Pre-Memorial Day Weekend Open Thread

By Big Tent Democrat, Section Blog Related
Posted on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:04:17 PM EST
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I realize I am too wrapped up in every bit of this crazy political season. So I am done writing for the night and maybe tomorrow.

It is Memorial Day Weekend after all.

This is an Open Thread

Comments now closed.

< Are We Overreacting To the RFK Statement? | Making Mountains Out of Molehills >

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Pre-Memorial Day Weekend Open Thread | 210 comments (210 topical)

Thank goodness... (5.00 / 1) (#1)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:06:06 PM EST

Enjoy one of the songs that just makes me smile.

Oh...no you did not make me smile. (5.00 / 1) (#4)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:07:08 PM EST

yes you did. Kittens would have worked faster.

Parent

Here's another... (none / 0) (#6)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:10:02 PM EST

still dog oriented though.

(Sometimes I wish I weren't allergic to dogs.)

Parent

: Noooo (none / 0) (#11)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:12:35 PM EST

those dogs...no.....
In Ialian facia bruta. (means ugly face but in I use it as a compliment)

Parent

How about a kitten . . . (none / 0) (#56)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:38:32 PM EST

belly?

Parent

Oh, gorgeous! (none / 0) (#60)
by gyrfalcon on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:41:45 PM EST

Kittens are the most wonderful critters on the planet, IMHO. One of my two 10-month-olds is still sleeping like that most of the time, upside down and sprawled all over the other cats in pure bliss. Hope he keeps doing it, but they usually get more sober and cautious as they get older. Sigh.

Parent

He just turned 2 :) (none / 0) (#82)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:51:47 PM EST

Still sleeps like that. Sometimes right along the edge of the bed. He never seems to fall. I had another belly up kitty, he fell often, lol! Here's his pic

I'm trying very hard to resist getting another kitten. Knowing it's kitten season doesn't help . . .

Parent

Awwww (none / 0) (#97)
by Step Beyond on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:57:35 PM EST

They are both so adorable. My dog isn't nearly so cute when he sleeps like that.

Parent

: Thanks! Yeah, my dog doesn't (none / 0) (#109)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:02:20 PM EST

look as cute either. Plus she takes up too much of the couch when she's belly up! ;)

Parent
: Mine is (none / 0) (#124)
by dianem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:11:54 PM EST

I wish I had a picture, but I've got a lont-haired terrier who sometimes sprawls out upside down, legs splayed, tongue out, looking like some kind of upside down bear skin rug. Terriers are the cats of the dog world. They love the sun, the chase rodents, and they have minds of their own. Our littlest one sometimes simply won't come when he's called. He's comfortable in his hiding place, and he's not going to come out for any mere human. Well, unless we bribe him with food. He's a freaking cat in dog shape.

Parent

Fabulous! (none / 0) (#187)
by gyrfalcon on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:36:53 PM EST

And right over the keyboard, too! You give me hope for my little guy.

This has been my second kitten go-round in less than five years. I lost one of my first two beloveds a year ago this fall, and living out in the country, had to wait until full kitten season the middle of the next summer to fill the big hole in the household and in my heart. By that time, the remaining cat had been a one-of for many months and he did not take it well when two bumptious little barn kittens arrived on his territory.

He's mostly OK with them now, but although I sure wouldn't mind a whole house full of kittens, it would be more than he could take and really not fair to him. He's not a dominant personality and is only barely top cat now because he's bigger and older and owned the house when the babies arrived.

Kittens rule!

Parent

I loved this! thank you (5.00 / 1) (#9)
by bjorn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:11:11 PM EST

Parent

I'll tell you a secret (5.00 / 1) (#66)
by samanthasmom on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:43:56 PM EST

Samantha is a Golden Retriever. 8^)

Parent

: That Is So Cool.... (none / 0) (#156)
by PssttCmere08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:27:17 PM EST

Parent

thanks (5.00 / 1) (#92)
by proudliberaldem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:54:32 PM EST

for the much needed smile!

Parent

You're going to make Oculus nauseous (none / 0) (#105)
by Militarytracy on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:00:58 PM EST

Parent

: Oculus will survive... :-P (5.00 / 1) (#117)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:08:42 PM EST

Parent
: I know better than to click on pet photos. (5.00 / 2) (#134)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:17:04 PM EST

Now travel photos are another matter altogether.

Parent
: This should make him smile... (5.00 / 1) (#215)
by FlaDemFem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:59:10 PM EST

Big Brown, the horse that is one race away from the Triple Crown, is donating a portion of his Belmont earnings to the family of an NYC police officer who was seriously injurted by a drunk driver. The money will go to setting up a college fund for the son of Officer Kenneth Baribault. It's not a cute kitten, and I have a porch full of them, but it's very cool. At least, I think so.

Parent

BTD, YOU way over-reacted to the RFK thing. (5.00 / 1) (#2)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:07:04 PM EST

My prediction for you and BTD (5.00 / 2) (#177)
by ghost2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:33:54 PM EST

Just now, I saw at mydd (a usually sane blog, at least on front page), 3 takes on this. Josh Orton's is titled "The politics of Violence" which is simply sickening title. Then there is Todd, titled 'context', and then Jonathan Singer who opens another thread for people to hash it out.

Well. Josh Orton seems to get the fire started and Jonathan adds fuel.

My prediction: if this silly thing plays out like this, I promise you that the fraction of Hillary supporters who would NEVER vote for Obama will rise to 80%. Mark my word.

This is dirty and this is sick. This is worse that South Carolina race-baiting.

Big Tent Democrat is smarter than this. He should see this fake outrage for what it is. A fake outrage.

I promise you that Democrats lose in November, and they deserve to. I promise you that.

Parent

Heh (none / 0) (#193)
by Steve M on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:40:28 PM EST

Here is the tactful way that one pro-Obama site chooses to maximize this.

Really, at this point, would this even make a list of the top 5 phony controversies? What's a worse narrative, that Hillary lost because she ran a racist campaign, or that she lost because she suggested her opponent might get assassinated? At some point outrage fatigue takes over and you don't even care about the specific reason that someone considers Hillary Clinton to be pure evil.

Parent

: I'm really beginning to hate these people (5.00 / 1) (#198)
by andgarden on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:42:51 PM EST

Especially the proprietor of Americablog, who used to amuse me.

Parent

As the comments demonstrated, (none / 0) (#46)
by pie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:33:51 PM EST

not so much.

Oh, you were kidding. Sorry. :)

Parent

Olbermann (5.00 / 5) (#13)
by stillife on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:13:56 PM EST

will apparently have a "special comment" for Hillary tonight.

Not that I'm planning on watching, but I hope his head explodes.

Is it really true? (5.00 / 1) (#15)
by GOPmurderedconscience on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:15:54 PM EST

I made a joke about it 2 threads ago.

I never thought so much silliness would be possible.

Parent

No joke (5.00 / 1) (#16)
by stillife on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:16:29 PM EST

never underestimate KO's capacity for sillines.

Parent

KO is the epitome (5.00 / 2) (#17)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:18:12 PM EST

of everything that is wrong with the MSM. I cannot believe he fooled even Moyers to get on his how as a credible newsman for simply saying a few obvious things about Bush, after Bush tanked in the polls. Where is the courage?

Parent

I never liked him (5.00 / 2) (#30)
by stillife on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:24:37 PM EST

I know I was supposed to, b/c he was anti-Bush, but I just never could take his show. He's even worse than his avowed nemesis, O'Reilly, b/c he lacks the courage to have opposing views on his show.

Not to be sexist, but I believe Olbmermann loathes Hillary b/c she has more b*lls than he does.

Parent

I could never stand him either (5.00 / 4) (#52)
by MMW on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:36:31 PM EST

Besides getting on Bush only after it was convenient.

It was all the Lindsay, Britney, Paris stuff, the undisguised contempt for them. The "my producers are making me do this...ughhhhh".

I don't think they're role models, but I don't think they deserve contempt for taking advantage of the very celebrity that he takes advantage of nor for making mistakes that a lot of people not in the limelight make.

I thought they needed help, someone to not judge, not more ridicule.

Parent

: Bingo! (5.00 / 3) (#83)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:52:08 PM EST

I agree 100% with you re: Lindsey, Brittney, etc. We really shouldn't be so surprised at his sexist rantings against Hillary should we -- the signs that he hated women were there all along. Probably has a small ___.

Parent

I tried to like him (5.00 / 1) (#131)
by dianem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:15:23 PM EST

Initially I liked his comments about Bush - he was the only tv personality really talking that way. But I always had a feeling that he was doing this more for rating than out of a heartfelt need to speak. He's a phony. He saw a niche - progressives frustrated by Bush - and he filled it. His rating improved and he brought in a lot of people in desirable demographics. That's what television news is about nowadays. O'Reilly is a phony, too. I don't think he believes half of the crap he says. But he's rich and famous.

Parent

KO (5.00 / 3) (#205)
by ghost2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:48:48 PM EST

OK, let me be sexist in my turn.

What seems striking to me about Chris Matthews, KO, and many like them (even in blogsphere who shall remain nameless), is that they are devoid of depth and they seem to be very insecure about their own manhood. That's why Chris Matthews gets a thrill up his legs about Obama and can't not obsess about Bill Clinton's women. Both have to do with Chris's insecurities. I noticed it in their demeanor even before they turned on Hillary or offended me in any way. You know the type. The type is opposite to say, Joe Wilson, Wes Clark (and even Jim Webb) who just have an air of confidence in that way.

Sorry to be cruel. But if I had to cast them in a movie, you know that Joe Wilson/Clark/Webb would play the tough/manly guy and Chris M. and KO would play the insecure, shallow, weasle guys.

Like any other sexist a&^, Chris doesn't have self-awareness. Barely few weeks after saying that Hillary Clinton is only a senator b/c her husband screwed up (and he calls himself a journalist?? does he have any clue about what that woman has accomplished?), Chris announced that he is thinking of running for Senate. Apparently, we should all take it for granted that he is qualified.

gasbags, all of them.

Parent

Do you suppose he just (5.00 / 3) (#18)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:18:31 PM EST

simply decided to not notice that she issued an apologia until after he's made his comment on it?

Parent

: Her apology (5.00 / 4) (#24)
by stillife on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:21:10 PM EST

will never be enough for KO's inflated egotistic outrage. "You, madam, are the Devil!"

Parent

if candidates' words were REALLY scrutinized (5.00 / 6) (#33)
by Josey on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:26:24 PM EST

the media would have jumped on Obama's lie about the Kennedys bringing his father to America - or that Hillary's UHC plan would "force people to buy insurance" - or that Obama was "always against the war"...
No - Obama's #1 goal is to destroy Hillary's persona and the Clinton legacy with character assassinations, race-baiting, sexism - whatever it takes - and indoctrinate the masses with the Obama Brand...

Parent

How about Obama's Hanford moment? (5.00 / 5) (#125)
by alexei on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:13:26 PM EST

The most deadly nuclear waste site in the Country, a serious national security issue and billions of dollars spent on trying to clean up with many, many more billions needed. McCain knew about this when he campaigned there but Obama, states that he must confess that he doesn't know anything about it when questioned at a town hall meeting in Oregon. And the crowd clapped. This site drains into the Columbia River which feeds into Portland.

Parent

: Thank you for reminding me (5.00 / 1) (#160)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:29:17 PM EST

how the press buried that story in Hanford. Meanwhile this bs this is the talk of the blogosphere. I'm really getting fed up with these hypocrites.

Parent

are you calling (5.00 / 5) (#20)
by txpolitico67 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:18:47 PM EST

for the death of one of America's most beloved Murrow wanna-be's-never-will-be by suggesting that his head explode?

I am outraged and disgusted. I denounce, reject, filibuster, stonewall, buttress your comment and you!

NO MSNBC for you for a week! You're grounded!!

<eg>

Parent

You forgot to call them (5.00 / 3) (#22)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:20:32 PM EST

"sir".

...in that ridiculous way that only Olbermann can do.

Parent

Artificial (5.00 / 2) (#28)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:23:21 PM EST

It's done to evoke Murrow, but not the real Murrow and what he stood for, but the people's perception of Murrow from the movie. Now that to me is so disgusting. Could he not invent a persona? O'Reily has his own persona, KO copied one.

By the way had not seen him in months and I notice he is getting rotund. "Take ye to the gym, Keith"

Parent

: He has Crohn's disease (5.00 / 1) (#41)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:32:44 PM EST

and they could have him on prednisone which would really put on the weight -- and could turn him into a bit of an aggressive monster, since it mimics cortisol, the "fight or flight" hormone...
So I blame the prednisone, but still dislike the man intensely.

Parent

I slowed on KO (5.00 / 4) (#69)
by MonaL on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:44:59 PM EST

before he starting swinging at HRC. The end was near when he started with his special comments and Edward R. Murrow thing. I didn't much like all the Brittney/Paula Abdul/Paris/Idol stuff that he pretended his producers made him do either, it was clear he liked and wallowed in it. It was his meanness towards these people that really offended me. I didn't like how he would put these people down on his show. Hard to take someone seriously (like Edward R. Murrow), when their snickering about Brittney's panties. Not that I'm a snow, but it just wasn't for me.

Now I have a whole 2 hours of every night back since I dont' have to watch KO or Tweety anymore. I spend it on TL reading all of the really smart comments (never the dumb ones mind you).

Parent

: Just watched 5 min. of KO (none / 0) (#152)
by zfran on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:25:48 PM EST

with Douglas Brinkley. Brinkley said that given this gaffe, and the statement she made to USA a couple of months ago, someone close in her campaign should talk with her to get out of the race. I am amazed...Hillary, please run as an independent!!!

Parent

Thank you! (none / 0) (#31)
by stillife on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:26:04 PM EST

good night and good luck! =)

Parent

One reason for Obama to (5.00 / 1) (#21)
by waldenpond on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:20:09 PM EST

pick Clinton as VP. KO response... priceless.

Parent

BFD -- KO doing a "special comment" (5.00 / 3) (#72)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:47:07 PM EST

no one with any sense still watches that a$$hat. Seriously, he has the "highest rated show on the lowest rated network." That makes him the cream of the cr@p -- nothing more. He literally is preaching to the OFB choir. To the rest of the world, he is completely and utterly irrelevant.

Parent

THIS JUST IN FROM ARGUS EDITORS!! (5.00 / 5) (#139)
by AmyinSC on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:18:31 PM EST

Since the comments are closed on the other thread, and since KO is gonna say something abt it:

Statement from the Argus Leader

The Argus Leader's Executive Editor Randell Beck issued the following statement today:

"The context of the question and answer with Sen. Clinton was whether her continued candidacy jeopardized party unity this close to the Democratic convention. Her reference to Mr. Kennedy's assassination appeared to focus on the timeline of his primary candidacy and not the assassination itself."

So, does this FINALLY settle this?!?!?! A non-issue from the get-go...

Parent

Of course it doesn't settle anything (5.00 / 1) (#170)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:31:55 PM EST

the blogger boiz will ignore the statement from the Argus board because (1) they know it is true and (2) it distracts from their story line.

Parent

: I know... (5.00 / 3) (#192)
by AmyinSC on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:39:32 PM EST

I know...Hope springs eternal that people will come to their senses and actually utilize some critical analyses. What was I THINKING?!?! Ahem.

Parent

Seems he had to make sure his (none / 0) (#138)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:17:39 PM EST

Fan Boys would tune in . . . Gives them a little preview of his wonderous words . . . .

::Warning: link to KO Orange Blog Diary::

Parent

think spontaneous combustion....KO and (none / 0) (#174)
by PssttCmere08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:32:24 PM EST

Tweety are such gasbags, you would think that could happen.

Parent

This is really sick. (5.00 / 4) (#26)
by masslib on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:22:44 PM EST

It's like the article you posted this morning. It's McCarthyism. And, Obama campaign is totally cynical to exploit this with that petulant statement.

republicans rejoicing over election prospects (5.00 / 1) (#27)
by ChuckieTomato on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:22:47 PM EST

Story here

Hate to say it, but this would be a tad (5.00 / 2) (#34)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:28:04 PM EST

um, funny . . . .

Some Republican strategists can envision a scenario in which Obama wins the popular vote but loses in the Electoral College -- he might galvanize Southern black turnout, for example, but still fail to switch a state in the region.

Parent

: They're right (5.00 / 1) (#161)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:29:40 PM EST

Blacks might turn out en masse but there aren't enough to switch the state. It's Obama's failed strategy.

Parent
: OUCH (none / 0) (#74)
by DFLer on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:48:34 PM EST

Parent

Hi there, I replied to one of your comments (5.00 / 2) (#44)
by jes on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:33:43 PM EST

on dKos today that said Obama wouldn't win CO or WV that got hidden. I said that that both you and I knew this election would be a route. I got 6 recs. Heh. They seemed to have assumed I meant Obama would win.

Parent

they hide all my comments now (5.00 / 2) (#155)
by ChuckieTomato on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:26:09 PM EST

Parent

: Months ago (5.00 / 2) (#168)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:31:21 PM EST

they hid all of my comments too.
I would say horrendous things like, "he's just a politician, not a saint".
I was shunned as a blasphemer.
While Jerome Armstrong was out of the country, I was threatened with banning for saying that "everyone screams about the racism, but nobody says a word about the sexism."
Those places are a complete waste of bandwidth and time.

Parent
: A Badge Of Honor. No? n/t (5.00 / 1) (#172)
by MO Blue on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:32:09 PM EST

Parent

If I Was The One Running Against obama, I (none / 0) (#180)
by PssttCmere08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:34:17 PM EST

would be rejoicing also. Mainly, because I know I would be winning.

Parent

BTD, et al., we do need a bit of a break (5.00 / 2) (#29)
by Cream City on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:24:16 PM EST

or at least I know that I do. I bet that Clinton sure does, but I have nowhere near her capacity for riding out this roller-coaster campaign so well.

I'm not giving up, no! But I'm also feeling the need, more and more, to check out a bit here and there. I'm reading good books, and tonight -- TV viewing tip here -- I'm going to watch TNT's rerun of one of the great chick flicks, Working Girl.

If you can't wait until the end for the Carly Simon song that sends my hopes for the future soaring every time I hear it, here it is, with film excerpts for a holiday treat. And a laugh at those '80s hairstyles!

"Let all the dreamers take the nation" -- but take a break to energize for it, too.

Cream City... (5.00 / 1) (#171)
by AmyinSC on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:31:56 PM EST

You ROCK! I love that song - gave me goosebumps! Awesome video - thanks!!

Parent

Abbot and Castello my faves (none / 0) (#40)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:32:27 PM EST

Baseball and all

Parent

PS...reminds me of the DNC rules (5.00 / 2) (#43)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:33:21 PM EST

Parent

: So True....Abbott & Costello Meets Franken- (none / 0) (#186)
by PssttCmere08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:35:45 PM EST

stein is pretty damn funny!

Parent

It's funny (none / 0) (#50)
by Grace on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:35:56 PM EST

but I've read a lot of posts from Republicans who actually admire Clinton now for being so tough. They didn't like her in the beginning but they admire her now.

I think that bodes well for her if she doesn't get it this time but decides to run again.

Parent

MHO (5.00 / 4) (#59)
by Step Beyond on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:40:47 PM EST

Its always been a miscalculation on the Dems part to continually back down. Many people, like me, appreciate someone who clearly stands up for something even when we don't agree more than we like someone who back peddles and seems almost ashamed of their own opinions.

Parent

: Seems to me that GOP candidates (5.00 / 1) (#96)
by RalphB on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:57:06 PM EST

run to be President of the US while Democrats seem to run for President of the WaPo editorial page. So they practice high-Broderism and most people see that for the crap it really is. Obama seems to be the latest incarnation of super moderation where you strongly stand for nothing. It's a proven loser in the fall.

Parent
: Re: backing down (5.00 / 1) (#141)
by abfabdem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:18:57 PM EST

I will never forget a story my husband told me. He was just starting his career in a bank many years ago and this senior manager constantly yelled and belittled him in front of people. Finally my husband could stand it no longer and gave it right back--really shouted him down. Surprise, the guy then complimented my husband on his guts and everafter behaved in a totally respectful way. Weird, but that is often the case if you are seen to be weak you are treated that way, but if you stand up for yourself, there's a grudging admiration. Can't the Democrats learn that lesson too?

Parent

I saw the new Indiana Jones last night (none / 0) (#71)
by MMW on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:45:46 PM EST

For a 65 year old Harrison Ford ain't half bad on the eyes you know. Karen Allen (sp?) was pretty good too.

Anyway, since then I've been wanting to see the first one over again. Shouldn't TNT or USA be cycling the first three this weekend?

I just assumed they would.

Last weekend stars did it with Pirates of the Caribbean. I think I saw each one 3 times. I'd forgotten the first one was as good as it was.

Parent

it's being cycled on the cable networks (none / 0) (#90)
by Salo on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:54:20 PM EST

They are such good romps. beating the Nazis is always awesome.

Parent

: I'm gonna have to scroll through the (none / 0) (#111)
by MMW on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:02:43 PM EST

guide then. Cool.

Parent

Last weekend (none / 0) (#113)
by waldenpond on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:03:30 PM EST

SciFi ran the Indiana Jones movies on Saturday.

Parent

: Way to deflate my balloon. (4.00 / 1) (#190)
by MMW on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:38:48 PM EST

Parent
: The Only Indiana Jones Stuff Is For The (none / 0) (#200)
by PssttCmere08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:43:36 PM EST

movie premiere on TVGN and a special on the History Channel.

Parent

Marie Antoinette (5.00 / 1) (#32)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:26:22 PM EST

Did anyone read her biography, by the writer The Journey, Frazer? It's a great lesson on how a person can be maligned by the mob. Truly, it did change my perspective, once you understand the context etc. Fascinating lesson in how we demonize to fuel "movements".

I loved that book too! (5.00 / 0) (#128)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:14:27 PM EST

And very apropos to what is going on with the msm now. I just saw "Iron Jawed Angels" last night (don't know why I missed it when it came out) -- another good reminder on how not-so-far women have come.

Parent

I didn't like the depiction (none / 0) (#183)
by Cream City on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:34:50 PM EST

of the great Carrie Chapman Catt and NAWSA, which after all had been working for half a century when the latecomers Alice Paul and Lucy Burns and their generation came along -- reminiscent of the treatment of the previous generation that we see in this campaign. But it does reflect the viewpoint of the subject, Alice Paul. And it is generally authentic to their historical record . . . other than that weird scene of a Quaker woman, um, pleasuring herself in a bathtub to the tune of Sarah McLachlan! Really, sometimes Hollywood has no sense. (Btw, for one of those historical records by a participant, see Doris Stevens' Jailed for Freedom. And the National Woman's Party's website has a fascinating historical record of those heroes for freedom.)

But Hollywood knows how to make a marvelously energizing film, isn't it? And for balance, there is the Ken Burns documentary on Cady Stanton and Anthony, Not for Ourselves Alone. Remarkably well done, considering that he usually ignores women's role -- and worth seeing just for the centenarians who recall casting their first votes in 1920.

We do what we do today because they didn't do it for themselves alone. We are the "daughters' daughters."

Parent

: Every bit of what you said it right (none / 0) (#202)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:45:58 PM EST

especially the bathtub scene! LOL -- I was embarrassed for Hillary Swank on that part. I didn't mean to imply that the movie was perfect by any means -- but it did make me reflect (especially the standing sentinel at the gates & the prison scenes) on how Hillary and her supporters are being treated now.

Parent

Hey, Stellaaa, see my comment #85. (none / 0) (#95)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:57:04 PM EST

Parent

: I just saw that... (5.00 / 0) (#102)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:00:09 PM EST

I tell you if you read how the pamphleteers demonized her and all the other stuff, it will seem really familiar. Particularly, the anti woman venom. It's remarkable. Beheading was the only thing they could do, turns out she was not a demon.

Parent

Why would Obama be at risk? (5.00 / 1) (#35)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:29:38 PM EST

His political enemies have no motive to do him harm. The GOP and the SARP (Stenographic Arm of the Republican Party, aka MSM) want Obama to remain alive and well. They want him to be the Democratic nominee and they want the pleasure of beating him in the GE.

So, stop all the fretting. He's gonna be fine.

firstly (none / 0) (#80)
by Salo on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:50:46 PM EST

assassinations are carried out by lone madmen or very small terrorist cells. Oswald or Booth respectively

They are not carried out by the powers that be.

if President Obama were assassinated--given the history of America a real possibility what would happen?

The reaction to the Rodney king verdict or MLK's assassination would look like picnics. It would be a finanacial and cultural disaster of biblical proportions. Worse than Katrina for sure.

Yet of course noone can mention this possiblity. As if talking about a possiblity will create that possibility. One white supremacist who get's lucky in the same way that rabin's murderer got lucky could trigger an unprecidented orgy of killing and mayhem.

Parent

Nuttiness (5.00 / 0) (#106)
by RalphB on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:01:55 PM EST

Here in TX, the Department of Public Safety has been totally swamped with applications for new concealed carry permits in the past few months. Local TV said that some were saying it was in response to the current presidential election. Don't know quite what to make of that but FWIW.

Parent

Salo, what reaction to MLK assassination? (none / 0) (#114)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:03:32 PM EST

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: Some urban riots but (none / 0) (#188)
by Cream City on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:38:06 PM EST

many peaceful memorial marches, as in my town. Thousands upon thousands turned out.
And the next week, my aldermen finally approved our open housing law, if by only one vote after seven years of only one vote for it from its sponsor, our first alderwoman, an AA civil rights activist. (But she says to this day, as did Shirley Chisholm, that the sexism she met was worse, and it also made her a women's movement activist.)

Parent

firstly, Salo, read what you're replying to: (none / 0) (#194)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:40:37 PM EST

I didn't say anything about "assassinations" in that post and I didn't say they "are carried out by the powers that be".

I said Obama's "political enemies have no motive to do him any harm".

Parent

You mean the reaction (none / 0) (#213)
by befuddled on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:58:57 PM EST

of all the white guys who said in nasty words how good it was someone cut MLK Jr. down? It was really ugly, all right. Or the terrible sadness of the AAs and the civil rights supporters? Or do you mean the localized riots over Rodney King which led to his best line "Can't we all get along?" Threatening insurrections--is one being planned? I wouldn't be surprised after all the conspiracy theories I've seen this month.

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California and June (5.00 / 2) (#36)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:30:13 PM EST

by the way, we have an election on June 3rd here in California. Imagine if we kept the primary date, we could have been the contenders.

: OMG (5.00 / 1) (#150)
by Steve M on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:24:25 PM EST

You mentioned the California primary! Denounce and reject time.

Parent

There are some advantages to (5.00 / 1) (#38)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:31:30 PM EST

not watching TV. All I know so far about Hillary Clinton's comment and apology is what I've read here. But, I gather the Obama campaign sd. something after the comment and b/4 the apology.

oh yes! (5.00 / 4) (#86)
by Josey on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:52:50 PM EST

as usual, Obama was quick to interpret the worst possible motive.
His reactionary comment to this event and others, and his false accusations of racism lead me to believe it will be 4 years of the public walking on eggshells.
A nation of Obamatons?

Parent

Fact of (5.00 / 3) (#164)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:30:35 PM EST

the matter is it won't be 4 years of walking on eggshells. McCain will win against Obama.

Parent

flat out false (5.00 / 0) (#165)
by tnthorpe on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:30:41 PM EST

Axelrod didn't rise to the bait that he was proffered on Hardball, instead noting that HRC is a tenacious campaigner, and the Obama campaign offers this as a rebuke: "Sen. Clinton's statement before the Argus Leader editorial board was unfortunate and has no place in this campaign."

The Obama campaign is not even terribly interested in this morsel of media madness, preferring to campaign in the swing states, talking about genuine issues, and for an end to W's horrifying misleadership.

Stop pretending that HRC's self-inflicted misery is the Obama campaign's doing.

She put her foot firmly in her own mouth.

Parent

LOL! Right... (5.00 / 3) (#176)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:33:33 PM EST

If you believe that, I have a choice bridge to sell you.

The utter nonsense that this faux outrage isn't fueled by Axelrod is not worth the time to laugh.

Parent

: That bridge won't be available (5.00 / 2) (#203)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:48:39 PM EST

until Tuesday. It's having it's 125th B-Day celebration this weekend ;)

Parent
: This place (1.00 / 2) (#209)
by tnthorpe on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:53:57 PM EST

used to be reasonable, but not so much now.
HRC has herself realized the infelicity of her remarks. She's apologized for the poor taste her remarks showed and it isn't demonizing her to say that bringing up the assassination of Bobby Kennedy in that context displayed some poor judgment.
When Obama used the word 'sweetie' all sorts of extravagant claims got made about his putative sexism on this blog. Those claims were as false as claims that HRC is somehow hoping for something violent to happen to Obama. Enough childishness.
Microscoping misstatements isn't analysis--it's hysteria. Enough.
While the blogosphere goes bananas, gas hits new high prices, the wars go on, W finds ever new ways to politicize gov't, etc etc etc.
This little brouhaha isn't a fart in a sandstorm, frankly, as all of you here, and most bloggers on KOS or HuffPo, should know.
It's time for the superdelegates to put this primary out of its misery.

Parent

Why, oh WHY is Obama going after (5.00 / 4) (#42)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:32:55 PM EST

Lou Dobbs? Doesn't he know that Lou/his show will prove him wrong? And just did, lol!~

nycstray, what was the story there? (none / 0) (#47)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:34:42 PM EST

Parent

Obama use Lou as a scapegoat (none / 0) (#51)
by bjorn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:36:10 PM EST

for immigration. Obama made a bunch of claims about what Lou says about immigration, but he attributed things to Mr. Dobbs that Mr. Dobbs has never said and does not support.

Parent

: and implied his comments helped (5.00 / 3) (#62)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:42:10 PM EST

increase racial attacks against Hispanics.
They did a good job of dressing that one down. I'll see if it's online yet.

Parent

Details? (none / 0) (#49)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:35:48 PM EST

Parent

: I'll watch for the transcript (none / 0) (#99)
by nycstray on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:58:14 PM EST

and post in an open thread when I get it. He's basically using LD to pander on immigration issues. Also threw in Rush L, which I found distatseful . . .
Tonight they basically dealt with the charge that he ramps up hate crimes with his reporting. So they put lots of numbers up to his comments . . . OOPS!

Parent

all these people (5.00 / 0) (#45)
by Josey on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:33:47 PM EST

who've been lied to and believe Obama never took donations from Washington lobbyists that have funded his political career.
Like the Iraq War funding - he switched gears when he entered the presidential race and became pure and saintly overnight.
But campaign finance reports indicate he's still relying on his old lobbyist rolodex - through the backdoor of firms and families.

I like cooking too... (5.00 / 1) (#48)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:35:20 PM EST

Some of us started a dinner a month party. We'd pick a specific country and each go with different recipes from around that country.

It's usually my job to dig up a bunch of URLs for everyone to go wandering through to find their choices.

Generally, we've come up with some pretty interesting stuff. I found this Tibetan noodle soup that is just beyond yummy.

That;s a great idea... (none / 0) (#77)
by jeffinalabama on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:49:57 PM EST

I need to find more cooks around here, though...

Parent

: oddly enough? (none / 0) (#89)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:53:40 PM EST

mine came from my pool team. With spouses, singletons, and SOs, we number about 11.

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Memorial Day memorial (5.00 / 3) (#54)
by DFLer on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:37:18 PM EST

This weekend, please consider making a donation to the Fisher House organization. They function like a Ronald McDonald house for families visiting military casualities in the Vet Hospitals. For example, the Vet Med Center in Mpls. is one on a few poly-trauma units in the country. The injuries treated here from the Iraq war are severe head trauma and amputations etc., requiring long hospital stays. Fisher House, a privately funded charity, provides housing for visiting families. Their mission statement:

Supporting America's military in their time of need, we provide "a home away from home" that enables family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time -- during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury.

Thank you.

: T/U for the reminder of this group's work! n/t (5.00 / 1) (#79)
by jawbone on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:50:45 PM EST

Parent

"Recount" movie (5.00 / 0) (#57)
by gyrfalcon on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:39:33 PM EST

Anybody with HBO going to watch this over the weekend? If so, please post a little review! I love the idea, but the clips they've been showing don't look real promising for realism.

: I've been debating watching it (5.00 / 0) (#65)
by Step Beyond on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:43:27 PM EST

Might make me too angry considering the current situation. But it also appeals to me for the exact same reason. I'm oh so torn.

Parent
: I'll watch it and review it, just for you! n/t (5.00 / 1) (#132)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:15:30 PM EST

Parent

Got a phone call from an Obama supporter (5.00 / 7) (#61)
by athyrio on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:42:00 PM EST

asking me if I planned on supporting the senator this primary in Montana and I said "hell no, my husband and I cannot stand him and have already voted for Hillary absentee", he responded why and I said " With all the accusations of racists, plus the sexism being thrown around he has completely destroyed whatever chance he had with us"...This person thanked me (acting as if in shock) and hung up lol.....Gee, that was sorta fun.....:-)

: Another evil Clinton supporter. (none / 0) (#68)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:44:40 PM EST

Parent
: Too bad you didn't toss in that HopeyChange is (none / 0) (#75)
by jawbone on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:49:30 PM EST

just too unfocused to put hopes on!

Parent

Re: the RFK comment (5.00 / 4) (#63)
by lilburro on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:42:32 PM EST

having watched the video, it almost seems like she said it as a point of reference: everyone remembers RFK's assassination; it was during an ongoing primary and in June. If you watch that video and think Senator Clinton is waiting for Obama to die then you are prey to some very paranoid fantasies. Ugh.

: I know. It's sick. (5.00 / 2) (#70)
by masslib on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:45:37 PM EST

Parent
: totally agree (5.00 / 2) (#78)
by bjorn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:50:05 PM EST

She was just trying to make the point that the fight can go until June

Parent
: Frankly (5.00 / 2) (#87)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:53:09 PM EST

after the hysteria died down, it makes Obama look like a hysterical child. Do you want a hysterical child running the country? He's only hurting himself.

Parent

Memorial day pic (5.00 / 5) (#67)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:44:37 PM EST

Here's a pic I took at Tahoma National Cemetary in Kent, WA last July 4th of July. Notice Mt. Rainier in the background.

Link

Simply driving down the driveway produces tears of love and gratitude for the brave souls who lost their lives in various wars (no matter how you feel about the governmental philosophy surrounding the wars.)

It was an amazing place.

: /salute (5.00 / 1) (#151)
by Steve M on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:25:39 PM EST

Parent

BTD--kudos to you for recognizing that you were (5.00 / 3) (#73)
by jawbone on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:48:00 PM EST

probably influenced by the blog/MCM swarm buzz on this Hillary statement.

The huge difference between you and some bloggers is stunning -- and even between you and Mark Shields, on, of all places, NewsHour. The thoughtful side of the MCM, hah! Shields brings the MCMer swarm mentality to his "analysis" of Hillary.

But, if you hadn't brought up the TIME mag article from March, it would have taken quite a bit longer for me to realize just how overblown this is.

So, BIG t/u.

I'm beginning to think (5.00 / 8) (#76)
by Edgar08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:49:55 PM EST

I over-reacted to BTD's over-reaction.

Parent

This is the comment of the day!! (5.00 / 3) (#98)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:58:12 PM EST

I cannot stop laughing so I can click a rating.

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No Really (5.00 / 2) (#107)
by Edgar08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:02:00 PM EST

Serious.

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: I loved it... (5.00 / 2) (#116)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:05:20 PM EST

I over reacted to an over reaction!! It's the theater of the absurd this election season. It was perfect timing. I needed it after the drama.

Parent

Just a note.... (5.00 / 4) (#81)
by apolitiko on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:51:22 PM EST

.....this whole 'assassination' bit has completely put me over the edge in not being able to support Obama. I don't know how Clinton does it with every one watching all of her words in an attempt to get shrill and scream bloody f**cking murder in order to push her out of the race.

No politician would be that stupid to claim their rival should be killed. No one. This si ridiculous mock outrage, and something I think we'll be seeing a lot of in the general election against McCain.

Question lies, then: Will people get sick of it and turn on Obama?

Monica Crowley says BO needs to BEHEAD Hillary. (5.00 / 4) (#85)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:52:40 PM EST

I'm watching The McLaughlin Group and Monica Crowley just said this:

"The problem for Barack Obama, and the Democratic Party...is the fact that he has not been able to behead Marie Antointee [Hillary Clinton] once and for all, and dispatch her, when he's the presumed nominee..".

QUICK, somebody alert TPM to this call for Senator Clinton's assassination.

Can you imagine, Crowley, or anybody talking about beheading and dispatching Obama. I think not.

: Well (5.00 / 0) (#94)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:56:17 PM EST

she's right about the fact that it is a problem for Obama. Kind of shows he's really not that good a candidate doesn't it?

Parent
: Wait..... (none / 0) (#93)
by apolitiko on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:54:45 PM EST

.....did we move into the universe without double standards in the last four hours?

Parent
: You can't even say that (none / 0) (#101)
by Edgar08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:58:57 PM EST

On a pro-Clinton blog.

Parent

Pick the number, (5.00 / 1) (#88)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:53:24 PM EST

then click "rate all."

On the RFK comment (5.00 / 0) (#119)
by blogtopus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:09:23 PM EST

as the thread is dead ovah dere...

Does anyone find it disgusting that Axelrod found this as a way to sink Hillary? That he's banging the drum loudly over Ted's hospital bed, screaming 'What about the children???' or similar nonsense?

Spare us the false outrage. This was an obvious campaign strategy, and it doesn't even stand up to scrutiny.

A) In a proper analogy, HILLARY is the Kennedy figure; Humphrey was ahead and RFK was closing in, which was her friggin' POINT.

B) Hillary and Bill have been in the imaginary gunsights of thousands of nuts over the years - why would she wish that on someone else. Oh yeah, that's right: She's EEEEVILLL [/grandpa simpson]

TANJ. There Ain't No Justice.

If whipping up outrage (5.00 / 2) (#133)
by Edgar08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:16:31 PM EST

Would balance the budget and create jobs, I'd vote for Obama.

Parent

: How about - heat displacement (none / 0) (#143)
by MMW on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:20:06 PM EST

to generate electricity. He and his camps hot air, could be used to curb global carbon emissions.
Scratch that it might not work, they're hot air is mostly CO2.

Parent

And all this (5.00 / 0) (#140)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:18:57 PM EST

after they spent the last 3 days talking about how the only reason Hillary won Kentucky is because of the RACISTS.

It's 24/hours smear channel, all the time.

And I'm certain the Republicans are rubbing their hands together with glee, because it's definitely working on me. I don't plan on voting for ANY Democrats this time. Their shutting up and letting Hillary rot over this latest fiasco says it all.

Wrong, wrong, wrong.

I only hope RFK, Jr. comes out with a statement.

Parent

Since you brought it up (5.00 / 0) (#142)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:20:04 PM EST

Just so everyone here can know -- I was really busy at work today and I am on my "no msm diet" so the first I even heard about this thing was when I clicked on here. I imagine that most people, especially given the fact that a heckofalot of us are going out of town for the long weekend, will not give two shakes about this "major story" even if they do happen to hear about it. In other words -- try not to get too worked up about it despite what the blogger boiz are trying to make of it.

Parent

: yeah (none / 0) (#179)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:34:14 PM EST

it gets killed in the memorial day holiday. They'll be on to some other outrage in a few hours.

Parent

the problem (5.00 / 1) (#175)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:32:49 PM EST

is that it hasn't sunk her. She's still going.

Look something is going on with Obama's campaign. I don't know what it is but you don't pull this kind of stunt unless you are worried about something.

Parent

Missed the RFK buzz (5.00 / 2) (#120)
by RJBOSTON on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:09:28 PM EST

But isn't Obama often compared to JFK. I even think that he compared himself to JFK who was also killed. Is no one allowed to reference someone who was killed (Lincoln, JFK, RFK, MLK) without implying the same for Obama? Think the reaction is a bit hysterical.

Obama's campaign compares him to (5.00 / 2) (#153)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:25:53 PM EST

JFK, RFK, MLK, and Malcolm X. Question: does his camp ever compare him to any political figure who wasn't assassinated?

How very insidious then for the Obama camp to play the assassination-card when those names are mentioned by anybody who's not in their camp.

Parent

Don't Forget Lincoln n/t (5.00 / 2) (#182)
by MO Blue on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:34:50 PM EST

Parent

Not likely, as Obama is constantly (none / 0) (#201)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:45:16 PM EST

clothing himself in the persona of Lincoln.

Parent

: We've Seen Obama Clothing Himself In (none / 0) (#207)
by MO Blue on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:51:13 PM EST

the persona of numerous people. What we haven't seen is a clear picture of what Obama really stands for other than Obama.

Parent

obama reminds me more of JJ Walker.... (none / 0) (#214)
by PssttCmere08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:59:06 PM EST

on Good Times...always getting in trouble and then trying to get someone else to take the blame.

Parent

Teddy Kennedy endorsed Obama (none / 0) (#145)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:21:34 PM EST

because Kennedy felt Obama was representative of Kennedy's brothers' legacy.

Parent

Rating: How do you determine whether (5.00 / 1) (#122)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:10:28 PM EST

one of your own comments has been rated? And how do you tell who rated it?

Left click on the rating you got (none / 0) (#130)
by MMW on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:14:44 PM EST

you'll see who rated you.

Parent

: BTW - the rating is next to your post's (none / 0) (#137)
by MMW on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:17:33 PM EST

title.
It's in the parenthesies (5/1) means you were rated 5 by 1 person, clicking on the rating will show you who rated you and what they rated you.
If no rating it says (none/0).

Parent

Also (none / 0) (#144)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:20:28 PM EST

If you click on your name, then click on "Comments," you'll see all of your comments with all of your ratings. Then you can click on the ratings and see who rated you.

Parent

There's a number next to your name (none / 0) (#148)
by Xeno on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:23:11 PM EST

For example, (5.00/1). The number on the left (5.00) is your numerical rating, the right (/1) is the number of people who have rated your comment. Click the number and you'll see who rated you.

Parent

I just rated you (none / 0) (#149)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:23:54 PM EST

next to your name in parenthesis in blue is (5/1) -- that means you have a 5 average of 1 rating -- click on the blue parenthesis. BTW, before I rated you it was (none/0) in parenthesis, like on my post here -- that means no ratings.

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I hope Obamaman goes so over-the-top (5.00 / 0) (#136)
by Xeno on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:17:31 PM EST

and makes such a spectacle of himself that what little credibility he has left evaporates. Throbbing veins in the temple, spittle spraying from curled lips, face mottled red under pancake makeup -- the works. The totally unhinged, raving lunatic look is what he should go for. He could become the true face of Clinton Derangement Syndrome (like he isn't already).

At one time, so long ago I can barely remember, I actually found parts of Olbermann's show tolerable. While I have always recognized him as a tool of NBC's corporate interests, some of his segments had value insofar as he addressed issues other "news" shows ignored. His show's eternal (and infernal) obsession with the sexuality of young, mostly blonde female celebrities was a sore spot, though. (I dubbed it the "Crotch Watch".) His utter pomposity was also annoying. You would think that a man who obsesses over another news celebrity's arrogance, stupidity and irrational blindness to reality would be able to recognize those traits in himself. Olbermann is as completely lacking in self-awareness as he is in self-restraint, however. Hubris and an enormous ego are driving his behavior, not decency or journalistic principles.

I'm done with this party . . . . (5.00 / 3) (#147)
by Terry M on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:23:04 PM EST

It was very clear what Hillary was saying, and any suggestion that Hillary was suggesting that something untoward should happen to Obama is simply riduculous. I am so over this party . . . Axelrod: I officially disown any association with any person you EVER have anything to do with. Big Tent: you not right about this; George S: you're blinded by your CDS.

This lifelong Dem, this dues paying member of the ACLU ( and as a state employee of the State of Fla - that is risky)and of several other liberal and/progresive orgs, I AM DONE WITH THIS PARTY. This manufactured controversy makes me sick!

: And when Obama loses (5.00 / 3) (#157)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:27:33 PM EST

in a landslide in the fall...the media will spend days blaming....Clinton.
Yes, I'm done with the Democrats, too.

Parent
: Terry M, are you of the mind that (5.00 / 0) (#166)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:30:45 PM EST

the Democratic Party needs to be deliberately broken by the loss of the '08 election; so that it will be forced to reconstitute itself in a more democratic form?

Parent

It is really damn sad to hear all of these (5.00 / 4) (#169)
by inclusiveheart on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:31:31 PM EST

historians on TV commenting on how she should not have cited history. I don't think she meant it. I feel badly for her. Almost anyone else in this country could cite that primary race and not be accused of wishful thinking - even McCain.

It is really sad on a lot of levels.

When the Democrats came back into power, I had this dream that history might be a central component of their righting the wrongs of the Bush Administration and Republican rule. As it turns out, our ascendecy has been marred with attacks on history.

LBJ did pass the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. MLK inspired the people to support LBJ's efforts, but LBJ got those bills passed and he was meaner than a snake about it. It was the right thing to do too.

I'm thinking history is dead - Olbermann is now saying that no one should ever talk about the past assasinations in our country - history is dead if that is to be our course. What an idiot.

I will never forget the weekend following (none / 0) (#178)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:34:07 PM EST

the assassination of John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Life as we knew it stopped while everyone mourned in front of the TV set.

Meanwhile, how old was Barack Obama in 1963 and 1968 (when I figure he was in Indonesia).

Parent

JFK Was Assassinated 6 Days Before My Son (none / 0) (#196)
by MO Blue on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:41:21 PM EST

was born. Really bad at dates but that is one I always remember.

Obama was 2 years old. Obama was born 8/61 and JFK was assassinated 11/63.

Parent

: My first child was born in July '68 (5.00 / 1) (#206)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:49:53 PM EST

and I have very strong memories of the deaths of Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy. Also the Dem. convention that summer.

Parent

I was three in 68 and I remember the (none / 0) (#211)
by inclusiveheart on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:57:06 PM EST

assassinations and the riots. They affected my parents so deeply that there was no way that I couldn't remember. I don't know what Obama knows. He is a few years older that I am.

What I do know is that his campaign and his kool-aid drinking following are taking a stand against talking about history. They are no better than the people who went after the few in this country lucky enough to get a media outlet and brave enough to speak out who talked about why going to war with Iraq was a very, very bad idea.

Olbermann apparently thinks that we should no longer refer to Lincoln's assassination - even though it was likely an attempted coup that thankfully did not find complete success - or the assassination of the Archduke in Austria which led to World War I - or the assassination of Robert Kennedy that led to the end of efforts to continue to build the Great Society - or the assassination of Martin Luther King that derailed the Civil Rights movement as a rainbow coalition. Should I go on?

I am very sad about this turn of events. The Obama nuts are as totalitarian as any of the best that came before them. They just think they are liberals, but there is nothing liberal about them. They hate history if it doesn't serve their purposes, the rules only apply to them and they are more and more in my mind about as enlightened as a bunch of fence posts.

Parent

I'm the same age as BO & I remember (none / 0) (#219)
by Xeno on Fri May 23, 2008 at 08:09:05 PM EST

the RFK (and MLK) assassinations very vividly. What a frightening year 1968 was for a 6-year-old Black kid living in a Klan-infested county. Or for Black kids, period. I also remember the terrorist lunacy of the Weather Underground, which had a really big impact since I come from a military family and had relatives who worked at the Pentagon. Of course, Obama's experiences of that time are not going to track with his contemporaries who were living stateside. (A fact which may explain a lot about his attitudes and associations.)

I was actually up watching TV when RFK was killed. School was out and I'm a lifelong insomniac, so being up after midnight was not unusual. The news broke in live on whatever we were watching -- probably the Tonight Show -- with the chaotic scene from California. The horror of watching that awful scene unfold, so soon after Martin Luther King was struck down, is still with me forty years later. For a long time I was convinced that assassination was just the way things were done, politically speaking. Throughout my childhood I really feared that any prominent Democrat might be killed if he became too popular. Having domestic terrorist organizations running rampant, riots in the cities and an unjust war raging just added to the sense that the country was teetering on the edge of utter disaster.

I honestly don't think I have ever shaken off the sense of turmoil and uncertainty growing up in the 60s instilled in me. Maybe I'm unique in that, I don't know. But it was a really frightening time to be a child in America, something I don't think BO experienced.

Parent

Geez (5.00 / 3) (#181)
by facta non verba on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:34:42 PM EST

I take the afternoon to go shopping for my partner's b-day tomorrow and all hell breaks loose.

When noting historical facts is out of bounds, then we should all worry. I don't see why noting that the 1968 primary dragged on in June as some call to assassinate Obama. Or am I missing something?

Trying to catch up on this.

: It's (5.00 / 2) (#195)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:40:49 PM EST

just another ginned up controversy by the hysterical Obama supporters. They live on faux outrage.

Parent

the paper (5.00 / 2) (#189)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:38:34 PM EST

defended her and we've seen the whole interview.

DKos Survives On Faux Outrage (5.00 / 4) (#199)
by MO Blue on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:43:22 PM EST

It is its lifeblood. If they can't find an outrage of the moment, they make it up.

Video: RFK's comments on MLK's death. (5.00 / 1) (#208)
by FoxholeAtheist on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:51:56 PM EST

Watch this archival video of RFK's remarks immediately following the death of MLK.

Obama kids, learn from this: don't go around threatening us with riots and blood shed in the streets of Denver if Obama is not the nominee. Tell your candidate that if he really wants to honor the memory of RFK (and MLK) he should call for peace and tranquility and unity in the face of loss.

Earlier today..... (1.00 / 7) (#100)
by Laureola on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:58:39 PM EST

......I stated that the "popular vote" issue was just a contrivance to extend Clinton's campaign in the hope that something bad would happen to Obama. I said "hit by a comet," but Hillary expressed it much more definitively.

: If that's what you think she meant (5.00 / 2) (#104)
by Edgar08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:00:51 PM EST

Then you should have her and all her supporters purged from the party.

Parent
: what planet are you on? (5.00 / 3) (#110)
by DFLer on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:02:29 PM EST

...has NOTHING TO DO WITH A HOPE OF SOMETHING BAD HAPPENING....
go away please.

Parent
: My, oh my...you are clairvoyant (5.00 / 4) (#112)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:03:12 PM EST

could not be cause that meme been floating around Obama land and MSM for a few days could it? No you just thought it up all by yourself, then this happens, wow. That Hillary, she is so predictable.

Parent
: Of Course You Are Right (5.00 / 3) (#135)
by MO Blue on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:17:12 PM EST

that is why you are a highly educated, high information, high distributer of misinformation Obama supporter.

Parent
: I sugest you check your facts (5.00 / 3) (#154)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:26:03 PM EST

again...cause even the paper who initially posted the article has provided the context in which the statement was made.

Parent
: The GOP (5.00 / 3) (#158)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:27:55 PM EST

has the oppo research ready. That's the only bad thing I think is going to happen to Obama.
Why do you want someone who is so afraid of his own shadows and hysterical about words?

Parent
: Heh (5.00 / 4) (#162)
by Steve M on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:29:45 PM EST

Honestly, at this point I just laugh. Hillary-hatred has officially passed from tragedy into farce.

Parent

So, you approve of what ... (1.00 / 1) (#204)
by Tortmaster on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:48:47 PM EST

... Hillary said and how she said it? By her own admission, she's been answering questions about dropping out of the race since Iowa. That wasn't a surprise question. Surely, she could reference something like "primaries in 1992 and 1968."

Obviously, HRC knew she screwed up. She apologized for it.

: Heh (5.00 / 2) (#212)
by Steve M on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:57:45 PM EST

The fact that it was a gaffe does not preclude the outrage from being phony, my friend.

Parent
: Yep, I approve (5.00 / 2) (#217)
by angie on Fri May 23, 2008 at 08:01:09 PM EST

of what she said and how she said it because I actually saw the d@mned thing and am intelligent enough to understand what she obviously and clearly said -- that it was JUNE when RFK was campaigning for the nomination -- in fact, because I'm not a total ignoramus on history, that very night in JUNE he said how he was taking his campaign to the convention and "we'll win there!" So, go back to the circlemjerk at kos and fool yourself and the rest of the OFB about what she said -- and even give yourselves some slaps on your a$$es because you forced her to apologize with your faux-outrage and pretense that you understood her "differently" (and vilely). BFD -- the race still ain't over.

Parent

May sanity prevail (none / 0) (#3)
by digdugboy on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:07:05 PM EST

Amen.

Happy Memorial Day weekend everyone! (none / 0) (#5)
by jeffinalabama on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:08:40 PM EST

BTD, can I interest you in some delicious home-smoked pork barbecue with home-made sauce?

I have invited quite a few veterans of the Iraq war over. I hope a good time is had by all.

Now that sounds... (5.00 / 1) (#8)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:11:06 PM EST

like a great time will be had by all.

Parent

Oh, my, my Hoosier spouse (5.00 / 1) (#14)
by Cream City on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:15:11 PM EST

would wish to be with you. He gets goofy when talking about true Southern "pulled pork" barbecue, he calls it. Marooned here in the northland, he keeps following people's tips to good places for it and keeps being disappointed.

He says it's just clear that something about the climate here prevents achieving the culinary bliss that he recalls. So this year, when we head to Indiana for our annual trip, he vows that we will veer off some country road to find it for me to try.

I hope it doesn't require heading all the way to 'Bama! Even Hoosier humidity levels are too much for the one his family calls "Yankee girl" as I gasp for oxygen. :-)

Parent

It;'s the wood... (5.00 / 0) (#55)
by jeffinalabama on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:38:29 PM EST

I use pecan wood, and slow cooking...

Parent

: low and slow is important! (none / 0) (#167)
by PssttCmere08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:30:53 PM EST

Parent

Watched Bobby Flay Throwdown and He (none / 0) (#163)
by PssttCmere08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:30:01 PM EST

threw down against Wood Chicks BBQ...they did pulled pork sandwiches...I believe she used oak and applewood. Of course, you have to have some great seasonings.

Parent

Hope it's not a breach of etiquette... (none / 0) (#10)
by citizen53 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:11:22 PM EST

but come on by to my diary on the Clinton-RFK matter:

http://www.mydd.com/story/2008/5/23/185546/689#6

Otherwise, I wish everyone here a great holiday weekend!

: Why we are outraged..we will (5.00 / 1) (#12)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:13:44 PM EST

denounce you. We will be insulted. We are....my god when will people get some thicker skin again.

Parent

Gag (none / 0) (#23)
by Stellaaa on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:20:58 PM EST

"It's going to take a movement." (none / 0) (#37)
by Grace on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:30:18 PM EST

Why the potty talk?

I hope to be addressed (none / 0) (#39)
by Edgar08 on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:31:34 PM EST

"Hey friend" one day by an Obama supporter.

Roomba (none / 0) (#53)
by Step Beyond on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:36:35 PM EST

I'm shopping for a new Roomba. Does anyone have the 570 and can give some feedback? I was wondering if the scheduling and remote are really useful. Or should I skip those and go for a lesser model?

I had the original one but as we removed carpeting we didn't want to scratch the laminate flooring with it. It was a small risk on the original model but we didn't want to take the chance. I've read the later models are good on laminate.

400 model, but... (none / 0) (#126)
by NWHiker on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:13:48 PM EST

I have a 400 model (Discover), refurb from woot for $99, but it has the remote and scheduling.

I never schedule it because I need to be there: it always manages to eat something a child has left out, despite my warnming, get itself stuck somewhere, on something... The remote is handy to send it home, but... ya know?

Costco, btw, carries Roomba. I didn't know until I happened to see 'em by chance one day.

Parent

: Thanks (none / 0) (#191)
by Step Beyond on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:39:17 PM EST

I was thinking I probably wouldn't use the scheduler but the remote would be nice. My old one had neither obviously.
I'll have to look at Costco. I was considering Hammacher Schlemmer but only because they have a lifetime guarantee.

Parent

You must click on rate all for the ratings to (none / 0) (#84)
by MMW on Fri May 23, 2008 at 06:52:38 PM EST

apply, but only those you rated will apply, not all the comments.

Rate all those you want to rate, then hit rate all. The page will then refresh with your ratings added.

It won't register until (none / 0) (#103)
by DFLer on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:00:12 PM EST

you refresh the page, either by hitting the refresh button on your browser, or moving to another area on the site, and then back.

Rate all button does NOT make your rating apply to all, but it will also register your rating.

BTW, left clicking on the rating number by a post shows you who rated what...another way to see if your rating registered. Also, you can review this area, on the sidebar:
[Your Handle]
♦ Review Hidden Comments
♦ Your Info
♦ Your Comments
♦ Your Preferences

and on the "your info" page, click on 'your comments"

[thanks to all here who have schooled me on this stuff...-Grasshopper passes it on]

BTD, have you suspended the (none / 0) (#108)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:02:18 PM EST

10-day blogger assault for the holiday weekend?

I hope not... (5.00 / 1) (#121)
by kredwyn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:10:23 PM EST

Parent

Ok, what's the 10-Day Blogger Assault? T/U (none / 0) (#118)
by jawbone on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:08:47 PM EST

Parent

: I'm going to leave it to Kredwyn (none / 0) (#159)
by oculus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:28:45 PM EST

to fill you in.

Parent

Gwen Ifill on Washington Week saying news this (none / 0) (#115)
by jawbone on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:04:26 PM EST

week showed how over the primary is: Now the focus in on Obama and McCain.

Gee, Gwen, how do you think that happened?????

What a bunch of nonsense! Keith Olbermann: (none / 0) (#123)
by robrecht on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:10:53 PM EST

At Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for the first time, Senator Hillary Clinton actually invokes the assasination of Bobby Kennedy in 1968 as a reason for her not to drop out of her race with Senator Obama. ...
Why in the name of all that all of us hold dear would anybody ever say anything like this?
Can she in good conscience continue in the race for president after having said anything like this?
Is her political career at an end?

LOLOL (5.00 / 1) (#129)
by blogtopus on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:14:40 PM EST

Imagine his own voice saying:

"This Afternoon Barack Obama compared himself to JFK for the 1000th time in the primary season. NOBODY in their RIGHT MIND could possibly connect JFK with assassination.

"But RFK, THAT's another matter.

"Shame on you, Hillary Clinton. Shame on you."

Parent

: the scroll line on countdown (5.00 / 0) (#185)
by DFLer on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:35:35 PM EST

reads:

Sen. Clinton cites RFK assasination as reason to stay in race
oh god.. I just turned the teevee on for 5 seconds!
Must stay away....
memo to self:
Recommended Alternatives:
listen to a ball game on the radio while grilling
read a book
listen to Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On"
donate to the Fisher House

Parent

How could he say that? (5.00 / 0) (#146)
by dianem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:21:34 PM EST

She didn't invoke the assassination as a reason to stay in - she invoked the fact that he was still running in June, when he was assassinated. How can he distort that openly?

What am I saying - the Kossacks will lap this up like a kitten eating cream.

Parent

Karen Tumulty on Wash Week now raising sexism (none / 0) (#127)
by jawbone on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:14:11 PM EST

during the campaign. Of course, she said that even Obama supporters thought things went to far, mentioned the nutcrackers.

Then Ifil immediately went to the RFK remark today; Tumulty ran with it, said that she had mentioned same thing in March, but said today's was over the edge. Huh??? Another reporter asks if Clinton is trying to get SD's to think that Obama might be assassinated!!! So much more time spent on the RFK remark than on the primary long sexism. Yikes. Tumulty reports that VP should be offered to her, per Clinton. Has been told she would not turn VP position down. Hhhmmmm. Mentions help from Obama for campaign debt. NPR guy wonders if she would campaign this hard if she's really angling for the VP slot. D'uh.

: Per Bill Clinton, which wasn't clear above, VP (none / 0) (#218)
by jawbone on Fri May 23, 2008 at 08:08:25 PM EST

should be offered to Hillary.
Campaign has said is not correct.
Later NPR guy spoke at length about Obama's statement initially that he would meet w/ bunch of bad type world leaders, then has been walking it back as he gets closer to the general election. Made point of saying that when initially called inexperienced for saying that, Obama loved it, felt it made him look like a different type of pol; now, is trying to play it down, coming up with caveats and, well, conditions. But, said NPR guy, it is very clear that Obama has changed his position.
I have not heard that from any other MCM source.

Parent

Because the other thread closed before I could (none / 0) (#210)
by Shawn on Fri May 23, 2008 at 07:55:53 PM EST

reply, I wanted to respond to this comment by kaleidescope here: When I said that Bill Clinton "clinched" the nomination in practical terms in New York, I meant the New York primary (which you referenced in your initial post), not the New York convention.

Bad news (none / 0) (#216)
by Ga6thDem on Fri May 23, 2008 at 08:00:50 PM EST

for Obama's electoral chances in Nov:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/138456

As we all know, he has a huge problem with white voters. And unless he gets closer to McCain on those numbers he will lose. Of course, he has no such plans to do anything about it. It's why the GOP is rejoicing at their electoral chances in Nov.

Pre-Memorial Day Weekend Open Thread | 210 comments (210 topical)

Pre-Memorial Day Weekend Open Thread

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