Open Thread – Mudstock Palmer, Alaska!
What a fantastic afternoon! The last time there was a Mudstock in the Anchorage area, I was still one of those “anonymous bloggers” so I was unable to attend the event. I thought at the time I might sneak in and sit at a nearby table and watch, but I knew I’d totally give myself away so I sat home and spent the afternoon wishing I could be there.
Well, this time I was very happy to be able to show up and meet all the wonderful Mudflatters from Anchorage and the Valley who were gathered at the famous Vagabond Blues in Palmer.
We all talked over soup and quiche and salad and coffee. We got the tables configured in a giant circle and went around introducing ourselves. It was so amazing to be able to put faces with the entities who, until now had been only screen names and avatars. A couple of those present had either been “boots on the ground” reporters, or contributors to the blog itself. And I really enjoyed being able to thank everyone for their support and enthusiasm and participation over these many months. A lot of people said to me, “You kept me sane.” Well right back atcha. I don’t think that I will ever be able to adequately explain how much the participation and good wishes of this community has meant. I was also able to thank several current and former Forum Moderators and Administrators for all their great work. It takes a LOT to keep it all running.
There were lots of thanks to the other Alaska bloggers too, one of which (Gryphen) was there to meet everyone in person. And of course, every one of the forum dwellers had great praise and admiration for Snoskred, our Forum Master for her great organizational ability, and boundless energy and creativity. It was funny because it took me a minute to figure out who everyone was talking about because they were calling her “Snozz” and I have been calling her “Snowss” And I seem to remember that the whole correct pronunciation is like Snoo-skreed, not Snow-skred which is how I pronounce it in my head… But you know who you are and Thank You!
Spouse got lots of thanks, which he richly deserves, for putting up with me and all this blogging stuff.
There were about 24 of us there all together, and we had a fabulous time visiting, talking politics and acting like old friends. Some of the Mudflatters I’d met before at various events, but many I met for the first time including the mastermind behind this particular Mudstock, Jaime from Wasilla who coordinated and planned this wonderful afternoon. He also managed to rig up a webcam and a Skype hookup and we were able to connect with the Washington State Mudstock that was happening at the same time! I got to say a quick hello to the Mudflatters there, but I’m afraid I may have been less than coherent because I was still feeling a bit overwhelmed by the crowd on my end!
Jaime brought along the card he got from his Forum Card Swap buddy Suchanut to share with the group. It got passed around the table and generated lots of laughter.
The tables were littered with various incarnations of Brian the Moose, and “the Littlest Mudflatter” and future Forum Admin enjoyed making friends with two of them.
There was a big poster and markers for everyone to sign their name. And there was also a very nice Mudflats t-shirt, purchased in the Mudflats Shop that got a lot of extra embellishment!
Quite a few people described themselves as “lurkers and addicts.” and looked a little apologetic. I explained that lurkers and addicts make up the bulk of our readers, so no worries. Even you show up as those little dots on the map, and numbers in the stats at the end of the day. So your presence is felt, even if you don’t comment. And it was especially felt today!
The longest distance traveled award goes to Alex, one of our Forum Moderators who happened to be in Alaska this week, all the way from California! This is his third and Northernmost Mudstock. Timing is everything! We stayed for several hours, and when he realized it was after 5:00, and Shannyn Moore was on the air, he called in to the show and all of us yelled in unison “HI SHANNYN!!!” The poor cook, who was behind the counter on the other side of the room nearly jumped out of her skin when we all yelled, because we were quite loud and enthusiastic!
A final group picture, and a round of hugs, and we were all on our way.
All in all it was a great afternoon, and a wonderful group that left each other smiling.
DOH! I got to Vagabond Blues about 5:30 or so and it was all but over! I was glad to meet the 8 Mudflatters who were still there before they left, and sign the poster and T-Shirt. It sounds like it was a fun event.
I went to the Memorial Service for Gordon Haber, and it was really good. His family, including his 90-year old Mother was there, as was his sister, brother-in-law, and 2 nieces. There were great speakers, from Rick Stein to Johnny Johnson, Vic Van Ballenburgh, Priscilla Farrell from Friends of Animals, and several other speakers. The stories were great and very inspirational. It was definitely a celebration of life and very uplifting. He was a great guy with an important mission. and we were reminded to day that since Gordon isn’t here to do the work anymore, we all need to do a little more in his place.
While I may not qualify as a Mudflatter, I do my best to keep up with this blog but, someone, the fact that this big gathering was going to take place today just 12 miles from my house missed me. Not that I had the time, anyway, but I would have loved to have dropped by.
Maybe sometime, if I am aware such a gathering is going to happen, I will drop by.
The “Hi Shannyn” came through loud and clear on the tube-waves.
Bad typo above, should read:
“this blog but, somehow, the fact…”
We just have to do a better job of coordinating the Washington time with the Alaska time. We were about to finish by the time all of you were getting there. People had other obligations for late afternoon and evening and couldn’t stay. But it was fun to get together at 1smartcanerican’s home – there were only four of us today, but we plan to try again. If nothing else, we’ll enjoy meeting again for coffee. (Turns out we really don’t live that far from each other. Nice.)
We did have two Brians in attendance, plus one Brenda, courtesy of Boodog. Um, Brenda was the vocal one – in case any of you heard a squeak coming from the Washington end. LOL
We didn’t take a lot of photos, but we did get a group one. I’ll try to send it along tomorrow. And I think that seattlefan has one on her camera as well. It’s a good thing we met earlier in the day, as the weather Saturday evening was windy, with rain and hail, and some funnel clouds in the area. I was glad I was already home.
Great pics. Sounds as if a great time was had by all.
great pictures , looks like a good time
What a fun recap ! That was a nice start to the day. You can feel the good energy just looking at the pics. I love that you were able to do a hook up with Washington’s ‘stock. I wonder if $P was walking around all day with her ears ringing. Would it not have been a hoot for her to walk thru the door! I love the image of everyone yelling in unison , “Sit Down and SHUT UP!!” ( and then AKM would let her know that her blackberries would not be allowed at the Mudstock gathering)
Suchanut – Loved the card!!
And littlest Mudpup – start working on your typing skills. And hey, maybe it’s not too early to start setting your sights on a run for Governor ??
Happy Sunday Everyone! The Sunday news shows might prove interesting today, after such a crazy week. But if news of Palin shows up as anything other than a humor segment I just might lose it.
Wonderful victory last night with the health bill – 220-215. The extra two votes are significant, because it means no person can be “blamed” for being responsible for the bill passing. One republican voted for it.
Brian News: King Arthur Flour has a neat moose cookie cutter that looks a lot like Brian.
What a night! Shannyn had another great show, handles the jerks so well….if only there weren’t the continual break-ups and disconnects. Treehouse was busy and so many on edge watching and waiting for the results.
Congratulations on the two Mudstocks that took place, sure wish there was one near me!
WaPo has the breakdown of how everyone voted, their state, how much money each has received from the health industry, and the percentage of uninsured in each district.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/special/politics/votes/house/healthcare/index.html?hpid=topnews
Higher than normal temps here in western KY, sunny and 70s, wishing I could send some to all of the northern areas struggling with snowfall and freezing temps.
Wonderful pictures from Mudstock! It gives a sense of being there. Love the card – deliciously snarky. Tee hee.
@#9 lemonfair – you beat me to the news about the Brian cookie cutter! I just looked at my King Arthur Flour catalogue last night (it’s one of my favorites). I gain three pounds after reading it from cover to cover. LOL
The good news is the House passed the health care reform bill. The bad news is it’s not perfect. But it’s better than the alternative and I think a lot of it will be changed as time goes on. I read somewhere that unpopular amendments have a way of “slipping” out of bills. I don’t know which congresswoman was speaking about the abortion amendment, but I liked her comment that religion had been inserted into the debate and how she stressed that we are a Democracy NOT a theocracy! Good on her.
I think the “Stench Bowl of Freedom” un-press conference and the nastiness exhibited there combined with the Internets videos of Republicans behaving badly in the House yesterday is an extremely vivid and visual example of the temper tantrums by the party that LOST last year. Do we really want our country to be run by people who act like four-year-olds? If my children had behaved like that they’d be sitting on the time-out-chair until they were eligible for Social Security! There is a real danger here that the monster that has been created by the likes of Rupert Murdoch’s FOX News, Limbaugh, Beck, Coulter, Hannity and Bachmann and it’s paternity acknowledged by the leaders of the Republican party will go beyond control. The propaganda game they’re playing is extremely dangerous and, like the story of Frankenstein, the monster turned on it’s creator.
Very soon I’m sure we’ll be hearing from a certain Alaskan Facebook blogger about the total demise of the USA because insurance companies will be unable to rake in insane amounts of money while letting people.
die.
GreatGranny2C @10 – Thanks for that link. Interesting to see the big bucks contributed to many of the “Nays”. Was also interesting to see some big bucks going to some that voted Yes. Overall, I’m just plain disgusted to see such big bucks from insurance companies going to political campaigns. That’s definitely a page that should get passed around.
I’m trying to get a better understanding of mandating the purchase of insurance. This is the one aspect that leaves me unsettled. Does anyone have a link to a good analysis of this ? I’d like to better understand the logic. I can definitely see how folks would have a problem being told you MUST buy insurance. Is there no provision for signing a waiver and opting out ?
Time for Meet the Press !
by the by – Rachel is on MTP.
BuffaloGal@13: “I’m just plain disgusted to see such big bucks from insurance companies going to political campaigns. That’s definitely a page that should get passed around.”
Yeah, if the health insurance industry wasn’t spending that money on political campaigns, I’d have private insurance right now because I WOULD be able to afford it. If the health insurance industry wasn’t spending millions of dollars on political ads to kill bills they don’t like, we wouldn’t have had to need to write those bills in the first place!
Lilady@11: “Very soon I’m sure we’ll be hearing from a certain Alaskan Facebook blogger about the total demise of the USA because insurance companies will be unable to rake in insane amounts of money while letting people.”
It’s already up, I went over and read it. Scary, scary stuff. Can’t even bring myself to quote any or link.
And the people commenting scare me even more.
Comment from FireDogLake:
Call or e-mail all of Stupak’s corporate donors and tell them you are boycotting their business because he voted to take away your reproductive rights. Do it soon.
I like it; I’m doing it. We speak volumes when we speak with our wallets!
What fun, a mudstock puppyfest! Whoohoo!
We’re having very warm weather too, in the 70′s!
Today’s Op-Ed by Frank Rich:
The Night They Drove the Tea Partiers Down
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/08/opinion/08rich.html?ref=opinion
On Wednesday, Michael Steele dismissed the right’s mantra that somehow Hoffman’s loss could be called a victory and instead talked up the newly elected Republican governors who won by appealing to independents and moderates. Chris Christie and Bob McDonnell are plenty conservative, but both had rejected Palin’s offers to campaign for them. They also avoided the tea party zanies, the fear-mongering National Organization for Marriage and the anti-abortion-rights zealots Hoffman embraced. They positioned themselves as respectful Obama critics, not haters likening him to Hitler.
———————————————————–
The world has turned upside-down when Michael Steele starts making sense!
Wow. Two mudstocks for the price of one!
Thanks for the link GreatGranny2C; I’ll be checking on our one Rep who voted no. She’s from a very conservative district, and I’m sure is thinking about re-election. I’ll be emailing her to point out she is there to serve all the people, not just her donors.
Loved the pictures- great job, Jaime, in organizing the get-together. Too bad I live too far south (ha).
2 Bill of Wasilla Says:
November 8th, 2009 at 12:41 AM
While I may not qualify as a Mudflatter, I do my best to keep up with this blog but, someone, the fact that this big gathering was going to take place today just 12 miles from my house missed me. Not that I had the time, anyway, but I would have loved to have dropped by.
Maybe sometime, if I am aware such a gathering is going to happen, I will drop by.
___________
I think it gets planed in the forum…you can join by checking at the top under what’s the forum .
Or by clicking on the “Mudflats Forum” icon over there on the sidebar —>
AKM
@Buffalo Gal-I’m trying to get a better understanding of mandating the purchase of insurance. This is the one aspect that leaves me unsettled. Does anyone have a link to a good analysis of this ? I’d like to better understand the logic. I can definitely see how folks would have a problem being told you MUST buy insurance. Is there no provision for signing a waiver and opting out ?
—
I don’t have a link handy. But, I think everyone will be required to have insurance. There is a “clause” or waiver, for those who truly can’t afford it. If this is true, it makes sense to me. As, a lot of conservatives are complaining about people who drive fancy cars, and spend money on luxuries, but don’t buy health insurance. Perhaps, its sliding scale based? Like energy assistance is given to those families that are under a certain income level. Healthcare reform would not work, if everyone opted out. The idea is to drive down the cost and in order to do that, the new insurance plan would need a pool of funds. It makes sense in my opinion. I don’t have insurance, and I don’t have a lot of money, and I seldom go to the doctor (ten times in the last twenty years), but I am willing to scrimp and pay for it to help the “pool” because in the long run it should make Americans healthier and help the economy (from skyrocketing healthcare costs, bankruptcies, less sick days, etc). I think, they should add some kind of “credit” for people like me who are healthy and use alternative medicine. But, one step at a time. Let’s say the insurance is $950/yr.- there would be a backlash of oppositon from some who don’t want to pay it. People who pay that amount per month for their current insurance, however, will love it. Those who are opposed will eventually settle down when they are able to go for check-ups and procedures that they weren’t able to afford before. And when those check-ups detect a crisis in the making, they will be very appreciative they have it!! I consider anything I am “mandated” to pay as an investment in a healthier America. I may have to give up some of the donations I give to charity organizations, and a few dinners out each month, but I don’t mind. You can read more about the basics of the plan at whitehouse dot gov.
postscript to above: I have avoided skiing and other sports because I don’t won’t to have broken bones. With a health insurance plan, I know that the x-rays and so forth will be covered, so I can go do things without being afraid. So, its not just about diseases.
typo: won’t- want
Mudpups it was so great to meet you!
What a great afternoon at the “Valley Mudstock”!
It was such an honor to meet so many Mudpups and and what a great pleasure to meet AKM, Spouse and some special future mudpuppies.
There was such a feeling of being among friends and like minded people.
I have just moved across the state and don’t know many people here in the Valley yet so this made it and added pleasure!
Big Thank You to Jamie from Wasilla for coordinating and planning this event.
Also thanks to Gryphen for coming it was really nice to meet him.
A great time was had by all!
Polly @22 for me personally, I’ll have no hesitation buying in to the insurance pool. It will be a great benefit for me as I have no insurance currently. Can’t afford it.
However, I’m trying to look at both sides. I know I’ll never understand the far fringe right but there are a number of sane people that are not liking the idea of being forced to buy insurance and I can see how they’d be upset. It’s a huge change and with the crazies whipping up the froth, it’s easy to see how even the sane can begin to wonder if this isn’t “unAmerican”. They forget that they’re already paying in to Medicare and unemployment, etc. I’m trying to understand it more fully so that I can better discuss it with others.
And you’re right, one step at a time. It will continue to be honed and will, in the end , (hopefully!) come out to be a gift to all .
Interesting point about being more open to going skiing knowing you’re covered! I’d also like to see alternative medicine included down the line. That’d be fantastic. Thanks for the feedback!
I haven’t decided if I’m a Mudder yet but I sure like the opportunity to voice my opinion without fear of repercussions. We’re still dealing with ancient tactics such as shunning, isolation and personal opinions presented as facts(misinformation) up my way in the Norton Sound. It’s all about control too. Misleading the mis-informed. With the corruption being investigated, I’m hoping for a rapid change within the next several years.
Man from Unk…….Welcome to Mudflats! Please, tell us more about Norton Sound.
Help, Mudpuppies! I had breakfast with good friends who summer in the NY 23rd district, and come to spend the winter in the beautiful NE GA mountains. I, of course, asked them about the election up there. I knew they were right leaning, but not wingnuts, and they said although they wished SP hadn’t stuck her nose into it, they did wish that Hoffman had won. In the conversation, I brought out that he didn’t even live in the district. They were amazed, and I told them I’d prove it. I’ve done a quick seach, but come up with nothing, and thought perhaps someone out ther would have a link or info on this. These are nice folks, and we respect each others view, but it’s because of AKM and all of you that I know this, but folks from up there don’t! Would appreciate any help you could give.
Terp, yep, Scarah’s facebook has spoken. Shannyn gave her a wonderful smack down! go read it, it’s a lovely piece.
Polly @22 -
Many of the people who are screaming the loudest about how unAmerican it is to be forced to buy health insurance are the same people who write that check every month for car insurance without thinking twice. If you’re lucky, you won’t need either one, but they’re awfully important to have if you do!
Special props to Congressman Cao from Lousiana who was the lone Republican to vote for the bill. He explained that he was putting aside partisan politics to represent the choice of his constituents, who are mostly Democrats. Representing the people who elected you instead of blindly towing the party line…WOW, what a concept!!!
I’m off to enjoy the beautiful sunny 61 degree weather while I rake, bag, prune, snip, sweep and clean. LOVE my giant maple tree in the front yard but DON’T love the mounds of leaves it drops on my lawn (and the neighbor’s lawn which I ALSO feel obliged to rake!). Fifteen bags hauled off to the leaf drop-off yesterday and lots more today. I keep reminding myself that all those leaves will come back to me next year as unlimited amounts of free leaf compost from my town, making my flowers and veggies VERY happy!
Oh well, at least I’ll enjoy the sunny and warm part of the day!
BuffaloGal and Polly, I too hope alternative medicine will be covered, I’ll do just about anything before going under a knife.
@29 tigerwine
Hoffman lives in Lake Placid – in the 20th district.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York's_23rd_congressional_district
I like Levi. Apparently, Scarah doesn’t want him anywhere near her or her home, big baby. So he and Bristol meet somewhere to exchange the baby. He’s waiting for Bristol to call him back so he can take him Christmas shopping, which he finally does by himself.
I came across the videos over at Regina’s blog. Too cute, you can tell he loves his kiddo. Scarah bess grow up, behave and play nice. We should take a poll.
Will Scarah allow Levi fair shared custody? NO
Will Scarah hold out and try to battle Levi legally? YES
Will Levi let her have it with both barrels? YES
Will Scarah try to smear Levi? YES
Will Scarah be a grandma from hell forever? YES
http://palingates.blogspot.com/
Sometimes being “outed” can be a very empowering thing in the long run. It still does not give someone the right to do it.
Tigerwine @29 – here ya go! ( and hello Tigerwine’s visiting friends, from a neighbor in Western New York)
http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/11/04/politics/politicalhotsheet/entry5517947.shtml
***And yet, despite all this attention, Hoffman lost. Voters in the 23rd did not embrace his philosophy. They saw Hoffman as a carpetbagger — he didn’t even live in the district — who was trying to hijack their district for his own ideological ends.
This is a Republican district, but it’s not a terribly conservative district. It’s genteel, more than activist. The final straw: Hoffman didn’t even try to pretend that the election was about the issues of the district. It was all about him — and what he represented. In a way, NY 23ers took to Hoffman like Iowans took to Democratic presidential candidate Howard Dean in 2003. They wanted a representative, not a movement candidate. They didn’t take kindly to all these outsiders telling them how to work. ***
I LOVED the choice of ABC’s George S. this morning… (Sen ? I think ) Kaine against Michael Steele…. wooo hooo .. Popcorn everywhere.
He looked like the Clown he is. He got schooled. Kaine would not allow Steele to talk over Him and talked louder. Many times he looked directly at George, while Steele was trying to but in and not let him answer questions, and didn’t even acknowledge Steele was there.
Steele was Wrong on everything and made no sense….. he looked foolish.
Bragged about the 2 Gov. races the GOP won when asked about NY-23. Kaine smiled, grinned and said Thank You for that Gift. Keep on giving.
The conversation was about Boehner and Steele was attempting to prop him up and and people not listening to his ideas and suggestions.
He immediately went to and tried to explain that people/America are tired of Washington not listening to them as a talking point.
( just after the Boehner remarks)
I guess Steele has selective hearing and memory. Because I remember a story posted on Huffpo where Boehner said he did not know or heard of ONE person ( any of his constituents ) who was for the public option and this health care reform plan. The next day in the news they interviewed a lady who had called him like 6 times and was upset about his outlandish claim.
So, Yes Michael…SOME in Wash. are not listening to Americans. ONE is Boehner…. Thanks for pointing HIM out.
NY-23 came up in the discussion Round table. Palin and her Talk Show radio talking heads were pointed out as THE ‘problem within the GOP’
Good show overall. Steele was completely spanked. So happy the RNC elected Him as their Voice.
Say NO @30 – YeeeYikes! Shannyn’s smackdown of Palin was fabulous, indeed.
In reference to $’carah’s disgust at all on the left who don’t understand the sanctity of life, Shannyn responds, in part:
*** You want the death penalty and cry for more war. You wouldn’t know the sanctity of life if it dropped dead in your lap. *** ha!!
Side note : Western New York is enjoying one of the most gorgeous days , ever! Leenie17 – I hear you about the maples. I swear, I think they store additional leaves in a secret compartment because mine have dropped at least 3 times more than they had this summer and there’s still more to go!
http://shannynmoore.wordpress.com/
For weeks, I’ve been reading the weirdo comments on SP’s facebook. Today, they have all been wiped clean. Bree Palin has explanations at her site…basically there was one in particular that threatened the president. Go check it out on her site–I think maintaining that page has become too much for SP’s staff.
I’m excited about the health care bill. I’ve been buying my health insurance from a state medical pool for 2 years – ever since I retired from teaching. I’m not old enough for medicare (12 years away), but was denied private health insurance due to a “pre-exisiting” condtion. I couldn’t afford to keep my teacher insurance (a whopping $1,200 a month!). Thank goodness for a government run health insurance pool!
“Aye” on Stupak or “Nay” on the final bill is very bad..very “unDemocratic……but to vote “Aye” on Stupak AND “Nay” on the final bill, is simply being a traitor to the Democratic party.
There are 26 DINO traitors here, who should be on everyones mailing list:
For future reference, here is the list of Democrats who voted “Aye” on the Stupak-Pitts Amendment.
AL-2 Bright, Bobby; AL- 5 Griffith, Parker; AL-7 Davis, Artur; AR-1 Berry, Robert; AR-2 Snyder, Victor; AR-4 AR-4 Ross, Mike; CA-18 Cardoza, Dennis; CA-20 Costa, Jim; CA-43 Baca, Joe; CO-3 Salazar, John.
GA-2 Bishop, Sanford; GA-8 Marshall, James; GA-12 Barrow, John; KY-6 Chandler, Ben; IL-3 Lipinski, Daniel; IL-12 Costello, Jerry; IN-2 Donnelly, Joe; IN-8 Ellsworth, Brad; IN-9 Hill, Baron; LA-3 Melancon, Charles; ME-2 Michaud, Michael.
MA-2 Neal, Richard; MA-9 Lynch, Stephen; MI-5 Kildee, Dale; MI-1 Stupak, Bart; MN-7 Peterson, Collin; MN-8 Oberstar, James; MS-1 Childers, Travis; MS-4 Taylor, Gene; MO-4 Skelton, Ike; NM-2 Teague, Harry
NC-2 Etheridge, Bob; NC-7 McIntyre, Mike; NC-11 Shuler, Heath; ND Pomeroy, Earl; OH-1 Driehaus, Steve; OH-6 Wilson, Charles; OH-9 Kaptur, Marcy; OH-16 Boccieri, John; OH-17 Ryan, Timothy; OH-18 Space, Zachary.
OK-2 Boren, Dan; PA-3 Dahlkemper, Kathleen; PA-4 Altmire, Jason; PA-10 Carney, Christopher; PA-11 Kanjorski, Paul; PA-12 Murtha, John; PA-14 Doyle, Michael; PA-17 Holden, Tim; RI-2 Langevin, James
SC-5 Spratt, John; TN-4 Davis, Lincoln; TN-5 Cooper, Jim; TN-6 Gordon, Barton; TN-8 Tanner, John; TX-16 Reyes, Silvestre; TX-23 Rodriguez, Ciro; TX-27 Ortiz, Solomon; TX-28 Cuellar, Henry.
UT-2 Matheson, Jim; VA-5 Perriello, Thomas; WV-1 Mollohan, Alan; WV-3 Rahall, Nick; WI-7 Obey, David.
Here is the list of 26 Democrats who voted “Aye” on Stupak but “Nay” on the final bill:
Altmire, Barrow, Boccieri, Boren, Bright, Chandler, Childers, Davis (AL), Davis (TN), Gordon (TN), Griffith, Holden, Marshall, Matheson, McIntyre, Melancon, Peterson, Ross, Shuler, Skelton, Tanner, Taylor, Teague
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/11/7/801996/-64-Democrats-on-the-Wrong-Side-of-Stupak-Pitts
It was so nice to meet some other Mudpups last night! I just wish I hadn’t gotten there so late, it sounds like it was a great gathering.
@Bill of Wasilla–the get-together was discussed on the forums, so check there too for future Mudstocks.
Have a lovely Sunday, everyone!
I was reading the last post ( 11-5) by Ann Strongheart on Anonymous Bloggers yesterday.
Can anyone weigh in and let us know how she is doing… Is there an update?
Any News..?
Ann is doing well. At this point it’s a whole lot of waiting. Everything seems to be just fine with the new little one. The gender is still unknown, but all signs point to a healthy little somebody! I will keep everyone posted when something happens! AKM
Does Murkoski have an opinion on Scarah’s latest facebook post? being a Republican and all……..does Scarah speak for her too? how about John McCain, are reporters asking him if he agrees with his former VP quitter governor?
http://www.adn.com/life/health/story/895431.html
“It does us no good to incite fear in people by saying that there’s these end-of-life provisions, these death panels,” Murkowski, a Republican, said. “Quite honestly, I’m so offended at that terminology because it absolutely isn’t (in the bill). There is no reason to gin up fear in the American public by saying things that are not included in the bill.”
What a fun mudstock that must have been. HI ALEX!
Bill from Wasilla – love your blog!
On Meet The Press today, Rachel Maddow made a point that should NOT be
overlooked by Democrats in the House and Senate who wish to remian in their
elected offices in 2010 and beyond, and that is the fact that if the Stupak-
Pitts C Street anti abortion amendment in the House version of Health Care
Reform is NOT removed if/when the bill goes to Conference to be merged
with the Senate bill, there will be MASSIVE blowback for the Democratic party
from it’s female base.
Maddow: “The Stupak amendment . . . is the biggest restriction on abortion
funding since the Hyde Amendment, it’s the biggest restriction on abortion
access in this country in a generation, if it took a Democratic President 60%
majorities in the House and Senate are Democrats to get that I think you can
expect Democratic women to sit on their hands at least, if not revolt if that
doesn’t get taken out in conference.”
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/11/8/802087/-Maddow:-Democratic-women-will-REVOLT-over-Stupak-Pitts-if-it-is-not-removed
Lilady NY and BuffaloGal – Thanks mucho to you both. Waiting to get a reply back – I sent both your messages. Will let you know their response.
GA mudpuppies – isn’t it about time we had a Mudstock gathering?
Thanks AKM for this great article about our little party yesterday! ;D What a great group of people. I think we had so much fun that we may have gained some new mudpups for the blog and forums from the regular patrons of Vagabond Blues.
Littlest Mudflatter is pretty cute I have to say.
Love the pics from Palmer – what a fantastic Mudstock! Alex – congrats on getting there from CA! You forgot to pick me up on the way!
For everyone upset that Dennis K. voted nay on the bill – he voted late (late into the 15 minutes) and would not have done so if his vote was needed. His nay vote gave him an opportunity to point out all the things (a lot) that are wrong with the bill. But look how hard it was to even get this passed. Had progressives dug their heels in, we’d have nothing. I, for one, am VERY pleased that the insurance companies can no longer deny coverage for pre-existing conditions – that is a BIG DEAL folks. Onward to the Senate.
Awwww…Looks like y’all had a great time!! Wish I coulda been there! Maybe I would’ve gone into labor that would have been exciting LOL ook maybe not.
Great pics!! Hope I can attend the next one someday
Ann
I am so bummed that I couldn’t get to Palmer, but I’m glad the card got a few laughs!
And, Jaime – new Mudflats recruits from the regular patrons? Wow. I wonder if that happens at other Mudstocks?
AKM – thanks for the update on Ann.
Ann! It is good to see you!
Going Rouge is looking very good!
“the Palin book has been so popular that brisk sales crashed their Web site.”
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-talk_palin_coloringnov08,0,4006059.story
“Then, on the same day Palin’s own book is published, comes a book of left-leaning essays, “Going Rouge: An American Nightmare.” The book, with its parody title and strikingly similar cover art, was put together by two senior editors at The Nation magazine and will be available only on the Web site of its publisher, OR Books.
Because the parody “Going Rouge” is an Internet-only book, the similar cover won’t trick people looking for Palin’s book into a purchase. It’s merely “an attempt to poke fun at her own cover,” said John Oakes, co-publisher of OR Books.
The company’s online strategy targets potential readers on political Web sites such as Politico and Wonkette, and so far, Oakes said, the Palin book has been so popular that brisk sales crashed their Web site.”
It’s the next best thing to share in the Palmer Mudstock through a great description and pics. Thank you.
I should add the littlest mudpuppy stole my heart, once again.
Here are a few of the crazy comments from Palin’s latest ramble. The sad part is that there will be some attempts to change the status, by whatever means. Her article still goes on about death panels and illegal immigrants – she just won’t admit the truth on anything, and I wonder if anyone but bloggers will ever call her out.
“Impeachment won’t work….We have to take this out of the politicians hands. Can you organize a National Referendum, for 2010 national election, to repeal health care, if it passes the Senate, and refund everyone’s money?”
“We must end the insanity swiftly. Lead and we will follow…show us the way.”
Hmmm – guess this poster forgot McCain was also on the ticket: “…and a good portion of america’s vote I would think since Sarah got a good portion of them in the last election… id vote for her”
Guess Palin was lyin’ again – I thought it was only about $1 trillion: “All of this at the cost of 3 trillion dollars.”
How this one got through is beyond me – funny! “Jason – Who is your ghost writer?”
lol……Saturday Night Live doing Fake News!
http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/clips/fox-news-election-open/1173560/
Rollin’ in the mud with Valley puppies – that sounds like so much fun that I should have flown up there! Damm, where are those wings when you need them the most?
Suchanut’s card was more than a little funny. That puppy is such a nut!
Tv reporter says Scarah’s book will include ‘behind the scene’ stories about the campaign and about the ‘war’ between Scarah and John campaign camps……..can’t wait to see how much her version fits with the other sides, lol. Leave it to her to describe it as WAR, lol, she’s such a piece of work.
1st stop book signing at Woodland Mall Barnes and Nobel Nov. 18th 7pm to 9pm, just two hours Scarah?
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/fox17-sarah-palin-to-visit-grand-rapids,0,1929684.story?obref=obinsite
So…if Gryphen called his own following to a meeting / get together, what would they call it? This thought has given me a few chuckles this AM. And Gryph – I would have enjoyed meeting you. I missed Shannyn in Juneau last year and am still kicking myself!
So glad you all had such a nice time. I KNEW you would!
I’m heading to that restaurant for the soup the next time we’re up there!
What a great looking bunch of mudpups.
Oh, the gathering looked like great fun! I had to miss due to a commitment but will be hoping to join you all next time!
Gryph-Fest?
Gryphapalooza?
Gryphen Fair?
Chez Gryphen?
Martha, the possibilities are endless.
When he told me he was going to be there, we thought about the combo-name…. but we worried that calling it the Immoral Mudfest might have enticed a different sort of crowd!
AKM
Hello to Ann Strongheart! So good to “see” you. AKM mentioned that we do not know if your baby is a girl or a boy – but I could swear that I heard that your baby is a boy. Maybe I dreamt it – if so, then he is a boy for sure. Is there an address on your website (so we can send the little knit booties, bibs, etc.)?
Hello there Ann~
I thought of you yesterday ~ wondering if the littlest Strongheart had yet graced the world…..
Hope that you and the little ones are warm & well.
Take good care ~ and Gooday everyone!
All mudpuppies in NC and surrounding states, mark your calenders for Dec. 12. There will be a mudstock held at Satisfaction’s Restaurant in Durham,NC at noon on the 12th.
You can PM me (Pearl) or simply post in the NC Mudstock thread in the forum.
http://www.themudflats.net/forum/index.php/topic,8527.0.html
There will be cake and adult beverages and cake and lots of good company and cake and maybe moose cookies.
It’s nice to see all those faces, only a few of which are familiar… any chance of getting names so that we can stop picturing people in our minds?
I vote for Gryphapolooza.
Everyone needs to, en masse, report Palin’s facebook page to Facebook. The loonies are out of control. Let’s make some noise. I’ve made my second official complaint to them. I try not to ever go there or to the other hate sites, but I had to do my duty and report her followers on the lunatic fringe.
Glad you AK mudpups had such a great time. I was SO glad I made it to NYC’s Mudstock, where I felt at home among strangers — such a rare occurrence. Now here’s a link to an animal-lover’s take on $P: http://www.care2.com/causes/environment/blog/sarah-palin-you-call-yourself-pro-life/
Health and peace, everyone! See you in chat.
It looks like you all had a good time,makes me wanna put Brian the moose all over my pastures,When I finish the banner for my gate I’ll snap a photo for you guys to see. I wonder where the Mudflatters are here where I am.I’m my own Mudpup out here in the Boonies lol. R’ipley in Ct, whats on her Facebook?I’d like to leave a message for Pain in the Butt Palin. Facebook me At Yvonne Coffey,thanks
Now that the Bill has passed the House I am sure that the Lobbyists, special interest Groups ( Freedom Works, AHIP, CPR ) and their various experts will be all over the tubes and in the Press spreading more dis-information and lies. SP has already revamped her ‘ death panel ‘ meme.
I stopped watching CNN, especially on Sunday with John King. Once he had that softball interview with His Friend Dick Cheney. He let him try to rewrite History and say all kinds of nonsense after the inauguration… it was sickening.
I did click over to CNN briefly to see what their take was. And wanted to see King spin this into something bad… or watch His head explode. I felt like gloating.
A commercial came on immediately from CPR with their ‘ scare message ‘ saying call your politician to defeat this Bill. ( obviously the old commercial )
A few months ago their own Anchor, Rick Sanchez did an expose story about CPR’s founder, Rick Scott.
It pointed out that his healthcare company was ripping people off and because of it had I believe the largest fine in History. Defrauding Medicare maybe?( 1 billion + I think?)
CNN’s Sanchez exposed CPR and it’s Founder for the slimy, unethical dishonest person he is and the way he tries to manipulate people. He abuses people and the system.
YET…. even with the Truth exposed by their own network and their own people CNN has no problem taking CPR’s CASH to run Scott’s commercials.
Hypocrisy or whatever you want to call it… it is disgusting. It’s like CNN is accepting ‘ blood money’ and looking the other way. They KNOW the truth, but don’t care. This is like those Bankers in the 70′s that would take Money from the illegal Drug Cartels. They KNEW where it came from…. but were willing to look the other way or rationalize it…. for Profit. CNN takes ‘ blood money’.
Yet they get on their ” moral high-horse ” when they refused to run those PAID commercials denouncing Lou Dobbs for his ‘ views’.
Ethics I guess are negotiable for CNN… if you pay enough.
I sure wish MSNBC ( Keith or Rachel ) or a REAL Journalist organization/Newspaper would do a story telling the story of who CNN is ‘ in the bed with ‘.
Reminds you of that story that is told where a Guy asks the Woman if she woulds sleep with him for a Million dollars. She says “Yes”.
Would you do it for $100 dollars..? She acts indignant and says ” No” who do you think I am. ..? He says we have already determined What you are… we are now just negotiating/haggling on the price.
CNN is a ” News prostitute”. They have Sold themselves. CPR is their John.
Looks like a lot of fun! What a great community you have created!
I agree with #70, the PalinBots on her FB page are pretty scary, I’ve peeked through one eye at a few comments there while “catching up” on her latest rants once or twice myself against my own instinct. Last night when the bill passed I couldn’t resist just a quick post, and I think I got my first “hate comment.” (Actually surprised it took this long.) It sounded similar to some I’ve seen there, although it was probably tame by comparison as I’ve not been back lately and they’ve probably cranked it up a few notches the last few weeks. So, psst, you didn’t hear it from me, but I hear there’s a revolt coming……….
You mean.. there was a mudstock, and people said nice things about me there?
Hmm..
Y’all are sure it was Hungarian Mushroom soup, and not Magic Mushroom soup?
Cos everyone knows I am the evil, and stuff..
I am so hungry for mushrooms after all this soup discussion.. I am going to have to buy a whole bunch and have a mushroom feast..
It is wonderful to see so many mudpups there, and I am hugely thrilled that the forums are a place these kinds of events can be planned.
However I also would like to mention that these mudstocks were mentioned on the blog a couple of times, the most recent being this post from AKM just 7 days ago –
http://www.themudflats.net/2009/11/02/open-thread-46/
There was also a newsletter sent out to forum members – generally signing up over there is a good way to keep up on mudstocks because we usually send out newsletters when they are being held.
If a mudstock is being held in your area, and you have signed up on the forums and posted an intro, you are added to the states list – I personally sent private messages to all people listed as being in Alaska and have done so for other upcoming mudstocks also too.
Planning is still in the works for several locations, including –
Vermont
Florida
Kentucky
Tri State Mudstock – DE, NJ, PA Western New York area – Buffalo, Rochester and all parts in between
North Carolina
Oregon
California
You can find out more by visiting the Action Alerts, Events & Meets area here –
http://www.themudflats.net/forum/index.php/board,22.0.html
We do try to get the word out as much as possible, I am not sure what else we could do to publicize these events, if you do have any ideas or suggestions we would love to hear them via the contact us form on the forums –
http://www.themudflats.net/forum/index.php?action=contact
so is this pork barrel spending? InJuneau, would you weigh in please?
http://www.adn.com/news/politics/alaska_ear/story/1004339.html
“QUOTE OF THE WEEK . . . Heeees back! In a press release Thursday about support for the Juneau road, Don Young, Congressman for All Alaskans who Voted for Him, offered us an amazing concept:
“Getting this road done will be the first leg of the Juneau Access Improvements Project, an invaluable road system for Juneau that will improve access, cut down on traffic, and reduce costs.”
Hmmm. So building a road where no road exists will “cut down on traffic?”
A bemused Skagway earwig noted a DOT study projects more than 10 times the traffic on a new road than currently uses the ferries.”
(here is a comment)
” Worldview wrote on 11/08/2009 10:27:08 AM:
The only traffic it could cut down would be ferry traffic. After that it’s a pretty narrow list of users that could or would, in all practical reality, use that road. Think about it folks, there are two very major reasons why NOT to drive to Juneau – the trip requires entry and exit through Canada (twice, also need a passport…) and is about 780 miles. One way. To Haines. The first would exclude half the gun totin’ pickups in Alaska, the 780 miles would bankrupt the rest at todays fuel costs and poor mileage numbers. For fun, try even getting the road miles to Juneau at the Google link http://www.travelmath.com/drive-time/from/Anchorage,+AK/to/Juneau,+AK The results border on funny. The results to Haines are a bit more lucid but crater shortly as well. Check out the map of driving directions to Haines. Hilarious. At the end of the day, few citizens will drive to Juneau to interact with the legislature; witness the low turnout at the Assembly meetings on most issues.”
Hey Snos, is there a states list we can see, that lists who is in which state? I was looking for it earlier and couldn’t find it.
Sounds like all you mudflatters had fun.It was 60 degrees here in Wi also.I went to a wedding up north,my 22 year old Grandson.In the church I looked up and saw that it was a pentecostal church.Now i know my grandson is not a regular if at all church goer,My daughter is Lutheran but did not bring her children up in any regular church.Now I have COPD and when i got back home the small village where I lived looked like it was enfolded in fog,just the village mind you.It was everywhere.When I got out of the car I realized it was smoke that was just sitting over the village because their was no wind to disperse it.Talk about pollution.By the time I found a door I could unlock,it was dark and hard to see the locks.I could hardly breath.Another reason for composting.I really thought I was going to have to got to the hospital for some help breathing.It is still nice today but I think Sundays are supposed to be burn free days.At least the smoke isn’t setting over the village now.My parents lived here for 58 years and I have never seen the smoke like it was yesterday evening.I think everyone decided to burn all together just this one time.
All of the negative comments, as well as a number of them threatening President Obama, are back up on Palin’s Facebook page. Bree Palin has some photocaptures and a number of posters are reporting these to Secret Service, FBI, etc. I think the more of us that report this continuing problem with her followers, that attention will be paid and maybe something done. We need to get more and more proactive in a positive way – it seems no one in the MSM except Keith and Rachel will speak out against her and her hateful followers.
I don’t have the other links (maybe someone will post them?) but here is the one I’ve sent to so far:
http://www.whitehouse.gov
The contact link is on the very bottom of the page.
Say No @76 – Here you go – STATES LIST:
http://www.themudflats.net/forum/index.php/topic,3753.0.html
Rachel did a great job this morning Meet the Press, pointing out that one of the reasons McDonnel won was because Reeds made it easy.
http://www.youtube.com/user/firedoglake#p/u/1/0NKgL4ff3qY
{{{{{Thanks GreatGranny!}}}}}
jojobo……leaves are liquid gold for my garden beds! lol……..I mow them into little bits and pile them deep on top of our raised bed veggie boxes. Throw a little chicken or cow manure and dirt with them, a yippy more good soil in the spring. If we have a winter like last year, I may have to tarp them to keep the raging winter winds from stealing my goodies, lol. I never have enough grass clippings or leaves.
somebody could start a free haul away business, then make compost out of them for themselves or to sell. Identify who burns. Some of the people around here do it like it’s a fall tradition or some foolish thing. I remember growing up in the 50′s it was popular, it then was banned in towns, I suppose for fire hazard.
Or do like the town I used to live in, they had a city drop off recycling site that made wood chips for mulch and compost out of grass and leaves. It was free to drop off and the cost to buy truckloads of mulch or compost was minimal compared to garden centers. Why put usable stuff in landfills?
It’s a total waste to burn them and put smoke in the air. Leaves are what make the forest floors fertile for everything living in them.
WOW!! I just looked at the state list, there are a lot of mudpuppies out there!!!
I haven’t signed up yet, and I’m sure I’m not the only one. Will try to get that done tomorrow.
Say No to Palin in Politics – we have this handy how to guide especially for posting an intro
http://www.themudflats.net/forum/index.php/topic,94.0.html
Looking forward to seeing it – and anyone else reading this who hasn’t posted one make sure to head on over and get yourself added to the list so you can know when there will be a mudstock near you
Good Evening all! (well it’s evening here) Just wanted to share my days experience with my fellow mudpups. I was doing my usual interneting and saw over on bree’s site, a series of screen shots featuring some of SP’s followers comments from over on facebook, way down at the bottem there was a screen shot containing a threat to the president. I spent about 20 minutes on the phone with the secret service informing them of the comment left on SP’s wall and would like to urge you all, especially those of you who have a facebook account to head over to bree’s and take a look at the comment yourselves, it’s really to upsetting for me to repost.
If you’e as upset by this as I am, feel free to then head on over to SP’s fb page (I know, I just threw up a little as I typed that, but remember guys, it’s for the greater good) and scroll through the hate on her Wall and hit “report” under the comment, I know that it may take a few minutes to locate him, it is marked as posted “about 6 hours ago”, again it may take a minute, but I believe if FB has these things brought to their attention enough, they may be forced to take action against her account, which would just be lovely. Please and thank you, here’s the link to Bree’s page, it’s the last comment that she has a screen shot of.
silly me, here’s the link to bree’s:
http://breepalin.blogspot.com/2009/11/sarah-palins-fb-fans-are-flummoxed.html
the comment contains the fellows name, I just didn’t feel good reposting his name and comment, but I really do urge anyone upset by this to help out and report him to FB.
Snoskred…?
I filled out an introduction about a week or so ago but I don’t see my name in the State list link that GreatGranny2C had posted in @79.
I would assume that is the most recent link and the one that gets updated.
Thanks.
From an email regarding Congressman Cao:
“Soon after the House vote on the health reform bill, conservatives, birthers, and 9/12 folks flooded Rep. Cao’s Facebook page with all sorts of vitriol. But many of you became a fan of his page and left him a thank you note, and told your friends. If you take a look at his page today, the vast majority of comments are positive—people all over the country thanking Congressman Cao for taking a courageous stand on behalf of his constituents and ultimately, the health of the country. Please be sure to fan Rep. Cao and post some public words of support.”
http://www.facebook.com/JosephCao?ref=ts
Got too hot for Ensign on C Street……..or he got too hot for the other residents.
http://politicalwire.com/archives/2009/11/08/ensign_leaves_c_street_house.html
Ensign Leaves C Street House
Congressional Quarterly decided to use one of Palin’s FB comments as their quote of the day. Feel free to go on over and tell them what you think.
http://politicalwire.com/archives/2009/11/08/quote_of_the_day.html
somehow I missed last year……The Barack Obama Anthem, sung by the band that wrote it, they offer up the lyrics and chords.
HonestyinGov –
We only update it once every couple of weeks or so – the mod/admin team are in the process of doing it this week.
You should see yourself on the list by Friday 
All you quilt participants look at the group photo, peer out the window and you will see “Just Sew”. My fave fabric shop! If I hadn’t stopped in there first, I might have had time to introduce myself before the emergency phone call. Very sorry to have missed the event.
oops, sorry, forgot the link to Obama Anthem……..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lfq4lgjIv2U
here’s another good one, ‘Go tell Your Mother, I’m for Obama’.
I may send some of these on to the White House (via Michelle, lol) to remind our Prez of the grassroots effort put forth to get him elected. I want his loyalties to be and stay with the people.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97rfoJ19LkM
Just got knocked out of the chat/treehouse. Trying again. ( if i make it , I’ll be bringing mini tacos and popcorn )
http://www.themudflats.net/forum/index.php?action=chat
wow, look at these kids! Impressive. President Obama needs to have them come sing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l07COcgwmXU
Interesting…Mike Huckabee’s got a book tour schedule, too. He and Sarah will overlap in some of the southern states.
It kind of looks like Sarah is copying him.
Alaska island village hit by suspected swine flu
Nov 7, 11:05 AM (ET)
By RACHEL D’ORO
“ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) – Suspected swine flu is sweeping a traditional Eskimo whaling village on a remote Alaska island – prompting an urgent medical mission to deliver help.”
http://apnews.excite.com/article/20091107/D9BQPLF00.html
AKM…great looking bunch of mudpuppies…Wish i could of joined the party…
You all have so much class…
Ann~ So good to hear from you((((((hugs))))))) to you and cc…♥ ya….
Funny, ya’all look like normal folks! Not like the flop bellied old men that follow Palin around like hungry dogs.
I may be a MODERATE GOP, but it looks like this is a group I could have fun with!
CG. Actually, she copied Ronald Reagan, using the title to HIS bio a decade or so ago. ‘Reagan, an American Life’.
Wow!!!! Great turnout in Palmer…Sorry I missed most of you (I only spoke to Jaime and Rubber Room, and they couldn’t evensee us at the time
) It was great having linked Mudfests and I believe this just might have to become a trend. 
Looks like you all had a great time and that card is priceless.
ThinkProgress has an article on Palin’s WI speech – no standing ovations, nothing special – per the reporter.
Palin gives a lackluster speech in Wisconsin, frequently uses ‘bogus’ or ‘awesome’ to discuss weighty topics.
http://thinkprogress.org/2009/11/08/palin-death-panels/
“While she drew applause during her remarks, Palin’s extemporaneous and frequently discursive style was such that she never truly roused a true-believing crowd as passionate about the issue at hand as she. Not once during her address did they rise to their feet.”
ahhh….. evensee= even see
I’m exhausted!
AKM–not glad you were outed against your will but so glad we all know who you are now! YOU ARE GREAT!!
hmmm… thought I had done some intro thingie or other for the forum some many months ago but don’t see myself listed under pennsyltucky… oooohhhh… that’s right, I live in my own little state of confusion.
GreatGranny… Palin just isn’t an energizing speaker with that style of hers, is she? A bit of a dullard, if ya ask me. There’s just no va-va-voom to her.
Sauerkraut @106 – You’d think sooner or later that these groups would catch on and stop feeding her ego. Every time I hear Chris Matthews run on about her 2012 bid for the Presidency, I want to barf! The MSM is just as bad as her followers – what will it take to wake her up to her shortcomings?
pennsyltucky – not a bad place to live……..when will you get your own Senator and Representative? How about a Governor? I understand there are a few unemployed ones kicking around.
I see the slipster with Quackers!!!!!!!!!
I hear ya, GG@C… pennsyltucky helped put a senator into the unemployment line after he moved his family down south but kept filing for PA tax breaks to a tidy sum. When it comes to arrogant and unrepentant tax cheats, even the many conservitard voters in this state will vote for someone else.
Now, if only we could get Bob Casey to be more than just a stiff piece of cardboard. …