This a response to Springsteen’s comment on the other post (my computer is really slow and I don’t feel like going back to the other post).
When someone says they are mad something took so long that is a temporary criticism because we are living in the moment. 5,10, 20 years from now you aren’t going to think about about how HCR took a year or DADT repeal took 2 years or Iraq war ending took 3 years you’re going to remember when it was actually done/finished. It’s like watching a building being constructed. If you were to look at it everyday it would feel as if it’s taking forever but when it’s complete and you’re looking at it that is what you will remember.
Like Michelle says “The only thing that happens in an instant is destruction, everything else takes time.” Getting an education, building a family, making a home, etc.
O.K. Bruce is a 1000% with Obama anything that you might hear is Bullshit the MSM will
make stuff up we know that,politico is a republican just like FOX.
Yeah it kind of does but i think once PBO does debates he can tell ppl about his record. Stimulus package and HCR is best thing to happen to 99% in over a decade and he’ll be able to explain that.
Springsteen’s comments are the perfect example explaining why Axelrod said “We’re running not only against the republicans, we’re running against impossible expectations” (paraphrasing a little)
I’m SO SO SO SO freakin’ tired of this. Why do americans view the president as omnipotent? Even informed people who should know better? It’s like at some unconscious level, people think that the president can solve any problem easily.
And after the trauma of the Bush years, the trauma of the Great Recession, this phenomenon is even worse. People are MORE demanding and LESS patient.
What americans are collectively demanding of President Obama is insane, absolutely INSANE. People who say they are “disappointed” wouldn’t survive A WEEK in the president’s shoes.
In a few decades, when historians write about this presidency with some perspective, they’ll scratch their heads at how this absolutely exceptionnal and transformative president was treated.
Amen. The short-sightedness of the American public, and especially some who call themselves ‘progressive’ has been quite amazing. They call him ‘incompetent’ and continue to claim he ‘doesn’t understand’ the economy, or republicans, even those who know exactly the kind of obstruction he has faced, and yet, they still expect him to fix everything, RIGHT NOW. Whatever he proposes, ‘is not enough’, ‘too little’, ‘band-aid’, ‘drop in the bucket’, ‘never going to work’, etc., etc., ad nauseam. Anyone who collects rain water knows, those drops add up over time.
People need to be educated. It is as simple as that. Keep the masses ignorant and wanting, then they’ll believe anything you say and accept the little you do. That is conservative dogma. Look how often the GOP say the Pres is out of touch. Really? Can anyone believe that after seeing him work that restaurant today. Education is liberalizing, reduces fear based behaviour and opens the mind to other possibilities. Barak Obama is living proof of that. Last night Arne Duncan tried to get a word in edgewise on Jon Stewart about the importance of pushing education. He tried. The voices for a Democratic educated America have to be louder and stronger and reassuring. I think there is nothing better than POTUS and FLOTUS working so hard for America. If I had one wish, it would have been to experience this kind of transformational role modelling when I was young.
I stayed up way too late last night, watching the whole hour of Michelle and Bo greeting visitors at the White House yesterday. What a beautiful event — the group of women from AA had me in tears, as did the lady who kissed FLOTUS’ hand. Michelle is getting beautiful-er and beautiful-er every day and that dress was awesome on her — she’s in such great shape! She makes me so proud and she wears the title of First Lady with charm, beauty, grace, and humor. Loved it.
Same here PJ.. tears tears & more happy tears – I could have watched her greeting people all day. I also enjoyed the group from Spain, they were all so respectful to her.
Does any know why the Friday’s Good YouTube was restricted today, I so wanted to get jiggy with it before going to work, helps me through the day! Pretty tired by the time Friday lands on my doorstep!
So happy to have some time to spend with you today, instead of a quick post and run.
The President’s budget is filled with good ideas. Let’s promote them to all we know. As a teacher in a Community college – this story is especially encouraging. Once we take back the house he can pass this type of legislation.
Turning to Community Colleges for Middle-Class Careers President Obama’s New Budget Points the Way
I think the new Adelson transfusion to the Newt is more strategic than genuinely supporting him: he wants to keep Newt in the race so that Santorum doesn’t “Santorum” Mittens. He’s practically said as much.
Yes, Adelson had pledged that he would throw his support behind Mitt once he was the nominee, so I think they’re doing everything they can to limit Santorum’s rise to clear the way for Mitt.
No kidding, Meta. The “Citizens United” decision was a blatant attempt to destroy democracy. It will go down in the anals of history as such. Good news is that its first test drive is basically Mitt v nonMitt and how the billionares are steamrolling our democracy.
This is a good news for all of us, so we can point out that Adelson wants to buy a politician
that is so fucking inmoral with a lot’s of Viton baggage.
So today I’m listening to the 2013 Army Budget hearings held by the house armed services committee. The good generals are assuring the ‘pubs that PBO’s budget is sufficient to handle current and future requirements for the army. The ‘pubs aren’t having it, they keep asking him are you sure there’s enough in the budget for you? One even said, ‘you can tell us, we are the ones who have to worry about this, not you’. In other words they’re implying this general is afraid to go against PBO, but they will protect him. Yet yesterday, they gave Roy LaHood and Tim Geither all kinds of hell about stuff in the transportation and treasury budgets that were PAID for by OCO and scored by CBO. Just where do they get these yahoos. …smh
If the worst happens and a GOP gets into the White House, either next year or in 2016 (heaven forbid), then how exactly will Americans sit by and watch the GOP start new wars, expand the military budget, and cut Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, the Depts of Housing, Education, Commerce, Energy, EPA? How will that make sense. How does it make sense to even hear these GOP candidates promise that that’s what they’ll do, while complaining about bailing out manufacturing and the auto industries, firing teachers/fire fighters/police, eliminating assistance programs, deregulate industries and unempower workers? How will Americans just watch women getting the shaft time and time again, as well as watching these GOP reinstate DADT, reinforce discrimination by opposing marriage equality, become completely unhinged in their war against Latinos, Blacks, Muslims, educated people in general, science in general? Those who don’t vote, or who vote for the GOP will be voting for this kind of crazy future.
I’m merely suggesting that the GOP that very clearly has little-to-no time for gay people, black people, Latino people, Asian people, not-rich people, not-Christian people, or women people, will, within a generation, have to find a new way to keep big business afloat.
.
.
Let’s regain the House, strengthen our hold on the Senate, sweep through our statehouses and city halls, and show the GOP what America really thinks.
Remember 2010: Elections have consequences. Polls don’t matter, unless people vote.
True, True and true the GOP are against everybody that do not look or think the same way
as they do. for The GOP is all about Idiology, Race, Religion and hate.
Ladyhawke, I’m fully on board with this. These latest attacks on women’s health and choices has made me very angry. I want to ride like a Valkyrie (sorry too many Wagner operas) and drive these Repubs out of office.
LL, may I say that you outdid yourself in the Hate/Love essay on TPV. I’m so glad you have a venue for your thoughts and creativity. Deaniac made a wise choice.
Two poignant lines from you excellent piece about love/hate
Hopelessness, fear, resentment: those are the things our opponents count on; the toxic strength of those emotions fuel them, give credence to their policies….
and…
Hatred thrives in silence; when other voices enter, other thoughts compete for attention, other modes of living make themselves known, then the old sureties crumble, their feet of clay smashed away.
Okay, What is Working (Linda, right?). I’ve said before that you are a treasure. I think your TOD family should start a lobbying campaign to get you hired by OFA . Your compilation and organizational skills plus your discipline and focus would make you an invaluable addition to their team. I’m not flattering you; I am sincere. Whatcha think folks?!
To be honest my fantasy is not to work for OFA, it is to have them offer a student an internship. Students are cheaper, and I have had a great job for 30+ years (as a teacher).
Hey you guys. I heard back from OFA and although it sounds a little general here is part of it that sounds specific:
“Dear Alice,
Thank you for writing to alert us about attacks on President Obama’s record. We have received other emails regarding this same issue and are looking into the source of these phone calls. ”
So it does look like they’re onto it. From now on I’m going to be vigilant and if I get one of these phone calls I’m going to try to get their number too.
In the meantime I know Donna Dem and Chipster’s got a fundraising page!
I got a few phone calls from somebody saying they were fundraising for the DSCC — Tim Kaine in particular. He was a persistent little thing, but I told them I was already giving through OFA. I had to practically hang up on him because he kept pressing. Whatever. If/when I give to other candidates, it will be through secure means that I can see and control — not after being solicited over the phone. I was mad they got me on my cell phone, too!
Yup! DSCC was the one I got too. Not OFA as I told him I was donating to OFA but only through the mail not over the phone. He was very persistent but I thanked him for his help. Hey, I thought Debbie Wassermann-Schultz replaced Tim Kaine. I didn’t hear either name mentioned. Oh, wait it would have been DNC for them anyway.
Does anyone know how we can get a T-shirt idea started with PBO’s quote? I think shirts like this would really take off and be great to wear when manning booths at fairs or canvassing. I have a terrible sense of design and no idea how to go about this myself, but would jump at the chance to buy these shirts if they were available. I mentioned this on Facebook this morning and got a lot of positive response.
You can tweet Jim Messina @Messina2012, Stephanie Cutter @stefcutter, David Axelrod @davidaxelrod Ben La Bolt @BenLaBolt about the T-shirt idea. I know that when PBO sang Al Green and when Bruce released the song We Take Care Of Our Own people tweeted the above mentioned folks that it would be a good idea to create a ringtone with PBO’s voice and also to use the Bruce song as part of PBO’s 2012 play list. So you can definitely tweet them and other TOD twitterers can get in the tweeting and pitch your idea to them.
Actually, different quotes on different shirts might bring in more money as people could buy several and wear the one that is most relevent on whichever day they choose.
“Hope and love are quiet; their victories are small, but one victory leads to another, then to another, until we have America’s first black President elected—and on his way to being re-elected; until we have decades’-long dictatorships in the Middle East, which seemed as enduring as the desert, toppling under the force of a people shaking off hopelessness and daring the truncheons and bullets. ”
And do realize the audacity of the team to release this picture.
it is so easy to use it in all sorts of negative ways by the opposition – whereas for me it signals the President’s humanity (I’m over fifty, too): This is one hell of a schedule
Why is Tom Harkin bashing the Obama admin over this deal? He’s saying the Dems threw Social Security under the bus. What is wrong with these Democrats that just can’t seem to support their President?
Harkin is complaining because one of his proposals got thrown under the bus by republicans. He does this all the time, when he doesn’t get what he wants, he blames the President. The truth is, if the dems didn’t give the repugs something, the extension wouldn’t have passed. Then again, Harkin is a PUMA and has a bug up his ass about PBO, he always happy to publicly attack the Prez, but will be right there when PBO goes to campaign in Iowa.
I agree he is behaving like a spoiled child. He should think of the broader picture. You don’t attack the President in a tough reelection year, especially when the opposition party is so dangerous!
He may be genuinely concerned though about the long term sustainability of Social Security. What he should realize is that there are some solutions. But right now, given the political environment, the payroll taxcut is one of the only tools to sustain the recovery and give struggling families a little breathing room. I wish people like Harkin would get more realistic.
Marriage equality has passed both houses in NJ but Christie is going to veto. The Advocate has a good video on all the ways that NJ residents can override Christie and make gay marriage a reality in NJ.
fbi just arrested a man after a long surveillance in dc. the man was planning a suicide attack on the capitol building.said to be early 30s, morracan decent. person thought he was dealing with al queda, but was part of a sting operation with undercover fbi agents. job well done.
Wow. When I say everyone is capitalizing on Jeremy Lin aka Linsanity phenomenon; I mean EVERYONE. Just saw an MSNBC Ad and at the end instead of the usual “Lean Forward” it’s now “Lin Forward.” Jeez. Corporations really know how to take one person and turn his whole life into a 30 second product. They never gave Lin the time of day before but now see no wrong in making money off his hype.
There is a new post on TPV entitled: “CI: Criminalizing President Obama”. It’s in-depth, extremely well resourced and worthy of all us O’bots attention and support.
Warning: the essay is magazine length…oh and Liberal Librarian also demonstrates incisive, literary talents.
CNN is so obsessed with the President that they have their camera zoomed in on the entrance of the airplane despite all the other announcements of the other workers and heads of Boeing.
I hate to say it, but unless the media explains his proposals, they will not understand.
I guess these proposals are more for big Corporations to create jobs in the US, anyways…
Not sure I follow you Jovie. Simple: don’t help companies who ship jobs overseas and give a hand to the companies who want to create job on american soil. People can get that even if they don’t understand the specific tax policies.
I DO BELIEVE OUR PBO ENJOYED PLAYING WITH THAT DIMMER SWITCH! THE BOEING STAFF WAS SO EAGER TO SHOW PBO WHAT THEY HAVE DONE…HE MADE THEIR DAY…MINE TOO!..:)
Santorum is losing it about being asked about the French Fries guy.
I mean literally.
He has gone so far as saying Obama sat in a church with a racist and nobody said anything.
And now you guys are saying this to me?
He says this is just crap.
He absolutely is. He’s pulling a Gingrich. He can’t justify what Friess said and since he doesn’t want to stop the gravy train, he lashes out at the media. His revisionist history is disgusting. Yeah, Rev. Wright said dumb things out of anger, but he is no racist.
1. Rev. Wright didn’t bankroll PBO’s run for the WH.
2. The media NEVER gave PBO a pass on the Rev. Wright incident. They skewered him in the press day after day.
3. PBO wasn’t mealy mouthed about Rev. Wright’s statement. He came out and gave a BRILLIANT and unifying speech on race that showed everyone why he had garnered this huge following and was more than right for the office of the Presidency.
Rick Santorum is a nasty SOB. He was caught in a hold so he tried to change the subject by claiming the media was easy on POTUS concerning Rev. Wright, when that bastard knows that was not true.Santorum is just as sickening as Newt and Romney.
OT and a personal note. Some of you might remember a few weeks ago when I let you know that I had contributed to the new unemployment claims figures. Well I am happy to announce that as of Monday February 27, I will be part of the new jobs created report for next month.
Thank you everybody. I happened to be lucky in that, at the time I was let go, there were several job openings in the area that matched what I was doing. In fact, this new position is at about 11% more than what I was making. I am continuing to pray for all those who have not been as fortunate as I was that they, who have been out of work longer than I was, find something soon.
The main downside, of course, is that I will no longer be able to spend days here trying to at the coveted “First” spot. But you will see, or more accuartely read, me in the evenings.
Oh my goodness, japa21, that’s fantastic news!! I so love it when TODers find good work and let us know. It’s been rough for so many but it looks like little green shoots may be taking hold at long last. Congratulations!!
Japa21, how wonderful for you, and to be instrumental in bringing down the unemployment numbers for PBO as well. I hope you thrive and find inspiration in the new work!
Yesterday I watched Tweety for the first time in months and he and Fineman were having a great time making fun of Mittens talking about Michigan. Fineman called him a Conehead.
I saw part of that. Apparently, when Willard talked about his time in Michigan and how much he loved it he said, “The trees are the right height,” and Chris said, “Who talks like that…what is he talking about? Then he said something like he talks about Michigan as though he’s from another planet and that’s when Howard called him a conehead and started mimicking an alien’s robotic voice, “Your-trees-are-the-right-height.” Too funny!
WASHINGTON — Democratics received a few pieces of good fundraising news on Friday: A few hours after the Obama campaign announced a $29.1 million haul in January, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee said it brought in a record $6.02 million, the largest sum it has ever raised during the month.
The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee also announced strong numbers on Friday, saying it brought in $5 million in January. The two Republican Congressional fundraising committees, the National Republican Congressional Committee and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, have not yet announced figures for January.
According to fundraising data provided by the DCCC, it has received $67.48 million so far this campaign cycle. An official said that the average contribution during that time has been $34.
Dccc and dscc has been mooching off of the Obama email list.
I can’t tell you how many emails I get from dccc and dscc even though I never donated a dime, to either one!
My point is, it could be why the OFA fundraising is not more!
I received a call this week from Dscc. They already knew my name and address so they clearly got my info off PBO’s list. Sometimes I get emails from Nancy Pelosi or Harry Reid asking for donations.
I just want to comment on the phone calls folks have gotten requesting $ from OFA. I have never received a donation call from OFA- only emails. Although I’ve been making a monthly donation since last November. I have had a call from the DNC last month and then this month, and I was able to give on the phone last month a very small donation, but not this month- I usually don’t give on the phone anyway. But both times on the phone, the callers from DNC were excellent and respectful in their requests.. when I said no this time, I was treated very kindly and with understanding. I’m just wondering if those phone calls saying they”re calling from OFA, might well be bogus. ??
Maine Republican Party chairman Charlie Webster has admitted that the state party made numerous clerical errors in counting the state’s caucus results — even omitting some votes because emails reporting tallies “went to spam” in an email account.
Rachel covered the mess in ME that has happened with the Caucus there. She figures there will be a different leader than Romney in the end. It is almost like they are trying to manage the outcomes in favor of Romney both in Iowa and Maine either that or they are totally incompetent.
I just got up from my nap. Has everybody been keepin’ their hands to themselves?
[per Chipsticks' admonition before she left us here a couple of hours ago, unattended
. . . cracking me up ;~) xoxoxox ] Happy Friday afternoon, TOD peoples!
Geez, this is just amateur hour. Why not admit the official word went out to call it for Mitt no matter how many contortions they had to go through. The Republicans always overplay their hand and show their cards too early.
THE REPUBLICAN PARTY IS FUELED BY ONE THING – “VOTER ANGER”
Poor Republicans Angry At Government Because Government Doesn’t Do Enough
=================================================
Every election year, the Republican party tries to sell you a car that doesn’t run by saying, “You don’t want a car that runs. It’s so much better to walk.” Every election year, close to 50% of the electorate buys the broken car. Then, the buyers get angry when the car doesn’t run. Some of them get angry at the politicians they voted for, but more experience a more general anger. They become angry at the entire government. Is it any coincidence that you hear far more Republicans screaming “Throw the bums out!” than Democrats? The Republican party is fueled by one thing and one thing alone, voter anger. It doesn’t matter if voters are angry because the government is doing too much, as people making over $75,000 feel, or if they feel that government is doing too little, as people making under $30,000 feel. As long as they can keep a good portion of the electorate angry, they have a chance of winning.
Anger is only part of it. Anger is what I call a secondary emotion and is triggered by either feelings of hurt or fear. Republicans use fear to bring out the anger: fear of the other (race, creed, nationality), fear of being controlled (gun control, religious control), fear of the unknown and fear of change.
1. At CPAC, Romney vowed, “I will finally balance the American budget, and as I’m sure you know, that will start with the easiest cut of all: I will eliminate Obamacare.”
This is just bizarre. The Affordable Care Act cuts the deficit considerably; trying to balance the budget by killing the law is ridiculous.
2. Also at CPAC, Romney promised, “I will cut off funding for the United Nations Population Fund which supports China’s barbaric one-child policy.”
This is a common lie on the right, but UNFPA does not support the one-child policy, and cutting off funding for the fund — a fund that enjoyed broad, bipartisan support as recently as Bush’s first term — would be a real example of barbarism.
Though a bit dated, I find the following interesting reading:
THE MEDIA WOULD NOT MAKE THIS PUBLIC!
European Press on Republican Candidates
This is generally what the rest of the world (including many Canadians) thinks about the Republican process….rarely have we seen such a circus, such absurdity….it is truly frightening….Though one has to admit that Berlusconi of Italy would fit right in…
Recent European press op-ed about the American Republican primaries
THE GERMAN PRESS The Republican presidential contest in America is a freak show, said Marc Pitzke in the German Der Spiegel. The candidates vie with one another to spew the most outrageous hard-right positions, denying evolution while endorsing torture and joking about electrocuting illegal immigrants. How did a major party in the world’s sole superpower become a club of liars, debtors, betrayers, adulterers, exaggerators, hypocrites, and ignoramuses? These know-nothings are enabled by a U.S. press that has been neutered by the demands of political correctness so that it can’t say what’s obvious: These people are daft! Instead, it proclaims one clown after the next to be the new front-runner. The current favorite, Newt Gingrich, is actually considered an intellectual merely because he can create sentences with multiple clauses. Scarcely a one has even the most basic grasp of foreign policy. One said Africa is a country, another that the Taliban rule in Libya. Collectively, they expose a political, economic, geographic, and historical ignorance that makes George W. Bush look like a scholar.
THE FRENCH PRESS That’s the scariest part, said Lorraine Millot in the Paris Liberation. The only GOP candidate who knows a thing about diplomacy, Jon Huntsman, is dead last in most polls. The others careen to extreme positions that include starting new wars and abandoning old allies. And that ‘s when they even have a position. Herman Cain, now thankfully out of the race, was the front-runner even though he couldn’t find a single coherent word to say about President Obama’s policy on Libya. He even boasted of knowing little about foreign countries. And yet it was his adultery, not his astounding ignorance that brought him down.
THE BRITISH PRESS There’s a simple explanation for this bizarre phenomenon, said Max Hastings in the London Daily Mail. In the lunatic, gun-toting badlands of America’s Hicksville, Tea Party country, it’s considered suspiciously elitist to show any interest in modern science or the world beyond America’s borders. Say what you like about British politics, no MP of any party would dare to offer themselves as town dogcatcher while knowing as little about the world as the Republican presidential candidates. We take public service seriously. Yet we in Britain, and everyone in the rest of the world, will suffer if one of the lunatics vying for the nomination makes it to the White House. The American political system has seldom, if ever, looked so inadequate. Don’t worry, said Matthew Norman in the London Independent. The fact that Gingrich is the latest threat to Mitt Romney’s inevitability just confirms how inevitable Romney’s nomination is. The thrice-married, ethically challenged Gingrich is unlikable in the extreme. Which means the nominee will be Romney, the slimiest, phoniest opportunist to run for president since…well, ever. So sit back and enjoy this circus passing for a presidential election. It can’t possibly end in a GOP victory. Can it?
whoa. thx Yardarm. I’d like to tell them to relax PBO’s got this but I’m not going to rest on my hinder until november 7th knowing that we still have the Only Adult in The Room as President (still)
Thanks for posting this yardarm. The feckless media in this country is still pretending that the GOP is a credible opposition party. The GOP is a laughingstock around the world. They are a total embarrassment. It’s just horrifying to think we have elected officials of our government who are so deranged, unhinged and radical.
Remember when the whole world had a sigh of relief when President Obama was elected? That’s nothing compared with the enormous sigh of relief they will have when he is RE-elected.
Sometimes when I get nervous, I keep saying to myself that there are millions and millions and millions of people around the world who are praying for President Obama’s reelection.
i think we should send this to all the US media and ask why aren’t they informing the American public of the contempt that the international media has for the GOP Presidential candidates and that a failure to publish and talk about this would be and is a reflection of their present standards.
We will be watching the clock to see if and when which journalists act like journalist and will reflect our readership, viewership, listenership accordingly.
Obama Socialism!! RT @cnnbrk: Dow closes at highest level since May 2008. For the week, Nasdaq up 1.7%, S&P up 1.4% on.cnn.com/zoZLyg— Don Millard (@OTOOLEFAN) February 17, 2012
Apparently Rush Limbaugh Also Thinks Planned Parenthood Is Just Trying To Get Your Kids Hooked On Sex tinyurl.com/87hruq9— Gauvin (@JeffersonObama) February 17, 2012
This from the man who would go to the Dominican Republic on sex tours. Vile.
Apparently Rush Limbaugh Also Thinks Planned Parenthood Is Just Trying To Get Your Kids Hooked On Sex tinyurl.com/87hruq9— Gauvin (@JeffersonObama) February 17, 2012
Obama Administration Wouldn’t Defend Blocking Military Benefits From Same-Sex Couples
The Obama Justice Department has concluded that legislation banning same-sex couples from receiving military and veterans benefits violates the equal protection component of the Fifth Amendment and will no longer defend the statute in court, Attorney General Eric Holder wrote in a letter to Congressional leaders on Friday.
“The legislative record of these provisions contains no rationale for providing veterans’ benefits to opposite-sex couples of veterans but not to legally married same-sex spouses of veterans,” Holder wrote. “Neither the Department of Defense nor the Department of Veterans Affairs identified any justifications for that distinction that would warrant treating these provisions differently from Section 3 of DOMA.”
Holder said DOJ would no longer defend the provisions in Title 38 which prevent same-sex couples who are legally married from obtaining benefits. He said that Congress would be provided a “full and fair opportunity” to defend the statues in the McLaughlin v. Panetta case if they wished to do so.
As Holder writes, the benefits in question “include medical and dental benefits, basic housing allowances, travel and transportation allowances, family separation benefits, military identification cards, visitation rights in military hospitals, survivor benefits, and the right to be buried together in military cemetaries.
While walking down the street one day a Corrupt Senator (that may be redundant) was tragically hit by a car and died. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.
“Welcome to heaven,” says St.. Peter. “Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we’re not sure what to do with you.”
“No problem, just let me in,” says the Senator.
“Well, I’d like to, but I have orders from the higher ups. What we’ll do is have you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity.”
“Really?, I’ve made up my mind. I want to be in heaven,” says the Senator.
“I’m sorry, but we have our rules.”
And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell.
The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course.
In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him. Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake
his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people.
They played a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and the finest champagne. Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly guy who is having a good time dancing and telling jokes.
They are all having such a good time that before the Senator realizes it, it is time to go. Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises.
The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens in heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him, “Now it’s time to visit heaven…
So, 24 hours passed with the Senator joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns.
“Well, then, you’ve spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your eternity.”
The Senator reflects for a minute, then he answers: “Well, I would never have said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in hell.”
So, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell…
Now the doors of the elevator open and he’s in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags as more trash falls to the ground.
The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulders.
“I don’t understand,” stammers the Senator. “Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there’s just a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable. What happened?”
The devil smiles at him and says, “Yesterday we were campaigning,
Matthews just dropped the ball again….with those Tea Party Patriots ( didn’t the man get arrested recently for trying to take a gun on an airplane)
Anyway…….They think they can change Congress by putting in new baggers…..but the problem is really the lobbying money. They are not happy with the ones they got in so they want to change them again ?
Hello Chips and TOD family,
Having such beautiful weather in NYC, I stepped out today and visited the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture located in Harlem, U.S.A. To view “The Obama Presidency,” A Look Behind The Scenes. Photographs by Pete Souza, Feb.1- June 2. There are 56 photographs with Mr. Souza’s personal note.
It is absolutely amazing. There are some that we have seen and some that we have not for public view. I especially enjoyed the black and white. While reading the personal inscriptions, you appreciate the moment even more. This is the second time that we have the pleasure of having a personal and private viewing of Mr. Souza’s authentic work. The first time in 2010 “The First Year”.
I am going again before it leaves and if anyone is planning to visit NYC soon, please treat yourself and others to this special viewing. There is also a showcase of books and buttons to purchase from the gift shop.
I am so glad that Mr. Souza decided to make this exhibition available to the public. Of course, cameras and electrical equipment not allowed.
For more information http://www.schomburgcenter.org
Have a great weekend everyone. Thank you Chips for a great week and everyone for the love.
P.S. Linda, icing on the cake. I always need that fix! I love when POB is away from D.C. But I sleep better when he is home with FLOTUS, the girls. And yes………Bo. Rest well, Mr. President. Job well done. I am sho nuf standing with you!
Myths vs. Facts
Conference Agreement on Unemployment Insurance
MYTH: Agreement puts in place new job search requirements so those receiving
unemployment benefits at both the state and federal level actually look for a
job.
FACT: Federal regulations currently require that all UI recipients be able and
available for work and every state now requires UI recipients to actively seek
work.
MYTH: Agreement allows blanket drug testing of recipients of unemployment
insurance.
FACT: Under current law, states can already disqualify individuals from UI when
they are fired for cause for substance abuse, and states can disqualify
individuals who refuse to take, or fail, a drug test from a prospective
employer. The agreement limits any drug testing to only those losing their jobs
because of unlawful use of a controlled substance and those seeking employment
in occupations generally requiring a drug test as regulated by the Secretary of
Labor.
MYTH: Agreement reduces the maximum number of weeks to 63 this year.
FACT: Agreement retains the maximum level (99 weeks) of Unemployment Insurance
through May, reduces the maximum to 79 through August for all but a few states
and to 73 in September – all depending on a state’s unemployment rate.
MYTH: Eliminates the “Extended Benefits” program, which allowed states to
receive an additional 20 weeks of federal benefits.
FACT: Extended Benefits program remains in effect through the remainder of the
year, although states will continue to become ineligible for the program
(because of the three-year look-back requirement) as the year continues. Many
states will continue to receive EB in the coming months, with 18 states
remaining eligible for the program into May. Importantly, if a state loses
access to EB between March and the end of May, unemployed workers can receive an
additional 10 weeks in Tier 4 of EUC.
Melissa Harris Perry is raining truth all over Politics Nation along with Rev. Al. She rightfully skewered Darrell Issa for his repugnant hearing on birth control with a panel that included zero women. She also lambasted Issa for responding to his critics with a twit pic and quote from MLK Jr. She said Issa was welcome to the Catholic Bishops and welcome to take their point of view but he was NOT welcome to MLK Jr. She said ” Let me make this clear to ALL republicans. They are NOT welcome to MLK Jr. and are not welcome in misrepresenting him.”
She was amazing. Can’t wait for her show tomorrow. Hope she continues in this vein.
You can read the full story in the link. He basically tried to compare his disgusting hearing on birth control to the hate and criticism MLK Jr. experienced while fighting for Civil Rights. He also tried to imply that MLK Jr. would have agreed with his hearing. In actuality, MLK Jr. was pro- birth control, pro- states and the federal government fully funding birth control just like the ACA and was pro-sex education so we could reduce the rates of back alley abortions, poverty, and so women could have control of their bodies and control of family planning. Issa is a bloody scumbag who isn’t fit to crawl on the ground MLK Jr. walked.
Yes. Looks like it’s been hacked. Not surprising someone would try given the very clear messages they post every day about the absolute horror the GOP is.
Seriously. I just tried to go there this afternoon…making my rounds. Nada. They know they can’t win with the truth and with honesty,so they do these kinds of things to take away the truth and voices of people that oppose them.I also read where they sent out fake census forms AGAIN….think I saw that on RawStory. What a bunch of fucking, fearmongering idiots.
The 43rd annual NAACP Image Awards, hosted by Sanaa Lathan of the hit movie “Contagion,” and Anthony Mackie of the Oscar-winning film “The Hurt Locker.” The show will air on NBC tonight at 8:00 p.m. (7:00 p.m. Central).
Performances by Lenny Kravitz, Jill Scott, Kirk Franklin, Jennifer Hudson, and Ne-Yo, and appearances by Samuel L. Jackson, LL Cool J, Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Vanessa Williams and many more of other favorite stars.
Thanks so much for the heads up cookemom. It totally slipped my mind. Another reason why I love TOD. We’re not only politically informed, we’re also a TV guide. It’s a win-win.
BREAKING: Maryland House Of Delegates Passes Marriage Equality Bill | After two days of contentious debate and the consideration of several amendments, the Maryland House of Delegates has passed marriage equality legislation with a vote of 71-67. One of the amendments passed delayed the date of enactment from October to January. Another created a non-severability clause, such that if the religious protections are overturned by the courts, the entire law would have to be deemed invalid. The measure still has to advance through the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee and full Senate, and even then, it is likely to be challenged by a referendum.
Update
Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) responds: “Today, the House of Delegates voted for human dignity. Speaker Busch and his fellow Delegates deserve a lot of credit for their hard work. At its heart, their vote was a vote for Maryland’s children….Now, as the Senate prepares to vote, all of us are needed – and we’re prepared to redouble our efforts. The common thread running through our efforts together in Maryland is the thread of human dignity; the dignity of work, the dignity of faith, the dignity of family, the dignity of every individual. Love is an unalienable right.”
Standing with you, Mr. President.
I’m first? What do you know.
Standing with YOU, too, Proud of Obama!
All the way!!!!!with you Mr President yes we can.
Congratulations Proud of Obama!
Good West Coast morning to you all
Good morning and thank you, Gail!
Love the top photo and new slogan!
Does anyone know if there is a site that shows the Geographic Breakdown of where the donations are coming from ?
Also …can someone sneak me the link to the PBO video of his trip to India ? It is the only one I seemed to have not saved
Thank You.
India: http://www.youtube.com/user/TheObamaDiary/#p/u/64/EKMSvg2O5BE
Thank you so much JER….
♥ ♥ ♥ Good Day Chips! Good Day TOD Family! ♥ ♥ ♥
Barack Obama Quote O’ The Day
Have a great day, everyone!
LOVE the photo also…GREAT JOB!!!
This a response to Springsteen’s comment on the other post (my computer is really slow and I don’t feel like going back to the other post).
When someone says they are mad something took so long that is a temporary criticism because we are living in the moment. 5,10, 20 years from now you aren’t going to think about about how HCR took a year or DADT repeal took 2 years or Iraq war ending took 3 years you’re going to remember when it was actually done/finished. It’s like watching a building being constructed. If you were to look at it everyday it would feel as if it’s taking forever but when it’s complete and you’re looking at it that is what you will remember.
Like Michelle says “The only thing that happens in an instant is destruction, everything else takes time.” Getting an education, building a family, making a home, etc.
Very true statement Jessica. This and the one above.
I love that statement. I have remembered it every day since I first heard her say that.
But Bruce said the ainistration helped out big corporations and not main street.
Sounds like Occupy!
Administration.
I hope the Politico story is just another one of their lies.
Proud please see my detailed reply to your response on the previous thread on this matter.
O.K. Bruce is a 1000% with Obama anything that you might hear is Bullshit the MSM will
make stuff up we know that,politico is a republican just like FOX.
Yeah it kind of does but i think once PBO does debates he can tell ppl about his record. Stimulus package and HCR is best thing to happen to 99% in over a decade and he’ll be able to explain that.
This is sooooo true.
Springsteen’s comments are the perfect example explaining why Axelrod said “We’re running not only against the republicans, we’re running against impossible expectations” (paraphrasing a little)
I’m SO SO SO SO freakin’ tired of this. Why do americans view the president as omnipotent? Even informed people who should know better? It’s like at some unconscious level, people think that the president can solve any problem easily.
And after the trauma of the Bush years, the trauma of the Great Recession, this phenomenon is even worse. People are MORE demanding and LESS patient.
What americans are collectively demanding of President Obama is insane, absolutely INSANE. People who say they are “disappointed” wouldn’t survive A WEEK in the president’s shoes.
In a few decades, when historians write about this presidency with some perspective, they’ll scratch their heads at how this absolutely exceptionnal and transformative president was treated.
Amen. The short-sightedness of the American public, and especially some who call themselves ‘progressive’ has been quite amazing. They call him ‘incompetent’ and continue to claim he ‘doesn’t understand’ the economy, or republicans, even those who know exactly the kind of obstruction he has faced, and yet, they still expect him to fix everything, RIGHT NOW. Whatever he proposes, ‘is not enough’, ‘too little’, ‘band-aid’, ‘drop in the bucket’, ‘never going to work’, etc., etc., ad nauseam. Anyone who collects rain water knows, those drops add up over time.
THIS!
People need to be educated. It is as simple as that. Keep the masses ignorant and wanting, then they’ll believe anything you say and accept the little you do. That is conservative dogma. Look how often the GOP say the Pres is out of touch. Really? Can anyone believe that after seeing him work that restaurant today. Education is liberalizing, reduces fear based behaviour and opens the mind to other possibilities. Barak Obama is living proof of that. Last night Arne Duncan tried to get a word in edgewise on Jon Stewart about the importance of pushing education. He tried. The voices for a Democratic educated America have to be louder and stronger and reassuring. I think there is nothing better than POTUS and FLOTUS working so hard for America. If I had one wish, it would have been to experience this kind of transformational role modelling when I was young.
And after the trauma of the Bush years, the trauma of the Great Recession, this phenomenon is even worse. People are MORE demanding and LESS patient.
I think this, combined with the remark by Michelle, that destruction only takes an instant, goes a long way to explain it.
We saw how fast and thoroughly the Bush administration took the US down – invading the wrong country, let the economy crash …
This showed the power of the (not wanted) Presidency.
How easy is it, then, to expect “your guy in the White House” to fix it in his first term ….
I stayed up way too late last night, watching the whole hour of Michelle and Bo greeting visitors at the White House yesterday. What a beautiful event — the group of women from AA had me in tears, as did the lady who kissed FLOTUS’ hand. Michelle is getting beautiful-er and beautiful-er every day and that dress was awesome on her — she’s in such great shape! She makes me so proud and she wears the title of First Lady with charm, beauty, grace, and humor. Loved it.
Same here PJ.. tears tears & more happy tears – I could have watched her greeting people all day. I also enjoyed the group from Spain, they were all so respectful to her.
Yes — the group from Spain was lovely…. and so well dressed…very attractive people!
I wonder if Michelle ever wants to just laze around in her bathrobe for a day with no make-up on?
Does any know why the Friday’s Good YouTube was restricted today, I so wanted to get jiggy with it before going to work, helps me through the day! Pretty tired by the time Friday lands on my doorstep!
Good Morning TOD family
So happy to have some time to spend with you today, instead of a quick post and run.
The President’s budget is filled with good ideas. Let’s promote them to all we know. As a teacher in a Community college – this story is especially encouraging. Once we take back the house he can pass this type of legislation.
Turning to Community Colleges for Middle-Class Careers President Obama’s New Budget Points the Way
http://www.whatisworking.com/2012/02/turning-to-community-colleges-for.html
Just another excuse to put up a picture of Mrs. Obama and to sing her praises
Hold the mystery meat: Military food gets upgrade
http://www.whatisworking.com/2012/02/hold-mystery-meat-military-food-gets.html
Virginia’s Proposed Ultrasound Law Is an Abomination
By Dahlia Lithwick
===========================================
http://www.slate.com/articles/double_x/doublex/2012/02/virginia_ultrasound_law_women_who_want_an_abortion_will_be_forcibly_penetrated_for_no_medical_reason.html
No court will uphold this State Ordered Rape of Woman…..
Wow! Adelson just gave Newt another 10 million squids.
Holy shit!
Good! Keep the clown show going all the way to the convention.
yup. I want the roller coaster to go on so that at the end the rethug voters are completely sick.
What a dope. Newt is a complete sinkhole, can’t even get anyone to show up for the debates. TOAST.
I think the new Adelson transfusion to the Newt is more strategic than genuinely supporting him: he wants to keep Newt in the race so that Santorum doesn’t “Santorum” Mittens. He’s practically said as much.
Ah, I hadn’t heard that. Makes sense. This is all so blatant that I hope Americans are paying attention to what the Supreme Court has wrought.
Yes, Adelson had pledged that he would throw his support behind Mitt once he was the nominee, so I think they’re doing everything they can to limit Santorum’s rise to clear the way for Mitt.
No kidding, Meta. The “Citizens United” decision was a blatant attempt to destroy democracy. It will go down in the anals of history as such. Good news is that its first test drive is basically Mitt v nonMitt and how the billionares are steamrolling our democracy.
TeeHee. They’re getting a taste of their own medicine. The GOP establishment is ‘suppressing votes’ in the caucus’. I am loving it.
This is a good news for all of us, so we can point out that Adelson wants to buy a politician
that is so fucking inmoral with a lot’s of Viton baggage.
Boeing Everett, pretty sure that’s where AF1 was built! Like coming home, eh? Bye y’all…. Gotta get moving! Back later …
So today I’m listening to the 2013 Army Budget hearings held by the house armed services committee. The good generals are assuring the ‘pubs that PBO’s budget is sufficient to handle current and future requirements for the army. The ‘pubs aren’t having it, they keep asking him are you sure there’s enough in the budget for you? One even said, ‘you can tell us, we are the ones who have to worry about this, not you’. In other words they’re implying this general is afraid to go against PBO, but they will protect him. Yet yesterday, they gave Roy LaHood and Tim Geither all kinds of hell about stuff in the transportation and treasury budgets that were PAID for by OCO and scored by CBO. Just where do they get these yahoos. …smh
If the worst happens and a GOP gets into the White House, either next year or in 2016 (heaven forbid), then how exactly will Americans sit by and watch the GOP start new wars, expand the military budget, and cut Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, the Depts of Housing, Education, Commerce, Energy, EPA? How will that make sense. How does it make sense to even hear these GOP candidates promise that that’s what they’ll do, while complaining about bailing out manufacturing and the auto industries, firing teachers/fire fighters/police, eliminating assistance programs, deregulate industries and unempower workers? How will Americans just watch women getting the shaft time and time again, as well as watching these GOP reinstate DADT, reinforce discrimination by opposing marriage equality, become completely unhinged in their war against Latinos, Blacks, Muslims, educated people in general, science in general? Those who don’t vote, or who vote for the GOP will be voting for this kind of crazy future.
The GOP rides into the sunset.
By Emily L. Hauser
====================
I’m merely suggesting that the GOP that very clearly has little-to-no time for gay people, black people, Latino people, Asian people, not-rich people, not-Christian people, or women people, will, within a generation, have to find a new way to keep big business afloat.
.
.
Let’s regain the House, strengthen our hold on the Senate, sweep through our statehouses and city halls, and show the GOP what America really thinks.
Remember 2010: Elections have consequences. Polls don’t matter, unless people vote.
====================
http://www.angryblacklady.com/2012/02/16/the-gop-rides-into-the-sunset/
True, True and true the GOP are against everybody that do not look or think the same way
as they do. for The GOP is all about Idiology, Race, Religion and hate.
Ladyhawke, I’m fully on board with this. These latest attacks on women’s health and choices has made me very angry. I want to ride like a Valkyrie (sorry too many Wagner operas) and drive these Repubs out of office.
Ok, ABL is pretty much saying what I’ve been saying. Can we officially call it a “meme” now?
Thank you for your TPV essay, LL.
A little shout out for you:
#PRESSON
Thanks a million, Bob!
Love that ‘Yes to hope!’
LL, may I say that you outdid yourself in the Hate/Love essay on TPV. I’m so glad you have a venue for your thoughts and creativity. Deaniac made a wise choice.
…LL
Two poignant lines from you excellent piece about love/hate
Hopelessness, fear, resentment: those are the things our opponents count on; the toxic strength of those emotions fuel them, give credence to their policies….
and…
Hatred thrives in silence; when other voices enter, other thoughts compete for attention, other modes of living make themselves known, then the old sureties crumble, their feet of clay smashed away.
SIMPLYYYYYYYY AWESOMEEEE…
KEEP IT COMING…..
ALWAYS STAND WITH MY PBO…AM UP TO MY KNEES IN JAMBALAYA FOR HOMELESS…WON’T MISS PBO THIS AFTERNOON…BBL…:)
really? Jambalaya? Yum…….
Good news from a conservative stronghold
Democrat Wins Very Conservative Oklahoma District By A Landslide, Other Democrats Also Win Big On Valentines Day
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2012/02/15/democrat-wins-very-conservative-oklahoma-district-by-a-landslide-other-democrats-also-win-big-on-valentines-day/
Hah! W i W, I thought democrats were outlawed in OK!
I was amazed too. Democrats seem to be feeling energized everywhere.
Obama :: Restoring U.S. Image Abroad Was a Top Accomplishment
http://www.whatisworking.com/2012/02/obama-restoring-us-image-abroad-was-top.html
Okay, What is Working (Linda, right?). I’ve said before that you are a treasure. I think your TOD family should start a lobbying campaign to get you hired by OFA . Your compilation and organizational skills plus your discipline and focus would make you an invaluable addition to their team. I’m not flattering you; I am sincere. Whatcha think folks?!
HI Pamela
To be honest my fantasy is not to work for OFA, it is to have them offer a student an internship. Students are cheaper, and I have had a great job for 30+ years (as a teacher).
Thanks for the kind thoughts.
You’re welcome.but still I think your skills are under utilized..
High-speed rail touted in jobs coalition’s new radio campaign
http://www.whatisworking.com/2012/02/high-speed-rail-touted-in-jobs.html
Hopefully HSR will get back on track in California
tweeted yez Linda – good work!!!
Romney’s Latest Attempt to Spin the GM Bailout
http://www.tnr.com/blog/jonathan-cohn/100757/romney-attacks-obama-gm-chrysler-bailout-spin-unions
Hey you guys. I heard back from OFA and although it sounds a little general here is part of it that sounds specific:
“Dear Alice,
Thank you for writing to alert us about attacks on President Obama’s record. We have received other emails regarding this same issue and are looking into the source of these phone calls. ”
So it does look like they’re onto it. From now on I’m going to be vigilant and if I get one of these phone calls I’m going to try to get their number too.
In the meantime I know Donna Dem and Chipster’s got a fundraising page!
thanks
am
Alice, are these the calls asking for ridiculous amounts of money as campaign donations?
yah, that’s what I emailed OFA about. Someone named Liz wrote me back.
Good! When I read what you guys were reporting the calls just didn’t pass the smell test.
I got a few phone calls from somebody saying they were fundraising for the DSCC — Tim Kaine in particular. He was a persistent little thing, but I told them I was already giving through OFA. I had to practically hang up on him because he kept pressing. Whatever. If/when I give to other candidates, it will be through secure means that I can see and control — not after being solicited over the phone. I was mad they got me on my cell phone, too!
I just bought a new phone for the house whereby I can block calls. I’ve been blocking numbers I don’t recognize like crazy for the past few days.
Yup! DSCC was the one I got too. Not OFA as I told him I was donating to OFA but only through the mail not over the phone. He was very persistent but I thanked him for his help. Hey, I thought Debbie Wassermann-Schultz replaced Tim Kaine. I didn’t hear either name mentioned. Oh, wait it would have been DNC for them anyway.
Great job, alice! I knew that was fishy!
Does anyone know how we can get a T-shirt idea started with PBO’s quote? I think shirts like this would really take off and be great to wear when manning booths at fairs or canvassing. I have a terrible sense of design and no idea how to go about this myself, but would jump at the chance to buy these shirts if they were available. I mentioned this on Facebook this morning and got a lot of positive response.
You can tweet Jim Messina @Messina2012, Stephanie Cutter @stefcutter, David Axelrod @davidaxelrod Ben La Bolt @BenLaBolt about the T-shirt idea. I know that when PBO sang Al Green and when Bruce released the song We Take Care Of Our Own people tweeted the above mentioned folks that it would be a good idea to create a ringtone with PBO’s voice and also to use the Bruce song as part of PBO’s 2012 play list. So you can definitely tweet them and other TOD twitterers can get in the tweeting and pitch your idea to them.
like this?
photo/1
Put the whole picture with the words, I’ll buy one!
Actually, different quotes on different shirts might bring in more money as people could buy several and wear the one that is most relevent on whichever day they choose.
Ok, shameless blog plugging. I have a new post up at TPV. It can be found here: http://www.thepeoplesview.net/2012/02/hatred-and-love.html
Go on by if you feel so inclined.
I so enjoy your writing LL. Thank you!
Great job LL. So proud that you have this opportunity to use your talents!!!!!!
Not shameless at all, but a public service — letting us know that you have a new post. You are one of my heroes.
LL, I especially loved this:
“Hope and love are quiet; their victories are small, but one victory leads to another, then to another, until we have America’s first black President elected—and on his way to being re-elected; until we have decades’-long dictatorships in the Middle East, which seemed as enduring as the desert, toppling under the force of a people shaking off hopelessness and daring the truncheons and bullets. ”
You have such a love affair with words!
Beautifu!
That picture of PBO yawning in his big old beast car wasn’t actually a yawn. He was singing “Let’s Stay Together”.
It was a yawn.
And do realize the audacity of the team to release this picture.
it is so easy to use it in all sorts of negative ways by the opposition – whereas for me it signals the President’s humanity (I’m over fifty, too): This is one hell of a schedule
House and Senate both passed the payroll tax cut extension package.
This is finally over.! Some Democrats voted NO.
Why is Tom Harkin bashing the Obama admin over this deal? He’s saying the Dems threw Social Security under the bus. What is wrong with these Democrats that just can’t seem to support their President?
Harkin is complaining because one of his proposals got thrown under the bus by republicans. He does this all the time, when he doesn’t get what he wants, he blames the President. The truth is, if the dems didn’t give the repugs something, the extension wouldn’t have passed. Then again, Harkin is a PUMA and has a bug up his ass about PBO, he always happy to publicly attack the Prez, but will be right there when PBO goes to campaign in Iowa.
I agree he is behaving like a spoiled child. He should think of the broader picture. You don’t attack the President in a tough reelection year, especially when the opposition party is so dangerous!
He may be genuinely concerned though about the long term sustainability of Social Security. What he should realize is that there are some solutions. But right now, given the political environment, the payroll taxcut is one of the only tools to sustain the recovery and give struggling families a little breathing room. I wish people like Harkin would get more realistic.
PLEASE HELP MAKE GAY MARRIAGE A REALITY IN NJ:
Marriage equality has passed both houses in NJ but Christie is going to veto. The Advocate has a good video on all the ways that NJ residents can override Christie and make gay marriage a reality in NJ.
http://www.advocate.com/Politics/Commentary/Oped_Marriage_Passes_in_NJ_Legislature_What_You_Can_Do/
ACTION STEPS:
CALL GOV CHRISTIE: 609-292-6000
CALL YOUR STATE SENATOR
CALL DEMOCRATIC SENATORS RICE (973-371-5665) OR VAN DREW (609-465-0700)
A NJ Teen pleads for her dad’s right to marry:
http://videos.nj.com/star-ledger/2012/02/nj_teen_appears_at_judiciary_h.html
Thanks everyone for sending this around to friends and family.This is a critical moment for NJ and we are so very close.
Coming up soon:
fbi just arrested a man after a long surveillance in dc. the man was planning a suicide attack on the capitol building.said to be early 30s, morracan decent. person thought he was dealing with al queda, but was part of a sting operation with undercover fbi agents. job well done.
The FBI is all over the place! Excellent.
Live coverage of PBO’s visit: http://www.kirotv.com/s/watch-kiro-7-live/
IS PBO ON ANYTHING BESIDES…WH. GOV?
THANKS JER…IT’S A BLONDE THING…I MISSED IT! DAH!
It is still on: http://www.kirotv.com/s/watch-kiro-7-live/
Ohio’s Atty Genl has taken back his endorsement of flipping Mittens and has decided to now flop himself to back Santorum.
LOL. even mitti’s supporters are flip-floppers.
Wow. When I say everyone is capitalizing on Jeremy Lin aka Linsanity phenomenon; I mean EVERYONE. Just saw an MSNBC Ad and at the end instead of the usual “Lean Forward” it’s now “Lin Forward.” Jeez. Corporations really know how to take one person and turn his whole life into a 30 second product. They never gave Lin the time of day before but now see no wrong in making money off his hype.
Good things happening in Florida
Largest Private Prison Bill In History Dies In Florida Senate Despite Million Dollar Lobbying Campaign
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2012/02/16/426481/private-prison-florida-senate/
Thank God.
He needs to trademark/register his name. might as well make some money on it. even $arah Pay’em was trying to horn in on his name.
Ooops, this was a reply to utaustinliberal’s post above
I agree, he definitely needs to trademark/register his name. His name can be made in so many different combinations.
An an ward winning film maker helping Alabama
The Two Faces of Alabama
For a website with several more videos
http://isthisalabama.org/
The media at the Boeing factory sound super excited! They can’t wait to see our President.
PBO on Cnn Live
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/cvplive/cvpstream2
Thanks Proud! I hope our President takes his time walking down the red carpeted stairs!
There is a new post on TPV entitled: “CI: Criminalizing President Obama”. It’s in-depth, extremely well resourced and worthy of all us O’bots attention and support.
Warning: the essay is magazine length…oh and Liberal Librarian also demonstrates incisive, literary talents.
CNN is so obsessed with the President that they have their camera zoomed in on the entrance of the airplane despite all the other announcements of the other workers and heads of Boeing.
No I think the Prez is gonna make his entrance from the plan. go to cpsan. Souza is in the doorway of the plane!
LOL
Yes I know. But the entire time they had the camera zoomed in the door well before he was supposed to come out!
It’s on cspan. I guess he is taking a tour of that beautiful starship 787?
What would a Sunday show be without media darling, John McCain?
He sure is!
POTUS came trotting down the steps of the new Boeing airliner!
There he is! There he is! Stepping out of a Boeing like the C-I-C he is.
Finally!!!!!!!!
He is rocking it. Give them the bitter truth about improved technology requiring less manpower.
socking it to the 1% about unfair tax rates.
Boeing hired 13, 000 workers last year! Wow.
He coolly tells the nation about various plane components and where they are made. What a geek.
He may be a geek, and he definitely is cool, but he is our cool geek.
A- Alright Mr. President! Knock that podium!
I hate to say it, but unless the media explains his proposals, they will not understand.
I guess these proposals are more for big Corporations to create jobs in the US, anyways…
Not sure I follow you Jovie. Simple: don’t help companies who ship jobs overseas and give a hand to the companies who want to create job on american soil. People can get that even if they don’t understand the specific tax policies.
Loved the way how he weaved the role the government plays in industrial research. Eat it grover fucking norquist.
“We take care of each other. We don’t give up.” You tell ‘em, Mr. President.
And there is the podium tap.
He must be the most photographed man evah. So many cameras.
I DO BELIEVE OUR PBO ENJOYED PLAYING WITH THAT DIMMER SWITCH! THE BOEING STAFF WAS SO EAGER TO SHOW PBO WHAT THEY HAVE DONE…HE MADE THEIR DAY…MINE TOO!..:)
YEA for the Boeing Dreamliner and for our great #44!!!!!
Santorum is losing it about being asked about the French Fries guy.
I mean literally.
He has gone so far as saying Obama sat in a church with a racist and nobody said anything.
And now you guys are saying this to me?
He says this is just crap.
I think he is having a meltdown!
7.8 unemployment must be coming next month, then. Enter Jeremiah Wright.
He absolutely is. He’s pulling a Gingrich. He can’t justify what Friess said and since he doesn’t want to stop the gravy train, he lashes out at the media. His revisionist history is disgusting. Yeah, Rev. Wright said dumb things out of anger, but he is no racist.
1. Rev. Wright didn’t bankroll PBO’s run for the WH.
2. The media NEVER gave PBO a pass on the Rev. Wright incident. They skewered him in the press day after day.
3. PBO wasn’t mealy mouthed about Rev. Wright’s statement. He came out and gave a BRILLIANT and unifying speech on race that showed everyone why he had garnered this huge following and was more than right for the office of the Presidency.
The “lame-stream” media played that loop over and over and over again. I’m surprised that Charlie Rose let him get away with that characterization.
BRAVO on your points because I remember them all.
BINGO ut! Send this nugget of truth to the media folk- seems honesty is a bit of a challenge for them lately.
Rick Santorum is a nasty SOB. He was caught in a hold so he tried to change the subject by claiming the media was easy on POTUS concerning Rev. Wright, when that bastard knows that was not true.Santorum is just as sickening as Newt and Romney.
Typical authoritarian mentality. Unable to deal with criticisism.
This guy is totally unqualified for the Oval Office. Mentally as well as intellectually.
Gosh, I love our President’s walk. Swagga, baby.
More good economic news: Macy’s to hire 4000 new full time employees—
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/breaking/chi-want-highpaying-job-macys-has-4000-20120217,0,3938663.story
This is bloody good news!!!!! Wow. Wow. Wow. 2012 is shaping up to be a great year economy wise. Hope the growth continues. Thanks Dotster.
OT and a personal note. Some of you might remember a few weeks ago when I let you know that I had contributed to the new unemployment claims figures. Well I am happy to announce that as of Monday February 27, I will be part of the new jobs created report for next month.
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
AWESOME JAPA…CONGRATULATIONS!…:)
Wonderful japa21….Congratulations !!!!!!!
OMG!!!!! OMG!!!!! Sooooooooooooo happy for you Japa21. Congratulations mate.
Awesome news! Congrats and good luck!
Outstanding!
Thank you everybody. I happened to be lucky in that, at the time I was let go, there were several job openings in the area that matched what I was doing. In fact, this new position is at about 11% more than what I was making. I am continuing to pray for all those who have not been as fortunate as I was that they, who have been out of work longer than I was, find something soon.
Yay japa!!! Well Done!
I’m so happy for you japa! And your future employer is lucky to recruit such an intelligent and generous person like you.
oh japa, congratulations to you
Best wishes, I hope its something you enjoy and look forward to each day.
Congratulations japa! This is wonderful news.
Japa, there is terrific! Congratulations. This is the sort of news that’s just great to hear.
The main downside, of course, is that I will no longer be able to spend days here trying to at the coveted “First” spot.
But you will see, or more accuartely read, me in the evenings.
CONGRATULATIONSSSSSSSSSS…….KEEP ON KEPPIN ON!!!!
yay Japa! good for you!
~*~*~*~*~*~YAY JAPA! ~*~*~*~*~*~
Excellent japa! Congrats!
Oh my goodness, japa21, that’s fantastic news!! I so love it when TODers find good work and let us know. It’s been rough for so many but it looks like little green shoots may be taking hold at long last. Congratulations!!
Fantastic, that is great news japa21.
Congratulations, japa21.
WOW, that is great news Japa21!!!!!!
Yippee do dah
So happy for you.
Congratulations!!!! What a great way to end a fantastic week. I hope we hear more and more stories like this. Way to go, Japa!
Congratulations Japa!!!!!
Completely wonderful news Japa, THRILLED for you!!!
Japa21, how wonderful for you, and to be instrumental in bringing down the unemployment numbers for PBO as well. I hope you thrive and find inspiration in the new work!
OMG…Martin just played a clip from ” Rain Man” mocking Mitt talking about his love of cars..
LMAO…. ” I’m an excellent driver “
I knew Mitt’s recitation of Michigan things he likes reminded me of something——it was twirling around in my brain—-and exactly!—-it was Rain Man!
Yesterday I watched Tweety for the first time in months and he and Fineman were having a great time making fun of Mittens talking about Michigan. Fineman called him a Conehead.
I saw part of that. Apparently, when Willard talked about his time in Michigan and how much he loved it he said, “The trees are the right height,” and Chris said, “Who talks like that…what is he talking about? Then he said something like he talks about Michigan as though he’s from another planet and that’s when Howard called him a conehead and started mimicking an alien’s robotic voice, “Your-trees-are-the-right-height.” Too funny!
WASHINGTON — Democratics received a few pieces of good fundraising news on Friday: A few hours after the Obama campaign announced a $29.1 million haul in January, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee said it brought in a record $6.02 million, the largest sum it has ever raised during the month.
The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee also announced strong numbers on Friday, saying it brought in $5 million in January. The two Republican Congressional fundraising committees, the National Republican Congressional Committee and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, have not yet announced figures for January.
According to fundraising data provided by the DCCC, it has received $67.48 million so far this campaign cycle. An official said that the average contribution during that time has been $34.
Dccc and dscc has been mooching off of the Obama email list.
I can’t tell you how many emails I get from dccc and dscc even though I never donated a dime, to either one!
My point is, it could be why the OFA fundraising is not more!
I received a call this week from Dscc. They already knew my name and address so they clearly got my info off PBO’s list. Sometimes I get emails from Nancy Pelosi or Harry Reid asking for donations.
I guess it a smart move to replace Chris Van Hollen….Steve Israel is much better.
I thought the 29M included the committees, but I could be wrong.
That is shared with the DNC from what I have read…
75,953,128.29
2/17/12 3:37 PM EST
Amount the Obama campaign had on hand at the end of January: $75,953,128.29
I just want to comment on the phone calls folks have gotten requesting $ from OFA. I have never received a donation call from OFA- only emails. Although I’ve been making a monthly donation since last November. I have had a call from the DNC last month and then this month, and I was able to give on the phone last month a very small donation, but not this month- I usually don’t give on the phone anyway. But both times on the phone, the callers from DNC were excellent and respectful in their requests.. when I said no this time, I was treated very kindly and with understanding. I’m just wondering if those phone calls saying they”re calling from OFA, might well be bogus. ??
oops, thats not last November, but November 2010.. however I only make small payments each month.
I JUST SPOKE WITH OFA HQ A LITTLE WHILE AGO ABOUT THE RUDE CALL I REC’D AND GAVE THEM THE T#!!!!
oh good Sue.. I hope they work it out.
Maine Republican Party chairman Charlie Webster has admitted that the state party made numerous clerical errors in counting the state’s caucus results — even omitting some votes because emails reporting tallies “went to spam” in an email account.
–
Spam? Well, that is as good as my dog ate it!
Jovie that is sooo funny!!!! And pathetically disturbing at the same time. This is dysfunction and incompetence at it’s highest.
Rachel covered the mess in ME that has happened with the Caucus there. She figures there will be a different leader than Romney in the end. It is almost like they are trying to manage the outcomes in favor of Romney both in Iowa and Maine either that or they are totally incompetent.
The President talked about a new website today- this is it-
http://business.usa.gov/
I just got up from my nap. Has everybody been keepin’ their hands to themselves?
[per Chipsticks' admonition before she left us here a couple of hours ago, unattended
. . . cracking me up ;~) xoxoxox ] Happy Friday afternoon, TOD peoples!
Geez, this is just amateur hour. Why not admit the official word went out to call it for Mitt no matter how many contortions they had to go through. The Republicans always overplay their hand and show their cards too early.
THE REPUBLICAN PARTY IS FUELED BY ONE THING – “VOTER ANGER”
Poor Republicans Angry At Government Because Government Doesn’t Do Enough
=================================================
Every election year, the Republican party tries to sell you a car that doesn’t run by saying, “You don’t want a car that runs. It’s so much better to walk.” Every election year, close to 50% of the electorate buys the broken car. Then, the buyers get angry when the car doesn’t run. Some of them get angry at the politicians they voted for, but more experience a more general anger. They become angry at the entire government. Is it any coincidence that you hear far more Republicans screaming “Throw the bums out!” than Democrats? The Republican party is fueled by one thing and one thing alone, voter anger. It doesn’t matter if voters are angry because the government is doing too much, as people making over $75,000 feel, or if they feel that government is doing too little, as people making under $30,000 feel. As long as they can keep a good portion of the electorate angry, they have a chance of winning.
=================================================
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2012/02/16/poor-republicans-angry-at-government-because-government-doesnt-do-enough/
Anger is only part of it. Anger is what I call a secondary emotion and is triggered by either feelings of hurt or fear. Republicans use fear to bring out the anger: fear of the other (race, creed, nationality), fear of being controlled (gun control, religious control), fear of the unknown and fear of change.
Very well said.
CHRONICLING MITT’S MENDACITY
By Steve Benen
=============================
1. At CPAC, Romney vowed, “I will finally balance the American budget, and as I’m sure you know, that will start with the easiest cut of all: I will eliminate Obamacare.”
This is just bizarre. The Affordable Care Act cuts the deficit considerably; trying to balance the budget by killing the law is ridiculous.
2. Also at CPAC, Romney promised, “I will cut off funding for the United Nations Population Fund which supports China’s barbaric one-child policy.”
This is a common lie on the right, but UNFPA does not support the one-child policy, and cutting off funding for the fund — a fund that enjoyed broad, bipartisan support as recently as Bush’s first term — would be a real example of barbarism.
=============================
Lots more mendacity here………
http://maddowblog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/02/17/10436726-chronicling-mitts-mendacity
Though a bit dated, I find the following interesting reading:
THE MEDIA WOULD NOT MAKE THIS PUBLIC!
European Press on Republican Candidates
This is generally what the rest of the world (including many Canadians) thinks about the Republican process….rarely have we seen such a circus, such absurdity….it is truly frightening….Though one has to admit that Berlusconi of Italy would fit right in…
Recent European press op-ed about the American Republican primaries
THE GERMAN PRESS The Republican presidential contest in America is a freak show, said Marc Pitzke in the German Der Spiegel. The candidates vie with one another to spew the most outrageous hard-right positions, denying evolution while endorsing torture and joking about electrocuting illegal immigrants. How did a major party in the world’s sole superpower become a club of liars, debtors, betrayers, adulterers, exaggerators, hypocrites, and ignoramuses? These know-nothings are enabled by a U.S. press that has been neutered by the demands of political correctness so that it can’t say what’s obvious: These people are daft! Instead, it proclaims one clown after the next to be the new front-runner. The current favorite, Newt Gingrich, is actually considered an intellectual merely because he can create sentences with multiple clauses. Scarcely a one has even the most basic grasp of foreign policy. One said Africa is a country, another that the Taliban rule in Libya. Collectively, they expose a political, economic, geographic, and historical ignorance that makes George W. Bush look like a scholar.
THE FRENCH PRESS That’s the scariest part, said Lorraine Millot in the Paris Liberation. The only GOP candidate who knows a thing about diplomacy, Jon Huntsman, is dead last in most polls. The others careen to extreme positions that include starting new wars and abandoning old allies. And that ‘s when they even have a position. Herman Cain, now thankfully out of the race, was the front-runner even though he couldn’t find a single coherent word to say about President Obama’s policy on Libya. He even boasted of knowing little about foreign countries. And yet it was his adultery, not his astounding ignorance that brought him down.
THE BRITISH PRESS There’s a simple explanation for this bizarre phenomenon, said Max Hastings in the London Daily Mail. In the lunatic, gun-toting badlands of America’s Hicksville, Tea Party country, it’s considered suspiciously elitist to show any interest in modern science or the world beyond America’s borders. Say what you like about British politics, no MP of any party would dare to offer themselves as town dogcatcher while knowing as little about the world as the Republican presidential candidates. We take public service seriously. Yet we in Britain, and everyone in the rest of the world, will suffer if one of the lunatics vying for the nomination makes it to the White House. The American political system has seldom, if ever, looked so inadequate. Don’t worry, said Matthew Norman in the London Independent. The fact that Gingrich is the latest threat to Mitt Romney’s inevitability just confirms how inevitable Romney’s nomination is. The thrice-married, ethically challenged Gingrich is unlikable in the extreme. Which means the nominee will be Romney, the slimiest, phoniest opportunist to run for president since…well, ever. So sit back and enjoy this circus passing for a presidential election. It can’t possibly end in a GOP victory. Can it?
whoa. thx Yardarm. I’d like to tell them to relax PBO’s got this but I’m not going to rest on my hinder until november 7th knowing that we still have the Only Adult in The Room as President (still)
Good catch, yardarm. I had only seen the German press statements. The gop is frightening.
BIRTHERS, BAGGERS, BLOWHARDS AND ‘BIGOTS’
=========================================
Thanks for posting this yardarm. The feckless media in this country is still pretending that the GOP is a credible opposition party. The GOP is a laughingstock around the world. They are a total embarrassment. It’s just horrifying to think we have elected officials of our government who are so deranged, unhinged and radical.
The real sad part is that our foreign policy and standing in the world is also at stake. We must prevail…..4more for 44!
Remember when the whole world had a sigh of relief when President Obama was elected? That’s nothing compared with the enormous sigh of relief they will have when he is RE-elected.
Sometimes when I get nervous, I keep saying to myself that there are millions and millions and millions of people around the world who are praying for President Obama’s reelection.
i think we should send this to all the US media and ask why aren’t they informing the American public of the contempt that the international media has for the GOP Presidential candidates and that a failure to publish and talk about this would be and is a reflection of their present standards.
We will be watching the clock to see if and when which journalists act like journalist and will reflect our readership, viewership, listenership accordingly.
Anyone need a fix ?
This from the man who would go to the Dominican Republic on sex tours. Vile.
Obama Administration Wouldn’t Defend Blocking Military Benefits From Same-Sex Couples
The Obama Justice Department has concluded that legislation banning same-sex couples from receiving military and veterans benefits violates the equal protection component of the Fifth Amendment and will no longer defend the statute in court, Attorney General Eric Holder wrote in a letter to Congressional leaders on Friday.
“The legislative record of these provisions contains no rationale for providing veterans’ benefits to opposite-sex couples of veterans but not to legally married same-sex spouses of veterans,” Holder wrote. “Neither the Department of Defense nor the Department of Veterans Affairs identified any justifications for that distinction that would warrant treating these provisions differently from Section 3 of DOMA.”
Holder said DOJ would no longer defend the provisions in Title 38 which prevent same-sex couples who are legally married from obtaining benefits. He said that Congress would be provided a “full and fair opportunity” to defend the statues in the McLaughlin v. Panetta case if they wished to do so.
As Holder writes, the benefits in question “include medical and dental benefits, basic housing allowances, travel and transportation allowances, family separation benefits, military identification cards, visitation rights in military hospitals, survivor benefits, and the right to be buried together in military cemetaries.
TPMDC
Cue the GOP/right wing freakout. Which, you know, I’m sure the Administration considered as an ancillary benefit.
drip, drip, drip… Slowly but surely, equality is coming…
A bit of humor for a Friday afternoon.
Subject: Heaven and Hell
While walking down the street one day a Corrupt Senator (that may be redundant) was tragically hit by a car and died. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.
“Welcome to heaven,” says St.. Peter. “Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we’re not sure what to do with you.”
“No problem, just let me in,” says the Senator.
“Well, I’d like to, but I have orders from the higher ups. What we’ll do is have you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity.”
“Really?, I’ve made up my mind. I want to be in heaven,” says the Senator.
“I’m sorry, but we have our rules.”
And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell.
The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course.
In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him. Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake
his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people.
They played a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and the finest champagne. Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly guy who is having a good time dancing and telling jokes.
They are all having such a good time that before the Senator realizes it, it is time to go. Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises.
The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens in heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him, “Now it’s time to visit heaven…
So, 24 hours passed with the Senator joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns.
“Well, then, you’ve spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your eternity.”
The Senator reflects for a minute, then he answers: “Well, I would never have said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in hell.”
So, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell…
Now the doors of the elevator open and he’s in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags as more trash falls to the ground.
The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulders.
“I don’t understand,” stammers the Senator. “Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there’s just a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable. What happened?”
The devil smiles at him and says, “Yesterday we were campaigning,
Today, you voted..”
Vote wisely on November 2, 2012
Hahahahahahaha.
Good one Yardarm. Thanks.
p.s. The election is on Nov. 6, 2012.
EXCELLENT I MUST SAY!
Good one Yardarm,
Almost sounds like what happened to WI, MI, OH, IN, FL, etc…..
I’m watching Hardball…
Chris Matthews just said that he couldn’t believe that the GOP are focusing on contraceptives:
He said: Why can’t they focus on their strong suit: the economy, fiscal responsibility………
Ha!
How can anyone say that with a straight face is beyond me……yea they were really good with the economy during the Bush years.
He is unbelievable blind.
They can’t because President Obama is the Superman of
the Economy Lol…constantly demonstrating he has the stronger suit.
Ummm, takes a company from bankruptcy and has them turn there biggest profit ever…in less then
3 years.
AP: Governor Christie vetoes marriage equality
Jackass.
My sentiments exactly. I hope his day comes.
Jonathon Martin needs to work on his poker face…….
HuffyFluffy busy trying to compare the media coverage of Iran to Iraq, and making out Obama to be just like Bush… jerks!
Huffy has the pictures of the lady grabbing PBO’s butt. I wonder how much of their material they get from TOD? Lol. smh..
Matthews just dropped the ball again….with those Tea Party Patriots ( didn’t the man get arrested recently for trying to take a gun on an airplane)
Anyway…….They think they can change Congress by putting in new baggers…..but the problem is really the lobbying money. They are not happy with the ones they got in so they want to change them again ?
Get the money out or nothing will change….
Hello Chips and TOD family,
Having such beautiful weather in NYC, I stepped out today and visited the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture located in Harlem, U.S.A. To view “The Obama Presidency,” A Look Behind The Scenes. Photographs by Pete Souza, Feb.1- June 2. There are 56 photographs with Mr. Souza’s personal note.
It is absolutely amazing. There are some that we have seen and some that we have not for public view. I especially enjoyed the black and white. While reading the personal inscriptions, you appreciate the moment even more. This is the second time that we have the pleasure of having a personal and private viewing of Mr. Souza’s authentic work. The first time in 2010 “The First Year”.
I am going again before it leaves and if anyone is planning to visit NYC soon, please treat yourself and others to this special viewing. There is also a showcase of books and buttons to purchase from the gift shop.
I am so glad that Mr. Souza decided to make this exhibition available to the public. Of course, cameras and electrical equipment not allowed.
For more information http://www.schomburgcenter.org
Have a great weekend everyone. Thank you Chips for a great week and everyone for the love.
P.S. Linda, icing on the cake. I always need that fix! I love when POB is away from D.C. But I sleep better when he is home with FLOTUS, the girls. And yes………Bo. Rest well, Mr. President. Job well done. I am sho nuf standing with you!
I love how Kirsten Gillibrand is standing up for women’s rights on Reverend Al… she and Barbara Boxer are awesome!!!
Standing, walking, organizing and hoping with you indeed, Mr. President Sir!
Myths vs. Facts
Conference Agreement on Unemployment Insurance
MYTH: Agreement puts in place new job search requirements so those receiving
unemployment benefits at both the state and federal level actually look for a
job.
FACT: Federal regulations currently require that all UI recipients be able and
available for work and every state now requires UI recipients to actively seek
work.
MYTH: Agreement allows blanket drug testing of recipients of unemployment
insurance.
FACT: Under current law, states can already disqualify individuals from UI when
they are fired for cause for substance abuse, and states can disqualify
individuals who refuse to take, or fail, a drug test from a prospective
employer. The agreement limits any drug testing to only those losing their jobs
because of unlawful use of a controlled substance and those seeking employment
in occupations generally requiring a drug test as regulated by the Secretary of
Labor.
MYTH: Agreement reduces the maximum number of weeks to 63 this year.
FACT: Agreement retains the maximum level (99 weeks) of Unemployment Insurance
through May, reduces the maximum to 79 through August for all but a few states
and to 73 in September – all depending on a state’s unemployment rate.
MYTH: Eliminates the “Extended Benefits” program, which allowed states to
receive an additional 20 weeks of federal benefits.
FACT: Extended Benefits program remains in effect through the remainder of the
year, although states will continue to become ineligible for the program
(because of the three-year look-back requirement) as the year continues. Many
states will continue to receive EB in the coming months, with 18 states
remaining eligible for the program into May. Importantly, if a state loses
access to EB between March and the end of May, unemployed workers can receive an
additional 10 weeks in Tier 4 of EUC.
And more…
http://blogs.suntimes.com/sweet/2012/02/house_senate_pass_payroll_tax_.html
Melissa Harris Perry is raining truth all over Politics Nation along with Rev. Al. She rightfully skewered Darrell Issa for his repugnant hearing on birth control with a panel that included zero women. She also lambasted Issa for responding to his critics with a twit pic and quote from MLK Jr. She said Issa was welcome to the Catholic Bishops and welcome to take their point of view but he was NOT welcome to MLK Jr. She said ” Let me make this clear to ALL republicans. They are NOT welcome to MLK Jr. and are not welcome in misrepresenting him.”
She was amazing. Can’t wait for her show tomorrow. Hope she continues in this vein.
Oh god, how did Issa use MLK? I’m sure it’ll piss me off.
You can read the full story in the link. He basically tried to compare his disgusting hearing on birth control to the hate and criticism MLK Jr. experienced while fighting for Civil Rights. He also tried to imply that MLK Jr. would have agreed with his hearing. In actuality, MLK Jr. was pro- birth control, pro- states and the federal government fully funding birth control just like the ACA and was pro-sex education so we could reduce the rates of back alley abortions, poverty, and so women could have control of their bodies and control of family planning. Issa is a bloody scumbag who isn’t fit to crawl on the ground MLK Jr. walked.
http://thinkprogress.org/health/2012/02/16/427571/darrell-issa-compares-panel-mlk/?mobile=nc
Anyone know why PoliticusUSA is down? Has it been hacked? That is such an important site. Thank you.
I just Googled Politicus USA. Google says the site may have been compromised.
Yes. Looks like it’s been hacked. Not surprising someone would try given the very clear messages they post every day about the absolute horror the GOP is.
Thank you
Damned fucking bastards. They know they can’t win the argument, so they just shut down the messenger.
Seriously. I just tried to go there this afternoon…making my rounds. Nada. They know they can’t win with the truth and with honesty,so they do these kinds of things to take away the truth and voices of people that oppose them.I also read where they sent out fake census forms AGAIN….think I saw that on RawStory. What a bunch of fucking, fearmongering idiots.
The 43rd annual NAACP Image Awards, hosted by Sanaa Lathan of the hit movie “Contagion,” and Anthony Mackie of the Oscar-winning film “The Hurt Locker.” The show will air on NBC tonight at 8:00 p.m. (7:00 p.m. Central).
Performances by Lenny Kravitz, Jill Scott, Kirk Franklin, Jennifer Hudson, and Ne-Yo, and appearances by Samuel L. Jackson, LL Cool J, Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Vanessa Williams and many more of other favorite stars.
Thanks so much for the heads up cookemom. It totally slipped my mind. Another reason why I love TOD. We’re not only politically informed, we’re also a TV guide. It’s a win-win.
BREAKING: Maryland House Of Delegates Passes Marriage Equality Bill | After two days of contentious debate and the consideration of several amendments, the Maryland House of Delegates has passed marriage equality legislation with a vote of 71-67. One of the amendments passed delayed the date of enactment from October to January. Another created a non-severability clause, such that if the religious protections are overturned by the courts, the entire law would have to be deemed invalid. The measure still has to advance through the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee and full Senate, and even then, it is likely to be challenged by a referendum.
Update
Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) responds: “Today, the House of Delegates voted for human dignity. Speaker Busch and his fellow Delegates deserve a lot of credit for their hard work. At its heart, their vote was a vote for Maryland’s children….Now, as the Senate prepares to vote, all of us are needed – and we’re prepared to redouble our efforts. The common thread running through our efforts together in Maryland is the thread of human dignity; the dignity of work, the dignity of faith, the dignity of family, the dignity of every individual. Love is an unalienable right.”
Wish he was my Gov. ; we are stuck with the disaster that is Rick Scott.
Great day for the people of Maryland.
Phew, new post:
http://theobamadiary.com/2012/02/17/boeing/