course, there was that work on cleaning up the national deficit during his economic peak so that we could try and save for a rainy day. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/03/2009 09:28:23 PM "Dixie was lost to the Democrats with or without Clinton." And what happened in 1994 and beyond? Clinton became a wedge and most of that was because of Lewinski. "I don't know how Clinton specifically screwed the unions." NAFTA. If you want to continue to say he couldn't see the writing on the wall then you're still admitting it was bad legislation. "He also took a pretty serious shot at getting us to a better health care system." Yeah and failed and made the topic toxic for quite some time (it is much less so now, but still incredibly dangerous for the way the Clintons handled it). Let me make an analogy. The POUTS' job is to get legislation passed. Yeah, there are de facto roles he must play but let's face it, the laws that are enacted during his tenure are what define him. I liken this to a place kicker in football. He may kick 99 FGs out of 100 in a year. That 100th he misses was in the Super Bowl for the victory and he missed it. Then he hasn't done his job. Same way with healthcare. Not only was it an Epic Fail, it was an EF on an issue near and dear to the hearts of progressives that made progressive legislation dangerous to adopt. Why do you like his efforts again? "His crew also did a pretty well-reviewed job in Bosnia..." And then there is Rwanda. Bang up job there. Let's see, couldn't stop thugs using ancient technology from killing more people than Hitler did during the same period. Sure fine, blame it on the international community. But then you are admitting an American President couldn't, and wouldn't try to marshall the IC to stop that? Once again, Epic Fail (shit when he apologized in Rwanda he gave some bullshit half-assed apology when he was there and there not long enough to even shut down the engines of the plane). "And of course, there was that work on cleaning up the national deficit during his economic peak so that we could try and save for a rainy day." +1. So, in review, failed as a leader of the Party, failed to help workers in America (workers who also support his party), failed miserably in human rights abuses and stopping genocide, failed at getting the KEY progressive legislation passed, and did a good job with money. C+ at best. There is no need to hold the same rosy vision of Bill-dog that Republicans have of Reagan. I love being Zaid sometimes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 09:47:19 PM Dude, Clinton ain't my Reagan, but by no means is he my Nixon, which is what you're saying in putting him down in your worst in 50 years crowd. Your statement is that Clinton is just as bad as every Republican president we've had in the past 50. I'm saying that isn't true. My standard isn't perfection in that point. My standard is somewhat bright spot in really crappy procession. "Yeah and failed and made the topic toxic for quite some time" Well, the toxicity did show up in the elites, but let's face it - once the first shot was fired, it was up to the DC Elite to be sure that it was toxic. Meanwhile, you had S-CHIP working away out there. You get people wondering why middle class people get such crap for so much money when those Other People get good government care for their kids for very little. The disgust isn't at the program's poor performance - it is why everyone doesn't have it. "NAFTA. If you want to continue to say he couldn't see the writing on the wall then you're still admitting it was bad legislation." Yeah, I referred to that above. Again, I don't see how that *specifically* screwed union workers. Dixie is / was more than happy to be the anvil upon which labor was broken - the Mexicans just got to the finish line first. Everyone got screwed in that one. Look, I hate the DLC as much as anyone else, and of course Clinton was the founder / flagbearer of that "Third Way" movement. They idolized the market just a little too much, and forgot why we did all this regulating in the first place. There were even some clever innovations in there, like pollution markets and the formulation of market incentives to drive toward social goals. However, the chief difference of the DLC and the Republicans is that the DLC believes a properly operating market can help the little guy just as much as the big if you design it and the support systems right. The Republicans believe that the little guy getting crushed is a feature, not a bug. Survival of the best innovators / risk takers and so on. I'm for giving Bill the status of competent, okay President, not build a shrine to the man. Obama's the first Prez I've had any excitement over in my life. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 09:59:34 PM Also, as for the market thing - I believe the market does have a lot of power. However, it is merely an evolutionary algorithm conducted using humans rather than computers. EA's are what you use when all of your other tools have broken down against a complex problem. The greatest challenge for a market is to get the price signals correct. Take CO2 emissions - a no brainer for a market. All you want to do is transform carbon sinks from "infinite" (un-priced) to the finite commodities they really are. Allow X Gigatons to be emitted per year, auction them as assets, and then have them swapped around. Of course, there are problems with things like trying to make the NHS in Britain into a market-driven deal ... I think it was one of the BBC documentaries ("Fuck you Buddy" as an episode?) that showed all the perverse ways that administrators figured out to game the system for bonuses. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 10:06:15 PM Also, don't forget that Clinton gave your boy Richardson a major boost by naming him the Energy Secretary. And, point man for NAFTA in the House. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/03/2009 10:26:44 PM "Your statement is that Clinton is just as bad as every Republican president we've had in the past 50 years." Not at all. I can point to several accomplishments from Billdog that are good. Something I can't really say for the GOP POTUSes. What I am saying, is, let's call a spade a spade. He was a bad President. He was so bad that his VP tried to distance himself from Bill. Does that sound like a decent POTUS for you? We've just had decades of OK or middling POTUSes (and I'll admit its not like they are a dime-a-dozen). "Also, don't forget that Clinton gave your boy Richardson a major boost by naming him the Energy Secretary. And, point man for NAFTA in the House." Not at all ignoring that, nor would I say Richardson is perfect (he's far far far far far FAR FAR FAR *FAR* from it). See, I don't think we are actually disagreeing on anything per se, probably just different perspectives on certain elements of Clintonism. But because I am Zaid, your ignorance is so glaring on the subject that even if we do agree 90% on certain things, you are unfit to even direct a general train of ESP toward the section of the library that contains texts on Clinton. Oh wait, you go to Tech, there aren't books on social sciences. Look, unless you want to stop trolling and not be a giant asshole and stop this bullshit character assassination, you need to move aside old man. (It's been a while since he brought up the debate about age). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 10:36:45 PM Hahahaha, good times, IRE. I did want to twist the Richardson knife a little, though. "He was so bad that his VP tried to distance himself from Bill." Actually, that was probably one of the dumber things Gore did. For whatever reason, Clinton's zipper problems were supposed to spill onto Gore, and that was enough to keep him from claiming credit on an economy that looked rather good in 2000. Also, somehow I remember Bush getting to the left of him on some bullshit CO2 rhetoric in the campaign. For whatever reason, it seems they didn't want Gore to come off as some kind of Crazy Environut or something. I think it was in Dr. Drew's book that I saw a suggested speech for Gore to use when Clinton's character was brought up in debate. Namely that a coke-head, drunk-ass, draft dodger that had never run a business that wasn't bailed out by Daddy's Men had no business calling out a guy for Blowjob by Proxy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.158.211.141 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 03:11:43 AM I don't know what's going on except IRE has developed an unhealthy obsession with me (I guess he moved on from Joe Lieberman biographies?). I don't bring up anyone's age unless they step in the shit first and bring mine up, and IRE's up in an cow's butt right now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.158.211.141 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 03:14:54 AM "Obama's the first Prez I've had any excitement over in my life." If I could ask a sincere question, how are you excited about Obama and why weren't you excited about other Presidents? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.158.211.141 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 03:25:02 AM I want to thank the admins for putting it up. If you want any space in anything I write for let me know and we'll see what we can work out. "Bush being named "the worst" is important to the extent that the publicity it generates should (or could) serve to discredit some of the disastrous things he stands for. That is probably our job here in the blogosphere; identify bad policies, connect them to people or a party, and don't let people forget. " I think this is absolutely crucial. We have an opportunity to make a clean break and discredit the bad policies of the past 35 years. But that only happens if we really seize it and not back down to pressure from the inevitable people that will try to stand in the way (I'm hearing that the GOP wants to filibuster just about everything in the Senate, maybe it's time to go back to the history books and look at the strategies of a Mentzenbaum or a Gravel closely). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/04/2009 09:51:20 AM IRE's up in an cow's butt right now. Don't judge me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 10:07:24 AM "If I could ask a sincere question, how are you excited about Obama and why weren't you excited about other Presidents?" Well, my life has been relatively short. The only Presidents I have lived through are George HW Bush, Clinton, George W Bush, and now Obama. As I've said earlier, Clinton was competent, but he didn't do anything so fantastic that it made me think of government as a great thing for people's lives. He was well designed for my apathy - kept the trains running and didn't blow up the system, had some pretty competent guys under him and generally spoke like I thought the head of a state should speak. GWB, I could tell was an idiot from the moment he started campaigning. My chief emotion in 2000 was a sinking feeling accompanied by, "Holy shit, they fell for it?!?" You may look at Obama as centrist, but even without going too far left, he has laid out a very ambitious agenda. A total overall of the country's largest technological system (energy), a major revision of its fastest growing system (health care), and an across-the-board end to Teh Stupid are pretty major things to get excited about. His election comes with a feeling of relief, that the adults are back in charge, and that the wheels of progress are turning again. My engineering field has some of the brightest minds in the country dedicated to one of the most monumental tasks humanity has ever undertaken, so I know that big moves are usually also slow moves. So, I'm not expecting Obama to deliver overnight. But, I am pretty excited about him pointing us in the right direction. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 10:09:44 AM Well, I guess I lived through Reagan, too, but I never remember that guy once on national TV. I think the first Presidential speech I can recall is George Sr. telling us we were about to go hit Saddam. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.166.198 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 04:04:45 PM The writing on the wall with NAFTA was that we could try to keep some jobs in this hemisphere with a chance of continued progress, or lose them ALL to China or elsewhere. Saving jobs for the USA was never an option, unless we want to start talking about big tariffs on imports, which also isn't going to happen, especially for USA-owned companies. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: This isn't even a clown car-more like the short yellow bus BASENAME: this_isnt_even_a_clown_carmore STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/03/2009 12:20:41 PM ----- BODY:
Three top contenders have emerged for the seat of Rep. Rahm Emanuel, who is leaving Congress Friday. By some counts, there are as many as 18 people who are at least considering a run, but State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz, Cook County Commissioner Mike Quigley and former Transportation Security Administration official Justin Oberman appear to be the three leading candidates. "There's tier one, then there's everybody else," said Eric Adelstein, a Democratic consultant in Chicago, who ran the race of Rep. Melissa Bean, among others.~snip~
Among the other candidates believed to seek the seat are Alexander Victor Forys, a physician focused on healthcare reform; Charles J. Wheelan, a public policy professor; Chicago nightclub owner Joey Vartanian; art foundation manager Israel Vasquez, Cary Capparelli, a local businessman and son of a former State Representative; Jan H. Donatelli, a former Delta Airlines pilot and recent Obama campaign activist.Geesh and I always heard that the Illinois political machine had a handle on all their cats...hum. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 01:19:31 PM Joey Vartanian seems like the logical choice. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: juliana@illari.net IP: 68.215.178.58 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 01:27:28 PM MOTS- ya know I was thinking that the night club owner seemed like a good option.. I mean isn't the US Congress a bit like a night club these days...what with all the scandals, payoffs,VIP rooms, money in the kitchen, short pours on health care and all that wheeling and dealing. He ought to fit right in. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/03/2009 01:29:58 PM The Armenian Caucus needs another member. VOTE VARTANIAN! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.170.25 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 03:36:29 PM Can we revoke Chicago's right to elect its own government and place it under control of the Feds and a military junta? Can't be worse than it's been. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/03/2009 04:07:45 PM Until we get ourselves some porn stars in the mix, this looks like a much lamer version of the post Gray Davis (the recall that gave CA the governator) special election. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Terry McAuliffe to run for Governor of Virginia BASENAME: terry_mcauliffe_to_run_for_gov STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/04/2009 12:09:11 AM ----- BODY: Former DNC chief announces Virginia governor run
McAuliffe faces two other Democrats who have been active for nearly a year in an already contentious nomination fight to succeed Democratic Gov. Timothy M. Kaine. State Sen. Creigh Deeds narrowly lost the attorney general's race in 2005, and former House Democratic Caucus chairman Brian Moran is also in the race.See the campaign site at www.terrymcauliffe.com. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 72.152.213.57 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 08:49:33 AM Oh, for the love of Jeebus!!!!! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/04/2009 11:04:02 AM Paula: why do you say that? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 72.152.213.57 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 03:43:34 PM There's not enough bandwidth on the Internet to adequately explain how awful I think he is. And I actually don't really have enough time, either. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/04/2009 04:02:47 PM tehLAWLz. I didn't think you needed to say anything more than he is a serious carpetbagger. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 74.160.7.27 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 04:46:38 PM This will probably help Creigh Deeds in the primary. Mcauliffe and Moran will split the NoVa vote. He may raise tons of money since Virginia has no individual contribution limits . ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 04:57:43 PM Ironically, I just heard that Tim Kaine is going to be the new chair of the DNC. It will be interesting to see if this foretells future setbacks to the Democratic party or the final march down to the South to pursue and disband the Republicans once and for all. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 207.171.241.43 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 06:26:02 PM Go Creigh Deeds! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/05/2009 09:25:16 AM Mcauliffe used to call my cell phone about once every two weeks and ask for Mary Landrieu. He is a hoot. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 01/07/2009 10:22:45 AM Virginians take their governors quite seriously. It is considered the highest honor that the voters can bestow... higher than Senator, Congressman, or even President. McCauliffe's very shallow roots in Virginia will crush him...but he will have the money to compete. This could be bad for the Democratic ticket b/c it means the primary is going to be bloody. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: One more seat to fill in Obama's cabinet. BASENAME: one_more_seat_to_fill_in_obama STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/04/2009 02:18:45 PM ----- BODY:
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, tapped in December by President-elect Barack Obama to serve as secretary of Commerce, has withdrawn his name for the position, citing a pending investigation into a company that has done business with his state. "Let me say unequivocally that I and my Administration have acted properly in all matters and that this investigation will bear out that fact," he said Sunday in a report by NBC News' Andrea Mitchell. "But I have concluded that the ongoing investigation also would have forced an untenable delay in the confirmation process."So who shall Obama tap next? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: David EMAIL: IP: 67.166.206.167 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 02:38:50 PM I say Roland Burris just to stick it to Gov. Blago ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.158.211.141 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 02:39:57 PM That's the second one that's withdrawn his name facing activist fire. I have to tip my hat to public watchdogs. "So who shall Obama tap next?" Bow chicka bow wow. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/04/2009 03:24:19 PM If any of the ties come back to haunt the people building the spaceport down there, I'm gonna be mighty pissed. The voters already shot down a bond issue on construction for it down there, but I can at least see the logic. The Spaceport people didn't make a strong enough case that it would eventually be something besides the loading area for a millionaire roller coaster. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/04/2009 07:43:54 PM BTW: I officially announced that I would like to be considered for this position. I'd even do it as a "placeholder" for the real Bill dog. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 01/05/2009 01:57:56 AM Remember when Barack Obama declined to visit Georgia on behalf of Jim Martin because he didn't want to waste his political capital on a probable loser? In view of the Warren drama, the Blago scandal, and this, that calculation seems a bit silly. He should have spent it when he had most of it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.66 URL: DATE: 01/05/2009 03:07:24 AM Barack Obama, I think it can be fair to say, is not someone who is particularly outspoken, I think his style is on consensus. That can be a good thing or a bad thing, but given Washington's consensus it usually reaches, I'm leaning towards we're in for a rough patch for some time now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.66 URL: DATE: 01/05/2009 03:37:53 AM Case in point: 40% of Barack Obama's proposed stimulus package will be in 300 billion dollars in tax cuts, the larger single package of tax cuts than anything Bush handed out, according to the Wall Street Journal.(http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123111279694652423.html). The cuts are based on the last cut stimulus package which, "Economists of all political stripes widely agree the checks sent out last spring were ineffective in stemming the economic slide" notes the Journal. So why exactly is he doing this? I think it's because he's going along with Washington Consensus circa past 35 years which is, Tax Cuts Solve Everything, Or At Least They Make Campaign Contributors Happy. That strategy I think will join Everything Israel Does Is OK, Palestinian Life Doesn't Matter and Hey, Private Insurance Has A Very Serious Role in Healthcare. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.66 URL: DATE: 01/05/2009 04:00:47 AM Here's a chart by Mark Zandi (a Republican) from Economy.com to show you exactly what stimulates what: http://www.ourfuture.org/files/images/Economic-benefits-of-stimul.jpg It's dollars per amount of stimulus generated. As you can see, foodstamps and unemployment benefits actually create the most bang for the buck, infrastructure spending is third, aid to states is fourth, a payroll tax holiday comes in fifth, and all other tax rebates follow in level of stimulus they create. Corporate tax cut, which seems to be abundant in the new package being proposed by President Obama, ranks third to last, creating only .30 on the dollar stimulus (making it actually not worth it). How about a logic game on this? Why from the chart I posted do the food stamps and unemployment benefits create the largest stimulus per dollar spent? Because the money goes to working-class people, who spend almost all of it to survive. It's 85-90% spent, maybe, going straight into the economy. Giving a gigantic tax break to a rich person means he dumps it into an offshore tax haven that boosts the economy of China. Obama is talking major tax cuts for people he didn't say he was cutting taxes for while he campaigned. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/05/2009 10:13:33 AM Zaid, I think your chart is showing where Obama's cuts will go. Look closely at the difference between "refundable" and "non-refundable" tax breaks. The first goes more to the lower classes, which have little to no tax burden already, and the second more to the higher classes. Also, I think when Obama is talking "business" tax cut, there are plans to target that to businesses (especially small ones) that are already in trouble or wish to buck the trend and expand some. He's buying paychecks now so he won't have to make them later. The upside may not be as great as with infrastructure, but it does help control the downside as well. That said, I'd like to see a lot of infrastructure spending. We've neglected it for so long, and it benefits everyone. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.66 URL: DATE: 01/05/2009 02:48:42 PM Greg Palast of the BBC calls Richardson a "Kissinger-American" http://www.gregpalast.com/bill-richardson-kissinger-american/ Ouch. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 01/07/2009 10:19:22 AM Last night, I heard on talk radio some blathering about how Obama's proposed tax cuts are socialist because they are geared towards the non-rich. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/07/2009 11:09:34 AM Yeah, I heard about the "welfare" cuts as well. Of course, the fact that someone doesn't pay income tax doesn't mean they don't have payroll, sales, or other taxes. I think Obama should draft a bomb-thrower (perhaps a super-safe Congressman like Waxman, Lewis, or Wexler) to force the Republicans to admit that the only tax cuts they consider legitimate are those that go to the very wealthiest, like capital gains and / or estate tax. It is also interesting to hear the economic rhetoric - these guys really do believe that the economy begins and ends at capital, and that labor is an inconvenience at best. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 01/07/2009 03:58:03 PM The thing that kills me is that no matter how much you make, they always take out taxes. Sure, it gets refunded to you every April, but even working as a burger flipper part time, you still get taxes taken out of your paycheck! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Gov. Tim Kaine is the new DNC Chairman BASENAME: gov_tim_kaine_is_the_new_dnc_c STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/04/2009 07:44:37 PM ----- BODY: According to the Washington Post,
Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine will become chairman of the Democratic National Committee later this month, serving as the top political messenger for Barack Obama's administration even while he finishes his final year in the governor's mansion, several sources said. Kaine, who emerged as one of Obama's vice presidential finalists this summer, will operate from Richmond in a part-time capacity until January 2010, when he will become the full-time DNC chairman. Kaine is constitutionally barred from running for reelection.Does this give Southern States an advantage? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/04/2009 08:22:29 PM Not sure but I do now it gives Southern Catholics an advantage! The Pope w00t w00t! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Quote of the day BASENAME: quote_of_the_day STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/04/2009 10:11:45 PM ----- BODY:
You can go back to your, what do you call it, your Google, and you figure out all that.
Bell, who served as Attorney General under President Jimmy Carter, was a native of Americus and passed away today in Atlanta. "Today, our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Griffin Bell, and although we are saddened by the loss of a great statesman, we honor his memory and the contributions he made throughout a career of public service. I feel a deep personal loss today, because of Judge Bell's close relationship with my family, but his true legacy transcends personal relationships. As Chief of Staff to former Governor Ernest Vandiver, he was a principal architect of the plan to desegregate schools in Georgia. As a federal judge, he worked to implement the Civil Rights Act, and as Attorney General in the Carter Administration, he fought to improve the credibility and professionalism of the US Department of Justice. These are just a few of the extraordinary accomplishments of an extraordinary Georgian. "He leaves us with a legacy of devotion to a greater good and commitment to the citizens not only of his country but of the world."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Wendy from Rome is back in Rome BASENAME: wendy_from_rome_is_back_in_rom STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/05/2009 02:16:58 PM ----- BODY: Yeahhh Wendy's back in Georgia. Received this tidbit from a Poythress for Governor email:
CAMPAIGN MANAGER HIRED: GEORGIA PEACH WITH NATIONAL EXPERIENCE Wendy Davis, twenty-year political veteran, has returned to Georgia to serve as my campaign manager. In the last 17 months, Wendy has worked in 22 states as National Field and Training Director for 21st Century Democrats and as a senior political staff member for Governor Bill Richardson's Presidential campaign. A Georgia native, she is a DPG state committee member, former president of the Young Democrats of Georgia, and active with the Floyd County Dems. Wendy has worked around the state for many notable Democrats such as Secretaries of State Max Cleland, Lewis Massey and Cathy Cox; Congressman Sanford Bishop; State Senator Steve Henson; former Atlanta City Council Member Doug Alexander.Congrats Wendy!! Ladies and gentlemen the race for Governor just got interesting... ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://tompaine.com DATE: 01/05/2009 11:34:07 PM Always good to see Wendy back in action. And my goodness, has it been 20 years? Yeah, that will make you feel a bit older quick. Cheers & Good Luck to her, JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Mama voted for Obama BASENAME: mama_voted_for_obama STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/06/2009 04:11:38 PM ----- BODY: From the people who brought you Why Mommy is a Democrat, it's Mama Voted for Obama. Very cute, but more of a rip of, than riff on, Green Eggs and Ham.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Tuesday, December 30, 2008 Hundreds of Gwinnett County inmates who are in the country illegally will be fast-tracked for deportation once federal immigration officials begin a 26-day "surge" to screen foreign nationals. The surge will begin Jan. 12, with federal immigration officials working in 15-person teams from 6 a.m. to midnight at the Gwinnett jail, said Stacey Bourbonnais, spokeswoman for the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Department. The surge is the latest step in an effort to forge a partnership between the county and the federal government that would allow local jailers to begin deportation paperwork. During the surge, agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will check the immigration status of all foreign-born inmates booked into the jail regardless of their claim to citizenship. Inmates here illegally will be processed for removal to their home country, Bourbonnais said. Gwinnett has been waiting since March for approval from ICE to begin training deputies to flag illegal immigrants who are arrested — no matter the offense — for deportation. "This hopefully will bring us one step closer in getting the green light on that program and will give ICE an idea of the approximate numbers they would be receiving from our jail," said Gwinnett Sheriff Butch Conway. "I'm very pleased that ICE has committed these resources to Gwinnett County and our citizens." The Sheriff's Department currently does not track inmates' immigration status, but it does count which ones are foreign-born. So far this year, 14,084 foreign nationals have been booked into the jail, and department officials estimate that about 60 percent of them are here illegally. The Cobb, Whitfield and Hall County Sheriff's Departments as well as the Georgia State Patrol are already participating in the program, known as 287(g). Not everyone is in favor of the program. Pastor Carlos Alberto Gutierrez, minister of Mount Sinai Christian Church in Norcross, joined about 50 people earlier this month in demonstrating against the program at the Gwinnett jail. "It's not a good idea," said Gutierrez. "A lot of families will be separated — children from parents. We're praying every day and every night."More on this issue, but not necessarily GA only, from MALDEF, Detention Watch Network, The Southern Coalition for Social Justice. In GA we should keep checking in with This World Now blog. I'm sure they will have an update soon. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.88 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 10:15:21 AM Violent offenders & gang members..yes send them packing. For years the Gwinnett BOC and Chamber have turned a blind eye to immigration for obvious reasons Build, Build, Build. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 10:21:21 AM Totally agree, if they cannot build things, send them away. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.88 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 10:48:08 AM The larger issue is what to do with the literally tens of thousands of illegals who have been working, paying taxes and raising families. Should they be seperated from their family and sent back for a traffic violation? What about anchor babies? It's not exactly family values to split up the family now is it? I think we should ask these folks one question.. Do you wish to be a US citizen? If yes, them have them start the process by paying a fine, doing community service and getting at the back of the line for citizenship. If they say no, then deport them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:15:19 PM Why exactly call them illegals? The name is dehumanizing. "I think we should ask these folks one question.. Do you wish to be a US citizen? If yes, them have them start the process by paying a fine, doing community service and getting at the back of the line for citizenship. If they say no, then deport them." Do you have many foreign friends? I don't think I've ever met a foreign resident here who wouldn't instantly answer YES to the question. Everyone wants citizenship. Who do you expect to say no outside of drug runners and murderers? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.213.210 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/09/2009 04:43:50 PM "Why exactly call them illegals?" Because they broke the law. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:34:42 PM "Because they broke the law." You probably speed sometimes. Are you an illegal? Heck, everybody's an illegal then! Wait, does that mean we're all really legal? I mean I'm over 16 so I'm obviously legal... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 98.66.165.53 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:40:14 PM A more relevant question is: Do we call the employers who hire undocumented workers "illegals"? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:50:42 PM Look, I worked for Homeland Security/GEMA and I understand the need for having an immigration policy where we know who is coming in and out of the country, and there are a lot of legitimate security concerns. That being said, we should pursue immigration reform without demonizing people who decided they don't want to get shot in a Mexico City drug brawl or join a prostitution ring and wanted to have a shot for the American dream. Calling them "illegals" is just a slur. It removes human agency from them, it turns them into some kind of sinister, criminal conspiracy, alien group. That's not acceptable. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.83.198.176 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:59:05 PM Employers should be held accountable as well. If they hire "undocumented workers" (is that better?) they should be fined an amount equal to the average yearly salary for an employee. My suggestions still gives any one a shot at citizenship if they want it. Except for violent criminals and gang members, do you not agree with that? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 08:02:03 PM Sndeak I wouldn't say that's an unjustified position. But one last elephant in the room on immigration: no more NAFTA. We don't need trade deals that basically take a sledgehammer to anyone who isn't one of the multinationals. Immigration spiked right after passing NAFTA, and a workable Mexican economy would be great to get it back down again. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.83.198.176 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 08:37:16 PM NAFTA sucks. We should be encouraging economic and social improvements in Mexico. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.213.210 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/10/2009 12:27:18 AM I'm going to avoid NAFTA for now. The funny thing is I have the classic libertarian position on immigration. I believe immigration is the key to a sustainable economy. I want the borders to be more open. I want the path to citizenship to be easier and god knows less bureaucratic. And getting those type of policies past the paranoia and fear is a helluva lot more important to me than whether a descriptor is humanizing or not. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/10/2009 01:16:01 AM OK, but do you understand that using that label exactly stokes paranoia and fear? You gotta put yourself in their shoes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.213.210 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/10/2009 01:30:12 AM I understand that fighting that particular battle waste cycles. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/10/2009 01:54:23 AM "I understand that fighting that particular battle waste cycles." Good luck getting immigrants and immigrant advocates to work on your Libertarian comprehensive reform plan while simultaneously insulting them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.213.210 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/10/2009 02:05:14 AM Good luck getting anything passed if you reject allies just because they don't walk and talk the way you want 100% of the time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 01:19:10 AM "Good luck getting anything passed if you reject allies just because they don't walk and talk the way you want 100% of the time." I didn't reject you, I just told one person that there's a better phrase to use if you don't want to insult the immigrants. You're a bit too touchy about this mate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 11:48:06 AM "NAFTA sucks. We should be encouraging economic and social improvements in Mexico." Ironically, that was one of the stated goals of NAFTA. Ideally, that is what free trade does, encouraging economic and social movement. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 02:05:34 PM "Ironically, that was one of the stated goals of NAFTA. Ideally, that is what free trade does, encouraging economic and social movement." The important thing to note is that NAFTA doesn't really have anything to do with free trade anymore than the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) has anything to do with democracy. It essentially disposes of tariffs and protections for the poor, expands rights of investors, and allow big multinationals to keep getting subsidies on their agriculture goods, for one, sending them into Mexico where true-price farmers are put out of work by the millions. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Senseless BASENAME: senseless STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/07/2009 06:28:17 PM ----- BODY:
Southeast Atlanta residents shaken by the this morning's murder of a bartender at Standard Food and Spirits will hold a 7 a.m. vigil tomorrow at the Memorial Drive restaurant. Rally participants are encouraged to bring candles to light.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Only in Georgia, Folks BASENAME: only_in_georgia_folks STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/07/2009 06:37:53 PM ----- BODY: This is so insane, it magically skips past merely offensive and goes directly to WTF. Griftdrift, would you like to answer for your fellow-Moultrians? h/t CajunBoy ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.221.60 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/08/2009 06:09:41 AM Oh my ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Amber EMAIL: IP: 66.56.14.148 URL: http://beingamberrhea.com DATE: 01/08/2009 06:46:55 AM :o ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: plange EMAIL: IP: 67.191.155.100 URL: http://somehumanevents.com DATE: 01/08/2009 12:14:32 PM whoah ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sPatrickC EMAIL: IP: 71.72.2.21 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:47:10 PM Wow. I had blocked out how bad Mediacom/OnMedia local inserts were. Thanks for the reminder. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Listen up! BASENAME: listen_up STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/07/2009 06:53:52 PM ----- BODY:
Call Myles Brand, president of the asleep-at-the-wheel NCAA, and ask him if he and his greedy presidents are going to stand in defiance of president-elect Barack Obama, who wants a playoff and wants it yesterday. Ask Brand what he's going to do if Obama starts asking the Justice Department to look into anti-trust hearings against the BCS. The Utah attorney general has already launched an investigation into that very thing. Or ask him what he'll do if Obama asks the Department of Education to consider withholding federal funds from these schools that have entered into this secret club called the BCS. You don't think playing in the title game means millions in general-fund donations for a school? That's as unfair as anything Title IX fought against.And in case you missed it, here's video of Obama saying he was going to throw his weight around on this issue. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 12:25:12 PM Here's my vote against the Utah national champions ... Of all the places these talent athletes could have gone, they decided to live in UTAH. J/k. The guy does make some decent points. BCS is somewhat like those college rankings - it's as much about heritage as it is about the current quality of the institution. That explains how those MIT dorks are always #1. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.85.136 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 12:29:57 PM Ha! I have some non-religious, smoking and drinking friends who decided to move to Salt Lake for the skiing, so.. it can't be that bad. But, those Utah players obviously aren't snowboarding on the weekends. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.131.188 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/08/2009 12:40:13 PM Here's my thing. Barack Obama would be the ONLY reason, I repeat, the ONLY reason we have a national championship, and even then, it ain't happening. But really, at the end of the day, do we want a playoff? No, no one does. If you say you do you are lying to yourself. We LOVE the controversy in college football, we like arguing about this and the only reason we feel so strongly FOR a national championship is because IT IS SOMETHING ELSE TO ARGUE ABOUT WITH COLLEGE FOOTBALL. Think about it, what on earth would it settle if we had a play off? I mean aside from not really meaning anything, it wouldn't do jack. Case in point, are we really going to say that last year's Giants are a superior team than the Patriots? You are insane to say that. Same thing here. Ball bounces one way during the UofU and and UF game, UofU wins and no one's going to say that UF is "worse". Then of course people will howl when Boise State returns to form and gets shut out. Of course once GSU gets shut out of the championship they deserve in 2010 I will be demanding a playoff. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 12:47:16 PM "Case in point, are we really going to say that last year's Giants are a superior team than the Patriots?" According to John Madden's metrics, yeah. Because Eli Manning "knows how to win big games." Sorry, I just dislike Tom Brady. I can't root for eternal winners. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.131.188 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/08/2009 12:50:17 PM I forgot to add this one though (sorry for the double post): I absolutely hate Mormons. I lived in Salt Lake for a while. It is a heck of a town. If it weren't for the Morons. Whoops, Mormons. Go Utes! http://www.videosift.com/video/History-of-Mormonism-by-South-Park Joseph Smith was called a prophet! dum-dum-dum-dum-dum ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.85.136 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 01:02:18 PM Ahem. Last year, Georgia won the SEC Basketball Tournament despite being the worst fucking team in the SEC going into the tourney. This is why we have playoffs! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.131.188 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/08/2009 01:21:08 PM "This is why we have playoffs!" So a worse team can be the "winner"? Look, think about it, really, what we love most about college football is controversy. I don't believe anyone who says other wise (yes the sport is fun to watch, but people are drawn to it because of the entertainment derived from the debate. Think about this, skiing is f*cking awesome sport to watch, but there is nothing else to it. Football has that extra essence which makes it appealing and NO ONE but NO ONE wants to lose that). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.131.188 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/08/2009 01:24:47 PM Puh-Playoffs? You kidding me? Playoffs? Playoffs? You're talking about playoffs? God Bless Jim Mora. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.85.136 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 01:27:01 PM "but people are drawn to it because of the entertainment derived from the debate" Is this why I still watch Heroes? Because I want to bitch about it? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.131.188 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/08/2009 01:30:31 PM Probs. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.131.188 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/08/2009 01:38:28 PM But yeah, I mean think about this, do we really, at the end of the day, say UofU, or Boise State when they beat OU, or UF or Oklahoma of today is superior to this exact amount? No, I don't at least. I will say that there is a decent argument to be made that says these teams are pretty good and having an upper most echelon that includes them is fine and it is a fitting way to end the season. And as I said, with a lucky bounce, UofU could beat UF in the first round or whomever it may be, go on to win and few will say they are "legit" champs. Keep the system. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: nicolette EMAIL: IP: 204.152.239.219 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 02:40:45 PM we didnt run the ball. we didnt try to run the ball. we couldnt complete a pass. we sucked ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 207.171.241.43 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 07:46:48 PM I love college football and I do think the current system is broken, but I really do not think President-elect Obama needs to get involved. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.106 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/08/2009 08:25:20 PM It ain't changing other wise and its not like he's really spending much time on this. The only reason he's on record about this is some journalist askedhim about it. Just admit no matter what obama does you'll object. :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.85.136 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 08:32:14 PM He also said it on Monday Night Football when he was not specifically asked. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjGm8m2HCj4 BTW, John McCain's answer was "steroids in baseball." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.106 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/08/2009 08:51:58 PM All I know is four figures was too large of a bet for tonight. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 11:12:20 PM Tebow is a spaz. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.186 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 09:45:08 AM It's a jobs program. Think of the thousands of sports pundits who would lose their jobs if we had a clear cut champion. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Study suggests passive racism common BASENAME: study_suggests_passive_racism STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/08/2009 09:01:23 PM ----- BODY: From the article:
In the first scenario, the white person did not comment afterwards. In the "moderate" case, the white person said, "Typical, I hate it when black people do that," after the black person left the room. In the "extreme" case, the white person remarked, "Clumsy n****r." "Even using that most extreme comment didn't lead people to be particularly upset," said co-author Elizabeth Dunn, assistant professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.Like, seriously? Who are these people? My personal thought balloon in the "moderate" case (and probably yours too) would probably be something like "well F you too, you racist assclown!" But it gets better...
Immediately afterwards, the participants were asked to choose either the black person or the white person as a partner for an anagram test. More than half of experiencers chose the white partner -- regardless of the severity of the comment that person made earlier.I would personally regard someone who I knew only by the use of the "n-word" as a racist boor, and possibly dangerous, but apparently other people wouldn't have that problem... *sigh* ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/08/2009 09:47:54 PM I read this headline today alongside the one talking about the Senate unanimously passing a resolution praising Israeli violence against Palestinians. I wonder if they are related? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.cbc.ca/news/story/2000/12/07/bc_hookers001207.htm DATE: 01/09/2009 02:41:59 AM I blame the Canadians. Personally. And think we should invade. But just for the resources, actually. But the navel gazing psych story was so vital that the CBC did not even index it seemingly. It's not in there today nor yesterday either. [CBC.ca]. Strange. But Google did pick it up right after this one at the top of the UBC list: [http://www.publicaffairs.ubc.ca/media/releases/2006/mr-06-079.html] So yeah, we needed another Uni study to find out that "many people unconsciously harbor racist attitudes, even though they see themselves as tolerant and egalitarian". Excuse me? We ran a recent election here that proved that in spades for much of the South. You can hear it every day live in most of the cities & towns in the state too. SSDD. Regards, JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.186 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 09:46:57 AM Think of it as a jobs program. Keeps all those PhD's and grad students from having to work at Dunkin Donuts, at which they monumentally suck. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 10:21:23 AM You also have to be careful with popular reporting. I'm sure there are some more specific hypotheses being sussed out. The Implicit Bias stuff is especially interesting, not because of the sociological reality, but because of its revelation of how the brain is thought to work. The Implicit tests all assume a model that the brain actually generates several responses to a stimulus that must vie for the right to come to the surface. In this case, the gut reaction of "blacks are bad" being suppressed by "I have no reason to judge." ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Some changes afoot. BASENAME: some_changes_afoot STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/09/2009 05:56:59 AM ----- BODY:
Atlantans Together Against Crime & Cutbacks (ATACC) has been established in response to the wave of violent crime that is taking over our city.Last, and sadly, least so far, is a new site called This World Now. Labeled "a groundbreaking Web 2.0 media portal" . I've visited a few times and I can't quite figure out what it's all about. I welcome the proprietors, posters, commenters, or anyone affiliated to help us understand the goals of this new site. What's new on your blogroll or RSS Feed? Do tell. Consider this your Friday Open Thread! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:54:31 PM Sirota and I are Facebook friends and ideological soulmates. Rock on. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/10/2009 12:30:48 AM http://change.gov/newsroom/entry/open_for_questions_round_2_response/ Does anyone else thinks this sucks? If that's open government, lol. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/10/2009 10:47:18 AM I would like to see a few more answered, but what are you thinking needs to be added? Questions are asked, then they are answered. Not sure what else there is to it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 01:17:08 AM "Questions are asked, then they are answered. Not sure what else there is to it." People put a lot of effort into getting the questions ranked up there and getting people to vote, and the answers they give were completely ridiculous. It's like Gibbs decided to give all trite answers on a lunch break, and it took weeks for them to answer them. Then, they cherrypick which ones they want to answer, instead of answering the highest ranked ones. I've long thought that the "open government" thing was more or less a blitz to make it seem like they care what people think but they don't really care what people think. This isn't changing my mind. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 12:07:31 PM “Will you consider legalizing cannabis/marijuana/hemp so that the government can regulate it, tax it, put age limits on it, and create millions of new jobs and create a multi-billion dollar industry right here in the U.S.?”—DJ C, Chicago, IL Open for Questions Response, 12/15/08: “President-elect Obama is not in favor of the legalization of marijuana.” ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 12:35:40 PM "I've long thought that the "open government" thing was more or less a blitz to make it seem like they care what people think but they don't really care what people think. This isn't changing my mind." Well, the Internet is going to be a channel just like phones, email, direct letters, and everything else. The better representatives will go and solicit input, but at the end of the day, they have to synthesize it into some combination of what they feel is best and what their constituents really want (not necessarily what they ask for). The main difference I can see with the Internet is that everyone can see what everyone else wrote and see when the representative is mis-representing the zeitgeist or not. In that way, I see an improvement. Another big difference is (hopefully when they post more bills and such online) non-experts can benefit from a wide range of expert analysis, rather than a few pre-selected outlets. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 12:52:26 PM The other part of the trick is that if the group doesn't answer the top-ranked questions now, the press is probably going to start asking them, if nothing else to do the "Angry liberals hound Democrats" bit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 02:01:29 PM I'm scared of seeing smarter-sounding bullshitters than the dumb-sounding Bush bullshitters in that we can't do this if that happens. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 02:40:27 PM http://thinkprogress.org/2009/01/11/obama-special-prosecutor-torture/ Interesting follow up on the special prosecutor question that ABC pushed onto Obama. It's interesting to me how cavalier the President-elect is about war crimes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 03:37:27 PM On some level, Zaid, I almost have to commend you. You are our exhausted sense of rage. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 08:28:29 PM I'm not that angry about it or most of the stuff on here, but I don't see any reason not to call bullshit when I see it. If somebody tortured Obama's wife to death or something I don't think he'd be saying, "Aw, well, shucks let's be postpartisan and look forward!" Shmuck! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 12:06:04 AM Update: John Conyers still "looking backward" at stuff like the rule of law http://www.3news.co.nz/News/InternationalNews/Democrats-push-for-investigation-of-criminal-Bush-adminstration/tabid/417/articleID/86903/cat/61/Default.aspx ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 11:18:13 AM At this point, I'm starting to conclude that Conyers has played the progressives for suckers and is just waiting for you to buy his next book. He's got all the subpoena power he wants in his committee. He wants to hold hearings on this matter, he's more than welcome to. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 11:29:57 AM I think if he did that, Pelosi would say "k bai bai conyers" ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Gupta BASENAME: gupta STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/09/2009 12:41:41 PM ----- BODY: Despite TV, little known about Gupta
Gupta is registered to vote in Georgia, which does not have party registration, and he does not appear to have voted in partisan primaries. And Martin Matheny, a spokesman for the Georgia Democratic Party, said Gupta hasn't been involved in party politics in the state. Still, Carson said "I'm sure Sanjay is a Democrat and I don't doubt that he's sympathetic to a general Democratic approach (on healthcare)."Related: Conyers: Gupta not up to S.G. post ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.236.204 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 01:26:25 PM I'm with Conyers and Krugman on this. The hitjob he did on SiCKO ended up being nothing more than reading PhRMA talking points, and while there's no doubt he's a qualified doctor, there's plenty of qualified doctors out there who aren't shills for the pharmaceutical industry. Why not the PNHP president instead? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 01:32:29 PM I'm more into seeing who the next NASA director is going to be ever since I heard Griffin is going to get booted. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/09/2009 01:44:38 PM Since when has GW headed NASA? I thought he hadn't finished at Tech? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/09/2009 02:00:38 PM You do realize the SG is supposed to educate and inform the public about the President's health policy so it would be good to have someone who works well on TV in that role. Additionally, SG reports to Dir of HHS (I believe) so its not as if he is formulating policy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/09/2009 02:04:10 PM Sorry for the triple post but if he has shown he's a good shill that basically says he's qualified for the post. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 03:59:12 PM He has to oversee 6,000 doctors and it's not accurate to say he doesn't formulate policy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:05:03 PM The SG doesn't oversee squat except his/her own office. The *only* time that the SG can have any sort of authority over the PHS Corps is during a national emergency. The SG, however, does promote policy, and if the SG goes off the reservation, he/she can be fired for it. See Elders, Jocelyn. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:08:31 PM I found through reading that they usually are advocates for health system reform, and he was shown to be quite clueless on the issue when he debated Michael Moore on Larry King. That's probably why single payer advocates like Krugman and Conyers oppose him. Certainly there's a more qualified person somewhere other than Celebrity Doctor Guy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:10:17 PM Also, it doesn't matter if the Surgeon General is known or not no one ever knows them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:10:20 PM Also, it doesn't matter if the Surgeon General is known or not no one ever knows them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.85.136 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:15:03 PM Yeah, I mean.. if they were going to get a Celebrity Doctor, they should gone after Dr. Robert Rey! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:19:40 PM Quite honestly, he has no background in public health. He's a fine doctor, but there's also thousands of doctors who have extensive public health experience. They should get the job. The fact that Obama got more money from HMO's and the pharmaceutical industry than his opponent has to pay for something, I'm thinking Gupta and Podesta (didn't wait a single year before ending tenure as chief of staff before joining American Insurance Association) and Daschle are all rewards to them. (Read "The Whore Factor" by Matt Taibbi on Daschle's background lobbying for health insurance companies after he was defeated and forced to step down from Senate Majority Leader). The fact that the thousands of doctors in Physicians for a National Health Program who have been working on public health and universal healthcare for years have not been thrown a single bone shows that money talks and apparently speaks the language Obama likes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:22:36 PM Also, reading through the Trudy Lieberman's piece at the Columbia Journalism Review, I wondered if Gupta has a serious enough of an appreciation for the word "factcheck" to be the nation's highest public health official. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:24:33 PM Oops, forgot our new rules. Here's the link: http://www.cjr.org/campaign_desk/the_tv_doc_as_surgeon_general.php ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 04:45:43 PM One thing to keep in mind is that I don't think Gupta is going to be the point-man for a new health system (although Conyers is indeed suspicious of him). I think Obama has already assigned that role to Tom Daschle, after realizing that the Senate values nothing so highly as the ability to show their "collegiality" to one of their own. His reception in the Senate shows that he's got an opening to drive home anything that Obama and the House formulate (although, as with the recent stimulus discussion, the House may actually serve as leadership). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 05:04:08 PM "In Washington there are whores and there are whores, and then there is Tom Daschle. Tom Daschle would suck off a corpse for a cheeseburger." I must say if nothing else, I do always like Taibbi's way with imagery. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 66.156.15.176 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 06:27:11 PM Remind me to tell you my Sanjay Gupta story sometime. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:31:37 PM Tell us your Sanjay Gupta story. I don't know if Tom Daschle would suck a cheeseburger off a corpse but he'd probably blow Ariel Sharon for a rise in poll numbers. It's remarkable that his incompetence and cowardice got him any role in an administration. I think the Republicans are greeting him cordially because they're thinking in the back of their minds, "Hot Damn! What did we do for the good old Jesus to bless us with this guy again? He's such a pushover he makes Harry Reid look like an Austrian body builder!" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:37:13 PM http://www.thenation.com/doc/20090126/hayes_video Chris Hayes and Keith Olbermann discussing Gupta brings up a much better point: Why are those who were right about things but who were outsiders from the betlway consensus considered unserious and those who were wrong but go to enough DC cocktail parties considered the serious, sober people? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Kimmiega EMAIL: IP: 68.19.30.211 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:53:29 PM Well, isn't this why we have a confirmation process so these questions are asked and documented? My excitement level over this, about a 3 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:58:25 PM "Well, isn't this why we have a confirmation process so these questions are asked and documented?" The Senate, PhRMA's favorite body, gets to ask those questions, not Conyers. However Conyers will meet with Obama over the question, the news has reported. Hopefully he can get him to change his mind. The best defense of Gupta I've heard is that his job is mostly irrelevant. If that's the case, why not get a better doctor and someone without a history of poor statements, knowledge, and misinformation on the health issue -- or someone who even maybe has a background in public health... -- to do it just to be safe? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 66.156.15.176 URL: DATE: 01/10/2009 10:03:43 AM "Tell us your Sanjay Gupta story." Really need to tell it face-to-face. Preferably over Mojitos. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 01:13:02 AM LOL ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: 50-State Strategy Here to Stay? BASENAME: 50state_strategy_here_to_stay STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/09/2009 06:46:50 PM ----- BODY:
We're in a strong position to build the Democratic Party, renew our commitment to the principles we share, and continue the outstanding work of Chairman Howard Dean. Among his many achievements, Governor Dean launched a strategy to reach out to Americans in all 50 states -- north, south, east and west. This 50-state strategy helped Democrats compete in states where we hadn't in years, including states like Virginia. Governor Kaine has seen the power of the 50-state strategy firsthand, and under his leadership, Democrats will continue to organize and compete in every corner of our country.Do you suppose he actually pays attention to what people think? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 07:45:48 PM There are people with money in Georgia, Alabama, Texas, etc who will give to the Democratic party and they give more when they think it's coming back to them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Kimmiega EMAIL: IP: 68.19.30.211 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 09:30:30 PM well I hope those folks with money keep some of it here and stop sending millions out of state. It's a darn shame that folks doesn't see that connection, keep sending money to Franken, and it don't help our folks here. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 98.66.165.53 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 11:38:58 PM I think some of this is mountains from molehills. Howie has thick skin and is probably thrilled to have a break from all the drama. I do, however, believe that he has a lot to contribute and that the country would benefit greatly from his leadership on nearly anything he put his mind to in the upcoming administration, if he were sought. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/09/2009 11:55:56 PM "President-Elect Obama's shit list (or at least, Rahm Emmanuel's list, which amounts to the same thing" I sure hope they don't have the same shitlist. I think Rahm Emmanuel's shitlist includes puppies, Arabs, daisies, and the American Dream. My friend David Sirota sent me something calling him "soulless"; he's too kind. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Transgender Activist comments on City Council Candidate Charlie Stadtlander BASENAME: tansgender_activist_comments_o STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/10/2009 12:43:12 PM ----- BODY:
He apologizes now for his statements in 2005 and 2006, but what he wrote makes it difficult to accept, especially when his most recent volunteer work is raising funds for the Human Rights Campaign and he doesn’t support trans inclusion in the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Ask me if I'm surprised. HRC (and Log Cabin Republicans, which Stadtlander used to help lead in Missouri and Georgia) are the two largest LG(b) organizations that still won’t support a fully inclusive ENDA, even when the new President-elect does.For what it's worth, like all communities the LBGT has no one spokesperson, however I can say Monica speaks for me regarding the disconnect with ENDA. I remain disappointed by any "equality" organization or person that would quite deliberately set out to exclude anyone. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Pete S. EMAIL: IP: 24.99.54.254 URL: DATE: 01/10/2009 01:38:49 PM Does Charlie also apologize for voting and supporting George W. Bush in 2000 and 2004? How can Democrats support and work for Charlie Stadtlander when he has a past history of supporting and funding Republicans? I noticed on his website the number of Democratic LGBT activists that are on his team. Have they sacrificed their progressive leanings to support a candidate who believes in exclusion? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Kimmiega EMAIL: IP: 68.19.31.192 URL: DATE: 01/10/2009 01:47:13 PM Pete S... I guess you'd have to ask them.. However, I will go out on a limb here and assume that they will remind you that this race is *cough* non partisan. Whatever, he's Keith Gross without all the money in my opinion. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Pete S. EMAIL: IP: 24.99.54.254 URL: DATE: 01/10/2009 01:59:04 PM This guy represents all that is bad in nonpartisan and partisan politics. I read the article in Project Q and my opinion is that Charlie Stadtlander will say anything to advance his own cause - himself. The biggest joke of a comment which really illustrates how this guy will say anything and thinks he completely awesome is: "Every election I have voted in Georgia, I pulled the Democratic lever.” Excuse us Charlie, but you just moved to Atlanta 2 years which means you only voted in 1 election where you pulled the Democratic lever. That would be the 2008 primary election. BTW: Georgia doesn't actually have "levers". Charlie Stadtlander votes for Democrats in July 2008 (according to him) and then continues to have a Purple Party in August 2008 claiming he is the VP of the Log Cabin Republicans? Is this guy a pathological liar, has an inferiority complex, or is it that he is just smug and not trustworthy? As a resident of City Council 6, this guy will not get my vote and as a Democrat he will not get my money. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 01/10/2009 05:18:16 PM Count this activist as NOT on that train. Too bad i live in Natalyn's district (keepin the Atlanta/DeKalb real) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 01:24:33 AM "I noticed on his website the number of Democratic LGBT activists that are on his team. Have they sacrificed their progressive leanings to support a candidate who believes in exclusion?" Do you think realpolitik in any way plays into this? After all, most top Democrats do not support marriage equality and yet there is a strategic sense in supporting them (although the really, really blue state ones have no excuse). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 01/11/2009 11:27:24 AM I doubt it, there's not actualy strategy to put marriage into play and the Atl City COuncil bears nothing on the issue. Unlike a lot of other states our size, our cities hold no real legislative power at all from a state or policy perspective. Most of their power is inside their border-only, and even then is hampered, see Living Wage Georgia for examples. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 11:34:51 AM "realpolitik" hilarious. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/11/2009 02:08:46 PM Yeah, well, that's because they passed a law making living wage ordinances illegal. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Presidential Inauguration News BASENAME: presidential_inauguration_news STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/10/2009 01:48:46 PM ----- BODY: For those of you heading to Washington, DC for the Inauguration, please join your fellow Georgia Democrats for these events: The Georgia Inaugural Champagne and Jazz Brunch Sunday, January 18, from 10:00am to 1:00pm Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill 400 New Jersey Ave, NW Washington, DC 20001 Tickets are $75.00 per person. To purchase your tickets in advance, please go to https://secure.politicalcfos.com/ga/brunch.php .......................... The Georgia State Society's Inaugural Gala Monday, January 19, 8:00pm to midnight Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History 10th Street and Constitution Avenue in Washington, DC Washington, DC. The Honorable Sanford Bishop, Chair of the Georgia State Society, and the members of the Georgia State Society cordially invite you to put on your tuxedos and ball gowns, and join them for the Georgia Inaugural Gala. Tickets are $200.00 per person and may be purchased online at http://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?eventid=682691 ........................... DNC Winter Meeting Wednesday, January 21 at 12:00 noon Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington DC. This meeting is open to the public. A report from the DNC meeting will be posted at www.georgiadnc.com. Join the email list and recieve a full report of the meeting. As many of you have heard, President-Elect Obama has appointed Governor Tim Kaine to be the new Chair of the DNC. Click here to read more. To submit questions for Chairman Kaine, please click here. At this Winter Meeting, the DNC will elect the remainder of the Officers to serve for the next four years to the DNC Executive Committee. ................................. For those of you staying in Georgia, please visit the Georgia DNC website at www.georgiadnc.com for blog updates and reports from the Inauguration throughout the week from your Georgia DNC Team: Jane Kidd, Chair, Democratic Party of Georgia Michael Thurmond, 1st Vice Chair, Democratic Party of Georgia Page K, Gleason Richard Ray Sally Rosser David Worley ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: I Scream, You Scream BASENAME: i_scream_you_scream STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/11/2009 11:46:52 AM ----- BODY:
Why waste time and give fuel to future opponents?Totally agree. But, I also agree with this:
..by a weak leader of a weak party.Can we get a new leader already? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 68.215.156.88 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 04:10:33 PM Of course, everyone knows he would lose. But a strong leader uses stuff like this to unify his caucus and serves as a test of loyalty and a early demonstration of who may get out of line. A weak leader, like Dubose, knows he has nothing to keep his troops in line, so he takes a pass. It is also symbolic to demonstrate that this is the opposition party. Do we really want the House Democrats to work together with the Republican leadership to help pass their agenda? If so, why didn't we just vote for them instead? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.130.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/12/2009 04:47:23 PM DuB is pretty weak but for as weak as he is, Glenn is even stronger and with limited pork to give out this year, legislators need to do all they can to curry favor. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.134.231.132 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 04:52:13 PM Exactly how much more of the people's business is now being done as a result of this? Or did they just go home early? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.212.192 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 07:23:14 PM OK DG,what would you have a weak leader in a weak party (at a weak time and in a weak place, I might add) do? I mean, it may not be wise for a weak leader in a weak party to try to follow a strategy as if that weren't the case. To paraphrase Donald Rumsfeld, you play your politics with the Democrats that you have. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 10:57:02 PM Not even putting up a leader even knowing that they will lose kind of is a "Yeah we suck that bad" move for the other side to take pride in I think. In most parliamentary systems opposition parties still run someone. Just throwing in the towel at the start of it is basically pulling down your pants and bending over. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 68.215.156.88 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 10:43:46 AM OK DG,what would you have a weak leader in a weak party (at a weak time and in a weak place, I might add) do? I mean, it may not be wise for a weak leader in a weak party to try to follow a strategy as if that weren't the case. You make a pretty good case for a new leader, don't you Jerry? That's what some of us have been advocating for a couple of years now. Let's let Dubose run his failed campaign for Governor and let someone else have a chance. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 65.81.25.199 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 11:47:12 AM Not disputing that DG. It's just kind of a head banger to say that a weak leader should act more strongly. So who should run for Speaker for the Dems? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 68.215.156.88 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 01:12:51 PM I guess Teilhet would probably be the most obvious choice. Not sure that he has the necessary chutzpah for the job, but would be an improvement over Porter. I'm sure there are others who would be good if they stepped up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 65.81.25.199 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 02:00:56 PM I meant to run against Richardson. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 07:40:53 PM I saw this on the Kos. Some serious brilliance on the part of the Dems there. http://www.dailykos.com/story/2009/1/13/17122/6402/796/683663 Okay, so you need to come within the razor's edge of majority to pull stuff like this, but it is still pretty slick to get even half of the chairs in a backroom deal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.216 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/13/2009 08:38:53 PM One has to imagine the TN Dems' caucus meeting went something like this. go to 5:18 at the absolute minimum. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TROhlThs9qY&feature=related Then watch the entire movie. Twice. Then watch the SPanish Prisoner. It takes brass balls. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.91 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/13/2009 11:16:08 PM I seriously can't give over how big a pair of brass balls my TN Dems had. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TROhlThs9qY&feature=related For the general BforD readership: I made $970,000 last year, how much did you make. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: More Invocation News BASENAME: more_invocation_news STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/12/2009 04:03:42 PM ----- BODY:
President-elect Barack Obama has asked Bishop Gene Robinson, the openly gay Episcopal bishop who helped advise him on gay rights issues during the campaign, to deliver the invocation at a kickoff inaugural event on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, two days before the inauguration itself.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 04:35:09 PM I read that this was chosen before Warren, but I wouldn't be surprised if all the uproar over bigot giving the invocation didn't force their hand to do more for LGBT people, which is exactly why we weren't wrong for protesting it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.130.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/12/2009 04:57:25 PM This will be recorded in the annals of history as one of the most significant setbacks, and moments of progress, in the eternal and elusive search for equality. I can rest easy now, knowing that symbolic, meaningless addresses are determining the footing of Americans. Hey, maybe now HRC can claim to have done something other than raise money and endorse the other HRC. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.85.136 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 05:02:18 PM From the article:
Bishop Robinson said in a telephone interview on Monday that he believed that his inclusion in inaugural events had been under consideration before the controversy over Mr. Warren, but that Mr. Obama and his team were also seeking to heal the pain that Mr. Warren’s selection had caused among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender advocates.I suppose we'll never know whether Robinson was seriously considered before the Warren pick or whether he was just casually mentioned. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 05:14:04 PM "I suppose we'll never know whether Robinson was seriously considered before the Warren pick or whether he was just casually mentioned." Yeah, but due to the controversy around Warren, the Obama team has done a lot to comfort the concerns of the LGBT community, which I think is great. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.130.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/12/2009 06:03:23 PM Good to know the LGBT community needs so little to anger them and so little to placate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 06:10:44 PM A guy who compared MLK's social gospel to Marxism and homosexuals to pedophiles and other criminals doing the invocation for the first minority President is a pretty big deal, maybe not to white rednecks but to some people it is. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 06:14:55 PM And note these are not offhand comments by Warren, these are his central beliefs he preaches and promotes constantly. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.130.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/12/2009 06:38:34 PM And I repeat, other than giving a speech which is heavily moderated (and probably written) by Obama's office, what's this do? Save your fire. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 07:30:08 PM cry moar ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 11:26:37 AM Oh, IRE, don't hate... appreciate! It's an exchange of symbolic speaking roles. As an Episcopalian, I'm very have to have Gene+ participate in this way :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 09:29:57 PM http://www.americablog.com/2009/01/gay-man-picked-to-head-opm.html Another accommodation to LGBTs. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 09:56:07 PM Ezra Klein says it well (http://www.prospect.org/csnc/blogs/ezraklein_archive?month=01&year=2009&base_name=openly_gay_bishop_to_deliver_i) "This is, incidentally, why it's useful for progressives to criticize the president. Politicians respond to incentives. To noise. To anger. Warren, on some level, was a response to the loud protestations of evangelicals who believed the Democratic Party had no place for them. It's hard to see Robinson is anything but a response to progressive activists who sense that Obama was more willing to risk cross those who supported him than those who opposed him. Erase the anger from either side and it's not worth Obama -- or any president -- taking the risk to placate them. But this is a step in the right direction. This is genuinely inclusive. If it was the plan all along, the Obama administration sure did a good job keeping the secret. And if it wasn't, then equality activists have something to be proud of this morning. They changed the incentives." ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Obama's Economic Recovery Plan BASENAME: obamas_economic_recovery_plan STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/12/2009 04:51:11 PM ----- BODY: Get ready for wiki government. And that's a very good thing. Discuss on change.gov here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 05:20:53 PM The Senate democrats and various lefty and center citizen groups are piling on him over his economic plan. I say they should, personally. 40% of it is in tax cuts when Jared Bernstein and others leading his economic team have admitted a dollar in government spending would do more good than a dollar in tax cuts at this moment. I've no problem with him keeping to campaign promises on middle class tax cuts (though quite frankly it might be foolish policy), however he has gone way off the deep end with a lot of these cuts, they mirror the stimulus checks Bush repeatedly tried and failed with. The fact of the matter is people can't spend right now, as Jim Moran, a conservative Democrat pointed out on Hardball two days ago, consumers are already at 120% spending (normal is 70-80%), they really should concentrate almost all of this package on government spending to boost the economy, not on more failed Reagaonomics. I know Obama brought a lot of Reagaonomics folks onboard his team, and he has to pay back his pound of flesh to all the corporate support he got I suppose, but let's think about the economy for once and not just play politics. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 05:38:16 PM Because this topic will quickly turn into Zaid's a communist because he agrees with Kent Conrad and Jim Moran this topic should now be about Elizabeth Hasslebeck's son headbutting President Bush: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/01/12/elisabeth-hasselbeck-visi_n_157139.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 05:40:25 PM One point that people miss with the consumer spending and stimulus not getting there immediately... Getting people back to heads above water sooner will mean they leave the status of maxed out sooner. Which means a return to spending. Also, this first step by Obama's team (and in other interviews) suggests that they are intent on letting the Senate have Obama's way. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 05:47:27 PM "Also, this first step by Obama's team (and in other interviews) suggests that they are intent on letting the Senate have Obama's way." Letting the Senate have Obama's way? Wat ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 05:56:26 PM There's an old saying by a negotiator: "I'm always hell-bent on letting the other fellow have my way." Always thought of it as a good one. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 06:09:07 PM So you mean he will defeat their concerns and get the bill the way he wants it? Personally I had enough rubberstamping of George Bush to rubber stamp more bad ideas. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 06:19:08 PM Jim Moran and Dennis Kucinich discuss this on hardball, keeping with the new rule of providing links to stuff http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/28583526#28583526 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 06:29:51 PM Zaid, No, the point of the quote is that you let the other guy think he came up with your ideas on his own, and then walk away happy for "beating" you when giving you exactly what you want. His advisors have essentially leaked that they are low-balling the Congress knowing that they are going to what greatly to mark it all up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 07:29:09 PM I don't think it's the size of the package that's as much of a contention as much as it is the ineffective tax cuts all over it. They say they're going for 80 senate votes. If what you say is true, they're not going to get that, they'll just look stupid publicly saying that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: collapser EMAIL: IP: 98.66.163.241 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 09:17:34 PM "I don't think it's the size of the package that's as much of a contention as much as it is the ineffective tax cuts all over it." That's what she said. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 09:57:14 PM ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.225 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/12/2009 10:06:23 PM +1 to collapser. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 10:50:51 PM Anyway, here's Paul Krugman's chiming in: http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/01/12/opinion/edkrugman.php ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 10:59:45 PM Aaaand here comes in the right to praise Obama and lol @ those silly nobel laureates like Krugman who know he's wrong: http://blogs.forbes.com/digitalrules/2009/01/did-obama-dis-p.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/12/2009 11:58:51 PM http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/01/12/olmert-bush-humiliated-ri_n_157201.html did i read this right? olmert calls bush to tell him to do something bush calls condi and tells her to do something then olmert brags about humiliating US policies? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 04:19:10 PM Rep. DeFazio I think pretty much says it all on why we don't need a lot of absurd advice from Summers (he literally calls out Larry Summers), who has a history of screwing up on all this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JglPCv4yjk ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 05:14:57 PM Update: Obama threatens veto if Senate doesn't release second half of TARP. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/01/13/obama-issues-first-veto-t_n_157585.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 05:18:29 PM We should have an actual Zaid open thread rather than forcing him to hijack one. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 05:37:40 PM I'm viewing it as an open economic thread and posting news updates. If your panties are in a wad over that, you don't have to read any of it, either. That's the great thing about an open and public internet. In other words, cry moar? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.216 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/13/2009 07:02:34 PM far be it from me to speak to the intention of the original poster but, I think it clearly states "discuss on change.gov" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: collapser EMAIL: IP: 98.66.163.241 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 08:14:38 PM he changed.gov'ed the venue. yes we can. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 10:36:16 PM Zaid, I thought you'd like your own thread, I was merely suggesting to the powers that be that they give it to you. Why would you assume I didn't want to read it or was being sarcastic? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 12:01:04 AM I don't know, after you misused three facts a post in the I/P thread I thought you might give up trying to be taken seriously and had turned to court jester? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/14/2009 08:58:17 AM ***sits down, opens a bag of popcorn, waits for fireworks*** ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 10:46:30 AM So much for detente. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Is it January 20th yet? BASENAME: is_it_january_20th_yet STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/13/2009 10:42:48 AM ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 65.81.25.199 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 12:52:51 PM I think Bush's legacy will be that all future presidents will use him as the measure of how bad it could be, as in " at least I didn't let the economy melt down like Bush", or "at least I didn't start a huge war just to impress my daddy". It's a new low benchmark for incompetence, hubris, ignorance, carelessness (in all meanings), and probably corruption. We now have shiny new examples of many things to avoid in a good government. It's Bush's one great achievement; take the idea of poor government- both from a wonky policy perspective and an esoteric philosophical perspective- and manifest it so boldly, so large, and so spectacularly damaging, that there shouldn't be too much disagreement on what to avoid ever again. Or at least until the next poseur comes along (Sarah Palin). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 04:45:09 PM I'm trying to think whether corporate governance is better with a dumb-sounding leader (Bush) or a smart-sounding one (Obama). Guess I'm about to find out. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: No Campaign Disclosure for General Assembly Members? BASENAME: no_campaign_disclosure_for_gen STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/13/2009 03:58:43 PM ----- BODY: Maybe this has already been talked about but this is the text of a bill dropped by Joe Wilkinson (R- Badideaville), italicized portions are to be struck from the current law.
"(a)(1)(A) The candidate or the chairperson or treasurer of each campaign committee organized to bring about the nomination or election of a candidate for any office, except county and municipal offices, or the General Assembly and the chairperson or treasurer of every campaign committee designed to bring about the recall of a public officer or to oppose the recall of a public officer or designed to bring about the approval or rejection by the voters of any proposed constitutional amendment, state-wide proposed question, or state-wide referendum shall sign and file with the commission the required campaign contribution disclosure reports. A candidate for membership in the General Assembly or the chairperson or treasurer of such candidate's campaign committee shall file such candidate's reports with the commission and a copy of such report with the election superintendent of the county of such candidate's residence."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/13/2009 04:12:05 PM Can I have bad government for $1000 Alex? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: olyellar EMAIL: IP: 67.134.77.145 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 04:24:53 PM Actually, if I'm reading it right, I'd wholeheartedly endorse this idea. It appears that this does not eliminate the disclosure, but ends the double-filing that you have to dow tih the county. If that's the case, I'll go down and lobby for it my own self. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: olyellar EMAIL: IP: 67.134.77.145 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 04:26:40 PM I should preview first - "do with" not "dow tih", but yall probably figured that out. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 04:31:56 PM The poster up top didn't copy it exactly. It removes "General Assembly" from the first part as well. It would remove all requirements for disclosure under that statute. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: olyellar EMAIL: IP: 67.134.77.145 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 04:36:58 PM I think that eliminates the exception - I think GA members would still have to file disclosures under the amended law. I stand willing to be wrong. Where's Campbell? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 04:46:37 PM You may be right with the updated change. The original left the General Assembly in the first section but eliminated it from the second, thus removing entirely from disclosure. However, if the exception is removed from the first section, then they would have to file with the commission. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Your Afternoon Commute just got a lot better BASENAME: your_afternoon_commute_just_go STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/13/2009 04:52:53 PM ----- BODY: John Lemley is being replaced on WABE afternoon drive time by Dennis O'Hayer. Oh Happy Day!
The election of Williams was what Democrats called the "nuclear option:" electing a Republican who was friendly to Democrats, creating coalitions between the parties. As recently as Monday, Mumpower had dismissed such talk, saying that Republicans were united. Afterward, Naifeh acknowledged that the move was likely to anger Republicans, but said he thought Democrats and Republicans could continue to work together, he said. "Emotions are high right now, and I would hope that we would be able to have a good session," Naifeh said. As the vote took place, the House chamber at moments erupted into near bedlam, with spectators raining down boos, hisses and angry shouts, all of which was quickly quieted when Naifeh threatened to have unruly audience members removed from the chamber.hat tip to Odin( sorry saw your comment a minute ago) this blogger and kos diary Well looks like some big pimping was had just north of us! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.216 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/13/2009 08:57:09 PM I STILL think the Caucus meeting went something like this. You want to work here? CLOSE! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TROhlThs9qY You think this is abuse? You don't like it? Leave. What's the point? In any case I got to argue with you. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 09:13:49 PM What does it take to be Majority Leader? (this is for Reid) Brass balls. Go and do likewise. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 09:19:18 PM ok we need to import some of these TN Dems into the US Senate and not the harold ford shiteater kind neither. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.91 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/13/2009 10:28:13 PM Harold Ford is the epitome of TN Dems. Just FYI. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://tompaine.com DATE: 01/13/2009 11:22:53 PM Same thing happened in TX too this past week. And count me as thinking that we should have taken that 'nuclear option' in the US Senate when we had the chance too. We can regret that now, and will soon. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/13/2009 11:58:04 PM "Harold Ford is the epitome of TN Dems. Just FYI." Yeah, so much of the epitome that he's no longer an elected official in any office in TN. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 12:02:42 AM And replaced by one of the finer Congressman in the House, I might add (even after Ford's former campaign manager ran against him in a dirty, race-baiting primary whose focus was placing the DLC back in that spot). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.155.131.145 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 01:32:47 AM Great story, and awesome ninja moves from the TN Dems. That's how it's done. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/16/2009 04:09:59 PM +1 to odin. Just saw your post. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 04:24:44 PM ABC man, ABC. In everything you do. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: I really think we've heard enough BASENAME: i_really_think_weve_heard_enou STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 12:13:00 AM ----- BODY:
President George Bush wants a final 15 minutes from the Big Four nets on Thursday. The White House on Monday asked ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC for 10-15 minutes of primetime airtime for a live farewell address to the nation. It would be Bush's last public appearance until he greets President-elect Barack Obama at the inauguration on Jan. 20, the Associated Press reported. The nets were officially noncommittal as of late Monday, but it seems likely that most, if not all, will grant the request, although some may argue that the address may not be especially newsworthy and will have plenty of coverage on cable and other outlets.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.134.121 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 01:06:43 AM Just damn, please make him just go away! While the last days of this long nightmare dwindle down, I was just thinking about an article Ebert wrote back before election day 2000, "It's the Presidency Stupid." "We are sleepwalking toward Election Day. Beguiled by George W. Bush's easy smile and casual indifference to the details, we are on the brink of electing him to office. This isn't choosing a president, it's casting the lead in a sitcom about the presidency." I know you guys don't like links to old articles, but back then, I was mystified that someone dumber than me might be POTUS, and now that it's comming to an end, I'm mystified by what's happened. What the Hell was that? Couldn't most intelligent people see this comming? I couldn't find it in the archives at Ebert.com or at the Sun-Times, but I found the text of it here: https://listserv.umd.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A2=ind0010&L=sistersc&D=1&P=1886 ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: More positive change BASENAME: more_positive_change STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 12:20:13 AM ----- BODY: Change Sweeping to the FCC:
Julius Genachowski, technology adviser to President-elect Barack Obama, is poised to become chairman of the Federal Communications Commission at a time when communications policy lies at the intersection of sweeping changes in the high-tech business landscape. With Genachowski's private-sector experience and ear to Silicon Valley, the appointment could signal greater focus on new Internet technologies for the agency, analysts said.The hits just keep on coming. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: AJC rumor BASENAME: ajc_rumor STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 12:27:50 AM ----- BODY: I heard a rumor this evening that within six months, The AJC will only publish print editions from Thursday through Sunday of each week. Monday through Wednesday, they will publish web editions exclusively. If true, it's not all that surprising. Editor & Publisher reports for the six-month period ending September 2008, The AJC "saw one of the steepest losses in daily circulation (down 13.6%) but it advanced its net combined audience by 3%, thanks to increases in online and print readership." Increased audience, but not revenue. All while cutting circulation to Georgians who still want the dead tree edition, aka the cash cow. The Ledger reported recently, "for the third time in less than two years, The AJC will again reduce its circulation area."
In last week's edition of The Towns Sentinel, a reader put forth the case of an AJC carrier who delivered to all of Towns County. The county borders North Carolina and has the highest point in Georgia, Brasstown Bald. It is home to Zell Miller, former Georgia governor and former U.S. senator. "A business owned by Carolyn Shook, who has delivered The AJC for many years has been lost," began the letter by Carl Schultz. Schultz wrote that Shook's route had 800 daily and 1,500 Sunday papers. "Attempts to purchase them directly from The AJC via her pick-up [point] at one of the 27 counties has been denied by The AJC.The AJC certainly isn't alone. Newspapers have been hemmoraging money for years, and the downturn in the economy only makes these ailing businesses even more vulnerable. But if someone doesn't figure out how to monetize these monsters soon, there will be no professional news gathering organizations left. And yes, that would be very bad indeed. Related link: Jeff Jarvis on David Carr's proposition for an iTunes model for news. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://journalism.nyu.edu/pubzone/weblogs/pressthink/2009/01/12/atomization.html DATE: 01/14/2009 05:39:29 AM Yeah, no correlation here at all. News Consumption? UP everywhere. Newspapers & Reading of same? Down universally. AJC's coverage of local & state politics? Down probably close to 90% since the 1980's. Staff cuts, coverage cuts. Non regular coverage of much of what goes on 'under the Gold Dome'. Much the same story around the nation too. Again, if you're unable or unwilling to actually cover and report on the news, 'without fear or favor'? Someone else will do it for you. And possibly for cheaper too. That day has arrived. No more news from the 'village idiots' who give us all the received wisdom from on high from unnamed 'well placed sources' who just now issue press releases for them. Newspapers should mean Reading, & catering to a reading and literate public. When I read the AJC today, it's like reading the juvenile Scholastics magazine. It's been so 'dumbed down' to capture the Non literate audience, they've lost their original mission. Hence the hemorrhaging of subscribers continues. They can get their news elsewhere. And now do. Again SSDD, since, oh for much of the past 20 years or so. The hurricane will never hit NOLA, until it does. They had a newspaper that fought to cover the disaster, they're surviving. Essential needs get met. Vital reporting remains to be done. JMP [http://journalism.nyu.edu/pubzone/weblogs/pressthink/2009/01/12/atomization.html] ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 10:40:25 AM Hey Mel... how much validity do you give that rumor? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.155.131.145 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 12:58:39 PM On a 10 point scale, I would give it an 8. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 01:02:30 PM Yikes, that's high. Ah, the information economy, but nobody thinks information is worth paying for. Odd. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.85.136 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 01:12:45 PM For Christmas, I received a weekday subscription to the New York Times. I still love reading papers, but yeah.. AJC is a rag. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.10.67 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 04:07:23 PM I always thought that the price of the paper was basically just a nominal fee to keep the circulation to relatively serious users and that the classifieds and advertising actually paid the bills. Is that not the case? If it is the case, then it seems like it's not US who aren't paying up, it's the advertisers on the website. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.155.131.145 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 04:50:14 PM With print editions, circulation numbers drive ad rates. That's why the paper's decision to voluntarily cut circulation is so puzzling. Sort of related, does anyone know what the story is behind Evening Edge? http://www.ajc.com/eveningedge/ ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Digital TV Transition Update BASENAME: digital_tv_transition_update STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 02:08:29 AM ----- BODY: Last week was a crazy week in the digital tv transition world The Obama Transition team said "delay the date" The FCC said "no way, don't delay" The Leadership Conference on Civil Rights sent this to Congress
On behalf of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights (LCCR), the nation’s oldest, largest, and most diverse civil and human rights coalition, with nearly 200 member organizations, we are writing to support President-elect Obama’s proposal and to urge your support for extending the upcoming digital television transition (DTV) until there is a plan in place to minimize the number of viewers who will lose TV signals. Most importantly, this plan needs to fix the flaws in the federal coupon program created to offset the cost of this transition to consumers. LCCR believes it is critical that America leaves none of its communities and viewers behind as it transitions to digital television.What You Can Do Now! * Get on the Coupon Waiting List - www.dtv2009.gov - This will ensure that as soon as a coupon is available - you're in line to get it. * Volunteer at a DTV Assistance Center - www.atlantadtv2009.com * Help out on MLK Day "Digital" Service Day * Participate in the "Friends and Family" Coupon Swap. If you don't need your coupon then donate it. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Governor's Perdue's State of the State address BASENAME: governors_perdues_state_of_the STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 07:55:12 AM ----- BODY:
AAPC is collecting research, examining case studies and involving our political experts in analyzing what did and did not work in America’s traditional campaign strategy. Some early research is revealing: * Political mail fundraising seemed far outdistanced by online fundraising with several general consultants now wondering if direct mail donors are a dying breed. * Newspapers felt the bite in advertising money that should have gone their way, but did not in any appreciable numbers. Indeed, even banner ads were far less prevalent than expected – despite evidence of the effectiveness of the medium. * Money spent near the end of the campaign not only broke all records – totals will last for years, and yet, much of the last splurging on traditional GOTV efforts were wasted. Voters were not listening to last minute blasts - be they on the phone, on TV or in your mailbox. * Investing in people going door to door, having campaigners spend a little time with senior voters on the phone, and having creative online, personalized messages sent to targeted publics became the winning strategies.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: No relation BASENAME: no_relation STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 05:18:25 PM ----- BODY: Governor Bev Perdue, North Carolina's first female Governor, was inaugurated on Saturday. So when you see headlines like the ones that recently popped up in my email box: "Perdue Calls For Open Government" or "Perdue Promises Accountability to the Public", do not be shocked out of your chair. It's Bev doing the people's business, not Sonny doing big business. Here's a snapshot of her first day on the job:
Monday morning, Perdue signed five executive orders into law. One order will make it easier for taxpayers to access records online of how taxpayer dollars are being spent by government. Another order looks to make gubernatorial campaigning more positive and less costly. An accountability order means surprise inspections of state agencies. Perdue has committed to conducting ongoing town hall meetings and is also creating a citizen oversight panel to check how tax dollars are being used.Congrats to Governor Perdue and to the North Carolina Dems who helped elect her. Read more about the Governor here, read her inauguration speech here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: SCHIP passes US House BASENAME: schip_passes_the_us_house STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 05:57:53 PM ----- BODY: From Congressman John Lewis' office today:
Rep. John Lewis Speaks on Children's Health Insurance Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed the State Children's Health Insurance Program bill with a 289-139 vote. Passage of the bill was managed by the House Ways & Means Committee of which Rep. John Lewis is a senior member. The legislation, formerly vetoed by the Bush Administration provides health insurance for more than 7 million children. The program will protect coverage for those children and expand it to include an additional 4 million children who would otherwise be uninsured. The legislation is paid for through an increase in the federal tobacco tax, as well as a prohibition on kickbacks to physicians from hospitals they own. Rep. John Lewis made this statement today on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in support of the bill: "Mr. Speaker, at long last, we will do what is right for our nation's poorest children; today we will expand SCHIP to 4 million more children. We have a mission, an obligation, a mandate to provide health insurance for all Americans. And now we have a Congress and a President who will meet that obligation for our children. It has taken too long. This nation has been wrong to choose war and greed over children and health. Children need our help. They have a right to health care. Today we will do what is right and pass this expansion of SCHIP."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 207.171.241.43 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 06:49:25 PM I wish I knew what Bright and Marshall were thinking. Bright has now cast two votes so far that are really making AL Democrats ticked. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 07:40:51 PM "How the hell did Rick Goddard raise $1.1 million last year?" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 207.171.241.43 URL: DATE: 01/14/2009 11:14:00 PM Anyway, on a more serious note, after reading some of the comments regarding the legislation, apparently the tobacco provision is still there, which I believe was Marshall's official reason last year for voting against it. I did a Google search and found: http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/shared-blogs/ajc/politicalinsider/entries/2007/09/26/marshall_why_i_voted_against_t.html from 2007. Glad to see Taylor switched his vote. Bright has me scratching my head though. If Griffith can support it then I don't see why Bright can't. Also interesting to see Cao vote nay. I guess he really does want to be a one-termer. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/15/2009 09:55:10 AM "Anyway, on a more serious note, after reading some of the comments regarding the legislation, apparently the tobacco provision is still there, which I believe was Marshall's official reason last year for voting against it." Man, that's got to be a crappy district. You have to vote FOR tobacco (one of the least favorite things in the country) and AGAINST kids (one of the most favorite things). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 207.171.241.43 URL: DATE: 01/15/2009 10:44:03 AM I'm not defending the vote, so say what you will. I do think the liberal infighting over this is quite hilarious :) ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: Georgia's Inaugural Watch Parties & Celebrations BASENAME: georgias_inaugural_watch_parti STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 06:28:34 PM ----- BODY: For those who are staying here in Atlanta and not making the multi-million trek to DC, here's a roundup of some Inauguration Watch Parties and Evening Celebrations around the Peach State. Got more? Add them in the comments... Noon Watch Parties UGA/Athens: -Russell Library Auditorium, UGA Main Library, West Entrance -Memorial Hall 407 (Adinkra Hall) -East Campus Village Fireside Lounge -Tate Student Center Atlanta: - Amsterdam Cafe, Amsterdam Walk, 502 Amsterdam Ave, Atlanta, GA - Panther's Den, 75 Piedmont Ave, Atlanta, GA Nightime Celebration Parties Atlanta: - Halo Lounge, 817 West Peachtree, Atlanta - sponsored by Young Democrats of Atlanta, Young Democrats of Georgia & Red Clay Democrats - Amsterdam Bar & Cafe, 502 Amsterdam Ave, Atlanta - sponsored by Atlanta Stonewall Democrats - PushPush Theater, 121 New Street #4, Decatur - sponsored by the Georgia for Democracy Film Club ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 01/15/2009 09:14:47 AM Something for the OTP's: the Walton County Democratic Party is hosting a preinaugural ball on Saturday, January 17th in Monroe. Tickets are only $10. If you would like to attend, please contact me. Also, if you can't attend but would like to make a donation, they would be more than happy to accept that too. They are a great group of Democrats who have worked extremely hard since reorganizing in June of 2007. They have accomplished a great deal in a short amount of time in the face of some pretty big odds in psycho red land. Just putting this out there... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: rptrcub EMAIL: IP: 131.96.70.9 URL: http://rptrcub.blogspot.com DATE: 01/16/2009 10:27:27 AM Georgia State: The Student Government Association is hosting a viewing in the Student Center Ballroom from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom. The center is at Courtland and Gilmer streets. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: How awesome is this... BASENAME: how_awesome_is_this STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/14/2009 07:11:37 PM ----- BODY: Remember how furious we all were when a certain individual from House 80 abandoned us to hang out with his friend Jill Chambers? Well, Tennessee Republicans are experiencing that same feeling, except much, much worse - Republicans won control of the state House, but Democrats engineered an astonishing ploy to elect a renegade Republican of their choosing as Speaker rather than the anointed Republican candidate, by a single vote. In return, they were able to keep the post of Speaker Pro Tempore, and they will keep a lot of state employees that otherwise would have been ousted by new Republican leadership. To say that Tennessee Republicans are unhappy would be a huge understatement, but I think we can all enjoy the savory taste of schadenfreude here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: plange EMAIL: IP: 74.178.94.161 URL: http://somehumanevents.com DATE: 01/14/2009 08:00:07 PM it is cool-- but someone else beat you to the punch-- see several blog post down-- dated jan 13 ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Gerrymandered! BASENAME: gerrymandered STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/15/2009 01:00:09 PM ----- BODY: Slate has this slideshow of the most gerrymandered districts in the country. Alas, no Georgia districts made the list. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.213.210 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/15/2009 01:09:09 PM The Illinois 4th is caaaarazy. Reminds me of the old Georgia 13th. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.133.208 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/15/2009 01:37:12 PM NC 3 and IL 4 take the cake. Funny to see all the NC Dem districts. Kind of shows how hard the party has worked to maintain their majority there. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/15/2009 02:08:44 PM AZ 2 is also pretty ridiculous. I'm a large fan of the two islands connected by a strip. Must be fun to doorbell that strip. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.133.98.238 URL: DATE: 01/15/2009 03:56:40 PM An odd shape is neither necessary nor sufficient to show that a district is gerrymandered, IMHO. That Arizona district was drawn by an independent commission (two D, two R, one I). IIRC, it was drawn to be both competitive without diluting the voting strength of its Native American residents. I hate that it's totally acceptable to effecitvely disenfranchise voters - like, say, residents of Athens - as long as you do it with an eye-pleasing circle. And it's completely unacceptable to draw an irregular map, no matter how representative it might ultimately be. It's pretty much the ultimate expression of how shallow our dedication to democracy is - we prefer a pretty map to a representative one. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/15/2009 04:51:26 PM Except I thought the whole idea is that we were represented by a geographic area, rather than ideological or ethnic blocks. If we wanted to do the second, we could just have party / ethnic lists and assign them proportionally like a parliamentary system. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 01/15/2009 10:03:37 PM My objection is more to the definition of gerrymandering employed. The original gerrymander was both oddly shaped and drawn to advantage a particular political party. AZ-02 may be strangely shaped, but it was not drawn to advantage a particular party. The map as a whole was drawn to be competitive without dividing a community of interest. So how is it a gerrymander? Because it's oddly shaped? Effectively, that's the definition employed by the Slate feature, and it's objectionable because it completely ignores the worst feature of gerrymandering - the unfair advantage given to one party - and focuses on the superficial one - the shape of the district. And that focus leads them to label as a "gerrymander" a map drawn without any of the traditional goals of gerrymandering. It's inaccurate, and it's irresponsible, too. I mean, I assume the intention of this feature is more than identify oddly-shaped districts. I'd guess this is a misguided attempt to promote good government, which they've undercut by attacking as a gerrymander a map that was drawn by one of the few non-partisan redistricting processes in the country. It's simply disappointing all around. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Happy Birthday Dr. King BASENAME: happy_birthday_dr_king STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/15/2009 04:15:10 PM ----- BODY: Happy 80th Birthday, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Thank you for sacrificing your life so I can have a better life. A life of promise. A life where I can be judged by the content of my character and not the color of my skin. From the "I Have a Dream" speech:
It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds." But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. So we have come to cash this check — a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice. We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.On January 20, 2009, America will celebrate knowing that one of your dreams are ringing true.
With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: More Events to Celebrate the Inauguration-all around Georgia BASENAME: more_events_to_celebrate_the_i STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/15/2009 06:36:45 PM ----- BODY:
TRANSPORTATION: One of the the state’s issues that everyone agrees is a mindblowing problem is also the most up in the air. That’s not a good sign. Perdue told the crowd that he wouldn’t support a proposal until it showed that it could pay a “dividend” — in other words, it needed to be results-based. Cagle pushed the one-cent regional sales tax proposal that nearly passed last session, but ultimately failed by three votes in the Senate. Richardson wants a statewide plan, he says, because transportation is a statewide issue. For the lieutenant governor, it was all about the roads. Not once during Cagle’s address did he mention “rail.” Richardson mentioned light-rail in the suburbs, which sounds cool, but would never work. (Gotta have the density, folks.) He proposed the idea of truck routes that bypass Atlanta as well.Cagle never even mentioned rail. Awesome. I will slightly take issue with Wheats here on Suburban rail. Suburb to Suburb rail is not supportable here, but Suburb to Downtown and Midtown (and Athens) rail I think could work, but with that Atlanta-hating crowd, the word "Downtown" together with "rail" makes them think of homeless people in train stations, this despite the fact it was held at GWCC.
TORT REFORM: This one could be interesting. Perdue said he wants to enhance Georgia’s pro-business image and “cement [our] position as a leader in the biotech industry” by exempting manufacturers of FDA-approved products from tort lawsuits. Basically, companies with a “significant presence” in Georgia won’t be subject to product liability claims in the state if the FDA approved the product. The other bill: “Relief” — or as it’s known in some parts, “attorney’s fees” — if a claim against a litigant is dismissed at the earliest possible stage of the legal process. If the attorney in the case doesn’t notify his or her client of the law, that attorney is responsible for the damages.This one's a bad idea in two parts here, one Loser Pays, the other is Immunity for Drug Companies. Loser Pays is, essentially, the English system (but also the French and some others), and in it, if you lose, you pay the other side's legal fees. The problem here is, that if you lose "at the earliest stage of litigation", a lot of times it is because of a pleading or venue issue, both technicalities. With the county venue system that we have in Georgia, it is often very difficult to determine all the facts necessary to prosecuting a lawsuit without conducting discovery, which is exactly what this bill aims to protect defendants against. Judges can go forever without ruling on motions, so a plaintiff could end up paying for months and months of legal bills for the defendant for a simple defect. In practice it would be terrible. In theory it isn't much better. One of the hallmarks of our legal system and our society that even the largest company must answer for the wrongs they have done to the small. With the possibility of having to pay oppressive fees, middle glass Georgians will likely forgo many suits where they have been wronged, leaving dangerous behavior unchecked by our civil justice system. Oh, and drug companies? The proposal attempts to give drug companies immunity if they passed the FDA pre-screen. But the FDA doesn't have the money to effectively conduct their reviews, which are just a cost benefit analysis with a small sample size conducted by the drug company. (Talking about the FDA budget: "At least there’s not a substantial cut, but the agency won’t be able to do much with food or drug safety,” says William Hubbard, a former FDA associate commissioner who joined other former FDA officials in urging the agency’s budget be doubled over five years.) Additionally, giving immunity to companies "with a substantial presence" which I take to mean locating manufacturing or research here since Perdue spoke of it in terms of strengthening Georgia Bio-Tech industry, but not other companies in other states whose behavior was the same is violative of the Commerce Clause, which is in the Constitution, a document that Perdue has never heard of. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: rptrcub EMAIL: IP: 131.96.70.9 URL: http://rptrcub.blogspot.com DATE: 01/16/2009 10:28:21 AM I am curious as to how suburban fear of "crime" may play out with attempts, again, to improve rail infrastructure, especially now with the high-profile robbery/murder at The Standard. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 10:56:16 AM Drug companies are about to get the same preemption protection given to FDA-approved medical devices as soon as the Supreme Court rules on Wyeth v. Levine. Sonny's proposal is dumb not because of what it purports to do, but because it is unnecessary given the current state of Supreme Court precedent on the subject. Now, if Congress gets rid of the preemption provisions in the FDCA perhaps his legislation might actually do something. Also, I think drug and device manufacturers seeking FDA approval pay hundreds of thousands of dollars every time they submit an application for pre-approval of a new drug or device. It's also not a cost-benefit analysis...the statute requires that new products be reviewed to ensure they are safe and effective. Maybe read Riegel v. Medtronic about the hundreds of hours of review that go into a premarket approval application. It's not the slipshod rubber stamp you're painting it to be, and I know this because I've actually seen an application and the back and forth between manufacturer and FDA before approval is granted. There's also extensive post-approval reporting and oversight requirements that must be met or approval can be withdrawn. There is a case to be made for eliminating federal preemption for drugs and devices, but it's not based on the popular misconceptions of how little the FDA does before approving these products. When you actually work in this field, you learn what all goes into the process. I don't agree with a loser pays system, but I think the most controversial aspect of the proposal is requiring plaintiff's attorneys to pay the fees if their client cannot after a lawsuit is determined to be frivolous. I'm not sure that will pass muster under the GA constitution. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.135.215.20 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 12:16:01 PM I'm skeptical of this density claim - I don't think I've ever seen a conservative agree that any region has sufficient density to support new light rail, and I've never seen a liberal argue for rail on the basis of density. How is density being measured? What level of density is necessary for light rail? How was that figire determined? How does that compare with the level of density that - I suppose - is necessary before a new road or road expansion is justified? Is that even the metric used for roads? If not, why not, and why is it nevertheless appropriate for rail? I've looked around for the answers to those questions, and as yet all I've found are conservative bloggers repeating the density assertion in every city of any size, all without any further explanation. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 12:26:07 PM Sara, They absolutely conduct a cost-benefit analysis. I know what the statute says, and I know what they go through, but they balance based on small samples. That much is a fact. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 12:28:37 PM Oh, and regarding Cagle and the nothing in support of rail: Dear Emory Morsberger: Re: Your contributions to Cagle in '06 I told you he cared for neither Brain nor Train. MoTS ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 12:55:31 PM I don't know what you mean by they balance based upon small samples. The statues are very clear about all the detailed information the manufacturer has to provide, clinical trials and studies, etc. The information is presented to prove a drug/device is safe and effective. Now some risk is always allowed for, because no drug or device is ever proven 100% risk-free, and often the conditions they are prescribed to treat are life-threatening so the FDA weighs whether it would be better to keep a product off the market because it presents a small known risk against the benefit it could provide to the vast majority of patients. Defibrillators, for example, present risks but they also keep people alive. I am sure most people with congestive heart failure would rather take the risks and have a product that keeps their heart beating, as opposed to wondering if they are just going to keel over at any second. In my personal experience, the FDA does review the submissions and goes back and forth with the manufacturer many times about additional information needed, things they want studied in additional animal or human studies, the language of the warning label and packaging, etc. They do not just rubber stamp anything. If you want to bolster the safety screening process for drugs and devices, I would suggest improving funding and resources to the FDA. They are certainly in a better position to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a complex medical device or pharmaceutical product than 12 random people on a jury in podunkville, USA. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jon EMAIL: IP: 24.248.74.254 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 01:30:30 PM It is about density and land use, Drew. Now, don't get me wrong, I love SUPERTRAINS! But if rail is extended to areas with land use patterns characteristic of larger swaths of big box retail and 1-acre lot fortified subdivisions, it just won't work economically. Density in this context is just another word for scale. Not enough ridership to support the line, and then people will bitch about taxpayer money subsidizing service (see: MARTA's troubles). Ideally rail centric transportation corridors have 1.) a mix of land use, 2.) is walkable, and 3.) is easily accessible to enough riders to scale. That is something incredibly absent in a lot of suburban and exurban communities in the metro counties. Extending rail to those places just gives potential riders a half measure. Commuters will still have to jump in a car and ride a "mini-commute" to park and hop on a rail. That's a niche market. The sought after impact to VMT and congestion would be marginal at best. Until we develop with density, or embrace mixed-use TND or TOD (if that makes it sound better), rail just doesn't make much sense. Lots of liberals argue that point Drew (see: yglesias and Atrios, and a whole truck load of new urbanist). That doesn't mean we shouldn't build a couple of teh awesome SUPERTRAINS (e.g. Atl-Athens). We just don't develop in a way that supports them. Wheatly is correct on that score. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 03:50:48 PM Sara, Agreed with all that you said except for one point. We are agreed that the FDA does perform a cost-benefit analysis, but I think an argument can be made that a jury is in a better position to judge the costs in whatever specific facts they have in front of them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 06:18:25 PM There is a huge problem with letting juries do that calculus, and it's not that most are woefully unqualified to assess the safety of a complex medical product. Imagine this scenario, which has nothing to do with medical devices or drugs but everything to do with product liability law: The Lincoln Navigator is sold with laminated glass in its side windows, while the virtually identical Ford Expedition is sold with tempered glass. Tempered glass is designed to break into tiny rubble when struck in order to prevent lacerations. Laminated glass is designed to be very difficult to break because you essentially have to tear through the laminate. In one accident in the Navigator, the vehicle crashes into a retaining pond and the occupants are unable to break out the windows to escape as the vehicle fills with water, and they drown. In another accident, the Expedition rolls over on a deserted highway after the driver almost falls asleep and overcorrects, and an occupant is ejected out of the passenger window. In separate lawsuits involving a virtually identical vehicle, the people in the first accident claim the window should have been tempered glass because it would have been possible to kick or smash out the window and escape the vehicle before it filled with water, and the people in the second accident claim that the window should have been laminate because it would not have shattered during the rollover and the occupant would not have been ejected onto the roadway. Two juries find that Ford's design choice of laminate and tempered glass was unreasonably dangerous and award damages. In both instances, a jury performed a cost-benefit analysis and found the other option was better. So what glass should Ford use in its windows? Now, extrapolate that out to a medical device or pharmaceutical. I don't know enough about drug formulation to give a concrete example there, but I can imagine a scenario where formulation A is slightly less likely to cause side effect X but slightly more likely to cause side effect Y, while formulation B is the opposite. Allowing individual juries to decide which formulation should have been used, or to decide that a specific formulation was not safe and effective, would create competing and contradictory pressures on the manufacturer for the very same drug. Meanwhile, all of this would have been presented to the FDA, who would have already performed a cost-benefit analysis and made a determination that formulation X or Y was the most safe and effective. Why are we going to let individual juries in courts scattered throughout the country to rehash that decision for them? Particularly when juries are going to be focusing on the bad outcome that formulation X allegedly caused their plaintiff and worrying much less about the risks that changing that formulation might cause to hypothetical folks... I know we end up on opposite counsel tables on this one, but as someone who has fairly extensively briefed federal preemption for medical device manufacturers at this point, I feel very comfortable with the Supreme Court's ruling in Riegel and think there is no reason to overturn it. I also think extending its holding to pharmaceuticals makes a lot of sense too. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: thomaswheatley EMAIL: IP: 24.98.77.3 URL: http://www.clfreshloaf.com DATE: 01/16/2009 10:40:05 PM Yo yo! Since writing that post, I've read some more about the statewide transportation funding scheme that's about to be proposed in the House, as well as its possible projects. Galloway mentions them here. I initially took what Richardson said at the breakfast to mean a standalone light-rail system in the 'burbs. Like, say, Woodstock. But from what I've since learned, what the speaker talked about would be light-rail stretching from downtown to North Atlanta. This totally changes the argument, and is akin to what you said. That could theoretically work. LR to Cobb, if you recall, was proposed by the Transit Planning Board in its Concept3 plan. Take care, Stefan. And don't you dare ever apologize to me! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: thomaswheatley EMAIL: IP: 24.98.77.3 URL: http://www.clfreshloaf.com DATE: 01/16/2009 10:43:50 PM Oops. In the second paragraph, third sentence, it should read "would most likely be light-rail stretching..." You never know with these cats. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/17/2009 11:28:42 AM Sara, We can agree to disagree. I like your Navigator/Expedition analogy, but I would argue that there is no reason a jury couldn't understand the point you made. The company has a ton of pressure to get its drug approved and the FDA gets a lot of outside pressure as well, I am not sure the deference we give to their findings is wholly warranted. Vioxx was approved and it had serious problems. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Hail Sullenberger BASENAME: hail_sullenberger STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/16/2009 12:50:29 PM ----- BODY: There isn't much to say about US Airlines flight 1549 that hasn't already been said. But, allow me to repeat something for emphasis: good training, expertise, and experience matter. No doubt this would have been a very different kind of story today if Captain Chesley Sullenberger, a man with forty years of experience, hadn't been the one piloting the craft. Similarly, kudos to the rescue personnel who showed flexibility, professionalism, and above all, skill in plying their trade. We are used to employers crying poor. Seems like the usual first PR lob is to moan about how the XYZ union is bleeding them dry. Then, the second move is to offer buyouts to the most senior, experienced members of the organization. Today, I'm so glad that no one deemed Capt. "Sully" "too expensive" to retain. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 05:07:30 PM Don't forget the flight attendants. Most often thought to simply bring drinks and provide info, they're responsible for the cabin when it goes down. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 66.156.15.176 URL: DATE: 01/17/2009 09:28:49 AM You are absolutely right. They are also often the some of the last people off the plane, and the first to be injured. So, big fat kudos also go to: flight attendants Donna Dent, Doreen Welsh, and Sheila Dail, as well as first officer Jeffrey Skiles. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Road Trip BASENAME: road_trip STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/16/2009 09:12:23 PM ----- BODY: Not sure how many of you will be making the trek to DC for the festivities this Tuesday, but today I made mine. I had planned to fly, but various circumstances intervened and it turned into a car trip. I canceled the ticket, and will use those large fluffy dollars for other air travel. I was rolling at 6 am( which is why I wasn't at the Horne party) not too many folks up at that hour, so I barely dipped below 80 mph till Greenville. A pit stop at the Micky D's, a egg mcMuffin, a refill on the java and I kept rolling. Tunes are critical for the ride, but at 6 am I decided to listen to a audiobook, and what cheery thing did I pick? Blackwater, yeah I know what you are thinking, a downer...but my other choices were lets just say even heavier. Beowulf, The Aeneid, The Canterbury Tales, and the Divine Comedy-I'm saving Dante for the ride home. But 4 hours of soldier of fortune wannabe's was quite enough so I switched to music and spoken word. The special Obama play list was first up -natch, various artists singing about Obama and voting, a podcast of his 2004 convention speech ( which made me sad cause it reminded me of Keenun) then Martin Luther King's We Shall Overcome speech. Now I was feeling it, so naturally that meant a stop at WalMart. I know...whaaaa? ----- EXTENDED BODY: Yes, WalMart somewhere outside of Greensboro. I had to go to the camping and outdoor department to pick up a stash of "toasty-toes" and warm hand thingies. These are mission critical items for Tuesday, having already gotten the "we are going to freeze our asses off" email from my date on Tuesday. I bought a bunch, they will be distributed as necessary ( don't worry Mel -I'll save you some) Then back on the road. I see various GA plates speeding by me, and I was sorry I didn't go through with my "Inauguration or Bust" sign. This road trip is severely lacking in comparison to the Unity Express. I try to spice things up at the VA Welcome Center - I can't pass up free maps! By Richmond I was hungry again, and I stopped at Dunkin Doughnuts and got one of their new flatbread sandwiches, yum and relatively unmessy driving food. Yes, Subway would have been healthier, but hard to eat at 80 mph. Exactly 10 hours later, jittery from caffeine, and ears ringing from the Clash, NIN, Goldfrapp, George Michael, Gil Scott-Heron, Public Image Ltd., Siouxsie & the Banshees, just to name a few, I arrive at the apartment in Alexandria. The apartment is warm, clean, has WiFi and is outside of the fray for now. Two people at the local Safeway commented on my Obama You Betcha button, and wished me well on Tuesday. I'm happy to be here, and will post more interesting stuff as I can. Have you got a inauguration road trip story? If so post away.. Oh and IRE, if you know what's good for you, do. not. mock. my. music. choices. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/16/2009 10:22:17 PM The Aeneid is overrated, Chaucer is a wuss, and I would only read the Hollanders' translation of the Divine Comedy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: indie_rock_elitist EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.127 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 10:30:32 PM I approve of Goldfrapp. Maybe add Built to Spill's keep it like a secret or Modest Mouse's Lonseome Crowded West. Then again I heard this cut off the Gene Harris & The Philip Morris All-Stars album "Live" called Low Down Blues Medley and WOW. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/16/2009 10:50:37 PM I am a cultural maven. Few songs encapsulate the world better than the Lord Loves a Drinkin Man, or How can I be so Thirsty Today (When I Drank so Much Last Night), or Thrown out of Every Bar, Are you Sure Hank Done it this Way?, or Old 45s by Dallas Wayne, or the Wild Side of Life (I'm listening to Hank Thompson sing it right now), It's Only Cocain by Country Dick Montana, or some Heather Myles songs like Playin' Every Honky Tonk in Town or Gretchen Wilson's One Bud Wiser, the Buck Starts Here by Robbie Fulks will bring a tear to your eye, Frank Sinatra's version of Drinking Again is great. Then there is Yellowman's Zungguzungguguzungguzeng. And in light with recent developments, an anti-pig song. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 98.169.152.162 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 11:01:29 PM IRE.. I have 4445 songs on the IPOD.. Plenty of drinking themed ones in there.. John Lee Hooker, Louis Prima ( Mint Julep) John Hiatt ( the tiki bar is open)UB40 ( Red, Red Wine) But I'll check out the others.. thanks.. it's a long trip home. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/16/2009 11:17:51 PM How could I forget Red Simpson's Born to be a Trucker, or the Twangbanger's Rock Bottom Good lord, so many great songs for the open road, so little time. Muddy Waters did an album with two other greats (their names escape me) called the Super Super Blues Band I happen to like it, others don't, YMMV, then I also like Carrie and Lurrie Bell's album Gettin' Up. If you want some classical recommendations I can provide. And then of course, whicever album 96 Degrees in the Shade appeared on is legend, as is Sound System's Island Anthology (if you don't love the song Sound System you don't have a pulse). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/16/2009 11:56:22 PM Last but certainly not least, the Texas Tornadoes singing the story of my life. Do yourself a favor and listen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9rcOGQA8bQ&feature=related ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/16/2009 11:57:20 PM Last but certainly not least, the Texas Tornadoes singing the story of my life. Do yourself a favor and listen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9rcOGQA8bQ&feature=related THey just don't make songs like that anymore. and by "Like that" i mean, heartfelt and poetic. Ok so Hank III is both. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Virgil Fludd Speaks for Me BASENAME: virgil_fludd_speaks_for_me STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/16/2009 10:41:47 PM ----- BODY: He's my Facebook bud and he posted this tonight: We've seen the cuts, but where's the vision? We are one week into the 2009 legislative session, and what have we seen so far? The biggest issues this year all revolve around money. With a still faltering economy, addressing these issues will be more complex and cumbersome than in past years. From a practical standpoint, there are some decisions we simply must make. Despite the current economic climate, there are a number of key policy decisions that must be made to help chart our state's course for the next 10 or 20 years. As we begin this year's session, the lack of priorities and deficit of vision that have marked the last six years of Republican rule are becoming more and more clear. Remember the old saying about the dangers of being penny wise and pound foolish? It's a truth that holds whether times are good or bad, whether government is flush with revenues or pinched. Saving nickels and dimes is fine, but not when long term investments that keep Georgia competitive, strong, healthy, and well-educated are never addressed. Unfortunately, that is exactly what the Republicans in power have done – and as a result, we're behind the eight ball on transportation, trauma care, economic development, education, health care, and a host of other issues. It is particularly distressing in transportation. We have not even nibbled around the edges on this one. We have now reached a point of no return. The legislature, the governor and the DOT all need to be held accountable for taking bold action – this year. Our future and your future depend on it. Every day that passes without action on transportation is another day that sees Georgia becoming less desirable for businesses looking to relocate – and if you can't move people and goods around the state, you can't do business effectively here. Transportation is, unfortunately, only one example where we've seen little or no vision or long-term thinking from the party in power. ----- EXTENDED BODY: Take a look at the Department of Corrections, where the state is not talking about reducing prison populations and diverting minor offenders to other avenues of rehabilitation. Instead, they want to reduce the number of prison chaplains and even close down four prisons. Even more obvious and disturbing is the problem of poverty and homelessness in Georgia. Thanks to a partnership of public and private sources, the homeless and disadvantaged often have food and a place to sleep when the weather turns cold, but we are unwilling to muster the political courage to address the root problems – education, health care, job creation, and all of the other factors that lead to poverty and homelessness. So far, this session, we've seen a rush to cut the budget. That is a necessary move, given these tough financial times. But what we haven't seen, in the rush to cut, is a real vision of where Georgia can be in ten, twenty, or even fifty years. By investing wisely today, even in the midst of financial troubles, we can build future prosperity for our state, and leave us better-prepared and better-equipped for our future. Here's what you can do. Remember that your legislators, Republican or Democrat, work for you, and we should be held accountable to you. Call us, email us, and make sure your voice is heard. As a start, try emailing your Representative and asking them two simple questions: Where do you want to see Georgia in ten years, and what are you doing to get us there? ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 98.169.152.162 URL: DATE: 01/16/2009 11:03:52 PM I really like him. I met him at a GADCC dinner and he was very cool. Good for you Rep Fludd.. he speaks for me too ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: MLK Day of Service BASENAME: mlk_day_of_service STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/16/2009 11:13:52 PM ----- BODY:
Even if you can't make it to Washington, DC to participate in the 2009 Inauguration, you can still take part in the celebration. Recently, Barack and Michelle Obama called on Americans to help celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by participating in a National Day of Service on Monday, January 19.Here is a list of the service events happening near you: Atlanta - Hands on Atlanta MLK Service Summit January 19th, 9:00 am * Several events - please click on the link for details* Athens - Clarke County Democratic Committee's Day of Service January 19th, 9:00am Cartersville - Bartow County MLK Brotherhood March and Food Drive January 19th, 2:00pm Douglasville - Douglas County Day of Service January 17th, 10:00am Duluth - Gwinnett Pre-Inaugural Breakfast and Food Drive January 17th, 8:30am Jesup - Wayne County Day of Service January 15th, 10:00am Kingsland - Camden County Meeting and Food Drive January 13th, 7:00pm ----- EXTENDED BODY: Lincolnton - Lincoln County Day of Service and MLK Celebration January 19th, 9:00am Rome - Campaign for Change/Rome Young Democrats Day of Service January 19th, 9:00 am Savannah - Chatham County Day of Service January 17th, 8am - 12:00pm Tifton - Tift County MLK Breakfast and Food Drive January 19th, 8:30am Valdosta - Lowndes County Weekend of Service January 17th, 10:00am Warner Robins - Houston County Day of Service January 17th, 8:00 - 4:00pm ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.127 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/16/2009 11:32:20 PM Also the Archdiocese is having a Mass to celebrate MLK at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception downtown at 1. We will be joined by the Archbishop of New Orleans, if I am not mistaken. I would also like to say the Most Rev. Wilton Daniel Gregory has been one of the leading voices (if not the leading voice) in promoting an African American liturgy within the Catholic Church. To say that Atlanta is truly lucky to be under the guiding spirit of Archbishop Gregory is a gross understatement. I truly urge all Catholics, both "lapsed" and current to come out on Saturday and listen to Archbishop Gregory, you will not be disappointed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://tompaine.com DATE: 01/17/2009 03:02:58 AM Thanks for the cross post here Juliana, it'll be helpful, hopefully. In Cartesville & Bartow Co. the MLK Parade steps off @ the Civic Center @ 2PM, we'll be collecting food at our later meeting that eve. And IRE, Atlanta has indeed been fortunate to have a succession of the first African American Archbishops, beginning with the late Bishop Eugene Antonio Marino, who became lapsed himself. I've heard Bishop Gregory speak on a few occasions, and he's a powerful speaker. But it's good to see such involvement from everyone. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Dear Snellville Voters, Don Balfour (R-Plant Vogtle) does not work for you. BASENAME: dear_snellville_voters_don_bal STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/17/2009 02:10:56 PM ----- BODY: He works for Georgia Power. Georgia Power wants to build two new nuclear plants, which the Public Service Commission is considering allowing them to do and then get those costs back from those than consume power. But Georgia Power has told Sen. Don Balfour to circumvent the process by pushing a bill through the legislature saying they can make you pay for the reactors to be built, and by YOU I mean small home consumers, not larger consumers of powers like textile mills and Walmarts. From Political Insider:
But as unveiled, the Georgia Power bill sponsored by Senate Rules Chairman Don Balfour has this line: "These financing costs shall be recovered from each customer through a separate rate tariff and allocated on an equal percentage basis to standard base tariffs which are designed to collect embedded capacity costs." Translated into English, this means: "Large industrial and commercial plants - whether a Kia auto plant or a big box Wal-Mart - shall not be charged - much - for this adventure. Not in advance. Instead, the burden will fall on small businesses and homeowners who are much likely to shell out money for trouble-making lobbyists."Don Balfour, looking out for corporate lobbyists, not people. ----- EXTENDED BODY: Or maybe he just likes giant fish:
"We ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to give back, when brown can stick around, when yellow will be mellow, when the red man can get ahead, man, and when white will embrace what is right".I love that man! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.194.65 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/20/2009 01:49:37 PM That was just plain awesome. ATL in the house! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 01/20/2009 04:45:12 PM Definitely one of my favorite parts of the whole ceremony! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/20/2009 04:45:22 PM its a good thing for him there's no orange people ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 98.169.152.162 URL: DATE: 01/20/2009 07:41:55 PM I LOVE him!.. This was seriously the best part of all those speakers besides Obama ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/20/2009 11:02:21 PM In all seriousness, that clown Warren could only dream to aspire to the courage and wisdom of a Lowery one day. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://tompaine.com DATE: 01/21/2009 03:11:26 AM I think it's one of the Rev. Lowery's fav lines, but always delivered with gusto. And I think Big Rick W. did a credible job, about as well as could be expected. Nice to see for the day. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/21/2009 11:37:04 AM All I remember is his porn star rendition of SASHA and MALIA ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Smitty EMAIL: IP: 70.11.13.223 URL: DATE: 01/21/2009 12:02:06 PM LOL Zaid - I had the same reaction. He sounded like "Chester the Child Molester" when he said their names. way creepy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Razor Sharpalla EMAIL: IP: 63.237.39.226 URL: DATE: 01/21/2009 01:31:04 PM Ha ha yeah the Rev Lowery was just a regular motivating machine...are you that lost? Do you think God sits around all day and worries about skin color? You are obssessed with this and I must ask if there would be all this hoopla if Condaleeza Rice or Alan Keyes were voted the President? Hmmm think Oprah would be crying? You liberals are such hypocrites! save a tree but kill innocent babies and the arguments are so pathetic.....Oblahma has accomplished only a campaign and NOTHING else but I unlike the libs will pray and root for OUR president whether he is black or white or red or yellow get some knowledge before you write things ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Razor Sharpalla EMAIL: IP: 63.237.39.226 URL: DATE: 01/21/2009 01:36:38 PM Yeah Rick Warren is real clown?.....I mean how can you sit and say you loved a man of God and call another man of God a clown you need some help ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Smitty EMAIL: IP: 70.11.13.223 URL: DATE: 01/21/2009 03:16:37 PM **TROLL ALERT *** TROLL ALERT *** Red lights are blinking. Call security. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: nicolette EMAIL: IP: 204.152.239.219 URL: DATE: 01/21/2009 03:21:14 PM i love tolhouse chocolate chip cookies from the oven, but think chips-a-hoy are a complete joke ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: aquariusrizing EMAIL: IP: 96.32.178.56 URL: DATE: 01/22/2009 06:55:35 AM I always love Rev. Lowery. He manages to get the knife in and twist it with that wry grin, then pulls it out and blesses everyone while we're still wondering what he really meant by that... very, very, very effective method of making sure you're being actively listened to. He is an Atlanta treasure, and I was in tears that he was finally recognized nationally like that. I hung on every word, as I've been doing since the age of 7, every chance I've gotten to hear him. People who didn't get bussed, didn't march, never faced the national guard w/guns drawn on women and children, wearing gas masks, can't be expected to understand how valuable his ability has always been to take the violence out of the situation by speaking to the injustice at hand. For those too young to remember, he has been against war, including the Vietnam one, and has often been one of the first members of the old guard African American Clergy to say so, for example, re Iraq. There have been many times over the years where it was his calm humor and wisdom that prevailed, in the face of potential violence. Proud, Proud, Proud of Rev. Lowery. Always! Maddy ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 01/23/2009 04:42:11 PM Interesting take on Rev. Lowery's rhyme. I am not interested in Limbaugh's faux outrage, but this man's perspective does make me think: http://www.motherjones.com/mojoblog/archives/2009/01/11927_lowery.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: aquariusrizing EMAIL: IP: 96.32.178.56 URL: DATE: 01/25/2009 06:29:56 PM Made me think too. I've all too often encountered an obvious, immediate dismissal from rare individuals, based on the fact that I am white. It hurts less and less every time, but used to break my heart. When I am able get past that w/love and light, I often make a new friend... but some resentments are so deeply set that my energy is best spent w/those who are already evolved or at least evolving beyond jusdging folks by the color of their skin. The link helped me understand that these folks are just now getting their first taste of it. I am sensing hurt feelings beneath the anger, and see why Rev. Lowery's last comment evoked such deep feelings now. thanks. maddy ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: www.whitehouse.gov/blog BASENAME: wwwwhitehousegovblog STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/20/2009 02:46:28 PM ----- BODY:
Johnson will head the Subcommittee on Courts and Competition Policy, which will have a narrower jurisdiction this Congress. Johnson's panel will handle antitrust law but not intellectual property issues, which will be pushed up to the full committee level.Keep doing us proud! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 74.127.86.20 URL: DATE: 01/23/2009 05:28:16 PM Congrats to Congressman Johnson. Glad to see one of our state's Congressmen in a powerful position. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.225 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/24/2009 09:20:03 AM It's that whole being Buddhist thing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/24/2009 05:43:18 PM Given his contentious fight for the seat and his very poor speaking style, I was wary of him but he's done a commendable job on the committee, and has dedicated himself to holding officials accountable to the rule of law, I think he more than deserves the seat. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/24/2009 05:55:31 PM Also, his refusal to vote for the "Everything Israel Does Is Kosher" bill along with 95% of the rest of Congress was refreshing. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: House Democratic Caucus pledges to fight to keep nurses in school BASENAME: house_democraic_caucus_pledges STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/23/2009 03:41:56 PM ----- BODY: I can't imagine how Georgia's Republican Governor has more time on his hand to care about the number of people serving on a school board than he does to keep school nurses. I couldn't imagine growing up without having a school nurse - not that I was a sickly kid - but it was always the assurance that if something did go medically wrong there was a nurse professional onsite at the school. I moved into my Edgewood neighborhood because of the volunteer efforts of the late Dr. Brumley who set up a medical facility at Whitefoord Elementary. When the Atlanta School Board was forced by the State to cut school nurses in the mid-90's, Dr. Brumley established a medical facility at a public elementary school to serve all the children attending the school and their siblings. There aren't many Dr. Brumley types left in Georgia so it is critical that our legislators step up to the plate and find the money to keep school nurses. I'm glad the Democratic House Caucus opposes the Governor's cuts.
Children can't learn when they are sick and teachers can't teach when they are running a health clinic. Atlanta -- According to the Governor's FY 2009 amended budget proposal school nurses will soon become a thing of the past. The recommendations submitted by the Governor last week cut $30 million in state funds which would eliminate the school nurse program. The Georgia House Democratic Caucus leaders oppose this cut and have pledged to work to restore the program. Democrats believe in promoting preventive medicine and supporting nurses in schools so children can focus on learning and avoid complications that arise when health problems go untreated. They also believe every family should have access to a doctor and every school should have a nurse. "We have a growing number of working families without health insurance and some of those parents rely on school nurses to keep their children safe and healthy while they are in school." said Pat Gardner (D-Atlanta), Chairperson for Health and Human Services Policy Committee for the Georgia House Democratic Caucus. Georgia House Democratic Caucus Education Policy Chair, Rep. Kathy Ashe (D-Atlanta) said, "We must fight for our children and their right to receive appropriate health care while they are in school. If children don't receive the care they need their medical issues could escalate. It's a short sighted approach that will eventually cost our state additional funds and more importantly, diminish our children's ability to do the job they go to school to accomplish - learning. I am asking our parents and teachers to express your concern about these cuts to your state representative and state senators. Email gadhcissues@gmail.com if you need assistance finding your elected representatives."----- EXTENDED BODY:
Removing school nurses is extremely short-sighted. Georgia House Democratic Leader, Rep. DuBose Porter (D-Dublin) added real life examples. "In Dublin, we have one nurse for four elementary schools. Numerous daily school-age related illnesses aside, our nurse manages diabetic children who must undergo daily blood sugar testing; she takes care of a child on a feeding tube, and has a student going through stage 4 cancer. The management of these health issues takes a trained professional." said Porter. "In one of the four schools alone there are 38 students on asthma inhalers, students who at times have had to be rushed to the hospital with acute asthma attacks. We should not balance the state's budget by cutting health care to sick children or making our teachers become health care providers." Georgia House Democratic Caucus Chairman Calvin Smyre (D-Columbus) agreed and pointed out legal questions that may arise, regardless of safeguards designed to protect the school. "The governor should be asking, who will administer this care...the teachers? The liability on untrained school employees administering health care could easily become an issue. Teachers in Georgia schools now are not allowed to administer medications. Nurses in our schools give out over 5 million doses per year. There are approximately fifteen million annual visits to the office or school health room for illness, medication and injury in Georgia," said Smyre. "Children can't learn when they are sick and teachers can't teach when they are running a health clinic." In conclusion Porter noted, "We are willing to fight to stop this cut that will directly damage our schools and our children, but it will take a great effort to get the message to this Governor. Now is the time for Georgians to engage in the political process. Times are changing and Georgians can no longer assume basic services will continue. Georgians must become involved in the process."The Georgia House Democratic Caucus has an Email to handle issues that relate to the Governor's proposed cuts. To voice your concern email gadhcissues@gmail.com Together we can continue to protect our children's future. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: State Rep. Stacey Abrams speaks for me BASENAME: state_rep_stacey_abrams_speaks STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/23/2009 11:37:22 PM ----- BODY: Go to Tondee Tavern's Barrel Room and read what State Rep. Stacey Abrams has to say about Republican Ed Lindsey's HR-1 property assessment and taxation bill. It's good stuff. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.168 URL: DATE: 01/24/2009 08:54:35 AM Great stuff! Representative Abrams shows great examples of what this bill could mean and the importance of thoughtful and fair tax policy. Thank you for posting this. It is excellent. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 01/24/2009 12:27:39 PM Love me some Rep. Abrams, that's my Rep!!! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpaceyG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.111.217 URL: http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=46584647771&h=b41zK&u=PzzV5 DATE: 01/25/2009 04:33:10 PM Not sure how much, at this point, I agree or disagree with Rep. Abrams. But that's beside the point. She sure writes a beautifully presented, thoroughly enlightening blog post about it all. These are the GA legislators who need to be blogging... a lot. Come to think about it, having her narrate the post, as a voice-over, would make a terrific multimedia presentation for her POV, one that could then be distributed easily via social media... now that so many GA politicos, legislators, etc. are on FB, Twitter, blogging, etc. Just need to target the clever multimedia-ist to whip something up. (Wish I was that person, but I'm not half that clever.) But someone who works with graphics at lot, hint hint, sure could give it a snappy treatment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpaceyG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.111.217 URL: http://mostlymedia.wordpress.com/ DATE: 01/25/2009 04:33:37 PM Not sure how much, at this point, I agree or disagree with Rep. Abrams. But that's beside the point. She sure writes a beautifully presented, thoroughly enlightening blog post about it all. These are the GA legislators who need to be blogging... a lot. Come to think about it, having her narrate the post, as a voice-over, would make a terrific multimedia presentation for her POV, one that could then be distributed easily via social media... now that so many GA politicos, legislators, etc. are on FB, Twitter, blogging, etc. Just need to target the clever multimedia-ist to whip something up. (Wish I was that person, but I'm not half that clever.) But someone who works with graphics at lot, hint hint, sure could give it a snappy treatment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpaceyG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.111.217 URL: http://mostlymedia.wordpress.com/ DATE: 01/25/2009 04:36:50 PM Musta hit something more than once. Can you delete one of these comments? They're duplicates. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Yay! BASENAME: obamas_other_familyplanning_mo STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/24/2009 04:07:34 PM ----- BODY:
Because of Bush's actions on UNFPA, fewer women in developing countries received pre-natal care, fewer doctors were trained to deal with pregnancy complications, fewer HIV prevention programs could operate, and less medical equipment was made available to expectant mothers. Obama is going to make this right.And by make it right, they mean restore the funding that Bush blocked. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: 843527 EMAIL: IP: 24.99.184.237 URL: DATE: 01/28/2009 12:46:27 PM Yet another place to spend US taxpayer $s ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Only In Georgia. BASENAME: only_in_georgia STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/25/2009 10:45:08 PM ----- BODY:
Harlem, GA - Jerry Baldwin, Harlem's Police & Fire Chief is now out of a job. Thursday evening Columbia County investigators say he stole items worth about $12 from the Evans Wal-Mart. According to a police report Baldwin stole 8 packs of gum, 2 bottles of tarter sauce, crystal light and grape jam.Hah! I love his shopping list. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.harlemga.org/ohfest.htm DATE: 01/26/2009 06:09:12 AM Somewhere Oliver Hardy is chuckling. That's another fine mess you've gotten us into Jerry... The give away was the list that only a slapstick comic would need. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: gatormathis EMAIL: IP: 205.188.117.9 URL: DATE: 01/26/2009 07:47:36 AM I bet the gang over at the Evans Diner will have a good time hashing this one out over coffee. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 66.56.47.239 URL: DATE: 01/27/2009 10:20:34 PM Not that I condone shoplifting, but it actually seems like he was doing a little grocery shopping. Kind of sad, when your fire/police can't afford his groceries. (If this is in fact what was happening and hes not just some random klepto.) ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Hey Rush! BASENAME: hey_rush STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/26/2009 06:16:16 PM ----- BODY:
After absorbing the thudding roar from the Mall, Obama glanced to his right. He spotted there on the steps, a few feet away, John Lewis's squat, bald, hatless--the eleven-term representative of Georgia's fifth congressional district and the only one of the speakers at the March on Washington still among the living. Obama bent to embrace him. "Congratulations, Mr. President," Lewis whispered in his ear. Obama smiled at the sound of that and said, "Thank you, John. I'll need your prayers." "You'll have them, Mr. President. That, and all my support."I just enjoyed reading this comment at the New Yorker, I think you will too. Fair warning it's a two tissue alert. Hat tip: Jane Kidd ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.216 URL: DATE: 01/28/2009 08:56:01 PM He's my hero too. I don't know how anyone can't be in awe of him: "As Lewis walked around the Mall last week, shaking hands, posing for hundreds of photographs, a young African-American introduced himself as the police chief of Rock Hill, South Carolina. “Imagine that,” Lewis said. “I was beaten near to death at the Rock Hill Greyhound bus terminal during the Freedom Rides in 1961. Now the police chief is black.” ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: DTV Transition Delay Update BASENAME: dtv_transition_delay_update STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/28/2009 06:03:49 PM ----- BODY: The Senate said YES. The House said NO. Here's how Congress voted. The Nielsen Co. estimates that more than six million households are still unready for the switch. 2.5 million persons are still on the waiting list for government coupons Is Georgia prepared for the digital transition? Nielsen predicts that less than 10% are unprepared in Atlanta. In Rep. John Linder's (R) congressional district (CD7), 98,000 coupons have been ordered - a jump of 6% between Dec. 31,2008 and Jan. 20, 2009 - only 37% of the coupons have been redeemed. So there are 62,000 unredeemed coupons in Linder's district and 6,100 coupons won't be mailed to recipients before the Feb 17th transition deadline. Rep. Westmoreland's (R) congressional district (CD3) has nearly 64,000 unredeemed coupons in his district and 5,800 coupons won't be mailed to recipients before the Feb 17th transition deadline. Rep. John Lewis' (D) congressional district (CD5) has nearly 76,000 unredeemed coupons in his district and 7,200 coupons won't be mailed to recipients before the Feb 17th transition deadline. So what to do: If you need a coupon, still apply. Get on the waiting list. The NTIA is sending out new coupons only as older, unredeemed ones reach a 90-day expiration date. Donate coupons you don't need. The government's coupon program will accept any coupon that is valid and has not expired - regardless of who ordered it. So if your household is eligible for coupons but won't need them, you can give your unused coupons to a neighbor, or APPLY now and give one or both to a neighbor to use. Send coupons to: Atlanta DTV 2009 , 2020 Howell Mill Road, Suite C108, Atlanta, GA, 30318. * Please note that coupons cannot be bought, sold, or exchanged for goods other than converter boxes. Contact your Congressperson and let them know how you feel about the DTV Transition. There may be other bills coming to the House floor. Become a volunteer and help others with the transition - visit www.atlantadtv2009.com ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/28/2009 07:16:54 PM All this so old people can watch soaps? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/28/2009 07:25:35 PM old people have the AARP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/28/2009 07:33:39 PM Are you suggesting this is about poor people? Or poor old people? Or old poor people? I don't see how the AARP is a substitute for soap operas. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Smitty EMAIL: IP: 99.205.150.8 URL: DATE: 01/28/2009 07:58:50 PM It's a civil rights issue. People who currently receive breaking news, weather alerts, and other emergency information via free over-the-air television should continue to do so. It's not about soap operas. Television is more than entertainment shows. An extension will allow high awareness of the transition to be translated into direct assistance so people can actually make a successful transition. The legislation that the House voted NO would have: * eliminated the coupon waiting list by fully funding the coupon program – freeing up more coupons for people who need them. * allowed people to reapply for coupons that have expired or been lost. This has been a 3 year federal mandate that continues to make the transition to digital difficult for some. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.216 URL: DATE: 01/28/2009 08:47:40 PM Thanks for reminding me to do this Smitty. I have applied for 2 coupons to donate for those who need them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: tvjay EMAIL: IP: 68.155.132.178 URL: DATE: 01/28/2009 10:51:57 PM Smitty, have you tried using one of these decoder boxes? Just having one does not mean that you will receive the digital signals, you know? Depending on where you live, your reception (if any) will vary. We are at the end of a very long transition where both government (the FCC during several past administrations) and the industry (an advisory group along with the National Association of Broadcasters) defied the rest of the world and adopted a transmission standard that makes indoor reception difficult at best. This system was "invented" by Zenith and is only used in the U.S. and South Korea. The coverage areas were calculated based on having an outdoor 30ft. mast antenna installed. So, a decoder box is only one step in restoring off-air reception. If you've been using a rooftop antenna to receive analog signals, chances are you'll receive some digital stations without any other changes. But if you've been using a set-top antenna and you're located more than 5 miles from the transmitter, get ready for a surprise. I'm just sayin'... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/29/2009 04:52:21 PM We are so turning into france. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.134.18 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 01/29/2009 05:15:38 PM Oh dear god please no... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/29/2009 05:35:58 PM http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpou4DwDjgQ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Smitty EMAIL: IP: 70.11.56.216 URL: DATE: 01/29/2009 11:14:58 PM tvjay, that's the only way Smitty watches tv - through a converter box. Smitty doesn't have cable in the State of Georgia. I get to watch "The Hulk", "Rescue 911", and other cool shows on The Retro Network - WSB's 2nd channel. Yes, I am aware that some have trouble getting digital signals when they live a distance from a major antenna. Which is why the extension to June is a good idea. The last thing we need is someone slipping off an icy roof in February trying to install a rooftop antenna. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 01/29/2009 11:24:22 PM It's funny how spread out people are on this. People in rural georgia are upset and with the Dems and techies at the gaming boards I go to are laughing at rural people and cheering on the non-extension. Social cleavages. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Priorities out of order. BASENAME: i_cant_get_past_it STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/28/2009 06:17:43 PM ----- BODY:
4:30 pm: Michael Steele was elected Republican National Committee chairman on Friday, defeating the incumbent party chief and three other challengers over six rounds of voting to become the first black to lead the GOP. The former Maryland lieutenant governor takes over a beleaguered GOP as Republicans seek to rebound from back-to-back defeats in national elections that gave Democrats control of Congress and the White House.From NYT:
4:05 pm: After five rounds of balloting, former Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael Steele and South Carolina GOP chief Katon Dawson were locked in a close race to reach the 85-vote majority needed to assume the party's top spot. Steele was six votes shy with 79, while Dawson had 69. They were going head-to-head in what is likely to be the last voting round, the sixth, and both were hoping to pick up some of the 20 votes Michigan state party chairman Saul Anuzis got before he exited the field.Sorry for the delay...naptime called. ----- EXTENDED BODY:
1:01 pm: And the election for Republican National Committee chairman goes to a third round. None of the five Republicans running got the majority of votes needed on the second ballot. That means a third vote will take place. Candidates need 85 of 168 votes cast to win. So far, none of the five has dropped out. Current GOP chairman Mike Duncan is seeking re-election. He got 48 on the second ballot. Former Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele also got 48. South Carolina GOP Chairman Katon Dawson got 29, while Michigan GOP Chairman Saul Anuzis took 24. And, former Ohio Secretary of State Ken Blackwell trailed with 19.
12:22 pm: Neither former President George W. Bush's hand-picked national party chairman nor his four challengers got the required 85 votes needed to become party chief on the first tally, pushing the election to a second ballot Friday. Of the 168 votes cast by the Republican National Committee, Chairman Mike Duncan, who is seeking a second two-year term, got 52, while former Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele emerged as his leading threat, with 46 votes. Of the others; South Carolina GOP Chairman Katon Dawson got 28, Michigan GOP Chairman Saul Anuzis took 22, and former Ohio Secretary of State Ken Blackwell trailed with 20.Erick Erickson and his Red State Avengers no likey Steele. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 74.127.86.20 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 01:03:28 PM Nope, apparently all the "major conservative players" are supporting Blackwell, at least, that's what they're saying. That says quite a bit if Blackwell can only muster 20 votes. Either the GOP is full of moderates, or those "major conservative players" are split like most reasonable people. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 74.127.86.20 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 01:40:17 PM I just flipped to C-SPAN and they're broadcasting it if anyone is interested in watching it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.151 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 01:41:20 PM PP Fanboys must be flipping out...Steele takes the lead 51-44 on the third ballot. 85 votes needed to win. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 01:49:15 PM Go Michael Steele! I want to see a so-called RINO chairperson just to watch the Republicans tear their own hearts out. If the Moral Minority happens to be a casualty of war, I hope it is messy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 01:52:15 PM Go Michael Steele! I want to see a so-called RINO chairperson just to watch the Republicans tear their own hearts out. If the Moral Minority happens to be a casualty of war, I hope it is messy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 01:54:15 PM Go Michael Steele! I want to see a so-called RINO chairperson just to watch the Republicans tear their own hearts out. If the Moral Minority happens to be a casualty of war, I hope it is messy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 01:55:33 PM Uh, sorry for spewing all over the post. I blame the 500 error. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.151 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 02:15:23 PM Duncan withdraws before the 4th vote ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.151 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 04:05:38 PM Steele wins with 91 votes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 04:05:46 PM It's Michael Steele. Hilarious. Too easy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 04:15:45 PM Let the identity confusion begin. First up, who wears the pants in the GOP family? Rush Limbaugh and co. or Michael Steele? It's gonna be fun. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.160.213 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 01/30/2009 04:28:03 PM I'm happy ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.80.70 URL: DATE: 01/30/2009 09:17:03 PM Rachel Maddow did a hilarious GOP horserace thing about this in a beautiful purple derby bonnet! Good Luck to you Mr. Steele. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.220.203 URL: DATE: 01/31/2009 11:50:06 PM "Steele couldn’t praise them enough, and at times, he was at a loss for words. “You and I know that in the history of mankind and womankind, government—federal, state or local—has never created one job,” he said. “It’s destroyed a lot of them.” http://washingtonindependent.com/28417/steele-to-house-gop-stimulus-bill-goose-egg-beautiful Yeah, being black doesn't make you a moderate. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Bush's True Legacy BASENAME: bushs_true_legacy STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/31/2009 11:38:33 AM ----- BODY:
In 1983, a young lawyer in the Reagan White House was hard at work on what he called in a memorandum “the campaign to amend or abolish the exclusionary rule” — the principle that evidence obtained by police misconduct cannot be used against a defendant. The Reagan administration’s attacks on the exclusionary rule — a barrage of speeches, opinion articles, litigation and proposed legislation — never gained much traction. But now that young lawyer, John G. Roberts Jr., is chief justice of the United States.The Exclusionary Rule has been dying for a long time, but is it finally on life support? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/02/2009 12:03:31 PM Bush's legacy I thought was kidnapping people in the middle of the night, drugging them, and sending them to a secret prison in eastern europe to get waterboarded. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/03/2009 01:24:23 PM That probably stopped 1/20/09, this is enduring, thus, a legacy. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Cognitive Dissonance BASENAME: cognitive_dissonance STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/31/2009 04:45:15 PM ----- BODY:
I thought it was very important to send a signal, and you sent it loudly, very clearly, that this party, the leadership of this caucus, would stand first and foremost with the American people. You made it very clear that in order to grow through this recession that you not redistribute the wealth of the people of this nation.Seriously with the "redistribute the wealth". Are you kidding me? Mr. Steele, let me be the first to inform you that your party is the party of redistributing wealth. Remember the last 8 years when the largest windfalls were earned by the oil industries but your buddy Bush didn't want to tax them - you know like give something back to the American people that were spending $3-$4 on a gallon of gas. Mr. Steele, need I remind you that your boy's tax cuts really only helped the top 1% of income earners. Your guy Bush's version of helping people with health insurance was the idiotic idea of capping tax-free benefits of health care so the wealthiest Americans who could afford private insurance would receive tax breaks. Seriously with the "standing with the American people". Mr. Steele, is your Party standing with the American people as they stand on unemployment lines, at job fairs, on the courthouse steps watching their homes get purchased by someone else, or at the food bank lines? You are aware that the dire straits most Americans are facing did not occur in the last 12 days since the Obama Administration took over. No, Mr. Steele, the economy is in crumbles because of the 8 years that your Party has stood with the American people. ----- EXTENDED BODY: As one Black American to another Black American, please drop the sharecropper shtick:
"My mom was a sharecropper's daughter with a fifth-grade education," Steele said. "And my mother knew how to balance the budget without taking money out of my pocket."First of all, as a Black person I don’t know what the heck you mean by saying your mother knew how to balance the budget without taking money out of your pocket. Eh? That is so Palin-nesque. Secondly, please stop the Reagan-Clarence Thomas "pulled yourself up by the bootstraps" meme. It is a difficult task to pull yourself up by the bootstraps when the government (Republican Party) has taken the boots and the soles from the American people. Don't act like your success has been your success alone. Your Party may teach you to dislike those "liberal activists" like Rev. Lowery, but without Rev. Lowery and Dr. King and the NAACP your butt would not be on the center stage now. So remember your history without disgracing your past. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.42.236 URL: DATE: 02/01/2009 12:17:32 PM Michael Steele is a nut. People playing the "he's a moderate Republican" card have no idea, and I'm pretty sure that comes from where he is located (the northeast) and the color of his skin -- which don't really matter. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.160.213 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/01/2009 03:18:45 PM Exactly what would you consider a moderate, Zaid? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.42.236 URL: DATE: 02/01/2009 03:51:02 PM Lincoln Chafee is a moderate in general, not really a moderate within the Republican Party, which has gone quite a bit to the right, but I think he would've been a good choice for them if they want to appeal to moderates overall. If they really want someone who represents Republicans well I would've gone with Mike Huckabee but I don't think he was even interested in running (he'd rather run for President and if you're RNC chair you can't do that). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/01/2009 05:02:09 PM Speaking of Palin, she is apparently off to DC to beg for Alaska's part of the stimulus package. So much for "thanks, but no thanks." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 66.156.15.176 URL: DATE: 02/01/2009 07:49:37 PM I'm taking Palin's new, more mainstream hair style as a definitive sign that she intends to run for President in 2012. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 02/01/2009 11:10:27 PM I love that he blamed his loss to Cardin on the fact that he's a black Roman Catholic from Washington, D. C., not merely because he was too conservative for Maryland. Otherwise, I'd like every Republican who claims to oppose the stimulus because it increases the national debt to explain how they reconcile that opposition with their support for the $4 trillion increase in the national debt during the Bush Administration. I wish there were a way to tag every member of Congress with the total amount of deficit spending they approved over the course of their career. It'd expose these so-called deficit hawks for the hypocrites they are. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/01/2009 11:14:24 PM What gets me is the "fiscally conservative" Blue Dogs who hate spending on social programs but can find plenty for war and industry bailouts. Maybe you're only fiscally conservative towards those who don't write you campaign checks? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/02/2009 08:14:58 AM "Otherwise, I'd like every Republican who claims to oppose the stimulus because it increases the national debt to explain how they reconcile that opposition with their support for the $4 trillion increase in the national debt during the Bush Administration." Because poor people don't strap on bomb vests in crowded malls. Or at least not until things get another major tick worse. Also, killing people is noble and manly. Helping out people rather than lecturing them is for women and atheists. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: jac1975 EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 02/02/2009 11:20:53 AM Why isn't anyone noting the whole GOP schtick of "Well, hell, the Dems have a black (fill in the blank), so we best find one too!"??? They did it in 2004 when they put up what's his name against Obama in Illinois. Who didn't think that the only two serious GOP candidates were Blackwell and Steele when we have a black Democrat as President of the United States? Now it happens that both are kind of nutty, and the GOP picked the least nutty of the two... but still. If Hillary were president now, the GOP would have elected a woman just so you could have "like" going against "like". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/02/2009 11:41:45 AM "Why isn't anyone noting the whole GOP schtick of "Well, hell, the Dems have a black (fill in the blank), so we best find one too!"??? They did it in 2004 when they put up what's his name against Obama in Illinois. Who didn't think that the only two serious GOP candidates were Blackwell and Steele when we have a black Democrat as President of the United States? Now it happens that both are kind of nutty, and the GOP picked the least nutty of the two... but still. If Hillary were president now, the GOP would have elected a woman just so you could have "like" going against "like"." I noted it. The guy wears race on his sleeve too, constantly bringing it up. He did in the Senate race, too. He acts like he's a "moderate" because he's a Black Republican, but he is as much on board with their rich guys' agenda as anyone else in the party. Rather than repudiating some of the Party's more extreme elements, he's standing right with their defunct right-wing policies. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/03/2009 12:58:46 PM If only they were defunct. "They" in the previous sentence refers both to the people and the policies, separately. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Mea Culpa BASENAME: mea_culpa STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/01/2009 09:42:30 PM ----- BODY: Terrance William Gainer, the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms, takes to Facebook to deliver a full apology to those poor folks who got stuck in the Purple Tunnel of Doom at the Inauguration. He promises to make it up to all those affected by re-staging the whole Inaugural. OK, not really, but it's still a pretty good apology (below the fold). ----- EXTENDED BODY:
For far too many of you Inauguration day did not turn out as planned. On behalf of the entire 2009 Inaugural Team, I apologize to each one of you who did not get onto the Capitol grounds, to those stuck in the tunnel, to those who had negative interactions with police officers, and those who experienced all three terrible situations. In addition, I regret the inability of the myriad of officials involved in the planning or the execution to respond to the chaos which unfolded. Many of you had a very negative reaction to my initial reaction that “puffy or heavy coats” might have been one of any number of factors that contributed to our break-down that day. Obviously, I failed to better understand the anger, humiliation, frustration and sense of helplessness that was felt and experienced by so manyor explain myself. The number of citizens adversely affected by this is still unclear. The initial information I had was less than 5000. I have now seen the photographs from the tunnel and the streets near the purple gates. I have watched hours of tapes of several of the gates to the Capitol grounds. I saw thousands of people in massive groups. Movement seemed impossible. They yelled for information and guidance. It apparently fell on deaf ears. Wether it is 5000 or 10,000, it is too many. There is little solace for you in the fact that for many the event was successful, even if crowded and cold. That no one was seriously physically injured, hospitalized, nor were an arrest made is positive but does not excuse failures elsewhere. This was a massive undertaking; the biggest event in DC history. The planners included, as you know United States Secret Service, United States Capitol Police, Metropolitan Police Department of DC, Park Police, Presidential Inaugural Committee, Armed Forces Inaugural Committee, numerous executive branch agencies, DC government, and the States of Maryland and Virginia. The plan was approved by many and executed by scores, depending on the area of responsibility. Senator Feinstein has directed that a very exhaustive and transparent investigation and review be conducted by the United States Secret Service, United States Capitol Police, Metropolitan Police Department of DC, Park Police and the offices of the House and Senate Sergeant at Arms. This has begun. We assigned senior personnel who were NOT involved in the planning and execution. The Senator expects the report no later than 60 days and hopes that it is closer to 30. Over these several days I have tried to provide information as I knew it or as it became know to me. My experience is that initial information is often inaccurate, or incomplete, and even insensitive because of the lack of context. I operated from the presumption that silence and no comment was frustrating per se. Meeting with people who were in the tunnel and people involved in this Facebook group, reading and responding to emails, and watching the films (amateur and professional) continues to shed light on weaknesses in the planning and execution. Some failures resulted from good intentions but poor follow through; other failures were the result of inattention; many problems were directly related to the number of people. Some facts as I know them today. The north bound tunnel was never intended to be used as a pedestrian walk way; the north bound tunnel was never intended to be used as a holding area for guests arriving at the purple gate, or for anyone else. But I watched the tape where law enforcement personnel directed people from the street to the tunnel. I believe, although at this point I cannot say with certainty, they were trying to clear the street and bring some order. There have been many questions about gates being opened or closed. As to the Purple gate it opened before 8am; people with special needs were admitted. Watching films of that gate, and there are no direct angles, indicate that the flow of pople was very slow, very limited around 9 am. The initial understanding is thast the USCP officers were attemping to bring some orgaization to the gate area. People moved through this gate until well afternonn. There was room on the grounds in overflow areas; the use of those overflow areas was part of the plan if more people came then past experience indicated. Many more came, everybody invited came. But the same amount of tickets were given for this Inaugration as the last several. The reason everbody did not get through the screen into those open overflow areas is a central as yet unanswered question. The joint investigative is working that as a key question. Why was the gate area near purple so congested, as well as near the blue gate and the silver entrance? Preliminarily, based on interviews, reviewing tapes, emails, this face book information, some people came to the incorrect gate, too little information for those not familar with the area to navigate their way to the correct gate, hundreds, maybe thoudsands arrived with tickets sent to them by enties which were meant to be commerative and were not valid for admission, many heading to the parade and they could not get to their gates, poor, incorrect of no crowd mangement in the vicinity of the gates, the Mall filled quickly and people wandered or were improperly advised to try other streets or, unfortunately, tunnels. We continue to gather facts. I respectfully request you give the joint review team an opportunity to complete the report. We are here to listen (read) ; we want to understand more about your experience. But, I have another confession; I am brand new to face book; I joined last night. Although I typed many a homicide investigation during my days in Chicago, I remain a slow, hunt and peck typist. I love spell check on my computer and black berry and regret I have not found that same support on face book. So give me some slack in that area. I cannot answer all your questions; all the facts are not avilable yet; the investigation and review continues. In addition, many more were involved in the planning and execution and they are not here with me. But all the leaders of this operation are committed public servants who deeply regret our collective or systemic failures. We will get to the bottom of those weaknesses or failures and also tell about things that worked. Thank you.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.175.109 URL: DATE: 02/01/2009 10:00:33 PM Can I assume if you got stiffed at the silver gate this apology applies as well? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: The President wants you to party...house party that is BASENAME: the_president_wants_you_to_par STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/02/2009 11:29:51 AM ----- BODY:
Host a House Meeting President Obama and members of Congress have a plan to put nearly four million Americans back to work, but they need your help. The economic crisis can seem overwhelming and complex to many, but you can help the people you know connect the recovery plan to their lives and learn more about why it's so important by hosting a house meeting. You can submit a question about how the plan will impact your community. Governor Tim Kaine will record a video for meeting attendees that will outline the plan and answer as many of your questions as possible.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/02/2009 11:50:18 AM Ugh. I tried the various "submit questions to the Obama team!" thing for a couple months. We even got a few of the questions the groups I'm involved in to the very top, and the Obama team simply skipped over them. A couple of the other questions they took all of a month to answer in two sentences which were more vague PR than substantive. I'm done with that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/03/2009 11:26:32 AM What questions did you want answered? Can you repost the exact questions as worded? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Title removed by Author BASENAME: omar_the_tent_maker_is_inspire STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/02/2009 02:21:11 PM ----- BODY:
Did you realize that every month, 200 to 300 young girls are sexually exploited in the state of Georgia? Yes, you heard correctly, 200-300 girls a month right here in Georgia. With almost 100 of them engaged in street prostitution, another 100 exploited through escort services and more than that appearing in Craigslist or servicing their johns in major hotels. This exploitation of our young girls has really turned into an epidemic. This is why I recently co-chaired a committee on the commercial sexual exploitation of children and we presented our findings and legislative initiatives this morning at a Capitol press conference. When passed, this legislative package will provide law enforcement with the much needed tools to treat these children as victims of child abuse and put the vermin who prey on them in jail.Now, Calvin where do you think statistics like those you mentioned come from? The Sex Fairy godmother. No, Calvin, the statistics come from researchers and professors who actually study, oh my god I'm going to say it, S-E-X. So Calvin if you want to end the sexual exploitation of children you might want to learn from the professors on why engaging in oral sex at an early age can lead girls to be continually exploited or why exploited young boys end up as male prostitutes or why exploiting children leads them to have sexual identity confusion later on in life. Calvin you can't have it both ways - you can't fight for an issue without wanting to really know its origins and the causal effects. Cut the grandstanding and get back to the people's work. Find smarter ways to cut the 2 billion dollar deficit, end transportation gridlock, and keep school nurses. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://tompaine.com DATE: 02/02/2009 10:02:49 PM Yep. Fairies. All of 'em. Thanks for the reminder here Bernita. I saw this nimrod on the news grandstanding and it took me all the way back to ol' Jesse Helms' gambits creating, igniting & then 'heroically' fighting & the inevitable resulting 'culture wars' throughout the 80's & 90's. Really silly. He took out what I think was a short synopsis of some faculty Research and then Claimed that they were actually Courses to be taught to their dear tender Children! IEEK! Someone Call the cops! Just so Stoopid. The CDC will tell you as well as the UN, that to actually Generate the needed and accurate statistics to describe & delineate the nature & extent of the problem & issues of concern to public health, you Need; surveys of the participants, descriptions of the behavior of the affected groups, interactions with the wider population, and the extent, distributions and spread of the conditions & behaviors involved. Research is the only way to do that. Epidemiological, Sociological, Anthropological, Psychological Scientific Research. With like the horrid specter of lots of Numbers and Math & Statistics & Tables & such. Stuff they may not quite appreciate under the Gold Dome. And if you want to mock, ignore, degrade & or denigrate the science behind the needed research you may Desire for your policy purposes? Then that means you're just another know-nothing redneck Legislative peeckerwood trying to make some silly & profoundly stupid, and yes Anti-Scientific point when Redbaiting your local Uni Profs just won't suffice. And on the cusp of another Great Depression? We really don't have the time for such useless & senseless diversions, but they're pretty predictable coming from the Rethug's, right? Yeah Science. How very quaintly 20th century in Ga. Never to be seen or heard again in the halls of our august State Leg. as long as we're ruled by complete & utter venal ninnies like this. Let's hope that it was simply mendacious as usual. Otherwise he's literally 'dumb as a box of rocks'. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/04/2009 12:02:29 PM Here is his contact info: 404.656.0129 CLOB Office 678.493.7257 - Office 770.345.2394 - Fax 770.712.2879 - Cell I find texting him about his Male Prostitution class is the way to go. Suggestions: "Calvin R U teaching male prostitution this semester? C U there." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/04/2009 12:14:59 PM Text sent! I say we all send him one text with the above message. Then follow up with a "pwnt". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/04/2009 12:37:54 PM We should get this posted on enough places so that he can be contacted by those that have a position on these issues. Maybe HuffPo? DailyKos? I would think 10,000 text messages might change his mind. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Rep. Calvin Hill is really finding ways to end Georgia's budget deficit BASENAME: rep_calvin_hill_is_really_find STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/02/2009 08:19:37 PM ----- BODY: NOT!! As I was perusing his website, I ran across this gem of a statement, posted on Jan. 28, 2009
We have even had suggestions that we reduce our Legislative pay. Not a bad idea, but I doubt the $853.00 a month that I take home would do too much to balance the budget. We are doing away with our automatic pay raise - unlike Congress - but that would have been only something like $25.00 a month.WOW, Calvin, just WOW! You don't want to reduce your pay, but you have no problem with cutting the pay of school nurses. You know nurses also have families - families who count on them for food, a roof over their heads, and to pay bills. Nope, don't cut Calvin's pay because that wouldn't help reduce the budget, but cutting the amount of money the State pays for each child's education is a way better plan. Don't cut Calvin's pay, but it's ok to cut mental health services. Seriously, someone has to run against this guy in 2010. Someone needs to challenge Calvin Hill based on his true arrogance. Does he live in the same Georgia that I live in? Does he understand that cutting public services may help reduce the budget but places thousands of Georgians at risk. Calvin Hill wants everyone else to just "suck it up" while he gets to enjoy the privileges of being a state representative. Calvin Hill - a man of the people. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 02/03/2009 06:10:01 PM Ol' Calvin lives in Canton, so it's safe to say he doesn't live in the same Georgia you and I do. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Obama Nominee for Chief Performance Officer Withdraws BASENAME: obama_nominee_for_chief_perfor STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/03/2009 10:58:09 AM ----- BODY: AJC story here Almost sunk Geithner and now sinks Nancy Killefer, the dreaded not paying taxes on household help. Really, this is inexcusable, nominees have been shot down for this time and time again, surely someone knew these people had domestic help and it wasn't disclosed on their tax returns (Killefer even had a tax lien against her for not paying taxes on her staff - public record!) So Geither, Daschle, and now Killefer, but who knew this could be a problem? Oh yeah, everybody. Somewhere, Zoe Baird is slowly shaking her head.
ZOE BAIRD - President Bill Clinton's first nominee for attorney general withdrew in 1993 after it was learned that the $500,000-a-year corporate lawyer employed an illegal immigrant Peruvian couple to provide nanny services for her son and chauffeur her around and didn't pay the required Social Security taxes for them. A federal law enacted in the fall of 1986 made it illegal to hire undocumented workers. Her case gave birth to the term "Nannygate." KIMBA WOOD - Amazingly, just two weeks later, Wood, a federal judge in New York who was expected to be Clinton's second choice for attorney general, withdrew her name. She admitted her baby sitter of seven years had been in the country illegally when hired in March 1986 - before such hiring was against the law. Wood stressed she had broken no laws and had paid all required employment taxes. CHARLES RUFF - After Baird and Wood, this Washington lawyer and former Justice Department official was removed from Clinton's "short list" of candidates for deputy attorney general after it was learned he failed to pay Social Security taxes for a woman who did domestic work for him one day a week over the previous eight years. RON BROWN - Clinton's then-newly confirmed commerce secretary acknowledged in 1993 he had not paid Social Security taxes for a woman who cleaned his house three hours a week over four or five years. He said he hadn't thought he owed taxes because she worked so few hours, but he scurried to pay the back taxes and penalties and remained in office. FEDERICO PENA - Like Brown, Pena had already been confirmed as to his post, transportation secretary in this case, when the Baird case prompted him to acknowledge he failed to pay Social Security taxes for a substitute baby sitter who looked after his two children while their regular caretaker vacationed in 1991. He promised to pay more than $100 in back taxes. SHIRLEY S. CHATER - Chater, the president of Texas Woman's University was Clinton's nominee to head the Social Security Administration when the White House disclosed on Aug. 3, 1993, that she failed to pay Social Security taxes for a part-time baby sitter from 1969 to 1975. But she had paid the back taxes before her nomination, and she was confirmed. BOBBY RAY INMAN - The retired Navy admiral withdrew in January 1994 as Clinton's nominee to be defense secretary. Among many reasons, he listed his failure to pay required Social Security taxes for a former part-time housekeeper until just after Clinton nominated him. STEPHEN BREYER - When Breyer was a nominee for the Supreme Court in mid-1994, it was disclosed that the then-chief judge of the U.S. 1st Circuit Court of Appeals in Boston had failed to pay Social Security taxes for an 81-year-old U.S. citizen who worked part time in his house for 13 years. Breyer said he did not know he was supposed to pay taxes for the woman until after Baird's case, whereupon he paid the overdue taxes. He was confirmed as a justice of the high court. MICHAEL P.C. CARNS - The retired Air Force general withdrew in March 1995 as Clinton's nominee to head the Central Intelligence Agency as he acknowledged failing to make promised payments to a Filipino youth who had worked for the Carns family as a household helper overseas and whom Carns had legally brought into this country when he was transferred back. LINDA CHAVEZ - The conservative commentator withdrew in January 2001 as President George W. Bush's nominee to be labor secretary after it was disclosed that she gave a Guatemalan woman free room and board in her home and $1,500 during a two-year period in the early 1990s even though Chavez knew she was an illegal immigrant. BERNARD KERIK - The former New York police commissioner withdrew in December 2004 as Bush's nominee to be homeland security secretary. Amid a rising list of problems with the nomination, Kerik said he was backing out because he discovered he had hired an illegal immigrant as a housekeeper and nanny and failed to pay required employment taxes and make related filings on the worker's behalf.- from the AP via SPT ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.129.47 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/03/2009 11:43:16 AM Seriously, WTH is going on with the BHO? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/03/2009 11:57:51 AM Not to sound like Zaid, but it would probably be a lot easier to get your taxes right if you don't hire nannies and housecleaners, accept rides from strangers or lobbyists, or any of this other jet-setter type stuff. Maybe be a Democrat that lives like one, you know? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.129.47 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/03/2009 12:03:35 PM You mean like Kucinich? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 66.156.15.176 URL: DATE: 02/03/2009 12:31:11 PM odin - the car thing is ridiculous, but for a two-career family, a nanny and housecleaner is pretty reasonable. but, yeah, not paying the taxes is just plain stupidity. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/03/2009 12:35:46 PM Goes to show McKinsey is still a ship of fools. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Yikes, dropping like flies BASENAME: yikes_dropping_like_flies STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/03/2009 01:02:57 PM ----- BODY: Daschle drops out because of tax problems.
Banks should simply not be allowed to enroll their customers without their permission, in systems that approve overdrafts without warning, and that artificially increase the number of $35 fees the banks' can charge for a shortfall. This practice is out of control. It is costing working people big chunks of their hard-earned income.The "gotcha" practices that banks are using to inflate overdraft fees are not acceptable. If you'd like to tell the Fed what you think of the proposal, you can email your public comments to regs.comments@federalreserve.gov include in the subject "Docket No. R-1343." You can also use this form, provided by the Center for Responsible Lending. Remember that your comments will be public. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/04/2009 02:05:04 PM Sternly Worded Letter Writers of the World Unite! http://www.openleft.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=11343 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/04/2009 04:10:01 PM You dropped the same link in the Daschle post, did you mean to post that here as well? If it is just for general consumption, I believe you have a thread for that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/04/2009 08:36:27 PM I gave the thread for IRE because there wasn't enough awesomeness in it to contain us both. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/04/2009 08:38:26 PM btw I have not seen that banksy before. Is it a new one? How does that guy not get caught? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: House passes DTV Extension bill BASENAME: house_passes_dtv_extension_bil STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/04/2009 09:48:12 PM ----- BODY: Today the US House passed the DTV Extension bill. The bill passed 264 to 158. Television stations will now have until June 12th to switch their signals from analog to digital. What this means: * the reported 67,000 Atlantans not ready will now have the opportunity to make the transition before their tv sets go dark. * the 3.2 million people on the government coupon list will hopefully now receive their coupons to purchase digital converter boxes * the delay allows more time for the government to better fund the converter-box coupon program, give local residents a little more time to take action, and will help local organizations do more work to ensure a smoother transition for our communities. * the four month extension will be a rolling transition for the nation's 1,700 television stations. They, along with the FCC, will determine when their analog powered antennas will convert to all digital. * the stimulus bill, now sitting in the US Senate, contains the funding for the government DTV coupons. Help make sure that your neighbor is ready, donate a coupon and/or help them apply for a coupon. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/04/2009 10:47:45 PM They should have killed the signal for half a day about a year ago to get people moving on this. Rather than treating this like a standard switch, though, it seems like both government (and especially) the TV companies treated digital signals as a premium product for far too long. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 02/05/2009 10:29:26 AM Doesn't this bill just give the option for TV broadcasters to delay the switch? It's not an order; broadcasters can cut off their signal anytime after Feb 15 or whatever day it is that the switch was supposed to occur. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: He Writes Op-Eds BASENAME: he_writes_opeds STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/05/2009 12:11:13 PM ----- BODY:
In recent days, there have been misguided criticisms of this plan that echo the failed theories that helped lead us into this crisis -- the notion that tax cuts alone will solve all our problems; that we can meet our enormous tests with half-steps and piecemeal measures; that we can ignore fundamental challenges such as energy independence and the high cost of health care and still expect our economy and our country to thrive. I reject these theories, and so did the American people when they went to the polls in November and voted resoundingly for change. They know that we have tried it those ways for too long. And because we have, our health-care costs still rise faster than inflation. Our dependence on foreign oil still threatens our economy and our security. Our children still study in schools that put them at a disadvantage. We've seen the tragic consequences when our bridges crumble and our levees fail.More here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/05/2009 05:34:22 PM http://www.rollcall.com/news/32091-1.html Hey the Bush Dogs think they're still relevant. That's cute. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: "I forgive you" BASENAME: i_forgive_you STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/05/2009 01:03:04 PM ----- BODY: Rock Hill man apologizes on TV for 1961 attack on congressman, via grayson.
allow the city to offset skyrocketing sewer bills for its residents, fulfill obligations to federal environmental agencies, and provide better stewardship of water resources to downstream cities.Tommy voted for the bill in 2004 because it was a good bill that would help the City of Atlanta residents with their water and sewer bills. Now Tommy needs to build some points with his new Republican party so he must take on the evil and monolithic City of Atlanta. Tommy, if you're going to help us Atlanta folks fight the "man" then help us without all the grandstanding. Help us with the high crime rate, help us educate our children, and help us pay lower property taxes. In other words, do the job that the folks in House District 168 voted you to do. In case you want to see Atlanta's water czar in person, he's holding a meeting next Tuesday at 12:30 pm. He might even wear his cape to the meeting. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Quote Unquote BASENAME: quote_unquote_4 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/10/2009 07:43:55 AM ----- BODY:
It's a little hard for me to take criticism from folks about this recovery package after they've presided over a doubling of the national debt.-- President Barack Obama in his first televised news conference ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 09:14:50 AM I'm sure it's also a little hard to come into the house where every single thing is busted. Is there a single part of public life that W and friends *didn't* completely fubar? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 10:21:57 AM I think that's true when there's people complaining it's too big, but not true from the Krugmanite perspective of it's way too small and the "moderates" cut a lot of essential stuff from it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 10:25:29 AM On that point, I went to a conference this weekend where Chris Hayes explained that the filibuster used to be 67 votes. It's been 60 since the seventies. Maybe it's time to bring it down to a simple majority or eliminate it, because if fighting for something as common-sense as this has been this hard, I can imagine that getting 60 votes on anything else will be a huge pain the ass. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 10:33:21 AM I hope that Obama et al have a way to go back to the well when needed for more. There are three main things to think of here since the economy is extraordinarily complex.: 1) The "all at once" blast strikes me as the mythological Russian approach to landing on the moon. They fired one big blast at the last minute at the surface and attempt to let the craft fall the rest of the way. This is technically the most efficient solution, since everything runs at 100% design spec and even rockets have economies of scale. 2) The "mid-course correction" approach is better in the real world where you have all of the control. Especially since this stimulus is since a hodge-podge of so many programs and Recovery.gov is going to be used as a political tool, it is a good experiment to calibrate all of those estimates and models of stimulus multipliers. In the super-short term, less effective because it may not staunch all of the bleeding, but it would probably lead to more effective policy for the short-medium term. 3) Unfortunately, one planner doesn't have all of the controls, so there is a combination of a need to mollify everyone and also the chance that there may not be a 2nd stimulus even if desired. In other words - here goes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 10:37:17 AM I disagree. The filibuster allows the minority voice to be heard. Just because we (Democrats) aren't in the minority now doesn't mean we won't be again soon. The danger of representative democracy is that sometimes the majority of the people are wrong. Without the right to filibuster (essentially opposing cloture) and other tactics, the minority is powerless to be a check on the majority. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 12:23:08 PM There's also an interesting technical point here. Even without the filibuster, there really is a requirement to have 60 votes to pass this stimulus because it violates standing budgeting rules within the Senate. Thus, to set the rules aside, 60 votes are needed. The best thing about the Internet is there is a wonk that publishes details on *everything.* ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/10/2009 12:49:05 PM If there are >59 Senators, the minority doesn't deserve a voice. There's also a loose enough sense of party discipline that 64 senators of one party doesn't mean anything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 66.156.15.176 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 01:34:08 PM I say keep cloture at 60 votes, but actually make them go through with any threatened filibuster, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington-style. It's just cheating to say you are willing to stand around reading the phone book on the floor of the Senate, but then never have to do it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.225.81 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/10/2009 01:57:42 PM So now it's the moderates fault? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 66.156.15.176 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 02:05:56 PM Grift - Isn't it always? ;) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.225.81 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/10/2009 02:08:55 PM Always makes me the happiest when I have both sides pissed off. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 03:44:18 PM I love how inside the Beltway opposing things that most people support out in the public = moderation, and standing up for what most people want = fringe lunatic left. As for the Filibuster, most representative democracies don't have it and they are working just fine, aren't they? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 03:46:57 PM I'm sorry I missed this point: "I say keep cloture at 60 votes, but actually make them go through with any threatened filibuster, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington-style. It's just cheating to say you are willing to stand around reading the phone book on the floor of the Senate, but then never have to do it." While we still have something as useless as the filibuster, I would say that a good tactic for the majority party to use is to literally make them filibuster and then not let the Senate go home for vacation, keep bringing the thing up to vote again and again until they pass something. I wish Mike Gravel was still there in the Senate he'd go off on their asses. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/11/2009 09:20:24 AM I don't know about "most" rep. democracies, but many have procedures for checking the ability of the majority to pass laws by speaking for extended periods of time. And there are a number of procedures in foreign democracies that require supermajorities to close debate and force votes. Excepting the African democracies, the only English style democracy I can think of that allows 50% close is Australia. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/11/2009 02:08:34 PM Not 50, but 50+1. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/11/2009 02:10:54 PM Also, the other democracies' minority protections don't necessarily include ways for the minority to block just about any piece of legislation, which our filibuster -- with a few exceptions -- does. It was built that way by Madison, who feared democracy. At least they pared it down from 67. As for the idea that it could be used against Democrats when they're in the minority, if we wiped out the filibuster -- well, the Dems were in the minority in the Senate and they seem to have forgotten about that filibuster thing while they were there anyway. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 09:03:01 AM I thought I could use shorthand when speaking about common terms. I will attempt to refrain from doing so in the future. Thank you for the correction. As far as the Dems when in the minority, the threat of the filibuster was used in negotiations, but I certainly see your point as I agree the Dems were timid during the Bush period. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/12/2009 09:49:49 AM "but I certainly see your point as I agree the Dems are timid." FIFY. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.107 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 01:05:13 PM How about instead of having 60 votes to end a filibuster, you have to get 40 votes to sustain a filibuster? Does that change the balance of power in any meaningful way? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 08:24:14 PM I wouldn't have such a big problem with it if the Republicans wouldn't use it on pretty much anything. If it was saved for extreme circumstances I'd understand. But right now basically what it does is undermine democracy by it not mattering that the country elected 59 Democratic senators and wants their agenda put through because the Republicans can snap their fingers and filibuster and shut everything down. One poster said we should make them actually do it. I say, why not? We can even keep the Senate from adjourning, and just outwait them. I don't want them using their filibuster to kill something like universal healthcare, and if we actually make them do it the country might get mad enough at them to take them out in the next election. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: GOP groups target own over stimulus vote BASENAME: gop_groups_targets_its_own_ove STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/10/2009 11:32:02 AM ----- BODY:
We see the FT-EV concept as a great vehicle for the urban commuter. It is ideal for someone who drives fewer than 50 miles a day, mostly on flat surface streets, and has easy access to recharging options, such as a personal garage or a recharging station on a city street. While this vehicle will be perfect for the urban setting, it might not be the best solution for the rural dweller.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 03:55:05 PM needs moar laserz http://lolcatz.net/gfx/c.gif ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 03:56:42 PM link fail http://icanhascheezburger.com/2007/04/18/pew-pew-pew/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: David EMAIL: IP: 67.166.206.167 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 06:45:49 PM Mel, Hate to disagee, but this should be the car of the future: http://gm-volt.com/ An American, union made vehicle! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 74.224.145.226 URL: DATE: 02/10/2009 10:20:46 PM I hear you David, but with Lakshmi Mittal buying up all the steel mills in the US, there may not be anything that can save the big three. Anyway, I love japanesium. And since the last American car I bought fell apart in less than a year, I won't make that mistake again. Ever. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: David EMAIL: IP: 67.166.206.167 URL: DATE: 02/11/2009 09:32:25 PM For part of this year we had a GM, a Ford, and a Dodge. Two of the three had over 100,000 miles and were running fine. I sold the 100,000+ to a good friend (meaning a trusted it). I would give the American/union worker another chance. Don't believe the Bob Corker hype. BTW, our Ford is a Mercury Mariner Hybrid. Same car, Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Al Gore all drive ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Georgia Power - 1 and Georgia Consumers - 0 BASENAME: georgia_power_1_and_georgia_co STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/11/2009 02:45:39 PM ----- BODY: SB 31 passed in the State Senate. It passed 38 to 16. For those not familiar with SB 31, SB 31 will allow Georgia Power the right to charge consumers for the construction of future nuclear power plants. According to Georgia WAND:
The two nuclear reactors proposed by Georgia Power have not been approved by either the Public Service Commission (at a state level) or by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (at a federal level) and are currently undergoing legal challenges. There is absolutely no certainty that these reactors will ever be built. Why should Georgia ratepayers already struggling during the current economic climate have to suffer increased utility bills for power that, if approved, would be supplied for at least 7 to 10 years? Currently, the law states that Georgia Power can ask ratepayers to help pay for the construction and operation of the reactors AFTER they come online. Georgia Power wants to change that and have us pay for them NOW - even before they have been approved.Well this was a bipartisan sponsored bill and from the vote tally both Republican and Democrat State Senators decided this bill was good for Georgia consumers. Here is how they voted (photo courtesy of John Sepulvado at Georgia Public Broadcasting)
This wouldn't work for Waffle House, it shouldn't work for Georgia Power.----- EXTENDED BODY: Republicans in favor of SB 31: Balfour, Bulloch, Butterworth, Chance, Cowsert, Crosby, Douglas, Goggans, Grant, Hamrick, Harp,Hawkins, Heath, Hill, Hill, Hudgens, Jackson, Johnson. Moody, Mullis, Murphy, Pearson, Rogers, Seabaugh, Shafer, Staton, Thomas, Toleson, Unterman, Weber, Wiles, Williams Democrats in favor of SB 31: Golden, Harbison, Jones, Powell, Seay, Tarver Republicans who opposed SB 31: Chapman, Smith Democrats who opposed SB 31: Adelman, Brown, Butler, Fort, Henson, Jackson, Orrock, Ramsey, Reed, Sims, Stoner, Tate, Thompson, Thompson Excused: Gail Buckner (D) and George Hooks (D) ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 02/11/2009 06:33:27 PM Rich Golick now knows that his constituents think this is bogus, and he didn't sound too thrilled about it himself on Saturday, so I feel hopeful that the House might view this nonsense with a little more skepticism. What on Earth does Valencia Seay think her constituents want here? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/11/2009 09:55:43 PM Seriously, what a bunch of pansies we have in the Senate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/11/2009 10:41:11 PM Oh come on, now, guys. Bipartisanship is good and we can't always side against the corporate lobbies, that'd make us extreme leftists, or people with actual conviction, one or the other. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 09:30:49 AM On the surface, I don't have a huge problem with this. One problem with nuclear power is that its economic viability has a lot to do with the going interest rate (as does almost any power station that does not consume much or any fuel) rather than anything happening in the real world. If you pay as you go, the interest rate drops out of the equation. It's a precedent that should be usable for renewable power sources if it hasn't already. Of course, in the details, the fact that it sounds like it is structured as a "heads I win, tails you lose" deal is not so good. Part of the deal should have been *very* strict penalties for schedule delays or failure to acquire a license to put some Georgia Power skin in the game. Also, the grassroots appear to be pretty bi-partisan against it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 09:50:12 AM Smitty, That WAND excerpt is inaccurate by the way, the law doesn't actually say they can't get the money first, but the convention is to build it first and get paid after. See OCGA 46-2-25. Let's see if the house can speak to reason. Odin, Did you read the bill? It exempts the big power users and leaves it on the rest (mostly residential) population. How is that a good plan? Not ponly that, but this plant will power not just part of Georgia (who is paying for it) but Florida as well, who is NOT paying for it. This is like me buying a car but my neighbor getting to use it whenever he wants. Oh and also, I don't own the car, Georgia Power does. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 09:53:30 AM MotS, That's why I said the details were bad. The comments on avoiding the cost of money being a potential positive still stand. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 02/12/2009 09:57:54 AM Lobbying on this SUCKED, the reasons we got from some of our Dems. "I used to be an electrician so I support this" Sen. Jones "I'm conflicted on this bill, i'm hoping the amendments pass" Sen. Golden "I am voting against it" yay Sen. Curt Thompson oy, i've begun to hate lobbying on corporate bills. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 10:18:01 AM Of course, this is the same pack of jackasses that just had to have a GOVERNMENT entity, MARTA, spend money to wine and dine (or BBQ and sweet tea) them in order to get proper funding. What the hell? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.107 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 10:33:39 AM Incredible. Absolutely incredible. This is the "small government", "free market" party? Odin, I'm shocked. Surely you aren't in favor of nuclear power? Let's put all our efforts into energy conservation so we don't need these facilities at all (we'll probably never get them anyway). This is a giant boondoggle. Georgia Power/Southern Company are taking us all for a ride. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 10:41:43 AM "Odin, I'm shocked. Surely you aren't in favor of nuclear power?" Actually, I am as a mid-term solution. Especially with fuel reprocessing to close the cycle and minimize the waste (neutralizing the waste is still a big deal). I also don't understand the fear of the final repository and transport. The stuff is nasty, but not unholy. I'm also pretty gung-ho about nuclear power in space for both power generation and especially as a propulsion mode through heated hydrogen. Atomic fuel is just so much more dense energy-wise in both volume and mass than anything we currently have. We're talking about shaving 25-50% off the mass of spacecraft. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 10:52:17 AM Of course, I should qualify the "nukes in space" thing by talking about actual spaceships rather than satellites. The kind of things you don't leave parked in mid-earth orbit to get smacked by a commercial satellite owned by a nearly bankrupt company. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.107 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 11:35:41 AM "(neutralizing the waste is still a big deal)" Yeah, kind of a big deal... Are we really interested in pursuing this before we have a solution to the waste? Not me. Again, let's concentrate on conservation *first*, in hopes that we won't need all this extra power. Problem is, Georgia Power/Southern Company have no interest in conservation - it kills their bottom line. I've said it before, and say it again. We need a new approach to energy that allows our power companies to thrive while we're practicing conservation. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 11:47:17 AM No problems with conservation as a first line of defense. However, even with conservation, there will still be a growth in required power base. Also, I don't think it is necessary to solve the waste problem 100% before building new plants. After all, do we recycle 100% of the materials in wind turbines? How pure are the toxics used in silicon production? We do have a responsibility to do the best we can. Everything comes with pluses and minuses. However, I would say that before we undergo an expansion (and to some degree, even a continuation of current generation) in nuclear power, a pre-condition should be the closing of the fuel cycle, which is also not undertaken for political reasons. This is an obvious step, since it improves the efficiency of a given gram of nuclear fuel by a double-digit factor. It should also diminish the quantity of waste we have right now by a major amount. This is a technology we understand. Further, reprocessing allows for the tranching of waste products by level of radioactivity and half-life. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.107 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 12:39:36 PM What's this going to cost? $3 billion? I would think we could get a long way down the road on a renewable energy project for THREE BILLION DOLLARS. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 01:16:29 PM Three billion buys you one of these: http://www.inhabitat.com/2008/04/10/mojave-desert-solar-power-fields/ Keep in mind the power levels quoted here are peak and the megawatt-hours are probably a better unit of comparison to a nuclear source, which is 24 constant by its nature (and in fact is hard to reduce the output over a certain time). The Vogle add-ons are rated for about 2 gigawatts. Also, keep in mind I'm not out for an either-or here. The problem with transitioning away from fueled power concepts is that we become more dependent on conditions of nature rather than our own will. Thus, it will probably take a rather careful portfolio planning concept to get the energy we need when we want it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.225.81 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/12/2009 01:43:31 PM I'd just like to point out that libertarians for the most part were against this abomination. (although we have no problem with nukular power) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 02:12:30 PM This isn't a yes/no question to nuclear power, it's a yes/no question to whether we have to pay up front for it, whether or not it actually gets implemented. That part is heinously stupid no matter what you think of nuclear power. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.107 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 02:29:15 PM Yeah, but if you libertarians had your way, there wouldn't be any regulation either. "The market" would determine best practices. Companies would be building those cheap-ass Russian nuke plants over here and then just go out of business when they blow up. Or melt down. Or whatever they do. Then, libertarians wouldn't let anybody file any lawsuits for remedy. "It'll all work itself out in the end. Perhaps a tax cut would help." Of course, Halliburton will have seen this all coming and gained control of the market for potassium iodide, restricting supply and therefore driving up the price. Some clever entrepreneur would capitalize on the tragedy though. A radiation theme park! Come to Moultrie and experience small doses of residual radiation! Get a taste of what the former residents must have gone through! (Enter at your own risk. Must be 'this' high to enter. A (small) portion of proceeds are donated to commercial stem cell research.) Visit the Phillips Milk of Magnesia hospitality tent! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.225.81 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/12/2009 02:39:08 PM Not all libertarians believe in no regulations, Jerry. You know that. ;-) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.133.156 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/12/2009 03:26:02 PM lolwut? Sensible libertarians? lolwut. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.107 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 03:53:47 PM Say, is that a big government in your pocket or are you just happy to be here? :-) I don't think I've ever thought of it like this before, but defining one's political philosophy by the size of the government seems overly simplistic. The size of the government is self-determining by other criteria. If taxes are too high, the economy will suffer. If revenue is too low, infant mortality and crime will go up. Trying to bypass the actual issues in search of a one sentence philosophy to inform one's perspective is a shortcut to nowhere. But that's just my opinion. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.225.81 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/12/2009 04:13:10 PM I'd rather be laughed at for calling myself a sensible libertarian than scoffed at while others call me a DINO. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 04:57:16 PM Jerry, I think the sentiment is "government should only be as large and powerful as needed to do what is asked of it, and no more." Kind of like the idea of a lean, mean business if I hear it correctly. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.107 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 05:03:50 PM Odin, that's what we ALL believe. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 08:14:26 PM "I'd just like to point out that libertarians for the most part were against this abomination. (although we have no problem with nukular power)" If I remember correctly, Libertarians range from "Government is evil and shouldn't ever spend money on anything, ever" to "Government is evil, taxation is theft, RON PAUL RELOVEUTION," so I don't really care that they're against corporate welfare if it's for the reason they're just reflexively against government spending money because the Market Is King. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 08:16:36 PM " I don't think I've ever thought of it like this before, but defining one's political philosophy by the size of the government seems overly simplistic." Of course, that's the point. They designed the phrase "Big Government" as a slogan to use the negative phrase "Big" -- usually assigned to demonize something, used a lot in early 20th century and late 19th century against big industries that were using government largesse to take out smaller ones -- to demonize government. Arguing over something's size as the ends instead of a means makes no sense, but political sloganeering is designed to be emotional and not to make sense. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.252 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/12/2009 08:16:43 PM If people call me a DINO. Good. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 08:27:16 PM At least when they call you a DINO you can be like a badass one like a tyrannosaurus rex. When you're a RINO, well, who wants to be a RINO when you can be a freaking tyrannosaurus rex. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.252 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/12/2009 08:29:58 PM Exactly my point! T-rex>donkey. Heck, even a triceretops would kick a donkey's, uh, ass. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.225.81 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/12/2009 11:26:30 PM "If I remember correctly, Libertarians range from "Government is evil and shouldn't ever spend money on anything, ever" to "Government is evil, taxation is theft, RON PAUL RELOVEUTION," Well, that's about as fair as if I said Democrats range from socialist to full bore communists. What makes it more funny, Zaid, is just a few minutes later you say "political sloganeering is designed to be emotional and not to make sense." Rich ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 11:45:13 PM OK, at the national libertarian convention, they had a question they posed to all the candidates when they were vetting them (Reason magazine did this): "Do you believe in the non-aggression principle?" (taxation is theft, regulation is violence) Every single hand shot up. That's the level of political diversity within the National Libertarian Party. If they don't represent you, then maybe you should mention that, but they do represent Libertarians. As for your comment about socialists, you probably are closer than you think, considering mainstream politicians of both the Dems and Reps. support socialism in at least a few ways and places. I don't see that many politicians running to abolish Medicare. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 11:54:13 PM http://www.reason.com/news/show/126633.html This is a great survey of the kinda stuff that went on at the LNC, incase anyone wants to read into it. It's interesting that some people tried to knock out the nonagression principle, which would be a good idea if the party doesn't want to be viewed as extremist, imo. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.225.81 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/12/2009 11:56:12 PM You just listed some of the reasons I no longer consider myself a member of the party, Zaid. And I have mentioned that multiple times. In fact I've made it pretty clear that my positions are filtered through a libertarian lens but not through some platforms the geeks put together at their latest convention. And you would know that if you took the time to examine what I've said in the past and in this thread instead of coming up with clever slogans and then decrying their use by others. As far as socialism, I understand that our system works because it is a mixture of socialism and capitalism which doesn't make me very popular with the libertarian kids. But my personal philosophy is to err towards the capitalism side. And that's a philosophy that is more than a clever one liner about "big government". But what I find really funny is that based on you positions is you and RuralDem are actually closer to each other than either is to me. That tickles me a bit. So any day I find myself opposite of either of you is a day I feel comfortable that I'm dead in the center of my personal philosophy. So yeah, today I'm feeling fine as wine. P.S. The reason I pointed out the Libertarians were on your side on this one was to show you did have allies, they just didn't have a vote in the matter. But once again, some don't care if someone agrees with you, because they just don't agree enough. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/13/2009 12:06:38 AM I agree with most of what you said but I will apologize I don't know you that well. I'll also add as caveat that I did watch the Governor's race last time and the Libertarian nominee certainly wasn't play the taxation-is-theft game, thankfully for that party. That all being said, I don't think the party has any real place in the modern world. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.152.95.165 URL: DATE: 02/13/2009 10:15:14 AM I know you to be a reasonable person Grift, so I don't want to hassle you, but this is an opportunity for me to rant regarding the Cult of Libertarianism. You may be able to temper the libertarian philosophy but many others don't or can't, and the LP seems to encourage it. You and I know that there are always trade-offs; what do we get for our money? What happens if we don't spend the money? But libertarians (small 'l') generally think all government spending is wasteful. I believe that is a false premise but the promotion of it actually causes it to be true; funds must be designated to elaborate oversight and regulation to appease paranoid free-marketeers; funds are cut ensuring half-assed ROI; no money spent until something becomes a disaster, which is more expensive to fix. The NASA budget may be a good example. They tried to do it "faster, cheaper, and better". Well, they got two out of three, but by being unable to do the "better" it made much of the period a huge waste of money. And Atlanta's sewer system; never did get the money together to fix it correctly before giant sinkholes disrupted businesses for months on end all over the city, including Peachtree St.! Like religion, libertarianism is dangerous in the hands of amateurs. It is too easily corrupted into a destructive force because of the simplistic and attractive veneer. None of us want government to be bigger than necessary, we just have to find common ground on what is necessary. Libertarianism reduces politics to the realm of bookkeeping. It leaves out the morality of doing the right thing and the concept of community. Nothing gets considered unless someone gets to make a profit or at least gets a tax break. We have a bad enough income and wealth disparity as it is. Libertarianism would just make that worse, and we all know where that leads, and it ain't pretty. I know libertarians talk a lot about 'personal responsibility' or 'personal freedom' but I think those are just necessary corollaries to small government. If one is going to believe in smaller government, one also has to believe in more personal responsibility. Which brings up one last thing: I find your comment about capitalism (I'm going to substitute libertarianism) vs. socialism interesting. I think socialism is a political philosophy that has a necessary economic mechanism to achieve the social goals. Libertarianism on the other hand, seems more like an economic goal that has some social implications that come with it. That is why it is dangerous. Bad goals. But maybe we can talk more about this over beer sometime. Or we could talk about NASCAR instead. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/13/2009 11:28:14 AM I love Allen Buckley. Negotiating the rules of the Senate debate with him and the Isakson campaign manager were awesome. Lefty (farleft.blogspot.com) and I were representing Majette and Allen wanted like 30 minute answers to everything with unlimited rebuttal. It was great. WSB was having none of it however. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/13/2009 11:29:12 AM Alan Greenspan, Ayn Rand, Milton Friedman -- the Libertarians have given too many bad people to the world as of late. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Not sure what y'all thought of Judd Gregg for Commerce, but... BASENAME: not_sure_what_yall_thought_of STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/12/2009 04:25:29 PM ----- BODY: ...sounds like it ain't gonna happen after all:
"I want to thank the President for nominating me to serve in his Cabinet as Secretary of Commerce. This was a great honor, and I had felt that I could bring some views and ideas that would assist him in governing during this difficult time. I especially admire his willingness to reach across the aisle. "However, it has become apparent during this process that this will not work for me as I have found that on issues such as the stimulus package and the Census there are irresolvable conflicts for me. Prior to accepting this post, we had discussed these and other potential differences, but unfortunately we did not adequately focus on these concerns. We are functioning from a different set of views on many critical items of policy. "Obviously the President requires a team that is fully supportive of all his initiatives. "I greatly admire President Obama and know our country will benefit from his leadership, but at this time I must withdraw my name from consideration for this position. "As we move forward, I expect there will be many issues and initiatives where I can and will work to assure the success of the President's proposals. This will certainly be a goal of mine. "Kathy and I also want to specifically thank Governor Lynch and Bonnie Newman for their friendship and assistance during this period. In addition we wish to thank all the people, especially in New Hampshire, who have been so kind and generous in their supportive comments. "As a further matter of clarification, nothing about the vetting process played any role in this decision. I will continue to represent the people of New Hampshire in the United States Senate."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 04:52:27 PM "Nothing to do with the vetting process" eh? If Obama was really Chicago, there should be some great blackmail material for when the time comes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.107 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 05:01:06 PM He must have a tax problem. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.252 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/12/2009 07:59:54 PM He was a shit choice. Good. And just so you know, his badness had everything to do with partisanship. Gregg clearly showed he had no loyatly to the administration by refusing to give up R status and then with his BS about how he would vote while being vetted. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/12/2009 08:06:39 PM I thought he sucked, mostly because he voted to abolish the Department he was going to be the head of in the 90's. Smacked too much of Bush appointing people to positions they hated so they could destroy "big government" from within. Obama's cabinet choices mostly suck. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 72.145.169.148 URL: DATE: 02/13/2009 11:17:05 AM Ashley Judd would have been a better choice. My understanding of his withdrawal had to do with differences over the stimulus and census. Whatever... maybe we can get someone with more ideas and less baggage. Krugman? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/13/2009 11:26:05 AM Krugman keeps saying he doesn't want a cabinet position, but he keeps blasting Obama in op-eds too. Maybe he just wants an adviser position. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: The Life Without Parole Bill BASENAME: the_life_without_parole_bill STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/12/2009 09:46:40 PM ----- BODY:
"Frick makes it sound like a gunfight is something you know you're going to get into beforehand, like an invitation-only event. How am I supposed to know when I'm going to be in a gunfight? If I knew I was going to one, I wouldn't go."But as the Scout Motto says, "Be Prepared." ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.136 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/14/2009 10:18:01 PM Jen B. reads Field and Stream? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 74.224.145.226 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 11:36:32 AM There's a new masthead tagline in there somewhere. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.80.255 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 12:17:20 PM IRE, I read where the internet takes me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.136 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/15/2009 01:49:54 PM That's a dangerous thing to do. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Bitch, please BASENAME: bitch_please STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/15/2009 04:47:07 PM ----- BODY:
"What's in it? Have you read it? We found 30 million for mice. Got 30 million for mice. You can't be serious. What a joke. $30 million for mice. Does that create jobs?" Price intoned.Then she waves the stack of papers around like she read the whole thing, but clearly has not...
"There are no federal wetland restoration projects in line to get funded in San Francisco," Pelosi spkesperson Drew Hammill said. "Neither the Speaker nor her staff have had any involvement in this initiative. The idea that $30 million will be spent to save mice is a total fabrication."I repeat bitch, puhleaze. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 05:32:29 PM That, and out of an $800B package, the GOP could only find *this* to attack? Not even the $1B to NASA for Ares acceleration and global warming research? Not even that NIH (or was it NSF) money that Specter himself begged for? Personally, I'm still worried about the debt / dollar issue. I know this stimulus is important, but we're actually taking a bet that the fire relights before our ability to borrow money falls apart. Obama's going to have to do some budget balancing as things get better (even if this causes a bit of a dip like it did for FDR), especially in the taxes department. Top rates are just gonna have to go up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.193 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 05:50:09 PM I read a fantastic idea today regarding the stimulus package and the GOP members of Congress bitching and moaning about it -let them just opt out for their districts. Let them come home and in a town hall meeting tell the people of their district that they don't want the money for their district because its wasteful. I would love to see John Linder (R-Asshat Supreme) try to make it out of the hall in one piece after telling the good people of GA's 7th (that would be moi) that he took a page out of Sarah's book and said "thanks, but no thanks". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JohnRose EMAIL: IP: 76.20.250.85 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 06:18:21 PM @odinseye: Our ability to borrow money is not going anywhere. I've heard ridiculous stories of the possibility of the Treasury's investment grade being downgraded, but that's just silly. Right now we have everyone in the world RUSHING to buy treasury bonds at ZERO percent return. We might have more of a problem if this were just the USA economy in a depression, but this is the entire world. We are only at ~60% GDP of debt right now- very comparable to most other industrialized nations, and much less than some other countries (like Japan). We should definitely be trying to put ourselves on a better long-term debt footing, but that's going to mainly mean fixing our health care system and reducing worldwide military commitments, not drastic disaster-scenario shutdowns of government. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.154.212 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 06:21:14 PM "Personally, I'm still worried about the debt / dollar issue. I know this stimulus is important, but we're actually taking a bet that the fire relights before our ability to borrow money falls apart. Obama's going to have to do some budget balancing as things get better (even if this causes a bit of a dip like it did for FDR), especially in the taxes department. Top rates are just gonna have to go up." From Ralph Nader (OH NO O_O!!!!!), an idea: http://www.independentpoliticalreport.com/2009/02/ralph-nader-tax-the-speculators/ "The most discussed and popular one is a simple sales tax on currency trades across borders. Called the Tobin Tax after its originator, the late James Tobin, a Nobel laureate economist at Yale University, 10 to 25 cents per hundred dollars of the huge amounts of dollars traded each day across bordered would produce from $100 to $300 billion per year." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 06:50:26 PM John: Psychology is a very powerful thing in markets (more so than your free trader / rational theorist may admit). One day we're fine, and the next, who knows? Being fundamentally secure is better than betting on someone else's largess or maintaining the same view of the world. As for the health care thing, for almost any expansion I'd ask for pretty strict adherence to a pay-as-you-go approach. Shifting the health care system is going to take a major rethink on roles of government and private expectations, so putting the price tag up front is important. There is going to be a lot of crap from the other side preventing this, but honesty will be important to cementing its legacy along the lines of Social Security. Zaid: I think the speculator tax (Bernie Sanders also brought it up for stock speculation, IIRC) is a good one. There's probably a trade in there between how much cash is raised versus the increasing size of divergences in the market (not engaging in speculative manipulations until the difference between price and expectation gets to a certain size) or any other weirdnesses that may arise from playing with the system. As with anything, test small, study a lot, and then scale up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 07:00:09 PM PS - what is up with Georgia having the craziest nutters that decide to go in front of a camera? Even other states that I would consider even more banjo-riffic (don't worry, when I finally end my voluntary exile to return to the Left Coast, I'll probably stick up for the South) than ours don't seem to have the crazies. Paul Broun cut himself a new winger track recently: http://www.congressmatters.com/storyonly/2009/2/15/114712/941/371/640 Yes, the guy is speaking out *against* modern medical records. Also against evidence-based medicine. This reminds me of an old joke: "What do you call the guy that finished last in med school?" "Doctor." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/15/2009 09:41:01 PM You should try having a discussion with Paul Broun about the Middle East sometime. We over at UGA did, and hilarity ensued, which was quickly beset by the terrifying reality that this guy gets a vote in Congress. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JohnRose EMAIL: IP: 97.66.123.254 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 08:49:59 AM I agree that any increase in government-provided health care should be offset by increased taxes or reduced spending. And psychology is of course crucially important in economics. Psychology is precisely the reason why the United States has such power to incur cheap debt- because we are seen as very, very stable. There's nothing on the horizon that seems likely to change that. We can afford to incur more debt if we are doing it to invest in worthwhile projects. Energy efficiency, health care efficiency, education, science- those are all investments that will pay for themselves over and over again if we invest in them now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 09:59:31 AM I totally agree, John, especially with the last sentiment. All I'm saying is that we would do well to pay for them after the recovery, and while Democrats are still in power. Otherwise, someone might see those surpluses and decide the richies need some more of their money back. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 10:37:56 AM Illiteracy is a terrible thing. And the fact that it strikes even of our most highly placed citizens, like Tom Price, shows that nobody is immune. Please consider a small donation to Reading is Fundamental in Tom Price's name. http://rif.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=whyright_landing ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 11:22:28 AM I was on Price's youth advisory council when I was in high school, and I wouldn't say it's so much that he's illiterate that he doesn't mind lying and smearing. You're giving these people too much credit if you just think they're dumb. I swear liberals did a lot of credit to George Bush by acting like he or his administration were dumb (all it did was let them play the populist card against those elite liberal intellectuals). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 01:05:46 PM Some very successful people are illiterate; they have learned to hide their shortcomings in different ways. It must make it that much harder for him when even the children of his youth advisory council cannot support him in this. Reading is fundamental, and everyone should do it, whether straightforward or between the lines. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 01:23:38 PM Knowing him personally, he's a very smart man, he's not illiterate. He just wants to hook onto something to attack the Democrats with, knowing most of his constituents won't read the fine print. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 01:35:26 PM BTW, I like how Graham, a Republican is open to nationalizing banks but Chuck "Wall Street" Schumer isn't: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/02/15/graham-nationalizing-bank_n_167048.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.223.54 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 01:38:07 PM Seems like shitty staff work to me.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/16/2009 01:47:50 PM OK OK OK! I admit it! I'm illegitimate! I can't read! Now can I have my job back? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 02:03:51 PM http://www.nataliedee.com/120408/a-sense-of-emptiness-in-the-wake-of-obamas-win.jpg ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 02:58:47 PM Lots of smart people cannot read. Like Genghis Kahn. Even more smart people cannot understand sarcasm. Also like Genghis Kahn. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 04:19:19 PM You so told Dr. Price by telling him he can't read. He's gonna go cry in a corner now and promptly disavow his party and join the progressive caucus. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 04:24:18 PM BTW this topic is now about kittens http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtX8nswnUKU&eurl=http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 04:49:53 PM Yes, I "told" Price in the first comment. I kept it going until you got it as a public service. You're welcome. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 05:02:11 PM I'll pass the message along: Tom Price, you're a multimillionaire with a doctorate who can't read. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Noted Author Aaron Glantz in Atlanta on Tuesday at the Carter Center BASENAME: noted_authoraaron_glantz_in_at STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/16/2009 03:18:07 PM ----- BODY:
Aaron Glantz, who reported extensively from Iraq during the first three years of the Iraq, interviewed more than one hundred recent war veterans, and in The War Comes Home: Washington's Battle Against America's Veterans he intersperses their haunting first-person accounts with groundbreaking investigative journalism. This timely book does more than provide us with a personal connection to those whose service has cost them so dearly. It compels us to confront how America treats its veterans and to consider what kind of nation deifies its soldiers and then casts them off as damaged goods.For those of you who'd like to meet Mr. Glantz tonight (Monday) a casual gathering is being organized this evening at Manuel's at about 9:00 pm. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: New Vocabulary Words and phrases BASENAME: new_vocabulary_words STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/16/2009 04:56:52 PM ----- BODY:
U.S. Sen. Roland Burris insisted today that he never changed his story about the contact he had with the administration of ousted Gov. Rod Blagojevich over doing campaign fund-raising for Blagojevich.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.71 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/16/2009 09:41:28 PM Then Gov. Blagoadkjfakjhasdhjfvich hit me up for an exorbitant campaign donation and all I got was this lousy Senate seat. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/16/2009 10:50:43 PM BlagojevittivittivichiMNightShyamalan is pretty bad, but isn't the only difference between him and so many other politicos that he got caught and shamed for quid-pro-quo whereas that's pretty much the name of the game elsewhere? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 98.192.39.136 URL: DATE: 02/17/2009 08:36:44 AM The title of this post should also be "Bitch, Please!" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/17/2009 09:45:23 AM Too bad Admiral Ackbar wasn't there to help him. http://voltagecreative.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/ackbar.jpg ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/17/2009 10:47:46 AM I was long wondering what Burris had to offer to Blago. The most innocent version I could think of was Blago was out to poke everyone in the eye on his way out. What are the prospects for a primary to keep the Repubs from stealing Obama's seat? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Idiots BASENAME: idiots STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/17/2009 11:53:05 AM ----- BODY: To the IT idiots at the AJC who inexplicably, and without notice, changed Jay Bookman's feed, to hell with you. For those of you playing at home, the new feed is here: http://blogs.ajc.com/jay-bookman-blog/feed/ And to Jay Bookman, a kiss on the cheek for the link love. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.160 URL: DATE: 02/17/2009 01:00:01 PM You would think that the AJC would recognize that Jay is a major draw to their site, and make it easy to get to his blog. But, nooooo, it takes forever to find it, and then forever again to load. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 98.192.39.136 URL: DATE: 02/17/2009 01:10:45 PM Thanks, Mel, for speaking up! What the hell is wrong with these people? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/17/2009 03:55:14 PM http://thinkprogress.org/2009/02/17/robertson-on-limbaugh/ I don't know if this is the appropriate thread, but it is called "Idiots" and Limbaugh vs. Robertson is too delectable to pass up. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Not too early to start worrying about 2010 BASENAME: not_too_early_to_start_worryin STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/17/2009 11:49:31 PM ----- BODY: For those of you (specifically me) who breathed a sigh of relief that with William Jefferson gone, we had cleaned house enough to avoid a Mark Foley or Ted Stevens disaster in 2010, I regretfully mention that John Murtha, Grace Napolitano, Roland Burris, and Charles Rangel are all in danger, along with who knows how many other people we don't know about yet, of becoming a 2010 storyline. Fortunately for us, Sam Adams and Rod Blagojevich are not in Congress, and most people will have forgotten about Tom Daschle and Nancy Killefer. At least so far there have been no mentions of Congressional pages. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 12:14:46 AM If you want to find out who's corrupt, it's not hard. Go to opensecrets.org and look at campaign contributions. Murtha was up to his ass in defense tech people lobbying him for pork, and at some point, when you become that enmeshed in legal pay-for-play, you're probably going to step over the line at some point. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 02:43:17 AM And let's not forget no Obama staffers have been charged with a crime. YET. http://www.blogfordemocracy.org/2008/12/its_too_rahm_quiet.html There are a number of cheap, effective anti-anxiety drugs available today. I'll note, because it's not obvious from the post, * That the article describes an investigation into a Murtha donor, not Murtha himself; and * That the article states that Napolitano's loan received the blessing of the FEC in 1999. I'm less sanguine about Rangel and especially Burris, but I doubt anything significant will come of the Rangel investigation and I doubt that the Burris investigation will harm the Democratic Party, given that it's other members of the Democratic Party who have called for it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 07:54:11 AM It doesn't have to be illegal for it to look terrible. I also remind the readers that John Murtha is a current "Most Corrupt Members of Congress" member: http://www.crewsmostcorrupt.org. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 69.180.18.69 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 08:26:39 AM Rangel's fall will just bring us a freshman Representative from Harlem. Dunno about Murtha's district that well. But the guy definitely has felt the corrupting effect of all that money flowing through his hands. I think Burris' damage is limited to his Senate seat, since Senate Dems were tripping on themselves to denounce him and lock him out of the Senate building and other theatrics they can point to later. The trick will be to find a strong primary opponent to knock him off and protect the seat from a Republican move. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 10:41:18 AM I'm also not entirely sure whether Reid played the Burris thing right or not. He got out in front of it for sure, but he pretty well shot his wad well before the ability to do something about it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.131 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 10:45:53 AM It seems like it is never to early for Democrats to 'worry' about something or other. I don't see the need to start the hand wringing ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.131.210.243 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 11:20:43 AM You can tell when Democrats are in power by the fact that the standard for concern shrinks from "lawbreaking committed by multiple high level officials and confirmed by multiple sources" to "looks terrible". I don't care to see the Whitewater-Travelgate rules of engagement restored, where the standard for wrongdoing is whether a Republican can express outrage over it without snickering too loudly while doing so. I don't think any Democrat should be. So I see no reason to accuse Grace Napolitano of being a crook when her supposedly crooked actions have been reviewed and blessed by the very people who are paid to make that determination. Until there is actual evidence of actual wrongdoing, I see no reason to do PeachPundit's work for them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 11:39:07 AM Here's the difference, though. As Democrats, we believe in government's role in national life. That means we also believe it is big deal when trust is violated or offices are used to benefit politicians personally first, and maybe help the people out later. The Napolitano thing is uncool, but it is an instance of a stupid rule that needs to be fixed. Personally, I don't see a reason for an interest rate above that of a CD, since a politician's campaign fund is for their own benefit, after all. Now, when Ken Starr opens his mouth, it is important for us to remind him that he is lucky we aren't trying to find him an accessory to conspiracy to commit crimes against humanity. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.173 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 01:45:26 PM Remind me of what the problem with Murtha is again? He steers federal money to his own district whenever he can? He TURNED DOWN a bribe in the ABSCAM sting? Cynthia McKinney gets bounced because she couldn't bring home the bacon and Murtha catches flack because he does. Sometimes you just can't win. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 02:15:15 PM Murtha's an earmark king, a top porker. There's nothing wrong, imo, with bringing money back to a district to work on things like social spending that is truly needed, but there is something wrong when you're brining back millions of dollars to fill the pockets of campaign contributors who contribute little to the country as a whole --- see CREW's page on Murtha here: http://www.crewsmostcorrupt.org/summaries/murtha.php . I'm reading a book called Turkmeniscam where the editor of Harpers' became a faux lobbyist for Turkmenistan in Washington to see how the lobbying game worked first hand. Part of the beginning of the book talks about lobbying in general. It talks about the ABSCAM, and the reason he was named in the end an "co-conspirator" is unindicted cecause he said he wasn't interested in a bribe "at this point." Murtha's top buddies in the lobbying game is the PMA Group. PMA calls itself the "premier Washington consulting organization in the defense arena." He's so close to it that one of his former staffers, Julie Giardina, actually left his office and worked with PMA -- making her a liason between the two. Second, there is Daniel Cunningham, who also lobbies for PMA -- and get this -- is used by Murtha as "his unofficial driver." In 2006 PMA gave roughly 300k to Murtha and in returns got $95 million dollars worth of contracts. The defense contractors even got together and held a "Breakfast for a Champion" gala for him at the Ritz Carlton -- it cost $2,500 to get in as a PAC and $1,000 for an indidivual. Every single PAC that paid was rewarded by Murtha's subcommittee. A reasonable objection to all this is that Murtha doesn't do anything more than many other members of Congress. You could say that other than a rare Kucinich or Feingold you don't find people who don't pay to play. Of course, Kucinich and Feingold are one of the few that haven't had their heads up their asses the past few years, and the effect of pay to play on Washington has been pretty apparent. So if Murtha is normal for DC maybe DC itself is a bit too corrupt. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 09:55:43 PM odin, I agree, and I do think it is outrageous that a member of Congress may profit from a loan to their campaign. But I didn't read this post as outrage over Napolitano's loan. I read it as another REPUBCANS COMIN O NOEZ!!1! post, where concern over actual wrongdoing is secondary to what the Republican Party might say, which effectively validates whatever the Republican Party might say, regardless of actual wrongdoing. I don't like that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/18/2009 10:01:33 PM "odin, I agree, and I do think it is outrageous that a member of Congress may profit from a loan to their campaign. But I didn't read this post as outrage over Napolitano's loan. I read it as another REPUBCANS COMIN O NOEZ!!1! post, where concern over actual wrongdoing is secondary to what the Republican Party might say, which effectively validates whatever the Republican Party might say, regardless of actual wrongdoing. I don't like that." I remember a conversation I had at Young Democrats one time. Idiot guy #1: "I think we should use scare tactics about the economy." My friend Nikita: "I don't think it's right to scare your constituents into voting for you!" Idiot guy #1 with Idiot guy #2 (interjecting): BUT IT WORKS! Nikita and me: (more or less F YOU GUYS) (crowd devolves into shouting and yelling) -- I agree with Drew. The problem is corruption, it's almost as if the topic, by talking about "2010" seems like the problem is that Democrats get caught being corrupt and get replaced with the GOP. I don't think party matters, it's the fact that they're corrupt that matters. It also reminds me of a time a friend of mine was scared there'd be a terrorist attack so McCain would be elected. Like, I'm pretty sure the main thing to worry about is the terrorist attack, not the resulting McCain election. Being so focused on partisanship and forgetting the big picture is really dangerous. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 12:10:01 AM Lobbyists aren't actually the problem, you know. Money donated to campaigns pales in comparison to the network benefit exchange that is really at the heart of it. But get excited about campaign disclosures and lobbyists, it keeps the system running. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 12:12:35 AM The "network benefit exchange" comes from lobbyists. You don't get into the room with the Congressman that often if you don't donate the big bucks or just happen to have some personal connection to him or her. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 12:16:27 AM That being said, we generally don't mean all lobbyists when we talk about lobbyists and the need for public campaign financing. I mean, I've lobbied before, you probably have to. But the problem is these high-paid jetsetters who actually rake in incomes greater than members of Congress and can essentially terrorize members of Congress into voting their way by the kind of money they can generate by bundling for their opponents if they vote a certain way (even if it's against the wishes of their constituents). Heck, a link like this is very common: http://www.politico.com/blogs/thecrypt/0608/Dems_who_flipped_on_FISA_immunity_see_more_telecom_cash.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 12:40:51 AM Campaign cash is what you see, but it is not really what's going on. The corporate exchange is much more nebulous but much richer. That's why Bush did so well (for a time). Every group can get lobbyist type access, when i speak of the network benefit exchange, it is both above and beneath lobbyists. Much more at the Federal level, but even at the state level. Look at Georgia Power and CW Matthews. CW Matthews appears in the disclosures, but nothing compared to whats really being exchanged. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.152.95.188 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 09:21:18 AM I just think you have to be careful about throwing accusations of corruption around casually. Murtha is head of the committee that oversees DoD appropriations. Of COURSE he's going to get lobbied by defense contractors. Anyone in that position will. That should not be an indictment of corruption. Murtha's district has historically been driven by the coal and steel industries. Well the steel is gone and the coal ain't what it used to be. Murtha trying to reinvent his district so that the residents have jobs is "corruption"? Murtha is one of the most senior members of the HoR, and he has been involved in defense related matters ever since he's been there. You will be hard pressed to find anybody in Washington in a defense related job that isn't connected to him somehow. Is the implication that committee heads can't have any contacts in the area for which they are responsible? All committee heads have some influence in how their appropriations are distributed. It's part of why they want the job, and it's part of why we keep electing incumbents- we like them to have influence. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 10:59:40 AM http://www.cqpolitics.com/docs/news-3055541 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 03:41:07 PM How do you think Murtha got to be head of the committee that assesses DoD allocations? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.152.95.188 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 04:22:16 PM Well, he's a vet, the first Vietnam vet to serve in the House, and he was an officer in the Marines. When he got there in 1974, it's not too hard to imagine that he was looked to to provide some insight into military affairs. It is also easy to believe that he welcomed the opportunity. In the 30+ years since then he would have had to work hard not to become somewhat of an expert. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 04:53:06 PM There's plenty of military vets who don't have contractors licking their butts, though. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.152.95.188 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 05:00:52 PM You've got a horse/cart problem. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 05:13:40 PM I do have a problem with those horses downtown people take rides on. It's like, damn, it's a city, and it's a horse, what kind of antiquated **** is that? But seriously, I didn't make up the idea that Murtha is corrupt. Search around a bit, and he's just the pork barrel defense lobbyists' best friend, and has been on CREW's list of most corrupt members of Congress for years and years. Heck, that sting you or someone else mentioned, the reason he is known as an "unindicted conspirator" is because he told the sting agent he won't take a bribe "at this time" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.152.95.188 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 05:57:30 PM If you want to use that stuff as evidence of corruption then go ahead. I have looked around. All that CREW has is that lobbyists give him a lot of money and he takes care of his district. And I can't believe him saying "at this time" is meaningful in any way. It's not like he was under oath. He was trying to get a pushy (fake) briber off his back. People say things to avoid a confrontation when they want to get out of a situation. Earmarks aren't the same as corruption. If you can find a quo to go with the quid pro, then bring it on. Otherwise, you're going to have to change a lot of things about about bills get written and passed and money gets spent in Washington, and it doesn't necessarily involve corruption. It's just a messy system, but the alternative is to have a dictator decide and nobody else gets to have any say. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 06:04:44 PM " It's just a messy system, but the alternative is to have a dictator decide and nobody else gets to have any say." Wait, so the alternative to privately financed campaigns is a dictator? The strawmen came out hard this time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 06:07:43 PM As for taking care of his district, no, he's actually taking care of whoever gives him money, which includes alot of people outside his district. The PMA Group, which is basically under siege by the feds right now, is not based in Murtha's district. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.161.158 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 08:58:44 PM Zaid, please. This is absurd. 1. PMA is a lobbying group and they represent OTHER COMPANIES. Even if he was corrupt, he wouldn't have been feeding PMA. He would be feeding who they represent. 2. What is "privately financed campaigns"? 3. I don't know how you expect it to work. I know that in my business, if I want to sell something to a customer (especially a new product), I probably have to show it to them. I am all for a ban on gifts to legislators of any amount from lobbyists, but as far as campaigns are concerned, lobbyists and their firms work under the same rules as everybody else. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 09:03:04 PM Murtha's office is basically a clearinghouse for PMA's staffers. They work for him then they work for PMA. He has one of them actually act as his driver. PMA is currently under siege by the FBI for investigations. I give Murtha 6 months max before he has to resign in disgrace. The opposite of "privately financed campaigns" is "publicly finance campaigns" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 09:06:43 PM http://www.harpers.org/archive/2009/01/hbc-90004274 Big Game Hunting with John Murtha By Ken Silverstein Check out this story on last week’s raid on properties owned by businessmen close to Congressman John Murtha: The Tribune-Democrat has learned that federal raids on the businesses and homes of Bill and Ron Kuchera are focused on a potential misuse of corporate funds. Kuchera Industries and Kuchera Defense Systems of Windber were raided by agents from three federal agencies on Thursday as part of an ongoing investigation led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania. A source close to the investigation told The Tribune-Democrat that the investigation is focused on the actions of the corporate officers. The source said the investigation is examining the alleged use of corporate funds for unapproved purposes… Multiple sources have told The Tribune-Democrat that part of the investigation is looking into the financing of LBK Game Ranch in Croyle Township. The 161-acre ranch is a private business owned by CEO Bill Kuchera. Customers at the ranch pay a fee for the opportunity to hunt big game. The ranch, which includes a lodge to house guests, shares the same address as Bill Kuchera’s home. Records show that the LBK Game Ranch generates estimated annual sales of $150,000. The ranch often is used to entertain Kuchera clients and suppliers. In the fall, LBK Game Ranch was the site of a high-end fundraiser benefiting the campaign of U.S. Rep. John Murtha, D-Johnstown. Sources tell The Tribune-Democrat that the one-night event raised as much as $100,000. Now check out the $8.2 million Murtha secured in earmarks for the Kuchera firms for 2008. Also note the $40,000 in lobbying fees that Kuchera Defense Systems paid to Ervin Technical Associates, a lobbying firm that is closely connected to Murtha. And see, too, the tens of thousands of dollars in campaign contributions to Murtha from the company’s executives. It’s not clear where the federal investigation is heading, but it’s pretty obvious how companies bag earmarks from Murtha. It’s also pretty obvious why a few years ago Murtha reportedly described a Democratic plan for ethics reform as “total crap”. -- ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.161.158 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 09:22:13 PM Weird. I've been to fundraisers for candidates. I never felt like it was corruption. However, IF the city needed some Velcro, and IF I had a competitive price, I sure wouldn't mind, all else being equal, getting the deal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 09:30:55 PM You do understand that "Barbecue for Congressman Bob!" is a little different than "Club for Growth 2,500 dollars-a-plate Gala" right? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 09:36:08 PM Speaking of lobbying, this is a very smart move on behalf of healthcare advocates: http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/02/kucinich-uses-his-noggin-like-usual.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 02/19/2009 10:03:09 PM There isn't that much of a difference. In both cases the candidates for election are effectively determined by the minority with enough disposable income to fund their campaigns. But if it doesn't "feel" like corruption, then it must be good for democracy for money to influence who will and will not be a candidate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.19.49.185 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 08:50:38 AM OK, so it's not Murtha that is the problem, it's the system? I might agree with you all there. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Oozing charm from every pore, they oiled their way across the floor... BASENAME: oozing_charm_from_every_pore_h STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/18/2009 05:56:03 PM ----- BODY:
I came to Canada on my first trip as President to underscore the closeness and importance of the relationship between our two nations, and to reaffirm the commitment of the United States to work with friends and partners to meet the common challenges of our time. As neighbors, we are so closely linked that sometimes we may have a tendency to take our relationship for granted, but the very success of our friendship throughout history demands that we renew and deepen our cooperation here in the 21st century.Harper:
On the thickening of the border, I just want to make this clear -- and I want to make this clear to our American friends -- not only have we since 9/11 made significant investments in security and security along our border, the view of this government is unequivocal: threats to the United States are threats to Canada.The first meeting of the two North American Leaders was, by all accounts, a love-fest. And rightly so. Canadians are the kinder, gentler North Americans. Man, I love me some Canucks and I love me some Obama. There's a lot of ugly going on in the world right now, but yesterday's press conference was a beautiful thing. Yes we Canada! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.39.139.99 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/20/2009 08:17:45 AM Hey, what's the capital of Canada? Washington D.C. And I may have to move to Canada in June. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 09:54:19 AM Kindler and gentler? Maybe smellier (of maple syrup) and more likely to succeed in intramural hockey. We could go to war with them and take them tonight, but there'd be heavy civilian casualties when the Canucks have their civil war over who gets to drive the tank. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.39.139.99 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/20/2009 10:02:43 AM Pwnt. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 74.224.120.82 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 11:50:24 AM IRE: Ottawa Zaid..before all that happens Ontario would break free, and make French the official language and Quebec it's capitol. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 11:57:32 AM And of course the Baldwin brothers would die in a daring Canadian air raid. But we'd still have Adam, so it's cool. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.39.139.99 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/20/2009 11:58:58 AM No Jules, it's, never mind... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 03:05:42 PM http://thinkprogress.org/2009/02/20/slumdog-oscars/ I was kinda pissed the little kids didn't get paid well and didn't get to go on the awards circuit. If they win I hope they get to go up on stage = ) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 74.224.120.82 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 04:17:24 PM Today was the bi-annual Filene's of Boston's "running of the Brides" which as now gotten so big they have to hold it at a convention center. The team began lining up before 3 am.. It takes serious dedication to participate in this ritual. http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/weddings/gallery/briderun09/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 05:00:13 PM I think they moved it to the Hynes Convention Center because the Filene's Basement where the running usually takes place is closed for renovations. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://icasualties.org/ DATE: 02/20/2009 07:11:32 PM Is this the best this crowd can do with Canada? Pwnt?? Yeah. Please. It's naturally escaped the attention of many that behind the Brits, it's the Canadians who are one of the few nations in the world actually willing to consistently fight & die for OUR & Nato's cause in Afghanistan. They've lost at least 108 brave soldiers there so far. Moreover, those peace loving Canucks have also fought beside us in allied coalitions all throughout the 20th century, from WW1&11, to Korea & even in 'Nam. And yes, for their minuscule armed forces, they're always willing to serve the world over, in hot spots and wherever the UN needs peacekeeping troops. Despite this, & jokes about overtaking 'The Great White North' belie the fact that besides a wealth of celebrated comedians they've sent streaming south in recent decades, we've always not so secretly coveted their vast supplies of natural resources. So Yes, the US had 'active' invasion plans kept by the War Dept. until 1931. The Navy recently reprised this grand tradition by wryly noting that due to global warming & the naturally Northward shifting growing regions of North America, that starting by about 2050 if not slightly later, much of core of the wheat, corn & food crop growing regions would be safely located within Mid & southern Canada. And yeah, there's also quite a spirited resource arms race going on for the Arctic too, also due to global warming creating the first real easily navigable 'Northwest passage' in over several 1000 years. The unrequited dream of famed European explorers for at least 600 years has been finally achieved. If you wanted cheaper shipping while dodging the few remaining Polar Bears, it's here. And the place has been recently reasonably run by Liberals for much of the last 20 years, hence they had a surplus up until this past year, and their market is one of the few that have lost the least in the recent crash. Ergo, Canada; Not just a great place to visit, a good idea & a decent investment too! There's not many places that we can say the same about either. Cheers, JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 07:51:08 PM Being from that region, like most people in that region, I don't think NATO is doing anything except stirring up shit in Afghanistan but whatev. BTW learn to do a patriotic american circle jerk every now and then mate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 08:40:04 PM On that note, in the "what the fuck" department: http://thinkprogress.org/2009/02/20/kagan-afghanistan-deaths/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.cbc.ca/photogallery/news/1990/ DATE: 02/20/2009 08:48:46 PM As usual, the typical moronic & needlessly nonsensical blatherings we've come to expect from Z. More great Obama pics of the visit here via the CBC.ca at the link: [http://www.cbc.ca/photogallery/news/1990/]. And happily, I'm not yer 'mate' Z. What part of the Taliban's wondrous program or governance do you support? Is it the blowing up of girls schools, or just the killing of their teachers & intimidation & murder of innocent students? Perhaps the systematic planned destruction of cultural heritage of the nation? Or the autocratic expansive imposition of a certain kind of wickedly reprehensible Sharia Law? Do tell? Hmmm? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 09:06:10 PM Not supporting military solution to a political problem that has only increased the popularity of terrorist-folk = YOU SUPPORT THE TALIBAN!!111 More strawmen from resident British-wannabe? Yeah I'm trying to toe down on the ad hominem on here because most of the folks are really cool but you pissed me off, Princey. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.cbc.ca/photogallery/canada/1987/ DATE: 02/20/2009 10:15:23 PM Other Prezs in Canada Here: [http://www.cbc.ca/photogallery/canada/1987/] And Z, Let's take this slow, so even you can follow it. Where was Osama Bin Forgotten ON 9-11? In Afghanistan, as the preferred guest of the cruel & tyrannical Taliban leaders who had previously refused to give him (or his Al Queda compatriots) up to any sort of justice for his alleged terrorist attacks & dealings Prior to the 9-11 attacks. So, Protecting & harboring a well known terrorist mastermind who caused the deaths of over 2,500 Americans, just a 'minor political problem' to your mind perhaps. What happens to Afghanistan will involve plenty of politics, no doubt. It's been a particularly savagely neglected & poorly fought war, but it's the only one we've got that's yes, justified. You tell us differently, and then tell us how we were supposed to respond differently. 'Stuff was already well stirred before we got there, and will probably remain so long after we're gone. Now what & how this has anything to do with 'a patriotic american circle jerk' as you claim is beyond me. Again, you tell me. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 219.141.250.34 URL: DATE: 02/20/2009 10:35:03 PM We met this Chinese-Canadian guy on an airplane, and he was still pissed off that W. visited Mexico before visiting Canada. Apparently, it's considered a sacrosanct tradition that U.S. Presidents go North on the first official visit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/21/2009 12:27:04 PM "Now what & how this has anything to do with 'a patriotic american circle jerk' as you claim is beyond me." I think he meant hating on Canada. Self-proclaimed intellectuals should practice some reading comprehension and also keep a strong model of mind in their back pocket. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/21/2009 01:59:00 PM Hating on canadians is a proud American pasttime, and yes, Canadians do it to America, too. It's all in good fun. As for those concerned about Waziristan/Baluchistan (there is really no "Pakistan/Afghanistan/Iran" to the Pashtun), I reccomend you read this by two women who are both concerned about the region's women and understand the foolishness of NATO's chosen strategy: http://www.thenation.com/blogs/edcut/404388/helping_afghan_women_and_girls?rel=hpbox The pomp-and-circumstance guy might think better than to call a Bihari sympathetic to the Talibanis, but that would require a level of sophistication that the guy doesn't have. Doing pomp and circumstance bullshit is faux politeness, it's condescension. Accusing those who disagree with policies of being on the side of people like the Taliban really are no better than those in 2003 who accused me of being in Saddam Hussein's pocket after I (mostly) accurately predicted everything that would happen in Iraq as a result of an unprovoked US invasion. It has no place in civilized discourse. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Your Early Oscar Open Thread BASENAME: your_early_oscar_open_thread STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/20/2009 04:31:19 PM ----- BODY:
In Washington, President Barack Obama and Democrats in Congress are fighting for our middle class. An important part of that effort is the Employee Free Choice Act, which levels the playing field for workers who choose to join a union. But here in Georgia, big business and their lobbyists are doing their level best to fight the Employee Free Choice Act with H.R. 22, a bill that is devastating to Georgia's workforce. FACT: The Employee Free Choice Act restores workers' rights to join a union, if they choose to. It strengthens our middle class and grows our economy. FACT: Despite what opponents of the Employee Free Choice Act may say, EFCA doesn't take away secret ballot elections. What it does do, however, is let the workers, not big corporations, decide whether to form a union through majority sign up or secret ballot. Workers can still have a secret ballot election if they choose. The Employee Free Choice Act is important national legislation that protects workers, and that's why here in Georgia, we must stop H.R. 22. We've received word that H.R. 22 is headed for a vote in the House Industrial Relations Committee tomorrow. If a majority of the committee members vote yes on H.R. 22, it will go to the House floor for a full vote. The time to stop H.R. 22 is now, in committee, before it goes any further. And we need your help to do it. We know that Democrats will stand up for workers rights, but please take a moment now to call one or more Republican members of the House Industrial Relations Committee and tell them to stand up for Georgia's middle class and vote "NO" on H.R. 22. House Industrial Relations Committee Republicans Mike Coan (R - Lawrenceville) Chairman 404.656.6801 repcoan@charter.net Bobby Reese (R - Sugar Hill) Vice Chairman 404.656.0314 bobby.reese@house.ga.gov Terry England (R - Auburn) Secretary 404.656.0183 englandhomeport2@alltel.net Mark Hamilton (R - Cumming) 404.656.0188 770.844.6768 - Office mark.hamilton@house.ga.gov Billy Horne (R- Coweta County) 404.656.0287 gahouse71@yahoo.com Tom Knox (R -Forsyth County) 404.656.6831 tom.knox@house.ga.gov Edward Lindsey (R - Atlanta) 404.463.2247 edward.lindsey@house.ga.gov Jeff May (R - Monroe) 404.656.5116 jeff.may@house.ga.gov Jimmy Pruett (R - Eastman) 404.651.7737 jimmy@jimmypruett.com Roger Williams (R - Dalton) 404.656.3904 roger.williams@house.ga.gov Clay Cox (R - Lilburn) 404.656.0188 clay.cox@house.ga.gov----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 02:10:59 PM I can't support card check. It's probably the biggest ideological disagreement I have with Obama. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 03:39:06 PM You have a problem with short-circuiting captive audience disinformation campaigns? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 03:39:13 PM Under EFCA workers can still choose to go the ballot route if that's what they want. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 76.17.124.16 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 07:38:55 PM I think this legislation would make an already flawed system far worse. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 07:56:20 PM Details? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 11:00:57 AM I think it gives unions too much power. While it doesn't abolish secret ballot elections, in a practical sense unions are going to opt for the card check option wherever possible because they can do so without giving the employer notice of the impending effort to unionize. As other Democrats have noted, secret balloting is the preferred method of unionizing not just in this country but in other countries with unions. Allowing a union to secretly begin circulating cards to employees for signature pretty much invites pressure, harassment, and even retaliation for those who refuse to sign a card. Those who sign cards could also be endangered in the event the union doesn't hit the threshhold percentage of signatures, if the employer nevertheless gets ahold of the cards somehow and can see who was and was not in favor of unionizing. This is precisely the sort of thing that the anonymity of secret balloting is intended to prevent. I just think it's a really poorly thought out idea that will end up having more negative consequences than people realize. I recognize a majority of Democrats disagree with me, and I can live with that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 03:41:48 PM I think your logic only makes sense if you think unions are either foolish or nefarious, and they really aren't either inherently. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 04:18:42 PM "Allowing a union to secretly begin circulating cards to employees for signature pretty much invites pressure, harassment, and even retaliation for those who refuse to sign a card." I dunno, if a workplace is bad enough that a union thinks they can hold a successful drive (or at least make a good show of it), the organizing election is going to be ugly no matter what. If nothing else, adding power to the unions in this instance makes me feel not too sad. If there weren't law practices devoted to subverting organizing drives and a great deal of conservative chicanery to break down the independence of the NLRB and elections overseers, then we would never have had to go down this road. Also, I'd say that there are plenty of ways in "secret" elections for employers to make it dangerous for people to participate in a failed election. Now that it appears to be all but impossible to conduct a clean election under the current system, the cards may have to be the way to go. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.38.181 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 04:33:18 PM J reports from the Capitol that HR22 has passed out of committee. Saddle up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 04:50:16 PM Yay the Republicans are practicing their favored pasttime: thwarting the grand liberal marxist conspiracy! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: chris EMAIL: IP: 72.54.8.86 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 05:22:56 PM I'm glad the DPG is putting out action alerts, but wouldn't your time be better spent contacting Democrats (including maybe some of the sponsors of this resolution) and urging them to vote No? The last time I checked, a lot of Republicans got into politics to defend their version of pro-business interests, the same way a lot of Democrats got into politics to defend a woman's right to choose. There is nothing you can say to a pro-choice Democrat to prevent them from voting for a pro-choice bill, there's probably nothing you can say to an anti-labor Republican to prevent them from voting for an anti-labor bill. They've already heard the pros and cons and made up their minds. It's ideological. So again I'd start calling Democrats in the House and see if you can't pin down 61 "No" votes and if you don't have 61 already find the people that are wavering back and forth and concentrate on them instead. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 09:04:00 PM "Allowing a union to secretly begin circulating cards to employees for signature pretty much invites pressure, harassment, and even retaliation for those who refuse to sign a card." Wait. "Allowing a union to secretly begin circulating cards?" Isn't that required under current law? Isn't a union required to gather the signatures of 30% of the employees before it can request a union election? The difference between the law as it is and the law as it would be under EFCA is not whether a union would circulate a petition, secretly or not. As I understand it, the difference is the power the law gives to the boss. If more than 50% of the employees demand union representation, they may decide to forgo an election and form a union. Under current law, the boss can veto that decision. Under EFCA, he can't. The boss should not have that power. The EFCA is right to take that power from him and restore it to his employees. As for ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 09:09:20 PM Crap. As for "pressure, harassment, and retaliation" on the part of the union, those concerns are speculative. The "pressure, harassment, and retaliation" on the part of the boss is proven. The law should address them first, and the EFCA does. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: What's this really about? BASENAME: whats_this_really_about STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/23/2009 07:40:00 PM ----- BODY: That's a question I often ask myself when it comes to the actions of Republicans. Maybe I just have a suspicious nature, or maybe they really do always have a hidden agenda. The latest tidbit that has me puzzled is HB 38, a bill sponsored by Ed Setzler to prevent the implantation of micro-chips in humans without their permission. A breathless email today from Shady Fields urged her flock to show up at the Sub Committee hearing tomorrow to speak in support of this legislation. So, as the world goes to hell in a handbag, the faithful are concerned about unwanted micro-chip implants? Really? Has there been some rampant micro-chipping going on that I hadn't heard about? Not that I think asking someone's permission before implanting them with a foreign object is really a bad idea, but it's just all so odd. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 72.145.167.170 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 08:26:35 PM Oh good grief, here's my .02.. Ed's friends in the GOP don't like him very much to have him carry this bill for them. Can we say John Birchers or what? I mean seriously we are 2 billion dollars in debit and this is what we have to worry about? Not only that, his buddy from Cherokee Sean Jurgeson carried the cockamaime Interior Decorators vs. Architects bill and that was debated for 45 minutes! Hey, isn't this is supposed to be their bench, the young guys to move up when their elders move on to Congress aka Chip Rogers. I suppose it's one of two things, either they have others itching for those seats or they somehow are viewed as a threat.. in either case, can I haz some transportation and a job pleasze.. Work on that nitwits. What a bunch of policy light weights.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 10:51:01 PM Ed Setzler is one of the few members of the GOP House that I've had a good long conversation with, and I found him a truly pleasant person. He's like a pro-life Libertarian, and civil liberties issues are very close to his heart. He's not carrying anyone's weight, he really believes this. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.178.173 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 10:59:06 PM Ok, Zaid.. what's a Pro-life Libertarian? I thought they didn't espouse all that getting involved in personal private decisions? Is that what Congressman Ron Paul is? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 11:14:53 PM Jules, Yes, RP is one of those. And no, they don't seem to see the irony that "liberty" is a higher value for wealth than for a woman's body. Of course, they wave that concern away with mystical thinking. No one ever said that True Believer Libertarianism involve thinking or moral development deeper than that of an angsty 15-year old boy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 11:17:04 PM Odins I see that social issues is one thing you don't budge on much, so I'm going to pre-empt the "doesn't anyone see the irony in that Zaid isn't staunchly one way on every single issue omGZZ!" first, then explain that believing in liberty for unborn kids is completely consistent with libertarian ideas if you think life starts at conception, which is why the national party actually has quite a few pro-life members. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 11:18:21 PM And Ed Setzler is a very thoughtful person who put up with an hour of discussion with little progressive Zaid in a very respectful manner and he doesn't deserve to be maligned in this way, either. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 11:29:50 PM Yes, but that is exactly what I am alluding to - that fact that they just go with "oh, God calls that murder" and step away from it. I get hardnosed on issues like that because they are science-based (well, technically the ethics comes first with preconditions and then the science comes and checks them off). And, with a lot of them, I see them as having either one or a relatively clustered subset of answers that follow logically from the ethical precepts. And when people try to show me some other answer without being able to give me even the most basic steps (and yet somehow still believe they know what's up), that's when I get all bunchy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 11:32:36 PM Assume they do it Because Their Church Told Them So. Doesn't sound like you start your conversations with people you disagree with with very strong assumptions. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 11:35:09 PM In other words, would the people who cut me off and insulted me for even referring to anti-abortion people as "pro-life" in the other thread a few weeks ago immediately jump onto Nat Hentoff and call him a christian fundamentalist woman-hater GOP-stooge, when he's actually a pro-life atheist and a life-long progressive activist who worked at the Village Voice and regularly contributed to the Washington Post and Progressive Magazine? Ideological totalitarianism is dangerous. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.178.173 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 11:48:04 PM Been watching Lake of Fire lately.. but I digress I'm not sure he's been maligned. The question has been asked about priorities. He brought this bill a year ago and it died in committee, what's different now? Are we in danger of being picked up and having nameless faceless people implant these things in our bodies? Versus being stuck in traffic for hours every day, or having no money to pay teachers, firemen, cops, or a functioning DOT. I didn't say he wasn't nice.. as if his being nice to you is relevant to policy. Whatever I'm sure he is nice. Oh and why do you speak of yourself in a self effacing way, little ol me.. good grief your entitled to engage an elected official same as the rest of us. No doubt it was a grand exchange. I'm sure you both learned something useful. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/23/2009 11:54:05 PM Well, this: "That's a question I often ask myself when it comes to the actions of Republicans. Maybe I just have a suspicious nature, or maybe they really do always have a hidden agenda." Made it seem like Setzler's getting a raw deal here. As for myself, well I don't think my rep. earl earhart would ever hear me out in the way setzler did. Especially after I kinda http://standupuga.org/PDFs/Issue4.pdf me not going so easy on him. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 69.180.18.69 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 12:15:29 AM "a few weeks ago immediately jump onto Nat Hentoff and call him a christian fundamentalist woman-hater GOP-stooge..." Or just at first blush he seems to be the type that just enjoys being the perennial gadfly. I can be moved on some trimester fiddling, but my litmus test for a reasonable person is to start at the blastocyst. If they can't get that answer correct, they're pretty much a waste of my time. Of course, in an ideal world, the NIH would get a few tens to hundred of million a year to perfect birth control and invent a male version and we'd have this problem totally sidestepped. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.154.63 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/24/2009 12:25:02 AM Most "pro-life" libertarians I've met are converted Republicans. Such non-libertarian ideas as pro-life, pro pre-emptive war, anti-immigration have only recently emerged in the Libertarian party. It's one of the reasons some who still lean libertarian no longer associate with the party. And odin, libertarian philosophy has more to it than some 15 year old boy masturbating while reading Ayn Rand and listening to Neil Boortz. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 66.56.47.239 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 12:36:09 AM Maybe he saw these: http://www.verichipcorp.com/ FDA Approves Computer Chip for Humans: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6237364 CBS 46 Investigates: Microchips In Humans http://www.cbsatlanta.com/news/14598329/detail.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 12:39:16 AM That's an interesting concluding sentence, because I really feel like Neil Boortz got his philosophy at 15 years of age, masturbating to Ayn Rand, and didn't intellectually develop since then. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 98.192.39.136 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 08:07:22 AM Mel, They view the microchip implantation as the mark of the beast. Religious zealots were in the same uproar about social security numbers years ago. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.155.131.180 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 09:47:13 AM I think you're right Will. When I first read the email, I thought maybe it had something to do with stopping birth control implants. But after I made the post, I found a few "end time" websites with blather about the chips being "satan's mark". Which raises an obvious question. Why would people who excitedly anticipate the rapture oppose these supposed signs of the rapture? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 131.96.131.33 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 10:18:32 AM I was merely answering this question: "Has there been some rampant micro-chipping going on that I hadn't heard about?" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/24/2009 10:23:07 AM Well no one is "excitedly" anticipating the rapture and those who do would not be pleased to know that the destruction of the world is eminent. This would probably be Aristotle's wet dream but I'm a little wierded out by this. And if I am weirded out, you got some problems. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 10:37:25 AM Yeah, the Mark of the Beast was the first place I went to in my head as well. Real ID had some opposition from these lines. In the Real ID case, it shows that just because people are a little crazy, it doesn't mean they can't be useful. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 98.192.39.136 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 12:40:45 PM These people believe they have a mandate by God to save souls. They think they are being vigilant, using the political and legal systems to thwart Satan's every move. Hence, their opposition to microchip implantation. Yes, they eagarly anticipate the rapture and even attempt to hasten it at times. So when they see one of these "signs" they dont really oppose it. It's prophecy and they anticipate and accept what comes. It's their job to help bring the prophecy to fruition. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 02:03:06 PM "And odin, libertarian philosophy has more to it than some 15 year old boy masturbating while reading Ayn Rand and listening to Neil Boortz." Grift, If that wasn't snark, it came to mind FAR too easily. Just sayin'. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/24/2009 02:16:37 PM You talk about that like it's a bad thing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 03:39:26 PM I should call Setlzer up and ask him, "So you're doing this to thwart Satan, right? Cool." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.58 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/24/2009 04:30:08 PM I want that much metaphysical control. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 05:06:11 PM Hypothetical conversation: (ring ring ring) Rep. Ed (a friend of mine who worked for his campaign making phone calls who is his neighbor calls him Mr. Ed)*.: Sup. Zaid: Hi I'm calling because I heard you had this new bill out about microchips. Rep. Ed: (cocks brow) Oh, so you heard. Zaid: Yes, it's just that I have all these friends who think that there's an evil conspiracy behind everything that Republicans do, and that you're really fighting off Satan or something like -- Rep. Ed.: Yes, that's right. Zaid: that and -- wait, what? Rep. Ed: I introduced the microchips bill not because I'm a noted civil libertarian and good friends with the only Lesbian member of the assembly*, but because I literally think that Satan wants to implant us with microchips and that the whole thing is actually a plot to legalize and subsidize abortion on demand. Zaid: (stammering) I-I'm dumbfounded. Who knew that all this time that the lefty blogosphere was right about you guys? Rep. Ed.: (evil laughter) Yes, Zaid! Now you know! But I cannot let you take this secret with you. Your phone -- which we carefully replaced with an identical Halliburton-CIA replica -- is rigged to explode in 5 seconds. Zaid: No, nooooooooooooooo (BOOM) *Actually true ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.38.181 URL: DATE: 02/24/2009 05:14:33 PM Implanted chips are satan's work? I WANT ME SOME! I'm gonna get a tattoo that looks like what people think an implanted chip would look like. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: The President would like a word... BASENAME: the_president_would_like_a_wor STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/24/2009 08:58:32 PM ----- BODY:
Sen. Dave Schultheis, of Colorado Springs, on Wednesday opposed a bill requiring all pregnant women to be tested for HIV, so that if they are infected their babies can be treated to prevent the transfer of the virus. "This stems from sexual promiscuity for the most part, and I just can't go there," he said. "We do things continually to remove the consequences of poor behavior, unacceptable behavior, quite frankly. I'm not convinced that part of the role of government should be to protect individuals from the negative consequences of their actions."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 08:55:40 AM The wages of sin is DEATH! Wow, sorry, something got into my morning coffee... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 08:58:54 AM But seriously, why go the "promiscuity" route when it is a bill *requiring* medical actions. Just mutter "free choice," "privacy," "government intrusion into difficult personal matters," and on and on. On the other hand, can you really be pro-life and pro-infant-HIV at the same time? Do people really (voluntarily) disable their mental faculties to this degree? Permanently, I mean. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/26/2009 09:23:25 AM Is this the same dude who equated homosexuality to murder earlier in the week? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 04:01:25 PM Colorado will just not let us have the coveted "Most Nutcases Per State" award again this year :( ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Send an email to MSNBC! BASENAME: david_sirota_on_msnbc STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/26/2009 06:49:45 AM ----- BODY:
Take a moment this morning to let MSNBC know that you'd like a progressive voice on every night at 10PM! MSNBC has put out the call for a new show on their network. David Sirota, our friend and supporter is seeking support to be named the new host of a show following Rachel Maddow on MSNBC. Chris Bowers, over at OpenLeft provides all we need to write a compelling letter to "the powers that be" at MSNBC.
Highlights from Chris Bowers are below the fold.
----- EXTENDED BODY:The same principle applies to the national media. Like many people on the left, I complain about the corporate media all the time. However, rather than just complaining about the corporate media, shouldn't we be working to take it over? We have done a great job of building online progressive media, but even with the recent changes at a cable news network like MSNBC, the Republican media dominance of the last few weeks shows that we still lag behind on television. That is why it is a good thing for progressives to campaign for new cable news network time slots whenever such openings appear.
It is the same principle as the extended 2008 primary season, which I strongly believe helped President Obama's chances in the general election. The more public supporters that David, Sam, and Cenk each have, the more attention it draws to all progressives campaigning for the time slot, and the more interest it demonstrates in progressives winning the new show.
Write an email now: letters@msnbc.com ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 09:06:36 AM Between current conservative partisan Fox News and soon-to-be liberal partisan MSNBC, it seems like all that is left for CNN to do is to referee the grudge match. Of course, CNN could hire more real reporters and investigate facts behind both sides' talking points. But we know that's not a profitable model. I'd settle for moments like Chris Matthews' for now though: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMMklhX74_w Or this: http://www.dailykostv.com/v/000797.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 10:51:58 AM Have you ever watched Olbermann, Madow, or Sirota on TV? They aren't Democratic "partisans" they're real investigative reporters -- they fact check "both sides," unlike CNN, which pretty much invites lobbyists on to give their side without identifying them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.155.131.180 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 12:33:59 PM Latest ratings have FOX NEWS blowing the doors of MSNBC again, basically back to pre-primary numbers. http://www.mediabistro.com/tvnewser/ratings/the_scoreboard_tuesday_feb_25_109694.asp Not good news for MSNBC or CNN. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.140.110 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 12:41:57 PM Bill Maher calls it "fake fairness." That's the whole idea behind "fair and balanced." Like a seesaw, the ends are the TWO opposing viewpoints, and the moderator, I guess, is the midpoint who's supposed to maintain equilibrium. The problem with this concept, though is that having two positions on one issue means you have to use the same frame, and that's why it's usually a bad idea to go on Fox or CNN. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 03:37:32 PM I remember all that "fairness" during the run up to the war, where "fair" entailed quoting a Republican leadership hack and Democratic leadership hack about the nefarious threat from Iraq without fact-checking the statements of either. That's why I particularly like Rachel Maddow. She researches stuff. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: Young Democrats Taking Action: Economy, Environment, & Your Electric Bill BASENAME: young_democrats_taking_action STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/26/2009 11:21:44 AM ----- BODY: Several Action Alerts are now active on our Young Democrats of Georgia Website. Can you spare a couple of minutes to take action that could save the state and taxpayers Millions of Dollars and protect our Environment? Click on the links below for info on the legislation and to take action: Fixing the Budget: Take Action on House Bill 356 Raising Revenue: Support Sunday Sales, Vote Yes on Senate Bill 16 Stop the State from Raising Your Electric Bill: Take Action on Senate Bill 31 Help our Environement: Take Action on Two Important Environment and Transportation Efforts Support the work of Young Democrats, make a contribution online today at www.georgiayds.org/contribute. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 02/26/2009 11:47:03 PM Going to be setting up a big Thank You email to all the Dems that voted against this bill. I actually don't think the voters will forget. Lord have mercy, I know I won't. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Next time you see Karla Drenner, Kevin Levitas, and Calvin Smyre... BASENAME: next_time_you_see_karla_drenne STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/26/2009 02:39:19 PM ----- BODY: ...smack them, and ask them why they voted for SB 31 when people like Rich Golick and Jill Chambers voted no. (apologies for linking to PP, the House web site isn't updated yet) ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.245.96.227 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/26/2009 02:55:11 PM Don't feel bad. Dubose plugged Peach Pundit from the well today. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: chris EMAIL: IP: 72.54.8.86 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 03:05:17 PM Golick and Chambers are some of the few people in either party in competitive districts who have had competitive campaigns run against them that highlighted their voting records. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.245.96.227 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/26/2009 03:16:23 PM Davis is in a competitive district and he voted for it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 03:25:29 PM With all respect, Chris, the fact that Golick and Chambers survived their competitive campaigns in a very Democratic year, in a year where Jill made a couple of trips to the funny farm, and in a year where we did manage to knock off old boy Steve Tumlin, has to have them feeling pretty secure for the long term. They didn't have to vote no. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 03:33:00 PM Why exactly does it matter if their district is competitive or not when this will be a non issue to most voters at the polls by time the next election? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.245.96.227 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/26/2009 03:38:54 PM It won't be a non-issue when people get there electric bills. If not then 2012. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.245.96.227 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/26/2009 03:39:44 PM Meant to say if not 2010 then 2012 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 03:59:52 PM Speaking of electric bills why don't you guys take a look at the Let's Raise a Million project (LRAM), something I'm involved in to help indigent people save on their electric bills and also to help reduce fossil fuel consumption: http://letsraiseamillion.org/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: chris EMAIL: IP: 72.54.8.86 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 04:22:39 PM Ataru if you spend at parity with Jill she will probably lose, just based on how early votes vs people that voted closer to the election voted (and how you'd expect them to vote based on their demographic and electoral history). The real spending barrage didn't happen until later in October after a lot of those people voted. Plus with redistricting if that district shifts a few points more Democratic it becomes a solid Democratic seat instead of a lean-Democratic toss up (with a strong/entrenched Republican incumbent). Now as for Steve Davis, that guy is a partisan ideological believer who will go down with the ship. He has shown no inclination to change with the times (or his district) and I think he'd rather go down fighting what he believes to be the good fight (in accordance with his ideology) than shift with the wind. I've also heard a lot of speculation that he isn't running next time anyway so political concerns (like election results) would be even less of a motivator than they otherwise would be in that case. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.133.240 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/26/2009 04:43:18 PM Don't forget Amy Carter and a couple of those other SW Dems. They are NOT our friends right now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.158.209.43 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 07:17:13 PM The floor speeches were long and lots of opinions were available. Instead of "smacking" them someone could politely ask what their reasons were... Karla envoked Jimmy Carter, and others felt that it wasn't much going to be avoided come one or another way. Frankly we were lucky to keep the delegation together on HR1 so if it were me, before I try the vinegar approach, since the session isn't over, you might try some honey first.. there are other crappy things out there still to come.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 08:39:33 PM Do I strike anyone as a honey type of guy? ;-) It would be pretty tough for them to convince me that there was some justifiable reason for voting for this, quite frankly. What does Jimmy Carter have to do with this, anyway? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 72.29.55.64 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 08:45:50 PM The entire list courtesy of Tondee's Tavern: Rep. Ellis Black Rep. Amy Carter Rep. Mike Cheokas Rep. Hardie Davis Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler Rep. Karla Drenner Rep. Carl Epps Rep. Gloria Frazier Rep. Carol Fullerton Rep. Mike Glanton Rep. Keith Heard Rep. Joe Heckstall Rep. Henry Howard Rep. Sistie Hudson Rep. Lynmore James Rep. Darryl Jordan Rep. Kevin Levitas Rep. Howard Mosby Rep. Quincy Murphy Rep. Nikki Randall Rep. Jay Shaw Rep. Calvin Smyre Rep. Al Williams ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 72.29.55.64 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 08:50:41 PM So, will anyone actually call out Drenner or any of the more liberal members who voted yes? Will anyone openly praise Hanner, Parham, and the other more Conservative Rural members who supported it? Hahahahahahhaha. :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 72.29.55.64 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 08:51:32 PM Arghhhh that should say "who did not support it" not "who supported it" :( ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 08:59:28 PM Sure, I'll praise anyone who didn't support it, right here and now. Great job, everyone who voted against it. http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/stories/2009/02/26/nuclear_georgia_power.html "One SB 31 supporter, Rep. Karla Drenner (D-Avondale Estates), even suggested that SB 31 would hold down the price of gasoline at the pump." Like, seriously? Sounds like a Georgia Power talking point with no basis in reality whatsoever. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: RuralDem EMAIL: IP: 72.29.55.64 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 09:03:55 PM Also, this is a rare circumstance, so I do want to note it: I agree with Grift about the impact of the legislation. I spoke with a few people in my area after it passed and they were furious. I doubt this will be forgotten anytime soon. I wonder how many possible primaries we'll see from just this legislation? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.133.240 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/26/2009 09:57:39 PM Rep. Ellis Black Rep. Amy Carter Rep. Mike Cheokas Rep. Hardie Davis Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler Rep. Karla Drenner Rep. Carl Epps Rep. Gloria Frazier Rep. Carol Fullerton Rep. Mike Glanton Rep. Keith Heard Rep. Joe Heckstall Rep. Henry Howard Rep. Sistie Hudson Rep. Lynmore James Rep. Darryl Jordan Rep. Kevin Levitas Rep. Howard Mosby Rep. Quincy Murphy Rep. Nikki Randall Rep. Jay Shaw Rep. Calvin Smyre Rep. Al Williams These people are NOT our friends. F*CK em all. Turds. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.158.209.43 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 10:02:44 PM 30% from all over the state, urban rural, conservative and liberal. So, what's the theory? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.133.240 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 02/26/2009 10:12:03 PM They are turds? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 02/26/2009 11:45:24 PM I'm very disappointed in the Dem caucus on both sides. So what I'm seeing is had the Democrats actually had any balls (the ones that voted forit) this legislation would have been soundly defeated on both sides of the Assembly. I would say "assclowns" but that's not in my domain :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 02/26/2009 11:48:08 PM Tim's finally come over to the dark side. (hands him copy of the Nation and Progressive Democrats of America membership card) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 02/27/2009 09:40:23 AM Zaid, there is no Dark Side, only more light :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/27/2009 10:24:51 AM "So, what's the theory?" When you're in the minority on a bill that's going to pass anyways, may at least pick up some campaign funds? The worst part of this thing is that it essentially kicks the PSC in the nuts. I forget who said it, but it was said best that a collection of insurance salesman, Realtors, ex-farmers, and so on declared themselves more knowledgeable about industry policy than a board of experts. Of course, this is a place where that fancy book-learnin' ain't good for much. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 68.211.3.77 URL: http://www.georgiafordemocracy.org DATE: 02/27/2009 01:36:09 PM But it wasn't going to pass anyway. That's the problem. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/27/2009 06:46:42 PM PS, what do you mean by "wasn't going to pass anyway?" I thought it was just a plain ol' bill. Was there really that much resistance to it on the Republican side of the House? And I truly ask for my own education. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.221.187 URL: DATE: 02/27/2009 06:56:49 PM The whole point of this bill was that it made people on the traditional left and right angry. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 02/27/2009 07:21:36 PM There are 101 Republicans in the House, and only 84 of them voted yes, so clearly there was resistance on their side of the aisle ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 02/28/2009 10:48:35 AM I see. Seems that Smyre and DuBose would have found a good chance to threaten some rural Georgia seats with this going down. I mean, it's so visceral. The General Assembly literally voting to take your money and hand it to Georgia Power, no strings attached. Well, time to enjoy the greatness of cost-plus contracting. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Here's your chance... BASENAME: heres_your_chance STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/26/2009 09:46:55 PM ----- BODY: Eggs & Issues Breakfast. Hosted by Representative Karla Drenner. Saturday, February 28, 2009 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Clarkston Woman's Club 3912 Church Street (Between the International Bible Church and the First United Methodist Church) The event will include a FREE continental breakfast as well as the chance to hear more information about and to express your opinion of current trends facing Georgia's 86th House District. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Transportation Town Hall in Rockdale BASENAME: transportation_town_hall_in_ro STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/26/2009 10:04:24 PM ----- BODY:The President released the Administration's FY 2010 top-line budget proposal today which includes $26.5 billion for the Department of Justice (DOJ), a 3.5 percent increase more than the FY 2009 budget. Expands Prisoner Reentry Programs - Includes $109 million for prisoner reentry programs, including an additional $75 million for the Office of Justice Programs to expand grant programs authorized by the Second Chance Act that provide counseling, job training, drug treatment, and other transitional assistance to former prisoners. Enhances Federal Civil Rights Enforcement - Includes $145 million for the Civil Rights Division to strengthen civil rights enforcement against racial, ethnic, sexual preference, religious and gender discrimination.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Upgrade BASENAME: upgrade STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/01/2009 10:50:12 AM ----- BODY:
"The election killed my personal life," and it ends, "So to all the fathers out there: If you want your daughters to be single in her 20s, I can say this--run for president."
Especially considering that for all the campaign promises of scalpels and line by line reviews, President-elect Obama seems more likely to need a shovel so that he can pile on more spending. This money will have to come from somewhere and have no doubt about from where - from you and the pockets of every other taxpayer. We all recognize the truth in Benjamin Franklin's aphorism about "death and taxes," but it is difficult for hardworking Americans to accept tax increases when Washington demonstrates no inclination to cut wasteful spending.Tough talk from a hypocrite. Dr. Hypocrite didn't vote for the stimulus bill, although he went on the teevee and said he wanted to work with President Obama. Now it seems that Dr. Hypocrite has requested a whopping $36,257,750 in earmarks. Yes, that's $36 million dollars. This does not include the three FY09 spending bills that passed back in the fall (Defense, Homeland Security, and Military Construction/Veterans Affairs). Whoa nelly...wait a minute...who is spending how much of taxpayers dollars? Could it be...say it ain't so...Dr. Hypocrite. No, not you. You want to stop those damn liberals from spending Americans' hard earned monies...oh, my bad, that's the stuff you say when the bright lights of the teevee cameras are coming in for your close-up. Silly me...I thought you were being all honest with the American people. ----- EXTENDED BODY: See, I'm not going to do the Yankee liberal thing and criticize each of your earmarks cause my granddaddy owned a farm and cotton insect management is important to the rural economy. No insects equal better cotton crop which equals more cash. But, my one criticism is that Phil you need to stay true to your game. If you're gonna be blowing up on our teevee sets and on our editorial pages about how us liberals like to spend the money then Phil don't ask for the money. Pull a crazy Paul Broun and just say "no" to the earmarks. Since you have requested so much money from the Obama Administration, please do tell your constituents that the Carters, Buford, and West Point dams are getting fixed because of them damn "tax and spend" liberals and President Obama are giving up $21 million dollars to make sure their homes don't flood. Yup, when you cut the ribbon at Kennesaw's newly built amphitheater, you tell them that President Obama and the Democrats provided $71,000 to improving their downtown. Put a little whisper in the ear of your Rethug buddy, Speaker Richardson, and let him know that you did request $190,000 for his county's airport and a business technology park. And when you start feeling all good about requesting almost $500,000 for Cobb County senior citizens, please don't forget to mention President Obama, Speaker Reed, and Speaker Pelosi. Dr. Hypocrite, you keep requesting those earmarks and us Democrats will keep reminding Georgia voters who are really helping their families. Rep. Jack Kingston...you're next ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://mediamatters.org/ DATE: 03/03/2009 03:23:02 AM Thanks for keeping an eye on Dr. Phil here Bernita. Our problem remains that the political hypocrites are likely to be quite successful, as ever. They speak to 2 different audiences, with forked tongues for each. The 'conservatives' usually only really care about the rhetoric & the 'right' noise they hear on the TV. The rest of his constituents really had better care about the 'real deal', and what this nimrod is bringing home to his district. Right about now? He's likely having his most successful year as a Congresscritter in that regard. Well at least until the F-22 cutbacks. So a conundrum for sure. Thanks for the note, JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/03/2009 08:49:17 AM In mystical time, there used to be a press that called people on crap like this (on both sides). Now, that mystical time probably didn't really exist, but it is good that we have the Internet. Not only does the 'Net watch these things, it can also easily link back to old versions of their scamination. Besides, I think the dictionary definition of "pork" is "something that benefits someone else." Maybe we need to get a group together like the Flaggers and hold up "Your liberal Gingrey earmark tax dollars at work" signs at every one of these future openings. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/03/2009 10:46:04 AM "Now, that mystical time probably didn't really exist" This used to be Public Citzen's job. Now we have TV sponsored by (insert mega corp here) and you don't see that as much. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/03/2009 03:57:08 PM BTW, Gingrey is a really great guy on a personal level even if he's a political dunce. *puts up flame shield for not completely demonizing every Republican ever, which is apparently taboo* ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/03/2009 04:01:07 PM For further reading, Cobb has a long history of promoting politicians that supposedly hate government but send back tons of government dollars http://www.thirdworldtraveler.com/Chomsky/Rollback_Part1_Chom.html: "Gingrich represents Cobb County Georgia, which the New York Times -- reasonably enough -- selected in a recent front-page story to illustrate the rising tide of "conservatism" aimed at ridding us of the "nanny state." The headline reads "Conservatism Flowering Among the Malls," in this wealthy suburb of Atlanta, one of several that "offer -- particularly to whites -- a sense of prosperity and safety, conservative Southern values and a relaxed, friendly way of life." It's a "Norman Rockwell world with fiber optic computers and jet airplanes," Gingrich comments with pride. With its "history of inhospitality toward blacks," Cobb County is scrupulously insulated from any urban infection so that the inhabitants can enjoy the fruits of their "entrepreneurial values" and market enthusiasms in "the conservative heart of a conservative region," defended in Congress by the leader of the conservative triumph. A small footnote: Cobb County receives more federal subsidies than any suburban county in the country, with two exceptions: Arlington Virginia, effectively part of the Federal Government, and Brevard County Florida, the home of the Kennedy Space Center. When we move out of the state system itself, Cobb County is the leading beneficiary of the "nanny state." Its largest employer is Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Company, which is designing the F-22 advanced tactical fighter and other military aircraft. 72% of the workforce are in white-collar jobs "in expanding areas of the economy like insurance, electronics and computers, and trade" -- all carefully tended by "the nanny state." It's remarkably easy for conservative entrepreneurial values to flourish while one is feeding happily at the public trough. Meanwhile praises to market miracles reach the heavens, notably where "conservatism is flowering among the malls."15 An interesting sidelight is the silence over this matter during the electoral campaign, when Gingrich propaganda was smashing the New Democrats. Notably absent is a simple rejoinder that would have stopped the juggernaut in its tracks: Gingrich is the country's leading advocate of the welfare state -- for the rich. The reasons for the silence are not hard to discern: class interests prevail over narrow electoral ones. It's agreed across the board that the rich must be protected from market discipline by a powerful and interventionist welfare state." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/03/2009 04:19:35 PM Well, yeah. The whole idea of Cobb County is to benefit from the trappings of Atlanta without having to pay for it. It's also interesting that for all of Gingrich's entrepreneurial greatness, his income currently derives from political consultancy and Wingnut Welfare on the think tank circuit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 12:58:17 AM http://www.corporatecrimereporter.com/conyers030309.htm Money flexes its muscle on politicians D or R though. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 10:21:04 PM Although, apparently sometimes the new boss isn't the same as the old boss, as this e-mail from Physicians for a National Health Program shows: " PNHP President Oliver Fein Invited to White House Summit Update from PNHP We have good news. This afternoon we received word that Dr. Oliver Fein, president of Physicians for a National Health Program, has been invited to participate in tomorrow's White House summit on health care. He will therefore be joining Rep. John Conyers in the meeting as a strong advocate for a single-payer national health program. Given this development, we are canceling the demonstration outside the White House that was planned for tomorrow. While it remains true that the number of single-payer advocates in the summit will be few in number, we feel we have won an important victory and that demonstrative activity at the White House at this juncture is unnecessary. Please continue to urge your members of Congress and President Obama to support single-payer national health insurance, the only fundamental solution to our health care crisis. And thanks to everyone who called and e-mailed the White House about including the single-payer viewpoint at the summit - you helped make this victory happen! Cordially, Quentin Young, M.D. National Coordinator Physicians for a National Health Program" ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Cage Match BASENAME: cage_match STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/03/2009 06:21:44 PM ----- BODY: Although Rush has about 400 pounds on Michael Steele, my guess is that Steele is wily. Whatever the outcome, it certainly is amusing to watch. (This one is for you, IRE.) ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/03/2009 07:54:46 PM Let 'em devour themselves, there's no point to them. Really, there's enough political diversity within the Democratic Party to not have to have these fringe-right nuts in our political sphere. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: David EMAIL: IP: 67.166.206.167 URL: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gameon DATE: 03/03/2009 10:03:32 PM This was the only topic on Game On tonight. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gameon It was me and 2 GOPers all ganging up on Rush! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 01:27:40 AM BTW better video than having to see either Limbaugh or Steele http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_YlkEUOonI ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: nicolette EMAIL: IP: 204.152.239.219 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 09:53:30 AM GIBBS: I was a little surprised at the speed in which Mr. Steele, the head of the RNC, apologized to the head of the Republican Party. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 10:17:43 AM Next step is to get Crist and/or the Govinator involved in this mix-up. We just need to hammer in a few cracks, and then let the next couple of rounds of policy work start prying open the coalition. A Colins here, a Graham there... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/04/2009 11:44:25 AM Considering there is a strong challenge for Specter in the primary, what are the odds he switches parties? PA ain't been friendly to GOPers lately. Plus the Dem field would likely be clear... just a thought. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 11:45:41 AM The Governator is out anyway due to term limits, hopefully Cali can elect a Dem so they can get their universal healthcare bill through. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 12:07:52 PM http://briefingroom.thehill.com/2009/03/04/dem-calls-on-limbaugh-a-sorry-excuse-for-a-human-being/ somebody must've forgotten to tell this guy he's a Democrat, cuz he's got balls ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 12:18:50 PM That didn't stop him from going on TV and telling his fellow Party members that they needed to do something to help fix this crisis. Of course, between his recent budget battle (where his support came almost exclusively from Democrats) and the whole Kennedy family thing, he's probably written off by the wingers anyways. UHC may actually be better approached through the initiative process in CA since it would simultaneously affirm majority desire for the program and put it into law. This is how CA has kept its education spending relatively high over the years. Of course, the state itself is also in some pretty colossal budgetary doo-doo. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 12:33:07 PM Also, damn. The new budget increases flavored malt beverage taxes from 20 cents/gal to $3.30 cents/gal (reclassified from beer to liquor). And you thought Sunday sales here in Georgia were bad. Corporate taxes are also surprisingly low in CA, generating about 10% of the budget, comparing to 40% by personal income and 25% by sales tax. Lots to learn about my new home. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 12:41:05 PM Wow, but the GA corporate tax is only 3% of total revenues. Pro-business, indeed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/04/2009 01:15:58 PM I'd like to take the time to formally declare my candidacy for YDG Jackass of the Year. It is my firm desire and hope that I can be the first repeat, and back-to-back winner of this award, in the organization's illustrious 50 year history. While I am sure there may be other worthy candidates, I think it has been clearly shown why I have far exceeded them in the quest for this award. I appreciate others' aspirations for the award, but I humbly call on all of them to step down, so that the already overburdened Awards Committee Chair may have a lightened load, and that the Young Democrats of Georgia can march on, and help solve the many problems plaguing Georgia. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.180.16 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 02:10:28 PM That's truly graceful of you IRE. Actually, to help your case for the award you should conclude that statement with something tacky and stupid. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 02:18:23 PM I kinda like the idea of getting the single-payer programs through state-by-state, especially considering they're insanely popular (they are only a few votes away from a veto-breaking vote in the CA assembly to get a single payer universal healthcare system), but there is the free riding problem. If one state does UHC, what if other people move into the state and overload the budget for it? That could be an issue. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 03:03:32 PM "If one state does UHC, what if other people move into the state and overload the budget for it?" Hey, if they can find work, I'm all for it. California might even be able to pull businesses out of Nevada and Oregon and still have some business taxes, since the UHC would be a major break for companies that offered it. And, those that traditionally don't offer health care could lure in workers without raising their salaries. There's actually a neat case of living wage law in Washington state. The minimum wage in WA is something like $2.50 / hr higher than it is in Idaho, where it is the same as the federal level. The local McDonald's, Taco Bell, and other such employers couldn't find anyone to staff places in Western Idaho because they all went to compete for work in Eastern Washington. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 03:10:28 PM Yeah, there's a wage/price effect that goes both ways. Wages can be dragged up just as much as they can be dragged down. In N'Out, a living wage employer and awesome burger joint, is probably responsible more for living wages in areas more than any local wage law. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.179.217 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 03:18:48 PM tee hee: http://www.dccc.org/content/sorry ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 03:32:25 PM Limbaugh challenged Obama to a debate on his show today: http://www.rushlimbaugh.com/home/daily/site_030409/content/01125106.guest.html I say he does it. He should go on and kick his face in. President of Harvard Law Review vs. a fatass on the radio? Easy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/04/2009 03:40:24 PM JerryT: how is this: all yall haters and can get f&cked! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 04:31:24 PM I loves the In N' Out. Awesome, fresh food, good staff, (relatively) clean places. But, my God, are they ever always packed! As for the Obama debate, I say he waits a few days before doing it. And bring a moderate Repub along for extra hilarity (perhaps as a moderator to really eff with Rush?) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.180.16 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 05:10:21 PM That's more like it IRE! Do I get a campaign manger fee for helping you? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/04/2009 10:06:03 PM Another good way for Obama to handle Limbaugh is to respond like this: "Presidents usually only debate the rival candidate opponents. I encourage Mr. Limbaugh to run in 2012 if he feels up to it. I look forward to our spirited debates." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 03/05/2009 08:43:39 AM I bet Rush would just announce for President and then insist Obama debate him, start calling him chicken. It would be grand. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.21.134 URL: DATE: 03/05/2009 09:11:50 AM What I love about In N'Out: the perfectly designed packaging that lets you eat in the car without making a mess. What I don't love about In N'Out: the secret Bible verses printed on the bottom of the drink cups. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/05/2009 01:35:33 PM "What I love about In N'Out: the perfectly designed packaging that let's you eat in the car without making a mess." You must have a greater mastery than I. Special sauce and grease always gets everywhere even when I eat them stationary. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/05/2009 01:42:20 PM "What I don't love about In N'Out: the secret Bible verses printed on the bottom of the drink cups." Considering that the company seems to follow good Biblical practice of social justice for their workers and a high standard of quality, and a quick check on the family doesn't show too many signs of outright religious activism, I've pretty cool to let that one slide. Since I've been anointed (irony intended) the resident hater / screener of religious "thought" and all. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/05/2009 01:55:10 PM the resident hater / screener of religious "thought" and all. hmm. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.245.96.227 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 03/05/2009 02:17:57 PM I got the guns, you got the God. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/05/2009 04:44:43 PM Can I have the gays? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/05/2009 07:15:16 PM Looks like the counterattack to the Rush-Rahm sideshow is starting to form. I'm not sure if it is going anywhere due to all of this being settled in the primaries, but a Chicago writer is starting to poke sticks at Obama by saying that Clinton was a better President for staying away from liberalism's failures "like welfare." But the poke has already gotten to CNN, so we'll see who runs with it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/05/2009 11:02:55 PM I like the Rush-Rahm sideshow, in that I like to see bullies beat up on eachother instead the rest of us for once. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.223.56.192 URL: DATE: 03/08/2009 10:01:34 AM Odin - I agree with you on In N'Out. But that doesn't mean I have to like it. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Take This Sabbath Day... BASENAME: take_this_sabbath_day STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/04/2009 06:10:46 PM ----- BODY: Lord, Beer me strength. Your Georgia Legislature killed the only bill that anyone really cares about...Sunday Alcohol Sales. AJC story here.
Relatives of U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop were employed by a local youth program to which he steered federal funding, and state authorities have launched an investigation into possible misappropriation of funds at the program.Bishop claims he didn't know his stepdaughter and her husband worked there, but this was before it was discovered that their checks were directly deposited into his wife's bank account. Where did she think that money was coming from? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 03/08/2009 03:53:16 PM Yeah, not good. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: bankimoon EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.167 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/08/2009 04:00:47 PM Time to go Sanford. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/08/2009 04:12:34 PM Well, there's your answer for the Bishop as Ag Secretary story ... Also, what is it with all this penny-ante crap? You hear about these guys in trouble for tens or maybe hundreds of thousands of dollars. C'mon, if you're going to abuse your office, I want to see seven figures at least. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.72.82 URL: DATE: 03/08/2009 05:15:34 PM The Good Old Boys need a Madoff to show 'em how corruption's done. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.207.8 URL: DATE: 03/08/2009 06:25:49 PM And... http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/03/newt-bashes-limbaugh-how-long-until-he.html What's the betting pool like for how long it takes for him to apologize? My Congressman did it within a day I think. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 69.180.18.69 URL: DATE: 03/08/2009 07:37:33 PM I doubt it. It looks like Newt's out to pick a fight. Same with Ron Paul, although his beef goes back to the Primaries of last year. Newt has nothing to lose by pissing off Rush and everything to gain. Guys like Cantor and Steele think (and may know) that they need the nutjob contingent to stay in power. Newt's probably banking on his ability to steal a few of them while taking over the sane remainder of the GOP (which, while small, is still larger than Rush's base). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.93.158 URL: DATE: 03/09/2009 01:50:58 AM You think Gingrich's comment was calculated to divide the GOP into with him and against him? That's interesting. Either way, I will enjoy seeing the crazies tear eachother apart. It would really help if the GOP at a national level just kinda went away and made it so that Dems. have solid control over Congress again and most of the political battles would be within primaries. It would be a great way for Democrats to sort things out and move past the DLC. I think those Democrats who demand that their base tow the party line (ahem UGA Young Dems) no matter what should realize that the kind of infighting we have never gets as ugly or divisive as what we're seeing the GOP right now. Thinking a policy is too friendly to corporate contributors and making it known in a sane fashion a la David Sirota is a lot better than throwing molotov cocktails at eachother, wary of pissing off a psychotic radio host's fans. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/09/2009 10:57:32 AM "You think Gingrich's comment was calculated to divide the GOP into with him and against him?" I think it's less that and he wants to be a party leader again. And he doesn't like the direction things are going. So, that's going to put him in confrontation with Rush and his squad sooner rather than later. It's also consistent with this whole "bipartisan" kick he's been on for the past couple of years (I actually went to a YDG / CRG joint thingee hosted by his daughter). Now, his version of bipartisan (like most GOP) is more along the lines of "why do you keep fighting my ideas?" but he's at least making noises. So, yeah, I see it more likely that Gingrich is mounting a deliberate challenge to Rush rather than just getting caught saying something dumb on camera when he thought no one was listening. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.161.162 URL: DATE: 03/09/2009 11:02:02 AM I'm not buying this as a scandal (yet). I'm not sure why Creighton was having his paycheck deposited into his mother-in-law's account, but "weird" isn't necessarily unethical. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/09/2009 11:27:39 AM To add to the Gingrich thing - once he and a couple of others from the moderation faction get a little bit of Rush's blood on the floor (figuratively speaking), that is when we are going to see far more interesting action and divisiveness within the GOP. And once that happens, Obama and the Dems get a lot more leverage to yank away random votes for the agenda. It's going to be a multidimensional problem, with various players very conservative on some things and with us on others (think of Dingell's split between fuel efficiency standards and universal health care, both in line with his UAW base and Detroit Auto). But, it should be easier with Republicans in play than without. Now, if only we could get David Broder to feed Gingrich's ego by naming him a "nonpartisan statesman" or some other rubbish... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/09/2009 11:47:07 AM "I'm not sure why Creighton was having his paycheck deposited into his mother-in-law's account, but "weird" isn't necessarily unethical." True. I guess the follow-up question is what did Creighton do for the money? Was he a real employee or a "contractor?" Because the latter would *really* smell. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Republicans Want To Raise Taxes! BASENAME: republicans_want_to_raise_taxe STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/09/2009 07:50:01 PM ----- BODY:
House Republicans are discussing bringing legislation to the chamber on Thursday that would put the state's 4 percent sales tax back on groceries. Under the Sims bill that passed the House Ways and Means Committee last week, Georgia residents who file income tax returns would be able to deduct either the taxes they paid on groceries, documented with receipts, or get a credit based on the number of dependents in their family.Only one word for this: Bullshit. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 03/09/2009 08:27:07 PM First Georgia Republicans hike taxes on homes, then they hike taxes on food. Maybe next they'll tax immunizations and institute fares for school buses. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.112 URL: DATE: 03/09/2009 08:29:06 PM It's funny, the cover story of the AJC today is how the House Repubs are planning all these new tax cuts. Imagine if the headline was this instead. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.93.9 URL: DATE: 03/09/2009 09:11:15 PM Their buddies in the national party aren't making any more sense: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2009/03/is_switzerland_a_model_of_health_care_compromise.php So the argument they're making to Obama is, private insurers can't compete with Medicare (thus meaning Medicare is a more efficient model), thus we shouldn't offer it to everyone? Blatantly admitting that they're placing the interests of HMO's over the citizenry? I'm loving their slide into permanent minority status, but I'm afraid that the states they still control will become even more extreme as they start acting like animals backed into a corner. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 03/10/2009 08:59:33 AM Wait a sec, you only want to tax grocery store purchases of residents of other states? Commerce clause? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 03/10/2009 09:06:29 AM Wait a sec, you only want to tax grocery store purchases of residents of other states? Privileges and Immunities clause? No? What about Dormant commerce Clause? Still Nothing? Hmm. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/10/2009 10:09:57 AM How about just the Do You Even Think About Your Own Vacations clause? Seriously, when I'm off on a break, I would chip in if I'm staying with someone or get some snacks and drinks, but I usually eat out as much or more often than dine in. Why not just go to the old standbys of hotels and rental cars while they are on the subject? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 03/10/2009 04:24:18 PM They're killing the idea, apparently. So says Galloway. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 03/10/2009 08:29:18 PM It'll be back. But even if it isn't, the party endorsed a sales tax on food - in itself, regressive - then compounded the offense by offering the refund only to those who pay income taxes, then further compounded the offense by refunding no more than the amount paid in income tax. It's like they had a contest to see who could design the most regressive implementation of a sales tax. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Kudzu Vine Recap BASENAME: kudzu_vine_recap_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/09/2009 09:05:28 PM ----- BODY:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tuesday, March 10, 2009 For more information, contact: Brandon Thorn 678-262-6765 brandon@marysquires.com Mary Squires Announces Candidacy for Georgia Insurance Commissioner (Atlanta, GA) Mary Squires announced her candidacy for Georgia Insurance Commissioner today, becoming the first candidate to enter the race. "I am excited to be the first candidate in the race for Insurance Commissioner. It is a very important position. The Insurance Commissioner impacts the quality of life for every day Georgians more than any other race in 2010." Squires was elected to the Georgia General Assembly in 1998. Squires served two terms in the State House (1999-2003) and one term in the Georgia State Senate (2003-2005). In addition to her legislative experience, Squires served ten years in the Georgia Army National Guard. Mary Squires currently is the Executive Director of the Georgia Society of Professional Benefit Administrators, Inc., a self-insured health care trade association. Squires also serves as the Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Olive Industry Association, a national agriculture research and trade association. Squires currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia with her two teenage sons, Patrick and James.As Martha Stewart would say, it's a good thing. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.182.200 URL: DATE: 03/10/2009 07:44:41 PM A very good thing! Best of Luck to you Mary! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Fundraiser for Amir Farokhi, Candidate, City Council At-Large Post 2 BASENAME: fundraiser_for_amir_farokhi_ca STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/10/2009 06:36:51 PM ----- BODY:
[T]he truly unforgivable mistake of the Chinese authorities was the failure to intervene on a timely basis to nip the demonstrations in the bud, rather than -- as would have been both wise and efficacious -- to intervene with force when all other measures had failed to restore domestic tranquility to Beijing and other major urban centers in China. In this optic, the Politburo's response to the mob scene at 'Tian'anmen' stands as a monument to overly cautious behavior on the part of the leadership, not as an example of rash action. . . . "I do not believe it is acceptable for any country to allow the heart of its national capital to be occupied by dissidents intent on disrupting the normal functions of government, however appealing to foreigners their propaganda may be. Such folk, whether they represent a veterans' 'Bonus Army' or a 'student uprising' on behalf of 'the goddess of democracy' should expect to be displaced with despatch [sic] from the ground they occupy."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.15.160 URL: DATE: 03/11/2009 03:17:36 PM Chas Freeman said that, his opponents in the Israeli Lobby used the statement out of context to try to bash him and pretend that their opposition to Obama and General Blair's nominee wasn't about Israel. The fact of the matter is that Freeman is a realist thinker, and knows China is not a democratic country, and that the best option with Tianemen Square would've been to handle it earlier in clearing demonstrators with riot police (which is exactly what would happen to you if you occupied a similar space in America like Times Square, for months) rather than resort to the brutal force that they did. But oh, AIPAC, Chuck Shumer, The New Republic, etc. I'm sure were just concerned about Chinese human rights! Which is why they opposed Henry Kissinger's high advising to McCain (he surely would have a spot in his circle now had he won), who outright justified the Tianemen Massacre, and I'm sure they oppose all other security and intelligence officials who have less than completely 100% pro-human rights records (read: all of them). Or maybe their jihad against him was about something else... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.15.160 URL: DATE: 03/11/2009 06:12:05 PM And on that topic http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2009/03/on_the_bus_with_chas_freeman.php ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpaceyG EMAIL: IP: 66.56.42.23 URL: http://twitter.com/SpaceyG DATE: 03/12/2009 01:02:18 PM I suppose the above plushy abortion explains why you have to pay fashion models so much money. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Earmark Reform BASENAME: earmark_reform STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/12/2009 09:07:55 AM ----- BODY:
These principles begin with a simple concept: Earmarks must have a legitimate and worthy public purpose. Earmarks that members do seek must be aired on those members' websites in advance, so the public and the press can examine them and judge their merits for themselves. Each earmark must be open to scrutiny at public hearings, where members will have to justify their expense to the taxpayer. Next, any earmark for a for-profit private company should be subject to the same competitive bidding requirements as other federal contracts. The awarding of earmarks to private companies is the single most corrupting element of this practice, as witnessed by some of the indictments and convictions that we've already seen. Private companies differ from the public entities that Americans rely on every day -- schools, and police stations, and fire departments.Sounds like a good start! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 09:32:21 AM Also, I love how the Repubs always point out the earmarks that go toward scientific study as "wasteful spending." Like volcano outgas monitoring (yeah, Bobby, I know you believe the planet is 6000 years old, but there are these things called geologists that help keep us on the West Coast and Rockies areas safe). Or also like honeybee research, which is kind of important when your agriculture depends on bee-borne pollination. And said bees are dying from a mysterious pathogen. Of course, when you look at the priorities of pork-battlers like Sen. Graham (one might think of a convention center as a giveaway to downtown restaurateurs), they of course are all for the good of the people. Also, one thing that pops up in that discussion - if Ron Paul never votes for an appropriations bill (by his own admission), why the hell do you allow him to put ANYTHING in a given bill? Freeze that bitch out until he plays ball. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.176.246 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 12:51:23 PM Don't kvetch about Ron Paul. We need a Libertarian in the House for the luls. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.176.246 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 12:54:10 PM And you'll like this odin: http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/03/crossover-day-lunch-update.html The stem cell thing. wait wat ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 02:08:02 PM HB388, you mean? The way I read it is to clarify legal rights of donor and recipients of in vitro materials. I'm sure there's a wingier interpretation out there (the whole parent / donor / client / whatever classification gets really weird with in vitro stuff), but at first scan it seems like the kind of thing I'd need to hear from a lawyer about to see if there are even cases out there that even pertain. I thought all the crazy Personhood / abortion clinic protester hijinx were usually dispatched with on the first day of the legislature anyways. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.176.246 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 05:40:41 PM My fellow blogger Dustin informed me that it would keep UGA from getting $1 million in research funding on stem cells. The Georgia legislature loves to pander doesn't it? ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Gossip Girl BASENAME: gossip_girl STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/12/2009 11:17:41 AM ----- BODY:
Levi Johnston and Bristol Palin, the teenage daughter of Gov. Sarah Palin, have broken off their engagement, he said Wednesday, about 2 1/2 months after the couple had a baby. Johnston, 19, told The Associated Press that he and 18-year-old Bristol Palin mutually decided "a while ago" to end their relationship. He declined to elaborate as he stood outside his family's home in Wasilla, about 40 miles north of Anchorage.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 167.192.150.10 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 12:45:47 PM Well, sounds like they are making the right decision to not get railroaded into a marriage they were not ready for. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: nicolette EMAIL: IP: 204.152.239.219 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 12:58:05 PM i am so happy gossip girl is coming back on monday! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.130.7 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/12/2009 01:52:18 PM LOLz. She got pwnt. At least the baby will be OK. BTW: Moose meat taste like ass. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.130.7 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/12/2009 01:59:49 PM PWNAG3 lolz!!!!!eleven!1! http://punditkitchen.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/political-pictures-johnston-palin-babies-happen.jpg http://punditkitchen.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/political-pictures-johnston-palin-babies-happen.jpg http://punditkitchen.files.wordpress.com/2008/10/political-pictures-levi-johnston-bristol-palin-shotgun.jpg http://punditkitchen.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/political-pictures-levi-johnston-palin-marry-her.jpg ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.176.246 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 02:17:40 PM http://thinkprogress.org/2009/03/12/senate-blug-dog-coalition/ they oughta call it the senate undermine the president caucus if they can ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 03:17:27 PM One could only wish: http://www.hulu.com/watch/61239/saturday-night-live-the-rock-obama Although I wish Johnson would have played it a lot more like the Rock than a Hulk rip-off. Having "Obama" throw around some Jabronis and do the turn that $*( sideways number would have been hilarious. Yeah, I used to watch the Rock when he was still the Rock. What? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.176.246 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 05:34:08 PM I saw that a few days ago. It was frickin' awesome. I wanna see Obama suplex McConnell and roundhouse kick Ben Nelson. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.218.122.120 URL: DATE: 03/12/2009 08:16:31 PM I love the Rock! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 67.34.34.119 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 12:12:19 AM Anyone have any guesses as to why Obama keeps bending over backwards to defend Bush officials from prosecutions, from using signing statements to block whistleblowers to this? http://washingtonindependent.com/33679/obama-justice-department-urges-dismissal-of-another-torture-case ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 67.34.34.119 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 01:47:49 AM http://thinkprogress.org/2009/03/12/senate-blug-dog-coalition/ Going back to this, Rachel Maddow said it might be 15-20 Democrats forming this new coalition. So how many more Democrats do we need before we can actually pursue the kind of agenda most people in the country voted for if we have that many Democrats jumping off to go and align themselves with Republicans? We need to start fundraising for primaries for some of these senators that are reasonably able to be beaten and then go on to win a general (like Delaware's senators). ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: BASENAME: if_you_cant_take_their STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/12/2009 09:22:23 PM ----- BODY: "If you can't take their money, drink their whiskey, screw their women, and vote against 'em anyway, you don't belong in the Legislature" is a quote by Molly Ivins (1944-2007) that's often attributed to Texas politics. It was first used by Jesse Unruh (1922-1987) in California politics in the 1970s. Unruh was talking then about lobbyists. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Crossover Day open thread BASENAME: crossover_day_open_thread_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/13/2009 06:20:50 AM ----- BODY: And by "open thread" I mean "can some of y'all embryo types tell me what else happened yesterday, because the AJC thinks HB 480 is all anyone cares about"? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.186.170 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 11:53:45 AM I have nothing to say that isn't hateful. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/13/2009 12:30:14 PM lolwut? The legislature accidentally our state. Is this bad? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 05:34:15 PM I'm gonna need to ask you for a verb between "legislature" and "accidentally" for that to make sense. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 05:34:47 PM Or between "accidentally" and "our," even better. Tech grammar FTW. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.72.145 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 06:00:32 PM I think it's an internet meme. Bad Techie you are odin! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.178 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/13/2009 06:03:41 PM Odin: if I pwnt you in memes, just give up. On life. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 72.152.213.113 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 08:27:36 PM I love Hateful Jules. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.81.61 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 08:51:09 PM I always thought there was an inverse relationship between girls at your school and tech lingo you're aware of, but I guess not. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 09:28:52 PM What can I say, I'm getting old. I get the lolwut, and the ceiling kitty phrasing, but I still can't figure out what "The legislature accidentally our state" part means. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.99 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/13/2009 10:21:48 PM http://www.google.com/search?q=i+accidentally+meme&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.99 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/13/2009 10:40:03 PM btw: what kind of legislature finds it appropriate to debate Bingo for 20 minutes? I mean, I know the answer, but is 20 minutes really necessary? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.21 URL: DATE: 03/13/2009 11:35:43 PM I've been wondering for a long time what would happen with the state GOP branches when the national one finally caved in from its hubris. I wondered if they would get weaker as collateral or if they would dig in like wounded, crazy animals caught in a corner. I'm afraid it's leaning towards the latter, and Georgia might just become a petri dish for the far right if the Democrats don't get things together. Sonny Perdue swept the floor with an entrenched Democratic establishment and way less money because he understood the grassroots and its value. I'm sure we have our version of Perdue someone. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.29.252 URL: DATE: 03/14/2009 02:42:33 PM Zaid, you are correct.. we've become the anti-Obama agenda state. On purpose. What's freaky is that Obama has a 68% approval rating- yeah, we're some kind of petri dish alright and is growing a massive fungus. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/14/2009 05:35:06 PM The South is a huge outlier in a variety of political polls, especially considering popularity of the parties, Congress, and Obama, and probably policy proposals as well (I've only seen the partisan stuff). Red State Blue State tells us it is actually the margin amongst the upper-middle and upper classes that swings states one way or another. Their numbers in the population are magnified by the fact that they vote at very high rates. Big differences between reds and blues in those classes - religion and how they got the cash. In the blue states, the wealth is earned by professionalism and education. The red, by ownership and management of traditional industries. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/14/2009 05:52:43 PM So what all that meant to say is that the GOP is getting tuned to that business-centric, personal responsibility, and love of God and family thing for those that are well enough off to not worry. The question is how to deal with that value set in Gwinnett, Cherokee, and Cobb Counties without giving up on being Democrats. I'm thinking less social issues and how artificially low taxes and a preference of carpet-bagging and foreign companies over organic growth and innovation threaten the long-term health of the state. Even if you do have a four-year degree from Tech and can solve a differential equation or two. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/14/2009 07:35:31 PM I've lived in Gingrichville since we moved out school shooting-zone since I've been around 8, and the upper middle class set mostly doesn't care about social issues, they're just the cliche greedy bastards. Honestly, I think the set that needs to change is working class people in georgia via some kinda populist thingy. At the end of the day, Cobb's always going to circle the wagons around its corporate welfare and bankroll the GOP to steamroll labor rights and lower taxes. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: You've seen them elsewhere, now see them here! BASENAME: youve_seen_them_elsewhere_now STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/13/2009 11:47:39 PM ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.176.169 URL: DATE: 03/14/2009 12:14:23 AM Stewart was awesome, and inadvertently taught us Americans a lesson about corporate media the next day: http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/03/msnbc-runs-out-of-room-screaming.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/14/2009 12:36:29 PM I think Stewart should definitely have dug in a little bit harder with the "I know you aren't as dumb as you pretend to be" angle. Also, I don't think this would have worked with a Kudlow or a Santelli. For whatever reason, Kramer has either just enough of a conscience or need for a decent reputation to let himself become roadkill Thursday night. If he hadn't actively tried to defend himself, Stewart wouldn't have had nearly so big of a target to strike at, and that would have been quite a shame. Because also as Stewart said - the deal is a lot bigger than just one or two commentators or some bad stock picks. It was the fact that a large part of the financial world became a bad game of Liars' Poker and the explosion took us all out. Also, there is one reform idea I'd really like to see looked at and expanded upon. Basically, the idea is that in the future, ratings agencies will only be allowed to forecast on real economics, such as the outlook for a given market or default rate or something. Derivatives ratings would be modified to look more like the FDA. A derivative would be limited to a market cap of a few billion dollars and required to spend 10 years under the microscope in order to establish ranges on volatility and reaction to a full macroeconomic business cycle. Only then could a derivative be released into the market with the gathered statistics on that derivative publicly available from government sources. The seat of the pants boys obviously wouldn't like this, but we've come to see they aren't off in their own little sandbox anymore. Of course, they would still be welcome to do what they were supposed to do in the first place, which is to judge the relative merits of various real economy activities based on the trade-off between risk and return. But, that seat of the pants thing should only be for things that can be explained in plain English, such as "we believe that fuel prices will go up and make people drive smaller and alternatively powered vehicles in the next 20 years." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.137 URL: DATE: 03/14/2009 02:22:08 PM http://democracyjournal.org/news.php?ID=88 We've got that, but I don't trust anything by a NY senator to regulate the financial industry, to be honest. They should bring back Glass-Steagall full force to cut down on speculation and anti-trust banks that are "too big too fail" to start with. They also need some kind of international supranational organization to be able to regulate this stuff, which I think is supposed to go under IMF guidelines, but lol @ that organization since the 70's pretty much having its hands off capital controls. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: PETA attempts to become more irrelevant BASENAME: peta_attempts_to_become_more_i STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/14/2009 02:06:26 PM ----- BODY:
At 17, Darnelle Harvey took part in the robbery of a Dairy Queen in Chamblee. Brandishing a gun, he ordered a 16-year-old to lie down as the holdup progressed. This got him a false imprisonment conviction, and because the victim was under 18, Harvey became a sex offender.Yep, I've seen this happen. I'm glad the legislature is on the path to rectify this situation. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Wes F in Hapeville EMAIL: IP: 68.209.3.207 URL: http://walkinbrain.wordpress.com DATE: 03/16/2009 05:33:43 PM It is nice to see this passed, but I still have a question: Why did Sens. Preston Smith (R-Rome) and Bill Hamrick (R-Carrollton) vote against it? WF ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Thoughts and best wishes to Dr. Lowery. BASENAME: thoughts_best_wishes_to_dr_low STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/16/2009 08:29:19 PM ----- BODY: "ATLANTA, Ga. (AP) -- The Rev. Joseph Lowery was recovering Monday after the civil rights icon was hospitalized following a dizzy spell as he greeted parishioners at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Lowery was the keynote speaker at a service to mark Ebenezer's 123rd anniversary. Called "America's Freedom Church, " the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. preached there from 1960 until his death in 1968. The 88-year-old had preached for about 40 minutes, said the Rev. Raphael G. Warnock, senior pastor at Ebenezer. "He was shaking hands and he just became a little weak and lost his balance," Warnock said. "Within moments, he was able to respond to questions." Warnock said doctors in the congregation took a look at Lowery before the paramedics were called as a precaution. Warnock accompanied Lowery to the hospital and said he was doing fine Sunday evening." ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/16/2009 10:02:29 PM :( ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Ya gotta love some Chuck Grassley every now and again BASENAME: ya_gotta_love_some_chuck_grass STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/17/2009 06:24:46 AM ----- BODY: It's pretty tough to disagree with this sentiment:
The first thing that would make me feel a little bit better towards them [AIG executives] if they'd follow the Japanese model and come before the American people and take that deep bow and say I'm sorry, and then either do one of two things -- resign, or go commit suicide.I would suggest seppuku for Dick Cheney, myself, but I imagine his cyborg body wouldn't be significantly damaged... ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/17/2009 10:21:20 PM The AIG derivatives folk are beyond bad people, but eh, I think TP summed this kind of "witness problem, TRY TO SMASH IT WITH A HAMMER!" mentality grassley is showing: http://thinkprogress.org/2009/03/17/conservatives-aig-death/ ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Tread. With caution. BASENAME: tread_with_caution STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/17/2009 06:29:19 AM ----- BODY:
On Tuesday, Dodd denied to CNN that he had anything to do with adding the language, which has been used by officials at AIG to justify paying millions of dollars in bonuses to executives after receiving federal money.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.31.235 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 07:41:49 PM Well this isn't exactly a secret. But we were all watching a different show back in the fall. I remember some of the uber liberal bloggers being all over this when the TARP was first rolled out. He took major hits at the time. His seat was at risk before this; when he moved his family from CT to Iowa during his ill fated presidential campaign. But voters in Ct are a little odd, they re-elected Liebertoast.. so who knows.. bet he has a couple serious challengers though.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 09:23:34 PM Eh ... I dunno. I'm getting mixed reports: http://firedoglake.com/2009/03/17/treasury-attempts-to-blame-dodd-for-aig-bonuses/ Dodd may have acquiesced, but it sounds like there was pressure involved. Geithner's got himself a Treasury Department running at half-strength, so I disagree with Sirota's characterization of him as "incompetent" for not knowing about the bonus loopholes. However, Geithner and Summers need either to show some results or feign some interest in what non-experts think of their maneuverings. Like a lot of wunderkinden, they may think that the key psychology is that of the experts. In most cases, they'd probably be right. But, when the fourth wall is lying in rubble on the ground, it's going to be important to keep up confidence that taxpayer moneys are going to good use. I'm really hoping that those guy's deep love for securitization has some basis in the mechanics of finance. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 09:46:16 PM Dodd's one of the financial industry's best friends in the Senate. Why is anyone surprised at all? Those Democrats who claimed we should be more pro-wall street and all that to be "moderate" or whatever and that this would ensure safe seats definitely have to be eating crow now. The Republican could beat him out using left wing populism, literally. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 09:50:17 PM As for Geithner, Summers, etc. they all need to be fired and replaced with people who aren't so ideologically neoliberal. For someone who emphasized having a cabinet with diverse views, Obama staffed it full of center-right deregulators, and this is not going to work out. Their ideological fixation on not nationalizing is awful. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 10:03:52 PM And a big f'ing F U to these people, the Senate Undermine Obama Caucus http://thinkprogress.org/2009/03/18/bayhs-four-secret-sens/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 10:22:34 PM Update: "Dodd is the biggest recipient of AIG political contributions over the past decade, taking in $280,238, about $80,000 more than the second largest recipient (George W. Bush)." http://www.harpers.org/archive/2009/03/hbc-90004578 And I think odins' narrative also is at play here. It seems Treasury really leaned on him as well to not try to cap AIG's bonuses. These people are pathetic. Literally pathetic. They ought to learn how people who don't have their luxurious lifestyles live one day. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 10:48:23 PM I think in the short term, Geithner et al's approach may work. Get the machinery that has carried the debt load (although without the craziest aspects like 30 or 35:1 leveraging, default swaps used as side bets rather than insurance) back up and running to keep the ship going. At any rate, we're looking to be too deep into it to switch course rapidly without blowing the thing up and starting totally from scratch. Test cases for the new government-primed security markets (kind of the financial version of the stimulus to replace private spending with public) seem to be starting to open. After the engine starts working again, though, I'd definitely ax Summers. Geithner may or may not be worth keeping, but he definitely needs more adult supervision. At this point, we can deal with the root critiques of Stiglitz and others (which, in Stiglitz' case boils down to securities smearing away information and amping up moral hazard and other such bad things) in terms of what we want our lending facilities to look like. At that point, I think there needs to be a very serious examination as to whether or not the financial industry can actually generate profits or if it is purely a facilitator or thief. In that second case (which I lean toward myself), the goal should be to totally redesign the spectrum of risk / agility to match our economy. And create separated institutions to handle each. We do need risky capital out there, but it should be for enterprises that have large and real upsides like technological development or experimental towns or the like, not just for risk's own sake. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 10:58:16 PM There is one "fire Geithner" scenario that may work, but it's got to be done very soon, and very roughly. Namely, rather than put up new Treasury officials one by one, Obama will have to draw up a "slate" of nominees (I don't know if this is even possible, even with a friendly Congress) to get Treasury totally restaffed in a hurry. I don't know if anyone is going to like that, since it will involve a lot of back-room dealing, horse trading and of course spook the markets for another couple of months with a No Confidence vote in Treasury. Too damned many bad choices. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 11:27:25 PM Whatever they do, they ought to do it fast. Obama's first term could end up being known as the one that took on the financial crisis and lost, and the kind of extreme Republican that could rise out of that with right-wing populism would make Bush/Cheney look like Feingold/Kucinich. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/18/2009 11:34:22 PM And I don't want any more politicians who are against nationalization and for "public bears the costs, private corporations get the profits" acting like they're surprised when they hand these big companies tons of money and they abuse it because we haven't wiped out their executives and put them under direct control to forcibly do what needs to be done with bad assets and cleaning out the bad apples. I mean, we have examples of countries that tried to do it the public-private route (Japan) that failed miserably and companies that briefly nationalized (Sweden) who did it well. We have Lindsey Graham and Alan Greenspan of all people coming out for nationalization, and yet the Wall Street Dems. keep twiddling their fingers. Why? It's pretty obvious why. http://www.democracynow.org/2009/2/25/stieglitz AMY GOODMAN: Why is Obama saving these bankers? JOSEPH STIGLITZ: Well, we could all guess about the politics. We know one of the problems about American politics is the role of campaign contributions, and that’s plagued every one of our major problems. Under the Bush administration, we couldn’t deal with a large number problems, like the oil industry, like the pharmaceutical, the healthcare, because of the influence of campaign contributions. Now, my view is, one of the problems is that whether it’s because of that or not, it lends an aura of suspicion. The fact that there was so much campaign contributions from the financial sector at least raises the concern. -- And my fear here is that the right wing is the group that is mobilizing populism about this, and blaming all the wrong people for it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 02:45:13 AM Dodd: "I was changing the amendment because others were insistent." It's like a bad romance novel: Dodd tried to resist Geithner's advances, but he was too insistent! I'd like to believe that this is like Lieberman, but Lieberman could count on pro-war Republicans to return him to the Senate. I don't think Dodd can count on pro-bailout anyone. If he can't turn this around, he should step aside. Otherwise, I hope everyone in Washington learned their lessons from this: 1) the worst details of the bailout will become known at the worst possible time, and since 2) the majority party will be held accountable for them, 3) the majority party should ensure that those details are defensible. But I don't see evidence that they have yet. Congress and the White House have decided to clean up the mess that AIG made, but they haven't decided to demand the power they need to prevent future messes. By now, any decision made by any bailed-out company should be subject to veto by the White House or Congress before it goes into effect. Clearly, that isn't the case, and until it is, AIG et. al. will continue to do what they do best - create an unprecedented mess - and the White House and Congress will continue to shoulder the blame. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/19/2009 09:20:07 AM Time to go Dodd. GTFO. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/19/2009 09:30:54 AM Time to go Dodd. GTFO. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 09:43:38 AM "And my fear here is that the right wing is the group that is mobilizing populism about this, and blaming all the wrong people for it." Except that when things like this bonus business come up, the people I would put in the Yearbook as "most likely to be mentioned next to Joseph Goebells in a history book" are actually out there defending the AIG bonus pay as properly earned bounty for succeeding in the brutal winner-take-all arena. They may wise up eventually (or a new crossbred comes into play), but for now they are blunted a little by the asses they have their noses stuck in. Re: Nationalization - it's going to be important not simply to cast aspersions, but to address the psychological problem, which is drawing the wrong lesson from Lehman Brothers. Paulson killed Lehman Brothers for no reason other than spite and moralizing, to prove an example to other banks of what they did wrong and why and how they should pay for their sins. Perhaps momentarily satisfying, but it unleashed a serious crapstorm. Geithner may appreciate the elegant complexity of the dance he is doing to avoid nationalization. However, at this point, ALL ideological outlooks, including our own should be considered desirements rather than requirements. The only requirement should be to get a functioning lending facility operating in this country again. There are many ways to construct a lending facility, and the system of the 80's seems to be the choice. However, the list of desirements currently seem to be: -Don't go to Congress for more money -Don't nationalize the banks -Don't induce fundamental restructuring of the current financial system It is worth pushing for the set to become: -Minimize federal money injected into the system -Minimize Federal Reserve money injected into the system -Minimize built-in risks of inflation and global currency battles -Maximize public confidence in plan's effectiveness and honesty ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 12:55:33 PM Okay, let's say a company has a set retention bonus structure in place, and then it decides it wants to receive bailout money from the government. Without the language it either needs to somehow retract its bonus structure (which will probably involve payments of some kind) or give up the potential bailout payments which could cause it to go under. What if the company feels it needs the people who know what the hell is going on to stay for the company to survive, but they feel the urge to jump ship? How does the company achieve both goals? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 04:41:43 PM "What if the company feels it needs the people who know what the hell is going on to stay for the company to survive, but they feel the urge to jump ship? How does the company achieve both goals?" Hire some H1-B's or fresh college students. I'm sure they would perform better in this instance. Unions across the country have bent over backwards in their contracts or just been straight-up bent over. People in a variety of jobs are being involuntarily furloughed in order to keep the number of people working somewhere constant. My eyes are completely dry for those who precipitated this mess and now have to surrender bonus pay. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 08:19:37 PM Dodd's gotta step down. We can't tolerate a (nother) Republican from CT in the senate. Whether you blame him or the white house more for this, it really is destroying him in the court of public opinion and will have electoral results. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 08:32:03 PM As for the right wing populism, epic luls inside: http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601039&sid=a0olyim4out4&refer=columnist_baum "What if the company feels it needs the people who know what the hell is going on to stay for the company to survive?" It really doesn't. Especially in the case of AIG. Their derivatives people? The folks who dropped an atom bomb into the machinery of the global economy? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 11:34:49 AM PS Zaid - I think I'm now pretty much on board with you on the nationalization front. I've finally come to understand the problem well enough that I think some of the problem is actually vapor and would be pushed aside by government fiat. Although, I have a feeling that a lot of this vapor also means that woefully undercapitalized banks probably exist and need to be patched up. Of course, FDIC has been doing that to many smaller banks, IIRC. For reading enjoyment: http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/story/26793903/the_big_takeover/print ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 01:38:26 PM Matt Taibbi is like literary sex. We're actually facebook friends but the only communication we've ever had is how he thinks facebook is absurd. I'm not reflexively for nationalizing anything except for maybe some basic essentials, but I think when it makes sense we can't have this ideological tendency to just kneejerk against it that we see from so many pundits, or the Schumer-style objection, which comes as a result of being paid not to support it by Wall Street (interesting to see Sen. Graham and Greenspan be open to it and not northeastern Democratic senators). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: econeil EMAIL: IP: 71.56.127.232 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 04:25:39 PM Want to know what's even grosser than AIG handing out multi-million bonuses to its derivatives department? Irrational ranting and screaming about blaming Wall Street for things that are just as much a fault of the American people as a handful of old fat white guys in the boardroom. Dodd has his faults, and he's a bit creepy. But the biggest problem in America today is the complete gap between public policy/gov't and corporate America. Obviously no one wants a shill for industry, but at the same time you have to give Dodd credit for at least trying to come to a mutually acceptable agreement. As someone who works in the very industry that is now so popular with mainstream media to skewer, I have to wonder at what point people are going to take responsibility for their own actions and the state of their own lives rather than blame others. That goes for everyone from Chris Dodd, Ed Liddy, and Jim Cramer...to the people screaming up and down about corporate bonuses just because they're unhappy with someone earning more than they do. Newsflash: Excessive greed is wrong, yes. But working hard should be rewarded. Just because you want a trust fund doesn't mean you deserve one. And if you aren't financially independent yourself, be it on a man, your parents, or lobbyists, then for the love of God, shut up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 04:52:26 PM "But working hard should be rewarded." That's the same thing that I hear undergrads say when they want an A on their paper even when it didn't go so well. In my line of work, it doesn't matter how hard you try. If you fail to tackle the laws of physics and develop something that works, you fail. No bonus, no "ata boy," just a "damn, that's too bad." And if you try to wave your hands to hide what physics plainly tells you, you become the goat for two decades' worth of undergraduate lectures (see Challenger, Columbia). It is also becoming more and more clear that what happened at AIG wasn't innovation or an improvement in the financial world in any objective way. It was essentially an innovation in lying, cheating and preying on people, and I'm sure we'll reach stealing before too long. Now, as for the huge mountain of debt that is choking this country, yes, it did originate from ordinary people. Mortgages, living on the credit card, and so on. That debt was bad. However, one must also fess up that all of that easy money kept a lot of people from being thrown up against the wall that should have been quite some time ago. We made huge leaps in productivity via technology, and that bounty was not shared beyond the executive suite with maybe some good table scraps for those that invented the new technology. "but at the same time you have to give Dodd credit for at least trying to come to a mutually acceptable agreement." No, when you are bankrupt, you don't get mutually acceptable agreement. You get "get the fuck back in there and fix this thing." Isn't that the response you would get if you walked into the office of management with a travesty on your hands? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 05:02:48 PM And, so as not to point too fine a point on it ... The main reason to be pissed at people like AIG-FP is not that they blew up their portfolios - even makes some bad calls. It is the fact that AIG-FP encouraged others to wipe their ass with every guideline and established good practice in both lending and insurance. They did willingly stupid things with other people's money for self-enrichment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 05:12:28 PM Anyways Zaid, The part in the Taibbi piece that caught my attention (and I've heard this in other places) that the real triggers for disaster were the changes in credit ratings. It wasn't until cash requirements changed that counterparties began to realize just how screwed they are. Nationalization won't entirely put that genie back in the bottle, but it is a lot cheaper to borrow Uncle Sam's AAA rating than it is to simply plow cash into these guys. Sell off everything that is actually worth something, kill a few players (and break all of them up), and go ahead and let the Feds play financial SuperFund. They're the only ones patient enough to see what these things are actually worth, and will probably help a lot of people get their debts in order. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/22/2009 12:42:49 AM I didn't know much about credit ratings until I read about them in Naomi Klein's latest book. Then I realized exactly how politicized they can be and how explosive. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Breaking News... BASENAME: breaking_news_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/19/2009 04:38:13 PM ----- BODY:
"Congress' insistence that Georgia has 'a continuing legacy of racism' ... is nonsensical when an African-American candidate for president receives a greater percentage of the vote than his white predecessor candidates," Perdue argued in the brief.Really? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/cgi-bin/mt-current/mt-search.cgi?IncludeBlogs=12&search=Spakovsky&x=0&y=0 DATE: 03/19/2009 08:59:58 PM If Holder over at the DoJ has the brains and the political smarts we give him credit for, Sonny's going nowhere. And he might as well expect a much higher degree of scrutiny for everything voting related measure he and his lick spittle knuckle dragging Leg caucus wants to ram through. But the same proposal on 'voting rights' has been shopped around to almost every 'conservative' Southern state by none other than Ga.'s very own 'clever' Hans Von Spakovsky, for yes, Years. Thank goodness that with the Obama administration, it will not be enacted without even a review, as it had under the corrupt & criminal Bushnicks. But the Bush DoJ wanted this Bad & in a very bad way. And yes, evidence of consistent overt hostility to our President in your state Leg (see next post here) is Prima facie evidence that you really do Need a continuation of the DoJ supervision of everything concerning voting & minorities in the state. TPM has the best & most consistent coverage of this vital issue & the messianic idiotic, venal mendacity of 'Clever Hans' and his myriad disenfranchisement schemes. Papers won't dare touch this, and really never understood it. Even the really 'smart guys' @ the AJC. Cheers, JMP [http://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/2009/03/texas_republicans_pushing_voter_suppression_law.php] ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/2009/03/texas_republicans_pushing_voter_suppression_law.php DATE: 03/19/2009 09:10:20 PM Again guys, no place does the vital link show up here if I put it in the URL box, w/o someone putting it in the body of the message. Which is probably not how it's supposed to work. Thanks for the post Catherine, and the TPM link to the TX case & Hans Von S.' involvement in it is here: http://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/2009/03/texas_republicans_pushing_voter_suppression_law.php And to avoid any confusion or excessive critique of my wonderful language, the above post should now read in part: "And he [Sonny P.] might as well expect a much higher degree of scrutiny for every voting related measure he and his lick spittle knuckle dragging Leg caucus wants to ram through." Hopefully he will & shall. And then go on to lose, which may indeed take awhile. Cheers, JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.31.235 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 09:15:43 PM Yes, this is the same legislature that wants us to "prove" we are citizens, and has another bill written HB225) that would make it it illegal for you to register voters if you are not a resident of GA- yeah we don't want no Freedom riders here. Oh I could go on, but why ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/20/2009 11:50:10 AM The plantation owners don't like any damn hippies or uppity youngun's coming to tell them how to run their state. Seriously, I wonder why Southern politicians complain so much of Federal interference when they are obviously so unequipped to run their own state. Just look at Gwinnett for examples of Small Pond / Big Fish syndrome. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/20/2009 01:26:20 PM I'm surprised they didn't go outside and shoot guns in the air afterwards for their great victory against Obama. Next on the agenda, building a bowling alley in the georgia capitol and inviting the President to play. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/20/2009 04:14:09 PM Probably about the only way the GOP is going to beat Obama in the next couple of years. It's okay though, we can get Bill Murray and the Amish kid for his team. Or maybe Geithner's test markets exploding (I severely hope not - financial drawing boards are expensive). But hey, exciting times! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Live Blog from Georgia Legislative Black Caucus Press Conf BASENAME: live_blog_from_georgia_legisla STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/19/2009 04:39:29 PM ----- BODY: edited- The Press Conf is in response to the vote of HR673. Sen Keith Heard( HR673 author) is speaking now about the vote today ( Can't link to it now-they pulled from site) This vote was to make President Barack Obama a honorary member of the GLBC. The vote was 68 yeas to 70 neas. A PDF will be posted later with the votes. Georgia is the first to make the President a honorary member, since Rep Smyre is the President of National Black Caucus of State Legislators so that's why it was initiated here. Rep. Austin Scott (R-153) objected and had it pulled from the rest of the calendar and asked for it to be voted on sep. A motion to reconsider was placed, they need 91 votes. A member of the press is asking if a white person had won would they have objected. Sen Jones is trying to answer tactfully. The GLBC is also commenting on the fact that Perdue signed on with Texas about removing the section 7 ( not sure about this one) I will link to this later. 4:49: Rep Symre is speaking now-he feels it's very disrespectful and tomorrow is headed to DC for meeting with President Obama. -Good grief the man is going to have to "apologize for Georgia" Sen Fort is commenting now- He also feels this was very disrespectful, is outraged and pointed out that this was passed in the senate no issues. 5:05 They have ended to press conf and adjourned to the GLBC meeting, which was orginally scheduled for 4:30. I expect this meeting to be quite lively. Press here and here. Note: from the author- I've been working as a Legislative aide this session and have been loath to publicly comment much about this session. However today's antics with the Privileged Resolutions is just the latest in a long string of hateful, nasty and obviously racially biased attacks on the President and his supporters. A few weeks ago we had preacher go off about the President and having the "answer to God" ( alluding to the President's position on a women's right to choose) you hear "those people" all the time. It's also been the anti-Obama agenda all day long here. The same week the President signed stem cell bill, we voted it down. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: politicalaka EMAIL: IP: 72.58.129.77 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 05:01:40 PM We're a disgrace to the nation. Austin Scott is never going to be Governor. There are just not that many rednecks left. And the ones who are left are too broke to worry about this silliness. Not that it matters whether President Obama is an honorary member of the GLBC or not. I am sure he will relish the opportunity to put a nail in the GA GOP's coffin during the 2010, 2012 and 2014 elections. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 08:51:29 PM They should've included something in the bill to guarantee it's passage. Something no American legislator would vote against. "Obama will be an honorary caucus member and Israel is the greatest country ever." (runs away) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.31.235 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 09:10:53 PM Zaid, To be clear this is an honorary membership to the GEORGIA Black Caucus.. I seriously doubt the GA GOP would vote for inclusion with Israel any more than for President Obama. The day started with two bills one about beavers and right of ways and another about regulating the size of hunting lights, examples worn by Elly Dobbs and quips from the R-s about "coon-dogs" and trees and he most famous coon dog ever.. oh and FYI we have no regulations on the size of light if you want to hunt alligator at night. oh and earlier this week we had some mo-ron speak about how it's all Obama's fault that bullets are so expensive and he couldn't buy cheap bullets to shoot his wild pigs.. yeah you really can't make this shit up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 09:23:05 PM I know what the bill is, I'm just saying if we included something completely unrelated with it about israel that it would pass, it was a joke ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.176.6.214 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 09:26:10 PM As much as I truly dislike RatBastard Sherman, perhaps a nice cleansing fire would be beneficial to the state again. Just burn it down and start over. How f'in stupid do you have to be as a state to continue to spit in the eye of a very popular president? On a side note, if anyone wants a nearly 3 year old total pain in the butt - he's yours. I'll throw in the DVD collection we've amassed thus far...or does anyone know where I can buy a boatload of patience? I appear to be fresh out and am willing to pay any price!!!!!!!!!!! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.31.235 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 09:52:04 PM Zaid, No it wouldn't. You think the GA GOP has love for Israel? I doubt that, I rilly rilly do. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.31.235 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 10:13:31 PM Ruby- sorry hon- I don't take em' when he's ready for his first Def Leppard/ACDC/Alice Cooper/Fogaht concert. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.31.235 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 10:15:12 PM sorry "till" he's ready.. Then baby it's on. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.129.222 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 03/19/2009 10:45:46 PM The pigs and bullets thing was also Austin Scott. I'm convinced there is acid in the water supply. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.31.235 URL: DATE: 03/19/2009 10:53:15 PM well, not the good kind clearly ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: j.r.ward EMAIL: IP: 74.232.186.239 URL: http://www.jrwardphotography.com DATE: 03/19/2009 11:04:35 PM i was there today in the house during these antics. it made me sick. i have listened to a lot of things i disagree with in the house this session and can usually just shrug it off, but today actually made ashamed. when things like that happen it scares me how behind our state can be. it is a reality check, reminding me of the type of people that will never change. call it politics, partisan politics.... i call it hate, and resentment. it should eventually pass, but should never have been an issue ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: j.r.ward EMAIL: IP: 74.232.186.239 URL: http://www.jrwardphotography.com DATE: 03/19/2009 11:05:32 PM i was there today in the house during these antics. it made me sick. i have listened to a lot of things i disagree with in the house this session and can usually just shrug it off, but today actually made ashamed. when things like that happen it scares me how behind our state can be. it is a reality check, reminding me of the type of people that will never change. call it politics, partisan politics.... i call it hate, and resentment. it should eventually pass, but should never have been an issue (i am the assist. house photographer) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/20/2009 12:24:05 AM "Zaid, No it wouldn't. You think the GA GOP has love for Israel? I doubt that, I rilly rilly do." Not that many people have love for Israel. It's that you just have to be with every single thing Israel does and pretend you love every single thing about it -- or else. Heck, during Israel dropping literally a few million cluster bomblets on southern Lebanon, Sonny Perdue of all people showed up in atlanta hosting a "WE STAND WITH ISRAEL" rally. I don't know if that dumbass could even point to israel on a map, but it doesn't matter. It means money and clout. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.93 URL: DATE: 03/20/2009 08:24:01 AM I pulled the vote on HR 673. There were 37 Not Voting, including some Democrats. http://www.legis.ga.gov/legis/2009_10/votes/hv0303.htm ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 167.192.150.10 URL: DATE: 03/20/2009 10:06:53 AM Sndeak: It was the very end of the day, and usually these things zip right through. Many D's were off the floor in a committee meeting, some had left, and saddly some just walked - Rick Crawford (sort of a D) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.152.100.153 URL: DATE: 03/20/2009 04:57:42 PM So now I see that Richardson sent it back to committee, the GLBC walked out, and then Richardson had the doors locked? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 74.160.37.83 URL: DATE: 03/20/2009 08:04:34 PM No excuse. We send them there to vote on legislation. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.175.186 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 10:03:58 AM Sndeak.... two weeks left in the session. I invite you to visit me one day-you'll see how it really is-you'll get your eyes opened my friend ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.175.186 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 10:06:31 AM Sndeak.... two weeks left in the session. I invite you to visit me one day-you'll see how it really is-you'll get your eyes opened my friend ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.175.186 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 10:18:23 AM Sndeak.... two weeks left in the session. I invite you to visit me one day-you'll see how it really is-you'll get your eyes opened my friend ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 67.33.128.228 URL: DATE: 03/21/2009 12:46:29 PM I've been to a GA session. I'm tired of making excuses for legislators. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 12:59:48 PM I'd like to point out that Mike Jacobs voted NO. No surprise, but it is reason #150256986 to hate him. Racist pig. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: ichibanwaun EMAIL: IP: 76.17.70.65 URL: DATE: 03/24/2009 11:45:29 AM The GLBC had to walk out because they could not defend the line, “unimpeachable reputation for integrity, vision and passion.” Sucking up and disregarding facts would be a step backward even for the GLBC. The GLBC and GA legislation would then have no integrity or sense. Yes, Obama reneging on one campaign promise=no integrity. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/24/2009 05:45:30 PM Over at peach pundit they're turning this into basically, "LOL OBAMA." I guess it's the best victory they've had in a while. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/24/2009 06:33:01 PM Rogue is the "n*** guy" from South Park. See "apologies to Jessie Jackson" for details. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/24/2009 09:45:14 PM I'm starting to just fuck with Erick just for fun http://www.peachpundit.com/2009/03/24/re-we-should-all-learn-something-from-meghan-mccain/ Seriously, as much as you guys might think I hate on Obama, I spend most of my time defending him to Republicans. But I'm open-minded enough to where I can call BS on him, like with the banking bailout and afghanistan. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/24/2009 09:48:54 PM And I think they deleted where I wrote that McCain admitted to Arianna Huffington that he didnt' vote for Bush in 2000. Free Speech ftl ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Angela Davis in Atlanta - Two Events this week BASENAME: the_civil_rights_and_womens STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/22/2009 08:23:16 PM ----- BODY: Tuesday, March 24, 2009 Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm Location: Ebenezer Baptist Church 407 Auburn Avenue Atlanta, GA Free and Open to the Public Then, Wednesday am join Ms. Davis and SPARK! Reproductive Justice NOW as they lobby at the capitol. Then they will head across the street to meet with legislators. When: Wednesday March 25th Where: Trinity Methodist Church 265 Washington Street Atlanta GA Time: 9:00 am. The civil rights and women's rights icon Angela Davis will speak about women, privilege, and prisons in honor of Emory University Women's History Month and in conjunction with the Atlanta Consortium of Colleges and Universities. This event is free and open to the public, and a book signing will follow the lecture. Davis's talk is also the culminating event of the series "Motherhood at the Intersection of Race and Class," which opened in January with two traveling art exhibitions by historian and curator Rickie Solinger. Presented by the Center for Women at Emory and the Emory Department of Women's Studies. Cosponsored by the Jessica Glasser Memorial Lecture Fund, Ali P. Crown Endowment on Women's Roles in Culture and Society, SPARK Reproductive Justice NOW, Atlanta Consortium of Colleges and Universities, and the following from Emory: Hightower Lecture Fund, Race and Difference Initiative, the Office of Community and Diversity, the Law School, The Presidents Commission on the Status of Women, Feminists in Action, and Emory Alumnae and Women of Emory. For more information on this event, go to www.womenscenter.emory.edu or contact Sasha Smith, 404.727.2001. Davis's long-standing commitment to prisoners rights dates back to her involvement in the campaign to free the Soledad Brothers, which led to her own arrest and imprisonment in 1970. Her eighteen months in jail sparked an international "Free Angela Davis" campaign, and both John Lennon and the Rolling Stones recorded songs protesting her arrest. She was acquitted in 1972. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Insta-poll open thread: Is Geithner done? BASENAME: insta-poll_open_thread_is_geit STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/22/2009 10:55:43 PM ----- BODY: I really hate to say it, but it sounds like the Tim Geithner naysayers might have been right. If Paul Krugman can sum up the situation as "an awful mess", where does that leave us? Consider also that one of the few people defending him these days is John McCain, of all people. Am I missing some reason to believe that Geithner is eventually going to get it together and make the public, investors, and us, the rank and filers who indirectly put him where he is, happy again? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/22/2009 11:10:35 PM I'm pretty sure Geithner and Summers were always loved by the right-wing and loathed by the left. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/22/2009 11:26:01 PM That wasn't to be overly snarky, it's just I think the lefty blogosphere literally was seeing blood when they saw the picks for Obama's econ team. It's the same folks who got us into the crisis by boosting these sorts of policies coming back for round 2, and that kinda applies to his international team with people like Ross and Clinton, too... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.73 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/22/2009 11:54:46 PM More instability in the markets FTW! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 03:16:57 AM You assume the problem lies in Geithner. It doesn't. It's in the policy itself. It doesn't matter whether it's Paulson or Geithner who proposes it. It's bad, at least according to Krugman et al. But it won't change, because it seems to be the consensus of the economic elite. We can only hope that they're right and Krugman is wrong - or that the House, fearing the wrath of the voters on 2010, puts together an alternative that is more politically palatable and no less likely to succeed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.74 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/23/2009 08:07:54 AM It amazes me to see the left denouncing leftist policies. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 09:37:50 AM I'm not entirely sure if perpetuating a system that allows bankers to get wealthy playing three-card monty with credit risk and highly subjective (and gameable) rating systems shaking Holy Water on the whole thing counts as a leftist policy. It may be a safe policy, in that it deals with the familiar. It may also be something that only feels safe because of familiarity rather than fundamentals. The benefit I see to securitization is that it "liquefies" loans. Rather than sitting on the thing for 30+ years, you can decide whether you want a lump sum for it or to wait for the payments to trickle in. The downside is that it makes loans something you buy, and allows for certain risks to be hidden. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/23/2009 09:45:52 AM Yeah, because the government injecting billions (isn't it a trillion now?) into the private sector, assuming control of private businesses can't be called leftist. Excuse me while i call BS. :rollseyes: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.130.47.231 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 11:02:47 AM No, billion-dollar giveaways to the rich is not leftist. And if we've assumed control of these businesses, how is it that they don't seem to be operating with the best interests of the people in mind? They're even suing us! Either we don't have the control, or the government's policy is to let AIG continue destructive business an usual. Either way, not leftist. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 11:24:41 AM " Yeah, because the government injecting billions (isn't it a trillion now?) into the private sector, assuming control of private businesses can't be called leftist." I'm pretty sure corporate welfare is where the left and right get together and call BS. You do know that size of government =/= political philosophy right? And we don't have control over any of these banks, even though we own huge stakes in them now, which is becoming increasingly apparent. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 11:36:26 AM "Yeah, because the government injecting billions (isn't it a trillion now?) into the private sector, assuming control of private businesses can't be called leftist." Also, the scary part is that a vast majority of the money isn't from the government - it's from the Federal Reserve, which is only quasi-governmental. It is said that Bernake, after completing his thesis on the Great Depression, vowed to be an activist Fed Chair if he ever got the opportunity in this situation. He's definitely living up to that vow. Also, even nationalization is not being considered even by crazy liberals like Krugman, Reich, and Stiglitz in the leftist sense. They see nationalization as a temporary, stabilizing measure with a bias toward selling off business units as quickly as they can be found to be worth something. I don't see anyone calling for a Central Bank of the United States to form up in order to give the proletariat the means to control the levers of production. For some reason, no one's even promoting UAW to buy up Detroit with their pension moneys. If the government is out to guarantee hedge funds no downside on bailing out a private sector, why not the same for a group that actually produces something? I'd love to see the PPFI enable labor to actually take over their own industry. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/23/2009 12:07:14 PM OK, well if these aren't leftist/statist/liberal policies then what are they? Play games all you want "IT'S CORPORATE WELFARE" or "THE FED IS ONLY QUASI GOVERNMENTAL" or whatever other populist BS you can summon, but this matches the paradigm of what a liberal government would do. If it walks like a duck, talks like a duck, and sure as hell looks like a damn duck, don't come to me and say its a god damned mongoose. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 12:43:44 PM I'd still say these are liberal solutions only in that they believe that the government can be competent and solve problems. Fascist (in the real, Italian meaning of the world) governments also believe that state and corporate health are intimately tied, and would act to run a command economy for national interest. I'm not saying that this is a fascist thing to do, I'm just pointing out that right/left is more than just the relative strength of government. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/23/2009 01:19:16 PM Thanks for proving my point Odin! I think what's happening is that its not a "progressive leftism" being implemented which is leading "progressives to claim this isn't a liberal governmental system. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 01:26:03 PM I'm confused. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/23/2009 01:41:17 PM Sorry I've been to busy fighting editors today to write anything clearly... The policies coming from Obama, on this at least, aren't progressive. I think that's what has lead the left say his policies aren't leftist. "I'd still say these are liberal solutions only in that they believe that the government can be competent and solve problems" this is kind of getting at what I was saying when I said yall are playing games here and won't just call a damn spade a spade. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 02:59:04 PM I don't understand what you are trying to say, if you're trying to say anything at all, IRE. Yeah, it's an activist government, no doubt, but that doesn't mean it's being active in a way the left wants. Heck, the two biggest active-government, big government, spenders this country had in the past 30 years were Reagan and Bush. Not exactly loved by the left, either. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.236 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/23/2009 03:35:03 PM I'm saying its interesting to watch the left say leftist policies are bad. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 04:02:39 PM I still say it is hard to claim that a policy with guiding principles of keeping entrenched interests in control of the financial system and with a requirement that the state does *not* assume control even as it provides assistance a leftist policy. There are aspects of concern for the common person, namely the preservation of credit for consumers and small businesses, but they seem to be co-requirements rather than driving ones. I still think to label these purely "leftist" policies is to render the term effectively useless by attaching it to any form of government activism. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 04:10:22 PM "I'm saying its interesting to watch the left say leftist policies are bad." Yeah, but you haven't provided a very good explanation for why the three of us have supposedly been unable to call a spade a spade. Are you saying Reagan and Bush were leftists -- they had some of the biggest government expansions, tariffs, and spending of any President -- and it was funny that we wouldn't like them either? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/23/2009 04:43:08 PM Although ... we may be getting much more to the left. Interesting rumors. http://www.reuters.com/article/governmentFilingsNews/idUSWAT01119220090323 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.236 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/24/2009 01:56:50 AM b for d is the shiz. i love all yall. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/24/2009 09:26:39 AM While the above sentiments are true, mods, feel free to delete said comment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/24/2009 10:13:37 AM While the above sentiments are true, mods, feel free to delete said comment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/24/2009 11:10:39 AM Love ya too, IRE. Sorry for not saying much at the College Dems meeting - I'm getting pretty damned worn out from the PhD hunt. I was actually just there to pay dues so I could hit Convention. I vent pressure here a lot - therapeutic to displace my frustrations on a hapless former NY Fed Chair. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/24/2009 11:47:55 AM I'm feeling the bromance brah. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/24/2009 05:14:47 PM I'm just glad there's someone else on here with sexist attitudes and understanding of internet memes, IRE. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.206 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/24/2009 09:23:10 PM I love me a little sexism. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 72.152.150.73 URL: DATE: 03/24/2009 10:09:01 PM I'm confused.. who is sexist? When did this happen? We love you back IRE.. sorry meant to tell you that sooner. My blogging has been really quite off since I'm not working at a desk 10 hours a day, those were the days my friends. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.206 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 03/24/2009 10:25:51 PM Thanks Jules! This is the first time I will ever say I love you while sober. The above was not made in such a state. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.6.214 URL: DATE: 03/25/2009 10:34:10 AM Footage of the B 52s at the Downtown Cafe before signing with a label. It was filmed by students at GSU. Discovered two years ago. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJgvJvIo2-U&feature=PlayList&p=B64EC4070B005A47&index=0&playnext=1 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/25/2009 11:01:56 AM Here's more AIG fun: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/25/opinion/25desantis.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1 I wonder what a mini-panel discussion with him at Gettlefinger (the UAW chief whose name I can't properly recall or spell) would be like... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/25/2009 12:02:17 PM Can these fucking people get over themselves, please? I wanna round them all up and drop them off in the slums of Karachi where my parents grew up and tell them to fucking get some perspective before we have to read any more of their bullshit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/25/2009 02:55:21 PM I like BusinessWeek's response http://www.businessweek.com/careers/managementiq/archives/2009/03/the_mindset_of.html?chan=top+news_top+news+index+-+temp_news+%2B+analysis ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/25/2009 04:39:24 PM The BW guy missed the note on charity, namely: "I'm a master of the universe, and my charity is obviously more noble than those *bureaucrats* who systematically work on problems with taxpayer money." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/25/2009 11:40:46 PM Looks like Howard Dean's taking his HHS snub and going to the mattresses on health care: http://www.standwithdrdean.com/ Good man. We can get single payer yet if we can at least get a medicare option. Everyone in my family would dump our private plans in an instant, those creeps jack up the prices because heart disease runs in my family. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/26/2009 09:15:41 AM Dean's a good man. Playing his part as always, even if he does not get central casting. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.68 URL: DATE: 03/26/2009 12:51:36 PM Krugman's problem is that he is confusing the emergency stimulus plan and financial market reorganization, which is the OTHER Geithner plan. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/26/2009 03:48:13 PM http://www.alternet.org/workplace/133627/aig_exec_whines_about_public_anger,_and_now_we're_supposed_to_pity_him_yeah,_right/ Taibbi just posted this up on his facebook status. "Krugman's problem is that he is confusing the emergency stimulus plan and financial market reorganization, which is the OTHER Geithner plan" Actually, he's not talking about the stimulus, he's talking about the banking side. Although if I remember right he didn't like the stimulus as much because of the over emphasis on tax cuts. Although, to be honest, I think stuff that needs legislative approval through Congress is going to be a real pain now that we have the Vichy Democrat Caucus up and running in the Senate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.68 URL: DATE: 03/26/2009 04:50:01 PM The "toxic asset plan" isn't the stimulus plan? I was misinformed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/26/2009 05:05:40 PM The stimulus refers to the $787 billion stimulus plan, officially known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. That's basically tax cuts and spending into the economy (stuff like aid to the states, all sorts of little niche programs) designed to stimulate provide employment and kick start the economy and make people not afraid to spend again. The "toxic asset plan" deals primarily with the banks. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.166.14 URL: DATE: 03/26/2009 07:16:52 PM In any case, Krugman says that Geithner thinks there is "nothing fundamentally wrong with the financial system", but he has proposed big changes: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/26/AR2009032601330.html? I don't know what the hell you are talking about distinguishing between the "stimulus" and "the banking side". Krugman just spoke too soon. Geithner does want changes. First things first. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/26/2009 09:42:30 PM I'm sorry, my friend, but you are seriously confused here. The stimulus is spending into states, tax cuts for working families, etc. The banking plan is buying off troubled assets, etc. They are completely different. Geithner does not want real changes. Where is the firewall between commercial and investment banking? He still accepts the "too big to fail paradigm." Krugman's a Nobel Laureate economist. Agree with him or disagree, he needs to be taken seriously, and I'm afraid you're not doing that by way of not taking the appropriate time needed to read and understand his critique. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/26/2009 10:40:35 PM Geithner's starting to move a bit. I'm not sure if it's Obama or other advisors pushing him, but I was a bit surprised to see him become the front-man for the new powers to peer into and take apart nonbank financial firms. The thing of it is that this new entity sounds like it could become a very powerful thing, and the focus of a great many partisan battles. I'm not entirely sure if this is due to motives or a technocratic love for complex and intricate information machines. "Too big to fail means too big to survive" seems like a good metric to me (and I would hope to our adversaries across the aisle) in this case. I mean, when the chief activity of these guys is to move around bits with computers, is there really a such thing as economy of scale? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 03/27/2009 12:59:47 AM To me, "too big to fail" needs to become "you're getting your ass trust-busted or you're becoming publicly owned and operated." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/27/2009 10:26:09 AM A little off-topic, but can I just say how much I love the Internet? Twenty years ago, we would have been stuck with either dumbed-down explanations of all of this stuff on network TV or a need to go to the library and self-teach all of this stuff. Today, there are experts of every stripe on websites writing blogs, recording videos, and so on and so forth. And a person with some motivation has a real chance of understand how all of this stuff works. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 03/27/2009 10:27:18 AM Basic education available here: http://marketplace.publicradio.org/videos/whiteboard/collateral_calls.shtml ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Just go. BASENAME: just_go STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/24/2009 03:46:45 PM ----- BODY:
Some criminal defense attorneys opposed SB 13, fearing prosecutors will be led to seek life without parole in increasing numbers. Other defense lawyers supported the bill, saying it will help ensure the death penalty is administered less arbitrarily and reserved only for the most heinous killers.Ultimately, this will cut down on death cases and save the State tons of money. Money they should use to fully fund indigent defense. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Weekend Open Thread BASENAME: weekend_open_thread_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/28/2009 10:38:43 AM ----- BODY:
Your brief even misrepresents you. It cannot represent an official position of the State of Georgia. Under our Constitution, only the attorney geeral can represent the state. Attorney General Thurbert Baker declined the opportuntity to file an amicus brief with the Supreme Court. Instead, you used a private attorney to craft a brief designed to make the Supreme Court believe that your personal opinion is that of this State. Your private attorney even signs the brief as "Special Attorney General", a position that does not exist in this State, but a bogus title apparently intended to confer some governmental legitimacy on the filing. The Attorney General can appoint private lawyers to be special assistants, but no one can appoint a "special" attorney general.Senator Jones can come sit by me anytime. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 04/02/2009 06:18:12 PM Who was the attorney who wrote it? I am guessing Robert Highsmith without looking. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 04/02/2009 06:24:42 PM Nevermind, Anne Lewis. Check out her picture here, she's the one in the riding outfit with the giant bowtie: http://sbllaw.net/ourlawyers/ I wonder how she was paid, anyone feel like writing a open records request? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 04/02/2009 06:29:32 PM Nevermind, Anne Lewis. Check out her picture here, she's the one in the riding outfit with the giant bowtie: http://sbllaw.net/ourlawyers/ I wonder how she was paid, anyone feel like writing a open records request? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/02/2009 08:00:02 PM Oh, dear God. Is that a case for the DFI or Punch-Myself-in-the-Face camera? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 72.145.69.153 URL: DATE: 04/02/2009 09:28:56 PM dear God is right.. or more like what freaking year is it.. I haven't seen outfits like that since 1984. Oh my.. yes she is serious fashion casualty. If she ain't a D, I can't really help her tho. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.21 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/02/2009 09:48:58 PM MotS: I'll do it if it isn't too much work. What I got to do? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 04/03/2009 12:23:37 AM IRE: I wouldn't worry about it, she's deputy counsel for the RPG, she probably did it pro bono, of course, its not bono at all, but whatever. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 04/03/2009 12:24:14 AM but you bring up a good point, how can someone represent the state if she doesn't work for the state? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.33 URL: DATE: 04/04/2009 08:24:28 PM It's more likely an ethics violation for Sunny (sic), but that will go about as far as a Yugo in the rain. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Angela TITLE: Borders Makes a Major Announcement - LIVE BASENAME: borders_makes_a_major_announce STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/02/2009 10:58:25 AM ----- BODY: Live streaming video by Ustream ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 04/02/2009 06:15:34 PM If she can get Cult Jam to run for City Council President it would be an unbeatable ticket. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Here is your invitation to the Jefferson Jackson Dinner BASENAME: here_is_your_invitation_to_the STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/02/2009 05:34:40 PM ----- BODY: Clever! Not sure I can swing $250.00 a ticket, but good for the DPG for making this invitation a little more zippy. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 98.66.162.59 URL: DATE: 04/02/2009 09:45:26 PM ugh. $250! Good lord, just because the Dow has been up the past few days doesn't mean anyone has that kind of cash. And, sheesh, haven't I heard everything I need to know about the honorees from the video invitation? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.218.122.230 URL: DATE: 04/07/2009 12:24:44 PM Hey, what's this I'm hearing about a double secret Jello-Shot club event the same night? Damn somebody better invite me! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Compelling and fascinating video BASENAME: compelling_and_fascinating_liv STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/02/2009 08:35:43 PM ----- BODY:
Amir Farokhi believes we can turn Atlanta from a great city into a remarkable, world-class city. The Young Democrats of Atlanta agrees, which is why we have adopted Amir's campaign to become the next Atlanta City Council representative from Post 2 At-Large. We invite you to come out tomorrow night at 7 p.m. to meet Amir and take in the Braves first game of 2009. A $25 donation gets you a Ballpark buffet at Carolyn's Gourmet Cafe at 1151 W. Peachtree Street in Midtown and a great evening with young Democrats and your next at-large City Councilman from Post 2. Additionally, Carolyn's will have SweetWater 420 on draft for $2.50 per glass for the evening. Thank you to all our hosts for the evening! Jeff & Kacy Romig Eric & Paige Teusink Page Gleason and Richard Campbell Mijha & Runako Godfrey Anne Tyler Hamby Ed Hula III Nikema Williams Please visit www.amirfarokhi.com for more information on Amir's campaign.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Would I? Hummm no. BASENAME: would_i_hummm STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/06/2009 01:04:01 PM ----- BODY:
Tomorrow, President Obama will hold a Passover Seder at the White House with family and staff. The Seder, it turns out, is a fulfillment of a vow that a small group of Obama campaign staff made during their Seder last year, on April 19. Unable to go home for the holidays, the group of about 10 held an impromptu Seder in the basement of the Sheraton Hotel in Harrisburg, PA., as the Obama campaign neared the end of its long primary campaign battle in the state. Obama participated in the Jewish ritual, along with a few friends who were traveling with him that day. At the end of the ritual, after the traditional refrain "Next year in Jerusalem!" Sen. Obama and others in the group jokingly added, "Next year in the White House!" So this year's Seder "is meant not only to celebrate the holiday but also to reflect on all that has happened in our lives" since the Harrisburg Seder, the official said.White House invites gay families to Easter event
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The White House is allocating tickets for the upcoming Easter Egg Roll to gay and lesbian parents as part of the Obama administration's outreach to diverse communities. Families say the gesture shows that the new Democratic administration values them as equal to other families. And for many, being included in the annual tradition -- dating to 1878 -- renews hope that they will have more support in their quest for equal rights in matters such as marriage and adoption than under the previous administration.Obama Loves His "Entourage" ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.218.111.169 URL: DATE: 04/09/2009 01:36:16 PM I've also read that Obama loves Battlestar Galactica: http://www.theonion.com/content/news/obama_depressed_distant_since ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.132.82 URL: DATE: 04/09/2009 03:39:17 PM Roger Ebert's thoughts on Bill O'reilly is a must read. http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090407/COMMENTARY/904079997 Keith Olbermann included it on Countdown. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/09/2009 03:42:23 PM He compared him to a tiny mouse with an erection. EPIC. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Phil Gingrey is Ready to Go Tea-Baggin! BASENAME: phil_gingrey_is_ready_to_go_te STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/09/2009 10:13:46 PM ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/09/2009 11:50:22 PM I should write to him about it. He usually responds. I don't agree with him on just about anything, but I will say he represents the district (bunch of rich douchebags) pretty well. What pisses me off is the members of Congress in districts with a median income of $30,000 railing against things like healthcare for poor kids. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.132.82 URL: DATE: 04/10/2009 09:13:00 AM He responds, personally or with a auto response talking points form letter, email, or (usually) both? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/10/2009 09:36:10 AM No. The Republicans must NOT become self-aware. I will be deprived of too much comedy. I especially look forward to those that will send in teabag pictures (what, are they too cheap to just send in actual Lipton?) and other such things. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sPatrickC EMAIL: IP: 130.101.163.98 URL: DATE: 04/10/2009 10:23:57 AM http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26315908/vp/30145811#30145811 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 04/10/2009 11:02:29 AM The entire Rachel Maddow "insanitea" segment was one of the funniest things I've seen in ages. You would think that there is at least one moron in the GOP who knew of the existence of Urban Dictionary and would at least look the term up. "Who wouldn't want to teabag John McCain?" I laughed despite my revulsion. I find myself giddy in anticipation of just how The Daily Show is going to handle these little tea parties. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 74.224.120.76 URL: DATE: 04/10/2009 11:23:30 AM Revulsion is right! I mean to I have to be the one to tell them? Gross. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/10/2009 01:36:23 PM It depends, I write to him about obscure stuff sometimes and get some really detailed replies, so it seems to me like if it's form letter it's at least really good ones. Still, I wrote to him about passing a law about banning George Lucas from making any more movies after I saw Indy 4 and never got a reply... Plus, he lost his porn star mustache. Epic fail. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/12/2009 03:24:35 PM Some friends and I are trying to figure out how to counter protest this when it happens in Athens. We're thinking of signs that say "NO TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION. WAIT A MINUTE...." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/12/2009 04:55:43 PM Don't bother. These guys are so paranoid that some meeting leaders are telling each other not to give out contact information. You know, the kind of stuff that could be used for organizing later. It's going to come out better when the only station talking about the MASSIVE PROTEST!!11! is Fox News and everyone else laughs. Markos is naming the beast correctly - if the right wants to spend its energies emulating Code Pink, go ahead and let them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/12/2009 05:09:24 PM Well, we want to see if we can interview a few of the nuts and get some good pictures for the blog. I don't see them as politically potent at all. They don't have the numbers of the anti war movement and have zero legislative presence, but I think using them as the bunt of jokes is more than worth it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 05:35:21 PM Aw man Jack Kingston and I think a state senator too will be coming to our tea party. It's definitely time to crash this thing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.156.100 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 11:11:47 PM So if it rains, and all the tea goes into the storm drains, and the massive amounts of tannin deteriorates the caulk or putty or whatever it is they use to hold the pieces of pipe together, does the city get to charge the doofuses for the repair? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Friday Open Thread BASENAME: friday_open_thread_77 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/10/2009 05:46:18 AM ----- BODY:
NAIROBI, Kenya -- Navy snipers on the fantail of a destroyer cut down three Somali pirates in a lifeboat and rescued an American sea captain in a surprise nighttime assault in choppy seas Easter Sunday, ending a five-day standoff between a team of rogue gunmen and the world's most powerful military. It was a stunning ending to an Indian Ocean odyssey that began when 53-year-old freighter Capt. Richard Phillips was taken hostage Wednesday by pirates who tried to hijack the U.S.-flagged Maersk Alabama. The Vermont native was held on a tiny lifeboat that began drifting precariously toward Somalia's anarchic, gun-plagued shores.It's still unclear who did the shooting, if it was USN snipers or a Navy Seal team. They now say-it was a Seal Team. Christensen said Phillips was now "resting comfortably" on the The USS Boxer, which was in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Somalia. More unfolding, here and here. Big "D" reminded me that the US Marine Hymn's second line is From the Shores of Tripoli well geesh, every Marine must be like "Let me at'em Captain" when they even hear the word pirate since that's what the Marine Corp was basically founded to do, go after the Barbary Pirates. Other interesting facts, the ship that had the snipers, and shot the pirates, is the USS Bainbridge-any chance it was named after Commodore William Bainbridge, who fought in the First Barbary War? Um yeah it was. Oh and Bainbridge Georgia, also named for the Commodore. I guess the only question is, who plays who in the movie? Will Steven Seagal make a come back as the cook and play Captain Richard Phillips? Hey why not this guy is being played by George Clooney! Will Russell Crowe play the Commodore in flash backs? The script-it just writes itself. Regardless, the family members of the Captain are very happy tonight in Vermont. *Brother, Grandfather, Uncles, cousins and friends.. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BigD EMAIL: IP: 24.16.101.79 URL: DATE: 04/12/2009 10:51:57 PM Well I'm glad you have been listening for 30+ years.... this is a truly great day for the Navy... so many things could have gone wrong in so many way but didn't. (Now for some useless and obtuse additional facts) While Bainbridge was a hero of the barbary wars - the big hero was a guy named Stephen Decatur and he has had a number of ships thought out history named after him the current one in commission is DDG-73 - it would have been quite the historical deja vu had it showed up with the Bainbridge too - Decatur died in a duel his second William Bainbridge. the town of Decatur Georgia is named after him too... my theory why so many of the early hero's have towns in Georgia named after them was that Georgia pines where of particular importance to an early 19th century wooden navy - the "Naval Stores" of Tar and Turpentine where of immense importance for wooden ships. Ohhh and FYI...Charlie Swift the Guantanamo lawyer and I were classmates together at USNA (I can tell you I have never been so proud as I was of his actions - but George Clooney playing him is a bit of a stretch or then again maybe I'm just a little jealous) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 12:05:57 AM The second I heard news reports of officials saying they wanted to see a movie made I wanted to puke. Can America ever get enough of its jerking off to violence? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 72.152.100.76 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 09:16:00 AM "The second I heard news reports of officials saying they wanted to see a movie made..." Link, please. This is a great human story, Zaid. Not just an American story and not just a violent story. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 09:36:06 AM I don't doubt there are talks of a made-for-TV film, as there always are for this kind of news item. Of course, the question is whether the thing ever materializes. There's a big difference between idle talk with Entertainment Weekly and actual production budgets being written. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 72.152.100.76 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 09:44:27 AM Sure, there will always be the made for TV suggestions - but those are not usually put forward by "officials". I would like to hear which "officials" made this request. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/13/2009 10:28:13 AM I'm an official BAMF and I want this movie to happen. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 11:22:15 AM "Link, please. This is a great human story, Zaid. Not just an American story and not just a violent story." http://abcnews.go.com/International/story?id=7318145&page=1 Why is it a great movie? Another little hostage, shoot the evil foreign bad guys, save the noble army movie? Isn't that like every other movie out of Hollywood? Some of the pirates were as young as 16. This isn't a great human story. This is the tragedy of the Horn of Africa. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 11:28:54 AM As for BAMFs, how you feel about a movie about punching bankers in the face? It'd be a high-grosser in times like these. We could have Dwayne Johnson raiding CFO's mansions and suplexing them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 11:36:44 AM And you're a catholic right? St. Augustine up on this: http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/04/st-augustine-on-pirates-and-emperors.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/13/2009 12:02:10 PM Yes however a Just War Theory could be the best Catholic defense for the move (and maybe the best catholic defense), I don't know. Whenever calculi are needed in a moral theory things immediately become less clear cut. No one is doubting the endemic problems plaguing the Horn. What people are saying is that it is a "good thing" that villains had some form of justice for attacking innocent civilians (using broad easy to define terms because I don't think blog threads are conducive to the type of conversation needed to "solve" this question). Yes there are other factors leading to this etc etc the problem is that with this scenario, perhaps the commonly accepted best outcome is what happened. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 12:07:04 PM Obviously self-defense is merited when you are attacked, but the disgusting "ra ra look at us kicking those evil pirates' ass let's make a movie guyz" mentality is just stupid-assed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 12:09:16 PM And I'd really like to know why there has been such little media reporting of American bombing of Somalia every now and then for a few years now... pirates and emperors... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 09:02:37 PM " WASHINGTON, April 13 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said on Monday that three Somali pirates who were killed by the Navy's Seals to end a hostage crisis were "untrained" teenagers. Addressing an audience at the Marine Corps War College in Quantico, Virginia, Gates said that the slain pirates, aged at between 17 to 19, were heavily armed but inexperienced. They were shot dead on Sunday at the end of a five-day standoff with the U.S. military after they attacked a U.S.-flagged cargo ship about 400 kilometers away from Somali and held an American captain as hostage. "As long as you've got this incredible number of poor people and the risks are relatively small, there's really no way in my view to control it unless you get something on land that begins to change the equation for these kids," Gates told students and faculty members. He also noted that there is no purely military solution to piracy in the region." http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x5449647 When the smash hit movie comes out, who are we going to get to play the kids, who probably turned to piracy on the behest of a warlord or to pay for antimalarial for their families, who got the bullets in the head? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.94 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/13/2009 11:19:32 PM F*ck Xinhua. The reporters are nice enough but I hate their editors. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.146.38 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 04/14/2009 12:42:23 AM I don't give a damn about any movie, but I'm curious Zaid. What would have been a satisfactory solution in your mind? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 03:37:39 PM I concede that the situation maybe was inevitable to end this way, but I don't think we should go around being like "RA RA WE ROCK" because the most powerful military in the world could kill a few developing world teenagers. That's what bothers me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.146.38 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 04/14/2009 10:48:45 PM Teenagers with guns. Who had already committed a violent crime and threatened to do more. I'm trying to have empathy for your position, Zaid, but those facts present a huge barrier. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 10:54:47 PM "Teenagers with guns. Who had already committed a violent crime and threatened to do more." You don't know anything about them, and neither do I, all I know is it's sick to celebrate their deaths and pathetic to be so triumphalist about the world's most powerful military overpowering a bunch of poor illiterate teenagers. We can all be happy the captain is safe, but I don't see any grand cause for celebration beyond that, it's just a tragedy. If we're talking about how great it is to get revenge on people who've committed a violent crime I wonder how many Americans would have to die to make Iraqis happy if that's the logic to be used... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 11:09:04 PM And it's a streak of violent triumphalism that goes a long ways back. I remember back when the US Army took Baghdad. Every news station was masturbating to it. I was thinking the whole time, So you just beat the shit out of this country that's like 150th in HDI in the world? You're proud of that? Get some fucking balls, America. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.146.38 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 04/14/2009 11:20:32 PM I don't know anything about them? I portrayed exactly what they did and nothing more. And it wasn't about revenge. It was about ending a situation where a group of violent criminals held a hostage and threatened to do him harm. And it was ended. And to that I do not celebrate but I say good. And to somehow twist this into Americans dying to balance your notion of a karmic equation? Fuck empathy. I'm not a psychiatrist. I am not paid to attempt empathy with the insane. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 11:25:54 PM I'm just saying, America kills innocent people all over the planet, but if one of us were to die as an act of revenge, we would mourn it, because they're still human beings and we understand it. You're not paid? Do I give a fuck who pays you? You're a Libertarian, aren't you? I think that already makes me write off your opinion on anything ever, mate :p ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 11:27:32 PM And I don't understand why the US bombing Somalia pretty constantly for a few years now hasn't really made much of a blip on the US news radar (fuck anyone who dies in that, they're black and speak different languages!), but when we go and shoot up a bunch of kids who take out their frustration on our navy it's proud American heroes USA NUMBA ONE ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.146.38 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 04/14/2009 11:28:45 PM Kind of like why I ponder even attempting a polite rejoinder to you where I state I'm trying to understand your side when I know it will only lead to another wacko ultra-left rant about how the imperial U.S. lusts for innocent blood. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.146.38 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 04/14/2009 11:31:46 PM Violently storming an unarmed ship, taking hostages and threatening to kill said hostages = taking out their frustration. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.30.7 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 11:33:14 PM Zaid, I guess I'm not sure what shows you are watching, but the news reports I read online have neither been jerking off or anything else. In fact I think the stories linked to above, clearly were not doing anything like that. It was a stand off that ended with snipers shooting the three on the boat after holding the Captain for 5 days. If some in the media have gone all Rambo-I'm not sure a vent here is your best bet- take it up with them. Why do you assume that a movie can't portray the pirates in any other way than you describe? They have nearly 10 million people, whose age I'd imagine is quite young, living on $600.00 a year- the national government can't wrangle the 18 regions, and it's being run by warlords-some not a whole lot older than the pirates. I'd agree it's a serious mess.. however they really messed up when they took a cargo ship with supplies headed for Rwanda for bounty. However, they still managed to take 60 hostages in one weekend.. Some are living quite high on the hog.. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7650415.stm Frankly they are not a whole not different than gang "warlords" in urban anywhere USA. Life spans are probably about the same. I'm not proud of it, I'm just saying- and yeah they made a couple dozen movies about them too. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 76.17.124.16 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 11:46:14 PM This has nothing to do with "taking out their frustration on our navy." They seized the Maersk Alabama for pure profit, almost certainly without knowing the nationality of the captain or crew. They didn't know the U.S. Navy would ever become involved until the captain gave himself up to save his crew and the ship, and they were stuck with an American hostage. Even then they had numerous opportunities to give him up or let him escape, and instead they continued to demand millions and to tell him that they intended to kill him. That wasn't "frustration" borne of U.S. policy in Somalia-- that was criminal enterprise. You are really twisting yourself in a pretzel to empathize with these guys, Zaid. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 11:54:55 PM You were what, in middle school, during OIF I? Anyways, there is absolutely nothing wrong with national cheerleading, especially when the things to rah rah over are few and far between these days. Our boys did some top-of-the-line, elite, hooah stuff that other countries are unable, and in some cases, unwilling to do. What's not to be proud of? Was it violent triumphalism that prompted hundreds of thousands of Americans to parade in the streets in celebration of our victory over Germany and Japan, or was it pride that through our best efforts, investment, training, and sacrifices that we were able to ensure our safety and security for generations to come. I don't think that the mentality there is much different than with these pirates. We are able project our strength and protect the lives of our citizens, whether civilians or warfighters, in a way never before seen in history. It's a reality that's given comfort to many a family that's had a loved one experience a 15-month deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. And it will certainly continue to give comfort to those families who have loved ones who serve aboard merchant vessels, charting foreign and in some cases, hostile waters. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 74.0.64.138 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 04:21:27 PM Woooohoooooz go Obama! Git them 3 poverty stricken teenagers in that there lifeboat off Somalia! Blow their brains out good! Tell them they don't mess with our billionaire military contractors and yachts!!!! It don't matter how many bombs we drop in Somalia or governments we coup d'etat, or nuclear waste of their coasts, them damn pirates!!! Obama 2012, Y'allzz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Giselda EMAIL: IP: 74.0.64.138 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 04:23:59 PM Woooohoooooz go Obama! Git them 3 poverty stricken teenagers in that there lifeboat off Somalia! Blow their brains out good! Tell them they don't mess with our billionaire military contractors and yachts!!!! It don't matter how many bombs we drop in Somalia or governments we coup d'etat, or nuclear waste of their coasts, them damn pirates!!! Obama 2012, Y'allzz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: vam EMAIL: IP: 144.82.205.73 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 05:31:10 PM Well said, Giselda. I'm not saying that either side was completely in the right or the wrong. But we have to stop addressing these situations in terms of violence and nationalism. These Somalians did what they did for a reason. Reasons which the USA has a very large stake in. Nationalism is dangerous and detrimental because it distracts people from the reality that there is a global exchange taking place everyday, whether through the economy or military, or just communication. Killing individuals who have been subjectively labeled as "pirates" or "terrorists" and then celebrating that violence as a national success only adds to this problem. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: I'm gonna say it... I really am. BASENAME: im_gonna_say_it_i_really_am STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/13/2009 10:19:21 AM ----- BODY:
Among Democrats, Baker and House Minority Leader DuBose Porter of Dublin have declared for the race. Barnes will likely make his announcement by early June. Poythress also is a possible candidate.So, that was strike #1 in my list. Then, this morning I learned about additional layoffs and cuts announced Friday, including the elimination of the AJC graphcis department. Strike #2. Time is ripe for a worthy news source to pop up in metro Atlanta. Today Salon offers commentary on the state of non-profit news. Keep an eye on Grift, Ink Drained Kvetch and new-to-the-dance, Certain Speculation. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 98.192.39.136 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 11:56:07 AM Cathrine, I couldnt agree with you more. I have to admit that I myself was hesitant to verbalize my disdain, but you are right. While there are some (Maria Saporta, Jay Bookman and Cynthia Tucker) whom I adore, I cant get around the litany of inaccuracies and just all around dumb decisions they have made. We gotta do better. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 12:01:05 PM The AJC took their distribution boxes back that they donated to UGA for student 'zines. Now our magazine has like only one distribution box left. AJC SUCKS. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/13/2009 12:06:51 PM Maria Saporta is with the Biz Chronicle now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 98.192.39.136 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 12:15:10 PM Thanks. I didnt realize that. I know that I had been missing her. How long now? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/13/2009 12:18:14 PM She took one of the recent buyouts, maybe the most recent one. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.146.38 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 04/13/2009 03:31:29 PM Maria also has a blog Saporta Report ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 05:49:05 PM Look for the suck to continue to increase - Cynthia Tucker is taking a step away too. http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/stories/2009/04/13/cynthia_tucker_washington.html?cxntlid=homepage_tab_newstab ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.156.100 URL: DATE: 04/13/2009 10:36:26 PM I mean, if the difference between the mainstream news and the wild west of the internet is going to be things like "editors" and "accountability" and "accuracy", then they better man up. Because basically what they are doing is competing with blogs by being a blog; i.e., no editors, no accountability, questionable accuracy. Oh yeah, and no revenue. And I've been a defender. Even I am getting fed up. Give me an online subscription. Feed us the local weather and news for free, charge us for the national feeds and the investigative journalism. I'll pay. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.94 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/13/2009 11:25:47 PM Well the do fess up, there's always been a page of corrections printed in newspapers. IDK I have more leeway for the NYTimes etc b/c well, they've earned misspellings etc. and also they print thousands of thousands of words a day. They do it right 98% of the time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 09:28:06 AM "I mean, if the difference between the mainstream news and the wild west of the internet is going to be things like "editors" and "accountability" and "accuracy"..." I think the cream rising will be based on reputation for honesty, transparency, and maybe even a little bit of humility. The trust that individual writers build up, whether on a blog or newspaper, will begin to transfer over to the institutions. Good writers will want good colleagues and so start to gravitate together, further establishing certain institutions as solid news sources or not so solid. A brand will come to be. And then some short-sighted fool or someone out to exploit that brand will buy it. The momentum of the brand will carry it so far, and then like network news and the AJC, credibility will start to be strained as certain things are ignored or covered up that should not be. At that point, the Internet blogs will be like the mainstream media, the son will replace the father, and the circle of life will continue. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: He's off! BASENAME: hes_off STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/13/2009 05:42:56 PM ----- BODY:
For immediate release:(Remainder below the fold.) ----- EXTENDED BODY:Amir Farokhi Launches Campaign with Citywide Solutions Tour Leading candidate listens to voters concerns and offers smart solutionsATLANTA - Tuesday, April 14, 2009, Amir Farokhi will formally launch his campaign to succeed Mary Norwood as the Post 2, At-Large representative on the Atlanta City Council. Beginning at 8:30 a.m., Farokhi will tour six Atlanta neighborhoods to talk with voters about the issues facing the city. Traveling by MARTA train and bus in support of smart transit, he will conclude the day with a 7 o'clock celebration at The Standard Food & Spirits at 327 Memorial Dr., SE.
The tour includes West End, Candler Park, Buckhead, Midtown, Downtown and Grant Park. In addition to meeting with residents and local businesses, Farokhi will speak about public safety, transportation, responsible development and city services. "I'm humbled and encouraged by the support my candidacy has received from every corner of Atlanta," said Farokhi, who earned undergraduate and law degrees from Duke University. "I'm working hard to marshal the resources required run a winning grassroots campaign." A 31-year old Atlanta native and first-time candidate, Farokhi has already raised more than $48,000 for his council bid and assembled a broad and diverse coalition of support, including several elected officials and community leaders. "I'm supporting Amir because he offers the fresh perspective, smart solutions and professional experience that our city needs," said State Rep. Stacey Abrams, who serves on Farokhi's Exploratory Committee and who represents House District 84, which includes Atlanta neighborhoods Candler Park, Druid Hills, East Lake and Kirkwood. Farokhi is an attorney at McKenna, Long and Aldridge LLP, where he practices commercial litigation. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Charles R. Drew Charter School in East Lake, the Board of Trustees of The Galloway School and the Advisory Board of Creating Vibrant Communities in the West End. He is also a Principal with the Truman National Security Project and a graduate of L.E.A.D. Atlanta. Following his announcement, Farokhi will hold an aggressive schedule of Policy Roundtables that bring together leading authorities on Atlanta's most challenging issues and neighborhood meet-and-greets that will take him into the homes of voters across Atlanta. To read more about Farokhi's campaign, please visit www.amirfarokhi.com. Farokhi for Atlanta Campaign Kickoff Schedule April 14, 2009 9 a.m., West End - West End MARTA Station 1 p.m., Buckhead - Lindbergh (Piedmont and Morosgo) 2:45 p.m., Midtown - Outwrite Bookstore at 10th and Piedmont 5 p.m., Downtown - Atlanta City Hall 7 p.m., Grant Park - The Standard Food & Spirits on Memorial----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 04/14/2009 10:16:32 PM met the Amir team at Outwrite today after needing to destress from 4 different detours fixing power lines and trees. Oy, Good job Amir! and thanks to Phillip and the crew at Outwrite, they are the best! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Got power? BASENAME: got_power STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/13/2009 10:30:09 PM TAGS: powerless,weather ----- BODY: We don't. After the monster storm this morning, there are trees down and power outages all over Metro. Ga Power says it could be tomorrow evening before our power is restored. If we're lucky. Cross Creek and the surrounding neighborhoods could be out until Wednesday evening. Thank goodness for the iPhone. What is or was your power situation? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: rusty EMAIL: IP: 74.232.71.112 URL: http://rustytanton.com DATE: 04/14/2009 07:19:21 AM Power on our whole block was knocked out last night, and came back around 2:40 in the morning. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.58 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/14/2009 08:15:39 AM Lightning struck multiple times literally right outside my window and no damage. Was a little scary tho. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JohnRose EMAIL: IP: 97.66.123.254 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 08:38:29 AM I haven't had power since yesterday morning in Decatur. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 72.152.213.43 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 08:50:03 AM We got our power back around midnight, but lots of houses are still in the dark in Decatur. City of Decatur officials are reporting over 18 major trees down. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.137.75 URL: DATE: 04/14/2009 09:56:10 AM We didn't notice any storm last night, but we have a sick two year old and were occupied with keeping his fever down. It's wet outside, but I don't think it was that bad. We never lost our power. This is not related to the topic, but one of the great characters of baseball, Mark "the Bird," Fidrych was found dead yesterday morning. http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/stories/2009/04/13/mark_fidrych_dies.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 98.192.39.136 URL: DATE: 04/15/2009 07:04:38 AM I had no problems on my side of town and that was a major surprise! Meanwhile at the store, people are clamoring for dry ice. By noon on Monday we had none. I had one guy come in yesterday and offer double what we normally charge if he could get first dibs on our next delivery. I got old school and told him to let his fingers take a walk thru the yellow pages. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: It's an "all skate" now. Well at least in NY's AG race BASENAME: its_an_all_skate_now STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/14/2009 11:59:06 PM ----- BODY: Spitzer- Really... really? REALLY? Wow. Makes our festive mobile look, well, sigh, quite tame. Discuss. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.30.7 URL: DATE: 04/15/2009 12:30:48 AM There really really should be a 12 step program for politicians who just can't leave the system. Maybe Cobb Dems need to add that to their classes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 04/15/2009 01:26:11 AM Preach it, Jules! You do the curriculum, maybe you should do a class called "Fail: Case Studies in Failed Campaigns That Returned for More Sequels Than Freddy Kreuger", or at least a primer on how not to be a candidate with a bonus section called "Sharon Teague: A Case Study". I suggest calling this sequel "A Nightmare on Spring Street Part XVII: The (Gradual) Quickening." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 04/15/2009 06:10:17 AM Hey, if Vitter can keep rolling on, why not Spitzer? Besides, he thrived on the anti-corporate shtick, so he could actually do well in this political environment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: politicalaka EMAIL: IP: 216.52.121.161 URL: DATE: 04/15/2009 10:53:34 AM I think Spitzer would make an excellent AG and there is no reason for him not to run. His prostitute problem is between him and his wife. It's a shame that he was not in office during the fall of our economic system. Some argue that Spitzer knows where the bodies are buried on Wall Street, and that's the real reason his preference for 'hos became public. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.132.45.158 URL: DATE: 04/15/2009 06:41:17 PM It's also between him and the prosecutor, what with prostitution still being illegal. And the whole lawbreaking thing might be a reason for him not to run for Attorney General. I don't think that Spitzer is all that indespensible, but yeah, given Vitter, him being a john doesn't automatically diaqualify him from being a candidate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: politicalaka EMAIL: IP: 174.152.123.144 URL: DATE: 04/15/2009 07:39:30 PM Drew - According to Spitzer himself on the Today Show a couple of weeks ago, he has not yet been charged with anything. Why wouldn't charges have been brought right away? Unless the point of the whole exercise was to remove Spitzer from office, not punish prostitution and related crimes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 130.207.218.196 URL: DATE: 04/16/2009 01:14:08 PM From the perspective of a campaign, that's irrelevant. He committed a crime. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: MARTA Town Hall Meeting BASENAME: marta_town_hall_meeting STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/15/2009 10:05:04 AM ----- BODY: Tonight: 7:00 pm (arrive by 6:15 pm) Place: People TV - 190 14th Street, NW, Atlanta, 30318 Guest Panel: Ryland McClendon, MARTA representative, Honorable Sam Olens, Chair, Cobb County Commission & Chair, Atlanta Regional Commission, Honorable Howard Mosby, GA State Representative - District 90 & Chair, DeKalb Delegation. Host: Atlanta City Council President, Honorable Lisa Borders Call-in phone number: (404) 892-5614 Watch it Live: Channel 24 on cable within the City of Atlanta ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: SSDD BASENAME: ssdd STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/15/2009 01:19:15 PM TAGS: wingnuts ----- BODY:
It wasn't quite the firing on Fort Sumter that launched the Civil War. But on April 1, your Georgia Senate did threaten by a vote of 43-1 to secede from and even disband the United States. It was not an April Fool's joke. In fact, Senate Resolution 632 did a lot more than merely threaten to end this country. It stated that under the Constitution, the only crimes the federal government could prosecute were treason, piracy and slavery. "Therefore, all acts of Congress which assume to create, define or punish [other] crimes ... are altogether void, and of no force," the Georgia Senate declared. In other words, in the infinite, almost unanimous wisdom of the Georgia Senate, Michael Vick is being imprisoned illegally, Bernie Madoff should serve no time for stealing $60 billion and the Unabomber must go free. In fact, the federal penitentiary in Atlanta should be emptied of its inmates. But wait, there's more.Read the whole thing here (skip the comments unless you want to give yourself a severe headache). ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.30.7 URL: DATE: 04/16/2009 11:04:00 PM Oh dang, I think we were suppose to ignore this, like a truculent child. I remember this day, it was kind of like invading TN for their water. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.176 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 12:10:04 PM Adelman voted for it? Orrock? Kudos to Ronald Ramsey- the only Senator to vote against it. Demerits though for his apparent failure to alert ANYBODY else about the damned thing. I have a "new rule", a la Bill Maher: Anything Georgia Republicans propose at the last minute that you don't get to read- vote against it. The default state for Republican sponsored legislation should be "nay" unless they can convince you that it deserves something else. By this resolution (and their opposition to the honorary Obama thing) they have forfeited any automatic acceptance of anything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.176 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 01:02:44 PM Ridiculous. I've sent an email off to my State Senator, Horacena Tate. We shall see if she responds (she never has before...) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.176 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 01:14:56 PM Ridiculous. I've sent an email off to my State Senator, Horacena Tate. We shall see if she responds (she never has before...) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: The Peach EMAIL: IP: 24.131.32.231 URL: http://www.progressivepeach.com DATE: 04/19/2009 12:14:09 PM This needs to be our new "Limbaugh Test" for conservatives. Ask each if they agree with Texas's governor and this Georgia bill, specifically asking "Do you believe our state has the right to secede from the Union?" If the answer is "yes," call them a "traitor" and "unAmerican." If no, their right-wing let's-refight-the-civil-war psychos will leave them twisting in the wind. Put 'em on the spot, media and bloggers! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.223.77.153 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 11:23:13 AM The Peach, It would be a lot easier to do that if it had been only Republicans/conservatives who voted in favor of this bill in Georgia. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: McAuliffed BASENAME: mcauliffed STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/16/2009 06:52:02 PM ----- BODY: A BfD commenter once asked me why I hate Terry McAuliffe so much. Well this seems like as good a reason as any: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.30.7 URL: DATE: 04/16/2009 07:58:41 PM Hollee crap.. gross.. what the hell was at the end of that road? Voting Oz? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/16/2009 08:04:51 PM I'm not sure if he's my least favorite DLC toady or not. There's so many to choose from. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/16/2009 08:10:15 PM He probably hired some random person to plant yard signs around the area. The dude figured he'd get his cash so much easier by dumping them all in one spot. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.30.7 URL: DATE: 04/16/2009 08:17:33 PM Odin-the You Tube comment said it was staff and volunteers-open it all the way up and seen the note on the right side. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 74.160.37.65 URL: DATE: 04/16/2009 09:33:58 PM I think this was taken on the road to the annual Shad Planking event in VA. It is a tradition to plaster as many signs as possible on the road leading to the event. In 2008 Mark Warner had 4 ft signs 20ft up the telephone poles. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.218 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/16/2009 11:32:35 PM Holy effing sh*t. I like that carpetbagging son of a b*tch even less. Eff him. BTW: Not sure if y'all heard about it but one of BforD's favorites is running for city council. No it isn't me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 98.192.39.136 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 07:02:41 AM It's disgusting and obscene and on the verge of being pornographic. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 10:29:14 AM Yeah, now that I actually watch the video, I see the situation. At some level, it's a pretty impressive show of staff/volunteer force. I would say he doesn't get a grade until we see how quickly those came back down, though. Still, I can only imagine what else all of those hours could have accomplished. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.176.91.185 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 11:34:39 AM From Whitehouse.gov, initiative for high speed rail. http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/09/04/16/A-Vision-for-High-Speed-Rail/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.91.185 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 11:36:59 AM previous comment was mine, sorry. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 11:49:33 AM Yeah, I'm totally psyched about that. My family (other than parents) is scattered between the LA suburbs, Bay Area and Sacramento. That western corridor will be money when it gets put together. I think California's been putting some money together for that already. That state could definitely use a selective repeal of Prop 13. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Sarah Palin Supports Her Own Right to Choose BASENAME: sarah_palin_supports_her_own_r STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/17/2009 08:40:58 PM ----- BODY: It seems that Governor Palin is pro-choice, at least when it comes to her own choices. At a recent anti-abortion rights event in Indiana, Palin told the 3,000 person audience that "she had "just for a fleeting moment" contemplated seeking an abortion after learning she was pregnant with her son Trig." Huh. Sounds to me like she made a choice there. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.215.196.113 URL: DATE: 04/17/2009 09:12:47 PM " "she had "just for a fleeting moment" contemplated seeking an abortion after learning she was pregnant with her son Trig." Um, how does that mean she's pro choice? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 04/18/2009 12:22:25 AM *whoosh* ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 67.34.33.71 URL: DATE: 04/18/2009 01:59:06 PM Point went over my head because the point doesn't make sense... She at one point considered doing something she thought was wrong a while ago but didn't so she's pro choice now? Pretty poor logic... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 98.66.166.220 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 06:36:27 PM I can't believe we have to explain this again. Pro-Choice means that citizens are given the opportunity to make their own choices about their reproductive health. If one decides to carry a child to full term, that is a choice. If one decides to end a pregnancy by abortion, that is also a choice. Governor Palin was able to make the choice carry her child to term. She could have, instead chosen to end the pregnancy thru abortion. Hence, she made a choice. In the world the anti-choice people imagine, there would be no legal option to end a pregnancy and she would not have had the opportunity to contemplate a legal abortion, even for a fleeting moment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.137 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/19/2009 08:06:01 PM I'm sorry but this is a little odd. I mean, I am anti-theft yet I've said, "wow it would be so easy to steal this", but I didn't do it. Hell, shooting the sh*t with people I've said how to execute the perfect bank robbery. That don't make me pro-theft or support people's right to theft. Same sort of thing here. Not entirely the same but it is to show that merely having thoughts about maybe aborting a baby is not in any way the same as she supports her own right to chose. They are two separate issues. "In the world the anti-choice people imagine, there would be no legal option to end a pregnancy and she would not have had the opportunity to contemplate a legal abortion, even for a fleeting moment." Yeah I am going to have to say that A) we don't all have the same world and B ) I didn't know you were so in tune with the pro-life movement. Have you come to our meetings? At the end of the day this doesn't really matter w/r/t/ anything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 09:26:48 PM I have nothing to say because IRE said it all. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 09:26:48 PM I have nothing to say because IRE said it all. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: aquariusrizing EMAIL: IP: 96.32.178.56 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 09:38:59 PM Some very cynical people were whispering hatefully that her decision to fly off in a small aircraft to hospital in the middle of nowhere AFTER her water broke was a yea, that's it, a choice, too... She did know that Trip was going to have issues, because she'd had the tests for risks associated w/ her age. Some women, when they find out they're having a high risk baby/pregnancy, STOP flying all over the place, and put the health of their baby above their own political ambitions. But then, to say so out loud or even speculate about someone elses choice is being just as judgemental as the "pro-life" folks that support the death penalty. And pre-emptive war. And are against stem cell research for the living, and well, you know. Glad to be able to log in again, had trouble a few times and resorted to being a DFI East chapter, in Blakes blog. Hope you don't mind, Jules, I totally HT'd you and BfD. Maddy ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: aquariusrizing EMAIL: IP: 96.32.178.56 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 09:39:35 PM Some very cynical people were whispering hatefully that her decision to fly off in a small aircraft to hospital in the middle of nowhere AFTER her water broke was a yea, that's it, a choice, too... She did know that Trip was going to have issues, because she'd had the tests for risks associated w/ her age. Some women, when they find out they're having a high risk baby/pregnancy, STOP flying all over the place, and put the health of their baby above their own political ambitions. But then, to say so out loud or even speculate about someone elses choice is being just as judgemental as the "pro-life" folks that support the death penalty. And pre-emptive war. And are against stem cell research for the living, and well, you know. Glad to be able to log in again, had trouble a few times and resorted to being a DFI East chapter, in Blakes blog. Hope you don't mind, Jules, I totally HT'd you and BfD. Maddy ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: aquariusrizing EMAIL: IP: 96.32.178.56 URL: DATE: 04/19/2009 09:41:27 PM oh shoot, sorry about the dbl post. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.19.180 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 12:04:38 AM This is a common theme within conservative Christian circles. It's not enough to do right, you have resist temptation to do evil. The greater the temptation, the greater the praise when you resist it. Hence Sarah Palin's "I really, really wanted to kill that baby. But I didn't! Give me candy." Oh, and if the anti-choice movement hasn't been trying to deprive women of the right to choose, what have they been doing? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 01:29:34 AM "Oh, and if the anti-choice movement hasn't been trying to deprive women of the right to choose, what have they been doing?" Er, trying to stop abortions? And she didn't actually have an abortion, the thought crossed her mind. Are we going to judge people for thought crimes now? The people who'd do that might have more in common with the evangelicals they despise than they think. I think this is tag-team, so IRE gets the next one ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.223.77.153 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 09:08:21 AM I think the point is that no matter which way she chose, it WASN'T a crime. She is the one who normally supports making one of those choices a crime. Could I fairly paraphrase the process like this? "I made a choice, and it was the right choice, therefore everyone else can- and must be compelled to- make the same choice I did." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.19 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 09:28:18 AM ""Oh, and if the anti-choice movement hasn't been trying to deprive women of the right to choose, what have they been doing?" Er, trying to stop abortions?" I call bullshit. If the wonderful leaders of the "pro-life" movement, with their ultimate prizewinner sitting in the Oval Office wanted to stop abortions, then they wouldn't have been shoving abstinence only teaching down everyone's throats. If the ultimate goal is to stop unwanted pregnancy, then those associated with the pro-life movement needed to be handing out condoms like they were candy at Halloween and stop telling pharmacists at Walgreen’s that they don't have to fill birth control prescriptions because it goes against their beliefs (never mind that they are negligent in their jobs!!!!!!). This is once again about making people (in this instance women) follow their doctrine. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 09:49:49 AM I think Drew's got the right assessment of her statements. What sexiness the straight and narrow has is due to the fact that it is hard to walk the straight and narrow. For all of Palin's faults, this is a constituency she has worked for a long time. She isn't about to make a slip-up in their language. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/20/2009 11:44:28 AM What I fail to realize is how this is bad for her w.r.t. her being pro life? I mean, I think we really have a poor conceptualization of a choice here. I would write more but I'm slammed at work so I have a lot more procrastinating to do. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 11:56:41 AM This is being debated at DemocraticUnderground, too. There's more substance to this than the knee-jerk attacks against the pro-life crowd. http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=102x3836210 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.134.41.133 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 01:27:22 PM It's hypocritical, but it doesn't hurt her - at least with the base. The anti-choice types want to have it both ways - they condemn abortion as murder, then expect priase for the great charity of not committing murder. They pretend pregnancy doesn't seriously compromise a woman's life, health, or liberty, then demand recognition for that supposedly trivial task. Palin is a true believer, so she understands this implicitly. I do hope it illustrates how bankrupt their morality is - "another day without a murder, go me!" - or at least prompts a WTF moment from the middle, most of whom have a higher moral standard. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 02:04:37 PM More importantly than all this, why is this woman still in the news? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/20/2009 02:13:14 PM Wow Drew. Just wow. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.132.45.39 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 06:10:00 PM Whatever, IRE. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.129 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/20/2009 07:11:41 PM I'd respond if you came close to even accurately describing any ethos in your comments. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 10:32:03 PM As far as I can tell, "progressives" are trying to prosecute Palin for a thought crime. It's really not hard to make Palin look bad, but it's really hard to make them look good, and some on the left seem to be doing that... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.24.76 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 12:48:15 AM Whereas if she'd made a comment about her unwavering support for Israel, no one would have made a statement that might be considered incendiary. Anyone who's attended Sunday School knows Sarah Palin's shtick for what it is. No need to pretend it's more than that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 12:54:50 AM Everyone knows Sarah Palin's a pandering hack and everyone knows I think our stance on "we give you tons of money and you kill as many people as you want and even spy on us" with Israel is dumb... ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: AIPAC, Alberto Gonzales, Jane Harman, and some unsavory allegations BASENAME: aipac_alberto_gonzales_jane_ha STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/20/2009 09:37:20 PM ----- BODY: CQ alleges that Rep. Jane Harman (D-CA) was caught on an NSA wiretap offering a quid-pro-quo to a suspected Israeli agent, and was protected from further investigation by Alberto Gonzales because Rep. Harman's support of the warrantless wiretaps we all love was a valuable asset to the Bush administration. Harman has of course issued a denial, although the denial doesn't seem to claim that the allegedly wiretapped conversation did not take place. There is an excellent breakdown at NPR of various opinions regarding the potential veracity of the CQ allegations. I think it's safe to say that investigations will be underway shortly. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 69.180.18.69 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 10:20:46 PM Definitely yes on the investigation. Although with the facts so in flux on the first day, it's probably going to take a while to say much more than the whole warrantless system is messed up. Apparent guilt and innocence by a lot of involved parties are going to flop around for a while. Also, the release of the torture memos with less redacting than the CIA wanted (which was probably total blackout) is probably the first shot in a major brouhaha with the national security apparatus. Even with Emanuel's "we won't prosecute" dictate (presumably straight from the boss), a clash is in the air. Just like with Gates let off the leash to take several contractor-friendly programs off the table. I think in all of this, we are just seeing pebbles skittering off the mountainside. Who knows when boulders will start shaking loose? And I'm not thinking of Obama and whatever allies he may have around as playing three-dimensional chess on this one. I'm thinking it is more of a fear as to how deep this particular rabbit hole goes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/20/2009 10:28:17 PM Investigations that reach into the height of Congressional leadership and the most powerful foreign policy lobby of them all? I really doubt those are going to get anywhere. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 12:57:29 AM I say height of Congressional leadership because the initiating post did not mention that part of the quid pro quo was Harman getting AIPAC to lobby Pelosi for her. Considering Pelosi was part of the effort to nix Obama's NIC chief on behalf of AIPAC's bidding, I don't know how much anyone can think she's going to stand up to them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.24.76 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 01:27:31 AM The fact that Harman isn't Chair of the House Intelligence Committee tells us how effective their lobbying was on Pelosi. And the fact that she doesn't have a position in the Obama Administration tells us how effective their lobbying was on Obama. Harman doesn't seem to have many friends in government anymore. I'd like to know why. I'd guess the reason is less flattering than this story. But in Harman's defense, what Josh Marshall said, maybe "Harman, fairly or unfairly, [was] compromised by these wiretaps and thus beholden to the administration." I wouldn't put blackmail past BushCo; maybe Harman was, in that sense, a victim. http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/2009/04/walking_and_chewing_gum.php ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BigD EMAIL: IP: 24.16.101.79 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 01:47:46 AM My understanding is that Pelosi and Harman have a blood feud going back many years the origins of which are murky (But, I would bet part of it is that while they are both wealthy, smart and ambitious women with very different personalities and they are from opposites ends of the state but, don't underestimate the North South struggle in California politics) most recently renewed by the fight in 2006 when Pelosi tried to get Alcee Hastings into the chairmanship of Intelligence. Word was Pelosi felt that Harman wasn't partisan enough during the run up to the Iraq war and supported the Bushies too much (Iraq, Warrantless wiretaps, etc.) so she tried to rotate her off the committee. Even back then there were rumors I saw on Blogs that Harman was under federal investigation related to her closeness with AIPAC. I agree with odinseye here - there is something much deeper going on here... I think this has the makings of purge in the intel community (but then again this might just be wishful thinking on my side) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 11:39:54 AM "I agree with odinseye here - there is something much deeper going on here... I think this has the makings of purge in the intel community (but then again this might just be wishful thinking on my side)" And I think the degree to which we find out what is happening will have to do with the solidarity / fractiousness of the intel community. If there's a large contingent that thinks all that has been done in the past few years is horribly wrong and wants to speak out, there will be many leaks that start building the momentum toward thorough investigation. If the intel community senses a common threat and bands together, then we'll have to rely on power dynamics to open this thing up. Even something as simple as the release of those memos and the level of their redaction likely foreshadows the battle for the soul of that community. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/21/2009 11:51:00 AM I want to be wiretapped. I think it would be fun. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 11:56:08 AM We're also about to see another demonstration of blogstorm investigation vs. tradmed investigation ... the immediate question from this is people looking around to see whose sphincters just tightened a little in seeing Harman being outed, particularly by those that might actually have been her friends not so long ago. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 74.176.155.16 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 01:35:03 PM IRE: I think you should request your FBI file- see what they go on ya.. Freedom of Information Act requests are super fun. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.220.230 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/21/2009 01:44:44 PM How do I do that? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.129.227.251 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 01:52:58 PM Is there any evidence for a "feud" between Pelosi and Harman other than Pelosi's decision not to make her chair of the intelligence committee? Which, in retrospect, may not have even had anything to personality OR policy, but issues like this. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 74.176.155.16 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 02:40:24 PM Thunder: Just cause I love you... http://www.usdoj.gov/oip/04_1.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.208.195 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/21/2009 03:15:00 PM Awwwwwwwwwww! You've melted my heart of stone! I shall let you know of the results! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 03:30:46 PM I was wiretapped for about 5 years, because my sister was in the CIA admissions process during all that time. I also was a homeland security roleplayer and her an analyst, and now she's a military advisor. Every now and then I leave messages for the FBI in whatever I'm writing or saying, just to keep them entertained... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 74.176.155.16 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 03:36:18 PM I was photographed pretty heavily during the SOA trial in 2007. They took a lot of pictures of us, our cars etc.. I don't think it was FBI but rather ICE. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 03:41:54 PM The immigration people were watching you for protesting? Sis told me that her boss once said that pretty much everyone that does SOAW gets blacklisted for federal jobs. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 04:33:45 PM Ha, ha... Cheney may be too clever by half. I just heard he is telling Fox News that he's been calling for memos showing his "interrogation" program works. It would be great if he inadvertently triggered a systematic release of information in this area to show that they've turned every stone without proof of a good result. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 04:41:20 PM Cheney isn't too clever by half, he's just calling everyone's bluff. America doesn't prosecute itself for hurting or killing other people illegally. Never has, probably never will. He's just enjoying the ride. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TBS EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 04:43:22 PM Cheney wants the memos that will show how we "broke" those "terrist muzzzlems". Or something. Be interesting to see if you get blacklisted for ALL federal jobs, or just ones that touch national security or law enforcement :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 04:50:24 PM I think her reference was more towards things that you need security clearance for. I'm pretty sure the post office is kosher. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 69.180.18.69 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 08:28:19 PM "I also was a homeland security roleplayer and her an analyst, and now she's a military advisor." Huh, that's fascinated. How does that work? With you as a brother? Is she misguided or do you prefer having someone with a little more sensitivity than hoo-ah in the mix? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 09:04:39 PM Homeland Security/GEMA is at least here mostly just atlanta PD, GBI, and a bunch of private groups they train. They aren't really the spooks so much as people who train people at places that are high value targets how to identify behavior and defend against terrorism (one of the other roleplayers in the first simulation I did was head of security at Coke). The stereotype about these sorts of folks is they're all black helicopter hardcore slit your throat at a moments notice people but that's not really true. A lot of them are very worldly, they've traveled a lot, quite a few minorities. Now, my sister's boss was very much a Republican who made lots of Clinton jokes at every opportunity, but it wasn't like what you'd see in Special Ops or the CIA's operational wing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.19 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 09:58:07 PM Found on a DU discussion thread: http://www.huppi.com/kangaroo/CIAtimeline.html A Timeline of CIA Atrocities By Steve Kangas The following timeline describes just a few of the hundreds of atrocities and crimes committed by the CIA. (1) CIA operations follow the same recurring script. First, American business interests abroad are threatened by a popular or democratically elected leader. The people support their leader because he intends to conduct land reform, strengthen unions, redistribute wealth, nationalize foreign-owned industry, and regulate business to protect workers, consumers and the environment. So, on behalf of American business, and often with their help, the CIA mobilizes the opposition. First it identifies right-wing groups within the country (usually the military), and offers them a deal: "We'll put you in power if you maintain a favorable business climate for us." The Agency then hires, trains and works with them to overthrow the existing government (usually a democracy). It uses every trick in the book: propaganda, stuffed ballot boxes, purchased elections, extortion, blackmail, sexual intrigue, false stories about opponents in the local media, infiltration and disruption of opposing political parties, kidnapping, beating, torture, intimidation, economic sabotage, death squads and even assassination. These efforts culminate in a military coup, which installs a right-wing dictator. The CIA trains the dictator�s security apparatus to crack down on the traditional enemies of big business, using interrogation, torture and murder. The victims are said to be "communists," but almost always they are just peasants, liberals, moderates, labor union leaders, political opponents and advocates of free speech and democracy. Widespread human rights abuses follow. This scenario has been repeated so many times that the CIA actually teaches it in a special school, the notorious "School of the Americas." (It opened in Panama but later moved to Fort Benning, Georgia.) Critics have nicknamed it the "School of the Dictators" and "School of the Assassins." Here, the CIA trains Latin American military officers how to conduct coups, including the use of interrogation, torture and murder. The Association for Responsible Dissent estimates that by 1987, 6 million people had died as a result of CIA covert operations. (2) Former State Department official William Blum correctly calls this an "American Holocaust." The CIA justifies these actions as part of its war against communism. But most coups do not involve a communist threat. Unlucky nations are targeted for a wide variety of reasons: not only threats to American business interests abroad, but also liberal or even moderate social reforms, political instability, the unwillingness of a leader to carry out Washington�s dictates, and declarations of neutrality in the Cold War. Indeed, nothing has infuriated CIA Directors quite like a nation�s desire to stay out of the Cold War. The ironic thing about all this intervention is that it frequently fails to achieve American objectives. Often the newly installed dictator grows comfortable with the security apparatus the CIA has built for him. He becomes an expert at running a police state. And because the dictator knows he cannot be overthrown, he becomes independent and defiant of Washington's will. The CIA then finds it cannot overthrow him, because the police and military are under the dictator's control, afraid to cooperate with American spies for fear of torture and execution. The only two options for the U.S at this point are impotence or war. Examples of this "boomerang effect" include the Shah of Iran, General Noriega and Saddam Hussein. The boomerang effect also explains why the CIA has proven highly successful at overthrowing democracies, but a wretched failure at overthrowing dictatorships. The following timeline should confirm that the CIA as we know it should be abolished and replaced by a true information-gathering and analysis organization. The CIA cannot be reformed — it is institutionally and culturally corrupt. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.19 URL: DATE: 04/21/2009 10:01:35 PM From the same thread, The First Fubar: http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-1765-Underground-Examiner~y2009m4d21-The-First-FUBAR ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.consortiumnews.com/ DATE: 04/22/2009 03:25:27 AM I'm with Kos on this one. This was the CIA's & BushCo's way of 'putting the horse head in the bed of Congress' to warn them off any serious investigations of the Bush crime syndicate. You know the torture, illegal renditions, ~100 or more deaths in detention, evisceration of Habeas corpus, etc. They know how to do domestic subversion & counter surveillance, right Z? Who knew he was the plant? But Harman's just the tip of the ice berg here. What continues to be the missing story is the extent & involvement of all the known & unknown crimes of the Bush administration. This is how they get away with it, the usual Mafioso dirty extortion deals, blackmail most foul & 'we've got a file on you' & watching your every move' of 'ol J Edgar. Right Z? Anything to delay or subvert the cause of real justice or investigations into 'what went on'. This can be mighty successful, BTW. Look at all the CIA crimes in Central & South America the Reagan & Bush administrations got away with! Again see http://www.consortiumnews.com/ for some of the details of this. You can read that (Robert Parry) site for months and not be 'done'! Start with the 'Lost history' posts and work your way up the timeline. But yeah it was Nixon time all over again with Dick Cheney in charge. Everything this time was just much bigger & more secret. Illegal wiretapping & surveillance of Congress? All in a days work my friends, and they were caught at it More than once while doing it too! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 10:11:10 AM One of the legal counsel that was against all of this just appeared on Maddow last night. Thus, we add a parameter to the problem: the desire of those that were innocent to dissociate themselves as much as possible from this horrible thing vs. the desire of those involved to try to keep everyone together and responsibility murky. She also made a good point - as things become declassified, whistleblowers are much less likely to be prosecuted for disclosing secrets. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 11:32:39 AM I watched the interview with the legal counsel. When Maddow started sparring with him over why he didn't resign it became increasingly obvious to me that the guy only came out now to try to cover his own ass before something comes out on him. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 11:44:26 AM I read that the NYT confirmed that it was Harman who told them to hold on to the NSA story until after the election, too. So we can thank her for 4 more years of Bush, too. Really, this woman has always been a creep. Her and Feinstein are just mil-indus. hacks, and it's surprising their careers are still around. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.19 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 11:51:58 AM I'm sure most of you have seen the clip of Christopher Hitchens going through waterboarding. It was hard to see what was going on in the video becasue it was shot from a distance and you couldn't see his face that well. I saw this demonstration on Current TV the other day from a guy who paid two guys 900 bucks to waterboard him on video. I found it hard to watch. http://current.com/items/76347282_getting-waterboarded.htm ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://washingtonindependent.com/39902/bush-era-rule-grants-fbi-broad-investigative-powers DATE: 04/22/2009 12:02:01 PM Right on Z, Keep at it with that disinformation campaign. Thanks Harman for 4 more years of Bush? Please. And the NYT 'confirms'?? Yeah that's really trustworthy too. Truthiness as they see fit. The NYT was holding the bag for Bush in so many ways it was not funny. They held back several stories, including more torture & wiretapping until after the 2004 election. That's the history here. Even you can't dispute it. So is the fact of BushCo using & abusing their powers in every conceivable way. They went far beyond Nixon's crimes, and this time the Press just stood back and let them, with nary a word allowed of dissent on their august pages. Again try this on for size cowboy: http://washingtonindependent.com/39902/bush-era-rule-grants-fbi-broad-investigative-powers Bush-Era Rule Grants FBI Unprecedented Investigative Powers FBI Authority Extends Even to Those Not Suspected of Criminal Activity By Daphne Eviatar 4/21/09 3:52 PM Via the Wash Indy Paper Yeah, and inquiring minds want to know if anyone's paying you for all the constant efforts at disinformation here & elsewhere. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 12:57:39 PM "the guy only came out now to try to cover his own ass before something comes out on him." Yup. But luckily we don't need purity of motives. We need just enough shame and fear of divorce/ostracism/prosecution to talk. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 01:36:31 PM JM Prince why are you always being an apologist for Democrats and demonizing Republicans (Bush crime machine, etc)? You do realize right and wrong is not by party, right? Harman was was of the most vicious defenders of the Bush Admin. NSA program, she sold her soul. I don't care about conspiracy theories of her being blackmailed by Bush or whatever -- you're a high member of Congress and you have a little responsibility in your life to do the right things, no matter what someone else is threatening you with. If you don't think that way, don't take the f'ing job. http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2009/04/21/harman/index.html As Greenwald notes, she was completely fine with the NSA program because she probably thought all it was going to do was target Muslims or Arabs, not Blue Dog defense contractor-happy corporadems like herself. And guess what? The wiretaps on her were legal and with warrants. The program she took to the airwaves to defend was without warrants and was illegal. She's a flaming hypocrite, and that isn't disinformation, that's the facts. She was OK with warrant-less wiretapping on Muslims or other such non-persons, but she's outraged at this legal wiretapping of her. Cry me a fucking river. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.180.209 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 02:25:57 PM I don't get it. What exactly is the alleged wrongdoing here? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 03:25:38 PM I think the whispered allegations are dealing with a foreign agent contrary to the interests of the United States while in office. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 03:40:27 PM Also, from the article: "Rep. Jane Harman, a California Democrat long involved in intelligence issues, was overheard on a 2005 National Security Agency wiretap telling a suspected Israeli agent that she would lobby the Justice Department to reduce espionage-related charges against two former officials of the American Israeli Public Affairs Committee." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.180.209 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 04:23:38 PM Is there something wrong with a Congressperson on the Intelligence Committee lobbying the Justice department on an espionage case? I'm no Harmon fan, but I just don't see the issue here. I am curious about how they got a wiretap on her, but what would be the criteria preventing this sort of contact? And it sounded like as soon as that guy offered something in return (which I'm not sure is improper anyway) she hung up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 04:49:52 PM "Is there something wrong with a Congressperson on the Intelligence Committee lobbying the Justice department on an espionage case?" It depends if that lobbying is about dedicating more resources, revisiting the case, or directly trying to affect the outcome. 1 and 2 are kosher, but 3 would be not too far from treason. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://armed-services.senate.gov/Publications/Detainee%20Report%20Final_April%2022%202009.pdf DATE: 04/22/2009 06:16:50 PM The difference Z? Say it with me now: Command Responsibility. That's what we're talking about here. I'm sure you understand. And if you don't think there was an effective Bush crime regime, you've just not been paying very close attention, right? Harman is a side light here. Not the main ring event. But typically, you'll promote the lies that imagine that she was singly responsible for the torture & wiretapping that went on. No where was there realistic, credible legal authorization to wiretap members of Congress. It was another gross abuse of power. But you want to defend it. Again, why? Nothing about 'conspiracy theories' here either, but since the 'Dems's finally got it into the light of day, I'm sure you'll automatically fault them for this for some 'suspect reason'. We've got your number now Z. http://armed-services.senate.gov/Publications/Detainee%20Report%20Final_April%2022%202009.pdf JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.166.220 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 07:04:15 PM No, I think the "not far from treason" would be for Larry Franklin, the guy who actually passed the classified info. Lobbying for the court to have leniency isn't treason. If those guys were sentenced to death, and anti-death penalty advocates tried to "affect the outcome", would that be treason? Many, many people file "friend of the court" briefs or otherwise try to "affect the outcome" of judicial proceedings. She may be dirty, she may not be a progressive, but I don't see the "bombshell" or "blockbuster scandal". We have to be careful about trying to restrict perfectly appropriate behavior because we may not like someone. Fyi, it looks like Justice is about ready to drop charges against the AIPAC guys after all: http://tinyurl.com/cjr26y ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.133.83.178 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 07:17:46 PM In general, isn't it wrong for a member of Congress to ask the Justice Department to set aside the facts of a case in favor of political considerations? That is the accusation against Harman. It undermines the credibility of the justice system when some criminals can rely on their proximity to powerful politicians to escape punishment for their crimes, while less connected defendants feel the full force of the law. And then there's the accusation that she did this not out of the goodness of her heart but in return for lobbying on her behalf before Pelosi -so it can't even be said that she acted in the interest of justice, but on her own self-interest. I don't think it can be said that the accusations, even if true, are unimportant. I think they're pretty damning if true. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 07:50:53 PM "But typically, you'll promote the lies that imagine that she was singly responsible for the torture & wiretapping that went on." Oh quit, the hyperbole, my faux intellectual friend. She was the most vocal of all Democrats -- save for maybe Joe Lieberman, but does he count anymore? -- in defending warrentless wiretapping of citizens. Now that she's wiretapped -- legally, if I may say, and with warrants -- she's outraged. Glenn Greenwald is right. What a fucking hypocrite she is. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 07:56:19 PM And Pelosi can screw herself too as far as I'm concerned: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/08/AR2007120801664.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 08:01:26 PM Does this count as NYT confirms that Harman quashed the NSA story? http://thinkprogress.org/2009/04/22/nyt-harmon-wiretapping/ It's from thinkprogress, run by CAP, which is basically obama's idea shop. A real anti-Democrat source am i rite! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/22/AR2009042203141.html?hpid=topnews DATE: 04/22/2009 10:34:10 PM [This is a repost, as it was not seen]. Thanks for demonstrating once again Z your consistent use of disinformation and slander against all Dems here. Again I'll ask, who's paying you? Let's take it slowly so that even small children like yourself might understand. Again the concept is of Command Responsibility for Torture. And for Illegal Wiretapping. Who drew up the papers? Who Demanded it? Who Conducted it? When? Why? Your pals over @ the CIA were torturing subjects on the order of the President & VP & other Exec officials even Before ANY legal findings. Or 'cover' from Congress. Months, perhaps even as much as a year before anyone Retroactively thought to get any sort of Congressional OK. And you know what happened next Z? They LIED. BushCo did, and they continue to. Massively. Regularly. Hourly if needed to get anything they could though Congress. Yes, Your Pals the Bush's & the CIA. Criminals. Lied TO Congress. About how, when & where & who. All the basics. Then they worked their secret & illegal ops to cover up their nefarious tracks. Naturally, as they had in prior Rethug administrations. The Government ceases to work properly or as intended by the founders if several branches of it, having being taken over by criminal minded Confederates are dedicated to preventing the truth ever coming out, even to their own Congress. Nothing in the Constitution foresaw or prepared us for such perfidy, criminality & madness. They really should have been impeached, but then as now, we did not have the votes for that. Why? Probably precisely because of widespread Disinformation campaigns like the one you wage here. Ditto for Global warming etc. Rinse & repeat. So no one should be distracted by the 'nice shiny things' that are effectively planted & leaked to the papers. Only a rube or a plant, like you would be arguing that 'all Dems who voted this way are as complicit as Bush'. And yes, you've been doing that here since Day 1. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/22/AR2009042203141.html?hpid=topnews What was the point of the torture? To fulfill BushCo needs to justify an illegal & immoral war with Iraq, a country that had not previously attacked us. wonkroom.thinkprogress.org/2009/04/22/torturing-the-al-qaeda-iraq-connection/ Again, Command Responsibility. For Torture. It's been pretty damn clear from the start. Except to those whose job it is to not see it and to prevent others from seeing it too. Those are the real crimes we know about here. Everything else you speak of is rank speculation, 3rd hand news via very biased, partisan & unreliable sources. Why should we now take the word of the torturers for much of anything Z? Hmmm? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 11:03:22 PM You know what? I don't have any better opinion of Bush-Cheney than you do, but unlike you, I'm not a partisan hack. I blame people for doing bad things no matter what party they are, and if you are saying that makes me a user of "disinformation and slander of all Democrats" you have some sort of severe logical thinking disability mate. You've yet to refute the WaPo article that says that Pelosi knew about waterboarding in 2002 or that Harman was a vociferous defender of the illegal Bush program and clamped down on the NYT to not reveal it before the election. All you have is blind partisan outrage. And our problems in this life are not by party, bud. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/23/2009 12:42:01 AM Z says: "I blame people for doing bad things no matter what party they are..." Gee this is quite a step down from treason or complicity for torture. Did Congress do stupid & unhelpful & quasi legal things? You betcha. If today's Thursday, they'll be off tomorrow though. And of course they'll continue to do so, it's a tradition. I don't have to like & agree with every damnable little thing that they do. I live here in ga. recall. But actually thinking that a member of Congress 'might have committed treason' on the say so of 4 year old rumors by the very same gang who got us into all this crap? (Yes, Including the NYT & Wash Post crowd). That's pretty silly, or in your case deliberately deceptive. Which is the point. Whatever the Bush's may have told Congress, (or selected members thereof), we know from the public record that they lied on each and every occasion possible when facing any public scrutiny on the matters. That's public record. So is former Sen. Bob Graham's thoughts & comments on the record as part of the select Intel Comm that they we're 'repeatedly lied to by the Bush administration' and that alone warranted Impeachment. So again, I'll take the badge & honor of defending Democrats vehemently here & elsewhere, anytime, anyplace. It's what I do & who I am. Still, I'm not making excuses for the numskulls and the run of the mill mendacity here and elsewhere though. We just do not know the facts on this matter, and yet you and others are perfectly willing to viciously speculate, not only on severely limited info, but upon those with biased & partisan suspected motives & sources as well. Me, I've rarely seen you openly criticize as many Repug's here as you do Dems. I'd want a count on that claim of yours. I kind of doubt it's even close. Hence my disinformation claim for your operation here Z. You've not denied that either. Wonder why? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 12:49:12 AM " Me, I've rarely seen you openly criticize as many Repug's here as you do Dems." Well, gee, maybe you should spend some time on Peach Pundit, where I spend 90% of my posts defending Obama and the Democrats. Do you think it has something to do with me trying to point things out to different groups of people, that it doesn't make sense to carbon copy the same message to everyone despite the audience? No way that's possible right, that makes too much sense.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/23/2009 01:00:43 AM Gee Z, I read PeachP, and I've just not seen 'Zaid' comment all too often. In fact, I can not recall it for this month, and I've read most of the posts. Must have been very noticeable & highly controversial too, not the usual baseless crap & clueless sniping you do over here, right? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.6.169 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 09:02:36 AM Drew: Your argument based on "political considerations" is an assumption of what is in someone's mind, it's pretty much unprovable, and likely not even an ethical problem anyway. John Lewis has tried to intervene on behalf of Troy Davis. Is that wrong? How is it different? Do we just "trust" him to be doing it for good reasons? So any time a legislator speaks out about an issue, say, bank fraud, and urges the Justice Department to use the full weight of the law to prosecute the wrongdoers, that is wrong? That is also intervention. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/23/2009 10:28:37 AM WTF, there were like 10 comments on this yesterday. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 10:30:48 AM United Atheist League versus United Atheist Alliance. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/23/2009 10:35:06 AM AAA is the sh*t. It is so obvious that you pathetic humans are no match for us Sea Otters (BTW: I've been a spy for the Sea Otters this whole time.) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 10:41:40 AM Well, your belly is certainly of the proper size for eating from. Sorry, couldn't let it go by. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/23/2009 10:44:08 AM jerk. no need to make fun of me asshole. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 11:13:59 AM Sorry man. It's what happens when you ally yourself with a member of the weasel family: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_otter ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/23/2009 11:47:54 AM We are done brocephus. You're dead to me. You forget I'm part of the horse family. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donkey ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 130.207.218.196 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 01:17:07 PM I think we can infer Harman's motives from her reported behavior. I think Lewis is distinguishable from Harman. He's not using his unique power as Congressman to influence anyone; he's not arguing that Troy Davis deserves special consideration because he's a friend of a friend; and he's not asking for anything in return for his advocacy. I don't think that it's inappropriate for a member of Congress to express an opinion on a case, but I don't think that we should define "express an opinion" so broadly that it might include anything, with the possible exception of bribery. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 03:36:24 PM This topic got so much better when it became about odins and IRE arguing about sea otters. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 03:41:14 PM Although it should be noted making a quid-pro-quo with lobbyists is no good not matter who's doing it for what. I'm pretty sure John Lewis and the DOJ or whoever he's speaking to did not make under the table deals. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 03:56:13 PM I'd still like you to respond to me JMP why it's right for Harman to defend warrantless wiretapping and even clamp down on the story from going into the NYT and then complain about being legally, with warrants, wiretapped. It sounds like the 7th level of hell hypocrisy to me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/23/2009 10:53:17 PM Again Z, Please describe for us the US Code section or relevant legal ruling that says that any Prez can wiretap anyone in Congress to try and do his bidding, via extortion. Please find that. Or the wholesale blanket approval of wiretaps on your fav Congresscritters. I'm still waiting on that one. There was nothing legal about it W/O an ongoing DoJ investigation, which evidently stopped some 4 years ago. And still the case may be dismissed for lack of evidence from a legacy of the idiotic & highly partisan & corrupt Bush DoJ. Was torture legal Z? How, when & why? And again, the wiretapping story was already being held by the NYT during the 2004 election, at the insistence & behest of the WH & the Bush's. That's the record here. Deny it at your peril. So again, the first instance of crime? Advantage, BushCo. Initiation of criminal activity & motives to do so? BushCo again. Who broke the law, and then sought to cover it up & why? I just love it that you never see or examine your partisan motives, but that any and all Dems are automatically guilty of something. Even if you really can't describe any real crime that may have been committed. And there's all the dead & bleeding bodies all over the floor that you love to conveniently ignore. This was & is meant as a distraction from the main event. Any torture investigations & possible prosecutions, and they're scared witless over that. make no mistake about it. You know that too. It's textbook black propaganda & disinformation. And still you want to argue over who's a hypocrite here? Geez, and I still have not seen nary a post from you over at Peach Pundit defending anyone. Now who's the hack? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 11:01:42 PM So essentially all your arguments boil down to Bush is Evil and everyone who appeased or helped him is just an innocent bystander that was taken and used. Your line of reasoning is laughable. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 11:03:28 PM And you don't prove something is legal, you prove it is illegal by finding the law it broke. They had warrants when they wiretapped Harman. They didn't for the people they wiretapped, that she vigorously defended because she's a flaming hypocrite and hack. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/23/2009 11:27:33 PM Again regardless if she's a "she's a flaming hypocrite and hack", she like everyone else deserves the same protections under the Constitution. Yes, even if she's undermining same in your not humble opinion. Even all those idiotic 'appeasers' or people who don't think or believe as you do. Go figure. That's the beauty of the Constitution. Now the ACLU does that sort of work day in & day out. For well over 90 years. Nazi's & all. Is this just too damn difficult to understand? And you claim to be a college grad too? Let's take it again from the top, S-L-O-W-L-Y. 1.) The 'investigation' (IF ANY) happened 4 years ago. Again, 4 YEARS AGO. NO ACTION WAS TAKEN THEN. There's NO active or pending investigation that we know of, as the case in question is at the docket presently and evidently being adjudicated. 2.) Exposing any innocent or Uncharged person to any charges NOT made under such an investigation or indictment is in & of itself a crime. If there's Another investigation ongoing, someone needed to inform the DoJ about it, or convene another Grand Jury and/or the FISA Court. To our knowledge this has not been done. 3.) Ergo you and others are happily participating in yet another slander campaign with little or no evidence, or even knowledge of what the hell went on, or again, IF any thing remotely criminal was claimed. Lobbying the DoJ on behalf of constituents, yes, even criminals? Goes on every day, year in & year out. See the yearly pardon list for a start. Not a crime. Lobbying on behalf of an American constituent? Even the slimy coal companies that blow up things (mountains) & kill people illegally? Still legal & perfectly OK by the Constitution, for example. Clearly your blind hatreds condition you to supect any & all Dems of 'certain crimes' if they're 'lobbying for those fat cats', but sorry Z, that's pretty well protected by our Constitutional system. 4.) Again what's the crime here? Did she get goods like Sen. Ted Stevens in return for her lobbying efforts? That's when it Starts to be criminally suspect! Read something & run your mouth less. Really. we just don't know much now, other than 'someone' wanted us talking about how suspect & complicit all the Congressional Dems are. Why is that? Why Now? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 11:35:49 PM " Again regardless if she's a "she's a flaming hypocrite and hack", she like everyone else deserves the same protections under the Constitution" She got them, she was wiretapped with a warrant. And she defended the Bush Admin. wiretapping people bypassing FISA courts and eavesdropping on Americans WITHOUT WARRANTS. I put it in caps, because the read slowly bit you're advising me to do isn't working with you very much. And I claim to be a college grad? I'm not. Also, please inform me how constitutional lawyer and Salon.com author Glenn Greenwald, and others who have pointed out her hypocrisy somehow misunderstand the law even more than you do... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 11:40:26 PM To quote Greenwald, for those of you who don't follow his blog (http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/): "So if I understand this correctly -- and I'm pretty sure I do -- when the U.S. Government eavesdropped for years on American citizens with no warrants and in violation of the law, that was "both legal and necessary" as well as "essential to U.S. national security," and it was the "despicable" whistle-blowers (such as Thomas Tamm) who disclosed that crime and the newspapers which reported it who should have been criminally investigated, but not the lawbreaking government officials. But when the U.S. Government legally and with warrants eavesdrops on Jane Harman, that is an outrageous invasion of privacy and a violent assault on her rights as an American citizen, and full-scale investigations must be commenced immediately to get to the bottom of this abuse of power. Behold Jane Harman's overnight transformation from Very Serious Champion of the Lawless Surveillance State to shrill civil liberties extremist. " Is Greenwald, too, a shrill pundit out to burn Democrats at the stake? I think he's just a very concerned civil liberties lawyer. The fact that Harman and Pelosi knew about waterboarding and illegal wiretaps and kept quiet about it is reprehensible. Bush and Cheney aren't in office anymore, but these folks are. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 11:53:36 PM And I'm getting so sick of your willful obfuscation on behalf of anyone with a (D) next to their name, I'm going to post ThinkProgress's entire timeline on Harman and wiretapping (http://thinkprogress.org/2009/04/21/harman-wiretapping-disappointed/): On Sunday, CQ reported that the NSA had wiretapped Rep. Jane Harman (D-CA), listening in on a call in which she apparently offered a quid pro quo to a lobbyist group. Harman has vigorously denied the reports. Today, she appeared on MSNBC to express her shock and outrage that her phone calls were listened to, saying she was "disappointed" that the U.S. could have allowed such "a gross abuse of power": HARMAN: I'm just very disappointed that my country -- I'm an American citizen just like you are -- could have permitted what I think is a gross abuse of power in recent years. I'm one member of Congress who may be caught up in it, but I have a bully pulpit and I can fight back. I'm thinking about others who have no bully pulpit and may not be aware, as I was not, that right now somewhere, someone's listening in on their conversations, and they're innocent Americans. Watch it: Harman's anger seems a bit disingenuous, considering that she was one of the earliest supporters of Bush's warrantless wiretapping program. When the practice was revealed by the New York Times in 2005, she defended it as "essential," though admitted she was "concerned" about its scope: "I have been briefed since 2003 on a highly classified NSA foreign collection program that targeted Al Qaeda. I believe the program is essential to U.S. national security and that its disclosure has damaged critical intelligence capabilities," Harman said. "Like many Americans, I am deeply concerned by reports that this program in fact goes far beyond the measures to target Al Qaeda about which I was briefed." In fact, in 2004 she "urged that The [New York] Times not publish the article" revealing Bush's program. Indeed, she issued a press release in 2007 specifically highlighting that the updated FISA bill she approved of would fully allow warrantless wiretapping: This bill does a good job -- a far better job than the bill reported last month by the Senate Intelligence Committee. ... This legislation arms our intelligence professionals with the ability to listen to foreign targets -- without a warrant -- to uncover plots that threaten US national security. The bill also protects the Constitutional rights of Americans by requiring the FISA court, an Article III Court, to approve procedures to ensure that Americans are not targeted for warrantless surveillance. To her credit, Harman warned against "a slippery legal slope to potential unprecedented abuse of innocent Americans' privacy" and stated her opposition to granting telecommunications companies retroactive immunity. Perhaps her outrage at being a target of wiretapping herself will force her to realize that the program she deemed "essential" invaded the privacy of untold millions of Americans. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/24/2009 12:01:24 AM Again, I care not to burn anyone at the stake, nor very much what Greenwald is saying on the issue. I enjoy his writing, but essentially he's also missing the big picture here. It was & is wrong, illegal & a gross invasion of privacy when they (BushCo) were doing it to other Americans, before, during & after they did it to Rep. Harman. It's not only "an outrageous invasion of privacy and a violent assault on her rights as an American citizen" but to & for Every citizen. Everywhere. Her case does not make this any less so for being more prominent & fraught with more policy implications. That's the missing element here, and the legal framework of the Constitution that protects her, and all citizens, regardless of their 'worthiness' in the eyes of others. We need a restoration of our 'regular Constitutional order', and now as always, I'm not too particular about who or what the 'aggrieved parties' should be in anyone's humble estimation. Be they Hypocrites, liars, thieves & knaves. None of them should be spied on w/o just cause & a specific warrant. That's the Bill of Rights. I want it back, for everyone to enjoy. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/24/2009 12:01:52 AM Again, I care not to burn anyone at the stake, nor very much what Greenwald is saying on the issue. I enjoy his writing, but essentially he's also missing the big picture here. It was & is wrong, illegal & a gross invasion of privacy when they (BushCo) were doing it to other Americans, before, during & after they did it to Rep. Harman. It's not only "an outrageous invasion of privacy and a violent assault on her rights as an American citizen" but to & for Every citizen. Everywhere. Her case does not make this any less so for being more prominent & fraught with more policy implications. That's the missing element here, and the legal framework of the Constitution that protects her, and all citizens, regardless of their 'worthiness' in the eyes of others. We need a restoration of our 'regular Constitutional order', and now as always, I'm not too particular about who or what the 'aggrieved parties' should be in anyone's humble estimation. Be they Hypocrites, liars, thieves & knaves. None of them should be spied on w/o just cause & a specific warrant. That's the Bill of Rights. I want it back, for everyone to enjoy. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 12:21:18 AM How was it illegal when they did it to Harman? How? Just explain to me how the government isn't allowed to wiretap someone WITH a warrant. I'm pretty sure they're allowed to. The issue is when they bypass the courts and do not get warrants, then we start getting into civil liberties infringements. You've joined the likes of David Frum by defending Harman here (http://hotair.com/archives/2009/04/23/frums-confused-defense-of-jane-harman-and-aipac/). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/24/2009 12:35:53 AM Sorry for the double post, but this runs very slow on my machine. And once again, nothing in Z's response or quotes really addresses the central issue. And again, if it's the NSA that the wiretaps are from, that would implicate the regular FISA Court process. We can find out if & when this was done & why. But we do know that no charges from this yes, 4+ Year Old action was taken. It also more strongly than ever suggests that this is well & truly a 'push back' from the blackbag crowd, your buds, Z. Let's do a hypothetical legal thought experiment here Z. Say a wily King you were suffering under you calls your family to arms to defeat a 'dangerous' foreign foe. You're ambivalent, but you reluctantly agree to do so & support his forces to defeat this 'common foe' Even though you don't much see the point. Later the King takes offense at something you or your family might have done, and uses secret, private & privileged information against you to charge you and your entire clan with treason. Now you try and defend yourself and the lives of your kinsmen by asserting that you came to the defense of your country & king when it was demanded of you. Yet, still the King seeks to persecute you to gainsay his own power, and to expand his now thoroughly dangerously despotic rule. What rights do you have against the King & his secret evidence against you? Not much, and you lose your fortune, land, and most of the lives of your kinsmen who are summarily slaughtered by 'just order of the King', all the time claiming 'treason most foul' against you & yours. Now most of this will not sound at all familiar to you perhaps. But it was how things stood before the advent of the Magna Carta in 1215, and the subsequent slow but steady establishment of English Common Law, that protected the rights of citizens against the claims of 'treason' & other crimes against them by their Kings. You? You'll happily dispense with all this august and glorious history, the rights of man etc, with a swipe of your hysterical brow. All those lowly 'appeasers', those 'complicit' Dems, they are now & forever unworthy of any defenses nor any rights. It's because of what they do. Those treasonous malefactors! How is this any different than any tyrant? Again we need a complete & urgent restoration of our Constitutional order from all the poison nonsense and BS that's been poured into & on it. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 09:38:38 AM "Be they Hypocrites, liars, thieves & knaves. None of them should be spied on w/o just cause & a specific warrant." Yes, but there is still psychic pleasure in watching said hypocrites taking on some pain. If nothing else, it would be good to see Harman beaten up with this if only to impress upon her colleagues that you can't cede power (without a trap door to bring it back) to a tyrant and expect that he'll leave you alone. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/24/2009 09:53:48 AM Goodness, don't you nerds have anything better to do? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 01:34:24 PM Like this? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NosccTbCVdg ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/25/2009 05:07:12 AM hey u know what jmprince u know what? SAFETY DANCE ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/25/george-zinkhan-univ-of-ge_n_191403.html DATE: 04/25/2009 11:41:53 PM No Safety. No dancing. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/25/george-zinkhan-univ-of-ge_n_191403.html JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/25/2009 11:47:46 PM In all seriousness, commenting on this event, it's tragic for this campus. His facebook page shows a pretty normal person. Just yesterday he listed his "top 5 favorite vacation spots." More and more this stinks to me of an argument that went wrong, a crime of passion. However, the NRA, "if everyone had been armed this wouldn't have happened" crowd is already jumping into this. I wish I could personally tell every one of them to piss off. This wasn't on UGA campus, it was legal to concealed carry on prince ave. and it wouldn't have made a difference. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 69.180.18.69 URL: DATE: 04/26/2009 09:20:38 AM Wow. That's pretty horrible. Amazing how many of these things are estranged lovers. I remember at UW a year or so back this architecture student that was shot by an old boyfriend. He just marched on in to the building and killed her. This isn't about everyone being armed. Violating restraining orders of this nature should result in some duration of imprisonment and mandatory psychological evaluation. I'm not really sure what to do with the results, although declaring said person unfit to carry a firearm would be a good first step. And I really wouldn't mind if the whole Georgia Carry crowd was shipped to Somalia. Maybe they'd see what a wonderful society results when the only law is the gun. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 69.180.18.69 URL: DATE: 04/26/2009 11:01:50 AM I thought this is an extremely good post on the original topic: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2009/4/26/724137/-New-GOP-torture-meme:-Dems-fault. So, yes, unlike Republicans, we are not such authoritarians that we declare always us-good, them-bad. However, we've got to keep in mind that it is really us-mostly-good-much-of-the-time, them-really-bad-all-of-the-time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/27/2009 06:27:35 PM "So, yes, unlike Republicans, we are not such authoritarians that we declare always us-good, them-bad. However, we've got to keep in mind that it is really us-mostly-good-much-of-the-time, them-really-bad-all-of-the-time." Or at least us-serious-policy-debates them unhinged-frothing-at-the-mouth-idiocy http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/04/peach-punditred-states-ericl-eriksons.html ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Wednesday Open Thread BASENAME: wednesday_open_thread_31 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/22/2009 12:41:41 AM ----- BODY: Seems there might be things to chat about... Carry on.. I'm off to bed. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 10:00:53 AM I know everyone saw the "Gathering Storm" stupid video for the National Organization for Marriage (whatevah!). Well there is a new organization in town - for your viewing pleasure: http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/6eddb255b2 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 10:32:21 AM Thanks for making me finally see Prop 8 the Musical. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/22/2009 10:57:22 AM One more candidate...http://www.walb.com/Global/story.asp?S=10225561&nav=menu37_2 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 10:19:40 PM So with all of our heavy hitters running for governor, who's running for Senate? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 10:28:58 PM I'm pretty sure we've conceded the Senate race. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/22/2009 11:04:55 PM Maybe they should run someone for the Senate race who simply puts out a good progressive message effectively just to raise some important issues, if nothing else. Or maybe we can bring in some guy who comes in last minute and uses a trial lawyer base to win a primary but has zero steam statewide (dodges bricks from Martin campaign) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/23/2009 12:54:48 AM Z says: "(dodges bricks from Martin campaign)" Let's be perfectly clear here Z. Jim Martin, a highly respectable & worthy public servant of more than 2 decades of exemplary service to his country & state was a decent candidate for Senate, and would have been a fine Senator. But for the money the GOP spent here in Ga. trying to save Shameless's butt, (and it was plenty in excess of 10Mill), we probably would not now be on the threshold of yes, an Al Franken, Senator. That's the base they could not cover for Norm. It's going to happen. And let me say also that Jim Martin has more intelligence, integrity & guts than you'll ever dream of possessing too. For the record. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.188 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/23/2009 08:15:46 AM If and when Roy gets in the race, wouldn't surprise me if Thurbert runs for senate. The talk being: you wanted the big time, you can't defeat Roy (let's call it as it is, no one could defeat Roy, except for maybe Zell running as a Dem), no point going back to AG, step up to the plate and be a big boy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.6.169 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 09:41:49 AM JM, are you saying that Coleman would have won that race if only he had a little more money? I find that highly doubtful, although your overall point is still taken- there is probably a race somewhere that benefited from the expense here. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 10:28:20 AM The scary thing is that Obama couldn't carry Georgia. Jim Martin couldn't carry Georgia. Mark Taylor couldn't carry Georgia. I'm even wondering if Roy Barnes could carry Georgia with his electoral history. I'm not even sure how "economic populism" is supposed to work in a state that has settled for regional prominence and believes that wage/tax slavery is still a path to prosperity when there are places like China and Mexico just as eager to take the work. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 04/23/2009 10:41:59 AM Because the state is pretty rapidly changing and will be different in 2010. Plus there could be different issues at play. However, most importantly, sometimes you have to remind voters what they think about you ("former governor, yeah I voted for him! He was great!"). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.6.169 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 12:17:42 PM Cool picture: http://www.geenstijl.nl/archives/images/2355.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 12:42:11 PM Well, there is the positive development that people are willing to pay for better transportation (I forgot the poll). They'd probably also be willing to pay for better schools if there was a counter to all the FUD about the ineffectiveness of the spending in inability to raise test scores even with more money. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/23/2009 12:48:12 PM If you look at the polling and knew the run up in MN, Norm was still close, but desperately short of cash right at the end. He really could have used the money the GOP was wasting down here on Shameless. I still say it was possibly the most expensive race we've seen so far in Ga. And few people realize the extent of the advertising that was being done. The radio alone by 'independent groups' was possibly in excess of 2-3 Mill. Up here in my podunk county, we had radio ads going on every few minutes. It was needless, but they still buried us with it. So yeah, despite it all, I think the sacrifices were worth it. We may come to see the results, but not directly here soon. That's life. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 04:04:33 PM Two things 1) Martin was a fine public servant (most of the time) 2) His coming into this recent race the way he did was hilarious and laughable ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 04/23/2009 11:01:34 PM #3 Things: 1.) Again, it took more guts that you'll ever possess to come into a situation late, to yes, try and prevent a disaster at the top of the ticket. 2.) There was a clear logic in what happened, and only snide know nothing partisan hacks would want to continually question & harp on it. 3.) Hilarious & laughable is the self parody of an anti-Dem partisan hack that you've always been Z. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 68.217.79.251 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 08:53:14 AM Hey, I'm all for fielding candidates for every race to at least provide some competition and a platform for the party message, but, unless Issakson has a last minute change of heart and runs for Governor, we aren't going to beat a relatively popular incumbent Senator (Isakson is no Saxby), particularly with some last minute entry into the field, so I think we ought to be focusing our energies on something a little more obtainable like picking off some Republican Legislators in Democratic districts or trying to avoid getting completely swept out of all the statewide Consitutional positions. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 09:26:15 AM Also, it seems like Isakson is one we can pick off on some infrastructure matters ... he really likes high-speed rail, and we could probably interest him in evidence-based medicine and other technological precursors to a better national health system. There's such a big board for Democrats nationally in the Senate, it may be better to focus on the home front this time around. Especially on those lower races in the GGA. Also, it would be really nice in the next Congress if the leadership was given to a Senator from a blue state. Just speaking tactically here. Is the appointment of red state leadership part of a gentlemanly tradition of centrist leadership (that the Republicans broke) or a cheat on another gentlemanly tradition (again, the R's broke, but probably with reason) of not seriously challenging opposition leadership in the voting booth? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.223.77.155 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 12:56:29 PM I'm not normally comfortable using the word 'fabulous' but I think this qualifies: http://tinyurl.com/d6no2v ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 06:00:04 PM That's a pretty awesome cantilevered design. I can only hope the foundation is bolted into the rock face. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.19 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 07:19:38 PM Here is a sweet story to cap off everyone's week: http://content.usatoday.com/communities/theoval/post/2009/04/65982711/1?loc=interstitialskip ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/28/2009 12:17:40 PM Even sweeter. Arlen Specter (D-PA). Hope the rumors are true, if only to make the R caucus crap themselves. http://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/senate/specter-to-switch-parties.html Yes, he may not vote with the D caucus on many, many issues. But, if he votes to allow the vote, it does not matter. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/28/2009 03:56:49 PM I'm laughing my ass off at the Club for Growth right now. It's their fault the political spectrum went so far to the right, and now one of their primary challengers scared the guy into becoming a Democrat. This is delicious. I feel like calling them and just laughing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 04/28/2009 04:32:08 PM Kos is gloating about Zell Miller's "National Party No More" book. I think the thing is that Zell somehow made the mistake of believing that the South is part of the rest of the country politically, which polls are increasingly showing to be untrue. As much fun as it is to poke at, the next big step is figuring out how to get the South back on board. Secession didn't go so well for either side last time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/28/2009 04:48:55 PM Somehow we attracted like half a dozen secessionists to our blog arguing in favor of the South in the civil war.. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: A Few Fun Things For Your Calendar BASENAME: a_few_fun_things_for_your_cale STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/23/2009 10:06:40 AM ----- BODY: MSNBC has a poll up about Obama's first 100 days. Although I'm not a big fan of online polls as they can be somewhat dishonest, this one is fun enough to pass along. The National Action Network is sponsoring a Bus Ride from Savannah to Washington D.C. on May 15th through the 17th. In Honor of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education, the NAACP and the National Action Network are sending a bus to D.C. There's a facebook event up about the ride and how to RSVP, or just email savnaacp at bellsouth.net. Last but not least - the Georgia Alliance for Retired Americans is hosting a huge Flea Market on Saturday June 20th from 10AM to 5PM at the IBEW Parking Lot (501 Pulliam Street NW in Atlanta). There's no charge of course to get in, if you would like to be a vendor call 404-819-1461. I'm so there. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Hillary Clinton Pwns Rep. Mike Pence BASENAME: hillary_clinton_pwns_rep_mike STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/23/2009 04:18:17 PM ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 04:40:40 PM I still think the exchange between her and Ron Paul was the best one http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/04/funny-exchange-between-sec-clinton-and.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 04:44:56 PM I wish someone would point out that Chavez has been elected in free and fair elections repeatedly that have been monitored by the carter center, HRW, and all that. And Colombia gets a completely free pass, it has the worst human rights record and government in the entire Western Hemisphere. I think the equation is this simple: left-wing, pro-labor leader = DICTATOR, right-wing, anti-labor leader = FREEDOM yup ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.24.76 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 10:12:02 PM Chavez does have that unfortunate coup attempt on his record, and per Human Rights Watch, his record on civil liberties - including the right to form and join a union - is poor. Of course, it isn't as bad as, say, China, about which Pence would not be similarly concerned, but I think it's wrong to dismiss the charge the Chavez is an authoritarian leader by virtue of the fact that he's won elections. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/23/2009 11:17:18 PM He has lots of authoritarian tendencies, but not really any more so than any other leader in South America. Certainly not anywhere close to Uribe in Colombia. And he probably has a better human rights record than half of our allies. As for the coup attempt, he did serve time in jail and run for president the right way after that. Any way you slice it, it's really, really wrong to call him a dictator. As for Human Rights Watch, this is their conclusion on Venezuela under PSUV: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/americas/story/401909.html Venezuela is "basically democratic." My problem is that the criticisms of Chavez are so ridiculously off the wall, not that they exist. There's plenty of stuff to criticize about him, legitimately, I think, but this isn't really about him reflecting authoritarian tendencies, this is about him pissing off corporate interests. Which is why Islam Karimov or King Abdullah or Uribe or Hu Jintao are considered great guys by Washington even though their human rights record is a thousand times worse than a Chavez or Morales. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: matthewAPN EMAIL: IP: 68.219.1.220 URL: http://www.atlantaprogressivenews.com DATE: 04/24/2009 02:34:57 AM "!Ooh! !Ah! !Chavez no se va!" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 69.180.24.76 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 10:44:43 AM http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UH9rC0MaBJc More pwnage. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.19.70.186 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 12:21:49 PM great video, drew. i love how passionate she is in her answer. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Decaturguy EMAIL: IP: 68.217.79.251 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 12:39:54 PM Nice job Hillary. I'm not fan of Chavez, but it should also be pointed out that since he has been in power he has also conducted elections in which his interests were defeated. Not many dicatators allow that to happen, do they? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/24/2009 01:26:43 PM If you pick up any newspaper in Venezuela, you'll see headlines like "Chavez is a monkey(a racial slur in Venezuela)" and the opposition controls just about all the private newspapers. Also not very common in a dictatorship.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.19 URL: DATE: 04/28/2009 09:39:59 AM So it's ok to hug and kiss and walk holding hands with the Saudi King: http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&q=bush%2C%20saudi%20king%2C%20holding%20hands&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wi I don't get the warm fuzzies when I think of King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al-Saud. But under no circumstances is it ok to acknowledge and shake hands with Hugo Chavez. Not a nice guy, he took down their senate leaving Venezuela with one chamber to check his powers. The REAL reason though that such vitriol is directed at him from the U.S. is that he nationalized the oil industry. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/28/2009 10:52:39 AM "Not a nice guy, he took down their senate leaving Venezuela with one chamber to check his powers." I want to do that here. No, I'm serious. Screw the Senate! Is there any more worthless group of people ^_^ ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Cagle's Health Condition BASENAME: cagles_health_condition STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/27/2009 08:44:24 AM ----- BODY:
The Hate Crimes Prevention Act is supported by nearly 300 civil rights, education, religious, and civic organizations. The bill is also endorsed by virtually every major law enforcement organization in the country--including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National District Attorneys Association, the National Sheriffs Association, the Police Executive Research Forum, and thirty-one state Attorneys General.But at the end of the day it's about hate, and violence against folks who are just people going about their daily lives. It's about the Government being an institution of support and investigation and not re-victimization. When this bill is fully made law, local law enforcement will be taught that it's not OK to look the other way when women, disabled, gay and trans people are brutalized. It sends a message to everyone that while you may think whatever you like, you can't act on it and hope to get away with it. I spent a day and half with my new best friends, I heard their stories, I heard them ask their dully elected officials for support and consideration. In the case of the GA Dem delegation they were heard. In the case of the opposition, it fell on very deaf ears. I will post a few other adventures in activism, later. I have pictures of Ron Paul too... ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 04/30/2009 09:28:16 AM I think I've met the lady on the far right of the picture. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.211.252.212 URL: DATE: 04/30/2009 02:05:07 PM You all look fabulous! As always. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 72.152.202.200 URL: DATE: 04/30/2009 06:41:31 PM Zaid-I'm not surprised, she is a very fierce advocate and is President of the Transgender Veterans Assoc. She also has lived in Cobb County a long time and has been in both Price and Gingrey's districts. She worked the Gingrey staffer pretty hard and it was a thing of beauty to watch! Proud to be her friend ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 05/01/2009 03:42:38 AM Nice work. Good cause. Introduce the full delegation please Juliana. That would be helpful to many. And no, Gingrey's going to ignore this one too. It's why we need a Dem in there, and why that may take awhile. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Wednesday Open Thread BASENAME: wednesday_open_thread_32 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/29/2009 06:38:24 AM TAGS: "open thread","swine flu" ----- BODY:
At 69, Souter is nowhere near the oldest member of the court, but he has made clear to friends for some time now that he wanted to leave Washington, a city he has never liked, and to return to his native New Hampshire.Heh. A city he has never liked... ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 04/30/2009 11:57:18 PM This event probably colored his view of DC a little bit: http://www.cnn.com/2004/LAW/05/01/souter.assaulted/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 05/01/2009 01:35:09 AM Obama should nominate Jonathan Turley. (swoons) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 05/01/2009 03:27:56 AM Souter wanted to resign during or immediately after the Election 2000 debacle. He was just so PO'd over the entire deal. He thought it was wholly 'illegitimate' what the USSC did with Bush vs Gore. So he's bided his time and waited for the next Dem in. He was one of GWHB's choice for the court, (the other being our very own benighted Clarence Thomas). But Souter's been about as decent a once formerly 'mainstream Repug' as we're likely to see ever nominated for the USSC. He's actually improved on the court and became more moderate in some respects too. The world of 'respectable NE moderate Repug's' just disappeared from the landscape. Recall he was one of Sen. Warren Rudman's bud's. But again I feel like I'm recalling ancient history here. Obama will probably nominate a consensus woman, (Pam Carlin?) for the seat. It's long overdue. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 72.145.236.51 URL: DATE: 05/01/2009 08:59:13 AM Or a Hispanic. Maybe an Asian? Is there a half-Asian, half-Hispanic woman legal scholar out there somewhere? Talk about your consensus candidate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 72.145.236.51 URL: DATE: 05/01/2009 09:10:11 AM In all seriousness, my guess is that Judge Sonia Sotomayor is the front-runner. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 72.152.202.217 URL: DATE: 05/01/2009 09:42:39 AM What about Justice Leah Sears? I'm starting to get cranky with current admin having few very few southerners in inner circle, she at least would make for a very interesting choice. Or Rendell's wife... uumm where have I heard that? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.211.252.212 URL: DATE: 05/01/2009 12:40:22 PM AJC says two people with "Georgia connections" are on the short list: Leah Sears and Deval Patrick http://tinyurl.com/ccxo5z ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 05/01/2009 05:23:52 PM Justice Sears impresses the hell out of me. I've seen her at oral arguments twice now and she is just so obviously both incredibly smart and full of class. I really really hope that's who he picks. I have also heard wonderful things about Diane Wood of the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. She is supposed to be a total genius. But I agree, Sotomayor fits pretty much every target he would have with the pick. This is probably the most wide open and unobstructed a nomination process that Obama will ever get, with a supermajority and no public ill-will towards his picks, so this really is the time to appoint a young liberal lion who will fight it out for decades to come. I think everyone expects that he has to pick a woman to make up for the loss of O'Connor. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.5.6 URL: DATE: 05/01/2009 05:57:03 PM I had the honor to help a little on her election campaign in 2004, she's a lovely person too.. I'd really like to see this happen. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Erick Erickson, Seriously WTF? BASENAME: erick_erickson_seriously_wtf STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/02/2009 12:37:41 AM ----- BODY:
Not long ago, I was honored to be appointed to serve on the Board of the Fulton County Arts Council by Fulton County Chairman John Eaves. Honestly, I didn't know much about the work or mission of the Council before my appointment, but am already completely smitten. This is the sort of service I'd only dreamed of doing, and am so grateful to Chairman Eaves for this opportunity.
Last night, I attended my first Arts Council event and was blown away. Below are a few shots from the closing night of National Dance Week 2009, held at the beautiful new Southwest Arts Center Performance Theater. If you like these, see more in my flickr set here.
At a time when newspapers are trying to figure out how to make better use of digital distribution, Cox Enterprises' Atlanta Journal Constitution hopes to convinces readers to take a break from their computers and mobile phones, Adweek reports. And irony of ironies, the paper, which recently cut 30 percent of its staff, has unveiled a year-long, $1 million ad campaign crafted by local independent digital shop IQ Interactive to position the physical Sunday paper as a refuge from the frenzied "digital cacophony" that's associated with readers' work weeks.Alrighty then. Related: Atlanta Paper Suggests Readers 'Unplug' From Net, from AdWeek ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: rusty EMAIL: IP: 74.232.71.53 URL: http://rustytanton.com DATE: 05/05/2009 06:40:37 AM I actually don't think this is the worst idea in the world. Certainly not a worse idea than firing a quarter of the newsgathering staff. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.211.252.212 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 09:43:11 AM Maybe it will work. Someone needs to figure out how to stop the bleeding. I just don't get how they can cut all the writers who make the Sunday paper a "warm bath" (food, movies, books, sports, entertainment), and still have a Sunday Paper worth reading. We "unplug" with the Sunday NY Times. The few times I've picked up a Sunday AJC, it was just piles of inserts and coupons. I'll pick up one this Sunday though, to check out the redesign. This is my favorite riff on newspapers: http://www.tomwolfe.com/PaintedWordExcerpt.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 11:16:03 AM Head, meet sand. I don't know if there is a right answer, but I wouldn't call this a "strategy". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Joseph EMAIL: IP: 98.219.39.159 URL: http://doraville.org DATE: 05/05/2009 07:25:13 PM This was an interesting article which touches on these issues also: http://gigaom.com/2009/05/05/dont-call-the-gravedigger-newspapers-arent-dead-yet/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 72.234.117.240 URL: DATE: 05/06/2009 02:14:39 AM I'm not sure what the exact metaphor is, but "eating the seed corn" keeps coming to mind. As does, "throwing the anchor overboard". ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: /new BASENAME: new STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/05/2009 12:55:26 AM TAGS: hoohah ----- BODY: If you're just tuning in this week, don't miss the new sections and entries on the right sidebar! And there's even more news, opinion, projects and hoohah coming this week and next, including some new authors. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: RSVP for Ken Burns' new movie BASENAME: rsvp_for_ken_burns_new_movie STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/05/2009 08:57:12 AM ----- BODY: Georgia Public Broadcasting, Ebenezer Baptist Church, The National Parks Conservation Association, Earthwise, and REI, in cooperation with The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site, Present: A film by Ken Burns: The National Parks - America's Best Idea When: Thursday, May 7 Time: 7 pm Where: Ebenezer Baptist Church 407 Auburn Avenue Atlanta, GA 30312 RSVP here ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 10:19:37 AM As a member of the National Parks Conservation Association, I really hate that I can't make it to this. Our national parks are one of the greatest things about this country. This should be an excellent film so if you are free that evening, please by all means go see it! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Specter BASENAME: specter STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/05/2009 10:43:55 AM TAGS: gop,specter ----- BODY: Newest Democrat Arlen Specter came out punching on Sunday.
Asked whether he believed that he had let people down by changing parties, Specter said issues like Republican attitudes towards cancer research had made him unhappy with the party. Specter went on to suggest that if Republicans had been more aggressive about cancer research, GOP luminary Jack Kemp would be alive today.Damn. That's one mean old man. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/05/2009 11:22:37 AM He's also a whiny little whimp (anywhere other than BforD I'd have used a different word) who I hope gets the sh%t beaten out of him either in the primary or GE. If you watched him on MTP and his "I did nooooooooooot" BS whining made him sound like a weak ass nerd who is still afraid of getting beat up. I'm just glad we have another Joe Lieberman, self interested, ego-maniac who will do anything to get re-elected in the Democratic caucus. I've said this elsewhere but I kind of felt bad for Specter. His only interest is himself and he kept saying sh*t that will hurt him... "I did noooooooot say I will be a loyal Democrat" and "I will not support card check" it was like, dude, STFU. In general. I'm really not happy about the switch. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/05/2009 11:25:57 AM Honestly, if I was David Gregory, i would have had a hard time not punching that turn in the throat during the interview. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.182.133 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 11:53:26 AM He is who he is, old and not well.. frankly I wouldn't spend much energy on all this, he's not worth it. He will probably have a primary opponent in Sestack (sp?) but I think that's just to help Sestacks name recognition when he goes to run for Gov. Just a hunch. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 01:20:51 PM I think he's a busta, and bustas get primaried. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BigD EMAIL: IP: 66.194.65.196 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 01:37:21 PM Sestak is the only viable candidate still in the race and I agree that he is likely pushing to gain some name recognition for a run for Governor. While I like Joe Sestak he isn't a progressive I would call him about as conservative as Arlen. You can check out Nate Silvers at 538 he did an analysis of Sestak's voting record. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 03:08:55 PM God, I love Nate Silver. I only wish I had access to his data or the time to crunch it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.178.15 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 06:44:35 PM This just in.... http://www.newsmeat.com/news/meat.php?articleId=49535666&channelId=2951&buyerId=newsmeatcom&buid=3281 Cornyn: Ridge weighs bid for Sen. Specter's seat GOP leaders say ex-Homeland Security boss Tom Ridge weighing bid for Arlen Specter Senate seat PETER JACKSON AP News May 05, 2009 17:31 EST Tom Ridge, the former governor who became the nation's first homeland security chief, may challenge Sen. Arlen Specter in the state next year, Republican Party leaders confirmed Tuesday. "He's considering it," said Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee in Washington. Bob Asher, the state's Republican national committeeman, said he met with Ridge in recent days and urged him to run. "Governor Ridge is very serious about considering to run, and he is weighing his options," Asher said. Ridge and Specter, who stunned political observers last week by switching his party affiliation from Republican to Democrat, are two of Pennsylvania's best-known politicians. An election showdown between them is certain to garner national attention and generate large campaign contributions from outside the state. A Quinnipiac University poll released Monday showed Specter and Ridge running about even in a hypothetical general-election race. The survey showed Ridge, who has not run in an election since 1998, with a 55 percent favorability rating and Specter with a 52 percent rating. Ridge, 63, served 12 years in Congress before he was elected governor in 1994. He stepped down during his second term after President George W. Bush tapped him to head what would become the Department of Homeland Security after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He left that post in 2005 and now runs a Washington-based consulting firm, Ridge Global LLC. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 06:58:12 PM Arlen Spector is a big bag of WTF> ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.178.15 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 07:31:22 PM I've been trolling some PA blogs to see the reaction.. it's not that pretty- progressives are kind of screwed either way in PA. WOW didn't realize that would rhyme.. make a good button doesn't it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 08:34:18 PM Sestak at least seems to back labor, and if labor comes out for him in PA, where it's strong, he could defeat Specter. If he loses to Ridge, oh well. It doesn't make a gigantic difference between Ridge and Specter to be quite honest. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.3 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/05/2009 09:41:53 PM I'd rather have Ridge any day. Also it appears Ridge lives/lived in Md. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 05/06/2009 09:58:33 AM Well, apparently Specter's mouthing off has cost him one of the weapons he'd need to defend his seat: committee seniority. http://voices.washingtonpost.com/capitol-briefing/2009/05/senate_democrats_deny_specter.html?hpid=topnews In other words, Specter forgot that when you're making craven moves, it behooves you to kiss the asses of your new friends quite a lot at the beginning of the courtship. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 05/07/2009 03:20:15 PM http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/breaking/s_624101.html Goodbye, Specter. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Global Day of Action for Troy Anthony Davis on May 19, 2009 BASENAME: global_day_of_action_for_troy STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/05/2009 11:07:24 AM TAGS: amnestyinternational,troydavis ----- BODY: Join Amnesty International's campaign to urge Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue to exercise leadership and ensure that Troy Davis's death sentence is commuted. Saving Death Row Inmate Troy Davis's Life Is AlterNet's Top Take Action Campaign of the Week. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 02:09:23 PM I've read that the Governor in Georgia does not have commutation policy. Isakson told me he does in person (right before making fun of me and my friend for asking him if he could talk to the SCOTUS folks), but others have told me he doesnt ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 05/05/2009 07:10:25 PM Isakson was either wrong or lying. Only the Georgia Board of Pardons & Paroles can commute a death sentence to life in prison or pardon a person convicted of a crime. It is specified in the Georgia Constitution, Article IV, Section II. http://www.sos.ga.gov/elections/constitution_2007.pdf This is why Amnesty International's plea is actually for Perdue to "exercise leadership," rather than to commute the sentence. They want someone to force the Board to reconsider the case, or for the state to stop setting him for execution. But they cannot ask Perdue directly to pardon Davis or commute his sentence because he does not have that power. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 128.192.189.251 URL: DATE: 05/06/2009 07:26:24 PM Anyone else read the latest thing at PeachPundit where the guy's complaining that we pay people who are wrongly imprisoned for nearly 30 years compensation? What the fuck is wrong with these people? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 05/08/2009 09:13:53 AM I dunno, but that particular dude has some serious issues. And anytime someone attempts to take Erickson seriously, you can show them how he implicitly endorses the blatherings of a guy who all but sleeps in bedsheets with eye-holes cut into them. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Progressive Cookbook! BASENAME: progressive_cookbook STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/06/2009 05:03:44 AM ----- BODY:
The American Clean Energy & Security Act is moving through the House Energy & Commerce Committee. President Obama met with E&C Democrats on Tuesday, May 5th, to urge them to craft a strong bill which would cap carbon emissions, grow clean energy solutions, foster innovation, create jobs, protect wildlife and break our addiction to foreign oil. But many are stuck in coming to terms with the "right" solution.----- EXTENDED BODY:
The facts are so overwhelming that we know we must act now. One of the major ice shelves in Antarctica is on the verge of collapse and NASA is showing that the Arctic ice is melting faster than predicted. Wildlife are changing their patterns and some are facing extinction. While the world has experienced climate adjustment many times over thousands of years, this climate change is happening in one lifetime. The meat of this proposal is a cap-and-trade system which would allow for many solutions to emerge and require heavy green house gas emitters to trade or bank their emissions. The intelligent design of the system looks at renewable energy alternatives (solar, biomass, geothermal, energy efficiency) and carbon capture to promote forests and farms. And like any legislation, this is a work in progress with the goal to cut green house gas emissions 20% by 2020 and 83% by 2050. It needs to get out of the House Energy & Environment Subcommittee, move forward in the House Energy and Commerce Committee by Memorial Day and onto the House Floor this summer. The ultimate goal is to show the world that the United States is a leader in clean energy, not beholden to foreign oil interests and coming to the table in Copenhagen in December to show everyone that we are strong and formidable when it comes to creating a clean energy future. Please join us in contacting the following leaders of the Georgia Delegation in Congress to support a cap on carbon emissions and a clean energy future full of incredible potential. Congressman John Barrow Member of the House Energy & Commerce Committee (also Subcommittee on Energy & Environment) District 12 DC Office: 202-225-2823 Congressman Nathan Deal Member of the House Energy & Commerce Committee District 9 DC Office: 202-225-5211 Congressman Jim Marshall District 8 DC Office: 202-225-6531 Senator Johnny Isakson Recently stated: "It's in all of our interests to reduce carbon emissions" DC Office: 202-224-3643 Research on the Cost of Inaction 1. University of Maryland report "The Economic Impacts of Climate Change and the Costs of Inaction" provides a general analysis on the cost of inaction for the U.S. as a whole and state-based reports on economic impacts of unaddressed climate change for CO, GA, IL, KS, MD, MI, NV, NJ, NC, ND, OH, PA, and TN. Summary page (highlights of report, links to pdfs, and links to state-based analyses): http://www.cier.umd.edu/climateadaptation/ 2. EDF fact sheets on cost of inaction (for all climate fact sheets go to www.edf.org/climatefacts) -- General: http://www.edf.org/article.cfm?contentID=7864 Agriculture: http://www.edf.org/article.cfm?contentID=8075 National security: http://www.edf.org/article.cfm?contentID=8076 Health: http://www.edf.org/article.cfm?contentID=7474 3. More general EDF resources... the Dangers of Global warming. This page addresses health, extreme weather, our economy, and fragile ecosystems: http://fightglobalwarming.com/dangers.cfm 4. For more information on the bill go to: www.edf.org www.nwf.org/globalwarning/ www.epa.gov/climatechange http://heatison.org----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Layoffs at GPB BASENAME: layoffs_at_gpb STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/08/2009 12:10:22 AM TAGS: gpb,layoffs,teyaryan ----- BODY:
State Rep. Randal Mangham, D-DeKalb, an attorney, was found liable by a DeKalb jury yesterday for a stunning $625,000 in damages for legal malpractice.
The client, Karen Smith, accused Mangham of missing several filing deadlines and other procedural snafus that not only lost her the case but prevented her from re-filing. The two had already been to court in 2005, resulting in a $293,000 judgement against Mangham, who appealed the decision.It could be even more embarrassing. He could be a DPG officer now had he prevailed in 2007. Ride Sally ride. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 05/08/2009 08:08:31 AM Has he resigned yet? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 05/08/2009 09:56:52 AM This is mostly an aside, but an amusing example of a profession protecting its own: "According to some attorneys I spoke to, legal malpractice cases are somewhat rare because the burden of proof for the plaintiff is fairly high. It’s not like medical malpractice, where folks have been known to sue their doctors because they didn’t like the outcome of a surgical procedure." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.211.252.212 URL: DATE: 05/08/2009 04:39:37 PM Resigned? When pigs fly. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 74.176.158.98 URL: DATE: 05/08/2009 04:49:11 PM Yeah, I don't see him resigning.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: politicalaka EMAIL: IP: 98.233.11.205 URL: DATE: 05/08/2009 08:20:52 PM This isn't exactly the kind of thing one resigns from office for. Embarrassing? Of course. An indictment of his fitness for office? Not at all. If we had a litmus test where no one could hold office who was not successful at their day jobs, who exactly would we be left with? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.211.252.212 URL: DATE: 05/08/2009 10:29:15 PM Point taken politicalaka. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://halt.org/ DATE: 05/09/2009 12:08:21 AM A really unusual case, as lawyers suing lawyers over malpractice is exceedingly rare. Ditto for the size of the judgment too. I don't know the particulars here, but Halt's been working on the issue for about 30 years now. I've belonged for about 20 of those. It's always been a sorely neglected issue. JMP http://halt.org/ ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Listen up. BASENAME: listen_up_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/11/2009 04:31:06 AM ----- BODY:
If you are still in doubt as to the left-wing, anti-conservative, anti-American bias of the AJC, then consider this - with over a year to go before the Republican primary, they rushed this anti-Republican story in the Sunday Mother's Day edition. They placed it above a story of a real Georgia hero - Karmen Callaway, a Georgia Mom whose three sons are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.If you missed the AJC piece, here it is: Oxendine's Big Funder.
Two Georgia insurance companies with the same boss funneled $120,000 -- nearly 10 times the legal limit -- to Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine's campaign for governor, records in Georgia and Alabama show. The documents show Oxendine, who wields regulatory power over all insurance companies in Georgia, received the money through 10 Alabama-based political action committees set up by Donald V. Watkins, a director of Admiral Life Insurance Co. of America and State Mutual Insurance. Both companies are headed by prominent businessman Delos "Dee" Yancey III and are run out of the same building in Rome. Georgia's Ethics-in-Government Act prohibits officials from taking money directly from companies they regulate. The law also prohibits funneling money through multiple PACs to get around contribution limits of $12,200 per candidate in an election cycle.Excellent work from Cameron McWhirter. Check out the details in the sidebar, too. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.65.68 URL: DATE: 05/11/2009 08:53:15 AM Those folks over at PP are a regular laugh riot acting like no campaign would notice all those checks... I'm not sure what is sadder that we all buy that Ox folks didn't notice ( kind of stupid when every candidate I know knows when they get 50 cents and who it's from) or if they think I buying the stupid excuses. Oh and the really stupid thing is now he's got to keep his nose super duper clean for the next year! Doi, if I wanted that money, I'd have taken it like June of next year when it'd be too late for this kind of investigation. Geesh also this sure makes for some nice campaign attack ads too. Nitwit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 05/11/2009 09:22:10 AM ugh, does this mean we're going to be left with Johnson and Handel on their side? Not even a fair fight :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 05/11/2009 09:25:40 AM We can now understand why Oxendine is putting out all of this "Feds stay out of Georgia" talk. He wants to make Georgia has own little pond to play in without any meddling by those obnoxious FBI or FEC types. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.65.68 URL: DATE: 05/11/2009 10:55:44 AM I guess it also never occured to the campaign staff that they might have to field a question or two about this. They seem very unprepared for that too. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.223.77.91 URL: DATE: 05/11/2009 11:03:04 AM In the follow up article, they talk to "Oxendine strategist" Jeff Breedlove". Mr. Breedlove also is on the staff of the Georgia State Senate Research Office. Mr. Breedlove also happens to be married to Kathryn Ballou, Ox's campaign manager. http://tinyurl.com/qq2snn ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.3.150 URL: DATE: 05/11/2009 05:04:02 PM Republicans will always be a source of much luls. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Digital Day of Action BASENAME: digital_day_of_action STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/11/2009 08:15:45 AM ----- BODY:
I don't understand the personal attack, see as how you really don't know anything about me, Smitty. I was challenging the quality of the product in comparison to the ripoff, not Angela Trigg. Please refrain from confusing subjects and objects.
I do know these things:
Considering that, I also know this about bordersforatlanta.com, and the quality of CW, not Angela Trigg personally (remember, you made this personal, not I):
Defending practices that represent the old ways of the web is offensive to those of us in the industry. Not everyone can create the next high powered website, and while Angela seems to be a competent programmer, building the entire CW platform from what seems to be scratch, these tools are two to three years behind in usability and design. The bar has been raised on campaigns online, and both sites don't seem to meet it. I hope this claifies any personal misperceptions you have about someone you do not know.
----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.212.167 URL: DATE: 05/17/2009 04:27:11 PM Useless: I'm pretty sure you just blew the flimsy cover your moniker gave you to make the attack on your competitor. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: portland EMAIL: IP: 81.222.64.211 URL: DATE: 05/17/2009 06:03:46 PM "Every $100 contribution helps us send out a robo-call to your neighborhood." Really? He wants us to donate so he can spam us over the phone. That's swell. I still remember the debate for congress and lol about it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 69.180.18.69 URL: DATE: 05/17/2009 06:52:29 PM IRE, Perhaps not the best of form, but when you tear apart someone else's design, it is not a personal attack. It can still sting, but that's the unfortunate nature of technical work. Although the dude / dudette seems to be tip-toeing on the line with the phrase "seems to be an adequate programmer" which is a slam on skills to the more computer science / engineering types. In some circles, a programmer is someone who finishes a two-year DeVry course but can't really design. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: plange EMAIL: IP: 74.178.92.54 URL: http://somehumanevents.com DATE: 05/18/2009 01:04:07 PM useless.miscellany -- not sure why all the hate. We're all trying to make a living here. You may say that using table-design is oh-so passe' and that's your right, but I get tired of the high and mighty attitude designers have with that (seems like usually the same folk get high and mighty about other technologies as well and look down on others from their superior heights). They also are usually designers that are not working under very tight deadlines with clients who are very exacting and want things to work on all browsers. I have to say that I've spent WAAAAY more time making pure CSS sites than sites that I can whip out with table design in no time flat. When CSS becomes mainstream enough that the browsers can all agree on it, then that's a game changer; but if I have to write hacks for not only different browsers, but different browser versions, then that's not clean code. And it's not efficient. I actually have a system of coding that allows for quick changes in design with the same code, so just because you think it's not using CSS it must be one big long spaghetti code, think again. I actually am proud of my modular coding style that I've developed over the years. It's efficient, and elegant code. That's something a programmer can be proud of. To clarify -- they are NOT using CampaignWindow for the website. They are, however, using it for the email campaign. I've also been very upfront with customers of the limitations of our email product, as that's not our main thing. I've always said, if you want tracking, etc., go with something like ConstantContact or MailChimp. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: plange EMAIL: IP: 74.178.92.54 URL: http://somehumanevents.com DATE: 05/18/2009 01:07:24 PM And with the HTML validation -- you caught me there, but in my defense, I had less than a week to create not only the front, but the back end that manages it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.211.252.212 URL: DATE: 05/18/2009 07:56:49 PM useless.miscellany, I'll just respond to your Campaign Window comments, because that's what I know. At the time it was developed, 3 or 4 years ago now, there was nothing like it for the price, and still isn't. If you are a candidate or organization on a limited budget, for less than $150 you get a: website, email blaster, content management system, online contribution tie-in, volunteer management, and a bunch of other useful stuff all in one package. This doesn't mean it's perfect. I wish it were faster and had a modular template system like the new MovableType, to make design easier. I also wish it had a second tier, maybe joomla based. That aside, it's still a great value. There are now a few other options available that I've been meaning to explore. Constant Contact now offers joomla sites in their product line, but I haven't investigated the price. I'm sure it's more than a flat rate of $150. As for NGP, yes they have some powerful tools, but are cost prohibitive for most candidates. Even at those rates, they can't seem to afford to hire design talent. These are the people who stuck us with that horrible "mammy" DPG logo and a website that looks like it stepped out of 1996. Still, I recommend them to candidates with larger budgets because they are about the only game in town at that level. It's just a shame their end product, while it is probably very cleanly coded, often looks so dismal. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Welcome Tom Crawford BASENAME: welcome_tom_crawford STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/14/2009 12:49:16 PM TAGS: TomCrawford ----- BODY:Tom has been involved in Georgia politics for more than 30 years, covering his first General Assembly session in 1974 when the governor, a fellow named Jimmy Carter, was squabbling with the lieutenant governor, a former restaurant owner named Lester Maddox. He was a newspaper reporter and editor for 11 years with the Atlanta Journal, the Montgomery Advertiser and the Marietta Daily Journal. He wrote about government and politics at the state and local levels during that period, getting to know many of the colorful characters who have defined Southern politics. He maintained his involvement in the political scene after leaving newspaper journalism, working as a speechwriter and public relations adviser in the late 1980s and 1990s. He returned to political reporting in 2000 as editor of the online news service Capitol Impact's Georgia Report. He is a frequent guest analyst for "The Lawmakers" on Georgia Public Television and contributes political columns to Georgia Trend magazine and several newspapers around the state.In what we're calling "the grand experiment", Tom will blog here about more offbeat, humorous and thoughtful asides on politics that might not be appropriate for his straight news gigs. But be warned, he promises to skewer Republicans and Democrats alike. And that's just fine by me. Please go welcome Tom, and check him out daily. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TK EMAIL: IP: 70.147.255.32 URL: DATE: 05/14/2009 03:08:40 PM Excellent addition to BfD. Tasso ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 72.145.236.9 URL: DATE: 05/14/2009 03:09:44 PM Sweet. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 74.190.155.205 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 05/14/2009 04:15:49 PM cool! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.95 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/14/2009 04:32:19 PM This is VERY cool! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.211.252.212 URL: DATE: 05/14/2009 04:57:48 PM He's already posted more in one day than we sometimes post in a week. He's off and running. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.205.66 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 05/14/2009 10:38:44 PM Way cool. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Friday Open Thread BASENAME: friday_open_thread_78 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/15/2009 05:21:10 AM ----- BODY:
Graham told the crowd there was nothing wrong with any conservative, and he wanted to build an open party that could win in Pennsylvania and Connecticut, as well as South Carolina. "You're a hypocrite!" one man yelled. "I'm a winner, pal," Graham shot back. "Winning matters to me. If it doesn't matter to you, there's the exit sign."(from The State) Our 2012 victory will be assured with any Republican from this ridiculous state on the ticket, and Gov. Sanford seems to have the best chance, so yeah, where's my bumper sticker? Edit: no good making fun of these people and getting the gov's name wrong.. must remember coffee before next post. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: A smattering of things I've been meaning to say BASENAME: smattering_of_things_ive_been STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/19/2009 08:48:45 AM ----- BODY:
Resource-strapped, the newspaper has stopped sending beat reporters to cover some away games of the city's professional sports teams. Most importantly, the AJC has announced large numbers of layoffs in its newsroom that will leave it a mere shell of its former self, severely limiting its ability to cover the people, institutions and events that impact Atlantans' lives. Yet, from the IT department, to former sports editor Ron Ramos to Swartz, the AJC squandered precious dwindling resources chasing a meaningless dead-end story; one it sought to manufacture from one of a thousand sentences Whammer wrote in an e-mail the AJC should never have traced.h/t: Sara In other news, Creative Loafing reporter Thomas Wheatley, has been nominated for a 2009 award from the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies for his remarkable feature, Sober. If, like me, you missed it when it was published in may 2008, go read it now. It's quite a piece. Congratulations Thomas. h/t: Andisheh. And, finally, the progressive "network" of blogs will miss him, but it sounds like David Sirota has made an important decision to focus on other things for a while:
The reason for this change is fairly simple: I'm in need of something more creative, and I want to get back to the basics of writing. It is my passion, it is what I love - and I am interested in more than just the hard-core political world, whose media (blogospheric/magazines/TV shows/etc.) and activist outlets in the Dear Leader Era I believe are becoming less and less creative, more and more sycophantic, and ultimately, completely unstimulating. I say that with an asterisk, though - and that asterisk is In These Times and OpenLeft. Those are two of the few places where I think generally creative and bold-thinking writing is still being done - by journalists, front-pagers, diarists and commenters. That's why, in fact, I am going to keep writing on a limited basis for both.I'm happy to report that an invitation has already been extended to David to visit Atlanta upon completion (and publishing) his new book. Even happier to report that David (and his lovely wife, we hope) has assured me that he will be happy to accept that invitation. Good luck to you, David! We look forward to your contributions, whatever they may be. h/t: David Sirota. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.215.134.156 URL: DATE: 05/20/2009 01:46:08 AM I had a chance to intern under David, but I literally couldn't afford it. He's a great guy, and I can understand his sadness in that a lot of people in the progressive movement have watched as Obama has taken aim at progressive cause after cause and pulled the trigger with nary a peep. But then again there are advantages to doing that. He seems to have won over even the conservative Catholics http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/EU_VATICAN_OBAMA_ABORTION?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://blogs.ajc.com/political-insider-jim-galloway/2009/05/19/bill-shipp-types-30/ DATE: 05/20/2009 10:58:18 PM Yeah this just in: Obama the bane of progressives everywhere & oh yeah, BILL SHIPP RETIRES. For Real. For the last time. Another Georgia Giant gone from the press' ink reach forever. I'm sorry to hear of it too. JMP http://blogs.ajc.com/political-insider-jim-galloway/2009/05/19/bill-shipp-types-30/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://blogs.ajc.com/political-insider-jim-galloway/2009/05/19/bill-shipp-types-30/ DATE: 05/20/2009 11:01:02 PM Again, BILL SHIPP Retires. Sorry about the typo above, it should have been 'inky reach'. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.160 URL: DATE: 05/21/2009 02:37:24 AM IDK if he's the bane of progressives, but he certainly does not do a lot of favors to them in general. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.160 URL: DATE: 05/21/2009 02:44:08 AM Of course, then again, I don't take the either/or approach. He's done some good things and some bad things. Unlike you, JMP, I'm not a mindless shill for anyone with a (D) next to their name and I'm not obsessed with how much I hate Bush... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 05/21/2009 03:03:45 AM You know Z? Always with the name calling. As you claim that you're 'respectful', and then you lie about even that. Again. So let's see. You don't know history. You even refuse to find out. You'll parrot any silly thing you see on some posts, but just if it suits you. You can't argue your way out of a paper bag, and logic, as ever, is never your friend. There, I've said many demonstrable things about your 'talent' as exposed here & elsewhere. Without calling you a 'shill'. Because, like, you've got to have a Coherent Viewpoint & Opinion & be willing to Advocate for a Consistent Position to Be a Shill. Clearly, you'll never quite make the grade. I'd call you a weasel, but they're cute & useful. Traits that you're wholly unfamiliar with, no doubt. And yeah, tell us one more time how the US owes Pakistan immediate aid for having invaded Afghanistan. Then tell us when the ISI first started their infamous 'double game' with the mercenary 'irregular' tribal forces in the lawless tribal regions. Go ask dad & granddad about it. And if it's not starting way back at Partition to oust the Brits? Think again. History. Matters. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 05/21/2009 09:44:46 AM Teehee. Your post made me chuckle JMP. Cheers! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.81.110 URL: DATE: 05/21/2009 11:05:17 PM You made one of the dumbest comments I've ever read on our blog, and we have Libertarians who post over there. The pretentious pot calling the kettle black... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.81.110 URL: DATE: 05/21/2009 11:08:30 PM Of course, I didn't even bring that topic up here. Obsessed and stalkerish a little bit, my bullshit pomp-and-circumstance using friend? Cheers and all that 19th century aristocrat stuff mate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.monocle.com/ DATE: 05/22/2009 12:33:57 AM Yep. I follow the stupid around just to try and tamp it down a bit. It's hard work, but you make it look too easy. Don't waste a Uni education Z. It's obviously having few good effects on you. From what little we might be able to tell. Ignorance is occasionally correctable. Stupid is forever, Z. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 213.151.115.148 URL: DATE: 05/22/2009 01:04:33 PM Politics, of course, is a choice between "more" or "less". You don't often get something like a "progressive" winner, because "progressives" haven't done the work to become a majority in most places yet. Whining about a president responding to majority interests is pretty pointless. When progressives make it inevitable, we will get progressive candidates at the top. The work to be done in the meantime is elsewhere. That's what I think anyway. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Darwinius masillae BASENAME: darwinius_masillae STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/20/2009 11:42:54 PM TAGS: creationism,ida,"missing link" ----- BODY:
Whatever their ties to terrorists groups or activities, these individuals should never be given the privilege of crossing our borders, even if incarcerated. To do so would be nothing short of an invitation for al-Qa'ida to operate inside our homeland.Oh shit. An invitation! Well, we wouldn't want to do that.. oh wait, we're already housing terrorists in Supermax (Colorado). Anyone know how to properly dis-invite a terrorist from operating in your homeland? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.143.174 URL: DATE: 05/23/2009 08:13:29 PM I think the 80-something senators who voted against including money for closing Gitmo are total boneheads too. Did they not know that Obama campaigned on this throughout? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: rusty EMAIL: IP: 74.176.54.63 URL: http://rustytanton.com DATE: 05/23/2009 10:04:46 PM I'm so sick of this ignorant bullshit from the Republicans. I think I hate them more for not providing competent opposition to the Democrats than I did when they were in power. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 71.12.23.226 URL: DATE: 05/23/2009 10:15:21 PM From what I read, the Democratic vote was not so much on the merit of closing GTMO as on their satisfaction with Obama's plan to close GTMO. The Republican Party, tho, still can't go to sleep without their nightlight and blankie, for fear of the terrorist in their closet. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.123 URL: DATE: 05/23/2009 10:20:16 PM "I think I hate them more for not providing competent opposition to the Democrats than I did when they were in power." Considering that the Republican leadership pretty much effortlessly pushed aside the slightest Democratic objection to anything they tried to do, I find it hard to believe that you really think the Republicans are the incompetent ones here. "From what I read, the Democratic vote was not so much on the merit of closing GTMO as on their satisfaction with Obama's plan to close GTMO." While this is their excuse, we have Democratic senators pushing out nonsense talking points about how they won't allow "any terrorists to come to my state!" (Webb was the latest in this chorus). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: rusty EMAIL: IP: 74.176.54.63 URL: http://rustytanton.com DATE: 05/23/2009 11:04:07 PM
I find it hard to believe that you really think the Republicans are the incompetent ones here.So...you're saying I'm intentionally saying something other than what I think? What motivation would I have for doing that? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.123 URL: DATE: 05/23/2009 11:38:38 PM "So...you're saying I'm intentionally saying something other than what I think? What motivation would I have for doing that?" I don't think you're lying I just find it really surprising that people think the GOP is having a hard time obstructing Democrats. They've managed to have several party-line votes where every single Republican voted no on an Obama initiative. That's pretty impressive. Conservative, corporate-allied Democrats handed the GOP numerous victories over the past few years, and there was rarely any such thing as party discipline on the Dem. side. The GOP may be niching itself out of existence by going so far to the right, but they certainly are doing a pretty good job with what they have to try to stop the Democrats. Heck, that's why the Dems. chose to do healthcare through reconciliation, because they won't be able to get all their Dems. lined up even with Franken to get to 60. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.176.6.218 URL: DATE: 05/25/2009 07:03:03 PM Apparently Nathan Deal is trying to outdumbass Saxby: http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/stories/2009/05/25/citizenship_bill.html?cxntlid=homepage_tab_newstab Really! I mean REALLY. Really? This is what passes for "leadership" these days? I mean...for f*@k's sake...c'mon. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.33.49 URL: DATE: 05/25/2009 10:03:16 PM They're all just pandering. They're not really that dumbfuck crazy. Or maybe they are. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 67.34.33.187 URL: DATE: 05/26/2009 04:06:24 PM Shout out! http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/05/chambliss-vs-human-rights.html ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Stacey Evans makes it official BASENAME: stacey_evans_makes_it_official STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/25/2009 09:58:11 PM TAGS: "election 2010","stacey evans" ----- BODY:
President Barack Obama tapped federal appeals Judge Sonia Sotomayor for the Supreme Court on Tuesday, officials said, making her the first Hispanic in history picked to wear the robes of a justice.Linky Get ready for a bunch of Repub talking points about Judge Sotomayor's lack of judicial temperament. Updated to add: Two things just occurred to me: 1) Did anyone question Scalia's temperament when he was nominated? I can't remember, but Nino is notoriously cranky; 2) Is it just coincidence that the talking point about the first Latina nominee is that she is "hot tempered"? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.109.72 URL: DATE: 05/26/2009 11:18:50 AM You called it! And I assume you approve? I was wondering when this would come down. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.212.167 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/26/2009 11:41:58 AM Should I care? Does this change the makeup of the court etc? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 05/26/2009 11:53:11 AM FYI. She received 25 Republican votes in '98, 8 of whom are still in the Senate: Bennett (R-UT) Cochran (R-MS) Collins (R-ME) Gregg (R-NH) Hatch (R-UT) Lugar (R-IN) Snowe (R-ME) Specter (R-PA) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.219.17.128 URL: DATE: 05/26/2009 03:15:01 PM Mel - I think it's a savvy choice. Not only was she appointed to the Appeals Court by a Republican, but the whole HIspanic woman thing gives her an automatic constituency, and the warm fuzzies of being a "first". But she's no liberal lion a la John Paul Stevens, and If I had my druthers, I would have gone with a someone more lefty for sure. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 05/26/2009 04:54:25 PM I agree with Paula. I'm not opposed to her nomination, but I think there were better choices. Hopefully the next pick Obama gets will go to a true liberal lion of the sort that can weave beautiful constitutional law and go toe to toe with Scalia et al for decades to come. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: David EMAIL: IP: 67.166.206.167 URL: http://blogtalkradio.com/gameon DATE: 05/26/2009 06:38:43 PM This will be the lead topic on Game On: blogtalkradio.com/gameon Stefan T. will be guest host tonight at 8:00 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 67.34.33.187 URL: DATE: 05/26/2009 06:53:27 PM A Bush sr. appointee. LOL @ Obama pulling his punches on just about everything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.213 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/26/2009 10:55:29 PM The Bush appointee thing is a bit of a canard as it was Democrats' choice for the appointment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.94.13 URL: DATE: 05/26/2009 11:19:08 PM And she slid through with little Republican opposition for a reason. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.94.13 URL: DATE: 05/27/2009 12:53:38 AM She's an OK pick, but I believe in tough love for the President. He's pulling punches left and right, and he might not get another chance to have a filibuster-proof Senate and large majority in the House. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.94.13 URL: DATE: 05/27/2009 02:39:49 AM I just warmed up a bit on her thanks to John Yoo http://ugaliberal.blogspot.com/2009/05/sotomayor-loses-war-criminal-vote.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 128.61.122.32 URL: DATE: 05/27/2009 11:26:22 AM Zaid, the Republican Party blocked her confirmation to her current position for 16 months, precisely because they feared she might someday be nominated to the Supreme Court. I wouldn't say she "slid through" anything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 76.17.126.37 URL: DATE: 05/27/2009 03:09:37 PM Zaid, I know you were a mere infant when it happened and don't remember a time before judicial nominations were always a huge fight, but back when Sotomayor was nominated to the S.D.N.Y., Democrats controlled Congress so in order to full vacancies President Bush often let Senators recommend someone to fill the vacancies in their states. That used to be the way this sort of thing worked for all but the very few court vacancies. Daniel Patrick Moynihan suggested Sotomayor to Bush, who then nominated her. She received little opposition because she was just up for a federal district court slot, the Democrats liked her, and the Republicans were in the minority so there wasn't much reason for them to waste firepower opposing her for the trial court level. She was more hotly contested when Clinton elevated her to the 2nd Circuit in 1998. That she was appointed by Bush I means nothing in terms of whether she is liberal enough. I promise you, this was not "pulling punches" to nominate her. Pulling punches would have been someone moderate. She is not known as a moderate by any means. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.27 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/27/2009 04:11:47 PM I swear to god we need IMG embed allowed. http://pics.livejournal.com/twoflower/pic/0002e4dt/s640x480 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.3.188 URL: DATE: 05/27/2009 05:10:31 PM You use that one too much IRE I like this one http://mobocracy.net/media/Yoda-Flame-war-begun.jpg "Zaid, I know you were a mere infant when it happened" Appeal to age? I obviously garnered all my political knowledge at the age of 6 and have learned nothing since then, I also can't learn about things that happened in the past at all. History classes? Skipped that shit. "That she was appointed by Bush I means nothing in terms of whether she is liberal enough. I promise you, this was not "pulling punches" to nominate her. Pulling punches would have been someone moderate. She is not known as a moderate by any means." She's known as making right-leaning decisions on abortion (which I'm actually in favor of) and not making any decisions on gay rights. I don't know her civil liberties positions. Are you arguing she's a lefty? Because that's unsubstantiated. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.3.188 URL: DATE: 05/27/2009 05:13:25 PM http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124338260937756559.html#mod=rss_whats_news_us "Her record in more than 4,000 cases, including those from 11 years on the Second Circuit, shows her occasional siding with corporate defendants or diverting from a standard liberal position... ..."There is no reason for the business community to be concerned" about Judge Sotomayor, said Lauren Rosenblum Goldman, a partner at Mayer Brown LLP who has represented businesses including Wachovia Corp. and Dow Chemical Co." Aw yes she got the big corp. folks' endorsement too. Rock on! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 76.97.6.122 URL: DATE: 05/27/2009 09:15:18 PM "She's known as making right-leaning decisions on abortion (which I'm actually in favor of)" You really have no idea what you're talking about, do you? I say this because she has not rendered "decisions" on abortion but rather a "decision", and even then, abortion was tangential to the case, which turned on the freedom of speech. But please, do continue to tell me how the person that the Republican Party spent 16 months blocking in an effort to prevent this very outcome is in fact a conservative. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 76.97.6.122 URL: DATE: 05/28/2009 01:39:08 AM Okay, decisions: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/28/us/politics/28abortion.html?hp Although given that the abortion question was tangential to all of these, I still see the "right-leaning" assertion to be unfounded. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/28/2009 10:02:11 AM Perhaps rather than relaying others' opinions and calling it fact, one should read 516 pages of her decisions and then come to one's own conclusion. http://documents.nytimes.com/selected-cases-of-judge-sonia-sotomayor#p=1 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 05/28/2009 10:45:35 AM Law nerd. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.211.251 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/28/2009 11:02:19 AM Odin: I'd be careful with the "nerd" label if I was you. Just saying. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.42.230 URL: DATE: 05/28/2009 07:23:54 PM "But please, do continue to tell me how the person that the Republican Party spent 16 months blocking in an effort to prevent this very outcome is in fact a conservative." I don't think she's a conservative, I think she's center-ish. Did I say she's conservative? I said she made a decision the right likes on abortion. Duh. Gotta go with my talking heads on this one: "The Washington Post's E.J. Dionne says that today "liberals would be foolish to embrace Sotomayor as one of their own because her record is clearly that of a moderate." The New York Times' Charlie Savage suggests that pro-choice groups are worried about how reliable a vote she will be. And Daphne Eviatar thoroughly examines Sotomayor's judicial record and concludes that liberals "may end up being disappointed with the president’s choice" because "it’s starting to sound like Obama nominated a highly capable technocrat."" http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/ --- Enough with the "The Republicans oppose (x) person and that's good enough!" talking point, dude. They'd oppose Chuck Norris if Obama nominated him for chief ass kicker at this point. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 24.126.197.73 URL: DATE: 05/28/2009 08:49:32 PM Her decision had nothing to do with abortion. She ruled that the plaintiffs lacked standing to bring one claim, which is a procedural issue. On another claim the 2nd circuit had already ruled on the identical issue and she just upheld that decision finding no first amendment violation. On the last issue, she ruled that the government could permissibly favor or oppose abortion in other countries as a policy decision, without violating equal protection. It's not really an abortion decision, it's a first amendment and constitutional decision that just happened to tangentially involve abortion. SCOTUSBlog did a great writeup on her decisions back when the vacancy first came open, and you can see a lot more here about the decisions she's written. http://www.scotusblog.com/wp/judge-sotomayors-appellate-opinions-in-civil-cases/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.134 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/28/2009 09:25:22 PM I would really put more weight behind what some esquires are saying here, not what the talking heads say, YMMV. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 05/29/2009 11:16:08 AM IRE, You've really got to figure out my style of self-mockery, oblique reference, and irony. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.176.156 URL: DATE: 05/29/2009 07:21:31 PM I read through the SCOTUSBlog link, and I'm still finding myself agreeing with Dionne that she's moderate-ish. I'll say it again, considering the Democrats haven't had this kind of majority in a long time, they're pulling punches by putting this one through. The Court has moved unbelievably to the right the past 35 years. Heck, Stevens was considering a moderate in 1980 (Yglesias has a commentary on a Cass Susstein article about that here: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2009/05/the-courts-right-shift.php), and now he's the prime liberal. While I have nothing against her as a judge (and the hysterical attacks against her by the right are great, because it only further makes them look like maniacs), she seems to be eminently qualified in general, the fact is that the court has shifted so far to the right that we really, while we have the opportunity to do so, should've brought someone in who would've balanced things a lot more. Actually, that's a good commentary on most of Obama's appointments to anything. I think I like that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 76.17.121.228 URL: DATE: 05/29/2009 10:19:14 PM Uh, Stevens was originally a conservative. He was appointed by a Republican. Many members of the Court have grown more liberal over time. The people who are calling Sotomayor a moderate are people who don't really understand how the courts work. It is exceedingly hard to find federal appellate court judges who are extremely liberal, precisely because we have a conservative Supreme Court writing precedent that the appellate panels are bound to follow. Trial court judges have sole decisionmaking authority over their cases and only have to worry about being overturned on appeal, but appellate justices serve on 3 judge panels and have to build consensus for their decisions, which naturally brings them closer to the center. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.54.52 URL: DATE: 05/29/2009 11:27:03 PM So you have some secret evidence that she's a liberal then? O_o ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.54.52 URL: DATE: 05/30/2009 02:20:55 AM As for this: "Uh, Stevens was originally a conservative. He was appointed by a Republican." He was appointed by Gerald Ford, who would be considered so liberal by today's Republican Party that they'd probably force him out of the Party. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 76.17.121.228 URL: DATE: 05/30/2009 09:10:18 AM Nixon first appointed Stevens to the Seventh Circuit, where his record was that of a moderate conservative. Was Nixon a liberal too? The point is, Stevens was a moderate conservative when appointed and grew more liberal over time. It is not unusual for justices to grow more markedly more liberal after they are appointed, as Justices Brennan, Blackmun, Stevens and Souter demonstrate. What is unusual, at least in the modern era, is for a justice to grow markedly more conservative over the years after joining the Court. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 66.156.13.191 URL: DATE: 05/30/2009 02:02:33 PM "Nixon first appointed Stevens to the Seventh Circuit, where his record was that of a moderate conservative. Was Nixon a liberal too?" Compared to these guys, YEAH. To quote John Dean, "Nixon would be considered a Green today." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.102 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/30/2009 02:40:33 PM But being relatively more or less conservative to contemporary politicians doesn't make him actually more or less conservative. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 66.156.13.191 URL: DATE: 05/30/2009 03:15:20 PM What are the "actual" watermarks for conservative and liberal today? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.102 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 05/30/2009 04:39:00 PM I don't think that matters. Because the parties have shifted their ideological positions doesn't mean anything. Imagine the Democrats now were in favor of seizing capital, mandating education and employment for people, etc etc, would you say that FDR wasn't a liberal because he would be to the right of contemporary Democrats, or that his SCOTUS Justices weren't liberal? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 66.156.13.191 URL: DATE: 05/30/2009 05:17:44 PM You and I have run into this problem several times before, and this is how I would respond to what you are saying, and let me start by saying let me go ahead and use left and right because I have so much training in comparative economics that liberal means right to me, I think what you can do is say that Roosevelt was to the left relative to his time, our time, or relative to other leaders, or relative even to himself (he campaigned and came to power as a balanced budget conservative, but changed as the times changed). It has to be relative to something, that's how I think anyway. Now returning to Nixon, I think Nixon may've at the time been more conservative than his opponents, but if you're trying to reference him in comparison to a judge he placed that's on the court even now, you have to recognize that Nixon also was the guy that gave us the EPA, the food stamp program, who re-opened relations with China. In many ways he was the last real left or progressive President we had (now this exempts him basically wiping out a million people in Cambodia and all his SE Asia stuff), in that he created new, sincere and long-lasting social welfare bureaucracies. I think one reason I'm so set on the point is so that people can see how far to the right the parties have drifted (in some ways, not all), especially with respect to the fact that their constituencies are to the left of them on many issues (although not on some things like the death penalty, where we've moved right). I referenced polling in a blog post a few weeks ago that showed roughly half of constituent self-identified Republicans, for example, support basically what the progressive wing of the Democratic Party is calling for as far as offering Medicare to everyone and letting that compete with private insurance, yet not a single Republican member of Congress has voiced support for that. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: Dealing with Deal BASENAME: dealing_with_deal STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/26/2009 09:31:00 PM ----- BODY: Apparently there was some buzz yesterday about Georgia Congressman Nathan Deal's proposal that birthright citizenship, a policy codified in the 14th Amendment, be stricken from the Constitution:
Supporters of Deal's proposal say "birthright citizenship" encourages illegal immigration and makes enforcement of immigration laws more difficult. Opponents say the proposed law wouldn't solve the illegal immigration problem and goes against this country's traditions of welcoming immigrants. Automatic citizenship is enshrined in the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which says: "All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside." That provision, ratified in 1868, was drafted with freed slaves in mind. Deal and his supporters say the 14th Amendment wording was never meant to automatically give citizenship to babies born to illegal immigrants.Oh yeah, and Rep. Deal is a gubernatorial candidate. Oh yeah, and he's having a bit of a statewide name recognition problem. Oh yeah, and he doesn't believe his proposal even has a chance of passing:
"I think the current makeup of the Congress is such that this will never get a hearing and will never be an issue that we get a chance to vote on," he said. "But I think it's important to keep the issues that are part of the immigration problem alive."It seems a certain someone is trying to improve his profile across the state. Too bad he doesn't have a better sense of timing, especially with the Sotomayor nomination announcement today. As Greg Sargent notes, Republicans are going to have a tough enough time reconciling their likely opposition to the Sotomayor nomination with their minority outreach initiatives. They certainly don't need Rep. Deal messing that up even more. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Blog roundup BASENAME: blog_roundup_3 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/28/2009 05:44:50 AM TAGS: roundup ----- BODY:
The event will feature dance performances by BE | Brooks Emanuel Dance, hot hors d'oeuvres, DJ and speakers. All proceeds will benefit the Southern Center for Human Rights, an Atlanta-based, nationally-recognized public interest law firm that represents people facing the death penalty and brings class action litigation to protect the civil and human rights of people in the criminal justice system.Tickets may be purchased online. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.109.72 URL: DATE: 05/28/2009 12:59:35 PM Thanks for posting Jen. BTW, I've been meaning to mention that Ken Hodges' website, which you didn't link to, but is here: http://www.kenhodges.com/ is very nicely done. The deep, rich green with the hot gold accents is working for me. And of course, all that NGP technology that you know is back there, is impressive. The campaign logo is "Trajan Bold", which is a safe, but appropriate choice. No faults found, and that's saying something. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: jenatlanta@gmail.com IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 05/28/2009 01:35:01 PM Dang. I meant to link to his site instead of FB, but must have forgotten to copy it once I switched over. In any event, it's nice to see a color other than red, white and blue. (Is that blasphemy?) ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Georgians in the News BASENAME: georgians_in_the_news STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/28/2009 05:28:49 PM ----- BODY:
A reporter for a small newspaper was forcibly removed from a press area near Air Force One shortly before President Barack Obama arrived at Los Angeles International Airport to depart California early Thursday. Airport security officers carried the woman away by the feet and arms as she protested her removal. She later identified herself as Brenda Lee, a writer for the Georgia Informer in Macon and said she has White House press credentials. The newspaper's Web site says it is a monthly publication, and a Brenda Lee column is posted on it.Link. Why is it always a Georgian? Sigh. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Quote Unquote BASENAME: quote_unquote_5 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/28/2009 07:53:49 PM ----- BODY:
I think that they say that Rush Limbaugh is the 800 lb. gorilla in the Republican Party, but I think that's mean spirited to say that because I think he's down to 650 lbs., so I think one should be fair to him about this whole thing.-- Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R-CA) ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: travelindem EMAIL: IP: 67.191.137.206 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 10:44:54 PM The governator....love it. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jenna TITLE: I'm Speechless BASENAME: im_speechless STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/29/2009 03:22:50 PM ----- BODY: Happy Friday. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Blogging the Atlanta Green Expo BASENAME: blogging_the_atlanta_green_exp STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/30/2009 03:31:50 PM TAGS: "environment blog" ----- BODY: I was originally going to live blog this, but it was a little smaller event than I was expecting. In any case, I would be remiss not to start a post so intertwined with the environment without capturing this wonderful weather outside.
A fund designed to help poor school districts provide an education comparable to what's available in wealthier systems was slashed $112 million this year by Georgia lawmakers looking for ways to balance an unsteady state budget. The more than 20 percent reduction in so-called "equalization" funding for the fiscal year that starts July 1 is just the latest blow to poor school systems already slashing staff and salaries, crowding classrooms and killing extracurricular programs.The article goes on to describe how suburban counties like Gwinnett are using a loophole in the formula to eek out extra cash, meanwhile poorer districts like the City of Pelham are forced to cut jobs, salaries, and benefits. The Governor's office argues that changes to the formula can't happen without legislation, so in the meantime, poorer districts have to suffer. That argument is understandable, and we obviously aren't the only state in a crunch right now. But I also think waiting on the legislature to take action is simply inadequate. What about all of that stimulus money that got all of the school districts hyped up a couple of months ago? Consider that the Georgia Board of Education approved distributing over $351 million for low-income students and schools a few months ago. Going back to the examples provided by the AJC, Gwinnett County will receive $8,876,600 in both FY '09 and FY '10 for low-income students. The City of Pelham, on the other hand, will receive $231,300 in both FY '09 and FY '10. Now granted, Gwinnett is significantly larger than Pelham, but if Gwinnett is essentially exploiting the equalization fund as Governor Perdue and other officials claim, then why couldn't the Perdue-appointed Board of Education offset the money that Gwinnett is receiving in equalization by giving more Title 1 stimulus money to poorer districts like Pelham? I mean, it was the Board of Education that had a final say in what stimulus money went where. And considering that many of these underfunded operational expenditures also meet the Title 1 funding criteria (warning: opens a Word document) established in No Child Left Behind, I don't see why this couldn't be a viable solution to fixing a $112 million shortfall that is killing valuable jobs and educational programs across the state. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.132.81 URL: DATE: 05/31/2009 06:26:27 PM Anything to not raise taxes. That's the devil's work right there. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.251.34 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 05/31/2009 07:21:34 PM How high would you like them raised, Zaid? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.132.81 URL: DATE: 05/31/2009 07:32:01 PM Enough not to have to do stuff like this. I don't have the training to do this, but I'd bet that if someone looked at the kind of tax costs that will be created with all these education cuts (like kids who don't do well in school and fall into crime), that it actually creates a bigger tax burden in the future. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.215.148 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 05/31/2009 08:10:22 PM Never heard that story before. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.132.120 URL: DATE: 05/31/2009 09:51:04 PM Although I have to say, as much as the anti-tax wingnuts have screwed our infrastructure, it looks like Cali is going to defcon 3 right now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.127 URL: DATE: 06/01/2009 01:23:43 PM It's time for all those little freeloaders to pull themselves up by their bootstraps and educate themselves /snark ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Vigil in Remembrance of Dr. George Tiller. BASENAME: vigil STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/01/2009 01:19:58 PM ----- BODY:
In a six-page letter issued last week, and released Monday, Justice Department lawyers said Handel's office had created a system that "does not produce accurate and reliable information and that thousands of citizens who are in fact eligible to vote under Georgia law have been flagged."
But the system that was created, the federal lawyers found, was flawed and of the 7,000 individuals flagged as potential "non-citizens," more than 50 percent were actually U.S. citizens. Furthermore, the department found, those flagged as non-citizens were overwhelmingly black, Asian or Hispanic.It would seem that Handel has finally been called on her cynical tactic to make it through the Republican Gubernatorial primary. And that's a good thing. Here's hoping it bites her in the ass in the General. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/02/2009 01:10:04 PM There needs to be a review of both sides methodology. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.109.72 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 01:23:31 PM Yes grift, but to paraphrase President Obama, we won. Beyond that, it's already too difficult to vote in this state. The last thing we need is the SOS throwing up more barriers to citizens. I'm convinced this was nothing more than PR for Handel's political career, at the expense of thousands of legitimate voters. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 67.191.157.127 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 01:43:10 PM Remember Shirley Franklin's mother's story? Just imagine if there was yet another barrier overcome. Just like Voter ID, this scheme is not fair to certain segments of the population. It's called disenfranchisement. Plain and simple. Karen Handel is a tool and as far as I am concerned she can go to hell with gasoline drawers on. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/02/2009 02:28:16 PM Mel, politicizing the DOJ is a very dangerous thing. We won isn't good enough for that particular branch. I know I'm about to be called "Karen's boyfriend" here, but like many things (WAY TOO MANY THINGS) involving voting, we really don't know anything about the methodology used except the SOS says its fine and the DOJ says it's not. If it takes a court case then so be it, but let's have the method and the scrutiny exposed to the air where it can be judged beyond (forgive the poor metaphor), he said/she said. If it's shown that the DOJ accusation holds water, then I don't necessarily agree that it's racist or even political to the degree that is argued here. But it would definitely go far towards showing a lack of competence as an administrator which has always been where Handel has swayed independents. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.143.76 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/02/2009 03:19:02 PM "it's already too difficult to vote in this state." Quoting for entertainment value. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.97.231 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 03:44:37 PM A 51% error rate is unacceptable. I am curious as to who the other 49% are (that are supposedly non-citizens trying to register), but Handel needs to find a better way to check that out. From reading about stuff like this in previous years, I highly doubt that so many non-eligible voters are trying to register. There may be timing issues with their citizenship or any number of other innocent explanations that are far more likely than wholesale felony voter fraud. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 05:15:52 PM Of those 49% a decent chunk are probably actual citizens, but people whose paperwork was legitimately in error (i.e. different spellings of name, different birth dates listed, SS# did not match on driver's license, etc.) such that there was reason to question their identity at the time of registration. I think the 51% were people who had easily verifiable reasons why their registrations should not have been rejected. But that is just my ready of the DoJ letter, which is admittedly very convoluted to understand particularly since the state will not give the public many details of their methodology. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.215.134.158 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 06:16:51 PM The Republicans are trying to take everyone's eyes off the ball of the fact for the last 8 years they'd been doing everything they can to disenfranchise voters, which has been well documented by John Conyers' report, Greg Palast, etc. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.215.134.158 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 06:25:48 PM And it gives them a chance to do the boogeyman thing with the nefarious "illegal aliens" trying to vote. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.109.72 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 09:01:23 PM "Mel, politicizing the DOJ is a very dangerous thing." OK Grift, check out what Handel sent to her email list today. BTW, I don't recall signing up for the "Karen Handel for Governor" email list, but very clearly recall signing up for the Secretary of State's email list for voting related news:
Obama Justice Department to Allow Illegal Aliens to Vote in Georgia -- Karen Handel Fights to Stop It-- In a recent and shockingly political move, the Obama Justice Department ordered Georgia to stop the process of verifying that voters in Georgia are indeed U.S. Citizens. "It is a sad day for the rights of our state and for the integrity of our elections," said Karen. "I remain committed to continuing the fight for citizenship verification. In the coming days, I will consider every option available to the state, including the possibility of legal action." This morning, Karen posted a petition on her website to tell the Obama Justice Department that Georgians support citizenship verification for voter registration. We've set a goal of collecting 10,000 signatures by next week, so please sign the petition today and ask your friends, neighbors and family members to do the same. Join Karen Handel's fight to stop illegal aliens from voting by signing the petition now. The ruling also prevents Georgia from even verifying that a voter actually exists. This opens the door for groups like ACORN to abuse the voter registration system. Handel said, "The Obama Administration completely disregarded Georgia's obvious and direct interest in preventing non-citizens from voting, instead siding with the ACLU and the Mexican-American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF). Clearly, politics took priority over common sense and good public policy." Committed to the integrity of our elections, Karen has said "Bring It On" in the face of this challenge. Please stand with her by signing her free and fair elections petition right now. This is not just a fight in Georgia. If this injustice is not stopped here, it could spread nationwide and open the door to illegal aliens voting in every state. Here are a sampling of some headlines from around the country... Obama Dept. of Justice Shows Shocking disregard for the integrity of our elections Redstate.com, June 2, 2009 Handel Defiant after feds reject Georgia voter screening Atlanta Journal Constitution, June 1, 2009 DOJ Opposes Georgia voter screening UPI, June 1, 2009 Justice Dept. Rejects Ga. Prevote Citizenship Checks The Wall Street Journal, June 1, 2009 Help Karen today. Sign the petition."----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.239.247 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 06/02/2009 10:31:09 PM Oh, Mel. Wasn't the banner of this site once something about politics not being for softies? ;-) Look for something from me tonight about this mess. With the usual potshots at both sides. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: travelindem EMAIL: IP: 67.191.137.206 URL: DATE: 06/02/2009 10:41:23 PM This is nothing more than typical political babble on behalf of the "oh, it's a she" Karen Handel. She must have received the GOP talking points of the day. On the positive, if she keeps talking about non-voting issues and making videos about the "OX" nobody will notice she is completely unqualified for this position (she still doesn't have a college degree, correct?????!!!!). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.143.76 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 07:33:34 AM I have a serious question here for my leftward brothers and sisters. An ID is perhaps, the single most important document one needs in society. They are also very cheap. They are also available without any real effort. They are available throughout the state at many places, and from many federal agencies. Does anyone here truly think that not having an ID is the product of anything other than pure, unadulterated laziness? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 76.17.121.228 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 07:59:33 AM Well, there are those crazies who refuse to get IDs because of distrust of the government... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.143.76 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 08:27:08 AM Yeah and I'm perfectly content not wanting them to have any role in our civil governance. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 64.31.190.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/03/2009 08:32:40 AM So cheap they're free ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.150.227 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 08:58:59 AM Well, there are people who are very poor, very old, or sometimes confused. They may not have computers, so can't easily figure out where to get an ID or how to get there. They may not have extra Marta fare, or may not have the ability to take off during the work day. They may have disabilities that prevent them from easily leaving the house. And they may not have family or friends who can help them out. There are lots of legit reasons people have trouble getting their IDs. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/03/2009 09:19:25 AM Then how do they get to the polls? We're back to the fundamental question that tossed out the, I believe it was, the Rome case. The judge asked granny if she could get to the ID office and much to the chagrin of the plaintiffs, she replied, oh yes my daughter takes me out to get groceries and what not. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 09:31:45 AM I'd also like to point out that Judge Bedford, a major opponent of the original Voter ID law, showed that having identification does not prove citizenship. I can't remember exactly how he described it, but there were at least two points at which the current system allows the chain of identification to be broken and the system used to register non-citizens as voting citizens. Considering that there isn't much evidence for an actual problem with individual voter fraud, and that the "cure" has a less than 50 percent accuracy rate, there doesn't seem to be much reason to go the expense of this system. So yeah, it's a cynical game. The Republicans want to make voting as difficult as possible (since their demographics have greater resources to overcome the difficulty) and the Democrats want to make voting as easy as possible. The fact that Handel's program snagged blacks (which you'd pretty well assume are actually from this country) seems to suggest that she wants to be sure that Georgia is subject to supervision under the VRA for quite some time to come. Which really doesn't bother me all that much. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.33 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 09:40:50 AM Re: How do they get to the polls. The fact is that some of the people affected by these types of laws have been voting in the same location (some in the lower level of their senior housing center) for decades without having to show ID or prove citizenship. There are elderly Americans who do not have "birth certificates" of the type many of us have. Birth records were family bibles, church records, etc. Additionally, it seems to me that the Voter REGISTRATION process is supposed to flesh out all these details. I've said it again and again - it sounds to me like Ms Handel doesn't have much confidence in the registration process - maybe that's where the focus should be. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.150.227 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 10:02:40 AM How do they get to the polls? You may have heard about this thing called "get out the vote". Churches, civic groups, and campaigns organize rides, van pools, etc. to help these folks get to their polling places, which are often very near them (in what is known as their "precinct"). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.150.227 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 10:31:10 AM There's also this very interesting thing called "absentee voting". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/03/2009 10:40:43 AM Paula, you realize your making my arguments for me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.142.39 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 10:42:57 AM They may not have computers, so can't easily figure out where to get an ID or how to get there. Good the thing the white pages everyone still gets has that information then." "They may not have extra Marta fare, or may not have the ability to take off during the work day. They may have disabilities that prevent them from easily leaving the house." If one uses MARTA to the point where it is a legitmate form of transit, then "extra Marta fare" isn't really a problem as they will have monthly unlimited cards. And good thing you can go to Walmart and get fishing license damn near 24 hours, Post Office is open on Saturday, federal IDs can be obtained just about any time via mail, etc. etc. etc. "There are lots of legit reasons people have trouble getting their IDs." Yeah, and with the slightest, most minuscule, insignificant amount of effort, they can be dismissed. Not having an ID is a case of sheer stupidity or laziness. FFS, I can't even procure Blockbuster's services without an ID! "There are elderly Americans who do not have "birth certificates" of the type many of us have. Birth records were family bibles, church records, etc. " What is this? 1900? "Additionally, it seems to me that the Voter REGISTRATION process is supposed to flesh out all these details." It is. However, that concern only matters if you think there is only one opportunity where something fraudulent could with voting. Surely you don't believe that. "The judge asked granny if she could get to the ID office and much to the chagrin of the plaintiffs, she replied, oh yes my daughter takes me out to get groceries and what not." /thread ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 11:30:12 AM Can we not confuse the Voter ID issue with this citizenship/identity check at registration issue? They are very different and I think the merits of DoJ's objection are getting lost in discussion of an old fight. (That, like it or not, SCOTUS has decided for once and for all.) It looks like SoS's identity and citizenship check process has 2 problems: 1) their flagging criteria/process is flawed and is disproportionately flagging minorities who do legitimiately qualify to register to vote and 2) the procedures for correcting erroneous flagging are so unduly burdensome on the registrants that they serve to prevent qualified voters from being able to register and vote. Given this understanding, I think I agree with the DoJ's determination. You don't have to prove discriminatory intent if you have proof of discriminatory impact of a policy, and DoJ's letter indicates that the over-flagging of Black, Asian and Hispanic voters was statistically significant. With the added bonus of making it very hard for people who are unfairly flagged as non-citizens to correct that status and become properly registered, the impact is that minority registrants are more likely to be kept from registering or voting than whites. This is exactly what the VRA and the 15th amendment are intended to prevent. However, I think that rather than throwing out the citizenship requirement altogether, or ascribing a racist purpose to it (it might be there, but we don't have evidence of intent that I'm aware of, just impact), Handel could conceivably change the procedure for checking the citizenship status of new registrants to one that does not have such a discriminatory impact. She can change the criteria for which non-conforming registrations are flagged, or she can change the procedure for notifying a registrant of a failed attempt to register and giving them an easier way to fix the problem. She doesn't need to huff and puff about how unfair this all is when she could just fix the flaws in the current policy. And if she did those things, such that the discriminatory impact was reduced below statistically significant levels, then I don't think requiring citizenship checks at registration is necessarily a bad thing. We keep saying in response to whining about ACORN and registration fraud that it is the job of the states and counties to find and stop the fraud. Now we should let them find non-discriminatory ways to do that job. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/03/2009 11:33:24 AM Yep ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.33 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 12:33:18 PM Can I just remind everyone that there is no evidence of any voter fraud relating to citizenship or ID in Georgia. None. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 128.61.191.50 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 12:45:28 PM Catherine, An excellent point. Which is the part that keeps the door open to the "Handel wants the Ken Blackwell GOP SoS award" line of allegation. The new ways don't need to absolutely prevent people from voting - they just need to add more burden to the individuals and support systems (as in requiring not just a GOTV ride volunteer call, but a registration / ID getting call) of a constituency that is unlikely to vote for the party currently in charge. Now, we can have a discussion as to whether we want people that can't / won't take on the requirements of the new system in order to vote, but it will end up with a bit of an elitist slant. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.150.227 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 12:49:09 PM You know, grift, while at the grocery store I remembered that absentee doesn't require any ID, which I always forget because it strikes me as truly strange that it would be considered so all-fired important for in-person voting but not absentee voting, which goes to show something, no? But even with the availability of absentee voting, there may still very well be people who have difficulty getting their IDs for whatever reason, but want to or have to vote in person (perhaps they forgot to request the absentee ballot? I did that one year when I was in college and had to drive home to vote.). As to you IRE, I am once again astonished at your lack of empathy for people with real world problems. Your easy dismissal of these barriers indicates to me that you've never actually met an poor, elderly or disabled person. Although, as sara points out, it's sort of a moot point. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.142.39 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 12:53:16 PM Yeah. I got no empathy. Keep telling yourself that. Keep telling yourself anything you want. It makes me LOL. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/03/2009 01:14:02 PM PaulaG, one of the chief complaints (coming from me as well) on the initial voter id front was the lack of action on absentee ballots. By ignoring the one area where there was proven fraud and hammering an area where there is virtually no fraud, Handel came off looking like a political shill. To her credit (and whatever her motivations) she began pushing to tighten absentee ballot verification after that. But it is all moot. And I do have empathy for people who have a hard time. But 45 days of voting? Polls open for 12 hours a day? What else are we supposed to do? Carry them into the polling place and place their hand on the touch screen? Then again, as you pointed out, get out the vote is something in which the parties are well practiced. I'd rather see more action on that end than the government end. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Switeyho EMAIL: IP: 74.176.35.106 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 06:38:49 AM IRE, perhaps you can tell me how having to show a photo ID helps anything. We're going to task a minimally trained poll worker in photo-recognition, with no real procedure for what to do in the event of a dispute? (My last ID photo was taken 10 years ago.) Or, are we just leaving it up to the judgment of the poll worker? Is that really an improvement? This isn't a business transaction in which a company can choose to not offer service if they don't want to. This is a basic right. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.43 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 11:38:15 AM Because you are able to have some level of basic proof that the person voting is actually who they say they are? If you think getting a $10 ID that is practically a necessity for life is onerous then I say, nut the f*ck up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.188 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 12:08:39 PM But it's not proof of anything. You're actually ADDING a randomness factor. The "onerous" argument is separate. The issue for me is that you are giving this level of judgmental authority to poll workers. How do you even train someone in facial recognition? If I show up 30 lbs. heavier and less hair and a dark tan, is that OK? Does whatever the assumed standard is only apply to someone who looks "Mexican" or something? But there is no standard, there is no training, and if there is a procedure, I am not aware of it. Consensus of poll workers? That's not right. Either you are eligible or not. It's not an opinion. It's easy to say "so what, it's easy", but it's NOT easy to do right, and since photo ID doesn't solve the alleged problem- which doesn't even exist in the first place- one has to wonder about the motivation. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.43 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 12:26:20 PM Dude, y'all are seriously worried about issues that can be fixed. Easily. You have to be trained to work the polls. Throw in some time about how to do facial recognition. Done. People will mess up, that is of course the case. But I'm not sure why the most important thing here is somehow human error rather than ensuring we have a more accurate system of voting. And you're right JT, it doesn't prove anything per se. But let's consider this. My ID says I am innerredneckexposed (lost the indie_rock_elitist one). I have a much better chance of proving I am me than if I don't. It is the same reason when I go to the bank and they ask for my ID to cash a check (which I didn't have a couple weeks ago, and couldn't get money), or when I used my debit card yesterday in Nassau they asked for my ID, or when I cleared customs they asked to see my passport. It is because you have a verifiable way of knowing who that individual is. Now, I refuse to think you are saying IDs are a bad way of proving who you are and that there is a level of mistrust you have when presenting yours, or having to have someone show theirs (for whatever reason). I have explained this "it hasn't happened yet" theory a lot of times and I'll do it one last time. There are plenty of things that haven't happened yet, but we still prepare for them in the hopes of preventing them or whathaveyou. I haven't been in a catastrophic car accident, yet I still wear a seatbelt. I haven't been paralyzed by the flu, yet I get a flu shot. I haven't been laid off from work yet I still save up JIC, etc etc etc. What is the old adage, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure? Imagine if there is nothing in place for example, and an active GOP candidate gets elected through some form of fraud at the ballot box that could have been prevented. Oopsies on us. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.43 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 01:00:29 PM BTW: Here is a pretty good video in defense of my position. http://is.gd/MwWs ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.35.106 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 07:01:05 PM "Throw in some time about how to do facial recognition"? Like what? Even the FBI doesn't rely on crap like this. It's silly/paranoid/reactionary/overly simplistic. You can't "do facial recognition". And you don't get "more accurate". You get more legitimate voters having to appear before some board to prove who they are because some poll worker needs new glasses. I get money from the bank all the time without a photo ID. Sometimes there is a good reason why a problem isn't occurring IRE: Because we already have sufficient controls in place. Just think for a minute about what it would require for someone to vote fraudulently. It's practically impossible. And it's a felony if you get caught trying. Who would do that? If you're going to go down the "ounce of prevention" route, at least show an ounce of probability of the problem actually occurring. It's just a result of the Republicans paranoid delusion that massive amounts of illegal immigrants are stealing library cards and voting for Democrats. (Why else would they not be winning 90% of the vote?) But elderly, urban, minority folks get caught up in the vortex because they haven't had to have a drivers license in the past 30 years and many don't have a birth certificate either. But they've been voting legitimately for all that time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.92 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 07:51:55 PM Has anyone read the questionanaire from Ms. Sotamayor? (Of course Drew will no doubt tell you that I am opposed to women and minorities ever ascending to power) It is pretty interesting but it seems like one would forget a lot the panels you've been to the reason for going etc. And then how would she remember even most of the reason she recused herself from cases? Do judges keep a log or something like that? And what is the purpose for admitting people to practice in certain courts? As a layman it seems like if you are a lawyer you can just practice. What happens if your client keeps appealing and it goes to the SCOTUS? Do you have to take a test or something? The legal world seems byzantine and bizarre. :/ BTW Jerry, I'll say I agree with you all points! ^_^ PS: http://www.judiciary.senate.gov/nominations/SupremeCourt/Sotomayor/upload/Questionnaire-2009.pdf ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.45 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/05/2009 12:36:46 AM I love all y'all! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.75 URL: DATE: 06/05/2009 04:04:42 PM Jay Bookman weighs in. http://tinyurl.com/o8zp2fog ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/05/2009 04:14:38 PM And I respond. My Afternoon Jay *ducks* ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 06/05/2009 04:59:32 PM "And then how would she remember even most of the reason she recused herself from cases? Do judges keep a log or something like that?" There's an order of recusal generated (or should be) when a judge takes that action, so it would have been a matter of some poor research assistant looking through the dockets of all of her cases and finding every one she was recused from. "And what is the purpose for admitting people to practice in certain courts? As a layman it seems like if you are a lawyer you can just practice." When you pass the bar exam in a state, you are generally only admitted in the state courts at the trial court level. For example, I was admitted in January 2007 to Georgia trial courts. I was admitted in April 2007 to the Georgia Supreme Court. I have never bothered to get admitted to the Appeals Court (though I probably should). In most states it works this way. Federal courts have entirely different admissions procedures, and they are set district-by-district (or circuit by circuit, and yes SCOTUS has its own admission procedures.) I just got admitted in April to the Northern District of Georgia federal court. I had to fill out paperwork, have a sponsor, and show up to be sworn. Some districts make you take a test. Some make you be admitted to the underlying state court, while others don't. Every lawyer who litigates generally has a list of where they have been admitted. There's also pro hac vice (temporary for the purposes of one case) admissions to keep track of. "What happens if your client keeps appealing and it goes to the SCOTUS? Do you have to take a test or something?" No test, but you have to be sponsored by someone who is admitted to practice before SCOTUS and submit paperwork and be sworn. One of my coworkers had a case appealed to SCOTUS and was recently going to go through that whole process, but thankfully the Court bounced the cert petition before she bothered. "The legal world seems byzantine and bizarre." Try practicing in it! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.248 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/05/2009 06:24:37 PM Thanks for the answers! And I do mean that. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: Around the Services... BASENAME: around_the_services STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/02/2009 08:54:20 PM ----- BODY: A few of the latest headline-grabbing tidbits across our armed services:
"Conjoined twins alone is not what was so difficult but the way they were joined meant that at best only one child would survive the surgery to separate them and the survivor would more than likely live a brief and painful life filled with surgery and organ transplants." They chose to terminate the much-wanted pregnancy, rather than bring a child into the world only to suffer and die. "The nightmare of our decision and the aftermath was only made bearable by the warmth and compassion of Dr. Tiller and his remarkable staff."Link ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 64.31.190.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/03/2009 08:36:43 AM Andrew Sullivan has also been passing along his readers personal stories and many are heart rending. I'd give a link but he doesn't use tags so I can't link directly to the subject. Use the google. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 128.61.126.49 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 04:02:14 PM I think I know the answer to this, but have any of the supposedly reasonable and polite anti-choice organizations acknowledged the help that Dr. Tiller provided to these patients? Or do they, in their polite reasonableness, continue to pretend that these medical issues don't exist? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.143.76 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 04:53:28 PM So Drew, what you are saying is that you want a group that, for sake of this post, regards the act of abortion to be immoral to say that the doctor performed what they consider to be immoral? Or is it that the anti-life crow, in their polite haughty smugness, continue to pretend that they ultimately know the best moral choice? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.135.109.3 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 06:45:08 PM The punk speaks. IRE, I want exactly what I said - for the anti-choice movement to acknowledge the suffering the choose to ignore and Dr. Tilller's effort to alleviate it. If they can't do that, well, I'm torn. On the one hand, I don't want to see these families further demonized, but on the other, I would like for the public to see the ghoul behind the anti-choice mask. If you think this couple are immoral for wishing to spare their child and themselves suffering, then say so. I would also like to know, tho, how it is the pro-choice side that is haughty and smug when it is the anti-choice side that has decided that it is entitled to make decisions on behalf of every pregnant woman on earth. How does that work? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.143.76 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 07:05:26 PM In all actuality I don't really care about abortion as an issue. I'm pro life for sure, but that's about it. I'm really not on anyone's side. And yes I find it incredibly selfish and immoral to put one's own self and aversion to suffering so high that you find it permissible to kill someone. That of course, is how you are framing the issue. But you know what Drew, I really don't care what you think about me. Being an asshole, I can sense my kin. I just wish you wouldn't tear down the asshole name. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.91 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 07:13:40 PM Partisans on the left and right using "anti-choice" and "anti-life" is hilarious. Guys, say what the actual issue is here. Pro-(right to have an)abortion or Anti-(right to have an)abortion Just like Pro-(right to have a)gay marriage or Anti -(right to have a)gay marriage. No one's against choice or life -- that's why the sides both frame using those words, they're positives, and you want to be "pro" them. This is hilarious. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.128.60.7 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 07:25:40 PM And he's back in his hole. Otherwise, Zaid, I'm gonna call people who think that black people should drink from different water fountains than white a bunch of racist bigots. Is that okay or is there a euphemism preferred by the self-appointed referees? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.91 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 07:54:28 PM The problem with your thinking is that most of these people proudly called themselves racists and segregationists, as did WW2 Axis powers proudly call themselves fascist. It's only after you completely defeat their ideology that their word becomes bad. Honestly, calling people "anti-choice" or "anti-life" if they're on the other side of the argument just smacks of childishness. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.188 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 08:41:38 AM More childish than choosing "pro-life" to distinguish yourself from your opponents? Zaid, unless you mis-stated that, then the problem here is obvious. "Anti-choice"ers really are "anti-choice", aren't they? If not, then what is the point? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 11:38:30 AM If you want to be entirely accurate about the language, then the only acceptable terms are abortion rights proponents and abortion rights opponents. Calling someone pro-abortion is every bit as "misleading" as saying someone is anti-choice, since people who support the right to an abortion may nevertheless not be personally comfortable choosing abortion for themselves. This is still a dumb argument, though. What exactly does the semantics of the abortion debate have to do with these stories from Dr. Tiller's patients? Does it negate the difficult choices faced by his patients? Does it change that a doctor was murdered in cold blood for practicing medicine in the way he believed was best for his patients? It just misses the point. The debate shouldn't be about words, it shouldn't be about labels, it should be about the real choices faced by women and their doctors. If those who oppose abortion believe that women should not have the option of terminating a pregnancy that is doomed to either a stillborn delivery or a physically dangerous delivery of a baby with a terrible prognosis, then they should have the nerve to say so. It shouldn't be wrapped up in pointless arguments about what words we're using, it should be about the realities and what choices we believe should be available to women and doctors in those situations. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.188 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 12:25:03 PM Words do matter Sara. I would think that anti-choice advocates using the word "murder" to describe an abortion puts it into a context in which some people then feel justified using violence to stop it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 69.25.8.138 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 01:32:26 PM I'm not saying they don't matter...I'm saying semantics shouldn't be the primary focus of discussion at a time like this. We lose the rest of the forest on this one tree over and over again. Telling the stories behind the abortions that Tiller performed, focusing on the very complex situations that a woman choosing an abortion is wading through, that is what provides the context that the "murder" label lacks. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.97.70.78 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 04:33:47 PM Except that the semantics are a big part of what keeps this an issue. It is how people without a sliver of medical, biological, or legal knowledge can feel competent to stick their heads into such a complex decision. And how it be considered morally right to threaten violence on healers (which in healthy cultures are respected). Also consider anti-choice "thought," which like the current cries of opposition against Sotomayor stink so thoroughly of misogyny that every other argument is from the 18th century in terms of how female decision-making and sluttiness are conceived. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.92 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 05:01:31 PM " Except that the semantics are a big part of what keeps this an issue. It is how people without a sliver of medical, biological, or legal knowledge can feel competent to stick their heads into such a complex decision. And how it be considered morally right to threaten violence on healers (which in healthy cultures are respected). Also consider anti-choice "thought," which like the current cries of opposition against Sotomayor stink so thoroughly of misogyny that every other argument is from the 18th century in terms of how female decision-making and sluttiness are conceived." Quoting for hilarity. Honestly Odin, you know I like you, but seriously, if this is the reasoning GT is producing, it ought to be ashamed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.97.70.78 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 05:13:08 PM Every argument I've gotten into starts with some variant of calling abortion murder, moves on to either ignoring or mistating known science, and bounces along some puritanical sexual standard. So your mileage may vary, but that's my report on my experience. Maybe overgeneralization, but if you see a logical hole, feel free. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.92 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 05:21:51 PM Sure. You use anecdotal evidence. How's that for a start? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.97.70.78 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 05:36:42 PM I don't think you can use polling data for rhetoric, and i'm not interested in the historical surveys needed to trace out all of the appropriate strains. However, my impressions are based on both personal anecdote and the words of those appearing on TV, whom I would assume to employ the best rhetorical tools available to the movement. Of course, assuming that the liberal media does not sandbag this group by cherry-picking especially poor representatives. In other words, I can't prove the nonexistance of the black swan (the pro-female, scientifically aware pro-lifer), but I've seen many white ones. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.92 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 06:01:08 PM Then you are using faulty reasoning and a highly highly inaccurate method of analysis. Something even social scientists don't even like to use, by and large. You also make a really bad appeal to authority. I can keep going why your post was entertaining if you'd like. There are plenty of substantive errors with it as well. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.131.211.208 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 06:04:47 PM FWIW, that's been my observation, too. Anti-choice types tend to be pretty upset that women can get away with that naughty sex. Oh, and arguing logic with someone who supports regulations that endanger the lives and health of women because . . . well, just because? LOL indeed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.92 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 06:23:55 PM HAHA Drew, how often do you just make sh*t up? Cause you just did. About me and a lot of other people. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.135.171.57 URL: DATE: 06/04/2009 06:48:30 PM Oh, look. More posturing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.92 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/04/2009 07:16:18 PM No you flat out just made up something you think I believe which is wrong. I'll let it slide though if you can provide proof that shows why I think the way you described. Put up or shut up buddy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.97.70.78 URL: DATE: 06/05/2009 08:24:36 AM Well, there's the difference between myself as professional researcher and just regular guy spouting off. Minor quibble on appeal to authority though. I am claiming that authority represents a position of my opponents (and does so in the best way they can). Appeal to authority usually says if you cite an authority with your position, claiming that authority as total proof of your position is a fallacy. So, since you obviously bothered by my assumption that operation rescue and its ilk represent the highest form of your position, feel free to differentiate yourself as to what social goods imprisoning women or their doctors for a medical procedures soul provide. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/05/2009 08:47:20 AM I stopped caring about this thread a long time ago Odin. Try to keep up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 32.135.187.123 URL: DATE: 06/05/2009 02:19:01 PM Seems to happen whenever he's obliged to take a position, rather than snark on others, or whine about being misrepresented, don't it? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/05/2009 03:01:47 PM I've stated my position a lot bro. If you knew me IRL you'd also know my position. I don't ever really not say what I feel. So yeah, its just you. BTW: I am pro-life. I don't really care to explain why, it just seems to be the "safest" moral calculus. ' ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.75 URL: DATE: 06/05/2009 03:19:05 PM Hey, I'm pro-life too, but I believe women have the right to abortion. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 12.198.177.3 URL: DATE: 06/06/2009 10:52:22 AM "More childish than choosing "pro-life" to distinguish yourself from your opponents? Zaid, unless you mis-stated that, then the problem here is obvious. "Anti-choice"ers really are "anti-choice", aren't they? If not, then what is the point?" Anti-life and anti-choice are equally childish, and pro-life and pro-choice are ignoring the issue ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Team Poythress responds BASENAME: team_poythress_responds STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/03/2009 12:11:00 PM TAGS: 2010,governor,poythress ----- BODY: You go General:
POYTHRESS RESPONDS TO BARNES ANNOUNCEMENT Roy Barnes' announcement today does not change my plans or campaign to be the next Governor of Georgia. Know this: I am in this race to win it, period. I will continue to march towards victory because most Democrats and many Republicans agree with me that this race should be about the future. I've heard them say about Roy Barnes, "we won't get fooled again" and "the new Roy is still King Roy." Regardless of how people choose to express it, Roy Barnes is a polarizing figure in Georgia politics. Folks either love him or despise him. Many have predicted his campaign will reopen the old wounds such as the flag controversy, disgruntled teachers, the King Roy "rat" commercial, his stunning loss to Sonny Perdue and the wreckage it left behind for the Democratic Party. Most Democratic voters understand that these realities will fatally damage his ability to win in the General Election. I believe Democrats will make a different choice for their future by nominating me as their candidate for several reasons: 1. I have the best profile to win in the General Election; 2. I will lead Georgia into the future, not drag us into stale, old debates from the past; 3. I will run a statewide, grassroots campaign that engages voters in towns large and small. That's why, over the past 9 months, I have put out several bold new plans that will create 21st Century jobs, empower and reward teachers, reduce traffic gridlock and create new solutions to our water needs. Simply put, I'm ready to put my vision into action with sensible solutions for the problems we face. So that's what this race will be about: my plans for the future versus the legacy of Roy's past. We are just 13 months from the Democratic primary, and this campaign will be nothing less than a true battle for the heart, soul and future of Georgia's Democratic Party.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.142.39 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 12:21:53 PM So I'm guessing Mel isn't supporting, or supportive of, Roy Barnes' candidacy? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.109.72 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 12:27:26 PM Well, let's just say I'm wary. As Tom pointed out, this could mean the return of Kahn. Beyond that, I enjoy watching Wendy work. And the drama is better than TV. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: YDWill EMAIL: IP: 67.191.157.127 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 12:33:35 PM So true, Mel. So true! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.142.39 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 12:50:02 PM Kahn won't be involved with the campaign, or if he does it will be a very peripheral role. That is what I've been told. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: politicalaka EMAIL: IP: 216.52.121.161 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 01:04:13 PM David Poythress seems like a very good man. He's not going to be Governor of Georgia, though. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/03/2009 01:31:48 PM IRE No link to a KHHHHHHAAAANNNN! photo? Very dissapointted in you. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.142.39 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 01:36:51 PM grift: how is this? http://i.eprci.net/info/picard-facepalm BTW: to the powers in charge, I would donate to BforD if that meant we could [IMG] embed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.142.39 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 01:37:43 PM Er, try this. http://mypetjawa.mu.nu/archives/picard-facepalm.jpg ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/03/2009 01:41:17 PM Dude. Its a comment section. Not a forum. Paint with words (or in your case links...which are like words but not really) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.109.72 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 01:44:19 PM IRE, image embed isn't an option with MovableType. Not even on the MT "Community Site". At least not that I can find in the zillion page documentation. And anyway, isn't the site slow enough already? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 24.244.142.39 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/03/2009 01:54:22 PM Mel: if the site were to slow down for [IMG] embed, i would consider it an investment. Grift: if links are like words it is important to remember that "words are like bullets...they pass right through me." Sorry I just wanted to quote SP. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.91 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 06:56:53 PM We just need a candidate named Rick to get in... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: travelindem EMAIL: IP: 67.191.137.206 URL: DATE: 06/03/2009 07:08:15 PM So we know Poythress and Dubose are staying in. How do they seperate themselves from Roy? Additionally, how does fundraising play a part with Roy in? I'm assuming its going to make fundraising for the rest of the state wide dems more difficult. Third point Are we going to see the floodgates open with the rest of the state wide seats? Lt. Governor, Sec. of State, etc. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Day 2 of the 500 pound gorilla story BASENAME: day_2_of_the_500_pound_gorilla STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/04/2009 12:06:30 AM TAGS: 2010,barnes,dga,georgia,governor,porter ----- BODY: Tom reports on Roy's formal announcement yesterday:
Roy Eugene Barnes set the right tone for his announcement that he'll try to regain the governor's job from which he was booted in 2002 by Georgia voters: conciliatory, somewhat apologetic, at least giving the appearance that he sort of understands why he and his sidekick Bobby Kahn pissed off so many people back then.
Barnes has the ability to make it a competitive governor's race, but the Republican nominee (whoever that is) would still have to be considered to have an edge, for the moment anyway Back to Barnes' announcement on Wednesday: Bobby Kahn was nowhere to be seen, but former Barnes aide Chris Carpenter was there. That lends some credence to speculation that Carpenter will be running this campaign, or at least serving as the public face for it.Galloway says the DGA is now all about Roy, as evidenced by this moist press release:
"Roy has the right vision to look forward, restore the values that Georgians grew up with and improve the lives of all Georgians throughout the state," said Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer, chairman of the DGA. "Roy has the knowledge and character to get rid of the special interest influence that's rampant at the Capitol and get the economy moving again. His campaign will strengthen a healthy Democratic field." Barnes' entry into the race makes Georgia a high-level pick-up opportunity, as recent polling shows him in a dead heat with and even overtaking the leading Republicans.And Team Porter responds, sort of a dollar short. This is the full response:
"I am not running against Roy or any other candidate, I am running for Georgia. I have a vision and a bold plan to rebuild our economy. I plan to take our state from the bottom 40 to the top 20 in our rankings in education. My transportation plan will get Atlanta out of gridlock and make rural Georgia attractive to industry. For 27 years and as House Democratic Leader I have worked to bring people and policy together to drive projects forward. Bringing people together creates working solutions. That is my leadership style. It is what Georgia needs and separates me from the other candidates in this race and why I will win the primary."And so it goes. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Friday Open Thread BASENAME: friday_open_thread_80 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/05/2009 05:41:48 AM ----- BODY:
wsbtv.com Sets Record With 34.3 Million Page Views Up 49% Over May 2008 And wsbtv.com/Mobile: New Site Best With 4.9 Million Page Views Up 69% Over May 2008 www.wsbtv.com, the website for Channel 2 Action News, blew by its previous site record of 30.1 million page views (March ’08) on the strength of news coverage and weather events. The performance topped last May by 49%, and increased over April ’09 by over 28%. “All of our screens are on fire,” said Bill Hoffman, vice president and general manager for WSB-TV and its digital platforms. “It’s a major statement that our television, online and mobile can all hit high water marks at the same time,” he added. “Our news team continues to drive growth with its ability to develop content for each platform,” said News Director Marian Pittman. “We are all learning new skill sets which grow and change along with Internet and mobile capabilities and use,” she added. Page views per visit on wsbtv.com, one measure of “stickiness” of a website, increased 55% over May 2008. Page views on wsbtv.com’s mobile site set a new record high,. The 4.94 million page views in May 2009 grew 69% over the same month last year, and gained 23% over April ‘09.That's pretty amazing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.97.70.78 URL: DATE: 06/05/2009 11:07:03 AM Random, but this is probably the last week I'll post here. I'm about to become a Californian. It'll probably be a couple of years before getting into anything other than Prop 8 while I learn the lay of the land. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/05/2009 11:08:07 AM Don't go Odin! :( ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/05/2009 11:09:22 AM Oh yeah, and a couple posters to here are having a birthday today! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.109.72 URL: DATE: 06/05/2009 11:10:32 AM Odin! What's to keep you from posting while in CA? Lucky guy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Switeyho EMAIL: IP: 98.66.180.213 URL: DATE: 06/07/2009 10:35:03 AM So NCR gets $96M in tax breaks and incentives to relocate here. I'm no gung-ho capitalist, but I do prefer fairness in whatever type of system you are in. How are NCR's competitors going to react to this? They will (or should) go back to the government in whatever jurisdiction they are in and demand similar packages so that they can stay competitive. But worse than that, what about the small companies? They are not eligible for all these special deals, even though collectively they provide many more jobs than large corporations. How are they supposed to stay competitive? Even for a startup, the message is "start up big, even if you have to take on a lot of debt and risk. Starting small and building up is not a competitive way to go." I'm not sure what the solution is, but it's things like this in our system that drives companies to get bigger and bigger, eventually getting to the point where we forgive all sorts of evils and can't let them fail, and the smaller companies keep struggling along with no real hope of competing on a level field. I was invited to join the Chamber of Commerce recently, but after looking into it, their programs are almost exclusively geared toward giant corporations. The only activity related to small business is a periodic luncheon and some silly awards. Everybody is looking out for the powerful, who's looking out for the rest of us? http://tinyurl.com/ov7jcv ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.222.63 URL: DATE: 06/07/2009 11:38:27 AM Odin, best of wishes to you in CA.. please drop in occasionally and let us know how you are. Which of CA's fine cities will you be living in? Lots of great activism happening in different places.. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Don't forget to join the Atlanta YD's on Tuesday! BASENAME: dont_forget_to_join_the_atlant STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/07/2009 03:00:29 PM ----- BODY:
One of Italy's main daily newspapers, La Stampa, described the European vote as a "referendum on Berlusconi" but the prime minister himself has repeatedly said that the photos are part of a plot by the opposition and "Leftist" newspapers to embarrass him ahead of the poll.huuumm where have I heard this before? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: Lisbon, CDU, Silvio Berlusconi ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 67.34.0.67 URL: DATE: 06/07/2009 09:58:57 PM I met the EU parliament's president last year, Diane whatserface, a Lib Dem from the UK. Nice enough person. Hopefully the rise of the anti-immigrant crazies isn't going to set the European Parliament back. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 06/07/2009 11:31:02 PM Don't forget to mention that the Pirate Party has a seat now! http://af.reuters.com/article/oddlyEnoughNews/idAFTRE55623320090607 ----- -------- AUTHOR: Eric TITLE: The System is Broke for Working Folks BASENAME: the_system_is_broke_for_workin STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/07/2009 10:16:25 PM TAGS: unions ----- BODY:
* 63% of employers interrogate workers in mandatory one-on-one meetings with their supervisors about support for the union; * 54% of employers threaten workers in such meetings; * 57% of employers threaten to close the worksite; * 47% of employers threaten to cut wages and benefits; and * 34% of employers fire workers.Here in Georgia, the Atlanta City Council recently passed a resolution in support of the Employee Free Choice act with Mayoral candidate Mary Norwood avoiding the vote by taking a walk. As the Council President, Lisa Borders does not vote. It should come as no surprise that our Senators are on the front line of protecting the right of corporations to threaten and intimidate their employees, just as long as they are "protected" by being able to vote afterward using a secret ballot I would be remiss if I didn't mention that only two Democratic Congresspeople from Georgia have NOT signed on as co-sponsors for the Employee Free Choice Act, John Barrow and Jim Marshall. Both had sponsored it in the past like Arlen Specter but have chosen not to this time and provided numerous explanations as to why. Thankfully their votes are not needed for passage in the house. Compromise is in the air though, so we may see a vote soon on whatever the wheelers and dealers come up with. Arlen Specter's recent conversion has sparked hope that he will be the 60th vote in the Senate to overcome a filibuster from the Republicans despite his decision to oppose it when he was still a republican, and if not a challenge from Joe Sestak makes it a lot harder for Specter to play hardball with unions if he wants to be competitive as a Democrat in a union heavy state like Pennsylvania. And he now shows signs that he is taking his head out of his ass. Meanwhile, FedEx is throwing a king sized hissy fit over some Teamster supported legislation that would make them play by the same rules as their unionized competitor UPS and give Fed Ex employees a fair shot at joining a union. Since the Roy Barnes announcement came out while I was on vacation I should say that many labor leaders were hoping he would get in the fight and this will no doubt put Georgia on the national radar. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://talkingpointsmemo.com DATE: 06/08/2009 02:00:45 AM Thanks for this Eric, These are some of my comments made in part on TPM Cafe a few months back on this very topic, mainly addressing the 'secret ballot canard:[Revised slightly]: Let's start with some basic history here! 1.) Secret Ballots, the History: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secret_ballot]. They were not applied for general Western civic elections until the 1850's principally in 1 minor state in Australia, but then spreading to most of their states, hence it became known as 'the Australian ballot' system during the 19th century. 2.) It was part of a reform effort in England of the 1850's, but was not instituted there until later, (Ballot Act of 1872). 3.) In the US, it was not until the Close of the 19th century that the 'secret ballot' was regularly used in most American elections. The first President elected wholly with this 'new' balloting system was, naturally, that good Dem Grover Cleveland in 1892. So in summation: As a hypothetical putative Traditional Conservative 'strict constructionist', you will search the language of the Constitution & The Federalist Papers in Vain trying to search for the concept of a 'secret ballot'. It's just not there. The Founders in all their wisdom did not see fit to fool with it. So again for all the crocodile tears shed on behalf of the 'sacred American secret ballot'? We spent the first 100+ years of our history almost in blissful ignorance of its widespread influence or use on our elections! The 2nd argument is more practical and based upon the real evidence on the ground, rather than the mere supposition & airy legal/logical arguments & some RW propaganda repeated here. It's this; Even before the Bush Depression, every year 1000's of workers get laid off & fired for trying to organize their workplaces. They face massive, very well funded & well coordinated campaigns of intimidation, threats and sometimes outright violence to try and prevent Unions from forming in their workplaces. Those are the facts according to any objective labor law source you care to consult. Survey's tell us that better than 1/3 of all union organizers are fired for doing just that, trying to get workers their full rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights & the Constitution. They face campaigns of crass intimidation & constant harassment by private security firms that are now as ever empowered by employers to 'hunt & destroy' any such efforts happening in their plants & stores & shops. Most of this is wholly illegal, but the small fines levied on these corporations and the weak enforcement of all labor laws means that they get away with it. For many corporations, it's just a minor cost of doing business. Today, organizing is a process that can drag on for years or decades even, given the level of threats, intimidation, and immediate job losses. No workplace boss that fights using these well honed & practiced dirty, under handed tactics 'loses' an election. They're rigged by dint of sheer exhaustion & a pervasive climate of fear created by the employers. Time & time again. Such elections are indeed similar to petty tyrants being elected by fraud or mobs of goons in the 'banana republics' of yore, where 'the dear leader' always wins. So the real thugs? If you're down on the working floors, you know who they are. They're the ones who'll dangerously lock you in at night to prevent you from 'escaping' your late night janitorial cleaning job. The ones hiring all the illegals to do the jobs more cheaply than the locals can afford to. The ones killing those same workers in increased workplace accidents due to 'language problems' and safety information never adequately being translated or transmitted into the many foreign tongues now seen on the job. The much vaunted 'sacred secret ballot'? Unknown to the Founders & the Greeks & Romans before them who were their exemplars. Not Mentioned in the Constitution. Not exactly necessary for a robust Democracy. A Right Wing Red Herring. We may feel well & good about it, but me? I want my ballot & vote to be counted accurately too, and we're just not there yet. It too waits for further reforms to our electoral system. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.120.97 URL: DATE: 06/08/2009 11:33:33 AM Welcome Eric! Great first post. You came out of the box swinging! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.13.165 URL: DATE: 06/09/2009 01:42:40 AM Unfortunately EFCA seems to have been punted off the agenda for now by the Dem. leadership. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Eric EMAIL: e_robertson@yahoo.com IP: 65.5.2.131 URL: DATE: 06/09/2009 12:35:33 PM Thats not entirely true. A compromise is in the works with the goal of satifying the DINOs and Specter that will most likely end up severely modifying the "card check" aspect of the bill. We will have to see what comes out of the negotiations. Another big obstacle is that the Dems are down three votes in the Senate (Kennedy,Byrd, and soon to be Senator Franken), So getting through cloture on anything right now is a challenge if you want to maintain any progressive content in any legislation. Any Healthcare legislation will also be subject to the same (hopefully temporary) limitations. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.56 URL: DATE: 06/09/2009 02:29:33 PM Kennedy has returned, I know. As for the DINOs, I think their compromise is making it so that 70% of workers have to sign on to bring the union into force, which is really pathetic. We have some corporate-allied Dems to take down, that's for sure. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Colbert cut BASENAME: colbert_cut STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/08/2009 11:41:34 AM TAGS: colbert,comedycentral ----- BODY:
Sporting a camouflage suit and tie, TV satirist Stephen Colbert got a GI buzz cut from the top commander in Iraq and promptly declared victory in the war. Colbert, taping Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" from Camp Victory in Baghdad, drew roars of laughter Sunday from the uniformed audience when his first guest, Gen. Ray Odierno, accepted a videotaped order from President Obama to shave the comedian's head. Claiming the war must be over because nobody's talking about it anymore, Colbert announced that it was time to "officially declare we won the Iraq war."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.34.27.21 URL: DATE: 06/08/2009 12:34:53 PM Great fun. Glad that someone is talking about it, cause we still have lots of troups there, many who are on their 2nd and 3rd rotations. The soldiers, sailors and airmen who have returned need help too. I wish instead of the insipid coverage of Dancing with the Stars; news orgs would make a serious commitment to providing at least 4 mins each day on the 2 wars we are engaged in. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.209.38 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/08/2009 12:56:25 PM wonder who his tailor is. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.177 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/08/2009 11:55:48 PM This is great! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.13.165 URL: DATE: 06/09/2009 01:36:43 AM If the government plans to keep boys and girls in harms way for no good reason, might as well have the USO and Colbert entertain them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 06/09/2009 09:25:31 PM That was an absolutely brilliant episode. For those of you that missed it: http://www.hulu.com/watch/76566/the-colbert-report-mon-jun-8-2009 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 06/10/2009 10:42:29 PM Part II: http://www.hulu.com/watch/76777/the-colbert-report-tue-jun-9-2009 ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: DTV Transition Questions? BASENAME: dtv_transition_questions STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/08/2009 06:32:20 PM ----- BODY: If you're still puzzled by the transition to digital TV check out the live chat at 11 Alive happening right now! Join the conversation at www.11alive.com! See you there! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: Around the Services... BASENAME: around_the_services_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/08/2009 10:12:17 PM ----- BODY:
Stefan Turkheimer is a founding partner of Turkheimer & Hadden, LLC. Prior to the firm's founding, Stefan was a litigator at one of the preeminent workers compensation insurance defense firms in Georgia. He defended Fortune 500 employers against lawsuits in tort and workers' compensation. He graduated, with honors, from the University of Georgia School of Law in 2004. FULL BIO >>
Malcolm Berkley, a spokesman for UPS, read a statement: "FedEx's apparent attempt to raise the noise level here doesn't change the facts. It would appear that FedEx is preparing to spend millions of dollars trying to convince Congress that a FedEx driver delivering a package is different somehow than a UPS driver delivering a package. The packages aren't delivered by airplane, and we don't think FedEx can fool Congress about that."----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: nicolette EMAIL: IP: 204.152.239.219 URL: DATE: 06/09/2009 04:15:42 PM so....why isnt UPS covered under the RLA? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Eric EMAIL: e_robertson@yahoo.com IP: 65.5.2.131 URL: DATE: 06/09/2009 05:23:05 PM The easiest way to understand it is that FedEx is considered an airline based company that has a ground delivery component and UPS is considered to be a ground delivery operation that has an airline component. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.43.61 URL: DATE: 06/09/2009 11:46:03 PM Eric you're doing great labor reporting keep it up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.101 URL: DATE: 06/10/2009 08:04:08 AM Just one more reason to support UPS. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.19.49.165 URL: DATE: 06/10/2009 09:57:23 AM Frankly, I'm a little shocked to see UPS being touted as "the good guy" in anything labor related. Let's just take a little reality check here. UPS would happily be union-free. The enemy of our enemy is not our friend in this example... The competition garnered by having two strong private delivery companies is good for us. It's good for American business, good for consumers, and good for workers. I would even say that it's been good for the US Postal Service as they are now the "economy" delivery service and are working with Fedex to provide services. I use the services of UPS, Fedex, and USPS every day. Each has it's strengths, each it's weaknesses. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.122.77 URL: DATE: 06/10/2009 02:28:07 PM I personally like USPS. People who always rag on the USPS's efficiency have no idea. A personal representative from the government goes to every address in the country six days a week almost always without fail. If that's not efficient I don't know what is. Fedex and UPS are much smaller, it's natural for them to be sometimes quicker. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 74.176.8.18 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 06/10/2009 03:18:44 PM I find USPS extremely efficient, a lot of if depends on how far your personal P.O. is from the hub, but my own mailbox and the W peachtree P.O. deliver faster than any other service i could pay for. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Eric EMAIL: e_robertson@yahoo.com IP: 74.244.35.26 URL: DATE: 06/10/2009 09:22:24 PM UPS,FedEx, and the USPS are all efficient companies or entities in their own right as far as customer service. From a consumer standpoint, take your pick. But if you care about whether your dollars go insofar as supporting companies that provide good jobs and respect or have been forced to respect their workers to some degree and have accepted it, you have to go with either UPS or the USPS. As far as UPS being the "good guy" in this scenario, they most certainly are in comparison to FedEx. Here some comparisons: UPS has been under a Teamster contract for roughly 50 years and has a contract where ALL the employees pay ZERO for their healthcare, have pensions and receive more than fair wage increases with a UPS Package Car Driver making nearly $29.00 an hour in wages alone. FedEx has ferociously resisted unionization for decades and has constructed extremely controversial employment arrangements including their sweet heart deal that got them put under the RLA and misclassification of it's ground delivery drivers as "independent contractors" which forces the driver to pay for the upkeep of their vehicles, buy their own gas, and helps FedEx save billions by not paying workman's comp or for benefits at all. UPS agreed to be neutral and respect it's employees right to organize after it purchased UPS Freight (formerly Overnite) . FedEx has refused to allow it employees to organize ANYWHERE and wages vicious anti union campaigns. Don't get me wrong, I have to deal with UPS on a day to day level, I help represent UPS workers and my local represents all the UPS workers in the state. They do violate the rights of their workers. The difference is they do business according to a union contract that includes a grievance procedure that gives UPS Teamsters a vehicle to address violations. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Many thanks to Rusty BASENAME: many_thanks_to_rusty STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/10/2009 12:24:37 AM ----- BODY: Local web developer and friend Rusty Tanton has totally hooked us up so now all of the sub-blog entries will stream on to the front page. Frankly, I'm amazed this is working and am holding my breath no one has any problems. If something looks wonky or acts fussy, please report in the comments, or email me directly. Rusty rocks. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Bye Bye Analog TV...Hello Digital BASENAME: bye_bye_analog_tvhello_digital STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/10/2009 10:16:54 AM ----- BODY:
State education officials are investigating whether students, teachers or someone else changed answers on more than 100 standardized tests at four different Georgia elementary schools. Officials said Wednesday that the schools' test scores were improved significantly by the changes, which meant the schools made "adequate yearly progress" under federal standards. If the answers had not been changed, the four schools would not have met No Child Left Behind standards and would have faced penalties under the federal law. The schools had high numbers of erasures on a fifth-grade math Criterion-Referenced Competency Test taken last summer, Kathleen Mathers from the Governor's Office of Student Achievement told the state Board of Education.The four schools in question belong to the Atlanta, Fulton County, DeKalb County, and Glynn County school districts. I honestly think that the bigger issue here is the No Child Left Behind legislation itself and its overemphasis on test scores and numbers, but I digress. I'd love to see education reform and improvement in Georgia addressed in a serious manner, but in the meantime, the discourse doesn't seem to have improved much since Miller. Maybe I'm missing something, but it just seems that the let's-make-our-schools-a-priority meme has fallen off the radar, meanwhile we're greeted with cringeworthy news stories reminding us of our inadequacies. And while we're on the subject, is it too early of a stage in this new Congress and presidential administration to ask our legislators to aggressively push for radical education reform? ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: education ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.135 URL: DATE: 06/11/2009 02:39:56 PM If I am reading this right, Georgia has the worst high school graduation rate in the country except for D.C. Perhaps if the Governor focused more on fixing this it wouldn't cost so much to lure corporations here. http://www.edweek.org/media/ew/dc/2009/33sos_gains.pdf It also looks like the graduation rate went down for 3 out of the 4 years the current Superintendent had been in office up to 2006 (the latest data), steadily downward except for the anomalous 2004-2005. http://www.edweek.org/ew/dc/2009/gradrate_trend.html ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: About Blog for Democracy BASENAME: about_blog_for_democracy STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 0 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/09/2009 03:33:33 AM ----- BODY: Blog for Democracy was launched in January of 2004 as a way to help demystify the process of political involvement for new activists. Originally, this site was an informal, online extension of Georgia for Democracy, but has since taken on a life of its own. Although a few of the original and current authors serve(d) in elected or appointed positions within state and/or county Democratic Party organizations, this website is not, and has never been, affiliated with any political party organization. The political content herein, as well as our core readership, is generally progressive. The views expressed by individual authors do not necessarily represent the views of any group, organization, business or entity with which they may be affiliated or employed. In the Spring of 2009, Blog for Democracy was expanded to include nine departments, in addition to the front page. As part of this expansion, we are now pleased to feature the writings of professional journalists Tom Crawford, Mike Tierney and Eleanor Ringel Cater. In addition, our blog team includes: attorneys, small business owners, IT specialists, a political consultant, a fashion maven, a teacher, a labor leader, and an active duty soldier. You can read more about the authors here, and link up with them via social apps. If you have problems commenting (and this site has a history of comment problems), please email Melanie and she will create a special login for you. It is nothing personal, but a software glitch from the initial installation that we've never been able to completely fix. Speaking of comments, we reserve the right to delete any comment for any reason whatsoever. If this happens to you, you will know it. In place of all or part of your comment will appear [comment deleted by "admin name".] We've had to delete very few comments since 2004, and those were considered spam, hate speech or libelous content. We have also banned a couple of commenters for spreading same. If you're new to blogs, please know the views of commenters are not necessarily representative of the group. Site comments are open, and anyone can sign up and leave a comment. We now accept limited display advertising on all blogs. For size and pricing information, please see the advertise page here. If you have comments, suggestions or concerns about this website, please email Melanie or Catherine. Thank you for visiting Blog for Democracy.org. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: about blog for democracy ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Things would have to be really bad for this to sound good BASENAME: things_would_have_to_be_really STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/11/2009 10:45:34 PM TAGS: iraq,"marika on another adventure" ----- BODY: My friend Marika, whose career path can only be described as meandering, sent the following email today. If by some chance you are interested in working on the Iraqi elections with Marika, and have the qualifications listed below, email me and I'll hook you up. ----- EXTENDED BODY:
Dear Friend: Want to be my co-worker? If you are interested in working on helping the Iraqi election commission educate voters on how to vote/where to vote/why vote etc., and you have a very strong PR background, this might be just the job for you. Upside: Feel good about your contribution to the planet. Virtually no living expenses. Don't pay taxes on first 90K. Downside: Live under virtual house arrest. Work 7 days a week. Night and day. A few hours off per day. No social life. Wear body armor. Live with the same people you work with who are the same people you socialize with who are the same people you...you get the picture. You will have no social life. Trust me. See the job description below. If you get the job and hate working here, don't blame me! You were warned!!! Best, Marika
Public Outreach Specialist-Iraq Location: Iraq Division: Program Management Status: International Full Time Project Description: IFES is providing significant technical assistance to the Iraqi High Electoral Commission (IHEC) and the constitution drafting committee. This assistance will help ensure stronger election systems and the integrity of the constitutional process by increasing the technical capacity of the Commission and constitutional drafting committee and in turn will improve the country's security situation by providing strong and transparent governance. Job Responsibilities: • Key Areas of Responsibility o Advise the Iraqi High Electoral Commission (IHEC) on planning, design and implementation of voter education/public information strategies and campaigns for upcoming electoral projects - governorate, municipal elections, constitutional and Kurdistan referenda and/or other electoral events; o Advise and assist the IHEC in coordination with other organizations involved in the public outreach campaigns, including media, CSO, international donor community and other electoral stakeholders; o Provide advice to the IHEC on institutional design, structure, objectives and areas of responsibilities, particularly of the Public Outreach Division at HQ and GEO levels; o Assist the IHEC in designing a short-term operational plan and timeline for anticipated electoral projects in 2009, as needed; o Review the content, impact and quality of the media outreach products. • Individual/group deliverables o Advise the IHEC on governorate/municipal election public outreach strategy and plan; in coordination with Public Outreach Division management draft a timetable for upcoming electoral events; o Draft and discuss with the IHEC proposals for an optimal Public Outreach Division structure and recruitment of qualified staff, ToRs and areas of responsibility and quality assurance of the division's work; o Assist the IHEC in organizing its archive of past public outreach campaigns. Qualifications: Qualifications: • Bachelor's degree required; Masters degree in a communication/PR/media marketing desirable; • 7+ years experience with 2+ years overseas experience • Demonstrated expertise in the development and implementation of large-scale media and public outreach programs; • Familiarity with political, economic, and social issues in Iraq and the region and ability to work in a post conflict environment with a limited legal and economic infrastructure; • Proven track record with elections or civic education in developing countries; • Proven leadership, staff management, project administration, and financial management skills are required; • Familiarity with the international donor community and USAID; • Arabic language skills preferred; • Fluency in English (oral and written) required; • Strong oral and written communication skills; • Professional, collaborative management approach with the ability to work as a member of a team; • Field experience is necessary for this position and hardship conditions will be experienced.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: iraq, marika on another adventure ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/12/2009 09:29:08 AM Sounds like fun to me... :/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.120.97 URL: DATE: 06/12/2009 09:52:09 AM Go for it IRE! BTW, Marika is a hottie, but probably old enough to be your mother. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/12/2009 10:26:21 AM I'm under-qualified, having never been involved with an election in a developing country... :/ (actually that isn't true, I got some chum from one of the candidates running for President of Guatemala in 07. Also the last night I was there, me and one of my coworkers tried to start a write in campaign for me.) BTW: Age is just a number. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/12/2009 10:45:07 AM Sorry for the threadjack but, this is the 20th year of the Tienanmen Square protests and I watched most of this video last night (it paused on me w/about 15 minutes left) it is nothing short of amazing. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2300254722104314948&hl=en China truly is a despicable country ATM. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.154.120.97 URL: DATE: 06/12/2009 11:44:55 AM No apology needed. That was remarkable. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 72.145.93.18 URL: DATE: 06/12/2009 12:52:40 PM I would amend that to China has a pretty despicable govt ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.207.223 URL: DATE: 06/14/2009 11:32:49 PM Although not everyone in it. A guy in the people's congress was a visiting scholar at UGA for a while and we became good friends. ----- -------- AUTHOR: JasonA TITLE: Teachers: No thanks needed... or coming. BASENAME: techers_no_thanks_needed_or_co STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: richtext ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/12/2009 05:02:55 PM TAGS: CRCT,Education ----- BODY:
The school year is over and we teachers are decompressing... if we can afford to. As for a job well done, well, according to Kathy Cox, we just needed a little focus for success... and it was the administrators who led us there. Or did they???
In other news: It is bad enough that they are just implementing this now, but for middle-schoolers is the punishment still two shame-shames and a no-no? Either way, this tool takes the cake.
----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/diane-ravitch/obama-gives-bush-a-3rd-te_b_215277.html DATE: 06/15/2009 02:23:42 AM Just go ahead & kill NCLB now, instead of playing with all this nonsense! JMP http://www.huffingtonpost.com/diane-ravitch/obama-gives-bush-a-3rd-te_b_215277.html ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Advertise on Blog for Democracy BASENAME: advertise_on_blog_for_democrac STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 0 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/09/2009 03:30:03 AM ----- BODY: We are pleased to offer premium display advertising to fit a variety of budgets and campaigns. Ads may be placed on the front page of Blog for Democracy, on all pages of /poli by Tom Crawford or /sports by Mike Tierney. Advertisers are responsible for providing finished jpeg or gif files in the appropriate size. We reserve the right to refuse any ads for any reason whatsoever. Ads are available in the following three sizes. Email to reserve your ad space today.140x140 RATES One week - $100 Two weeks - $150 Three weeks $200.
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140x440 RATES One week - $300 Two weeks - $350 Three weeks $400. . . . ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: advertise on blog for democracy ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Volunteer with the Center for Civil and Human Rights BASENAME: volunteer_with_the_center_for STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/14/2009 09:50:59 AM TAGS: "center for civil and human rights" ----- BODY:
Center for Civil & Human Rights Volunteer Opportunities June 2009 Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission Town Hall Meeting In December 2009, a consortium of Atlanta-based organizations plan to convene the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission Town Hall meeting to begin a conversation on the unfinished business of Lincoln's presidency in the context of the 21st century. The Town Hall meeting will seek a historical grounding in Civil Rights in the U.S. with an emphasis on the Lincoln Presidency. Special emphasis will be placed on the Civil Rights heritage of the region and the contemporary status of the dream of freedom and equality in the South. Organizers hope that this will be the first of a series of conversations among many partners and imagine a publication coming out of the event, including a list of partners and their projected plans that touch on the themes of the town-hall meeting. Meeting themes include: Lincoln's evolving vision of equality and freedom; the South's religious and leadership traditions as they relate to the modern Civil Rights Movement; and our vision for Civil and Human Rights in the 21st century. Volunteer event planners are needed and one or two volunteers willing to serve as planning committee chairs would be very helpful. Universal Declaration of Human Rights Event Planners Volunteers are needed to both celebrate and promote awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). CCHR will plan several events in December of 2009 to commemorate the 61st anniversary of the development of UDHR. A volunteer planning committee is being assembled and interested volunteers are invited to attend the first planning committee meeting. Launching Human Rights Curriculum Volunteers interested in developing Human Rights Curriculum for use in a k-12 environment are invited to join a planning committee. The project is in the early stages of development. Story Corps An effort is underway to bring StoryCorps to Atlanta and permanently house a recording booth in CCHR. A small group of volunteers interested in preserving family stories and oral traditions are needed to raise excitement and funds to support the effort (the fundraising goal is 200K). This is a joint effort of CCHR, WABE, and the national StoryCorps office. Volunteers are needed for grassroots fundraising, marketing and events. The project team is utilizing two fundraising strategies: (1)"Home-hosted" fundraisers wherein the hosts invite family and friends to swap stories and contribute to the Atlanta StoryCorps booth fund, and (2) "Two Hundred Give or Get," which calls upon 200 Atlantans to either contribute $1000 directly, or raise the amount from friends and family (e.g., 50 friends contributing $20 each). The full launch is slated for late 2009. Most meetings take place at WABE or on the phone. Technologists, Marketers, Writers (and the generally Internet Savvy) --Create a New Blog Affiliated with CCHR! CCHR would like a community of volunteers to work together to create a blog affiliated with the center that explores both historic and current happenings in civil and human rights and regularly posts human rights stories. The goal is to create a clearing house blog (like Huffington Post or Andrew Sullivan's Blog) but specifically for human rights issues. A volunteer leader is needed to serve as the primary project coordinator and to manage additional volunteers to do blog design, marketing and writing. A team of volunteer technologists are needed to design and build the blog itself and integrate the look and feel with the CCHR website. Writers are needed to develop a content strategy and to create blog posts and one could serve as a content manager or editor. Volunteers with online marketing skills are needed to develop the strategy for building a blog community. All volunteers involved with this project will be encouraged to help build a blogging community around this affiliated blog and other similar interest blogs and internet sites. Social Networkers Help keep the CCHR Facebook (twitter, etc.) community engaged by serving as a Facebook page administrator. Post event photos, group notes and events and community wall posts. Help grow the CCHR community by inviting members to invite their friends (and so on!) Volunteers can work virtually, but CCHR would especially appreciate a lead volunteer that can work from the office once per week - even if only for a few hours. No technical expertise is required, CCHR is interested in volunteers who like online sites and want to activate CCHR through them. Marketing, Public Relations & Writing Volunteers Build momentum for CCHR by serving on the volunteer communications team! Volunteers with marketing, public relations and writing experience are needed to support all kinds of projects such as creating newsletters; writing press releases, Op-Eds, speeches and blog posts; and crafting marketing materials for fundraising and events. This is a great opportunity for marketing and PR volunteers to gain experience and build their portfolios. A volunteer project coordinator who will manage the team of communications volunteers is also needed. Meetings will take place at the CCHR office. Plan Small Fundraising Gatherings Volunteer event coordinators are needed to help plan and execute small fundraising gatherings to be held at private homes belonging to CCHR stakeholders. Volunteer event coordinators would help with event logistics such as preparing the guest list, designing and sending invitations, catering, event set up and break down, etc. Festival Table Display Designers & Managers CCHR needs a volunteer designer or design intern to design a table display for the Center to be used at various special events. Additionally, the center is seeking volunteers to serve as display table managers and organizational representatives at various events and to be pro-active about securing a CCHR presence at a diversity of events in the metro area. A list of upcoming events, relevant dates, times & locations will be shared with interested volunteers. Event Photographers Volunteer photographers are needed to photograph CCHR events, board meetings, community gatherings and visits with dignitaries and key stakeholders. The photographs would be used for promotional and marketing materials and would need to be archived for future reference. CCHR would be happy to recognize the photographer where relevant and applicable. Office Volunteers- Knowledge Management Project CCHR needs an intern/volunteer to assist in reorganizing and setting up a well thought out filing system to ensure excellent knowledge management. Volunteer assistance will ensure the creation of knowledge management infrastructure for CCHR that will have an ongoing, long term impact, providing critical access to grant and donor files, and security for sensitive details about every architectural aspect of the building. Volunteers working on this project can make a significant contribution to the organization's capacity to run efficiently and effectively. Office Volunteers- Information Management/ Data Entry CCHR seeks detail oriented volunteers to manage and maintain organizational data collection and storage from various sources. CCHR currently uses the Raiser's Edge database for fundraising data, but also maintains numerous other stakeholder lists in excel spreadsheets. CCHR seeks help in researching a database system that could capture and manage data gained from various sources such as the CCHR website, on-line social networking sites, events and partnerships. The organization has done initial research on NetCommunity, but needs a volunteer or intern to manage a comprehensive process to identify the right tool and then ensure that all organizational information is centrally located and organized. Volunteer support is essential as the staff is quite small, but the enthusiasm for the center and the associated data continues to grow. Internships To learn about marketing, program development, fundraising, civil and human rights partnerships and programs and other experiences associated with developing the center, consider serving as an intern at CCHR. Candidates interested in the internship program must be willing to spend a minimum of 20 hours per week for a minimum of eight weeks working from the CCHR office in Atlanta. For more information and to get involved, please sign up for a Center for Civil & Human Rights Volunteer Orientation Session June 15th, 2009 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Central Atlanta Progress Conference Room, 1st Floor, Hurt Building, Downtown Atlanta June 25th, 2009 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Central Atlanta Progress Conference Room, 1st Floor, Hurt Building, Downtown Atlanta June 29th, 2009 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Central Atlanta Progress Conference Room, 1st Floor, Hurt Building, Downtown Atlanta     If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to Natasha Berry at NBerry@CCHRPartnership.org or by phone at (404) 658-5902.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: center for civil and human rights ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Aristotle v. NGP BASENAME: aristotle_v_ngp STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/14/2009 11:15:48 AM TAGS: aristotle,democrats,lawsuit,ngp ----- BODY:
Misleading Mailers and Website A message from Founder Nathaniel Pearlman When I founded NGP Software in 1997, I was determined to run the company in a principled way: to take good care of our clients; to operate honestly and with integrity; and to charge reasonable fees for the products and services we provide. I was convinced that the Democratic campaigns I cared about were not well served by existing software firms. Indeed, I believe that the success of NGP (which now serves almost 80% of the Democrats in Congress) was made possible because a competing software firm was famous for poor customer service, misleading marketing, and nuisance lawsuits. That other firm, Aristotle, now serves, for the most part, PACs and Republican campaigns (and "adult" web sites with their "Identity" product), as well as a handful of Democrats. Having lost scores of Democratic clients to NGP, they are frustrated and have returned with a vengeance to the misleading advertising and litigious behavior that damaged them in the past. Their strategy, if it can be called a strategy, is to send mailings that claim that NGP is not a Democratic firm, and to sue us because we advertise that we are one. I can honestly tell you that I do not understand their logic, respect their tactics, or admire the way they do business. What sort of firm is NGP? Proudly Democratic. Here are the facts: by any measure, NGP is a Democratic firm. Our software has been used by thousands of Democratic campaigns and exactly zero Republican campaigns. We are pleased to serve many important Democratic entities like the Obama and Clinton campaigns, the DSCC, and the DCCC. NGP is proud to sponsor events, like the upcoming RootsCamp, which build the progressive movement. Our customers also include Democratic leadership PACs and party committees, and progressive non-profits. In addition, a small number of non-partisan PACs use a version of our software. Aristotle has focused on this handful of non-partisan PACs, which they conveniently neglect to mention gave a majority of their contributions to Democrats this past cycle, in order to pretend outrage about what Aristotle claims is NGP's impurity. We have filed a counter-suit against Aristotle, on which we hope to prevail, for their false and misleading advertising, and we believe that we will prevail in the lawsuit that they filed against us (some of the original claims have already been dropped). We can make this promise: that we will continue to operate according to our principles and that we will continue to strive to provide you with the best software and services possible. We appreciate all the kind notes and support we have received on this matter. If you have any questions, please feel free to either contact me or NGP's President Stu Trevelyan directly. Thanks, Nathaniel----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ngp, aristotle, lawsuit, democrats ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: The 14,000th post about comments BASENAME: the_14000th_post_about_comment STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/14/2009 06:27:28 PM TAGS: "comment problems" ----- BODY:
U.S. Government Asks Twitter to Stay Up for #IranElection Crisis A short while from now, Twitter (Twitter) will go down for maintenance due to extraordinary circumstances: The #IranElection Controversy. Originally scheduled to perform maintenance last night, the work was moved to 2 PM PT today so that Iranians could tweet about the crisis. With members of the media kicked out of Iranian cities, millions joining in on protests, and violence erupting all across the turmoiled state, Iranians have been turning to Twitter, YouTube (YouTube), Flickr (Flickr), and other social tools to get the word out about what’s happening on the ground. Well, it looks like Twitter may have had someone pushing for it not to go down last night, during peak Iranian hours: the U.S. State Department According to a CNN blog post, the U.S. government is connecting with Twitter and other major social media companies to make sure that the flow of information from Iran remains uninterrupted. While the Obama administration itself keeping out of the Iran controversy on official channels, it is making sure that information coming from people on the ground is getting through to the rest of the world. The biggest revelation is that the State Department asked Twitter not to go down at its original time last night in order to allow Iranians to tweet out what’s happening in their cities. It also seems that U.S. officials are watching the chatter on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook (Facebook), and elsewhere to keep up-to-speed with the situation on the ground. Social media communication is even more important, since the U.S. has no embassy or official relationship with Iran.----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.223.77.181 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 04:45:47 PM Wow, that's a bad leak from the State Department. I can't imagine they want to be seen as working at cross-purposes with the government over there right now, and ratcheting up the stakes for the Tweeters in the process. Hillary might need to fire somebody. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 10:17:49 PM If I watched the footage correctly, police open fire on demonstrators after they set fire to a building. Whether the demonstrators are right or not, they should've start setting fires to things and not expect to be fired on. They have to choose their tactics well. And I hope everyone who's getting involved with this does so out of concern for electoral fairness, not in some bid to try to make Mousavi some kind of hero. The guy's much worse than Ahmadenijad when it comes to repression, unless we're allowed to wipe his slate blank. The 1979 revolution is seen in a very positive light in the mind's of most Iranians, the best thing we can possibly hope for is that Iranians see it as analogous to that one if you want more people taking part in it. Not an American diktat when they overthrew Washington's little poodle. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 10:20:05 PM And what's the stuff about Iran being a Weimar Republic? They're going to go tramping all over the world with their army now? That's fresh. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT DATE: 06/16/2009 10:32:23 PM The END of the Wiemar Republic you idiot Z. Google it. Wiki it. Learn something for a change, Hmm? One scenario is a carefully crafted coup. But time will tell. And this nonsense? "The 1979 revolution is seen in a very positive light in the mind's of most Iranians". Has not been true for a generation. Ask some ex-pats too. Geez, what a maroon! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 10:42:39 PM "The END of the Wiemar Republic you idiot Z" You mean the rise of Naziism? And post-1979 Iran was imposed by the Western powers? What in the world are you even talking about? Sorry, this analogy makes so little sense that I'm completely unable to follow. You called me an idiot, though. That'll help! "And this nonsense? "The 1979 revolution is seen in a very positive light in the mind's of most Iranians". Has not been true for a generation. Ask some ex-pats too." Ex-pats =/= Iranian public. Expatriate communities, whether they be Jewish, Armenian, Cuban, Persian, whatever, are always more extreme in their views about the area they fled. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 10:45:09 PM To add this to the discussion, I think Obama's being remarkably smart by not openly or publicly trying to take sides in the Iranian dispute. The second he sounded partisan in their election it would be the end of all the student movement. It's the smartest foreign policy decision I've seen out of a US president in generations. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 11:03:08 PM If anyone wants to do some reading on the historical parallels between '79 and now I just thought of the fact that I actually have some of the best reporting of the time with me. Robert Fisk's The Great War for Civilisation the Conquest of the MIddle East has his dispatches as one of two western journalists who was in Tehran during the revolution. Reading back through it's a fascinating experience. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 02:03:21 AM Yes leave it to Z, the self proclaimed 'UGA Liberal' to defend one of the most brutally repressive & deadly regimes in the entire ME & SW Asia: "If I watched the footage correctly, police open fire on demonstrators after they set fire to a building. Whether the demonstrators are right or not, they should've start setting fires to things and not expect to be fired on. They have to choose their tactics well." Yes, well thank you for issuing your very useful pronouncements on how, when & why to protest tyranny. They might well ask: "Any more suggestions your excellency on how we might better suffer oppression but only with your grace & approval?" Yeah that's the ticket. The Liberal way, right? And a coup is not so far fetched an idea: (This from the Huffington Post) http://www.huffingtonpost.com/omid-memarian/a-coup-manual-what-we-sho_b_216461.html And asking some ex-pats is not the only thing I was suggesting. It's a start. Listening to the ongoing terror via first hand reporting might help too. And again, we're a generation or more distant from the glorious revolution you seem to want to revere. Nice touch. It may have done many things. But for the most part, most Iranians are not seemingly happy about how it all came out. As well they might not, give the monstrosities & cruelties that the brutal theocratic autocrats have unleashed. And now it looks, smells & tastes like tyranny, and you want to grade the protests and issue demerits for how they behave? That's rich. Somehow, they always have it coming when the State shoots them down in the streets for assembling & protesting, right? That's the good liberal! Yeah, I can see you cheering on Stalin's Show Trials too. (But they were traitors to the Glorious 1917 Revolution!) It is ever thus with Tyrants. And those that seek to apologize for them. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sblgeomatics EMAIL: IP: 121.247.174.102 URL: http://www.sblgis.com/photogrammetry_services.aspx DATE: 06/17/2009 07:51:12 AM Thanks for sharing.. regards Photogrammetry mapping ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.170.237 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 01:40:17 PM "Yes leave it to Z, the self proclaimed 'UGA Liberal' to defend one of the most brutally repressive & deadly regimes in the entire ME & SW Asia" Please stop talking before you embarrass yourself further. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.170.237 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 02:59:26 PM For anyone who actually cares about the topic and doesn't want to just call me an idiot and compare Iran to the rise of Nazi Germany, Juan Cole has an excellent dispatch his academic friend in Iran sent him: (http://www.juancole.com/2009/06/we-dont-have-mousavi-supporters-its-now.html) "Today, under slate skies and despite official warnings that the permit to march had been denied, against rumors that orders had been given to shoot to kill, they came. They came by the tens if not hundreds of thousands, marching east to west along the many kilometers of Enqelab Street to Azadi, or Freedom Square. "It would be dishonorable, na mardi, to not go," a young couple explained. "We have to go." Another man asks who is going, what is going on? He is told that the "Mousavi-chiha" are marching starting at 4. He laughs, "Mousavi-chiha nadarim, hame ye Iran hastand!" We don't have Mousavi supporters, it's now all of Iran... That they came to Azadi, a place where thirty years ago the Revolution pivoted towards victory was fitting, for as much as the election campaign had been about who best represented the revolutionary values of Iran, Islam, and the late Imam, the push and pull of the past few days between opposition and Ahmadinejad forces has been a struggle to lay claim to authenticity. Authenticity that lies in the imagined and lived past, places, and practices of the Islamic Republic. It is as if whomever can get to the important places and rituals first and stay there, hang onto them, will win. So at night, beginning at 9 pm, we hear shouts of "Allah Akbar!" from the rooftops, just like in the fall and winter of 1978-1979. We have marches to sacred spots like Azadi and appeals by all sides to the memory of Khomeini..." As you can see, '79 is still an extremely revered event amongst the Iranian public, and I'm glad this isn't about Mousavi (who is a worse thug than Ahmadenijad by any measure) and more about renewing Iran. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 09:28:49 PM We're just so happy that you're reading Z. Now understanding what you read? Well, that might have to come with some more schooling. We guess. But Juan Cole is not a bad place to start. Now tell us how he too reveres the Glorious (TM) 1979 Revolution! Again, I've never made any brief for Mousavi. But you? Keep on telling us about The Glorious Revolution, and how 'revered' it is & will always be by The People! Yeah, and you're not sounding like any common ancient anti-Castro Cuban in the bars of Miami either. Now again, just how should they protest Oh Captain? Geesh. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.81 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 10:43:54 PM I did not say anything about a Glorious Revolution. You are completely unhinged and incapable of dispassionate analysis. Mousavi just called for "Days of Mourning." Let's ask ourselves -- where does that have historical signficance? They used that in '79. Which is of course appropriate, given that both the major contenders here are revolutionary figures of 1979, and their various debates were fraught with positive references to the revolution. Stop trying to impose your beliefs and worldview on Iran's people, and quit this bullshit of anytime someone disagrees with you on a foreign policy issue, they're a Taliban apologist or theocratic supporter, so on and so forth (like you did before on my opposition to Obama's Afpak policy, hilariously, because you obviously know nothing about my family). It's making you look like a fool. Not that you need any help there. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.81 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 10:50:47 PM "Now again, just how should they protest Oh Captain? Geesh. JMP" If they burn stuff, they give the government a reason to shoot at them. When you're protesting, you want to make the people as sympathetic as possible to you and make the government look as unreasonable as possible. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: You Don't Say? BASENAME: you_dont_say STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/16/2009 09:51:04 AM ----- BODY: Khalid Sheik Mohammed, so-called mastermind of 9/11, says he lied to make the
Mohammed made the assertion during hearings at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where he was transferred in 2006after being held at secret CIA sites since his capture in 2003. "I make up stories," Mohammed said, describing in broken English an interrogation probably administered by the CIA concerning the whereabouts of Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. "Where is he? I don't know. Then, he torture me," Mohammed said of his interrogator. "Then I said, 'Yes, he is in this area.' "Los Angeles Times Now who could have possibly predicted that? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.210.50 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/16/2009 11:10:52 AM WHile I have no doubt that many people do in fact lie to stop torture (and it is one of the many reasons I am vehemently opposed to torture), let's not just accept this prima facie. He has incentive to lie here and potentially stop the torture. That is all. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/16/2009 12:49:46 PM Isn't that a bit of circular logic, IRE? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.223.77.181 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 01:43:42 PM Cheney having his reputation and his legacy destroyed before his eyes must be torture to him. Maybe that's why he lies all the time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.77 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/16/2009 03:57:07 PM No. There is plenty of reason to believe Khalid is lying. If that's not readily obvious, I'm sorry. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.170.237 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 01:04:51 PM "No. There is plenty of reason to believe Khalid is lying. If that's not readily obvious, I'm sorry." Isn't the fact then that he lied either way, thus not really trustworthy to begin with, then? KSM was not talking to the press, he was talking to the military several years ago if you look at the sourcing of the article and not just think that he came out and said this recently. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: The Maximum Effective Range of an Excuse BASENAME: the_maximum_effective_range_of STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/16/2009 07:51:14 PM ----- BODY:
James Pietrangelo II, the former Army infantryman and lawyer whose case the high court declined to review, reserved most of his ire for President Obama instead of the court. "He's a coward, a bigot and a pathological liar," Pietrangelo said in an interview with TIME shortly after the high court declined to hear his appeal. "This is a guy who spent more time picking out his dog, Bo, and playing with him on the White House lawn than he has working for equality for gay people," he added. "If there were millions of black people as second-class citizens, or millions of Jews or Irish, he would have acted immediately" upon taking office to begin working to lift "Don't ask, don't tell." Pietrangelo fought in Iraq in 1991 as an infantryman, and returned as a JAG officer for the second Iraq War, before being booted out in 2004 for declaring he was gay as he was readying for a third combat tour. He was representing himself before the high court.Don't Ask, Don't Tell, a policy put into effect by Democrats bullied by culture warriors a decade and a half ago, has the potential to be ended by new generation of blue-bloods that control both the White House and Congress. So why hasn't the policy been ended? From ThinkProgress:
The Obama administration has repeatedly resisted calls to suspend DADT by executive order. White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs last month said that President Obama is looking for a "durable legislative solution," and Obama himself has written that repeal of the policy "needs Congressional action." Many LGBT bloggers immediately criticized Reid's comments, saying that Obama and Congress were "playing hot potato over DADT."So the Administration doesn't want to touch it. Congress doesn't want to touch it. In the meantime, gay and lesbian Soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines are left by the wayside. Even worse, they flat out are not allowed to contribute to the processes that help keep our warfighters safe abroad and our civilians safe at home. Honestly, what is the most we have to lose by committing to ending the policy? Are we afraid of the right-wing culture warriors that will retread their same unfounded talking points about unit cohesion and family values that they've had since the 90s? Do we honestly hope to change their minds on the issue? The vast majority of Americans support ending the policy, including most conservatives. Meanwhile, the President continues to maintain a strong approval rating and Democrats are poised to retain control of the House and Senate in the coming election cycle. Granted, the President and Congress have a lot on the plate right now, but it hasn't stopped them from putting forth and encouraging other massive national initiatives that have significantly less public support. I don't mean to go on a tangent, but a similar argument about unit cohesion was made in the days of Jim Crow America. But on July 26, 1948, another Democratic president had the audacity (dare I say, cojones) to issue an executive order which effectively ended segregation in the armed forces. Upon issuing Executive Order 9981, President Truman declared:
"It is hereby declared to be the policy of the President that there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion or national origin. This policy shall be put into effect as rapidly as possible, having due regard to the time required to effectuate any necessary changes without impairing efficiency or morale."The changes that came about from that order by no means happened overnight. In fact, segregated units still operated through the end of the Korean War. But it certainly got the ball rolling enough that men like Colin Powell, Benjamin Davis, and Kip Ward could commission as officers, meritoriously lead mostly white Soldiers in combat, and eventually become some of the highest ranking military officers in the land. And granted, ending Don't Ask, Don't Tell won't suddenly make the military a gay-friendly institution, but it's a step forward. The more we lose strong Soldiers like Lt. Dan Choi or Cpt. James Pietrangelo, the more we handicap ourselves in this fight. It's not like we can really afford to let them go. My point in all of this is Dems have more to lose than to gain by stonewalling this. The planets are aligned and now is the time to act. We've done a great job so far guiding this ship, let's not ruin the momentum. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 10:14:25 PM How did they do a great job so far guiding the ship? DOMA and DADT were Clinton darlings. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: jasondozier@gmail.com IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 10:19:20 PM Was referring to this administration and this Congress. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 10:22:36 PM I got chided pretty harshly for being "tolerant of homophobia and sexism" because I pointed out that issues like this are often realpolitik fodder for the Democrats, but I'll say on this one -- DADT is opposed by like 3/4 of the public -- the Democrats are being pathetic, and maybe even a little moreso than usual. They have no excuse for dragging their feet on an issue where the supermajority of the public agrees with them. It's cowardly bigotry at its best. They could do this tomorrow if they wanted with little political fallout. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/16/2009 10:31:27 PM And what's with this whole thing of having too much on the table? Get a couple of their lobbyist friends and write legislation that repeals DADT and then get some Congressman who's not a coward or fool (Kucinich comes to mind) and make it a privileged resolution, which brings it to the floor as an up or down vote. Tada! I might be being flippant, but I share my blog with half a dozen gay men who are pretty pissed off that the government's still treating them this way in 2009. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: http://FT.com DATE: 06/16/2009 11:31:57 PM Yep. DADT was silly & stupid, and if you were not around at the time (or politically unaware, which probably means most of Z's compatriots), you've got little idea of what went down & why. All this happened Even Before Clinton took office. The right wing forces were calling for impeachment due to his 'acceptance' of such 'barbarism'. And the youngsters among you can snicker & titter at all of this, but it was real and it was & remains quite dangerous. Yes, people were on the radio openly talking about assassination to 'save the soul of our nation'. All day. Everyday. On MOST of the channels of the AM radio dial. With NO Net to 'back them up'. There was NO effective way to counter the message of pure hatred. The overwhelming message from ALL & EVERY media outlet (including most of the MSM) was 'well everyone hates gays, it's against most religions, hence we've got to do something to prevent it!' When they were not shouting that, the haters were allowed to go on TV anytime they wanted to make their points. Very little real or unbiased information survived such an onslaught. And oh, BTW? Without the Net? Obama would not have either. Even today. That's the power of the media. So it was seen as a 'temporary fix' that could (and might have been) more flexibly administered than what actually happened, due to several circumstances of history. And folks? History is your guide here. Once again. Who & what was the most powerful Democratic coalition in memory? The Great FDR coalition & Congresses. They got plenty done to save us from the further ravages of the Great Depression, saved the world from fascism on the march, and instituted the Cold War in order to contain expansionist Communism. The defeated tyranny abroad, expanded the middle class at home, and created the modern economy that we still enjoy & feed from. But I'll tell you what they did not & somehow could not do. At the height of the most disastrous world war we've ever known, (WW11), they did not, and could not accept more than a few token Jewish refugees to save them from extermination in Europe. Not much more than a few spare 100's as a matter of fact. Forget Gitmo. The foreign terrorists on our shores? We housed more than 500K German & Italian prisoners of war in this country. They were often seen in the Southern fields tending & harvesting crops, and were allowed to sit down in places that Jim Crow laws excluded blacks from. Including movie houses & concert venues. We treated them so well that 1000's of them actually re-settled in our country, so magnanimous was our treatment of them. By contrast FDR had plenty of opportunities to advance the cause of 'resettlement of refugees' from Hitler's Europe, but very little was done, at least at home. Star refugees like the wave of German physicists who came right before the war would help build our Atomic bomb and more scientific endeavors. Almost all had to leave some family behind due to tragic 'restrictions' on immigration that would remain in place for some decades yet. And this was FDR at the very height of his considerable & newly expansive war powers. It never got any better than that. And he was unwilling & unable to extend this humanitarian impulse to much of anyone who might be a war refugee. Unless they too might prove very useful to the war effort. Some said this was due to the strong anti-immigration sentiment in the country, as well as xenophobia & worse. Public opinion was evidently needed & reserved for the 'more important' war efforts. Still, vast coalitions of Jews & Gentiles begged FDR to 'let in the Jews' who were later gassed by the millions in death camps. After all the fine entreaties? He barely budged, and by almost the end of the war some token spare 2-300 or so were resettled in the US. Example 2. FDR Never signed and his Congress never allowed to the floor an anti-lynching Bill, even though it was regularly introduced into almost every Congress in the 1940's. Again the most powerful & numerous Democratic coalition there ever was, and they were unable to even get it to the floor in the Senate, due to the old Southern moss back racists that FDR needed in his coalition to move legislation that he needed to save the economy & to win the war. Despite the atrocities that were happening sometimes weekly in much of the South, with 'extra-legal' murder of blacks for almost any imaginable reason at all. The Rule of the Lynch (mobs) would reign supreme until the FBI was formally tasked with investigating racial killings some 25 years hence. They would be mostly ineffectual at this until they were officially backed by a DoJ that actually understood the problem, and insisted on an end to widespread racial violence, especially Polling related racial violence. That only came with the Civil Rights Acts or Voting Rights Acts 1964&5. And Hoover's death in 1972. Now? The USSC may well overturn that landmark legislation possibly this week. So lest we imagine that if we whine & pout & shout that things will be done in a thrice, but more realistically effective Coalitions need to be built and tended to advance this position & cause. We all know that it's an important issue for many. And issue of freedom & justice to be certain. But other than your curses, complaints & all that valuable precious & precocious whining, what do you bring to the table? Why should your priorities be acted on more quickly than say, health care for all which has been waiting also some 60 years for fruition? How about fixing & righting a deeply troubled economy? Where does that rank? It's been a bit over 5 months. Everyone wants their own sparkly magic to be applied to their lives. I know it's injustice, and it hurts and continues to be harmful to many. The Asian War internees (also tragically done by FDR & agreed to by a USSC) waited some 40 years for their piece of justice. many died without seeing it. Some other smaller groups of internees were never officially acknowledged. There are vast stretches of territory and humanity suffering & lost due & during the 2nd WW, many have never been acknowledged, accepted, or made right. Wish that we might that all the wrongs of the world can easily, quickly & effectively addressed. They can not. They will not. So yeah, whining is a part of it. But so is recognizing that you need to actually stand up and Do politics to get it all done too. Everything noble, just & true just does not fall into your lap fully assembled and ready to use. It has to be designed & built. There's unfortunately more to politics & activism than just demanding your rights. That's just the start. And yeah, sorry for the length. I'm not certain anyone might read it. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.212 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 12:47:00 AM Once again, JMP sees someone with a (D) next to their name being criticized and goes off on an irrational and long-winded rant about nothing :( Coalition to oppose DADT? This isn't exactly a complicated issue and country is overwhelmingly against it, stop being a bullshit apologist ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 01:32:50 AM Once again, you make an intelligent argument appealing to history, the history of bigotry & hatred, the politics of same and the difficulty of overcoming all of these serious impediments, and we get more childish name calling. From our resident 'UGA Liberal'. Yeah. SSDD. Once again Z, if they were actually handing our degrees for merit, intelligence or rigor of your thought or arguments? You'd be waiting a very long time indeed. How & why did Truman issue his EO on discrimination in the Armed Forces? Well as a matter of fact it was a concerted campaign from many quarters, but especially from black Veterans of the First WW, who wanted to go & fight in the new war for their country. Seeing the futility of lobbying FDR on the issue, they successfully lobbied Eleanor Roosevelt to get the Tuskegee Airmen trained & fighting by the end of the war. It was quite a vociferous effort, with many, many lobbying hours & years spent. Working. Hard. To convince other people & to 'give the Negro a fighting chance to fight the Nazi's'. It took awhile. So did effective integration in the Army. Units were still having plenty of trouble in 'Nam with the concept too. Some 20 years later. DADT? The numbers only very recently have actually turned in favor of tolerance & humanity. But nothing is too complicated for those ever clever UGA Libs like Z. Glad to hear that you're catching up on some reading Z. Reading is fundamental. If you keep the mental part that may help some too. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.219.137.125 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 08:33:07 AM Good lord. Why don't you guys get a room. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/17/2009 09:07:36 AM I was thinking that EXACT thing Catherine! That proves we are great minds b/c we think alike! Seriously though, if y'all gonna piss all over each other at least be entertaining. Shorter posts help with that, otherwise we aren't going to read the insults. Also a sockpuppet or two couldn't hurt. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/17/2009 01:24:24 PM Brevity is the soul of the flame ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.170.237 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 02:07:37 PM I post like 2 sentences and he gets set off talking about Truman and Gentiles and God knows what. It's great. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.174.242 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 03:47:15 PM According to Sen. Reid they have no co-sponsors for the bill to repeal DODT. Obama has said- pretty much all during the campaign that he won't use an exce order like was used by Truman. I'm not going to weigh in on my opinion about this, ENDA, DOMA, Hate Crimes et al till after I hear from all the same groups that are attacking the admin that they will be joining me in DC on Oct 11th at the Equality March on Washington. Right now all HRC and others are using this for is fundraising, sigh, again. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.211.170.237 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 03:54:46 PM I don't think the march is a good idea, tactically. Having been in a ton of marches on DC in the past few years, I'd say how marginalized they are by the media, it's a better idea to take those resources and lobby locally, write op-eds, have smaller actions and rallies, and really do that sort of focused stuff. Reid will go down as least effective Senator Majority Leader ever btw. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.137.125 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 03:55:08 PM Just for clarification: The U.S. did accept more than 100,000 Jewish immigrants between 1938 and 1939. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.174.242 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 04:14:52 PM I'm not marching for the media Zaid. I'm marching in solidarity with a community of people who want congress and the president to act and we will be a visible reminder of their inaction. A march isn't "instead of" something, it's in addition to all of the other activities and it's also a way for communities of all types to participate together. I've heard the dis on the march plenty-but I'm still going. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.207 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/17/2009 04:27:32 PM Cleve Jones was saying (something to the effect of) the difference between today's rallies and the ones done in the 60s etc was that there was a sh&t ton of organizing that went into earlier ones. He was pretty outspoken about not partaking in these rallies. And you want to talk about useless, it begins and ends with HRC. All they've ever done is raise money, support HRC (the woman), and keep HRC afloat. If reid is the most ineffective majority leader, so what. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 04:49:11 PM Needs citation Jerry. Thanks. There's plenty of difference between yes, 'Jewish Immigrants' (however classed) and war refugees, specifically from Germany or occupied territories. But yeah, make an appeal to history using historical analogies to try and bolster your point for advancing civil rights today? And the clear hazard may be that someone takes you seriously, and wants to examine said history critically. And the clear and present horrors that someone may have more than 800 words to say on the topic. Of course water boarding would be easier. Or quicker certainly. Given the title of the post? I call upon the tall dapper ghost of A. Philip Randolph of the BSCP to tell the tale. He wanted a March on Washington also during FDR's time to protest discrimination & for Civil Rights in 1941. The now famous Civil Rights March on Washington, featuring MLK only later came about in 1963, again over the protests of another Democratic Prez worried about civil unrest. So again, 'The Maximum Effective Range of an Excuse'? Can easily be 20 years. That's what I'm saying. Mostly. In under 200 words, and none of them too big. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brotherhood_of_Sleeping_Car_Porters JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.137.125 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 05:00:47 PM http://tinyurl.com/mmbs8f "About 85,000 Jewish refugees (out of 120,000 Jewish emigrants) reached the United States between March 1938 and September 1939..." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 05:17:56 PM Thanks Jerry, http://www.ushmm.org/wlc/article.php?ModuleId=10005139 Again, as the citation shows this was wholly inadequate for the need & demand for asylum (as ever), and again we're not exactly talking of the war refugee issue which was happening urgently after 1940. The St. Louis (1939 refugee ship) crisis is also telling here as well. And FDR was unmoved, and refused to allow the legal immigration of 900 Jewish refugees, 254 who would go on later to die at Hitler's hands. But this is well into the weeds for most. Suffice it to say that for various reasons, it took a very long time to successfully work on either Civil & Voting Rights. Some of which took well over 100 years to come to fruition. Even when lives were at stake. This is what history tells us. Accomplishing civil rights politically is neither easy, nor short. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.33.101 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 05:35:49 PM "I'm not marching for the media Zaid. I'm marching in solidarity with a community of people who want congress and the president to act and we will be a visible reminder of their inaction. A march isn't "instead of" something, it's in addition to all of the other activities and it's also a way for communities of all types to participate together. I've heard the dis on the march plenty-but I'm still going." We don't have unlimited resources and time, if that stuff's better spent elsewhere for the cause, than so be it I say. If you really care about something you need to do the most effective thing you can to get there. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.33.101 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 05:38:14 PM "This is what history tells us. Accomplishing civil rights politically is neither easy, nor short. JMP" This one's pathetically easy (DADT) and should not be compared to the stuff you were mentioning, if you're talking about political easiness and time. I'm not sure if this analogy you're drawing or the Weimar one on the Iran thread is more farfetched. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.174.242 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 06:29:19 PM Zaid, I really don't think it's "pathetically easy". But far be for me to disagree with you. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 06:35:36 PM Yeah, I'm also betting that you'd not see the particular urgency of ridding the police of the sorts that actually led and participated in lynchings either. That sounds pretty self evident, right? But sure. We imagine that now that public opinion has actually swung positively that repealing DADT might be relatively easy. But again that requires legislation now, not just an EO. Which means it has to get in line in Congress. Behind the Dozens of Obama nominees still being held up for one particular Repug pique or another. Probably behind the huge health care push too, and the new financial reform legislation. Which of course appalls all the activists who don't see why this might not be done by Fri afternoon for a signing by Monday eve. I was actually waiting for something equally as petulant coming out from David Mixner too, and he does not disappoint. Now, think back. Not too far back mind you. To the great liberal Hollywood oasis. Filled to the brim with 'The Gay'. Wonderful writers, TV producers, filmmakers, comedy mavens, scads of smart, inventive, creative Hollywood types. And yet still in one of the most Liberal states of the Union? Tell us how the late but oh so miserable Prop 8 fared in yes, the 'fairy Homeland' (forgive me)!? Defeated. Ignominiously too by one of the most inept misbegotten & disorganized political campaigns ever seen. Again in CA. It was like watching Dick Nixon beating up the 'Pink lady' once again. Just disgracefully rotten. Yeah it's all so easy. But only in retrospect, and by the unknowing. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.33.101 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 07:00:48 PM "Zaid, I really don't think it's "pathetically easy". But far be for me to disagree with you." Executive order or up-or-down vote in Congress. It's not like you're crafting some complicated piece of legislation. It's basically pulling the lever on something the re's little opposition to. If Obama can spend all this time using his DOJ to defend DADT or to cover up for Bush's torture, I'm sure he can find the time to do this. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.33.101 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 07:15:24 PM And by the way, every time another intelligence official -- like the 22 arabic translators who've been fired -- has to resign because they're gay, the people standing in the way of ending DADT are endangering our national security, too. But it's OK, the gays can wait. It's not like their real human beings or anything, k. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.33.101 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 07:37:53 PM "But sure. We imagine that now that public opinion has actually swung positively that repealing DADT might be relatively easy. But again that requires legislation now, not just an EO. Which means it has to get in line in Congress. Behind the Dozens of Obama nominees still being held up for one particular Repug pique or another. Probably behind the huge health care push too, and the new financial reform legislation." It can be done with an executive order. People in Congress have said that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 08:32:11 PM Umm, No it can not be done with an EO because this is now Congressional legislation that needs to be overturned. The Prez is not a King. No matter how much the prior one imagined himself to be. And I'll bring back something I said at the top of this string: "So lest we imagine that if we whine & pout & shout that things will be done in a thrice, but more realistically effective Coalitions need to be built and tended to advance this position & cause. We all know that it's an important issue for many. And issue of freedom & justice to be certain. But other than your curses, complaints & all that valuable precious & precocious whining, what do you bring to the table? Why should your priorities be acted on more quickly than say, health care for all which has been waiting also some 60 years for fruition? How about fixing & righting a deeply troubled economy? Where does that rank?" Let's quantify that shall we? Just for those still in school. When the NAS last studied the issue, and being un & under insured kills an estimated ~20K+ people a year, and sickens & injures at least 100K more. On the relative sliding scale of 'needs urgent attention, Now' thru 'an historic injustice that needs to be righted & corrected', to say 'joblessness now at Great Depression levels in many places' where should we place 'correcting DADT'? And Why? And certainly, why now? As deliciously provocative and certainly as fitfully comely as all the petulant protests have been, can you beat up the man trying to save all those lives? Be they ever as unworthy of attention as your own? To ask that is the start of understanding here. Sure 'attention must be paid'. But everything has it's cost in time & energy expended. Shouting down everyone who might want to mention that, even if they're allies, well it must be very satisfying I guess. But getting it all done? No one seems to ever be around to listen, learn or hear how that might be done either. The shouting is always more attractive somehow. Sadly. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: jasondozier@gmail.com IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 08:52:52 PM JMP, you are correct that the president can not repeal DADT via EO, however he can he suspend it's implementation which has the same effect. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.81 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 09:09:56 PM Senator Reid when asked why he wasn't doing it said Obama could do it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.81 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 09:12:34 PM Instead of Democrats pointing fingers at eachother claiming that it's everyone else's responsibility to act, they should just act themselves in every capacity they have. Their cowardice harms our national security. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.207 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/17/2009 09:12:45 PM "Senator Reid when asked why he wasn't doing it said Obama could do it." THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!!!!!!!!!! Seriously though, all y'all are wrong. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.81 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 09:26:24 PM Maybe we are all wrong. But Obama's DOJ is even rubbing salt in the wounds here, not just being callous and indifferent. http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/06/17/frank-slams-obama-for-big-mistake-on-defense-of-marriage-act/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.19.29.230 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 09:56:02 PM Seriously Z, you are now quoting Barney? Whatever- Barney who for 20 years threw trans people under the bus is now an authority on equality.. give me a break. I wish you could have seen his sorry ass explanation on black wednesday- October 2007 with ENDA. Phulez. No one said that gays were anything less than human-you took it there. What some of us have been pointing out is the "politics" of this issue isn't that simple. I've been fighting the LBGT fight a very along time, and frankly before it was a "equality" fight. I'm not under any allusions that it will be solved by 1 man. It will take more years and many more discussions before folks are comfortable with these issues. If folks thought they were electing the "gay" issue guy they were not listening at all to what he was saying. Either that or they were only hearing what they wanted to. They should have been voting for the Green party then. They have an actual party plank. What a whole lot of folks in the community need to understand is they and their spokespeople haven't been doing all they could either. Just look at the mess that was Prop8. Zero for them to be proud of in that mess. To that end, Obama has done more for equality than many within the community black tie functions etc. If they really were at the table, why isn't we're not asking for their proof of performance? Whiny ass Joe S. geesh and I though all that money was for his vaulted "access". Don't get me started. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.81 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 10:34:10 PM "No one said that gays were anything less than human-you took it there." I'm just pointing out your hypocrisy. I said marriage rights were going to be realpolitiked out and people jumped on me as "tolerant" of "homophobia." Now Obama and his Admin. and the rest of the Dems are dragging their feet like hell on gay rights issues and their defenders are tripping over themselves to yell, "No more! LEAVE OBAMA ALONE!" Can't have it both ways. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.81 URL: DATE: 06/17/2009 10:53:24 PM "I've been fighting the LBGT fight a very along time, and frankly before it was a "equality" fight. I'm not under any allusions that it will be solved by 1 man." I didn't say it would be solved by 1 man. I said he could effectively end DADT tomorrow, which is 100% true. And every day that he doesn't do it he's being a bigot and hurting our national security, too. If you are going to go easy on him don't expect him to do anything for you. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.207.80 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 06/18/2009 12:13:31 AM I wish I'd started a pool ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.37.102 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 12:35:27 AM Zaid.. you pick the location and we can chat! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.81 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 12:55:43 AM Maybe we should. We seem to be on the same page but need to iron out a few details. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.105 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/18/2009 01:09:47 AM Word. I'm with grift. Word. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.34.210 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 07:46:58 AM My guess is that there is a "culture" in the military that has to change. We have gone through generations with one set of expectations, and regardless of what rules we pass or what the general public wants, the colonels and generals and even the captains and sergeants are the ones who have to implement and deal with the new rules. I think the writing is on the wall (or maybe the "shot across the bow' analogy would be better) that this change is coming. A little more time isn't unreasonable to determine responses and procedures, evaluate consequences, and develop counseling and training resources. How long does it take to change a culture? Sure, we could force a quick change, but is that any better than a more drawn out but less confrontational process? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Beyond Barnes... BASENAME: beyond_barnes STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/18/2009 12:28:31 AM TAGS: "georgia election 2010" ----- BODY: Did you know that there are other state wide elected positions in Georgia? Well there are! ----- EXTENDED BODY: Lt. Governor: This position is apparently bad for your back, but Casey wants to stay in it anyway. No other Republicans are likely to run. Rumored Dems include Michael Thurmond, current labor commissioner, and Tim Golden, longtime State Senator from Southeast Georgia. Secretary of State: Mess with elections, license various professions you have never heard of, decide who gets to host a boxing match, this job is sweet. Karen Handel is running for Governor because she found out you don't need a high school degree for that job either, so it's an open Lay-Z-Boy. In the blue corner, Gary Horlacher has announced for the job, and on the Republican side, Bran Kemp has decided that since he wanted to be Ag Commissioner so bad and didn't get it, he is going to go for the opposite job, because it's the status that's important, not your particular skill set. Attorney General: Wait, an Attorney and a General? This job is the best. You are responsible for keeping people safe, chiefly by holding press conferences. This person can either be the guy that lets corporations slide or the one who holds them accountable. On the Dems side you have Rob Teilhet, state rep and all around awesome, he will get some votes and Ken Hodges, who Phoebe and Putney will vote for, and on the Republican side, Sam Olens, Cobb County Commissioner. State School Superintendent: Preparing for a massive scandal involving misuse of funds about 6 years into your term? This is the gig for you! All that's required is you want people to try real hard. Scott and Westlake are the Dems and Bad Kathy and her flowbee inspired do are on the Republican side. Insurance Commissioner Want regular Georgians to not be screwed by the sleaziest corporations of them all? Try being Insurance Commissioner! You might find it's easier to join them than to fight them, Ox-style. Former State Senators Mary Squires (D- Kickass) and Seth Harp (R- Midland?) are the latest to take up the fight, some more gallantly than others. Agricultural Commissioner: If you can actually make plants grow just by lookin' at 'em, this job is for you. Also if you want to screw family farmers and get them swept up into large corporate farms like Russia but with less appealing fonts, mottos, and logos, well this could be the job for you. Ever looked at the contract between Perdue and a chicken farmer? It is downright nasty. Tommy Irvin running? Who knows, but Black and Wilkinson are the ones with red hats this time round. Labor Commissioner If you have any idea how this one is going to shake out please enlighten us in the comments. Update: Gary Horlacher's site is now linked, and according to the comments Darryl Hicks, Gail Buckner, and Vernon Jones are running as well. I couldn't find websites for any of them. Well I did for Vernon Jones but it was NSFW. Update 2: Rob Teilhet's site now correct. Thanks be to Melanie. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: georgia election 2010 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.105 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/18/2009 01:08:16 AM Not true. How about I just read teh first two sentences and called BS on the rest of this post. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.105 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/18/2009 01:13:01 AM Actually--in all seriousness--Tim Golden will run for Lt. Gov. I heard that before Casey's choice so who knows what that will mean. As one leader in the DPG said "will he be running as a Dem? Sometimes he needs to be reminded." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.37.102 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 01:49:32 AM I will support Mary Squires and actively work for Daryl Hicks for SOS who is running. The rest can call me and ask real nice if they want anything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.37.102 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 01:56:14 AM Oh and I love your links.. freaking hilarious. oooh and how did "bad Kathy" and Karen skip most all of the RFI course work.. it's the oddest thing how those two slipped through-generally those R gals are pretty strict. Seems the GA GOP girl crew takes their eyes off lots of their team, *cough* Jill C and her hooker heels. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.154.120.97 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 04:23:14 AM Vernon Jones and Gail Buckner are both running for SOS, and Jules already mentioned Darryl Hicks. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: politicalaka EMAIL: IP: 98.233.11.205 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 08:31:35 AM What about U.S. Senate? Are we just going to concede that one? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.108 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 09:02:19 AM Have Vernon, Gail, or Darryl actually filed to run yet? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/18/2009 09:07:22 AM Gail has. Tommy is retiring and Terry Coleman is running for AG. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.108 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 09:14:05 AM So, I thought those filings were at the State Ethics website, but I don't see anything for Gail Buckner there. Can someone fill me in on where to find current filings? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: travelindem EMAIL: IP: 67.191.137.206 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 10:01:39 AM "Democrats" like Vernon and Hodges anger me. Vernon was all up the GOP's butt and Hodges gives money to Republicans. I cannot support "Democrats" who play both sides. Anyone remember Mike Jacobs? Of course you do. According to the FEC, Hodges gave the following to Saxby Chambliss: 8/16/2000 $300 3/2/2002 $500 How do you even think about giving money to a man that attacked and destroyed an american hero and Georgia legend like Max Cleland? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/18/2009 10:17:38 AM They are supposed to be there. I had heard Gail filed, maybe she hasn't. I wouldn't really b*tch about 800 bucks over two years ($300 coming before he was even running against Max, making the attack point kind of moot). I mean, hell, Mark Taylor made the GOP Senators give him money in 98, he may have just been triyng to secure favor with Saxby. Anyway, I say all that to say 800 bucks hardly seems indicative of anything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 10:39:04 AM Re: second link, Love Mildred! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/18/2009 10:43:30 AM Re: second link, Cagle needs his jacket collar tightened. It flaps about far too much. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: travelindem EMAIL: IP: 67.191.137.206 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 02:21:05 PM Ok, so you say $800 "hardly seems indicative of anything." Further research indicates the following about his campaign co-chair: CALLAWAY, EDWARD PINE MOUNTAIN, GA 31822 CALLAWAY GARDENS/CEO COLLINS, MICHAEL ALLEN VIA MAC COLLINS FOR CONGRESS 08/29/2006 1000.00 26960503062 CALLAWAY, EDWARD PINE MOUNTAIN, GA 31822 CALLAWAY GARDENS/CHAIRMAN AND CEO CHAMBLISS, SAXBY VIA CHAMBLISS FOR SENATE 03/18/2008 500.00 28020140750 CALLAWAY, EDWARD C PINE MOUNTAIN, GA 31822 CALLAWAY GARDENS/CHAIRMAN & CEO GLENN, DYLAN C VIA DYLAN GLENN FOR CONGRESS 08/03/2004 1000.00 24971738726 CALLAWAY, EDWARD C. MR. PINE MOUNTAIN, GA 31822 LYNN CALLAWAY/CHAIRMAN & C.E.O. GIULIANI, RUDOLPH W. VIA RUDY GIULIANI PRESIDENTIAL COMMITTEE INC 03/26/2007 2300.00 27930511932 CALLAWAY, EDWARD MR. HAMILTON, GA 31811 REPUBLICAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE 04/03/2008 250.00 28931620918 and state races: PERDUE, SONNY GOVERNOR REPUBLICAN 1 $1,000 RICHARDSON, GLENN HOUSE REPUBLICAN 1 $1,00 CAGLE, CASEY LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR REPUBLICAN 1 $1,000 I'll let you guys do the math. Just sayin it smells fishy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: travelindem EMAIL: IP: 67.191.137.206 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 02:24:41 PM I like Hicks and Squires. Interested to see who is running for Ag. Black is going to be tough... We keep hearing rumors about Terry Coleman jumping in. But I really can't see him running for Agriculture Commissioner. Doesn't the peanut fiasco play into this? What do ya'll think? Does he run for something else? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.154.120.97 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 05:36:02 PM FYI, your man Rob's website is now here: http://www.robforgeorgia.com/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: jenatlanta@gmail.com IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 07:46:02 PM "How do you even think about giving money to a man that attacked and destroyed an american hero and Georgia legend like Max Cleland?" Except that the money he gave was prior to the crazy Osama ad, which aired in late 2002. That said, your other points are valid. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.30 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/18/2009 10:29:09 PM And if you actually did ressearch on Hodges you'd know he does have a Democratic pedigree. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.30 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/18/2009 10:32:52 PM So how would Hodges be as an AG? What was his tenure as DA like? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Illustrious EMAIL: IP: 168.28.90.231 URL: DATE: 06/19/2009 03:37:38 AM I would like to see Terry Holley run for something (maybe Agricultural Commissioner). He has very good credentials and is a genuine nice guy. He also can think quick. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 06/19/2009 10:06:32 AM As DA he was essentially an employee of the giant hospital there. Now he is an actual employee of the giant hospital there. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: A wakeup call for Progressives BASENAME: a_wakeup_call_for_progressives STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/18/2009 05:03:28 AM TAGS: ed,"health care",msnbc ----- BODY:
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
From: XXX Sent: Friday, May 22, 2009 11:38 AM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: JPMC Meeting Request Elizabeth, Attached is a meeting request for JP Morgan Chase who will be in DC June 3rd-4th and would like to request a brief meeting with the Congressman. Let me know if you need any additional information. Thank you! Best, XXX ________________________________ From: XXX Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:05 PM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Hi Liz, just checking in on whether the Congressman is available next week. [REDACTED] can confirm a meeting time for you - she is available at [REDACTED]. Thank you! Best, XXX ________________________________ From: Becton, Elizabeth Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:07 PM To: XXX Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Importance: High Who is Liz? Elizabeth Becton Executive Assistant/Office Manager Office of Congressman Jim McDermott XXXX Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 XXX phone XXX fax ________________________________ From: XXX Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:07 PM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Hi Elizabeth, I thought you went by Liz - apologies if that is incorrect. Best, XXX ________________________________ From: Becton, Elizabeth Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:08 PM To: XXX Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request I do not go by Liz. Where did you get your information? ________________________________ Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:10 PM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Hi Elizabeth, I'm so sorry if I offended you! I thought you had gone by Liz at Potlatch, this was my mistake. Best, XXX ________________________________ From: Becton, Elizabeth Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:11 PM To: XXX Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request NEVER. I hate that name. ________________________________ From: XXX Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:13 PM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Hi Elizabeth, I'm so sorry if I offended you! I must have mis-heard. My mistake! Best, XX ________________________________ From: Becton, Elizabeth Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:20 PM To: XXX Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Importance: High XXX: If I wanted you to call me by any other name, I would have offered that to you. I think it's rude when people don't even ask permission and take all sorts of liberties with your name. This is a real sore spot with me. My name has a lot of "nicknames" which I don't use. I use either my first name or my last name because I row with a lot of other women who share the same first name. Now, please do not ever call me by a nickname again. As for your meeting request, who is the point of contact for this meeting? If it's not you, then I need to know who because it's very time-consuming to deal with a lot of people for one meeting. Thanks, ________________________________ From: XXX Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:23 PM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Hi Elizabeth, I'm so sorry I offended you! My mistake! XXX can confirm a meeting time for you - she is available at XXX XXXX. Thank you! Best, XXX ________________________________ [UNRELATED EMAILS REDACTED] From: XXX Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:33 PM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Of course! Again, I am sincerely sorry for offending you. I must have mis-heard and it was in no way my intention to make you upset. I always enjoy working with you and seeing you at the WSS events J Best, XXX ________________________________ From: Becton, Elizabeth Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:37 PM To: XXX Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Sounds like you got played by someone who KNOWS I hate that name and that it's a fast way to TICK me off. Who told you that I go by that name? They are not your friend... ________________________________ From: XXX Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:38 PM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Hi Elizabeth, Again, I am sincerely sorry for offending you. I don't want to cause trouble as I clearly must have mis-heard the person at Potlatch. It was in no way my intention to make you upset. Best, XXX ________________________________ From: Becton, Elizabeth Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:41 PM To: XXX Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Importance: High I REALLY want to know who told you to call me that. ________________________________ From:XXX Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 5:44 PM To: Becton, Elizabeth Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Hi Elizabeth, Again, I am sincerely sorry for offending you. I don't recall who I overheard. It was in no way my intention to make you upset. Best, XXX ________________________________ From: Becton, Elizabeth Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 6:04 PM To: XXX Subject: RE: JPMC Meeting Request Let me put it this way, they don't know me and perhaps they were PRETENDING to know me better than they do and pretended that I go by Liz. They did YOU a disservice. In the future, you should be VERY careful about such things. People like to brag about their connections in DC. It's a past time for some. It's also dangerous to eaves drop, as you have just found out. Quit apologizing and never call me anything but Elizabeth again. Also, make sure you correct anyone who attempts to call me by any other name but Elizabeth. Are we clear on this? Like I said, it's a hot button for me. And please don't call the office and not leave a message. My colleague told me you called while I was away at the Ladies' room. I do sometimes leave my desk.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.108 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 09:59:24 AM As one whose name is often shortened, I can totally relate to "I think it's rude when people don't even ask permission and take all sorts of liberties with your name." But, damn, thats some shrill scolding. PS Please don't call me by any of the obvious nicknames that my full name may inspire. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/18/2009 10:07:47 AM I'm a stickler about my name, but there is a point where you enter crazyland...some people never see that line. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/18/2009 10:26:49 AM Sure thing Cath. ;) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: nicolette EMAIL: IP: 204.152.239.219 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 10:26:55 AM i can also relate....but that woman is INSANE some of my co-workers have started calling me nic....which doesnt annoy me as must as it just blows my mind. each time someone calls me nic, i'm just like "uh, i'm sorry, are we related?" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.108 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 10:38:55 AM In a perfect world I would prefer to be called Jerrold, but that it be spelled "Gerald", and that you say it with a strong emphasis on the first syllable. However, we are not in a perfect world so I don't care. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.218.42.108 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 10:48:27 AM You betcha, Jimbo. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 04:55:16 PM They used to have a Potlatch for DC Statehood when I lived there, I bet that's where she was called Liz. I heard she is in the bathroom all day and never does any work. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: jenatlanta@gmail.com IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 07:40:42 PM Honestly. I fucking hate when total strangers shorten my name to Jen. This may be weird to everyone here, but professionally I go by my full name. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.154.120.97 URL: DATE: 06/18/2009 10:22:23 PM My only pet peeve is when people confuse my name with another name beginning in m-e-l. I'd rather be called Mel than: Melinda, Melissa, Melita, Melody, etc. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Bad Behavior, part 2 BASENAME: bad_behavior_part_2 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/18/2009 09:50:16 AM ----- BODY: If Elizabeth Becton's snippy, paranoid antics weren't to your taste, try Don Broderick, Fox news writer and all-around hot head. ----- EXTENDED BODY: Don Broderick was recently accused of hitting a cyclist in Central Park, dragging him on the hood of his SUV, then taking victim blaming to new heights by calling the cyclist a "vigilante". Gawker has been on top of the whole story, and most recently reports that Broderick has a long history of being a charming gentleman:
We keep hearing more from people who once worked with Fox News writer Don Broderick. Even before he was accused of dragging a cyclist through Central Park, former colleagues tell us, co-workers were afraid to be around him. . . . In the 2002 incident, according to two of our sources, Broderick screamed at a young female production assistant and threatened to "tear [her] fucking head off" after she briefly couldn't find a piece of tape he wanted. The incident began when the PA told Broderick, using Fox's internal text-messaging system, that she couldn't locate some video that he needed for a piece he was writing. She quickly found it, and messaged him to let him know. His response: "Don't ever lie to me again. Next time I'll tear your fucking head off." Freaked out, the PA printed out the bizarre, threatening message and showed it to a supervisor. Not long after, according to a former Fox Newser who witnessed part of the confrontation, Broderick approached the PA in the crowded newsroom, clutching a print-out of the offending text message, and "cornered her." "He started screaming, accusing her of lying to him and saying she was lucky because he only said he was going to tear her fucking head off," the source says. "He continued to shout many other threats and expletives. A supervisor had to pull him back and restrain him." The cornered PA began crying, the source said, and Broderick got into a screaming match with another supervisor who intervened.And why, pray tell, is this any more newsworthy or interesting than any other a**hole hothead losing it at work? Well, here's why:
One former Fox Newser says behavior like Broderick's was routinely tolerated in the militaristic, macho culture engineered by Roger Ailes, which prizes belligerence and casts people who complain about being screamed at by their bosses as pussies. "It's not a friendly environment," the source said. "The men bully the women around because they know they can get away with it." With newsroom bigwigs like Bill O'Reilly shrieking at and allegedly sexually harrassing female employees as a matter of course, Broderick's alleged behavior was smallball.Fox News cultivating a environment of bullying and misogyny? Imagine that. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Georgia Theatre Burns... BASENAME: georgia_theatre_burns STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/20/2009 09:45:48 AM ----- BODY: Just painful.
Monday, June 22nd: Mass Fax Day - People around the country and around the world will be faxing Savannah DA Larry Chisholm, who has the power to reinvestigate Troy's case. Fax #: 912.652.7328 and 912.447.5396. The US Supreme Court is slated to rule on Troy Davis' fate on June 25th.Online form at International Action Center is here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: troy davis ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Health insurance nightmares BASENAME: health_insurance_nightmares STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/22/2009 01:11:22 AM TAGS: healthcare,insurance,reform ----- BODY:
Policies are suddenly canceled. Monthly premiums rival the size of mortgage payments. Huge bills go unpaid because of surprising gaps in coverage. These lessons and more are embedded in hundreds of complaints filed with the Georgia Insurance Commissioner's office over the past five years. The complaints contain tales of misery experienced by holders of individual policies, a small but increasingly important segment of Georgia's health insurance market.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: healthcare, reform, insurance ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: On decentralizing poverty and Ms. Glover's experiment BASENAME: on_decentralizing_poverty_and STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/22/2009 01:20:08 AM TAGS: Atlanta,gentrification,glover,housing ----- BODY: Front page story from the Sunday NY Times: Atlanta Is Making Way for New Public Housing
In 1936, Atlanta built Techwood Homes, the nation's first housing project. By the 1990s, a greater percentage of the city's residents were living in housing projects -- sprawling red-brick barracks that pockmarked the skyline -- than in any other city in America. Now, Atlanta is nearing a very different record: becoming the first major city to knock them all down. By next June, officials here plan to demolish the city's last remaining housing project, fulfilling a long and divisive campaign to reduce poverty by decentralizing it.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: Atlanta, housing, renee, glover ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/22/2009 10:21:31 AM Having worked at Bowen Homes, I certainly would have applauded it's destruction. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/22/2009 10:45:51 AM Why anyone wouldn't be for the destruction of public housing is beyond me. Worst. Social engineering experiment. Ever. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 66.156.20.152 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 11:49:37 AM Would be interesting to hear how the people who were booted out of their homes and were unable to find housing near their work/school/family feel about all this. Ms Glover and her people don't keep track of that from what I understand. It's a lot easier to get mostly positive reviews when your critics are far away... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 66.156.20.152 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 12:41:33 PM Right. The destruction of the housing is only half of the story. I guess everybody is on vouchers now, but there is no guarantee that there are enough housing units available that will accept the vouchers. So the residents are probably having to venture further and further afield. Look on the bright side: This should help expand the public transportation system to outlying counties. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.215.99 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/22/2009 01:14:08 PM There were jobs and schools (where the students regularly attended) near the housing projects? The other other side neglecting mention is the fact these become vicious hell-holes of poverty, crime and drugs that created a self perpetuating society with little (if any) chance to not be part of that lifestyle forever. But hey, a few months of moving really is a deal breaker. And while that last comment does sound glib and callous, in all actuality I'm not heartless (in this instance). Just that you really can't say there was any real benefit to having people remain in these projects. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 01:33:32 PM You just have to venture down Boulevard between North and Freedom Parkway to see where a lot of those families went. Almost all those buildings are Section 8. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com/ DATE: 06/22/2009 01:42:46 PM To answer your rhetorical question, IRE, barely. When I had to travel to my outstation on Bankhead highway, I made sure I had cash and a full tank of gas. Because there were zero banks and no gas stations where I felt comfortable stopping. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 66.156.20.152 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 02:04:58 PM "Almost all those buildings are Section 8." Hmmm, then it's not really much different than public housing after all. It's just that now someone gets to make a profit on it I guess. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.21.65 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 02:53:20 PM JerryT - Bing! Bing! Bing! I think you got the answer on the nose. IRE - I don't hear anyone (well, most anyone) saying they should have left Bowen Homes standing as was. I think most thoughtful critics of the Housing Authority were concerned about making sure that the former residents had the support they needed to make a move to someplace that is in fact at least as good or better than Bowen Homes, and that tearing the project down was not just a nice PR move for AHA. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.36 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/22/2009 06:27:09 PM If I understand the law right, AHA has to provide some level of support for finding homes. I could be wrong but I also seem to remember reading about it. And any place is better than Bowen Homes. BTW: anti-capitalism FTW! Gotta love it! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.158.211.180 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 06:56:01 PM It was government-sponsored mortgages in the 1950's that pretty much built the middle class. I'd say that was pretty darn good social engineering right there. The catch was that it wasn't available to black people. So the white suburbs were built up on government dime, and later we had "public housing projects" to deal with the riff raff in urban territory. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.21.65 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 07:06:46 PM IRE - "AHA has to provide some level of support for finding homes". I think the key in your phrase is "some level". There's a lot of room for argument about what is lawful and/or appropriate there. And while certainly Bowen Homes was a pit of despair, there are many free market apartments just as bad or worse, believe it or not. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.36 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/22/2009 07:28:13 PM Yeah, I'm not sure what the appropriate level is at all. I'm sure a 30 minute workshop at lunch on a Tuesday often qualifies as "sufficient." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.157.14 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 08:35:14 PM Well I'm pretty sure the "appropriate level" doesn't include helping them to get re-registered to vote in their new district. So in effect, the AHA is helping the SoS purge the voter rolls of urban minorities. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/23/2009 01:42:30 AM OK I'm crying here. I'm agreeing with Z, perhaps for the 2nd time in a week. (I'm not going to look.) Yep. History is significant here. Why were the homes first built? Because of red-lining, most 'respectable' housing would not rent to many 'poor folks' AND those that would, were clearly substandard housing. Ditto for Blacks, who only became eligible for Federal housing later in the 1960's. So, be they the urban hell holes that they later became, (some 20-25 years later), they were & in some goodly respects are still better housing than may be obtained on the open market. Even today. Especially for families with children, and of course 'larger families'. Which in this day and age means more than 2 kids. Did they 'work'? Well for a time, they did fine. Conditions change. Economics change. Social situations change. The experiment probably never really recovered from the start of the great de- industrialization of the 1970's & 80's. And incomes for hourly wage earners have been stagnant or declining ever since. Which is a society wide problem BTW. It also helped to birth us the huge real estate bubble where in we lost 8 Trillion dollars in the space of about a year & a half. The mortgage subsidy is one of the largest the Federal government grants. Now tell me how much the entire enterprise in 'poverty housing' has cost us in Federal expenditures? It's been a whole lot less, a minuscule fraction of that cost. Sure, did it become a highly visible & symbolic 'festering training ground for crime'? But any concentration of poverty will do that. Indeed any huge concentration of wealth will do the same. Only when Wall St. does it? Many, many more people suffer & systemically too. So yeah. No one will cry over their demise. But they were built for a definite reason. Those conditions may not still exist, but the need certainly survives. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.21.65 URL: DATE: 06/23/2009 08:19:42 AM No doubt institutional and individual racism was involved in the building of these projects, but there were also well-intentioned folks who honestly thought they were building safe havens for the poor. Obviously didn't turn out that way, and it's a good reminder about where good intentions can lead, but I think it's unwise and blind to ascribe all the blame to the actions of racism. Also, in the history of "why the projects failed" you can't ignore the epidemic of drugs. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.215.134.89 URL: DATE: 06/23/2009 12:50:23 PM And if you're talking about drugs, you can't ignore the epidemic of how the drugs got here, which doesn't not involve the government. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Channel One TV BASENAME: channel_one_tv STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/22/2009 12:46:41 AM ----- BODY: Twitter Revolution in Iran aided by old media -- TV, radio
Los Angeles-based satellite station Channel One TV, which is run by expatriate Iranians, has made contributions...Shahram Homayoun, the president of Channel One TV, said that before the demonstrations...it mailed out thousands of camera pens to citizens in Iran to help them document events the government wants to keep quiet. The pens pull apart to reveal a flash drive for plugging into a computer and uploading video.Related: Photos of Protest In Support of Iranian Demonstrators at CNN Center, from Creative Loafing ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Barnes has a big-time lead... BASENAME: barnes_has_a_big-time_lead STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/22/2009 12:03:28 PM ----- BODY: from Rasmussen (I know, I know)... Georgia State Survey of 247 Likely Democratic Primary Voters Conducted June 17, 2009 By Rasmussen Reports 1* In thinking about the 2010 Democratic Primary for Governor of Georgia, suppose you had a choice between Thurbert Baker, Roy Barnes, Carl Camon, Dubose Porter and David Poythress. If the election were held today for whom would you vote? 8% Thurbert Baker 48% Roy Barnes 2% Carl Camon 5% Dubose Porter 2% David Poythress 5% Some other candidate 31% Not sure ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: GA can't get Sunday alcohol sales through, but possibly medical mary jane? BASENAME: ga_cant_get_sunday_alcohol_sal STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/22/2009 01:00:10 PM ----- BODY:
According to the Marijuana Policy Project, a Washington-based advocate for legalizing medical marijuana, Georgia already has a limited medical marijuana law on the books. Under this statute, the state is authorized to distribute marijuana received from the federal government to a small number of patients taking part in research programs. Washington's new medical marijuana policy gives Georgia the freedom to exercise its historic roll as the primary watchdog for the health and welfare of its citizens. Whether or not Georgia patients will be given greater access to medical marijuana is now up to the state Legislature.Story from Macon.com Certainly would be an interesting day at the Gold Dome when ( if?) they take this up. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 66.156.20.152 URL: DATE: 06/22/2009 05:22:59 PM Let's just get them some Salvia. Still legal here I think. ----- -------- AUTHOR: JasonA TITLE: I am going to reinvent the wheel and patent it... BASENAME: i_am_going_to_reinvent_the_whe STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/22/2009 07:58:29 PM TAGS: education ----- BODY:
I will call it the roamer. I will insist that everyone around me refer to these new wheels as roamers. People will get their degrees on the efficiency, synergy, and collaborative effort of multiple roamers working together, thereby investing themselves in the concept. Those who refuse to use the proper jargon will be ostracized, get stern looks, and negative marks on their Personal Assessment Instruments. As long as I present these new roamers with the required enthusiasm and blanket it in other buzzwords that I will pull off of the web, I should be good... and in the end... they will still be wheels.
Such is education in the 21st century. Nobody makes the cute commercials or writes about it as they do with business or government, but it is a problem already in play. But look at the bright side: you can play games as you circle the drain.
When a son, angry that his father had ordered him to clean up his room, screamed at Dad and threw a plate of food across the dinner table, Dad called 911. The son is 28-year-old Andrew Mizsak, who lives rent-free with his parents in the Cleveland suburb of Bedford, Ohio, and is a member of the Bedford School Board (and whose mom is a city councilwoman). After police arrived, the habitually untidy son apologized and, according to their report, "was sent to his room to clean it. He was crying uncontrollably." Subsequently, the school board punished Andrew by removing two of his duties.FYI: you can follow him on Twitter, and he is up for re-election this fall. He's a real catch ladies-read more here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Move over, John Ensign BASENAME: move_over_john_ensign STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/24/2009 03:03:32 PM ----- BODY: Our favorite holier-than-thou governor of one of the holiest-than-all-y'all states has admitted that his recent absence was due to him having an extramarital affair in Argentina. This is so deliciously salacious on so many levels. Lindsey Graham and Jim DeMint will *love* this. Tom Crawford has more... ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.114 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/24/2009 04:09:14 PM U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A! That has nothing to do with the story excpet........ WE ARE ABOUT TO KICK ARGENTINA'S FORMER COLONIZER'S ASS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.114 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/24/2009 04:23:48 PM WE DID IT! TAKE THAT REST OF THE WORLD! U-S-A! U-S-A! USA PWNS YOUR SPORT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WE'RE NUMBER ONE! WE'RE NUMBER ONE! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.37.98 URL: DATE: 06/24/2009 09:59:44 PM that press release was a complete train wreak. Who on earth puts a press conf together featuring a man who clearly is an open gaping wound. Anyone who thought that would "help" needed to loose their job. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.148 URL: DATE: 06/24/2009 11:22:34 PM That man doesn't need to lose his job he needs a medal for making Sanford look that ridiculous. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.114 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/24/2009 11:32:27 PM This thread shows how non-cosmopolitan BforD is. Not one mention of the USA KICKING SPAIN'S ASS IN SOCCER! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! WE ARE NUMBER ONE! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.194.148 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 12:10:25 AM tl;dr ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 04:07:12 PM From the Huff Post: The 1st Repug. Emo Gov: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-rees/is-mark-sanford-americas_b_220878.html JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: Some Closure on Stop-Loss BASENAME: some_closure_on_stop-loss STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/24/2009 10:23:10 PM ----- BODY:
"Universal health care." "The uninsured." "Public option." These are the buzzwords you often hear from Democrats and proponents of President Obama's plan for health-care reform. But if they want to see that plan enacted, they'd do well to excise those phrases from their vocabulary.Don't say he didn't warn us! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.37.98 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 11:00:08 AM Here is my congressman on the "issue" I mean ..who I take all my money from. Rep. Tom "Dr." Price http://www.opensecrets.org/news/2009/06/the-price-isnt-right-doctortur.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.195.125 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 11:33:57 AM You know, GM, Ford, Christler, or whatever is left of the domestic auto industry (as well as any other American company with a large workforce) could be more competitive if they didn't have leeches, AKA health insurance companies, sucking the lifeblood out of them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 131.96.212.222 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 06/25/2009 12:54:57 PM That's questionable BEZERKO, there would likely be higher taxes (replacing the insurance companies) and the reason we aren't as competitive is poor management that can't comprehend trends in buyer preferences, inefficiency switching output and lower wages and fewer regulations in the rest of the world. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.158.211.202 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 02:08:30 PM "That's questionable BEZERKO, there would likely be higher taxes (replacing the insurance companies) and the reason we aren't as competitive is poor management that can't comprehend trends in buyer preferences, inefficiency switching output and lower wages and fewer regulations in the rest of the world." Considering Medicare is literally 5-6 times more cost-efficient than the best HMO's, as long as Congress didn't give in and make a really crappy public plan and made something like Medicare, they'd definitely save costs. Have you guys seen the polling on this? The overwhelming majority of people are with us. It's not about convincing the people it's about convincing the politicians that they'll lose their jobs if they vote against it. Tom Price, I served on his "youth advisory council" several years ago, he's out for himself and the people who donate money to his campaign and not anyone else that's his problem. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.195.125 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 02:32:59 PM When your house is on fire, the fire department comes by and puts it out. They don't check for insurance cards, co-pays, etc. They just put out the fire. If someone breaks into your home or threatens you in some way, the police department is supposed to be there to protect you. I don't understand what the difference is between those type of immediate threats and a threat to your health. It's not right for someone who's worked and built a life for themselves, bought a house, put some money away, whatever, to have to give it all up because they get sick. It's happening all over the place and happens all the time. I don't see how it could get worse than it is now, but I guess it could. If someone in my family gets sick, especially after business hours, and needs medical attention, no matter how minor or major it turns out to be, it usually costs us 300 to 600 dollars, and that's just our portion. Our health insurance is about as good as anyone who works for a living and has private insurance through their employeer. Even with eye and dental insurance, the costs for those types of care are beyond our means. The whole private system is corrupt and should be eliminated, if it takes higher taxes to pay for it, so be it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.158.211.202 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 02:52:04 PM They already kicked single payer off the table, despite the fact in 2003 that Obama said he was a proponent of it and that we had to "take back the House, Senate, and White House" before we pursued it. Money talks and shit walks. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: jkga EMAIL: IP: 170.140.190.233 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 03:58:10 PM IRE - Higher corporate income taxes wouldn't make much difference to Detroit automakers who aren't posting profits. Their management made a lot of mistakes, but they are saddled with such a heavy burden from a legacy of retiree pension and healthcare obligations (even for people who haven't worked for them for decades) that even if they'd been more innovative with their products over the past twenty years, they'd still be behind. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Are you like me? BASENAME: are_you_like_me STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: 0 ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/25/2009 12:06:09 PM ----- BODY: Do you need help keeping up with the GOP sex scandals? Which one is Foley? Who got caught with prostitutes? Well, TPM comes to the rescue:
U.S. House of Representatives Votes 224:190 to Force the School of the Americas/ WHINSEC to Release the Names of Graduates and Instructors. Washington, DC - the U.S. House of Representatives voted today to force the School of the Americas (renamed the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation - WHINSEC) to release the names, ranks, country of origin, courses and dates attended of students and instructors at the institute. The amendment was offered by Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA), Representative Joe Sestak (D-PA), Representative Sanford Bishop (D-GA) and Representative John Lewis (D-GA) and won by a margin of 224:190.This is big progress for Congressman Bishop, since the school is located in his district at Ft. Benning. In other news Rep. Duncan Hunter Jr. (R-CA-52) has a hissy over this, crying that "you are literally encouraging their murder." I doubt that, but perhaps a few more indictments might be in order. Oh and karma is a bitch. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: jasondozier@gmail.com IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 06/25/2009 11:49:52 PM I don't get what this would actually accomplish though. I mean, their information is made public, then what? Countries would still send their soldiers and policemen to the school, they'd graduate, and then they'd utilize their training as they've been doing. Or am I missing something here? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.16.171 URL: DATE: 06/26/2009 02:15:50 AM Yeah, it might be a little confusing to people who havent followed SOA Watch. The point is, the next time some paramilitary shoots up a village for trying to unionize or does Washington's dirty work, we can trace back their training to the SOA and use it against them to further the case for closing the place down and ending defense cooperation with countries like Colombia. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 72.145.236.30 URL: DATE: 06/26/2009 08:32:07 AM This DK diary has more on the Duncan Hunter quote: http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/6/25/746748/-You-are-literally-encouraging-their-murder. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.218.122.88 URL: DATE: 06/26/2009 11:54:36 AM this is another informative article http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/WO0906/S00395.htm ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.126 URL: DATE: 06/28/2009 04:03:33 PM Speak of the devil, it sounds like this morning an SOA graduate just led a coup against a left wing leader and has used the military to attack delegations from Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.34.26.208 URL: DATE: 06/29/2009 10:18:09 AM As Zaid mentioned.. here is a great summary http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/6/29/747980/-Honduras:-US-Trained-Coup-Leader-Illegal-New-President It's a whole lot easier to connect the dots when you have the names. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Health Reform: Be Afraid. Very Afraid. BASENAME: health_reform_be_afraid_very_a STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/26/2009 08:14:35 AM ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Friday Open Thread: MJ Edition BASENAME: friday_open_thread_mj_edition STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/26/2009 08:18:31 AM ----- BODY: This is how I prefer to remember him: But I can think of no finer tribute than this: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.195.125 URL: DATE: 06/28/2009 05:51:35 PM Sorry to hijack Friday's thread, but there is no open Sunday thread - I'm shocked...shocked I tell you. Or not. About the coup in Honduras: School of the Americas Connection The crisis in Honduras began when the military refused to distribute ballot boxes for the opinion poll in a new Constitution. President Zelaya fired the head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Romeo Orlando Vasquez Velasquez, who refused to step down. The heads of all branches of the Honduran armed forces quit in solidarity with Vasquez. Vasquez, however, refused to step down, bolstered by support in Congress and a Supreme Court ruling that reinstated him. Vasquez remains in control of the armed forces. Vasquez, along with other military leaders, graduated from the United States' infamous School of the Americas (SOA). According to a School of the Americas Watch database compiled from information obtained from the US government, Vasquez studied in the SOA at least twice: once in 1976 and again in 1984. The head of the Air Force, Gen. Luis Javier Prince Suazo, studied in the School of the Americas in 1996. The Air Force has been a central protagonist in the Honduran crisis. When the military refused to distribute the ballot boxes for the opinion poll, the ballot boxes were stored on an Air Force base until citizens accompanied by Zelaya rescued them. Zelaya reports that after soldiers kidnapped him, they took him to an Air Force base, where he was put on a plane and sent to Costa Rica. http://mywordismyweapon.blogspot.com/2009/06/coup-in-honduras.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.126 URL: DATE: 06/28/2009 07:10:55 PM Apparently the Cuban, Venezuelan, and Nicaraguan ambassadors were immediately detained and they've started assassinating left wing allies. Chavez has said he's going to help although I don't know if Venezuela's military is more powerful than Honduras's. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.240.94 URL: DATE: 06/29/2009 01:58:34 AM Not that I think they're going to invade Honduras. It's just the threat of it might force the coup plotters to restore democracy in the country. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Riot Night Revisted BASENAME: riot_night_revisted STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/26/2009 10:20:53 AM ----- BODY:
Something unremarkable happened on June 27, 1969 in New York's Greenwich Village, an event which had occurred a thousand times before across the U.S. over the decades. The police raided a gay bar. At first, everything unfolded according to a time-honored ritual. Seven plain-clothes detectives and a uniformed officer entered and announced their presence. The bar staff stopped serving the watered-down, overpriced drinks, while their Mafia bosses swiftly removed the cigar boxes which functioned as tills. The officers demanded identification papers from the customers and then escorted them outside, throwing some into a waiting paddy-wagon and pushing others off the sidewalk. But at a certain point, the "usual suspects" departed from the script and decided to fight back. A debate still rages over which incident sparked the riot. Was it a 'butch' lesbian dressed in man's clothes who resisted arrest, or a male drag queen who stopped in the doorway between the officers and posed defiantly, rallying the crowd?These images were shot by a Times photographer named Larry Morris on the evening of Wednesday, July 2, 1969. ----- EXTENDED BODY:
News of the Stonewall Riots trickled down to Atlanta in briefs and blurbs. The mainstream press dedicated little coverage to the riot. Boykin pointed out that there wasn't a Stonewall march in Atlanta until 1971. He said the event that prompted the founding of the Gay Liberation Front in Georgia was a raid of a movie theater in Ansley Mall. The theater was showing "Lonesome Cowboys," a homoerotic send-up of western films, when police stopped the movie and arrested everyone. Read the rest of this great article here.More at SoVo. Events Celebrating LGBTQ rights as Human Rights! Friday June 26th: What: Film Screening & discussion: "Unveiled" Focus: the intersection of discrimination based on sexuality, gender and immigration status Where: Manuel's Tavern Time: 6.30PM Saturday June 27th: What: "Transgender Rights Now" March and Rally for Transgender, GLB people and friends and allies. Where: Freedom Park (Moreland Ave. and Freedom Parkway)There will be 3 banner trans issues highlighted by the march * Employment Non-Discrimination * Access to Public Services (health care, housing, etc.) * Public Safety (bathrooms, prisons, police, etc.) March Time: Step-off time is at 3:00pm Rally for transgender rights scheduled at 4:00pm on the steps of First Existentialist Church on Candler Ave. Finally a Stonewall commemoration performance Where: First Existentialist Congregation 470 Candler Park Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30307-2113 Time: 4:30 pm All events are free and open to the public. Please join us! ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: stonewall, transgender ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/27/2009 01:56:39 AM Nice short explanation of the 'Stonewall Riots' from the Colbert report below with journalist Jim Fouratt who was on the scene. (It's at the end of the report in the interview segment). JMP http://www.comedycentral.com/colbertreport/full-episodes/index.jhtml?episodeId=232009 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/27/2009 07:29:09 PM More on the history here. As the clip above will attest, there's the 'official' version (NYT, say) and what the oral history of whose who were there says. The cops who came into this mafia run dive bar where principally there for their regular 'payoffs'. There might have been some other sort of shakedowns happening too, but that's what set the scene. What happened After that is a matter of some conjecture, but Why they were there really is not, much. The 'regular history' of the moment just was unwilling to record that little 'dirty' feature, which has in truth, always been present. No matter how much anyone seeks to 'protect' the past, this was the NYPD of Frank Serpico, and there were so many illegal kickback scams & schemes going it would take about 2 decades to clean up the Department. It was not pretty. That's what led to the explosion of anger. It was not just the 'regular' hypocrisy & discrimination. It was the people who expected to be paid off just so other folks could 'simply live' & 'be seen out'. Just a note on the divergent history here. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: What happens now? BASENAME: what_happens_now STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/29/2009 11:22:55 AM ----- BODY: Coup Rocks Honduras Army Exiles President, a Ch√°vez Ally, Stoking Regional Tension
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras -- Honduran soldiers rousted President Manuel Zelaya from his bed and exiled him at gunpoint Sunday to Costa Rica, halting his controversial push to redraw the constitution but spurring fresh concerns about democratic rule across Latin America.As with most things political, you really have to ask yourself-who benefits? Is it the US? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: The Fort Worth Police Dept "Honor" the 40th of Stonewall in an interesting way BASENAME: the_forth_worth_police_dept_ho STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/29/2009 12:59:11 PM ----- BODY:
I got a phone call at 3 this morning from Todd Camp, the founder of Q Cinema and former reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. It was Camp's birthday and the night of a special Q Cinema screening of two Stonewall documentaries... because it was ALSO the 40th anniversary of Stonewall, as anyone knows. Except, apparently, the Fort Worth PD. Or maybe worse, they DID know and wanted to make a point.The Dallas Voice has the unfolding events here While I'm sure LBGTQ folks in the Atlanta metro have had their run in's with police, the march organized by local Transgender activists in Little 5 this Saturday went off without a hitch and we were ably escorted by 6 members of the Atlanta PD motorcycle squad. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.54.86 URL: DATE: 06/29/2009 02:04:43 PM Speaking of Stonewall and bigotry: http://galiberal.com/?p=114 ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: On Collapsing Parking Decks & Good Friends BASENAME: on_collapsing_parking_decks_go STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/29/2009 07:17:47 PM ----- BODY: So today was a normal busy Monday like any other. Around 11:45AM my second visitor to the office had just left, and I was debating between diving into a new fundraising project for Young Democrats of Georgia, or heading to the gym a little early. Then the phone rang and I got a message from God.... ----- EXTENDED BODY: sorta... Normally I leave the YDG office on Pulliam Street any given weekday around 12:15 for lunch. Except I don't really eat lunch unless it's at my desk. I usually head to L.A.Fitness Midtown for a grueling 45 minute workout. Well today, the phone rang and my good friend, and now Resident Angel, Nikema Williams was on the line. It wasn't a business call, it was personal - she wanted to know how I was doing. *For those just tuning in, the nonprofit world is sucking worse than the financial markets when it comes to raising funds to keep our organizations running right now* Nikema's 30 minute conversation about our how each other is doing, how we're feeling, keep-your-chin-up kind of stuff, probably saved my life or at least some major car damage. See the parking deck for LAFitness midtown is the Cynergy parking deck at Abercrombie & Williams Streets in Atlanta. And around 12:30PM on Monday June 29th, a portion of the 4th floor deck collapsed and fell to the 3rd which in turn fell to the 2nd and 1st and so on. The open space/non-reserved parking that LAF folks use, including me, is the middle 3rd and 4th floors, otherwise you're stuck driving around and around up to the 6th floor visitor parking which no one ever does. So driving in a now-clogged line of cars waiting to turn down Williams Street from 5th, I see police cars zooming in, firetrucks everywhere, and then an officer waving me away from the entrance and back towards the GTech campus. Frantically posting a status question to facebook, i learned what had happened, and said a silent prayer for my friends from the gym, that none were hurt. So i'm now imagining lifesavers in little Nikema shapes all working to save me from a massive heartache of a damaged car or a flattened head. Either way, thank God, and thank Nikema, for little favors, and for friendly conversations. :-) ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.158.125 URL: DATE: 06/29/2009 08:21:00 PM Wow. Close call! Glad you are OK, and thank you Nikema! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 06/29/2009 10:48:44 PM Mm, Nikema Lifesavers, do they still come in cherry? ;-) I'm not sure how much Georgia Tech had to do with the construction of that deck, but a) I don't think it was zero, and b) it would not surprise me to learn that they helped screw it up. If I were still a student I would seriously wonder about the new campus buildings that went up in the same time frame. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 66.156.7.77 URL: DATE: 06/30/2009 12:50:11 AM What an amazing story. So glad you took the call. I always knew Nikema wore wings, but this is damn near a miracle. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 06/30/2009 01:58:38 AM They really don't build them like they used to. We did work appraising the pedestrian bridge & deck to the Peachtree Center Towers. It was & is hurricane & earthquake rated. Well too. Glad you were delayed Tim. They (WABE) interviewed another gent who was about to go for his car too, and then noticed huge hunks had fallen off the floor. And the ceilings. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.155.189.51 URL: DATE: 06/30/2009 08:19:43 AM Tim - This is why I don't go to the gym! It's dangerous, I tell you! Ataru - I don't know about GA Tech, but I am pointing an initial finger toward Hardin, which was also involved in the Botanical Gardens walkway collapse. I realized last night that I have parked in that deck a couple of times (it's the closest to Interface Flooring, which makes rocking carpet tiles). Even though it's been six months since I've been anywhere close, I was still a little freaked out, so I can't imagine what it felt like yesterday, Tim. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Deadline Day BASENAME: deadline_day STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/30/2009 12:36:28 PM TAGS: "election 2010" ----- BODY:
Despite her disastrous performance in the 2008 election, Sarah Palin is still the sexiest brand in Republican politics, with a lucrative book contract for her story. But what Alaska's charismatic governor wants the public to know about herself doesn't always jibe with reality.You don't even need a knife to enjoy this dish, it cuts like "buttah"
Whatever her political future, the emergence of Sarah Palin raises questions that will not soon go away. What does it say about the nature of modern American politics that a public official who often seems proud of what she does not know is not only accepted but applauded? What does her prominence say about the importance of having (or lacking) a record of achievement in public life? Why did so many skilled veterans of the Republican Party--long regarded as the more adroit team in presidential politics--keep loyally working for her election even after they privately realized she was casual about the truth and totally unfit for the vice-presidency?Yum! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BigD EMAIL: IP: 66.194.65.205 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 04:18:44 AM "dressed all in black; no red Naughty Monkey Double Dare pumps tonight" - Got to love the allusion...is this a DFI post? or the winning opening line in the Bulwer-Lytton Contest (aka Dark and Stormy Night contest) http://www.bulwer-lytton.com/2009.htm Ahhh but the Bulwer-Lytton contest is fiction and this is non-fiction... FWIW I really enjoyed this years Bulwer-Lytton winner in the Detective Category - "She walked into my office on legs as long as one of those long-legged birds that you see in Florida - the pink ones, not the white ones - except that she was standing on both of them, not just one of them, like those birds, the pink ones, and she wasn't wearing pink, but I knew right away that she was trouble, which those birds usually aren't." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.65 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/01/2009 07:01:11 AM I mentioned this somewhere else so forgive me if you've read it already... I thought the hostility was a little unnecessary and excessive but other than that it was a fantastic piece. Two things about her stuck out to me. She'll be great for that Christian conservative base of the GOP and ill be a great fundraiser and campaigner. For that we shouldn't underestimate her. However, I fail to see how someone who so easily and needlessly creates enemies could ever earn a powerful position (VP, POTUS, RNC chair, anything like that), but if her history has shown us anything it is if anyone can do it with that style it is her. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.219.17.92 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 08:42:36 AM Big D - The Naughty Monkey thing is the actual name of the shoe, not a mere rhetorical flourish. :) http://www.amazon.com/Naughty-Monkey-Womens-Double-Dare/dp/B0018AMB1W ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.177.51 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 09:05:23 AM You have to excuse BigD-he has a shoe thing... Naughty Monkey pumps here http://www.endless.com/s/ref=topnav_sk__b/176-1904543-7860631/?type=&showDesigner=&node=242169011&keywords=naughty+monkey&x=0&y=0 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BigD EMAIL: IP: 66.194.65.196 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 07:42:40 PM Paula trust me I know my ladies footwear but love the double entendre (Hmmm perhaps this is an overshare).... IRE agree we shouldn't underestimate her nor the other GOP that appeals to her base - Huckabee. But, mark my words I'm betting on Huckabee... ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: The Next Chapter BASENAME: the_next_chapter STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 06/30/2009 08:16:06 PM TAGS: iraq,military ----- BODY:
This is the perverse incentive that is slowly remaking the GOP into the Snafu Party. And in those commercials and those proclamations we should also discern a warning: That even if Democrats manage to set up a solid health-care program, conservatives will do their best, once they have regained power, to drop it down the same chute they did the Federal Emergency Management Agency.h/t: Jerry. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.215.196.107 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 03:35:33 PM The problem isn't the GOP, it's conservative, and business group-allied Democrats. The GOP wouldn't stand a chance if the Democrats could stick to an effective progressive agenda. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.38.60 URL: DATE: 07/02/2009 10:59:01 AM Why would the Democrats stick to a progressive agenda? Many of them were elected by non-progressive constituencies. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.122.57 URL: DATE: 07/02/2009 05:12:20 PM "Why would the Democrats stick to a progressive agenda? Many of them were elected by non-progressive constituencies." Yeah, you see that polling that says 50% of REPUBLICANS back offering a public national healthcare plan to everyone? Not a single Democrat has an excuse to be chickenshit on health care, unless they like that HMO money they're getting that much. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.219.38.60 URL: DATE: 07/02/2009 05:43:44 PM Zaid, will you please read the links, or at least the complete piece? While health care and how the GOP may screw it up is mentioned in the piece, it's about how the GOP counts and and plots for government failures to maintain their ideology. We know you dislike most of the Democrats - read you loud and clear on that. But surely you can see that the Republicans are worse... surely you can see that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.122.57 URL: DATE: 07/02/2009 08:27:31 PM "We know you dislike most of the Democrats - read you loud and clear on that. But surely you can see that the Republicans are worse... surely you can see that." Oh wow, to see the world in black and white partisan hackery... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 10:37:55 AM Being partisan takes courage. You have to commit to a political philosophy. "Partisan" is just issue advocacy at the wholesale level. Yeah, sometimes we get stuck with a Lieberman or a bankruptcy bill, but even UGA has it's Jim Harricks to deal with. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.19.79.132 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 02:08:54 PM Nationally, the Democrats are in charge now. They can no longer blame the GOP for their failings. If they don't deliver, they deserve everything they get. Being partisan does take courage -- but not being blindly partisan to a party. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.121 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/03/2009 03:50:08 PM Not really true that everything is on the Democrats' hands now. Many agency heads are still W appointees, previous programs still have to be paid for or won't be deauthorized for a few years, and plus even if you even if they enact new programs or change directions on existing policies that still doesn't mean they will be readily obvious. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 04:15:17 PM And you can't blame everything on George Bush as an anomaly. He was a puppet. The guys pulling the strings were long-time Republicans. Cheney, Ashcroft, Rumsfeld, Poindexter, and a hundred others. They knew exactly what they were doing and it's the same thing they always do; they loot the treasury, they go to war to satisfy their own egos, and they cultivate fear to keep themselves in power as long as possible. If it is blind partisanship to oppose that, then I'll claim the label too. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.33.35 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 11:47:30 PM As far as I know, Obama bombed a funeral yesterday, and has defended indefinite detention and even a doctrine the ACLU has called worse "preventive" detention. Had it up to here with the "it's OK if Democrats do it" mindless idiot gang. Bush is out of office (thank God), can't blame things on him anymore. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.218.33.35 URL: DATE: 07/04/2009 01:54:46 AM http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/03/AR2009070302309.html?hpid=topnews Not happening, Obama. You might have high quality government health care, so you might not think the rest of us should too, but.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/04/2009 09:06:12 AM Your premise is mistaken. There is plenty of internal criticism from within both major parties. I think that most partisans have just decided that it is more effective to pursue their issue goals from within the stronger position of a major party. We can all pursue specific issues, but when it comes to politics, eventually we have to choose between candidates, and unless you run for something yourself you are never going to find a candidate who reflects your beliefs perfectly. We all have to make compromises if we are going to be politically involved. From there, it is not much of a leap to believe that 'Democrat' is better than 'Republican' (for example), which is all that Catherine was saying. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Quote unquote BASENAME: quote_unquote_6 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/01/2009 10:14:08 AM ----- BODY: Glenn Beck's guest tells us that "the only chance we have as a country right now is for Osama Bin Laden to deploy and detonate a major weapon in the United States." Alrighty then. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpaceyG EMAIL: IP: 66.156.20.247 URL: http://twitter.com/SpaceyG DATE: 07/01/2009 01:13:58 PM Fox News - standing guard at the State Hospital "Out" door to find their on-air guests. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: For the Good of the Party BASENAME: for_the_good_of_the_party STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/01/2009 03:32:04 PM TAGS: 2010,barnes,governor,poythress ----- BODY:
Sometimes it takes a friend to speak the truth, even when that truth is hard to hear. Roy Barnes and I have been friends for many years, but I believe I have to say out-loud what is being uttered in hushed tones all across the state: Roy, you shouldn't run.Then their paranoia personality appears and goes on a crazed tangent saying invisible Democrats all over the State "are worried that he'll bring the Party down - again". ----- EXTENDED BODY: Then their "Unity" personality appears, in a very flawed and disjointed manner, and lay claim that Roy isn't going to strengthen the Party:
Not only do Democrats have to stop Roy Barnes in the primary, we have to then come together to win the general election so we can solve some of the toughest policy challenges in the history of our state.The final personality appears at the end and Team Beige states:
For the good of the Party, I hope that Roy Barnes realizes that there's still time for him to change his mind so we can avoid a divisive primary. Ironically, the only sure-fire way to prove that he has changed is for Roy to put Georgia's needs before his own ambition and stay out of the race for Governor.Seriously, Team Beige I'm not sure what kind of candidate you are presenting - one that will unite the Party, slew the evil Roy Barnes, or one that can barely get out of the gate for a Democratic Primary. Pick one, any one, but don't send multiple personality emails. In the end, I'm not sure what Team Beige wants from me as a Democratic voter. I'm an undecided voter in the Governor's race and this email definitely doesn't inspire me to join the General as he marches across Georgia burning down every Democratic candidate in his eyesight. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.75 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/01/2009 03:48:09 PM I was going to blog this but decided against it. I'll be voting for Barnes but I still like the other candidates. Gen. Poythress, is quickly losing that respect. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Garry EMAIL: IP: 98.249.100.162 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 04:55:53 PM Sorry, Bernita. But what the hell does "Team Beige" mean? I'm not sure who Im voting for. But, I'll never vote for Barnes again. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.86 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 05:59:55 PM I am a Poythress supporter and while these types of emails are entertaining to read I don't really think they do much good. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.177.51 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 06:10:16 PM Problem is the campaigns are really only one dimensional when they are just sitting in my in box. I don't open this stuff up. Also why is it in caps? Did I need to be yelled at, yesterday was all hearts and flowers when they wanted my money. I have no dog in this race- and I'm glad not to. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.215.196.107 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 06:26:57 PM "I was going to blog this but decided against it. I'll be voting for Barnes but I still like the other candidates. Gen. Poythress, is quickly losing that respect." Gotta support the party insider, even if he totally flunked the party last time! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 66.156.7.77 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 07:24:53 PM I keep asking myself one question. Who are Roy's people? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Kyle EMAIL: IP: 68.53.214.195 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 07:41:43 PM > Sounds to me like Poythress is telling Barnes he can't win. I don't see thay as "Burning down every Democratic candidate in his eyesight." They are running against each other in this race, right? You don't have to love each other during the primary. Only in the General Election. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 09:40:35 PM It's good to see Bernita back and in fine form. I think the email might have been more useful before Roy announced. But, yes, it still need a bit something more too. But no, no one could have prevented the 'Mark & Cathy bloodbath'. Many, tried to no avail. And again, I think given how the field has shaken out so far, 'ol Roy just found the prospect of another run just about irresistible. Which is fine. This is why we have primaries to decide these things. No one can proscribe the kind of opposition they think they deserve. Well not much, and not anyplace too far from Iran anyways. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.75 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/01/2009 09:48:24 PM Mel, check your email. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.13.142 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 10:34:02 PM "> Sounds to me like Poythress is telling Barnes he can't win. I don't see thay as "Burning down every Democratic candidate in his eyesight." They are running against each other in this race, right? You don't have to love each other during the primary. Only in the General Election." QFT ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.219.13.142 URL: DATE: 07/01/2009 10:36:17 PM "I keep asking myself one question. Who are Roy's people?" The same folks who got all excited about Jim Martin because they thought someone with a big money base and who's been there a long time and has groupies = wins statewide, even though he got his butt handed to him just a couple years ago by a double digit spread. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 66.156.7.77 URL: DATE: 07/02/2009 01:30:25 AM Zaid, the next time you change URLs, shoot me an email. Don't make me go looking for you. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 66.156.7.77 URL: DATE: 07/02/2009 01:31:31 AM And put a blog roll on the new site. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 07/02/2009 08:58:52 AM I deleted the thing. then someone told me I needed to read it. Meh. What does small campaigns do? They attack. The over/under on this is set a 1 news cycle. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.38.60 URL: DATE: 07/02/2009 09:18:11 AM I think "Team Beige" means it has been a pretty bland campaign. Seems like attacking Roy is one way to spice things up! Whaddaya want, for him to go sit on a water tower? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 07/02/2009 09:41:36 AM Zaid, there's one big difference between Barnes and Martin. Barnes has actually won a statewide race. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/02/2009 09:57:44 AM Oh, snap! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Journalism: product v process BASENAME: journalism_product_v_process STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/01/2009 07:59:04 PM ----- BODY:
Online, the story, the reporting, the knowledge are never done and never perfect. That doesn't mean that we revel in imperfection, as is the implication of The Times' story - that we have no standards. It just means that we do journalism differently, because we can. We have our standards, too, and they include collaboration, transparency, letting readers into the process, and trying to say what we don't know when we publish - as caveats - rather than afterward - as corrections. The problem with this tiresome, never-ending alleged war of blogs vs. MSM (Arrington attacks The Times) and MSM vs. blogs (The Times attacks Arrington) - (Mark Glaser scolded me for rising to The Times' bait - is that it blinds each tribe from learning from the other. Yes, there are standards worth saluting from classical journalism. But there are also new methods and opportunities to be learned online. No one owns journalists or its methods or standards.Robert Picard, at The Media Business reminds us:
Many of the voices and opinions, however, misunderstand the nature of journalism. It is not business model; it is not a job; it is not a company; it is not an industry; it is not a form of media; it is not a distribution platform. Instead, journalism is an activity. It is a body of practices by which information and knowledge is gathered, processed, and conveyed. The practices are influenced by the form of media and distribution platform, of course, as well as by financial arrangements that support the journalism. But one should not equate the two.And lastly, Wendy at Ink-Drenched Kvetch has a great post today about all this too:
I've been occasionally sentimental at times about wanting to hold on to what I've known as a journalist. I still love print and at least try to pick up the Sunday paper along with subscriptions to several magazines. I cannot read with deep immersion online and probably never will. Like Nick Carr, I worry about the cognitive effects of lengthy periods of time spent online. And the obnoxious rantings of certain techno-utopians border on the asinine when they don't cross it.Let the discussion continue. What do you think? Product or process? ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: The Walkabout BASENAME: a_shocking_lack_of_pr STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/01/2009 02:52:06 PM TAGS: austinscott,georgia,governor,scott ----- BODY:
Before there was Woodstock, there was Atlanta Pop. Forty years ago this weekend, an unimaginable multitude descended upon the Peach State for a weekend of peace and music that essentially marked the birth of a new South.
Cultural fallout from 1967's Summer of Love in San Francisco still drifted across the country, and so-called "hippie districts" had taken root in major metropolises. Birmingham had not made the cut, but in Atlanta, something was definitely happening in Midtown, particularly around 14th Street.Ironic isn't it? Have a safe and fun holiday weekend everyone and try not to get hassled by the man. Peace and love. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Sarah Palin will not seek re-election, and will resign...really? BASENAME: sarah_palin_will_not_seek_re-e STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/03/2009 03:56:07 PM TAGS: "Sarah Palin" ----- BODY: (Updated by Paula to add Palin's resignation speech.) Wow just WOW.
Last Updated 3:44 p.m. ET. Sarah Palin has announced that she will resign as governor of Alaska and will not seek a second term. CBS Affiliate KTVA reports that at a press conference this morning Palin said she will resign the governorship within a few weeks. CBSNews.com producer Scott Conroy, who covered Palin's vice presidential campaign last year, confirmed through a source close to the governor said she is leaving office.Thoughts on this? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 04:07:05 PM I can't imagine it's so she can start campaigning. You don't quit early to do that, do you? I smell a scandal coming. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 74.224.169.236 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 04:24:27 PM I was just reading the VF story you posted earlier in the week. If she does suffer from NPD, it won't be good. She'll be completely off the chain. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.155.189.70 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 04:33:52 PM Top Five Things Palin Will Do Next: 1. Open a running shoe store in Wasilla. 2. Partner with Heidi Pratt to design a line of clothing for career-minded Christian women. 3. Host a late night talk show. 4. Have another baby (but we won't know about it until she's eight months pregnant). 5. Start fundraising for a 2012 Presidential bid. (Ha ha, that one's just a joke.) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 69.180.24.117 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 05:07:03 PM There's a scandal here, somewhere. You don't quit midway through your first term and announce it on a holiday Friday news dump unless you're hoping it will all blow over before the media and public really start digging. It might be something as minor as needing the money for her family, or it might be as major as an abuse of office charge that would be levelled at her (again) if she didn't resign ASAP. Either way, I hope someone finds it eventually because I want this woman to STAY GONE. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 05:31:38 PM If there is a scandal, then the next interesting question would be who is pushing it? Given the bad blood between different factions within the GOP right now, it would not be surprising if it has Steve Schmidt's fingerprints on it, or others inside the Party. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Catherine EMAIL: catherine@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 05:53:24 PM Congratulations to the people of Alaska! Whatever the reason, this is very good news for them. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.R. EMAIL: IP: 74.224.44.197 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 07:01:03 PM If she wasn't already going to get destroyed in the 2012 primary, the fact that she's bailing on her state mid-term is positioning her to be completely nonviable. The other thing is this frees her to get paid for writing and promoting her book, which I recall was not allowed by Alaska ethics laws. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BigD EMAIL: IP: 68.140.34.67 URL: DATE: 07/03/2009 08:29:46 PM Catherine, "Congratulations to the people of Alaska! Whatever the reason, this is very good news for them." Uncertain it is - apparently Lt Gov Parnell is a really 'Club for Growth' type they in fact backed him against Young in the 2008 Republican primary because Young wasn't conservative enough - good grief ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/04/2009 01:22:48 AM I think some of the betting is with Sara on a 'bigger/newer scandal', but really? It's not come out by now? What on earth could it be? Worse than book banning, rape kit denying, global & constant craven cronyism? What? And really? We Want her around for the 2012 race! She's comedy Gold people! http://www.huffingtonpost.com/andy-borowitz/comedians-mourn-palins-re_b_225550.html So no, I do not take this as especially good news. Some will see it as martyrdom and crucifixion by the 'horrible liberal media'/MSM. Let's hope it's just another re-run of the 'new, new Nixon' & the infamous 'Checkers speech'. Well w/o making much sense to anyone, or without much logic, nor with the raw calculating intelligence, political talent or animal cunning of Nixon either. Thank goodness! But still, always a laugh riot and like the top reasons 1-25 Never to join up with a national party that would have her anywhere near the Presidency. So I'm hoping she makes a partial 'come back', enough to spoil the race for plenty of Repug's sometime in the near future. I do not care if it's nationally or up there in AK either. Just please, make her continue in the role of the obvious politically 'useful idiot' she was born to be, evidently. Ronnie Ray-gun she a'int! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/04/2009 03:54:41 AM More decent speculation on Palin's future (yes, in politics) here via The DailyBeast.com: How Palin's Resignation Makes Her the True Frontrunner by John Batchelor http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2009-07-03/how-vanity-fairs-palin-profile-helps-her/full/ & Palin Has Really Gone Rogue by Michelle Goldberg http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2009-07-02/is-she-a-narcissist/full/ The 1st is the better article, the last one (Goldberg) is a bit sloppy & in need of copy editing, but interesting just the same. I still say that if you had to bet? We've not seen the last of her. She'll be making serious book on whatever it is she's got for a long while. As a Fox TV host & commentator and/or as a national political candidate. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: jenatlanta@gmail.com IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 07/04/2009 10:46:21 AM Possibly HouseGate? http://www.talkleft.com/story/2009/7/4/1282/35742 ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Independence Day BASENAME: independence_day STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/04/2009 10:02:31 AM ----- BODY:
Donations down Until now Vatican Radio has been paid for out of the Church's central funds. The Holy See has just published its finances, showing that it had a deficit for the second year running. The costs of Vatican Radio were partly to blame for the deficit. The Church says donations were down in the past year because of the world's current economic problems. It will be a few months before it is known if the commercials are working and whether the audience accepts them.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Honduras; clearly not as sexy as Iran or Michael Jackson BASENAME: honduras_clearly_not_as_sexy_a STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/06/2009 10:49:58 PM ----- BODY:
Honduran Coup Regime Blocks Ousted President Zelaya's Return; Troops Open Fire on Supporters at Airport Killing Two One week after a military coup in Honduras, soldiers and riot police blocked the airport runway Sunday evening preventing ousted President Manuel Zelaya from returning to the country. Heavily armed Honduran soldiers also used tear gas and machine guns to disperse an unarmed crowd of tens of thousands of people who had come from all over the country, despite military blockades, to wait at the airport and welcome back their ousted President. At least two people were reportedly killed and more wounded.Excellent coverage at Democracy Now! I found this exchange highly interesting:
JUAN GONZALEZ: Didn't he also, Zelaya, take other stands that were diametrically opposed to US policy? For instance, he began coming out questioning whether the drug war was a legitimate war and should--there should be a possible legalization of drugs. And also, didn't he raise the minimum wage substantially in a country where there's a lot of free trade zones and people working in factories for foreign companies? NIKOLAS KOZLOFF: Well, right. I mean, the first salvo against the Honduran elite was his moves to raise the minimum wage by 60 percent. And you're right. I mean, this is a country where you have these maquiladora assembly plants, and the Honduran elite were, to say the least, displeased by the movesIt's worth your time to read the transcripts, we-the USA is hip deep in this situation, and you'd hardly know it from the main stream media coverage. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: Around the Services... BASENAME: around_the_services_2 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/06/2009 10:58:26 PM TAGS: afghanistan,dadt,military ----- BODY:
As campaign disclosures begin to come in, we should point out that contribution limits have increased pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 21-5-41(k). The new limits for state-wide office are: - $6,100 for a primary election - $6,100 for a general election - $3,600 for run-off election (primary or general) For all other offices: - $2,400 for a primary election - $2,400 for a general election - $1,200 for run-off election (primary or general)----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: We need your favorite recipes! BASENAME: we_need_your_favorite_recipes STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/07/2009 01:02:49 AM TAGS: cookbook,"cooking for democracy",recipes ----- BODY:
GOVERNOR * Thurbert Baker (D): $704,331.00 * DuBose Porter (D): $231,250 * David Poythress (D): $150,000 * John Oxendine (R): $420,000 * Nathan Deal (R): $980,000 * Karen Handel (R): $430,000 * Eric Johnson (R): $962,773.40 * Austin Scott (R): $180,620.00 * Ray McBerry (R): $18,596.44----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.180 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/07/2009 09:09:30 PM Poythress' numbers are terrible. If he really thinks he can defeat Barnes (which he does) he needs, at the absolute minimum, to not be dead last in the Democratic money race. Especially if he's been in the race so much longer than the other candidates. And the money is going to be flowing only to Roy soon. I hate to say it but any credibility he may have had is fast going out the window. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Garry EMAIL: IP: 68.53.214.195 URL: DATE: 07/07/2009 09:48:13 PM OK, lets be fair about the numbers ......... you're only showing what Poythress has raised in this period. For the cycle he has raised $460,000. Porter is at $230,000 (half of Poythress) and Baker hasn't been seen nor heard from so far today. Poythress has a contribution from every county in the state... do Porter or Baker? Will Barnes? Money doesn't beat Roy Barnes, votes do. Sonny Perdue was outspent 23-3 and still beat Roy and Poythress will beat Roy too. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 174.151.252.38 URL: DATE: 07/07/2009 10:09:39 PM Dubose got into the Governor's race on April 6th. Dubose has raised $230,000 in less than 3 months. Poythress raised only $150,000 in the last 6 months. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Kyle EMAIL: IP: 68.53.214.195 URL: DATE: 07/07/2009 10:57:30 PM Porter has no staff, a horrible web site, and has shown up at a scattering of events. Does money matter? Sure. Does it determine a winner? No. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.34.28.77 URL: DATE: 07/07/2009 11:03:44 PM Did Nathan Deal move money from his congressional account? I don't have the energy to dig now.. but wow he's packing and so's Eric Johnson! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.34.28.77 URL: DATE: 07/07/2009 11:09:31 PM oops AJC says he ( Deal) moved just 6000 ish from congressional funds. Marathons folks marathons. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 68.243.249.210 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 12:17:27 AM Da-damn...Thurbert is bringing the heat...raised $704,331 and has $591,220. Thurbert has on his big boy underwear. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 04:46:16 AM Millions. Of dollars. 2/3 of which will go for simplistic 30 & 60 second nasty attack TV ads. With ever disappointing & disappearing media coverage of local & state politics in all other venues. And the only thing most voters will recall is the negative information that your opponent bought. Yeah. I love this game. From the start it's all about the money. Not the ideas about who's getting the money, where it goes, how to use it & spend it wisely & possibly save it. And once you're in? You can well hide who's getting the state funded largess, and your corrupt crony connections to various crooked land deals & hidden 'side deals' for & by various industries. And the press? Almost always looks the other way as long as you've got the magical 'plausible denial', or the trail is too crooked & long to keep up after. It takes too much work. But the money up front? It's magick. We can see all the glittering gold piled high right in front of our would be champions & saviors. It is ever thus. Has anyone seen these folks on the stump? Is a cool 1 Mill going to make Nathan Deal or Eric Johnson more compelling candidates or speakers? Would 10 Mill do it? Perhaps not. But with enough ads pushing & punishing, who knows? With enough bullets there's always that possible 'golden BB' effect too. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Willie Stark EMAIL: IP: 143.228.129.9 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 09:22:42 AM Poythress is DOA. Down the stretch, he won't have enough money for media or staff with those numbers. Consequently, he won’t be able to build the name identification needed to realistically compete in the primary. He needs to consider dropping out so Georgia doesn't have to see him lose to Roy again. The '98 Democratic Primary. Barnes - 239,517 (49.2%) Massey - 135,920 (27.9%) Polythesis - 65,860 (13.5%) He didn't even make the runoff!!! Instead of telling Roy to consider what's good for the party, he needs to look at the man in the mirror. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 01:35:29 PM "Poythress is DOA." And there it is, the first shot fired of the great Gubernatorial Comment War of 2010. Pass the popcorn. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/08/2009 02:12:06 PM Your candidate HAS LIED REPEATEDLY and CAN NOT WIN IN 2010! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.195.125 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 02:23:31 PM I can't argue with it though. If he's really serious about being the man, then he better get busy. I like the idea of a General on the ticket in South Georgia, but if he's not serious about it, then I'm not interested. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 03:37:21 PM IRE, "Your candidate HAS LIED REPEATEDLY and CAN NOT WIN IN 2010!" Who is this directed towards? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/08/2009 03:42:16 PM All of the candidates except mine. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.175 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 04:14:56 PM My candidate's Field Director could kick your candidate's Field Directors A**! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.195.125 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 05:16:02 PM Your candidate's Field Director wears combat boots, err, wait a minute... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 173.6.248.34 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 06:15:00 PM Full disclosure: I am JerryT's Field Director. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.222 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/08/2009 11:07:16 PM Poythress has more debt than what he raised during this cycle. That's not a recipe for success. There is no dishonor in saving face. Baker also over reporter by $270ish. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: travelindem EMAIL: IP: 67.191.137.206 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 11:12:46 AM Man, Teilhet's total has to put him in the front runner drivers seat. I may need to double check, but he seems to be the only statewide dem outraising both the democrats and the republicans in the same race. I-M-P-R-E-S-S-I-V-E. Over 200k this early is insane money. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/09/2009 02:03:14 PM And apparently there is like some legal stuff about Hodges having an affair (I believe) or something like that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 02:09:34 PM IRE, you know that's out of bounds. If you don't have a link to a news story, I call bs. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 173.137.100.63 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 02:35:53 PM IRE ain't bs-ing (this time). Read the entire sordid affair/accusations. It's really creepy - http://www.aboutforsyth.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=28671&highlight=&sid=25ff1efe03d2e5b93b7dd4e2e33626cb scroll down to the "INFIDELITY" section. Note to self on how to get a divorce. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/09/2009 02:37:33 PM that you would accuse me of bs= http://www.aboutforsyth.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=28671&highlight=&sid=25ff1efe03d2e5b93b7dd4e2e33626cb ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/09/2009 02:41:05 PM BTW: i saw a new problem with this site, when you try to enter a broken heart it doesn't show up. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Catherine EMAIL: catherine@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 208.61.22.11 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 03:30:46 PM OK, that is some hilarious s**t at the aboutforsyth link. You just can't make it up. I think I have a plot for a Lifetime Movie Network show... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 03:34:34 PM Hah! I thought that petition was filed pro-se, but then realized that there were three lawyers involved.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.66.72 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 04:04:02 PM Alrighty then. Remember that was just the "Request for Admissions". What would be extra fun would be the response. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 04:26:20 PM Well, that's certainly a different take on campaign "disclosures". Apologies to IRE and regrets to Mr. Hodges. ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Dean Screams for Health Care Reform BASENAME: dean_screams_for_health_care_r STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/07/2009 09:48:17 PM ----- BODY:
ESQ: You say that the public plan shouldn't be able to dip into general government reserves to subsidize its operations. But the Republicans say it will. HD: The Republicans just make things up out of whole cloth. Nothing they say about health care is true. It's all just nonsense and fears and what-ifs. It doesn't happen. First of all, Medicare doesn't dip into government reserves. It has never happened. It might happen in 10 years if they don't cut benefits or raise taxes, but so far, never in the history of America has a program like Medicare used public reserves. The Republican tactic is to raise objections because they never have anything positive to say themselves.Want more? Buy his book and get it signed at Manuel's on Friday! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 04:25:07 AM Sheet. I'd so wanted to make it there too. I've got another engagement closer to home that came up this week. But again, we need folks like Dr. Dean out there & fighting for the good cause. I'm glad that he's there. Now go buy the book & call those Other Senators. You know the ones that might vote for all of this. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/08/2009 08:49:58 AM Pure communist nonsense from America's most famous socialistic communist. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.175 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 10:56:10 AM Yes comrade, you bourgeoisie better watch out! The proletariat is coming! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.195.125 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 12:21:48 PM Stop it with the aristocratic elitist nonsense. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 12:42:23 PM I can't believe I won't be in town for this. It just figures.
Johnson's Second Law: If, in the course of several months, only three worthwhile social events take place, they will all fall on the same evening.----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.175 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 12:53:05 PM Or is that "the proletariat are coming"? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.175 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 01:12:04 PM Finally had a chance to read the interview. I just have to say Give 'em Hell Howie! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: Some Young Democrats Events You Don't Want To Miss BASENAME: some_young_democrats_events_yo STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/08/2009 11:55:52 AM TAGS: Savannah,"Young Dems" ----- BODY: Whether you're a Young Democrat, or Young-At-Heart Democrat, you are welcome and invited to the following events! Young Democrats 2009-2010 Leadership Academy Reception Thursday July 9th 5:30-7:30PM 5 Seasons Brewery at the intersection of Howell Mill Rd & Marietta Street Atlanta, GA Young Democrats in Savannah - Friday Mixer at Blowin Smoke BBQFriday July 10th 5:30-8:30PM Blowin Smoke BBQ, 514 MLK Jr Blvd Savannah, GA Young Democrats in Savannah - Retreat Afterparty at Venus De Milo Saturday Jul 11th 7:00-10PM Venus De Milo, 38 MLK Jr Blvd Savannah, GA from www.georgiayds.org/events ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Amir Farokhi leads Post 2 candidates in cash BASENAME: amir_farokhi_leads_post_2_cand STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/08/2009 06:13:06 PM ----- BODY: Disclaimer: This is a press release from the campaign, not an endorsement by this blog - but the (wo)man on the street has been heard to note that Amir is obviously the best candidate in at least one respect. ATLANTA (July 8, 2009) - Amir Farokhi, candidate for Atlanta City Council Post 2 At-Large, today announced that he has raised $97,291.73 from more than 400 contributors. In the race to succeed councilmember Mary Norwood, Farokhi is ahead of all candidates who complied with the state's July 7th filing deadline. Rest below the fold - but do the math, that's more than $200 per person. It's also a lot more than Ray McBerry Special raised for the governor's race.. *snicker* ----- EXTENDED BODY: Farokhi attributes his early fundraising success to voters' strong desire for change on City Council. "Even during a recession, people have given to my campaign because they see the possibilities of a Council that's focused on smart solutions," he said. "With the passionate support of so many Atlantans, we are already running a strong campaign that will change the way business is done at City Hall." Born and raised in Atlanta, he has relied heavily upon a broad network of community leaders and residents who he met through his years of community service. "It doesn't matter what you look like, how much you make or where you live, all residents want the city to work well and uses resources responsibly," said Farokhi, who has contributors in nearly every Atlanta zip code. "Voters want a Council that will put politics aside and act in Atlanta's best interest." Farokhi currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Charles R. Drew Charter School in East Lake, the Board of Trustees of The Galloway School and the Advisory Board of Creating Vibrant Communities in the West End. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tom Crawford EMAIL: tomcraw@bellsouth.net IP: 74.176.157.148 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 08:22:30 AM Maybe Amir could give some of that campaign cash to his mom, Beth, who is running for state school superintendent. It would be great to have a school superintendent who actually supports the theory of evolution -- it's been 16 years since we had one. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.11 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 11:24:21 AM Oh snap! ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Vote or Die BASENAME: vote_or_die STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/08/2009 06:32:09 PM ----- BODY: Voting is now in progress for Creative Loafing's "Best of" poll. Remember, if you don't vote, you can't complain about the results! You have to vote in at least ten categories in order for your ballot to count, and provide the necessary contact info. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 06:45:10 PM Vote or Die. "What the hell does that even mean?" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.66.72 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 06:54:18 PM "What do you think it means, bitch?" :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 07:10:25 PM Hah! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 12:28:02 PM Maybe my attention span is shot to hell, but that thing is insanely long. I don't even know where to begin. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: New Poll! How long will Rahm last? BASENAME: new_poll_how_long_will_rahm_la STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/08/2009 06:58:35 PM ----- BODY: You may have heard that White House chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel, got his hand slapped a bit yesterday. MoveOn stepped in quickly.
"The goal is to have a means and a mechanism to keep the private insurers honest. The goal is non-negotiable; the path is" negotiable, the newspaper quoted Mr. Emanuel as saying. But Mr. Emanuel did not get the last word. Within hours, the chief of staff was big-footed - all the way from Moscow -- by his boss, Mr. Obama, who is in Russia prior to the meeting of the "Group of Eight" economic powers. The White House issued an official statement declaring that Mr. Obama remains committed to the public option.Is this the beginning of the end for Mr Emanuel? What do you think? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.222 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/08/2009 07:16:09 PM Poll fail it doesn't work. And that's not the first time I've heard that! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Catherine EMAIL: catherine@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 07:27:37 PM It's working now. Sorry! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: jasondozier@gmail.com IP: 24.32.45.151 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 07:36:26 PM He stepped on his pee pee, but he isn't going anywhere. If reports are accurate, he's far to valuable to the President and his policy agenda to let go over a PR mishap. Hell, Sec. Geither survived his extremely rocky first few months at his post. Have we forgotten http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOYAuk809fY ? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/08/2009 08:04:20 PM He's too volatile to last more than one term. But he is vicious enough to last one term. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: We Stand Alone, Together BASENAME: we_stand_alone_together STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/08/2009 08:07:06 PM TAGS: military,veterans ----- BODY:
Many of them will encounter a classroom culture shock that can leave them agitated. Ask Colin Closs, a former Fort Campbell soldier studying at Cleveland State University in Ohio, what bothers him most about how veterans are treated on campus and he lists strange and sometimes rude questions people have asked. "Was it hot?" "Were you always in a tent?" "Did you ever kill anybody?" Closs benefited this past school year from a program at Cleveland State started in 2007 by chemistry professor John Schupp to form some freshman-level classes with all veterans. Schupp's idea is to keep the military men and women together as a unit so they can support and motivate each other. The University of Arizona adopted his program last year and schools in at least a dozen states are working on programs modeled on Cleveland State. Closs said after leaving the military, he had trouble interacting with people who don't understand his wartime experiences. But when he takes classes with other veterans, they can talk about problems they may have, whether its educational or personal. "It's like the VFW hall without the alcohol," Closs said.The particularities of the program aren't complicated. Veterans take history, math, biology and chemistry classes together during their Freshman year, helping them establish a social network that potentially making adaption on campus and eventually graduating much easier. Admittedly, Schupp had an uphill battle to get the program, called SERV, or Supportive Education for the Returning Veteran, off the ground. The few classes he was able to initially get together were poorly attended, creating somewhat of a financial liability for the school. But officials bit on the proposal, and it eventually became successful enough that it's now it's being adopted all over the country. I personally think this is a great idea. And it's not without precedent either. Organizations like The Posse Foundation have successfully taken students from similar, albeit diverse, backgrounds, nurtured their leadership and organizational skills, and sent them together to schools across the country, helping fulfill their academic and social potential. Even our leaders are starting to catch on. Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown first introduced the idea to capitalize on the program in the last Congress, but it gained little traction. But recently, in the House, Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-RI) has proposed SERV Act legislation which would provide grants to schools that implemented programs like this. Hopefully this legislation will be able to ride the wave of pro-veteran sentiment that Congress has taken a liking to lately. I mean, it took them long enough to update the G.I. Bill in the first place, but I digress. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Congrats to Rob Teilhet BASENAME: congrats_to_rob_teilhet STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/09/2009 11:42:48 AM TAGS: 2010,disclosures,fundraising,teilhet ----- BODY: I know he worked hard for this. From PI:
One of this week's down-ticket surprises was state Rep. Rob Teilhet of Smyrna, who was the leading fund-raiser in the race to replace Thurbert Baker as attorney general. Teilhet raised $203,569 and has $181,524 on hand. Former Dougherty County prosecutor Ken Hodges raised $128,280 and has $120,334 on hand. Republican Sam Olens, the chairman of the Cobb County Commission, doesn't yet have any primary opposition. He raised $185,959, and has $175,143 on hand. All three drew heavily from the legal community. The politically astute Barnes Law Group, which is dominated by a certain former governor, gave $3,000 each to both Teilhet and Hodges. But Teilhet got additional contributions totaling $3,500 from two attorneys within that particular firm. Neither of them named Barnes.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Reed gets big boost from labor. BASENAME: reed_gets_big_boost_from_labor STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/09/2009 01:10:23 PM ----- BODY:
The Nebraska Democratic Party is announcing that we have set up an email hotline to collect information on "What has Lee Terry Done?" It is designed to help identify what, if anything, the Republican Congressman has done for Nebraska. "We know he jaywalks and maybe uses profanity, but otherwise, we don't know what Lee Terry is doing in Washington." Said State Chair, Vic Covalt. "Other than voting No, we have no idea whether he does anything back there." Covalt said. Lee Terry has voted lock step with the Party of No on everything this year. No on the Stimulus. No on Women's right to equal wages. No on the SCHIP program to get insurance for Children. No on supporting the troops. No new commands for Offutt Air Force Base.----- EXTENDED BODY:
We might be missing something here, but it seems to us that a faceless congressman with the minority party in Washington is not good Representation for Nebraska. If you know of anything positive that Lee Terry has done in his six terms in Washington, let us know. We have created a special email account so people can send in proof to support their statements. "We know that the Party of No likes to bend the truth or simply use misleading rhetoric," said Vic Covalt, "so we asking for documented proof to support claims that Lee Terry has done anything." Please send in anything you know to leeterry@nebraskademocrats.org If you agree that Nebraska deserves a better class of representative, help us lead the charge. Become a sustaining donor of the Nebraska Democratic Party.We can definitely duplicate this in Georgia with so many of our Congressfolks who are locked in tight with the Party of No while our State's economy is failing and the education system is quickly tanking. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 03:17:44 AM Yep. We definitely need more like this. Those primaries have a long reach huh? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: rubyduby@rubyduby.com IP: 69.38.58.121 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 10:59:07 AM Yes, but that might require the state party pulling its head out of its ass and growing a pair and a spine all in the span of one short year. All in all, I have a better chance at winning a gold medal for curling next year at the Winter Olympics than the likelihood of this happening. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: How many Christians does it take to tell a Republican politician that adultery is wrong? BASENAME: how_many_christians_does_it_ta STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/09/2009 03:12:53 PM ----- BODY:
Oklahoma Sen. Tom Coburn was part of a group of Washington-based intermediaries that confronted fellow Sen. John Ensign in an effort to convince him to end an extra-marital affair. In an effort to try to end the affair, Hampton told Ralston he reached out to a group of "intermediaries involved in a Christian fellowship home in Washington, D.C.," the Sun reported. The group "confronted Ensign and suggested that the Hamptons needed to be given financial assistance - in the millions of dollars - to pay off their $1 million-plus mortgage and move them to a new life away from Ensign," according to the Sun's report.And did the really brilliant, Sen. Ensign end the affair - nah, the brilliant wizard continued the affair, gave pay raises to both his mistress and her husband (his staffer), got their son employed with the Republican Party and finally paid everyone off with a severance package of $25,000. Do ya really need a group of Christians sitting around a living room to let you know that breaking your marriage vows are wrong; especially when your entire political career is based on saving "family values"? The Party of NO definitely says Yes when it comes to cheating on their wives while protesting that Obama and Democrats are destroying American families. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.66.72 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 04:11:16 PM By the way, the Fellowship group referenced above was the subject of a very scary sounding book, and profiled on Fresh Air recently: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106115324 Both Ensign and Sanford are associated with the group. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 03:01:27 AM Yep, the highly secretive 'Family' of Washington, DC fame is deeply & Catholiclly creepy and has been so for decades. And I noted this in one of Tom's earlier posts on Sanford here. Sen. Ensign's giving Gov. Sanford a run for his money in the creepy but deeply & tragically funny adultery show. This from Josh Marshall's Talkingpointsmemo.com "There's a lot of salacious back and forth today about the Ensign scandal. But beneath the tabloid headlines there's a critical question that needs to be asked: Which is more emasculating? Getting paid a hundred grand by the guy who screwed your wife? Or being a fifty-something United States senator and still needing mom and dad to cut the check to pay off your mistress and her husband? Thoughts?" Yeah. Get the popcorn. This is mighty interesting nuclear hypocrite theater smack down territory. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 10:09:52 PM More from the great Josh Marshall of TPM on 'The Family', also known as 'The C Street Group' (for the location of their Men's only cloister like dormitory: http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/2009/07/ensigns_weirdest_moment.php?ref=fpblg I quote in full here; "Ensign's Weirdest Moment 07.10.09 -- 12:32PM By Josh Marshall Yes, I know that's pretty bold billing given the recent news out about Sen. Ensign (R-NV). But beyond all the salacious detail there's a picture emerging of the man -- who, remember, is a high-profile senator and had been considered a serious presidential candidate -- that combines deeply manipulative traits with an almost childlike approach to those in authority around him. Ensign is a member of something called the C Street group, which is part of a highly secretive religious outfit called 'The Family'. It's a combo religious fellowship and Capitol Hill group home where a number of Republican members of Congress live. And it's run by a guy named Doug Coe. (Because the comedy never stops, remember that Gov. Sanford too is a member of the C Street group/Family.) In one of the more surreal episodes in this whole drama, while folks from 'The Family', including Sen. Coburn (R-OK), were trying to get Ensign to end his relationship with the girlfriend and write her and her husband a big check. So Ensign agrees to do this. But the members of his fellowship had so little trust he could follow through that they had him write out a letter to the mistress that he was ending the relationship and then drove him to the local Fedex office to make sure he actually dropped the letter in the box. So he does that. But then after he shakes them loos he calls the mistress to tell her his friends made him write the letter and to ignore it. It makes having his parents pay the couple off sound far less out of character. And this was a man who was going to run for president." Another po' mouthed White evangelical hope shot to hell by thinking with the little head. Who knew the attrition would be so terrible? Secretive society & Cloisters? Men's only Bible study for weeks at a time? Who could have predicted... TPM has many, many links imbeded in that one above, BTW. Follow it up. Tres Creepy! JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: A "Whites only" pool in 2009? BASENAME: a_whites_only_pool_in_2009 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/09/2009 04:59:14 PM ----- BODY: Sign the ColorofChange petition.
Two weeks ago outside Philadelphia, sixty-five children from a summer camp tried to go swimming at a club their camp had a contract to use. Evidently, the club didn't know the kids were largely Black. When the campers entered the pool, White parents took their kids out of the water, and the swimming club's staff asked the campers to leave. The next day, the club told the summer camp that their membership would be canceled and that they would refund their money. When asked why, the club's leader said the "kids would change the complexion ... and the atmosphere of the club." A "Whites only" pool in 2009 should not be tolerated. The club's actions appear to be a violation of section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act. Whether or not any laws were violated, a "Whites only" pool should be something every American condemns.----- EXTENDED BODY:
Please join us in doing exactly that, and please email your friends and family and invite them to do the same. Your signature will also be used to call on the Department of Justice to evaluate suing the facility under federal law. It takes just a moment to do both, here: http://www.colorofchange.org/swim/?id=1428-57177 Obama is President but that doesn't mean that suddenly all is fine when it comes to race in America. This is a vivid reminder of what we know still lies beneath the surface. We all know stories like this one -- similar incidents play out quietly every day in different communities across the country. The difference in this case is that folks got caught and there was a contract in place that makes for a potentially illegal act. Standing up now isn't just about making things right for these kids in Philadelphia or bringing consequences to this swim club (called the Valley Swim Club). It's about creating a climate of accountability everywhere.. If we can publicly shame the Valley Swim Club and hold them accountable for this incident, it will make others think twice before engaging in this kind of discrimination. Please join us in condemning the Valley Swim Club's blatant discrimination and calling on the Justice Department to investigate whether they violated civil rights laws. And please ask your friends and family to do the same. http://www.colorofchange.org/swim/?id=1428-57177 Thanks and Peace, -- James, Gabriel, William, Dani and the rest of the ColorOfChange.org team July 9th, 2009Background story here ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 06:51:51 PM Nita! Three posts on the same day! So good to have you back. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 06:55:17 PM And this story is just surreal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.66.72 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 07:14:49 PM I like this story for the simple reason that it made me good about living in Georgia for once! At our community pool, not only do we have day campers of all races, we have moms and dads of all sexual orientations, families from all class strata, and quite a bathing suit size range -- and everyone gets along swimmingly. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.195.125 URL: DATE: 07/09/2009 11:12:07 PM I actually feel sorry for people who can't see beyond someone's skin tone. They are truly missing out on one of the greatest sources of wonderment there is today - children playing together without a care in the world. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 03:11:29 AM The children have mostly always gotten along just fine. Prejudice is a learned behavior. You learn it from the adults & your parents. Then it becomes 'second nature' for some unfortunates. Only then it takes some time & thought to 'undo' the damage done. Lest we forget. Chicago was MLK's 'toughest campaign'. Yankees have never been particularly immune to prejudice, they just express it a bit differently. I'd seen the story come across briefly, it looked genuine, but it's still hard to take in this day & age. Yeah, we're so advanced to be beyond the need & reach of the Civil & Voting Rights Acts! Thanks for the reminder Bernita. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: "Customers? We Don't Need No Stinking Customers!" BASENAME: customers_we_dont_need_no_stin STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/10/2009 10:13:15 AM ----- BODY: Folks, don't believe everything you hear about the bad economy. It seems that at least one sector of the economy -- insurance business -- is doing just fine thank you very much. That's right, it seems they have waaaay too many customers, and no longer need our patronage. Follow me below the fold for the whole sad story. ----- EXTENDED BODY: After five years of on-time payment and zero claims, our homeowners insurance policy has been cancelled. Just like that. No negotiation, no demand for higher premiums (which were already pretty dang high). After much conversation with Carl at the call center and the agent who sold us the policy, it seems that we just aren't their kind of clients. Or something. The stated reasons for the cancellation were "abnormal shingles", "lack of handrail on steps", and "garden hose across pathway". Right. It turns out that "abnormal shingles" is code for "has moss on the roof". OK, I'll cop to having been behind on getting the power-washing folks out here, but really? You're going to cancel us for a condition that can be ameliorated with a couple of hours of manual labor? I'm similarly perplexed by the handrail business. Our front step is literally less than five inches high. There is one step. I don't even know how we could install a rail. Both my 76-year-old mother and 1-year-old son can take the step with no problem. The back steps? There's a wall on one side and fence on the other -- not exactly a real hazard, folks. But, jeez, give a gal a chance to run to the hardware store for some railing if it's really a problem (I should add that the steps have been like that since the house was built in 1935 - it hasn't exactly a been a pressing issue over the years). And the garden hose? Again, mea culpa. I forgot to put it away. For like a day. It just happened to be the day the insurance guy was lurking around. My agent told me all the companies were cracking down. Fine, I'm all for running a tight corporate ship. What I don't get is dropping good customers (with stellar credit ratings, I might add) over penny ante stuff. I'll happily take my money elsewhere, but the second I hear any insurance exec whining about tough times, I think my head might explode. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 174.151.190.41 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 11:05:02 AM Oh good lord, I might be moving in with someone if State Farm starts creeping around my house. Which insurance company? Aren't you supposed to call John Oxendine's office when shady stuff like this goes down? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 01:52:27 PM It's called 'rescission' and it really hits home with the Health Insurance malefactors. That's when it can kill you. But yes, more and more insurance companies are doing it, just to save some money. Or 'projected'/imagined money. If you live in one of their newly invented & computer mapped 'redlined' areas? They'll try to drop your coverage. It's all in their algorithms now. So likely you did absolutely nothing 'wrong' or 'dangerous' or even 'actionable'. They just no longer seek to underwrite in your area or zip code, and suspect that it's going to be too 'risky', and generate 'above average' claims doing so. Ditto for the Credit cards companies. If you shop at Walmart say? Or use your card frequently at bars? Buy the cancer sticks every now & again? You're deemed downmarket, and they'll rise your rates (yes, I know this sounds illogical) or cancel your card outright. An estimated 1 Trillion dollars of credit has been withdrawn from the market by these companies pulling back on all sorts of credit lines, even to fully solvent businesses. AMEX did that to us, and for no earthy reason. They've done that to many, many small companies who used their corporate cards for a revolving credit lines. But it all works the same. It's a contract, and they can and will refuse 'service' to you at will. Anytime they like, for whatever (mostly business reasons), at any time. Again, with health care you might be paying into them for decades, and then get cancer, and they'll find a way to deny you coverage claiming any sort of 'pre-existing' conditions. Which is why we need to publicize their rotten & corrupt business practices, and to rewrite the laws to deny them immunity from prosecution, as they've enjoyed for decades. So no, you did nothing usual or wrong. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Keep Wal-Mart out of Stonecrest BASENAME: keep_wal-mart_out_of_stonecres STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/10/2009 10:48:13 AM ----- BODY: Phil Lloyd, President of the South Lithonia Neighborhood Coalition, needs your help with spreading the word to stop Wal-Mart from building a store in the Stonecrest Mall area of DeKalb County. Sign the petition here:
The coalition of neighborhoods in the Stonecrest area in Lithonia, GA has raised serious question as to the need for a Wal-Mart store in the Stonecrest area in Lithonia, GA for the following reasons.----- EXTENDED BODY: Wal-Mart is not looking to become a better corporate neighbor with their attempts to move to the Stonecrest area. The exisitng Wal-Mart store at Fairington Rd is less than 10 minutes, surrounded by over 1,000 apartment units and condos. Many of those who live behind and near the Fairington Rd. store do not have private transportation and can easily walk to the existing store to purchase food for their families. If Wal-Mart opens another store in close proximity, we all know what will happen - the Fairington Rd. store will no longer have decent products, thus revenue will drop, and Wal-Mart will abandon that store into an empty shell. Property assessments will also decline when the Fairington Rd. store becomes an empty shell. So please take time to sign the petition for the reasons below and for all the reasons that we know why Wal-Mart is not a good corporate neighbor. Please send the petition link to your friends, family, and constituents. Link - http://bit.ly/NoStonecrestWalMart ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TK EMAIL: IP: 74.160.37.245 URL: DATE: 07/12/2009 09:45:48 PM www.wakeupwalmart.com The neighborhoods in Duluth, GA fought the giant and won. You can also win. http://www.wakeupwalmart.com/news/article.html?article=984 http://www.wakeupwalmart.com/news/article.html?article=1280 http://www.wakeupwalmart.com/news/article.html?article=1548 Get organized and fight. www.wakeupwalmart Tasso Knight UFCW 1996 ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Howard Dean Live Blogging BASENAME: howard_dean_live_blogging STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/10/2009 02:50:35 PM TAGS: dean,howarddean,liveblog ----- BODY: 3:33 p.m. The cousin to the run-on question: the non-question lengthy comment. 3:29 p.m. Remember that a lot of the money that would go to pay for the plan is already in the system. It's saving other people in the system money, like small business owners and currently uncompensated providers. Rearranging the money in a more efficient way. 3:26 p.m. Should there be mandatory participation for public option? Probably don't need to have a mandate... Comes down slightly against it, but wouldn't fight it because the public option is so critical. In an ideal world, wouldn't have one, but it's not the worst thing. 3:24 p.m. Have to get health reform done quickly, while people understand that government can help them. Some things private industry does better, but government does better at certain things, like military and health care. Government isn't always the answer, but we have to stand up for it when it does work. ----- EXTENDED BODY: 3:20 p.m. We need to change the compensation system. Cost-saving measures aren't adopted because doctors and hospitals "lose" money when we avoid expensive procedures. The whole incentive system is wrong and needs to change. Need an investment in prevention. Everyone agrees it should happen, but it never does because the people who would invest in prevention don't end up saving from the investment. 3:16 p.m. The essential argument is that people should be able to choose. 3:15 p.m. Don't fall for the "fake public option". 3:13 p.m. Another rambling question... One minute, people! One minute! 3:10 p.m. Don't give up on emailing your congressional reps; tell them that you still expect them to stand up for real health reform. The majority of both Republicans and Democrats want a public option. 72% of the American people think there should be a choice, more than 50% of Republicans think there should be a choice between public and private plan. 3:09 p.m. Be sure to check out the chapter in the book that gives counter-arguments to the Republican myths about health care. 3:08 p.m. Q and A time! Yadda, yadda, yadda. Blah, blah, blah. We've already violated the "keep your questions to under a minute" rule. That's gotta be a record. 3:07 p.m. It's good to have Democrats in office, but they have to be "real" Democrats. 3:05 p.m. The nice thing about the Obama plan is that you can keep what you have if you like it. Not a perfect plan, because Single Payer would be more efficient. But, that can't pass, plain and simple. The real point of the book is that without a Public Option, it's NOT REFORM, and we shouldn't spend a dime on it. 3:01 p.m. Howie has taken the mike. Basic thesis of the book is that Obama's health care bill is the best he's seen, because it can actually pass. Even though other plans might be better in the ideal world, our country starts in a very different place than other places (give Catherine props - this is what she always says!!). 3:00 p.m. Tim's introducing the man. Taking us back in the time machine to 2003. Keep your questions to under a minute, people! 2:55 p.m. You gotta love Catherine! She's already gotten the Governor's ear, and told him all about her exorbitant health insurance costs as a small business owner. 2:50 p.m. Guv just got here. Place is already packed. He looks great, trim and tanned. All the Deaniacs are out in force. Overheard him say he could take MARTA to the airport. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 09:11:48 PM Good to hear you had a good crowd & turnout for Gov. Dr. Dean. Always a swell & very sensible guy to talk to, especially about this critical issue. I can report that tonight's visitation & viewing for Lance Corporal Seth Sharp, 20, late of Adairsville was also extremely well attended. The North Pointe Church in Adairsville was filled to overflowing with food, fellowship & friendship. I think they easily had about 2,500 people come though to show their respects to the family and to honor this hometown Marine's memory & service. He was killed in Afghanistan last week while on patrol serving with Co. E of the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, literally weeks after arriving in country. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. The funeral will be held tomorrow, Sat, @ 2PM @ The North Pointe Church in Adairsville, 30 Orchard Rd. Internment will follow at the Eastview Cemetery in Adairsville. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.189 URL: DATE: 07/10/2009 11:52:09 PM Thanks Paula! Does Gov. Dean know anything about homeowners insurance? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 07/11/2009 01:59:41 AM Yay! A+ for both content and snide remarks - telling people to keep their questions under a minute would have been like telling Sheila Jackson Lee to NOT give a politician's speech during MJ's funeral. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Special live blog of Governor Dean BASENAME: special_live_blog_of_governor STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/10/2009 05:25:42 PM ----- BODY: Bloggage of a special chat with Governor Dean (and Paula, among others) on YDAtl's blog here. Consider this the "instant take", with a more measured and detailed take to undoubtedly follow from Tom later. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Just Roy BASENAME: just_roy STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/11/2009 12:51:03 PM ----- BODY: Roy Barnes is on the Intertubes and on the YouTubes Website: http://roy2010.com ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 72.254.133.233 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/12/2009 12:13:26 AM Question for Mel...Roy used "Barnes" in 2002 in a similar script but not in cursive. Is there a reason to go with just "Roy" now as opposed his original? Also, his persona seems to be hearkening back to a bygone era of governors (and ultimately him). Is that why he would use the calligraphy font? To get people thinking that there was a different time way governors used to operate and then be in favor of an ex-Governor? Or am I really over analyzing this? Much Love, The Thunder ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/12/2009 11:43:25 AM Dear The Thunder, Thanks for the softball. If memory serves, Mr. Barnes lost his bid for Governor in 2002. Perhaps to avoid fitting the colloquial definition of insanity, he chose to try a different approach this time. The other interpretation would be that he lacks originality and (possibly) an understanding of why he lost in 2002. Having once been defeated by a man whose campaign identity consisted of "Sonny", he figures that might be the ticket. And yes, he seems to be sucking the nostalgia teat, via Obama. Right back at you, The Design Diva ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.195 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/12/2009 03:14:04 PM Not a fan? With deepest (and sincere) curiosity, The Thunder ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/13/2009 12:59:31 PM Dearest The Thunder, I can't imagine anyone whose opinion matters less than mine regarding Roy Barnes, but here's my two cents. Unless he drops dead, he'll narrowly win the Democratic nomination over Thurbert Baker. And if the Republicans can't pull themselves together after their brutal primary, he might even win the General. That will probably be a good thing for Georgia, but somehow I just can't get all fired up about it. Everything about his 2010 campaign seems more opportunistic than ideological. He's not running because he's spent the last seven years in the wilderness crafting new ideas for Georgia. He's running because he sees a big open hole in the clouds. That's fine, but doesn't really send chills up my leg. Granted, I've only been involved in Georgia politics for about 6 years, but I've never met the man or even seen him at a Democratic event until he surfaced this year. He's a complete stranger and I'm happy to keep it that way. Absolutely nothing about him inspires me. Democratically yours, The Blog Bitch ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/14/2009 01:16:38 PM My pal Mel, I just want to be on the same team as you, just once! :( With deepest sadness at this development, The Thunder ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 04:31:16 PM Darling The Thunder, I never said I wouldn't vote for Roy, because it's likely I will. With deepest affection, Mel ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: SCLC's fight for civil rights doesn't include Gay Americans BASENAME: sclcs_fight_for_civil_rights_d STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/11/2009 11:11:50 PM ----- BODY: Earlier this week I wrote a blog post on how black youths in Philadelphia encountered discrimination while swimming in a local pool. This story outraged me and others, including the mainstream media who normally discount racism still exist in this great country. Of course those who naively believed this country was in a "post-racial" phase were tremendously shocked that this could still happen since they voted and elected an African American as President of this great country. Members of the African-American Clergy no doubt are going to speak about this blatant discrimination in their services all across this country. According to the New York Times, it appears that some African American clergy members are also practicing discrimination. It infuriates me that the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) "is seeking to remove the president of its Los Angeles chapter in response to his support of same-sex marriage in California." Rev. Eric P. Lee fought alongside gay groups like the Courage Campaign to oppose the evil Proposition 8 bill..
- We feel that the targeted location for new development is too close to the Wal-Mart store on Fairington Road in Lithonia, GA and there are at least four other existing Wal-Mart stores on the east side of Dekalb.
- We feel that the impact will be to shift services from smaller shops in the area and cause store closings.
- We feel the impact will cause the eventual closing of the Wal-Mart store on Fairington Road in Lithonia, GA just the same as the Wal-Mart store on Wesley Chapel in Decatur, GA was closed due to the development of the Wal-Mart store on Fairington Road in Lithonia, GA.
- We feel that the need for a grocery store can be satisfied by expanding the existing Target store on Mall Parkway at Stonecrest in Lithonia, GA into a Super Target including a full grocery store.
As Rev. Lee states "any time you deny one group of people the same right that other groups have, that is a clear violation of civil rights".What I don't understand is how Rev. Lee's belief differs from the SCLC's mission statement of:
In the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr., the Southern Christian Leadership Conference is renewing its commitment to bring about the promise of 'one nation, under God, INDIVISIBLE' together with the commitment to activate the 'strength to love' within the community of humankind.----- EXTENDED BODY: I guess the difference is that the SCLC condemns discrimination against Blacks, but discriminating against gays is o.k. This must be so, since the SCLC directors summoned Rev. Lee to "Atlanta to explain why he had taken a position on same-sex marriage without the authority of the national board." When does a person fighting for civil rights justice need their national board to authorize them to fight for the civil rights of all Americans? The SCLC states on their website that "SCLC challenges all people of good will, of every persuasion, who believe in the principles espoused by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., to join us in our mission." According to the SCLC's interim president, Byron Clay, the organization publicly took a neutral position on the Prop 8 issue. Seriously, Mr. Clay? Neutral? Do you not remember one of Dr. King's most infamous quotes:
Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.I guess the SCLC doesn't see that Dr. King's quote should be the tenet running through their organization and its actions. This is why the SCLC will remain an organization void of a progressive future. A future which has a young and vibrant membership and fights for all Americans facing any form of injustice. If organizations like the SCLC continue with their "some discrimination is acceptable" mentality then they will remain irrelevant as the world passes them. I challenge the SCLC to fight all injustices occurring in this great country - regardless of a person's race, color, creed, or sexuality. A beloved community begins and ends with inclusiveness. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.81.228.163 URL: DATE: 07/12/2009 04:16:43 PM I really hate to read this. I saw the the news hit in my "google" and honestly couldn't believe it. Strangely, Dr Lowery has been decent on this issue and has said, "you either believe in equality of you don't", I've been there when's said it. Isn't he in charge of this organization? I'll be following this story. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: A Plea to National Republicans BASENAME: a_plea_to_national_republicans STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/12/2009 04:50:09 PM ----- BODY: Please do not implode this early in the campaign season. We, Democrats in a red State, need your weekly debacles to feed our fervor that we will and can win in 2010. Carry on. This week's news stories feature the teh awesome Vice President of all time - Dick "I run the CIA my way and on my own terms" Cheney. Sincerely, A Red State Democrat P.S. Please continue to let Republican Senator John Cornyn of Texas do media interviews. He's brilliant and so in touch with everyday Americans.
The world according to Cornyn: "But to trot out the vice president and say he's the one that's at fault, this ... unfortunately sounds like a new theme where they still want to blame the Bush-Cheney administration for the economy and for other things."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: ken EMAIL: IP: 76.235.39.218 URL: DATE: 07/12/2009 07:44:48 PM Dick Cheney is obviously a very talented, hard working man. His only fault is that he NEVER read the U.S Constitution. Oops. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: ken EMAIL: IP: 76.235.39.218 URL: DATE: 07/12/2009 07:45:15 PM Dick Cheney is obviously a very talented, hard working man. His only fault is that he NEVER read the U.S Constitution. Oops. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Profiling Atlanta Mayoral candidates: The Kasim Reed Edition BASENAME: profiling_atlanta_mayoral_cand STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/13/2009 11:45:52 PM ----- BODY: All this week, 11 Alive is profiling each of the top contenders for Atlanta Mayor. They will air a nightly piece on Kasim Reed, Mary Norwood, Jesse Spikes, Glenn Thomas, and Lisa Borders. I'm an Atlanta voter and am currently undecided on who will get my vote. I don't have a chosen candidate. My yard is void of any Atlanta Mayoral candidates' yard signs and I'm ready for a yard sign that I can proudly stake in my yard. I'm going to let the supporters of each of these candidates convince me why I should support their candidate. So if you're a Kasim Reed supporter, please tell me why he is the best choice for Atlanta Mayor. Money quote:
"We have done well in the violent crime space, but in terms of property and quality of life crimes that have been on the rise -- destroy what we've worked to build," Reed said. "I think that we have a special obligation to people who live here and have built this city, and to people who have bet on Atlanta and who have decided to make their homes here to keep the city safe." The city council just passed a property tax hike to pay for public safety. Reed says he won't do it again, instead he'll find the money within the city's bloated budget. "I will simply be candid and tell you this: other items would go in order for me to make sure that we have adequate police, fire services and emergency management services," Reed said.Let's start the convincing. Please, let's keep the haters and trolls to a minimum. A healthy debate is good but pure nastiness will not be tolerated. I will boot your comments if you cross my tolerance threshold. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: clwoods EMAIL: IP: 72.148.221.103 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 01:55:34 AM well it is now well after midnight and i am quite tired so please forgive my lack of eloquence. i wanted to post a brief comment about why i support state senator kasim reed for mayor of atlanta. the main point i would like to make (which should be the main point we consider in this race) is that kasim (yes i call him kasim) is the only person in this race who has a formidable record of leadership coupled with integrity. kasim began demonstrating his propensity for setting goals and achieving them early on as exhibited by his academic and business pursuits in college and law school. he later became one of the youngest members of the georgia general assembly where he honed his leadership skills and political acumen in order to work for the betterment of the people of georgia. in the georgia state legislature kasim sponsored and cosponsored legislation that not only positively impacted the city of atlanta but the state as a whole. kasim always made it a point to be educated on the issues, proactive and fair. he was elected to the state house before the age of 30 and diligently worked his way up to the state senate. kasim served on some of the most influential committees like judiciary and education in the house, and ethics, judiciary and state and local government operations in the senate. he worked across party lines to pass legislation in an often hostile political environment; and often the very things that made him feel embattled were the very things that motivated and emboldened him. he did not break under pressure nor did he back down when he pushed for ethics reform in state and local governments; fervently supported the hate crimes bill; vehemently opposed the restrictive voter ID bill; aggressively pushed against readding the confederate battle emblem to the georgia flag; supported green and environmentally friendly laws. these are just a few, and i mean few, of his important pieces of legislation. as someone who has watched him in action while working at the capitol and in the community for several years, i am constantly impressed with his ability to forge ahead, be progressive and take into consideration the needs of the diverse people and communities of this state. i am also inspired to push myself, as a young, african american female, to do more and accomplish more while not forgetting to honor those upon whose coattails i ride. kasim is a true atlantan in the best sense, representing the qualities that have placed us at the crossroads of fascinating african american history and civil rights; true southern hospitality and respect; international relations and diplomacy; commerce and exchange; education and art; perseverance and steadfastness. people can argue off-topic and off-issue until they are blue in the face but i encourage people to be astute in their assessments and political choices. it is not about who grins the most or who delivers rhetoric with no practical vision or substantive plans. we are smarter than that and should want more than that; and i haven’t even begun to talk about his vision yet. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 65.81.25.179 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 08:52:27 AM Thank you clwoods. I'm a fan of Senator Reed's work in the Georgia Senate and agree with much of what you say about him. What's missing both in what you write, and on the issues section of his website, is any description of what he plans to do assure that Atlanta thrives. There is a lot what *needs* to be done, but no path to how it will *get* done. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.25 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/14/2009 08:58:31 AM I'm guessing the only reason Glenn is getting air time is so they can do one of these every day this week. Kasim's jacket doesn't fit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 10:10:43 AM I'm so glad you all started this topic, because I am also a confused Atlanta voter who has no idea who to support. But after last week's escapee debacle, I think I can only vote for a candidate who pledges to fire Chief Pennington. The APD is a mess of furloughs, bad PR, mismanagement, and ineptitude. Getting it back on track needs to be the next mayor's highest priority, to win my vote. Kasim Reed and Mary Norwood have both talked a good game on dealing with Atlanta's crime problem, but I want to hear a real action plan for dealing with it that starts with a change in management at APD. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Eric EMAIL: e_robertson@yahoo.com IP: 65.5.2.131 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 01:23:00 PM During the Labor Council's screening process ALL of the candidates said they would fire the chief or that he was moving on so it wasn't an issue. I support Kasim because he not only answered the questions right at the screening, he gave a broad view of WHY he supported labor on the issues we asked about. His record in the Senate also demonstrated that he wasn't just a fair weather friend of Labor.Kasim has a record of being pro-working family.Non of of the other candidates that labor screened could articulate WHY they answered positively on issues we asked about which definitely left an impression that they just said what we wanted to hear. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Of foxes and hen houses BASENAME: of_foxes_and_hen_houses STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/14/2009 05:46:48 AM TAGS: healthcare,oxymoron,republicans ----- BODY:
Barack Obama was never eligible to be president because he wasn't born in the United States. . . . Cook's lawyer, Orly Taitz, who has also challenged the legitimacy of Obama's presidency in other courts, filed a request last week in federal court seeking a temporary restraining order and status as a conscientious objector for his client. In the 20-page document -- filed July 8 with the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia -- the California-based Taitz asks the court to consider granting his client's request based upon Cook's belief that Obama is not a natural-born citizen of the United States and is therefore ineligible to serve as commander-in-chief of the U.S. Armed Forces.I suppose you have to give the guy points for creativity with this one. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Scott EMAIL: IP: 38.116.5.2 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 12:38:57 PM This is pathetic. And frivolous. I've seen and heard of a lot of excuses to get out of a deployment, but this is something special. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.81.228.163 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 07:39:50 PM Well if Obama ain't President, then why did Mel & I freeze our asses off on Jan 20th? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 146.53.3.5 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 09:38:35 PM In Georgia's defense, the case was only filed at the district court in Georgia. Maj. Cook is actually a Tampa, Florida resident attached to a reserve unit in Miami (I looked him up). And unfortunately, he seems to have scored a small victory as his orders apparently have been rescinded: http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/news/breaking_news/story/777472.html Which adds another cavaet to this story. Apparently he volunteered to go to Afghanistan, requesting orders to go on 8 May. If that's the case, his reasoning doesn't seem to hold up. But whatever, I think he's a coward, and a poor example of an officer, Soldier, and American. Him and Lt. Scott Easterling both. http://www.military.com/news/article/February-2009/officer-calls-obama-usurper-imposter-president.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 65.81.9.79 URL: DATE: 07/15/2009 06:32:26 PM The following is a comment posted on Jay Bookman's blog post about this situation. I can't decide if it's for real or a clever parody. The poster calls him/herself "Redneck Convert": "Well, we might of lost the election but we can make this Obama so miserable that maybe he’ll step down and let a Real American like Sarah take his place. Anyhow, I say let’s just keep raising cain the way we done since he took office. It can’t hurt nothing. We’re out in the wilderness anyhow, so what worse could happen to us? Maybe we can stop paying taxes too because this Obama ain’t our real President and they got no right to take our money. If we all done it they couldn’t put us all in jail. We need to give the Medal of Honor to this major. I know there’s some people that will claim he’s just a big coward for not wanting to go fight the Towelheads, but they’re just a bunch of crybaby libruls. Anyhow, I know there are some people that will claim My President wasn’t really the commander in chief on account of he was elected by the Supreme Court not the people. But they’re wrong. My President had a birth certificate showing he was born right here in the U.S. of A. This major is Right. We don’t need no foreigner that wasn’t even born here in the White House. If he was born here he would be able to show his birth certificate. He ain’t got none. I bet if you went to Africa you would find one for him. Probly in some tribal village. Now I ain’t got a birth certificate on account of I was born at home and you didn’t get one back then but I could get a whole bunch of people together that would say they remember my Mama having me. That’s more than this Obama could do. With this fat librul woman about to get on the Supreme Court we need to do all we can to put Conservatives back in power. Seems to me this major took the first step. Too bad they’re liable to court martial him and kick him out. Have a good day everybody." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 69.180.24.117 URL: DATE: 07/15/2009 11:53:09 PM I vote parody. I wasn't sure until the born at home and fat librul woman comments. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Coaching Chambliss BASENAME: coaching_chambliss STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/14/2009 10:23:33 AM TAGS: Chambliss,scumbag ----- BODY: Imperial coached Chambliss on how to rebut whistle-blower witness at U.S. Senate hearing
Imperial Sugar Co. prepped U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss to rebut testimony by a whistle-blower witness at a Senate hearing last year, a lobbyist's memo indicates. In addition to Chambliss being given hundreds of pages of documents, the senator, Imperial's CEO and its lobbyist discussed the July 29 hearing in advance of the session itself, a Chambliss spokeswoman confirms.
Much of the hearing focused on the Feb. 7, 2008, explosions and fire that killed 14 people at the company's Port Wentworth refinery. During the hearing, former Imperial executive Graham Graham testified that Imperial Sugar hindered his efforts to make the plants safer, a claim the company denies. As Graham testified, Chambliss repeatedly interrupted him and twice questioned his sincerity.Thanks to Larry Peterson from the Savannah Morning News for lifting up this rock. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 65.81.9.79 URL: DATE: 07/14/2009 11:10:57 AM This is indeed reprehensible, but I'm too distracted by the fact that the exec's name is "Graham Graham". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpaceyG EMAIL: IP: 65.81.25.248 URL: http://twitter.com/SpaceyG DATE: 07/14/2009 03:13:46 PM Tagging Chambliss "scumbag" is being far too kind. Try "Satan" next time, and work your way down. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Profiling Atlanta Mayoral candidates: The Mary Norwood Edition BASENAME: profiling_atlanta_mayoral_cand_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/15/2009 01:13:14 AM ----- BODY: The second in a five-part series by 11 Alive features Mary Norwood, candidate for Atlanta Mayor. I'm an Atlanta voter and am currently undecided on who will get my vote. I don't have a chosen candidate. My yard is void of any Atlanta Mayoral candidates' yard signs and I'm ready for a yard sign that I can proudly stake in my yard. So Mary Norwood supporters, please tell me why she is the best choice for Atlanta Mayor. ** I personally don't think this is a good video clip of Mary Norwood. She's a lot more dynamic and personal. Money quote:
She says her community activism will make her a collaborative, action-oriented mayor. "Anyone who knows me will tell you I'm all about action," she says. She says the challenges facing Atlanta are unique to each neighborhood, but concerns about city safety are universal. "The city has to feel safe. You have to be safe in your home. You have to be safe on the streets," she says. She says new technologies, neighborhood involvement, and code enforcement will be key to making this happen. "We have to give code enforcement teeth," she said.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen EMAIL: IP: 68.184.119.163 URL: DATE: 07/15/2009 08:16:55 PM I'm sorry, will someone please explain how code enforcement will help with Atlanta's robbery and burglary problem. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: siri EMAIL: IP: 76.97.70.31 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 01:38:07 PM Its not going to make a significant change, but it will help to an extent. A neighborhood full of dilapidated crack houses and knee-high grass (mostly due to absentee landlords) is going to have more crime than one with the same style homes that look like someone might actually be caring for them. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Profiling Atlanta Mayoral candidates: The Lisa Borders Edition BASENAME: post_5 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/16/2009 09:56:37 AM ----- BODY: The third in a five-part series by 11 Alive features Lisa Borders, candidate for Atlanta Mayor. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Sen. Sessions is all about the crack cocaine BASENAME: sen_sessions_is_all_about_the STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/16/2009 04:04:44 PM ----- BODY: The first step in recovery is to admit your addiction... h/t Firedoglake ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.81.228.163 URL: DATE: 07/16/2009 05:16:02 PM This dumbass sure is on a roll ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 66.156.29.147 URL: DATE: 07/16/2009 05:42:53 PM Is this just like the time for really big douchebags to bloviate as much as they can, knowing they can't do a thing to stop Sotomayor's confirmation? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.67.142 URL: DATE: 07/16/2009 06:33:43 PM Holy cow, I'm just floored that Sessions is in favor of reducing the unjust crack cocaine penalties! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.195.125 URL: DATE: 07/16/2009 08:00:46 PM Apparently, Sessions isn't the only one who is all about the crack: http://blogs.ajc.com/gold-dome-live/2009/07/16/zell-obama-nuts/?cxntlid=homepage_tab_newstab&cxntfid=blogs_gold_dome_live Really ZigZag, now is not the time to come off your meds. Bless his heart. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: travelindem EMAIL: IP: 76.105.106.223 URL: DATE: 07/17/2009 10:42:32 AM are there any southern Senators as big a joke as the two from Alabama? I know Johnny and Zaxby(mmmm chicken!) are bad, but really? Get me some of that crack, baby. And maybe a side of young boy interns. I don't think republicans have learned from the past 8 years. Change is key. People are tired of the same partisan crap. And while I am on the rant, Zell needs to just keep talking. PLEASE. I hope he does a few endorements for some state wide republicans next novemeber. That would be fantastic. His old, tired self on television doing voiceovers talking about gorilla glue and those crazy spending democrats. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Healthcare Reform Bill passes out of Ways & Means BASENAME: healthcare_reform_bill_passes STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: richtext ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/17/2009 01:09:44 PM TAGS: healthcare,johnlewis,reform ----- BODY:
There are several hurdles the bill still must go through before it reaches the House floor and is signed into law.  The bill must still pass out of the Energy and Commerce and Education and Labor Committees.  Then the three committees will have to reconcile their versions of the bill. The final version will pass to the Rules Committee, amendments will be proposed and voted on and then the same kind of process is also taking place in the Senate.  The Democratic leadership is projecting that both the House and Senate will bring their bills to the floor this summer for a vote. ----- EXTENDED BODY:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Brenda Jones
July 17, 2009
HEALTHCARE REFORM BILL PASSES OUT OF WAYS & MEANS
PRESS BACKGROUNDER ON THE HOUSE BILL
In the wee hours of the morning, America's Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009, H.R. 3200 was passed out of the Ways and Means Committee by a vote of 23-18.
Rep. John Lewis, a senior member of the committee said this about the bill, "The rising cost of healthcare is one of the greatest strains on the family budget. Because no one can predict when he or she will get sick, there is no way to really prepare if major illness suddenly strikes. Even people with health insurance and a savings account, can still end up bankrupt simply because of the high cost of medical care. The poor have no chance, under the current system, to get the kind of care and follow-up they need. This House bill will begin to change this picture. It is a historic step toward a new approach to health care in America that can quiet the fear associated with healthcare costs. It can relieve the significant financial stress on families, especially during this period where money is very tight, and provide coverage for millions of Americans who are currently uninsured or may have lost their jobs."
According to the National Coalition on Health Care, in 2008 Americans spent $2.4 trillion on health care--four times the amount this nation spends on defense. The Kaiser Family Foundation says that premiums for employer-sponsored health care are rising four times faster than workers' salaries since 1999. And a Harvard University study shows that the average medical debt for people who have ended up in bankruptcy is $12,000. In fact, every 30 seconds someone files for bankruptcy after experiencing a serious medical problem. Health care reform is a vital part of economic recovery for the 46 million people without any health insurance at all, as well as for those who are already covered.
America's Affordable Health Choices Act will help tackle many of these problems. The Congressional Budget Office estimates 97 percent of Americans will be covered by the bill, and it will cost $1 trillion over ten years. These reforms will be fully paid for through changes in the Medicare and Medicaid payment and delivery system reform that will result in substantial cost savings, as well as a surcharge that will affect only the wealthiest one percent of households, and only four percent of small businesses. These are the key principles of the Ways & Means bill:
It will increase patient choice and use competition to drive down prices.
* If people like their current plan, they can keep it.
* People who have no health insurance now or want to find a new plan will be able to participate in a health care exchange. There they can choose from a menu of affordable, quality health care options: either a new public health insurance option or a plan offered by private insurers.
* This new variety will reduce costs through competition that leads to better care for every American. Patients and doctors will have control over health care decisions, instead of insurance companies.
It will restore peace of mind.
* This legislation makes health care plans portable and secure- so people can keep the same plans and the same doctors even, if they lose their jobs or their employers decide to drop their plans.
* Every American who receives coverage through the exchange will have a plan that includes standardized, comprehensive health care benefits.
* It will end increases in premiums and no one can be denied care based on pre-existing conditions, race, gender, or age rating.
* It will eliminate co-pays for preventive care, put a cap on out-of-pocket expenses, and guarantee catastrophic coverage that protects every American from bankruptcy.
It will improve quality of care for every American.
* The legislation will ensure that Americans of all ages, from young children to retirees, have access to a higher quality of care by focusing on prevention, wellness, and strengthening programs that work.
* It guarantees that every child in America will have health care coverage that includes dental and vision benefits.
* Every health care plan offered through the exchange will cover preventative care.
* By growing the health care workforce, the proposal will ensure that more doctors and nurses are available to provide quality care as more Americans get coverage.
* The proposal strengthens Medicare and Medicaid so that seniors, people with disabilities and low-income Americans receive better quality of care and see lower prescription drug costs and out-of-pocket expenses.
Patients, employersand the federal government all share responsibility for a good, affordable health care system.
· Employers who currently offer coverage will be able to continue offering coverage to workers. Employers who don't currently offer coverage would choose to cover their workers or pay a penalty.
· Everyone will be required to get coverage, either through their employer or the exchange, or pay a penalty.
· The federal government will provide affordability credits, available on a sliding scale for low- and middle-income individuals and families to make premiums affordable and reduce cost-sharing.
It will put the interests of consumers first and reduce waste, fraud, and abuse.
· The proposal provides complete transparency within the health exchange plans so that patients have all the information they need to select the plan that suits them best.
· It establishes Consumer Advocacy Offices as part of the exchange to protect patients, answer questions, and assist with any problems related to their plans.
· The proposal will identify and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse by simplifying paperwork and other administrative burdens. Patients, doctors, nurses, insurance companies, providers, and employers will all encounter a streamlined, less confusing, more consumer friendly system.
There has been some misinformation disseminated about the impact of this legislation. One of the major misconceptions is that health reform will cost families more than they are already paying to cover the uninsured. What most people do not realize is that they already pay nearly $1100 per year to help pay for the costs of uninsured and underinsured patients who need to use the health care system. One major reason insurance premiums and hospital costs have risen is the need to cover the cost of caring for people who have little or no coverage. Those costs are shifted to those who have insurance through premium hikes so that hospitals can make ends meet. Containing these kinds of costs is vital to the economic stability of American families. The Ways & Means bill has been crafted to take care of some of these concerns.
There are several hurdles the bill still must go through before it reaches the House floor and is signed into law. The bill must still pass out of the Energy and Commerce and Education and Labor Committees. Then the three committees will have to reconcile their versions of the bill. The final version will pass to the Rules Committee, amendments will be proposed and voted on and then the same kind of process is also taking place in the Senate. The Democratic leadership is projecting that both the House and Senate will bring their bills to the floor this summer for a vote. (more)
Then reconciliation of the House and Senate bills will occur in the fall. Both houses of Congress will vote again on the reconciled bill and once that bill passes, it will be signed into law by the President. As the bill progresses, Rep. Lewis will be fighting for provisions to protect public hospitals, community health centers, and to deal with issues related to health care disparities.
Health Care For America Now (HCAN) which released a report today on health care disparities in Georgia. says this about the bill, "In Georgia 1,660,156 people were uninsured in 2007 and that number has only increased," said Charity Woods, state coordinator. " Additionally, a recent report estimated that 62 percent of bank­ruptcies were directly related to medical bills. We also know that our broken health care system has not addressed the countless disparities that minorities, women and rural communities face. It is imperative that we support the public plan put forth by Congress as we believe, among other improvements, it would guarantee affordable, quality medical care for all; provide subsidies to help people in need pay for insurance coverage; and cap out-of-pocket costs. We should support this bill as well as those who are fighting diligently for the people of Georgia."
This bill is also supported by the American Medical Association, the Consumers Union, YMCA, the National Women's Law Center, the Service Employees Industry Union, and many others.
Click on this link for more comprehensive information about the bill--text, summary, and related materials: http://waysandmeans.house.gov/MoreInfo.asp?section=52
####
Brenda Jones
Communications Director
The Honorable John Lewis
343 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
wk - 202.226.4673
fx - 202.225.0351
www.house.gov/johnlewis
So my decision to sever my ties with the Southern Baptist Convention, after six decades, was painful and difficult. It was, however, an unavoidable decision when the convention's leaders, quoting a few carefully selected Bible verses and claiming that Eve was created second to Adam and was responsible for original sin, ordained that women must be "subservient" to their husbands and prohibited from serving as deacons, pastors or chaplains in the military service. This was in conflict with my belief - confirmed in the holy scriptures - that we are all equal in the eyes of God. This view that women are somehow inferior to men is not restricted to one religion or belief. It is widespread. Women are prevented from playing a full and equal role in many faiths.Read the whole statement here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Willie Stark EMAIL: IP: 143.228.129.9 URL: DATE: 07/20/2009 12:30:10 PM Jimmy Carter, as always, takes the road less traveled. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: We choose the moon BASENAME: we_choose_the_moon STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/20/2009 01:05:51 AM TAGS: apolloXI,moonshot ----- BODY:
Cecily Harsch-Kinnane has been involved in Atlanta Public Schools for nine years. She and her husband, Paul, have three children in APS and she has served as PTA president at Morningside E.S., on the PTA boards at Inman M.S. and Grady H.S., as co-president of the Council of Intown Neighborhoods and Schools and on the principal selection committee at several schools.Charlie pick another race...another District. We're fine over here in District 3. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: tim@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 71.56.119.132 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 07/20/2009 10:47:03 PM what is it with this year's city elections that has people in, out, in, out...sigh. I'm dizzy, ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Been there, done that, got the t-shirt. Part One. BASENAME: been_there_done_that_got_the_t STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/21/2009 06:29:08 AM TAGS: blogging,cbsatlanta,meta,splogging ----- BODY: Last night Catherine, Bernita and I attended a "Blogger Summit" hosted by CBS Atlanta (or Eye Atlanta, WGCL-TV, WGNX, Channel 46, CBS 46 or whatever they're calling themselves this week). Together with about 25 other "bloggers" from the Metro Area, we were treated to PowerPoint, pizza and a pedestrian pitch. But before I launch into what will certainly come across as a rant, I should report that Catherine and Nita had a much more positive reaction than I did, and even seemed flattered by the attention, or at least by the effort, put forth by Steve Schwaid, Director of News and Digital Content for the station. ----- EXTENDED BODY: In addition to receiving a goody bag of station SWAG, Nita took home one of the Flip cameras, even though she already had at least one in her purse. Note to self: Nita can be bribed with small electronic gadgetry. For my part, I just expected more. As someone who cares about the future of broadcast news, I've been waiting, watching and hoping for an idea that could pull this venerable profession back from the brink and into the 21st century. It doesn't have to be a big idea. A small one will do as long as it's in the right direction. Alas, a new idea couldn't be found within 50 miles of Studio B last night, unless something was brewing on the Georgia Tech campus three blocks South. It was difficult to decipher the exact goal of the meeting, but it seems to have been a solicitation to provide free content to the station's website -- either passively or aggressively. It was announced that cbsatlanta.com would aggregate our feeds and repackage them under a "blog stew" brand umbrella. Since most blogs are aggregated by multiple services these days (this blog has a ping feature to notify aggregators), that's all good. Even Rusty Tanton, veteran of the infamous feed war of 2008 was unperturbed. Tessa asked for assurance that they wouldn't engage in splogging, but the question was either poorly worded or flew over their heads. Either way, there's no reason to suspect they will at this point. For those willing to play the home version of Who Wants to be a Journalist?, Flip cameras were offered on loan to anyone agreeing to shoot video to share with the station. It's a far cry from the tricked out kit Shelby got when he signed up to provide free content for MTV, but it was a very nice gesture. Grayson's first shoot was video of her dog eating a late night snack, so it can only go up from there. I'm not sure who Steve Schwaid had in mind when he issued the invitation to local bloggers, but judging from the pizza and pop, he probably envisioned people who looked more like his sons than himself. For his sake, I wish the 20 somethings had answered the call instead of our lot. Instead of bright young things with fresh ideas and time and energy to spare, there was a room full of people who (although diverse), were well beyond the age and skill level when working for free sounded like fun and being on TV sounded cool. The CBS Atlanta project, henceforth to be referred to as "Corporate Memo Item #4", will probably yield some interesting results, but is unlikely to offer much bang for the buck. I'll go out on a limb and predict Nita's video will be the most entertaining of the bunch and, if nothing else, that will redeem the project for me. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.211.83.116 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 08:53:22 AM It's nothing new for me to be the pollyanna in a crowd. I can be snarky and critical with the best, but this time I'm going to be optimistic. This was the first in the series of Atlanta blog v MSM events I've attended so I can't fairly compare, but from what I have heard about the previous meetings (held with Atlanta Press Club, GPB, and others that slip my mind) this one was somewhat more open and earnest. I know Mel would have preferred a fully-fleshed out project with deadlines and goals all set, but I appreciated the more experimental tone of the discussion. Mr Schwaid freely admitted to not knowing as much about the Atlanta online community as he does about broadcast news. I think he was interested in hearing what we had to say and then *perhaps* incorporating that into their project/product. While I don't think I will fall for anything just for a slice of pizza and a diet coke, I did attend last nights session with an open mind, hopeful that something good can come of it. I am still optimistic. Time will tell. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpaceyG EMAIL: IP: 65.81.25.193 URL: http://twitter.com/SpaceyG DATE: 07/21/2009 09:15:58 AM Handing out Flip cams to a room full of people with partisan political agendas is a bizarre jumping off point for a local TV news station. They have no clue what they're doing. But we do. They're going to learn the hard way they were chasing the wrong content providers in that room. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rusty Tanton EMAIL: IP: 67.130.38.2 URL: http://rustytanton.com DATE: 07/21/2009 09:22:24 AM I guess if I seemed unperturbed, it was because I at least think their intentions are coming from a better place than Dave Mastio's appeared to come from. That's not to say I was impressed with the idea of Yet Another Aggregator/Portal. But I am impressed that they're reaching out and willing to experiment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/21/2009 10:04:29 AM My comment got deleted! Will the ignominy never end here for me? :'( ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 10:19:20 AM Dave Mastio was there? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 10:29:45 AM No Dave Mastio wasn't there. Not even in spirit. And IRE, what in the world are you talking about? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Catherine EMAIL: catherine@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 68.211.83.116 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 10:30:22 AM IRE - I am so sorry! I inadvertently deleted your comment with the spam comments. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rusty Tanton EMAIL: IP: 67.130.38.2 URL: http://rustytanton.com DATE: 07/21/2009 10:49:22 AM @Jen, No. The local CBS affiliate is creating another aggregator. Mel mentioned last year's dust-up with Mastio in her post as a point of reference. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tessa Horehled EMAIL: IP: 70.43.182.138 URL: http://www.driveafastercar.com DATE: 07/21/2009 03:39:10 PM I agree... I'm not really what they were expecting or who for that matter. As a 20-something, I have to say my fellow youngins likely would have been smarter than to just agree with everything that CBS was pitching to us. I'm really looking forward to seeing how this all plays out. At the very least, it may help all of us involved gain exposure from a new audience, regardless of whether it's one we care to have. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.81.228.163 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 04:08:17 PM I'm actually sorry I missed this last night, but I'm out of town. Since I'm new to these kind of events, I would have been very interested in hearing the guy out. Since I don't exactly see myself as "cutting edge" I'm not yet bored by the notion that other media is just now arriving at this party and wants to know what they've been missing. I really don't mind having that conversation, since it could work out to be mutually beneficial, and if not no real skin off my nose-I was at the party anyway. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: My Response to "Been there, done that..." BASENAME: my_response_to_been_there_done STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/21/2009 12:07:02 PM ----- BODY: In response to Melanie's post about last night's CBS Atlanta Blogger's Forum. Like Catherine, I can also be snarky and critical with the best - hint: my blog posts on political stupidity. But that wasn't my agenda last night. Plus, I thought it was rude of others to act so high and mighty when they were invited to a meeting. There was no need for that because Steve Schwaid seemed genuinely interested in trying to find a way to connect with Atlanta bloggers. I wasn't there to assess the fate of broadcast news. Not my interest. Or to be critical of his business plan. I was there to listen and to learn. I'm not naïve to think that Mr. Schwaid is doing this for the total greater good of blending new media with old media. Yes, he might be doing this to gain brownie points, increase his audience size, and even, oh my god, I must say it, to someday increase his profit line. Catherine nor I were not "flattered by the attention". This snide schoolgirl remark did not convey the fact we were impressed by a mainstream media person standing in front of us saying he did not know how to engage bloggers but was willing or how the project would exactly work. Including, the fact that Steve Schwaid made a lot of concessions to the bloggers throughout the meeting. It was refreshing to hear someone say "hey I don't have all the ideas but I'm willing to learn and become engaged". ----- EXTENDED BODY: I think it's disingenuous to insinuate that "Nita can be bribed with small electronic gadgetry." That's bullshit! When you get invited to the table, it doesn't mean that you have to eat the craps off the table. As I explained that very evening, I think it can only help BfD if there were a greater audience reading our posts. The CBS' aggregator may just do that - allow more of the general public to view our opinions on why Georgia should be a Blue State. I don't blog for profit so I make zero skins off this deal. Hell, I only blog when there is a gap in my schedule and I have some downtime. As I also mentioned last night, the aforementioned Flipcam that was in my purse was purchased by my nonprofit client. I don't record political events with their purchased equipment. Call me crazy but I try not to blurry the lines between a paying nonprofit client and political work. Let's think about all the community activities that we attend, both within and outside our Democratic circles, that are never covered or even mentioned by the network news. How many times have you seen the network news attend a Stonewall Democrats' event? How many times have you seen the network news cover a Planned Parenthood phonebanking session? How cool would it have been to tape Howard Dean when he had his informal session with only bloggers? Do you think the network news are going to interview candidates in a special election? So don't give me any shit about how CBS' idea is fatally flawed or that I have somehow sold out until 1. You can think outside of the box and see how to use it for our advantage and 2. Until it's been tested and proven a failure. The problem with so many "new media" folks is that they automatically place on their "new media" tinfoil hat and look for conspiracies at every angle. Do I know if this project will work? Nope. Am I willing to give it some time? Yup. Am I giving up my day job(s) for this? Nope. But I'm willing to engage CBS and see where this project goes. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 01:55:53 PM And here I was just browsing small electronic gadgetry for your birthday. Damn. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 07/21/2009 03:43:52 PM I LOVE PAYOLA AND GRAFT! But nobody ever offers me any. :-( ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 03:55:20 PM It's not payola if you have to work for it. And I saw a name tag for you, but you must have bailed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 07/21/2009 04:03:08 PM I was bowling. Free beer and bowling trumps free pizza and coke. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: steve schwaid EMAIL: IP: 12.91.19.62 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 06:24:18 PM Ok, if I may post my thoughts about this. The goal of this summit was several fold: 1. Understand something and learn something about the local blogger community. 2. Come up with a way for users to easily find local blogs. As part of this we would promote the site on air, allow viewers to search for blogs of interest and then let the viewser leave our site and go to the blogger's site. 3. Darkside motives. Honestly none. I'm trying to get my hands and mind around the digital world, look for new content for our viewers/users. 4. Paying for your content? Ok folks, I'll make a deal with you when someone starts paying for the content on our site I'll pay for the content on your site. 5. The flip cameras. Shame on me. I thought it would be an interesting and creative idea and allow us to develop relationships with bloggers. If we run the video on our air and then send them to your blogs for more information what's the downside? Sure, I get a few seconds of content and you get the page views. 6. I loved it when one blogger asked how we would check the credibility of other bloggers. Huh? Not to be snarky, but come on folks. This isn't the end of the world. I'm trying something new, or trying to try something new. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 08:01:07 PM Steve, I think all those things were accomplished. Looking around the other blogs, the reviews were generally very good. Mine was the only one that was less than flattering, only because I care much less about our traffic than I do about the industry as a whole. But it's probably not fair to dump all that at your feet. I'm not sure where the idea of "darkside motives" came from, other than Bernita seems to have taken issue with a joke I attempted to make. No one is paying for content these days, so why should you? Otherwise, as I wrote, I thought the cameras were a "nice gesture", as did others. But I'm pretty sure I'm the only one who had higher hopes for the "Summit", only because I'd read good things about you. But seriously, thanks again. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Been there, done that, got the t-shirt. Part Two. BASENAME: been_there_done_that_got_the_t_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/21/2009 02:38:19 PM TAGS: blogging,Meredith,meta ----- BODY: So, in conclusion to my previous post about the "Blogger Summit", below are a few suggestions I would like to see CBS Atlanta consider. I don't know how this will shake out any more than the next person, but because I am concerned about the future of local broadcast news, I'll share a few ideas that might be helpful. But before doing so, I'd just like to say (for the record), thank you and kudos to Steve Schwaid and the folks at CBS Atlanta for hosting. It was an interesting evening that resulted in a good debate, both online and off. So here goes: ----- EXTENDED BODY: 1) Focus on females, both online and on-air. This makes sense within the corporate culture of parent company Meredith, whose slogan is "We inspire. She makes it happen." Meredith's media portfolio includes some of the most popular women's magazines and websites published in the US. In addition to gaining access to a mother load of content targeted to women, this market segment is, in the context of local online news, still relatively untapped. Women over 50 are the fastest growing demographic on facebook, and presumably online in general. Fifty one percent of the population is more than a niche, it's a business model. I know large media companies are basically a collection of fiefdoms joined by minefields, but if the artificial barriers could be broken down, much rich content lies within. This would supplement, not replace local content, since we all know both quality and quantity drive traffic. 2) Follow the WDIV model and work around the limitations of IBS. In other words, if all else fails, just build another site. When needed, WDIV has launched unique sites for weather, obits, lifestyle and a whole bunch of other content rich topics. The mini-sites are quickly becoming brands in their own right and all are managed in-house, with limited assistance from IBS. There is a dedicated sales force for online ads, which (as sales people tend to do), helps drive many of the site improvements based on advertiser and user feedback. 3) Related to item two, use third party solutions instead of open source options like YouTube. Here again, WDIV is smart. They employ VMIX to facilitate video and still uploads from ALL viewers' phones and camcorders, not just a few folks with flipcams. They call it iShotNews and I'm told this feature drives more traffic to the site than any other. Granted, the wildest traffic spikes tend to occur with video of disasters, not longer form content such as interviews or event coverage. 4) Go to school on sister company NMS. Everything you need to know about social media is probably right there in your own corporate backyard. I don't know, but am guessing here. 5) Hire some college kids studying journalism or computer science. Lots of them. Even just as part-time interns. If you can't hire them, at least talk to them. For obvious reasons. 6) As a news content provider, it's important to be device agnostic. While the on-air channel(s) will always skew older and have obvious time constraints, the online channels offer opportunities to narrowcast. With the growth of sites like EveryBlock and Examiner, it seems at least some percentage of hyper-local news content will, by necessity, be user generated. That's the content to be aggregated and/or enabled.
Update: Recent Alexa rankings for local network affiliate station websites. The lower the number, the better the ranking: CNN - Cable News Network (reference only) Rank: 55 Atlanta Journal-Constitution (reference only) Rank: 2,264 WSB-TV Channel 2 Rank: 11,761 WXIA-TV 11 Rank: 41,278 Myfoxatlanta.com Rank: 46,412 CBSAtlanta WGNX 46 Rank: 79,988----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpaceyG EMAIL: IP: 65.81.25.193 URL: http://twitter.com/SpaceyG DATE: 07/21/2009 08:59:57 PM Love me some EveryBlock. Haven't explored Examiner too much, but I know some GA bloggers who are setting up shingles there. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.209 URL: DATE: 07/21/2009 09:10:52 PM The roster at Examiner grows daily. It's a good model for user generated content, even though I'm sort of puzzled as to how they attract so many contributors. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Oh Sarah, we can see your slip hanging from your dress BASENAME: oh_sarah_we_can_see_your_slip STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/21/2009 05:15:34 PM ----- BODY:
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) -- An independent investigator has found evidence that Gov. Sarah Palin may have violated ethics laws by accepting private donations to pay her legal debts. An investigator for the state Personnel Board says in his July 14 report that there is probable cause to believe Palin used or attempted to use her official position for personal gain because she authorized the creation of the trust as the "official" legal defense fund. In his report, attorney Thomas Daniel said his interpretation of the ethics act is consistent with common sense. An ordinary citizen facing legal charges is not likely to be able to generate donations to a legal defense fund, he wrote. "In contrast, Governor Palin is able to generate donations because of the fact that she is a public official and a public figure. Were it not for the fact that she is governor and a national political figure, it is unlikely that many citizens would donate money to her legal defense fund."----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/22/2009 12:30:48 AM Paid content? Worth every damn penny they ever spent on clothes for the lady and her family. Simply comedy gold. If she did not exist, we could scarcely invent her. A walking talking 'conflict of interest', and completely unselfconscious about it. Just marvelous. Caribou Barbie forever! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 07/22/2009 04:28:32 AM More awesomeness here: On the Palin resignation speech, corrected: http://www.vanityfair.com/politics/features/2009/07/palin-speech-edit-200907 JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.81.228.163 URL: DATE: 07/22/2009 09:50:13 AM JMP that is fantastic.. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.137.212 URL: DATE: 07/22/2009 05:04:21 PM Apparently Randy Evans set that legal fund thingy up. Hee hee. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.181.219 URL: DATE: 07/22/2009 11:29:59 PM I should credit Political Insider for that tidbit. Thanks Jim! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Wednesday Open Thread BASENAME: wednesday_open_thread_33 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/22/2009 09:06:11 AM ----- BODY:
In the latest case of sock-puppetry, the bad Kathy Cox, made comments after Sonny did what the Georgia General Assembly needed him to do... You and I both know that the legislature did NOT do everything they needed to do. They could have come back. They could have cut corporate graft, er, tax cuts. They could have <shudder> raised revenues! But they were bailed out by a lame duck governor for the second year in a row.
Boooo! Hisssss! And screw you, as I look for my second job!
Listening is not something I did too much of when I was Governor before. I tried to do too much. Too fast. I've learned some lessons. I learned I should explain myself more.So now that Roy has taken away the "Roy never listened to regular Georgia folks" meme from his opponents, I wonder what they will throw at him now. P.S. to Roy's video dude: If you want Roy to seem like a regular guy, you need to get him out of that suit and tie. Roll up the sleeves and have him knocking on some doors or sitting at a lunch counter. But, please no kissing and holding babies -- it's too early in the season. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 136.242.104.60 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 07/25/2009 09:41:04 PM Fuck Roy. Seriously. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 208.61.15.88 URL: DATE: 07/25/2009 11:42:25 PM "So now that Roy has taken away the "Roy never listened to regular Georgia folks" meme from his opponents, I wonder what they will throw at him now." Are you being sarcastic? Can't ever tell on the internet. Cuz carefully managed PR tours =/= listening to regular Georgia folks. Actually, how about some regular Georgia folks run for office instead of the usual cast of clowns? Just a thought. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 69.180.24.117 URL: DATE: 07/26/2009 02:10:00 PM I don't think she meant he was actually a good listener now, but rather that he had spun that criticism into a positive through this PR campaign and thereby made it less effective for his opponents. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 174.155.36.181 URL: DATE: 07/26/2009 10:38:30 PM what Sara said. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: trga2009 EMAIL: IP: 98.96.171.230 URL: DATE: 07/27/2009 09:39:09 AM Here's somebody's response to it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3MZ5_Y-krY ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Candidate Round Up BASENAME: candidate_round_up STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/28/2009 09:17:20 AM ----- BODY:
Talk about multi-tasking: In Iraq, Brown managed to helped smooth the transition of British troops heading home, replacing them with American soldiers. At the same time, he kept tabs on a sewer project, land acquisition and a highway job back home. When he returned to his job June 29, city officials, friends and others in this town 40 miles north of Atlanta turned out for Stan Brown Day. To applause and clicking cameras, Brown sliced a yellow ribbon encircling an old pecan tree outside City Hall that had been placed there in his honor. Then he affixed a new one to commemorate those who still fight, eight time zones away, in a place far removed from the rolling terrain of North Georgia.It's an interesting piece, primarily because Lt. Col. Brown was able to barely accomplish what many of his peers could not. In fact, Chamblee city manager Jim Gleason had to resign his manager job in Woodstock for the very same reason. If anything, it underscores many of the sacrifices those who serve in the Reserves or National Guard face when they prepare to deploy, despite being unfairly ridiculed as "weekend warriors". In other words, it's much more than a part time job, and once you get the call, it becomes your livelihood. It's a disruptive process, and I often wonder how mentally prepared the families of those servicemen and women are when it comes time for them to deploy overseas, especially when they pay the ultimate sacrifice. Being a Georgia native, it's especially disheartening considering that the Georgia National Guard, only deployed since May, has already seen seven of her sons killed over in Afghanistan (Sgt. Brock Henry Chavers Sr. of Statesboro, Spc. Isaac Lee Johnson Jr. of Columbus, and Spc. Raymundo P. Morales of Dalton have unfortunately passed since I've last posted; condolences to their respective families). So if anything, take this post as an appreciation for our men and women who serve in the various Reserve components and the National Guard. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Clang, clang, clang went the trolley... BASENAME: clang_clang_clang_went_the_tro STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/30/2009 09:12:29 AM ----- BODY: Your Atlanta City Council has asked that some of their (our) stimulus money be directed to the Peachtree street car. Story from the Atlanta Business Chronicle. It is 12.6 million per mile, this streetcar. We could just pave the streets with gold for that price, (take that Pensacola!) And it probably will not link up with the transit of the Beltline (remember that ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Eric TITLE: Kasim Reed and Labor BASENAME: kasim_reed_and_labor STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/30/2009 11:02:36 AM TAGS: "Atlanta Mayor race",unions ----- BODY: The Kasim Reed campaign has released a video of the press conference where the Atlanta Labor Council announced the endorsement of Senator Reed for Mayor. I know the video is somewhat old news but it does offer a glimpse of Kasim's vision for Atlanta's working families and how and why Kasim was able to secure the endorsement. Full disclosure: I supported Kasim even prior to the council endorsing him (in fact i am in the video and I spoke at the press conference, although the footage is not included). ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, one of 16, to receive a Medal of Freedom BASENAME: dr_lowery_one_of_16_to_receive STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/30/2009 03:45:22 PM ----- BODY:
Accomplished in fields ranging from sports and art to science and medicine to politics and public policy and representing a diversity of backgrounds, the White House announcement said the recipients were selected for their work as "agents of change." "Each saw an imperfect world and set about improving it, often overcoming great obstacles along the way," Obama said. "Their relentless devotion to breaking down barriers and lifting up their fellow citizens sets a standard to which we all should strive."Other names on the list are: Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, tennis legend Billie Jean King and retired Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa. Race for the Cure founder Nancy Brinker, physicist Stephen Hawking, civil rights activist Rev. Joseph Lowery, and entertainers Sidney Poitier and Chita Rivera. Former Rep. Jack Kemp, who died in May, and gay rights activist Harvey Milk, who was assassinated in 1978, will receive posthumous awards. The award ceremony is August 12th. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 71.166.248.42 URL: DATE: 07/30/2009 07:00:20 PM Damn, looks like that thing means something again. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Caption this BASENAME: caption_this_3 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 07/31/2009 11:29:28 AM ----- BODY:
Longtime gay political activist and volunteer Allen Thornell died this morning after suffering a stroke yesterday. He was 38. Thornell's family and friends released a statement moments ago confirming his death. "Last night community leader Allen Keith Thornell suffered from a stroke. It is with tremendous sadness that we inform you that his stroke worsened overnight and this morning he passed away," the statement said. "He was surrounded by his loving partner, Chad Prosser, and friends during his final moments. His death is a tragedy of tremendous magnitude. Concerned with the welfare of so many others, he was a tireless advocate for the LGBT community, and a loyal friend. Our prayers are with his family and for our community. His loss will create a void for so many. Arrangements are being handled by Fischer Funeral Care."More from SoVo. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TK EMAIL: IP: 70.148.232.180 URL: DATE: 08/03/2009 02:27:36 PM Allen will be missed. He was a great Lobbyist. It was a pleasure to work side by side with Allen as he represted SEIU and so many other groups he was a part of. Tasso ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: chris EMAIL: IP: 97.67.130.106 URL: DATE: 08/03/2009 02:34:23 PM Sad day for Georgia Democrats and the Progressive Movement as a whole in Georgia. I worked with Allen in 2004 to come up with new ways to target voters to get out the message about the Constitutional amendment. Even when things seemed bleak he was always ready and eager to keep trying something new for a cause that was near and dear to his heart. He will be missed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: tim@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 71.56.71.246 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 08/03/2009 04:40:21 PM Very sad, we will miss you Allen! Thank you for everything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.219.65.243 URL: DATE: 08/03/2009 05:11:38 PM Horrible news and a terrible loss. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.34.28.77 URL: DATE: 08/04/2009 08:49:39 AM Allen Thornell's memorial service will be Thursday, Aug 6, 3 pm, at St. Marks on Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta. FYI ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 71.56.71.246 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 08/04/2009 03:23:56 PM just in - the time for the service has been updated to 2:30pm. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/07/2009 05:55:45 AM A very decent eulogy and appreciation of all of Allen's good works is here from Matthew Cardinale, News Editor, of The Atlanta Progressive News (August 05, 2009) http://atlantaprogressivenews.com/news/0488.html Just a tremendous loss for many. I was sorry I was unable to make the service. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: A Post-9/11 G.I. Bill Primer BASENAME: a_post-911_gi_bill_primer STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/03/2009 08:52:00 PM TAGS: education,military ----- BODY:
The new benefit is available to people who have served a minimum of 90 days on active duty since Sept. 10, 2001 -- as little as 30 days for those separated or retired because of a service-connected disability -- who will be eligible for a combination of tuition, fees, living stipend, book allowance and other benefits based on their length of service. For those with three or more years of service, the program fully covers basic tuition and fees up to the maximum cost in each state for undergraduate education at the most expensive four-year public college or university for in-state students.In addition, the program pays out a yearly $1000 book stipend, as well as a monthly housing allowance based the cost of housing in the area of the institution. For instance, a veteran attending the University of Georgia on the new G.I. Bill would get $983/month in addition to the tuition and book stipend benefits. The only caveat is with private and graduate schools which usually are more expensive than public ones, and as such, won't have tuition completely covered by G.I. Bill benefits. However, those institutions have the opportunity to enroll in what is called the Yellow Ribbon Program, in which the institution covers the difference. Here is a list of Georgia institutions that have enrolled in the Yellow Ribbon Program (as an aside, Georgia Tech seems to be leading the pack as far as state schools are concerned). With almost half a million veterans eligible to take advantage of the legislation's benefits, the program is expected to cost $78 billion over the next decade. With that said, a quarter of those eligible have already had their claims processed by the Veteran's Administration. Earlier today, America 6 said:
This generation of servicemen and -women has already earned a place of honor in American history. Each of them signed up to serve, many after they knew that they would be sent into harm's way. Over the last eight years, they have endured tour after tour of duty in dangerous and distant places. They've experienced grueling combat, from the streets of Fallujah to the harsh terrain of Helmand province. They've adapted to complex insurgencies, protected local populations and trained foreign security forces. So by any measure, they are the authors of one of the most extraordinary chapters of military service in the history of our nation. And I don't make that statement lightly, for we know that anyone who puts on the uniform joins an unbroken line of selfless patriots that stretches back to Lexington and Concord.Hear hear. Not since the days of antebellum America have our warfighters been an entirely volunteer force. And not since Vietnam have they and their families sacrificed so much. Congress certainly did right with this one. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Kyle Bailey to lead National Stonewall Democrats BASENAME: kyle_bailey_to_lead_national_s STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/04/2009 02:21:31 PM ----- BODY:
A rising star in Georgia progressive politics has been named interim executive director of the National Stonewall Democrats. Kyle Bailey, 26, has been tapped to lead the organization as Jon Hoadley steps down to lead One Kalamazoo, a new Kalamazoo, Mich., organization formed to protect the city's nondiscrimination ordinance in an upcoming ballot fight. Stonewall is a national organization with over 120 chapters that works to elect and support gay-friendly Democratic lawmakers from the local to the federal level.I'm thrilled for you Kyle! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Happy Birthday President Obama BASENAME: happy_birthday_president_obama STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/04/2009 02:39:15 PM ----- BODY:
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Why is women's participation in politics an important issue to consider? Most people don't understand how few women are involved in politics. Here are some of the facts: only 17% of Congress is made up of women! Out of the one hundred members in the Senate, only sixteen of them are women. In the House of Representatives there are four-hundred thirty-five Representatives, and only 72 of them are women. This is in a country where women account for 51% of the population. The United States has never had a woman President or Vice President. The U.S. is ranked 84th in the world for women's participation. During the past 220 years, only 2% of Congressional seats have been held by women. At the current increase rate, it will be the year 2076 before women achieve equal representation in Congress!Read her whole essay, it's pretty damn great. More on Women in Politics go here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Eliza Goehl EMAIL: IP: 76.252.187.144 URL: DATE: 11/01/2009 05:43:33 PM Thank You! I'm glad you liked it! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Heads up staffers, tips to avoid a Health Care "Town Hell" BASENAME: planning_tips_to_avoid_a_healt STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/07/2009 12:54:17 PM ----- BODY:
I have no idea. I understand -- and you have to check this out -- I just had a phone call where someone said Sarah Palin's web site had talked about the House bill having death panels on it where people would be euthanized. How someone could take an end of life directive or a living will as that is nuts. You're putting the authority in the individual rather than the government. I don't know how that got so mixed up.He goes on to speak quite eloquently about the importance of making these choices ahead of time so that bureacrats don't make them for you. So, yeah, it's not so much bizarro world here, but out there... h/t: Donnie. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 08/11/2009 01:40:33 PM Georgia Rep. Jack Kingston also spoke out against Sarah Palin's lies on Bill Maher last week. http://thinkprogress.org/2009/08/09/kingston-palin/ It's nice to see some southern conservatives still willing to call out the popular but crazy members of their party. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/11/2009 05:33:20 PM No props to Ezra Klein for trying to smoke him out on the issue. And as usual for Isakson, he's now always playing a double game. Oh so ever reasonable sounding when interviewed, but in his PR on the issue. Of course he blames Obama, Pelosi & the Dems for the problem. Via PP the Full statement from Isakson's office. Just a beaut of buck passing, whining & blame shifting. That's Johnny! "Isakson Denounces White House Comments Connecting Him To Terribly Flawed House Health Care Bill ‘This Is What Happens When the President and Members of Congress Don’t Read the Bills’ WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., today denounced comments made by President Obama and his spokesman regarding Isakson’s alleged connection to language contained in the House health care bill on “end-of-life counseling.” Isakson vehemently opposes the House and Senate health care bills and he played no role in drafting language added to the House bill by House Democrats calling for the government to incentivize doctors by offering them money to conduct “end-of-life counseling” with Medicare patients every five years. Isakson also strongly opposed the House bill language calling for doctors to follow a government-mandated list of topics to discuss with patients during the counseling sessions. By contrast, Isakson took a very different approach in July during the Senate HELP Committee hearings on the Senate version of the health care bill. Isakson’s amendment to the Senate bill says that anyone who participates in the long-term care benefit provided in the bill – if they so choose – may use that benefit to obtain assistance in formulating their own living will and durable power of attorney. Isakson’s amendment, which was accepted unanimously by all Republicans and Democrats on the Senate HELP Committee, empowers the individual to make their own choices on these critical issues, rather than the government incentivizing doctors to conduct counseling on government-mandated topics. Isakson ultimately voted against the Senate health care bill. “This is what happens when the President and members of Congress don’t read the bills. The White House and others are merely attempting to deflect attention from the intense negativity caused by their unpopular policies. I never consulted with the White House in this process and had no role whatsoever in the House Democrats’ bill. I categorically oppose the House bill and find it incredulous that the White House and others would use my amendment as a scapegoat for their misguided policies,” Isakson said. “My Senate amendment simply puts health care choices back in the hands of the individual and allows them to consider if they so choose a living will or durable power of attorney. The House provision is merely another ill-advised attempt at more government mandates, more government intrusion, and more government involvement in what should be an individual choice.” [End Isakson statement] "I don't know how that got so mixed up." Yeah, butter would not melt in his mouth. Thanks for nothing Johnny. Why we even keep trying to negotiate with people who'll willingly and gleefully turn around & then kick you in the teeth to the evident delight of their own 'crowd' is beyond me. Really. He just made whatever decent progress made on his 'advocacy for end-of-life planning' suspect and poisonous. There was a simple way to address this. It did not even involve much 'courage' or strain. Just tell the truth. And Johnny/ Wants to spin it for his side's advantage. It's not his fault or the GOP's hysterical TV ads now showing on the issue. No he's 'unaware of all that'. It's always Obama's fault. Yeah. Priceless. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/12/2009 05:45:14 AM I'm evidently not the only one who thinks so either: via Jackandjillpolitics.com "The REPUBLICAN who pushed for LIVING WILLS..and is now running like a punk." http://www.jackandjillpolitics.com/2009/08/the-republican-who-pushed-for-living-willsand-is-now-running-like-a-punk/ Sorry for the typos in the prior post. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/15/2009 02:12:51 AM It's official: Johnny's too yellow to note again that ex Gov. Palin's either a craven liar (more likely) or nuts. Via AJC's Political Insider: http://blogs.ajc.com/political-insider-jim-galloway/2009/08/14/on-suddenly-shy-republicans-and-end-of-life-counseling/ JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 08/15/2009 01:10:36 PM Johnny is now backing off and attacking the White House. Why do Georgians have this stereotype of him as some kind of moderate nice guy? He's never been that. He's just less of an asshole than Chambliss. He still votes against health care for kids. What a useless tool. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/16/2009 03:39:19 AM That's the AJC's standard line too, BTW. It dates from his tenure in the Ga. Leg about 20 or more years ago when he was *slightly* less hardline Rethug. than the nuts then up & coming in the Leg. He once had good media relations too. They did the same for the late Sen. Paul Coverdell too, and for the same reasons. But again, wholly lacking in any recent evidence for their skewed & biased opinions of them. So even if you're slightly less crazy than the nuts? The MSM regards you as a moderate now, but only if you're a Repug. That's the way the game is played. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Scenes from Hank Johnson's Health Care Forum BASENAME: scenes_from_hank_johnsons_heal STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/11/2009 01:27:50 PM ----- BODY:
Exciting News for America's Health Care Town Hall. Country Music Star John Berry has agreed to come and perform our National Anthem and his new song "Give Me Back My Country". The slate of speakers and panelists are set - join us on August 15th! HEALTHCARE rally on Aug 15th at Centennial Park NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS STAND UNIFIED IN LARGEST HEALTH CARE TOWN HALL TO DATE Key Note Speaker: Congressman Dick Armey Town Hall Moderator: Talk Show Host Herman Cain Signatory Host: Talk Show Host Joel Aaron It's YOUR health and YOUR life that's at stake! Dissent Is Not Un-American The Morning Bell - Monday, Aug 10, 2009 The Heritage Foundation Whether the source is Gallup, Pew, Quinnipiac, the Wall Street Journal, NPR, the Washington Post, or even the New York Times; every recent poll on the issue shows that either pluralities or majorities of Americans have serious doubts about President Barack Obama's health care plan. Reviewing the month's polling data, Gallup's Frank Newport sums it up: "The bottom line is a sense that, while Americans apparently favor some type of healthcare reform in the long term, they are in no hurry to see healthcare reform legislation passed in the short-term on a rushed schedule. ... A Pew Research poll released this week shows that those who are worried about new health care legislation are most likely to say it is because it involves too much spending and would increase the deficit." Wrapped in their liberal Washington cocoon, however, the leadership in Congress simply do not want to hear this message. Instead, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD) have chosen to pen an op-ed in today's USA Today calling those who want Congress to hear their concerns about health care "simply un-American." Pelosi and Hoyer claim that opponents of Obamacare are disrupting townhalls across the country by "drowning out the facts" about health reform. However, it is not the townhall-attending Americans that don't have their facts straight. It is Pelosi, Hoyer, and Obama's allies that are doing violence to the truth. The Threat to Your Current Medical Care: Pelosi and Hoyer claim: "The first fact is that health insurance reform will mean more patient choice." This is simply not true. According to the non-partisan Lewin Group, under the House legislation about 83.4 million people would lose their current private insurance. This would represent a 48.4 percent reduction in the number of people with private coverage. Pelosi and Hoyer also claim: "Reform will mean affordable coverage for all Americans." But thanks to new price controls set in the legislation, yearly premiums for the typical American with private coverage could go up by as much as $460 per privately insured person. The Cost Explosion: Pelosi and Hoyer also claim their plan will "lower costs." But this has been thoroughly refuted by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). In fact, the House plan significantly expands health care costs and it is Pelosi and Hoyer who have gamed the system to try and conceal this truth from the American people. The House plan delays any real spending increases until 2013 so that Obama allies like the Washington Post's Steven Pearlstein can claim the bill only increases government health care spending "by about $140 billion" In reality, once all of the House bill's spending takes effect, Obamacare will be spending $245 billion a year. And in the out years? CBO director Doug Elmendorf said this: "In sum, relative to current law, the proposal would probably generate substantial increases in federal budget deficits during the decade beyond the current 10-year budget window." A Government Takeover of Health Care: In his weekly radio address, President Obama again claimed his health plan would not: "bring about a government takeover of health care." Obama needs to check his facts with Pelosi's and Hoyer's colleagues in the Democratic Caucus, because Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) is on record saying that Obama's public "is the best way to reach single-payer." And Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) is also on record saying: "A public option will put the private insurance industry out of business and lead to single-payer." Do Pelosi and Hoyer consider Frank and Schakowsky un-American for contradicting the President? The raucous nature of some of the townhalls may sometimes be regrettable. But it should be noted that none of the confrontations turned violent until the White House instructed their big labor allies to "punch back twice as hard." Dissent and public debate are part of the First Amendment. People who seek to stifle public debate are the one's acting in contradiction to our core American values. Which is why it was so troubling to hear the President of the United States utter these sentences last week: "I don't want the folks who created the mess doing a lot of talking. I want them to just get out of the way so we can clean up the mess." Quick Hits: With the drug industry set to run ads in favor of President Obama's health care plan, President Bill Clinton's Labor Secretary Robert Reich explains "How the White House's Deal With Big Pharma Undermines Democracy." Bailouts for financial firms and billions in tax revenue lost because of the recession drove the deficit to a record $1.3 trillion in July. USA Today reports that the absence of the 750,000 vehicles destroyed by the Obama administration's Cash for Clunkers program will cause "already rising prices for used cars to head even higher." According to the Los Angeles Times, President's Obama's grass-roots team has slipped in the health care debate due to "core supporters' disenchantment and effective GOP resistance." President Obama's use of signing statements is provoking mounting criticism by lawmakers from both parties. Thank you for Keeping The Faith. Sadie Fields----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: ddreyer EMAIL: IP: 38.99.206.218 URL: DATE: 08/13/2009 11:40:57 AM Any word on a counterdemonstration? It is an outrage that a supposedly Christian organization is against healthcare. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Solution to the illegal alien problem in health care... BASENAME: solution_to_the_illegal_alien STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/12/2009 02:42:09 PM TAGS: healthcare,immigrants,reform,undocumented ----- BODY:
I listened to a speech by candidate for Governor David Poythress this last Saturday and I was impressed... until he said this: "teacher pay is on par... that is not the problem."
I told his staffer, that ain't cool. But then I saw this today from about 17 days earlier and I am left wondering which side of his mouth to believe.
So which is it, sir? Are you happy where teacher salaries are right now? If so, let me quote you: "It is no longer good enough to be better than Alabama and Mississippi..." That is what you said less than 3 sentences later when referring to performance. How about the direction in which salaries are headed?
Educators, and education as a whole, has suffered over the last 8 years due to the lack of leadership provided by our Governor and Superintendent of School. Are you cut from the same cloth? Will you tell us you are the "education candidate," and then quickly forget what that means?
Waffling aside, what kills me is the oblivious nature of the statement.
In a year where some teachers have faced pay cuts, yearly step freezes, larger and almost unmanageable class sizes, an increase in health insurance premiums with a decrease in choices, and at least one, if not more, rounds of furlough days, you have the gall, to come into a room with democratic educators in it and say there is nothing wrong with our pay?! We teachers are college educated professionals and should not have to supplement our pay by working at the local Pizza Hut!
Clarify sir, because if you would like to woo us teachers, you certainly are not getting off on the right foot.
Many groups opposed the federal government's involvement in developing and distributing electric power, especially utility companies, who believed that the government was unfairly competing with private enterprise (See the Statement of John Battle ). Some members of Congress who didn't think the government should interfere with the economy, believed that TVA was a dangerous program that would bring the nation a step closer to socialism. Other people thought that farmers simply did not have the skills needed to manage local electric companies.----- EXTENDED BODY: Sound familiar? Well it sure did to me. In the case of the Health "Scare" debates, it's still boils down to a tug of war between haves and have not's, big business interests vs that of the profit margin and ongoing rural vs. city meme. This selection of cartoons likely reflects the tone of Anti-WPA media coverage of it's time. It (Rural Electrification Act 49 Stat. 1363) allowed the federal government to make low-cost loans to non-profit cooperatives (farmers who had banded together) for the purpose of bringing electricity to much of rural America for the first time. Isn't this really what small business and some states have been asking for with health care? The REA also helped farmers develop assembly-line methods for electrical line construction with uniform procedures and standardized types of electrical hardware. The result was that more and more rural Americans could afford electricity. By 1950, 90 percent of American farms had electricity. How well our sisters and brothers know how hard it is to find health care in rural GA. In Bernita's post below, the Senator is dismissive of trauma care and affordable choices resorting to side trip on "personal responsibility", whatever the hell that really means. Being against the New Deal helped launch the career of none other than, Ronald Reagan. Hollywood film actor; strong New Dealer in 1940s; started opposing New Deal programs in the 1950s as a corporate spokesman for the General Electric company. His speech on Health Care socialism is making all the rounds-from Facebook to my mothers in box. No doubt some "swiftboatbirthbagger" has it, and a wet towel to keep him happy till Dick Armey comes to town tomorrow. When you have a minute, read this whole transcript of FDR answering reporters questions in Warm Springs, all the elements are there- education, big business, even a tip on where to buy corn liquor. Snark alert~It doesn't say if he faced jeering crowds, or cries of "we want our country back", no doubt the folks existed then, but they seem to be written out of this account. I can only hope the same will be done in typical arugula eating liberal media elitist fashion for readers/viewers of this burp in our history. This was my quote to a recent class I gave on lobbying. *"Okay, you've convinced me. Now go out there and bring pressure on me." President Franklin D. Roosevelt, (In response to a business delegation) ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/14/2009 11:49:02 PM Yep. And there's dozens of similar examples like this. But even in deep red territory, my MEAG (Municipal Electric Corp) glossy magazine hails their 'heroes', old time Ga. bureaucrats who happened to be small time business men who ran the first Electric Boards in their small farming communities. And did it & they quite well & serving efficiently for decades. This from fellows who today still find the time to offer snarls and not too subtle snarky comments over Obama & 'government take overs' too! As the late great Tip O'Neill would say, 'we've become victims of our own success', and those that benefited greatly from all this hard work are now so prosperous & able to do what their grandfather's never were able to, that they do not recognize what made such 'progress possible'! But another part of the REA story (and yes, many economic books have been written about it) was that the First thing Bush 11 did when he got in was to further allow deregulation of the Utilities & the creation of the highly precarious & regulation free 'energy markets', Just for Enron in CA & the far west. As per their specific requests actually. It was Dubya's First (Forgotten) scandal! Within a year they (Enron) were able essentially to bankrupt Calif. using criminal methods to cut power off to most of the state & carefully withdraw capacity just at the peak of pricing spikes causing rolling brownouts for the entire summer. This in a state with a then well known excess capacity for same! And Enron was able to play this game (err...ongoing criminal enterprise as it turned out) for months, creating a massive crisis that yes, then quickly bankrupted the 8th largest economy in the world, all for their Private windfall profits. All 'ill gotten gains' too. So an essential return to 'pre-REA' conditions. It was a test case in utility deregulation, and was all the rage (hence the boondoggle of gas deregulation in Ga. as a direct follow on), and it helped to stop the tremendous movement towards this long recognized idiocy. But Bush's Federal Regulators (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, FERC) actually wanted to appoint Ken Lay, (Enron's Head) to the FERC board, but later settled on Lay's handpicked cronies. Lay and Bush were cronies from way back in TX (where Enron was based). As Paul Kurgan then noticed, FERC DID have the authority to regulate what games Enron was playing in the electric markets across the entire West, but absolutely refused to do so. Despite then Gov. Gray Davis' repeated appeals and entreaties to do so. He met with Bush several times to plead his case face to face. And was disappointed each time. Calif has never quite recovered from their nefarious crimes either. Again no one could have predicted that these criminals would go on to deregulate the financial markets with a similar sterling success, but only this time almost bankrupting the entire world, again just for the private profit of the few. Just a reminder. Thanks for the note & memory. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/15/2009 12:00:15 AM Again Sorry for the typos up there. This would now read: [On The first MEAG's in Ga.] "And they did it quite well & serving efficiently for decades" And of course this should have read: "As [Economist Paul Krugman] then noticed in the NYT, FERC DID have the authority to regulate what games Enron was playing in the electric markets across the entire West, but absolutely & repeatedly" refused to do so." I recall arguing this with the conservative fellow who runs our town's electric department way back in 2001. Once you've got the facts (even back then), they really have no argument or much legs to stand on. 'Why Yes, we want criminals gaming our electric markets, that's what Good Deregulation looks like!' Each & Every time. Over & Over... [Sigh] The Big SSDD from history. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Why citizen journalism will always have a downside BASENAME: why_citizen_journalism_has_a_l STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/15/2009 08:17:02 PM TAGS: healthcare,townhall ----- BODY: Because some people will always embellish, spin, lie or just screw up the facts about events and activities upon which they are "reporting". Say what you will about the AJC, but I'll trust their count of 3,000 attendees at the "America's Health Care Town Hall" event today over an obviously bogus report of 12,000 from the "Examiner". Even the inflated number falls far short of the anticipated 25,000 participants. The above Examiner report also claims "People of all ages and races showed up at the rally" but, (in addition to Herman Cain) I challenge you to find more than two people of color in the photos here, here or here. And the dude wearing the Obama mask doesn't count. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Skeptic Tank EMAIL: IP: 74.166.117.49 URL: DATE: 08/16/2009 11:22:55 AM The teabaggers used the same kinds of inflated numbers at their "rallies" back in April. A good rule of thumb when dealing with crowd estimates from self-serving promoters is to divide them by four or five -- you'll get a more accurate number that way. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 66.32.165.27 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 08/16/2009 12:02:49 PM Wait a second. One person screws up and entire industry can't be trusted? How in the world did the New York Times ever survive Jayson Blair? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 08/16/2009 07:37:27 PM The stupidest bullshit about all this was that the mainstream press is treating it as grassroots at all. Freedomworks and Americans for Prosperity are corporate front groups. Their agenda didn't come from outraged citizens, it came from K Street. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.219.65.243 URL: DATE: 08/16/2009 09:52:29 PM It wasn't just one person Grift, but it was one example. There was also this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cn_p8cc2ilw and this: http://www.examiner.com/x-7422-Cobb-County-Conservative-Examiner~y2009m8d15-Thousands-attend-health-care-town-hall-in-Atlanta and so on. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.211.97.52 URL: DATE: 08/17/2009 09:32:44 AM It looks to me like the downside is with The Examiner more than with all citizen journalists. There don't seem to be any requirements to write for them and I have no reason to trust "The Examiner" right out of the box, so they will gain the reputation they deserve. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.219.65.243 URL: DATE: 08/17/2009 01:21:01 PM I agree. After reading some of the bios of the "Examiners", I was sort of impressed by the people who were writing for them. But at the end of the day, it's just another free for all, with even less accountability than most blogs. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Saxby Chambliss - Health Care Reform - part 2 BASENAME: saxby_chambliss_-_health_care_1 STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/16/2009 04:57:50 AM ----- BODY:
The Lewin Group is wholly owned by UnitedHealth Group, one of the nation's largest insurers. More specifically, the Lewin Group is part of Ingenix, a UnitedHealth subsidiary that was accused by the New York attorney general and the American Medical Association of helping insurers shift medical expenses to consumers by distributing skewed data.
Under health reform, employers above a minimum number of employees will be required to provide health insurance or face a penalty. The amount of the penalty will depend on the size of the business. Under the House plan, H.R. 3200, most employers -- those whose annual payroll totals $400,000 or more -- would pay a penalty of 8 percent of their total annual wages. Smaller employers would pay less -- 6 percent for an annual payroll between $350,000 and $400,000, 4 percent for a payroll of $300,000 to $350,000 and 2 percent for a payroll of $250,000 to $300,000. Employers with a yearly payroll below $250,000 would be exempt.Instead of showing true leadership and providing information on both sides of the public option debate, Saxby chose to go with the doom and gloom tactics. He could have presented information based on the Congressional Budget Office analysis - a truly independent analysis. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities suggests "the total number of people covered under employer-sponsored plans will actually increase under the House reform, according to a Congressional Budget Office analysis. That's because employers who do not provide insurance now will be forced to do so or pay the penalty." ----- EXTENDED BODY: Saxby continued his health care reform scare tactics when he presented his third chart to the audience. This chart illustrated the marginal tax bracket increases that a person would incur under the current health care proposals. Saxby failed to provide some critical information to the audience regarding how outdated his data was and the past leadership failures of the Republican Party that are contributing to increases in the tax brackets.
I am excited and honored to announce that I've officially been endorsed by the Atlanta-North Georgia Labor Council, AFL-CIO. Labor's support is a terrific boost to my campaign and validates our commitment to making Atlanta the most livable city in the country. Last week, a panel of more than 20 Labor Council representatives interviewed City Council candidates. Afterwards, the Labor Council decided that my dedication to Atlanta's working families deserved their endorsement over the other candidates in the Post 2 At-Large race.----- EXTENDED BODY:
"Atlanta's working families need another strong advocate in the City Council, and Amir Farokhi has the commitment and knowledge to help make Atlanta a city that works for working families," said Eric Robertson, Political Director for Teamsters Local 728. I look forward to working alongside the Labor Council's 42 local affiliates, representing 87,000 union members across metro Atlanta, to build a city that supports working families with good jobs and benefits, while advocating for affordable housing and better transit options. Great cities make room for everyone at the table and Labor will be instrumental in helping Atlanta fulfill its potential.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Zolitics BASENAME: zolitics STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/17/2009 01:38:29 PM TAGS: humor,politics,video ----- BODY: Can a-partisan political humor be humorous? That's what the (mostly right wing) creators of the soon to launch "network" zolitics.com are hoping. Even though, according to Politics Magazine, the target audience of the channel is decidedly liberal.
With an initial slate of four shows launching this month, the Zolitics team hopes to follow the successes of the infotainment that powers "The Daily Show" and "Saturday Night Live." "There's a tremendous appetite for political commentary and news, so we're tapping into that," says Brabender, who spearheaded the project. "We wanted to create a network for people who enjoy politics but are not hard-core politicos," says Gromis-Baker.Here's the trailer for the first of the four shows, Moving Numbers. Sort of K Street meets The Office meets Primary Colors. Only the show is lily white and written by Republicans who seem unwilling or unable to give the game away. The result is a silly but superficial view of a fictitious Senate campaign.
Moving Numbers "Idiot" - Trailer 1 from Zolitics on Vimeo.
There may be "a tremendous appetite for political commentary and news", but Republican efforts at humor and satire usually fall flat. It's always more fun to laugh at them, than with them. Knowing this, the creators are shooting for the mushy middle, which is unfortunate. Anyone who's ever worked on a political campaign knows it's fertile ground for some crazy shit. It's tough to imagine that fiction could possibly be stranger or funnier than real life in this case. We'll see how it goes. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/17/2009 11:42:34 PM Funnier, but slicker too, Cong Phil Gingrey, (R, Ga.) says come on down and yes, Bring your guns to public meetings. Even with the President! No Really! TPM cathes it on MSNBC: http://tpmtv.talkingpointsmemo.com/?id=3219644&ref=fpblg No matter how cynical you are you really can't keep up with these people! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: overeasy EMAIL: IP: 71.240.124.184 URL: DATE: 08/21/2009 02:13:13 PM Totally lame. Achingly amateurish level of writing, acting and production. And yea, simply not funny....but I bet they think it is :-) I wonder who is really behind this? These guys NEVER do anything that doesn't have another agenda... ----- -------- AUTHOR: Eric TITLE: Labor Gets Pissed BASENAME: labor_gets_pissed STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/23/2009 12:27:38 PM TAGS: "blue dogs","health care reform",unions ----- BODY: This from the likely next President of the AFL-CIO, Richard Trumpka at the Sheet Metal Workers Convention. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/25/2009 12:22:50 AM Followed him from his old UMWA days. He's toned it down considerably. So PO'd? Yeah certainly. But that's only part of it too! Thanks for noticing though. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.221.101 URL: DATE: 08/25/2009 11:03:49 AM Interesting exchange with Tom Coburn and one of his constituents (someone posted it on DU): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3jwhLcW_c8 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 65.199.13.40 URL: DATE: 08/25/2009 12:46:53 PM Thanks for the hint: http://thinkprogress.org/2009/08/25/coburn-weeping-wife/ ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: MSNBC.com Acquires EveryBlock BASENAME: msnbccom_acquires_everyblock STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/18/2009 02:20:40 PM TAGS: hyperlocal,media ----- BODY: Smart move by MSNBC. Full story from TV Spy:MSNBC.com--a joint venture of Microsoft and GE unit NBC Universal--paid several million dollars to acquire the micro-local news website EveryBlock, the companies announced today. The Chicago-based project for hyperlocal reporting has grown since its inception to provide local sites in 15 American cities. The EveryBlock project began in 2007, after web developer and journalist Adrien Holovaty won the annual Knight Foundation News Challenge, a contest that awards grants to digital innovators committed to improving news distribution at the community level.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Tuesday Afternoon Open Thread BASENAME: tuesday_afternoon_open_thread STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/18/2009 03:44:43 PM ----- BODY:
The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
Fox News: The New Liberals | ||||
|
Rep. Tom Price (GA-06) today announced two congressional town hall meetings open to the constituents of the Sixth District to attend and share their thoughts and concerns about pending issues before Congress. Rep. Price will be taking questions from constituents and the events will be open to press. The first event will be hosted by Rep. Price, and the second will be a joint-event with fellow doctor and Rep. John Linder (GA-07).The invitation really should read "Rightwing Dr invites you to a bought and paid for infomercial having nothing to do with "reform", sponsored by Resurgens. No refreshments served... they are bad for you and you know how we feel about personal responsibility. Really how do you come up with a catchy sign that says he accepted $ 2 million from Health "industries" and Health PACS in his elected career. Open Secrets did this analysis back in June. Kinda puts his "opposition" to any kind of reform into perspective. He's already raised nearly a half million with absolutely no one likely to challenge him. Dr. Price is part of the GOP Doctors Caucus, along with other GOP physician Congressmen. ----- EXTENDED BODY: Here is the list of members of Congress in the GOP Doctors Caucus: John Boozman (Ark.) Charles Boustany (La.) Michael Burgess (Texas) Paul Broun (Ga.) Bill Cassidy (La.) John Fleming (La.) Phil Gingrey (Ga.) John Linder (Ga.) Tim Murphy (Pa.) Ron Paul (Texas) Tom Price (Ga.) Phil Roe (Tenn.) Mike Simpson (Idaho) Sixth District Town Hall HOST: Rep. Tom Price WHEN: Tuesday, September 1, 2009 7:00 - 8:30 PM LOCATION: Roswell High School Auditorium 11595 King Road Roswell, GA 30075 Congressional Doctors Caucus Health Care Town Hall HOSTS: Rep. Price and Rep. Linder WHEN: Thursday, September 3, 2009 6:00 - 7:30 PM LOCATION: North Gwinnett High School Theater 20 Level Creek Road Suwanee, GA 30024 CONTACT: Jeff Hamling (Price) @ 770-565-4990 ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: jim EMAIL: IP: 12.191.221.99 URL: DATE: 09/03/2009 01:58:29 PM Hey Left-Winger: Next time you get sick, make sure you contact a lawyer or the ABA. After all, you wouldn't want anything to do with Doctors, would you? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Fist Up Father Roy BASENAME: fist_up_father_roy STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/25/2009 07:44:16 PM ----- BODY:
"If they choose to kick me out of the church because I believe that men and women are equal, so be it,'' Bourgeois said. "I will never be at peace being in any organization that would exclude others.Me either. Amen. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.18 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 08/25/2009 11:00:45 PM ugh... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.92.239 URL: DATE: 08/26/2009 10:34:38 AM Just out of curiosity, was that an "Ugh, I can't believe the institution that I love so much and hold in such high respect would be so backward on this issue," or "Ugh, I wish Juliana would cut it out with crapping on the Catholic Church because otherwise my head may explode all over my keyboard"? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 08/26/2009 11:17:20 AM No it is because of the ignorance and stupidity both sides will spit forth on this "debate". Not looking forward to it. I don't really have strong opinions on it other than those in religious life take vows to follow the Bishops. (I mean I have more than that but you can't get me liquored up enough to wade into this debate outside of an academic setting). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.83.90 URL: DATE: 08/26/2009 04:53:08 PM Yes, I suppose it is a top-down organization. However, there have been times in the past when it has responded to pressure from the rank and friar, I mean file. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.7 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 08/26/2009 05:10:28 PM I see what you did there! :) ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: America loses a lion. BASENAME: america_loses_a_lion STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/26/2009 09:00:54 AM ----- BODY:
Rep. John Lewis Mourns the Death of Sen. Edward Kennedy I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Senator Edward Kennedy. As a nation and as a people, we have lost one of the finest, most dedicated, and committed political leaders of our time. Senator Kennedy was a champion for equal justice for every American, but especially for those who have been left out and left behind. I have known Ted Kennedy for more than 47 years. In that time, it has been my greatest pleasure to work with him in the Congress to try to tackle many human problems, but I am especially gratified by his contributions to the cause of civil rights and voting rights. At some of the most tragic and difficult moments in this nation's history, Ted Kennedy gathered his strength and led us toward a more hopeful future. As a nation and as a people, he encouraged us to build upon the inspirational leadership of his two brothers and use it to leave a legacy of social transformation that has left its mark on history. But more than history can convey, Senator Edward Kennedy held an enduring place in all of our hearts. He was one of the warmest, most considerate, and understanding individuals you might ever meet. He was a wonderful, devoted friend--so caring, so sharing, so giving. I loved him like a brother. My heart goes out to his wife Vicky, his children, and the entire Kennedy family. He will be deeply missed.h/t: Leslie. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: America loses a lion. BASENAME: america_loses_a_lion_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/26/2009 09:00:54 AM ----- BODY:
Rep. John Lewis Mourns the Death of Sen. Edward Kennedy I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Senator Edward Kennedy. As a nation and as a people, we have lost one of the finest, most dedicated, and committed political leaders of our time. Senator Kennedy was a champion for equal justice for every American, but especially for those who have been left out and left behind. I have known Ted Kennedy for more than 47 years. In that time, it has been my greatest pleasure to work with him in the Congress to try to tackle many human problems, but I am especially gratified by his contributions to the cause of civil rights and voting rights. At some of the most tragic and difficult moments in this nation's history, Ted Kennedy gathered his strength and led us toward a more hopeful future. As a nation and as a people, he encouraged us to build upon the inspirational leadership of his two brothers and use it to leave a legacy of social transformation that has left its mark on history. But more than history can convey, Senator Edward Kennedy held an enduring place in all of our hearts. He was one of the warmest, most considerate, and understanding individuals you might ever meet. He was a wonderful, devoted friend--so caring, so sharing, so giving. I loved him like a brother. My heart goes out to his wife Vicky, his children, and the entire Kennedy family. He will be deeply missed.h/t: Leslie. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.221.101 URL: DATE: 08/26/2009 09:39:59 AM May our Liberal Lion Rest In Peace. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Willie Stark EMAIL: IP: 143.228.129.9 URL: DATE: 08/26/2009 09:44:07 AM "our country will be committed to his cause. The work begins anew. The hope rises again. And the dream lives on." - Sen. Edward Kennedy ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.222.32 URL: DATE: 08/26/2009 10:14:31 AM Thank you Catherine for posting this, and as always thank you Congressman Lewis. In many ways Sen. Kennedy was a man a head of his time. His early unflinching support of so many Human Rights and Social Justice issues was inspirational. He supported LGBT folks from the start, was the go to guy on all things educational, rights of the disabled, and of course Health Care. While he now rests in peace, he will continue to inspire. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 08/26/2009 11:13:17 AM I already miss him. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.211.222.32 URL: DATE: 08/26/2009 04:54:20 PM Vice President Biden on his friend Ted Kennedy. It's very moving. http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/08/26/politics/politicalhotsheet/entry5266766.shtml ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/26/2009 09:06:09 PM We had Teddy, they had 'ol Strom. We & the nation came out way ahead. And everyone knew that. Including Strom! We'll never see his like again in our lifetimes. However there's would be 'mini' Strom's littering the landscape all over the Sunny... South. Sad but true. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: 89 Years Ago Today, American Women Win the Right to Vote BASENAME: 89_year_ago_today_women_win_th STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/26/2009 10:23:15 AM ----- BODY:
An agenda, beyond just electing a Black Mayor, would allow us to move from the margins of the debate to controlling the expectations associated with gaining our support.I really would like to know what self serving expectations this group has and how their expectations can't be met beyond their endorsed candidate. Their endorsed candidate, Lisa Borders, emphatically stated that one of the memo's authors was wrong and that Atlanta needs a broad coalition of people. I think she should have gone further with her repudiation of this memo by refusing this group's endorsement. She did not refuse their endorsement. Instead she said she couldn't hold any of her supporters accountable because it is their first amendment right. Just because someone has the right to yell "fire" in the middle of a packed theater doesn't mean they shouldn't be held accountable for their actions. To characterize this group as overzealous supporters allows them to control the debate. A debate and conversation that they want to have which doesn't address the needs of all Atlantans. Throughout Lisa Borders' press conference she mentioned countless times how she wanted to have this debate on race since December 2007 but the City and media were not ready for the discussion. I agree with Kasim Reed, Mary Norwood, and Borders that having a healthy debate on race and class in the context of housing, crime, and the City's growth is necessary. But when divisive language takes center stage then the much needed conversation gets muddy. ----- EXTENDED BODY: As long as Atlanta leaders stay the same then Atlanta will continue much of the same. The "Black Leadership Forum's" cries that the Black community will fare worse if Atlantans elected a White person as the next Mayor. Seriously, really? Are you kidding me? How well has Atlanta blacks fared under the leadership of the last two Black Mayors? I'm not talking about Atlanta's Black middle class who have the potential to strive in any circumstance. I'm talking about Atlanta's poor folks - the folks who government should be helping so they can reach their maximum potential. How have Atlanta's most recent Black Mayors treated the poor, the homeless, the sick, and the uneducated? Poor folks haven't been on the agenda since Young and Jackson left office. So let's stop pretending that we have all "overcome" under the leadership of all Atlanta Black Mayors. We haven't. And we won't until Atlanta recognizes that a discussion on race must also include discussing the economic and social welfare of all its citizens. The three leading candidates in the Atlanta Mayor's race, Kasim Reed, Mary Norwood, and Lisa Borders should be judged on their agenda to move this City forward. Atlanta does not have the luxury to waste time by letting the words of a generation that have seen their glory political days past control the next generation's future. We need a Mayor that is focused on solving Atlanta's financial mess, neighborhood safety, and providing services to all its citizens. I don't care of the next Mayor is Black or White - I just want a person who is willing to tackle all the challenges of this City and to get her fixed. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/28/2009 11:53:03 PM Thanks once again for the excellent post Bernita. I liked the 'grumpy old men' line too. But yeah, idiocy. So hard to avoid. And somedays the entire universe is conspiring not only to add more entropy, but to seemingly suck all the true rationality our of some precincts. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/29/2009 01:21:40 AM Of course that really should have read "And somedays the entire universe is conspiring not only to add more entropy, but to seemingly suck all the true rationality out of some precincts." Other possibly non random thoughts here: 1.) Good to see you out & about on Thurs. Nite @ the Mary Squires campaign event. 2.) As Atrios (DB) might put it, 'you can't just unsh*t the bed'. Too true. 3.) Reason #692 why I'm now a fully recovering/recovered academic. 4.) More on how Number 2 might relate to the eternal topic of entropy is here: under the Landauer principle in quantum computing. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Landauer%27s_principle Yeah. Had to throw in at least one obscure reference, right? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tom Crawford EMAIL: tomcraw@bellsouth.net IP: 74.166.117.49 URL: DATE: 08/29/2009 02:56:25 PM This incident reminds me very much of the 1981 mayor's election when Maynard Jackson played the race card against a white candidate, the late Sidney Marcus, to help Andrew Young win. You are correct -- we haven't come very far in the past 30 years. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Farewell BASENAME: farewell STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/29/2009 10:45:17 AM ----- BODY:
(AP) -- NEW ORLEANS - The general credited with making order of the chaos in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina says he's returning to Louisiana. Retired Lt. Gen. Russel Honore (on-oh-RAY), was marking the fourth anniversary of Katrina in New Orleans on Saturday. He said his heart is in his home state and he plans to move back in the next couple of months. He said he does not plan to live in New Orleans. Honore wouldn't say whether the move was related to any desire to enter politics. He said for now, he wants to continue to focus on working with children and on ensuring that people are prepared for disasters and that federal officials live up to promises made after the storm.Read more about Gen. Honore at his website. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: IP: 74.166.49.39 URL: DATE: 08/30/2009 05:33:25 PM Too bad he's a committed Republican. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/30/2009 09:22:37 PM Too bad too, we're betting he never quite addresses this sort of unresolved rampant vigilantism during the episode either: Katrina's Hidden Race War By A.C. Thompson This article appeared in the January 5, 2009 edition of The Nation. December 17, 2008 http://www.thenation.com/doc/20090105/thompson JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.243 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 08/30/2009 11:26:52 PM MelGX: This appeared above the BforD banner, and was not contained in the borders. FYI. This could make an interesting race in LA. (AP) - NEW ORLEANS - The general credited with making order of the chaos in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina says he's returning to Louisiana. Retired Lt. Gen. Russel Honore (on-oh-RAY), was marking the fourth anniversary of Katrina in... Juliana 2009-08-29T18:31:30-05:00 --> ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Juliana EMAIL: juliana@illari.net IP: 68.211.222.32 URL: DATE: 08/31/2009 04:08:54 PM Dang... " The general who led military relief efforts in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina is denying a report that he may challenge Louisiana Sen. David Vitter in 2010, calling it "speculation and rumors" Sunday. Retired Lt. Gen. Russel Honore, now a CNN emergency preparedness analyst, said he is moving back to his home state. But "No one's talking to me about running for Senate," Honore said. " http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/08/31/honore-dismisses-talk-of-senate-run/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 128.61.127.23 URL: DATE: 09/01/2009 11:43:33 AM And he's not even a Republican: http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2009/08/honore-im-not-running-against-vitter----and-im-not-a-republican.php ----- -------- AUTHOR: Eric TITLE: Kasim Reed Hits Back BASENAME: kasim_reed_hits_back STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/31/2009 03:03:33 PM ----- BODY: The dust hasn't even settled yet from the uproar over Lisa Borders being annointed as the only black candidate who can beat Mary Norwood in the Atlanta Mayors race, and Kasim Reed has responded with a poll that shows the race is much closer:
The results, when respondents were asked who they would vote for if the election were today: Kasim Reed - 16% Lisa Borders - 19% Mary Norwood - 33% Jesse Spikes - 3% Other - 1% Undecided - 28% *580 likely voters were surveyed August 26 - August 27, 2009. Margin of error is +/- 4.1 percent.In a preemptive response to the "but the Reed campaign paid for this poll" arguement, the pollsters creds are included in the press release :
The poll was conducted by Cornell Belcher of Brilliant Corners Research & Strategies, a well-respected, national pollster who conducted polls for President Obama's campaign. As the lead pollster for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) from 2004 to 2008, Belcher helped to lay the foundation for the current Democratic political realignment and the stunning victory of the Obama presidential campaign. As message architect for the visionary 50 State Strategy, he helped to build a new Democratic majority nationwide primarily by picking up voters outside of the conventional battleground states. Belcher has helped to develop message-driven communication and mobilization programs for many of the most influential progressive organizations in our country, including: Emily's List, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), Democratic Governors Association (DGA) and numerous candidates and causes across the United States.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 08/31/2009 11:56:47 PM What's real nice is the way the 2 Clark Prof's have now injected their dubious study into the body politic all the while trying to appear as if they're 'above the fray' and were somehow not responsible for its 'leaking' to the press. Almost smooth, but not quite. As Tom C. was saying the other day, SSDD. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 65.81.25.78 URL: DATE: 09/01/2009 01:27:04 PM Sad to see that Rev. Tim McDonald was involved in writing that garbage. If they didn't mean what everybody thinks they meant, then it was a really poorly written thing, and that in itself is shocking from people this involved and connected. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: And they call us the new kids on the block BASENAME: and_they_call_us_the_new_kids STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 08/31/2009 11:54:04 PM ----- BODY:
But Georgia's junior Senator, or at least his staff, seemed less than excited to hear the call for health insurance reform. Dozens of constituents, including Kidd were prohibited from entering the visitor's parking in Senator Isakson's office building, forcing them to park across I-75, over a mile away.Sen. Isakson's building management almost ruined the event by refusing to allow healthcare insurance reform supporters from parking in their parking lot. This would not have been a problem if Sen. Isakson's public office was located in area with plentiful public parking. His office is in an isolated office park where the nearest public parking area is quite a walk away. After several dozen supporters were turned away, Jane Kidd, DPG Chair, called Sen. Isakson's office and was told that it was building owner's decision and that Sen. Isakson was not in the office. Fifteen minutes later, Senator Isakson magically appeared in front of his building. Magic. Jane Kidd was able to chatise Isakson about the parking issue and deliver the petition. Sen. Isakson said he has read the bill and doesn't support the public option. But, he is willing to keep an open mind. I'm not really sure what that means if he's not keeping an open ear to those Georgians who really need the public option in order to have health insurance for their families. We'll see how open Johnny's ears and mind are as Congress heads back to DC. This is video I captured of today's event. Jane Kidd did really well as the voice of Georgians who support health care reform.
"As a U.S. Senator, Johnny Isakson has consistently ignored the million and a half Georgians who don't have affordable health insurance, and the millions more whose premiums are rapidly becoming unaffordable," said Jane Kidd, Chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia. "This is just more of the same." Kidd told Isakson, "The truth is, if we don't act now, this health care crisis will affect all of us."Tomorrow, don't forget to come to the Healthcare Insurance Reform Rally at the State Capitol. Location: Georgia State Capitol - 206 Washington St. Atlanta, GA 30334 Time: 12 noon ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.208 URL: DATE: 09/02/2009 05:14:08 PM Nicely done, ladies. Good job Jane for pushing the Senator on the bootleg parking situation. And, Bernita, thanks for capturing it and getting it up so promptly. I love the "we don't have any control over the parking..." Riiiight! Just a US Senator, is all. Gimme a break. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/02/2009 05:52:56 PM Thanks again Bernita, And I wanted to post on the rally tomorrow & I'll be trying to make it too. But Johnny I? Coward. And a liar to boot it seems. Can't even come out to take a simple petition from citizen constituents unless it was soon going to involve even More of the media to shame him into it. Yeah. Class act their Johnny! Geez. It's the simple things. The 'I'm busy, trying to look busy, trying to avoid my duty to my erstwhile constituents.' Where are the real adults here? Evidently there's just not enough of them supporting & representing us here in Ga. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/02/2009 06:05:22 PM Thanks again for the vid. You'd almost think well of him if you did not know him well enough. A true born Pol for sure. How about a suggestion for a follow up here? I'm betting dimes to doughnuts that most if not all of that huge 40K person citizen's petition hits their paper recycling/trash bin either today or soon enough. Perhaps someone might look into it. Just a thought. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.251 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 09/03/2009 07:25:45 AM The parking deal kind of makes us sound petulant. I don't care who you are if you own a building and a convoy of cars far exceeds you lot's capacity of course you'll turn them away. For one--if nothing else--I believe it violates fire codes. At any rate the point of it is that this is such a minor thing to complain about. There is no need to mention it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.243 URL: DATE: 09/03/2009 08:18:54 AM The parking thing isn't minor. It's an indication of how he views his constituents, as people to be protected from, rather than citizens to be served. Great video Bernita. And awesome job Jane! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 09/03/2009 08:45:50 AM I would agree with you IF a) he was unresponsive to constituents which I can tell you with absolute certainty is not the case and b ) if all his offices were like that and c) he had some control over the parking situation around him. And let's be honest. How often do people go to visit their Senator, especially a junior senator from a minority party in a state that is getting no love from the WH. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.211.97.209 URL: DATE: 09/03/2009 08:56:24 AM Sorry, IRE, you're not making sense. "And let's be honest. How often do people go to visit their Senator, especially a junior senator from a minority party in a state that is getting no love from the WH." If you're suggesting the Senator doesn't get very many visitors - then why would parking be restricted? Oh, and by the way, a friend went to visit Senator Isakson recently and was able to park in the deck that was restricted yesterday. This was not a capacity question. This was restricting parking in anticipation of the delivery of the petition. Plain and simple. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 09/03/2009 09:28:20 AM No I'm saying parking would be adequate for the typical volume of visitors. Really? Parking was restricted because of the anticipated petition delivery? :facepalm: It is kind of arrogant to assume he's that afraid of us first. Was he notified ahead of time that that many people were there? I honestly can't believe we're still discussing this... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 173.137.170.40 URL: DATE: 09/03/2009 10:18:09 AM IRE: a little background for you. Yes, the DPG did call ahead and tell Isakson's staff that they were delivering the petition and they would be holding a press conference. The parking garage was not filled at 10:30 in the morning. The building's security team was jacked up on some serious testerone that morning and kept referring to it as a "protest" although it was not. Jane questions to Isakson "that he couldn't allow 2-3 cars to even park there" was very relevant. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/03/2009 10:59:34 AM Yep, 2-3 cars does not a disruptive 'convoy' make. If you're unable or in this case, unwilling to accommodate your constituents needs, you don't need to be in public office. And that's not even petulant either. It was planned that way. He was busy hiding out. SSDD. BTW? Most business locales Should be able to accommodate more than 4 cars in their lot @ 10.30AM. It's part of the design & zoning requirements typically. See ya soon. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 09/03/2009 02:49:07 PM Ah. Still the owner/management has the right not to allow people there. At the end of the day seriously though...PARKING is what you're getting upset at Isakson about? SRSLY? lolwut. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/03/2009 06:16:11 PM Nope it was not really about Parking, any more than handicap parking is about parking. It's about Access & being able to do what everyone else is able to. Being able to be greeted & accommodated as if you actually mattered. No snark about it, that's part of his job description after all. Again, if Isakson is unwilling or unable to accommodate at least perhaps 45%+ of his constituents? He needs to get another job, and the MSM & press needs to report on his abject yet deliberate failures at accommodation & listening to his constituents. Not just pandering to the select few who 'pay' for his time with yes, handsome bribes. But the rest of us too, the Majority of Georgians who either don't (or can't) contribute to campaigns, and whom either don't (or typically find they cannot) regularly vote, or voted for the opposition. "Still the owner/management has the right not to allow people there." This would be easily argued in any court, given the fact that it's a Public Office, open for Public Business. Perhaps for those being riotously unruly, but hey we've got Townhalls for that now, right? And no one Dared remove those Rethugs folks in mass, right? I wonder why the difference? I get it! Again IOKIYAR. So Presto! Magic! The problem of access to a Public Office of someone purporting to represent US here in Ga. is Suddenly a Private Matter! But Only after Isakson's Senate office seemingly requested the 'extra security' for whatever reason or purpose for a Non Violent, requested meeting with the Chairwoman of the opposite party. It becomes a 'pesky parking problem!' Yeah. That's the ticket? Wanna Buy a Bridge in Brooklyn, Cheap? How about the exclusive quarry rights to Stone Mountain? Just asking... JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: What this movement definitely needs is more cowbell! BASENAME: what_this_movement_needs_is_mo STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/03/2009 03:20:01 PM ----- BODY:
Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2009 Time: 6:45 PM Location: The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site Peace Plaza 450 Auburn Ave NE Atlanta, GA (on Auburn between Jackson & Boulevard) Parking is free in the visitor's lot of the Historic Site Enter on the block of 400 John Wesley Dobbs Ave. NE (on Dobbs between Jackson & Boulevard)Program is free open to the public. RSVP is requested, but not required RSVP HERE Check out the OFA Bus coverage HERE ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Greg Greene EMAIL: IP: 208.69.4.18 URL: http://twitter.com/ggreeneva DATE: 09/09/2009 02:35:14 PM Thanks for including the picture I -- er, someone -- took from the roadside in Arizona. ;) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Matt John EMAIL: IP: 202.59.88.15 URL: DATE: 09/14/2009 05:38:59 AM Hello readers, Here we can find different kind of ways of insurance, the Health Insurance Reform Bus is the great example by which we can learn. great idea! thank & regards ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: The Atlanta Race memo lingers on... BASENAME: the_atlanta_race_memo_lingers STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/09/2009 01:34:23 PM ----- BODY: Just when the Lisa Borders' campaign thought they had put to bed the awful sticky and messy "Atlanta Race" memo, it comes back in the voice of a very angry and disappointed former supporter. Aaron Turpeau, former Borders supporter who was originally accused of writing the "Atlanta Race" memo pens an "Open Letter on Atlanta's Mayor Race". In his open letter, Turpeau expresses his grave disappointment with the Black candidates and their responses to the "Atlanta Race" memo and asks some really interesting questions that should frame the race debate. More interesting is that you get a glimpse of the way another generation thinks about politics. The generation that fought the horrendous Jim Crow laws, encountered fire hoses and wild dogs while marching for voting rights, and helped elect Atlanta's first Black mayor.
But the real question before us is not my banishment or even the Mayor's race, but rather what is expected of Black People? Are we not to have the nerve to gather and discuss politics and issues as they affect our community and take these questions to the candidates? Are we not to discuss if a person of color has the qualifications and experience to best serve the community? Are we not allowed to ask each other which candidate will be more acceptable to the White community, able to work with diverse communities and able to get votes from outside the Black Community? Are we not allowed to request academic papers for discussions? Does Obama election mean we no longer should be advocates for our community? If so I am sorry but I did not get the memo that declared that we now live in a "Post Racial" era.In case you're wondering, Turpeau thoroughly denounces his once favorable support of Lisa Borders' candidacy.
I have had no conversation with Lisa Borders since the day of her press conference in response to the memo. Though I personally informed her and her campaign manager that I did not write the memo and who in fact did, she still made the decision to say publicly that it was my memo and that it was racist. A day later a check was written to my company refunding my $500 donation to her campaign. Perhaps it was a response to the false indication by Kasim Reed that my company contribution was the motive for the memo. Whatever the reason, I was totally surprised to receive the check on September 3rd. I respect her decision and will not be supporting her candidacy.The entire letter is below the fold. ----- EXTENDED BODY: An Open Letter from Aaron Turpeau: There has been much discussion about Black racism in Atlanta politics recently. Strangely enough the charges come from Black candidates for Mayor. Since I was there and have all the facts, I want you to have an accurate understanding of recent events. The Atlanta Black Leadership Forum is an ad hoc group of Black Atlantans that hold leadership positions in civic organizations, who come together to discuss politics and issues that affect the Black Community. For the last eight or nine months, we have been discussing the Atlanta Mayor's race and prior to qualifying, we interviewed the five leading candidates. The questions asked centered around City Finances, Crime, Economic Equality, Criminalization of Poverty and their vision of the future for Atlanta. All interviews were videotaped and posted to the website for viewing. After thorough discussion and a review of agendas created throughout Atlanta for the next Mayor, we developed an agenda to help the Black Community to become Healthy, Wealthy and Wise. Because of the diverse opinions amongst our group, we decided not to vote to favor any particular candidate but to ask members to work in all camps and to pursue four specific items outlined in our agenda: • Economic equality; • Access to government leadership after the election; • Fair hiring practices that include men, women and ethnic diversity for high level jobs; and, • Hiring policies that favor qualified Atlantans for top jobs. Members were advised of this recommendation through conversation and a memo sent under my signature two weeks prior to the release of "The Struggle for Unity" paper. In that same memo, I disclosed that I would be active in Lisa Borders campaign. To further clarify, in response to an earlier request we received an academic analysis of the Mayor's race and the chances of unity considering our voting habits. "The Struggle for Unity" paper was an internal memo was for discussion purposes only and was distributed by me to former meeting attendees. It is a sad day in Atlanta politics when Black mayoral candidates publicly cryout Black racism without seeking information from the accused individuals or group about the facts, intent, or purpose of a discussion paper. The reaction by the two leading Black candidates was very disappointing. Candidate Kasim Reed, who the memo pointed out was far behind in the polls lead the charge by crying out charges of Black racism and was quickly followed by Candidate Lisa Borders calling the memo racist, instead of an opportunity for racial discussion. Both outcries are seen by many in the Black community as pandering for White votes and support. Neither candidate sought any clarity from any Forum member; all candidates had supporters as attendees at our regular meetings (including Norwood). It is an even sadder day when loyal supporters are not given the respect or courtesy of conversation, but are abruptly banished. I have had no conversation with Lisa Borders since the day of her press conference in response to the memo. Though I personally informed her and her campaign manager that I did not write the memo and who in fact did, she still made the decision to say publicly that it was my memo and that it was racist. A day later a check was written to my company refunding my $500 donation to her campaign. Perhaps it was a response to the false indication by Kasim Reed that my company contribution was the motive for the memo. Whatever the reason, I was totally surprised to receive the check on September 3rd. I respect her decision and will not be supporting her candidacy. But the real question before us is not my banishment or even the Mayor's race, but rather what is expected of Black People? Are we not to have the nerve to gather and discuss politics and issues as they affect our community and take these questions to the candidates? Are we not to discuss if a person of color has the qualifications and experience to best serve the community? Are we not allowed to ask each other which candidate will be more acceptable to the White community, able to work with diverse communities and able to get votes from outside the Black Community? Are we not allowed to request academic papers for discussions? Does Obama election mean we no longer should be advocates for our community? If so I am sorry but I did not get the memo that declared that we now live in a "Post Racial" era. Where do we go from here? We will continue to meet and try to find solutions for our community and try to impact political contest that affect us. While some may disagree with us, we need to respect our diversity and agree to disagree, and when appropriate learn from out disagreement. After all, we are all greatly concerned and care about the future of our city. Aaron Turpeau ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/09/2009 03:59:41 PM Thanks for this Bernita, As an aside, I can think of probably at least half a dozen major candidates I've contributed more money to that later went 'no where special' in the last decade. Most of them were totally worth it, if only for the entertainment value (in retrospect). Some went on to advance policy agendas that had heretofore been absent from the political landscape (JRE). Some certainly more deeply frustrating than others. Some with the extra added feature of trying to appear noble & ennobling when they saw themselves within a quixotic hyper quasi legal drama they could not overcome (Bush v.Gore, USSC). You pays your money and you takes your chances. Still again, we should all try to be adults here. Not too petulant like small children, but try to strive ever upwards to fulfill the larger destiny of those we seek to aid. It's very obvious that none of us are quite living in a 'Post-Racial' world. (Well except for some well known fabulists, the pig ignorant, indolent and inobservant & in the fantasy of some right wing academics). This may not still necessitate the very same tactics & political maneuvers that proved successful over a generation ago. Every age deserves its own polity & new organizational unity. Always wanting to put the same sauce back in the can might be seen as less than useful to many folks today. Always using the same frame to hammer the politics of today back into the shape of 1977 will necessarily have its limitations and increasingly limited ROI. IMHO. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Open Thread... You LIE.. no really it's an open thread BASENAME: open_thread_you_lie_no_really STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/09/2009 10:20:58 PM ----- BODY:
In an interview with NBC's Brian Williams, former Democratic President Jimmy Carter attributed much of the conservative opposition that President Obama is receiving to the issue of race. "I think an overwhelming portion of the intensely demonstrated animosity toward President Barack Obama is based on the fact that he is a black man," Carter said. "I live in the South, and I've seen the South come a long way, and I've seen the rest of the country that share the South's attitude toward minority groups at that time, particularly African Americans." Carter continued, "And that racism inclination still exists. And I think it's bubbled up to the surface because of the belief among many white people, not just in the South but around the country, that African-Americans are not qualified to lead this great country. It's an abominable circumstance, and it grieves me and concerns me very deeply."In related news, yesterday the US House of Representatives passed a resolution of disapproval against Rep. Joe Wilson of "You lie" fame. Thanks to the Georgia Blue Dogs for manning up. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/15/2009 10:29:51 PM Good on Ol' Jimmy here! I've been saying this for awhile now too. From the widespread personal experience I have with almost every other white male over the age of 50 I meet here in Ga. who express to me in one form or another a deep desire to harm the President or a profound, yet seemingly mindless hatred of same. Eventually they come to realize that although I can be fairly genial about it all, and listen carefully too, I'm definitely not of the same mind, so they don't often mention this egregious & violently radical approach to me a 2nd time. And if you've seen me do it, here it is again: I smile and slowly say, 'OK, that's your position. I completely understand it. So how do you spell you last name & 'report'?' And I smile again broadly. Surprisingly, this seems to work (superficially at least) for the more open announcements of this bubbling & seething yet often deadly hatred. See here: http://www.splcenter.org/ & here @ Dave Neiwert's blog http://dneiwert.blogspot.com/ for an extended discussion & treatment of this one of the oldest & most deadly & persistent social diseases of mankind, & how it relates to us Today. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/15/2009 10:41:00 PM BTW: Here's Markos' (Kos) take on it: http://www.dailykostv.com/w/002146/ And yeah. Anyone alive during the Clinton years of Media & GOP manufactured 'scandals' knew that this was coming. It's only a matter of time. It's the 1st cudgel they always reach for: Hate, Fear, Reaction & Lies. Depend on it. Always. Rethugs! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Heather Ross EMAIL: IP: 64.91.50.250 URL: DATE: 09/16/2009 08:14:13 AM Jimmy, the accuser of the brethren. How is it that u know the minds and hearts of people, and suppose its those rednecks in the south causing all the problem again? So u hav talked to American Tea Party demos? They told u they hate someone? I don't think so. As CNN & u state, "race" it has to be, ooooo! Start trouble in America. Will u accept responsibility for increased tensions of races now or blame it on others? U makin' the claims over the USA. Hav u heard any tea partiers say anything derogatory? I don't think so. By the by, Afro-Americans, Hispanics, Latinos, hav also been apart of tea parties so u need to eat ur words and hav some tea! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: jmk EMAIL: IP: 206.123.248.74 URL: DATE: 09/16/2009 09:18:50 AM I attended the 912dc march. I did not see one instance of racism. I believe that the group of people that disagree are frustrated that they have not been successfull in rallying their troups to counter protest and they are attempting to insite them to challenge us. We simply disagree with excessive government spending, government policies that erode our liberty, and an overwelming level of corruption in Republican and Democrat politics. Please look at the over 8,000 posts of pictures on flickr. I challenge you to find ONE example of racism. http://www.flickr.com/photos/tags/912dc/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/16/2009 11:07:17 AM Yeah, if you post it here for the 1st time, but 4 times, it Must be true, right? The argument is not just with the organized teabaggers, but with Rep. Joe Wilson himself. Who DOES have a position on the Confederate Flag, (he voted to keep it flying over the State House, one of the last to do so), and has been known to be a racist boor in the past, as one of ol Strom's last hires. That's how he got ahead in SC Politics. And yeah, we’ve got a problem with that. Go figure. But spend 2 Trillion dollars for a useless & needless 'war of choice in Iraq' under BushCo? None of the Rethugs complained. Not on budget? Ever? In 8 Years? Unprecedented! Not a whisper from the right on the fiscal madness of that or actually Cutting Taxes irresponsibly while troops suffered in the field for lack of good armor protection. After Years of Parents Begging them to do so? Yeah. Not. One. Peep. (Save for Rep. Ron Paul perhaps). Again, that was evidently the 1st time in Recorded History that an administration Continued to cut taxes while engaged in a war of any significant duration. What does that spell Kiddies? Fiscal responsibility? Not hardly, it was Another 2 Trillion dollars worth of debt for our kids & grandkids to pay for the largess of the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy & millionaires. Under Bush we had wars w/o end & w/o any questions. Never any questions asked by the GOP Congress. No oversight at ALL. Tons of Tax breaks for rich cronies & subsidies for inefficient industries because they were favored or connected to the Rethug 'vision for America'. A hugely inefficient Medicare Part D that was the greatest expansion of government spending since LBJ, and ALL of it, Yes again nearly another 1 Trillion dollars, paid out to Big Pharma Directly as a gift from the coffers of the US Treasury. And the Bill Demanded that there be absolutely NO 'shopping around' for the best prices (something the VA & the Military Tri-Care & Medicare systems do routinely with little problem). You want 'Market based solutions for health care'? Where the Hell were you when you might have made a difference under Bush? Yeah. I figured! Hiding under your bed cowering from the ebbil Tabbies. Or enjoying the show, from a distance. Now you want to talk about Freedom? Just too precious. Tell it to what ever Dick Armey who paid for it all. You're just a cog in someone else's noise machine. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.21.65 URL: DATE: 09/16/2009 11:25:13 AM Oh, OK, jmk, I'll play along. How's this one: http://www.gonemild.com/2009/04/tea-bagger-potty-line.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: PaulaG EMAIL: IP: 68.211.21.65 URL: DATE: 09/16/2009 12:16:22 PM Also, just FYI, tonight is the Carter Town Hall at Emory. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 208.54.95.18 URL: DATE: 09/16/2009 06:40:46 PM wtf to the trolls and they seem to be finding bford a lot more now. Whats the reason/guess? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/17/2009 05:49:32 AM More racist teabagger lovelies here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/42406957@N04/ JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 24.99.67.134 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 09/17/2009 11:05:12 AM It took me three tries to watch this entirely - videoand interviews from the latest march in DC - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUPMjC9mq5Y ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 09/18/2009 11:24:48 AM yall might like these http://glocktalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1119334 http://glocktalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13805355&postcount=8 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/19/2009 01:41:56 AM Thanks for the reminder IRE. Not for nothing that all this crazy talk often turns deadly. It's just that not enough of the right people notice, until far too late. But it's happening all the damn time. FYI: Follow some of the lesser known Glock intrigue here & with Bizweek: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/11/glock-faces-embezzlement-_n_283779.html http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/09_38/b4147036107809.htm As if it would matter much, right? Again, great guns made by foul people. The Nazi's would be proud. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/20/2009 10:43:08 PM Again more really solid & sober professionals who think Joe Wilson's a not so closeted racist: (Via TPM) http://tpmtv.talkingpointsmemo.com/?id=3446923&ref=fpblg Just for the record, with historian Doug Brinkley. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: Big Questions Still Linger In Atlanta Police Raid of Gay Bar BASENAME: big_questions_still_linger_in STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/16/2009 12:50:30 PM ----- BODY: My friend Jeff Graham over at Georgia Equality sent out two major press releases yesterday asking questions of the Mayor and City Council about the Atlanta Police raid of the Eagle last Thursday. While some of the questions are more, erm, operational in nature, I wanted to take some time to point out a couple that particularly vex me and other citizens of greater Atlanta. (Full Releases below the fold) "Why were so many officers needed to investigate non-violent dancing when violent crimes are occurring all over the city?" - does it take 3 Paddy Wagons and dozens of police officers to issue a ticket? "What specific evidence led to the initiation of the raid? What documentation exists detailing that evidence? Why has the reasoning for the raid shifted over time?" - it would appear that when one excuse didn't pan out, the APD shifted to another. First it was overt sex acts in public that weren't happening, then it was drugs, none were found, what next? ----- EXTENDED BODY: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press Release September 15, 2009 Jeff Graham, Executive Director jeff@georgiaequality.org 404.523.3070 voice 404.688.2638 fax GEORGIA EQUALITY CALLS FOR MAYOR FRANKLIN AND CHIEF PENNINGTON TO ANSWER MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT ATLANTA EAGLE RAID ATLANTA - Following Monday's press conference by the Atlanta Police Department ("APD") explaining that the recent raid at the Atlanta Eagle bar was the culmination of a nearly five-month-long investigation, Georgia Equality now calls on Mayor Shirley Franklin and Police Chief Richard Pennington to address additional questions and concerns about the developing situation. "Members of Atlanta's LGBT community have frequently given Mayor Franklin the benefit of the doubt for the last eight years, and now we expect some candor and honesty about the heavy-handed raid that occurred last week," said Jeff Graham, executive director of Georgia Equality. "We call on the Mayor to come forward and explain how this raid makes the city any safer, and whether this was really a wise use of the city's scarce resources during a economic downtown." Georgia Equality noted that while violent crimes have plagued area neighborhoods and tragically claimed the life of a Spelman College student in recent weeks, Chief Pennington announced Monday that the city's police have been working since May, in part, to investigate men dancing in their underwear. "The APD needs to explain why it is that their leadership chose to focus on things such as Go-Go Boy dancing, while at the same time muggers were attacking Georgia Tech students, and drug deals and prostitution continued unabated outside City Hall East." Georgia Equality also noted with concern that Chief Pennington said Monday the initial complaints about activities at the Atlanta Eagle were funneled through the Mayor's Office. "Atlanta deserves to know exactly who in the Franklin Administration played a role in orchestrating this raid, and what evidence they purported to have," Graham said. Georgia Equality expressed its concern for the bar patrons and employees who lived through the raid on Sept. 10, noting that none of the 62 patrons present during the raid was found to be engaged in any sex acts, nor in possession of contraband. "Civil rights and common decency should not be thrown out the window over men dancing in their underwear and alleged non-violent conduct, even if criminal issues are possibly afoot," Graham said. "Atlanta, as a city, can do better than this, and should strive to be a leader in the area of public safety." Georgia Equality called upon Mayor Franklin and Chief Pennington to explain: • What concrete steps (such as written policies) will the Police Chief take to ensure that the APD's LGBT Liaison Offer Dani Lee Harris is notified in advance and involved in the coordination and execution of future police actions affecting the LGBT community? • How is the city any safer since the raid? • What percentage of the officers on duty the night of September 10 participated in the raid? • Why were so many officers needed to investigate non-violent dancing when violent crimes are occurring all over the city? • How much did this raid cost taxpayers? What is the cost per charge/violation? How many work hours went into the investigation leading up to and the execution of the raid? • What specific evidence led to the initiation of the raid? What documentation exists detailing that evidence? Why has the reasoning for the raid shifted over time? • What actions were taken and what language was used by police during the raid and how were patrons treated? • What training, if any, had the officers who participated in the raid received regarding LGBT community sensitivity and did they follow such training, written procedures, or policies? • Why were individual arrested and held in custody 19 hours for ordinance violations? • What guarantees will the APD make to ensure that the LGBT press, such as Southern Voice and Project Q Atlanta, are kept up to date as the investigation goes forward? "A full, unbiased, and objective investigation of this raid needs to occur quickly before the Mayor and Chief Pennington leave office in the coming months," Graham said. "Our public officials must be held accountable for their actions and decisions with regard to public safety, the civil rights of Atlanta citizens, and the allocation of precious city resources during an economic downturn. The raid raises questions and concerns in all three of these areas which have yet to be properly addressed." -- END September 15, 2009; Mayor Franklin: Last week's Atlanta Police Department ("APD") raid of the Atlanta Eagle raised a number of questions and concerns which are important, not only to members of the LGBT community, but to the citizens of Atlanta at large. The raid raises concerns about the city's commitment to public safety, the civil rights of members of the LGBT community, and the city and APD's management of scarce taxpayer revenue during an economic downturn. While all of the facts regarding the raid remain unclear, certain details have become known. Twenty-one police officers and a five-month investigation led to the raid. During the raid, no drugs or other contraband were found on any individual and no illicit sex was observed. Instead, staff members were arrested and detained for nineteen hours for alleged ordinance violations. In addition, it is also clear that in the last week of available crime data (8/30-9/5), the City experienced two murders, forty-two robberies, and thirty-eight aggravated assaults. In Zone 5, where the Atlanta Eagle is located, seven robberies and five aggravated assaults took place. While the crime statistics for the night of the raid are not yet available, it would be surprising if violent criminal activity was not occurring simultaneously with the raid. On Monday, the APD held a press conference which generated more questions than answers. Georgia Equality calls upon the Mayor and Police Chief Pennington to investigate and fully explain a number of issues. First, the APD's motivation, goals, and evidence that led to the initiation of the raid remain unclear and have had multiple shifting explanations over the past week. A full explanation of the events leading up to last week's raid is required. Second, eyewitness reports regarding how the raid was conducted are troubling on multiple fronts. Did police treat individuals with dignity and were all Fourth Amendment and other civil rights safeguarded? Why was the raid conducted with twenty-one officers when no violent criminal activity was suspected and why was the APD's LGBT Liaison not notified of the raid in advance? What level of force was necessary to conduct the raid and what level was used? A full examination into the manner in which the raid was conducted is needed to ensure that all APD policies were followed and individuals' civil rights were not violated. This investigation should also analyze whether internal APD policies, procedures, and/or training need to be changed going forward. Finally, the raid raises serious questions regarding the management of the APD with respect to utilization of scarce resources to safeguard the community at large. The APD and the City must explain to the citizens of Atlanta how much the raid and investigation cost taxpayers and justify those costs in light of current budget issues. Further, the fact that a raid was conducted at all when no violent crime was suspected raises serious concerns about APD management given the rise of violent crime and property theft throughout the City and the lack of police resources to properly protect Atlanta's citizens. In all, Mayor Franklin and Chief Pennington must account for the motivations and evidence that led to an apparently unnecessary raid, the manner in which the raid was conducted and the treatment of ordinary citizens, and the costs and benefits of investing scarce public resources to the raid when the APD, and the City as a whole, are dealing with dire budget shortfalls. Sincerely, Jeff Graham Executive Director Georgia Equality ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/17/2009 01:06:00 AM Predictably the Atlanta Progressive News had this 1st: Here: http://www.atlantaprogressivenews.com/news/0508.html & Updated on their blog: http://www.atlantaprogressiveblog.com/2009/09/update-on-atlanta-eagle-raid/ Ed Matthew C was on the scene. Other random thought on this: 1.) Gay Guys in underwear, be dangerous! = 1 Atl Paddy wagon or 5 patrol cars & 10 cops. 2.) Guys in underwear & Dancing, be *Very* Dangerous! = 2 Paddy wagon equivalent Or a Total of 10 cars & Another 5-10 cops. Minimum. 3.) Serious crime operations need undercover officers. The mere prospect of Potentially Seriously Entertaining but clearly lesser & minor crime scenes evidently somehow warrant Several undercover officers. Go figure. 4.) When you really can't be bothered to catch the real criminals at large & terrorizing your citizenry or are consistently unable to investigate and 'solve' serious violent crimes? Evidently you can much more successfully go after the 'usual suspects' of yore for simple code violations using all the manpower in several sectors to make this point for the cameras. ('We're still 'kickin it!') For whomever is still paying attention to such things & frank diversions. 5.) Incompetent Is as incompetence Does. 6.) APD, Putting the Dis in dysfunctional since... 7.) I truly feel safer now, just knowing that such barbarians are off the streets. Dressage Gentlemen! Who knew that minor fashion crimes were going to be fully prosecuted in the Atl? Bueller? Zero Tolerance! Thanks for the note Tim. I'm betting you thought it'd go unnoticed too... JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: SwiftBoatBirthBaggers (for truth) BASENAME: swiftboatbirthbaggers_for_trut STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/17/2009 06:55:51 PM ----- BODY: sbbft_chart.doc ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: They may have wanted to wait till after football season... BASENAME: they_may_have_wanted_to_wait_t STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/19/2009 11:02:56 PM ----- BODY:
Reporting from Sacramento - Concerned that the growing popularity of big-screen televisions could make it harder for California to keep pace with electricity demand, state energy regulators are poised to crack down on energy-guzzling sets despite opposition from a powerful electronics trade group. The first-in-the-nation TV efficiency standards would require electronics retailers to sell only energy-sipping models starting in 2011. Even tougher efficiency criteria would follow in 2013. The California Energy Commission is slated to unveil the new standards today, followed by a 45-day public comment period. The commission is expected to approve the measure in early November.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 09/20/2009 12:46:12 AM Yep. Strangely enough people have been noticing this for oh, at least the last decade or more, right in tandem with the much more ubiquitous and massive computer usage draining the grid at all times of the day & night. It's a whole new world, but we really have to plan better for it. http://www.technologyreview.com/energy/18651/ JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Don't Like Socialism? Sign Here. BASENAME: dont_like_socialism_sign_here STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/20/2009 10:11:41 AM ----- BODY: I've seen this a bunch of places this week, but I think it originally came from Kos.
The Teabagger Socialist-Free Purity Pledge I, ________________________________, do solemnly swear to uphold the principles of a socialism-free society and heretofore pledge my word that I shall strictly adhere to the following: I will complain about the destruction of 1st Amendment Rights in this country, while I am duly being allowed to exercise my 1st Amendment Rights. I will complain about the destruction of my 2nd Amendment Rights in this country, while I am duly being allowed to exercise my 2nd Amendment rights by legally but brazenly brandishing unconcealed firearms in public. I will foreswear the time-honored principles of fairness, decency, and respect by screaming unintelligible platitudes regarding tyranny, Nazi-ism, and socialism at public town halls. Also. I pledge to eliminate all government intervention in my life. I will abstain from the use of and participation in any socialist goods and services including but not limited to the following: Social Security Medicare/Medicaid State Children's Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP) Police, Fire, and Emergency Services US Postal Service Roads and Highways Air Travel (regulated by the socialist FAA) The US Railway System Public Subways and Metro Systems Public Bus and Lightrail Systems Rest Areas on Highways Sidewalks All Government-Funded Local/State Projects (e.g., see Iowa 2009 federal senate appropriations--http://grassley.senate.gov/issues/upload/Master-Approps-73109.pdf) Public Water and Sewer Services (goodbye socialist toilet, shower, dishwasher, kitchen sink, outdoor hose!) Public and State Universities and Colleges Public Primary and Secondary Schools Sesame Street Publicly Funded Anti-Drug Use Education for Children Public Museums Libraries Public Parks and Beaches State and National Parks Public Zoos Unemployment Insurance Municipal Garbage and Recycling Services Treatment at Any Hospital or Clinic That Ever Received Funding From Local, Stateor Federal Government (pretty much all of them) Medical Services and Medications That Were Created or Derived From Any Government Grant or Research Funding (again, pretty much all of them) Socialist Byproducts of Government Investment Such as Duct Tape and Velcro (Nazi-NASA Inventions) Use of the Internets, email, and networked computers, as the DoD's ARPANET was the basis for subsequent computer networking Foodstuffs, Meats, Produce and Crops That Were Grown With, Fed With, Raised With or That Contain Inputs From Crops Grown With Government Subsidies Clothing Made from Crops (e.g. cotton) That Were Grown With or That Contain Inputs From Government Subsidies If a veteran of the government-run socialist US military, I will forego my VA benefits and insist on paying for my own medical care I will not tour socialist government buildings like the Capitol in Washington, D.C. I pledge to never take myself, my family, or my children on a tour of the following types of socialist locations, including but not limited to: Smithsonian Museums such as the Air and Space Museum or Museum of American History The socialist Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson Monuments The government-operated Statue of Liberty The Grand Canyon The socialist World War II and Vietnam Veterans Memorials The government-run socialist-propaganda location known as Arlington National Cemetery All other public-funded socialist sites, whether it be in my state or in Washington, DC I will urge my Member of Congress and Senators to forego their government salary and government-provided healthcare. I will oppose and condemn the government-funded and therefore socialist military of the United States of America. I will boycott the products of socialist defense contractors such as GE, Lockheed-Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, Raytheon, Humana, FedEx, General Motors, Honeywell, and hundreds of others that are paid by our socialist government to produce goods for our socialist army. I will protest socialist security departments such as the Pentagon, FBI, CIA, Department of Homeland Security, TSA, Department of Justice and their socialist employees. Upon reaching eligible retirement age, I will tear up my socialist Social Security checks. Upon reaching age 65, I will forego Medicare and pay for my own private health insurance until I die. SWORN ON A BIBLE AND SIGNED THIS DAY OF ____________ IN THE YEAR ______________. ___________________________ ___________________________ Signed Printed Name/Town and State----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 74.176.160.95 URL: DATE: 09/20/2009 11:48:05 AM I love this, but I must make on correction. So many seem to think that Velcro hook and loop fasteners were invented by NASA. Alas, this is not the case. In fact, the product was invented by a Swiss hiker. You can learn all about it here: http://www.velcro.com/index.php?page=who-is-velcro-r So, all you anti-socialist folks can buy Velcro brand products freely! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.211.91.227 URL: DATE: 09/20/2009 01:35:45 PM Looks like Tang is in the clear too: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tang_(drink) ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Cadillacs? Chevys? More like Yugos! BASENAME: cadillacs_chevys_more_like_yug STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/22/2009 08:43:03 PM ----- BODY:
About 14 percent of small employers, counted as those with fewer than 500 workers, now offer policies that would be subject to the excise tax, said Beth Umland, director of research for Mercer, a consulting firm that conducts an annual survey of employeebenefits. That compares with just 5 percent of large employers with 500 or more workers.Before we sock small businesses and union workers with these excise taxes, lets take a look at insurance company executive compensation. In 2008, CEOs of the top 8 insurers received $67 million in salaries and bonues. This is down from $123 million in 2007! Those are just the CEOs! There is something desperately wrong with a system that that generates this level of wealth on the health of our citizens. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Thumbs Down, President Obama BASENAME: thumbs_down_president_obama STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/22/2009 10:56:49 AM ----- BODY:
The FDA says those products attract and appeal to teenagers. The U.S. market for clove cigarettes is about $140 million -- a big hit since the United States imported them in the 1960s. And data shows cloves are mostly smoked by people under the age of 30.And? I bet most people who drink wine coolers are under the age of 21, but you don't see the government banning those abominations. I'm a nonsmoker, but it's enough to make me want light up a cherry flavored cigarette right on the steps of the Capitol. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 65.199.13.40 URL: DATE: 09/22/2009 02:08:53 PM Problem is, ciggarettes are highly addictive. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 09/22/2009 02:20:22 PM So? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.218 URL: DATE: 09/22/2009 03:10:03 PM OK, I'll take a swing. Let's say Astra-Zeneca was selling a little pill that everyone knew was poisonous and also was addictive, but it made your penis huge. OK, maybe a bad example. But at what point do we draw the line here? Is it about people having the freedom to make the rest of us pay for their emphysema treatments, or is it about companies having the right to sell us anything they want to make a buck, even if it makes us sick? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 09/22/2009 03:56:35 PM How come no one ever hates on alcohol even though it kills tons of people - directly and indirectly - every year? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.218 URL: DATE: 09/22/2009 04:55:53 PM It's inconsistent, but perhaps part of it that alcohol doesn't seem to be addictive to almost everyone like nicotine? There are lots of laws and restrictions on alcohol, it's just that everybody ignores them for some reason. The laws here in Georgia regarding alcohol are particularly absurd. You can go somewhere and drink on Sunday, but you can't go somewhere and buy booze to take home and drink? Asking for trouble. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: siri EMAIL: IP: 76.97.7.142 URL: DATE: 09/23/2009 01:14:24 AM Cigarette smoke doesnt bother me, but I want to gag when I smell someone smoking a clove. Not that that should be the reason (or should there be a reason) to ban them outright, but I just had to mention it. I could say the same thing about cigars but you won't see them get banned. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 65.199.13.40 URL: DATE: 09/23/2009 08:23:52 AM The FDA's got a right to regulate poisons, it's definitely under their mandate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 09/23/2009 12:00:22 PM Shit smells awful. Should be a f*cking crime to smoke them in my general presence. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 09/23/2009 02:59:53 PM The FDA does not have a mandate to regulate "poisons," it has the statutory power to regulate food, drugs, cosmetics and other public health instruments such as medical devices. It was long considered completely antithetical to the FDA's mission to regulate tobacco. In fact, there was a 2000 Supreme Court case that said the FDA overstepped its authority when it tried in the 90's to regulate tobacco for the first time. This is why the warnings on cigarettes have traditionally come from the Surgeon General. It's also why there was an entirely separate government agency whose sole purpose was to regulate 3 inherently dangerous products: alcohol, tobacco, and firearms. The FDA never had the power, let alone the "mandate," to regulate tobacco until new legislation passed this summer that actually explicitly gave it that power for the very first time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 09/23/2009 04:00:44 PM pwnt. http://media.ebaumsworld.com/picture/Sockydoodle/paris_pwnt.jpg ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: www.google.com/accounts/o8/id?id=AItOawnoHw1JFoiPd9zBYEmCeg1UQJlgRvaAzDw EMAIL: IP: 24.99.206.34 URL: DATE: 09/23/2009 05:19:32 PM Nicotine is not addictive to everyone who smokes, just as alcohol is not addictive to everyone who drinks. It's all on a scale - some people are hooked right off, others can put them down with no problem. This country has a complicated relationship with tobacco, mostly to do with the making money and somewhat to do with class and tradition, but I really don't think that they get to tell me I can't smoke cloves. At least cloves have a history, having been invented in the 1880's, and as far as I'm concerned, they're more harsh than all but the cheapest cigs. However, that's a red herring, because the problem is not that kids want cloves - kids want to "look cool" and people (apparently) keep violating the law to sell them cigarettes. If the law we have was enforced I think we wouldn't be having this conversation at all. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 09/23/2009 09:23:51 PM "The FDA never had the power, let alone the "mandate," to regulate tobacco until new legislation passed this summer that actually explicitly gave it that power for the very first time." Yeah, I know, and now they're exercising the power. cry moar? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.111.140 URL: DATE: 09/24/2009 05:36:48 PM "It's all on a scale". That's right. We can buy some kinds of alcohol for drinking, but we can't buy ANY kind of alcohol for drinking. It just so happens that some forms of alcohol have other uses so it's easy to get anyway, but I don't think you are supposed to sell Sterno as a beverage. Cigarettes only have one use, so it seems more draconian to ban certain types of it. Having said that, I'm still not sure how I feel about this. It seems like adults should be able to do things like this within their own homes without becoming a criminal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 09/24/2009 08:54:51 PM Hm. If this merely bans the sale of flavored cigarettes and not their production, then there is nothing to prevent an enterprising fan from making their own, is there? It's not nuclear science. If so, then I don't see the issue. A person might have the right to consume whatever they please, but I don't think they have the right to sell whatever they please. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 09/25/2009 09:34:54 AM Apropos of nothing...Tondee's Tavern looks like it has activity again. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 09/25/2009 02:10:14 PM Drew, Look up Wickard v. Filburn in Wikipedia. The problem if the Federal government doesn't really recognize that distinction. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 09/25/2009 02:14:08 PM And yes, Zaid, they are just exercising their newly granted power. But instead of crying moar, I'll just point out that if the FDA takes this new power to its logical conclusion, the total banning of cigarettes, you will see a black market and a rise in criminal activity in this country that will make prohibition in the 1920s look like a few teenagers drinking booze in the bushes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 09/25/2009 06:43:59 PM I don't think they're going to ban cigarettes, Obama will veto he's a smoker :p ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 10/01/2009 10:44:57 PM Enterprising fan makes her own flavored cigarettes. http://www.boingboing.net/2009/10/01/howto-flout-the-obam.html In re: Wickard v. Filburn: it's not that I don't think the government has the power to ban production for personal use - it does, of course - it's whether they exercise that power in this case. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: Thinking Outside the Atlanta Democratic Beltway BASENAME: thinking_outside_the_atlanta_d STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/23/2009 05:13:26 PM ----- BODY: Some of you may not know this, but there are several races THIS November for State House and State Senate caused by the vacancies of sitting General Assembly members. One such race is in Milledgeville. Bobby Parham was the State House member, a Democrat, from Milledgeville (get to Macon and head 45 minutes northeast), but he retired to take a post with the Department of Transportation. That left the seat open, and a special election was called for November 3rd, 2009. Only ONE Democrat has qualified in this free-for-all, whomever gets the most votes wins election. Darrell has an event this week and here's your chance to meet this Democrat from middle Georgia who stepped up when his Party needed him. Thanks to Stephanie Stuckey Benfield for forwarding this event to me:
has given leadership to the struggle for equality and human rights for all people. For thirty-three years - (1944 - 1977), Height served on the staff of the National Board of the YWCA of the USA. In l957, Height was elected fourth National President of National Council of Negro Women and served as its chair until 1998. In 1960, Height was the woman team member leader in the United Civil Rights Leadership along with Martin Luther King, Whitney H. Young, A. Philip Randolph, James Farmer, Roy Wilkins and John Lewis.Nikema's stalking paid off and she was able to take a picture with the 97 year old Dr. Dorothy Height who remains the face of Black women social activism.
As U.S. troops near what is supposed to be the final year of combat operations in Iraq, the military's top logisticians have quietly been working on the "monumental" task of removing mountains of war-fighting equipment from that theater. "We've been in that theater of war for [six] years. This is Ph.D-level stuff. It's literally millions of pieces of equipment," said Maj. Gen. Kevin Leonard, the G-3 for Army Materiel Command. Officials declined to discuss how much the drawdown effort could cost, but Pentagon leaders are debating the price tag, which changes depending on how much equipment is saved and whether gear bought to replace what's junked is included in the overall tab. One source has said the total will be tens of billions of dollars. The cost of the drawdown could be overshadowed by the complexity of the effort, which will include deciding what to do with each piece of gear and scrubbing certain pieces of equipment, such as those that will be transferred to Iraqi forces, of classified components.Considering that much of this equipment has been with our forces since we rolled over the berm in March of 2003, we certainly have our work cut out for us. Despite the fact that Iraq has seen a large number of high-profile mass killings in the last few months, American personnel have largely been unaffected by the death and destruction. Now it seems the hope lies not only in the safety and security of the people of Iraq, but in a safe and secure return home for the roughly 100,000 military personnel that will be back stateside next year. God speed to all. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: CBCF - Day 4 BASENAME: cbcf_-_day_4 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 09/28/2009 10:47:07 AM ----- BODY: Today was an awesome day!! 3:30 pm: Attended the Coca-Cola reception for the Georgia Black Caucus members. Ingrid Saunders Jones and the Coca-Cola crew put on a fantastic reception. Lots of food, open bar, and good people. The line to get into the reception stretched on to the sidewalk and down the street. Lots of folks were trying to get in to this party. Ingrid Saunders Jones, Coca-Cola
awarded for efforts and accomplishments that have made significant contributions to society, and symbolizing the immortality of the human spirit and an eternal desire to reach its full potential.
Operation Hey Mackey! - Whole Foods, Oakland from Jamie LeJeune on Vimeo.
Performance by the Brass Liberation Orchestra Anyone younger than 40, here is the original video. FYI, I love this kind of stuff! Good humor always beats nasty attack ads and hate. Glad to see this circulating on the internets. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Women at the Table of Power conference - Day 1 BASENAME: women_at_the_tables_of_power_c STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/04/2009 03:02:18 PM ----- BODY: 2:30 pm - The Women at the Table of Power conference, a program of WiLL and WAND, opens with Congresswoman Donna Edwards. Georgia's very own, State Senator Nan Orrock, is the President of WiLL (the Women Legislators' Lobby)....for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.I think I heard the sound of Hannity's & Limbaugh's heads bursting. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 72.255.23.187 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 09:33:10 AM As much as I happen to like the President, I find this award a bit startling. I happen to know a whole lot of folks who have spent decades working for Peace. Granted they don't have his profile, but seriously. Someone like my friend Alice who walked 500 miles in the Witness Against War Walk from Chicago to St. Paul last summer, or many of the WAND Women who have worked for Peace for years. I'm kind of speechless, I know a rarity. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 09:40:55 AM It is a total headscratcher. I think even those of us who continue to support him will mostly agree with that sentiment. While we obviously expect great things from him, it's way too early for him to win this. It almost makes it into a joke. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 09:51:01 AM Saith David Sirota: "Obama winning Nobel prize reflects just how powerful celebrified politics has become - fame unto itself valued over everything else (BTW - Not saying Obama wasn't going to do Nobel-worthy things, just saying that IMHO he hasn't yet...well, other than becoming famous)." Yes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 10/09/2009 10:29:37 AM I feel like I'm living last years season finale of Fringe ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.223.39 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 10:42:09 AM Some are calling it the "not George Bush award." I know it's a joke, but it made me realize, there needs to be a Not George Bush Award. Seriously. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: tim@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 24.99.67.134 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 10/09/2009 11:00:03 AM ah grift, the alternate universe thing, awesome. Me likey Fringe. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.215 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 11:07:49 AM Judging strictly on the merits of his work (so far), it does seem premature at least. But within the context of following a militaristic, unilaterally acting, anti-social, sabre-rattling, "crusade" starting, fear-mongering, hate-generating machine, and viewed as a signal to us and the rest of the world that THIS behavior is what is expected of good neighbors, not the other, then it makes more sense. And looked at from the perspective of the Nobel Committee, given the stark contrast, there may be no better opportunity ever to promote that message. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 11:18:32 AM Morgan Tsvangirai was one of the finalists. I think he would have been a much more deserving winner. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 208.61.22.215 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 12:13:13 PM I'm not one to quarrel with the Nobel Committee - I tend to agree with what JerryT said (heheh, imagine that?) In addition, perhaps they believed that positive reinforcement might encourage the pursuit of diplomacy in the future. Jules is right, of course, the number of peacemakers and peaceworkers out there who go unacknowledged is staggering. In any event, President Obama was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace today, and I congratulate him. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.223.39 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 12:55:17 PM I congratulate the President in being awarded this great honor. I appreciate that he even acknowledged that he didn't feel that he deserved it but that he would do his best to live up to it. Not the least bit surprising is that I agree with President Carter, a Nobel Peace Laureate himself, who said: “It shows the hope his administration represents not only to our nation but to people around the world.” The US has rested on its laurels as being the only superpower left in the world for far too long. I personally don't believe that the US is a superpower anymore, but we have an opportunity to at least gain back the respect of the international community that was eroded by the numbnuts moron that occupied the White House for the previous 8 very long years. I now expect President Obama to work that much harder to achieve the things he promised to achieve for this country when he asked for my vote and I gave it to him in good faith. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.223.39 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 01:01:35 PM And one more thing - I'll give it to Obama that he's good, but he's no Jed Bartlett. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: tim@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 24.99.67.134 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 10/09/2009 01:03:47 PM and Gibbs, though i like him, is no C.J. Craig @Rubyduby ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.223.39 URL: DATE: 10/09/2009 01:12:05 PM Amen to that Tim! It's kind of sad, but I judge all press secretaries by that standard and they all fail miserably! ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Why Is It Always in Georgia? BASENAME: why_is_it_always_in_georgia_5 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/09/2009 04:04:23 PM ----- BODY: Dang it, Georgians, would you quit it with acting like your stereotype already? Haven't we already suffered enough jokes about our backwards ways?
When you walk into the Georgia Peach Oyster Bar in Paulding County, you feel like you've walked into a different era. Behind the pool tables stands a mannequin in a Klu Klux Klan costume, but it's what's outside of the Patrick Lanzo's restaurant that has some people angry. Lanzo put up a sign that reads "Obama's plan for health-care: N*&%*r rig it."Oh yeah, Mr. Lanzo says he's not a racist. He's been using the N-word "most of [his] life", and that's just how he chose to express himself. And if you think the national media isn't all over this, then I have some swamp land in Southeastern Georgia to sell you. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.223.39 URL: DATE: 10/11/2009 02:21:21 PM I usually end up asking why is it always where I live. This could be your commissioner - http://www.wsbtv.com/news/21264971/detail.html COVINGTON, Ga. -- A Newton County commissioner has been arrested on a battery charge, according to the Newton County Sheriff's Office. Commissioner J.C. Henderson, who represents District 4, was taken into custody Saturday by Covington police. Police haven’t released details of the incident that led to Henderson’s arrest. Henderson was booked into the Newton County jail, and was later released after posting a $2500 bond. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Mary Norwood's new spot BASENAME: mary_norwoods_new_spot STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/10/2009 11:02:51 PM TAGS: atlantamayor,norwood ----- BODY: Adorable and cheeky. More Mary on facebook and web. Anyone know who is doing her media? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Randomly Disoriented BASENAME: randomly_disoriented STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/12/2009 06:26:50 AM ----- BODY: The Atlanta Journal Constitution sheds another traditional role for local newspapers. Last night Kudzu Vine featured US Senate Candidate, Democrat RJ Hadley, you can find him on the Google. Equality March draws thousands to Washington to rally for LGBT rights. I love this photo. Most of us got our first introduction to Ardi last night. Check out the nifty Ardipithecus Handbook for even more details. Ashley Judd is attending Harvard's Kennedy School? She talked about that and more on Wait Wait Don't Tell Me this week.. What's on your mind? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 72.255.23.187 URL: DATE: 10/12/2009 07:41:59 AM Good morning BfD'rs.. Thanks for linking to the Equality march. It was a thrill to be there and to march with the LBGT Community. Not sure of estimates, but it was the largest march I ever participated in. One of the best moments was when the folks who had run/walked for Breast Cancer Awareness stayed after at their event to cheer us on! Some very unexpected love from a couple hundred folks. Sign of the day from an older interracial couple "Our marriage was once illegal too". Made a couple people cry. Love DC, because after that most of us got on metro with the other tourists.. always an interesting mashup. A lady commented on my "Straight but not Narrow" button, and I gave it to her, she was thrilled. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.223.39 URL: DATE: 10/12/2009 11:17:53 AM I love me some Alan Grayson. Go Dawg, um, Go Falcons! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.223.39 URL: DATE: 10/12/2009 12:11:43 PM Oops, Rubyduby wasn't Rubyduby, it was me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 91.103.38.191 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/12/2009 02:35:24 PM People marching in mass protests like the ones over the weekend are wasting their time. But hey, feel good about letting off steam and feeling like you're "a part of something." I've got some thoughts about the AJC's decision and I kind of agree with them. I don't really care one way or the other. But I am tired and CPH is a PITA so when I return stateside, I'll say more. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: GALiberalsExist EMAIL: IP: 67.191.216.174 URL: DATE: 10/12/2009 11:05:43 PM Yeah, the civil rights marches of the 50's and 60's never accomplished anything... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 91.103.38.191 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/13/2009 02:18:21 AM The reason they don't do anything is that Representatives have no idea if their constituents are in the march. If even 100,000 people march in something and let's say that all of those evenly came from every congressional district, that means only 230 constituents would be in a parade. Hardly a sizable voting bloc. As for the civil rights marches, a) that was a totally different era b) it was several years of much more than marches that made a difference, d) there were signs of violence against the protesters which led to terrible PR d) it wasn't just African Americans marching, I could go on. As Barney Frank said, the only pressure they put was on the grass. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.223.77.14 URL: DATE: 10/13/2009 09:14:22 AM Ripple of hope, IRE, ripple of hope. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 87.54.11.122 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/13/2009 09:21:51 AM Hope? WTF kind of BS are you talking about? Hope? What is this hope you speak of. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.178.228 URL: DATE: 10/13/2009 09:45:21 AM Why so cranky IRE? I reject the assumption that the folks who marched on Sunday were just one day activists. I met lots of folks marching in groups that I know are doing fine, thankless, tireless work in their communities and states. I saw folks from every conceivable community, Alaska, North Dakota, upstate NY and they came Sunday to lend their voice and spirit to something just a bit bigger than themselves. It was never an either or kind of deal, it was, as usual with movement politics a "I was there and here!" It takes working in lots of places, and putting pressure on many people to gain allies and make a movement. Don't get me started on Barney-he sold out his "gay" leader status long ago. I wished he was not the one folks quote. He shoved Trans people under the bus in 2007, and never bothered to look back. Barney needs to focus on his "day job" and the Financial institutions he's supposed to be regulating. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 87.54.11.122 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/13/2009 10:07:23 AM Never said it was a one day thing. Just that the whole idea of if we have a big rally somehow it will change things that's all. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 87.54.11.122 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/13/2009 10:21:16 AM And re: Barney, maybe he did sell out his leadership although I doubt he was ever trying to have the gay leader title. The point is, his insight about the machinations of congress ought to be heeded. I think frankly speaking, he'd be in a better position to give activists advice on effective efforts than other folks. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.178.228 URL: DATE: 10/13/2009 10:36:01 AM IRE: apparently you have never heard his advise, which boils do to "sit down shut up write me a check and don't you dare disagree" Srly, not making that up. He likes his "gay" leader tiara only at certain occasions, like fundraisers for himself. When the group he helped found, went against him over the Trans community he bad mouthed them to his fellow congresscritters. Which I would exactly call nice, more bitchy and petulant. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 87.54.11.122 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/13/2009 10:59:24 AM Again, his relationship to the gay community aside, don't you think a committee chairman with lots of seniority in the congress might have good advice to give on how to sway congressmembers? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.178.228 URL: DATE: 10/13/2009 11:30:56 AM IRE: No. for many reasons, but mostly because he operates in a very small bubble and is very out of touch with his own community. If folks want a Congressional role model they should look to Tammy Baldwin or John Lewis. Not Barney. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 87.54.11.122 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/13/2009 11:36:06 AM Ok..... O...K... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mike Newman EMAIL: IP: 140.147.236.194 URL: http://mrmoonpie.com DATE: 10/13/2009 12:05:53 PM
Sign of the day from an older interracial couple "Our marriage was once illegal too". Made a couple people cry.older?!? Glad you liked our sign. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 67.34.29.198 URL: DATE: 10/13/2009 10:09:04 PM Oh Boy... Sorry Mike! I saw you all from a distance.. Correction, fabulous couple! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Atlanta Know Your Vote 2009 BASENAME: atlanta_know_your_vote_2009 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/12/2009 11:23:16 AM TAGS: atlantamayor,mid-fultondems ----- BODY: Join the Mid-Fulton Democrats this Thursday: Know Your Vote 2009 Thursday, October 15 Manuel's Tavern 602 N Highland Ave, Atlanta, GA 6:00-9:00pm
Know Your Vote 2009 • Have you ever looked at a ballot and saw names that you do not recognize or know much about? • Have you ever voted for a candidate even though you were not sure of their stance on issues that were important to you? • Do you want to meet the people running for Atlanta's Mayor and City Council in 2009? If you answered YES to any of these questions, please join us from 6 PM to 9 PM on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at Manuel's Tavern, 602 North Highland Avenue, Atlanta, GA. All candidates for the City of Atlanta Mayoral and City Council races have been invited. This event is nonpartisan. Candidates will have a chance to introduce themselves and to host tables, where they can speak with constituents, answer questions and share their views. This is a unique opportunity to meet and talk to the candidates you are interested in and want to learn more about. We will be providing on-site assistance so you can learn which City Council candidates are running for your district. Please join us in this effort to help you know your vote!----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Early Votin begins today BASENAME: early_votin_begins_today STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/12/2009 12:21:46 PM TAGS: 2009,election,voting ----- BODY: Thanks to Larry at GRUS for the reminder:
Monday, October 12 - Early Voting Begins. In-Person and Absentee for municipal and special elections scheduled for Nov. 3, 2009. Now, through Friday, October 23, you may vote in the Early Voting period. This is voting in person with a required photo ID. For absentee voting, you may request a ballot be mailed to you, you may print from the Secretary of State website an mail or fax in or apply in person at your local election office. You'll then be mailed your precinct ballot to be completed and returned to the appropriate county elections office by 8:00pm on Election Day to be counted. For more information, please visit www.sos.georgia.gov For early voting or absentee application, please visit www.sos.georgia.gov/ELECTIONS/elections/voter_information/absentee.htm----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Roundup BASENAME: roundup STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/13/2009 06:48:27 AM ----- BODY: So, can any clown go into space? Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte has just returned from his 10-day space mission. Look at the solar homes constructed last week on the National Mall. Listen to the NPR story and you'll find out that "they have an app for that." It's baaack! The Large Hadron Collider, that is. More accurately, it will be back in December, if all goes well. We knew this was coming. Creationists not threatened by Ardi. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 87.54.11.122 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/13/2009 08:30:07 AM I miss all y'all. Seriously I want to be home. :( BTW: Creationists scare me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.223.77.14 URL: DATE: 10/13/2009 08:48:28 AM That's gotta be a tough call for a philanthropist: Spend $35 million on a publicity stunt to bring attention to your non-profit organization, or just dump $35 million directly into the organization. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: odinseye2k EMAIL: IP: 76.208.133.54 URL: DATE: 10/13/2009 09:08:48 PM All I can say is that I really wanted Guy to cut loose either inside or outside the station and show us what zero gravity art could really be. He might have been able to create something beautiful up there. I really wish they'd have cleared a rumpus room for him for a couple of hours. Especially with that one morsel where I saw him playing with the floating water drop. So many possibilities... Of course, all the public affairs folks could probably think of was the chance that some Senator or other might be afraid of making the Space Station a laughing stock. The future that we dare for is to *live* in space, not to shuffle around a tin can in the hopes of denting something. So, yeah, I'm disappointed. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.138.79 URL: DATE: 10/14/2009 11:05:19 AM This story just keeps getting worse. http://www.covnews.com/news/article/9335/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 66.156.20.247 URL: DATE: 10/14/2009 01:35:33 PM "There have been 113 calls made to the CPD from or in reference to the address on Puckett Street from 1997 to Monday of 2009," Holy crap! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: 'The Battle for Georgia' the movie! BASENAME: the_battle_for_georgia STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/13/2009 09:19:27 AM ----- BODY: Who knew they were making a movie!
'The Battle for Georgia' takes us on an eye-opening journey to the rural south in the final weeks of the 2008 Presidential election. Intimately exploring the politics of small town Georgia, the film follows a small team of local volunteers fighting to elect an African-American Democrat in a state with a long legacy of racial unease and deep-rooted southern, conservative politics.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Hey, remember when Chairman Steele promised us a "Off the Hook " GOP? BASENAME: hey_remember_when_chairman_ste STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/13/2009 10:44:21 PM ----- BODY:
Just a few questions that one would assume the Borders' campaign has answers for since they rolled out such a controversial issue. Silly me, they might just be using the "eminent domain" terminology to gain points with a few voters. Not sure this "no depth" tactic really works for voters like me who live in and care about Atlanta neighborhoods. Epic.Fail. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 10/22/2009 12:22:52 PM "If Borders' eminent domain program goal is for open space and parks, then will those properties along the proposed Beltline be "taken" first?" Excellent question. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 10/24/2009 02:17:44 AM Stupider Repug tricks noted by Amy Morton here picked by Z up @ ThinkProgress.org : http://thinkprogress.org/2009/10/23/georgia-republicans-send-census/ "Georgia Republicans Send Political Mailer Disguised As ‘Official’ Census Survey 11 Alive, a local Georgia news station, reports today that the Georgia Republican Party is sending out a political mailer disguised to look like an official U.S. Census survey. The news station learned of the scam when a voter called the station saying she was “upset” that Georgia Republicans would send out such a mailer, given that many Georgians, especially senior citizens, will not realize that it’s a political ploy and not an actual Census survey: “I got real upset ’cause I think a lot of people would just automatically fill it out,” [Anne Wilson of Smyrna] told us in a Thursday TV interview, “It’s their civic duty; by law they have to fill out the census. Turns out I and many others across the country have received the same survey letter which is titled the “2009 Congressional District Census”. The outside of the envelope is stamped “Do Not Destroy, Official Document”. The survey lists a specific congressional district and includes an individual “Census Tracking Code”, with the request, “Please Respond by: November 16, 2009″. [...] “I could see a lot of my neighbors that are older who would get something like this in the mail and fill it out,” she adds, “all the information, every little section, and send in money.” [AM] Amy helpfully put a scan of the offending & fraudulent mail piece on her blog here: http://georgiawomenvote.blogspot.com/2009/10/what-dem-invited-to-lead-republicans-in.html Always something with these dirty tricksters, but the fraudulent Census form remains one of their favs, down through the years! JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Cage Match: Alan Grayson v. Paul Broun BASENAME: cage_match_alan_grayson_v_paul STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/22/2009 12:09:54 PM ----- BODY: Alan Grayson of Florida goes after Georgia's own Paul Broun and totally schools him on the Constitution. h/t: DailyKos diarist MInistryofTruth ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 10/23/2009 05:06:18 AM And to think Soupy Sales died for this dreck! Sorry stuff indeed... JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.198.70 URL: DATE: 10/23/2009 04:07:06 PM J.M.Prince, huh? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 10/23/2009 08:54:10 PM A really fun guy to grow up with. Shame to lose him so young! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soupy_Sales JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Bookman gets it right about Kasim Reed BASENAME: bookman_gets_it_right_about_ka STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/24/2009 02:08:28 AM ----- BODY: I still haven't decided who I'm voting for in the Atlanta Mayor's race, but AJC columnist Jay Bookman gets it right on why he's voting for Kasim Reed:
- Where is the money going to come from for Lisa Borders' eminent domain program?
- What entity defines what is "poorly maintained"?
- Will this entity be comprised of private real estate developers or neighborhood leaders or trained city planning professionals?
- If Borders' eminent domain program goal is for open space and parks, then will those properties along the proposed Beltline be "taken" first?
- Will Borders' eminent domain program be used to stimulate economic development, to give private developers cheap land?
- How does historic preservation fit into her eminent domain program?
- Who is going to fund the neighborhood development plans - you know the plans that should prescribe how the neighborhoods will be revitalized after Borders' flexes her eminent domain powers.
- Will this require funding for an entirely new department at City Hall?
- Or do they plan on stretching the already thinned out city planning department?
The record of legislative consensus-building that he [Kasim Reed] describes is very real. Given that some of the metro region's biggest challenges cannot be solved without the assistance of state leaders, an Atlanta mayor with such connections would be a major asset.If anyone thinks that Kasim's 11 years of service at the State Capitol doesn't matter then they don't understand the politics of Georgia. Some of the biggest issues currently facing the City of Atlanta, like the interstate water wars, sewer deficiencies, and education funding, will be decided not only by the person sitting at the helm on Trinity street, but also by those occupying the Gold Dome. Unfortunately many Gold Dome occupants no likey the City of Atlanta; some view Atlanta as an island sucking up Georgia resources. In order to change this view and to increase regional and state cooperation, Atlanta is going to need a leader who can deliver concrete results. Concrete results that start and end by negotiating what is in the best interests of all Atlanta residents. Atlanta is going to need a leader who can convey that Atlanta also provides valuable resources to this State. As Kasim says in this clip the hard work is not done just in January, February, or March; the hard work of protecting Atlanta's interests is done by year round by working with the State Legislators. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 10/24/2009 02:41:55 AM Yep. No Time for Sergeants here. That's about a decent rationale as any I've seen so far. Someone who knows & is known to the 'rest of Ga.' is a valuable resource here. On another note of 'dirty GOP tricks' they're gaming the Census for partisan advantage (once again) here in Ga. [via Amy Morton]: Noted Here: http://thinkprogress.org/2009/10/23/georgia-republicans-send-census/ & Here on Amy's blog: http://georgiawomenvote.blogspot.com/2009/10/what-dem-invited-to-lead-republicans-in.html I wanted to make certain more folks are aware of this. Thanks! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 10/24/2009 04:34:40 AM OK this is seriously off topic. Find Decatur's very own Little Bill Clinton here: http://littlebillclinton.csmonitor.com/littlebillclinton/ Via the New CSMonitor.com the latest installment is here: http://littlebillclinton.csmonitor.com/littlebillclinton/2009/08/12/unafraid-to-talk-about-faith-a-charter-school-thrives/ How did we all miss this one? It's very interesting & inspiring stuff indeed & great reporting too! (I know, all that reading for inspiration, go figure). JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: www.google.com/accounts/o8/id?id=AItOawmpNKkGV2_Zo4BXzORDzqR72XFcRCo6Ars EMAIL: IP: 62.47.249.199 URL: http://www.ubrot.us.tc DATE: 10/24/2009 06:32:50 AM The time for Sergeants here is allready over. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.179.202 URL: DATE: 10/24/2009 11:21:35 AM And Sen. Reed receives another endorsement.... Ludacris.... via Hip Hop Wired... Along with Shaquille O'Neal, they will be hosting a celebrity fundraiser to bring the political and entertainment communities behind their candidate of choice. The event is scheduled for October 25th, and will be held at Ludacris' restaurant Straits, from 8 pm - 11 pm. Speaking with Creative Loafing, they formally endorsed Kasim last week, stating, “We believe Reed deserves the edge for several reasons: his strong record of leadership as a minority-party legislator; his solid relationships with state lawmakers; and his clear-eyed, pragmatic vision of Atlanta's future.” An endorsement for Reed reads: “Leaders in Atlanta's arts and entertainment world have long been strong supporters of Senator Reed. He has worked closely with them for years to help make our city the premier center for creativity and culture in the southeastern United States. In addition, Kasim's focus on enhancing public safety, bringing jobs to Atlanta and improving our public schools have enabled him to build a large and diverse coalition of supporters. Atlanta needs new leadership and a new direction and Senator Reed is determined to provide both.” ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: It just never gets old BASENAME: it_just_never_gets_old STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/25/2009 11:36:17 AM ----- BODY:
Controversial freshman Rep. Alan Grayson, who has become famous for attacking the Republicans' health care plan, went on the attack again Friday night, calling former Vice President Dick Cheney a vampire for his recent criticism of the Obama administration's handling of the war in Afghanistan. "I have trouble listening to what [Cheney] says sometimes because of the blood that drips from his teeth while he's talking," the Florida Democrat said on MSNBC's Hardball Friday night. "But my response is this: he's just angry because the president doesn't shoot old men in the face. But by the way, when he was done speaking, did he just then turn into a bat and fly away?"Just in time for Halloween too! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Why you should vote for Mary Norwood for Atlanta Mayor BASENAME: why_you_should_vote_for_mary_n STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/27/2009 02:27:19 AM ----- BODY:
Over the past few days, I asked representatives from the 3 top polled campaigns to submit a 1,000 word essay on why Atlanta voters should vote for them for Atlanta Mayor. I will post the essays as I receive them from the campaigns.
"This is a great day for America," commented Mara Keisling, Executive Director of the National Center for Transgender Equality, "as we make a clear statement that all lives are valuable and that no one deserves to be targeted for violence just because they are transgender. It is vital that we make it absolutely clear that violence motivated by bias is not tolerated in our country, because while this is a victory, the true victory will come when everyone is genuinely free from violence and discrimination. That's what we are working for."More on the bill here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 10/28/2009 12:02:16 PM Hooray! 13 years is way to long for simple justice to prevail over ignorance, fear & hate. But here in the 'land of the free', it's pretty bloody typical. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: jenjust EMAIL: IP: 68.157.136.197 URL: DATE: 10/29/2009 04:02:05 PM Thanks for your good work on this, Jules. I know it's been a long time coming. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Question for the Mayoral candidates. BASENAME: question_for_the_mayoral_candi STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/27/2009 09:32:30 PM ----- BODY:
Paid for by the Democratic Party of Georgia. Vote for Kasim Reed. Vote for Lisa Borders. Vote for Reuben McDaniel.Screech step on the brakes - vote for who?? Reuben McDaniel?? For all those that don't know of Reuben McDaniel, he's a very qualified candidate and great guy who is running for Atlanta School Board. What?? So the DPG has now inserted itself into 2 different nonpartisan races? Eh? Besides the troubling factor that the DPG now wants to control who is elected to the Atlanta School Board...the funniest part of their strategy is that Reuben McDaniel doesn't even have a damn opponent. Nada, zilch, Reuben is running all by his lonesome. As Mel so stated "those cat like moves of the DPG are something to behold". Now if the DPG was really in the business of electing Democrats and felt the strong desire to anoint themselves protectors of Democrats on the Atlanta School Board, then why didn't they add Cecily Harsch-Kinnane's name to their mailer. Cecily is an incumbent and a strong Democrat (according to the DPG's Votebuilder system) and is in a race against Charlie Stadtlander - a guy who recently headed the Log Cabin Republicans in Missouri and in Georgia. Now that's a seat the DPG should be protecting...but nah, let's get ol' Reuben more Democratic votes. I probably shouldn't even mention that both Cecily and Charlie are both white candidates so I guess they will be ok duking it out. DPG logic. Epic. Fail. Back to the mailer... Here's the front page:
Segment 1: Bankrolled by John McCain's money men - Norwood's campaign is financed by the same Republican money men who funded John McCain's hate-filled campaign against Barack Obama, and who have given to George Bush, the Republican National Committee, Sonny Perdue and the Georgia Republican Party.Stop the presses! Lisa Borders' largest contributor and major campaign backer Tom Bell not only maxed out to George W. Bush, but he also maxed out his contributions to John McCain, Fred Thompson, Saxby Chambliss, and the National Republican Senatorial Committee. Yes, the same Tom Bell who raised $270,000 for Lisa Borders' Atlanta Mayoral campaign. I guess Tom Bell raised all that money from his Democrat friends who never once donated to any Republican candidates. Now are we still calling a Republican a Republican?
Segment 2: Voted for Republicans 70% of the time - Her television ads try to hide the real facts, but since 1992 Norwood has voted for Republican candidates 70% of the time. She was even a delegate to the Republican convention. We can't trust her as Mayor.I already discussed that the Party's own database lists her as "Leaning Democrat". But hey, you say potatoes and I say potato.
Segment 3: Norwood's Republican "values" are hurting Atlanta - Norwood opposed putting police and firefighters back on the streets to protect our community - she didn't think we could afford it. But she had no problem spending $106,445 from a city council slush fund.Interesting though the Atlanta Professional Firefighters endorsed Norwood. I'm just saying that maybe the DPG knows much more about what the firefighters need instead of the firefighter unions. Seriously, DPG, ya'll can do better than this. This is amateur hour at its finest. Let's all say in unison "2010 - the race for the Governor's mansion" - now repeat this several times during the day whenever you feel the urge to jump in at the wee late hours into nonpartisan races. Now that the DPG has shown how irrelevant and silly their logic is, I'm back to flipping the coin over who gets my vote: heads it's for Mary Norwood and tails it's for Kasim Reed. We'll see who else would like to tell me who to vote for over the next 5 days. I'm all for the DPG flexing its mucles to promote Democrats, but was this really the right strategy? Does this hurt the Party in Atlanta and around the State? Would they have done this if this was a Democratic primary election and Mary was on the Democratic ticket? It makes me wonder if this is their logic to weed out "not strong enough Democrats" then will they use the same tactic during the Democratic primary season to weed out "you may be a strong Democrat but you will make a poor Democratic nominee" candidates. I would only hope that the DPG had the balls to reduce the clown cars. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 66.190.87.1 URL: DATE: 10/29/2009 10:58:09 PM Fuck DPG. Not only did they trash one candidate and bolster two others, but they completely ignored the other Democrats running in the Mayoral race. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.166.115 URL: DATE: 10/29/2009 11:58:52 PM Bernita, I have to question your motivation here. Are you trying to help the DPG with this? How would this help? Are you sure you are not just being critical because you can? The fact that it is a non-partisan race is irrelevant. Some of the candidates do have clear party affiliations, and many voters would like to know that. Nothing wrong with any of that. And if I am not mistaken, the "non-partisan" municipal election status was promoted by Republicans as a way to devalue the strength of Democrats, so it's inherently a partisan device anyway. But in any case, the DPG is a Party, of course they are going to try to promote their agenda. If it was the League of Women Voters who were promoting Dems, then it might be an issue, but what is the problem here? They're not following your Monday-morning strategizing? Dems are not the dominant Party right now. Redemption will come from the grassroots and it will take time. Unlike candidates, the DPG has to try to think in time frames beyond the current election cycle. Point by point: So what if it's non-partisan race? If a candidate is more Dem than others, the DPG should get involved. So what if they endorse an un-opposed candidate? It can be worthwhile to identify this candidate as compatible with Dem principles. What is wrong with the DPG wanting to "control" who is elected to school board? As long as it is an elected position, I would like to think the Dem Party would try to have some influence. Many of us identify with the Dem Party because we have developed a philosophical compatibility with them. So yeah, I want to know who is running that has the same philosophical perspective. I don't know why they didn't choose to promote Cecily. Maybe they think she's a shoo-in, maybe they think she has no chance. But I don't think the DPG's decision deserves public ridicule without more info. Mailer- It doesn't matter that they seem to be supporting Borders and Reed equally. I suspect the point is to force a runoff so that someone has a chance to beat Norwood. You may claim that Borders is no different, but others will disagree. Firefighters- Are you seriously suggesting that Kasim Reed would be less supportive of firefighters than Norwood? They made their choice for whatever reason, but as long as we are in the arena of innuendo, I might suggest that Norwood is pretty good at buying endorsements. "Clown cars"- It doesn't only take balls, it takes clout. I mean seriously, who is going to take the DPG's advice and NOT run for something they want? Talk about worthless strategy. The DPG doesn't have much leverage right now. How can you criticize them for not doing something they can't really do anyway? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Eric EMAIL: e_robertson@yahoo.com IP: 65.5.2.131 URL: DATE: 10/30/2009 08:34:44 AM I think the DPG probably does knows what is best for the firefighters better than their union, considering Mary's stated policies will result in re -furloughing them (like repealing the property tax increase and at the same time maintaining the same level of city services). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 10/30/2009 11:10:39 AM I think it's fair to say DPG should have been involved from the beginning in these races if they wanted to promote certain candidates as true Democrats and others as secret Republicans. But if they really want to take this route now, they should probably ONLY be supporting Reed since he has the clear record of running only as a Democrat in past partisan elections. However, the risk there would be that if Borders and Norwood made the runoff, DPG would be left without a candidate they could support. Two not-Democrat-enough candidates in the runoff would be a nightmare scenario for them. Which is, of course, why they should've stayed out of the race since it is supposedly non-partisan. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.112.158 URL: DATE: 10/30/2009 11:47:29 AM Enough with the "non-partisan" talk already! It doesn't mean only "independents" get to run or all the candidates have to pretend to be independent. Just because they won't have an extra letter by their name on the ballot doesn't mean there couldn't be Dems or Repubs or Libertarians on the running, and there is nothing wrong with candidates identifying themselves (or others doing it for them) during the campaign. If a candidate wants to try to walk the tightrope of being an "independent", then fine; they can live with the consequences, but as long as there is another candidate who identifies as a Democrat they should expect the party to support that candidate. How can that even be a surprise or a controversy? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 68.219.112.158 URL: DATE: 10/30/2009 11:56:45 AM If the DPG were truly interested in having an impact on this non-partisan race, they could have chosen a number of more strategic paths. Such as: -Canvass, phone bank, and mail for GOTV to the high Dem precincts. Most effective if started 8-12 months ago. -Work with county parties to sponsor candidate forums, meet & greets, and other events to get the word out about the election and to give candidates a chance to show their stuff. -Work with other groups (as permitted) to promote voter registration, voter engagement, and voting. In Atlanta, the more people who vote, the more likely that a Democrat wins. If only we could concentrate on the long term effort of mobilizing voters. If only... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: S. Dekalb Voter EMAIL: IP: 209.155.239.98 URL: DATE: 10/30/2009 12:07:28 PM Catherine, I agree with your point completely. It seems like the party planned to stay out of the race, as usual, but then it became evident that independent Norwood might actually win. She has very strong Republican support and a fair amount of AA support that will likely amount to a victory on Tuesday without a runoff. This looks like a last ditch attempt to influence the election. It may not work, but in my opinion it was worth a try. I would guess that most voters, particularly AA voters, have no idea that Norwood is an independent or possible a closet Republican. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Norwood responds to DPG attack BASENAME: norwood_responds_to_dpg_attack STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 10/30/2009 08:48:19 PM TAGS: asshats,dpg,norwood ----- BODY: I admire a woman who fights back. In the Chicago way. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 187.0.211.3 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/31/2009 08:04:08 AM Well at least the race had an interesting moment. And on a scale of one to 10, I'd give it a 4. I hope we have a runoff. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: http://www.georgiayds.org DATE: 10/31/2009 10:46:18 AM http://www.projectqatlanta.com/news_articles/view/mary_norwood_gets_donation_from_anti-gay_republican/ No likey Mike Bowers, whatever GLBT cred she had, for me, just went screaming out the window. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: S. Dekalb Voter EMAIL: IP: 72.152.5.244 URL: DATE: 10/31/2009 01:14:38 PM This site is losing credibility fast.... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 70.11.109.221 URL: DATE: 10/31/2009 04:33:05 PM SDV - what site is losing credibility? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 187.0.211.3 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 10/31/2009 05:24:07 PM http://conspiracyscience.com/images/haters.gif ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 10/31/2009 10:21:40 PM As long as we're posting links, here's another questionable one: http://www.notkasim.blogspot.com/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 187.0.211.3 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/01/2009 05:34:49 AM I'm not voting for Mary and I don't really want her to win but, now, if she won, on a scale of one to 10, the awesomeness of her victory would be around a 12 or 13. BTW: Hello to all BforD pals from Brazil. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Cracker Squire weighs in on the Atlanta Mayor's race and the DPG, all the way from Coffee Co. BASENAME: cracker_squire_weighs_in_on_th STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/01/2009 02:03:24 AM TAGS: atlantamayor,crackersquire,norwood ----- BODY: A few choice quotes from a recent entry by Cracker Squire, Is it the GOP or Dems who eat their own?:
Kidd then proceeded to go into full attack mode [against Norwood] at the campaign's eleventh hour (all apparently without first going to the party's Executive Committee, but even if such approval had been sought and obtained, this still would not have made this move any less foolish, ill-conceived and damaging to the post next Tuesday perception of the Democratic Party of Georgia).
Kidd's hit ads have, in effect, allowed Norwood to have it both ways, even though this was Kidd's purported justification for her decision to go on the attack. Norwood is able to rattle off a list of Democrats she has voted for without proclaiming to bleed blue.
This time last week one could have justifiably been thinking that it would be great that if she is elected, and with the 2010 governor's race approaching, Norwood just might want to become involved in party affairs and even attend party functions. Obviously, any such wishful thinking has been complicated if not trashed, and forgiving and forgetting will not be a given. And for what useful purpose I know not.And so it goes. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Funny thing BASENAME: funny_thing STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/01/2009 06:44:40 AM ----- BODY: Turns out Mary Norwood's media firm is Murphy Putnam. You might remember the name since they were part of the media team that produced radio and TV ads for Barack Obama's 2008 Presidential campaign. But there's more. The company's client roster includes: Governor Phil Bredesen (Democrat), Governor Brian Schweitzer (Democrat), Governor Bill Richardson (Democrat), Senator Bob Casey (Democrat), and on and on. In 2008 in Georgia, their client list included: John Barrow, Jim Marshall and Jim Martin. In fact, this company works exclusively with Democrats. Hence, Norwood must be a Republican. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Andre EMAIL: IP: 74.190.60.192 URL: http://www.blogforgeorgia.com DATE: 11/01/2009 05:27:43 AM And now a local union affiliate has weighed in:
ATLANTA’S FIRE FIGHTERS RESPOND TO DEMOCRATIC PARTY ATTACKS ON MARY NORWOOD The attacks on Mary Norwood by chairperson Jane Kidd on behalf of the Democratic Party of Georgia are both unjust and dishonest. At a time when Atlantans are struggling to solve issues critical to the city’s future, Kidd is attempting to divide the city for partisan benefit. Atlanta Professional Fire Fighters’ president Jim Daws responded, “Mary Norwood has worked selflessly for more than two decades to make our city a better place. In the best Atlanta tradition, she has built bridges between black and white, rich and poor, and sought only to make Atlanta live up to it’s best aspirations and ideals. Mary has been a champion for neighborhoods and the working families that the Democratic Party claims to represent. These divisive, manipulative attacks are unworthy of the Democratic Party and certainly have no place in Atlanta politics. “Atlanta’s Fire Fighters call on all candidates in this race to renounce these unfair distortions of the truth. Whether you agree with her or not, or think you could do a better job as mayor, Mary has always displayed good faith and she is one of our own.”The Atlanta Professional Fire Fighters union is the local affiliate of the International Association of Fire Fighters, a 290,000 member trade union representing the interests of professional firefighters and paramedics in the U.S. and Canada. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/01/2009 11:56:49 PM Ghost in 'da house! ;> JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.165.191 URL: DATE: 11/02/2009 07:49:09 AM Calling Mary Norwood a Republican is over the top, but on the other hand, I suspect the DPG would prefer that the job going to someone who calls themselves something other than a Democrat -for the first time since 1942- be delayed a while longer. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Just FYI BASENAME: just_fyi STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/01/2009 04:13:10 PM ----- BODY: Whoever is robocalling Republicans
I'm running for Mayor because I love Atlanta. Our city is a treasured place which gave me countless opportunities when I was growing up. But Atlanta is in a crisis right now and is at the most challenging point I have seen in my lifetime. We need tough, tested leadership to deal with these challenges. Atlanta needs new leadership for a new direction - not more of the same. What I offer is a solid record of delivering results for the city of Atlanta. For the last eleven years, I have had the distinct privilege of serving Atlanta in the Georgia Legislature, with four years in the House and seven years in the Senate. During this time, I gained an intimate and detailed understanding of the problems facing residents and have worked on issues important to every Atlantan, including public safety, transportation and education. When we had to overhaul our water and sewer system and it was on the verge of being taken over by the Federal government, I worked tirelessly to secure $500 million in low interest loans and passed the legislation to allow the city to levy a one penny sales tax that has helped us keep our water rates lower than they would have otherwise been. When the Atlanta Board of Education needed to rewrite and strengthen its ethics policy, I pushed through that legislation making it the most comprehensive ethics reform in its history. And most recently, when the Beltline was at risk of shutting down, I helped lead the effort to pass a constitutional amendment that got it back on track.----- EXTENDED BODY:
When I have been asked to deliver for the City of Atlanta, I have and I will continue to do so if elected mayor. But to move Atlanta forward, we need to tackle three distinct challenges facing us. As your mayor, enhancing public safety will be the focal point of my administration. I have made fully funding and expanding our police force a central campaign issue since day one. The current City Council has raised property taxes by 42% and I will re-direct a portion of that revenue to add 750 police officers to the force in my first term. It is critical that we do absolutely everything we can to improve public safety, or we risk reversing the progress we have invested so much time and money to produce here in the City. In a Reed administration, I will empower law enforcement, as it has never been empowered before, to deal with these violent and organized gangs that are plaguing our city. More optimistically, I will turn all of Atlanta's abandoned recreation centers into Centers of Hope - - havens of esteem and education where our young people can be trained in science and technology as opposed to drugs and violence. Atlanta must restore sound fiscal policy. City Hall's troubles are certainly worsened by the economy, but they also follow some unsound prior choices. Addressing our financial woes must start with solving Atlanta's pension crisis. As a result of irresponsible decisions by the City Council over the past eight years, the city's pension obligations have ballooned to unsustainable levels. One of every five dollars in the general fund must now be allocated to our pensions. No city, or indeed any organization, can operate on sound financial footing when such a significant portion of its revenue is dedicated towards deferred benefits rather than current service delivery. Our pension funding shortfall is the single largest contributor to Atlanta's fiscal crisis, forcing layoffs, furloughs of public safety officers and cuts to vital services. During the 2009 legislative session we took the first step towards rescuing the City's pension funds. I was the Senate sponsor of HB 371, which will allow the City to invest pension funds in a more diverse group of asset classes - a strategy historically shown to improve performance. Going forward, I would assemble a team of experts in pension fund governance to develop reforms to be implemented during the first year of my term. I would also work with other mayors to lobby Washington to modify some of the onerous requirements that have been recently imposed. My relationships at the federal and state level make me uniquely qualified to pursue relief and assistance from those levels of government. With regard to economic development, the city needs to take an active role to ensure that we both maintain and preserve the economic development we have worked so hard to realize. There are a number of once-in-a-generation opportunities that currently face us - the Beltline and Ft. McPherson are two of the most exciting redevelopment projects that Atlanta has faced in decades. We have an opportunity for enormous economic development if we expand the airport into a twenty-four hour operation by enhancing Hartsfield-Jackson's mission as an international cargo hub. Because of its proximity to rail and the Savannah ports, expansion of cargo business will make Atlanta highly competitive with Dallas and Miami, and create opportunities for international business with Latin America, Mexico, Asia and Europe, as well as create countless jobs in the City of Atlanta--not just maintenance and warehouse jobs, but jobs for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Additionally, I would work with the federal government to develop high-speed rail lines throughout the Southeast, further cementing Atlanta's regional hub and leadership status in the vital logistics and transportation industries. The nexus of Georgia Tech, Emory, and the CDC give us an incredible base for leading in bio-technology research and development. Atlanta is blessed with many such assets and opportunities, and as Mayor I would actively partner with the private and non-profit sectors to leverage those assets and opportunities into growth and wealth for Atlanta in the 21st Century. As Mayor, I will address these issues currently facing the city. These are serious challenges. But like most challenges, this is a great opportunity for us to work together to find solutions. Our best days lie before us, not behind us. I am going to make sure that Atlanta is once again that city on a hill that Dr. King and so many others worked to create. Join me today to move Atlanta in a new direction.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Vote Today, Celebrate Tonight! BASENAME: vote_today_celebrate_tonight STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/03/2009 01:58:18 AM ----- BODY: In no particular order, from my email... City Council President Watch party for Cesaer Mitchell Time: 6:00 pm -11:00 pm Where: Park Tavern Decatur City Commission-Kyle Williams 7:00pm, for food, fellowship, and to watch the returns. Kyle's Home at 923 3rd Avenue, Decatur Special Election District #58 - Simone Bell 7:30pm - 11:55pm Georgia Equality 1530 DeKalb Avenue NE Atlanta, GA City Council Post 2 at Large Aaron Watson 7:30pm - 11:00pm: Aaron Watson Campaign Headquarters 650 Ponce De Leon Avenue Atlanta, GA City Council Post 2 at Large Amir Farokhi 8:00 pm -1:00 am Shout Midtown Kasim Reed 7:00 pm till ? Hyatt Downtown If you all know of others please put in the comments.. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: joe.b EMAIL: IP: 99.172.18.124 URL: http://www.alexwanforatlanta.com DATE: 11/03/2009 03:31:05 PM Alex Wan Bill Lowe Gallery 1555 Peachtree St NE Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30324 8:30 pm until ? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Congrats! Now back to work! BASENAME: congrats_now_back_to_work STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/04/2009 06:13:45 AM ----- BODY: Congratulations to the candidates who won outright. Nicely done. Fulton County results are posted. Come December 1, we do this over again for State Senate 35; State House 58; Atlanta Mayor; and more. If you're a candidate facing run-off, thank you for your hard work - you just have to giv a little more! The AJC is reporting that 24% of registered voters came out to vote yesterday. 24%. Surely we can do better than that. Do any of the results surprise you? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/04/2009 08:19:45 AM So do they ever say who got the write-in votes? I can't tell you how much I was laughing writing in "indierockelitist". I'm sure it looked awful partaking in my patriotic duty and laughing about it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rusty Tanton EMAIL: IP: 67.130.38.2 URL: http://rustytanton.com DATE: 11/04/2009 08:38:03 AM Not surprised exactly since low turnout off-year elections are always weird, but I'm soliciting sales pitches for the District 58 runoff since my candidate didn't make it in. Haven't decided if I'll support Simone Bell or Asha Jackson yet. Why one vs. the other? Comment here or on my blog. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Clean Energy for Prosperity and Security BASENAME: clean_energy_for_prosperity_an STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/06/2009 11:36:53 AM TAGS: energy,holcomb ----- BODY:
This amendment is an unacceptable addition to the health care reform bill that, if enacted, would result in women losing health benefits they have today. Simply put, the Stupak/Pitts amendment would restrict women's access to abortion coverage in the private health insurance market, undermining the ability of women to purchase private health plans that cover abortion, even if they pay for most of the premiums with their own money. This amendment reaches much further than the Hyde Amendment, which has prohibited public funding of abortion in most instances since 1977.Three Georgia Democrats voted "YES" - John Barrow, Sanford Bishop, and Jim Marshall. Jim Marshall - we knew you would vote for this. You're such a tool anyway in addition to always using your Catholicism as an excuse for always voting against a woman's right to choose. I'm Catholic and Pro-Choice and you are wrong. John Barrow - I should be disheartened but I'm not. You will vote whichever the wind is best blowing. The US Conference of Catholic Bishops must have promised you a fat check during the 2010 elections. Sanford, Sanford, Sanford - you definitely broke my heart with this vote. I am truly saddened that you don't believe a woman should have a right to choose her own healthcare. Would have never thought you would do such a thing. If you are a Georgia Democratic woman then call all 3 and voice your disappointment: John Barrow - DC (202) 225-2823 ; Augusta (706)722-4494 ; Savannah (912) 354-7282 Sanford Bishop - DC (202) 225-3631 ; Albany (229) 439-8067 ; Columbus (706) 320-9477 Jim Marshall - DC (202) 225-6531 ; Macon (478) 464-0255 ; Dublin (478) 296-2023 Here is the final tally:
----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 12:11:56 AM Thanks Bernita, Just a miserable misbegotten vote on this convoluted, unneeded & unnecessary bit of uterine & sex control. Bishop though went on to support the final bill unlike our 2 preening 'premier' Blue Dogs. If they do not see fit to support the final bill (an all but foregone conclusion, actually), they'll lose Democratic support & votes in their districts. It's as simple as that. I've told their staff this, and they've got to know this too. But it's a tremendous historic accomplishment overall. Still we obviously have some house cleaning to do as well here. Votes do have consequences. If you did this to somehow support the sentiment in your district, you should have been willing to support the final bill. History does not come around twice. Barrow & Marshall will likely miss that train at their supreme peril. So be it. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Health Care, Health Care, Hell to the Yes! BASENAME: health_care_health_care_hell_t STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/08/2009 12:12:38 AM ----- BODY:
- Altmire, Jason , 4th PA
- Baca, Joe , 43rd CA
- Barrow, John , 12th GA
- Berry, Marion , 1st AR
- Bishop, Sanford D. Jr., 2nd GA
- Boccieri, John A. , 16th OH
- Boren, Dan , 2nd OK
- Bright, Bobby , 2nd AL
- Cardoza, Dennis A. , 18th CA
- Carney, Christopher P. , 10th PA
- Chandler, Ben , 6th KY
- Childers, Travis W. , 1st MS
- Cooper, Jim , 5th TN
- Costa, Jim , 20th CA
- Costello, Jerry F. , 12th IL
- Cuellar, Henry , 28th TX
- Dahlkemper, Kathleen A. , 3rd PA
- Davis, Artur , 7th AL
- Davis, Lincoln , 4th TN
- Donnelly, Joe , 2nd IN
- Doyle, Michael F. , 14th PA
- Driehaus, Steve , 1st OH
- Ellsworth, Brad , 8th IN
- Etheridge, Bob , 2nd NC
- Gordon, Bart , 6th TN
- Griffith, Parker , 5th AL
- Hill, Baron P. , 9th IN
- Holden, Tim , 17th PA
- Kanjorski, Paul E. , 11th PA
- Kaptur, Marcy , 9th OH
- Kildee, Dale E. , 5th MI
- Langevin, James R. , 2nd RI
- Lipinski, Daniel , 3rd IL
- Lynch, Stephen F. , 9th MA
- Marshall, Jim , 8th GA
- Matheson, Jim , 2nd UT
- McIntyre, Mike , 7th NC
- Melancon, Charlie , 3rd LA
- Michaud, Michael H. , 2nd ME
- Mollohan, Alan B. , 1st WV
- Murtha, John P. , 12th PA
- Neal, Richard E. , 2nd MA
- Oberstar, James L. , 8th MN
- Obey, David R. , 7th WI
- Ortiz, Solomon P. , 27th TX
- Perriello, Thomas S. P. , 5th VA
- Peterson, Collin C. , 7th MN
- Pomeroy, Earl , At Large ND
- Rahall, Nick J. II, 3rd WV
- Reyes, Silvestre , 16th TX
- Rodriguez, Ciro D. , 23rd TX
- Ross, Mike , 4th AR
- Ryan, Tim , 17th OH
- Salazar, John T. , 3rd CO
- Shuler, Heath , 11th NC
- Skelton, Ike , 4th MO
- Snyder, Vic , 2nd AR
- Space, Zachary T. , 18th OH
- Spratt, John M. Jr., 5th SC
- Stupak, Bart , 1st MI
- Tanner, John S. , 8th TN
- Taylor, Gene , 4th MS
- Teague, Harry , 2nd NM
- Wilson, Charles A. , 6th OH
----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 12:57:16 AM Thanks Again Bernita, A true historic achievement in our time. Brought to you by many brave Dems. But just once I it would be nice to be able to live someplace else other than the 'bleeding edge' of idiocy. It's a peculiar dream, I know... JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen EMAIL: IP: 66.190.87.1 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 09:25:06 AM Kucinich voted No? What's that about? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 173.137.178.68 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 09:40:11 AM Kucinich was swoll that Pelosi stripped his Single Payer language from the bill. Apparently she did it at the last minute. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 96.255.112.168 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 09:42:45 AM I think that Eric Massa also voted against this bill because it didn't have the more progressive single payer language. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason Adams EMAIL: MrAdamsgoestoAtlanta@gmail.com IP: 68.158.209.24 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 10:13:30 AM Bernita, Thanks for the update on Kucinich. I spent half an hour scratching my head on that one. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 02:03:59 PM Marshall might be able to use the Republican lean of his district as an excuse, but Obama won Barrow's district, and by as much as he won Bishop's; he really is chickenshit. He had a primary opponent last year, and he clearly needs another this year. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 98.192.34.255 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 03:13:24 PM My bet is that this is also going to be the majority of seats we could/will lose in the mid-terms. Voters can smell weakness like bees can smell fear. Anyone remember 2004 in GA? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 11/08/2009 06:30:55 PM This wasn't any show. This really was a nail biter here in DC. Kucinich had good reason to vote against, the leadership played it pretty dirty with him. Massa also had some pretty valid concerns. I imagine they both held the line on principle, voting against after leadership secured 218 on the whip count. Both are very good men who imagine a much better bill than what we received here. Barrow and Marshall should've been gone a long time ago. I've railed against them for a long time, and a lot of Georgians simply don't want to put up a fight to put any real pressure on them. It's really sad, because they are an embarrassment and can be real impediments to progress with close votes like this. Get your act together, Georgia, you're becoming very troublesome in the eyes of the capitol. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/09/2009 03:50:18 AM Yeah, yeah Z. We'll 'get our act together' when either Nancy or Harry grows a pair. Probably not sooner. Georgia's Always been 'troublesome'. Learn some history here. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 65.199.13.40 URL: DATE: 11/09/2009 09:58:48 AM Barrow and Marshall are nancy's fault? How is that? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/09/2009 12:05:37 PM "Georgia Democrats it is time to say "NO" to Barrow and Marshall. They do not represent us." Well good thing the people of their congressional districts don't send them to DC to represent Georgia Democrats. In other words, they are doing their jobs. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 65.199.13.40 URL: DATE: 11/09/2009 12:54:24 PM "Well good thing the people of their congressional districts don't send them to DC to represent Georgia Democrats. In other words, they are doing their jobs." So in your opinion elected officials do not vote against the wishes of their constituents? I really, really doubt that when one of those two gave Obama the white house on double digits with the promises -- in a campaign commercial, no less -- that he'd support Obama's health care efforts, that they opposed the bill. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/09/2009 01:11:33 PM "So in your opinion elected officials do not vote against the wishes of their constituents?" No of course they will. You can't take a stand on something and not be against someone. As to whether or not their districts are in favor of this healthcare bill, I have no idea. But that isn't my point with my comment above. It is that they don't represent Georgia Democrats. I have no idea what you are saying in your second sentence. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 65.199.13.40 URL: DATE: 11/09/2009 02:07:04 PM I don't think they represent Georgia self-declared Democrats or their constiuents. They represent their own egos. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/09/2009 02:16:22 PM Maybe. But I know I personally don't support this abortion of a healthcare "fix". YMMV. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 65.199.13.40 URL: DATE: 11/09/2009 02:42:34 PM Might be closer to you than you think there. ----- -------- AUTHOR: JasonA TITLE: Will the next John Lewis please stand up? BASENAME: will_the_next_john_lewis_pleas STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: richtext ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/09/2009 05:33:46 PM TAGS: Democrats,equality ----- BODY:
- Adler, John H. , 3rd NJ
- Altmire, Jason , 4th PA
- Baird, Brian , 3rd WA
- Barrow, John , 12th GA
- Boccieri, John A. , 16th OH
- Boren, Dan , 2nd OK
- Boucher, Rick , 9th VA
- Boyd, Allen , 2nd FL
- Bright, Bobby , 2nd AL
- Chandler, Ben , 6th KY
- Childers, Travis W. , 1st MS
- Davis, Artur , 7th AL
- Davis, Lincoln , 4th TN
- Edwards, Chet , 17th TX
- Gordon, Bart , 6th TN
- Griffith, Parker , 5th AL
- Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie , At Large SD
- Holden, Tim , 17th PA
- Kissell, Larry , 8th NC
- Kosmas, Suzanne M. , 24th FL
- Kratovil, Frank Jr., 1st MD
- Kucinich, Dennis J. , 10th OH
- Markey, Betsy , 4th CO
- Marshall, Jim , 8th GA
- Massa, Eric J. J. , 29th NY
- Matheson, Jim , 2nd UT
- McIntyre, Mike , 7th NC
- McMahon, Michael E. , 13th NY
- Melancon, Charlie , 3rd LA
- Minnick, Walt , 1st ID
- Murphy, Scott , 20th NY
- Nye, Glenn C. , 2nd VA
- Peterson, Collin C. , 7th MN
- Ross, Mike , 4th AR
- Shuler, Heath , 11th NC
- Skelton, Ike , 4th MO
- Tanner, John S. , 8th TN
- Taylor, Gene , 4th MS
- Teague, Harry , 2nd NM
Allow me to take a moment to worry about the future of the Democratic Party in Georgia. To tie the title of the article in real quick: Where are we after John Lewis rides into the sunset? He can't, nor should he, do it all and forever.
Where are we on women's rights? 4 of 13 representatives voted for the Health Care Bill last night. 2 Democrats wouldn't, even after the outrageous Stupak Amendment was added. The fact that it had to be added for passage makes me wonder who would not of voted for the bill if it wasn't there.
Where are we on race relations? As an outside observer to the Atlanta mayoral elections, all arrows point to the use of race as a wedge issue by some campaigns.
Where are we on LGBT rights in the state of Georgia? My attempt to get the "Think before you speak" campaign added to my school's anti-bullying curriculum was met with blank stares. OTP, LGBT rights and issues are summarily dismissed.
Where are our causes and changes that we hold so dear? The nation might be on the verge of change, but our state is facing an off-year election and a census. Redistricting can go either way, and right now, I would say the wrong way. I could go on, but you know the drill. So I ask you, with so much to be done, and so far to go, who is our next champion? Right now, I hear crickets when I listen for a unifying voice and vision for Georgia. Tell me if I am wrong.
During the next few weeks, I intend to do whatever I can to wake up those African Americans who have become "bamboozled" into believing that a moderately educated, southern white women will do something for them. Obviously they have forgotten what Atlanta was like for our people before we had a Black Mayor.That's Bunny Ransom writing in favor of Kasim Reed. That's fear of the past talking right there, and it is fine for people to feel that way, I suppose, but it cannot become a theme of the campaign. Because both candidates are off the air, they cannot define themselves or the election. Race may define it if they don't. Reed's Democrat thing is relevant in and of itself, but there is also some code there. That needs to be as far as it goes. No radio ads a la John Eaves , no memos a la Turpeau. But that's not all you need to prevent. No fliers with confederate flags. No surrogates fear mongering. You probably can win that way, if slimly, but it will make the city worse by dividing it. That's the real lesson of Bush and all hated politicians were victorious.Politics of division work, but prevent governmental progress. You want us to get what we deserve from the legislature? Change the way the city is viewed, and you cannot do that by running this race on race. Not on the past, but on the future. You are the better candidate. Win it that way. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 11/11/2009 04:35:38 PM Absolutely. Great post. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen EMAIL: IP: 66.190.87.1 URL: DATE: 11/11/2009 04:41:57 PM "Obviously they have forgotten what Atlanta was like for our people before we had a Black Mayor." This is such fucking bullshit. What exactly has Lisa Borders done to improve the quality of life for citizens of Bankhead? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 11/11/2009 09:26:21 PM Feh. Kasim Reed could heal the sick, cast out demons, resurrect the dead, and walk on water, and he wouldn't be able to avoid the accusation of racism. Really, if even identifying oneself as a Democrat is "code", then what isn't? If he has to prevent any supporter from saying anything untoward - a requirement that has not yet been placed on Mary "Mike Bowers is one donor out of 5,000" Norwood, apparently - then he might as well concede now. Not that I think Reed should run a divisive campaign - who does? - but I'm hesitant to endorse the notion that the approval of the Republican state legislature is effectively the arbiter of whether his campaign is "divisive" or deserving of victory. You might as well leave the decision to Peach Pundit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/12/2009 01:39:53 AM I luv this. You need a thumbnail history guide to play here. Is Valerie Jackson being heard from? I'm with Drew on the atmospherics here too. Yes, it would be nice, and we all dearly hope that it does not come down to the usual crap. But really? Yes, because the man is Black, some are going to assume that he's 'racial' 'racist' or perhaps even 'radical' as a common favored modifier here applied to both descriptors. We've seen it early & often enough with Obama, right? But No. You should never ever let the opposition define you. Or the Media. In any terms. It does you and your voters no earthly good and is largely detrimental to the democratic process. That's how we got 'swiftboated' by well known knaves & liars who told us again and again that a decorated courageous & wounded war leader like Sen. John Kerry was none of the above. And the media bought those transparent but deadly foolish lies and broadcasted them hook line & stinker. Again. And Again. With no real corrections offered. Ever. So it is what it is. We play it as it lies. Record vs Record hopefully. Partially invented/manufactured issues vs real issue concerns as needed and necessary. This? "That's the real lesson of Bush and all hated politicians were victorious. Politics of division work, but prevent governmental progress." IS the standard MO of the Repug's. Progress is their Enemy. Learn it. Live it. Work against it. They really don't want 'things' Especially Government to 'work or get better'. Not this generation of GOP. Not for a very long time. And that's where the Leg is today. So it'll be a long uphill slog all the way. They don't admire and want to emulate the Taliban for nothing! http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/02/05/gop-rep-we-need-might-an_n_164227.html JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.108.168 URL: DATE: 11/12/2009 10:27:24 AM Anybody know who he's using for his mail media? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/12/2009 10:42:10 AM Wasn't it the same folks as Obama? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/12/2009 01:55:56 PM There were a few things I learned about the Obama campaign from this HBO doc: http://www.hbo.com/docs/programs/bythepeople/index.html The most inspiring was Obama's steadfast refusal to go negative in any way. He's the best proof that positive campaigns can win big. Any idiot can smear, but it takes real talent to win on merit. The kind of talent that most politicians can only aspire to. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 11/12/2009 07:17:15 PM Speaking of code, how should Atlanta interpret this: http://blogs.ajc.com/political-insider-jim-galloway/2009/11/12/a-gop-view-legislature-needs-gestures-of-respect-from-the-next-atlanta-mayor/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.168 URL: DATE: 11/12/2009 07:25:54 PM ATL: you bring the KY? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/12/2009 11:09:47 PM Close IRE. Near as I can tell this means that the 'local host' is now again responsible for supplying a generous amount of food, liquor & hookers for their entertainment purposes, (just like old times). Then and only then will they see fit not to have Fulton & Atl wholly subsumed by Milton County. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: I stand with Kyle Bailey BASENAME: i_stand_with_kyle_bailey STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/13/2009 12:17:27 AM TAGS: atlanta,kasimreed,kylebailey,marynorwood,mayor ----- BODY:
In a democracy, we all have the right to support the candidates of our choice without fear of intimidation and attack. It's unfortunate that my support and volunteer time donated to the candidate of my choice in the mayoral race has resulted in these slanderous accusations against me. But these attacks have only emboldened me to fight for the election of Mary Norwood as Mayor of Atlanta.More on the story from SOVO, (includes Reese McCranie's response from the Reed Campaign) and ProjectQ. Kyle's complete statement is included in the SOVO story and is also below the fold. As I said, any idiot can smear, but it takes talent to win on merit. Whoever is behind this lacks that and more. Going after one of the most beloved and well-known Democratic activist in Georgia is a huge, huge FAIL. ----- EXTENDED BODY:
NOVEMBER 12, 2009 STATEMENT ON THE PERSONAL ATTACKS AND WHISPER CAMPAIGN AGAINST ME BY SUPPORTERS OF KASIM REED Last night, several respected LGBT community leaders and allies contacted me concerning a rumor that is now being spread by supporters of Kasim Reed suggesting that my personal endorsement of Mary Norwood in the Atlanta mayoral contest was "bought and paid for" and that I have been promised a job in a Norwood Administration. These accusations are complete lies intended to question my credibility and weaken my efforts to help elect Mary Norwood. Norwood is the only candidate in this race who is 100% pro-equality, who can bring about genuine change and who can restore the confidence of Atlantans in our city government. First, I do not lend my support to candidates based on any financial arrangements. I never have and I never will. That's sleazy and it's what is wrong with politics. I have worked for campaigns in the past, most notably for 14 months as Deputy Finance Director on Jim Martin's 2006 campaign for Georgia Lt. Governor. But I do not work on campaigns as a "general consultant" who adds little in the way of meaningful contributions to a campaign. I invite anyone to download Mary Norwood's disclosure reports. You will not find me in any expenditure reports now or in the future. http://atlantaga.gov/media/mc_disclosures_031009.aspx Second, I do not know Mary Norwood beyond her public record and the several group meetings that I have had with her to voice concerns of Atlanta's LGBT community - all but one of these meetings has taken place since I decided to support Norwood's candidacy several weeks ago. Not only would I never have a conversation with a candidate to offer my support in exchange for a job, I have never had the opportunity to have a private conversation with Mary Norwood during any of our several group meetings. The truth is, I actually have a personal relationship with Kasim Reed, where as I do not have one with Mary Norwood. As the former Political Director of Georgia Equality, I lobbied State Senator Kasim Reed on issues important to the LGBT community. As a member of the Georgia and Fulton County Democratic Party Committees, an active member of Atlanta Stonewall Democrats and an activist in Atlanta's LGBT community, I have gone out of my way to help Reed build relationships with LGBT community leaders in Atlanta over the last few years. I have done so because I believe it is important for elected officials and candidates to have the opportunity to build personal relationships with LGBT people from all walks of life and become more informed about the discrimination we face so as to encourage their support for equality, regardless of whether I end up supporting these individuals or not. Accusations of pay to play politics and nepotism from the machine are laughable. Attacks on the personal supporters of Norwood by Reed supporters are divisive and reprehensible. It's the machine at work with their dirty politics as usual and it's got to stop. That's why I'm compelled to stand up and speak out about why I am supporting Mary Norwood for Mayor of Atlanta. I support Mary Norwood because she is a business owner with 8 years of experience on the Atlanta City Council. As an executive, Norwood knows how to balance books and manage staff to efficiently and effectively provide desired results. Norwood has solid financial and public safety proposals that will restore accountability to city government and make Atlanta work again for all of us (http://www.marynorwoodformayor.com). I do not believe that Reed's experience as an attorney and a member of the Georgia General Assembly - representing a very small portion of the city of Atlanta in state government - makes him as well prepared as Norwood to be the executive of our city government. I am very concerned about the fact that Reed is the hand picked successor of Mayor Shirley Franklin, whose administration has been defined by a lack of transparency, fiscal mismanagement and questionable practices. I have a real problem with an elite group of powerful interests selecting their preferred candidate for mayor and then attempting to bully voters into supporting that candidate. This machine is not conducive to democratic government - it creates deep divisions among residents and a polarized government that fails to adequately serve Atlanta citizens. In addition, it is unclear to me how a mayoral candidate who is supported by those who have failed our city is able to turn right around as mayor and buck those supporters to address our city's problems. In politics, you dance with them that brung you, and in my opinion Reed has far too many questionable dance partners. This includes individuals and companies that have a stake in Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, who make up roughly 20% of Reed's campaign contributions. Liz Flowers, spokeswoman for former mayoral candidate and Council President Lisa Borders warned in a press release that this "should be a red flag for voters" (http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/airport-donors-flock-to-164341.html). During this campaign, Lisa Borders also questioned Reed on his failure to sign a no nepotism pledge (http://www.bordersforatlanta.com/2009/10/19/reed-refuses-borderschallenge-to-end-nepotism/): "Kasim Reed was paid more than a million dollars as a partner at the law firm Holland and Knight. Today, the firm benefits from a lobbying contract at the Atlanta airport and another lucrative contract for MARTA. Tracy Reed, Kasim Reed's brother, works for the Mayor's Office of Contract Compliance, where he oversees minority contracts at the airport. To date, Mr. Reed has received more campaign money from airport vendors than all of the other candidates in this election combined. Nineteen airport vendors who might owe their contracts to his brother Tracy have given money to Kasim Reed's campaign." Finally, I have strong reservations about the center of progressive leadership and thought in Georgia electing a mayor who is less than 100% pro-equality. Norwood supports full marriage equality and has a progressive record on civil and human rights. Reed is opposed to marriage equality and cites religious reasons to deny LGBT Georgians full equality (http://www.projectqatlanta.com/news_articles/view/Mary_Norwood_says_she_backs_gay_marriage/). Our current mayor - for all her faults - at least supports marriage equality. I am concerned about the political implications for LGBT and progressive Atlantans - and Georgians - in taking a step backwards from a mayor who is pro-equality to one who is fairminded and the message that sends to current elected officials, candidates, our opponents and our youth who are struggling to find acceptance. While I like Kasim Reed on a personal level and appreciate his record in the Georgia General Assembly, when forced to choose between Norwood and Reed in the race for mayor of Atlanta the choice is clear for me. The overwhelming support for Mary Norwood within Atlanta's LGBT community, as evidenced by hundreds of supporters and attendees of the upcoming LGBT community rally for Norwood, suggests to me that I'm not alone: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=170506053900&ref=ts Sincerely, Kyle R. Bailey Fulton County Democratic Party, Post Seat Holder* Democratic Party of Georgia, State Committee Member* National Stonewall Democrats, former COO and Interim Executive Director* Georgia Equality, former Political Director* Atlanta Stonewall Democrats, Founder and former Chairperson* *Positions listed for identification purposes only.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: norwood EMAIL: IP: 24.98.227.206 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 06:06:19 AM hmmm...sounds like a slick move by the Norwood campaign that's had no good news since the runoff started. Is this supposed to motivate the LGBT community to vote for a person who has no record of assisting our community legislatively? A rumor? So there's no proof that this even came from Reed's camp? You can't be serious...this is all too transparent. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Virginia EMAIL: IP: 24.98.227.206 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 06:18:41 AM There was a rumor spread in a political campaign? Oh my lord!!! SMH. If it's not true then dispute it and move on, but all this righteous indignation is a little over the top. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 07:00:13 AM Mildly interesting, if for nothing else but to note the formatting 'discrepancies' contained within the above missive from Mr. Bailey. This said, I'm also of a mind to think that it's just a little bit of SSDD here, and not much to get excited about. It sure looks like an opportunity to just sling mud in the name of 'righteous indignation' on behalf of his own candidate. Which again is pretty bloody typical too. But this for all the world looks and sounds like a poor cut and paste PR job. Why is that? No, we likely know. I'd also like to stand with people with slightly stronger spines. But hey, we can all have our own dreams, right? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/13/2009 08:09:04 AM Well this race got real stupid real quick. BTW: I like Kyle, he's a cool dude. And for the record, The IRE did not start this rumor. Just throwing that out there. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.97.217 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 09:10:12 AM I can't imagine Kyle endorsing anyone for anything other than his beliefs either, but for what it's worth, as far as the candidate is concerned, apparently she is paying people: http://blogs.creativeloafing.com/freshloaf/2009/11/02/able-mable-pockets-1500-from-norwood/ What's the real story here; who is willing to take the money, or whether it's OK to pay it or not? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/13/2009 09:56:27 AM I really don't think the "purchasing" if that is what you want to call it, of Able Mable means jack all. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 166.137.6.57 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 11:53:08 AM It would explain why such a rumor might be considered credible - because of Mary Norwood's willingness to pay a supporter, not necessarily a supporter's willingness to accept payment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 12:49:23 PM I agree Drew. Paying Mable was a mistake. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 01:04:34 PM Virginia, this may seem like nothing to you, but for someone like Kyle, it's toxic. About all most activist have is their reputation, so it's understandable that he chose to take this straight on. And no, I don't believe this is some reverse ninja move. Kyle wouldn't do that any more than he would engage in quid pro quo. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Pappy EMAIL: IP: 64.255.180.18 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 02:11:36 PM No one cares about any of this! God this blog is terrible. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 02:46:18 PM We miss you anyway Pappy. That is, if you're our old Pappy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 98.192.34.255 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 02:58:04 PM I don't believe kyle would ever do the reverse ninja move, i do believe others would use him as fodder for it though. Kyle is a great guy, and a hard worker. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: What's this? BASENAME: whats_this STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/13/2009 06:06:17 AM ----- BODY: The RNC health insurance plan covers elective abortions for its employees? Hypocrites. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 11:30:51 AM I'd be more interested to know how many people took advantage of this. Heh. Of course, that would be a total invasion of privacy and oompletely inappropriate. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/13/2009 11:37:19 AM Which is why it would be awesome. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 12:40:38 PM Not to mention illegal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/13/2009 01:06:02 PM Are you trying to make it more awesome. Cause ure doin it. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Glenn Richardson issues statement on recent suicide attempt BASENAME: glenn_richardson_issues_statem STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/13/2009 07:55:36 PM ----- BODY: House speaker admits depression led to suicide attempt
"While depression often seems to be resolved on occasion, when personal trials or tribulations arise, it flares back up," Richardson said in the statement. "That is what occurred with me. My depression became so severe that I took substantial steps to do harm to myself and to take my own life. I am thankful that because of medical intervention I have instead been able to now receive help and support."
No details regarding the suicide attempt were provided, and Richardson's spokesman declined to make further comment. WSB-TV reported at 6 p.m. that Paulding County sheriff's officials said they were called to his home Sunday evening and Richardson was rushed to a hospital. Cpl. Brandon Gurley, the public information officer for the Paulding County sheriff, would not comment when asked by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. While not directly addressing the issue, Richardson appears to be planning to continue in his role as the leader of the House of Representatives.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Trevor Southerland EMAIL: IP: 67.191.216.174 URL: DATE: 11/13/2009 09:46:25 PM Our thoughts are with him and hope for a full recovery. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/15/2009 01:10:43 AM Yes, we'd all hope for a complete recovery. But still you've got to wonder about the 'story behind the story'. It sounds mighty peculiar. But then again it often does, sadly enough. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.223.33.203 URL: DATE: 11/15/2009 09:35:41 AM Depression is a terrible disease, and I wish him all the best for a long-term recovery. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/15/2009 10:52:28 AM The winter holidays are the worst for depression sufferers. I've lost two cousins to suicide, both happened around the holidays. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 11/15/2009 11:00:11 AM yeah this has taken a while to digest. For someone with such a huge personality and presence, the roots of this one must be very very deep, and I too wish him a good recovery. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.67 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/15/2009 08:39:02 PM The roots of this have to be the shittiest of all shithead moves possible. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.218.46.52 URL: DATE: 11/16/2009 03:43:16 PM Just a reminder that depression is a serious illness, with just as much of a physical origin as diabetes or cancer. It can happen to anyone. There doesn't need to be a reason or a story behind it. The below link is a terrific lecture by a Stanford prof about the biology of depression. It's an hour long, but well worth the time. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOAgplgTxfc ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: SOVO shuts down BASENAME: sovo_shuts_down STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/16/2009 01:36:32 PM ----- BODY: Terrible news. Creative Loafing has the story. And more here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 157.166.167.129 URL: DATE: 11/16/2009 01:52:16 PM http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hsALw5N4M17AmWbFMGXH9Qb5I0oAD9C0P0403 For those who haven't clicked on the stories, it's worth noting that it's not just SoVo that's gone - the parent company and all its papers are all history. I personally am surprised that CL and/or its parent company have survived so far and wonder when they'll be next. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 11/16/2009 03:08:56 PM And some part of this (not sure what) is the worst aspect... The AJC sent a staff reporter to take a photograph of the letter and apparently had only a blackberry (or some cameraphone) and the AJC thought the grainy, lo-res picture would be acceptable for its Web site. Seriously, you can't even get a reporter with a point-and-shoot to grab the letter? Surely there is at least one pool photographer needing an assignment... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/16/2009 05:59:00 PM Not good, and it affects far more folks than those here in Ga. and of course CL is always just hanging by a thread too. And oh yeah, Death & Taxes people: http://www.taxpolicycenter.org/events/events_121709.cfm The Higher Cost of Being Gay: Life, Death, and Taxes JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 11/16/2009 09:36:09 PM I would like to plug my friend Matt Hennie who is probably the only lgbt-news org of any kind left standing in GA - www.projectqatlanta.com Sad news about Sovo and David, le sigh. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Atlanta Mayoral race a dead heat BASENAME: atlanta_mayoral_race_a_dead_he STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/16/2009 02:06:40 PM ----- BODY: Exciting stuff. Here's the poll from Survey USA. Via Galloway. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 10:27:35 AM 58% of the black vote and 38% of the white vote? I bet you three dollars that won't happen. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 10:33:12 AM Nevermind, misread poll. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 10:34:33 AM Nevermind, misread poll. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Mayoral race tidbits BASENAME: mayoral_race_tidbits STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/17/2009 02:06:52 PM ----- BODY:
Early voting starts tomorrow, November 18, 2009, and runs through November 20, 2009. The hours of Early voting are 8:30am to 5:00pm. Advance voting starts November 23, 2009, and runs through November 25, 2009. The hours of Advance voting are 8:30am to 7:00pm. Find locations for Early and Advance voting in Fulton and Dekalb Counties here. Election Day for the runoff is December 1, 2009. The hours of voting are 7:00am to 8:00pm. You can vote in the runoff even if you did not vote on November 3rd.Ten runoff races will take place:
Atlanta Mayor, between Mary Norwood and Kasim Reed Atlanta City Council President, between Ceasar Mitchell and Clair Muller Atlanta City Council District 6, between Liz Coyle and Alex Wan Atlanta City Council Post 2 At Large, between Amir Farokhi and Aaron Watson City of College Park, City Council Ward 4, between Charles E. Phillips Sr. and April Wright - Wyatt City of East Point Mayor, between Joe Macon and Earnestine Pittman East Point Council WA At-Large, between Greg Fann and Sharonda Hubbard City of Roswell Mayor, between David Tolleson and Jere Wood State House District 58, between Simone Bell and Asha F. Jackson State Senate District 35, between Donzella James and Torrey O Johnson.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.137 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/17/2009 06:47:05 PM More runoffs than what is listed. I know Rusty Kidd is in one and there are a few other municipal races (and I believe a legislative) runoff in Georgia's hinterlands. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/17/2009 10:51:03 PM Sorry IRE. I've searched AJC and GA SOS until I'm blue, and that's the best I can do. If you have other links, please post. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/18/2009 07:57:35 AM http://www.13wmaz.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=71338&catid=153 Didn't mean to sound like a jerk. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2008/12/by_request_australian_basketball.php DATE: 11/18/2009 11:33:36 AM BTW: I see you've removed Tondee's Tavern from the blogroll. :( ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 98.251.1.14 URL: DATE: 11/18/2009 07:15:09 PM I think their RSS feed stopped, not sure what happened there, ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/18/2009 08:50:31 PM The Tondee's feed stopped, then I grabbed the updated feed, now it's stopped again. Not sure what's going on over there. Thanks for the link IRE. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Jim Martin backs Clair Muller for ATL council prez BASENAME: jim_martin_backs_clair_muller STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/17/2009 10:59:40 PM ----- BODY: Interesting, from AJC:
"Clair has the knowledge, skill, and integrity to be very effective in uniting all parts of our city," Martin said in a press release issued by the Muller campaign. "I admire her ability to get people with various points of view to work together for the common good." We were interested in speaking with Martin, but a Muller spokeswoman confirmed that the former state lawmaker departed today for the islands of Fiji. Seriously.Somewhat related: Joseph Lowery set to endorse Kasim Reed, also from AJC. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Social Media stats in 4 mins. BASENAME: social_media_stats_in_4_mins STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/18/2009 01:55:09 PM ----- BODY: If you are still not using one of the many social media tools, watch this video and seriously rethink that decision. Hat tip to BigD ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Reverse canvass FAIL BASENAME: reverse_canvassing STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/18/2009 09:00:45 PM ----- BODY: Here's how it went today. Ding dong (door bell). Me: Hello. Jehovah's Witness #1: Hello. We'd like to share with you the wonderful blah blah, blah blah blah...blah, Jesus Christ. Me: Um, that's great. Are you ladies planning to vote in the December 1st runoff election? Jehovah's Witness #2: We don't vote. Me: What do you mean you don't vote? Like, as a matter of religion or something? Jehovah's Witness #1: We already voted. Me: Yes, but you know there's a runoff for a number of races in Fulton County on December 1st. Jehovah's Witness #2: We voted for Jesus Christ. He is our lord and savior. Me (thinking): Did they write him in? Jehovah's Witness #1: We don't vote in earthly elections. Me: OK, well I can tell you right now this denomination would not work for me. Jehovah's Witness #2: May we leave you our brochure anyway? Me: Sure. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 11/18/2009 10:57:38 PM HAHAHA...Mel, you crack me up. Love it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/18/2009 11:02:03 PM It was actually a little worse. When she said "We don't vote in EARTHLY elections", I thought she said "We don't vote in EARLY elections". So I tried to convince her that voting on election day would be easy and quick. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 02:58:35 AM Ah, but they'd need to be actually registered for that, right? That's when I'd whip out my handy dandy voter registration sheets. But it's against their beliefs. As are celebrating Birthdays, etc. But mostly, it's easier to just avoid them. Saves time for everyone. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.180.22 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 08:44:17 AM ::chuckle:: -"We voted for Jesus Christ." - 'Are you sure your vote was counted?" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 08:46:59 AM That is hilarious. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.194.123 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 09:26:37 AM The Saturday after the miserable election in 2004, my doorbell rang at exactly 8am. I was so looking forward to sleeping in after working pretty hard trying to get Mr. I Won't Give Up Without A Fight...But Not Really elected. I ignored it. The bell rang again. I threw on clothes and opened the door trying to hold back my ferocious guard dog - the mini dachshund Rusty. There stands an older gentleman and a few steps behind him his wife. She is looking down at the pavement. Now I know I look a mess with my disheveled hair and wrinkled clothes but to be fair they did wake me up. I finally am able to focus so I look at the man. Without so much as a hello, he yelled at me – yes yelled at me – “DO YOU WANT TO GO TO HELL?!?!” I’m so stunned I simply crooked my head and said “huh?” He yelled at me again “DO YOU WANT TO GO TO HELL!?” I know my mouth was wide open and I can’t believe I actually had the clarity of thought to say it, but I said “If it gets me away from idiots like you then yes I do!” and slammed the door in their faces. My door has frosted glass and I could still see them standing there after a few seconds. Rusty was also still barking his head off and if you’ve ever heard a dachshund’s bark it is pretty deceiving. They sound like pretty big dogs because of their little barrel chests. I yanked the door back open and said “You also have 10 seconds to get off my property before I release the hound!” I immediately ordered a sticker that has two people holding a bible and smiling with a big red circle and slash through it and put it right above my doorbell. ******* They voted for Jesus Christ? That liberal hippy. He'll never get elected to anything in this state. What a funny post Mel! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 11:35:02 AM the enemy of liberals is the United States of America. i'll give my fellow red blooded, gun loving, and God fearing America citizens aid and comfort. you and your pussified friends can move to China where questions will leave you dead in a rice field. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 12:04:31 PM Who are you and what have you done with IRE? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: jenjust EMAIL: IP: 68.157.136.197 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 01:19:33 PM Thanks for making me laugh our loud...and I love Rubyduby's point about JC. He was the ultimate bleeding-heart liberal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 11/19/2009 03:24:16 PM Ummmmmm ire? You got a vote in the Atlanta election. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 08:21:45 PM Yep, I get to plug Rev. Ray's long time site once again: http://www.liberalslikechrist.org/ He had one of the earliest such sites I've eve seen on the net, but there's plenty others too! Here's another: http://www.jesusisaliberal.org/ JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Judge rules Army Corps of Engineers responsible for Katrina damage BASENAME: judge_rules_army_corps_of_engi STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/18/2009 10:29:43 PM ----- BODY: Huge.
In a groundbreaking decision, a federal judge ruled late Wednesday that the Army Corps of Engineers' mismanagement of maintenance of the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet was directly responsible for flood damage of homes in St. Bernard Parish and the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The decision by U.S. District Judge Stanwood Duval Jr. could result in the federal government paying $700,000 in damages to three people and a business in those areas, but also sets the stage for judgments against the govenment for damages by as many as 100,000 other residents, businesses and local governments in those areas who filed claims with the corps after Katrina. If successful, the damage claims could total billions of dollars.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 02:53:19 AM Thanks for this Mel, This is a tremendous & long awaited victory here. And justly so, everyone knew that 'MrGo' would do exactly what it did. Funnel floodwaters into the Lower 9th & other lower lying areas of NOLA. Years later some wheels are finally turning. Much too late for all too many. SSDDD. But good to see finally. BTW, I hope this comment will take, I've been having problems with the 'new' Typepad system for 'registration'. It now asks for email, but it does not work that way either. So seemingly every other few months or so a new 'upgraded system' introduced that takes, well another few weeks to properly implement. Where have we seen this before? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/23/2009 02:25:16 AM More on this from Bloomberg Comment here: "Billions of Bucks to Flow From Small Sum in South": Ann Woolner http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601039&sid=aqCpPgqB_0ck " Nov. 20 (Bloomberg) -- Picture Hurricane Katrina without the broken levees, with minor flooding that quickly drained, with no folks chopping through the attics of New Orleans in desperate hope of rooftop rescue. So it might have been if the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers hadn’t flunked its job so completely and so repeatedly. This week U.S. District Judge Stanwood Duval Jr. ordered the Corps to pay five flood victims $720,000, a pittance compared with what they should get. But the law makes it nearly impossible to win a case against the Corps, so the fact they won anything makes the ruling monumental." [More @ Link] JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Mary Norwood rap BASENAME: mary_norwood_rap STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/19/2009 12:08:33 PM ----- BODY: You don't suppose this had anything to do with that? Kidding. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 12:37:47 PM Trinity IS on lock. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Write-in votes BASENAME: write-in_votes STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/19/2009 03:30:29 PM ----- BODY: From Creative Loafing, promoted from comment by GriftDrift. Indie Rock Elitist got 1 write-in vote, Ed Hula received 6 write-in votes and Page Gleason received 5. Hint to Al Trevillyan, Trellyn, Trelyvan or about 30 other spellings, your name is too difficult to spell for you to run as a write-in candidate. Update: the full list of write-ins is below the fold. If you want to know which office they were written in for, you'll have to download the Excel file here. Oh, and there were 2 write-ins for Jesus Christ. ----- EXTENDED BODY: A CHRISTIAN NAME PERSON A REGINALD EAVES A REGINALD EAVES A REGINALD EAVES A REGINALD EAVES A REGINALD EAVES A REGINALD EAVES A. TREVILYAN AA AAAPPP AARIEL GODDFREY AARON ESTIS AARON WATSON AARON WATSON AARON WATSON AARON WELLS ABBIE BARKAN ABBIE BARKAN ABDULMALIK MAHMOUD ABLE MABLE THOMAS ABRAHAM DORIS-DOWN ADAM RAGSDALE ADORNA WILSON AFRICA WEEMS AL AL AL TREVALLYAN AL TREVIILYNNN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL FRIDAY AL SHARPTON AL T AL TEVILLYAN AL TEVLLYAN AL TRAVELLION AL TRAVELLYAN AL TRAVILLIAN AL TRAVILLYAN AL TRAVILYAN AL TREALLIAN AL TREFYLIAN AL TRELLYAN AL TRELLYN AL TRELYVAN AL TREVALIA AL TREVALIAN AL TREVALIAN AL TREVALIAN AL TREVALIEN AL TREVALIN AL TREVALIN AL TREVALLAYAN AL TREVALLIN AL TREVALLYAN AL TREVALLYAN AL TREVALLYIN AL TREVALLYN AL TREVALLYN AL TREVALLYN AL TREVALYN AL TREVELIAN AL TREVELLA AL TREVELLIA AL TREVELLYAN AL TREVELLYAN AL TREVELLYAN AL TREVELLYAN AL TREVELLYAN AL TREVELLYAN AL TREVELLYEN AL TREVELLYN AL TREVELYN AL TREVELYNN AL TREVIALLIAN AL TREVIILLYAN AL TREVIILYAN AL TREVILAN AL TREVILIAN AL TREVILIYAN AL TREVILLA AL TREVILLAN AL TREVILLAN AL TREVILLAN AL TREVILLAN AL TREVILLAN AL TREVILLAN AL TREVILLAN AL TREVILLAN AL TREVILLEYAN AL TREVILLIAN AL TREVILLIAN AL TREVILLIAN AL TREVILLIAN AL TREVILLIAN AL TREVILLIAN AL TREVILLIAN AL TREVILLION AL TREVILLIYAN AL TREVILLLLYAN AL TREVILLLYAN AL TREVILLLYYAN AL TREVILLO AL TREVILLVAN AL TREVILLVAN AL TREVILLY AL TREVILLYA AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYAN AL TREVILLYANN AL TREVILLYANN AL TREVILLYEN AL TREVILLYN AL TREVILLYN AL TREVILLYN AL TREVILLYN AL TREVILYAN AL TREVILYAN AL TREVILYAN AL TREVLLYAN AL TREVM AL TREVYLLAN AL TREVYLLIAN AL TREVYLLIAN AL TREVYLLIAN AL TREVYLLON AL TREWILLYAN AL TREYILLYAN AL TREYVALLE AL TREYVILLAN AL TREYVILLAN AL TREYVILLIAN AL TREYVILLIAN AL TREYVILLLYN AL TREYVILLYAN AL TREYVILLYAN AL TRIVELLYN AL TRIVILIAN AL TRIVILLYAN AL TRIVILLYAN AL TRIVILLYAN AL TRIVILLYAN AL TRIVILLYN AL TRIVILLYN AL TRUMANE AL TRUVILLYAN AL TTREVILLYAN AL VEATTYLLA ALAN GRAVITT ALAN SOLUREN ALAN SOLUREN ALAN SOLUREN ALAN SOLUREN ALAN SOLUREN ALAN TART ALAN TREVALLIYAN ALAN TREVILLYAN ALEC DICKS ALEC DICKS ALEK POCHOWKI ALEK POCHOWSKI ALEK POCHOWSKI ALEK POCHOWSKI ALESIA GALES ALESIA GALES ALEX ABBONDANZA ALEX FIFE ALEX SMITH ALEX TREVILLIAN ALEX TREVILLYAN ALEX WAN ALEX WAN ALEX WAN ALEX WATSON ALFRED E NEUMAN ALFRED NEWMAN ALFREDO ORTIZ ALICE CINLEY ALICE CONLEY ALICIA MANDEVILLE ALICIA STARKMAN ALIYYAH TERBORG ALLEN HEWETT ALLIE COKER ALLISON L. PARKER ALLISON L. PARKER AL-TREVILLLYAN ALTREVILLYAN ALTREVILLYAN ALV AMANDA JANE SMITH AMANDA MCGEHEE AMERY MADDEN AMERY MADDEN AMIR FAROKHI AMIR FAROKHI AMY ADAMS AMY FERRERO AMY HOOVER AMY REES ANA JOHNSON ANAND PRABHU ANDI LAY ANDRE BENJAMIN ANDRE JAMAL JERRY ANDRE RISON ANDREA JANSSEN ANDREA LUCAS ANDREA THOMAS ANDREA THOMAS ANDREA THOMAS ANDREW R. FIDDES ANDRIA LANG ANDY KEARNEY ANEL DIAZ ANGELA IVEY ANGELA TERRELL ANGELITA COLBERT ANGELITA COLBERT ANGELITA COLBERT ANGUS GUBERMAN ANGUS GUBERMAN ANN DAVIS ANN DAVIS ANN GREEN ANN GREEN ANN HARRISON ANNA K DERRICK ANNE BILLINGLEA ANNE DERRICK ANNE E. BLAINE ANNE E. BLAINE ANNE E. BLAINE ANNE E. BLAINE ANNE E. BLAINE ANNE E. BLAINE ANNE E. BLAINE ANNIE HUDSON ANTHONY ANTHONY ANTHONY BAZYDLO ANTHONY GENSLER ANTHONY J GALIANO ANTHONY ROSS ANTWAN PATON ANY BODY ANY BUT HIM ANY ONE ANY ONE ANY ONE ELSE ANY ONE ELSE ANY ONE ELSE ANY REPUBLICAN ANYBODY ANYBODY ANYBODY BUT SHOOK ANYBODY BUTT ANYBODY ELES BUT THESE GUYS ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY ELSE ANYBODY NEW ANYONE ANYONE ANYONE ANYONE ANYONE 0THER THAN THIS PERSON ANYONE BUT ANYONE BUT ANYONE BUT BRENDA ANYONE BUT CARLA ANYONE BUT CT ANYONE BUT HER ANYONE BUT HIM - STANCE ON RAILROADING SIDEWALKS WIEUCA ANYONE BUT HOWARD SHOOK ANYONE BUT INCUMBENT ANYONE BUT JOE ANYONE BUT NATALYN ANYONE BUT NATALYN ANYONE BUTT ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ANYONE ELSE ISBETTER ANYONEELSE APAPAP APAPAP ARI BLEIFELD ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARISON NORMAN ARLO PITTMAN ART TREVILLIAN ARTHUR DUKES ARTHUR ROBERTS ARTHUUR DUKES ASHA Z HAGOOD ASHFORD SCHWALL ASHFORD SCHWALL ASHLEY HARRIS AVANTI WEBB AVANTI WEBB AVANTI WEBB AVERY MEADOWS AYN RAND AZIZI B HUNTER B HUNTER B. FRANKLIN SKINNER B. FRANKLIN SKINNER B0B WENDLING B0BBY SIMMS B0BBY SIMMS BAILEY RENFROE BAILEY RENFROE BAILY BAM BAM HALBERG BAM BAM HALBERG BARACK OBAMA BARACK OBAMA BARBARA BEDINGFIELD-CECIL BARBARA JABALEY BARBARA NAVARINO BARRY RINGOLD BATTISTA BATTISTA BBBBB BBOB BELL BEN COUTURE BEN COUTURE BEN HOWARD BENJAMIN DEITCHMAN BENJAMIN HILL, JR BENNETT WIGGINS BERNARD WOLF BERNIE KORT BETH CAMPBELL BETTY KENNEBREW BEVERLY ASKREN BEVERLY LANGFORD BILL ADAMS BILL AMES BILL BAILEY BILL BAILEY BILL BAILEY BILL BARNES BILL BOONE BILL BOONE BILL BOONE BILL BOONE BILL BOONE BILL DUKES BILL DUKES BILL GETCH BILL LADUCA BLOW BO MOORE BOB BARR BOB BROWN BOB BROWN BOBBY BOBBY SIMMS BOILER BOILER HUX BOZO MCGEE BRAIN HAWKINS BRANDON HOUSTON BRENDA ROGERS BRENDA SCHMIDT BRENT BEECHAM BRENT SOBOL BRENT WELLS BRENT WELLS BRENT WELLS BRENT WELLS BRENT WELLS BRENT WELLS BRETT BEAVERS BRETT BEAVERS BRETT BEAVERS BRETT BEAVERS BRIAN BECKER BRIAN C FLACK BRIAN FITZPATRICK BRIAN KELBY BRIAN KELBY BRIAN KELBY BRIAN KELBY BRIAN KELBY BRIAN KELBY BRIAN M WALCZAK BRIAN MCGILL BRIAN RAGEN BRIAN RAGEN BRIAN RAGEN BRIAN W RAGEN BRICE BLOCKER BRICE BLOCKER BRICE BLOCKER BRICE BLOCKER BRICE BLOCKER BRICE BLOCKER BRICE BLOCKER BRIIAN KELBY BRITT BICKERSTAFF BRUCE GOW BRUCE GOW BRUCE GRANT BRUCE MORTON BRUCE STREET BRUCE STREET BRYAN GRANT BRYAN JACKSON BUDDY CORBIN BUGS BUNNY BURKE BOGER C A HUDSON CALEB COKER CALEB COKER CALVIN BERRY CALVIN SMITH CALVIN SMITH CAMERON DANIEL CANDACE EDGEWORTH CAR CAR CAR CAREN PASQUALE SECKLER CAREY DUCAN CARL CHILDERS CARL DORSEY JR CARL JOHNSON CARL JOHNSON CARLA HUDSON CARLA SMITH CARLA SMITH CARLO YAN CARLOS TEJEDA CARLTON REED CARLTON WHITE CARMEN ALVAREZ STANLEY CAROL B JEPSON CAROL M WOOD CAROL SHENK CAROL SHENK CAROL SHENK CAROL SHENK CAROL WOOD CAROLYN YOUNG CAROLYN YOUNG CAROLYN YOUNG CAROLYN YOUNG CAROLYN YOUNG CAROLYN YOUNG CAROLYN YOUNG CAROLYN YOUNG CAROLYN YOUNG CASSANDRE BRIDE CATHERINE SUZANNE DUNPHY CATHY RAWL EDWARDS CATHY RAWL EDWARDS CCC CECELIA MUHAMMAD CECILY HARSH-KINNANE CECILY KINANE CECILY KINANE CECILY KINANE CEDRIC STALLWORTH CEDRIC STALLWORTH CEDRIC STALLWORTH CEDRIC STALLWORTH CEDRIC STALLWORTH CHANDRA HARRIS CHANDRA HARRIS CHANDRA HARRIS CHARLENE GORDON CHARLENE GORDON CHARLES BARLOW CHARLES BARLOW, JR. CHARLES BERK CHARLES MALONE CHARLES S PORTER CHARLES STADTLANDER CHARLETTE HOWELL CHARLIE BOYD CHARLIE KNAPP CHARLIE KNAPP CHARLIE STADTLANDER CHARLIE STADTLANDER CHARLIE STATLANDER CHARLIE STATLANDER CHARLIE STATLANDER CHARLIE STATLANDER CHASE TAUSCHER CHAUNCEY ROBINSON CHELSEA EVERETT CHELSEA EVERETT CHER CHET MAY CHEVON D. JACKSON CHIIP FRANZONI CHIOKE PERRY CHIP CHIP FRANZONI CHIP FRANZONI CHIP FRANZONI CHIP STANSFIELD CHIP STANSFIELD CHIP STANSFIELD CHISTA DIBIASE CHLOE KELSCH CHRIS BOLTON CHRIS BOLTON CHRIS BOLTON CHRIS BOLTON CHRIS CRAVEN CHRIS DENSON CHRIS DOTY CHRIS DOTY CHRIS LUKAS CHRIS LUKAS CHRIS RAFFIELD CHRIS SMITH CHRIS SMITH CHRIS VAUGHN CHRIS WILLIS CHRIS WRIGHT CHRIS WRIGHT CHRIS WRIGHT CHRISTA TINSLEY CHRISTINA BRYANT CHRISTOPHER CLABOUGH CHRISTOPHER CALANDRO CHRISTOPHER CALANDRO CHRISTOPHER CLABOUGH CHRISTOPHER FLURY CHRISTOPHER HOLBROOK CHRISTOPHER NATIONS CHRISTOPHER NOBLES CHRISTOPHER RENALDO CHRISTOPHER SPRAY CHRISTOPHER STEELE CHRISTOPHER YARBROUGH CHUCK HUBBARD CHUCK NORRIS CINDER CINDY HOWELL CJ CLARENCE TURNER CLARENCE TURNER CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLARK HOWARD CLAYTON TURNER EDWARDS CLETA WINDSLOW CLIFF STANFORD CLIFFORD MARTIN COACH TOM RICE COLE MILLER COLIN PARKER COLIN PARKER COLIN PARKER COLIN PARKER COLIN PARKER COLLIE SMITH COLUMBUS WARD COOK COOK COOLY C CORA BELL CORDELL CARTER CORRETA S KING CORY JONES CRACKER FUCK CRAIG JEFFARES CRAIG M. BUTLER CRAIG SCHWALL CRAIG SCHWALL CRAPPY JOB.COM CRISTAL HABERKORN CRISTEN FORD CRYSTAL CONWAY CT MARTIIN CTMARTIN CURTIS CLARK CURTIS DAVIS JR CUTCLIFF MILLER CYNTHIA JACKSON CYNTHIA MCKINNEY CYNTHIA SELMAR D. B0SMIN D. DUCK D. DUCK D. LOGAN D.DUCK DAECON CASEY DAFFYY DUCK DAGWOOD DAISY MISSI DALE PROTHRO DAMA RILES DAMEON TORREY DAN CALBERT DAN CURRAN DANA O'DONNELL DANA WILLIAMS DANA WILLIAMS DANA WILLIAMS DANA WILLIAMS DANIEL ALLEN WHITE DANIEL ALLEN WHITE DANIEL ALLEN WHITE DANIEL ALLEN WHITE DANIEL BASS DANIEL BLUMENTHAL DANIEL ETOLL DANIEL ETOLL DANIEL ETOLL DANIEL SOLAMMON DANIEL SOYKA DANIEL W LASSITER DANIEL W LASSITER DANIEL W LASSITER DANNY L GIBSON DANNY SUTTON DAPO ALADE DAPO ALADE DAPO ALADE DARIN BOHM DARRELL STANFORD DARRELL STANFORD DARRELL STANFORD DARRLY MOORE DARYL MOORE DAVE CARLEY DAVE MARTIN DAVE MCCLEARY DAVE MUSTAINE DAVE WALKER DAVE WALKER DAVID CROCKETT DAVID BELLE ISLE DAVID BLUNT DAVID BLUNT DAVID BLUNT DAVID BLUNT DAVID BLUNT DAVID BLUNT DAVID CAMBELL DAVID ERB DAVID ERB DAVID ERB DAVID ERB DAVID ERB DAVID ERB DAVID FARMER DAVID HALLMAN DAVID LAIL DAVID LANGLEY DAVID LEE ROTH DAVID M HOWELL DAVID M HOWELL DAVID MARCELLO DAVID MCGANITY DAVID MCGANITY DAVID MIGLIN DAVID P. LINDABURY DAVID PACKWOOD DAVID PACKWOOD DAVID PHILLIPS DAVID RAYNOR DAVID REES DAVID REYNOLDS DAVID SHANNON DAVID SIZEMORE DAVID VANDEHOUTEN DAVID WATSON DAWN NELSON DAWN PARKER DEAN CALL0WAY DEAN CALLOWAY DEB LYNCH DEB LYNCH DEBBI GIBSON DEBBI GIBSON DEBBIE GIBSON DEBBIE GIBSON DEBBIE GIBSON DEBBIE GIBSON DEBBIE GIBSON DEBBIE GIBSON DEBORAH COOPER DEBORAH DUNN DEBORAH DUNN DEBUTY DOG DEIRDRE MCCLURE DEMS INCLUDED RUEBEN ON THEIR INACCURATE PROPAGANDA DENNNIS POTTS DENNY FURCO DEREK ROQUMORE DERICK BOZEMAN DERICK BOZEMAN DERRICCK BOSEMAN DERRICK BOSENAN DERRICK BOAZMAN DERRICK BOSEMAN DERRICK BOSEMAN DERRICK BOSEMAN DERRICK BOSEMAN DERRICK BOSEMAN DERRICK BOSEMAN DERRICK BOSMAN DERRICK BOZMAN DERRICK BOZMAN DERRICK DICKEY DERRICK DICKEY DERRICK DICKEY DESERIE SANCHEZ DESERIE SANCHEZ DESERIE SANCHEZ DESERIE SANCHEZ DESMOND ROSS DEV HAYS DIANE WRIGHT DINA GEISLER DIRT ROAD REPAIRMAN DISEYE OGOUN DO NOT SUPPORT DO NOT SUPPORT EITHER DODSON, DAN DOG DOG CATCHER DOG CATCHER DON MCMICHAEL DONALD DONALD A CARVER JR DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD DUCK DONALD STOW DONALD WALKER DONNIE BEATY DONT MESS WITH NCS DONT MESS WITH NCS DONT MESS WITH NCS DONT MESS WITH NCS DONZELL JENKINS DORINDA HENRY DOROTHY ASKREN DOROTHY DRUMMER DOROTHY DRUMMER DOUG ABRAMSON DOUG ALEXANDER DOUG DANIEL DOUG HOFFMAN DOUG HOFFMAN DOUGLAS SCOTT BLOCK DR BRACEWELL DRAKE DEVER DREW SUMMINS DUCKWORTH DUCKWORTH DUKE LEWIS DUKE LEWIS DUKE LEWIS DUMBO DUSTIN WRIGHT DUSTIN WRIGHT DUVALL BRUMBY DWIGHT JACKSON DWIGHT JACKSON DWIGHT OWENS E FARRIS EARL JOHANNABER EARL JOHANNABER EARL JOHANNABER ED HAROF ED HULA ED HULA ED HULA ED HULA ED HULA ED HULA ED JOHNSON EDNA L. MOFFETT EDNA MOFFETT EDWARD J. O'DWYER EDWARD LONG EDWARD MITCHELL, JR. EILEEN M. FANNON ELDRIN BELL ELIJAH MADGE ELIJAH WEAVER ELIN BEGLEY ELISHEBA BUTTS ELIZABETH D. OLIVER ELIZABETH DILLON ELLE RINGHAM ELLENOR HARPS ELLIOTT C. MICHAELS ELLIS M. A. ELMER LEON BLOCKSON JR. ELMER FUDD ELRIER RAILEY ELRIER RAILEY ELRIER RAILEY ENNIJUAN UDDERDAN ERIC CAMPBELL ERIC JOHNSON ERIC KLINE ERIC MORROW ERIC SIMELTON ERIC TANENBLATT ERIC W WILSON ERICA MARSHALL ERIK HILASKI ERIK HILASKI ERIK SC0TT ERIK SCOTT ERIN BROWN ERIN REDDICK ERNEST CHAPMAN ERNEST CHAPMAN ERNEST DANIEL ERNESTINE J DANCY ERNESTO CABRERA ERNST YOUNG EUNICE CHAPMAN EUNICE D. CHAPMAN EUNICE D. CHAPMAN EUNICE D. CHAPMAN EUNICE D. CHAPMAN EUNICE GLOVER EVAN BARNES EVERY EVERY EVIE OSAZEE FA FAROOQ SOOMRO FAROOQ SOOMRO FELCIA MOORE FELICIA MOORE FELICIA MOORE FELICIA MOORE FELICIA MOORE FELICIA MOORE FELICIA MOORE FH FINLEY MO. FINLEY MO. FISCHY FLETCHER FLETCHER FOGHORN LEGHORN FRAN FARIAS FRAN FARIAS FRANCOIS CRAIG FRANK CORWELL FRANK COX FRANK COX FRANK HASTY FRANK HASTY FRANK JENKINS FRANK JENKINS FRANK NEUMEISTER FRANK NEUMEISTER FRANK ROBINSON FRANK SMITH FRANK STRICKLAND FRANK ZAPPA FRANKLIN HENSON FRAZER JOHNSON JR FRAZER JOHNSON JR FRED FRED MARTIN FRED MARTIN FRED MARTIN FREDERICK STAFFORD FREDERICK STAFFORD FREDMARTIN FREDMARTIN G LEN MORRIS G MOSS G UNIT 9M. G. LEVON LIVINGSTON, II G. LYNCH GAARY DESI GABE PASQUA GABRIEL STERLING GANNS GARFIELD GARFIELD CANNON GARRISON SAULS GARY C BOOKER GARY DESAI GARY DESAI GARY DESAI GARY DESAI GARY DESAI GARY DESAI GARY DESI GARY DESI GARY L WILLIS GARY LUTRICK, AKA DA ANIMAL GARY PEARSON GARY WILLIS GEAALD HURST GENISE KEMP BROWN GENISE KEMP BROWN GENISE KEMP BROWN GENISE KEMP BROWN GENISE KEMP BROWN GEORGE KIMBROUGH GEORGE ALLEN III P.E. GEORGE ALLEN III P.E. GEORGE BUSH GEORGE BUSH GEORGE EDWARDS GEORGE JONES GEORGE LITTLE III GEORGE O'NEAL GEORGE O'NEAL GEORGE P BURDELL GEORGE TOUISIDIS GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE WASHINGTON GERALD A. BAUER GERALD WRIGHT GET SOMEONE WHO IS FOR THE CITIZENS. WHO CHILDREN THAT LIVES IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT, SUCH AS CARVER HIG KIDS THAT LIVES IN THE DISTRICT ARE LAST TO ATTEND CARVER GETITDONE GHH GIGI CONNER GIGI CONNER GIGI GREENE GILBERT WITHERSPOON GILBERT WITHERSPOON GJH GJH GLEN BECK GLEN MELTON GLEN THOMAS GLENN BECK GLENN BECK GLENN BECK GLENN MELTON GLENN MELTON GLENN MELTON GLENN WRIGHTSON GLENN WRIGHTSON GLORIA GREEN GLORIA GREEN GLORIA WARD WRIGHT GOOFY GREG MORRIS GREGORY E BODEEP GREGORY T CARAGEORGE GUINESS GUUE EDWARD BOYHE GUY B SMITH GUY B SMITH GUY SMITH GUY SMITH GUY SMITH GUY SMITH GUY SMITH GUY SMITH GUY SMITH GUY SMITH GUY SMITH GWEN C. PRIDE GWIN HALL H HAIL THE LIZARD KING HAKIM ALLADIN HAMAD KARZAI HANK LINGINFELTER HAROLD J DOBBS HARRISON ABT HARRISON ABT HARRISON ABT HARRY RANDOLPH HARRY SIVLEY HART LEVY HARTLEY CALDWELL HARVEY TARATOOT HATCH HARMON HEATHER MCGROTTY HEATHER MCGROTTY HEATHER MCGROTTY HENRY D. GURLEY HENRY L. WILLIS HENRY ROLLINS HENRY WATSON GUN HENRY WILLIS HENRY WILLIS HERMAN CAIN HERMAN CAIN HH HH HHATCH HHARMON HHH HHHH HHOWARD STOPECK HIRAM MADGE HJ HOLLY DUGGER HOLLY DUGGER HOLLY DUGGER HOLLY DUGGER HOLLY SYMOLON HOMER SIMPSON HOWARD CALLAWAY HOWARD SCHOOK HOWARD SHOOK HOWARD SHOOK HOWARD SHOOK HOWARD SHOOK HOWARD STOPECK HOWARD STOPECK HOWARD STOPECK HOWARD STOPECK HOWARD STOPECK HOWATD SHOOK HUNTER EVANS HUNTER EVANS HUNTER HOLIDAY I DO NOT SUPPORT THE ONLY CANDIDATE IAN IAN HENDERSON IMOAN BRAXTON IMOAN BRAXTON IMOAN BRAXTON IMOAN BRAXTON IMOAN BRAXTON IMOAN BRAXTON IMOAN BRAXTON IMOAN BRAXTON INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENT INDIE ROCK ELITIST INNER REDNECK EXPOSED IRA PEARL IRA PEARL IRA TURNER IRENE BROWNE ISAIAH D. DELEMAR IVORY IVORY YOUNG IVORY YOUNG IVORY YOUNG IVORY YOUNG IVORY YOUNG IVORY YOUNG IVORY YOUNG IVORY YOUNG IVY HUFF J J J YEARWOOD J. BOND J. GIDLEY J.C. WATTS J.C. WATTS J.C. WATTS J.C. WATTS J0E CRENSHAW J0E TROVILLA J0SEPH HILL JACK BLACK JACKIE BROWN JACKIE BROWN JACKIE BROWN JACKIE BROWN JACKIE BROWN JACLYN MALKA JACOB PARASO JACOB PARROSO JACOB PERASSO JACOB PERASSO JACOB PERASSO JACOB PERASSO JACQUELINE C. RHODES JACQUES DAVIGNON JADA DORSEY JADE N WILLIAMS JAMES JAMES ALEXANDER JAMES BEATY JAMES BEATY JAMES BISHOP WARD JAMES BOND JAMES ENGLISH JAMES HERVEY JAMES HUTCHINSON JAMES HUTCHINSON JAMES JACKSON JAMES M. WHITEHEAD JAMES MCIVER II JAMES ONWUACHI JAMES ONWUACHI JAMES ONWUACHI JAMES ONWUACHI JAMES ONWUACHI JAMES ONWUACHI JAMES PERRY JAMES PLAYFORD JAMES WIMBERLY JAMIN ANTHONY OSBORNE JAN JONES JANE DOE JANET WYCHE JANETT MARTIN JANICE DANIEL JANIS MEYER JAREN TANGEL JAREN TANGEL JARRAD REDDICK JARRAD REDDICK JARRELLE EVANS JARRETT KYLE STANFORD JARRETT STANFORD JARRETT STANFORD JARVIN LEVISON JASON ELMER KENDALL JASON OSBORNE JAY LITTON JAY NELSON JAY TRIBBY JAY TRIBBY JAY TRIBBY JB VICK JB VICK JB VICK JB VICK JB VICK JB VICK JEALOUSE JEFF ATKINSON JEFF CHASTEN JEFF LEBOWSKI JEFF LEHR JEFFREY C REEVES JEFFREY D. BROWER JEFFREY W. FRAZIER JEFFREY W. FRAZIER JELLLO BIAFFRA JENNA MONTGOMERY JENNIFE HENDERSON JENNIFER DELAPP JENNIFER LACOSTA JENNIFER NOLDER JENNIFER STEELE JEREMIAH GLEASON JEREMY BERRY JEREMY D GRAY JEREMY FARRIS JEREMY GRAY JEREMY NELSON JEREMY NELSON JERRY GARCIA JERRY LYNCH JERRY MANNING JESS TRAVERRS JESSE EHNERT JESSE IRELAND JESSE IRELAND JESSE IRELAND JESSE IRELAND JESSE IRELAND JESSE IRELAND JESSE JAMES JESSE WEATHINGTON JESSICA M. BELL JESSICA M. BELL JESSICA M. BELL JESSICA M. BELL JESSICA M. BELL JESSICA M. BELL JESSICA M. BELL JESSICA M. BELL JESSICA MULLIS JESSICA SIMPSON JESSIE THOMAS JESUS JESUS CHRIST JHAREN SANDERS JILL BERACKI JIM JIM JIM ASKREN JIM BEATY JIM BEATY JIM C0STELLO JIM ELGAR JIM ELGAR JIM FULTON JIM HEAD JIM KANE JIM KANE JIM KING JIM MADDOX JIM MADDOX JIM MARTIN JIM MASON JIM TURNER JIM VALENTINE JIMMY BANKOLE JIMMY VEON JJ JJJHH JOAN BROWN JOAN BROWN JOAN BROWN JOAN BROWN JOAN BROWN JOAN BROWN JOAN BROWN JOAN BROWN JOAN STEWARD JODI WEINER JOE JOE CHANG JOE HARPS JOE TEDESC0 JOE TERMINI JOE THE PLUMBER JOE THOMAS JOE WILLIAMS JOE WILLIAMS JOEL ALVARADO JOEL DALLOW JOESEPH CLAMON JOHANNA ASHER JOHN A GOLDMAN JOHN A. GREY JOHN ADAM JOHN BREYER JOHN BRUMBY JOHN BUSH JOHN C. PORTMAN JOHN CLARK JOHN DOE JOHN DOE JOHN DOE JOHN DOE JOHN DOE JOHN DOE JOHN DONAHUE JOHN DONAHUE JOHN DONAHUE JOHN ELLIOTT MILLER JOHN GALT JOHN H SCHULER JR JOHN H SCHULER JR JOHN H. PIPER JOHN HORAN JOHN ISAAC JOHN ISAAC JOHN KEIM JOHN KEIM JOHN KEIM JOHN KURY JOHN LAMB JOHN MADGE JOHN MCCOLLUM JOHN NEISLER JOHN NEISLER JOHN NEISLER JOHN NEISLER JOHN NEISLER JOHN NEISLER JOHN NEISLER JOHN NELSON JOHN PAVLIN JOHN PIAZZA JOHN QUIGLEY JOHN R KEIM JOHN ROBBINS JOHN ROBBINS JOHN SCHULER JR JOHN SCOTT JOHN SCOTT JOHN SCOTT JOHN SCOTT JOHN SCOTT JOHN SCOTT JOHN SCOTT JOHN SCOTT JOHN SCOTT JOHN SMITH JOHN SMITH JOHN SMITH JOHN SMITH JOHN WEBSTER JOHN WHALEY JOHN WITHERS JOHN WRIGHT JOHN WRIGHT JOHN WRIGHT JOHN WRIGHT JOHNNY DIXION JOHNNY HASKINS JOHNNY HASKINS JON FREDERICKS JON KAYE JON LUSKY JON MURPHY JONATHAN AWAD JONATHAN AWAD JONATHAN AWAD JONATHAN AWAD JONATHAN AWAD JONATHAN DORRIS JONATHAN DORRIS JONATHAN DORRIS JONATHAN ZADOFF JONATHON R. WIDENER JONES AADAMS JONNES PAULL JORDAN CLARK JOSEPH GADSON JOSEPH 'JOE' WILSON JOSEPH 'JOE' WILSON JOSEPH MADURO JOSEPH PAUL RATLEY, JR. JOSEPH PAUL RATLEY, JR. JOSEPH PAUL RATLEY, JR. JOSEPH PAUL RATLEY, JR. JOSEPH PORTER JOSEPH SCHMITT JOSEPH SIGAFOOS JOSEPH WILSON JOSEPH WITHROW JOSHUA MOORE JOSHUA PRESSLEY JOYCE JEFFERSON JOYCE SCOTT JOYCE SCOTT JOYCE SCOTT JOYCE SHEPERD JOYCE SHEPHERD JOYCE W. SCOTT JOYCE W. SCOTT JOYE M SHEPERD JUANITA ROCCA JUANITA ROCCA JUANITA ROCCA JUDSON WALLACE JUDSON WALLACE JUDY HARRISON JUDY HAUSER JULIAN COWART JULIE ABRAM JULIE ORR JULIE ZAHNER BAILEY JUNANITA M SMIITH K L HOWARD K. ERIC MORROW KALYANI RAMESH KAMISHA JAMES KAREN FAIREY KAREN FAIREY KARL GOODHEW KARL MARX KARL MARX KARL ROVE KARRI PARKS KARRI PARKS KASEEM REED KASEEM REED KASIM KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASIM REED KASSEEM KATHLEEN OLOUGHLIN KATHLEEN OLOUHJLIN KATHY DUNCAN KATHY SAUL KATIE LEIPPRANDT KAY BAYNARD KAY BAYNARD KAY BAYNARD KAY BAYNARD KAY BAYNARD KAY BAYNARD KEELAN DIEHL KEELAN DIEHL KEISHA WATTS KEISHIA WAITES KEISHIA WAITES KEITH M. DOCKERY KEITH TAYLOR KELBY TARPLEY KELLEY OAKLEY KELLEY,S. WILLIAM KELLY CHRISTIAN KELLY F CHRISTIAN KEN DAYS III KENNON HINES KENT LANDERS KENTON PHILLIPS KENTON PHILLIPS KENTON PHILLIPS KENTON PHILLIPS KENYA WILLIAMS KENYA WILLIAMS KENYA WILLIAMS KERMIT THE FROG KEVIN BURKE KEVIN CRANMAN KEVIN CRANMAN KEVIN CRANMAN KEVIN HUDSON KEVIN JARRELL KEVIN MCBRIDE KEVIN PLANOVSKY KEVIN PLANOVSKY KEVIN SHELDON KHOURY ASHOOH KIM BEN KIM BEN KIM BEN KIM FRANCE WILSON KIM REES KIM WILLIS KIMBERLY JOHNY KIRT LASTINGER KISAM REED KORY OLIVER KRAIG WATTS KRAIG WATTS KRIS WILSOM KURT WILSON KWANZA HALL KWANZA HALL KWANZAA HALL KYLE KEYSER KYLE KEYSER KYLE KEYSER KYLE KEYSER KYMBERLEE ESTIS LADY SAULS LAGORIA LUCAS LAGORIA LUCAS LAGORIA LUCAS LANI VANDERMEER LA'RORA KOGA LARRY BARNER LARRY CRAWFORD OF HERNDON STREET LARRY E JEPSON LARRY ORR LARRY SIEGEL LARRY SMITH LARRY TODD WEBB LARRY TODD WEBB LASHAWN HOFFMAN LASHAWN HOFFMAN LATEEF PILES LATESHA NOBLE LATESHA NOBLE LAURA FREEL LAURA GUERRY LAURA MAGISTRO WELLS LAUREN O'NEAL LAUREN O'NEAL LAURIE BUCKLEY LAVERNE POINDEXTER LAWRENCE K MENTER LEANN ROSSI LEANNE LEMMOND LEE BRISCOE BURDETT JR. LEE ENTREKIN LEE HALL LEE HALL LEE HALL LEE HALL LEE HALL LEE HALL LEE MORRIS LEE MORRIS LEE VANN LEIGH TRACY WALTERS LEIGH WILLIS LELAND BLEHM LEON COLE LEONARD GOODELMAN LEONARDA DAVIS LESLIE AUSTIN LESLIE RODGERS LEWARD L DUNN LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LEWIS STOUFFER LIBBY CORNWELL LILES THOMPSON LILIE SAULS LILLIAN DURHAM LINDA MEDSKER LINDA MEDSKER LINDA MEDSKER LINDSEY HAGGARD LISA BOARDERS LISA BORDERS LISA BORDERS LISA BORDERS LISA POTASH LISA POTASH LISA POTASH LISA POTASH LISA POTASH LISA POTASH LISA POTASH LIZ COYLE LIZ COYLE LIZ COYLE LIZARD KING 4 USA LJSA POTASH LLAGORIA LUCASA LONNIE MALCOLM LONNIE OLIVER LONNIE OLIVER LONNIE OLIVER LONNIE OLIVER LONNIE OLIVER LORI COX LORIE WHITE LORRAINE M DANAJ LORRI WERNER LOUIS BROWN JR. LOUISE HOWELL LUCKY LUCKY HUX LUDOVIKO ZAMENHOF LUVENIA FLOWERS LYDIA MEREDITH LYDIA MERIDITH LYDIA MERIDITH LYDIA MERIDITH LYDIA MERIDITH LYNN THOMASON LYNNE DONAGHY M MOUSE M. MOUSE M. MOUSE M0 FINLEY MA Y MABRY MABRY MAC COCHRAN MACK BROWN MADONNA MAGGIE HESS MARC D'ANGELO MARC ROGERS MARCELLO HANLEY MARCUS COLEMAN MARCUS COLEMAN MARGARET ANTHONY MARGARET BARTLETT MARGARET KIMBROUGH MARGARET KIMBROUGH MARIA FURTH MARIA MAZURSKY MARILYN SUCHANEK MARIO BANKS MARIO BANKS MARK BELL MARK GADRIX MARK HOWELL MARK HOWELL MARK LONG MARK NANNA MARK NUGENT MARK REILLY MARK REILY MARK REILY MARK RILEY MARK RILEY MARK RILEY MARK RILEY MARK S LYDECKER MARK STREET MARK TILLER MARLIN LEONARD BROWN MARRY MARTIN MARSHALL PICOW MARSHALL R. SMITH MARTY FIORILLO MARVIN DEREEF MARY ALDEN DYE MARY JANE BARE MARY JONES MARY LEWIS MARY MARTAIN MARY MARTIN MARY MARTIN MARY MARTIN MARY MARTIN MARY MARTIN MARY MARTIN MARY MARTIN MARY MARTTIN MARY NORRWOOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MARY NORWOOD MATHEW SELLA MATT ARDEN MATT BLACKBURN MATT HARVEY MATT HARVEY MATT JOHNSON MATT MILLER MATT MILLER MATT MILLER MATT SCHMITZ MATT SCHMITZ MATT SCHMITZ MATTHEW ARDEN MATTHEW BROWN MATTHEW BROWN MATTHEW BROWN MATTHEW BROWN MATTHEW BROWN MATTHEW BROWN MATTHEW BROWN MATTHEW GIVEN MATTHEW MILLER MATTHEW MINTON MATTHEW P CLARDY MATTHEW P CLARDY MATTHEW PHELPS MATTHEW SHEHEE MAX SUTHERLAND MAX SUTHERLAND MAX SUTHERLAND MAX SUTHERLAND MAXIMUS BOXER MAXIMUS BOXER MAXWELL GUBERMAN MAXWELL GUBERMAN ME ME ME ME ME ME ME ME ME ME ME ME MEAGAN MCBRAYER MECHELLE VERSE MECHELLE VERSE MECHELLE VERSE MECHELLE VERSE MECHELLE VERSE MEGAN WEEDE MELANIE SELCHO MELINDA MATLA MELINDA MATLA MELINDA MATLA MELINDA MATLA MELINDA MATLA MELINDA MATLA MELINDA MATLA MELINDA MATLA MELINDA MATLA MELVIN MITCHELL MEREDITH BATEMAN MEREDITH BATEMAN MEREDITH H GIFFORD MICAH EARL MICHAEL ARAMBULA MICHAEL B FORTUNE MICHAEL BISHOP MICHAEL BOWLER MICHAEL CALLAHAN MICHAEL CARPENTER MICHAEL CONNELL MICHAEL CONNELL MICHAEL CONNELLY MICHAEL EVANS MICHAEL FLOYD MICHAEL FLOYD MICHAEL FLOYD MICHAEL FLOYD MICHAEL FOUNTAIN MICHAEL FOUNTAIN MICHAEL JACKSON MICHAEL JACKSON MICHAEL JACKSON MICHAEL JACKSON MICHAEL K GREEN MICHAEL KARL MICHAELIDES MICHAEL KARL MICHAELIDES MICHAEL LANGFORD MICHAEL M. GOOD MICHAEL MCPHERSON MICHAEL MICHAELIDES MICHAEL MOUSE MICHAEL ORR MICHAEL PERKINS MICHAEL STAMBOLY MICHAEL SULLIVAN MICHAEL WARREN JR MICHAELA HYLAND MICHAELA HYLAND MICHAELA HYLAND MICHAELA HYLAND MICHEAL BOND MICHEAL BOND MICHEL BOND MICHELLE E. SMITH MICK JAGGER MICKEY M0USE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE MICKEY MOUSE ;] MICKY MOUSE MICKY MOUSE MICKY MOUSE MIKE BEST MIKE CONNELL MIKE CONNELL MIKE DAVIS MIKE KOVAC MIKE LEWIS MIKE MCCOLLUM MIKE POWERS MIKITA BROWNING MIKO EVANS MILES KNIGHT MINI MOUSE MIRIAM A. JAMES MISS BEASLEY MISS SPANISH MITCH MULLER MITCH MULLER MITCH MULLER MITCH MULLER MITCH MULLER MITCH MULLER MITCH MULLER MOM MONITA MCKENZIE MORGAN ALLISON MORGAN WILLIS SR. MORGAN WILLIS SR. MORRIS COWAN MOUEEE,,MICKEY MR MR MAGOO MR MAGOO MR. ED MSTRIKER MSTRIKER MSTRIKER MUGI COGHLIN MUNAH SABIR MY DOG MYRA ELLIOTT MYRON COOK MYRON COOK MYRON COOK MYRON COOK MYRON COOK MYSELF MYSELF MYSELF MYSELF N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N0 0NE N0NE N0NE N0NE N0NE N0NE N0NE N0NE OF THE AB0VE NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NAKIA TURNER NAN ORROCK NANCY MEISTER NANCY MEISTER NANCY MEISTER NASH ALEXANDER NATAKI OSBORNE JELKS NATALIE BENNETT NATALIE SUHL NATALIE SUHL NATE ENSOR NATE ENSOR NATE KALB NATE KALB NATION ALVARADO NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BOORTZ NEAL BORTZ NEAL OBRIEN NEAL OBRIEN NEAL O'BRIEN NEERA MAKWANA NEIL BOORTZ NEIL FLEMING NEITHER NEITHER NEXT NEXT NICH0L CLARK NICHOLAS CLARK NICHOLAS HARTMAN NICHOLAS PENCE NICHOLAS PENCE NICHOLAS PENCE NICHOLAS STEPHENS NICK PENCE NICOLAS HOFFMANN NICOLAS HOFFMANN NIKELA BARROW NK NO CONFIDENCE NO CONFIDENCE NO CONFIDENCE NO CONFIDENCE NO CONFIDENCE NO CONFIDENCE NO CONFIDENCE NO INCUMBANT NO INCUMBANT NO LAWYERS NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NO ONE NOAH NOBODY NOBODY NOBODY NOBODY NOBODY NOBODY NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE OF THE ABOVE NONE OF THE ABOVE NONE OF THE ABOVE NONE OF THE ABOVE NONE OF THE ABOVE NONE OF THE ABOVE NONE OF THE ABOVE NONE OF THESE NOONE NORM TAFFET NORWOOD NORWOOD NORWOOD NOT HER NOT HIM NOT IN THIS LIFETIME NOT KWANZA NYONE ELSE OOROP OTHER OTHER OTHER OTHER OTHER OTHER OWEN MONG PAGE GLEASON PAGE GLEASON PAGE GLEASON PAGE GLEASON PAGE GLEASON PAM WHEELER PARKER DERRICE PAT BREYER PAT WILSON PATLANDFORD PATRICIA JONES PATRICIA L. HOWELL PATRICK ADCOCK PATRICK HEALY PATRICK MITCHELL PATRICK MITCHELL PAUL BARTLETT PAUL BLACKNEY PAUL CANTRELL PAUL HOLLAND PAUL HOLLAND PAUL HOWELL PAUL JOHNSON PAUL L PETERS PAUL MOORE PAUL MOORE PAUL MOORE PAUL MOORE PAUL MOORE PAUL NEWMAN PAUL PETERS PAUL ZUCCA PAUL ZUCCA PAUL ZUCKA PAULA HUNT PAULESTER JEFFERSON PAULETTE KESSLER-WESTERMAN PAULSMITH PAULSON PEER C SMITH PEER C SMITH PEER C SMITH PEGGY BRYDEN PENNY RANDOLPH PERRY EVERETT PERRY EVERETT PERRY EVERETT PERRY EVERETT PETE SMITH PETER PETER GRIFFIN PETER JOHNSTON PETER LAUER PETER PAN PEYTON WERNER PHIL GERBER PHIL KINGRY PHILIP FASONE PHILIP RUSSEL CARTER PHILLIP BROWN PINK PITTMEN PITTMEN POLA VINISKY PONDER HARRISON PONDER HARRISON PORKY PIG PRESTON GLOVER PRETTYPIMPEREALLY QUINN DEVER QUINN SHEARER QWERTY QWERTY R R R R R R R R R.J.KUREY R.M. SIBLY R.M. SIBLY RAD SLOUGH RAD SLOUGH RANDALL BUTTERFIELD RANDALL RICHARD JACKSON RAY ABRAM REASONABLE PERSON REASONABLE PERSON REASONABLE PERSON REBECCA CHRISTIAN SMITH REDHEAD REEL REGINA HOWARD RHONDA FINLEY RHONDA PINKNEY RIC WEBB RICARDO LACOSTA RICHARD LOWENTHAL RICHARD LOWENTHAL RICHARD S. MOORE RICHARD THOMAS RICHARD THOMAS RICK BROCKMAN RICK BROCKMAN RICK BROCKMAN RICK COLEMAN RICK DREGER RICK HARP RICK MOHRIG RICK MOHRIG RICK MORHRIG RICK SIZEMORE RICK TELDER RICKEY TAYLOR RILEY SCHOFIELD RITA COSTILOW RITA COSTILOW RJ KUREY ROB CAMPBELL ROBERT BELCHER ROBERT BELCHER ROBERT BELCHER ROBERT BELCHER ROBERT BOSSHARDT ROBERT DIGGS ROBERT DURDEN ROBERT GISNESS ROBERT LACEY ROBERT M. BUNKER, SR ROBERT POLATTY ROBERT WELSH ROBERTTHOMAS ROBI HILLIARD HERRON RODES COLE RODMAN CARL BERGSTROM, JR. RODNEY BOWMAN ROGER NANCE ROLAND LANE JR RON BEERMAN RON COLLINS RON COLLINS RON COLLINS RON COLLINS RON COLLINS RON COLLINS RON COLLINS RON MODESTE RONALD JACKSON RONALD JONES RONALD REAGAN RONELLE RUSSELL RONELLE RUSSELL RONELLE RUSSELL RONELLE RUSSELL RONELLE RUSSELL RONNIE OXFORD ROON COLLINS RORY SPROUSE ROSANNE C. KOHANIM ROSANNE C. KOHANIM ROSS STALLINGS ROSS STALLINGS ROSS STALLINGS ROSS STALLINGS ROY LEE VANN RREEED S.. RROBERT A BUFFINGTON RRR RRR RRR RRR RUBY SAMPLES RUFO TERRILS RUFUS MEYER RUFUS TERRILL RUFUS TERRILL RUFUS TERRILL RUFUS TERRILL RUPERT PARCHMENT RUPERT PARCHMENT RUSH LIMBAUGH RUSSELL VEON RUSTY PAUL RUSTY PAUL RUSTY PAUL RUTH MALHOTRA RYAN GRAVEL RYAN WALTHALL RYU JJO S S BELL S BELL S BELL S BOWERS S. HARDY S0MEONEWHOCARESABOUTBAKERHILLS SABA SABA NOURIPOUR SABA NOURIPOUR SABA NOURIPOUR SABA NOURIPOUR SABA NOURIPOUR SABA NOURIPOUR SALLIE LOVEJOY SALLY RAN SAM JONESS SAM ADAMS SAM CHAN SAM HILL SAM SNEAD SAM SNEAD SAMANTHA EAVES SAMANTHA TERRY SAMANTHA TERRY SAMANTHA TERRY SAMMY DAVIS JR SAMUEL SMITH IV SANDRA G. SMITH SANDRA G. SMITH SANDRA G. SMITH SANTA SANTA CLAUS SANTA CLAUS SARA ANN VAUGHAN SARAH BATES SARAH FALGOUST SARAH PALIN SARAH PALIN SARAH SCHOFIELD SARAH SKIPPER SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOOBY DOO SCOTT CHILDRESS SCOTT SATORY SCOTT SHERIDAN SCOTT SMITH SCOTT STREET SDF SEAN HANNITY SEAN JACKSON SEAN JACKSON SEAN R. THORNTON SEAN R. THORNTON SEAN R. THORNTON SEAN R. THORNTON SEAN R. THORNTON SEAN R. THORNTON SEAN R. THORNTON SEAN R. THORNTON SEAN R. THORNTON SEBRINA MILES SEQUEL SEQUEL SEQUEL SETH GARCIA SETH GARCIA SETH KINGY SHAMUS O'TOOLE SHAN MORRIS SHANE L FREEMAN SHANE L FREEMAN SHANE L FREEMAN SHANE L FREEMAN SHANE L FREEMAN SHAWN HUFFMAN SHAWN WRAY SHAWNNA HAYES TAVARES SHAWNNA HAYES-TAVARES SHAY BRACEY SHAY BRACEY SHAZAM SHELITHA ROBERTSON SHELLY GUBERMAN SHENETHA RELEFORD SHEPARED SHERONN HARRIS SHERONN HARRIS SHERONN HARRIS SHERONN HARRIS SHERONN HARRIS SHERONN HARRIS SHERONN HARRIS SHIRLEY FRANKLIN SHIRLEY FRANKLIN SHIRLEY FRANKLIN SHIRLEY FRANKLIN SHIRLEY NETTLES SHIRLEY NETTLES SHIRLEY NETTLES SHIRLEY NETTLES SHOOK SIDNEY BOOZER SIDNEY MASHBURN SIDNEY WILLIAMS SILAS KEVIL SILAS KEVIL SILAS KEVIL SILAS PENDLETON SILES KEVIL SILLAS KEVIL SM SM SM SM SM SMITH SOBE SOME ONE ESLE SOMEBODY ELSE SOMEONE SOMEONE ELSE SOMEONE ELSE SOMEONE ELSE SOMEONE THAT HAS AN ANSWER TO A QUESTION WHEN ASKED SOMEONE WHO CARES ABOUT DOWNTOWN SOPHIA WOODBURY SPOT THE DOG SQUATSY DOFLEMEYER STAN WILSON STANLEY CALLOWAY STEPHEN ALEXANDER STEPHEN BELL STEPHEN CANNON STEPHEN CANNON STEPHEN CANNON STEPHEN CANNON STEPHEN GRIER STEPHEN KLINGER STEPHEN MOORE STEPHEN RAMSDEN STEPHEN RAMSDEN STEPHEN RAMSDEN STEPHEN RAMSDEN STEPHEN REID STEPHEN REID STEPHEN REID STEPHEN W RAMSDEN STEPHEN W RAMSDEN STEPHEN W RAMSDEN STEPHEN W RAMSDEN STEVE BAILEY STEVE BEACHAM STEVE BENJES STEVE BENJES STEVE CARR STEVE CARR STEVE KRAUS STEVE ROGERS STEVEN LEE STEVEN LIEN STEVEN LIEN STEVEN LIEN STEVEN PICKNEY STEVEN RUSS STEVEN RUSS STEWART WALLACE STEWART WALLACE STUART KRONAUGE STUART P. BRADY SUBRINA BECKHAM SUBRINA BECKHAM SUSAN CLAMON SUSAN EDLEIN SUSAN MIDIS SUSAN MIDIS SUSANNE THOMAS SUSANNE THOMMAS SUSIE GALYARDT SUZETTE SHIPP SYLVIA SPENCE T.LYON T.LYON TAKYNA RITTER TAKYNA RITTER TAMARA KAPPER TAMORYA JONES TAMORYA JONES TAMORYA JONES TAMORYA JONES TAMORYA JONES TANNA LIM TARA CHAMBERS TAYLOR TED ERCK TED NUGENT TERENCE COURTNEY TERRELL ALEXANDER TERRY HARRINGTON TERRY HARRINGTON TERVILLYAN, A TEVYLIAN THAD ARMOUR THAD ARMOUR THAD ARMOUR THEODORE ROBINSON THERESA MCGRUDER THESPI MORTIMER THEY THEY ALL SUCK THEY ALL SUCK THEY ALL SUCK THEY ALL SUCK THOMAS DUNMIRE THOMAS VANDERBILT TIBBYY D'JJUULIO TIFFANY MALONE TIFFANY BROWN TIFFANY BROWN TIFFANY BROWN TIFFANY BROWN TIFFANY DANIEL TIFFANY MALONE TIGER WOODS TIM CARLSON TIM LAMB TIM LAMB TIM LAMB TIM LAMB TIM LAMB TIM PEEK TIMOTHY J. SPARKS TIMOTHY J. SPARKS TIMOTHY J. SPARKS TIMOTHY J. SPARKS TIMOTHY WILLIS TIMOTHY WILLIS TIMOTHY WILLIS TINA DAVERSA TINA DAVERSA TINA D'AVERSA TINA HALL TOBY KAUFMAN TODD BATES TODD HENRY TODD WEBB TOLTON RAMAL PACE TOM TOM C TOM CHUBB TOM DUNMIRE TOM GREENE TOM HUFF TOM JENNINGS TOM KAPISH TOM LESLIE TOM LONG TOM LOVELACE TOM MILLER TOM SMITH TOM TIDWELL TOMMY MCDANIEL TONI JOVE TONI LOU KENNEDY TONI LOU KENNEDY TONY TONY LANKFORD TORI WHIT TORRILLIGER TRACEY COLEMAAN TRACEY COLEMAN TRACEY COLEMAN TRACY HEIDER TRAN TRAVELLYIAN TRAVILLIAN TRAVILLIAN TRAVILLION TRAVILLYAN TRAVILLYAN TRAVIS ALLEN TRAVIS JONES TRAVIS JONES TRAVIS MARIEA TRAVIS TOMLINSON TRAVYLIAN TRAYVILLIYAN TRE VILYEN TRELLIYEN TRENT THACKER TREVALIAN TREVALLYAN, AL TREVEILLAN TREVELIAN TREVELIN TREVELLYAN TREVELLYAN TREVELLYN TREVILEN TREVILLAN TREVILLAN TREVILLAN TREVILLIAN TREVILLIAN TREVILLIAN TREVILLIAN TREVILLION TREVILLLLYYYAN TREVILLUAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN TREVILLYAN,AL TREVILLYEN TREVILLYN TREVILLYN TREVILYAN TREVLLYAN TREVLLYN TREVYLLAN TREVYLLAN TREVYLLIAN TREVYLLIN TREYVASIAN TREYVILLIAN TREYVILLIN AL TRINA HALL TRINA HALL TRINITY JENKINS TRIPP MCARTY TRISHA THOMPSON TRIVYLLIAN TROY GREEN TRUDY ALEXANDER TRVALLON TRYVLIA TTHEODORE ROBINSON TTREVILLLYAN TTY TUCKER SHIELDS TY ALLEN TYLER ALLEN TYRE CHAPMAN U UJIM BEATY UNCIDEED CHARLES E BADY UNCIDEED CHALES E BADY UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDED UNDECIDEED CHALES E BADY UNDECIEDED CHARLES EDWARD BADY UNDICEED CHARLES E BADY UNEDCIDEED CHARLES EDWARD BADY UNICEED CHARLES E BADY URIAH GILMORE URIAH GILMORE VALECIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIA HICKS VALENCIAHICKS VALERIE CALLOWAY VAN HARDIMON VANESSA VADIM VENITA COLEMAN VERONICA BROWN VINCE WILLIAMS VINCENT HYMAN VINCENT L ROGERS VINCENT L ROGERS VINCENT ROGERS VIOLET VIOLET HUX VIVIAN MIN VIVIANE WALDROP W W WADE BENSON WADE BENSON WALLY WALT RAY WALTER BROWN WASTING PESOS.COM WAYNE BRAWNER WELTA DISMUKE WELTA DISMUKE WELTA DISMUKE WELTA DISMUKE WENDY HUDSON WENDY KLARMAN WES MCCLEARY WHEELER NRYAN WHISTLE STOP MOORE WIL WILLIAMS WILL BURGE WILLIAM G O'NEAL WILLIAM BURGE WILLIAM C THOMPSON WILLIAM C THOMPSON WILLIAM L STRICKLAND WILLIAM M. MATTHEWS WILLIAM R WISE JR WILLIAM RUTKOWSKI WILLIAM SMITH WILLIAM WASSELL WILLIE B WILLIE CONE III WILLIE CONE III WILLIE CONE III WILLIE LUMP WILSON BORDEN WLLIAM H SADDLER Write-In WRITTTE WWW X X X XANNA DONT XAVIER BRYANT XX XXX XXXXXX Y YOLAND YOLANDA ADREAN YOLANDA ADREAN YOLANDA ADREAN YOU YUI ITSUKI YUI ITSUKI YUI ITSUKI YUI ITSUKI YUI ITSUKI ZACHARY E. GOLDSTEIN ZACK BUERSMEYER ZACK BUERSMEYER ZACK BUERSMEYER ZAKARIA AJMAL ZELDA JACKSON ZOE ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.180.22 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 04:18:50 PM Those two at your door LIED! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.180.22 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 04:36:02 PM Highlights: CRAPPY JOB.COM DEBUTY DOG G UNIT 9M. GEORGE P BURDELL JELLLO BIAFFRA JOHN GALT (as if he would run for public office!) PAUL ZUCCA SCOOBY DOO (10 votes!) I guess I.P. Daily, Willie Makeit and Betty Wont have lost the confidence of the voters. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 11/19/2009 04:52:15 PM I see opportunities for guerilla marketing! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.155.132.222 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 04:56:31 PM Oh Lord. A disturbing side-effect of griftdrift going back into the work force. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 66.190.87.1 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 06:48:13 PM GEORGE P BURDELL is classic. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 10:42:29 AM I DEMAND A RECOUNT! (And if you think I am joking....) ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Errin Vuley memorial on Friday, November 20 at 11:00am BASENAME: errin_vuley_memorial_on_friday STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/19/2009 03:50:46 PM ----- BODY: Longtime pro-choice activist killed in crash
Errin Vuley, a longtime activist for women's causes, was killed Tuesday morning in a multi-car crash in DeKalb County. Vuley, 35, had been a familiar face at the State Capitol for several years, working for the Feminist Women's Health Center and GARAL, the pre-cursor to Georgia NARAL Pro-Choice America, before serving as executive director for Georgians for Choice from 2001-2006.Memorial services will be held Friday, November 20 at 11 a.m. at A. S. Turner & Sons funeral home in Decatur. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/19/2009 07:46:47 PM [Geez the sign in worked this time...] Thanks for this Mel, I knew Errin from her activism work during her tenure @ various pro-choice 'shops' GRAL etc.. She was always tremendously energetic, laughing, busy, busy laughing and trying her damndest to turn back the forces of darkness that pervade our visions of the future, here & elsewhere. She'll be missed by all who knew her & mourned by many more. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 12:50:24 AM An online 'Guest Book' of friends & remembrances is here: http://www.legacy.com/gb2/default.aspx?bookid=4428247409451&cid=full The family placed an obit here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/atlanta/obituary.aspx?n=errin-vuley&pid=136127275 It's amazing the number of lives touched in just a relatively short time. Godspeed Errin. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Regarding depression and suicide BASENAME: regarding_depression_and_suici STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/19/2009 11:20:59 PM ----- BODY: We know the Winter holidays can be especially rough for those who suffer from depression, but the current economic climate has also been a trigger for many. Perhaps prompted by recent news events, below are two links sent by readers. I can't vouch for the second (10 Common Myths), but am passing it along as a courtesy since it doesn't seem to contain any harmful info. The others are from Atlanta based WebMD. Depression isn't a disease anyone can or should try to fight alone. The key is proper diagnosis and professional treatment. If you think you might suffer from depression, no matter how mild, getting help can make a huge difference not only for you, but for the people you love. Trust me on this. Depression health check, from WebMD 10 Common Myths About Suicide, from X-Ray Technician Related: Myths About Depression Quiz, from WebMD ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: David Adelman nominated ambassador to Singapore BASENAME: david_adelman_nominated_ambass STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/20/2009 12:06:30 AM ----- BODY: How exotic!
State Sen. David Adelman (D-Atlanta) has been nominated by President Barack Obama to be U.S. ambassador to Singapore, the White House announced late Thursday. Adelman, a member of Georgia's state Senate since 2002 served as a member of Obama's national finance campaign during the 2008 campaign. His wife, Caroline, served as spokeswoman for Obama's Georgia primary campaign.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 12:57:47 AM Thanks Mel, I was wondering when someone would notice all the news on the feeds in the sidebar! Looks like yet another special election and a loss for our caucus. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 08:38:23 AM Singapore is overrated. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Clinton to headline fundraiser for Attorney General Thurbert Baker BASENAME: clinton_to_headline_fundraiser STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/20/2009 12:33:21 AM ----- BODY:
President Clinton to Attend Fundraiser for Attorney General Thurbert Baker's 2010 Campaign for Governor Georgia Attorney General Thurbert Baker announced today that President Bill Clinton will deliver remarks at a fundraiser to benefit his 2010 campaign for Governor of Georgia. The event will be held in New York City on Monday evening, December 7, 2009, at the residence of a Baker supporter. "President Clinton brought people together to build a strong economy and create a record number of new jobs. That's what I will do for Georgia as Governor, and I'm honored to have President Clinton's support and counsel as we work to bring a much needed new direction to our state," Baker said.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 08:42:20 AM Thurbert endorsed Hilldog in the primary. Makes sense. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.112.71 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 08:44:31 AM And I believe Roy endorsed Edwards. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Johnny Brown EMAIL: IP: 205.188.116.9 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 09:02:39 AM Barnes supported Edwards. I do remember that. Who did Poythress and Porter support? Anyone know? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 09:41:46 AM Poythress was silent because he hadn't returned to the party then. Duh. DuBose was for Edwards. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: GrumpySmurf EMAIL: IP: 98.219.43.124 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 02:51:35 PM When was Poythress not a Democrat? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: GALiberalsExist EMAIL: IP: 67.191.216.174 URL: DATE: 11/20/2009 09:21:43 PM Well, lets see here... Poythress was on the ballot as a Democrat in 1982, 1992, 1994, and 1998... from 1999-2007 he was Commanding the National Guard... in 2008 he supported Democrats... in 2010 he's back on the ballot as a Democrat... Can someone check his voting record? My guess is that it should be pretty D heavy. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Submitted Without Comment BASENAME: submitted_without_comment STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/20/2009 11:37:21 AM ----- BODY: Click through to the entry to see the full image.
The Army Times is reporting exclusively that an anonymous note threatening a massacre similar to the Nov. 5 attack at Fort Hood, Texas, was discovered Thursday -- along with a box of 20 hollow-point bullets -- in a motor pool area at Columbus' Fort Benning.Heightened security is in place for the weekend. I've been to Fort Benning for the SOA Watch protests and I am unsure how they could "heighten" the security. With snipers on raised towers, armed guards surrounding the entrance, razor wire on the fencing, it's already a fortress. SOA Watch founder, Father Roy Bourgeious, is not expected to be on hand in Columbus this weekend due to the failing health of his 96-year old father. However, you can be sure that his presence will be felt with each marcher, puppeteer, and attendee. More information about this weekend's activities is on the jump. ----- EXTENDED BODY: Interview with Eric LeCompte, chief organizer with the School of the Americas Watch. Schedule and details for this weekends vigil. Father Roy Bourgeois and Azadeh Shahshahani on HuffPo. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: gunner EMAIL: IP: 68.51.168.54 URL: DATE: 11/21/2009 11:26:38 AM Somewhere Juliana is polishing her combat boots and I love her for it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.175.157 URL: DATE: 11/21/2009 11:33:39 AM I will be there! This is year 10 for me. As much as I am there for the vigil-it's also one of the few places to see what the Social Justice movement looks like in this country. Every group you can imagine will be there, last year the movement to ordain women in the catholic church was there-strong! This is the 20th Anniversary of the murder of the Jesuit Priests in El Salvador, but this school is still very involved in the politics of the region. Hello Honduras! Yes, we are all caught up in that, not that you'll see much of in the corporate media. go here for more info. http://therealnews.com/t/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=4265 ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Another step closer BASENAME: another_step_closer STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/22/2009 10:08:35 AM ----- BODY: Senate Democrats Advance Health Care Reform Bill
Democrats in the U.S. Senate have united to push health care reform legislation past a key procedural hurdle, paving the way for full-scale debate starting later this month. President Barack Obama has made passing sweeping health care reform his top domestic priority.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.218.36.134 URL: DATE: 11/23/2009 06:22:29 PM If Joe Lieberman effs this up for everyone, laser beams will shoot from my eyes all the way to Connecticut. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Newsflash: Some Latinos Here Legally BASENAME: newsflash_some_latinos_here_le STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/22/2009 02:09:43 PM ----- BODY:
His website doesn't begin to describe the breadth of this man's knowledge or his overwhelming passion, especially when discussing education. It has to be experienced in person. Dubose knows the minutiae, of how things work. I think any truly dedicated person that devotes over a quarter of a century of his life to the betterment of Georgians is going to have a very thorough grasp of discerning need from pork, fairness from greed.Although this piece is a little over the top, Dubose is highly regarded within the Democratic community. Even so, it's difficult to see how he takes the nomination from Barnes next July. Ironically, Porter would probably fare better in the General Election, if only because he has less baggage, but that's not how primaries work. Porter also has less name recognition, less money and less national support that either Roy Barnes or Thurbert Baker. These are difficult hurdles to overcome in a few short months. For better or worse, I believe Roy Barnes has a nostalgic appeal that will be difficult to resist, especially for older Democratic voters. He represents a time when the economy was booming and Democrats still held the majority in Georgia. With the single exception of Obama, then was better than now for most of us, and Barnes aims to capitalize on that. Unfortunately for Georgia Democrats, he will probably succeed at nothing more than squandering another election cycle. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 11/23/2009 03:08:04 AM Yep, but there's a clear caveat here. Even with the high name recognition, this is almost assured to need a runoff to get to the General. And really? Anything can and might happen. Nothing says that this is going to be a 'cake walk' for anyone. But we do have 4 highly seasoned politicos who have their own unique appeals & approaches. From what I've seen of most of them on the stump (Thurbert Baker has been a rare act to try to follow so far on the hustings), I'd have to say that Dubose has been the one who's clearly the 'most improved' when speechifying. He's clearly able to answer complex & particular questions on all manner of highly local issues, as he's been involved with many of them for decades now. It takes some time & practice to be able to do this in a fluid manner, and very few can do this on their feet for over an hour's time answering all comers. Most of our candidates clearly can do this and connect with voters with their specific knowledge of issues, debates & problems that we face. We should be proud of that level of competence at least. But for much of the last few years mere competence has not ruled the waves down here, (or indeed even many other precincts), so the message has to be not only attractively packaged, but inspiring to legions of needed volunteers & campaign workers. That remains to be seen. Still on the 'baggage' front, I could have never quite believed that Obama could be demonized so successfully as the Clinton's had been before him by the right wing forces of darkness & reaction. And stupendously & yet predictably, he somehow has been. Most Rethugs think Acorn 'stole the election' for Obama. Yep All 9.5 Million votes somehow 'programmed' into the 'black boxes' once wholly owned by yes, Repug leaning conglomerates (Diebold) & other fellow plutocrats. Most Rethugs think he's a 'socialist' without much evidence, and a 'racist' to boot, with even less to go on. Only a plurality think he was even 'born here' and even more suspect he's a 'secret Muslim'. So again, yes, a real problem. And at least some of it clearly media created, generated, manufactured, cultivated & maintained ignorance for their own devices & feeding their ever so important 'bottom line'. Controversy sells. Debate sells. Screaming and fights get the crowds riled up and wanting to read & comment more. But evidently not so much on the newspaper sties (although they are popular). It's just not really selling any more papers any more. So the media (MSM) has crashed & burned already as an 'accurate' and/or 'reliable' source of news or respectable/objective/balanced or fair commentary. So yews, if you've been in politics long enough & especially if you're a popular Dem? You'll be demonized. Count on it. And most of the so called 'liberal' media will typically not lift a finger to ever deign to correct it. Not now, not ever. And they'll only repeat the old lies over & over again to their hearts content. [Again see the dailyhowler.com & mediamatters.org on that score]. So the question always comes down to some very complicated physics in the end. Is said politician really good enough to both make the case for himself & his program, while dodging said slings & arrows of the past/present/future some of which will be clearly invented by his opposition & the media And at the same time still inspiring a band of loyal followers who will yes, Work, actively to see him/her elected & successful once elected? That's some mad alchemy there as always. But baggage, we'll always have with us too. And no one should fool themselves about that either. Yes, some politico's are currently more 'unpopular' than others. With a few million dollars and any decent oppo research we could make Mother Theresa seem vastly unattractive & a clear shirker to her 'duty'. Hell Hitch did that way back when w/o breaking much of a sweat too. And yeah. I know no one much reads the long ones. But hey it's on local politics. JMP http://www.huffingtonpost.com/cenk-uygur/gross-failure-of-the-medi_b_364862.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: rusty EMAIL: IP: 74.232.112.60 URL: http://rustytanton.com DATE: 11/23/2009 06:25:27 AM Remember how inevitable it looked that Hillary Clinton would be the Democratic nominee when she jumped in the race? Barnes looks just as inevitable right now, but there's a lot of time left. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.112.141 URL: DATE: 11/23/2009 01:12:44 PM Don't forget; they are running against Republicans- who are quickly self-destructing. Between the pandering and ethics problems, Deal and Oxendine are leaving the door wide open for Handel. I wonder how well she will hold up in the spotlight though. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sid Cottingham EMAIL: IP: 71.31.118.123 URL: DATE: 11/25/2009 08:13:48 AM Three things in life are certain (although usually nothing in politics is certain): death, taxes and Barnes being Georgia's next governor (OK a fourth, without a runoff in the primary). ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: New Georgia Politics Podcast BASENAME: new_georgia_politics_podcast STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/23/2009 03:09:22 PM ----- BODY: Episode 23 is online now. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: I know you know... BASENAME: i_know_you_know STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/23/2009 03:27:54 PM ----- BODY: Advance Voting for the December 1 runoff starts today! And here's your handy voting info:
Advance voting starts Monday, November 23, 2009, and runs through Wednesday, November 25, 2009. The hours of Advance voting are 8:30am to 7:00pm. Find locations for Early and Advance voting in Fulton and Dekalb Counties here. Election Day for the runoff is December 1, 2009. The hours of voting are 7:00am to 8:00pm. You can vote in the runoff even if you did not vote on November 3rd.Ten runoff races will take place:
Atlanta Mayor, between Mary Norwood and Kasim Reed Atlanta City Council President, between Ceasar Mitchell and Clair Muller Atlanta City Council District 6, between Liz Coyle and Alex Wan Atlanta City Council Post 2 At Large, between Amir Farokhi and Aaron Watson City of College Park, City Council Ward 4, between Charles E. Phillips Sr. and April Wright - Wyatt City of East Point Mayor, between Joe Macon and Earnestine Pittman East Point Council WA At-Large, between Greg Fann and Sharonda Hubbard City of Roswell Mayor, between David Tolleson and Jere Wood State House District 58, between Simone Bell and Asha F. Jackson State Senate District 35, between Donzella James and Torrey O Johnson.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 11/23/2009 03:43:53 PM And you know who to write in wherever you can! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Virtual Mayoral Forum Today (Tuesday) BASENAME: virtual_mayoral_forum_today_tu STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 11/24/2009 12:11:36 AM ----- BODY:
WSB is now confirming Glenn Richardson will announce his resignation during today's 4 p.m. conference call. Sources tell WSB's Lori Geary the resignation will be effective December 31.The blogs and twitter have been all over this today, looks we will know fo'sure in about 30 mins. Oh, can I just say-I'm digging on the flashing cop light thingy they have at PP. Update: Glenn Richardson resigns as Speaker and his seat as 19th District Representative in Paulding County, read his resignation letter here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/03/2009 05:21:31 PM Sic semper tyrannis. And yeah, I'll cath some hell for that too. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: What we have to look forward to on Jan. 12, 2010 BASENAME: what_we_have_to_look_forward_t STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/03/2009 05:20:05 PM ----- BODY: Jan. 12th is the day the 2010 Georgia General Assembly will begin and I can guess what will happen during the 40 day session. ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. Nothing that will enhance the lives of everyday Georgians. Instead, there will be a lot of grown folks acting like a bunch of kids on the playground. Why so, because the majority party, the Republicans, are in complete shambles. First, Glenn "everyone knew his ass was shady" Richardson has finally confirmed what everyone under the Gold Dome always knew: he was a shallow and vindictive person who traded the passage of bills for sex with the pretty ladies. Now that Glenn has resigned, we will get to witness a full frontal pissing match between Glenn loyalists and Glenn haters. This will make for awesome blog posts but will take up so much time that all meaningful legislation to improve the economy, education, and housing will be lost. The good stuff will not have a chance to rise above the manure. Secondly, Perdue has been a lame duck Governor since he was elected seven years ago and I can't say that his "brilliant light" will automatically shine that the General Assembly is cracking. Nope...Nada...no since to keep any hope alive that Perdue will display any signs of leadership. Lastly, all the folks running for Governor, many who are State Constitutional officers, will spend their time sucking up to Glenn Richardson's donors and lobbyists (the non sexy ones). They will make lots of promises to these corporate yahoos with the assurance that when they win they will be smarter at hiding their transgressions than Richardson. Yeah, so the average Georgian can you hear that sucking sound - yup, that's the sound of your tax dollars being wasted because your elected officials are more worried about protecting their political careers and power than whether you have a job, a roof over your head, and a safe place for your kids to get educated. Let's hope the Democrats can show some leadership and help Georgians remember that they are the more important than the mighty power trip. Hold on kiddies it's gonna be a long 40 days. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.158.209.44 URL: DATE: 12/03/2009 06:21:25 PM Oh all the committee chairs must be in such a twist-will they still be "chair"? Who's a "hawk" etc.. ugh. I know at least 25 GOP legislators who are doing the happy dance tho. I pity the folks who thought they got elected to serve the people of Georgia. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: IP: 66.190.88.70 URL: DATE: 12/03/2009 07:45:20 PM Amen Bernita! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/04/2009 12:47:05 AM No, I predict it'll be far worse & more miserable & unimaginably grueling. Easiest bet to make in Ga. politics, actually. But I just love the way the Press/Media & almost everyone else essentially covered for so long for this sick corrupt SOB. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: SoCon 10 BASENAME: socon_10 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/03/2009 08:23:01 PM ----- BODY: Am I the only one who finds it odd that the "Southeast's Premiere Social Media and Social Networking Conference" is not using social media to publicize the event? Just asking. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Carole Arnold EMAIL: IP: 130.218.10.1 URL: DATE: 12/16/2009 10:10:18 AM Really, Mel? Where have you been? It's everywhere. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.180.189 URL: DATE: 12/16/2009 12:18:53 PM Really Carole, so why no link to Facebook, Twitter or others on your website? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/16/2009 08:37:24 PM What the hell is SoCon? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 09:01:34 AM I think it is where a bunch of bloggers circle jerk with a bunch of other bloggers about how to produce a better social networking circle jerk and everyone gets too excited about playing wet biscuit. I mean that in the best way possible. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Holiday gift guide: the political edition (part one) BASENAME: holiday_gift_guide_the_politic STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/04/2009 03:32:15 AM ----- BODY:
"Allowing the legislature to police itself on ethics is like letting a criminal preside over his own court hearing," said Representative Rob Teilhet. "The resignation of Speaker Richardson is not enough. We must address the underlying culture of corruption that has allowed self-dealing and conflicts of interest to run rampant at our Capitol. It is time for meaningful ethics reform that will help restore the public's trust in government. Only then can we safeguard against similar problems in the future."----- EXTENDED BODY: Teilhet's legislation will give the State Ethics Commission jurisdiction over complaints of conflict of interest against members of the Georgia General Assembly. Currently, such complaints are enforced by the General Assembly itself through a Joint Legislative Ethics Committee. In 2007 the Joint Legislative Ethics Committee dismissed a complaint detailing the facts that led to House Speaker Richardson's resignation last week. The complaint was dismissed immediately, without any hearing or investigation. If Teilhet's proposal sounds familiar, it should. It was a centerpiece of Governor Sonny Perdue's ethics proposals in 2005. Eventually an ethics bill passed in the waning hours of the 2005 session, but the conflict of interest provisions were removed at the insistence of the Georgia House Republican leadership.
"Governor Sonny Perdue was right in 2005. But the House leadership gutted his legislation, and the result was an ethics bill with no teeth on conflict of interest. The embarrassment of last week is a direct result of the lack of any meaningful action by the General Assembly on ethics. It is high time we strengthen Georgia's ethics laws and get our public officials back to the business of serving constituents, rather than themselves."----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 173.137.242.115 URL: DATE: 12/07/2009 08:13:14 PM why do I torture myself by clicking on Stefan's links? Whyyyyy??? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.211.137.143 URL: DATE: 12/10/2009 11:03:49 PM You know Stefan, we Southerners don't hold Mr. Sha-mun in very high regard. Perhaps you missed that whole scorched earth thing at E-tawn. Otherwise, ethics? Yes, please. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: A simple plan for a clean sweep in 2010 BASENAME: a_simple_plan_for_a_clean_swee STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/07/2009 06:52:52 PM ----- BODY: OK Georgia Democrats we can win the entire enchilada in 2010. A clean sweep! If we stick to one message: If the Georgia Republicans could care less about their own families what makes you think that they care about YOUR family. Easy as pie. The Georgia GOP's code of ethics is cracking by the minute. Every since the lead singer of the GOP Boy Band member faked his suicide and was waxed on tv by his ex-wife, the rest of the band is folding. Other band members, Cagle, Johnson, and Burkhalter, who once sold out shows to every tween aged staffer and lobbyist, are about to go down in flames. The time is now for Georgia Democrats to convey to the State's Independent voters that we have their family interests first and foremost in every legislative action. The time is now to tell them that Georgia Democrats and their vision for the State of Georgia cannot be bought and sold to the highest lobbying firm. ----- EXTENDED BODY: We can do without Georgia Democrats making cheesy videos declaring that they have never "stepped out on their wives". All we need is a simple message to convey to Georgia families that we won't screw over your families like the GOP does with easy and tawdry lobbyists. A simple plan. And for the love of everything that is holy, for all those Georgia Democrats that have lots of skeletons in your closets, please STFU and refrain from preaching any sanctimonious tales of how the GOP is so corrupt. We don't need you grandstanding. You will just muddy the waters. Please also take note on how to convict a wayward Republican legislator. Buh Bye to NY senate majority leader Bruno. UPDATE: Burkhalter pulls his name from House Speaker anointing. And the hits keep coming... UPDATE II: One last question, now that Richardson is gone, who gets Mike Jacobs as their bitch? ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.180.189 URL: DATE: 12/07/2009 09:52:39 PM never happen, you used words like "plan" and "vision" bwhahahhahahahahha ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpokenJoken EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.246 URL: DATE: 12/07/2009 11:25:53 PM Agreed, the time is now if there ever was one. I haven't seen a lot to give the Democrats in this state a lot to be hopeful about so far though... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/07/2009 11:27:46 PM Fun post. But before the 'vision' thingy there was the title. 'A simple plan for a clean sweep in 2010'. I hear the echoes of 'a cunning plan' in a certain accent. But certainly one of my top wishes for the new year. BTW: The need for the actual recordings evidently is still vital. This from someone who still well remembers ole 'Tricky Dick' Nixon. That took a long time to come to fruition too. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.194.29 URL: DATE: 12/08/2009 01:43:15 PM Oh dear sweet Bernita...I'm sitting next to Jules snickering at the mere thought of the DPG getting it together to put a cohesive plan in place and implement it. You would think the proper course of action would be a no brainer and yet... ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: The narrow prism of "Choice" and much larger issue of Reproductive Justice BASENAME: the_narrow_prism_of_choice_and STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/08/2009 02:43:05 PM ----- BODY: As I watch the debate regarding Stupak/Pitts/Nelson and it's very hostile language targeting women I was reminded that I wanted to write a little about where the "movement" is regarding Reproductive Justice, or RJ for short. Pro-Choice advocates, while I love them, still tend to cling to the very premise that women have a "choice" prior to getting pregnant. This idea assumes that women sometimes girls had not only the access to appropriate medical information, the ability to pay for it. If you live in Georgia, access is probably the single most ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: It's official - Atlanta now has a new Mayor BASENAME: its_official_-_atlanta_now_has STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/09/2009 04:41:47 PM ----- BODY:
Kasim Reed won the Atlanta mayor's race by 714 votes, a recount of the Dec. 1 runoff results showed Wednesday. Reed won 42,549 votes while Mary Norwood won 41,835 votes, Fulton County officials said Wednesday. At 2:30 p.m. Norwood conceded. "Here we are at the end of a very very long two years," she said. "The recount results are final and now it is time to accept it. "Congrats Mayor Reed!!! We'll be watching and blogging. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/09/2009 07:21:37 PM Thanks Bernita, Yes, congrats (finally) to Mayor Kasim Reed! I'll make another fearless prediction that they'll be newly invigorated efforts to disenfranchise more voters in Atl using any sort of pretense possible. Especially minority voters. SSDD. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: SpokenJoken EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.246 URL: DATE: 12/09/2009 07:57:44 PM Yeah, I am so glad we have Karen Handel on the guard making sure no one makes the mistake of thinking we live in a democracy--especially people with darker skin tones. If she gets the governor nomination I think I would actually condone voter fraud to insure she loses, just for irony. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/10/2009 01:12:46 PM Well Mary just keep this in mind http://11.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_kueb3lb5h51qzv9mho1_500.jpg I actually mean no disrespect I just saw that and felt like sharing it with the world/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.211.97.173 URL: DATE: 12/10/2009 03:31:18 PM I would have to be pretty hammered to click on one of your links. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/11/2009 08:37:45 AM So you'd have to have my standard level of sobriety then? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Another present from Georgia Republicans BASENAME: another_present_from_georgia_r STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/10/2009 09:57:39 PM ----- BODY:
Georgia House Republicans on Friday will celebrate their version of Festivus. In the television show "Seinfeld, " the made-up holiday of Festivus was famous for its annual "airing of grievances." And nothing better describes what is likely to transpire Friday when the GOP caucus gathers in Atlanta after the worst month it could likely imagine. "A bit of self-reflection is a good thing," Rep. Ed Lindsey (R-Atlanta) said. Their speaker tried to kill himself and then announced his resignation in disgrace following charges he had an affair with a lobbyist for a utility that stood to benefit from legislation he was championing. The heir to the speakership said a week ago he looked forward to taking the job and then this week changed his mind and said he wouldn't seek the position on a permanent basis. Speculation over sex scandals and familial hang-ups permeates the majority caucus, and Friday's gathering is billed as an opportunity to discuss the fallout and the path forward.Related, Erick Erickson opines in the Macon paper: A political culture of corruption ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/12/2009 07:07:28 PM What I always thought particularly funny about all this was the idea that the 'airing of grievances' did indeed (eventually) seem to happen at almost Every holiday gathering. Or the threat was clearly there overhanging everyone at almost every moment. (You too, eh?) There needn’t have been a single special day set aside for it all. Well not for most of the folks I knew at least. But for the GOP 'family'? Festivus only comes about perhaps once every 20-25 years. If that. They'd much rather blame everything & all problems on others. Which has mostly been unsurprisingly successful for generations as a matter of fact & happy self satisfied tradition. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: WABE misses an opportunity! BASENAME: wabe_misses_an_opportunity STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/11/2009 10:45:43 PM ----- BODY: A Lesson in Donor Relations. I have long been a public radio fan and supporter. And Saturday morning? Fahgetaboutit! Don't bother me between 8AM and Noon. I am glued to the dial. I follow Scott Simon, Peter Sagal, and WaitWait on Twitter. I'm an addict. So, the moment I learned Wait Wait Don't Tell Me was coming to the Cobb Energy Center I plunked down my credit card and bought the "Special Seating with a Meet & Greet" tickets. I can't even remember when I got the tickets, it seems like months ago! The live taping was fantastic. Sagal, Carl Kassell, Decatur's own Roy Blount Jr, Amy Dickinson, and Charlie Pierce were as quick witted and entertaining as any regular listener would expect. It was over 90 minutes of laugh-out-loud fun. Following the show and the acquisition of the free CSX tote bag off we went to the Meet & Greet reception. I've been to many of these types of events over the years - several dozen devoted donors willing to shell out a couple hundred bucks to rub elbows with quasi-celebrities standing around chit-chatting. What was different the other night was the complete lack of any acknowledgment from the WABE staff at the reception. ----- EXTENDED BODY: If anyone from WABE should pass thru these parts, here are some tips.
Wondering if the company had anything to hide, Silver stayed up all night keying all of Strategic Vision's poll results over the last four years into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. To test the polls, Silver made use of a statistical truism. As he puts it, "Tell a human to come up with a set of random numbers, and they will be surprisingly inept at trying to do so." They unwittingly fall into nonrandom patterns.
Silver concluded that the firm's data were not random. "It's not close to random," he wrote. "It's not close to close."Related: Background on the Strategic Vision censure here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/15/2009 04:41:04 AM I saw that come across on his (Nate's) site, and I also suspect that it's far from uncommon in too many contexts. But there's several high level mathematical tests that can be used to 'check' on such data and just how 'non random' they may be. But thanks for the notice. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Democratic cannibals BASENAME: democratic_cannibals STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/15/2009 12:25:46 AM ----- BODY:
This is essentially the collapse of health care reform in the United States Senate. Honestly the best thing to do right now is kill the Senate bill, go back to the House, start the reconciliation process, where you only need 51 votes and it would be a much simpler bill.Personally, I'd also like to see Dr. Dean take on Joe Lieberman in a Ultimate Fighting-style cage match. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.134.44 URL: DATE: 12/15/2009 04:01:50 PM Huzzah! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 10:50:44 AM David Sirota on why the Dems in the Senate are now terrified of Howard Dean....again... http://www.openleft.com/diary/16531/howard-dean-is-a-genuine-hero ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Georgia fails to hear Gideon's trumpet BASENAME: georgia_fails_to_hear_gideons STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/15/2009 10:39:45 PM ----- BODY:
"The Constitution and state law require that indigent defendants in Georgia be provided with counsel at every critical stage of a criminal prosecution, including the motion for new trial and direct appeal. Appeals are a critical safeguard to ensure that convictions are constitutional and the right to counsel is no less important on appeal than it is at trial. It is inexcusable for some of our plaintiffs to have been incarcerated for years without counsel when the law could not be clearer," said Lauren Sudeall Lucas, staff attorney at SCHR. "The Constitution has to be a line item in the State's budget."For those who think post-conviction appeals aren't important, tell that to Donald Gates. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/18/2009 10:05:14 PM 'Cause I hate these 'orphan' posts, and it's a universal problem. Some relevant discussion heard here earlier today on Valerie Jackson's 'Between the lines' Program: http://www.pba.org/programming/programs/btl/ December 18, 2009 Amy Bach, author of Ordinary Justice: How America Holds Court Macmillan Books "From an award-winning lawyer-reporter, a radically new explanation for America’s failing justice system. The stories of grave injustice are all too familiar: the lawyer who sleeps through a trial, the false confessions, the convictions of the innocent. Less visible is the chronic injustice meted out daily by a profoundly defective system. In a sweeping investigation that moves from small-town Georgia to upstate New York, from Chicago to Mississippi, Amy Bach reveals a judicial process so deeply compromised that it constitutes a menace to the people it is designed to serve. Here is the public defender who pleads most of his clients guilty; the judge who sets outrageous bail for negligible crimes; the prosecutor who brings almost no cases to trial; the court that works together to achieve a wrong verdict. Going beyond the usual explanations of bad apples and meager funding, Bach identifies an assembly-line approach that rewards shoddiness and sacrifices defendants to keep the court calendar moving, and she exposes the collusion between judge, prosecutor, and defense that puts the interests of the system above the obligation to the people. It is time, Bach argues, to institute a new method of checks and balances that will make injustice visible-the first and necessary step to any reform. Amy Bach, a member of the New York bar, has written on law for The Nation, The American Lawyer, and New York magazine, among other publications". http://us.macmillan.com/ordinaryinjustice JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Why MoveOn sucks: BASENAME: why_moveon_sucks STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/16/2009 07:42:16 PM ----- BODY: I got this email from MoveOn today:
Dear MoveOn member (ah the lure of a free bumper sticker), It's outrageous: Joe Lieberman is single-handedly blocking our best chance at strong health care reform in years!Above they list the problem. And here, drum roll please, is their "solution":
In less than 24 hours MoveOn members have donated an astounding $650,000 to send Lieberman home for good. That's awesome--thank you! Now we're aiming to raise $1 million together. If we can hit that goal, we'll have the resources to make sure every voter in Connecticut knows that Senator Lieberman has been standing in the way of reform and to push Senate Democrats to take away his chairmanship.
That'll take at least 86 donations from Atlanta--can you chip in $5? [deleted histrionics] Thanks for all you do. -Nita, Carrie, Wes, Steven, and the rest of the teamWhy this is idiotic, after the jump. ----- EXTENDED BODY: Just so we are all clear, Moveon wants to "make sure every voter in Connecticut knows that Senator Lieberman has been standing in the way of reform and to push Senate Democrats to take away his chairmanship" in order to stop Lieberman from "single handedly" blocking health care reform. Lieberman ain't my favorite Nutmegger, (obviously Prudence Crandall, why are we even discussing it?), but he was reelected in 2006 after a well funded Democratic challenger beat him in the primary, and so he is not up again until 2012. That's three years from now and after the mid-terms! So letting people in Connecticut know Lieberman is blocking a bill in 2009 does nothing towards that election, and puts no pressure on him at all. The second half of that sentence has to do with putting pressure on the Senate leadership to remove him from his chair. How the hell is that going to make him less likely to vote against the health care bill? And what does telling "every voter" in Connecticut do for that? Oh and also, there are 3.4 million people in Connecticut, how are you going to reach them, not by mail, 1 million cannot even pay that postage. TV? There are at least 4 major media markets in Connecticut, and the one that reaches the most people is *&^%*&%$*&*()& New York City. How much air time you think you are going to buy in NYC, MoveON? And if you do, who is that really going to benefit? Only you; it will just stimulate more people to contribute, so what you really want to do is have these poor 86 people in Atlanta fund your advertising campaign to get more Northeastern Contributions, while we suffer under Chambliss, who thinks he lives in Mississippi, and Isakson (who IS up for reelection). 1 million dollars they want. Keep in mind that Connecticut has tons of money since all the high paid insurance company people with their million dollar bonuses live there, but they want 86 folks from Atlanta to fund this project. This is a Connecticut discussion about which DEMOCRATIC Senator they want, because they aren't going to elect a Republican (none in Congress from that State). If MoveON wanted to actually move the needle, they would take money from Connecticut, super safe Democratic Senator, and put it into States where there are Republican Senators which could be Democratic ones. Because Joe ain't "single handedly" blocking health care, there are 40 other people along there with him. Two of whom are here in Georgia. Consider this my unsubscribe email. I will be sending your free bumper sticker back another way. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/16/2009 11:50:47 PM Our glorious 'teaparty', and a decade or slightly more on about as relevant, petulant & logical as ever. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Something to do while we wait for the election results for Speaker BASENAME: something_to_do_while_we_wait STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/17/2009 10:58:13 AM ----- BODY: UPDATE: Rep. David Ralston wins contest for Speaker of the GA House of Representatives. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: Lady Gaga, silliness, Christmas songs ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 11:11:48 AM LMAO, awesome Jules, thanks! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 11:29:33 AM A copy editor is so needed at the Gold Dome liveblog... "Update 11:15 a.m. Rep. Wendell Willard (R-Sandy Springs) is offering a few words in nomination of Wendell Willard. “He’s a man of great honor.”" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Juliana EMAIL: juliana@illari.net IP: 68.215.180.189 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 11:33:09 AM Wendell- really...he was involved in fistacuffs during his committee meeting at the end of the session.. a "man of great honor" indeed-that is until Mike J has to break it up... lol ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 11:35:52 AM ugh, already bored with the speaker liveblogging - YAWN ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.211.137.143 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 12:14:01 PM Not nearly as entertaining as Nita's live blogs. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.211.137.143 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 12:36:46 PM Oh look, they're doing it too, only with more mentions of God. http://www.insideradvantagegeorgia.com/restricted/2009/December%2009/12-17-09/Blog121719661.php ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 01:19:30 PM Status copy from FB. So Georgia Democrats mis getting a great target for Speaker of the House and I'm kind of sad about that. And then I realized, wait a second, the Democrats wouldn't have been able to do anything with it anyway. So on the whole, I remain apathetic. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.211.137.143 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 02:37:25 PM The DPG just sent a press release that actually resonates, for a change: House Republicans' new choice for Speaker doesn’t pay his taxes, but wants to spend yours ATLANTA - With their choice of David Ralston as their nominee for Speaker of the House, Republicans have shown the taxpayers that for all of their talk of ethics, the House Republican Caucus is only interested in preserving the status quo. Ralston's nomination should bring a host of new questions about his record and interests to the forefront. Like millions of Georgians, David Ralston does not like April 15th. However, unlike Ralston, most of us do the right thing and pay what we owe. Ralston doesn’t pay his taxes, but he wants to spend yours. In 2003, he was forced to pay more than $35,000 in unpaid taxes dating back to 1999. By 2006, the problem had become so bad that the IRS placed a tax lien against him for more than $400,000 in unpaid taxes dating back ten years. As recently as last year, he still had not learned his lesson and was forced to pay nearly $12,000 in unpaid taxes from 2006. Lucky for Ralston, he had friends in high places. When calls for him to be stripped of his seat as Chairman of the House Non-Civil Judiciary Committee reached now-discredited House Speaker Glenn Richardson, Richardson said "…I am going to do everything I can to help him be successful." That, of course, included letting Ralston keep his spot as Chairman. "What the House Republicans seem to be banking on is that just about anybody's record will compare favorably to Glenn Richardson's," said Democratic Party of Georgia Chair Jane Kidd. "What this election proves is that Glenn Richardson wasn't the only rotten apple in the Republican caucus. Indeed, they seem to have a hard time finding a good apple." "This is just more of the same from Georgia Republicans," said Kidd. "It shows their dedication not to reform, but to sweeping their ethical problems under the rug and moving ahead with their dangerous special-interest agenda. The leader may have changed, but the culture of corruption remains the same." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.199 URL: DATE: 12/17/2009 05:11:49 PM Speaking of corrupt, Jim Trafficant wants a comeback. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/18/2009 04:56:31 AM Better vid here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/12/17/hayden-wright-drunk-4-yea_n_395818.html Hayden Wright: Drunk, Cross Dressing 4-Year-Old Steals Neighbors Christmas Presents: Perhaps in attempt to break into Jail to see dad. (VIDEO)//Chattanooga, TN. The kids obviously got a future in politics. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: PaulaG TITLE: Go, Howie, Go! BASENAME: go_howie_go STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/18/2009 10:53:16 AM ----- BODY: David Sirota, Friend of BfD, says:
I want to take a moment just to recognize what has been recognized before, but needs to be recognized right here and now one more time: Howard Dean is a genuine hero. In coming out against the Lieberman-gutted health insurance "reform" bill, Dean is leveraging every shred of power he can muster to create the political space for the final bill - whether passed now, or later after going back to the drawing board - to be better and more progressive. He has made a compelling case that the bill "would do more harm than good," as he says in his Washington Post op-ed today - and in doing that he has made the power struggle between Joe Lieberman's Palpatinian forces of insurance/drug industry darkness and the progressive movement far more symmetrical.Besides being right on the money, I love that David uses the adjective Palpatinian. Nerd Power! h/t Tim! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/18/2009 12:39:36 PM How the fuck is dude a hero? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.218.63.205 URL: DATE: 12/18/2009 12:52:10 PM I love it that now when you google "Palpatinian", this site pops up on the first page. Thanks Paula for raising our nerd stock. Seriously, it's a shame Howie had to be the one to call it out, but he's right. Better to start over than polish the Lieberman turd. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.217.66.22 URL: DATE: 12/18/2009 12:57:03 PM IRE - I respectfully suggest that you, as they say on the internets, RTFA. If you still disagree, then go ahead and explain why. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 12/18/2009 01:20:44 PM Because it is hardly heroic for someone who commands a following of liberal donors who very likely don't support this bill to speak out against it. I might, *MIGHT* give him credit if his employer was saying "speak out or we will fire you and pursue legal action etc" or if people being beaten in the streets for speaking out against it (you know, what would constitute acts of heroism) but neither are happening. So no hero. Issuing a press release needs to be something truly above and beyond ordinary to be even classified as heroic. Now hero worshiping, that's a different topic and this thread has it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/19/2009 05:26:06 PM I had to look up Palpatinian. Apparently Star Wars has passed me by. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/20/2009 01:43:02 AM Yep, Sirota proved right here as did Duncan Black & Digby who predicted that Lieberman would do anything to PO 'liberals' backing the bill, even if he had previously backed the exact same provisions for years. Cause that's how the game is played. 'Holy Joe' probably not only double crossed his Senate colleagues on his prior commitments, but probably went further and triple crossed them. And yes, that's possible. So there literally was nothing left to do but try and push back hard from the left. The result? Strangely enough, we got our first coherent, clear & honest appraisal of the bill as a work of policy in the entire, oh nearly long debate. Thoroughly adult & wonky as it was nasty & ugly at times. But mostly? It was respectful & actually edifying & instructive. A rare peek at some vanishingly rare rational debate in an age of screaming invective. And yes, that was desperately needed, and probably for a very long time too. Now successfully dodging bullets in Fallujah is not the only path to manly courage, and some days going up against Rahm & the whole dizzy WH crew might do it, but it really, desperately needed to be done by someone. And by someone with enough cred to 'get it done' too. I think it hurried things along down the path. That and the slipping time limit. So yes, people can describe you as heroic for doing something inherently useful against the tides of the opinion of the day. Especially when it's up against the 'official' opinions of the Village/Beltway elites who'd dearly want this thing either killed or 'failed', again. Proof positive that BHO 'isn’t all that' and he really should have listened to them & 'been more humble & respectful'. (Whatever that actually means, but I've heard it oh so many times by the 'opinion elites'). And yes dear hearts we've come close enough to death to realize that there might be an advantage to even 'somewhat living'. Optimal solutions? Don't exist in politics mostly. Not down here & not in DC. Successful policies & programs might take decades of hard work to carefully craft & hordes of active & involved supporters to defend them against the forces of reaction & hate while the edifice is being built & occupied. It is ever thus. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/20/2009 01:48:16 AM In the 2nd sentence of the 2nd paragraph that should have read: "Strangely enough, we got our first coherent, clear & honest appraisal of the bill as a work of policy in the entire, oh nearly 2 year long debate". Sorry for any confusion. And yes, I know I'm actually off by about 100 years too. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/20/2009 01:26:24 PM Howard co-wrote a book with my CAP colleagues faiz and igor basically declaring that any bill without a public option is not worth passing. Now that he's come out with this stand, everyone at CAP (which has fallen to supporting the bill) and the White House and the DC circuit has turned Howard into a pariah. It very well is heroic. You guys aren't here in the beltway and seeing the stuff Dean is facing for this. It's very heroic, whether you agree with him or not. As for speaking out and they'll fire you, well that's what I'm doing right now oddly enough isn't it? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/20/2009 02:05:17 PM No Z, you're reporting on how & why Howard Dean spoke out. Which is a bit less heroic. But the 'public option' as included had its severe problems too. The simple Medicare buy in was actually a decided improvement here. But when seen as needed perhaps several years down the road, after the evidence of the operation of the whole system comes into better focus, it'll be hopefully more acceptable to start anew & with a much stronger conception of the concept. Giving them (AHIP) the room to fail might be the better part of wisdom here, when dealing with the results. But yes, that was much less acceptable than a real public option, which was really unlikely to pass the Senate with the 60 votes now needed. Reconciliation should have been the 2 track solution here, but we'd probably still be at this way into the next year too with that track. And you'll likely need to be piloting some drones to get the same quality heroics as Dean as fast. But hey, there's an escalation on for the Hols too! Merry Merry & all that! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/20/2009 02:48:22 PM I never have any idea what you're talking about. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/20/2009 11:53:59 PM Zaid, I am surprised that someone is employing you. I am not surprised you think you are heroic. I would be surprised if anyone else thought you were. It is always the easier thing to not support a bill like this; just like the stimulus, all the risk is in supporting it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.179 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 10:26:26 AM "You guys aren't here in the beltway" No and I'm probably better off for it. Later dudes, off to a week in the redneck riviera. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 11:32:57 AM MOTS I always know what that guy's talking about, on the other hand. I also know he's an ass. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 11:35:26 AM Um, comparing this to the stimulus is kinda lame. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 11:46:38 AM To clarify, I called you an ass because I've spent the last 6 months of my life working about ten hours a day to get a good health bill passed, so I don't want to be lectured by some monday morning you know whats ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.194.73 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 12:43:08 PM I'm just wondering how many times and in how many ways will Howie have to be proven right before someone asswipe in Washington (yeah I'm talking about you Rahm) has an epiphany and thinks maybe we should do what he says because he's always right and we always end up having to do what he says when we're correcting our mistakes that wouldn't have happened if we had just listened in the first place. Wow. That sentence is so long... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 06:44:14 PM There is important protections for working people in that bill. People need the support that bill provides to get health insurance. I think it is pretty clear you will not be able to do better this session or maybe at all in the near future. There are people without health insurance and this will help that. Of course, many more people die from medical negligence than not having health insurance... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 07:10:07 PM Hey MOTS I'm really happy, and Imma let you finish, but there's this thing called conference committee that produces a bill that can't be filibustered that is the best thing ever! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 08:53:41 PM you think you will get the public option in through the conference committee? I doubt that, but if you do, then fair play to you. Well done. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/21/2009 09:42:30 PM Yeah I'm with Ruby D here. Dean's a prophet w/o a proper audience inside the beltway evidently. Always has been actually. It's amazing he's lasted this long in the deep miasma. And if Z thinks he can find a way to magically smuggle in the enchanted racing ponies & the public option and Not have it all blow up when it needs to be voted on again by the Senate? That would be a fine trick indeed. And something no one has evidently seen as a likely possibility. Despite many many folks outside the beltway also 'thinking hard' about getting a better HCR bill enacted. You know all those evidently lesser minds & folks who might know some real legislative history here & have worked in past 'activist' administrations? The ones who've studied the issue for longer than you've been drawing breath? The ones who were fighting these battles while you were blissfully napping in a crib someplace? Yeah, all those multi-degreed, talented, smart folks who just happen to not get paid for their political opinions? Yeah them. They'll still want to lecture you. Then there's the Uninformed lot too! Get used to it. And oh, BTW? Most of those self same DFH's who were prescient & mostly right about the Iraq war? Yeah, decidedly Non Beltway denizens. But surely, they're also to a person certainly less heroic and 'knowledgeable' that yourself. Because why? Remind us again. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 12/22/2009 04:11:52 AM http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/12/21/817765/-Sad-News:-Ann-Nixon-Cooper-Passed-Away-at-107 News Note: 107 yo Ann Nixon Cooper from Atl passes. Via the DailyKos & CNN. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/23/2009 04:32:28 PM Am I an evil beltway insider or am I a wild-eyed DFH who realizes the obvious truth that there's two chambers of congress, a conference committee, and a reconciliation process for a weak-ass public option (the best we can seem to get)? Make up your minds dudes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.215.160.153 URL: DATE: 12/23/2009 04:39:16 PM I don't know. Maybe you're a proto-bourgeois counter-culture elitist urban farmer. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/23/2009 06:17:51 PM probably heres my christmas present to Obama http://thinkprogress.org/2009/12/22/obama-repeatedly-touted-public/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 216.227.86.247 URL: DATE: 12/25/2009 03:52:12 PM I'm quite serious, they are going to instigate a genuine civil war! This is freaking treason and they are freaking traitors! I think many of you have never believed it possible, but it is now not only possible, it's becoming dare I say, "likely!" I'm seeing the things that they have snuck back into this bill including the death panels, they know that this thing will kill seniors, and not just a few here and a few there, but across the board! They of course are exempted from having to comply with their own law.... This is a coup de'tat ... MOAR! http://glocktalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14404586&postcount=5 ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: John Barrow 2009's 2nd Least Valuable House Democrat BASENAME: john_barrow_2009s_2nd_least_va STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/23/2009 09:40:24 AM ----- BODY: I can hear you saying, "2nd least valuable? Is there a list of these people somewhere?" In fact, yes, there is - Nate Silver has been at it again. Through some complicated math-like stuff I'm glad I don't have to personally understand, Nate scored reps on ten key votes versus what we should expect given the performance of the district. GA-12 is only D+1, but the numbers support what a lot of people here already believe - we're entitled to more party loyalty from Congressman Barrow than we get. (David Scott is also on this list, but that's because GA-13 is D+15. 'Nuff said.) ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/23/2009 04:34:36 PM I remember IRE hilarious argued that he was more liberal than his district once. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 216.227.86.247 URL: DATE: 12/23/2009 07:23:38 PM I did? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 216.227.86.247 URL: DATE: 12/23/2009 07:24:47 PM Even if I did there are still several reasons that this doesn't prove or disprove how liberal he is in relation to his district. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 12/23/2009 08:13:57 PM I just want the mf'er gone and people to stop rationalizing his behavior. At a time important legislation keeps squeaking by with 3 or 4 votes, we really can't have people behaving like this. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.218.63.205 URL: DATE: 12/24/2009 10:16:23 AM Barrow is a timid, self absorbed little man. I should start publishing his fund raising emails here. He thinks the earth revolves around him and that he's the "number one targeted Democrat in the Country". If only. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.220.51 URL: DATE: 12/24/2009 11:00:27 PM Barrow, you are a sad strange little man, and you have my pity! Oops, sorry, been watching one too many Pixar movies! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/26/2009 10:17:46 AM Two points: 1) Attack Barrow, fine, but fail to laud Marshall? He is the 17th most valuable democrat on that scale and not a word of praise? 2) Zaid, above, complains about "squeaking by with three or four votes". I am with him, but where is the attack of Kucinich? He voted against most of the bills studied, but Silver decides to omit him because they are liberal protest votes. But votes are votes, same from Kucinich's district as they are from Barrow's, but that's a solid blue district who should be helping us but is not pulling in the right direction. If fact, were he listed, Kucinich would be the LEAST valuable democrat. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/26/2009 10:24:54 AM Oh, and in addition, voting against something that passes is pretty much fine, the legislation that does not pass would be more informative. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.54.128 URL: DATE: 12/26/2009 11:51:04 PM " If fact, were he listed, Kucinich would be the LEAST valuable democrat." The big different is that Dennis's no votes on big Dem. legislation are typically lefty protest votes. Before they even call a vote Pelosi makes sure they have all the votes that they need, so Dennis knows he can safely vote no in protest. Whereas Barrow is ideologically opposed and openly sides with the Republicans. Also, Dennis votes with Dems about 92% of the time, I believe. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 12/27/2009 12:37:52 AM So what you are saying is that if Kucinich's vote were needed, he would vote the party line. I am not sure that's true. I assume you are also saying that if Barrow's were needed, he would not, and that's what they are measuring. I think that's strained reasoning. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 12/27/2009 07:24:05 AM *shrug* I didn't look closely at the "most valuable" list, and I didn't realize GA-8 was as bad as R+10. Go Jim, I guess. He's lucky SCHIP wasn't one of the test votes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.223.54.128 URL: DATE: 12/27/2009 04:53:04 PM "So what you are saying is that if Kucinich's vote were needed, he would vote the party line. I am not sure that's true. I assume you are also saying that if Barrow's were needed, he would not, and that's what they are measuring. I think that's strained reasoning." Yeah, that's exactly what I'm saying, and it's generally true (like when he voted for SCHIP the 2nd go round to override Bush's veto after voting against the first time because of the last-minute ditching of immigrant protections) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sid Cottingham EMAIL: IP: 71.30.47.166 URL: DATE: 12/30/2009 09:22:54 PM One of the best things about this blog is Mel's comments. I do love 'em. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: THE WHITE IS A BASE COAT BASENAME: the_white_is_a_base_coat STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 12/26/2009 02:13:35 PM ----- BODY: Either two days (if you count the Poulan Weedeater Bowl) or Nine months, nine days, until kickoff (if you don't). Go Dogs, Sic'em! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 66.190.88.70 URL: DATE: 12/27/2009 12:13:45 PM I saw this guy at the Auburn game and yelled, "Yeahhh!!" at him and he looked at me and gave a depressed "Yeahhh!!" Look dude, if you don't want people recognizing you.. stop painting yourself like that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.75 URL: DATE: 12/27/2009 08:37:36 PM This now the top site on google for "white base coat". Congrats. Now DIY homepainters worldwide will be confused. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Kudzu Vine - Tonight! BASENAME: kudzu_vine_-_tonight STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/03/2010 01:36:45 PM ----- BODY: Welcome to 2010! Please join David, Tim and yours truly for the first Kudzu Vine of 2010. Tonight from 7PM-8PM we will talk with the two Democrats running for the special election for Senate District 22. Plus a brief discussion of the news that Judge Michael Johnson is launching a run against Congressman John Lewis. There may also be some predictions about the coming year. So, be sure to tune in live, or download later for a listen. That's Kudzu Vine on Blog Talk Radio. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/03/2010 08:04:42 PM Sorry to have missed it live once again. Perhaps someone might comment on this recurring Ga. oddity: [Via the DailyKos.com] http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2010/1/3/821589/-Obama-effigy-found-hanging-in-Plains,-GA. "Obama effigy found hanging in Plains, GA. by joy sinha Obama effigy found hanging in Plains, GA. Sun Jan 03, 2010 at 01:54:02 PM PST According to Atlanta Journal Constitution, secret service is agency is investigating an effigy of President Barack Obama found hanging from a building in Plains, GA. Plains also happens to the hometown of former President Jimmy Carter. Secret Service spokesman Ed Donovan told The Associated Press that the large black doll was found Saturday morning along Main Street in the small town of Plains. According to footage from WALB-TV, the doll was hanging by a noose in front of a red, white and blue sign that says "Plains, Georgia. Home of Jimmy Carter, our 39th President." A witness told the television station that the doll wore a sign with Obama's name on it." Another thrilling start to the new year in Ga. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Steven Reed EMAIL: IP: 70.248.222.48 URL: DATE: 01/04/2010 10:53:07 AM The news report Breaking News: New decade brings new book: Democracy it Don't Come Easy can be found at http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/4886830-breaking-news-new-decade-brings-new-book-democracy-it-dont-come-easy. Please read , copy and send to others, blogs and media if you can! http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/4770021-breaking-news ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 01/04/2010 11:51:23 AM New decade and spammers still suck while having all the subtlety of a marching band. BTW: Stevie, good job listing losing as your top accomplishment. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Searching for nuance and balance in 2010. BASENAME: searching_for_nuance STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/04/2010 06:53:23 PM ----- BODY: Today my good buddy David Sirota tweeted a link to this piece, The Obama Disconnect: What Happens When Myth Meets Reality, a very thoughtful and well-crafted analysis of the first year of the Obama Presidency in relation to the Obama Candidacy. There is a lot to Micah Sifry's piece, and further insight in the comments. On the surface, Sifry seems critical of the Obama administrations abandonment of the hope and change themes of the Obama campaign.
The truth is that Obama was never nearly as free of dependence on big money donors as the reporting suggested, nor was his movement as bottom-up or people-centric as his marketing implied. And this is the big story of 2009, if you ask me, the meta-story of what did, and didn't happen, in the first year of Obama's administration. The people who voted for him weren't organized in any kind of new or powerful way, and the special interests--banks, energy companies, health interests, car-makers, the military-industrial complex--sat first at the table and wrote the menu. Myth met reality, and came up wanting.----- EXTENDED BODY: To be fair, I have had my moments of despair over some of the actions President Obama has taken (or not) in this first year. But, ultimately, I believe that President Obama is on the path to better government. That path requires all of us to join him. I had hoped that the incredible support Candidate Obama received would not end once elected, but would morph into ongoing engagement in the poltiical process. In many ways it has. The Organzing for America groups brought some strength to the healtcare debate. Alas, not enough to secure the type of change many of us hoped for. The fact is, that unlike Candidate Obama, President Obama must represent and advocate for all Americans. Even the Uber-Righty with the "NoBama" bumpersticker and the Uber-Lefty who wants a complete end to all war. Politics is truly a game of compromise. Does the left feel like we were over-compromised? Sure. But, the right does too. This is where nuance and balance become the things to search for in which to find solace. Millions of government documents, never before revealed were released last week. For the first time, a sitting US President attended talks about global environmental impact (albiet with disappointing results). Health care reform (or whatever you want to call it) is likely to pass both chambers in the coming weeks. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is making the international rounds in an effort to re-establish our reputation on the global stage. Has the reality met the myth? Probably not. There is still work to do. Thus begins 2010. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Who loves you now Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed? BASENAME: who_loves_you_now_atlanta_mayo STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/05/2010 01:16:24 AM ----- BODY:
While the challenges that we face are unprecedented, so are the opportunities. We will make sure functions like the permitting process in this City are not a source of frustration, but rather a source of growth. That is why in my first year in office we will completely reform the City's permitting process once and for all. It will be more efficient and easy to use. By embracing business and giving business the opportunity to embrace us back, we will take responsibility to continue the legacy of our past.Throughout his excellent speech, our new Mayor said all the right things:
Second, I want to acknowledge that the city government has a responsibility to its citizens to perform the business of government, in an open, ethical and professional manner. We must also create a culture of customer service that competes with the service quality of those stellar companies that call Atlanta home. It is not enough to say we must do better, we must actually do better. Whether it is taking care of that pothole in your street or answering your questions when you call, every encounter with an employee or official of the City of Atlanta must be one that inspires confidence and gets results.Best of everything to you Mayor. We're all counting on you to be great. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Lucy EMAIL: IP: 99.1.243.136 URL: DATE: 01/22/2010 03:18:56 PM MY BELOVED MAYOR I DID NOT KNOW ANY OTHER WAY TO CONTACT YOU, BUT I LOVED THAT SOMEONE ON THE NEWS (A REGULAR PERSON LIKE I) HAD REQUESTED THAT YOU LOOK INTO WATER BILLS IN ATL, YES I THINK THEY ARE WORSE THAN THE CREDIT COMPANIES NOW. THE BILLS ARE SO HIGH AND ONE SUCH COMPANY CALLED ONE POINTE TECHNOLOGIES CHARGES A LATE FEE OF 20 DOLLARS IF A BILL IS PAID LATE, THIS IS SOMETIMES MORE THAN 50% OF OUR BILLS. PLEASE HELP US THEY ARE RIPPING US OFF AND WE DO NOT KNOW WHERE TO TURN ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Failing upwards BASENAME: failing_upwards STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/05/2010 12:15:16 AM TAGS: douche,gagop,"whitey whiterson" ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/05/2010 05:03:41 PM Teehee. Being an asshole makes you famous. Can you imagine if erickson were actually funny how much press he'd get? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 68.223.7.160 URL: DATE: 01/05/2010 07:11:05 PM I can't bear to watch. Someone please tell me that Colbert takes him down. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/05/2010 07:15:16 PM Colbert doesn't really take people down, he just points out their shortcomings and agrees with them. Erickson is sort of boring but Colbert points out his idiotic twitter comments. You can watch it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.137.169 URL: DATE: 01/06/2010 12:10:02 PM The "douche" tag doesn't work. Which somehow makes it even funnier. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.220.67 URL: DATE: 01/06/2010 12:46:44 PM I do appreciate him bringing up EE's comments on Justice Souter twice. You know that Mr. Redstate was expecting it once, but I think Colbert said it twice just to rub it in. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: A Semester Later, G.I. Bill Still Backlogged BASENAME: a_semester_later_gi_bill_still STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/05/2010 07:18:16 PM TAGS: "GI Bill",military ----- BODY:
Rep. Harry Mitchell, D-Ariz., chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee's oversight and investigations panel, said he is "disappointed" with VA's performance in the fall semester, which left 26,000 people still waiting for benefits when classes ended. VA officials said most of those 26,000 veterans have now been paid. But VA's Jan. 4 report on pending benefits claims shows that more than 48,000 Post-9/11 GI Bill claims are still being processed. Some of those could be for the spring semester. "With a second semester only weeks away, I believe the situation remains unacceptable," Mitchell said in a letter to VA, in which he noted he continues to get complaints about long waits. "The confusion and uncertainty about when checks will arrive, coupled with the need to meet immediate expenses, is adding stress to veterans at a time when many are already struggling with [post-traumatic stress disorder]," Mitchell said. Mitchell, a former high school teacher, said one of the most worrisome things he has heard is that some veterans are talking about not attending college because of benefit problems.Ambitious programs aren't always problem-free, but considering the cost of higher-education, I hope that the Veterans Administration et al. is able rectify this as soon as possible. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/05/2010 08:20:27 PM Frustrating. really everyone (and by everyone, I mean most people, and by most people, I mean people that score highly enough on standardized tests) should be able to go to college for free, but at the very least we should allow for veterans to go. I have guest taught some college classes and the ex-Army people are on point and prepared. They really deserve to be there, and we should encourage that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/11/2010 12:01:32 AM Thanks Jason, Still more frustrating on the underlying economics lately: http://blogs.reuters.com/felix-salmon/2010/01/07/the-costs-and-benefits-of-grad-school/ Via Felix Salmon's Reuters blog: "The costs and benefits of grad school Jan 7, 2010 15:43 EST academe I’m a great believer in the benefits of an undergraduate education when it’s done right (which is rarely). But grad school is a different matter entirely: the opportunity costs are much higher, the amount of debt involved rises substantially, and the range of jobs you can do at the end of it in many ways goes down rather than up". Follow the link for the disturbing graphs & stats. Not anything new to many. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Chris Dodd is out... BASENAME: chris_dodd_is_out STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/06/2010 12:35:36 AM ----- BODY: Chris Dodd, Senator from Countrywide, will not be running for reelection. Grand. Did you know he used to date Carrie Fisher, like, before she went insane? It's true.
Dublin -- "No one has ever questioned his ability to raise money. While he has been dialing for dollars, I have been out working and listening to the voices of the people. I have been asking Georgians for their concerns while he has been asking for their cash. We have already seen what happened between a big money versus a grassroots campaign and I have choosen to run a grassroots campaign," said DuBose Porter, candidate for Governor.Porter's statement was in response to Roy's (who's gone all Madonna this cycle and now only uses one name), announcement below the fold. ----- EXTENDED BODY:
ROY 2010 RAISES OVER $2.7 MILLION DURING RECENT REPORTING PERIOD Over two-thirds of Roy 2010's donors are first time contributors to Barnes Marietta, GA - Roy 2010, Roy Barnes' campaign for Governor, announced today that it raised over $2.7 during the last half of 2009. Over two-thirds of Roy 2010's donors are first time contributors to Barnes. Even though he joined the race late, during the last several months, Barnes has visited more than 60 counties throughout Georgia as a part of his listening tour of the state. He has heard from local officials, teachers, and business and labor leaders about how they want to change the direction of the state and reestablish a clear vision for a better Georgia. As a result, more than 90% of Barnes' contributors are in-state donors, with more than half of those donors having contributed less than $500. "The enthusiasm that we are seeing as we travel across Georgia is incredible," says Roy 2010 Campaign Manager Chris Carpenter. "Folks in every corner of the state are excited about our campaign and about Roy's message - and I think it shows in our fundraising numbers and level of interest in Roy's campaign. "Over the course of this campaign, Roy has met many friends - old and new - and has had the opportunity to learn about the multitude of issues that Georgians are facing in these tough times. He is energized, inspired, and ready to keep the momentum going in 2010." When he started the campaign, Roy said he would not accept contributions from registered Georgia lobbyists. The $2.7 million raised includes no such money.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.218 URL: DATE: 01/08/2010 07:28:12 AM you think the "Roy" thing is to distance himself from the Boot Barnes thing? Poor DuBose...he can't become Speaker so he runs for Gov...which he won't win either. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Disclosures, Disclosures, Disclosures BASENAME: disclosures_disclosures_disclo STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/09/2010 03:37:29 PM ----- BODY: UPDATED: Included All loans received this reporting period The latest campaign disclosures are slowing coming in. Buzz Brockway is doing a great job compiling Google Docs for competitive districts for the State Senate and State House. I will pull out some of his data for some key races, but will list disclosure amounts for the Statewide contests. Total Raised to Date/Total Raised in 4th quarter 2009/Expenditures to Date/Cash on Hand Governor: Democrat: - Thurbert Baker - $1,382,547 / $670,022 / $495,408 / $874,564 - Roy Barnes - $2,719,028 / $2,719,028 / $470,624 / $2,230,595 - Carl Camon - $3,403 / $3,403 / $3,390 / $12.84 - DuBose Porter - $387,423 / $155,673 / $69,629 / $303,807 - David Poythress - $679,437 / $207,429 / $398,911 / $264,353 (* $50,000 loan) Republican: - Jeff Chapman - $79,090 / $79,090 / $61,256 / $17,833 - Nathan Deal - $1,875,666 / $638,479 / $898,453 / $940,275 - Karen Handel - $1,000,611 / $559,976 / $506,974 / $439,998 - Eric Johnson - $1,695,683 / $726,362 / $343,589 / $1,300,032 - Ray McBerry - No 4th quarter report yet - John Oxedine - $3,008,044 / $1,550,562 / $767,293 / $2,202,422 (* $250,000 loan) - Austin Scott - $432,562 / $232,442 / $244,131 / $159,052 (* $110,000 loan) Libertarian: John Monds - $21,234 / $10,077 / $19,811 / $1,423 ----- EXTENDED BODY: ******* Lt. Governor: Democrat: - No candidates have filed for this seat Republican: - Casey Cagle (Incumbent) - $6,810,214 / $579,601 / $5,842,668 / $783,079 - David Shafer - $173,365 / $0 / $26,381 / $142,634 Other Party: - Michel Weeks - No 4th quarter report yet ******* Attorney General: Democrat: - Ken Hodges - $376,304 / $251,981 / $93,574 / $271,016 - Rob Teilhet - $357,554 / $150,023 / $101,823 / $249,773 Republican: - William Ligon, Jr - $33,819 / $33,819 / $30,151 / $3,667 - Sam Olens - $449,495 / $262,986 / $142,276 / $305,289 - Frank Wood - $66,035 / $66,035 / $16,029 / $49,255 (*5,000 loan) ******* Secretary of State: Democrat: - Gail Buckner - No 4th quarter report yet - Darryl Hicks - No 4th quarter report yet - Gary Horlacher - $280,319 / $112,690 / $12,120 / $266,358 (* $100,000 loan) - Michael Mills - $15,031 / $15,031 / $12,924 / $305 - Angela Moore - $20,164 / $20,164 / $7,985 / $11,179 (*$15,000 loan) Republican: - Brian Kemp - $271,234 / $271,234 / $11,509 / $255,660 - Doug MacGinnitie - $815,894 / $555,021 / $104,131 / $704,592 (*$430,000 loan) ******* Insurance Commissioner: Democrat: - Mary Squires - $103,868 / $50,776 / $45,879 / $50,357 Republican: - Seth Harp - $78,585 / $54,685 / $33,403 / $45,181 - Ralph Hudgens - $362,952 / $281,161 / $74,937 / $285,422 - Thomas Knox - $116,556 / $116,556 / $9,081 / $100,843 (* $78,000 loan) - Harold Logsdon - $55,035 / $33,772 / $33,180 / $14,979 (* $6,436 loan) - Stephen Northington - $64,960 / $13,490 / $41,227 / $3,361 - Gerald Purcell - $116,421 / $20,959 / -$44,941 / $73,206 (* $82,500 loan) - Frances Maria Sheffield - $106,254 / $106,254 / $18,464 / $86,995 ******* Agricultural Commissioner: Democrat: - No candidates have filed for this seat Republican: - Gary Black - $217,205 / $62,815 / $102,902 / $110,692 - John Wilkinson - $38,183 / $9,526 / $38,183 / $0 (* $9,526 loan) ******* School Superintendent: Democrat: - Beth Farokhi - $37,280 / $37,280 / $5,984 / $30,903 (* $16,500 loan) - Brian Westlake - $12,630 / $6,966 / $5,854 / $5,302 Republican: - Kathy Cox (Incumbent) - $89,001 / $53,047 / $36,212 / $38,856 - Roger Hines - $20,935 / $20,935 / $17,418 / $3,516 - Richard Woods - $5,705 / $1,511 / $2,558 / $2,932 ******* Labor Commissioner: Democrat: - Michael Thurmond (Incumbent) - No 4th quarter report yet Republican: - Melvin Emerson - $42,993 / $16,229 / $19,353 / $21,901 ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: GALiberalsExist EMAIL: IP: 67.191.216.174 URL: DATE: 01/08/2010 09:28:47 PM Looks like you pulled Cagle's Gov. campaign numbers, not his Lt. Gov. campaign... he has far more. Poythress and Porter have filed too now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 68.28.231.226 URL: DATE: 01/08/2010 09:31:41 PM thanks ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Jill Chambers destroyed in most recent disclosure filings BASENAME: jill_chambers_destroyed_in_mos STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/09/2010 11:39:21 AM ----- BODY: From the Elena Parent for Desuckifying House 81 Files:
Suck it, Jill. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Tonight! Live from the Wild Hog Supper. BASENAME: tonight_live_from_the_wild_hog STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/10/2010 11:03:04 AM ----- BODY:Parent raises $80,200 in House District 81 bid Ashford Park Democrat outraises entrenched incumbent Chambers by $73,290 Atlanta - Ashford Park resident Elena Parent reported $80,200 raised late Friday in her first financial disclosure since launching her campaign to challenge State Rep. Jill Chambers, R-Dunwoody, in House District 81. "I'm so grateful to all the people who have stepped up to support my campaign," Parent said of her 332 individual donors. "Successful political campaigns need to have both the ability to raise money and spend it wisely. I will continue to run a campaign that does both." The 34-year-old leads all non-incumbent Georgia House candidates in both total money raised and cash on hand, with hers standing at $74,208 at the end of the Dec. 31 disclosure period.
Commissioner Connie Stokes will announce later this month her campaign against U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson. Stokes declined to give specifics about her campaign, but told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Monday that she is planning to seek the Democratic nomination for the 4th Congressional District.Unfortunately, the major take away here is that Stokes, chair of DeKalb County's budget committee, is running at a time when the county is experiencing major budget shortfalls. And if DeKalb commissioner Lee May runs as well, conventional wisdom would hint that these campaigns would be detrimental to the efficacy of DeKalb's government. There are only seven commissioners after all. I should note that the AJC et al. is reporting that former-DeKalb CEO Vernon Jones is also mulling a run. For a race that as of yet doesn't have a candidate named Cynthia, the GA-4 is looking pretty interesting right about now. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/11/2010 11:24:47 PM As they say, 'Don't quit your day job...'. But the more the merrier here. And with Lee May in? We'd have that much less chance of having VJ survive a competitive primary. But 'orthodox liberal'? He must be the only Buddhist who's made it this far, right? And is anyone keeping tabs on where Cynthia is & Why? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 01/12/2010 08:36:11 AM Well, At least now I know what I'm doing this summer! - Volunteering for Hank Johnson. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: jasondozier@gmail.com IP: 72.47.47.24 URL: DATE: 01/12/2010 09:42:35 AM Haha, after I posed that, I wondered if my wording would get the screw face considering his Buddhism, but I was referring to his ideology, not his personal background. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Chris D. EMAIL: IP: 143.228.129.9 URL: DATE: 01/12/2010 09:50:11 AM Lee May and Connie Stokes are running from a county budget mess, and Vernon is just looking for a job. Hank Johnson has voted consistently to protect the environment, brought hundreds of millions in federal funds to the district and passed legislation that helps the common man and woman in the face of greedy corporate fat cats. Enough said. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 167.192.150.10 URL: DATE: 01/12/2010 10:33:52 AM I signed up today - http://www.hankforcongress.com/volunteer ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Sights and Sounds from the 2010 Session - Day 1 BASENAME: sounds_and_sights_from_the_1st STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/12/2010 03:06:56 AM ----- BODY: Listen to State Rep. Kathy Ashe's speech for the Georgia House Speaker Pro-Tem:
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For the second time in as many years, a regional agency intends to revoke the accreditation of a Georgia school system. Monday's announcement by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools that Warren County could lose accreditation follows a November review. It also comes two years after the association pulled its affiliation from another system, Clayton County, making that suburban Atlanta system the nation's first school system to lose accreditation in nearly 40 years. Warren County is a rural system located about 40 miles west of Augusta and serves 800 students in three schools: elementary, middle and high school. It previously was put on probation for governance issues the agency summed up as a school board in a state of "perpetual paralysis."Though this, of course, doesn't bode well for the image of the state. It's bad enough considering that we're consistently in the bottom ten no matter which benchmark you look at, but to have two systems hold that dubious but rare distinction is certainly dispiriting. And yeah, Clayton County *did* finally regain it's accreditation last year, but it has a long way to go before it shakes that negative image. Hell, so does the whole state of Georgia. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/13/2010 02:42:04 AM The laughingstock of the nation no doubt. How do you screw up a system with only 800 students? In Ga.? Seemingly easily enough! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: nicolette EMAIL: IP: 204.152.235.219 URL: DATE: 01/13/2010 09:29:11 PM ok - so i just read that article about the teachers fighting, why the hell did the principal take one of teachers into a classroom full of students to calm down?!?! they cant even do the right things correctly ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: "All-Americans" Stand Ready to Deploy to Haiti BASENAME: all-americans_stand_ready_to_d STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/13/2010 11:00:29 PM TAGS: haiti ----- BODY: In the aftermath of the terrible tragedy in Haiti and the humanitarian disaster left in its wake, the Department of Defense has started to spin up personnel and equipment in order to help facilitate relief efforts and help reestablish certain key elements of infrastructure there. Though this support is mostly Naval and concentrated amongst small, specialized units, it should be noted that two active duty units based out of North Carolina, a brigade of 2,200 Marines from Camp Lejuene and a brigade of 3,500 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, have been notified of possible deployments to the decimated nation. However, deployment orders have not yet been issued, though that probably has to do with the elephant in the room here:
"If you put additional forces on the ground, how will they operate? What will their rules of engagement be?" said a senior defense official, noting in particular the need for vehicles and helicopters to move the troops around.The last time American ground troops set foot in Haiti was during 1994's Operation Uphold Democracy where American forces helped restore Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide to power after a short coup. During that crisis, the 82nd's "All-Americans" were set to spearhead the invasion of Haiti with the goal of disrupting and destroying the regime and infrastructure there, only to be turned back at the last minute. If all goes as planned, this time they'll be rebuilding it. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Please Give to the Haiti Earthquake victims BASENAME: please_give_to_the_haiti_victi STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/13/2010 11:53:54 PM ----- BODY:
* Using Senate Letterhead to ask previous donors for permission to transfer prior contributions to his Insurance Commission campaign account. * Not actually returning the $106K in donations, but instead directly transfering them to the campaign account. * Illegally catorgorizing the return as refunds instead of expenses, and cites OCG 21-5-33, and * Illegally accepting 126 donations in violation of 21-5-30.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Labor Politics BASENAME: labor_politics STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/15/2010 10:35:53 AM ----- BODY:
Between 250 and 400 immigration detainees are being moved from South Florida's main detention center to clear space for any Haitians who manage to reach U.S. shores, according to the Homeland Security Department. The Navy base at Guantanamo Bay could house migrants temporarily -- far from suspected terrorists also being held there -- and the Catholic church is working on a plan to accept Haitian orphans. The mass migration plan, known as "Operation Vigilant Sentry," was put in place in 2003 because of previous experiences with Caribbean migrations, said Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Chris O'Neil, spokesman for the Homeland Security Task Force Southeast that would manage any Haitian influx. "There is no new incentive for anyone to try to enter the United States illegally by sea," O'Neil said. "The goal is to interdict them at sea and repatriate them." Raymond Joseph, ambassador of Haiti in Washington, recorded a message in Creole over the weekend, warning his countrymen: "Don't rush on boats to leave the country." "Because, I'll be honest with you: If you think you will reach the U.S. and all the doors will be wide open to you, that's not at all the case," Joseph said, according to a transcript released by the Pentagon. "And they will intercept you right on the water and send you back home where you came from."Why? We are squandering an opportunity to reevaluate a policy that is backwards, wrongheaded, and arguably racist. If we must keep that godawful policy, why not do so after some semblance of government and order is reestablished in Haiti? Or we could grant temporary visas which could ultimately allow migrants to transition into permanent residence, or even citizenship in the long term, depending on what comes of the situation in Haiti. Considering what they've been through in the last week, this seems callous. We have a chance to do right by history and we're throwing it away. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: MA Senate predictions open thread BASENAME: ma_senate_predictions_open_thr STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/19/2010 09:59:46 AM ----- BODY: Ted Kennedy's Senate seat will be filled today. Ataru's prediction is that it won't be filled by Martha Coakley, who has tried very hard to lose what should have been an unlosable race with such startling gambits as misspelling 'Massachusetts' and calling Red Sox hero Schilling a Yankees fan. The weather forecast is bad, meaning only the Republican base is guaranteed to show up. I predict Brown wins 54-46. What are your thoughts? Does Choakley pull it out somehow? If she doesn't, do you think health care is toast? Does Ted Kennedy cheer or smite her from the grave? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sara EMAIL: sarawara@gmail.com IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 10:30:48 AM Coakley loses by 4. I wish I were wrong about this, but having lived in MA for 8 years I can tell when someone is about to go down in flames. Also, female candidates almost always underperform there. Only 4 women have been elected to statewide office in MA ever, 1 of whom is Coakley in the AG slot. No woman has ever been governor, Senator, mayor of Boston, and Niki Tsongas very recently became the first female Congresswoman elected in MA in 25 years. The state's "Democratic" voters are uniformly fairly moderate and largely unionized, and many anecdotal reports and polls have the unions bleeding heavily to Brown. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 11:44:06 AM DSCC poll has Coakley winning by 1.2 after Obama's visit. I don't know though. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.128 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 12:20:59 PM Coakley wins ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Voice for Votes EMAIL: IP: 71.235.27.202 URL: http://voiceforvotes.com/index.html DATE: 01/19/2010 12:45:31 PM Special Elections for Massachusetts US Senate Today you can compare the candidates at the video wire page http://voiceforvotes.com/videowire.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Voice for Votes EMAIL: IP: 71.235.27.202 URL: http://voiceforvotes.com/index.html DATE: 01/19/2010 12:47:58 PM Special Elections for Massachusetts US Senate Today you can compare the candidates at the video wire page http://voiceforvotes.com/videowire.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 02:01:24 PM "The weather forecast is bad, meaning only the Republican base is guaranteed to show up." Uh, dude...you do realize it is Massachusetts where bad weather is the norm and expected in the middle of January? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 02:36:44 PM And can I say this? F*ck the Democrats. They couldn't get shit done with 60 seats, why the hell would I care if they have 59? Fuck them seriously we deserve to lose Congress this year. And don't bitch and whine about it either how much has changed since we took over in 2006? Ain't shit as far as I can tell. We capitulated to Bush, then capitulated to Republicans and now are just capitulating to ourselves. Fuck it dude, I mean Republicans get whatever the fuck they want with 50 seats and we can't do fuck all we deserve to lose. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 07:43:10 PM Since I started working on the inside, I have become less critical of the Dems, but it's funny that IRE has basically become the old me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 68.158.4.25 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 07:46:16 PM IRE = the new Zaid. Only in America! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 08:05:21 PM So, how many votes did the Democratic Party have in the Senate when they began drafting the health care bill last year this time? 58. Franken was not yet seated. How many will they have if Coakley loses? 59. When Brown is seated, which may not be for a week or more. I'm just sayin'. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 08:45:19 PM They had 60 they've already voted several times and gotten 60... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 08:54:45 PM Caokley wins in a squeaker, and she's basically got team OFA to thank for it. Late breakers for her, and the wave momentum towards Brown was stopped. And really IRE = the new Zaid? We'd lose IQ points on both sides of that, right? Just saying that on NPR a MA Voter also mentioned specifically about being called from ATL for the GOTV. I was still being called late this afternoon on same too. So it'll hopefully all work. This is what you have an organization for. I mean other than the usual nuclear level whinging & all. They had about 100K calls into the state via OFA per day. That's some work, it's got to help. (That via Kos). JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 08:57:11 PM Latest seems to be Brown 52%, Coakley 47% with 36% reporting. Larry Sabato and others are essentially calling for Brown. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.207 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 09:09:24 PM I am either apathetic about the loss or happy we are about to get what we deserve. I'll let y'all decide for me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 09:10:02 PM Chokely is down 7 with 60% reporting. Major network calls are thought to be imminent... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 09:19:02 PM Scattered tweets that Chokely has called Brown to concede. Can't get http://www.boston.com/news/local/breaking_news/2010/01/live_coverage_o.html to load for me but seems like a reasonable bet. Sigh. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 68.158.4.25 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 09:36:11 PM Epic Fail. We suck. OFA to the rescue? Seriously? Please. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 09:41:35 PM OK, I've been wrong before. But in the words of the immortal Al Franken, health care will pass no matter what. Me? I want to see the rotten misbegotten filibuster broken for good. And I want candidates who actually actively campaign for the office. And yes, Massholes are always hard on their women. Everywhere. That's all for now. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 68.158.4.25 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 09:48:42 PM Ok. Let's just go nuclear and blow up the 60 vote cloture rule. Make it simple majority. Enough of this mamby,pamby mealy-mouthed bipartisan crap. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 10:12:14 PM I'd be ok with *threatening* to go nuclear if it makes a compromise happen, but I'm against actually doing it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 10:36:45 PM Jim Webb says no to health care vote before Brown is seated: http://bit.ly/7Abg2G. That was the best hope for making this not destroy us. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason D. EMAIL: jasondozier@gmail.com IP: 72.47.47.24 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 10:41:41 PM Democratic failure in Massachusetts goes beyond Coakley though. Lest we forget. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/27/us/politics/27succeed.html?_r=1&hp Key passage: "Republicans have attacked Mr. Kennedy’s proposal as flagrantly partisan, and indeed, the state’s Democrats are in the awkward position of being asked to reverse their own 2004 vote to keep vacant Senate seats empty until a special election. Until that year, Massachusetts law had called for the governor to appoint a temporary replacement if a Senate seat became vacant. But when Senator John Kerry, a Democrat, was running for president in 2004, the Democratically-controlled State Legislature wanted to deny the Republican governor at the time, Mitt Romney, the power to name a successor if Mr. Kerry won. The resulting law requires a special election 145 to 160 days after the vacancy occurs." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 98.242.71.90 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 10:50:37 PM OK, I said 4 and she actually lost by 5, but I was close dammit! Jim Webb and anyone else who wants to act like everything gets scrapped now because we went from a 20 vote majority to an 18 vote majority can KISS MY ASS. It passed 2 damn houses of Congress and if you weren't willing to sell HCR as a good thing when you return to your constituents, then what the hell were you voting for it for? *facepalm* ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 10:54:57 PM The land of Dukakis, Kerry & Coakley. We'll never learn evidently. Uninspiring candidates mean uninspired voters. I got a fundraising letter from Webb just today. I've always liked him, but this? Is sheer idiocy. Plays up on all his 'hot headed' shoot from the hip tendencies. Sorry Jim, not this month, until something moves & you earn your keep. And yes, I wish all of them would keep off the TV. But than again I belong to no organized political party... But hey we got Tim Kaine coming for our JJ! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 01/19/2010 11:06:52 PM I don't know, I've toned down a lot since I started working at CAP, but at the same time I see the anger out here as you guys sound exactly as I did a year ago. So whatever, I think we're doing our best but it's not good enough is my takeaway. http://trueslant.com/zaidjilani/2010/01/19/what-progressives-must-learn-from-senator-scott-brown/ ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/20/2010 11:48:38 AM You think you aren't doing enough? Really? You think that's the problem? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.111 URL: DATE: 01/20/2010 03:46:02 PM You're writing for CAP? Why haven't you mentioned that before? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/20/2010 06:06:04 PM He did. Several times. No one much noticed. It's even on the top of their tiny masthead if you look closely enough. But hey, part of the problem is that no one reads much anymore. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 01/20/2010 09:02:47 PM After action report via OFA conference call: In 4 days, 2.3Million phone calls were made into MA. The likely voter gap was closed from a chasm of 14% 10 days ago to 3% the day of the election. Still? About 900K-1Mill votes short comparing Obama totals in 2008 vs 2010. Plenty of former Obama supporters voted for Brown: http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2010/1/20/827827/-Mass-Brown-Supporter-Tries-to-Explain Like I've said, uninspiring candidates do not inspire voters. Especially if you're only campaigning part time. It was largely a chronicle of a death foretold too. Evidently they'll try for reconciliation now. Still be obviously need stiffer spines & more resolve. And really? We need Dr. Howard Dean back. He was literally the only one making much sense today. Which is nice but sad at the same time. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Redefining Republican? BASENAME: redefining_republican STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/20/2010 02:13:59 PM ----- BODY:
A NEW CIVIL RIGHTS DIVISION IN HODGES' VISION FOR AG'S OFFICE Campaign Proposes Civil Rights Division Upon Election Ken Hodges' campaign for Attorney General has announced a plan to create a new Civil Rights Division within the Attorney General's office upon his election, the campaign said. "For the first time," Hodges said, "the Attorney General's office will have its own, separate legal enforcement division, with its mission trained solely on guarding the civil rights of all Georgians." Hodges' planned Civil Rights Division will tackle investigations and litigation on a host of civil rights violations, with a focus on fair housing, employment, disabilities, religious freedom, racial profiling, and stopping predatory lenders. Currently, the Attorney General's office handles civil rights cases through the broader General Litigation Division, and serves a defensive role protecting state agencies. "We've got to give Georgia's Attorney General the tools to protect all Georgians," Hodges said. "This new office will be a great step forward in keeping Georgia safe." Ken Hodges served for 12 years as Dougherty County's District Attorney. A proven prosecutor, Hodges earned distinctions as the Chairman of the Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of Georgia, the President of the District Attorney's Association of Georgia, and as the state's District Attorney of the Year in 2002. A board member emeritus of the Civil Rights Institute in Albany, Hodges believes in prosecuting public corruption, cracking down on gangs and urban crime, and supporting law enforcement in its efforts to protect all Georgians. For more on Hodges' campaign, visit www.kenhodges.com.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/26/2010 11:48:04 PM Is this a joke? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 01/27/2010 09:13:04 AM Can we have an open thread? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 01/27/2010 01:09:53 PM re ire, done. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: WARNING! FAKE JOB POSTING FOR ASSISTANT ATTORNEY GENERAL JOB IN NON-EXISTENT CIVIL RIGHTS DEPARTMENT! BASENAME: warning_fake_job_posting_for_a STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/27/2010 11:11:55 AM ----- BODY: Everyone! Thurbert Baker is a scam artist! He claims to have a job opening in Civil Rights when we were just told in the below post and by Ken Hodges that there is no Civil Rights department section at the AG's office! Here it is! Don't be fooled!
The ad reportedly will feature the University of Florida's superstar quarterback, Tim Tebow, and his mother, Pam. She will describe how, while working as a missionary in the Philippines and seven months pregnant with Tim, she contracted dysentery and fell into a coma. When she awoke, according to her account, doctors said the drugs they'd used to treat her virtually guaranteed a life-threatening stillbirth. They advised an abortion. She declined out of religious conviction.Those of you watching the Super Bowl will see the Tebow ad, but here's the one you won't see: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 72.145.97.132 URL: DATE: 01/30/2010 11:27:05 AM Also, there is some talk about some of the "facts" that Pam Tebow recounts in the story. Apparently, the story is very unlikely to have happened the way she tells it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 01/30/2010 04:40:46 PM "Based on a true story", apparently. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Amazing Obama BASENAME: amazing_obama STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 01/30/2010 01:14:06 AM ----- BODY: Everyone is raving about the President's "Open Discussion" with Republicans yesterday, and for good reason. Related: The White House has partnered with YouTube to give everyone an opportunity to ask President Obama questions here on Citizen Tube. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/01/2010 02:40:08 PM Great. Tort reform is the branch he is offering. Other than that it was wonderful to watch. Apparently the mastery of talking points and aggressive, leading questions is the basis of Republican Congresspeople selection. They all say "Democrat" as an adjective, full of pejorative venom. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Democratic Gubernatorial Debate -- tomorrow, Feb. 2 BASENAME: democratic_gubernatorial_debat STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/01/2010 02:17:50 PM ----- BODY: Georgia Democratic Gubernatorial candidates will have their second debate at the University of Georgia tomorrow, February 2.
WHO: Thurbert Baker, Roy Barnes, Carl Camon, Dubose Porter, David Poythress. WHAT: Moderated debate hosted by WNEG-TV and carried unedited on TV stations WGCL (Atlanta), WALB (Albany), WTVM (Columbus), WRDW (Augusta), WTOC (Savannah) and WMAZ (Macon). WHEN: Tomorrow, February 2. Seating must be completed by 6:30 pm, with live debate scheduled from 7 pm - 8 pm EST. WHERE: PJ Auditorium, located in the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia, Athens. Due to space limitations, tickets must be acquired through the Clarke County Democratic Party to guarantee seating for the event. Media credentials must be acquired through Eric Gray of the Democratic Party of Georgia. Traditional and new media are encouraged to request credentials immediately to guarantee access. Please call 678-278-2108 for information or to request credentials.Let me know if anyone will be liveblogging the event. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: And we wonder about the state of the media... BASENAME: and_we_wonder_about_the_state STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/02/2010 11:04:29 AM ----- BODY: Alas, I did have hope for Atlanta Progressive News when they first arrived on the scene. I believed then (and do still) that editor Matthew Cardinale had good intentions to bring a progressive voice to the Atlanta media scene. I usually read APN releases with a lot of skepticism and a little bit of hope. I'm skeptical because it often seems to me that their reports are a conclusion looking for a hypothesis. I'm hopeful because I would like very much to have a non-biased, respected, influential progressive voice in Atlanta (and across Georgia). APN's latest antics dash most of my hopes and boost my skepticism. Last night in response to proposed limits for public comments at the Community Development/Human Resources Committee meetings Mr Cardinale presented his comments to the Atlanta City Council in the form of a rap song. Some will surely disagree with me, but I think five minutes is sufficent to present an articulate and organized comment about anything in front of an Atlanta City Council Committee meeting. Five minutes is a long time... Just try listening to Paul Anka's, "(You're) Having my Baby" twice. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Matthew Cardinale EMAIL: IP: 98.92.71.17 URL: http://www.atlantaprogressivenews.com DATE: 02/02/2010 12:58:29 PM Dear Catherine, A certain part of my rap seems appropriate to this response: Don't hate the people Don't hurt the people Don't squash the people Don't slight the people There's so much going on in your post, responding will be a challenge. First you attack APN for (implicitly) being a biased, progressive--as opposed to "non-biased... progressive"--publication. Then you simply say that my rap song has dashed all of your hopes (implicitly of us being "non-biased, influential, progressive") without explaining why. It seems like your composition is the one with no connection between hypothesis, data, and conclusion. I'm just saying, since obviously the scientific method is so important to you. You know, if there's one thing I've come to understand over the last almost FIVE years of APN, it's that there is a connection between media on one hand and society and social institutions on the other. The difference between APN and most other publications is that we acknowledge and embrace that difference. When a media outlet reports on something, it has an effect. That effect influences the next article written, which also has an effect. My point is that we at APN are a part of the community we serve. I am proud to have a distinguished history of making copious presentations before Full Council and numerous Cmtes. Typically, APN's reporting on various issues--from public housing to the Atlanta Eagle--have formed the substance of my speeches. Why shouldn't I take extra steps to ensure our elected officials are aware of what we're reporting, and what our analysis is? As far as the rap, it was a special case. Again since you didn't explain your objections, it is unclear- is it the rap format itself that offends your lily white sensibilities, or do you object to me speaking at all instead of just sitting there taking notes, or do you object to the content? Maybe all 3? Well, I'm proud of the rap and my mad rhyme skillz. I'm also proud to have set a strong record for APN as a defender of democratic rights, participation, and protections. I've said this time in time again, but one of the main reasons behind APN is to empower readers to make a meaningful difference in the democratic process. If I sit by and allow public comment to be curtailed, that could hamper the democratic process, effecting so many issues and limiting efforts by our readers to make that difference. APN has a history of objecting to open meetings violations, engaging in FOIA and ORA struggles, and protecting the public's right to speak. If you doubt that, I have examples. As far as the time limit itself it is arbitrary and serves no compelling city interest (none has been articulated). I've made speeches that were 9 and 15 minutes long before--as noted in our press releases--and absolutely every minute was necessary. Frankly, I'm disappointed that you would be on the other side of this issue. But alas, I've always been more left/left-left, and you've always been more left/center-left. APN has always been driven by principles, whereas let's face it, the worldview of BFD is more entangled with politics, specifically, the interests of the Democratic Party of Georgia. But guess what? That doesn't mean BFD is unbiased, progressive; and APN is biased, progressive. As I've said also a million times before, there is no such thing as objectivity. So plz let me know when you find it. I repeat there is no such thing as objectivity. I want that word banished from the dictionary. You could say, well, there should be a balance between the two sides. Well, we disagree on what the sides are and how the balance should operate. But objectivity has nothing to do with it. You also made reference to your hope of having an "influential" unbiased, progressive news service. I would say that we are growing more in influence every day. Our stories get picked up all the time, and we're getting referenced in even corporate outlets. Our readership and advertising base is growing every day. What gets me though is the apparent two-faced-ness of our friendship. I have always been genuine and open with you. You? Apparently not so much. But at least now I get to see what you really think. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 01:27:57 PM All I know is that response took way more time than an Editor/Publisher of a legitimate publication should have. Also being an Editor/Publisher is an inherent conflict of interest. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Paula EMAIL: paulagaber@yahoo.com IP: 72.145.95.98 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 01:46:07 PM I don't know about the rest of you, but I would consider myself firmly left/left-right/center-left/left-left/left. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 01:54:51 PM Are these dance steps or political positions? I cannot even tell. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.145.107.176 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 02:02:46 PM Two-faced? So someone cannot like you as a person and also criticize your work (or at least your behavior)? If you are going to put yourself out there in the public eye, you are going to get criticism. Sometimes even from friends. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 72.145.107.176 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 02:18:09 PM Where to begin? You're right. Non-biased/objective reporting is not really possible. If APN really wanted to influence the time-limit proposed I would imagine that an articulate, well-thought out, comprehensive two-minute speech about why this "could hamper the democratic process" could have been very effective. Do you really think your rap performance had more (or even equal) impact as a succinct two-minute comment? I heard the council members chuckling at the end - is that the lasting impression you hoped to leave? I find it endlessly entertaining that you seem to enjoy comparing APN to BfD whenever we criticize you, but the rest of the time you adamantly insist that you are a news source, and we are a blog (with an implied sneer). And, that, my friend, is the whole point of my piece today. If you want to be a news source that is taken seriously and has an impact on policy, I suggest that you steer away from the rap songs and concentrate on well crafted comments, comprehensive reporting, and gaining a thicker skin. You can accuse me of having "lily white sensibilities" and of being "left/left-center" all day long. I have had my "left/progressive card" taken away so many times that it doesn't even give me pause anymore. I know what I believe, the values I hold dear, the issues and candidates I support, and other peoples' labels don't mean much to me. As for BfD being entangled with the Democratic Party of Georgia, I can only assure you that the DPG probably isn't feeling that right about now. As for our friendship, I am sorry if you believe that I have been hypocritical or "two-faced". I have criticized APN before, and try to keep from making the criticism personal. Apparently I have failed, and for that I am sorry. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Stefan EMAIL: turkheimer@gmail.com IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 06:10:39 PM I wouldn't mind APN if it made it clear what you were reading was an editorial. If you are going to claim to be a news site, you need to use some sort of journalistic ethos when you cover or comment. That is gone AWOL at APN. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 07:24:08 PM Agreed with Stefan, APN is an editorial site, not a news site. There are glimpes of news in the emails / releases etc from time to time, but nothing I can't get anywhere else in a LOT simpler, less talky form, more concise and just better overall. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/16/2010 09:16:16 AM http://blogs.creativeloafing.com/freshloaf/2010/02/15/atlanta-progressive-news-fires-reporter-for-trying-to-be-objective/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+freshloaf+%28Fresh+Loaf%29 I think it just sorta confirms we commented on this thread. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Please Atlanta Media lay off John Oxendine BASENAME: please_atlanta_media_lay_off_j STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/02/2010 06:01:17 PM ----- BODY:
championed policies aimed at protecting the interests of Georgia consumers and promoting a competitive market place.The Ox deserves to be the Republican nominee for Governor. In May 2009, when the AJC wrote about how he used his office as the State Insurance Commissioner to pimp money from those he regulated and the donations were illegal because they came from 2 insurance company executives who set up fake PACS was not very helpful with making sure the Ox wins the Republican nomination. Everyone thought the Ox would fold up his tent, but instead he responded to the AJC's frivolous attacks by saying:
Oxendine told the AJC that he wasn't sure who gave him the PAC money, but said it was from business people, mostly in Alabama. "It's not like an oversight or I didn't know what the law was," he said. "We received it from completely different sources, and they are not common." Oxendine added later, "I don't want you to think we had the intent of doing anything inappropriate."That my AJC friends is true Republican leadership - Oxendine was victimized by shady campaign contributors. He had zero knowledge that all the money came from the same address. ----- EXTENDED BODY: In September 2009, Jay Bookman's calling Oxendine "delusional" for wanting to build a tunnel through Atlanta's neighborhoods also didn't help the situation. C'mon those are strong Oxendine voters who live in the proposed tunnel's path - voters in Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, Inman Park and East Atlanta neighborhoods. Why does the AJC think that Oxendine will hurt his own supporters? No way! Oxendine is proposing the tunnel idea "because no one's really had the vision." until he came along. Under Ox's astute vision my home in East Atlanta will be bulldozed so Atlantans can reduce 5 minutes off their morning commute. And what is wrong with that? I can see the halo of light around Ox's head as the transportation gods smile upon him. In October 2009, WXIA broke the story about Ox's daddy "retiring" from his position as a Gwinnett County judge. Something about his daddy not realizing that he couldn't be the lawyer on a land deal for well connected folks who were selling land to Gwinnett County. Yeah somehow the Ox's daddy didn't remember that he couldn't practice law on the side while he was a sitting Judge. Hmmm...who knew about that crazy and outdated stipulation? A few days later, WXIA continued their pile on and the Ox's daddy was forced to resign his board seat on a nonprofit because of another quid pro quo deal gone bad. Oh what's that saying...the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Right before Christmas 2009 when the Ox was ready to spend some quality time with his family, the pesky reporters over at WSB squealed about the Ox taking lavish trips with a campaign contributor who just happened to also ask Ox's state office to help with him a personal matter. C'mon WSB why ya'll gotta be all up in Ox's trips and stuff? I mean the Ox's staff did say that he returned the travel expense money back to his State office although they lost the paperwork to show proof. But hey we can trust the Ox's staff because they are following the orders and actions of the Ox himself. As soon as the new year began, the AJC is back again reporting on the Ox and the "accidental" shooting that occurred while he was hunting with his boys. Geesh AJC it was just a hunting trip set up by the Dick Cheney travel agency. Seriously, did the AJC really need to get all mighty and force the DNR to actually investigate the incident? That was so not necessary. Once again the AJC just had to make the link that the Ox was actually hunting on land owned by the insurance company guy that he swore he didn't really have a relationship with. Coincidences people...move along...nothing shady happened. And now the AJC is reporting that Oxendine is strong arming a fellow Republican politician. Seriously AJC, the Ox wasn't putting any pressure on Congressman Westmoreland, he was just offering some friendly advice "just in case" the media got wind that Westmoreland was being investigated about a failed Georgia bank. That doesn't sound like strong arming to me. Can we really trust a GPB reporter who says the Ox gave him the tip about the Westmoreland investigation? C'mon with the trusting of GPB, for pete's sake GPB has to beg to the public to fund their programming and are held accountable by the people. As the Ox says "If anyone is trying to Monday make politics out of this, it's not me, it's the congressman". Yeah, it's the Congressman who is the trouble maker, I mean that dude doesn't even know the Ten Commandments and the AJC and GPB are taking his word about the conversations. So I'm asking the Atlanta media to please lay off of John Oxendine. Stop insinuating that he's not ethical or is pandering to the crazy right wing of his Party. As the Ox said in his most recent email to supporters:
In case you think we are getting ahead of ourselves, Rasmussen finds that "Oxendine holds a wide lead in the 2010 Republican Primary."The people of Georgia need John Oxendine to become the Republican nominee for Governor. Viva Oxedine. And when this happens, we Democrats, will gladly trounce his ass in November. Democrats need Oxendine to win the Republican nomination because he is the poster child for poor leadership and questionable ethics which embody the Georgia Republican party. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 07:18:08 PM omg this post is too long lol, funny, but too long. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 68.28.231.231 URL: DATE: 02/02/2010 08:04:18 PM I have been storing up my thoughts for a while. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/03/2010 06:37:56 AM The funny stuff was that you kept it clean and hell, you also missed all of his driving infractions and direct abuse of office allegations that have dogged him for years. There's got to be a Part Deux, right? JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Cover It Live-Georgia Democratic Governor Debate BASENAME: cover_it_live-georgia_democrat STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/02/2010 06:18:49 PM ----- BODY: Please join us at 7:00 tonight while we watch and discuss the debate between the Democratic Governor candidates. The debate begins at 7PM and will be broadcast live on CBS Channel 46. It's fun, it's fast, and it's free! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Wednesday's View: Rep. Debbie Buckner BASENAME: wednesdays_view_rep_debbie_buc STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/03/2010 12:37:40 AM ----- BODY: Every Wednesday, Blog for Democracy and the Democratic House Caucus will provide views from Georgia's Democrat State Representatives.
DO NO HARM is a documentary film that tells the story of two reluctant whistle blowers in a small Georgia town who endure relentless attacks as they struggle to draw national attention to hospital corruption and the plight of the uninsured. At the center of this story is Phoebe Putney, a non-profit hospital in Albany, Georgia whose influence is felt by most residents - everyone knows someone who works at Phoebe, owes Phoebe money, or who has been to the hospital for treatment. In 2003, Dr. John Bagnato and accountant Charles Rehberg stumble upon evidence that the hospital is overcharging uninsured and indigent patients and is using aggressive collections tactics to recover costs. Their subsequent investigation uncovers millions of dollars in offshore bank accounts and lucrative for-profit businesses under the control of the non-profit hospital - not only at Phoebe, but also at non-profit hospitals around the country. And shockingly - this is all entirely legal. When these discoveries become public, Bagnato and Rehberg become the targets of threats and intimidation, and are eventually prosecuted by local authorities for blowing the whistle on the hospital. With their reputations and livelihoods on the line, Bagnato and Rehberg must confront what they're willing to sacrifice to bring about justice.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/04/2010 05:20:19 AM Big Problem, and one that PP actually fairly summaries from the 'Do no harm' vid, which I've seen. In Ga. BTW, just not broadcast by GPTV. It's available from their site (listed above) for about $25. This would be a very huge issue to hand to the GOP opposition, and one that would indeed probably 'taint' the entire field if the press ever got interested in it. It's a complex story though, but KH not only did not 'cover himself in glory' in it, he's one of the blacker hats in the documentary. Never underestimate the power of revulsion towards Hospital health care lobbyists with the public today. This is a serious concern & a viable issue that either needs to be addressed or considered as a point of 'negative comparison' that will prove to be quite telling in the race. One way or another. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Cotton EMAIL: IP: 74.184.63.15 URL: DATE: 02/04/2010 12:13:56 PM The Hodges story gets stranger and stranger,is this the best we can do? I think it's time for Ken to just stay put in his law practice and give the rest of us a break. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: richie.rashad EMAIL: IP: 98.74.13.10 URL: DATE: 02/04/2010 10:45:20 PM Ken Hodges is the defender of the innocent and the prosecutor of the guilty. He defends Phoebe a non-profit hospital that has served the black community since the 1870's. There were racists who attacked Phoebe using KKK imagery and Ken investigated these anonmyous attacks. He was elected and re-elected a total of 3 times and greatly loved by South Georgia. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/05/2010 12:43:07 AM See the movie. See the Doc. And decide for yourself. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: leah frog EMAIL: IP: 168.12.253.66 URL: http://www.georgiapolitico.blogspot.com DATE: 02/05/2010 12:19:20 PM after reading those posts, it seems like these people are obsessed with hurting ken hodges and a lot of what they say is "alledged" i think what is worse than alledged accusations is actually being in the middle of criminal investigations like teilhet and seus! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: leah frog EMAIL: IP: 168.12.253.66 URL: DATE: 02/05/2010 12:42:07 PM http://georgiapolitico.blogspot.com/2010/02/ox-is-taking-people-to-swamp.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/05/2010 05:13:32 PM We welcome newish blogger 'Leah Frog'. I've read the mostly disjointed post you put up, and frankly really don't understand it. Is it supposed to be some sort of guilt by association deal? Because if it is? It's got nothing on what's on the record about what went down with the case cited above with the monopolistic power of Phoebe Putney Health systems in & around Albany. It was tres ugly. Read some of the supporting documentation. Not fun, and not much of a proud 'record' to run on. Although truth be told? It may play well enough down state for awhile at least. But don't take my word for it, read & investigate it for yourself. But it's trouble no doubt. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 02/06/2010 02:37:38 PM The reason they are rolling this out right now is because the case is about to be dismissed by the 11th Circuit (an extremely good possibility), who has seen and heard all the unbiased information. Then it will be a lot harder to make the case. Right now, it is easy to take the completely biased and unproven allegations and try to make it seem like they are true. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: richie.rashad EMAIL: IP: 98.74.13.10 URL: DATE: 02/07/2010 09:51:54 AM I agree with Melb, what other purpose to Rob Teleit's bloggers have than to undermine justice and run down the "people's hospital"? Taking Phoebe aside, Ken Hodges was a great District Attorney who has the experience to be a great Georgia Attorney General. The fact that he is a tenacious defender of the poor and African-American civil rights should be apparent and commended! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/07/2010 04:28:13 PM I've got no idea of who's doing what & why. Me? I'm not a 'Rob Teleit's [sic: sp] blogger'. Phoebe's got plenty of problems, not the least of which is PR. And no, I'd really not describe them as being a or 'the people's hospital'. They're a monopolistic corporate giant that was used to throwing their weight around in a smallish pond to get their own way. Was that illegal in the strictest sense of the law? Perhaps not, but that remains to be seen. It's a complicated case and the terms of the argument may indeed be narrowed down by the courts. Why would the Rethugs delight to see all this? Well for the usual reasons actually. Me, I'd really like to avoid having folks who are more difficult to defend (say wife beaters, prostitute batterers etc. Elsewhere) in general elections. It really does get tiresome. And it's tremendously draining on everything we do & hope to do also. Just a thought. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 02/07/2010 07:18:28 PM JMP, Are you from Albany/Dougherty county? Do you have a personal experience with Pheobe? You have made a lot of comments about them so I am wondering if your experience is the video pushed by the plaintiff or if you have first hand knowledge of the issues you are concerned about? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 02/07/2010 07:21:10 PM i.e., monopolistic corporate giant who is not "the people's hospital" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/07/2010 11:17:16 PM Melb, If you don't know me, and I you, then you might guess that I'm not from 'the area'. I've seen the documentary, which was independently produced, from years of ongoing strife involving yes, just some of the more vicious aspects of the 'monopolistic' tendencies & operations of Pheobe P. Make no mistake about it, all the regular & usual corporate malfeasance will & do apply to the corp, whether or not they are indicted for any particular crime. The AJC finally was covering the story, as was the local Albany press & media by the time the controversy had somewhat subsided. I've also heard from health care professionals familiar with the scene on the general state of play with the corporation. So again, don't take my word for it. Investigate for yourself. It's the modern age, that's pretty easy to do now. I'm just one opinion here. But again I'd suggest to everyone to please read & inform yourselves on the basic issues involved here. In no sense does any 'people's hospital' behave in such a manner as has now been documented by numerous sources. And that's at a bare minimum here. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 02/07/2010 11:26:46 PM Just was wondering. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.145.105.29 URL: DATE: 02/09/2010 10:36:22 AM So J.M., that would a "no"? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: A Love Poll for the Democratic Governor's Race BASENAME: a_love_poll_for_the_democratic STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/04/2010 06:22:31 AM ----- BODY:
When: Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010 Where: The Phillip Rush Center - 1530 DeKalb Ave, Atlanta, 30307 * next to Radial Café and Georgia Equality Time: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pmIf you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact Tim Cairl - timcairl(at)gmail.com If you can't make the event and still want to send a heart, please Contribute here ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: House Dems announce Transportation Job Development Act BASENAME: house_dems_announce_transporta STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/04/2010 02:56:11 PM ----- BODY: In a press release from the Georgia House Democrats:
House and Senate Democrats today announced new transportation legislation that will help ensure Georgia receives its fair share of federal stimulus money and create a mechanism for a regional transportation SPLOST. The legislation dedicates the fourth penny collected on motor fuel tax to any general transportation purpose. As of FY 2009 the motor fuel tax generated over $137 million. "House Democrats have been working on this for over three years," said Minority Leader DuBose Porter. "Georgia's Republican leadership refused to act, costing Georgia jobs and federal money. We are losing jobs and money to surrounding states because of their failure to act on transportation. " The Democrats' proposed legislation allows for the formation of special transportation districts, giving local jurisdictions the power to decide whether or not to levy a local tax. It also constitutionally dedicates the fourth penny of sales tax generated from motor fuel to "any transportation purpose" to leverage federal dollars and help with economic development through state aid and LARP for local communities. "There is $87 million in federal stimulus money for high speed rail systems up for grabs and all Georgia needs to do is raise $15 million to access the federal money," said Rep. Calvin Smyre. "The fourth penny will ensure leverage for Georgia to enable us to receive some of that money instead of watching as it goes to North Carolina or Florida." "There is an urgency to act now. Republicans want to create legislation that starts acting in 2012, which means the money won't be on the ground until 2014. Georgia can't wait until 2014 to start fixing our transportation problem. That's why House Democrats are acting now," said Minority Whip Carolyn Hugley.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/04/2010 10:29:41 PM Lovely, serious & vitally important to the future of the state & our economy. And w/Sonny & his Rethug wrecking crew in charge? Anyone have a 'dead pool' on this and any other brilliant suggestions? Yeah I know... JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Your Panda Travel News Update! BASENAME: your_panda_travel_news STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/04/2010 05:06:25 PM ----- BODY: Oh yes, today was International Panda Travel Day, complete with VIP send off and FedEx playing chauffeur! At the Atlanta Zoo Mei Lan was up two hours earlier than usual to catch her flight to DC to pick up Tai Shan who, I guess, got to sleep in.
Atlanta's new mayor Kasim Reed acknowledged Mei Lan's impact on this community while she was here ...but also expressed hope for her future. He said she would always be remembered. And with a laugh he wished that she would be fruitful and multiple. Then the Panda Express taxied to the runway under a ceremonial water cannon salute...and off she went...first to Washington D.C. to pick up another giant panda cub, Tai Shan.
Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair Jr., David Richmond and Joseph McNeil took a seat at the segregated facility and politely, but steadfastly, refused to leave. Eventually joined by others, they returned day after day to stage a sit-in that would continue until late July, when at last, the eating area was de-segregated. Their protest sparked similar sit-ins throughout the South, enlivening the civil rights movement.The congressman was on his way back to DC, and while I could have chatted him up for hours! I thanked him again and we parted. However, it really got me thinking about the all too many times he put his body on the line for something he believed in, and when was the last time I saw others make that commitment? Well, as it turns out, I didn't have to look far. ----- EXTENDED BODY: For 7 years Georgia Wand Stands for Peace every friday on the corner of 14th and Peachtree from 12-1 pm. As they say "We will continue to stand every Friday until the war ends in Iraq and the troops are sent home from Afghanistan". More about the ongoing action here. Later that week one of my favorite daily read blogs, Joe.My.God posted a great video from a group of students staged a sit in during a recent John Carroll University basketball game. The group Singing for our Lives posted the video and says the following about why they took this action.
In light of the recent decision by the John Carroll University administration to not specifically include the protection of Lesbians, Gays, Bi-Sexuals, Transgendered, and Questioning students in its Anti-Discrimination Statement, we, the students, faculty, and alumni of John Carroll University choose to voice our support for those the university leaves without protection. John Carroll's mission is to create people for others. That means support, protection, love, and understanding for all people without regard to color, creed, sexual preference, gender, age, or other personal factors. That's the goal of a Jesuit institution. By not explicitly voicing its support of LGBTQ students, faculty, and alumni, John Carroll's administration is breaking those unspoken bonds of trust that make JCU a community. It's time for those who have called Carroll home in some capacity to speak up and demand of the President, Board of Directors, and Administration the words that promise safety and security to those whose rights are so tenuous and often unprotected. In short, we expect better of John Carroll University. We demand better. We are a gentle, angry people and we are singing, singing for our lives!!!I watched all 9 +mins of the video, and was really disappointed to see it appeared no other students joined them, and the players just kept warming up. Sad. Huh, I've never met a protest that I didn't want to be part of! Certainly one that I didn't have to organize and came ready made to my gym! So it's fair to ask, "what are YOU doing Ms. J..." As it so happens this Valentines Day at 2:14 pm on the dot I will be joining the Cobb PFLAG chapter to "stand" in a heart shaped show of solidarity for the rights of LBGTQQ citizens. It's no Edmund Petus bridge, but if you'd like to join us... At 2:14 PM on 2/14, there will be an OUTright Love-In held at East Cobb Park. The purpose of this love-in is to support love of all kinds, with emphasis on marriage and adoption rights for LGBT couples. Where: East Cobb Park Address: 3322 Roswell Rd Marietta, GA 30062 When: 2:14 PM on 2/14/2010 (Plan to arrive a little early) Dress: Red, pink, rainbow, whatever. Sponsored by the Emerson Unitarian Universalist Congregation ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Tom Tancredo is... BASENAME: tom_tancredo_is STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/10/2010 10:05:22 PM ----- BODY:
Tim Kaine is an example of Democratic leadership at its best. From his early role as a Richmond city council member, Kaine rose through the ranks of governance, serving as mayor, Lt. Governor and eventually the 70th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. "His core ideals- economic stability, smart growth, improved transportation planning- are all issues Georgians want addressed," said Matt Weyandt, Executive Director of the Democratic Party of Georgia. Kaine now serves as the Chair of the DNC. His speech at the Jefferson Jackson Dinner will be the closing event at the Democratic Party of Georgia's premiere fundraiser. The event will also honor Ambassador Andrew Young and longtime Agricultural Commissioner Tommy Irvin with individual "Georgia Giant" awards.Recently, another former Virginia Governor, Gov. Wilder, took Tim Kaine to the woodshed based on the numerous losses the Democrats have experienced while Kaine leads the Party. Gov. Wilder opined this:
a spate of recent losses in races that Democrats should have won underscores what has been obvious to me for a long time: The chairmanship of the Democratic National Committee is the wrong job for him.and he followed up with this:
Kaine's recommendation to the Justice Department to transfer one of Virginia's inmates to a federal jurisdiction, and ultimately to Germany, for possible parole in two years was almost immediately withdrawn by the incoming Republican governor and Republican attorney general. Because of the serious nature of these heinous murders and the clearest evidence of guilt, many are still asking why. Is that who this president wants to be arm in arm with as we enter a pivotal election year? For his sake, it shouldn't be. The president has enough to worry about and defend without this detracting sideshow as to feckless party leadership.Party on Democrats...Party On. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 72.145.107.182 URL: DATE: 02/11/2010 08:42:55 AM Oh no they DIDN'T! Different price for singles than couples. I thought this had gone out of style ages ago. Really. I'm stunned. Just don't get it. Does one person of the "couple" get a smaller dinner? No seat? Guess it makes sense with a keynote like Tim Kaine. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.182.28 URL: DATE: 02/11/2010 09:25:12 AM Oh brother... is this supposed to be some kind of nod to the state of the economy? If so I can really think of better ways to do that. BTW has anyone else noticed that our JJ seems to curse whomever comes to speak at it? Seriously when was the last time the key note speaker was "energized" by this event, mostly seems like they leave politics, lose the next major election they run for, drop out or fade away. If I were invited to speak I sure wouldn't accept- me or my date...snark. After the Rahm Emanuel appointment, the coronation of Tim Kaine has to be the second biggest disappointment I had in Pres. Obama. EPIC Fail is right. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 130.207.218.196 URL: DATE: 02/11/2010 12:15:01 PM Wilder is a dick, yes? He never misses an opportunity to ride his personal hobbyhorses. He's not arguing that Kaine has proven to be a poor choice for chair because of how Democrats have fared since Obama's election, he's arguing that Kaine was a poor choice because he was, you know, a Democrat: supporting an income tax increase to cover a budget deficit and showing mercy to a criminal, in part in the interest of comity with our allies. I could care less about Kaine, but those aren't reasons for him not to be chair. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.145.107.182 URL: DATE: 02/11/2010 01:40:38 PM I guess Snuggles can get him and his two closest friends in for $100 each? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 02/11/2010 04:08:11 PM They are not defining "couple" are they? :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.145.107.182 URL: DATE: 02/11/2010 06:05:06 PM Well Drew, umm, yes, he is calling him out for poor elective performance. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/11/2010 06:39:47 PM Can I take Dr. Dean for $100? Just asking... JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 02/11/2010 07:52:03 PM Um, what does his support for an income tax increase or for the transfer of a criminal have to do with that performance? Wilder is an ass; he doesn't care whether the Democratic Party is well-run; he's merely doing what he's been doing forever, which is trash every other Democrat in Virginia who has ever done anything but stroke his ego. He pulled this on Mark Warner, trashing him after he supported a tax increase, and he pulled it on Deeds, too, refusing to endorse him - and as much as endoring McDonnell - after Deeds had the audacity to tell the truth about the need for a tax increase. He's worthless except as a Republican tool, and I see no reason to take his criticism seriously. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.215.160.29 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 12:20:57 PM OK fine. Forget about Wilder. I will take Kaine to task. He better start helping us win some elections. We're not even winning the ones we are supposed to win let alone get any surprise wins. Whatever he is doing ain't working. If he is going to be an effective Party chairman he better figure out a successful strategy pretty damn fast. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.215.160.29 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 12:25:28 PM I mean, what's-her-name in Mass. was 30 points up 3 weeks before the election and lost! The Repubs were able to see the swing happening and take advantage of it and we weren't. That is pathetic. I know it's a mid-term thing, but that was Ted Kennedy's seat! OK, so maybe you lose some close ones in mid-term years, but fer cryin' out loud! That wasn't even supposed to be close! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.182.28 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 02:36:17 PM Jerry- she was a terrible candidate, and no one but the voters seemed to notice that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.215.160.29 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 04:22:26 PM And the DNC has no responsibility/control/influence over that? She was 30 points up! How bad could she be! And if she was that bad, how did she get to be the candidate? The DNC has to take some responsibility for this. The RNC sure was able to take advantage of whatever weakness she showed. Why wasn't the DNC able to get the message straightened out and get her back in line? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Kyle Bailey EMAIL: IP: 70.46.189.3 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 04:23:52 PM Democrats have a significant problem placing otherwise qualified and capable leaders in positions that aren't right for them given their experiences and talents. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: starcomed EMAIL: IP: 72.152.239.226 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 06:28:07 PM Oh, come on guys. The couple deal (any 2 people) is a way to encourage more people to come at a cheaper, per person price. The lowest table sponsorship is $2500. Also, tickets through a County Party are $100/person. Kaine is really a great guy who is supporting our President. He's good on the stump, too! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 06:30:25 PM Fair enough, JerryT; I trust your sincerity over Wilder. I suppose the DNC could have done more, but I don't know what more they could have done - they can't be blamed for the choice of candidate, because the primary electorate was responsible for that in every case. Should they have run the campaign for them? Could they have? Is there some set of best practices that the campaigns should have followed but didn't, and that the DNC should have required in return for support? I know nothing about campaigns, so I don't know - but from what I've observed, there aren't a lot of campaigns that seem to have lost in spite of being well-run or won in spite of being poorly-run, which says to me that the difference between a "well-run" and a "poorly-run" campaign has less to do with the process leading to election day and more to do with the result on the day itself. Which is a bit scary in and of itself, because the people who run those campaigns also run our government. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.154.144 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 06:48:24 PM Tim Kaine should not have taken the job, and frankly, Obama should not have asked him. What did we expect would happen with a part-time chair? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: CatherineAtlanta EMAIL: IP: 74.176.154.144 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 06:52:52 PM If the DPG wants to encourage attendance at their ONLY major fundraiser, discriminating against single people is not really the best way to go about it. County party ticket discounts are fine, well, except for the county parties that do everything in their power to discourage participation. Yeah, Kaine is a great guy, all right. Anti-choice, against gay marriage and gay adoption, claims to be against capital punishment but oversaw numerous executions while Governor of Virginia. Great guy, you betcha! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.182.28 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 07:08:46 PM To follow up on Catherine's point, political fundraisers are very often the one thing folks will go to alone. Almost no other social event compares in attendance by singles. The message this sends is very negative-it penalizes folks who normally go to these events alone (me-significant other not interested) and also makes the single person feel stigmatized in process, just by opening up the invite. Is this really what was intended? Doubtful, however, there are about 20 people I know of they could have run this by. In fact I know more than that, but you get my point. Not attending this year due to a "scheduling conflict". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 70.11.150.16 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 08:07:11 PM A Public Service Announcement: No one is really anonymous on the internets. I'm just saying... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 72.28.77.109 URL: DATE: 02/12/2010 09:48:57 PM Starcomed's profile link: http://profile.typepad.com/jkidd Smooth move. Just saying, best way o get people to pay top dollar for your event IS NOT to spend time here. Fucking ay work is slow right now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/13/2010 12:00:29 AM Well if we're not telling tales here, 'tickets though a county party are $100', but ONLY if someone is fronting for a full table. Or perhaps a very complicated arrangement of 'fractional tables' that drove many a DPG intern mad with the 'marrying details'. It was & is not pretty. And NO, we do not currently 'have' such magical $100 tickets, we'd still have to front for them with real cash money in advance. So weeks later you might be collecting some cash from poorly strapped neighbors who happened to be fans of Mr. Kaine, (perhaps former Milledgeville residents all no doubt). But yeah, good cause, great prospects, etc. Still @ $100 a ticket? Frankly in a Depression? I might just be drinking alone once again. The people who can afford it, are all retired and need to 'get back before dark' to care for even more aged & ailing relations. I can't think of the last time I went to any event that cost a C note for entrance. Other than the JJ dinner. Some one please send me the details on the county table roulette deal, I need to present it to my folks soon too. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/13/2010 12:01:12 AM Well if we're not telling tales here, 'tickets though a county party are $100', but ONLY if someone is fronting for a full table. Or perhaps a very complicated arrangement of 'fractional tables' that drove many a DPG intern mad with the 'marrying details'. It was & is not pretty. And NO, we do not currently 'have' such magical $100 tickets, we'd still have to front for them with real cash money in advance. So weeks later you might be collecting some cash from poorly strapped neighbors who happened to be fans of Mr. Kaine, (perhaps former Milledgeville residents all no doubt). But yeah, good cause, great prospects, etc. Still @ $100 a ticket? Frankly in a Depression? I might just be drinking alone once again. The people who can afford it, are all retired and need to 'get back before dark' to care for even more aged & ailing relations. I can't think of the last time I went to any event that cost a C note for entrance. Other than the JJ dinner. Some one please send me the details on the county table roulette deal, I need to present it to my folks soon too. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/13/2010 12:10:11 AM Sorry for the double posts. My computer has been on the fritz. And Catherine, if you can? You might gather all the single folks you're aware of and try for a table, I think you might be able to swing that deal. If not, we can make some of you (I don't know the numbers per table) honorary members of my county. But I well understand the frustration. Now recall how many have ever seen the mythical wife at one of these? Not happening. I'm always going alone! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.155.36 URL: DATE: 02/13/2010 08:14:17 AM We tried that in 2008 J.M. and we ended up with no reserved table- ten randomly assigned seats apparently, despite assurances to the contrary- and when we finally insisted on a table, we got one just outside the service door and behind a column. Maybe this time there will be a mechanism for a group purchase that isn't a recognized "group". I know there were planning issues that year, but nevertheless, somebody else will have to organize that table this time. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.182.28 URL: DATE: 02/13/2010 12:56:14 PM Don't think my county party is offering a table $ discount since they lost their shirts on the GADCC dinner last summer. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/13/2010 01:09:40 PM Yeah, all just lovely, and the typical & customary CF's. I can't tell of the times we've been done in by the same 'dynamic' too. But I'm unlikely to be getting 10 folks interested in going, so if all else fails, J&J you guys can become honorary members of our county. Of course for that eve only, you'd lose an unspecified portion of your income, become somewhat older, more ambivalent & crankier. So in other words, a pretty typical outcome for the night perhaps. But it's still a standing offer. And we're not adverse to 'commandeering' tables that otherwise appear empty too. And everyone knows that by now. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.165.13 URL: DATE: 02/13/2010 03:54:12 PM I expect I'll find some way to support the party, but I don't think that event will be it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/13/2010 06:39:31 PM Thanks Jerry, I had several non PC and unprintable thoughts along those lines. I'm almost certain I can come up with a Top Ten... JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/14/2010 12:54:07 PM I'm attempting a table through my county party with the Young Dems, but not sure if we have enough to fill a table. If we do, or if anyone wants in on the DeKalb YDs table, just give me a shout. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: The Book BASENAME: the_book STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/12/2010 01:05:11 PM ----- BODY:
Jones still insists he would be in Washington now as a U.S. senator if the state's Democratic Party had stayed out of the race and not supported Martin. And he dismisses contentions he shot too high running for the Senate.
He often refers to himself in the third person. "Abraham Lincoln was controversial. Mahatma Gandhi was controversial. Jesus was controversial," he said. "If you call Vernon Jones controversial, then that is a badge of honor. He didn't want to be liked. He had a vision and did what was needed."h/t Amy ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 72.28.77.109 URL: DATE: 02/14/2010 03:50:01 PM Awe...fucking...some. http://d0gl0ver.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/cute-puppy-pictures-loldogs-please-sir-may-i-have-some-more.jpg ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/14/2010 04:29:42 PM I think I just threw up a little just reading it a bit. And Billy T's been there for years too, no 'wet behind the ears' kid either. Reason #629 why the AJC sux, & can't & won't cover real politics, and even when they do can never seem to get anything much right. As long as it's in print? It's unreliable coming from the AJC. Case in point. Geez, it's almost like some set up here. Agendas being pushed? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/14/2010 06:26:50 PM they're trying to setup the election as a paper-seller...shocker ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Angel Gray EMAIL: IP: 168.20.65.5 URL: DATE: 02/15/2010 04:11:41 PM The financial contributions of the candidates have recently been released. Contributions to Congressman John Barrow far exceed those to his challenger Regina Thomas, at this point in the campaign. However, the information released in The Savannah Moring News fails to mention the fact that Barrow received almost $250,000 from the financial sectors of Health and Lobbyist, nearly $100,000 from the finance and insurance companies and a mere 10% from people within his district. Let me also include that Mr. Barrow received large donations from the Blue Dog PAC, AFLAC, Pfizer, and the National Assn of Retail Druggists. You can view all of this information for yourself at Opensecrets.org. Therefore, when one reviews Barrow's votes on Healthcare and compares this to his donors, it becomes very clear why Mr. Barrow voted against Health Care Twice! We cannot afford to have our Congressional seat for sale! This Year, let’s Wheel Barrow OUT!!!! Angel Gray ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Bill proposes splitting pennies for arts and culture BASENAME: bill_proposes_splitting_pennie STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/16/2010 01:53:46 PM ----- BODY: This is a good thing.
A groundbreaking bill to support the arts, economic development and quality-of-life initiatives was introduced Feb. 1 in the state House of Representatives. House Bill 1049, introduced by Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Savannah, and Stacey Abrams, D-DeKalb, would transform the local option sales tax by allowing counties to pass a fraction of a penny sales tax. It would be the first time that Georgia would permit the splitting up of a penny sales tax -- a tool that has been successfully applied in states across the country. The proposed enabling legislation would allow each county the flexibility to pass a sales tax (be it a full penny or a fraction of a penny) to go toward supporting arts and cultural organizations, economic development incentives and quality-of-life initiatives.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Kyle Bailey EMAIL: IP: 75.91.73.181 URL: DATE: 02/16/2010 03:54:14 PM Smart. I don't like more taxes, but even a half a penny sounds reasonable to me and adds up to a lot of cash for important initiatives, especially economic development and smart growth. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 02/16/2010 07:51:01 PM I think this is a great bill. I think Stacey Abrams is one of the best new legislators we have had in a long long time - D or R. She is a hard worker and I have been very impressed. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Springston out at APN BASENAME: springston_out_at_apn STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/16/2010 06:34:49 PM ----- BODY: Gawker, Slate, and Romenesko pick up the story. Creative Loafing has the the skinny. Here's the money quote from commenter, APNEditor:
"because he held on to the notion that there was an objective reality that could be reported objectively, despite the fact that that was not our editorial policy at Atlanta Progressive News."And so, Senior Staff Writer, Jonathan Springston, is no longer writing for APN. According to comments from APNEditor, Mr Springston was let go because "It just wasn't the right fit". It's really a shame, too. Springston is a good writer. Today Gawker lead with the APN news: Reporter Fired for Belief in Realty. Kudos to Andisheh Nouraee for catching this and posting over at CL. And, just as an aside, if you Tweet, and are not following Andisheh, you are missing out on some great tweetifying. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.120 URL: DATE: 02/17/2010 02:09:07 AM The comments on the CL entry are awesome. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/17/2010 06:05:05 AM Yes, the parodies almost write themselves. Got the usual long winded, self satisfied and generally cluelessly dense APN 'clarification' & update in my inbox. What can we say? Some days reality favors your existence, some not. Not one of those days eh guys? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Matthew Cardinale EMAIL: IP: 98.92.71.17 URL: http://www.atlantaprogressivenews.com DATE: 02/17/2010 09:38:36 AM Here is our statement explaining our position on objectivity and news further (although we've already discussed much of this on here previously): http://atlantaprogressivenews.com/news/0600.html #### Editorial: Notes on Objectivity and News By Matthew Cardinale, News Editor, The Atlanta Progressive News (February 17, 2010) (APN) ATLANTA -- From time to time, Atlanta Progressive News has received questions from readers and other interested parties questioning the "objectivity" of our reporting. To be sure, we published several statements on our Frequently Asked Questions page over four years ago making it very clear that (1) we believe objectivity in news reporting does not exist, and that (2) we report news from a progressive perspective. In addition, we have made a number of statements responding to various blog posts and commenters on other websites as well. In anticipation of APN's major website redesign--currently in progress--Atlanta Progressive News has released the following Editorial to readers refining and expanding upon our position in reference to issues of objectivity, inter-subjectivity, and the news media. This programmatic statement will likely be the first of several essays on these subjects, and will serve as a more detailed reference point for our readers and others with related questions. BASIC STATEMENTS FROM OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS PAGE The following statements appear on APN's original Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Page: "Our goal is providing news of concern to the working people and working families of Atlanta." "Progressive news is news that brings us closer to universal health care, living wages, affordable housing, peace, a healthy environment, and voting systems we can trust." "We provide news of concern to working families, and therefore, our writing is geared toward a specific audience. Fortunately, our audience--working families--comprises a majority of people in the United States who are largely ignored by corporate media sources." "We believe there is no such thing as objective news. Typically, mainstream media presents itself as objective but is actually skewed towards promoting the corporate agenda of the ultra-wealthy. APN, on the other hand, does not pretend to be objective. We believe that our news coverage is fair and that our progressive principles are fair. We aim when possible to give voice to all sides, but aim to provide something different than what is already provided by corporate sources." NO SUCH THING AS OBJECTIVITY IN NEWS "You can't be neutral on a moving train." - Howard Zinn So, the first point is, as already stated on our FAQs page, there's no such thing as objectivity in news. The premise of objectivity is literally to remove the observer from what it is that is being observed and simply to report what "is." However, that is an impossibility. It cannot be done. In fact, there is nothing that "is," separate from the observer or multiple observers who construct and interpret what that reality is. One could argue that the only one who's really objective is God, and that's because God is omniscient or all-knowing (that is, if you believe in God). This talk of the observer and the observed may sound philosophical and abstract, but it will become much clearer as we consider examples. Now, the first way we know that there is no such thing as objective media is that we have no evidence, no examples, of objective media outlets. (if you find one, let us know right away!) Every publication has an editorial perspective which shapes and constrains the way its reporters cover the news, which in turn affects the way its readers view reality. However, the difference between APN and most publications is that most publications pretend to be objective--and maybe even convince themselves that they are--while we have never pretended to be objective. Take the Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper, for example. AJC reporters might consider themselves objective, and there may be some readers whose worldviews are so much in line with that of the AJC that the publication seems objective to them. But take note- many Atlantans on the left consider the AJC to be the newsletter of corporate and real estate interests, while many Atlantans on the right consider the AJC to be a liberal rag. How can that be if there's an objective reality and the AJC is objective? And who is correct? Who gets to decide who is correct? We could create a panel called the Committee on Objectivity to judge who is objective and who isn't, but undoubtedly there would be disagreement with their decisions (and who gets to sit on the panel, who gets to vote for who sits on the panel, etc.)! Nor is Creative Loafing objective. Even less, they are constantly mixing facts and opinions in the same articles. For example: "What is Michael Bond smoking these days? Since he rejoined the Atlanta City Council last month after an eight-year hiatus, Bond has seemingly been trying to make up for lost time by churning out attention-getting resolutions — to create a penny sales tax for public safety, to apologize to the victims of the Atlanta Eagle raid, etc." How is that objective? Again, objective means removing the observer. So you mean to tell me that anybody looking at Michael Julian Bond's legislative record would also inevitably question whether the Councilman was smoking? No, that is a clear opinion. Most publications--including APN--do not regularly mix facts and opinions in the same articles. However, the perspectives of APN and other publications come through in other ways: (1) the choices of what stories to cover and what not to cover, (2) defining what a story is or is not in the first place, (3) deciding how to cover the story, (4) assessing what the "sides" are to be balanced, (5) deciding how the "sides" should be balanced, (6) deciding what facts to include and what not facts to include, etc. At Atlanta Progressive News, we have a transparent editorial perspective that shapes which facts get included and which facts are given priority over others. Most other publications--on the other hand--have a hidden, sometimes insidious editorial perspective that shapes the same. My point regarding the non-existence of objectivity in news has to do with which facts get included and which don’t– which “sides” get included and which don’t. Every publication has to make choices about this, which are unique to each publication and to each situation being written about. Now most people's basic understanding of objectivity is: balancing the sides. Okay, let's talk about the sides for a minute. How many sides are there? Well, there are approximately six billion people in the world, and to the extent that everyone's perspective is slightly different, there could be potentially six billion sides. So what journalists do is construct what they see as key themes or narratives that seem to define the major sides. Well, again, how many sides are there? What if paper A includes two sides, but paper B includes three? What if paper C includes five, but doesn't include one of the sides paper A included? What it means is, again, that there is no such thing as objective reality or objective news, and all news stories are constructed. Here's an example: the Grady Hospital dialysis treatment scandal. As APN has reported, several patients were left without life-essential treatment options after Grady closed its dialysis clinic. You could do a content analysis and you will find that APN gave much higher priority to the views of the patients and their advocates than we did to Grady officials, while the AJC did just the opposite. In part, our mission is shaped by the void left by other media outlets. Some publications did not even cover the Grady dialysis scandal. Well, if there's an objective reality and the Grady situation is part of it, surely all news agencies would see it as newsworthy? Now, if we at APN wanted to, we could have sought out some activists in Marietta who believe that immigrants do not have a right to dialysis care in the US and deserve to die. But that's not a view that we would validate at APN. It's a view they might include at the AJC, but to us it is so inhumane that is outside the realm of what we would consider reasonable or even worth mentioning. Before I get to other examples, I want to clarify- this is not the same as saying there are not facts. Everyone can look at the Grady situation and see that there are dialysis patients, that they are undocumented, that the clinic has closed, etc. (Yes, there are facts within a socially constructed, inter-subjective reality; not quite objective facts.) However, beyond those basic facts, people have very different opinions. Some look at the Grady situation and see a human rights crisis, others see an economic question. But that doesn't mean one view is objective and the other is not, or that one is true and one is false. It means there are different perspectives. And each publication has to decide which perspectives to include or exclude, and those decisions are based on the editorial perspectives and priorities of that publication. Okay, another example: nuclear power. Atlanta Progressive News conducted extensive research on nuclear power, including literally weeks of reading the US government's environmental impact statement on proposed Plants Vogtle 3 and 4, in addition to conducting interviews and reviewing secondary data, to determine that (a) nuclear power plants appear to be correlated with increased cancer rates in nearby areas, and (b) nuclear power plants are draining our water supplies at extreme rates, contributing to drought. Now, once we came to those conclusions, that influenced everything we reported about nuclear power ever since. So, again, back to the sides- what are the sides? Read AJC articles on Plant Vogtle and you'll barely, if at all, see any concerns about health, the environment, and water usage. If you read the AJC you would think nuclear power is simply an economic issue that affects our electric bills. However, at APN, we found many activists who see nuclear power very differently- they see it as a grave threat to our health and safety. So, if reality is so objective--and if reality will always be seen the same way no matter who the observer is--then why didn't the AJC interview any of those people? Oh, that's right: there is no such thing as objectivity. But even more than that, after all our reporting and research on nuclear power, our editorial position at APN is: nuclear power is bad, there's too many questions about it, and we shouldn't continue to take these risks. We don't take stands on every issue we cover, but this has certainly been one of them. (more on this in the next section) Why shouldn't all the facts and research add up to a conclusion? We, the APN Staff and Board, live on this Earth too. We want clean air and water too. So, we're supposed to just say, well, some people say nuclear power is good, others say it's bad; the jury's still out? Well, no, the jury is not still out! Another example: public housing demolitions in Atlanta. At APN, we brought you the residents' perspectives, updates on residents and advocates' efforts to prevent the demolitions, and again, did extensive research including FOIA requests and struggles for public documents--where very little or none of this was available in any other media outlet. Does it mean the residents didn't have perspectives? No, just that they were largely ignored by most other publications. Does it mean the residents didn't undertake advocacy efforts? No, just that we were the only ones who cared enough about them to report about it. But, again, that doesn't mean the other news agencies were objective. What it really means is that the reporters and editors were so convinced that the demolitions were a good thing that they didn't see the need to include very much of the other sides. And if you don't think other news outlets had an opinion on the demolitions, take our word for it. Some of them were quite open about it. Also, the majority of Atlanta publications make very different decisions about which facts or positions to include based on the readership they serve. Atlanta has several Black papers, Hispanic papers, and GLBT papers. The business community has a paper; the legal community has a paper. Creative Loafing is an "alternative" paper, which implies some perspective. Each makes very different decisions about what to include, because they're each operating under the notion that they're serving an under-served community. For example, the Black papers will include Black people's perspectives and discuss Black community issues more, because they believe they are being under-represented elsewhere. Many of these publications continue to believe that they're objective, though; and that's the mistake. We can strive for balance and inclusion but we all have different audiences and priorities, and values that shape what "sides" are included or even recognized. So, to review, there is no such thing as objectivity. Some publications pretend to be objective, but they're not. Moreover, in our experience, objective reporting has really been used as a synonym for being sure to give priority to the corporate, bourgeois ideology and making sure not to offend the powers that be. Seriously: most reporters seem to think the best way to show they're objective is to marginalize the populist view and, again, give priority to the view of the power elite. The subjective slant of the vast majority of media outlets in Atlanta tends to be so inline with the bourgeois, corporate ideology, that all of these media outlets--from the AJC, to corporate TV news, to Creative Loafing--kind of reinforce and reify each other to the point where one can easily become deluded that this corporate ideology they propagate is somehow an objective truth. But it's not. Who knows why media outlets gravitate to the right? Some of it may be a capitalist conspiracy- and if you don't believe in conspiracies, please revisit your US history. A lot of it has to do with the belief that progressive news content will sit poorly with advertisers. A lot of it has to do with these same outlets wanting journalistic access to the powers that be; often that means not publishing negative information about someone in power to ensure access to them later. So most corporate media outlets are in a tenuous position. They have to low the line the majority of the time, and in return they get to occasionally dish the dirt. Also, many people, when they think of objective reporting in their mind, conjure up the notion that there is a "left" and a "right" and that objective reality must be somewhere in between. Well, most issues that are covered are more complicated than left and right, but let's address it for a minute. The "left" and the "right" don't exist in objective reality either. These are socially constructed, historical context-specific "viewpoints" that seem to make a lot of sense but in fact condense many, many issues into two sides. Even so, even if the goal of objective reporting was to balance left and right, each publication has to determine what the left and right positions are in relation to the issue they're covering. Well, while many in the US have come to believe that the Democratic and Republican parties are the respective representatives of left and right, that is only a small part of the spectrum of ideas. APN, for example, frequently finds itself to the left of both the Republican and Democratic Parties. And in most of the world, the mainstream US notion of left and right is, again, a small part of the spectrum, particularly a center-right part of that spectrum. Think about how CNN reports the news quite differently to its US and international audiences. What has happened is that the "balance" has drifted further and further to the right to the point where the progressive point of view has become almost completely left out of the majority of corporate news outlets. This trend may give the impression that progressive thought exists outside the realm of objective reality, but that's only because so many journalists see their job as balancing the two sides, left and right, which when seen from a wider perspective, are really just center-right and right. In the next section, we will discuss more thoroughly APN's mission. ATLANTA PROGRESSIVE NEWS OPENLY REPORTS FROM A PROGRESSIVE, WORKING FAMILIES PERSPECTIVE "We exist because we want to make society better, not because we want to 'objectively' document it all as society goes to hell in a hand-basket." - Atlanta Progressive News So the second part of this is, we take a progressive perspective. Sometimes that means taking stands on issues. One cluster of issues we take stands on frequently are issues involving democracy, free speech, open records, open meetings, open government, public input, public consultation, and public comment. We previously challenged the Atlanta Housing Authority on open meetings issues, and we may soon be doing the same with another entity. Many of you know about the impromptu rap song performed recently by APN's News Editor before the City Council of Atlanta in opposition to public comment restrictions. To be sure, the rap format was a bit out-of-the-box and that was the intention. But some have raised the question, why should a reporter or editor be testifying before City Council anyway? Well, that's how we're doing things. As to why, the short answer is, life's too short to be boxed in by a socially constructed role and be silent, when issues are at stake that affect people's lives and our communities. Make no mistake: we exist because we want to make society better, not because we want to 'objectively' document it all as society goes to hell in a hand-basket. We've tried to be as transparent and consistent about this as possible since our founding, but I just want to make sure that people don't misunderstand our mission. When we said we report news that brings us closer to "universal health care, living wages, affordable housing, peace, a healthy environment, and voting systems we can trust," we really mean it. These are goals we have as a publication and we think they are not progressive, but basic, reasonable foundations for humanity. And we want to achieve them in our lifetime, not later. And we worry that if we keep messing around with nuclear power and unrenewable fuels and an unsustainable economic system, there may not be a later. The issues that come across our pages are serious, much more serious than objectivity. When APN's Editor made public presentations to City Council on the public housing demolitions, it was because our publication had done so much research, why shouldn't we share it with concerned elected officials? We also shared our research with residents, involved residents in our coverage, and worked with residents to come up with constructive ways to address their concerns. We made presentations to resident association meetings and very much helped shape their effort to preserve their communities. And we also had an opinion. We had so many concerns about the lack of housing opportunities, and the apparent fraud and fabrication by AHA, that we definitely believed the demolitions were wrong, and we told people this. How can we get closer to having affordable housing while demolishing public housing? It's inconsistent with our stated principles. Now, it's fine to report on AHA's side, but not as if their side is unproblematic. AHA continues to mislead people when they say 97% of residents want to move. That is based on a misleading one question survey to residents asking if they want a voucher--after telling them they plan to demolish the buildings. What were they supposed to say, no, I don't want a voucher? So we reported their side but also reported that their side was misleading. No other publication in Atlanta examined their claims that deeply, and of course we had a public records struggle to even review the evidence. It's fine to balance one side with another. But you don't balance the truth with lies. And part of what we do is ask difficult questions about the assertions made by those in power. Objectivity doesn't exist, but even if you accept that balancing sides is a worthy goal, too many corporate media reporters present one side and then another as if both are equally valid; sometimes, they're not. And there is a larger point. There is a connection between media on one hand and society and social institutions on the other. The difference between APN and most other publications is that we acknowledge and embrace that difference. When a media outlet--any media outlet--reports on something, it has an effect. That effect influences the next article written, which also has an effect. Some of the tell-tale signs of good journalism are policy and practice changes as a result of an article. My point is that we at APN are a part of the community we serve. We may not fit people's preconceived notions of what news agencies are or should be, but what we are is what we are. We will continue to fill a void that was left by the corporate media, and we will do it as an active, subjective part of Atlanta's progressive community. (END/2010) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.182.28 URL: DATE: 02/17/2010 11:52:01 AM APN Editor, first, no I didn't read that whole comment. second, as I understand it, the very definition of the word communication is the result you get. If your result is to be called out by major publications and other "communicators" you really might want to rethink your own communication. Taking shots at us, or other publications really isn't going to help you or anyone learn about progressive issues. It simply tell all of us about you and your dynamic needs, apparently. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 72.28.77.109 URL: DATE: 02/17/2010 12:43:21 PM blah blah blah how do you over come the inherent conflict of interest in being an editor and publisher? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 02/17/2010 03:06:44 PM He'd have to care first. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.120 URL: DATE: 02/17/2010 03:22:45 PM Matthew is an embarrassment to the Progressive Community in Georgia. This story is all over the web now, and he's not the only one who looks like a complete fool. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rock Roswell EMAIL: IP: 130.126.126.184 URL: DATE: 02/17/2010 04:34:38 PM "The premise of objectivity is literally to remove the observer from what it is that is being observed and simply to report what "is." However, that is an impossibility. It cannot be done. In fact, there is nothing that "is," separate from the observer or multiple observers who construct and interpret what that reality is." Right straight out of _1984_. How many fingers am I holding up? According to this guy, that depends on whose hand is on the electroshock switch. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/17/2010 06:09:30 PM Can we get a DisLike for certain people's comments. Or maybe a Disagree. It's the STRIVING for objectivity that we appreciate. The fact that APN doesn't even try makes them irrelevant in my news world, no matter what they report. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.6 URL: DATE: 02/18/2010 07:33:56 AM I seriously doubt that "objectivity" is the real issue here. There are plenty of respected and influential publications that report from a certain perspective. The better ones however, do it with some journalistic standards, i.e., separating researched information from unsupported assertions, for example. Or avoiding stories that shamelessly support the current paying advertisers. No, this sounds like a made up excuse. I am going to speculate that Sprinston thought he was writing for something other than someone's personal blog, and when it became clear that wasn't the case, a stressful condition ensued. The H.R. Department at APN needed a performance measurement they could fail him on, and, voila; Insufficient amateurism while writing the boss' blog posts for him. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Hypocrisy thy name is... well 111 different names apparently BASENAME: hypocracy_thy_name_is_well_111 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/17/2010 12:42:32 PM ----- BODY:
Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-GA) Hands Out Giant Stimulus Check In Georgia. Gingrey appeared in the city of Cedartown, Georgia, to present a giant check of $625,000 in stimulus funds to the city commission to help fund the the city's Streetscape project, which will install new sidewalks and infrastructure. [Think Progress, 10/13/09] -Congressman Gingrey Voted Against The Recovery Package Twice [Roll Call Vote #46; Roll Call Vote #70] Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA) Asked Defense Secretary To Steer $50 Million In Stimulus Money To Georgian Bioenergy Project. Atlanta Journal-Constitution: "And The Associated Press reported in August that the state's Republican senators, Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson, asked Defense Secretary Robert Gates to steer $50 million in stimulus money to a constituent's bioenergy project. Gates didn't do it, the AP reported." [Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 10/18/09] -Senator Isakson Voted Against The Recovery Package Twice [Record Vote 59; Record Vote 60] Rep. John Linder (R-GA) Slammed The Stimulus As A Failure While Requesting Stimulus Money. The Washington Times reported: "Rep. John Linder, Georgia Republican, posted a blog item on his Web site on Oct. 21, stating that recent unemployment figures 'only reinforce the fact that the $787 billion 'stimulus' signed into law eight months ago has done nothing for job growth in this country.' Two weeks earlier, Mr. Linder had sent a letter to Mr. Vilsack backing an application for stimulus money by the Elauwit Community Foundation, records show." [Washington Times, 2/9/10] -Rep. Linder Decried The Recovery Package Because He Said It "Levees Our Economic Future On The Backs Of Our Children While Spending Billions On Projects That Will Do Little To Stimulate The Economy." [Herald Tribune, 2/13/09] Rep. Jack Kingston (R-GA) Issued Pres Releases Bragging About Bringing Stimulus Jobs To His District. On July 28th, Kingston's press office fired off two releases bragging about a $106,901 grant for the Alma Police Department and a $138,286 grant for the Jesup Police Department in Georgia. These grants, distributed by the Department of Justice for the "hiring of new police officers, to combat violence against women, and to fight Internet crimes against children," were fully-funded by President Obama's Recovery Act. [Think Progress, 8/4/09] - Congressman Kingston Voted Against The Recovery Package Twice [Roll Call Vote #46; Roll Call Vote #70]What amazes me is, really do you think no one will notice and report this stuff.. Really? Really? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 02/17/2010 06:48:59 PM It's cool the Dem. Party basically decided to take all our thinkprogress material and finally use it to call out the Republicans, but I'm not sure why they waited like six months to do it when a lot of people have kind of let the stimulus pass in their minds. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Really Mathew? Really? BASENAME: really_mathew_really STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/18/2010 02:15:47 AM ----- BODY:
People who work tirelessly to properly advocate for things like health care reform accept that they have a challenging case to make, that making that case is hard work, and that the case is best made when you are operating within the constraints of objective reality. Cardinale would do himself a lot of good if he spent some time reflecting on the origin of the phrase "reality-based community." In the meantime, advocates of universal health care and the like will have to note that citing the Atlanta Progressive News is going to undermine their efforts.Your purple haze twisted logic is causing more ridicule to the word "progressive" more so than Sarah Palin or another right wing nutjob sputtering the word. I clearly won't be voting for any candidate that wastes campaign contributions by placing ads in your fantasy newspaper. Georgia Progressives thank you Matthew for sullying all their hard work. Epic.Fail. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 02/18/2010 10:13:36 PM While I think Matt's gotten himself into a tizzle here, everyone getting around and congratulating themselves about sticking it to him and making fun of him isn't really getting anywhere, either. There is a serious point to be made about partisan media. When you think that there is objective news, well there's more relatively objective news and more relatively subjective, but the truth is you are choosing what facts to report, and if you uncritically report statements of people that could be false, you're note being objective. This is something new media like us in the blogs have stressed a lot. Now, Matt took that concept overboard and used some rhetoric that he probably shouldn't have, he also canned what looked to be a pretty good reporter, which sets his own cause back. But we need to be having a constructive dialogue about that, not the kind of bomb-throwing im seeing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/19/2010 11:18:07 PM No Z, this is not precisely about anyone's 'point of view' or the desperate need for yes, more progressive media. Or even more decent & good media outlets. But we get less. Always. This really has to do with reality and how you come to grips with it. How to recognize it, how to organize it, and finally how to faithfully & usefully report on same or impart 'what went on' to an audience. So let's take it from the top with Lesser Media Matt's Big thoughts: "NO SUCH THING AS OBJECTIVITY IN NEWS" "You can't be neutral on a moving train." - Howard Zinn Fine. Let's construct a little thought experiment here. I'm riding on that train with you, Z & big/little Matt, myself & a few others. It's the Acela Express leaving South Station in Boston @ ~6.15Am, due in Washington about 12.50Pm or so. It's mostly an uneventful trip, but somewhere right around Trenton a large slightly blue tinted burly man with a strange handle bar mustache & curiously sporting a black top hat & matching cape & looking suspiciously like this man: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snidely_Whiplash suddenly gets up and wildly gesticulating in a bad accent happens to crowd over your seat, then succeeds in bodily removing you from same and suddenly & violently hurling you & your effects out of the open cabin door and off of the train & onto the embankment below as the train was slowing into the Philly station. As the train rounds the bend we can look out the window and see that your not too badly hurt, and that you're standing up & brushing yourself off and probably wondering how to get your laptop back. The stranger who assulted Z, (possibly SW), then slowly gets back to his seat, quietly cackling to himself, again in some sort of ancient foreign accent and resumes playing solitaire. Z having managed to find his phone calls ahead to the Philly station and gives an accurate description of said strange suspect, the train he was riding and the police are indeed waiting at the station to search the train when it finally stops. They come to our cabin and ask: 'Ok who saw what went on?' We know 3 things. 1.) Yes, you really can't be neutral on this train as a crime has been probably committed, and the police are asking questions. And 2.) There may be many views to this probable crime, but there remains some real objective facts that can and should be reported to the authorities. 3.) If this were not so, no one would have been able to phone the police & provide an accurate description to report on the alleged crime. So when questioned: Rider A insists that the crime was committed by a 'dastardly Canadian' of her acquaintance, and is willing to testify against him, as soon as the RCMP is informed. She calls herself Nell F., and can recall in great detail the event as it transpired. Rider B, myself, after laughing my butt off and recovering some minutes later, essentially agrees with Rider A's description & account of the event. The police then catch up with Z, who is breathlessly brought to the cabin to personally id his attacker and to retrieve his lap top, which just happens to be in suspect's possession. Sadly, it's then confiscated as evidence. They next come to Matt, who declaims wildly in no uncertain terms that 'there's no objective reality' and then demands that the police should interview each & every passenger on the train to gain a better understanding of what may have gone on. The police grow suspicious of his behavior, but when he begins a rap about protecting 'innocent foreigners' against unjust persecution, he's promptly arrested. Crying police abuse all the way he and the original suspect, now positively ID'd as one Snidley Whiplash are brought to the station for processing. Sitting in his cell he's now sharing with Snidley, (sadly now shorn of both distinctive cape & hat), Matt laments on the tragic psycho-sexual history of Mr. Whiplash that compels him to do such dastardly & stupid things over & over. Snidely is bailed out shortly thereafter. Matt & the authorities could never quite agree on 'reality' or 'meaning' well enough to come to terms, but he's finally bonded out after some weeks & desperate negotiations by distant family relations. Z never did get his lap top back, and wanders the corridor still looking for lost pieces of debris and vital papers that were violently thrown out after him at the scene of the crime. Long story shorter? There IS objective reality. We can & should be able to report on same, simply & reasonably. And at least try to do so. That's basic journalism & reporting & has been for yes, thousands of years. Can it get complex? Sure. Here you can argue about Why Z might have been thrown off the train. You might even be able to argue that he was not precisely 'thrown off' but Invited to jump, as any good defense attorney might. But the elements of coercion & assault would clearly be present from most 'honest' observers. The facts remain that Z was no longer on the train, and seemed to have been removed unwillingly. He wanted to remain 'neutral' but was done in by some 45 yo cartoon character. The RCMP declined to press charges, but Snidely soon disappeared and jumped bail in the company of one Nell F., and are thought to be frequenting various B&D scenes wherever train buffs gather. Reality may suck, it may bite, but it's the job of reporters to report on it all the best they can, with common sense, perspective and their own insights. Sorry for the length. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/20/2010 01:03:46 AM More on that strange B&D angle here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhC_JJwlep0 JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 02/21/2010 02:17:14 AM that was a very psychadelic way to make your point ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/21/2010 03:02:17 AM And it was well & good that I used you as a foil and that the scenario has you basically unhurt too. Matt's now claiming that he's getting 'death threats', even though they (mostly, at least the ones he quotes) sound pretty non specific. He's now informed the authorities about this peril too. Still, obviously, then & now we need more critical thinking, more thought, and perhaps even more basic philosophy for the media set. But even if I'm ever hopeful of the accumulative beneficial effects of education, it seems sometimes that virtually nothing overcomes one's own cherished self delusions. And increasingly that seems to be a widespread problem everywhere. As ever. But as a basic philosophical issue? It's a few 1000 years old, even if Matt seems & remains self satisfyingly & spectacularly ill informed on the basic outlines of the question. But I'm glad someone appreciated the effort. And all those strange voice actors for plenty of those old cartoons were almost always old radio hands too. Hence the very unusual & now 'antique' accents & language. Some of them even came up in Vaudeville & the NYC stage scene too. And the whole Dudley shtick is of course a play on some of those older silent films and even older 'Nickelodeon' action shorts. So about 100 years of history there w/o working too hard. Just don't make me teach cosmology, logic & epistemology to the clueless. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 72.28.77.109 URL: DATE: 02/21/2010 12:38:44 PM Good god JMP get a blog or write pithier comments. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/21/2010 04:26:36 PM You need not read them IRE. And on most other blogs? It's mostly a non issue. But thanks for the whine. Again. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 72.28.77.110 URL: DATE: 02/21/2010 10:49:11 PM Dude...it takes 10 minutes to scroll through your posts and I don't read them because they are too long and filled with non sequitors. This still isn't a letter, IRE ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/21/2010 11:26:34 PM Time to upgrade from that old 2300 baud modem then? I've still got finer whine @ home BTW. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 03/08/2010 02:07:58 PM Mary Karr discusses objectivity (briefly) in the Paris Review. Made me think of this post. Purchase the PR to read it. Lieve Joris' piece is great as well and you have to read that in the hard copy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/08/2010 09:55:30 PM The Paris Review? Isn't that French or something? Hasn't been the same since ole what's his name died... And yeah the whole MC/APN ordeal, (including the last bits I was trying to patiently explain to Z on another post)? Reminds me of this:[Wittgenstein's poker]; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wittgenstein%27s_Poker:_The_Story_of_a_Ten-Minute_Argument_Between_Two_Great_Philosophers But the man (Ludwig) had his reasons too: http://www.newyorker.com/arts/critics/books/2009/04/06/090406crbo_books_gottlieb JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 03/09/2010 07:23:50 AM No it isn't French actually. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: For your listening pleasure this evening: Angela Moore BASENAME: for_your_listening_pleasure_th STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/18/2010 02:38:26 PM ----- BODY:
Tonight we welcome to the show candidate for Georgia's Secretary of State, Angela Moore. A Washingtonian by birth, Georgian by choice Angela Moore is running to replace incumbent Brian Kemp who stepped into the seat this year when he was appointed to replace former Secretary of State Karen Handle. Handle stepped down in 2010 to make a bid to become Georgia's first female Governor. If Moore unseats Kemp in 2010 it will make her the third woman in a row and in Georgia's history to be elected to the important position of Georgia's Secretary of State. Moore's background is both broad and eclectic. She studied Science and Biology at the University if the District of Columbia, received substantial training in healthcare, has been a teamster, attended the Georgia Tech School of Business and has been involved in politics since she was a teen. She served as chair of the 92nd House District, the Senate advisory chair of the 43rd House district and as the Communications Director for the Democratic party of DeKab. Join host Meghan Harvey and guest Angela Moore on WomenCount Radio tonight at 7:30PST/10:30EST PM.That's 10:30 pm for you Atlanta folks. Call-in Number: (646) 716-9381 Listen here ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: A movement is afoot...Draft Carol Porter BASENAME: a_movement_is_afootdraft_carol STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/19/2010 03:34:44 PM ----- BODY:
[name deleted] became a fan of Draft Carol Porter for Lt. Governor of Georgia 2010 on Facebook and suggested you become a fan too.After clicking through the link, the facebook page says this:
Sound off! Let us know your opinions on Carol Porter running for Lt. Governor of Georgia. We know that Carol is the only democrat who can defeat Casey Cagle in the 2010 General Election.So far, 40 folks have joined this movement. Click here to join. Will Carol Porter run for Lt. Governor? I don't know. Will she win the Democratic nomination? Who knows. Stranger things have happened on the Democratic side. I remember not so long ago a candidate ran for State School Superintendent because her qualifications included having a sister and other family members with Ph.Ds in education, although she didn't have one. Hell, she even won the Democratic nomination. It's a crazy political world down here in Georgia. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/19/2010 09:55:53 PM I like & respect them both. Both Porters are smart & savvy folks with a deep passion and concern for bettering the lot of Georgians everywhere. But I really don't see this as happening, for a variety of practical reasons. And besides that? It's probably & generally a bad idea. Something from 'Bama's history that would likely not be a welcome innovation. But who the hell knows? It's hard to beat someone with no one in politics. I'm still betting it's just more of something for the press to much on. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/19/2010 10:02:51 PM Well you know in the minute or so it takes to post, you still can't correct the errors you pick up in the last seconds here. So above that should now read: "I'm still betting it's just more of something for the press to munch on." And yes, why are we or the press surprised to find our good candidates with equally smart articulate wives? Hmm? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.219.65.120 URL: DATE: 02/20/2010 01:18:46 AM I saw this on the news the other day (yes, I still watch local news), and after an initial chuckle, it didn't seem that crazy. This thing started after an appearance she made on behalf of Dubose found its way to YouTube. I don't know Carol, but given that no one else has stepped forward, she should go for it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/20/2010 01:52:39 AM Any conflict of interest here? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.199 URL: DATE: 02/20/2010 09:43:39 AM No, I think they get along pretty well with each other! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/20/2010 10:20:16 AM They do indeed Jerry. We're also trying to avoid some of the pitfalls of the N. Kirchner/ C. Fernandez [Cristina Elizabet Fern√°ndez de Kirchner] dynamics here too. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jason TITLE: The Boys Are Back in Town BASENAME: the_boys_are_back_in_town STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/21/2010 04:19:54 PM TAGS: afghanistan,"georgia national guard",military ----- BODY:
A first batch of 175 soldiers is expected to arrive at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah on or about Feb. 23. The rest will return in groups through March and early April. Families will be reunited with their loved ones at Fort Stewart. Starting in February of last year, about 3,200 soldiers from the brigade deployed to train Afghanistan's police and security forces, a key part of U.S. plans to stabilize that country. "These soldiers represent what our National Guard is about, ready to serve whenever called and ready to return to their lives and jobs when their duty is complete," Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, Georgia's adjutant general, said in a prepared statement. "I cannot be more proud of these soldiers, nor more appreciative of the sacrifices made by their families and loved ones."Though it will be a time of celebration and homecoming for roughly 3,200 families throughout the state, it unfortunately won't be as joyous an occasion for some. Seven members of the 48th fell in combat during this tour. An eighth died from injuries sustained during a vehicle rollover. With that said, deepest condolences for the families of 1st Sgt. John D. Blair of Calhoun, Sgt. Raymundo P. Morales of Dalton, Sgt. Brock H. Chavers of Bulloch, Spc. Isaac L. Johnson of Columbus, Maj. Kevin M. Jenrette of Lula, Sgt. 1st Class John C. Beale of Riverdale, Sgt. Jeffrey W. Jordan of Rome, and Staff Sgt. Alex French IV of Milledgeville. We are forever grateful. Please show some love for the men and women of the 48th. On March 13, the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation is hosting an Army National Guard vs. Air National Guard basketball game at Phillips Arena as a fundraiser for the foundation. All Soldiers of the 48th should complete their re-deployment by May 1. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Where are they now? BASENAME: where_are_they_now STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/22/2010 12:10:16 AM ----- BODY: In case you were wondering, Trust Dale.com, via Nita. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/22/2010 02:00:06 AM Man's got to eat I guess. The site's pretty thin about now though. And since I'm known for non sequiturs, I'll leave this on logic: http://xkcd.com/704/ But thanks for finding Dale! JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Oxendine and ethics BASENAME: oxendine_and_ethics STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/22/2010 08:51:19 AM ----- BODY: Ox, Towery, And The Rest Of The Story, from Peach Pundit
But whether it is setting up PACs in Alabama to illegally launder campaign funds, or using the investigative authority of your office to silence a political critic, Oxendine has demonstrated he believes he is above the law. He is unfit to remain as Insurance Commissioner, and any reasonable voter should disqualify him from consideration as our next Governor.Towery's statement reprinted below the fold. Related from PI: Towery the pollster was also the fixer ----- EXTENDED BODY: Boy, Can I Be Stupid ... By Matt Towery
(2/22/10) Contrary to the blogs, I did, indeed, nearly meet my maker about a month ago when my vertigo hit and my face crashed on the tarmac in Grand Cayman. Weeks later, I was asked to represent a client - not against John Oxendine but with his office. Guess what, folks. I get paid good money from my law firm to deal with legal issues. I'm a lawyer! And since I was the senior member of the insurance committee for many years, I sort of know the laws. But I made a mistake. John Oxendine is running for governor. I am the pollster for InsiderAdvantage and WSB TV. Seemingly I could have compromised myself even as I did understand it , So the record will reflect John and I got nothing accomplished. During the meeting, I made it clear that discussions would have no impact on my polling or analysis of the race for governor. To be fair to John, he immediately agreed and never tried to use the race as a wedge. But he was obsessed with Congressman Lynn Westmoreland's comments. Lynn and I have known each other since we were five years old. I called Lynn on my own cell phone, not asking him to retract what he had said about John; only to ask him to quit talking about it for a while. It was not unethical or illegal but in retrospect looked wrong. On Saturday, I recused myself from the case. John accepted this to his credit and said thanks. I also called every candidate for governor I could reach. Karen Handel was a peach; she understood and forgave. Same for Roy Barnes. Same for everyone reached. Our company is based on being nonpartisan. Do you think Saxby loved it when we had a runoff? We do our job. I have every right as a lawyer who wrote most of the modern insurance code to represent a client. But I handled it like a guy with a concussion. Trust me, others in our firm will now handle this matter and I won't bill a dime of this.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.112.28 URL: DATE: 02/22/2010 11:05:52 AM Some of those people over there are quick to forgive Towery for his lapse in judgment, but just a few days ago they were in a frenzy to see who could come up with the most severe punishment for a school principal who changed test scores to protect his school (and it's students) from some dumb law. Anyway, this doesn't sound like nearly as much of a problem for Oxendine as it does for Towery. Unless MT is going to say that Ox promised him some ROI for his client for making the call to Westmoreland, all Ox did was stand there while MT used his cell phone. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/22/2010 09:28:17 PM I'm thinking that Ox has slightly more problems to worry about, but it's nice the way everyone's so well connected in Cobb Co./ & w/MT It's not what you know, but who you know & how you're willing & able to use that. If that's really not at the base definition of corruption, we've only left off the obvious money parts, but definitely not the 'undue influence' bits. Interesting just the same, and yes Ox really should be doing one or the other; either running for office, or running his office. This is yet another blatant example of that essential conflict of interest. But then he's made his entire public career on this foundation too. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Found: TeaBagger Lunacy BASENAME: found_teabagger_lunacy STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/23/2010 01:18:10 AM ----- BODY: Apparently the TeaBaggers are chipping in their Social Security money, oh wait no, they are using their US savings bonds, to place billboards like this up in Lake City, Florida:
The cost of 10 months rental of the billboard and doing the artwork was $6500. The folks responsible for the billboard say they feel it's a reasonable cost to reach out to 1,000,000 vehicles per month to motivate participation in the electoral process to get our country on sound footing and VOTE OUT everyone in Washington.What are they gonna do when they find out that Republicans are now touting how great stimulus dollars are to America's economic recovery. Or that Scott Brown, the latest to win the Tea Party Idol contest, voted for the Jobs Bill. Oh the lunacy of folks who think that "liberuls" are destroying the fabric of America. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 08:18:03 PM you're making a huge stretch that Tea Baggers are actually political activists. They don't care about actual legislation or votes, they just want DC to burn. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: We need a message now BASENAME: we_need_a_message_now STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/23/2010 01:59:47 AM ----- BODY: Rasmussen is out with a new poll on Georgia's Governor race. Roy Barnes' numbers have dropped and he's polling behind three of the top four Republican candidates. That doesn't bother me so much because these numbers will just invigorate Roy to crank it up a notch. What does bother me a lot, a whole lot, is this statement:
Voters not affiliated with either major party prefer the Republican in all four contests.WHAAATT???? How can that be? Seriously, the Georgia Republicans are the new version of the "The Bad Girls Club". Dysfunction runneth over. The hell with ethics and family values, they continue to behave like that the Gold Dome is Spring Break 2010. How is this message being missed by independent voters? What are Democrats not doing to get this very clear message out that the Georgia GOP has bankrolled their lavish lifestyles off the backs of Georgia's working families? Is it not enough that the State is furloughing teachers - Georgia is at the bottom of the education barrel but we are laying teachers off - yeah, that's the best way for our kids to excel? Let's not even discuss the Republicans' failure to keep jobs in this State. Democrats can turn Georgia Blue; but we need to get our message to the voters. The countdown until Election Day begins now
251 days people...251 days... ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 03:00:21 AM Yep. Tell the truth. And I was saying the same about the Stimulus & on Tom's post awhile back. He who shouts loudest, evidently gets the most notice. We've got few platforms to shout from, and fewer are listening. But it's always an uphill climb. Even with the stars aligned. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 03:57:57 PM We still have no narrative. No voice. We do not push our alternatives. Democrats are defined by the propaganda of the right, which talk about Pelosi, Reid, and Obamacare. Most people aren't really sure of the difference between the state house and Congress; is it any wonder Democrats in this state don't attract the independents? Is it even surprising? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.198.50 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 05:19:14 PM Didn't someone on here post about Game Change? Or did I imagine it? Anyway, I've heard Roy at a couple of events, but I'm not sure what his message is, other than Republicans gone wild. He needs a new message and message discipline, but message is just one of many problems for Roy. If he had a great message, even one that I liked, he'd still have a steep road to victory, though not insurmountable. The Republicans have a communications infrastructure that is overwhelming at times hardwiring not just the minds of conservative and biconceptual voters but even the brains of liberals believe it or not. This is obvious, just ask yourself what their beliefs are then ask yourself what we believe. They get their talking points together, then repeat them on tv, radio, pring, internet, and so on and pretty soon more people are talking about it at the watercooler. And because nearly all of the consultants on our side tend focus on following poll results, our way of listening to what the people are saying, then formulating agendas based on those results for the campaign (their legislative agenda, their "issues"), we wind up following public opinion instead of trying to change public opinion. We wind up following the conservatives lead reacting to their ideas instead of pushing our own. With respect to my friend J.M., he's not the only one I've heard this from, telling the truth is not enough. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.198.50 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 05:27:45 PM As for "Voters not affiliated," it's too early to worry about them. Get the support of people already on your side first, shore up the base, get them motivated and excited. Then get just enough of the biconceptual voters to win. Obsessing over unaffiliated voters is the surest way to wind up with 38% on election day. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Kyle Bailey EMAIL: IP: 98.17.167.33 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 08:37:14 PM Are we still limiting our canvassing campaign to fund-raising? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 10:14:38 PM Nope B, "telling the truth" is Never enough. You have to dress it up, tart it up, make it Simple, Stupid, and then give it enough cash money to do a smart & credible multi-media campaign. Then move onto the next truth. We have plenty of messages & plenty of truth. We need to focus in on those that not only resonate with the public, but might soon prove moderately useful as far as policy supports. The much vaunted public option is a fine example of that dynamic. Where it's going is anyone's guess about now. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.198.50 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 01:31:19 AM You know JM, on the health care reform thing, I wondered the other day why some organization with resources, moulah and expertise hasn't just put together a commercial where a lady or dude in pjs and houseslippers standing outside of a burning house tells someone getting off a fire truck 'Thank God you're here, I thought you'd never get here. It's done some dammage, but if you guys jump on it now, you can save the house.' And the guy starts asking the lady for proof of insurance gives her some forms, asks for her copay and starts calling to see how much her insurance will cover. Then the firemen stop working and watch the house burn to the ground after learning her insurance company won't cover it, or maybe they only put out eighty percent of the fire because that's all it will cover. The campaign could be called "stop the insanity" or "this is crazy." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 01:43:08 AM They had a similar ad actually, ready made. I've seen it & it was good. Kos has it someplace. The Washington Monthly's Political Animal blog did too. I'm trying to find it presently. Me? I'm constantly hearing Casey Stengel-isms here too. Still searching... JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 01:51:26 AM Here's one of the references B, you might also try to search the Huff Post too. But we had it. Why it's not been used more is a mystery to me too: http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/archives/individual/2009_08/019324.php JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.198.50 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 02:19:18 AM Yeah, I didn't know about this article. We could give this meme more legs writing about it to our local small town newspapers. But I really wish someone would put out this commercial. What's visualized sticks in the memory better than what's read and what's read is easier to remember than what's heard, but, combine all three... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: kevin EMAIL: IP: 24.154.149.28 URL: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220568371850&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT DATE: 03/10/2010 02:59:34 PM i made up a shirt to tell what i think here it is http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220568371850&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/10/2010 09:49:24 PM Ah I see a slight infestation of trolls here. We must be doing something right. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Obama's Health Care Proposal BASENAME: obamas_health_care_proposal STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/23/2010 06:44:08 AM ----- BODY: Is finally here. If Thursday's Health Care summit goes as expected, and the Republicans pick up their toys and go home, the Democrats may still have one last chance to get this done. Hope springs eternal. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 04:08:25 AM Evidently I too am commenting from the future. Where are the racing forms when you need them? But never mind. Can we smuggle a public option in here, Please? That would be very useful to & for everyone. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.161.6 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 06:17:25 PM They need to find a clear way to explain how it is that the reform plan will cost $1 trillion over the next decade and yet reduce the budget deficit by $10 billion. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.179.191 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 07:54:49 PM I dunno Jerry- looks like you just did a pretty good job saying it! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 08:11:40 PM um, no public option...me no likey. Allowing private insurers to handle my insurance for what's going to be a "subsidized, low-cost premium for them, means I'm not on the bottom of the barrel for their plans. Obama Plan - EPIC FAIL ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.198.50 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 08:52:14 PM Ditto! I mean me too! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/23/2010 10:17:33 PM Not a failure as much as pretty disheartening, which I realize to many amounts to the same thing. But it's still real progress, and we need to push for everything we can possibly get NOW. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 06:03:34 AM Facts & comparisons of the Obama bill are here via TP's WonkRoom: "White House Unveils $950 Billion Health Bill To Bridge Differences Between House And Senate Legislation" http://wonkroom.thinkprogress.org/2010/02/22/obama-health-plan/ JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 09:15:45 AM Still not buying it, this is Obama NOT leading, but being Led by the worst possible place - corporate insurance...he's attempting to keep them all from opposing the plan so he can get it passed without huge advertising and lobbying opposition. Whatev, i'm over it. I'll continue as I have most of my life, sans insurance b/c it's still too expensive. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.60.128 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 10:52:38 AM Well, apparently the Cornhusker Kickback" is gone. That's something! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Georgia GOP - I got nothing but love for ya BASENAME: georgia_gop_-_i_got_nothing_bu STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/23/2010 11:06:51 PM ----- BODY:Time until Tuesday, November 2, 2010 251 days 6,045 hours 362,700 minutes 21,762,054 seconds
Daniel Stout, a 29-year-old banker from Dallas, has been compelled to address a personal incident from 10 years ago: he had an affair with his first wife's mother while his first wife was pregnant with their daughter. Stout and his first wife subsequently divorced. Stout confirmed the incident in a telephone interview with Crawford. "It's not something that's a beautiful thing with me," he said. "I hurt some people."So let me understand Stout's "family values" - the dude was 19 years old, got some chick knocked up, was probably coerced into marrying her, and then he CHEATED on her with her own mother. EWWWWW..... Let's all say in unison EWWWW. It gets even better when Stout offers this lame ass explanation:
Ten years ago I committed adultery that led to a divorce from my first wife. While the relationship was stopped short of "sex", I recognize my mistake as adulterous and unfaithful nonetheless. I own the reality of the pain I caused to my first wife, my daughter and others. This humbling experience changed my life dramatically.Oh I'm calling bullshit on the "stopped short of sex". Ummm yeah right dude. What kind of an "affair" does a horny 19 year old have with an older woman which doesn't involve sex? Yeah right, keep this story line going...it so believable. I mean why wouldn't we believe this explanation since Stout did invoke God into his statement when referring to his relationship with his second wife.
The Lord has blessed us with a wonderful marriage, and through God's strength we remain faithful to one another.Daniel Stout is a perfect fit for the Georgia GOP. We now have a new poster boy for the Georgia Republicans. So Georgia families here is another legislator who is going to dictate how your family lives when he didn't even have good common sense or morals to know that having an "affair" with your mother-in-law is wrong. You just can't make this stuff up even if one tried very hard. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 01:15:32 AM Umm Wow. Creepy Newt slide on over. We can and will get creepier from the Ga. GOP! And our man Tom C. was on top of the story too. We the people deserve to know what sort of sick creepers we're electing. And in Ga.? Better lock up your mommas, daughters, livestock & pets when the party of family values comes calling. For certain. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: David EMAIL: IP: 76.105.96.230 URL: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kudzu DATE: 02/24/2010 06:48:55 AM I can NOT believe this guy won?!?!? This really is the essence of the reflexive Republican. For some Georgians ANYBODY with an R behind their name is "good people". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 98.88.198.50 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 10:08:31 AM Three Republicans in that race and not one Democrat. It's almost like we need some kind of person who would go out and find someone to run for that seat...you know like other states do in the Democratic Parties. What's it called again??? Candidate Recruitment? Yeah, that sounds vaguely familiar. It's sad that this is no longer a WTF DPG??? moment for us, but a typical 'no business as usual' day for the Democratic Party of Georgia. FAIL. Sigh.......... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.179.191 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 10:27:29 AM As I said in Tom's post.. they'll probably put him on Human Relations & Aging committee and not even see the irony. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Health Care Summit FAQ BASENAME: health_care_summit_faq STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/24/2010 11:52:12 AM ----- BODY:
Media Advisory Who: Carol Porter, Spouse of Gubernatorial Candidate DuBose Porter What: Press Conference When: Thursday, February 25th, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Where: South Wing of the State Capitol----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.179.191 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 01:08:48 PM Cause really- isn't always all about Mrs. Porter? If she decides to run, who will twitter and FB for her husband? That's what I want to know. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: The Dems AG Race has me confused BASENAME: the_dems_ag_race_has_me_confus STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/24/2010 01:37:29 PM ----- BODY:
"If anyone in this race is the best pick to be Georgia's top prosecutor and chief law enforcer, it's Ken Hodges," Brown said. "I've worked with Ken firsthand on prosecuting public corruption. He's a veteran of the courtroom. His record of working with state law enforcement and getting results is impeccable."----- EXTENDED BODY: I have been a staff member on eight Georgia statewide campaigns, including Chief Justice Sears, and let me tell you folks that a.) Sheriff Brown doesn't give his endorsement out nilly willy (neither does Justice Sears) and b.) Sheriff Brown is a big deal in the largest Democratic voting county in this State. This is a big deal. Let me break it down even further: University of Georgia political scientist Charles Bullock, an expert in Georgia politics, says that "African-Americans cast about half of all votes in Democratic primaries." Hodges has now secured the endorsements of three Black politicians that an overwhelming percentage of Georgia Blacks folks, those engaged enough to vote in a primary, actually know in their own community. If Hodges' parlays their endorsements into a serious ground game strategy this could be a cakewalk. He could literally spend all his money touting these 3 endorsements and not once have to go negative on his opponent. Georgia Black folks don't really care so much for the negative campaign tactics...it just really pisses them off and they will vote for whomever you are attacking. Or rather that is how this one Black voter I know votes. State Rep. Rob Teilhet is gathering a considerable number of endorsements from Black politicians on a more localized front. His endorsements are coming from Black legislators who are entrenched and committed to their Districts. Legislators who are in direct contact with the same voters that Teilhet is trying to appeal to. State Senators Vincent Fort, Emanuel Jones, Lester Jackson, and Hardie Davis have endorsed Teilhet. State Reps. Gloria Frazier, Henry "Wayne" Howard, Sistie Hudson, Quincy Murphy, Bob Bryant, Craig Gordon, and Tyrone Brooks have also joined forces to endorse Teilhet. Now can you see why I'm confused because both candidates are doing their due diligence by seeking support from Black politicians. Both candidates also have strong "tough on laws" backgrounds. I guess I'm just going to have to wait this one out and see who promotes the better policies. Right now Hodges is up 1 point for his idea about adding a full Civil Rights division in the Ag's office and Teilhet is down 1 point for his craziness to create a DNA database of all people arrested for felonies. It's a long, long season and may the best Democrat candidate prevail. Georgia can't afford for the AG's office to go into Republican hands. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: jac1975 EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 03:48:05 PM Color me ignorant for being SHOCKED that Georgia's AG department doesn't have a CIVIL RIGHTS DIVISION. That's shameful. Agree on Sheriff Brown. Man's got some serious cred here in DeKalb. Be interesting to see how that shakes out when he sues the county for not fully funding him :) Still pissed at Sears for having us work our tail off to get her re-elected only to have her quit and let the douche who tried to defeat her name her replacement. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.179.191 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 04:13:56 PM I just threw away a box of 2004 election lit...including Sears stuff...ah the memories! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 72.28.77.109 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 06:06:52 PM Dude...Jules, I collect that stuff. Well some of it anyway. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 06:17:42 PM Dude, she collects it too. We all do. But even with a nice big house you've got to chuck some of it. Especially if you're moving. But yeah, on Bernita's original post, I'm hoping the campaign helps to resolve some of the issues here. Dueling endorsements typically do nothing much to aid that. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.179.191 URL: DATE: 02/24/2010 06:33:31 PM @IRE... honey I got plenty for both of us. Come shopping in my house sometime soon, k. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melissa Marietta Sams EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 02/25/2010 01:36:09 AM Of course my opinion is biased, but I have met and know a good deal about Ken Hodges. Hodges is a great prosecutor and has the experience needed for the AG's office. He has argued before the Supreme Court of Georgia, Georgia court of Appeals and many of Georgia's trial courts. Hodges has the experience and proven record of protecting Georgia's families and children that is necessary for a candidate running for AG. This is the reason that Hodges has continued receiving endorsements and is leading in fundraising (even before the session). I have met him and his family. They are hardworking and considerate people. Ken, being new to the Atlanta political scene, has been reaching out to many people here, working 12+ work days that many who have the passion for working in Democratic politics know all too well. One conversation with him will assure you that he is no where near the "crazy" spectrum in the democratic party, but has a genuine concern for the state of Georgia, its people and a willingness to move Georgia forward. I encourage everyone to go to his website www.kenhodges.com and find out more information about him, and his record on protecting Georgia. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Dave Bearse EMAIL: IP: 66.245.97.216 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 01:36:13 AM The Phoebe Putney stuff indicates Hodges isn't trustworthy, and I can't support Teilhet because of what his support of legislation that would have capped sales taxes on automobiles at a level that maximizes middle class taxation says about his priorities. Given this pair of duds, let's hope Baker reconsiders. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 02:38:28 AM Dave, Hodges is a trustworthy and genuine guy. I would encourage you to talk to him about the issue. You should at least hear both sides before you listen to a political attack that has been exaggerated grossly out of proportion. I know Baker is not going to back out of the Governor's race and I would hate for the Democrats to lose an informed and educated supporter. :) ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 01:16:23 PM Ken wouldn't offer to take me hunting. Lost my vote... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 02:11:50 PM haha - your inner redneck exposed, eh? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.253 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 02:53:01 PM Who aren't I? I am what I am and that's all that I am. Blows your mind huh? BTW You are slacking soo much lately.:( ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 131.96.184.84 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 07:14:19 PM Slacking isn't a word in my vocabulary! :) ----- -------- AUTHOR: JasonA TITLE: Keep picking your nose and blaming teachers... it becomes you. BASENAME: keep_picking_your_nose_and_bla STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: richtext ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/24/2010 01:31:59 PM TAGS: cnn,education,Obama ----- BODY:
So why is it that teachers are constantly getting the short-end of the stick? Tell me if you can see which way the winds are blowing when it comes to society's view of teachers.
Here is the front page of the U.S. Section of CNN.com. Click on it to see the full-size as it appeared to me.
Sarcasm aside, never has there been more clear evidence that schools do not exist on islands, but are a part and more accurately a reflection of the community itself. Central Falls High School is not the cause of the problems in the community and the school board knows it. But they can't just go out and blame parents, now can they? After all, they vote. Notice how nowhere in the 4 options is the choice to send added resources to the school and/or community. Additionally, it takes a special caliber of teacher (above and beyond) to teach at a failing school. Turnover rates in failing schools are incredibly high. Teachers want to teach students who want to learn. True, they did get rid of those just biding their time, but they also threw the baby out with the bathwater. People who go into situations like that and stay are few and far between. Teachers like Ron Clark don't grow on trees.Central Falls High School, the only school in this tiny and impoverished city of one square mile just north of Providence, is persistently one of the worst-performing schools in the state. Only about half its students graduate, and only 7 percent of its 11th graders were proficient in math in 2009.
The (firing) plan was developed because of a federal effort to makeover failing schools. Those schools can select one of four options to fix themselves, which include requiring a longer school day, turning management over to a charter school, firing the entire teaching staff and rehiring no more than half, or closing the school.
Carol Porter will seek the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor, joining her husband, DuBose Porter, as a potential husband and wife team at the top of the party's ticket.
DuBose Porter, the House minority leader, is one of five Democrats seeking the gubernatorial nomination. Should they both become Democratic nominees, it sets up a potentially historic one-two punch. But Carol Porter said it's not a gimmick aimed at boosting her husband's campaign.It might not be a gimmick, but the dual campaign is already generating National buzz. Congrats and best of luck to Carol Porter. If her announcement is any indication, Casey Cagle's life just got a whole lot more complicated. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Bernita EMAIL: bdonasmith@mindspring.com IP: 68.28.231.227 URL: DATE: 02/25/2010 09:34:28 PM She should probably drop the Google Buzz profile...I'm just saying. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 02/25/2010 11:41:23 PM Wow. My brilliant track record of predictions continues. I wish her & Dubose the best. I'm still not certain how it might work well, but I can be convinced. Good thing she did a news conference while everyone was otherwise desperate for some coming out of the HCR 'conference', right? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 03/09/2010 10:33:09 AM Anyone else find it funny that on FB DuBose only became a fan of Carol today? Like, shouldn't that have been an immediate thing? What was he doing, weighing his options? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Does.Not.Mince.Words. BASENAME: not_mincing_words STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/26/2010 09:51:37 AM ----- BODY: Hang with all 5 mins, it's pretty good. Rep. Anthony Weiner represents the NY 9th district, and my new hero. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: jenjust EMAIL: IP: 68.157.136.197 URL: DATE: 02/26/2010 12:27:43 PM Loved this guy when I saw him on the Daily Show the other night. He makes good sense -- a rarity. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.223.106.143 URL: DATE: 02/26/2010 12:37:30 PM Outstanding. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.197.80 URL: DATE: 03/01/2010 09:13:44 PM My man Weiner! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Open Thread BASENAME: open_thread_4 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 02/26/2010 03:55:07 PM ----- BODY:
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy How do you get this gig you ask? Well here you go, from our friends at CSPAN.
The Senate Parliamentarian serves at the pleasure of the Senate Majority Leader, and functions under the direction of the Secretary of the Senate as a non-partisan employee of the Senate. The House Parliamentarian serves with the consent of the Speaker of the House, also in a non-partisan capacity, advising Members of both parties. The complexity of the job requires years of apprenticeship, and the leaders of both chambers have respected the institutional experience necessary to perform the job well. Sitting Parliamentarians hire their own assistants, and for decades, those assistants have advanced to the position of Parliamentarian when a vacancy has occurred.I hope you all caught the part about Vice President Biden really being the one to yield the big gavel, if you get my drift. Said Dove: "The parliamentarian only can advise. It is the vice president who rules. Good times people, good times. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/01/2010 08:43:30 PM Some of the more relevant info on this via ThinkProgress.org is here, (with plenty of linkage too): Principally proving nuclear hypocrite Lamar! wrong: Again: http://thinkprogress.org/2010/02/28/alexander-end-senate/ Here's the bit about Biden being the ultimate decider: http://wonkroom.thinkprogress.org/2010/03/01/biden-decider-dove/ Oh Joy! Think of it. If we'd only listened to the DFH way back when they first suggested reconciliation as the most favored route to use? It would have been done by now. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Baby Face Reed is planning a comeback BASENAME: baby_face_reed_is_planning_a_c STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/01/2010 09:54:20 PM ----- BODY:
Ralph Reed (R) is "seriously" contemplating a run for the House seat being vacated by Rep. John Linder (R-Ga.), according to CBN's David Brody. Reed has made his interest known to key grassroots leaders and local elected officials around the district, but has not yet made a decision. Reed was the first executive director of Pat Robertson's Christian Coalition and later ran for lieutenant governor of Georgia. His political downfall came from his close ties to disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff.Yeah baby, Ralph Reed might make a comeback. Ralph Reed, Nathan Deal, and The Ox - the royale battle of political egos. As the other GOP political ego maniac says "Bring It On"!! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/01/2010 10:21:48 PM I wish I could be as sanguine Bernita. But never fear, the crazy always gets crazier in Ga. Now is this a good thing for the GaGop? Only if they spend & waste all their money on it. It's very hard to game actually. So that's almost a smile, even if it looks more like a grimace. It's my Ga. face. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.214.46.23 URL: DATE: 03/02/2010 08:59:06 AM so we're back to 2006 with the chamber of commerce against the georgia right to life crew... so special. I thought it was bad when the anti woman homophobe Smoltz was thinking of running. Glad I'm leaving. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Willie Stark EMAIL: IP: 143.228.129.9 URL: DATE: 03/02/2010 12:09:02 PM The political gods just keep giving us presents. First Glenn Richardson, and then the OX as the Republican nominee for Gov. Now, Ralph Reed on the ballot!!! Let's watch the money fall from the skies. Thank you Political Gods, thank you. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 68.157.179.66 URL: DATE: 03/02/2010 06:04:50 PM It's not presents! Remember these guys recover very quickly. The Ralph Reed / Cagle matchup was over and done and won while the Dems were still making Unity buttons....sigh.... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/03/2010 05:12:24 AM For those who've forgotten, here's some of the goods on Ralphie: http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/archives/individual/2010_03/022658.php#more Again, Fun? Perhaps. Effective with today's Ga.GOP? Who knows how deep the crazy goes? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 98.66.162.10 URL: DATE: 03/03/2010 06:26:04 PM The good news is, a lot of Dems would look forward to claiming this normally Republican seat. The bad news is a LOT of Dems would try to claim the normally Republican seat. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.214.48.39 URL: DATE: 03/10/2010 11:09:14 AM As of just now, reports are he's NOT running... slim proof of a higher power- I dunno but this Georgian is grateful at any rate. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Sign this petition to stop college tuition hikes BASENAME: sign_this_petition_to_stop_col STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/02/2010 07:35:13 PM ----- BODY: From the Democratic Party of Georgia:
TO: Georgia politicians that advocate college tuition hikes, We, concerned citizens and students within Georgia, strongly condemn the attempt to balance the Georgia budget on the backs of college students, faculty and staff. The attempt to violently cut $385 million from the higher education budget for the 2010 calendar year will result in dramatically higher tuition rates, could bankrupt the HOPE scholarship, and will result in drastically reduced college services. State Senator Harp's encouragement of a 77% tuition hike is unjust. All college students begin school with the expectation that tuition will remain relatively stable over a four year time. A one-year increase of 77% is clearly beyond any sense of fairness. Over 4,000 jobs will be lost, and core services of our educational system will vanish. We sign this petition with the understanding that it will be delivered to the appropriate decision-makers in our State Capitol, and that our voices (and votes) will be a crucial commodity in this November's elections. Don't raise the fees on our degrees!Sign Petition here ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 68.215.174.78 URL: DATE: 03/02/2010 09:36:52 PM I really don't understand this petition..Are they planning on doing one for all the programs across the state that will be cut? What about public school cuts? Metal Health care cuts? State employees that haven't gotten a pay increase and have furloughs? Do the Dems have a solution for our desperate budget problems? Can I see some action instead of constant reaction? Or what.. hello.. crickets. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Democrats Live: Talking Taxes with Rep. Virgil Fludd BASENAME: democrats_live_talking_taxes_w STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/03/2010 02:20:31 AM ----- BODY: Tune in tonight at 9 pm to talk with State Representative Virgil Fludd (D-Tyrone). Rep. Fludd will talk live with BfD viewers for 1 hour. Sign up now on Ustream so you can chat live and ask Rep. Fludd questions. Recorded U-Stream video is here. Representative Virgil Fludd represents the citizens of District 66, which includes portions of Fayette and Fulton Counties. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2002, and currently serves on the Banks & Banking, Regulated Industries, and Ways & Means Committees. As Georgia faces an unprecedented budget deficit, due to 7 years of poor Republican leadership, there are Democrats in the State Assembly fighting for Georgia families. Rep. Fludd is one of those Democrats offering solutions that can help Georgia families. Solutions that can prevent Georgia college students from facing a 77% tuition hike, that can improve our education system by preventing teacher furloughs, prevent critical health, social services and public safety programs from suffering deep budget cuts. Rep. Fludd introduced HB 1066 -
legislation that would generate approximately $220 million through a temporary one percent surcharge for married couples who have a total income of more than $400,000 and single individuals with an income of $200,000. The additional income tax surcharge affects less than one percent of Georgia taxpayers. "As we all know, the state of Georgia is facing tough times so we have to do everything we can to maintain a balanced budget without laying off teachers or eliminating important programs," said Representative Fludd. "No one likes tax increases but these are very unusual times. We need strong leadership because spending cuts alone will not solve our problems. HB 1066 will help prevent these devastating cuts, while only affecting less than one percent of Georgia taxpayers."According to Rep. Fludd, the state of Georgia has not adjusted income tax rates in more than 70 years and currently has a top income tax rate of six percent beginning at $10,000. Other states have recently issued similar surcharges, including North Carolina and Wisconsin. ----- EXTENDED BODY: Tonight, Rep. Fludd will discuss why passing HB 1066 is an important piece in the budget puzzle. Rep. Fludd will also discuss the policies proposed by the Working Families Legislative Caucus. Rep. Fludd and the Working Families Legislative Caucus has identified 6 policies to promote Government Transparency, Fairness in Tax and Budget Policy and Corporate Accountability. 1. Collect the Taxes that are Due: - Georgia has failed to collect nearly $1 Billion in tax revenues that are due and unpaid. - Support HB 356 (Rep. Virgil Fludd) and HB 1137 (Rep. Dubose Porter) to increase sales tax collections by authorizing local city and county governments to share databases with the DOR and vice versa. 2. Transparency for Special Interest Tax Breaks that do not Serve the Public Interest: - Georgia "spends" hundreds of millions of dollars every year on special tax breaks and credits without gathering information as to what those tax breaks cost, whether they are fairly earned, and whether they meet their intended purpose. - Support SB 206 (Sen. Greg Goggans) to have Georgia join 39 states that gather information to define the cost of special tax exemptions and credits and evaluate whether the preferred tax status serves its intended public purpose. 3. Reduce the Size of Existing Tax Credits: - Apply a 15% reduction (roughly equal to the cut in state program spending) to all existing tax credits for the next two years. (HB 1065, 1067 and 1068) 4. Impose a Temporary Tax Surcharge: - A temporary 1% surcharge on income over $400,000 per year would raise $225 Million and impact fewer than 1% of taxpayers. (HB 1066) 5. Raise the Georgia Tax on Tobacco: - Georgia has among the lowest tax levels on tobacco in the country while public costs associated with smoking and related illness soar. Increasing the tobacco tax reduces the number of people who smoke and deters young people from taking up the habit - $1 increase in Georgia's tobacco tax would raise $300 - $400 Million per year. (HB 39) 6. Eliminate the Sales Tax Exemption on Lottery Sales: - By eliminating the exemption of sales tax on lottery tickets, the state would collect an additional $80 Million per year to fund needed programs. (SR 939) So Join us live tonight with State Rep. Virgil Fludd. If you are near Maunel's Tavern then come up to the Eagle's Nest and catch the show. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/03/2010 05:18:22 AM Sounds eminently sensible to me. Long overdue too. But I fully expect that the wealthy elites who run the place will start to mobilize immediately against it. Which, BTW? Means the AJC too. So expect them to come around sniffing for some 'scandal' story soon on Rep. Fludd. You heard it here first. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 74.232.215.247 URL: DATE: 03/03/2010 12:17:56 PM The sign-up process isn't very friendly, but I was able to skip all the steps after email, username, etc. and was still able to log-in to comment. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Dave Bearse EMAIL: IP: 66.245.97.216 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 12:58:11 AM I disagree with item 6 given that currently 45% or more of the cost of lottery tickets is tax. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.145.105.48 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 12:21:23 PM What percentage of gambling money in Las Vegas is profit? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 07:26:54 PM I don't think the AJC is going to be in on a conspiracy to off people who want to increase taxes on the wealthy, I think there's just too much anti-tax zealotry to be found in leadership to move on this, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't try. If anything it lays the groundwork for some more just policies int he future. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 09:29:05 PM Z, That sounds as 'defeatist' as anything I've ever heard coming from Washington. If not now, when? We're at the apex of recognition, disgust, outrage & involvement from citizens. And if you think the AJC and/or Cox Ent. would sit still for a 1% surtax on their income, you've been indulging in some pretty fine smoke up there too. Case in point? Their lobbying to repeal the Estate tax a few years back. They did some stories on it too, it was a bit 'sotto voce', but it still went down. This is a huge multi-billion dollar corporation run by an exclusive uber-wealthy family clique with their hands in plenty of industries (including car auctions, BTW). So Conspiracy? No, just protecting their interests as always, & it comes down to their bottom line. Not 'democracy', 'truth' or even 'searching for answers/truth in the public interest'. Just following the filthy lucre all the way. Watch for it. You're supposed to be getting smarter up there, right? Listen well. But Don't Drink The Water! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 10:28:02 PM If anything can make you defeatist it's being in Washington where a handful of senators can end life on earth (killing serious climate legislation, basically same thing) I've reached out to some georgia students on this issue though, trying to teach them about lobbying and whipping votes. Georgia activists are way into waving signs around, which is good, not so much into following the legislative process. Once we connect the two we've got a shot to at least move somewhat in the direction of raising revenues. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/04/2010 11:24:42 PM No. #2 & 3 are key here. Eliminate all the 'special interest' tax breaks (and there's 100's of them), and we'd make some good headway. Educating 'Ga. students' well about the legislative process & history & political economy of same? Well I suppose we've got to try, but it's still a work in progress with people employed to 'know better', right? JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Live with State Rep. Virgil Fludd BASENAME: live_with_state_rep_virgil_flu STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/03/2010 08:58:18 PM ----- BODY: Free TV : Ustream Chat: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 76.105.102.180 URL: DATE: 03/03/2010 10:04:38 PM Hey that was super fun! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: It's Friday (and not a moment too soon)! BASENAME: good_lord_its_friday STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/05/2010 05:48:27 AM ----- BODY: Open thread because it's been a tough week. Since raising them seems to be all the rage here are some answers to your questions. If you aren't reading this or watching this you probably don't realize how dysfunctional your state government really is. First we heard she was running. Then she did her first "radio" interview on Kudzu Vine. 3D or no 3D? Opening weekend? Wait a week? What's a fan to do? Must see. I love y'all, but I'd rather be here. What's up with you? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.227.51 URL: DATE: 03/05/2010 07:14:25 AM Interesting recent article in the NY Times, a report on studdies which seem to confirm George Lakoff and Mark Johnson's ideas about the embodied mind in Metaphors We Live By. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/02/science/02angier.html?em Also this from the n.y.tim http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/ The wording of the question proved to make a difference. Seven in 10 respondents said they favor allowing “gay men and lesbians” to serve in the military, including nearly 6 in 10 who said they should be allowed to serve openly. But support was somewhat lower among those who were asked about allowing “homosexuals” to serve, with 59 percent in favor, including 44 percent who support allowing them to serve openly.z http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/02/11/new-poll-shows-support-for-repeal-of-dont-ask-dont-tell/ . ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 03/05/2010 09:44:05 AM This is why people shouldn't vote. They don't even freaking know what they support. I think this is worth a post. http://www.lrb.co.uk/v32/n03/s-smith/nodding-and-winking BTW: Anyone else see Megan Mcardle's claim in The Atlantic that not having health insurance might not put people at greater risk of dying? There is something to be said for the points she raises BUT, if you have cancer and no insurance, you likely won't be able to afford hundreds of thousands dollars worth of chemo (or if you are my cousins who have insurance and can't really afford chemo but that is a different story) you are probably going to die. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 03/05/2010 11:04:37 PM One of my coworkers once said megan mccardle is an authority on nothing. Should ask yglesias, he used to work with her. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/06/2010 12:21:23 AM Yep, she's an ideologically driven idiot. So you did not hear that here first. Some other portions of the relevant argument are here w/ plenty of linkage: http://www.tnr.com/blog/the-treatment/the-connection-between-health-insurance-and-health-continued http://www.tnr.com/blog/the-treatment/give-me-insurance-or-give-me-death JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/06/2010 12:30:13 AM Oh yeah, introducing the Eglu, the clean(ish) new urban/suburban way of the chicken, from the Brits naturally, (well all plastic): http://www.omlet.co.uk/homepage/homepage.php They also do new style urban rabbit & beehives for the whole 'survivalist meets self-sufficiency' crowd. But neat stuff. Certainly beats the [much] older style of 'stoop' chicken houses too. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: catcodemo1 EMAIL: IP: 69.246.129.149 URL: DATE: 03/06/2010 10:17:45 AM How can Blue Cross or Aetna sleep at night knowing they are raising rates 39% and/or effectively kicking 600,000 people off of medical coverage? http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/05/insurers-set-to-raise-pri_n_487684.html On a similar note, Celgene Corporation, the company who developed Revlimid, the cancer drug used to treat Multiple Myeloma, just increased my mother-in-law's prescription, which has kept her cancer in remission for 2 years now, from $6,000.00 per month to $7,000.00 per month for only 21 pills. Her insurance company, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, will not pay a dime toward the cost. Fortunately, the Rx company has some kind of program that helps with the costs. She said she didn't know what she would do if she wasn't receiving some kind of help. There is absolutely NO EXCUSE for any senior citizen, or anybody else in this country, to have to worry about whether they can afford the medication or medical coverage to stay alive! It's GREEDY, COLD-HEARTED, and LOW-DOWN. But, all in the name of the mighty dollar. Isn't it funny how the right-wingers wear their little Christian Hats when there is any mention of abortion or homosexuality, but suddenly become sacrilegious when someone mentions helping the poor or middle class? And, gas prices are inching back up over $3 per gallon by summer. When it does, we're going to witness a Wall Street crash like no other in our lifetime unless Washington does something quick. And, there is nothing you or I can do about it but watch and pay higher prices for everything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.197.12 URL: DATE: 03/06/2010 09:26:35 PM There was a DFA training today, part of a two day seminar, with tomorrow being the last day. Sarah showed me the booklet they gave everyone, it's concise and it looks fantastic. Not like the encyclopedia we got about five or six years ago. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/06/2010 09:44:59 PM I tried to send one of our erstwhile candidates to it, I'm not certain he made it there. Is there anyway to get the booklet? just wondering... Thanks. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.197.12 URL: DATE: 03/06/2010 09:52:05 PM IRExposed, there's a lot of work out there that supports the idea that the way you frame poll questions affects the way people respond to it. For example: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Framing_(economics) Tversky and Kahneman (1981) demonstrated systematic reversals of preference when the same problem is presented in different ways, for example in the Asian disease problem. Participants were asked to "imagine that the U.S. is preparing for the outbreak of an unusual Asian disease, which is expected to kill 600 people. Two alternative programs to combat the disease have been proposed. Assume the exact scientific estimate of the consequences of the programs are as follows." The first group of participants were presented with a choice between two programs: Program A: "200 people will be saved" Program B: "there is a one-third probability that 600 people will be saved, and a two-thirds probability that no people will be saved" 72 percent of participants preferred program A (the remainder, 28 percent, opting for program B). The second group of participants were presented with the choice between: Program C: "400 people will die" Program D: "there is a one-third probability that nobody will die, and a two-third probability that 600 people will die" In this decision frame, 78 percent preferred program D, with the remaining 22 percent opting for program C. Programs A and C are identical, as are programs B and D. The change in the decision frame between the two groups of participants produced a preference reversal: when the programs were presented in terms of lives saved, the participants preferred program the secure program, A (= C). When the programs were presented in terms of expected deaths, participants chose the gamble D (= B). ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.197.12 URL: DATE: 03/06/2010 10:06:16 PM Sarah said she was told it is ok to reproduce it, make copies of it, if needed. I'll make a copy of it for you Monday or Tuesday. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/07/2010 02:43:30 AM For B& IRE: Recent Kos Diarist on 'Framing': [Follow the tags & links too]: http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2010/3/5/843424/-Visualization,-Framing,-and-that-War-of-Words Thanks B, Tell me if you need my email, but it's Bartow Co., so I'm listed. Thanks again to you & Sarah! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.92 URL: DATE: 03/07/2010 09:19:44 AM I'm aware of framing and all the problems with poll questioning. All it shows is people are fucking dumb and don't even know what they support. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/07/2010 03:02:05 PM No argument there. And if you're talking about a proportion of the electorate who are 'well informed'? There's a good argument that it's not changed much in a few 100 years either. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/09/2010 09:44:34 PM Any word on the availability of that DFA manual Berzerko? I thought I'd ask... Thanks again, JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Kudzu Vine: Arkansas, Doug McKillip, and Oscar Fun. BASENAME: kudzu_vine_arkansas_doug_mckil STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/07/2010 04:25:48 PM ----- BODY: Tune in tonight at 7PM. David McAvoy of the blog, Blue Arkansas will be on for a discussion about politics in Arkansas. Kentucky, Florida and Georgia are on the list tonight too. Georgia State Representative Doug McKillip will call in to fill us in on his proposals for solving the higher education funding problems in Georgia. And, finally, David, Tim, and I will offer up some suggestions for films based on current political stories. I've got some good ones - casts and all! Tune in from 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Or download from BlogTalk Radio or iTunes! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: Georgia GOP, racist much? BASENAME: georgia_gop_racist_much STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/07/2010 04:35:48 PM ----- BODY:
SIOA is determined to prevent (and reverse where necessary) the implementation of sharia law in the United States. SIOA does not consider it a crime to criticize mohammed and islam; it considers it a duty. SIOA intends to keep the U.S. and the West the most prosperous and free part of the world and it will do this through action. Wherever islamism rears its ugly head SIOA will be there. Its members are undaunted by the criticism SIOA receives from all sides. The self-styled anti-fascists brand us right-wing fascist nationalists and racists. SIOA will support having regular anti-islamist demonstrations and intends to up its activity in the future.Just so we are clear, the Stop Islamization of America isn't a random group you can click and join on Facebook. SIOA is pretty secretive and selective on who they let in their group. According to their Facebook page:
This is a CLOSED group for now. Please send a request to join and we will get back to you asap. Thanks!Just an awesome and welcoming group to join when you are running for office to represent all Georgia citizens. Wow, Georgia GOP ya'll have outdone yourselves on this year's candidate recruitment. h/t Gunner ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/08/2010 02:36:59 AM Thanks Bernita, For crawling to such places that we might have missed or dared not go. But again it needs to be said, over & over again. Many of these folks are just simply mean as hell & Bat Sh*t crazy. It's a marvelously useful combo and of course a thoroughly 'Christian' innovation in politics. Here & elsewhere. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/08/2010 03:01:15 AM And because it's marginally useful & somewhat relevant I'll also include some data here too: http://crookedtimber.org/2010/03/07/sleepers/ JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Bernita TITLE: The end is nowhere in sight BASENAME: the_end_is_nowhere_in_sight STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/09/2010 05:14:53 PM ----- BODY: Nancy Badertscher, over at the AJC's Gold Dome Live, is reporting that
The Legislature is temporarily moving to a three-day work week and now expected to end the 40-day session in mid- to late April. Lawmakers had planned to meet this week through Friday, but voted to end the week on Thursday and then go to a three-day week for two weeks, or through March 25.Mid-to Late April means the general session will probably end pretty close to this year's qualifying period. There's going to be a lot of grumpy legislators who won't be able to start fundraising for their re-elections. But, they are doing the people's business so I guess it's better that they stay and get the budget fixed so the people can get on with their business. So if you're sitting on some dough and want to give it to a good Democratic candidate, then pass some change over to Mike Freeman who is the only Democrat running in the 9th District (Flip Flopper Nathan Deal's seat). Freeman is running against like 8 bazillion Republicans and can use your support. Contribute here. If Perdue gets his act together there will probably be a special election sometime in May. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.60.199 URL: DATE: 03/11/2010 05:53:45 PM I know what the problem is. There's a lot of trade shows in town this month. All the hotels are filled up. Hard for the leadership to arrange a "meeting" with a lobbyists right now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/11/2010 08:25:24 PM Ah, perhaps you give them too much credit Jerry. As someone else might have said in a different context; Are there no carparks? Out of town City/County/State Parks? BTW: I met Mike Freeman during last year's GADCC, he's a decent & impressive guy, and certainly deserves our full support. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Ken Hodges lawsuit dismissed BASENAME: ken_hodges_lawsuit_dismissed STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/11/2010 05:29:20 PM ----- BODY: AG candidate Ken Hodges has been granted immunity in the ongoing litigation stemming from the aftermath of "the" hospital case we probably all know about by now (Googling is left as an exercise for the reader). The opinion issued by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals is worth a look - to be clear, the prosecutor who eventually filed the charges after Hodges recused himself from the case is still facing a lawsuit. As an aside, it should be noted that this isn't exactly an issue the candidate has been running away from - he was in attendance at a Young Democrats of Atlanta meeting last Wednesday and was happy to answer a question about his handling of the case in detail. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 67.33.165.156 URL: DATE: 03/11/2010 06:33:54 PM I agree. Hodges spoke at a Gwinnett breakfast a few months ago and took about 20 minutes on 'the' case. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/11/2010 08:17:02 PM Well the ruling's unsurprising, but it's good to hear from reports of Hodges starting to address these issues of the Phoebe-Putney mess. I suspect this will not end it all either. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melissa Marietta Sams EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 03/13/2010 01:25:21 AM I think that certain people will try to not let it drop, but an argument that has been dismissed doesn't hold much weight. Hodges acted properly and is willing to discuss the facts with anyone who wants to talk with him. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/13/2010 05:32:15 AM Again, I for one am glad of the latter part of that 2nd sentence, Melissa M. The court ruling was pretty predictable, and it remains to be seen what the general political effect it might have. I imagine that's where your hard work comes in too. Hopefully. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 74.232.215.247 URL: DATE: 03/14/2010 12:43:51 AM Testing comments because IRE is having a hissy fit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 74.232.215.247 URL: DATE: 03/14/2010 12:45:11 AM BTW, did I mention we're moving web host next month? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/14/2010 04:02:50 PM IRE having a 'hissy fit'? Tragic. Really. Umm do we have any pictures anyone's willing to post? I know... it's a slow day in the sticks. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Stupid Candidate Tricks BASENAME: stupid_candidate_tricks STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/15/2010 02:36:45 PM ----- BODY:
"We are here to empower and ignite the second Revolution for God-ordained, individual Life and Liberty here at home in Georgia. Your future and your liberty await"If you guessed Ray McBerry, you'd be right. Extra credit goes to the Carly Fiorina's recent crazy video hit on Sen. Barbara Boxer called Hot Air the Movie. You got examples? I'm sure we'd love to read them in the comments! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/15/2010 03:32:17 PM Umm read it and wonder: http://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/03/gop_gov_candidate_admits_refusing_to_salute_flag_-.php?ref=fpb I quote in part from this far out missive: [Via TPM]: "TPMMuckraker: GOP Gov Candidate Admits Refusing To Salute Flag -- Denies Hitting On Campaign Manager, Sex With Underage Girls Zachary Roth | March 15, 2010, 12:22PM 32Share Ray McBerry, Republican candidate for governor of Georgia Read More Ray McBerry, Right-wing extremism, Sex A far-right Republican candidate for governor of Georgia has issued what must be one of the most counter-productive -- and flat-out hilarious -- denials in the history of modern political campaigning. On Saturday, Ray McBerry sent out a lengthy statement denying that he "attempted to have an affair" with his former campaign manager; had sexual relations with under-aged girls; stole custody of his son from the son's mother (who, he noted, had tested positive for meth anyway); is no longer allowed to teach in the state; and is unpatriotic, just because he refuses to salute "the current federal flag which represents the present unconstitutional leviathan in Washington," and instead salutes the flag of Georgia and the "original Betsy Ross American flag." McBerry -- who now works as a producer of radio and TV commercials, and is polling around 2 percent in the race -- is the chair of the Georgia chapter of the League of the South, which describes itself as "a Southern Nationalist organization whose ultimate goal is a free and independent Southern republic." (You can watch McBerry explaining his view that the Civil War had nothing to do with slavery here.) The group's website is currently promoting McBerry's candidacy. And McBerry's own website declares: "NOT Atlanta, NOT Washington... but GEORGIA FIRST!" Some of the rumors to which McBerry was responding appear to come from an email entitled "Ray McBerry The Monster," which was sent out recently by a woman claiming to be McBerry's ex-wife, and was obtained by TPMmuckraker. In the email the woman writes: I have read what Ray has said about me, and how I left one day, out of the blue when our son was one year old, because I simply wished to no longer have the obligation of wife and mother. Let me first say, this is not true. I loved Ray McBerry with every bone in my body, and believed he felt the same way. I could have wished for no greater day than when I gave birth to his son. But not long after my son was born everything fell apart. A woman from our church came to me and expressed concern about Ray's actions while in the presence of a young girl in our church. I had already seen this, and begged daily for him to reassure me that this was nothing. He told me I was being foolish and should not speak this way to him. Shortly after, the girls parents took Ray to court for disorderly conduct around a minor. At this time he was teaching at an alternative high school. Because his father was the Assistant DA, all charges were dropped. But, not before he was ordered to resign from his teaching position, and never to pursue the career again. ... Ray promised that if I ever got my life back together that he would let me be a part of my sons life and this was a lie. Above anything else I am a Georgian, and I do not wish that a man such as this lead my state. Neither McBerry nor the woman responded immediately to a request for comment. In December, McBerry fired his campaign manager, anti-abortion activist Jenny Hodges, saying that she was "preoccupied with efforts that promote life and liberty but are not, in my judgment, the best use of her time and energy in running our campaign as campaign manager." (Hodges herself explained it at the time by saying, "the product which I had signed on to sell no longer existed.") Hodges, a conservative Christian, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. An aide to a rival gubernatorial campaign told TPMmuckraker he had seen McBerry decline to salute the American flag at candidate debates and forums. "He literally steps back ... a foot or so," the aide explained. The front-runners for the GOP nomination are State Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine, former Secretary of State Karen Handel, and Rep. Nathan Deal". Amazing. Really. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: gunner EMAIL: IP: 68.51.168.54 URL: DATE: 03/15/2010 04:45:45 PM Does this really surprise anyone? This is what the Republican Tea Party has been saying for a while."Hate your govt." is pretty much the message they give. This guy isn't crazy he is just a Republican. When he shares the stage with other GOP candidates remember that they all share the same values. This business about not respecting the American flag makes me want to vomit. I can show you over 700,000 veterans in Georgia what they think about this guys thoughts about the U.S. flag. But let's remember this guy is a Republican. He comes from the same Republican Party that our current Gov. does You remember ol Sonny. The guy who closes War Veterans Hospitals in Milledgeville. Ladies and gentleman I give you Republican party. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/15/2010 05:03:16 PM Yep, crazy & Rethuglican, it's the Ga. way. Except it's mostly that way now all over the US too. But we really need to shout that from the rooftops too. They be crazed berserkers hell bent on the destruction of the Republic that they've been sworn to 'protect & preserve'. SSDD. Rinse & repeat. Me? I'll blame the MS media for their hand in this. Everything is 'balanced & fair' as long as you vaguely & superficially present the 2 sides. The highly colorful & ever telegenic wacko crazies, vs the small band of 'good government & technocratic' Dems now occupying the place of the once & forever beleaguered Eisenhower Repug's of yore, at best. The current HCR bill? Something RI's late moderate Repug. Sen. John Chafee could & did produce some 15 years ago. That's the political spectrum that we've been living with for decades now. Rationality & real political debates also ended literally decades ago. The wackos & the ruthless barbarians are not at the gates, they're now running the show, and the MS media? Are always too bored or distracted or incompetent to notice much. But this is the way empires & republics end too. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.144 URL: DATE: 03/15/2010 05:09:17 PM My 69ft yacht is called Sexy Ride. The mast is huge. Anyway John Edwards also said "Falling in love with you could really fuck up my plans for becoming President." F.T.FUCKING.W. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/15/2010 05:26:24 PM And where the hell have you been IRE? Reading up on the all tabloids? Evidently from what little I'm able to understand, JRE was not too advanced in his thoughts there. So are you going to make the JJ so you might reenact a hissy fit for all your fans? Just wondering... JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.144 URL: DATE: 03/15/2010 05:43:47 PM WTF are you talking about? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/15/2010 05:54:30 PM It's a joke. Here's the ref: http://www.blogfordemocracy.org/2010/03/ken_hodges_lawsuit_dismissed.html#comment-19890 And you know? Overall that comes in a close 2nd to the typical questions I usually get. However, the take away winner is still, 'You're not still supporting that 'so&so' Obama, are you?' But not all that unsual, and sometimes it takes some time in translation too. Hope you make it though. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 04:52:08 AM On the Media, just for sh*ts & giggles: Via the CJR: http://www.cjr.org/the_news_frontier/state_of_the_media_by_the_numb.php "The annual State of the Media report by the Pew Research Center’s Project for Excellence in Journalism was released this morning. The report looks back on how every part of the media fared in 2009, including newspapers, magazines, network news, cable television, and online sites. It’s not the most uplifting bit of news about the news—but in a year that saw the most massive financial crisis since the Great Depression (on top of that whole broken business-model stuff), you already knew that. Here are some of the report’s more eye-popping numbers: 1) To put all those tiny little papercuts into perspective; each round of newspaper layoffs, here and there, equals one big gushing head wound: We estimate that the newspaper industry has lost $1.6 billion in annual reporting and editing capacity since 2000, or roughly 30 percent, which leaves an extra $4.4 billion remaining. Even if the economy improves, we predict more cuts in 2010." So essentially a loss of 30% in the last decade, and probably a cumulative 50% from the last 15 years or so. Certainly in the last 20. Look at a paper from the 1990's. Then 1980's. You'll be stunned. It's like a different world populated by different people. Democracy can not long survive w/o an informed & engaged citizenry. And here at the bottom of the heap? We wind up with the 'Highlights' version, at best. We're still mostly entertaining ourselves to death. And then there's this WTF moment too: Via Lapham's Quarterly: "How the "Lively Arts" Became "the Media": http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lewis-lapham/how-the-lively-arts-becam_b_499749.html Yeah, reading. Whatever became of all that stuff way back there? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: nicolette EMAIL: IP: 204.152.235.219 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 10:59:49 AM i like how McBerry claims to be patriotic and then uses the "our" spelling for behavior (behaviour). what kind of limey crap is that?! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Some BS happening somewhere BASENAME: some_bs_going_on_somewhere STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/16/2010 12:54:58 AM ----- BODY: Sorry, I couldn't resist. This bullshit NSFW.
Ladies and gentlemen, the state of Georgia's judiciary stands at a crossroads. There is no question that we all have to do our fair share to help balance our state's budget. However, it has become increasingly difficult to do our constitutionally mandated duties. And that is due to budget reductions.----- EXTENDED BODY:
In 2009, the judicial branch received less than eight-tenths of one percent of the total state appropriations. That represents the judiciary's smallest share of state appropriations in recent history, even as we have watched our state's population and needs grow. We have not resisted sharing the burden of bad economic times. Our judges have volunteered to take furloughs. We have eliminated positions and laid off people whose livelihoods depended on them. We have stopped hiring and giving salary increases. We have closed down law libraries. At the state's highest court, our operating budget has shrunk so low that we had to return a copy machine that we desperately needed. Just as Georgia's courts have received national praise, today we are receiving national attention of a different sort. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal began like this: "The wheels of justice in Georgia are grinding more slowly each day." Cuts in state courts, the article says, have led to a growing backlog of cases, with months-long delays for many civil and domestic cases. Those hit hardest are already our most vulnerable citizens - abused children, battered women, the elderly, and others who turn to us for justice. The consequences of these cuts, though, hit everyone, threatening the basic constitutional rights of civil litigants and criminal defendants as core court functions go by the wayside. And, according to the Wall Street Journal article, while judiciaries are being squeezed nationwide, "Georgia's situation appears particularly severe." With cuts in county budgets, the crisis is compounded across the state, putting some court systems on the edge of an abyss. Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter recently said that a 9 percent funding cut his county commission was considering, would require his office to stop prosecuting cases for five weeks this year. He asked: "Which 9 percent of these victims do you want me to tell, 'I can't prosecute your case'?" The unthinkable has already begun in Hall County, where the courts now close one day a month. One superior court judge recently told me she has 16 death penalty cases pending**. That backup can be blamed in part on the elimination of funding for senior judges. Senior judges were one of the best bargains this state ever had because they helped process cases through the system, enabling elected judges to spend time on critical cases. We cannot talk about our court system without acknowledging the Judicial Council - our policy-making body, which is made up of leaders of every class of court. The Judicial Council includes the Administrative Office of the Courts, which provides critical research, technical and administrative support to our state's courts. In the last five years, the Council's budget has decreased by more than 20 percent. Our Constitution guarantees the right to a speedy trial in criminal cases. That means that if the demand for a speedy trial is not met, that criminal defendant could go free. Due to the speedy trial requirement in criminal cases, some judges have been forced to put civil cases on hold. One judge had to suspend all civil jury trials for six months. In some parts of the state, it now takes up to two months to get a hearing in a temporary child custody case, when it used to take a couple of weeks. The precedence that criminal cases must take threatens the civil justice system - one that is critical to the health of our businesses, which depend on the courts to enforce contracts. The reality is this: Our state's largest court system - Fulton County's - said earlier this year that it could face the surreal prospect of having to shut its doors some days of the month. Right now in Fulton County, there are 183 murder cases waiting to be tried; half are more than a year old. That county's three domestic judges each [get] 160 cases a month. Chief Judge Dee Downs put it this way: "This isn't justice," she said. "We're losing the rule of law."** I doubt Justice Hunstein would include this if it weren't true; however, it seems quite unbelievable. It's possible she was referring to having 16 capital cases in one county as opposed to one courtroom. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 01:55:39 PM Maybe one of the lawyers can help me out here but, last time I was in court, several court rooms were empty and the docket was done by 11. Why can't the judges work all at the same time/work until 5 like the rest of us battlers? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: jenatlanta@gmail.com IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 02:03:18 PM You were in State Court, which according to some people, is not real court. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 02:06:51 PM Nah...federal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: jenatlanta@gmail.com IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 02:11:43 PM Federal is an entirely different system. Justice Hunstein was only addressing Georgia courts, with the bigger problems being in Superior Court. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 02:17:33 PM Well state courts were also pretty quiet. I guess my question is why can't every judge hear cases all day? What do they do when in their chambers (THANKS LandO)? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: jenatlanta@gmail.com IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 02:30:59 PM I can't speak for all judges or courtrooms; however, I will say that there are certain judges in Fulton County who are routinely on the bench at 7, 8 or even 9:30 at night handling cases. I have had the unfortunate pleasure of witnessing this firsthand. These same judges routinely respond to email requests late at night and on the weekends. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.144 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 03:17:49 PM So what you're saying is I shouldn't make broad, sweeping generalizations based on really REALLY casual anecdotal evidence just to have something to be self-righteously indignant over? Well that sounds like no fun. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen B. EMAIL: jenatlanta@gmail.com IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 03:34:59 PM *shrugs* There are definitely some people who are adverse to work. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/16/2010 07:35:20 PM In a word? Shambolic. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Sarawaraclara EMAIL: IP: 99.57.85.27 URL: DATE: 03/17/2010 08:36:32 AM In addition to hearing cases, federal judges have to issue orders on all the many many motions filed in their cases. Even if they have clerks who research the issues and write draft opinions, they still have to review the clerks' bench memos and decide how they want to rule on every motion, and review and revise the (often lengthy) orders explaining their rationale. It's not like they hear 2 hours of motions and then go home for the day. (Usually.) ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Health Care Bill Myth Debunked BASENAME: health_care_bill_myth_debunked STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/17/2010 04:31:53 PM ----- BODY:
[If] anyone tells you that Harry Reid and the Democrats are trying to pass healthcare reform that can never be amended or repealed no matter how much of a disaster it might be, you deserve to know what the bill really says.Sara explains it here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.216.231.75 URL: DATE: 03/17/2010 05:25:09 PM Thank you Jen for posting, and heartfelt thanks to Sara for researching this for us. Appreciated it, owe you both drinks! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/17/2010 06:29:46 PM Thanks Sarah, This is very useful. I got this nonsense in my email just hours ago. I was going to tell them it was pretty bogus, but thanks for taking the time to suss it all out for us. BTW: On another issue entirely, you're not the Sarah with the DFA candidate training materials? I'm trying to get a hold of same. Thanks again! JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Do.Not.Want.To.See.Here. BASENAME: donotwanttoseehere STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/17/2010 05:03:44 PM ----- BODY:
ROME (AFP) - Around 50 left-wing municipal officials dropped their trousers at Rome's city hall on Monday to call for the speedy passage of the Italian capital's 2010 budget.As much as I love Left of center politicians, I repeat-I don't want to see any of ours try this! As TBS noted in response to my Twitter of this last night-it appears at least the underwear was clean! Psst-person third from left-are those really bloomers? Really? They must have stolen them straight from great Aunt Giovanna's chiffonier. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.127.214 URL: DATE: 03/17/2010 06:35:24 PM If I did it you'd want to see it. And by "you" I mean a general "you" not a specific "you". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/17/2010 06:37:40 PM I really don't see why not. Semi-nude Italian men are a staple of almost every fashion mag I've ever seen. So..wait. Municipal workers. Gaaaak. But trou dropping, reasonably well dressed (well partially) Italians! And municipal officials. [ZZZZZZzzzzzzzz]. OK where were we? They almost look good from the waist up, that counts for something, right? And you think most newscasters wear pants too, eh? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 68.157.179.66 URL: DATE: 03/17/2010 07:59:14 PM yeah, there's no one at the capitol i want to see drop trow ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Stay Classy Ohio TeaBaggers, Stay Classy. BASENAME: stay_classy_ohio_teabaggers_st STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/18/2010 07:30:02 PM ----- BODY: Gee, for a minute I thought maybe last summers town "hells" would finally be over. Oops my mistake. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/18/2010 10:17:27 PM Hell never ends. Only inhales & exhales. Differing rates of respiration, seen from slightly different angles. But yeah, saw the vid, thanks for posting it. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/18/2010 10:57:43 PM Classier: http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2010/03/18/90669/state-of-the-health-care-debate.html State of the health care debate: Talk radio attacks an 11-year old Les Blumenthal | McClatchy Newspapers last updated: March 18, 2010 08:28:46 PM "WASHINGTON — Conservative talk show hosts and columnists have ridiculed an 11-year-old Washington state boy's account of his mother's death as a "sob story" exploited by the White House and congressional Democrats like a "kiddie shield" to defend their health care legislation. Marcelas Owens, whose mother got sick, lost her job, lost her health insurance and died, said Thursday he's taking the attacks from Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck and Michelle Malkin in stride. "My mother always taught me they can have their own opinion but that doesn't mean they are right," Owens, who lives in Seattle, said in an interview. Owens' grandmother, Gina, who watched her daughter die, isn't quite so generous. "These are adults, and he is an 11-year-old boy who lost his mother," Gina Owens said. "They should be ashamed." Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., told Marcelas Owens' story to President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden at the White House health care summit last month. Murray also has spoken about it on the Senate floor. Last week, Owens was in the nation's capital to speak at a health care rally and to meet with Senate Democratic leadership. Limbaugh, Beck and Malkin are skeptical about the story, saying there were other forms of medical help available after Owens' mother, Tifanny, lost her health insurance. They lambasted Democrats for using the story. [Cut...] Malkin dismissed Marcelas Owens as "one of Obama's youngest lobbyists" who has been "goaded by a left-wing activist grandmother," promoted by Murray and has become a regular on the "pro-Obamacare circuit." Malkin also suggested there were other programs that could have helped Tifanny Owens, adding, "It's not clear that additional doctors' visits in the subsequent months would have prevented her death." Tifanny Owens died in June 2007 of pulmonary hypertension, which is described as high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs that can lead to heart failure. The disease is considered rare. While there's no cure, it can be treated. The treatments can cost as much as $100,000 a year and must be "consistent and constant," said Katie Kroner, the director of advocacy and awareness for the Pulmonary Hypertension Association. "It's extremely important to have health coverage," she said. Owens was an assistant manager at a fast food restaurant when she became sick in September 2006. As she became sicker, she missed work and was eventually fired, leaving her without health insurance. She was treated twice in an emergency room and died at age 27 after a week of unconsciousness. Gina Owens has custody of Marcelas and his two younger sisters. Gina Owens said her daughter didn't qualify for Medicaid. State officials said that without knowing the details, it was impossible to speculate on whether Tifanny Owens would have qualified. Tifanny Owens might have been eligible for Washington state's basic health care plan, which is aimed at the working poor. The plan has had a long waiting list for some time, said Sharon Michael of the Washington state Health Care Authority. "Right now, we have 100,000 people on the wait list," Michael said. Limbaugh has gone after young people before. In 2007, he told listeners that Democrats were exploiting an 18-year-old Yup'ik Eskimo and that her congressional testimony of global warming made him want to "puke." Murray said she was appalled at how vicious the health care debate has become. "The mom in me is getting really mad," she said. "You don't tear apart an 11-year-old because his mom died." Marcelas Owens said he'll never know if his mother might have lived if she had health insurance. "At least if she had it she would've had a fighting chance," he said. Just about 120 per day dying needlessly w/o any real resort to adequate care. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/19/2010 02:56:16 AM Tweety does an update on the Vid for MSNBC: UPDATE (posted by HuffPost staff): Hardball grills the president of Americans for Prosperity over the incident at the rally they promoted. See the NEW video: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rep-mary-jo-kilroy/stand-up-for-decency_b_504778.html JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 04:30:50 AM More of an update & a now a name via TPM here: http://tpmlivewire.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/03/man-with-parkinsons-on-health-care-protest-showdown-i-embody-the-controversy-1.php?ref=fpblg "TPM LiveWire Man With Parkinson's Who Was Berated By Tea Partiers: 'I Embody The Controversy' (VIDEO) Justin Elliott | March 19, 2010, 4:43PM 292Share An anti-health reform protester yells at Bob Letcher (right). "The man with Parkinson's who sat down in front of a group of anti-health reform rally in Ohio this week, only to have dollar bills thrown at him by an angry protester screaming about "handouts," tells TPM in a phone interview that he was aiming to present his own body as a powerful symbol of the debate. "I feel I embody the controversy that was being fought out," Bob Letcher, 60, tells us. "No one was engaging, everyone was screaming. I thought, I don't have to scream, I just have to be there. I walked over and sat down ... I sort of presented myself as an argument by myself." The episode took place Tuesday outside the Columbus office of Rep. Mary Jo Kilroy (D-OH), where hundreds supporters and opponents gathered for dueling health care demonstrations. Letcher made his way over to the anti-health care crowd bearing a homemade sign asking, "Got Parkinson's?" I Do and You Might. Thanks for helping! That's community!" "I scribbled it -- it's not so neat because I can't write very neatly," says Letcher, whose voice has been slowed by the disorder. A former college teacher, he tells TPM he was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2000, but he believes he had symptoms of the disorder since 1996." [End Cite. More at link]. This always was & remains as ever a deeply moral issue. RTL? It's right there, lying on the ground as you curse him and berate his mere existence. And you know? Sad but true, life's costly. Death's always cheaper. Kilroy's now a yes vote for HCR too. Sure enough, Kilroy was there when needed! JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Open Thread BASENAME: yay_its_friday STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/19/2010 06:22:55 AM ----- BODY: He's just a modern guy. Finally. After seven tries one of my heroes makes it to The Hall. You may be surprised by what's on his iPod? Good lord. Just once can Georgia make The New York Times for something good? Many scrimp and save so that one day they can go to The Olympic Games. Not me. I want to go to this "game". Oh yeah, there seems to be a lot of talk about this. Sunday is the day, they say. And finally, if they pull this off will their logo be along the bottom of our screens, too? What's on your mind? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/19/2010 03:52:25 PM The war of northern aggression continues according to Cong. Paul Broun (R, Nutso & oh so Ga.) esp. when providing health care. Somethings never change: http://mediamattersaction.org/blog/201003190002 "Rep. Paul Broun Compares Health Care Reform To "The Great War Of Yankee Aggression" 5 hours and 30 minutes ago by Matt Finkelstein Rep. Paul Broun (R-GA) is a fanatical opponent of health care reform, who has suggested that President Obama might "declare martial law" and rule as a dictator. In recent days, the right-wing congressman has made Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) the target of his fury, calling her arrogant, ignorant, and incompetent. Last night on the House floor, Broun continued his streak of combative statements by comparing health care reform to the American Civil War, which he called "The Great War of Yankee Aggression." Also noted here: http://thinkprogress.org/2010/03/19/yankee-aggression/ & here: washingtonmonthly.com/ JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 130.207.218.196 URL: DATE: 03/19/2010 06:22:41 PM Bishop and Barrow have decided how they will vote on health reform: yes and no, respectively. Barrow really, really wants to be the least valuable Democrat in America. http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/2009/12/2009s-most-valuable-democrat-is.html ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/19/2010 06:51:44 PM Yep. Seems so. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 03/19/2010 07:17:50 PM Hopefully this time Obama won't make the same mistake http://thinkprogress.org/2009/08/04/barrow-obama-health-care/ Regina Thomas is running against barrow again. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/19/2010 09:00:54 PM Unequivocal good news to get rid of that BS aftertaste from various & sundry idiocies: Via CBPP.org "Student Loan Reform in Health Bill Would Save More Than $60 Billion and Invest in Access to College By Gillian Brunet and Chuck Marr “The health reform legislation heading for a vote in Congress within the next few days includes major reforms to the student loan system that would save more than $60 billion over ten years and invest more in educational opportunity for millions of aspiring students…. While critics have branded the proposed changes in student loans a ‘government takeover’ and claimed it would cost jobs, both claims are inaccurate.” View the full report: http://www.cbpp.org/cms/index.cfm?fa=view&id=3127 http://www.cbpp.org/files/3-19-10health2.pdf 4pp. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 03/19/2010 10:23:09 PM Report: http://pr.thinkprogress.org/2010/03/pr20100310/index.html Podcast: http://bit.ly/9pqMV0 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 01:13:33 AM Yes. Quite. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 190.90.161.226 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 09:44:24 AM "Hopefully this time Obama won't make the same mistake" Yeah because it is a a "mistake" to endorse a national co-chair of your presidential campaign when the guy was potentially losing his seat over the move and is running against a weak candidate running a quixotic campaign in the primary. Right. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.232.73.43 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 11:41:26 AM Congratulations to Ambassador David Adelman! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 130.207.218.196 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 12:15:44 PM IRE, you never tire of making counterfactual excuses for conservatives. Barrow's district is more Democratic than the nation as a whole (PVI D+1), and less than 1% shy of being majority-minority (51% white, 45% black). Barrow's endorsement of Obama was not an act of bravery on his part; it was necessary for his political survival. He needed Obama much more than Obama needed him. He's returned Obama's support for him with opposition to much of Obama's agenda. He's ungrateful, a coward, and hopefully, a fool. Really, if Sanford Bishop can vote for this or any other bill, then John Barrow can. The composition of their districts is similar; Bishop's district may be more conservative. Yet it's Barrow who cannot find the strength necessary to support something as fundamental to Democratic values as health care reform. He's worthless. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 04:00:51 PM ""Hopefully this time Obama won't make the same mistake" Yeah because it is a a "mistake" to endorse a national co-chair of your presidential campaign when the guy was potentially losing his seat over the move and is running against a weak candidate running a quixotic campaign in the primary. Right." Yeah, it was, considering that douchebag hasn't backed Obama on anything. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 05:43:29 PM It's nothing I've not spoken about to his campaign workers either. Repeatedly. 'Find a way to support this bill'. Simple. Direct & true. It's the most important vote of their lives, no doubt about it. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 190.90.161.226 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 05:55:46 PM Lots of facepalm in this thread. Keep it up boys! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 03/20/2010 07:45:23 PM http://images.cheezburger.com/completestore/2010/3/20/129136019125434752.jpg ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/21/2010 12:50:12 AM Slightly more useful. Which one will our Dems (yes, I'm assuming 2) use to justify their yes, cowardice? http://mediamattersaction.org/factcheck/201003190001 "GOP Lies To Watch For March 19, 2010 10:10 am ET As the debate over health care reform enters its final stretch, Media Matters Action Network compiled a brief memo highlighting and correcting the six most common Republican lies." [Series @ MMFA Link] JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/21/2010 05:39:06 AM I've got yer facepalm right here too: Via McClatchy News: Cong. John Lewis (D, Hero, Ga.) called a despicable racial slur for supporting health care for all, & other Teabaggers spat on fellow Congressmen: http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2010/03/20/90772/rep-john-lewis-charges-protesters.html "Posted on Sat, Mar. 20, 2010 Tea party protesters scream 'nigger' at black congressman William Douglas | McClatchy Newspapers last updated: March 20, 2010 11:57:12 PM WASHINGTON — Demonstrators outside the U.S. Capitol, angry over the proposed health care bill, shouted "nigger" Saturday at U.S. Rep. John Lewis, a Georgia congressman and civil rights icon who was nearly beaten to death during an Alabama march in the 1960s. Protesters also shouted obscenities at other members of the Congressional Black Caucus, spat on at least one black lawmaker and confronted an openly gay congressman with taunts. Capitol Police escorted the members of Congress into the Capitol after the confrontation. At least one demonstrator was reported arrested. "They were shouting, sort of harassing," Lewis said. "But, it's okay, I've faced this before. It reminded me of the 60s. It was a lot of downright hate and anger and people being downright mean." Lewis said he was leaving the Cannon office building to walk to the Capitol to vote when protesters shouted "Kill the bill, kill the bill," Lewis said. "I said 'I'm for the bill, I support the bill, I'm voting for the bill'," Lewis said. A colleague who was accompanying Lewis said people in the crowd responded by saying "Kill the bill, then the n-word." "It surprised me that people are so mean and we can't engage in a civil dialogue and debate," Lewis said. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, D-Mo., said he was a few yards behind Lewis and distinctly heard "nigger." "It was a chorus," Cleaver said. "In a way, I feel sorry for those people who are doing this nasty stuff - they're being whipped up. I decided I wouldn't be angry with any of them." Cleaver's office said later in a statement that he'd also been spat upon and that Capitol Police had arrested his assailant. The statement praised the police, who Cleaver said escorted the members of Congress into the Capitol past the demonstrators. "The man who spat on the congressman was arrested, but the congressman has chosen not to press charges," the statement said. "This is not the first time the Congressman has been called the 'n' word and certainly not the worst assault he has endured in his years fighting for equal rights for all Americans," the statement said. "That being said, he is disappointed that in the 21st century our national discourse has devolved to the point of name calling and spitting." Protesters also used a slur as they confronted Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., an openly gay member of Congress. Frank told the Boston Globe that the incident happened as he was walking from the Longworth office building to the Rayburn office building, both a short distance from the Capitol. Frank said the crowd consisted of a couple of hundred of people and that they referred to him as 'homo.' A writer for The Huffington Post said the protesters called Frank a "faggot." Disgraceful & despicable. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/24/2010 03:45:53 AM Updated: Clyburn: Racist Faxes, Image Of Noose Were Sent To Office (VIDEO) "House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) received racist faxes Monday in the wake of Sunday's House vote approving health care reform legislation. Clyburn, a veteran of the civil rights movement, told Keith Olbermann Monday that faxes sent to his office had racist images including a noose. "If you look at some of the faxes that I got today, racial slurs, nooses on gallows, and I'm telling you, some very vicious language. This stuff is not all that isolated. It's pretty widespread. I hope it's not too deep." http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/23/clyburn-racist-faxes-imag_n_509365.html JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: New video from Rob Teilhet BASENAME: new_video_from_rob_teilhet STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/20/2010 08:39:20 AM ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/21/2010 12:57:08 AM Ah for radio days, eh? JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: The Twisted Energy of Today. BASENAME: today STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/21/2010 11:38:52 AM ----- BODY:
The SPLC documented a 244 percent increase in the number of active Patriot groups in 2009. Their numbers grew from 149 groups in 2008 to 512 groups in 2009, an astonishing addition of 363 new groups in a single year. Militias - the paramilitary arm of the Patriot movement - were a major part of the increase, growing from 42 militias in 2008 to 127 in 2009.Anyone who thinks the actions of the swiftboatbirthbaggers is in any way unrelated to these statistics is smoking something we ought to be taxing. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: George Wells EMAIL: IP: 99.174.93.95 URL: DATE: 03/24/2010 07:52:12 PM Speaking of crazy, did you see over at Peach Pundit that the Repugs in the legislature want to impeach the AG for not suing Obama? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 74.160.3.187 URL: DATE: 03/24/2010 08:53:07 PM I can't even imagine what it is going to be like IF congress takes up Immigration reform anytime soon. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.234.45.8 URL: DATE: 03/24/2010 09:33:05 PM Good to know the GA Legislature hasn't anything better to do-like balance the budget and sort out the mess that is under the Gold Dome. Hey good luck with that I say. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/24/2010 11:26:22 PM Other links on the same miserable disgrace via TPM: First an update from violence days ago in OH: http://tpmlivewire.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/03/identity-of-anti-reform-protester-who-harrassed-disabled-man-revealed.php?ref=fpa More from the OH scene (Rep. Dreihaus gets house surrounded by proesters): http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/03/amid-death-threats-dem-rep-dreihaus-points-the-finger-at-gop-leadership.php?ref=mp More on Rep. Slaughter: tpmlivewire.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/03/slaughter-on-violence-and-threats-gop-fanning-the-flames-with-coded-rhetoric.php?ref=fpa And a heart warming "Letter to Conservatives" by An American Dad: tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/a/m/americandad/2010/03/an-open-letter-to-conservative.php?ref=mp Chock full of good stuff there! JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/25/2010 12:34:08 AM More linky love on the disgrace & shame the Rethugs won't dare name: Kristallnacht: First a quick overview: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bob-cesca/right-wing-terrorism-stok_b_511787.html Specifics, again: "Go ahead, Blow up his house! Wrong house? Oh well!" Liberty U's finest Journo major speaks!!: http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2010/3/24/850442/-Blogger-that-promptedattack-on-Congressmans-brother:-Oh-well,-collateral-damage- More background & overview & Pics on threats & mob violence here: www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2010/3/24/850319/-GOP-has-blood-on-its-hands-%28Updated-with-Dem-presser%29 How bad can it get? We've got history for that too. They cheered in certain precincts when Kennedy was shot down in Dallas, but esp. in TX. (they warned him not to come too, BTW): www.huffingtonpost.com/bill-mann/far-right-gops-viciousnes_b_511479.html JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/25/2010 04:09:16 AM Yeah, the eternal question; does he ever stop? Err, no. I now present The return of the Public Option (might be coming here): {cue incredulous screaming wingnuts}: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/25/byrd-rule-sends-health-care-back-to-house_n_512609.html And this lovely from ThinkProgress.org (seen on Kos 1st though): http://thinkprogress.org/2010/03/23/cuccinelli-washington/ "Why George Washington would disagree with the right wing about health care’s constitutionality. Yesterday, Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli announced that he would join a growing list of right-wing attorneys general who are suing to have health reform declared unconstitutional. According to Cuccinelli, the new law’s provisions that require individuals to carry health insurance violate the Constitution because “at no time in our history has the government mandated its citizens buy a good or service.” The truth, however, is that the Second Militia Act of 1792, required a significant percentage of the U.S. civilian population to purchase a long list of military equipment...": [See list @ Link]. Original intent? George Washington saw no problem with it. Game. Set. Match? We'll see. Game On! Once again into the breech... JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Supersteve EMAIL: IP: 98.66.147.115 URL: DATE: 03/28/2010 05:22:03 PM So let me get this straight, Being lied to about sending their sons and daughters off to war didn't bother these people. Neither did finding out that the guvviment is spying on them illegally. Nor did finding out that a senior official in the Bush administration outed a CIA agent rile them up. But trying to help out people who need health care - that's what makes these people rise up in anger? I don't get it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 03/29/2010 01:13:41 AM Neither did the FT's Ed Luce here: [Just the Money quote]: http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/b1218f5c-390e-11df-8970-00144feabdc0.html "The third consequence, and in some respects cause, of Mr Obama’s healthcare victory is the at least temporary capture of the Republican party by its radical wing. At a dinner in Washington this week, Newt Gingrich, the former Speaker and likely 2012 presidential candidate, described Mr Obama’s bill as the biggest threat to the “American way of life since the 1850s” when the country was heading for civil war. Others, perhaps only sketchily aware of Adolf Hitler’s career, which is not remembered for efforts to extend healthcare to the uninsured, continue to toss around words such as “Gestapo” and “fascist”. John Boehner, the House Republican leader, saw the passage of what by normal standards should be seen as a centrist bill as “Armageddon”. Meanwhile, according to a Harris poll this week, 24 per cent of Republicans think Mr Obama “may be the anti-Christ”. Update on days of Rethuglican rage: Tea-partiers claimed this a.) Did Not happen and/or b.) was wholly 'made up for propaganda purposes'. So here it is again so everyone can view it in all it's crowning crazed racist & gory glory: Congressman Spit On By Tea Party Protester (VIDEO) First Posted: 03-28-10 01:30 PM | Updated: 03-28-10 01:46 PM http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/28/congressman-spit-on-by-te_n_516300.html JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: "Whatever is begun in anger ends in shame." Benjamin Franklin BASENAME: whatever_is_begun_in_anger_end STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/24/2010 06:27:14 PM ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: What would you not wish on your worst enemy? BASENAME: what_would_you_not_wish_on_you STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/28/2010 02:00:35 AM ----- BODY: This is not a hypothetical question, since one of our actual worst enemies, former Georgia Senator Nancy Schaefer, was reportedly killed by her husband in what is being described as a murder-suicide. Sen. Schaefer was hateful, bigoted, and at times downright nuts, but even she deserved a better end than this. That's about as charitable as I can bring myself to be about someone who worked hard to deny rights and dignity to women, LBGTs, atheists, and anyone else who didn't fit into her pal Sadie Fields' hyper-dogmatic interpretation of Christianity. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Stefan TITLE: Bobby McFerrin demonstrates the power of People BASENAME: bobby_mcferrin_demonstrates_th STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/28/2010 09:51:43 AM ----- BODY: ...and their ability to learn.
World Science Festival 2009: Bobby McFerrin Demonstrates the Power of the Pentatonic Scale from World Science Festival on Vimeo.
----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 74.232.215.247 URL: DATE: 03/28/2010 12:38:03 PM Absolutely beautiful. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Crazy is NOT the new black BASENAME: crazy_is_not_the_new_black STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 03/28/2010 11:29:58 AM ----- BODY:If you are in a relationship and you live together, you have two choices. First, one of you will be designated as "Person 1." If there is no clear favorite for who should be the head of household, perhaps you could flip a coin, wrestle for it or hold a lip-synching competition. Whoever doesn't win will be designated as "Person 2." This person is asked how they are related to Person 1. There are 16 choices, but the two that concern you are "husband or wife" and "unmarried partner." This is the important part: You do not answer based on the actual legal status of your relationship, you answer based on how you personally categorize your relationship. If you are legally married, you will probably mark down "husband or wife," though if you are in a civil union or domestic partnership, yet you still feel married, than you should also mark "husband or wife." If there is no legal recognition of your relationship where you live, but you still consider yourself married, it's also important that you mark "husband or wife." If this box doesn't accurately represent your relationship, you have the option of the "unmarried partner" box. If this sounds like a vague catch-all, that's because it is. The Guide to the American Community Survey says "An 'Unmarried partner,' also known as a domestic partner, is a person who shares a close personal relationship with Person 1." If this better describes your relationship, than please mark the "unmarried partner" box. If you are not in a relationship, unfortunately there is no way for you to officially come out to the U.S. Government on this Census, but there are still some important steps that you need to take if we are going to change this in the future. The campaign to get a question on the 2020 Census that asks about sexual orientation and gender identity is well underway.----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: How Women Will Benefit From Health Care Reform BASENAME: how_women_will_benefit_from_he STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/06/2010 11:35:04 AM ----- BODY:
During the webinar, we'll provide a summary of the key provisions impacting women and their families and outline what to expect with the new law in effect. We'll also explain what the restrictions on abortion coverage mean for women and talk about the fight that lies ahead to fix these dangerous barriers.When: This Thursday, April 8, 1:00- 2:00 pm ( lunch time) Register today and submit your questions for the webinar. All questions will be reviewed in advance so that answers can be given. Note to legislators, being a woman is not a pre-existing condition. Hat Tip to Larry at the Georgia Rural Urban Summit ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Feds are cracking down on unpaid internships! BASENAME: feds_are_cracking_down_on_unpa STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/06/2010 12:47:44 PM ----- BODY:
With job openings scarce for young people, the number of unpaid internships has climbed in recent years, leading federal and state regulators to worry that more employers are illegally using such internships for free labor.Wait, stop the presses, you don't mean for profit companies are taking advantage of people during tough times! Rick, I'm shocked to find gambling going on in here! Your winnings sir! Read the whole article at the "Uptown Daily Worker " aka NYT. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.138.240 URL: DATE: 04/07/2010 03:27:50 PM Good thing there is a government to crack down on this because I don't think the "free market" would correct it by itself. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Georgia Safe Schools Coalition making progress in Cobb BASENAME: georgia_safe_schools_coalition STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/07/2010 12:40:39 PM ----- BODY: ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Disclosure Open Thread BASENAME: disclosure_open_thread STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/08/2010 09:41:10 AM ----- BODY:
Business Leader: "I'd like to hire your company to get a sense of how we can get more visibility to Project X. We believe our company can really add value to the project by bidding on its completion. Sen. Chip Pearson: "First, I think our consulting group would be a perfect fit for your company. You see, we have a remarkably huge rolodex, and we can set your company on a path to success. So, do we have deal?" Business Leader: "Yes, I think your rates are a little high, but your knowledge of the issues and players on project X are just too good to pass up". Sen. Chip Pearson: "Great! Now, my first bit of consulting on this matter would be to contact State Senator Chip Pearson. He is the chairman of the Senate committee on Economic Development, and I happen to know him pretty well. Senator Pearson is holding a hearing next week on this very issue." Business Leader: "Um... well, isn't that you?" Sen. Chip Pearson: "Yes, of course. As I mentioned, our consulting company has great access to the legislature. Now, please pass by Wendy's office on your way out. She has your first invoice ready."No need to worry about a ban on emailing or texting legislators when you can hire one to lobby himself. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/12/2010 03:13:07 PM More awesomeness from Dawsonesss... JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Prayers for Poland BASENAME: prayers_for_poland STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 1 DATE: 04/11/2010 01:07:55 PM ----- BODY:
"On any day when the legislature is in session, any legislator who receives any food, drink, or other item typically considered to be sustenance must repay that amount of his or her per diem. All receipts for the expenditure in question must be disclosed by both the lobbyist and the legislator. At any large scale event put on in such a way that individual meals or beverages or other items can not be disclosed, the legislator must repay a proportional amount of the event.So basically a lobbyist pays for food or drink, you don't get to keep that amount of your per diem. Go to a party/big lunch put on for 20 legislators, you repay 1/19th of the total cost. If you go over your per diem suck it, you have to repay out of your own funds. One I was thinking of the other day (and may have mentioned before) goes like this:
Any legislator who resides or represents a district within the metropolitan Atlanta area shall not receive any state funds for transportation.Look, if you represent Hahira or Parrot or Montezuma I can understand forking over a little dough. I mean there are places in Georgia that are a five hour drive to the Gold Dome. It is reasonable to pay for that kind of travel to ensure representation for those citizens but come on, does someone who lives 15 minutes from the capital need reimbursement for travel? I'd also be in favor of making it tougher to receive reimbursement for travel done "on official business". Fortunately for you I have to actually work today so I don't have time to write out more dreck. On this topic at least. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.128 URL: DATE: 04/16/2010 04:00:28 PM I can make it even easier than that. No legislator can take any gifts or anything of value. Period. I mean, why stop at food? The problem is, gifts from whom? Lobbyists? They'll just give it to someone else to give to them. Only during the session? Seems weak. So it's a sticky problem. Surely someone somewhere has a pretty good system that we could look at though ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 12.175.27.189 URL: DATE: 04/16/2010 04:23:07 PM I'd be okay with this if they would change the salary to a living wage of some kind. Maybe tie it to the state minimum wage? Pre-Reconstruction, being a Legislator was considered a full-time job (and it is) and was paid accordingly. Not crazy, just normal. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.227.128 URL: DATE: 04/16/2010 05:05:22 PM I agree with that too, but unlikely to happen in our lifetimes. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.198.65 URL: DATE: 04/19/2010 05:34:11 PM At first glance, I thought this was a decent idea, and I was thinking about how you could campaign on this idea, how to get away from the language of the bill and communicate what this idea is really about. It's about being able to trust your government, representatives being honest and up front about what they're doing and being accountable to the people who elected them. And if that's what it's about, then it should be called something like the public official accountability act or the honest government act or the anti corruption act. But after taking a step back and looking at the big picture, maybe this isn't the right approach. What do these guys make? I know it's only for four months of the year, but isn't it like 22k a year? Sometimes it's smarter to pay more to avoid corruption. A decision was made years ago by conservatives to make private sector work higher paying than public sector. That way the best and the brightest would seek out work in the private sector. This trend should stop and reverse course. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 04/20/2010 10:46:26 AM It isn't so much about being honest as it is saving the state money. If they can't seriously tackle the issue of what amounts to probably less than $1 million a year, there is no way they will deal with anything of true substance. Baby steps I figure. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: This Stinks BASENAME: this_stinks STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 1 DATE: 04/16/2010 11:05:35 AM ----- BODY:
With yesterday's announcement of a final schedule for the 2010 legislative session, I think it's appropriate to announce my own plans. Shortly after the session ends I will be leaving The Telegraph after nearly 10 years. I'll be moving to North Carolina to join my girlfriend, and we plan to marry. Just what will become of this blog, I am not sure. It may end, or I may not be able to resist the urge to comment here.He is one of the best political reporters in Georgia. The style and tone of his stories are (were?) awesome. The New York Times also has a story about a departure of sorts in the Georgia journalistic world. I was going to write about it but I don't have time today. Maybe in an open thread on Monday. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/17/2010 12:39:44 AM From le Sidebar: http://blogs.ajc.com/political-insider-jim-galloway/2010/04/16/michael-thurmond-courted-for-u-s-senate-run/?cxntfid=blogs_political_insider_jim_galloway "Political Insider Michael Thurmond to make Senate run against Johnny Isakson 1:12 pm April 16, 2010, by Jim Galloway State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond, a Democrat, on Tuesday will announce his entrance into the U.S. Senate race against Republican Johnny Isakson". JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Benson TITLE: Who needs consitutional officers anyway? BASENAME: who_needs_consitutional_office STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/17/2010 01:21:05 AM ----- BODY: Political Insider is reporting that Commissioner Thurmond will announce his candidacy to challenge Johnny Isakson on Tuesday. Apparently whoever's doing this courting feels like sending our last remaining statewide incumbent on a suicide mission is a good way to maintain our relevance. I'm forecasting a 60% chance of bupkis on November 3. Upchuck bags can be found in the seat pocket in front of you. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.235.21.157 URL: DATE: 04/17/2010 11:11:16 AM I suppose the good news is that Darryl Hicks will run for this office. That's about all the good news in this. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 98.175.17.8 URL: DATE: 04/17/2010 11:58:11 AM Mike thurmond isn't that strong of a labor commish anywhere. The weakeness of Georgia Dems is astounding and makes our entire state look stupid to the rest of the country. PPP finds Isakson to be the 3rd weakest GOP incumbent. Need to run someone against him and hard if we ever want to win against anyone. No way around that, stop whining. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 98.175.17.8 URL: DATE: 04/17/2010 12:25:05 PM And before people start whining about how, let my boss show you: http://www.google.com/url?q=http://thinkprogress.org/2009/10/07/kbr-rape-franken-amendment/&sa=X&ei=y-DJS5DEPJCONc7qiaEM&ved=0CAoQzgQoADAA&usg=AFQjCNGobzrE8jjqAgL1q4JSYk8CwZVQvw ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 04/18/2010 10:53:06 AM Isakson is not going down. This is beyond foolish. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Tim EMAIL: tim@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 68.157.179.66 URL: DATE: 04/18/2010 01:31:58 PM I'm ok with Thurmond running, long as he runs as hard as he can i think he helps the entire D ticket. The biggest concern i have is the cost. To run a full campaign statewide he'll need about 3.5million. Of that, he'll likely have to raise a huge chunk in 2nd QTR before DSCC will chip in. No idea what their bar is, but prob 500K? maybe 1million? on his own first? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 96.25.191.41 URL: DATE: 04/18/2010 02:44:26 PM Isakson is really sick. A line from this weekend--politicians will ALWAYS lie about being much healthier than they are. Thurmond also has (IIRC) $1 millionish in his LC account. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Zaid EMAIL: IP: 68.50.98.91 URL: DATE: 04/19/2010 12:11:36 AM "Isakson is not going down. This is beyond foolish." The GOP sens .are never going to go down if Dems are back asswards enough to not run strongly at top ticket races. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 04/19/2010 01:09:43 AM The difference between the Democrats having won zero statewide offices and having won Labor Commissioner is what, exactly? I don't see the value in Thurmond running for re-election. If it's a good year for Democrats then Thurmond misses his chance for advancement. If it's a bad year for Democrats and Thurmond nevertheless prevails, he will face an even more hostile climate against an incumbent Republican during the midterm election of Obama's second term. If it's a such bad year for Democrats and Thurmond loses re-election, he's lost an opportunity to raise his profile for any future candidacy. This is the best choice. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: Live-Blogging the Young Democrats Gubernatorial Debate BASENAME: live-blogging_the_young_democr STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/17/2010 03:58:45 PM ----- BODY: We are about to start at 3:59pm at the Zell Miller Student Center on UGA's campus. So far we've got Attorney General Thurbert Baker, and former Gov. Roy Barnes, the other candidates are in route. Outside the forum we have Democratic Congressional Candidate (D-10) Russell Edwards with a strong campaign presence. Also, Atty General Democratic Candidate Ken Hodges, and Secertary of State Candidates Gail Buckner & Gary Horlacher. Let the show begin... This forum is put on by Young Democrats of Georgia and moderated by AJC Political Reporter Jim Galloway. I'm going to go ahead and link in the live-debate box from galiberal.com ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: Democrat, Governor ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Save the Georgia Council for the Arts! BASENAME: save_the_georgia_council_for_t STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/18/2010 11:16:55 PM TAGS: "rednecks strike again" ----- BODY:
A few days ago, the House Appropriations Committee voted in a budget for the 2011 fiscal year that cuts funding so drastically for the Georgia Council for the Arts that the organization would likely cease to exist entirely. This would give Georgia the distinction of being the only state or territory in the country without an arts agency.
Georgia Council for the arts (GCA) is a state agency with the mission to provide access to the arts for all Georgians. The agency strives for 100% statewide coverage in the support of arts programming through grants, which are competitive applications for funding that are adjudicated by peers. The GCA provides a range of grants and funding opportunities for nonprofit arts organizations, individual artists, as well as acting as advocates for access to state art funding by under served, small communities. Please sign this petition if you are against the proposed budget cuts and wish to support the arts in the state of Georgia.At this writing, 358 people have signed the petition. The goal is 1,000 signatures. Please take a minute and add your name today. Update from GCA (Tuesday):
Clients, Colleagues and Supporters: The Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman, Senator Jack Hill, made a statement this morning that included this announcement: the Committee is restoring the Governor's budget recommendation for Georgia Council for the Arts ($890,735), which will allow GCA to match its federal grant. We have downloaded the Senate budget and can confirm this action by the Committee. The arts industry of Georgia has two more hurdles: the full Senate Vote the Conference Committee vote Everyone, thank you for your support thus far!----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/19/2010 11:01:56 PM Thanks for this Mel, Of all the stupid, counter-productive assine stunts the Rethugs have pulled in recent years, this one takes the cake. Once again leaving Fed matching money on the table just to 'prove a point'. If anyone was actually following along and who could tell the tale... But thanks for noticing. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jack Sartain EMAIL: IP: 205.188.116.9 URL: DATE: 04/20/2010 09:50:56 PM The Arts Are Small Businesses – Let’s Help Them Succeed Jack Sartain – A Voice for the Arts in DeKalb 770 856 1377 About 700 of us “marched on” the Capitol on Monday, April 19th, to draw public attention to the short sighted decision of our “enlightened” legislature to wipe out the State Arts Council. Without the State Arts Council, Georgia loses the grants in total from the National Endowment for the Arts, notwithstanding insistence that the Department of Community Affairs can handle the grant. Not so, according to the partnership requirements of the NEA. As one who knows, the grants are small yet important to arts groups and schools in attracting private and foundation funds. Most artists and arts groups do generate revenue from their efforts but many times not enough to offer sustainability. This is especially true of the “grassroots” variety where children and adults are honing their talent and learning about the business side of the arts.. Perhaps the grants can be managed in some way by the only state or territory without an Arts Council. But what does that say to industry and businesses which ask about that kind of thing before considering moving to a location. Any business recruiter will admit that they are always asked about quality of the schools including art and music, theatres, art museums, schools for the arts, and other cultural opportunities. Quality of life issues bear heavily on their relocation decisions. Corporations do inquire of the State Arts Council about such amenities and community supports for their officers and employees. Somebody down at the Capitol evidently doesn’t get it! Study after study has proven that the arts are economic generators. Artists are entrepreneurs, own small businesses, are great community builders and attract visitors and tourists.. Bring a critical mass of artists into the center of a village or town and that town changes and improves profoundly. The City of Stone Mountain is about to embark on just such an effort. Under the leadership of the Mayor and City Council, the Stone Mountain Downtown Development Authority, ART Station, the DeKalb Council for the Arts, Inc., the Historic Society, Mainstreet and a large number of citizens and the merchants are anxious to get the program started. This catalyst to jump start the local “microeconomy” of Stone Mountain will be made possible under the microeconomic development program funded by HUD and administered by DeKalb County. Five artists and their studios right on Main Street will provide the nucleus which will attract other creative businesses which will draw people to spend their money in the City. This effort, along with the new Streetscape Project, now underway, should prove very effective in demonstrating that arts are a viable part of the economy of any locale. Since the arts are a key driver of many city and regional economies, some local and state governments and their arts and economic development agencies have begun to engage in coordinated efforts to foster the growth of the arts industry. Georgia can do the same if the political leadership, which controls the budgets and organizational structure, would simply consider coordinating (not integrating) community development, economic development, cultural tourism and the arts and humanities programs it now oversees. Perhaps our own local governments can demonstrate this new trend through the model created by Stone Mountain and DeKalb County. Bring back the State Arts Council! It’s good business! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/21/2010 01:18:00 PM Thanks Jack, Well said. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Quote of the Week -- Thurmond Edition BASENAME: quote_of_the_week_--_thurmond STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/19/2010 09:01:52 AM ----- BODY:
Sometimes I want us to take a step back and look at us the same way our enemies see us...I want us to look at each other "the same way al Qaeda sees us".Now I don't remember the exact wording of the first sentence but the al Qaeda line is correct. Thurmond of course wasn't saying he wants us to walk down the street and see potential pawns to murder for political ends. He was saying he wants us to see each other as Americans and Georgians, not black or white, rich or poor, Southerners or traitorous carpetbaggers. I also asked him if Galloway was correct with his reporting and Thurmond responded: "he will be". An attendee remarked Thurmond's drawl seemed thicker than it had been before. I have no idea about that. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 04/19/2010 11:19:17 AM Oh, good, it must be guaranteed loss week. The entire theory of putting an African-American candidate at the top of the ticket to drive turnout is depressing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.254.75.137 URL: DATE: 04/19/2010 12:19:34 PM I suppose I should be happy that at least we have folks who are willing to run against the incumbents. However, it certainly a measure of just how thin our bench is. RJ still has my vote. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Open Thread BASENAME: open_thread_5 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/19/2010 11:19:25 AM ----- BODY:
"We know, we know that if you let free markets work--there is no expiration date on the free market. There is no expiration date on the American economy."Couldn't have said it better myself! Honorable mention goes to Michael Thurmond. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/20/2010 02:23:08 PM Nomination: http://blogs.ajc.com/political-insider-jim-galloway/2010/04/19/delusions-the-legislature-and-an-implanted-microchip/ The argument I guess is over the deranged vs. just merely idiotic. Here? Both, and certainly every last person involved in the enterprise. Including the space aliens running the DoD. Every time you think they've not plumbed the depths of corruption, dysfunction, uselessness, mendacity and well crazy, they burrow ever deeper into that diseased rectum of a Rethug. fantasy world they'd want us all to live in. Just amazing. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/20/2010 03:25:13 PM Honorable mention, juvenile division: "Protesting at Senator Barbara Boxer's Event Was a Step Backwards for Equality" http://www.huffingtonpost.com/emma-rubysachs/protesting-at-senator-bar_b_544590.html Dive bomb Boxer, w/a 100% rating from the HRC, just to 'get back @ Barry'. Smooth move. The next week after he advances the ball of equity down the field really for the 1st time in yes, decades. Gotcha. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 04/20/2010 03:52:58 PM BTW there are many directions this series could go. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 66.190.93.93 URL: DATE: 04/20/2010 07:55:43 PM Loyal fan is an interesting way to describe me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/20/2010 09:00:56 PM Vs 'alter ego' or 'nemesis' here: http://twitter.com/DRUNKHULK JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Sinton on septuagenarians and scumbags BASENAME: sinton_on_septuagenarians_and STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/21/2010 12:11:58 AM ----- BODY: Atlanta-based, self described "serial media entrepreneur" Jon Sinton, founder of AirAmerica Radio and brother of former 6th District Congressional candidate Steve Sinton, has a post up at Like the Dew that you might enjoy. Some Things are More interesting and Complicated Than You Think
I was listening in the Fall of 2008 when Mr. Boortz blamed the economic crisis that was unfolding in the form of a crashed stock market and a frozen credit market on the poor who, he opined, had no business taking out all those subprime loans. I mention this because character assassination is Mr. Boortz's stock-in-trade (along with an irrational hatred of liberals). And, it's a bit personal. A few months ago Mr. Boortz chose me as his target. He took grave offense at an interview that I gave Vanity Fair where I stated the factual case that conservative talk hosts like him and Rush Limbaugh preach to an aged crowd. I made the point, using Arbitron statistics, that the average conservative talk radio host is addressing an audience of septuagenarians.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Once more with feeling... BASENAME: once_more_with_feeling STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/21/2010 01:19:46 PM ----- BODY: Gay ATL restaurant owner tries to unseat gay-friendly GOP lawmaker
After being disqualified for not meeting residency requirements in 2008, gay business owner Keith Gross is making a second attempt to unseat state Rep. Mike Jacobs (R-Atlanta) for the District 80 post in the Georgia House of Representatives.Keith's website is here. Via Jules. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 04/21/2010 01:32:53 PM Oh for Gods sake. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason Cecil EMAIL: IP: 158.111.5.33 URL: DATE: 04/21/2010 02:43:08 PM I'm sure this time he's qualified. With all the oppo that the Log Cabins did last time around, Keith can probably expect a bumpy-Jill-Chambers-inspired ride. But the day that Mike Jacobs goes down will be one of great rejoicing, and I will personally pee on his political grave. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 63.239.86.1 URL: http://griftdrift.blogspot.com DATE: 04/21/2010 02:46:32 PM Hope springs eternal ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.254.45.160 URL: DATE: 04/21/2010 06:03:02 PM Well bless his heart. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 04/22/2010 01:23:56 PM Hell no. In fact, I'm still waiting on my donation refund from two years ago. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 69.15.109.3 URL: DATE: 04/22/2010 01:26:05 PM For those who don't remember, Keith Gross cashed campaign checks after he was disqualified and didn't give refunds. Fuck that guy. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/22/2010 09:45:12 PM Yeah, I'm still wondering what might have happened to Mike Freeman too. But hey, you spin the wheel & you takes your chances. And the sad thing is, I like Mike too. So we're just left wondering. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 04/23/2010 09:55:51 AM Any sort of way to reclaim your money? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/24/2010 03:14:11 AM Unlikely at best. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jason O. EMAIL: IP: 76.111.32.111 URL: DATE: 04/27/2010 02:20:15 PM ... Did anyone look at Keith Gross' campaign finance disclosures? ... It shows that all of the donated funds were not spent. It looks like of the $20,000+ that was spent, only $4,000 was donated (not enough to cover even one of the mailers he sent out) and that is still shown as cash on hand. The only money he spent was his own money last time. I don't think we'll find many candidates who are willing to accept the financial burden of running a campaign with their own money. Anyone willing to take on Jacobs deserves our vote. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Save the Georgia Commission on Family Violence BASENAME: save_the_georgia_commission_on STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/21/2010 04:41:14 PM ----- BODY: From my friends at the Georgia Commission on Family Violence... As we enter the final days of the session, our future continues to be uncertain, and we need your help more than ever. While the House budget recommendation is a great way to protect our Commission, the Senate budget recommendation that was just released shows us that our Commission is still very much in danger of having its funding zeroed out, which means that the Commission would cease to exist as of July 1 of this year. Our fate now rests in the hands of the 3 Representatives and 3 Senators on the budget conference committee that will work out the differences between the House and Senate. We urge you now to call and email these conferees, as well as the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of House, to ask them to Agree with the House's FY 2011 Budget Recommendation for the Commission. The talking points and contact info are as follows (note that the talking points are slightly different for the House and the Senate): House: Rep. Jerry Keen: Phone: 404.656.5052 jerry.keen@house.ga.gov Rep. Jan Jones: Phone: 404.656.5072 jan.jones@house.ga.gov Rep. Ben Harbin: Phone: 404.463.2247 ben.harbin@house.ga.gov Speaker of the House David Ralston: Phone: 404.656.5020 House Talking Points: Thank you for working to preserve the Commission on Family Violence, by moving its funding to the Judicial Council. Please stand strong on this position in the conference committee - maintaining this position is vital for victims of domestic violence in Georgia. Senate: Sen. Jack Hill: Phone: (404) 656-5038 jack.hill@senate.ga.gov Sen. Chip Rogers: Phone: (404) 463-1378 chip.rogers@senate.ga.gov Sen. Tommie Williams: Phone: (404) 656-0089 tommie.williams@senate.ga.gov Lt. Governor Casey Cagle: Phone: (404) 656-5030 FAX: (404) 656-6739 Senate Talking Points: It is crucial that the Senate agree with the House recommendation for the Commission on Family Violence in the FY11 budget -- to move the funding for the Commission to the Judicial Council. The Commission on Family Violence is the only state agency committed to this issue, and has helped to dramatically reduce Georgia's domestic violence homicide rate. If the Senate's recommendation were to prevail, the good work of the Commission would be lost. We urge you to preserve this vital agency by agreeing with the House recommendation for the Commission on Family Violence for FY11. Again, polite and friendly calls and emails are what we need - that will help the most. Last, please let us know what response you get. Thank you again for everything you do - it will take all of us to make this happen! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: All the best to Kyle Bailey BASENAME: all_the_best_to_kyle_bailey STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/23/2010 12:48:20 PM ----- BODY: If you haven't heard, Kyle is moving to Maine! He writes:
I have accepted the position of Development Director for EqualityMaine -- to lead the development team through the upcoming legislative and ballot campaigns for marriage equality. Marriage equality narrowly lost at the ballot box in 2009 -- only by about 30,000 votes. Thus, the work continues and Maine represents the best hope to become the first state where voters approve of full equality. I am excited about the opportunity to play a leadership role in this historic effort in our journey for full equality.We'll miss you Kyle, but it helps to know your odds of winning just increased by a factor of about 100. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: Tim TITLE: Educators Make Endorsements in Georgia Superintendent Race BASENAME: educators_make_endorsements_in STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/23/2010 09:32:16 PM TAGS: 2010,election,schools ----- BODY: *side note: Brian is a friend of mine for about 8 years now* This past weekend the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) met in Atlanta for its 2010 Spring Conference and Representative Assembly. During the conference, the GAE Democratic Caucus voted unanimously to get behind Brian Westlake and his campaign for State School Superintendent. The treasurer of the caucus, Brenda Bryan, presided over the meeting and said, "Brian has the full support of the caucus. We are excited to have the opportunity to vote for a fellow teacher and GAE member in the upcoming election." "A major focus of this campaign has always been about empowering teachers as professionals." replied Westlake. "It means the world to me to have support from such a politically active caucus." "Brian has demonstrated a commitment to this organization and what it stands for. We are ready to support his campaign and get out the vote," added LaNelle Holland, who served as chair of the caucus at the time of the vote. The Georgia Association of Educators is dedicated to improving the public education system in Georgia. With over 40,000 members statewide it is one of the largest grassroots organizations in the state. Former U.S. Marine and current classroom teacher, Brian Westlake is seeking the Democratic nomination for State School Superintendent. Brian holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and a Master of Science Degree in Sociology from Florida State University. He also received a Juris Doctor from Georgia State University's College of Law and a Master of Public Administration from the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 04/26/2010 12:03:43 PM They aren't educators they are ****ing teachers and trying to spread anything other shows why we will be in the bottom of all education rankings (and I'm not even joking). Stupidest, most overwrought, useless synonym ever. Perhaps even worse than "tea and coffee making facilities" for "kettle". ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/26/2010 08:31:19 PM Gee Ed, We're warming to your crankiness but please, that particular descriptor for teachers seemingly does warrant likely nearly a dozen (or more) prosecutions state wide, year in & year out too. But I also imagine that part of the genesis of the division or dichotomy here was behind the original NEA/AFT 'split', the AFT being the more 'classically' union based organization, started by Samuel Gompers in Chicago. But on the substance of the post, I imagine we'll have to wait to see what the entire GAE does as far as endorsements (maybe), but it does seem like a leg up for Brian. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Open Thread BASENAME: why_is_ed_so_awesome STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 1 DATE: 04/26/2010 10:33:54 AM TAGS: Atlanta,"commonwealth club","ed is awesome",Falcons,"jerry weintraub",kasimreed,Mayor,"Mayor Reed","open thread",qualifying,sports,stuff,"stuff that is stupid",thread ----- BODY:
Boyd said he objected to the loyalty oath, which says the signer pledges allegiance to the GOP, because the party is far from perfect and he wouldn't swear to always support the party's actions. He tried for a compromise by producing three variations of the oath, all of which elaborated on the original by declaring his independence from party dogma when appropriate. As Boyd laid out his documents on a conference room table at the Capitol, party chairwoman Sue Everhart was standing over him. "No," was all Everhart said.But, we'll see if he gets very far as an independent. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 173.73.54.120 URL: DATE: 04/26/2010 06:05:03 PM In answer to the question, no. I will however be happy to sign Boyd's petition for Independent ballot access. I hope that he will reach out to all manner of folks to help him with getting the signatures. Now Mr. Boyd, about those awful black and white yard signs.. dear me they are dreadful. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 24.98.46.17 URL: DATE: 04/27/2010 11:08:39 PM Yes, if I wanted to run for office in GA as a Democrat and they said sign this loyalty oath - I would just do it. That may seem lemmingish, but I would probably just consider it some boilerplate crap I had to do. However, I see Ray Boyd's point and do not think he should sign it if it goes against his conscience, but really what is the republican party going to do? Unelect him if he doesn't toe the line? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 04/28/2010 03:58:33 AM It's good that it's a pretty simple & yet utterly meaningless (operationally) oath, as it's legal standing is likely quite dubious. So if Boyd did elect to sign it, they really could not do much of anything to him if for example he actually deigned to dare vote say ~15% of the time with Democrats. Or ever so occasionally, (more than once?) against his caucus. You know, like most 'conservatives' were able to do merely less than a generation ago. When they were slightly less nuts. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.137.160 URL: DATE: 04/29/2010 04:57:59 PM I probably would sign it too, given that it's a pretty vague statement. We do have to sign something that says we will abide by the RULES of the Dem Party. That makes more sense. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Decisions BASENAME: decisions STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/28/2010 09:00:20 AM ----- BODY:
ATLANTA - Atlanta Stonewall Democrats, Georgia's largest Democratic LGBT organization, is hosting a mixer for all the Democrats who qualify for state and local offices this week of April 26-30, 2010. The Mixer is open to Democrats who qualified to be on the ballot for the July 20th Democratic Primary and the November General Election. This main event will be held at Manuel's Tavern, 602 N Highland Ave in Atlanta, on Friday April 30th from 5:30-8pm in the main event space. "This is our first look at our new and returning field of Democratic candidates and challengers for 2010, and it's also a chance for our members and friends to talk one-on-one with candidates about equality issues in our state", says Atlanta Stonewall Democrats Chair, Tim Cairl. Other co-hosts for this event include several Young Democrats chapters around the Atlanta area, the Red Clay Democrats, Planned Parenthood of Georgia Action Fund, and State Representatives Hugh Floyd of Gwinnett County, Margaret Kaiser of Atlanta, and Stephanie Stuckey Benfield of Decatur/DeKalb County.----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 04/28/2010 12:23:44 PM Hugh Floyd seems like one of the least likely sponsors of something like this, what gives? His son is REALLY conservative FWIW. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 68.157.179.66 URL: DATE: 04/28/2010 05:07:29 PM b/c Hugh has been a good friend of mine for several years. He does listen to his constituents about issues, and this is not one (LGBT) that he veers to the right on, he's quite moderate and thoughtful about any human rights issue. This is from my experience with him. He's also a big supporter of Young Democrats locally, so it's not surprising that he would sign-on to an event they are helping to host. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: New Governor's Race Poll BASENAME: new_governors_race_poll STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 04/28/2010 12:57:38 PM TAGS: "2010 governor race",Democrats,"election 2010",governor,poll,rasmussen,Republicans,"roy barnes","thurbert baker" ----- BODY:
"So Obama, Pelosi and Reid are in a row boat, and it springs a leak and starts to sink. Who gets saved? The American people."Yes there were lib-tards who made jokes about GWB dying when he was in office and yes it was just as disgusting as this. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 128.61.125.147 URL: DATE: 05/04/2010 11:00:42 AM Which Democratic members of Congress made jokes about Bush dying? I'm drawing a blank. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 05/04/2010 11:38:49 AM Re-read bro. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 128.61.125.147 URL: DATE: 05/04/2010 11:50:37 AM So you intended to say that there is no difference between a member of Congress joking about the death of the president and, say, a person with a blog (lib-tards?) joking about the death of the president. I don't agree with that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 05/04/2010 11:57:16 AM You're right when someone makes a joke about someone else dying, all that matters is who said it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: sndeak EMAIL: IP: 65.167.210.77 URL: DATE: 05/04/2010 11:57:23 AM I'm with Drew on this one. You cannot compare the comments of a sitting US Senator to those of a political activist. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 66.190.93.93 URL: DATE: 05/04/2010 01:09:19 PM Eh. It's a joke and I'm not "digusted." ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 74.176.134.123 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 08:39:47 AM Dick Yarbrough has opened his mouth about Jason Carter and showed his ass http://mdjonline.com/bookmark/7298780-Dick-Yarbrough-Al-Het-Oy-Vey- ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/06/2010 01:29:00 AM Wow B, That was a perfectly hideously odious hit pice from Dicky Y, who looks about that in a color pic @ the MDJ. But yeah, this is how the old crew did it way back then. Gun down the innocents to tech the rest of the 'rabble' what for & who's really in charge in Ga. Just stunning in it's mendacity & perfectly willingness to plumb the depths of fomented hatred against anything Carter. Still amazing to watch after what? 30-40 years? Give it a rest folks! JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Smooth Move BASENAME: smooth_move STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/05/2010 09:33:41 AM ----- BODY: J.B. Powell's handpicked successor doesn't live in the district.
"Let me apologies to my family, to the state Democratic Party, to those who were supporting me in this endeavor it's totally my responsibility it's my fault I failed to cover first base," said [Leon] Garvin. Garvin is apologizing because last week he qualified as a Democrat for the 23rd District State Senate seat... But Garvin lives in the 22nd Senate District, and has contacted the state Democratic Party to withdraw as a candidate.Garvin and Powell are apparently very close politically. The mistake came on Garvin's end. He claims he didn't look at the district map properly, and thought he lived in the 23rd district. Here's a tip to all potential candidates. Just go here to find out which district you live in. I guess Juliana has a partial answer to her question. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.234.168.28 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 09:59:34 AM This really begs a different question... Who the hell was he voting for that he never noticed? It's not about a map! Seriously these two are claiming they want to be political leaders and they didn't notice that one hadn't ever seen the others name on a ballot cause it's the wrong district? This is a bungle of gianormus implications. Let me get this straight, no one can qualify, we lose the Sen seat, we likely lose the Ag commish and look seriously stupid doing it. Nice. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 10:41:38 AM You can have signatures to get someone on the ballot. REMEMBER this is almost a perfectly 50/50 district, it is completely winable, as is Ag Comm. That and AG are probably the two best shots we have along with Gov once Roy wins. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 66.190.93.93 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 10:42:31 AM Wow. This is the second most ridiculous thing I've read all day. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mouth of the South EMAIL: IP: 74.7.10.169 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 11:21:39 AM I think Chuck Pardue qualified in that race so we may have someone yet. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 06:04:15 PM Well with redistricting every other year or so during the 1st years of GOP rule, it's a small wonder that many folks are seriously confused about the issue. But isn't the SoS' Office supposed to check via the self same website as they're registering down there? If not, what's the use of them being there and requiring candidates to show up there to qualify? It was supposed to act as a 'double check' on qualifying, and seemingly it just rarely works anymore. Wonder why. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 96.25.191.41 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 06:21:34 PM Because the parties are responsible for qualifying candidates not the S0S. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 06:38:47 PM Yeah, yeah, but Someone's supposed to be there to check this stuff at the last minute, right? Geez, again with Casey Stengel. I know, ever more ancient history. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Baker's First Policy Announcement Today BASENAME: bakers_first_policy_announceme STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/05/2010 10:52:21 AM TAGS: "2010 gubernatorial election",election,"election 2010",governor,policy,"thurbert baker" ----- BODY: Thurbert Baker's first major policy announcement will come at a 2 PM press conference today, dealing with "economic development". Your intrepid correspondent will not be able to make it, as he has to do something at work that justifies his continued spot on the payroll. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 11:01:54 AM If the announcement was about immigration, serious lulz would have been delivered. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: The Golden Sleaze Awards! BASENAME: the_golden_sleaze_awards STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/05/2010 12:40:12 PM TAGS: "Creative Loafing Golden Sleaze 2010","Simone Bell","Stacey Abrams" ----- BODY:
To members of the media: I was just informed that the Barnes campaign has this morning called a press conference for 2:00 pm today. As you may recall, I sent out the first notice of our event (which is also today at 2:00 pm) on Monday afternoon so that you would have time to plan to attend (that email is forwarded below). We have obviously made arrangements with our site days ago, so we will be going forward. While I will not ascribe a motive or intent to our colleagues in Marietta, I would hope that to accommodate our media members and in the interest of ensuring that the voters of Georgia have the opportunity to hear the ideas of their various choices for Governor, they will move their press conference to some other time.I'd like to give the Georgia press corps a little credit and say, they can adequately cover two candidates' press conferences in one day. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: CAT FIGHT!!!!! BASENAME: cat_fight_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/05/2010 01:34:17 PM TAGS: 2010,"election 2010",governor,"gubernatorial election",Media,policy,politics,press,"roy barnes","stupid campaign tricks","thurbert baker" ----- BODY: Thurbert Baker, you might recall, is scheduled to have a press conference today to 2 PM. It turns out, Roy Barnes will as well. Someone isn't happy about that.
To members of the media: I was just informed that the Barnes campaign has this morning called a press conference for 2:00 pm today. As you may recall, I sent out the first notice of our event (which is also today at 2:00 pm) on Monday afternoon so that you would have time to plan to attend (that email is forwarded below). We have obviously made arrangements with our site days ago, so we will be going forward. While I will not ascribe a motive or intent to our colleagues in Marietta, I would hope that to accommodate our media members and in the interest of ensuring that the voters of Georgia have the opportunity to hear the ideas of their various choices for Governor, they will move their press conference to some other time.I'd like to give the Georgia press corps a little credit and say, they can adequately cover two candidates' press conferences in one day. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 66.190.93.93 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 04:47:51 PM Roy is such an ass. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 05:53:19 PM I'll take it as a hopefully better indication that he's taking the race seriously. But simple stuff, and they're both big boys. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 96.25.191.41 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 06:17:39 PM You say "such an ass" like it's a bad thing. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 06:40:51 PM Exactly... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 66.190.93.93 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 06:53:12 PM If I liked Roy, I would probably approve of this because sometimes dick moves are required; however, I'd rather vote for Button Gwinnett than him. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/05/2010 08:18:11 PM I'm sure we could get ole Button some votes too. Something's never go out of style, whether we approve or not. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.163.186 URL: DATE: 05/06/2010 07:59:11 AM Where's Jonathan Springston when you need him? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Rally for Jason Carter this Saturday! BASENAME: rally_for_jason_carter_this_sa STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/06/2010 01:34:31 PM TAGS: "District #42","Jason Carter","Jimmy Carter","Special Election" ----- BODY: This Tuesday one of the special elections being held in Georgia is to replace Sen. David Adelman who left us to join the diplomatic corps as Ambassador to Singapore. Jason Carter, yes "that" Carter is running for that seat in District 42. Here's your invitation to the rally.
I'm really excited that my family is going to be in Atlanta to campaign with me on Saturday, including my Carter grandparents. We are all going to go out and knock on doors, and I hope you'll be able to come out and join us. There will be plenty of activities. Here are the details: What: GOTV Kick-Off! Activities will include canvassing, visibility, and dropping campaign literature. When: Saturday, May 8th. Volunteers meet at 10:00 a.m. to pick up t-shirts, signs and walk-lists for canvassing. At 1:00 p.m., we'll meet back at the park for food and good company. After the picnic, we will have a public event at 2:00 p.m. in the park. Where: East Lake Park, 2617 Memorial Drive, SECan't attend Saturday, but like to help.. go here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 68.157.179.66 URL: DATE: 05/06/2010 07:08:33 PM Thanks Juliana! This is going to be a LOT of fun. Weather is Sunny and in the 70s and we'll have food and t-shirts for our canvassers! ----- -------- AUTHOR: Jen Brock TITLE: Newsflash: Senate is full of ignorant jerks. BASENAME: newsflash_senate_is_full_of_ig STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/06/2010 04:20:45 PM ----- BODY:
To get around the inconvenient fact that Mr. Shahzad is a citizen, Mr. Lieberman is even calling for a law allowing Americans accused (not convicted) of unspecified crimes to be stripped of their citizenship and retroactively deprived of due process under the law. This is not Mr. Lieberman's first foray into this dark territory. He is co-author with Mr. McCain of a bill that would require that anyone arrested on any terrorism-related charge, including American citizens, be declared an enemy combatant and tried in a military court.Seriously, what the hell? ----- EXTENDED BODY: First, let me introduce y'all to a bit of the Declaration of Independence:
The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these states. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world. For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury: For transporting us beyond seas to be tried for pretended offenses:Next, the 5th Amendment of the US fucking Constitution:
No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.Finally, the 6th Amendment:
In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district where in the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence.But you know, who cares? The Constitution is just "a goddamned piece of paper" after all. ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 11:57:14 PM The good news here is: "Nobody's Showing Up To Joe Lieberman's TEA Party" [Via TPMDC] http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/05/nobodys-showing-up-to-joe-liebermans-tea-party.php?ref=fpb JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Open Thread BASENAME: open_thread_6 STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/07/2010 09:08:31 AM ----- BODY:
After a great deal of deliberation, I have decided not to seek re-election to the Georgia House of Representatives for a third term and will withdraw my name from consideration for the General Primary Election. It has been a privilege to represent the 82nd District for the last four years, during which time much has been accomplished for the betterment of our community and for the State of Georgia. It is now time for me to focus more fully on my family and on my business. I remain deeply grateful to my neighbors for allowing me the opportunity to serve them and especially appreciate the great sacrifices that my family has made during this time. Given the immense talent and dedication of those in our community, I know that our area and our state will be well-served by my successor. Sincerely, Rep. Kevin Levitas Georgia House District 82Apparently all this "deliberation" couldn't be done prior to qualifying deadlines. If the SOS qualifying information is correct, this announcement leaves no one running for this seat... not Republican or Democrat. I repeat, WTF? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.254.206.79 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 04:43:04 PM I've lost count of all the FAIL this year. I know there were some who worked really hard to find folks to run, and I seriously applaud that effort-but I can't help but think that their is a serious leadership problem when we can't even count on seasoned elected officials to give the heads up to the caucus leadership. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 96.25.191.41 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 05:15:25 PM There were fears he would qualify as a Republican. I guess this is better. FWIW: I think Sonny gets to appoint someone now. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.254.206.79 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 05:22:03 PM IRE... um not exactly if I read the AJC right. Libertarians can still field a candidate and some can run as an independent w 1250 signatures. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.254.206.79 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 05:27:31 PM My twitter feed is full of encouragement for one of our fellow bloggers to run, as an independent. No better year, no better guy. Would so LOVE that. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: page EMAIL: IP: 72.237.170.51 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 05:53:45 PM that's true, get the 39,000 signatures that you need, and you can qualify as an independent with no dem or republican challengers. That's an interesting trick. And my question is...does this force a special election since Levitas technically holds that seat until the beginning of the next legislative session...? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: page EMAIL: IP: 72.237.170.51 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 05:54:11 PM that's true, get the 39,000 signatures that you need, and you can qualify as an independent with no dem or republican challengers. That's an interesting trick. And my question is...does this force a special election since Levitas technically holds that seat until the beginning of the next legislative session...? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: griftdrift EMAIL: IP: 166.137.12.144 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 05:56:34 PM 1250 ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.254.206.79 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 06:02:06 PM @grift... I'd walk the streets for you, but not in that icky hooker kind of way. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Chris Huttman EMAIL: IP: 98.219.27.86 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 07:36:24 PM Grift, if the new Secretary follows the law like the old Secretary did, there will be a special qualifying period for Democrats. Check Peach Pundit. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/07/2010 11:04:31 PM "Been in this game one-hundred years, but I see new ways to lose 'em I never knew existed before." Casey Stengel BTW, is there any possible way for someone to think of to try and do some of the signatures online, and later be fulfilled in person? That might help, who knows? JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Greggjocoy EMAIL: IP: 97.95.231.80 URL: http://greenpartywatch.org DATE: 05/08/2010 12:19:40 AM I did a brief write-up of this story at Green Party Watch. I pointed out that this creates a golden opportunity for the Green Party to elect a state Representative. If several parties and several independents run it will make it possible for every voter to be visited by a candidate or supporter who is almost always a member of a smaller party or an independent. It's an almost once-in-a-lifetime set of circumstances that gives alternative voices a shot at showing what they can do in a legislative body. One example of such a circumstance was a couple of years back when Richard Carroll ran for state House with the Green Party in Arkansas. The Democratic Party found that it's only candidate after the filing period ended was a disgraced former legislator. Rather than run him, the Democratic Party opted to run no one, and Mr Carroll won because he was the only candidate on the ballot. Write-in campaigns were mounted, but being on the ballot is hard to fight off. Carroll changed registration to Democrat last year. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.235.146.167 URL: DATE: 05/08/2010 12:30:44 PM Greg- Thanks for tipping us to the Green Party. I was talking about this issue this morning with a bunch of Dems who couldn't believe it when I told them. of course in politics, like life, truth is always stranger than fiction. We really need to remember these lessons- Senate seat vacated by Powell, same thing the guy didn't live in the district and had to withdraw. Lighting can strike, illness, disgrace, family event.. it can all happen. Heck, if not for a major scandal in IL, Obama might not have been a Senator... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 05/08/2010 06:08:07 PM hm, i wonder where Sally Harrell that held this seat late-90s is? I know she left to raise children, but that was 10 years ago. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.235.42.147 URL: DATE: 05/08/2010 08:21:29 PM Hey, does anyone remember what district Scott Holcomb lives in? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 05/09/2010 11:26:32 AM he's in 82 as well Jules ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 74.232.215.247 URL: DATE: 05/09/2010 10:07:12 PM Scott would be a good choice. Anyone know if he's so inclined? ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Mother's Day BASENAME: mothers_day STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/09/2010 09:29:41 AM ----- BODY:
Whether adoptive, biological, or foster, mothers share an unbreakable bond with their children, and Americans of all ages and backgrounds owe them an immeasurable debt. Nurturing families come in many forms, and children may be raised by two parents, a single mother, two mothers, a step-mom, a grandmother, or a guardian. Mother's Day gives us an opportunity to celebrate these extraordinary caretakers, mentors, and providers who have made us who we are. As we honor today's mothers, we also reflect upon the memory of those who have passed, and we renew our commitment to living the values they cultivated in us. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 8, 1914 (38 Stat. 770), has designated the second Sunday in May each year as "Mother's Day" and requested the President to call for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 9, 2010, as Mother's Day. Let us express our deepest love and thanks to our mothers and remember those who, though no longer with us, inspire us still.Enjoy this beautiful day! I'll be treating my Mom to Dim Sum and Iron Man 2, no corsages will be worn at either. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.172 URL: DATE: 05/09/2010 08:04:20 PM FYI mine is best, FACT. I'm not sure if you could say she "loves" me per se but she certainly at least tolerates me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.234.47.241 URL: DATE: 05/09/2010 08:11:02 PM IRE: I'm thinking that it's huge she tolerates ya. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.172 URL: DATE: 05/09/2010 09:08:28 PM I'm stretching it by calling it "toleration" ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.254.119.210 URL: DATE: 05/10/2010 08:43:26 AM IRE: I'm thinking that it's huge she tolerates ya. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Blah Blah Open Thread BASENAME: blah_blah_open_thread STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/10/2010 09:21:47 AM TAGS: "ed's stupidity","mothers mothers' day","not more of this","one more tag why not","open thread",stuff,"stupid stuff",stupidity ----- BODY: Trying to keep this thing short. "Elena Kagan Tapped", can we have a less--evocative--headline? Thanks. How did you celebrate Mothers' Day? I showed up four hours late to my parents' and had a good dinner/did laundry. It was a great day for all. Really good news for Grady. Still a long way to go. Nothing unique to Georgia here. Bit of a nationwide problem. Arlen Specter hopefully will be bye-byes soon. This is nothing to do with having "a real Democrat" in the seat, just that party switchers always deserve to lose. Man PA is going to be SCREWED in the Senate if Arlen loses. People are dumb. Reminds me when I was a Freshman in college I would always hang out with this pediatrician at my favorite bar who in recent years started to hate his job. He would tell parents 95% of the time when kids are sick, "a gallon of water and vitamin C pills" is all it would take to cure kids. Parents hated that and he lost tons of patients but he was rarely wrong. Literary Theory delivers some serious lulz. I freaking love small-town newspapers. What do you know? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.60.25 URL: DATE: 05/10/2010 12:12:14 PM My little home town had a goat race last week: http://www.phoenixvillenews.com/articles/2010/05/10/news/doc4be042d32d2a5949024211.txt ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Four Special Elections held Tomorrow! BASENAME: special_elections_held_tomorro STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/10/2010 11:51:46 AM TAGS: Fringe,"GA 9th Congressional","GA Libertarians","May 11th","Special Election" ----- BODY:
President Edward O. Dubose will be addressing the subject of Ken Hodges coming into the very community he failed and robbed of justice subsequent to the December 10, 2003 shooting and killing of an unarmed African American male with an Mp5 submachine gun by a Muscogee County Sheriff's deputy while face down in the southbound lane of I-185. Kenneth Brian Walker was shot twice in the head ... Ken Hodges on November 23, 2004 failed to secure a grand jury indictment, failed to recommend the grand jury return a True bill in the homicide death ... and allowed former Deputy David Glisson to give unsworn testimony at grand jury ... Subsequently Ken Hodges failed to convene a second grand jury in the Walker case when Attorney General Thurbert Baker made it perfectly clear the decision was Ken Hodges' to make. Ken Hodges justified not convening a second grand jury claiming there had to be new evidence in the case. Hodges' never produced any law, statue, or code supporting his claim or the requirement for new evidence. The shooter in the death of Kenneth Walker never faced a judge or jury in a criminal trial.Ouch. I have no doubt the Hodges' folks will have a response and when I get it, I'll post it here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: chris EMAIL: IP: 72.54.8.86 URL: DATE: 05/11/2010 11:23:21 AM Yikes. Send a couple of faxes that this guy doesn't like and he'll go back to the grand jury multiple times and even get his friends to do it. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 131.96.183.63 URL: DATE: 05/11/2010 03:45:58 PM 1. You cannot force the Grand Jury to indict. 2. He only got subpoenas requesting information for the Grand Jury in the faxes case. He removed himself from the case before it ever went to GJ. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/12/2010 12:41:44 AM A really disturbing case: http://peanutpolitics-keith.blogspot.com/ JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Boob(s) of the Week BASENAME: boobs_of_the_week STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/11/2010 09:44:51 AM ----- BODY: The Obama administration.
The Obama administration said Sunday it would seek a law allowing investigators to interrogate terrorism suspects without informing them of their rights, as Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. flatly asserted that the defendant in the Times Square bombing attempt was trained by the Taliban in Pakistan.Hell, even Bush didn't have the audacity to suggest this. Just to review with Obama...
The Obama administration said Sunday it would seek a law allowing investigators to interrogate terrorism suspects without informing them of their rights, as Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. flatly asserted that the defendant in the Times Square bombing attempt was trained by the Taliban in Pakistan.Hell, even Bush didn't have the audacity to suggest this. Just to review with Obama...
Dems Want Scott Holcomb To Replace Levitas By Tom Baxter InsiderAdvantage Georgia (5/11/10) Scott Holcomb, the 2006 Democratic candidate for secretary of state, appears to have emerged as the leading candidate to fill the position left open by the surprise resignation last week of Rep. Kevin Levitas. While several names have reportedly come up in party discussions, Holcomb's name was the one being mentioned Monday by Democrats familiar with DeKalb County politics, as they waited for word from Secretary of State Brian Kemp's office on how it will fill the Atlanta-in-DeKalb seat. The office reportedly will announce its decision Tuesday.Peach Pundit has the details about qualifying from SoS Kemp's office.
Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp announced today that he will call a special primary election to fill the Democratic nomination for State House District 82 upon the withdrawal of State Rep. Kevin Levitas. Since no Republican candidate qualified for State House District 82, there will be no Republican primary for this seat. Accordingly, the special primary election will be held only for the Democratic nomination as provided for in the law. The special primary election for the Democratic nomination will be held on Tuesday, July 20, 2010. A run-off election, if needed, will be held on Tuesday, August 10, 2010. Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 20, 2010. Secretary Kemp set the candidate qualifying dates for State House District 82 as Monday, May 17 through Wednesday, May 19, 2010. Qualifying on Monday will run from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.; on Tuesday from 8 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.; and on Wednesday from 8 a.m. until 12 noon. Qualifying will be held in the Elections Division of the Office of Secretary of State, 1104 West Tower, 2 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30334-1505. The qualifying fee is $400.00.Independents can still qualify with 1250 certified signatures, and the Libertarians can also field a candidate since their qualifying hasn't happened yet. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Melb EMAIL: IP: 131.96.183.63 URL: DATE: 05/11/2010 03:52:33 PM I think Scott Holcomb will be a great candidate! Hopefully we can keep 82 and pick up 81 this year!!! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ataru Atlanta EMAIL: cbmanica@gmail.com IP: 208.65.91.113 URL: DATE: 05/12/2010 07:07:56 AM Agreed, this is outstanding. Little Kev really did us a favor. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Congrats to Jason Carter BASENAME: congrats_to_jason_carter STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/12/2010 01:48:31 AM ----- BODY: On a very clean win! Now on to July and then November. Whew. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.254.127.29 URL: DATE: 05/12/2010 08:40:28 AM Jason was informed by his opponent Tom Stubbs that he would ask the SoS to remove his name from the July Primary ballot. It's doubtful that anyone will run against him in Nov. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: BEZERKO EMAIL: IP: 98.88.225.72 URL: DATE: 05/12/2010 09:42:17 AM Whew, I was panicking for a second there. I was curious about the turnout numbers on that 9th congressional race in '08 but I looked up the 49th state senate by mistake. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Mel TITLE: Old-fashioned Barbecue BASENAME: old-fashioned_barbecue STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/12/2010 09:15:49 PM ----- BODY:
Meet the Candidates Barbecue Downtown Commerce, GA (450 Little Street, Next to the Post Office) Sunday, June 6th, 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm State and Local Candidates Bake Sale Entertainment Barbecue $11 in Advance, $13 at the event Children $5 in advance, $6 at event Five rural counties are pooling our efforts to bring Democratic state and local candidates to our area, giving voters a chance to hear their message in person. Barbecue, hot dogs, and hamburgers will be served on the grounds of this lovely old Southern home. Spencer Park, which has a children's playground, picnic tables and extra room for a large crowd, is conveniently located directly across the street right at the railroad tracks on the main street of Commerce. Order Tickets: CommerceGArally@gmail.com Sponsored by Coalition of NE Georgia Democratic Rural Counties: Banks, Barrow, Franklin, Habersham and Jackson----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 71.204.2.12 URL: DATE: 05/12/2010 10:59:47 PM I'm planning on going.. it's the day after wedding and I'll be in town... car pool? Last time NGA had a sin-dig we made Will drive us.. hummm who will be the victim this year? Anyone.. Bueller? Bueller? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/12/2010 11:24:09 PM Something going on sooner, this weekend from Carroll Co. Dems: "The Carroll County Democratic Party will be hosting its 7th Annual Spring Democratic Picnic Candidates to speak include: Governor: Thurbert Baker, DuBose Porter and David Poythress US Senate: RJ Hadley US Congress: Frank Saunders (3rd CD) Lt. Governor: Carol Porter Attorney General: Rob Teilhet Secy of State: Gail Buckner, Michael Mills, Angela Moore Labor Commissioner: Darryl Hicks Insurance Commissioner: Mary Squires St. Superintendent of Schools: Beth Farohki, Brian Westlake State Senate: Pat Rhudy (30th) State House: Herbert Giles (18th) All Democratic candidates have been invited Saturday, May 15 12:30 – 4:00 Lakeshore Park Pavilion, Lumpkin Dr, Carrollton We will provide food and beverage For information, call Ken Spitze 770-639-1711 Sorry for the length & Thanks. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Open Thread BASENAME: open_thread_8 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/13/2010 07:31:01 PM ----- BODY:
ATLANTA (May 18, 2010) - Georgia Bio late Monday decided to cancel Democratic and Republican gubernatorial forums at Kennesaw State University based on a lack of interest among most of the primary candidates to attend and discuss life sciences related issues. "We sincerely thank Kennesaw State University officials for agreeing to host these events. However with so few candidates agreeing to participate from both the Democratic and Republican Parties, we felt the expense was too great to justify holding the events," said Georgia Bio President Charles Craig. "We commend Democratic primary candidates Attorney General Thurbert Baker, Mayor Carl Camon and General David Poythress, and Republican primary candidates former Congressman Nathan Deal and Otis Putnam for their willingness to attend the forums and discuss issues critical to Georgia's future." The Democratic forum was scheduled for May 20, and the Republican forum was scheduled for May 27. Mayor Camon was forced to withdraw from Thursday's forum because of a car accident Monday afternoon. The topics for discussion were the significance of life sciences economic development, importance of K-16 science education and the impact of federal health care reform in Georgia. The candidates were sent three questions in advance covering these topics. All 14 candidates who qualified for the Democratic and Republican gubernatorial primary elections were invited.Full story here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.235.195.172 URL: DATE: 05/19/2010 11:08:14 AM Geesh, it was even an open book test. The pinheads who wouldn't attend get this is about jobs too? The economy? The fact that our bond rating in in the dumper because we're starting to look like a throw back state... ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.60.66 URL: DATE: 05/19/2010 12:29:18 PM They should have thrown in a question about immigration and how it relates to life sciences. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/19/2010 09:22:45 PM This is nothing short of disgraceful, really. Here we've got a ready made event to highlight the importance of education & economic development to the future of the state and evidently Most of the Gubernatorial (pronounced: Goober & stressed heavily) candidates could not have been bothered. Despite all the claims to the contrary from their campaigns that such things are 'really important to the future of Ga.'. Really? Prove it. Give a damn. Show up and tell us your plans for the future & the future jobs that this sector represents. Which BTW? Includes much of the agricultural research going on over @ UGA. Geez just looking sad & pathetic all around. Thanks & kudos to all the candidates who agreed to participate. This was a simple 'gimme' & a win/win for all involved. If you can't show for these, how do we know you can show for the harder stuff? Amazing. Sterling Stengels all around for all those who refused to participate. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/19/2010 09:41:42 PM Yes, we need More of these. Desperately. And reading their PR on this I'm even more PO'd. If that's possible & under my 2page limit. It really was an 'open book test!' They telegraphed their 3 questions in advance! None of them too hard particularly, all allowing for even expansive 'digressions' that some love to indulge in. And no I don't get what's the problem here really with the other campaigns. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/21/2010 04:31:41 AM As luck would have it, I had the occasion to talk to team DuBose yesterday and I asked about this. Evidently GeorgiaBio sent an initial very confusing email, which was late, and they likely did not consider the needed lead time for planning & scheduling for such an event. At least according to their campaign. So definitely not as clear cut, and yes, everyone needs to do better & more consistent PR. Everywhere. So at least a Bronze Stengel for them too. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Julianal TITLE: Our friend Scott Holcomb makes the following announcement... BASENAME: our_friend_scott_holcomb_makes STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/19/2010 05:09:59 PM TAGS: HD82,"Scott Holcomb" ----- BODY:
SCOTT HOLCOMB QUALIFIES AS THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR GEORGIA HOUSE DISTRICT 82 ATLANTA, GA --- May 19, 2009. Today, Scott Holcomb qualified as the Democratic candidate for Georgia House District 82. No Republican has qualified for the seat left vacant by the resignation of the current officeholder. Holcomb, an attorney and instructor at Georgia Tech's Sam Nunn School of International Affairs, has pledged to be a tireless advocate for the people of the 82nd District, particularly on issues relating to the economy, transportation and public education. His decision to run was borne from a desire to bring pragmatic and creative policies to improve the quality of life for residents of the district, DeKalb County, the metropolitan Atlanta region and the State of Georgia. "I look forward to representing the people of District 82 and being a strong advocate for the issues that will determine whether our district and state are attractive to residents and businesses," said Holcomb. "It's time to focus on improving public education, bringing back local jobs and economic investment, improving our transportation options and operating state government transparently and responsibly." Holcomb is a military veteran who served six years in the Air National Guard and six years as a Captain with the U.S. Army's Judge Advocate General's Corps. While in the Army, he deployed three times -- for Operations Joint Forge (Bosnia), Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Holcomb earned numerous awards for his military service, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and Army Commendation Medals. In 2004, he left active duty and devoted substantial time to representing veterans and their families on a pro bono basis. Holcomb is married to the former Kathleen Oh of Reidsville, Ga. They are the proud parents of a son, Carter. Holcomb was a candidate for Secretary of State in 2006 and has remained active in Georgia politics. He has represented Georgia as an American Marshall Memorial Fellow, a Manfred Wörner Fellow and a Truman Security Fellow. In 2006 and 2007, he was named a "Rising Star" by Law and Politics Magazine. Holcomb is a term member of the Council on Foreign Relations and a Principal with the Truman National Security Project. He also serves on the Board of Directors of HOPE Atlanta and is a member of the State Bar of Georgia's Pro Bono Committee for Military Veterans & Service Members. A triathlete, Holcomb completed Ironman Florida in 2009.I'm assured that a website is forth coming! ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/19/2010 09:33:34 PM The good news on the day, obviously. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 05/19/2010 09:47:06 PM SUPER-like ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 68.219.10.24 URL: DATE: 05/20/2010 08:34:40 AM Fist up! Someday maybe I will get to vote for him too! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: MelGX EMAIL: IP: 68.223.110.22 URL: DATE: 05/20/2010 10:39:44 AM Thank heavens. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Boob of the Week BASENAME: boob_of_the_week_1 STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/20/2010 10:52:07 AM TAGS: "Austin Scott",austinscott,"Boob of the week",boobs,congress,election,"election 2010",GA-8,"Jim Marshall","stupid campaign tricks","stupid stuff","stupid stuff you say to get elected" ----- BODY: This week's award goes to Austin Scott, currently running against Jim Marshall. Now Scott is a candidate I would otherwise like, but he made such an idiotic statement about why he was running for congress instead of for Governor, I couldn't let it pass. In the words of Jim Galloway, Scott claims "his family can survive the next gov, whether R or D, but can't survive 2 more years of Jim Marshall."
"My family can survive whatever governor is elected to lead Georgia, whether Republican or Democrat, but I'm not sure my family or yours can survive another two years with the way things are in Washington. In the end it was a decision between proving a point and making a difference. I chose to make a difference."Yeah because a family will be able to survive if their rep is .23% of congress and also likely in the minority party rather than the lone chief executive who decides what policies are implemented in the state of Georgia. And let me touch on another subject related to this. We're in a supposedly anti-incumbent mood when at least 75% of congress will get reelected and it is highly unlikely one branch will have a change in leadership. Yeah. Really anti-incumbent that's for sure. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/20/2010 03:36:21 PM Ed, if you were a betting man, I could wager you some cash money that about 85% of all incumbents running would be re-elected, even in this year. Indeed, if it was only 85%, it would be quite a stunning departure from historical precedent. This is not to say that none or even one of the Houses might flip, but the way to bet is always with incumbency, as long as they've got any sort of cash to keep them competitive. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: So, it's Friday. BASENAME: so_its_friday STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/21/2010 08:40:29 AM ----- BODY:
In an unprecedented move to combine journalistic resources, Georgia's 12 largest daily newspapers announce the formation of an historic partnership to deliver comprehensive political coverage across the state. The combined group, working as the Georgia Newspaper Partnership, will provide deep reporting found nowhere else in the Southeast. Sunday readership of this group alone exceeds 2.2 million. "This partnership helps put an end to the idea that there are two Georgias," said Bert Roughton Jr., managing editor of the AJC. "The work that these partner newspapers do will go a long way toward providing the state's voters a more unified voice." Over the next several months the partnership will deliver coverage of the gubernatorial and congressional races and support three statewide polls conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research.Full release here. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.145.108.187 URL: DATE: 05/24/2010 05:33:14 PM Interesting. I wonder why only political coverage though? Would they be getting into anti-trust or collusion territory if they collaborate on too much stuff? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: innerredneckexposed EMAIL: IP: 74.232.67.112 URL: DATE: 05/24/2010 06:15:01 PM I'm guessing the AP has something to say about sharing too much as well. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/24/2010 08:45:47 PM The 'we've fired most of our staff that could have done any sort of adequate job here' plan. We hope no one will really notice our self inflicted wounds. And no, we're not really increasing any coverage, it's just going to look like it a bit. Until election time. Just to sell more political advertising space in our papers. That's the real plan here, most likely. JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: How Are they to Know? BASENAME: how_are_they_to_know STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/24/2010 08:12:56 PM TAGS: "blah blah blah",centrism,convention,DPG,"DPG Convention","eric massa",hawks,"mike brown","open thread","stupid stuff" ----- BODY: Another day another dollar.
Changing the democratic party starts here. The more socialist this nation becomes, the more corrupt and lazy it's citizens will be. I want a chance to be wealthy, not equally poor.YAY Democrats.. This is the guy who won the primary! You must be soooo proud! But it gets better. Over the weekend he attended a Hamilton County Democratic Women's event and had such a bad time during the " Q&A" he announced he was "quiting". Dang, those gals must have really roughed him up! But now we hear, he's "un-quittting"... wait whahhhahhha Read the letter he sent, below the flip. Once you've read it.. please weigh in on when you think the wheels came off this particular bus. Oh, where did I get the letter you ask.. why FaceBook naturally.. I need a drink... you just can't make this up! ----- EXTENDED BODY:
O ERR IS HUMAN, TO FORGIVE DIVINE To whom it may concern, My name is Tim Crawford. I am a 28 year old conservative American running for the United States House of Representatives in Indiana's 5th district. I am writing this letter to provide voters and the media with knowledge, explaining what happened from my point of view. This is a chance for people to get to know me and make judgment righteously. On May 22nd, 2010, I attended a meeting at the Fishers Public Library with the Hamilton County Democratic Women. I will be honest in saying I was not prepared. My mishap, in turn, has offered me a valuable and humbling lesson. I have taken some time to step back from the situation that arose, thinking about it with calmness and logic. This group of women invited me to their gathering to meet me. Eventually things got out of control, forming into a one sided show for disapproval of me. After being bombarded by disagreeing group interjections, I was flustered and felt bullied. This led me to make an irrational and provoked response that I was dropping out of the race. I believe this was their agenda all along. Due to the situation, and my personal circumstances, my emotions had been building for a while and got the best of me on that day. After talking to friends, family and supporters, I am not dropping out of the race. This group did not support me personally or befriend me until I told them I would step aside. Why should I let their will and influence override my dream for our country? As I grow, while continuing to learn politically and personally, I must follow this candidacy through. I left college without a degree and it is more important to me to finish what I have currently started. I will not give up on the fight for a fair and noble existence. I am taking a strong stance against quitting and I pray this stand will not be in vain. We all need to be reminded that politicians are only human, mistakes will happen, and no one is perfect. I want the people who agree and disagree with me, to go through this campaign learning that the grass is not greener on this side. Then people might think before they bash, allow truths to prevail, and eventually bring media spin to a screeching halt. We have to start working together to achieve common goals, without breaking the vows of the United States Constitution, and stand up for the principle ideas the founding fathers have set before us. First, I am hesitantly bringing a very personal fact to light. I hope it explains my recent lack of preparation and concentration, as well my emotional actions. Recently, my mother was diagnosed in the final stages of pancreatic cancer. This cancer is usually found in its advance stages, often inoperable, and spreads, as it has in her case. Pancreatic cancer is terminal, painful, and she could have less than a year to live. During the downturn of the economy, in July 2008, I moved in with her after being let go from my job. I currently live with her now and I have become her caregiver. In the recent weeks, I have been driving her daily to radiation treatments at the IU Medical Center, helping her pick up prescriptions, and handling miscellaneous tasks such as grocery shopping, cooking, etc. I thank God we have family and friends that have also stepped in to assist in comforting an amazing women, and a great, loving mother. She has both good and bad days that fill our daily routine. The Saturday morning of the meeting, she was having one of her bad days. While hovered over the sink vomiting and in pain, she stated she'd be fine and encouraged me to go to the meeting. My departing vision and emotional state, as I walked out the door that day, was obviously focused on my mother's well-being. There have been few moments of joy for my mom since our family has received news of this diagnosis. One was watching me win the democratic primary in early May. Another was finding out that my brother Jacob and his wife Megan are expecting a child in November. Lord willing, I hope my mother lives long enough to see her first grandchild and hopefully, me winning a position in Washington. I am asking everyone to pray for my mother. She and I both believe in miracles. Mothers are typically the biggest supporter of their children. In this case, it is so. She is the first person I talked to about the scenario that happened at the HCDW meeting. The first thing she said was, "You can't quit!" "Quitting is giving up on the people who voted for you, support you, and believe as you do." And I totally agree. My personal situation was something I originally did not want to bring into the mix of this election. I am not telling the public about my mother's illness so I can achieve or obtain voters through sympathy. I find it to be unfair to the opposition. I just want people to understand my predicament. I am not a pity party person and I strive not to live a woe is me lifestyle. I want to run a clean campaign where the voters decide based upon character, intent, and beliefs. I want to be as bipartisan as I can be without jeopardizing morals and our American fundamentals. Next, I would like to address the people I met at the Hamilton County Democratic Women meeting. I hope you can find forgiveness. I am setting aside ego and apologizing for going against what I told you. It was something I should have never said, and I hope we can all learn from this. I feel that dropping out of the race would be turning my back on the people who do support me and may support me in the future. Quitting is not the noble thing to do. I will take your advice and learn more of what your group stands for. Either common bonds will be found or evidences that point to the latter will be offered. Expect an update to the website soon. We may not always agree, but I wish you would continue your involvement and keep searching for the truth as well. Everyone should keep in mind that there are times when people can get set in their ways. We must focus on the repercussions of our actions, as I have learned through this experience. As I try to keep an open mind, I implore others from all parties to do so as well. My ongoing mission will be to diligently investigate and gain all the knowledge I can. My duty is to prepare for this position and seek the best possible solutions for this nation's recovery. As an ex-republican, in order to voice the possibility of compromise, I am running under the democratic ticket to serve as a medium between parties. This is supposed to be the position of the President, Vice President and the Speaker of the House. I feel they, as well as many of our current elected officials, have failed in this task. The best way to battle failures in government is to keep the tree of liberty refreshed. A new generation of politicians needs to be voted into office now, and from time to time. This should help correct errors and overturn any wrongs that have been set before us. I hope God's grace is with us all, as we move forward as a nation, and in our individual lives. I thank you for your time. Regards, Tim Crawford----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/25/2010 08:52:05 PM Where'd the wheels come off the bus? Right at the top with the idiotic 'mission statement' : "Changing the democratic party starts here. The more socialist this nation becomes, the more corrupt and lazy it's citizens will be. I want a chance to be wealthy, not equally poor". You do not run for public office thinking it will make you wealthy. That's Repug. thinking! (Ditto on dropping out of college to do so as well). And if you call your constituents 'corrupt & lazy'? They're not going to be especially too pleased to vote for you. At least not often. So definitely an honorable mention on the crazy, but certainly not fully up to Ga. standards. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Rubyduby EMAIL: IP: 74.232.15.251 URL: DATE: 05/26/2010 12:33:30 AM I offer a tip of my hat to the Hamilton County Democratic Women! They sound like my kinda people! ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 72.145.105.71 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 11:48:19 AM That bus never should have had wheels. How did that guy win a Dem primary? One thing is for sure: that district will have crappy representation yet again, no matter who wins. ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Write-On Carol Porter! BASENAME: write-on_carol_porter STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/26/2010 05:54:17 AM ----- BODY: Twitter was aflutter yesterday with 140 character responses to Carol Porter's written submission to the AJC regarding abortion.
The real question we as Georgians need to ask is, "Do we want to truly decrease abortions or just turn out the vote on it?" To run under the banner "pro-life" and to legislate in a way that creates the very factors that lead to abortions is baffling. Because of poor leadership, our state does not have a reliable water source and our major city sits in gridlock. We are dismal in our rankings on educational achievement and have an excessive dropout rate. The thing we are now becoming known for is being number one in the percentage of our population in the correctional system. Small business in Georgia is struggling and unemployment is high. Law enforcement has been reduced to unsafe levels and our population is in the top ten most unhealthy. Yet the Georgia leadership who allowed these statistics are all "pro-life." Saying you are "pro-life" and then creating the conditions in which abortions increase is disingenuous. In Georgia, the label "pro-life" has become among politicians a label used not to decrease abortions, but to increase votes. Take for instance this past session: the elected Republican leadership let a "pro-life" bill, SB 529, pass the Senate but only with a backroom agreement it would not make it to the floor of the House for a vote.Would I prefer a more strident Pro-Choice statement? Absolutely. But, this is Georgia. I am satisfied, for now. As a friend tweeted: The real question for her is if she will promote any agenda. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.234.121.86 URL: DATE: 05/26/2010 10:52:31 AM I said to a couple folks yesterday, this actually raises the level of debate on this complex issue. For the last several years we've seen the GA legislature take a very anti-woman stance all the while claiming to be all about "life". Dubose, while not ideal also brought a few issues to light-speaking about where Federal law, Roe v. Wade, isn't what gets decided in the states. Carol takes it from there speaking to what the states have done to erode sex education, support systems, shame and blame women and the intersections of overall heath and economic conditions for women. "Choice" is a very outdated word and assumes that you had one from the beginning, many women don't, without access to medically accurate sex education, contraception, medical services, ability to say no to the sex partner really, where was the "choice".. it's more russian roulette. The word choice in many circles now equals privilege. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ericalong404 EMAIL: IP: 64.94.12.18 URL: DATE: 05/26/2010 11:31:26 AM Carol Porter's response is one of the most thoughtful statements I've read from a politician in a while. It's great to know that our candidate for LG is an adult. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 08:24:26 PM see, we get a woman running for a top spot, and we get a response that's correct on a woman's issue...just sayin. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: The Cream of the Crop BASENAME: the_cream_of_the_crop STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/26/2010 01:12:06 PM TAGS: "best of the best",campaign,"cream of the crop","Darryl Hicks","delusions of grandeur",Democrats,disclosures,election,"election 2010","JB Powell","je suis la creme de la creme","Michael Mills","Michael Thurmond",stuff,"stuff that is stupid","stupid stuff" ----- BODY: Dammit Mike.
Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond... hasn't disclosed anything whatsoever since 2007. Thurmond, who's running for the U.S. Senate, filed no financial disclosure forms with the State Ethics Commission in 2008 or 2009, a check of the commission's online look-up shows. Elected officials in Georgia are required to report on basic details of their personal finances every year by July 1.We've got a Grade A class of candidates this year. In addition to Thurmond, six other Democratic candidates failed to properly file personal finance disclosures. Three are gadflies and I don't care about them, but JB Powell, Darryl Hicks, and Michael Mills kind of messed up. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 66.190.93.93 URL: DATE: 05/26/2010 08:29:00 PM These guys are full of fail. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 75.234.117.10 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 09:03:15 AM I'm voting for RJ ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Unemployment Down Throughout Georgia BASENAME: unemployment_down_throughout_g STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/27/2010 08:06:54 AM TAGS: "department of labor",Georgia,jobs,"Michael Thurmond",unemployment ----- BODY:
[T]he preliminary unadjusted unemployment rate in metro Atlanta declined to 9.8 percent in April, down six-tenths of a percentage point from a revised 10.4 percent in March. Meanwhile, the number of unemployed workers in the metro area decreased to 261,748 down 14,975 from 276,723 in March. The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined to 10.4 percent in April, down one-tenth of a percentage point from a revised 10.5 percent in March. This is the 31st consecutive month Georgia has exceeded the national rate, which is now 9.9 percent. The state's April jobless rate was up 1.2 percentage points from 9.2 percent at this same time last year. The jobless rate in metro Atlanta in April 2009 was 8.6 percent.Good news. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: An Explenation BASENAME: an_explenation STATUS: Draft ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/27/2010 08:55:37 AM ----- BODY: Thomas Wheatly observes at Creative Loafing:
[T]he race to become the chief executive of one of the fastest growing states in the country just doesn't feel like it's happening.Well, it will, soon I think. The thing is unlike 2006, there isn't a combined total of more than $30 million between the three candidates for governor. Roy has no real primary. The Republicans are so split with money that they can't go after each other. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: The Race is Done BASENAME: the_race_is_done STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/27/2010 10:08:15 AM TAGS: campaign,candidate,"clown cars","drop out please",election,"georgia election 2010","gubernatorial election",InsiderAdvantage,poll,polling,"races that were over before they began","roy barnes","shooting ourselves in the foot","stupid clown cars","stupid stuff" ----- BODY: We have another poll showing the Democratic primary for governor is done. Roy has 64% of the primary vote, with an MOE of +/- 5%. I am inherently dubious of InsiderAdvantage polls and a 5% MOE is huge. However, these results jibe with everything else we've seen. That said I doubt Roy has 64% of the vote, but almost certainly he has a commanding lead. Regardless, people need to start dropping out, you know, "for the good of the Party". One thing that begs the question is this line from WSB's report: "The numbers also show this could be the lowest turnout ever for a Democratic primary in Georgia." Is that because it will be a depressed turnout or is it a shrinking Democratic Party here, or both? ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 173.73.54.120 URL: DATE: 05/28/2010 10:42:43 AM In answer to the question of voting... besides the obvious, because it's our civic responsibility... why should I show up? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 05/28/2010 10:48:33 AM I say your vote doesn't matter so don't ask me. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jules EMAIL: IP: 173.73.54.120 URL: DATE: 05/28/2010 10:50:53 AM In answer to the question of voting... besides the obvious, because it's our civic responsibility... why should I show up? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Mel EMAIL: goux@mac.com IP: 68.223.110.22 URL: DATE: 05/28/2010 01:46:19 PM I had a chuckle yesterday. Dubose is making lemonade by sending out emails saying he's in second place. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Top Kill May Have Worked BASENAME: top_kill_may_have_worked STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/27/2010 11:08:31 AM TAGS: BP,Environment,"environmental disaster","Gulf of Mexico","Obama. Obama's Katrina","Oil spill","Top kill" ----- BODY: Video looks promising. BP says it will know for sure tomorrow. Oh and the spill is "several times worse" than originally thought. I don't care who you are,the magnitude of the spill is completely incomprehensible. And yes this is, and should be, Obama's Katrina. ----- EXTENDED BODY: ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Catherine EMAIL: catherine@georgiafordemocracy.org IP: 72.145.105.71 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 12:08:51 PM I don't get how this is "Obama's Katrina". Why isn't in BP's Katrina? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Ed EMAIL: ebh3@aroundtherings.com IP: 97.66.92.81 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 12:28:56 PM False dilemma. NVM that the point of calling it a "Katrina" isn't to show that it is a major problem, it deals with the commander in chief failing to show any initiative whatsoever to take the lead on a major disaster. Buck stops somewhere and tough shit if it stops with the POTUS. Let's do a thought experiment. It is 2007. Bush hasn't responded or shown any proactive leadership in what is probably the largest environmental catastrophe ever, that also happened to take place within U.S. territory. What would be the Democrats' response? Seriously, imagine if it took over a month for Bush to address the media about this. The left would be apoplectic. Please don't try to deny that, you'll make yourself dizzy with the spin. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 02:42:38 PM ED, I'll call BS on your BS. And MMFA has the tale of the tape: http://mediamatters.org/research/201005240038 http://mediamatters.org/research/201004300053 Not difficult to find. And no more of this Repug thinking meme, 'Oh the Dems would have done this or that given X, Y'. That's Silly. Stupid in too many ways to count. I was around for the Exxon Valdez too. And Poppy Bush moved even slower. Demonstrable circumstances. Watch less Fox too. And you might actually listen to the Prez's response here too: http://tpmlivewire.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/05/obama-defends-federal-response-to-oil-spill.php?ref=fpi And yeah, I love it when all & sundry are caught up in a silly TV/Fox generated meme & then repeat it back endlessly to frame the debate. We've got plenty of Katrina refugees in Ga. Go ask them about the debacle of a Federal non response for a week while people lay trapped & dying all over the place in NOLA. Then ask about the yes, 2K dead from the most miserable Federal disaster response ever. We did better in the 1906 SF earthquake & fire & in the 1927 MS Floods. Read more & listen to the Fox whiners less. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 03:01:35 PM Never let the facts get in the way of a 'good media meme'... Ver. 12009.7: http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/2010/05/critical_perspective.php?ref=fpblg JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.35.86 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 07:37:01 PM Two things: - We saw Katrina coming a few days in advance. Preparing was a possibility. Michael Brown had no business being in the job of First Responder. - If, as it appears, there was a decision made on the very day of the explosion by a small group of executives to ignore warning signs, oversight becomes problematic. Elizabeth Birnbaum seems to have the right resume for the job, but she just got the job in July of last year. With no immediate crisis to respond to, it can take some time to change the culture of an organization. The new person will be able to do pretty much whatever s/he wants as far as reforming the MMS. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Jen Brock EMAIL: IP: 66.190.93.93 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 07:59:51 PM "Seriously, imagine if it took over a month for Bush to address the media about this. The left would be apoplectic." True. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: JerryT EMAIL: IP: 74.176.35.86 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 08:13:41 PM It's just a totally false comparison. There is no doubt about who is responsible for this and who SHOULD BE responsible for fixing it. There was no private corporation responsible for Katrina. The only possible responder was the government and they didn't. This oil thing is a somewhat technical problem that requires technical expertise to fix, not just massive manpower. Team Obama is- and has been- consulting with experts since day one, and the path we are on is the consensus path. Yes, we are finally bringing the military/National Guard in on the shore cleanup, but that doesn't solve the root problem. I can understand why many want something different to happen, but no one seems to have an idea of what that something should be. ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: Drew EMAIL: IP: 24.99.1.234 URL: DATE: 05/28/2010 01:06:27 AM Aw, Ed. Do you think your conservative friends will give you a cookie for repeating their spin? I'm curious to know what you think Obama should have done that he didn't. What would have qualified as "proactive leadership" and how would it have sealed the leak any sooner? If Obama should be blamed for anything it's for his continued willingness to endorse "Drill Baby Drill" in spite of the fact that it will yield little more than further environmental destruction simply because it is the "moderate" position. But that would require that he concede that the left is correct and, well, we can't have that, can we? ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/28/2010 03:22:09 AM Yeah, and we all need to Read more too. This is what the real conservatives were reading yesterday in the WSJ: WSJ, May 27, 2010 "BP Decisions Set Stage for Disaster" http://professional.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704026204575266560930780190.html?mod=wsjproe_hps_LEADNewsCollection Synopsis here via another Ga. 'micro' blogger, Impishparrot over @ TPM Cafe: http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/a/m/amanda_lang/2010/05/bp-decisions-set-stage-for-dis.php?ref=reccafe JMP ----- -------- AUTHOR: Catherine TITLE: Thank you, Rob Teilhet BASENAME: thank_you_rob_teilhet STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/27/2010 12:59:49 PM ----- BODY: Yesterday in a candidate forum, a striking difference between the two candidates running for Attorney General came to light. (Press release below the jump.)
At a question and answer forum hosted by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Hodges stated, as recorded by Andy Peters with the Fulton County Daily Report, "Certainly there was a need for [the law] originally. If there is evidence of discrimination [it should still be enforced], but I have not looked at that [law] to give an opinion on that now." Rob Teilhet, Democratic candidate for Attorney General, provided a much different answer. In his closing remarks, Teilhet stated there was no "if" about it--discrimination still occurs every day in Georgia. The people of Georgia deserve an Attorney General who stands up against discrimination and who is willing to protect voting rights. "This is not some obscure law. The Voting Rights Act was landmark legislation designed to protect every American's right to fully participate in the electoral process," said Teilhet. "Georgia needs an Attorney General that understands that we still need this law, and will fight to see it enforced. We've come a long way since 1965 but the work is not done. The Voting Rights Act ensures that our progress is maintained and it protects the right to vote for all Georgians."Well said, Mr Teilhet. Well said. ----- EXTENDED BODY: Voting Rights 1965 Media Release.pdf ----- EXCERPT: ----- KEYWORDS: ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: J.M. Prince EMAIL: IP: 65.13.29.134 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 02:29:22 PM Yep. A perfectly boneheaded response from Hodges. And yes, especially here in Ga.? That's a very important distinction. You've simply got to know that critical information as AG. It's been affecting the lives of everyday Georgians, well everyday, actually. JMP ----- COMMENT: AUTHOR: TimC EMAIL: IP: 76.111.33.52 URL: DATE: 05/27/2010 08:18:00 PM what? was Hodges channeling Paul from Kentucky on that one? lame. ----- -------- AUTHOR: edhula TITLE: Greta van Sustren Relies on the Internet's Wisdom BASENAME: greta_van_sustren_relies_on_th STATUS: Publish ALLOW COMMENTS: 1 CONVERT BREAKS: __default__ ALLOW PINGS: 0 DATE: 05/28/2010 10:02:08 AM TAGS: answers,"ask a question get a good response","blah blah blah","Fox News","Greta van Sustren",questions,stupidity ----- BODY: And the Internet is never wrong.
Fox News' Greta Van Susteren received an email from a viewer, "Brian," saying that her "brain is empty." Naturally, she started a poll on her blog: "Who is dumber? Greta, or Brian." Guess who's winning.