Sr. White House official says Pres. Obama is being kept posted on the condition of former Pres. GHW Bush.— PETER MAER (@petermaercbs) December 26, 2012
Well Happy Boxing Day to ya too cb. I hope you’re enjoying this holiday season up there in GOD’s country.(I was thinking seriously about retiring in Alberta or Manitoba a few years back).
I totally agree, I lived in Richmond, near Vancouver about 20 years ago and it is beautiful. I also worked in hotels in Banff and Lake Louise in 1995, it was awesome!
More than 575 guns had been collected by mid-day Wednesday in L.A.’s gun buyback, as people waited for up to two hours to turn over firearms — no questions asked — in exchange for gift cards.
While police say the bulk of the guns are “mom and pop guns” — hunting rifles and shotguns — the haul includes a handful of larger-scale weapons, including at least 15 assault rifles.
At the Van Nuys buyback station — one of two in the city of Los Angeles — one of the first guns to be collected was a Bushmaster rifle that was the same type used at this month’s massacre at an elementary school in Newtown, Conn.
Other guns collected included semiautomatic handguns typically associated with gang violence and street crime.
so good to see this! thanks, desertflower. i’ve been wondering what happens to these guns? melted down and made into high speed rail lines would be nice!
Many of the drivers said they were turning in their guns because they rarely use them, and were eager to snag grocery cards. “I never use it, so just thought I’d come get a little grocery money,” said Oscar, who received $25 for a small pistol.
The gun buyback, which typically takes place around Mother’s Day, was moved up five months following the Newtown school shooting.
One father of three from Simi Valley said it was enough to convince him to drive to Van Nuys to turn over the .22-caliber rifle he purchased for protection in 1979. “It’s never been used, never been fired,” said Edgar, who asked that his last name not be used.
The Newtown shooting made him reconsider keeping a gun in his home. His kids didn’t even know he had a gun, but he didn’t want to risk them stumbling upon it, he said. “After the Connecticut shooting I just had to turn this in,” he said. “If you have a gun, you might end up using it. I’d rather just not have one.”
The police or City of Los Angeles needs to televise these events on local radio. I think the turn out would be much higher. The last time I heard about this was in the L.A. Weekly when I just happened to pick one up on the street.
They need to try this in other cities too, like Chicago, where young guys are shooting and killing and wounding each other daily, plus anyone caught in the crossfire. I don’t know how successful this is in the whole scheme of things, but anything that attempts to put a dent in the huge proliferation of guns in circulation is worth it in my opinion.
Why people continue to quote gallup after the disaster of their election polls seems to highlight the gop ideal that all and any business is good, regardless of outcome. Gallup deserves to be ridiculed and ignored – not used as a reporter of public opinion.
It’s an excellent choice folks! He is young, backed Barack from day one…served in the state legislature for a few terms when my daughter worked as chief of staff and she always said he was a smart compassionate guy. She was impressed because he ran a green office. Absolutely no paper! Politically comparable to Julian Castro like. Ran for governer and i really wanted to vote for him but couldn’t cause thought the democratic front runner’s race was too close. I am estatic at this appointment. Really.
JUST IN: Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie announces he will appoint Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz to fill the Senate seat of the late Sen. Daniel Inouye— CBS News (@CBSNews) December 27, 2012
It sounds to me as though Senator Inouye was a person who would want the best. Perhaps his choice was the best when he made it, but these are different circumstances. Don’t you think he would be at peace with it?
In a way I’m sort of glad the Governor handled it this way…
There’s no scramble to sort out a vacant much needed House seat and also the process is fair and not subject to the constant manipulation that’s really messed things up in our democracy…
Now they’ll all get to run for the seat and the electorate then gets to choose…
He was the Hawaii campaign chair of Pres. Obama’s 2008 run. He was the CEO of Helping Hands in Hawaii. He was a community organizer. Also, for those wondering why Abercrombie didn’t pick Hanabusa, apparently Reid told him he needed to fill Inuoye’s seat fast and a special election would have had to be called for Hanabusa and I guess they didn’t want to take the chance of losing her seat in the House of Reps.
If Abercrombie had appointed Hanabusa, Dems would've had a very tough race to keep her House seat. Schatz not a total shock.— Scott Conroy (@RealClearScott) December 27, 2012
I sense the fine hand of the President and Senator Reid working with Gov. Abercrombie here. The President needs a strong Democratic senator right now in the Senate, and needs to keep every strong Democrat in the House.
The difference between Japan & the US are not the movies & video games, but the access to GUNS & nearly ZERO gun crime in Japan cc @JoeBiden— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 26, 2012
in watching the dynamics at the microphone when abercrombie was fielding questions, each time a question was put to schatz, he would answer then step away from the mic, nodding to the governor. he is a hawaii boy, respectful of his elders and his governor. we could use more of that courtesy in washington!
Exactly and we keep Rep Hannabusa in the House and that is potentially a much bigger deal than it appears to be – i.e., let’s see what happens on 3 Jan 2013
Dear @NancyPelosi @WhipHoyer it's obvious that the single biggest contribution you'll ever make to America is to flip 17 Rs by 3 Jan 2013 TY— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 27, 2012
this statement from schatz’ wife linda is a very good read– here’s a clip:
‘ Brian believes in family. You can tell how much he believes in family because of the kind of son-in-law he is. When we were dating, he asked me about marriage. Just to set expectations straight I told him that I was going to take care of my parents one day and they would probably live with me. And yes, he still married me a year later. We live in a multi-generation ohana. My mother and father have lived with us for the last five years. Brian has embraced the culture I grew up in by showing my parents he loves their pickled pig’s feet and won ton soup. He even speaks basic Chinese around the house to my parents and the kids. ‘
These are my favourite kind of stories. Multigenerational home, immigrant grqanparents contrivuting to the upbringing of the small children in the home. I wish him well.
I’m a sucker for loving couples looking out for each other and prioritizing each other and what’s most important to the other – in this case love and responsibility for Linda’s aging parents…
MT @mpoindc Schatz says he's boarding a flight to DC tonight, and anticipates being sworn into office sometime tomorrow afternoon.— NBC News (@NBCNews) December 27, 2012
George Bush Snr is 88 years old – his money & position guarantee him the best of the best health care – it has allowed him to live well into old age – it is well past time that all Americans should get the same care.
Nelson Mandela has been my hero for over 40 years – a survivor in every sense of the world – his country may not have the best democracy in the world – but his “compromise” and acceptance of reality saved what would have been a massive civil war and allowed a relatively peaceful change from minority to majority rule. I believe President Obama learned much of his compassion and belief in government from Mr Mandela.
My point – he has lived well – much paid for by the American people – he will not be remembered for anything other than winning an election – Nelson Mandela, on the other hand, rewrote the history books.
We have yet to see the life of Barack Obama after 2016. I hope I am around to be part of that world. Interesting that despite the gop love of old white men – few have been well known for anything other than winning or losing wars.
I have been reading a somewhat ancient book over the holidays “the history of England” written c. 1868 (It belonged to my father & I believe was used by him when teaching history in his early teacher days c. 1937). It is, in reality, a history of the English monarchy & a more bloodthirsty, war mongering group have yet to be seen. Although it seems only one monarch was put to death by the people, any possible or probably opponents for the position were quickly dispatched – some in the most horrifying ways. I can’t imagine there is a video game in existence that would contend with this book for describing violence and horror.
‘ Brian’s dad, Dr. Irwin Schatz, has taught at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine for over two decades and chaired the Department of Medicine. In 2009. Dr. Schatz was honored with Distinguished Alumni Award from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He was recognized as a “medical hero” for his courage as a young doctor in standing up against the now infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study, in which black men were left untreated in the name of “medical research.”
Says Brian, “My father told me to define success by the amount of good you accomplish, and he was walking the talk from a young age. He’s the best example of professional ethics that anyone could ever have.” ‘
yes, i haven’t heard anything negative, but then i’ve been home doing laundry, washing up the last of the pots and pans, and working away on that left-over pie…..
Your cold remedy this afternoon was very good and I think it may be about time for another. Also had some hot broth with Chinese chili sauce in it. I’ve had this incessant tingle-y thing happening in my nasal passages and have been sneezing very hard sneezes all day. Feel like I’ve been run over by a truck. UGH, this is really sapping my energy.
broth with chili sauce sounds good! loosen it all up, and burn it out! lots of vitamin c in there, too. honestly, i think the remedies just keep us busy while the cold completes its course. i’d rather be busy with hot broth and toddies, than goopy medicinals. also, some old movies are helpful
The appointment of Brian Schatz seems to keep the youthful, energetic, look to the new Senate representing the younger vote which helped to drive the Democratic majority.
Nice, he seems to be a more rounded guy than Scott Brown but I don’t want to sit in judgement. SB didn’t live up to the hype. There’s none with this man so far. Sometimes a surprise choice is better.
Pres. Obama wrapping up last golf game in HI w/ boyhood pals Bobby Titcomb, Mike Ramos, & Greg Orme. Sched to depart for DC tonite 10:00 PM— Eddie Gehman Kohan (@ObamaFoodorama) December 27, 2012
As you return to DC @BarackObama be assured that the majority of us know you've been the target of #GOP Insurgency since Jan09. cc @vj44— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 27, 2012
@edshow GOP launched it's Insurgency against PBO on 20Jan2009. Your telling folk to stay home in 2010 only made the situation worse. #FACT— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 27, 2012
Right on Bobfr! My only quibble is I would use the word ‘vendetta’ instead of insurgency, since those assholes are so self-interested, irrational, devious and malicious.
I’m looking forward to tonight’s interview…not a fan of Barbara but looking forward to watching POTUS and FLOTUS. I really enjoy their joint interviews.
I am SO annoyed that they have to cut their vacation short because of Boehner and his band of idiots! Grrrrr….
‘grrrrr’ is right! i know that the first lady and first daughters will continue their vacation here, but they need time together as a family, and if you can’t get that at christmas, it’s pretty hard to arrange later on. they’ve had such a grueling year, and more hard work ahead. pbo needs some rest, and the family needs to relax and enjoy each other’s company. this really irks me!!
They absolutely need family time together… This is so important if they are going to maintain a much needed sense of each other and what in the end grounds them…
I stumbled across some unflattering posts that suggested the President seems to spend more time playing golf than actually spending quality time with his wife and daughters while on family vacation…something I think the tweets from the food blog lady seems to be trying to emphasize with her weird tracking of President Obama, his golf games and golfing pals in Hawaii…
This appointment reminded me of something that happened a week after the election: the private dinner the Obamas had with the Patricks of Masssachusetts. I thought at the time, this is about John Kerry’s app’t as SOS, and his replacement in the Senate. I still think it was. Both the President and Gov Patrick can keep their counsel, and would never divulge what was said. I believe they knew/know exactly the chance in taking Kerry out of the Senate and opening his seat; but I believe they are/will be, planning to make Scott Brown a loser again. That is why I believe Kerry was President Obama’s first choice for SOS. I think McCain and Graham decided Amb Susan Rice was the President’s first choice, because that is who they would have picked. Anyway…….it is always long term thinking with PBO, as the choice of Brian Schatz shows.
RT @mikememoli: POTUS has moved from golf course to beach, joining his wife and daughters there. 6+ hours until scheduled departure for DC.— Zeke Miller (@ZekeJMiller) December 27, 2012
Did anyone really CARE what GWB did, or his dad GHWB? Which is more interesting: Honolulu, or Crawford TX????? All Junior did was ride his bike and cut limbs. As Presidente Fox of Mexico said…..GWB could not even ride a horse.
The press followed Clinton obsessively too. I remember telescopic pictures of Hill and Bill on a Caribbean “getaway”….no chance really.
No other President was followed with such intensity for a variety of reasons: the ease of access to social media and digital photography, the first AA President/First Family, but most importantly, the amazing man himself and all who are closely associated with him.
“That a country so attached to its civil liberties is able to come together and accept significant restrictions to its individual rights to fight against terrorism in the wake of September 11th but is unable to limit the availability of firearms that kill their own children, that’s properly impossible to understand for Europeans.”
– Sylvie Kauffmann, the editorial director for Le Monde and their correspondent in Washington, D.C., and New York from 1993 to 2001.
Could it be that President Obama is paying attention to the wise counsel from some of the wise TOD members? I don’t know very much about Brian Schatz, but I respect the wisdom of Chi and Bobfr who think that this was a smart choice by the Governor of Hawaii.
Greetings on this cozy night at home, have been in and out of here, checking on VC today, and filling in on any missing bits of info. Signed the petition to straighten out that bunch of mofos in the Westoboro so-called church… I hope they are slapped into oblivion. Indecent to call themselves a ‘church’. Anyway, am tired now, so pleased to be having quiet time at home, I cannot tell you how restful it is. Merry Christmas again, and to all a good night! Back tomorrow. {{{{{Chipsticks}}}}} {{{{{PBO}}}}} {{{{{TOD}}}}}.
Hi CB4O. JOB’s probably watching the KCH in a comfortable spot, or napping. She said earlier that she wanted to see the honours, plus the Obama interview later.
I don’t know, JOB. All you folks who think I’m sweet are going to be so disappointed to meet the tart me, or the speechless me, at the Inauguration. Remember too much sweets isn’t good for you.
Commercial break from the Kennedy Center Honors. PBO has that cool club swagger when listening to the Blues. You know the one, the cool dude who does not deign to dance, but who sits with his eyes at half mast rocking cooly as the music grooves.
No surprise Annie, she’s simply magnificent and has put up with so much and yet still handles it all with grace and magnanimity even around those who have been so unkind to her…
She only grows soars in my estimation with each passing day…
Her warmth and authenticity is palpable…
So few women could endure and put up with what she’s been through just so her husband can pursue his dreams…
I am in awe of her…
I saw this comment posted on a NY Times article a while back and I must say that I agree…
‘…Many of you have spoken very eloquently about all of Mrs. Obama’s exceptional qualities that will one day mark her as perhaps a singularly exceptional first lady, regardless of mentioning race. Mentioning race is unnecessary and cheapens her somewhat, aside from the celebratory and pride aspects of it, she belongs to all of America. All of us.
What always impresses me on top of all these other fine points so many are making is how dripping with sincerity her body language is: this is an exceptionally honest person who clearly doesn’t care about faking it. What a breath of fresh air!
One of my favorite moments in the first campaign was when she said “I’m proud of my country for the first time in a long time” (or something to that effect) and then the campaign team obviously saw that as a potential powder keg and pressured that to get tamped down clearly. And when Mrs. McCain retorted in such a petty manner, the contrast was striking.
Moreover, I felt the opposite of the campaign team (why I am not on a campaign team obviously) and would have LOVED to hear her expostulate on that statement.
America could use some sobering admonishments.
Maybe that should now be the realm of first ladies, assuming they have even a sliver of her competence, grace and honesty.
The two of them represent us proudly on the world stage.
They seem like, gee, our first couple.
-Dannomusic43, Michigan
And this…
‘…Every president needs someone in his life who will watch his back, tell him truths that others are afraid to, and who knows who his real friends are. The country needs the first lady to do this, as evidently thankless as the role may be.
From my observations, Michelle Obama has been flawless– amazingly so. Barack Obama is a very lucky man whether he knows it or not.
I’m so grateful that our country has been blessed with a gracious, thoughtful, and beautiful First Lady. Thank you Mrs. Obama for everything you do . . . Your husband – whom I greatly admire too – is quite fortunate to have someone like you “watching his back.” The majority of Americans wish only the best for you and your family.
How Many People Have Been Killed by Guns Since Newtown?
Slate partners with @GunDeaths for an interactive, crowdsourced tally of the toll firearms have taken since Dec. 14.
“Since this summer, the anonymous creator of the Twitter feed @GunDeaths has been doing his best to compile those statistics, tweeting every reported death he can find. He was inspired, he told us in a phone interview, by the Aurora, Colo., shootings and simply wanted to call daily attention to the toll that guns take. Now Slate is partnering with @GunDeaths to create this interactive feature, “Gun Deaths in America Since Newtown.””
Thought it might be helpful to be sure VP Biden knows …
Dear @JoeBiden by calling attention to daily gun deaths in America @GunDeaths is doing an essential public service NO one else is. cc @Slate— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 27, 2012
Dear @TheJusticeDept#NRA is a gun industry lobbyist & has 0 justification being tax exempt; in fact should be investigated for tax fraud.— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 27, 2012
I never used to think so Amk, but I do now. Ever since the ‘church’s reaction to ACA, PBO and the poor made me realize they really are not into christian principles, generally speaking.
People who are donating to these org’s are already claiming tax deduction, aren’t they ? Then why the org’s should again be tax exempt? I run a charity trust in my father’s name, mainly for education for rural children. Every year. the trust is audited and any donations that are not spent above 90% of the amount received for stated purposes, are taxed.
IMO it’s loopholes and ‘entitlements’ like these that rich people like Romney have been abusing for years, and getting richer and richer. I can imagine that an annual audit of the type you mention would be too much government for the GOP types to allow to pass. I really fail to see how a gun foundation would have initially fall under a tax exempt banner. I also found an interesting list of groups that the NRA are supposed to be helping with their funds and would be surprised to see how much help they have given to these groups previously.
I was just chatting about this on twitter while mentally wondering if the NRA is a charity in USA, or a church. Really there are so many little pieces to laws and government that seem so silly when looked at more closely.
OMG!!! Is it just me, or does the first lady look pregnant? This would be so very exciting! )) The pictures with her in the white bottom dress looks like she is sporting a baby belly!
FLOTUS already said that she is done and PBO said publicly that the decision would be up to her. I recall Oprah asking her this question directly (and Oprah was hoping for another addition to the O-family)
I have wished for the same since PBO was elected but I doubt it is going to happen.
I guess I was over re-acting
My 2 nieces were born 13 years apart and thought this first family might be sporting a new baby. The first lady’s dress looks a little like something you would wear during pregnancy. I guess I’m not up to the styles and fashions today. lol
It’s just you. OMG, not that again. I remember when POTUS and FLOTUS first got in the WH that is all anyone could hear, four years later I thought it was put to rest.
I would imagine at this point any additions would be through adoption. There’s doubtless a good little boy (say, schoolaged or so), who would need a good home and a good start. But the scrutiny would be terrible, even though they are certainly fit.
The Obama administration may be looking to expand the number of borrowers who can refinance their mortgages.
The White House is considering a proposal that would authorize Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to guarantee repayment by borrowers whose homes are underwater and whose mortgages aren’t backed by the government, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday.
The move would require Congress to authorize a change to the companies’ charters that would allow Fannie and Freddie to back billions of dollars in loans and to charge higher rates to borrowers to offset the risk.
Roughly 22% of homes in the U.S. with a mortgage, or about 10.8 million homes, were worth less than the amount of the loan they secured at the end of June, according to CoreLogic (CLGX), a company that provides financial data.
Fannie and Freddie currently allow borrowers whose loans are insured by the companies to obtain a lower rate as long as the borrowers are up-to-date on their payments. Officials at the Treasury Department and the White House would like to add borrowers who are currently blocked from the program because their loans are held by investors or private lenders.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency, which oversees Fannie and Freddie, has suggested it would support the administration’s effort, the Journal reported, citing people familiar with the discussions.
The administration also is said to be considering allowing borrowers whose loans are underwater to refinance their loan as part of the Home Affordable Modification Program, which can lower monthly mortgage payments for borrowers who face an “imminent” risk of defaulting. The administration’s proposal would redefine “imminent default” to include borrowers whose homes are underwater even if they are current on their payments.
This is another great idea that will be stymied by the House. The entire country and its economic recovery constantly being held hostage by the Congressional lunatic society. Gerrymandering or not, we must get the House back.
I have been thinking that it be a good idea for the ordinary people, who support gun control and the reduction of gun-violence to start a letter writing campaign to the individual members of the NRA.
these letters would be collected on a specific social -media page hosted by individual grassroot citizens (hint Chips??) and copied to the White House and NRA.
Like the letters we wrote on behalf of then-Candidate Obama in 2008, each would contain a reason WHY we should take some specific action and a direct request to NRA members to challenge their leadership and support sensible gun laws.
I do not know if this could work but it sure wouldn’t hurt to try. we need the support of some less-ideological members to add to our outraged voices
This catholic hopes that the Catholic Bishops (who have been rabidly against PBO) can now go sit down and try to devise way to enroll as many of the un-insured lay & poor people into their nearest ObamaCare exchange
Is the US the only country in the world where health care is related to employment? I cannot imagine my employer having ANY say in my health care, although I do remember in my young days at job interviews having people ask me if I was intending to have children! It used to so annoy me – I missed out on a couple of jobs because I suggested that was not relevant to my job skills.
1. Took her truck for an interior detail. It looks splendid now.
2. Had breakfast.
3. Stimulated the economy:
3a. Bought a sound bar for the bedroom tv and pod speakers for my laptop at Best Buy.
3b. Bought a small desk and a rather nice chair for my laptop so I have somewhere “official” to write.
4. Used our CPK gift card for dinner.
This is how I spent my day ( as someone who knows how vacation days are to be spent.
1. Woke up early, but stayed in bed.
2. Actually finished cups of coffee before they got cold.
3. Wore sleepwear until 3:00
4. Ate lovely Christmas leftovers most of the day.
5. Surfed the web, ordering books from B and N using my Xmas gift cards and checking in TOD.
6. Cooked and ate collard greens and farm fresh peas that I had purchased from the Farmer’s Market a few days ago.
7. Refused to answer the phone.
8. Read a book.
9. Rocked out to Blues and Rock while watching the KCH.
Me, I’ll wait until it’s posted online tomorrow. After all, waiting one more day to see it will build my anticipation level so much higher. [Yeah, right. ]
dotster…..I totally agree with you! Is it Barbara or bad editing….or.??? Too many commercials, no continuity…..anyway, they looked great, but she is a waste. “ehhhhh” is my reaction too.
what a great evening…two hours of fantastic entertainment with snatches of Michelle and PBO then a fun interview and back here to read all the comments. Off to bed with a happy face and heart.
I love watching POTUS and FLOTUS, but I was so disappointed with the interview being on Nightline . They cut out the minutes Barbara spoke with POTUS alone. All ABC had to do was what they were planning to do in the first place show the interview on 20/20 this Friday. I think we can count on this being Mrs. Walters, ABC last Christmas interview with the Obamas. At least I hope and pray.
Any chance I get to see POTUS and FLOTUS I don’t care who is interviewing them as long as they show respect. I just don’t like ABC dumping the interview on Nightline at 11:35 and for only 30 minutes if that. Well it’s always nice seeing POTUS and FLOTUS together. Have POTUS left Hawaii yet?
@BarackObama as you depart your lovely family to continue battle against America's gravest enemy – GOP Plutocrats – Know we have your back.— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 27, 2012
As Lincoln and so many others have realized and articulated – the gravest threat to America would always come from within.
I agree Bobfr and Rain, because if I allow myself to think about it I become really piss. President Obama has to cut his vacation with his family short, but the darn idiots who are responsible for this entire mess are remaining on their vacation. John Boehner and the Republicans will remain on their vacation.
Who OWNS the Tea Party infestation of America even more than the KOCHS – the media & blogger thugs who told folk not to vote in 2010. #FACT— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 27, 2012
Hello, Bob. I hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas. I am so glad to see you back, and as fearless as ever, spreading the TRUTH. We all have an obligation as citizens not to allow billionaires, like the Koch brothers, the corrupt and unethical corporate media, and the self-serving emoprogs, to destroy our country.
Yes we did, thanks. I was so grateful that my daughter, who lives in NY, and went through the traumatic experience of Sandy, was able to be with us in CA for Christmas.
Oh ye 300+ Million weapons owners in the USA – beyond the 2nd Amendment, what about YOUR TC #6 Thou Shalt NOT KILL? cc @JoeBiden#GunControl— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) December 27, 2012
Double Rats, I missed POTUS interview also. However, I watched Kennedy Honors Show, and it took me back to age 21 when I saw Led Zeppelin in Chicago…wow, where did those years go?
My 14-yr-old black male Pug threw up all day on Christmas, so I took him to Vet yesterday. Long story short, after ultra sound, he has liver cancer and days are numbered now. I have a girl Pug also who keeps him company. Anyway, he got fluids & nausea shot & pills and he’s just broken all our hearts around here.
I am so sorry pugeretto about your precious little pug. I know he’s had a full loving home with you and yours and his playmates love will be a great comfort to him.
Nice
CONGRATSSSSSSSSSSS….MISSED BY ONE
Congrats PFWHI on #1!
Congrats, Proud:)
that’s what i get for being so good–went to put a load of towels in the wash, and missed the big moment! aloha chips, and congrats proud!
Great! I’m so happy he is being informed; I hope he goes to see him.
Top 10?
Yea! Congrats Proud. Hope you had a nice Christmas.
Hey, Yardarm…Merry Christmas, Happy Boxing day (I know, it’s a Canadian thing)….please keep steering us in the right direction on this blog!
Well Happy Boxing Day to ya too cb. I hope you’re enjoying this holiday season up there in GOD’s country.(I was thinking seriously about retiring in Alberta or Manitoba a few years back).
Far too cold! Come to British Columbia – truly God’s country!
I know but I prefer the Eastern side of the Rockies. I loved Calgary and Banff.
If you come to my area, there are lots of fishing vessels and ships; might change your mind. Too many RWNJs in Alberta!
Roger that!
I totally agree, I lived in Richmond, near Vancouver about 20 years ago and it is beautiful. I also worked in hotels in Banff and Lake Louise in 1995, it was awesome!
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2012/12/los-angeles-gun-buyback-1.html
More than 575 guns had been collected by mid-day Wednesday in L.A.’s gun buyback, as people waited for up to two hours to turn over firearms — no questions asked — in exchange for gift cards.
While police say the bulk of the guns are “mom and pop guns” — hunting rifles and shotguns — the haul includes a handful of larger-scale weapons, including at least 15 assault rifles.
At the Van Nuys buyback station — one of two in the city of Los Angeles — one of the first guns to be collected was a Bushmaster rifle that was the same type used at this month’s massacre at an elementary school in Newtown, Conn.
Other guns collected included semiautomatic handguns typically associated with gang violence and street crime.
so good to see this! thanks, desertflower. i’ve been wondering what happens to these guns? melted down and made into high speed rail lines would be nice!
There were reports that they even got a rocket launcher too, I think.
Thanks df for posting this. The gift cards are for FOOD from Ralph’s Supermarket. Hand guns = $100.00 gift card, Rifles, etc = $200 gift cards.
Wouldn’t those who bought their guns as collectors prefer a money reimbursement, especially if the gift card restricts them to food items?
Trust me vc. The people who are turning in these guns NEED the Food.
I trust you, GGail. Awrighty then!
Many of the drivers said they were turning in their guns because they rarely use them, and were eager to snag grocery cards. “I never use it, so just thought I’d come get a little grocery money,” said Oscar, who received $25 for a small pistol.
The gun buyback, which typically takes place around Mother’s Day, was moved up five months following the Newtown school shooting.
One father of three from Simi Valley said it was enough to convince him to drive to Van Nuys to turn over the .22-caliber rifle he purchased for protection in 1979. “It’s never been used, never been fired,” said Edgar, who asked that his last name not be used.
The Newtown shooting made him reconsider keeping a gun in his home. His kids didn’t even know he had a gun, but he didn’t want to risk them stumbling upon it, he said. “After the Connecticut shooting I just had to turn this in,” he said. “If you have a gun, you might end up using it. I’d rather just not have one.”
The police or City of Los Angeles needs to televise these events on local radio. I think the turn out would be much higher. The last time I heard about this was in the L.A. Weekly when I just happened to pick one up on the street.
I heard about this gun event this morningor last night on our local news here in SoCal.
They need to try this in other cities too, like Chicago, where young guys are shooting and killing and wounding each other daily, plus anyone caught in the crossfire. I don’t know how successful this is in the whole scheme of things, but anything that attempts to put a dent in the huge proliferation of guns in circulation is worth it in my opinion.
http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-pn-obama-democrats-fiscal-cliff-poll-20121226,0,7838976.story
Obama, Democrats winning over public on ‘fiscal cliff’
Why people continue to quote gallup after the disaster of their election polls seems to highlight the gop ideal that all and any business is good, regardless of outcome. Gallup deserves to be ridiculed and ignored – not used as a reporter of public opinion.
wow, amazing:
lt gov schatz selected to replace senator inouye!
http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/story/20428812/lt-gov-brian-schatz-selected-to-replace-sen-dan-inouye-fill-vacant-seat-in-us-senate
Well…so much for our rationale….
yeah, that’s pretty reliable–if it makes sense to me, it ain’t gonna happen!
live announcement:
http://hine.ws/live
Now who’s going to be the Lt Gov?? Seems like twice the work was made because of this appointment
the gov said the state senate majority leader has the option of stepping into the lt gov position, but no decision has been made yet by him.
So bummed.
maybe he’ll surprise:)
my first reaction, too, but i do like schatz, and it’s certainly true hawaii need whatever sliver of seniority we have right now.
Hey Aloha Susanne, what sort of person is the Lt. governor…
Good guy or not so good…
good guy–went to punahou school, like the president. and led the president’s re-election campaign here. very respectful, intelligent, progressive.
Then he’s an awesome pick…
Hanibusa can run for it in 2014…
We don’t lose a hard won congressional seat and we get a smart fill in Senator in the interim…
Win, win all around…
It’s an excellent choice folks! He is young, backed Barack from day one…served in the state legislature for a few terms when my daughter worked as chief of staff and she always said he was a smart compassionate guy. She was impressed because he ran a green office. Absolutely no paper! Politically comparable to Julian Castro like. Ran for governer and i really wanted to vote for him but couldn’t cause thought the democratic front runner’s race was too close. I am estatic at this appointment. Really.
We LOVE this coffee! Gave some to Mr. DF for Christmas…..
http://www.latimes.com/business/money/la-fi-mo-patrick-dempsey-tullys-20121226,0,7206815.story
Don’t know how true this is but there’s nothing like disregarding a dying wish.
I know, but the Governor must have his reason…
Let’s let this play out…it’s important…
I heard it was because Carolyn was much needed and respected in House. They needed her there….at least that what I heard in that news conference
That’s quite a big shock for a lot of folks. But there is an awful lot to consider in terms of leaving a Dem vacancy in the House.
yes, i appreciate that logic. just seems sad to deny inouye his request.
colleen hanabusa
It sounds to me as though Senator Inouye was a person who would want the best. Perhaps his choice was the best when he made it, but these are different circumstances. Don’t you think he would be at peace with it?
Sorry. My fingers got ahead of my brain. Happens all the time:)
In a way I’m sort of glad the Governor handled it this way…
There’s no scramble to sort out a vacant much needed House seat and also the process is fair and not subject to the constant manipulation that’s really messed things up in our democracy…
Now they’ll all get to run for the seat and the electorate then gets to choose…
Colleen.
Golly! They updated THIS fast! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Schatz
wow!! amazing!!
For those who need to read up on Hawaii’s new senator Brian Schatz, here you go.
He was the Hawaii campaign chair of Pres. Obama’s 2008 run. He was the CEO of Helping Hands in Hawaii. He was a community organizer. Also, for those wondering why Abercrombie didn’t pick Hanabusa, apparently Reid told him he needed to fill Inuoye’s seat fast and a special election would have had to be called for Hanabusa and I guess they didn’t want to take the chance of losing her seat in the House of Reps.
thoughtful appointment then….maybe he’ll work out better than people think. Long game strategy, sounds like.
I sense the fine hand of the President and Senator Reid working with Gov. Abercrombie here. The President needs a strong Democratic senator right now in the Senate, and needs to keep every strong Democrat in the House.
Spot on…
Smart, inspired, discreet…
Yup.
agreed–and how handy that the president was right here when these deliberations were taking place?
It’s genius. So effing perfect. You guys are gonna love him…. i am so happy for Brian Schatz. And for Hawaii.
That’s why I’m not in office. Too emotional!
A Land Without Guns: How Japan Has Virtually Eliminated Shooting Deaths
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2012/07/a-land-without-guns-how-japan-has-virtually-eliminated-shooting-deaths/260189/
BTW, LtGov Schatz a very wise, strategic choice.
Yes We Can
Completely agree…
Senator-select Schatz can be sworn in as soon as the Senate reconvenes, and get to work which is what is needed.
in watching the dynamics at the microphone when abercrombie was fielding questions, each time a question was put to schatz, he would answer then step away from the mic, nodding to the governor. he is a hawaii boy, respectful of his elders and his governor. we could use more of that courtesy in washington!
Exactly and we keep Rep Hannabusa in the House and that is potentially a much bigger deal than it appears to be – i.e., let’s see what happens on 3 Jan 2013
As in ….
Yes We Can
^^Hanabusa^^
gotta say, sen schatz wife is lovely too.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1c/Abercrombie_and_Schatz_2010.jpg/220px-Abercrombie_and_Schatz_2010.jpg
this statement from schatz’ wife linda is a very good read– here’s a clip:
‘ Brian believes in family. You can tell how much he believes in family because of the kind of son-in-law he is. When we were dating, he asked me about marriage. Just to set expectations straight I told him that I was going to take care of my parents one day and they would probably live with me. And yes, he still married me a year later. We live in a multi-generation ohana. My mother and father have lived with us for the last five years. Brian has embraced the culture I grew up in by showing my parents he loves their pickled pig’s feet and won ton soup. He even speaks basic Chinese around the house to my parents and the kids. ‘
http://www.neilabercrombie.com/index.php/about/linda/
These are my favourite kind of stories. Multigenerational home, immigrant grqanparents contrivuting to the upbringing of the small children in the home. I wish him well.
We could use more of that kind of compassion in this world. I wish him the very best.
This is really lovely…
I like Brian and his wife already…
I’m a sucker for loving couples looking out for each other and prioritizing each other and what’s most important to the other – in this case love and responsibility for Linda’s aging parents…
Very telling indeed…
He should hitch a ride with the Commander in Chief…
I think he leaves tonight…
Maybe he can fly back to DC with PBO tonight on AF One.
Wonder if he’s hitching a on AF1 with PBO
HAHAHAHAHAHA – Chi, COS …. we’re all on the same wave length
That was so funny Bob…
I would say like minds, but yours is infinitely more superior and awesome…
Oh, Chi, I’m not superior to anyone … and besides, you posted before I did
Thank you for the kind words.
#FORWARD
I think it all comes from all of us hanging out together.
See what I mean Bob…
So humble and so considerate…
You inspire many of us to do and be better Bob…
YES!
Mr Mandela moves out of hospital and dubya sr moves into one. Both are good news to me.
George Bush Snr is 88 years old – his money & position guarantee him the best of the best health care – it has allowed him to live well into old age – it is well past time that all Americans should get the same care.
Nelson Mandela has been my hero for over 40 years – a survivor in every sense of the world – his country may not have the best democracy in the world – but his “compromise” and acceptance of reality saved what would have been a massive civil war and allowed a relatively peaceful change from minority to majority rule. I believe President Obama learned much of his compassion and belief in government from Mr Mandela.
I don’t have any compassion whatsoever for the bush klan. The pain they wrought around the world is too big to forgive any of them.
My point – he has lived well – much paid for by the American people – he will not be remembered for anything other than winning an election – Nelson Mandela, on the other hand, rewrote the history books.
Agree. There are only two true world leaders, Gandhi and Mandela.
We have yet to see the life of Barack Obama after 2016. I hope I am around to be part of that world. Interesting that despite the gop love of old white men – few have been well known for anything other than winning or losing wars.
I have been reading a somewhat ancient book over the holidays “the history of England” written c. 1868 (It belonged to my father & I believe was used by him when teaching history in his early teacher days c. 1937). It is, in reality, a history of the English monarchy & a more bloodthirsty, war mongering group have yet to be seen. Although it seems only one monarch was put to death by the people, any possible or probably opponents for the position were quickly dispatched – some in the most horrifying ways. I can’t imagine there is a video game in existence that would contend with this book for describing violence and horror.
Three – including President Obama.
Oh, Amk. /smh/
All smh’ing in the world wouldn’t squeeze an iota of caring from me for that family. Also. Too. darth’s, murdock’s, dumbsfeld’s, etc.
Yes, A, but /whispering very, very softly/ sometimes we don’t say it aloud.
Hey JOB, CanadaBarb was looking for you.not too long ago. I told her you were prolly taking a nap.
Did she tell you to say that? She’s my friend, but such a brat!
No, she didn’t. I went there all by myself. CB4O was genuinely wondering where you were.
Ha! I meant the nap part. I’m always being kidded (by brats like CB4O) about my daily nap! (I stay up late!)
Yep, the nap was what I was referring to. I did it all on my own so I couldn’t allow CB to take the virtual fall for me.
I’d still blame her (we’re like sisters – Ha!).
Don’t worry. A true Obama friend will take the fall for you!
I thought you were going to watch the POTUS-FLOTUS interview. Did you forget?
Thanks – I’m still watching the KCH on my DVR, and also DVRing the interview to watch later! I keep taking little munch breaks …
My DVR DNE*, so I’ll be TMT** until tomorrow.
* = does not exist
** twiddling my thumb
BITOA = Booze is the only answer. (Sorry – it’s my favorite acronym, even though I only take tiny sips of wine, more or less!)
That’s not a good thing to wish on another human being’s family.
Given what they had wrought, not wished, on millions of families, I really don’t care.
more from the campaign website:
‘ Brian’s dad, Dr. Irwin Schatz, has taught at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine for over two decades and chaired the Department of Medicine. In 2009. Dr. Schatz was honored with Distinguished Alumni Award from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He was recognized as a “medical hero” for his courage as a young doctor in standing up against the now infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study, in which black men were left untreated in the name of “medical research.”
Says Brian, “My father told me to define success by the amount of good you accomplish, and he was walking the talk from a young age. He’s the best example of professional ethics that anyone could ever have.” ‘
susanne, in good time I hope it sits well with the good people of Hawaii.
yes, i haven’t heard anything negative, but then i’ve been home doing laundry, washing up the last of the pots and pans, and working away on that left-over pie…..
p.s. how are you feeling, meta? better, i hope, or at least more relaxed from your granny-style cold remedy
Your cold remedy this afternoon was very good and I think it may be about time for another. Also had some hot broth with Chinese chili sauce in it. I’ve had this incessant tingle-y thing happening in my nasal passages and have been sneezing very hard sneezes all day. Feel like I’ve been run over by a truck. UGH, this is really sapping my energy.
Thanks for asking, good friend.
broth with chili sauce sounds good! loosen it all up, and burn it out! lots of vitamin c in there, too. honestly, i think the remedies just keep us busy while the cold completes its course. i’d rather be busy with hot broth and toddies, than goopy medicinals. also, some old movies are helpful
Nyquil. Bed.
Sounds like an amazing and intrinsically decent family…
The appointment of Brian Schatz seems to keep the youthful, energetic, look to the new Senate representing the younger vote which helped to drive the Democratic majority.
When he’s sworn in, he will be the youngest member of the Senate. 40 yo
Nice, he seems to be a more rounded guy than Scott Brown but I don’t want to sit in judgement. SB didn’t live up to the hype. There’s none with this man so far. Sometimes a surprise choice is better.
Democrats have to start grooming the next generation…
This is a good start…
He has a great foundation having served in the State legislature, worked in the private sector and as the Lt. governor…
That’s the 767 not the E-4. Still pretty though !
UPDATE: He is scheduled to arrive at Joint Base Andrews at 11:30 a.m. Eastern time and at the White House 15 minutes later, the White House announced.
She really does Seem to keep tabs on the President even when there’s no food involved…
I noticed all the responses to her tweet were about huckleberry pie—–don’t know what that was about.
it reminds me of jump rope~
She runs a food blog…
Republican assumes a ‘moderate’ position, but is quite sly with the gossip and snark…
Just so he knows, we know ….
I still haven’t forgiven himfor this and he has not appologized. Acts like it didn’t happen.
Right on Bobfr! My only quibble is I would use the word ‘vendetta’ instead of insurgency, since those assholes are so self-interested, irrational, devious and malicious.
Thank you Bobfr…Ed needs to realize we will never forget.
bob that’s the truth!
Howdy, folks! Been busy today so I’m trying to catch up here now. Just wanted to take a sec to post this link. The petition to declare Westboro a hate group has exceeded 250,000 signatures. If you signed it, please also sign this one to remove their tax exempt status: https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/remove-westboro-baptist-churchs-501c3-tax-exempt-status-and-make-it-retroactive/kmYR4DTL
I’m looking forward to tonight’s interview…not a fan of Barbara but looking forward to watching POTUS and FLOTUS. I really enjoy their joint interviews.
I am SO annoyed that they have to cut their vacation short because of Boehner and his band of idiots! Grrrrr….
‘grrrrr’ is right! i know that the first lady and first daughters will continue their vacation here, but they need time together as a family, and if you can’t get that at christmas, it’s pretty hard to arrange later on. they’ve had such a grueling year, and more hard work ahead. pbo needs some rest, and the family needs to relax and enjoy each other’s company. this really irks me!!
I absolutely agree…
They absolutely need family time together… This is so important if they are going to maintain a much needed sense of each other and what in the end grounds them…
I stumbled across some unflattering posts that suggested the President seems to spend more time playing golf than actually spending quality time with his wife and daughters while on family vacation…something I think the tweets from the food blog lady seems to be trying to emphasize with her weird tracking of President Obama, his golf games and golfing pals in Hawaii…
Done! Thanks, Rain:)
MUST READ http://www.thepeoplesview.net/2012/12/how-progressives-can-become-grovers.html
Thanks Chips I always enjoy the Kennedy Honors show. Will be watching Barbara’s interview.
This appointment reminded me of something that happened a week after the election: the private dinner the Obamas had with the Patricks of Masssachusetts. I thought at the time, this is about John Kerry’s app’t as SOS, and his replacement in the Senate. I still think it was. Both the President and Gov Patrick can keep their counsel, and would never divulge what was said. I believe they knew/know exactly the chance in taking Kerry out of the Senate and opening his seat; but I believe they are/will be, planning to make Scott Brown a loser again. That is why I believe Kerry was President Obama’s first choice for SOS. I think McCain and Graham decided Amb Susan Rice was the President’s first choice, because that is who they would have picked. Anyway…….it is always long term thinking with PBO, as the choice of Brian Schatz shows.
Living in a fishbowl – is it just social media? Was ANY other president followed with such intensity? Amazing how well they cope.
Did anyone really CARE what GWB did, or his dad GHWB? Which is more interesting: Honolulu, or Crawford TX????? All Junior did was ride his bike and cut limbs. As Presidente Fox of Mexico said…..GWB could not even ride a horse.
The press followed Clinton obsessively too. I remember telescopic pictures of Hill and Bill on a Caribbean “getaway”….no chance really.
No other President was followed with such intensity for a variety of reasons: the ease of access to social media and digital photography, the first AA President/First Family, but most importantly, the amazing man himself and all who are closely associated with him.
also too, he’s beautiful, unlike the others.
susanne – as always your posts are a delight
Yes, that’s definitely a factor.
I believe it’s the GOP – looking for any reason to criticize – how disgusting they are.
I agree 99, it’s a bit extreme IMO…
It’s obsessive and disgusting…
They need time alone and away from the nonstop prying eyes and the madness of looking for every single misstep…
I would lose my mind if I had to live like this…it’s madness…
I’m watching the Kennedy Centers Honors now on CBS!
Kennedy Center Honors LIVE NOW on CBS.
Quote of the day…
“That a country so attached to its civil liberties is able to come together and accept significant restrictions to its individual rights to fight against terrorism in the wake of September 11th but is unable to limit the availability of firearms that kill their own children, that’s properly impossible to understand for Europeans.”
– Sylvie Kauffmann, the editorial director for Le Monde and their correspondent in Washington, D.C., and New York from 1993 to 2001.
Well played Pres. Obama
This is what I call getting off on the right foot.
truly an honor, and also school.
Chi, COS and Bobfr – spot on
Could it be that President Obama is paying attention to the wise counsel from some of the wise TOD members? I don’t know very much about Brian Schatz, but I respect the wisdom of Chi and Bobfr who think that this was a smart choice by the Governor of Hawaii.
Great tribute to Dustin Hoffman—–starred in some of my fave movies—–The Graduate, Rain Man etc. etc. etc.
Greetings on this cozy night at home, have been in and out of here, checking on VC today, and filling in on any missing bits of info. Signed the petition to straighten out that bunch of mofos in the Westoboro so-called church… I hope they are slapped into oblivion. Indecent to call themselves a ‘church’. Anyway, am tired now, so pleased to be having quiet time at home, I cannot tell you how restful it is. Merry Christmas again, and to all a good night! Back tomorrow. {{{{{Chipsticks}}}}} {{{{{PBO}}}}} {{{{{TOD}}}}}.
good-nite Pam…hope to see you in 2013!
Good night, my dear. Sleep tight and sweet dreams!
BTW, what was VC doing when you checked on her? I can’t take my eyes off that girl for a minute!
Tracy Chapman is bringing some kick ass soul on the KCH.
Yes indeed! I enjoyed the entire Buddy tribute. Looks like our PBO and FLOTUS enjoyed it immensely as well.
I so envy you gals your ringside seat.
Looks like Mrs.O’s “Lets Move” has inspired the nation https://twitter.com/DaRiverZkind/status/284129766620147713
Sorry wrong link US childhood obesity dips for first time in decades http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5itF-5Q1f5KrPwaVUuC07GAXFC_fg?docId=CNG.1237972d4eb479fc58af0233f1a013d5.4a1 …
Awesome blues in tribute to Buddy Guy
Where is JacquelineOBoomer today?
Hi CB4O. JOB’s probably watching the KCH in a comfortable spot, or napping. She said earlier that she wanted to see the honours, plus the Obama interview later.
You’re so sweet, vc. Thanks!
I don’t know, JOB. All you folks who think I’m sweet are going to be so disappointed to meet the tart me, or the speechless me, at the Inauguration.
Remember too much sweets isn’t good for you.
Ha! There’s a joke in their somewhere, but I’ll be what they call “good.”
Barb – It’s a shocker seeing you on TOD this “early” !
lol, was wondering where you were….glad you are here
Will the Barbara Walters interview be live streamed anywhere?
I’m very interested in that answer too, Rain.
It will be on tonight’s Nightline at 11:30.
Yes, thanks, but is that on livestream? I’m not a TV person.
No. It’s on TV. They’ll upload it tomorrow but since you live in Canada, ABC might not let you view it on their website.
Drat! Discriminated against again, just because I live in the land of snow. Thanks, anyways, Utal. ;(
I’m in Australia VC but have watched many nightline programs online – so hopefully we’ll be able to see it soon.
Of course, the interview is not a ‘live’ programme, but you guys know what I mean, I hope.
Commercial break from the Kennedy Center Honors. PBO has that cool club swagger when listening to the Blues. You know the one, the cool dude who does not deign to dance, but who sits with his eyes at half mast rocking cooly as the music grooves.
I was listening to the news and they were saying that the First Lady approval rating is in the seventies, even higher that Hillary Clinton.
No surprise Annie, she’s simply magnificent and has put up with so much and yet still handles it all with grace and magnanimity even around those who have been so unkind to her…
She only grows soars in my estimation with each passing day…
Her warmth and authenticity is palpable…
So few women could endure and put up with what she’s been through just so her husband can pursue his dreams…
I am in awe of her…
I saw this comment posted on a NY Times article a while back and I must say that I agree…
‘…Many of you have spoken very eloquently about all of Mrs. Obama’s exceptional qualities that will one day mark her as perhaps a singularly exceptional first lady, regardless of mentioning race. Mentioning race is unnecessary and cheapens her somewhat, aside from the celebratory and pride aspects of it, she belongs to all of America. All of us.
What always impresses me on top of all these other fine points so many are making is how dripping with sincerity her body language is: this is an exceptionally honest person who clearly doesn’t care about faking it. What a breath of fresh air!
One of my favorite moments in the first campaign was when she said “I’m proud of my country for the first time in a long time” (or something to that effect) and then the campaign team obviously saw that as a potential powder keg and pressured that to get tamped down clearly. And when Mrs. McCain retorted in such a petty manner, the contrast was striking.
Moreover, I felt the opposite of the campaign team (why I am not on a campaign team obviously) and would have LOVED to hear her expostulate on that statement.
America could use some sobering admonishments.
Maybe that should now be the realm of first ladies, assuming they have even a sliver of her competence, grace and honesty.
The two of them represent us proudly on the world stage.
They seem like, gee, our first couple.
-Dannomusic43, Michigan
And this…
‘…Every president needs someone in his life who will watch his back, tell him truths that others are afraid to, and who knows who his real friends are. The country needs the first lady to do this, as evidently thankless as the role may be.
From my observations, Michelle Obama has been flawless– amazingly so. Barack Obama is a very lucky man whether he knows it or not.
I’m so grateful that our country has been blessed with a gracious, thoughtful, and beautiful First Lady. Thank you Mrs. Obama for everything you do . . . Your husband – whom I greatly admire too – is quite fortunate to have someone like you “watching his back.” The majority of Americans wish only the best for you and your family.
-Steve, Denver
How Many People Have Been Killed by Guns Since Newtown?
Slate partners with @GunDeaths for an interactive, crowdsourced tally of the toll firearms have taken since Dec. 14.
“Since this summer, the anonymous creator of the Twitter feed @GunDeaths has been doing his best to compile those statistics, tweeting every reported death he can find. He was inspired, he told us in a phone interview, by the Aurora, Colo., shootings and simply wanted to call daily attention to the toll that guns take. Now Slate is partnering with @GunDeaths to create this interactive feature, “Gun Deaths in America Since Newtown.””
http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/crime/2012/12/gun_death_tally_every_american_gun_death_since_newtown_sandy_hook_shooting.html
Thought it might be helpful to be sure VP Biden knows …
#FORWARD
Fun tribute to Letterman
The whole tax exempt status for a lot of org’s, including those from the left, needs a relook. Make it a part of debt problem solution.
I never used to think so Amk, but I do now. Ever since the ‘church’s reaction to ACA, PBO and the poor made me realize they really are not into christian principles, generally speaking.
People who are donating to these org’s are already claiming tax deduction, aren’t they ? Then why the org’s should again be tax exempt? I run a charity trust in my father’s name, mainly for education for rural children. Every year. the trust is audited and any donations that are not spent above 90% of the amount received for stated purposes, are taxed.
IMO it’s loopholes and ‘entitlements’ like these that rich people like Romney have been abusing for years, and getting richer and richer. I can imagine that an annual audit of the type you mention would be too much government for the GOP types to allow to pass. I really fail to see how a gun foundation would have initially fall under a tax exempt banner. I also found an interesting list of groups that the NRA are supposed to be helping with their funds and would be surprised to see how much help they have given to these groups previously.
I was just chatting about this on twitter while mentally wondering if the NRA is a charity in USA, or a church. Really there are so many little pieces to laws and government that seem so silly when looked at more closely.
OMG!!! Is it just me, or does the first lady look pregnant? This would be so very exciting!
)) The pictures with her in the white bottom dress looks like she is sporting a baby belly!
She’s not pregnant. The dress is just shaped that way.
FLOTUS already said that she is done and PBO said publicly that the decision would be up to her. I recall Oprah asking her this question directly (and Oprah was hoping for another addition to the O-family)
I have wished for the same since PBO was elected but I doubt it is going to happen.
I guess I was over re-acting
My 2 nieces were born 13 years apart and thought this first family might be sporting a new baby. The first lady’s dress looks a little like something you would wear during pregnancy. I guess I’m not up to the styles and fashions today. lol
FLOTUS will be 49 in January and as has been mentioned, she says that she is done.
It’s just you. OMG, not that again. I remember when POTUS and FLOTUS first got in the WH that is all anyone could hear, four years later I thought it was put to rest.
I would imagine at this point any additions would be through adoption. There’s doubtless a good little boy (say, schoolaged or so), who would need a good home and a good start. But the scrutiny would be terrible, even though they are certainly fit.
The Obama administration may be looking to expand the number of borrowers who can refinance their mortgages.
The White House is considering a proposal that would authorize Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to guarantee repayment by borrowers whose homes are underwater and whose mortgages aren’t backed by the government, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday.
The move would require Congress to authorize a change to the companies’ charters that would allow Fannie and Freddie to back billions of dollars in loans and to charge higher rates to borrowers to offset the risk.
Roughly 22% of homes in the U.S. with a mortgage, or about 10.8 million homes, were worth less than the amount of the loan they secured at the end of June, according to CoreLogic (CLGX), a company that provides financial data.
Fannie and Freddie currently allow borrowers whose loans are insured by the companies to obtain a lower rate as long as the borrowers are up-to-date on their payments. Officials at the Treasury Department and the White House would like to add borrowers who are currently blocked from the program because their loans are held by investors or private lenders.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency, which oversees Fannie and Freddie, has suggested it would support the administration’s effort, the Journal reported, citing people familiar with the discussions.
The administration also is said to be considering allowing borrowers whose loans are underwater to refinance their loan as part of the Home Affordable Modification Program, which can lower monthly mortgage payments for borrowers who face an “imminent” risk of defaulting. The administration’s proposal would redefine “imminent default” to include borrowers whose homes are underwater even if they are current on their payments.
http://www.americanbanker.com/issues/177_247/white-house-expands-mortgage-refi-for-underwater-borrowers-1055446-1.html
This is another great idea that will be stymied by the House. The entire country and its economic recovery constantly being held hostage by the Congressional lunatic society. Gerrymandering or not, we must get the House back.
I have been thinking that it be a good idea for the ordinary people, who support gun control and the reduction of gun-violence to start a letter writing campaign to the individual members of the NRA.
these letters would be collected on a specific social -media page hosted by individual grassroot citizens (hint Chips??) and copied to the White House and NRA.
Like the letters we wrote on behalf of then-Candidate Obama in 2008, each would contain a reason WHY we should take some specific action and a direct request to NRA members to challenge their leadership and support sensible gun laws.
I do not know if this could work but it sure wouldn’t hurt to try. we need the support of some less-ideological members to add to our outraged voices
yes! george carlin, the sane!
excellent news.
This catholic hopes that the Catholic Bishops (who have been rabidly against PBO) can now go sit down and try to devise way to enroll as many of the un-insured lay & poor people into their nearest ObamaCare exchange
Hollah!!
Is the US the only country in the world where health care is related to employment? I cannot imagine my employer having ANY say in my health care, although I do remember in my young days at job interviews having people ask me if I was intending to have children! It used to so annoy me – I missed out on a couple of jobs because I suggested that was not relevant to my job skills.
I don’t know. How does it work where you live? Australia or New Zealand right?
There’s a WhiteHouse.gov petition to revoke the tax exempt status of the NRA: http://wh.gov/Qd7p
Call me crazy (like Wayne LaPierre), but why do they have tax exempt status, again?
Apparently they do some ‘education’ and ‘charity’ work. Cough.
Unbelievable. It’s an insult to organizations that actually educate for the common good and do charity work. And the rest of us taxpayers.
Signed it, TienLe. It needs lots more signatures.
Oh my! Foo fighters followed by Lenny Kravitz…
Oh to be one of the beaded necklaces around Lenny’s neck. OMG!!!
Lenny is FIRE!!! Naughty mat needed RIGHT HERE!!!
Ok, how many folks here had a prom theme of “Stairway to Heaven?”
Damn, I still know all the words…. LOL
there are words?
Really, do yourself a favor. Watch “The Song Remains the Same” and the performance of “Stairway to Heaven” in it. They really were golden gods.
OMG. I am a Led Zeppelin fan from WAY back! That was so awesome:)!!! What an honor for them…it surely was my coming of age:) Rock Gods!!
They do a great job with the Kennedy Center Honors—–make it very entertaining.
I wonder if the late King of Pop Michael Jackson would ever receive a Kennedy Center Honor?
How wifey and I spent our day.
1. Took her truck for an interior detail. It looks splendid now.
2. Had breakfast.
3. Stimulated the economy:
3a. Bought a sound bar for the bedroom tv and pod speakers for my laptop at Best Buy.
3b. Bought a small desk and a rather nice chair for my laptop so I have somewhere “official” to write.
4. Used our CPK gift card for dinner.
She wishes she’d gone to work.
This is how I spent my day ( as someone who knows how vacation days are to be spent.
1. Woke up early, but stayed in bed.
2. Actually finished cups of coffee before they got cold.
3. Wore sleepwear until 3:00
4. Ate lovely Christmas leftovers most of the day.
5. Surfed the web, ordering books from B and N using my Xmas gift cards and checking in TOD.
6. Cooked and ate collard greens and farm fresh peas that I had purchased from the Farmer’s Market a few days ago.
7. Refused to answer the phone.
8. Read a book.
9. Rocked out to Blues and Rock while watching the KCH.
Nice – sounds a lot like my day… Just lovely!
That was me yesterday. When I was alone. And that will be me Friday. Ah, vacation.
I am ready to go watch Nightline. Good night one and all.
Me too.
Enjoy, Annieb & Ceb!
Me, I’ll wait until it’s posted online tomorrow. After all, waiting one more day to see it will build my anticipation level so much higher. [Yeah, right.
]
HEADS UP: Barbara Walters’s interview with POTUS and FLOTUS is airing tonight on ABC at 11:35PM ET / 10:35PM CT.
Just watched it, great interview!
I thought it was kinda ehhhhh. Not because of the Obamas but because Barbara Walters makes it uncomfortable to watch. Not a good interviewer.
dotster…..I totally agree with you! Is it Barbara or bad editing….or.??? Too many commercials, no continuity…..anyway, they looked great, but she is a waste. “ehhhhh” is my reaction too.
LOL yeah…I’ve learned to tune out the interviewers and just enjoy the Obamas.
Yeah, that could be an Olympic game for Obamabots like us!
LOL it sure could!
I;m ashamed to say I snoozed off briefly. G;night TODobots!
Never be ashamed of getting your rest. I could be a professional sleeper, if I wanted to! G’night, vc.
what a great evening…two hours of fantastic entertainment with snatches of Michelle and PBO then a fun interview and back here to read all the comments. Off to bed with a happy face and heart.
UT, I leave this to you as a slumber present.
Awwwwww…..this is perfect! Kids know who the best team is and that’s CHELSEA.
I love watching POTUS and FLOTUS, but I was so disappointed with the interview being on Nightline . They cut out the minutes Barbara spoke with POTUS alone. All ABC had to do was what they were planning to do in the first place show the interview on 20/20 this Friday. I think we can count on this being Mrs. Walters, ABC last Christmas interview with the Obamas. At least I hope and pray.
Any chance I get to see POTUS and FLOTUS I don’t care who is interviewing them as long as they show respect. I just don’t like ABC dumping the interview on Nightline at 11:35 and for only 30 minutes if that. Well it’s always nice seeing POTUS and FLOTUS together. Have POTUS left Hawaii yet?
Just got up to make these last two comments. Good Night again.
Great show!
As Lincoln and so many others have realized and articulated – the gravest threat to America would always come from within.
Yes We Know
A lovely and strong message, Bob. Let’s all lend him a bit of our strength and support over the next few days.
I agree Bobfr and Rain, because if I allow myself to think about it I become really piss. President Obama has to cut his vacation with his family short, but the darn idiots who are responsible for this entire mess are remaining on their vacation. John Boehner and the Republicans will remain on their vacation.
Hello, Bob. I hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas. I am so glad to see you back, and as fearless as ever, spreading the TRUTH. We all have an obligation as citizens not to allow billionaires, like the Koch brothers, the corrupt and unethical corporate media, and the self-serving emoprogs, to destroy our country.
Thank you, nath. And, I hope you and your loved ones have had a joyous Christmas and are cherishing your time together.
#FORWARD
Yes we did, thanks. I was so grateful that my daughter, who lives in NY, and went through the traumatic experience of Sandy, was able to be with us in CA for Christmas.
I am really angry at the gop for making PBO cut his vacation short! curse word, ………curse word ….. curse word
Rats! I missed POTUS & FLOTUS interview w/Barbara Walters.
I thought it was going to be on 20/20. I wonder if it will re-air?
Double Rats, I missed POTUS interview also. However, I watched Kennedy Honors Show, and it took me back to age 21 when I saw Led Zeppelin in Chicago…wow, where did those years go?
My 14-yr-old black male Pug threw up all day on Christmas, so I took him to Vet yesterday. Long story short, after ultra sound, he has liver cancer and days are numbered now. I have a girl Pug also who keeps him company. Anyway, he got fluids & nausea shot & pills and he’s just broken all our hearts around here.
I am so sorry pugeretto about your precious little pug. I know he’s had a full loving home with you and yours and his playmates love will be a great comfort to him.
Mooooooooorning!
http://theobamadiary.com/2012/12/27/rise-and-shine-384/