Dear @VP @SenFeinstein Do not allow purveyors of weapons of war to prevail. Senators & Reps not supporting #AWB must be held accountable.— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) March 21, 2013
Dear @VP thank you for your fierce advocacy to protect Americans from the purveyors of weapons of war & their Congressional enablers. #AWB— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) March 21, 2013
I called and left a message with one of her staff. It was just to encourage her to keep up the pressure and that she’s got a broad-based support from ‘we,the people’.
I want to also thank you, Linda for reminding us to contact Sen. Feinstein and VPBiden. I called Sen. Feinstein’s LA office and spoke with a lovely young lady. She was so appreciative for the call. I shared with her my personal relationship with one of the victims of the shooting in San Francisco. I taught the a relative of one of the victims. The family is like is still very close with me to this day.
The young lady said that it is encouraging to hear the we are hopeful and are in support with Sen. Feinstein. She thanked me very much.HZ
Dying Iraq War Veteran Writes Last Letter 2 Bush & Cheney "My day of reckoning is upon me. Yours will come" he warns rol.st/XqrgUZ— The lovely Plains (@DaRiverZkind) March 21, 2013
HEADLINE: Obama’s speech: What young Israelis not only needed but wanted to hear
// The U.S. president’s speech in Jerusalem redefines what it means to be a centrist in Israel. We deserve a leader like him. For Barack Obama to come to Jerusalem, and speak to Israeli students and talk persuasively of the possibility of a secure and peaceful future, for him to do that and garner a roaring ovation of approval, he would have to have given one hell of a speech.
He did. This was the speech that these young Israelis not only needed but wanted to hear. A speech that radically redefined centrism in Israel, bringing it down to extraordinary common denominators in directions Israelis have learned to think of as diametrically opposed.
He spoke of security and peace as inextricably and necessarily linked, not a narrow choice between options, but a conscious choice for both. They roared.
This was not the student crowd that Obama is used to. These students are Israelis. This is a crowd that is somehow simultaneously world-weary and hair-trigger volatile. They have come by it honestly. In comparison to their American counterparts, they are, by and large, older by several years – some would say, several lifetimes. They enter college after years in the military, often followed by the escape-valve rehab of a marathon trek to remote continents.
They know a snow job when they hear it. And the rare times when someone makes a sincere and enormous effort to understand them, to see things from their point of view, and to bring them a message that no leader in Israel has managed to bring them, they know that too. And if they respond with a huge reservoir of unaddressed, pent up emotional energy, as they did Thursday evening, even that fusty hall in Jerusalem – that house that boredom built, that home to bureaucratic Jewish organizational conferences dull as death – can erupt with the electricity and positive might that are the hallmarks if something we thought we’d all lost long ago: hope. //
Though I’m late to the party I so agree, Hf! In fact I couldn’t resist the quotes about leadership, particularly because they underline something we here all realize – the world sees the true qualities of Pres O. (There were other parts I was tempted to tweet too but I restrained myself since the links would all go back to the same source. )
When he hands back the WH… Let [Barack Obama] run here. It's about time we knew again what a real leader was like. haaretz.com/news/obama-vis…— Vick C. (@sonamie) March 21, 2013
When he hands back the WH… Let [Barack Obama] run here. It's about time we knew again what a real leader was like. haaretz.com/news/obama-vis…— Vick C. (@sonamie) March 21, 2013
I think I’ll just go sit in a corner and practise patience. If Chips or any Chipadees are around would you please delete the glaring evidence of my impatience? Please, and thank you. If not possible, I’ll be really, really quiet so no-one will remember I’m here.
I’m still keeping a very low, low profile, JO’B. Are you guys on to a new thread yet? I’ve had my eyes closed (liked the toddler who thinks you can’t seem HIM if his eyes are shut).
That’s a big deal!
Also first President to address both houses of Parliament in Britain and sleep at Buckingham Palace, in the Same room that Will and Kate used after their marriage before they left for their honeymoon.
And yet, Chuck Todd seems to think that the Israelis haven’t embraced this President like they’ve embraced past Presidents – none of whom have received that medal…
Am so very proud of him and of ALL those ‘neighbors’ who have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with him. The TOD community being evidence of just how potent and caring his ‘neighbors’ are!
Much belated thank you – seeing Tweety trying to say Phil was fired for other reasons – shows who he really was. Phil’s story was real – the network media told everyone what was right and wrong and what they should think. Media is having less success – but still doing it in my world without much comeback.
I am always in such awe of the compassion and understanding of how others feel that this President has. He just has a way of giving hope to people that I have not seen before in any President. I am stymied as to how people can not see that in him or maybe chose not to see it.
@ChuckTodd Why aren't you reporting on the astonishing achievements in Israel of our President? He has inspired HOPE in Israelis. @PressSec— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) March 21, 2013
Dear friends, After everything I have seen in my life, I earned the right to believe that peace is attainable. #obamainisrael— (@PresidentPeres) March 21, 2013
A hooded robber burst into a Texas bank and forced the tellers to load a
sack full of cash.
On his way out the door, a brave Texas customer grabbed the hood and pulled
it off revealing the robbers face.
The robber shot the customer without a moment’s hesitation. He then looked
around the bank and noticed one of the tellers looking straight at him. The
robber instantly shot him also.
Everyone in the bank, by now very scared, looked intently down at the floor
in silence.
The robber yelled, “Well did anyone else see my face?”
There are a few moments of utter silence in which everyone was plainly too
afraid to speak. Then one old cowboy named Bill from Oklahoma slowly raised
hand and said, “My wife got a pretty good look at you.”
I could cry that I missed this.. hopefully there’ll be video.. I got to see his speech earlier, but had to leave and missed the medal ceremony. Has this medal been given to any other US Presidents?
wow. wow wow wow. First President Peres was funny & inspiring and very giving in his remarks to our President- saying all the things that we say & know about this great leader we have. President Obama was visibly humbled and touched.. also so funny and heartwarming in his gratitude. This was a magnificent ceremony for a much deserving recipient… thank you to the Israeli people and to President Peres- what a dear sweet man he is.
Sheri – I’ve missed everything so far (too much work!). I’m hoping to catch up on the snippets I saw posted earlier, and hopefully, video of today’s events. It sounds like it’s been absolutely amazing.
Know how you feel, sherijr. I’ve been looking everywhere for the video. Not on You Tube, yet. Not on Whitehouse.gov. If someone finds it, please let us know.
Oh thank you ut! I’ve been dying to see it (or rather listen to it), but I’m at work! All of the lovely snippets and the transcripts are great, but there’s nothing like actually hearing him deliver a momenutal speech like this one. Got 2 more meetings to go to, then I can come back and dive in!
Seriously Dudette!!! I’m assuming they think this video is a bad thing, for me it just showed PBO exuding class once more. But, these folk are unlikely to recognize class.
Chuckie Toad was mad that he got called out for his lousy questions at the presser yesterday, and this was his reaction (to which I responded).
@chucktodd And a good thing we have the WHPC to help GOP spokespersons work out their anger issues.— (@aspirational12) March 21, 2013
Now he hasn’t tweeted a single thing about PBO’s speech to the young Israeli’s or his receipt of the highest Medal of distinction. Instead he’s been posting picture after picture of illegal settlements on the West Bank…something he clearly felt he could use to attack PBO on.
His last Twitter activity was to retweet something from Nancy Pelosi about the NCAA bracket. He’s completely disinterested in Israel right now- and we know why.
Yep, that’s the best he can do, derbingle – really a total embarrassment and he is getting it handed to him on Twitter. He should just stop digging the hole ever deeper …
@chucktodd U were rude & disrespectful;folks rightfully called U out. Don't start nothing, there won't be nothing.U dish out; can't take it— Alycee (@jazziz2) March 21, 2013
Just think, what a country we would be if we spent war $$$ on education, jobs, infrastructure; had journalists that reported the news without bias; and we all loved our neighbor as we love ourselves…
The best part is that all of us and others clearly have irked the dumbass Chuck Todd. Let’s continue, shall we?
@aspirational12 Good thing our vision isn't so clouded with anger at total lack of propriety by @chucktodd that we forget to call him out.— (@JOBoomr) March 21, 2013
This is one of those stories where you begin to chuckle….then find yourself laughing out loud.
Pocket Taser Stun Gun, a great gift for the wife. A guy who purchased his lovely wife a pocket Taser for their anniversary submitted this.
Last weekend I saw something at Larry’s Pistol & Pawn Shop that sparked my interest. The occasion was our 15th anniversary and I was looking for a little something extra for my wife Julie. What I came across was a 100,000-volt, pocket/purse-sized taser. The effects of the taser were supposed to be short lived, with no long-term adverse affect on your assailant, allowing her adequate time to retreat to safety….??
‘WAY TOO COOL! Long story short, I bought the device and brought it home.
I loaded two AAA batteries in the darn thing and pushed the button. Nothing! I was disappointed. I learned, however, that if I pushed the button AND pressed it against a metal surface at the same time; I’d get the blue arc of electricity darting back and forth between the prongs.
AWESOME!!!
Unfortunately, I have yet to explain to Julie what that burn spot is on the face of her microwave.
Okay, so I was home alone with this new toy, thinking to myself that it couldn’t be all that bad with only two triple-A batteries, right?
There I sat in my recliner, my cat Gracie looking on intently (trusting little soul) while I was reading the directions and thinking that I really needed to try this thing out on a flesh & blood moving target.
I must admit I thought about zapping Gracie (for a fraction of a second) and thought better of it. She is such a sweet cat. But, if I was going to give this thing to my wife to protect herself against a mugger, I did want some assurance that it would work as advertised. Am I wrong?
So, there I sat in a pair of shorts and a tank top with my reading glasses perched delicately on the bridge of my nose, directions in one hand, and taser in another.
The directions said that a one-second burst would shock and disorient your assailant; a two-second burst was supposed to cause muscle spasms and a major loss of bodily control; a three-second burst would purportedly make your assailant flop on the ground like a fish out of water. Any burst longer than three seconds would be wasting the batteries.? ? All the while I’m looking at this little device measuring about 5″ long, less than 3/4 inch in circumference; pretty cute really and (loaded with two itsy, bitsy triple-A batteries) thinking to myself, “no possible way!”
What happened next is almost beyond description, but I’ll do my best…? ? I’m sitting there alone, Gracie looking on with her head cocked to one side as to say, “don’t do it master,” reasoning that a one- second burst from such a tiny little ole thing couldn’t hurt all that bad. I decided to give myself a one-second burst just for heck of it. I touched the prongs to my naked thigh, pushed the button, and . . .
HOLY MOTHER OF GOD, WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION!
I’m pretty sure Jessie Ventura ran in through the side door, picked me up in the recliner , then body slammed us both on the carpet, over and over and over again.
I vaguely recall waking up on my side in the fetal position, with tears in my eyes, body soaking wet, both nipples on fire, testicles nowhere to be found, with my left arm tucked under my body in the oddest position, and tingling in my legs?
The cat was standing over me making meowing sounds I had never heard before, licking my face, undoubtedly thinking to herself, “Do it again, stupid, do it again!”
Note: If you ever feel compelled to “mug” yourself with a taser, one note of caution: there is no such thing as a one-second burst when you zap yourself!
You will not let go of that thing until it is dislodged from your hand by a violent thrashing about on the floor.
A three-second burst would be considered conservative?
SON-OF-A-… That hurt like **% !!! A minute or so later (I can’t be sure, as time was a relative thing at that point), I collected my wits (what little I had left), sat up and surveyed the landscape. My bent reading glasses were on the mantel of the fireplace. How did they get up there??? My triceps, right thigh and both nipples were still twitching. My face felt like it had been shot up with Novocain, and my bottom lip weighed 88 lbs. I’m still looking for my testicles! I’m offering a significant reward for their safe return!! Still in shock!
P. S. My wife loved the gift, and now regularly threatens me with it!
“If you think Education is difficult, try being stupid.”
Photo: President Obama is welcomed by Palestinian girls during his visit to Al Bera Youth Center in the West Bank http://t.co/BAmol4dKE4— TheObamaDiary.com (@TheObamaDiary) March 21, 2013
Thumbs Up (President Obama meets with Palestinian children during visit to Ramallah, the West Bank) http://t.co/c3lYCiOQcA— TheObamaDiary.com (@TheObamaDiary) March 21, 2013
What would be the harm in not calling on him in one of these press conferences anyway? Is there a rule that he has to be one of the person who gets to ask a question?
That is exactly what he thinks and what he is paid to do. No holds barred all out war on our beloved President. If someone thinks there is a way to stop this please enlighten me.
I remember calling out the dumbass Todd years ago, back and forth in emails. He never admitted ANYTHING he did was wrong or ill-stated. He’s a “blame the victim” kind of guy, and, unfortunately, our whole country is his victim because he’s got the power of the pen – and the big mouth abroad.
@chucktodd We all heard you, across the country. Embarrassed all of us. What a big mess you are. We are NOT surprised. cc: @EricBoehlert— (@JOBoomr) March 21, 2013
My youngest son gave me a early birthday present yesterday. My Ipad2 and my MacPro were driving me crazy. I have a new laptop and now I can post without worry. I am still reading about all the bells and whistles. I like having grown kids who are now buying me new toys.
President Obama is on way back to his hotel. The Peres site showed the entertainment (including a moving rendition of Amazing Grace to which the prez was mouthing the words). Then back to dinner and finally the motorcade. He looked a bit tired, but seemed to be enjoying himself.
If we use Medicare as a guide, the drumbeat to repeal the Affordable Care Act will continue for at least another 45 + years.
DO NOT FORGET THAT in 1965 it was the Democrats who gave us Medicare. The Republicans opposed it.
Votes in Senate: Dems 57 yes, 7 no, 4 not voting – Repubs 13 yes, 17 no, 12 not voting (how courageous)
Votes in House: Dems 237 yes, 48 no, 8 not voting – Repubs 70 yes, 68 no, 2 not voting.
Remember in 1935 Social Security was also provided to us by the Dems;
Votes in Senate: 60 yes, 1 no, 8 not voting – Repubs 16 yes, 5 no, 4 not voting
Votes in House: 284 yes, 15 no, 20 not voting – Repubs 81 yes, 15 no, 4 not voting
80 years from now, will the Republicans still be trying to repeal ACA, and Medicare, and Social Security?
I think this is a rhetorical question, because we know the answer is yes.
Steve Benen to the rescue. It is a MUST WATCH speech.
If you missed Obama's important speech in Jerusalem, I posted the video on.msnbc.com/ZOX1J2 It's well worth your time— Steve Benen (@stevebenen) March 21, 2013
He added, “I believe that peace is the only path to true security. You have the opportunity to be the generation that permanently secures the Zionist dream, or you can face a growing challenge to its future.”
The message wasn’t subtle: fairness demands a Palestinian state, but this is just as much about Israel’s own future.
If the goal was for Obama to lay the groundwork for a constructive way forward on the peace process, the speech did what it set out to do. That doesn’t mean the president will necessarily be successful in getting the process to advance — a well-received speech can only do so much — but it does mean Obama pointed the way forward.
We learned a week ago that sequestration cuts, in addition to all their other damage, were undercutting the Army’s Tuition Assistance program. As of March 8, veterans already enrolled and receiving student aid would continue to receive support, but new requests would be turned down due to the spending cuts.
Today, the budgetary situation improved — sort of.
Congress voted to protect the military’s popular Tuition Assistance program on Thursday, directing the Defense Department to find money to fund it…In this case, Congress didn’t restore the funding so Tuition Assistance could continue, but instead, gave the Pentagon the authority to find cuts elsewhere in the Defense budget.
The end result for veterans, however, remains the same — the Tuition Assistance program will be back on its feet, as it should be.
Chips, thank you for these wonderful coverage of the President visit to Israel. I wish I could give you your own deservedly medal of honor for your outstanding work through the years. I lurk in everyday to get my daily Obama fix. I come here knowing that I will not get the distorted or half truth on everything POTUS like other agenda driven media sites. I come here knowing that I will get complete and factual coverage of POTUS daily activities. Thank you. And thanks to everyone that have been posting videos of this historic event.
Financial data firm Markit reported domestic manufacturing growth increased to 54.9 this month from 54.3 in February. A reading above 50 indicates expansion. Manufacturers increased hiring for the month pushing the employment sub-index to 54.6 from 53.5.
The National Association of Realtors report existing home sales increased 0.8% to an annual rate of 4.98 million units last month, the highest level since November 2009. National median price for existing homes jumped 11.6%, the biggest gain since 2005.
The Conference Board reported economic activity rose 0.5% to 94.8 last month after advancing by an upwardly-revised 0.5% in January. Economists were expecting the index to rise 0.4% in February.
Did anyone see the guy on Martin Bashir show who seem so negative about POTUS and what he said in Israel today. I didn’t get his name. Did anyone else see Bashir show?
Republican amendments to the Senate’s budget proposal would require President Obama and Vice President Biden to get their medical care through the new exchanges created by Obama’s signature healthcare law.
Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) both offered amendments to move the president and vice president into the healthcare law’s exchanges.
After the Affordable Care Act passed, the White House said Obama would enroll in an exchange once the time came in 2014. Collins and Ayotte’s amendments would require the president, the vice president and the Cabinet to put their premiums where their politics are.
Sens. Levin, McCain push Obama to take military action in Syria
Carlo Muñoz
03/21/13 03:08 PM ET
The senators said Obama should consider precision airstrikes to establish a “safe-zone” along the Syrian border.…
‘ “A SPEECH is just a speech,” one particularly blasé Israeli peacenik remarked in the wake of Barack Obama’s address to Israeli students in Jerusalem on March 21st.
Her hard-nosed observation was incontrovertible. But so was the fact—as this writer ascertained in unscientific polling—that the American president’s elegant, empathetic rhetoric brought tears, literally, to the eyes of many other Israelis who yearn for an end to the conflict with the Palestinians.
Just a speech, yes. But a corker of a speech.
Mr Obama scored with the Israeli public—and well beyond the confines of the hard-core “peace camp”—principally because he embraced in this speech the Israeli narrative of what has gone wrong in the peace process. ‘
‘ A Native American state representative in Kansas rebuked Secretary of State Kris Kobach, a leader in the anti-immigrant movement, at a hearing yesterday.
“I think it’s funny Mr. Kobach, because when you mention illegal immigrant, I think of all of you,” said State Rep. Ponka-We Victors (D), a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation of Arizona, during a hearing on Wednesday about a state statute that allows children of undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities. Her comments drew loud applause from the audience. ‘
At least you turned your thoughts inward, better than I. I won’t tell ya the first thought that came to my head, because I’m normally such a little peacemaker.
Don’t know why above old tweet popped up—-meant to post this….
Moms from around the country have gathered in #Harlem today to demand #GunSense & protect our children's futures. ow.ly/i/1JvLH— Moms Demand Action (@MomsDemand) March 21, 2013
I will ensure that a ban on assault weapons, limits to high-capacity magazines, and mental health provisions receive votes.— Senator Harry Reid (@SenatorReid) March 21, 2013
Dear @SenatorReid we expect nothing less from you & Democratic Senators than the votes you now have committed to hold & we expect a Yes Vote— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) March 21, 2013
wonder how much taxpayer money is spent to travel around mark knoller, chuck todd, and the other propagandists of the white house press corpse when the president travels, and at the white house for that matter, so they can go around making fools of themselves and their employers.
there’s obviously already a process for picking and choosing who is part of the group, and it’s long past time to re-examine those who are there now. they serve no value for society and the democratic republic whatsoever, and in fact are clearly hurting the process. what stories have any of the front-rowers “broken” or what “tough question” has any one of them asked that led to anything?!?
the irony is that president obama shines when asked the toughest questions. when some foreign press person asks some detailed and pointed question about a foreign policy about the other side of the world, president obama can answer in great detail. when a military news person for example asks some tough question about a seeming contradiction in the administration’s policy, president obama is able to walk people through the reasoning in detail and handle follow-ups. when chuck todd asks some moronic question framed as the latest republican talking point which president obama proably already answered 4 different ways, you can see how hard our president has to work not to roll his eyes or say how stupid that question is. these people and their employers have no inherent right to be in that room costing us taxpayer money to advance republican talking points!!! get some real journalists in there who can actually help inform the electorate and hold politiicans accountable!! that’s all we’re asking for.
Howdy
Congrats Carol!
Thank you.
wtg carol.
Thank you.
Looking forward to seeing Pres Obama again!
oops sorry should of read farther on down..wtg allison..
Gongratulations Carol and Allison on 1st place tie
Thanks, HF!
Thank you.
Afternoon EB, congrats Carol..
Thank you LP and Hopefruit.
I’m watching via the Link from Israel and they’re showing the motorcade arriving now.
Ohhh – I should have come here first instead of checking the weather site.
Obama to Israelis: ‘You Are Not Alone’ (article with 2 minute video)
http://www.voanews.com/content/obama-visits-west-bank/1625688.html
9-picture photo gallery at the end too.
I go to CBS NEWS and who’s big head did I see Ed Henry. Made my day.
Thanks, Dudette. That little video snippet helped me get into the ‘right frame of mind’ after a day away.
thank you.
SOS Kerry is in the house!
Hasn’t FLOTUS train POTUS well, he went back and pull out the chair for PM Bibi’s wife. I was just kidding about training POTUS.
PM Bibi didn’t even think about that he was so quick to get the seat next to POTUS. Deep down I’m sure Bibi wanted it to be President Romney.
John Kerry is so happy in new role. I have no doubt that he will be an excellent SOS!
CALL TO ACTION
I know everyone is calught up in the Presidents visit to Israel, and I don’t blame you. He is so wonderful.
Here is my request
Please set aside 10 minutes and do 2 things.
Send VP Biden an ataboy for his refusal to give up on gun control
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/submit-questions-and-comments/vp
Call Sen. Feinstein’s office and ask her to keep pushing for the assault weapons ban -call even if you aren’t from CA
202-224-3841
SF (415) 393-0707
LA (310) 914-7300
Fresno (559) 485-7430
San Diego (619) 231-9712
I shall call Sen. Feinstein’s office.
Good Job
Calling right now! Her phone system will only let you hold for 2 minutes and then it disconnects. I’m determined to talk to someone in her office.
I’m sending a e-mail too. This is to darn important.
It sure is :->
Thanks so much – we can always count on you.
Thank you Linda!!
Yes We Can
Thanks so much, I really appreciate your tweets.
I called and left a message with one of her staff. It was just to encourage her to keep up the pressure and that she’s got a broad-based support from ‘we,the people’.
I want to also thank you, Linda for reminding us to contact Sen. Feinstein and VPBiden. I called Sen. Feinstein’s LA office and spoke with a lovely young lady. She was so appreciative for the call. I shared with her my personal relationship with one of the victims of the shooting in San Francisco. I taught the a relative of one of the victims. The family is like is still very close with me to this day.
The young lady said that it is encouraging to hear the we are hopeful and are in support with Sen. Feinstein. She thanked me very much.HZ
You are welcome HZ. The folks here keep me inspired. Personal stories like you make a real impact. I really appreciate your efforts.
Thanks so much
The room seems to be too small for the number of guests there. I can’t help but being a bit concerned.
What is this venue ? A museum ?
They mentioned the ceremony was being held “at the President’s residence.”
Bibi just wants to be all up in PBO’s face.
LOL! they mixed up their speeches…
Pres. Peres: “We are alone … We are alone together.” (So glad I remembered to check in and watch this. Very moving.)
Will this shoe go in the GW Bush’s library?
HEADLINE: Obama’s speech: What young Israelis not only needed but wanted to hear
// The U.S. president’s speech in Jerusalem redefines what it means to be a centrist in Israel. We deserve a leader like him. For Barack Obama to come to Jerusalem, and speak to Israeli students and talk persuasively of the possibility of a secure and peaceful future, for him to do that and garner a roaring ovation of approval, he would have to have given one hell of a speech.
He did. This was the speech that these young Israelis not only needed but wanted to hear. A speech that radically redefined centrism in Israel, bringing it down to extraordinary common denominators in directions Israelis have learned to think of as diametrically opposed.
He spoke of security and peace as inextricably and necessarily linked, not a narrow choice between options, but a conscious choice for both. They roared.
This was not the student crowd that Obama is used to. These students are Israelis. This is a crowd that is somehow simultaneously world-weary and hair-trigger volatile. They have come by it honestly. In comparison to their American counterparts, they are, by and large, older by several years – some would say, several lifetimes. They enter college after years in the military, often followed by the escape-valve rehab of a marathon trek to remote continents.
They know a snow job when they hear it. And the rare times when someone makes a sincere and enormous effort to understand them, to see things from their point of view, and to bring them a message that no leader in Israel has managed to bring them, they know that too. And if they respond with a huge reservoir of unaddressed, pent up emotional energy, as they did Thursday evening, even that fusty hall in Jerusalem – that house that boredom built, that home to bureaucratic Jewish organizational conferences dull as death – can erupt with the electricity and positive might that are the hallmarks if something we thought we’d all lost long ago: hope. //
http://www.haaretz.com/news/obama-visits-israel/obama-s-speech-what-young-israelis-not-only-needed-but-wanted-to-hear.premium-1.511121#.UUtO9sRlLLA.twitter
I think this EXCELLENT article (with link) should be front paged!!
Wow! That is a great, great article. And I agree about it being front paged as well!
Though I’m late to the party I so agree, Hf! In fact I couldn’t resist the quotes about leadership, particularly because they underline something we here all realize – the world sees the true qualities of Pres O. (There were other parts I was tempted to tweet too but I restrained myself since the links would all go back to the same source.
)
Grrrr, VC, do it right. Trying again…
Ha! I remember doing stuff and thinking “maybe they’ll all go off to a new thread and not see this.” Whatever you do is fine with us, VC!
I’m still keeping a very low, low profile, JO’B. Are you guys on to a new thread yet? I’ve had my eyes closed (liked the toddler who thinks you can’t seem HIM if his eyes are shut).
It’s safe to come out, now, honey bunch. We’re all on a new thread!
Thanks!
Superb article – totally true.
Yes We Can
Fantastic!!
Hey, republicans and media, are you LISTENING to that ??
Answer from GOP: NO LALAALALA
My water works are full force as I watch OUR PRESIDENT receive his medal. YOU GO MR. PRESIDENT. YOU ROCK!
Glad to hear I’m not the only one undone by the last 2 days. Our President is getting exactly the respect and love he so richly deserves.
AMEN!
Amen x 2!!!
I am just so thankful that I am alive and to witness to this Great President.
Ok- this sentence was not coherent but you know what I mean.
SURE DO AND I SHARE YOUR JOY.
That’s a big deal!
Also first President to address both houses of Parliament in Britain and sleep at Buckingham Palace, in the Same room that Will and Kate used after their marriage before they left for their honeymoon.
The world sees PBO as we do at TOD.
And yet, Chuck Todd seems to think that the Israelis haven’t embraced this President like they’ve embraced past Presidents – none of whom have received that medal…
This is the HOPE that BARACK BUILT.
It sure is, hf!!!!
Am so very proud of him and of ALL those ‘neighbors’ who have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with him. The TOD community being evidence of just how potent and caring his ‘neighbors’ are!
#FORWARD Together
Much belated thank you – seeing Tweety trying to say Phil was fired for other reasons – shows who he really was. Phil’s story was real – the network media told everyone what was right and wrong and what they should think. Media is having less success – but still doing it in my world without much comeback.
I am always in such awe of the compassion and understanding of how others feel that this President has. He just has a way of giving hope to people that I have not seen before in any President. I am stymied as to how people can not see that in him or maybe chose not to see it.
It’s a choice.
They see it—–and it’s driving them crazy.
LiberalPhenom @LiberalPhenom
————————————-
No tweets yet from @chucktodd about Pres Obama receiving Israel’s highest honor. Imagine that.
Retweeted by Jeff Gauvin
——————————————————
Bobfr, Did you get a response back from Chuck “GOP” Todd?
Of course not
An afternoon ha, ha!
A hooded robber burst into a Texas bank and forced the tellers to load a
sack full of cash.
On his way out the door, a brave Texas customer grabbed the hood and pulled
it off revealing the robbers face.
The robber shot the customer without a moment’s hesitation. He then looked
around the bank and noticed one of the tellers looking straight at him. The
robber instantly shot him also.
Everyone in the bank, by now very scared, looked intently down at the floor
in silence.
The robber yelled, “Well did anyone else see my face?”
There are a few moments of utter silence in which everyone was plainly too
afraid to speak. Then one old cowboy named Bill from Oklahoma slowly raised
hand and said, “My wife got a pretty good look at you.”
So terrible! I howled with laughter, regardless…
LMFAO..
ROTFLMAO!….I’m FBing this one Sailor.
Go to it!
I could cry that I missed this.. hopefully there’ll be video.. I got to see his speech earlier, but had to leave and missed the medal ceremony. Has this medal been given to any other US Presidents?
I think he’s the first.
Yes, he’s the first ‘sitting’ President to receive it.
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/166462
thank you Bob & for the video.. ohh you made my day!
It’s a lovely moment; to be cherished over and over again, for sure, Sheri!!
wow. wow wow wow. First President Peres was funny & inspiring and very giving in his remarks to our President- saying all the things that we say & know about this great leader we have. President Obama was visibly humbled and touched.. also so funny and heartwarming in his gratitude. This was a magnificent ceremony for a much deserving recipient… thank you to the Israeli people and to President Peres- what a dear sweet man he is.
thanks ut! Of course he’s the first
he is first & best as so many things.
Sheri – I’ve missed everything so far (too much work!). I’m hoping to catch up on the snippets I saw posted earlier, and hopefully, video of today’s events. It sounds like it’s been absolutely amazing.
theo you are in for a huge treat, his speech to Israli students was so touching and moving.. you will be so pleased.
Israeli
Thanks Sheri – I’m even trying to sneak out early today so I can go home and watch these appearances. I can hardly wait!
Know how you feel, sherijr. I’ve been looking everywhere for the video. Not on You Tube, yet. Not on Whitehouse.gov. If someone finds it, please let us know.
For those who missed Pres. Obama’s speech to Israeli students about the Middle East, C-SPAN has it here.
http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/311641-2
Oh thank you ut! I’ve been dying to see it (or rather listen to it), but I’m at work! All of the lovely snippets and the transcripts are great, but there’s nothing like actually hearing him deliver a momenutal speech like this one. Got 2 more meetings to go to, then I can come back and dive in!
Ut, this is only half the speech. Cspan cuts it off soon after the heckler. Wish the White House or YouTube would post it–it’s very frustrating.
That’s near the beginning of his speech. Can’t believe no one has it in its entirety.
Thanks UT….missed it,but have seen clips from the news shows. Also, you’re doing a great job helping out our Chips to run this community. Kudos!.
President Obama Meets with First-Ever Ethiopian Crowned Miss Israel
http://www.theworld.org/2013/03/ethiopian-crowned-miss-israel/
Not cool referring to this as a “hot date” but here she is
I think we may be giving “Miss Israel” too much attention, for no good reason.
End Times Watch? Really?!!
Seriously Dudette!!! I’m assuming they think this video is a bad thing, for me it just showed PBO exuding class once more. But, these folk are unlikely to recognize class.
I agree. [sigh]
Story behind the heckling:
Obama Faces Israel Pressure on Jailed Spy Jonathan Pollard
http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/448345/20130320/obama-israel-pollard-spy-yityish-aynaw.htm
More:
Miss Israel calls Obama her role model, will ask him to release Pollard. Pollards issue statement asking Israelis to show Obama ‘all due respect and honor.’
http://www.jewishpress.com/news/miss-israel-i-will-ask-obama-my-role-model-to-free-jonathan-pollard/2013/03/14/
So why would POTUS listen to Miss Israel about releasing Jonathan Pollard?
I had that exact same thought.
I am surprised she knows who Pollard is.
Chuckie Toad was mad that he got called out for his lousy questions at the presser yesterday, and this was his reaction (to which I responded).
Now he hasn’t tweeted a single thing about PBO’s speech to the young Israeli’s or his receipt of the highest Medal of distinction. Instead he’s been posting picture after picture of illegal settlements on the West Bank…something he clearly felt he could use to attack PBO on.
His last Twitter activity was to retweet something from Nancy Pelosi about the NCAA bracket. He’s completely disinterested in Israel right now- and we know why.
He acted like an idiot on the world stage, got slapped down by PBO and Netanyahu and that’s the best he could do?
Yep, that’s the best he can do, derbingle – really a total embarrassment and he is getting it handed to him on Twitter. He should just stop digging the hole ever deeper …
#FORWARD
my $0.02
Just think, what a country we would be if we spent war $$$ on education, jobs, infrastructure; had journalists that reported the news without bias; and we all loved our neighbor as we love ourselves…
The best part is that all of us and others clearly have irked the dumbass Chuck Todd. Let’s continue, shall we?
No sure if I posted this before…….
This is one of those stories where you begin to chuckle….then find yourself laughing out loud.
Pocket Taser Stun Gun, a great gift for the wife. A guy who purchased his lovely wife a pocket Taser for their anniversary submitted this.
Last weekend I saw something at Larry’s Pistol & Pawn Shop that sparked my interest. The occasion was our 15th anniversary and I was looking for a little something extra for my wife Julie. What I came across was a 100,000-volt, pocket/purse-sized taser. The effects of the taser were supposed to be short lived, with no long-term adverse affect on your assailant, allowing her adequate time to retreat to safety….??
‘WAY TOO COOL! Long story short, I bought the device and brought it home.
I loaded two AAA batteries in the darn thing and pushed the button. Nothing! I was disappointed. I learned, however, that if I pushed the button AND pressed it against a metal surface at the same time; I’d get the blue arc of electricity darting back and forth between the prongs.
AWESOME!!!
Unfortunately, I have yet to explain to Julie what that burn spot is on the face of her microwave.
Okay, so I was home alone with this new toy, thinking to myself that it couldn’t be all that bad with only two triple-A batteries, right?
There I sat in my recliner, my cat Gracie looking on intently (trusting little soul) while I was reading the directions and thinking that I really needed to try this thing out on a flesh & blood moving target.
I must admit I thought about zapping Gracie (for a fraction of a second) and thought better of it. She is such a sweet cat. But, if I was going to give this thing to my wife to protect herself against a mugger, I did want some assurance that it would work as advertised. Am I wrong?
So, there I sat in a pair of shorts and a tank top with my reading glasses perched delicately on the bridge of my nose, directions in one hand, and taser in another.
The directions said that a one-second burst would shock and disorient your assailant; a two-second burst was supposed to cause muscle spasms and a major loss of bodily control; a three-second burst would purportedly make your assailant flop on the ground like a fish out of water. Any burst longer than three seconds would be wasting the batteries.? ? All the while I’m looking at this little device measuring about 5″ long, less than 3/4 inch in circumference; pretty cute really and (loaded with two itsy, bitsy triple-A batteries) thinking to myself, “no possible way!”
What happened next is almost beyond description, but I’ll do my best…? ? I’m sitting there alone, Gracie looking on with her head cocked to one side as to say, “don’t do it master,” reasoning that a one- second burst from such a tiny little ole thing couldn’t hurt all that bad. I decided to give myself a one-second burst just for heck of it. I touched the prongs to my naked thigh, pushed the button, and . . .
HOLY MOTHER OF GOD, WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION!
I’m pretty sure Jessie Ventura ran in through the side door, picked me up in the recliner , then body slammed us both on the carpet, over and over and over again.
I vaguely recall waking up on my side in the fetal position, with tears in my eyes, body soaking wet, both nipples on fire, testicles nowhere to be found, with my left arm tucked under my body in the oddest position, and tingling in my legs?
The cat was standing over me making meowing sounds I had never heard before, licking my face, undoubtedly thinking to herself, “Do it again, stupid, do it again!”
Note: If you ever feel compelled to “mug” yourself with a taser, one note of caution: there is no such thing as a one-second burst when you zap yourself!
You will not let go of that thing until it is dislodged from your hand by a violent thrashing about on the floor.
A three-second burst would be considered conservative?
SON-OF-A-… That hurt like **% !!! A minute or so later (I can’t be sure, as time was a relative thing at that point), I collected my wits (what little I had left), sat up and surveyed the landscape. My bent reading glasses were on the mantel of the fireplace. How did they get up there??? My triceps, right thigh and both nipples were still twitching. My face felt like it had been shot up with Novocain, and my bottom lip weighed 88 lbs. I’m still looking for my testicles! I’m offering a significant reward for their safe return!! Still in shock!
P. S. My wife loved the gift, and now regularly threatens me with it!
“If you think Education is difficult, try being stupid.”
YARDARM — IN MY KITCHEN, RIGHT NOW, BRING A MOP!!! (laughed so hard I wet myself…)
Where’s the swab? I hope you got one handy.
You were too slow. Kitchen floor is clean; I’ve showered. Sending you my dry cleaning bill…
Okay. Put on my account. On account I can’t pay.
Yeah, as long as you owe me, I’ll never go broke. Right?
Righto!
Oh God!!!
I am howling here in my office. Tears rolling down my face……………!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Be quiet woman. You’re not suppose to have fun on the job.
It’s YOUR fault Mr. Yardarm!!!!
Seriously, that was hilarious!
Yeah. litle batteries are kinda funny.
Yes.They.Are.
Do you still hate me?
You are really cruel.
I have snow and wind and wet dogs today.
Glad that makes you happy!
Misery loves company!
And after your Starry Starry Night tune last night. Did you find the Fountain of youth?
Yes. It’s called Jack Daniels.
Yup and keep the fuilds.
Fluids?
Put some Jack in an IV on slo drip. No machines needed!
Come on over to the live post Sailor. Join the party.
Oh, so now I’m a dog?
Please join us on the hot thread. Poor Pamela needs sympathy for a broken patella.
I’m there already. I didn’t see that.
Bwahahahahahahahaha!!!!
Little batteries are a mother……!
photo/1
Rock star.
Beautiful! Our POTUS rocks!
Aw, what a sweet photo. The girls are adorable and President Obama’s smile is just radiant. He exudes warmth and sincerity.
Nailed it.
O/T…Bo Obama gets Marriage Proposal
It’s actually an ad for a Doggie Dash, but still cute.
This is sooo cute!
It is too cute. Loved it.
I sent a e-mail to the Vice President, Senator Feinstein, asking them to please don’t give up on the assault weapon ban.
Thanks!
Way to go Annabella
More bunk from Chuck Todd.
He can’t take it can he, meta. This is exactly what he said and exactly why he sounded like a complete idiot.
He thinks we can’t go back and watch the tape? He’s a moron.
He’s very defensive. He can’t take a shred of criticism – explicit or implied, but he’s always ready to dish it when it comes to PBO.
What would be the harm in not calling on him in one of these press conferences anyway? Is there a rule that he has to be one of the person who gets to ask a question?
And Eric (and others) still were not buying his BS
Does he really think he can ask these inordinately dishonest and rude questions on foreign soil and get away with it?
That is exactly what he thinks and what he is paid to do. No holds barred all out war on our beloved President. If someone thinks there is a way to stop this please enlighten me.
I remember calling out the dumbass Todd years ago, back and forth in emails. He never admitted ANYTHING he did was wrong or ill-stated. He’s a “blame the victim” kind of guy, and, unfortunately, our whole country is his victim because he’s got the power of the pen – and the big mouth abroad.
My youngest son gave me a early birthday present yesterday. My Ipad2 and my MacPro were driving me crazy. I have a new laptop and now I can post without worry. I am still reading about all the bells and whistles. I like having grown kids who are now buying me new toys.
Well, they were raised by a great MOM!!!! Congrats and Happy Early Birthday!
Didn’t you like Mac? Do you have Windows 8 now? Happy early Birthday.
The fruits of your labor, eh?
Has anyone found video of PBO with the Palestinian children?
President Obama is on way back to his hotel. The Peres site showed the entertainment (including a moving rendition of Amazing Grace to which the prez was mouthing the words). Then back to dinner and finally the motorcade. He looked a bit tired, but seemed to be enjoying himself.
If we use Medicare as a guide, the drumbeat to repeal the Affordable Care Act will continue for at least another 45 + years.
DO NOT FORGET THAT in 1965 it was the Democrats who gave us Medicare. The Republicans opposed it.
Votes in Senate: Dems 57 yes, 7 no, 4 not voting – Repubs 13 yes, 17 no, 12 not voting (how courageous)
Votes in House: Dems 237 yes, 48 no, 8 not voting – Repubs 70 yes, 68 no, 2 not voting.
Remember in 1935 Social Security was also provided to us by the Dems;
Votes in Senate: 60 yes, 1 no, 8 not voting – Repubs 16 yes, 5 no, 4 not voting
Votes in House: 284 yes, 15 no, 20 not voting – Repubs 81 yes, 15 no, 4 not voting
80 years from now, will the Republicans still be trying to repeal ACA, and Medicare, and Social Security?
I think this is a rhetorical question, because we know the answer is yes.
Steve Benen to the rescue. It is a MUST WATCH speech.
PRESIDENT OBAMA POINTED THE WAY FORWARD
‘You must create the change that you want to see’
By Steve Benen
—————————————-
He added, “I believe that peace is the only path to true security. You have the opportunity to be the generation that permanently secures the Zionist dream, or you can face a growing challenge to its future.”
The message wasn’t subtle: fairness demands a Palestinian state, but this is just as much about Israel’s own future.
If the goal was for Obama to lay the groundwork for a constructive way forward on the peace process, the speech did what it set out to do. That doesn’t mean the president will necessarily be successful in getting the process to advance — a well-received speech can only do so much — but it does mean Obama pointed the way forward.
—————————————-
http://maddowblog.msnbc.com/_news/2013/03/21/17404357-you-must-create-the-change-that-you-want-to-see
Tuition Assistance no longer a sequestration victim
http://maddowblog.msnbc.com/_news/2013/03/21/17403950-tuition-assistance-no-longer-a-sequestration-victim?lite
We learned a week ago that sequestration cuts, in addition to all their other damage, were undercutting the Army’s Tuition Assistance program. As of March 8, veterans already enrolled and receiving student aid would continue to receive support, but new requests would be turned down due to the spending cuts.
Today, the budgetary situation improved — sort of.
Congress voted to protect the military’s popular Tuition Assistance program on Thursday, directing the Defense Department to find money to fund it…In this case, Congress didn’t restore the funding so Tuition Assistance could continue, but instead, gave the Pentagon the authority to find cuts elsewhere in the Defense budget.
The end result for veterans, however, remains the same — the Tuition Assistance program will be back on its feet, as it should be.
Chips, thank you for these wonderful coverage of the President visit to Israel. I wish I could give you your own deservedly medal of honor for your outstanding work through the years. I lurk in everyday to get my daily Obama fix. I come here knowing that I will not get the distorted or half truth on everything POTUS like other agenda driven media sites. I come here knowing that I will get complete and factual coverage of POTUS daily activities. Thank you. And thanks to everyone that have been posting videos of this historic event.
Gee, it’s hard to believe that Shimon Peres will be 90 years old this year. He looks and sounds fantastic.
“Leading economic indicators rise in February #BlameObama”
[Ironically, this information was sourced from Fox Business Network]
http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2013/03/21/leading-economic-indicators-rise-in-february-blameobama/
Financial data firm Markit reported domestic manufacturing growth increased to 54.9 this month from 54.3 in February. A reading above 50 indicates expansion. Manufacturers increased hiring for the month pushing the employment sub-index to 54.6 from 53.5.
The National Association of Realtors report existing home sales increased 0.8% to an annual rate of 4.98 million units last month, the highest level since November 2009. National median price for existing homes jumped 11.6%, the biggest gain since 2005.
The Conference Board reported economic activity rose 0.5% to 94.8 last month after advancing by an upwardly-revised 0.5% in January. Economists were expecting the index to rise 0.4% in February.
Did anyone see the guy on Martin Bashir show who seem so negative about POTUS and what he said in Israel today. I didn’t get his name. Did anyone else see Bashir show?
Saw that–he’s obtuse. No didn’t get his name. He needs his nose punched.
Yes….that person is always bad mouthing PBO. I was shocked to see him on Martin. He is usually on CNN doing the same thing.
Republican amendments to the Senate’s budget proposal would require President Obama and Vice President Biden to get their medical care through the new exchanges created by Obama’s signature healthcare law.
Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) both offered amendments to move the president and vice president into the healthcare law’s exchanges.
After the Affordable Care Act passed, the White House said Obama would enroll in an exchange once the time came in 2014. Collins and Ayotte’s amendments would require the president, the vice president and the Cabinet to put their premiums where their politics are.
http://thehill.com/blogs/healthwatch/politics-elections/289657-gop-proposals-would-force-obama-into-obamacare-exchanges
All these little gimmicks. The president should take them up on it!
They are petty..
They’ve decided that if they can’t repeal it, they’ll make put as many obstructions in the implementation as they can.
And while they do this, they’re still not talking about JOBS.
Well, so should Congress then!
Sens. Levin, McCain push Obama to take military action in Syria
Carlo Muñoz
03/21/13 03:08 PM ET
The senators said Obama should consider precision airstrikes to establish a “safe-zone” along the Syrian border.…
Pffft!!
They can go to Syria.
From that great article on Haaretz today:
the economist’s take on pbo’s speech:
‘ “A SPEECH is just a speech,” one particularly blasé Israeli peacenik remarked in the wake of Barack Obama’s address to Israeli students in Jerusalem on March 21st.
Her hard-nosed observation was incontrovertible. But so was the fact—as this writer ascertained in unscientific polling—that the American president’s elegant, empathetic rhetoric brought tears, literally, to the eyes of many other Israelis who yearn for an end to the conflict with the Palestinians.
Just a speech, yes. But a corker of a speech.
Mr Obama scored with the Israeli public—and well beyond the confines of the hard-core “peace camp”—principally because he embraced in this speech the Israeli narrative of what has gone wrong in the peace process. ‘
http://www.economist.com/blogs/pomegranate/2013/03/barack-obama-israel
love this!
‘ A Native American state representative in Kansas rebuked Secretary of State Kris Kobach, a leader in the anti-immigrant movement, at a hearing yesterday.
“I think it’s funny Mr. Kobach, because when you mention illegal immigrant, I think of all of you,” said State Rep. Ponka-We Victors (D), a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation of Arizona, during a hearing on Wednesday about a state statute that allows children of undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities. Her comments drew loud applause from the audience. ‘
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2013/03/21/1754481/kris-kobach-kansas/
Safe journey President Obama to Jordan. דרך צלחה הנשיא אובמה לירדן. رحلة آمنة الرئيس أوباما إلى الأردن.
Amen!
Do the youngin’s know anyone on the video?
Bachman: Obamacare kills Women, kills Seniors and Kills Young people.
Listening to Bachman’s idiocy is killing my brain cells.
At least you turned your thoughts inward, better than I. I won’t tell ya the first thought that came to my head, because I’m normally such a little peacemaker.
Bull…..!
Don’t know why above old tweet popped up—-meant to post this….
Tweet of the Day
Let’s make it the Retweet of the Day! Thanks for posting that.
Check this out. Tweety really is a bi-polar boob!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/21/phil-donahue-chris-matthews-msnbc-firing_n_2926643.html
I saw that and said the exact same thing.
Just now he was asking if the President has a problem with Jews in America when he has to know that PBO received over 70 of their vote
TOD twitter brigade, please reply to him and shore him up. We MUST have this vote.
New post:
http://theobamadiary.com/2013/03/21/news-of-the-day/
wonder how much taxpayer money is spent to travel around mark knoller, chuck todd, and the other propagandists of the white house press corpse when the president travels, and at the white house for that matter, so they can go around making fools of themselves and their employers.
there’s obviously already a process for picking and choosing who is part of the group, and it’s long past time to re-examine those who are there now. they serve no value for society and the democratic republic whatsoever, and in fact are clearly hurting the process. what stories have any of the front-rowers “broken” or what “tough question” has any one of them asked that led to anything?!?
the irony is that president obama shines when asked the toughest questions. when some foreign press person asks some detailed and pointed question about a foreign policy about the other side of the world, president obama can answer in great detail. when a military news person for example asks some tough question about a seeming contradiction in the administration’s policy, president obama is able to walk people through the reasoning in detail and handle follow-ups. when chuck todd asks some moronic question framed as the latest republican talking point which president obama proably already answered 4 different ways, you can see how hard our president has to work not to roll his eyes or say how stupid that question is. these people and their employers have no inherent right to be in that room costing us taxpayer money to advance republican talking points!!! get some real journalists in there who can actually help inform the electorate and hold politiicans accountable!! that’s all we’re asking for.