Open Thread – Canadians Gone Wild
There’s all sorts of news and information coming out of Canada tonight, most of it having to do with the Olympic Winter Games. Even though I’m over here in Alaska, I still feel a certain affinity for our cousins to the east. Did you know that you can actually SEE Canada from places in Alaska? Yup, we can see healthcare from our houses. We just can’t actually GET any of it.
A lesser watched bit of ‘Canadiana’ came to us from the CBC. Now if you’re in Alaska, you’ll immeditely be thinking “Corrupt Bastards Club.” But, in Canada, the CBC is the Canadian Broadcasting Company.
It seems that a “back bencher” in the parliament was accused of “unparliamentary behavior.” Just to show them his displeasure at this heinous accusation, and to prove them wrong, he did what any self-respecting “I’ll show you how parliamentary I am” politician would do. He flipped him the bird. Excuse me; birdS. He got a three day time out.
I just love this. Not only is the guy’s name “LeBlanc,” but the anchor looks like he’s wearing the Canadian version of a Carhartt jacket. I’m guessing that if the Canadians ever made a stealth invasion down the Yukon, bringing their good beer and their health care; their bird-flippin’ legislators and their Carhartt-wearing anchormen, they might just be greeted as liberators.
Canada done themselves proud tonight, with their Opening Ceremony for the Winter Olympics.
I loved their story. KD Lang rendition of Hallelujah caused me goosebumps.
Wll done Canada.
Well, LOL typo
Tell us how you really feel Mr LeBlanc. I can’t watch the video but I adore Canadians.
Do I get a time out for flipping off the radio every time I hear something about Lisa Murkowski??? Or perhaps Chenault and his bogus re-instate the death penalty bill??? I hope not-I don’t have time for a time out…although I give myself time outs from Queen quittypants as often as I need one.
LOL the Guy is from my husbands home town…i love my country
Oh my! Canadian political theater is so much more—I don’t know, Dick Cheneyian than I ever imagined! (see Cheney’s need to scream eff you at any Dem that makes his cold alligator heart beat too fast.)
Except, it seems that liberals in Canada are a wee bit more animated than we are here in the states. LOL
the anchor is one of our trusted new men Peter Mansbridge
I’m up late live tracking my buddy Lance in the Yukon Quest (he’s in second- Hans Gatt- a Canadian is in first) the race is ON. Now the head games really start.
The Canadian version of NPR was in Eagle last summer when I was there. They even interviewed the volunteers. Don’t know if my voice made it on the radio-I was a bit overwhelmed to answer questions articulately. Not one news person from this side of the border in sight. Hmmmm.
The British Parliament has a tendency to get very vocal and a bit on the rowdy side when they have their regular Q&A with the Prime Minister. It is telecast on CNN and well worth the watch. In the early days of the Iraq War, I learned more about it from watching their sessions. They can ask the PM just about anything they want and the get answers back. They are truly “open and transparent”.
POTUS is on the right track with having the open sessions with our Congress. I hope they continue to use this method on a regular schedule. From the very first one with the Republicans, it showed just how intelligent and on top of things that Obama was, and it was obvious how petty and obstructionist the Reps. were.
It is still very cold here in KY – unusual for us – and many house fires because of people trying to stay warm with kerosene heaters and alternate methods. On a personal note, my sister is hospitalized in Santa Fe and is not doing well – prayers are most welcome.
Such a loss at the Olympics yesterday! Let us hope that all the unpadded pillars are now padded and that there are no more tragedies to mar such an important event.
Ann has mentioned at AB that there are 4 more families needing adoption if anyone can take on a family, or share with others.
Happy, peaceful, and warm weekend to all.
I love our Canadian neighbors.
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Reading about the Tea Party’s angst with Sarah, made me wonder what the Harper Collins crew really thought of her. They are probably glad they are done with the book tour.
Today is Chinese New Year’s Eve.. Traditionally, we are supposed to clean house, pay debts during the week leading up to it. Tonight, we are supposed to have a feast with family and friends, keep lights shining brightly (or lanterns). Tomorrow (New Years Day), dress yourself and the children in new clothes, preferably in red colors. It starts the year with a clean slate.
This was in the local paper here in Boulder yesterday.
By the end of the year, a free online service will give medium- to large-size businesses in the Denver metro area — including all of Boulder County — the ability to instantly calculate how much solar energy they could harvest from their rooftops.
http://www.dailycamera.com/archivesearch/ci_14385685?IADID=Search-www.dailycamera.com-www.dailycamera.com#axzz0fQ6IGkvy
Our Gov. got caught on tape saying “Adios mofo”. Kinda the same as flippin’ someone off.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4tWZNxnABk
I loved the opening ceremonies, too. The whales swimming across the floor, the “steam punk trad” fiddlers/dancers, and K.D. were all high points for me.
(((GG2C)))
Positive thoughts are being sent.
Gong Hee Fat Choy – Happy New Year!
I am having to laugh at the Republicans fearful of an open, transparent, bipartisan meeting with the President et al especially since it’s going to be hard for them to control the message. It’s what they wanted and now they don’t want it. Sounds like a bridge somebody talked about once. Pass the popcorn please.
Bravo Canada. Your Parliament is lots more fun than our Senate. M. LeBlanc reminds me of Alan Grayson. What a team they would be together! LOL
It’s just my perception, but are we hearing a lot of spines stiffening in Washington, DC? Suddenly it seems as if a lot of “our side” have grown some.
And as far as our favorite Grifter-in-Chief is concerned, I’m content to sit back, eat my popcorn and watch her implode. The tarnish is becoming quite evident.
Saw k.d. lang back in the 90s in Austin and swore I was watching the second coming of Patsy Cline. The woman can sing from the bottom of her heart.
I’m actually surprised bird flipping and F-bomb droppings don’t happen more often. Heck, I’m surprised we don’t see full out brawls breaking out a few times a year. Sure would make C-Span more interesting.
Beautiful start to the games. I had no intention of watching this year but Olympic fever has taken hold. Wish I had cable !
Polly and All – Happy New Year !
Thanks for the video, I watched it a couple of times, I was amazed when he says she at the end, he is threatening a female.
Uh-huh.
But facts have never been Palin’s strong suit. Nor do they matter, because what infuriates her is the mere idea that constitutional protections would apply to “a terrorist who hates our Constitution and tries to destroy our Constitution.”
This is not some bizarre paradox. Lots of people who despise our Constitution—Nazis, communists, Klansmen, Alaska secessionists—enjoy its protections. Does she think the Bill of Rights should apply only to people who share her views?
http://reason.com/archives/2010/02/11/palin-exposes-the-tea-partiers
Another tax dodging soul mate for Granny Grifter:
This guy just creeps me out. I keep thinking “carpetbagger” every time I see him.
http://gawker.com/5470445/harold-fords-tennessee-tax-dodge
And for anyone who lives in New York and is not familiar with Kirsten Gillibrand, PLEASE visit her website and get up to speed about her. http://gillibrand.senate.gov/ Her appointment to Hillary’s seat is the BEST thing Gov. Patterson did for us. She is very engaged and responsive about issues that affect families and businesses in the state and she support President Obama’s efforts to bring about healthcare reform and his jobs initiative. And she’s a hard-working Mom and pretty to boot. Take that Sarah Palin!
austintx…i’m confuse about just where in the world you are this morning:
at #11 you speak of “boulder” , then at #12 you speak of texas.
are you transporting this early in the day?
gg…hugs for you sissy
liladyny…i attended a fund raiser for kirsten two years ago when she first appeared on the national scene. quite the woman that one
LiladyNY, I’m in Texas, but I’ve noticed K. Gillibrand and it seems like she is doing a good job for NY and the country. She’s smart and quite pretty too.
AustinTX, you seem so good with the computer. I’m wondering if someone could draw a hand palm with an arrow pointing up on the middle finger, and arrows pointing down on the other fingers.
I always enjoy AKM’s posts and the comments and links.
Yup, we can see healthcare from our houses. We just can’t actually GET any of it.
LOL!
fawnskin -
I’m in Boulder visiting my daughter for a bit. Also hanging out with ex in-laws… the ex is a Rush and Beck lover……..sigh………
laingirl -
Bea is the resident Photoshop expert. Have not seen her in a few days. She is amazing. I find the pics. and she works the magic. Did you see the “circus” pic of Toad , sarah , and Meg ??
Here is Philip Morris flippin’ the bird.
http://www2.b3ta.com/host/creative/41817/1265895710/longhairs.jpg
Republicans want Hawaiians to know that their 40 years of government-run health care will not work. (From a comment: Wasn’t the televised health care debate a Republican’t idea to begin with?
And now that Obama has called the pussies on it it’s now a “trap”? hahaha
I’m surprised Boner didn”t start crying.)
Part One~
http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/thu-february-11-2010/the-apparent-
Part Deux ~
http://www.oliverwillis.com/2010/02/12/daily-shows-john-oliver-explains-hawaiis-health-care-mandate-to-republicans/trap
Once again, the Republicans create their own noose with their own words. This is the best they have to offer.
As a mostly silent canadian mudflatter, I was filled with pride last night. We Canadians know how to put on a show. it was a wonderful portrayal of our many traditions and history.
And yes we will admit, us Canadians do have a Joe Wilson or two in our parliament!
ah, thanks austintex for de-confusing me.
boulder, boulder, boulder.
we keep going back, looking at property and then rethinking the whole thing.
do ya know sunshine canyon? that’s where we would like to have a place.
also, and too, i got my best obama hat there during the campaign.
Here is a Canadian perspective on sarah.
Setback for women
If you wanted to undermine the role of women in public life, you couldn’t pick a better person than Palin
Read more: http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/Setback+women/2553198/story.html#ixzz0fQeKf10D
fawnskin -
When the hosts awaken , I’ll ask about sunshine canyon. Are you in Co. now ??
I love the way your write, AKM. That post was hysterical! I could have used a spew alert, however. Good morning to you all. ;-}
Oh boy…….tell us something we don’t know……
Berkeley Study Confirms Middle America is Stupid
Social scientists from Berkeley who study Middle America have long debated the relative importance of Middle America’s basic intelligence (“after all an unusual number of them go to church”) in the decision of which political party to support.
http://www.blamebush.org/articles/articles/berkeley-study-confirms-middle-america-is-stupid/
The young lady who sang the Canadian anthem in the opening ceremonies is Nikki Yanofsky. She is a 15 year old ‘out of the box’ as she is known more as a jazz singer!! No lip sync for this girl!!
Here is a link to her performing the song “I Believe” which appears to be the Olympics anthem, even though it wasn’t performed in the ceremonies. It has gone to No. 1 itunes download in Canada in 2 weeks since it’s release.
Love the pictures in the vid. The one that has truly caught my eye is the First Nations on horseback following the flame. Also at the beginning with skating across the lake. Beautiful.
The words are available on the video to the right if you click on ‘more info’.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7lKM5OHKLcM
There are other vid versions of the song being sung while people carry to the torch through small communities, etc.
I also have to say I was touched how the organizer of the olympics, in his speech, he included the young Georgian luge athlete. Nicely done!
nope, austintex, i’m still in los angeles.
but dear son is in austin!
and if i was in colorado, don’t ya think that i’d be hightailing it over there to see ya!
meede- The Olympic anthem was performed by our Canadian opera extraordinaire Measha Brueggergosman, followed by a minute of silence for the passing of the Georgian athlete .
LiladyNY: I live in NYC and I am just fine with Gillibrand.She votes progressive on every issue and she engages the voters on Dailykos where she posts.
I have no time for Ford, who is NOT a progressive and now I hear a rumor that Mort Zucherman, owns the Daily News and other stuff, thinks he wants to run. He isn’t even a DEM as far as I know.
ugh
why does everyone think they can just run because they have money?
fawnskin -
Dang……..we could have a mini mudstock right here in hippie heaven !!
hdtracy,
I apologize. As soon as I read your comment, I realized my error by referring to the song as the Olympic anthem. The title on the video invaded my thoughts!!
My thinking was there is usually a song that identifies with the games – for the athletes, for the youth, for the coming together of all and I think this song accomplished that!! Reading the words, it can be for a parent believing in their child. I’m addicted to it!
lilybart, that cracked me up.
“why does everyone think they can just run because they have money?”
austintx @28…excellent article.
Well, GA survived this round snow, now its the iced roads we have to worry about. Temp is 30F now.
About 4″ of snow here in Cobb County (NW of ATL), and my furry lady’s legs are sinking deep into the snow when we went for a walk/slide this morning just after sunrise…up past the rear legs “elbow” area. Now the wind is starting to knock off the snow of the trees. Neighbor’s 2 yo daughter made a mini-snowman/lady (not sure which), so I took a pix and e-mailed it to them. Another neighbor is from Britain, so I took a pix for her also too, so she could send it back home to the Merry Ol’ country.
Now, we face sleet/rain late Sunday, then sleet/more snow come Monday. At least, many will be off work that day – President’s Day here in USA.
* * * *
Anyhow, well, the Thuggers are at it again, and apparently, quite proud of themselves about it all.
http://www.mcclatchydc.com/227/story/84487.html
Senate Republicans: Filibuster everything to win in November?
Senate tied up in knots with filibusters…
WASHINGTON — Senate Republicans are using the filibuster to limit and often derail Democrats’ initiatives, paralyzing the Senate and making it nearly impossible to accomplish even the most routine matters.
All I can say is, 1) if Thuggers think this will “help”, they still have no comprehension of WHY folks are mad at Congress – they are a key reason why because of obstruction and 2) payback’s a b*itch – what’s good for the goose….
Well, there ya go…..the New Brunswick Legislature can compete with the best from every state, province. And, it’s funny too that this story (Leblanc) was on the front of pretty much all canadian national newspapers on the day that visitors from all over the world and Olympians had arrived. Great tourism publicity.
whoops, meant to say, great tourism publicity…..NOT!
meede- no problemo. You are right though, Nikki Yanofsky was outstanding in her performance.
Slight correction pups and AKM: Abel Leblanc is not in Parliament, but in the New Brunswick Legislative Assembly. The equivalent of a state representative — Doogan comes to mind…
And if anyone remembers the recent “pants on the ground” politician, he was another from our Assembly. YouTube has not been very good for the reputations of our pols.
I think the best part of the opening ceremonies was when the slam poet said “Canada was the experiment that worked”. Weather it be religion, cultural diversity, healthcare, election law and so much more, Canada seems to have found a good balance for each. After being here for 15 years, I now have a new phrase to describe it.
The elections in November will go a long way in determining which way the US experiment is headed. Seems like every time a good thing gets going, progress goes backwards and has to start all over again.
@the problem child- you’re right! My bad (being Canadian and all)! Thanks for beinging that to light.
Yay Canadia! Love how they enlisted the indigenous peoples to welcome everyone to their country. Respect about.
And KD Lang has one of the best voices ever. It’s a shame that she was ostracized from country music here in the US because of her orientation and presentation. If she had worn dresses and long hair and make-up, she’d have been bigger than anyone. I got the privilege of seeing her in a very small venue here in CT in the 90′s… she was amazing.
Thanks for sharing all the good stuff, Canadians. We apologize ahead of time if Mrs. Palin comes there. We don’t mean it. However, you can keep her if you want! I’d even go so far as to trade her for Celine Dion, but she makes me nuts, too.
Have a good weekend everyone.
“respect about”?? I had to read that twice myself to figure out what my intention was…. It was “Respect ABOUND”. LOL
Don’t know if anyone’s posted this yet, but have a look at Sarah as a Google Super Bowl ad. Funny!
http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/The-Vote/2010/0213/The-Sarah-Palin-story-as-told-through-Google-search
I really like the Opening Ceremony because it showcased the host country. Canada is a wonderful country and has so many wonderful places to visit. The people really are very friendly and the poet’s comment about Please and Thank You are so true. In the cities it is truly multi-cultural because many folks have migrated from the far reaches of the British Empire. The ethnic food choices are truly outstanding. Glad to see them put on a good show for the world.
R’ipley in CT,
I don’t think it would be seen as a fair trade – Dion for Palin!!!
I agree about KD Lang — she gets better with age. Last night’s performance was goose bumps upon goose bumps!
As you mention seeing KD in the 90′s, I saw Dion in ’92 before she was widely recognized – I think the Beauty/Beast song had released not long before. She toured with Michael Bolton.
I posted this late last night so apologies if you saw it. I think it is worth repeating.
Health care/job march in many cities this Wednesday.
Look for a location here: http://healthcareforamericanow.org/site/frrv2_events/
I’m going with my “Restore Majority Rule, Kill the Filibuster” sign.
sarah is going to Minnesota to campaign for bats^*t Bachmann. Oh , to see those two retards on the same stage will be comedy gold !!
Here is the woman who needs some help defeating Bachmann.
http://moneybomb.tarrylclark.com/home/
Congrats to all you Canadian mudpups on a sensational Opening Ceremonies last night! I didn’t see the opening of the summer games in Beijing 2 years ago (ironically I was on a ship in Alaska at the time!) but heard about the overwhelming spectacle. I’m so glad the producers of last night’s ceremony went in a different direction and didn’t try to go bigger. It was beautifully done with a creative use of effects (LOVED the whales) and showcased the beauty of the Canadian country, cultures and people in a very accessible, welcoming way. Nicely done!
* * * *
On another topic, I’ve found it very curious that the very same people who have been screaming the loudest about ‘transparency’ and media access to the political process have suddenly changed their tune when the media coverage didn’t show them in a terrible flattering light. Ms. Quits-a-lot, who will do just about anything for a few minutes in the spotlight, has done an about face on media access to her next two speeches. Could it possibly have anything to do with the shredding she’s experienced from her last two appearances?? Hmmmm….
And now the Republicans, who have been whining about closed door negotiations on health care reform, have decided that putting their obstructionist machinations on camera might NOT be such a good idea after all. The two words that spring to mind are ‘hypocrites’ and ‘cowards’.
LiladyNY @19 -
I second your assessment of Kirsten Gillibrand. She seems to be doing a great job and working very hard to find out what issues are important to her consituents. What a concept…a politician who actually cares about what’s important to the people they represent!
And a funny thing about her…I know absolutely nothing about her kids!
I enjoyed watching the opening ceremonies last night. I particularly liked the first nation part of it. But it was all so well done. Canada is beautiful and has a rich and diverse culture and it was show-cased last night.
My only complaint was that the sound kept cutting out – not sure if that was NBC’s delayed broadcast problem or with Comcast, but it was quite irritating. Being on the west coast, we had to wait till 7:30 to see it. Oh, how I wish they weren’t blocking the CBUT coverage from Canada. I’d like to see things in real time so I don’t have to stay up till past mid-night like I did last night.
* * *
As for Ms. Palin – I really wish the woman would go home and stay there. I wonder if Piper will go along on her next speaking engagement. I swear, that child is never in school. When does she have time to be a kid and play with her friends or get involved in something that doesn’t require her to be a shadow of her mother? I’m surprised that CPS hasn’t stepped in without being called – they must not be watching. Or maybe the school district doesn’t actually know that Piper exists.
Easy way to send email to Congress and the President on health care.
http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/o/5831/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=489#sign
Please pass this around to your favorite sites.
It’s a good letter that asks them to get it done.
I was very proud of my Canadian family last night
I particularly enjoyed the First Nation people being the ones to open the games and welcome the world to Canada. Nice touch!
I, too, was very upset with the NBC/Comcast coverage here in WA where I was spoiled with the Canadian coverage on past Olympics. First rate job that highlighted all Olympians, not just the American athletes. AND we got to watch it in real time, no stupid 3-hour delay. What a farce! It is playing out 100 miles from me and I must watch it on East Coast time. This doesn’t happen with football….hmmmm.
KD Lang – how can it get better than that! Her song was totally soul-cleansing and heart-wrenching. I LOVE her! I remember the first time I saw her – I was channel surfing and up she came on some obscure country/western program – in a flouncy gingham dress, cowboy boots, girly hair – just everything she is not. But the voice – ah, the voice – truly an instrument from heaven. I think I need to play me some KD today.
My proud Canadian shone through last night.
And my proud American is getting prouder with some of the activities in WA – particularly with President Obama opening the door to government and forcing the Republics to walk through and join him in a health care discussion. He he he. And then Reid seemed to grow some for the jobs bill. Maybe there is hope after all. I am sticking by my President for sure.
Have a safe a fun weekend everyone!
Are you sure that guy isn’t from Jersey?
When Olympic hosts roll out their best, it is uplifting to see. I’ve long enjoyed k.d. lange, and we’ll get to hear a lot more from Nikki Yanofsky as well. Though she seems to be somewhat overlooked here in the U.S., the Lillehammer games also gave the world a singer – Sissel Kyrkjebø, better known (thankfully) as just Sissel. When she sang at the opening ceremonies I was awestruck. And I still am.
Sissel – Pie Jesu
(Youtube) http://tinyurl.com/5jv9fb
8 GreatGranny2C Prayers and good thought go out to your whole family
Good morning! I am in Anchorage today, and just in awe of the scenery from my hotel room window. The mountains are so beautiful. I am never going home, and plan to apply first thing Monday morning for the job of Mountain Watching Idiot. Wonder if it is already filled.
I am staying in the Hotel Captain Cook, where the Lincoln Day dinner took place last night. Lots of VERY bad formalwear and plastered on makeup. Sad. I was finished checking in and walking past the reception area for the dinner dragging along my clippity clopping wheeled bag and received a look from a greeter for the dinner. Guess my bag was too loud over the tile. Silly thing. Really shouldn’t look at me like that whilst wearing a tropical print gown, plunge cut, and garnished with sequins in all the wrong places. Well, that was tacky of me, and I will blame it on jetlag.
Off to a Museum and gallery and lunch with friends who live here. What a lovely city, and I can’t wait to see more of it!
leenie 17 @56
Gillibrand is everything Sarah Palin can only dream about being even with all her $$$ and celebrity. Not even close.
GreatGranny2C
Warm thoughts for you, and hugs to you and your sister in Santa Fe.
It is so bizarre – the previous two winters brought so much snow that we ran out of places to shovel it to. We could barely see the tops and entrances of our neighbors houses, blanketed and tucked in by the mounds of snow so deep. If you really like your neighbors, you get really creative with places to stack or push it, and if they do the same thing – you get snow art in-between the houses.
I’m not sure about the last winter, but the one before that, Juneau’s ski area had more snow than any ski area in the WORLD. That was a distinction we were quite proud of, fleetingly! This year, El Nino – nada, zip, nothing, even though it’s coming down in rain form, it’s still far below normal precipitation. I’m parking in my driveway, whereas last year there was a narrow tunnel there just for walking to the house – forget space for the cars!
In one sense, I’m happy to not be shoveling snow, but in another – I almost feel guilty and like I don’t live in Alaska. Like I’m somehow getting off cheap and get to glide through winter with nary a shovel in hand! Especially since other areas are getting hit so hard. Our temps are like spring right now. Sorry for that. It doesn’t much feel like Alaska around here – sure hope there is enough snow for the Iditarod to be a safe race!
…you guys are gonna hate me…all this talk of snow and ice.. I just got back from Home Depot with grass fertilizer and bender board for new flower beds…. gotta pull early weeds and mow the grass today…..
( dodges snowballs with rocks…)
Canada! What a GREAT country! Who else would open the Olympics with First Nation dancers (talk about an astonishingly athletic performance), a SLAM POET, steam-punk Celtoids, and a flying boy? If your eyes didn’t fill with tears during that section, the boy flying over the prairie to Joni Mitchells “Clouds”, you might want to check and see if youu have a pulse. I loved the “famous Canadians” who carried in the Olympic flag (only Canada would include a heroic UN peacekeeper, an astronaut, and a mom). And kd lang singing that glorious song by my old boyfriend Leonard Cohen – magnificent.
Unfortunately, the ceremonies conflicted with the White House concert of civil rights-era songs, so I flipped channels a bit, and was most disappointed. When did Natalie Cole and John Mellecamp come to be associated with that era? And am I wrong to think perhaps it is time for Bob Dylan and Joan Baez to retire?
GG2C: Love, health, and peace to you and yours. We’ll keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Kirsten Gillibrand is my junior senator. When she was chosen, I checked with friends who live in what was her district upstate; they were pleased. Now I am, too. I thought Harold Ford was persecuted in his Senate run in Tennessee, now I’m not so sure he didn’t deserve it. Carpetbagging, tax-dodging, Kirsten-bashing liar! Merrill Lynch pays well. Pay your taxes, Harold, & take your “pro-life” bona fides somewhere else. NY has NO need of you.
Health and peace, everyone. I’m in a bit of shock, I’ll tell you why in chat.
zyx: Chat now?
I am so outraged that the people of TN pay sales tax on food such as a can a of green beans while Helicopter Harry lives in NY and uses TN as his residence that I just went to Gillibrand’s website and made a campaign contribution.
The Sarah Palin Story as Told Through Google
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7lWY_KFYcZg
70 seconds of good chuckle
hahah…that cracks me up..send him to Texas, we could use that attitude.
Irish TD uses most unparliamentary language –
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugailEn8U5o
see, even intelligent people go on shooting sprees………it just takes the right circumstances and wrong outlook. 3 professors killed and 3 more wounded by one of their own, sigh.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/35372168/ns/us_news-crime_and_courts/
“Bishop, a Harvard-educated neurobiologist who became an assistant professor at the school in 2003, was known as a bright woman who some students said had difficulty explaining complicated topics.
She was taken Friday night in handcuffs to the county jail, and said as she got into a police car: “It didn’t happen. There’s no way. … They are still alive.”
[....]
Gregg McCrary, a retired FBI agent and private criminal profiler based in Fredericksburg, Va., said there is no typical outline of a mass shooter but noted they often share a sense of paranoia, depression or a feeling that they are not appreciated.
@Gyalist
Irish TD uses most unparliamentary language –
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugailEn8U5o
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Now that was fecking disgraceful.
Mr. LeBlanc is just another male who has trouble expressing his innermost feelings. Let’s all be supportive!
This is rediculous, I didn’t realize so many appointments were being blocked and held up by the repubs and apparently 2 blue dog dems! But the Prez drew the line, he made them play nice. Good for him. It’s too bad it had to come to this.
I wonder what’s up with these two dems.
Democratic Sens. Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) and Ben Nelson (D-Neb.) joined Republican Senators in voting to block the confirmation of Obama labor nominee Craig Becker Tuesday.
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/02/11/senate-confirms-27-obama-nominees/?src=twt&twt=nytimes
“From the White House:
Today, the United States Senate confirmed 27 of my high-level nominees, many of whom had been awaiting a vote for months.
At the beginning of the week, a staggering 63 nominees had been stalled in the Senate because one or more senators placed a hold on their nomination. In most cases, these holds have had nothing to do with the nominee’s qualifications or even political views, and these nominees have already received broad, bipartisan support in the committee process.
Instead, many holds were motivated by a desire to leverage projects for a Senator’s state or simply to frustrate progress. It is precisely these kinds of tactics that enrage the American people.
[...]
While this is a good first step, there are still dozens of nominees on hold who deserve a similar vote, and I will be looking for action from the Senate when it returns from recess. If they do not act, I reserve the right to use my recess appointment authority in the future.”
LOL……”trap” is the Republican word of the week.
http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/thu-february-11-2010/the-apparent-trap
AustinTX, I haven’t seen the “circus” picture of the dirty trio, but would love to if you have a link. You’re so good at “linking” and I really appreciate it. I have to say I’m not too good as this computer thingy.
Canada is doing a wonderful job with the Olympics. What a great neighbor country we have.
oh, this is going to be good, lol……..the Repubs are gonna have to put up or shut up. Online and on national tv, tahee. And act like intelligent adults who put country before party. Way to go Prez and White House! I love this guy.
Just part of the invite letter…..
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/02/12/a-bipartisan-meeting-health-reform-invites-are-out
“The President will offer opening remarks at the beginning of the meeting, followed by remarks from a Republican leader chosen by the Republican leadership and a Democratic leader chosen by the Democratic leadership. The President will then open and moderate discussion on four critical topics: insurance reforms, cost containment, expanding coverage, and the impact health reform legislation will have on deficit reduction.
Since this meeting will be most productive if information is widely available before the meeting, we will post online the text of a proposed health insurance reform package. This legislation would put a stop to insurance company abuses, extend coverage to millions of Americans, get control of skyrocketing premiums and out-of-pocket costs, and reduce the deficit.
It is the President’s hope that the Republican congressional leadership will also put forward their own comprehensive bill to achieve those goals and make it available online as well.
As the President said earlier this week:
I’m looking forward to a constructive debate with plans that need to be measured against this test: Does it bring down costs for all Americans as well as for the Federal Government, which spends a huge amount on health care? Does it provide adequate protection against abuses by the insurance industry? Does it make coverage affordable and available to the tens of millions of working Americans who don’t have it right now? And does it help us get on a path of fiscal sustainability?”
@Irishgirl
It certainly was. When my American relatives visit me in Ireland they are always horrified at how commonplace swearing is.
laingirl -
It was on a thread right here on the flats. Lemme see if I can find it. We live blogged sarah at the teabagger convention and she popped off about circus riders and riding two horses. I scurried and found a picture and Bea did her magic. If anyone remembers and/or saved it , could ya throw it up ??
I think thats why the repugs don’t want it to be telivised especially by fox because their Ideas don’t embrace all points .If it works in Hawaii and we in Wi have a very good system also why can’t it work for every one
GG2C~ hoping for the best for your family..prayers and good wishes on their way…
Austintx~ wow was i blown away by kd lang…she is so very talented..haven’t seen her for several yrs…
hdtracy~ Yes the opening ceremonies were beautiful…have a sis in calgary…
she loves it there…Have a great wknd AKM and fellow mudpuppies…
True liberty of the true north? A beautiful Canadian sentiment not shared evidently by Parnell, his band of gulag builders and the disappointing nervous legislators of Alaska. Think about it “True Libert of the True North”. Is it a concept you can get behind…anymore? America needs to straighten up. I’ve had enough of the nasty repubs.
I just seen an interview on Aussie TV with David Atkins the man behind the Opening ceremony In Canada. [He did our Sydney Olimpics.]
Thought I’de share a few things he said about it .
The opening where the skater jumped through the hoops.They had three boys practicing for it, at one of the rehearsal one of the lads crashed and broke some ribs so they held their breaths for that one.
The breaking up of the ice was a hint at Global warming.
Kd Lang was the a joy to work with the ultimate professional.
Now the torch and why the fourth one did appear. The trap door on the rink wouldn’t open, but they realised that it would work with the three.
We had a hitch in Sydney lighting the torch also.
He said if he has to do it again he might just use a piece of paper and a lighter. LOL.
These comments are a treasure trove of information about many things Alaskan, personal snippets of the Palin family, governors past and present and debunking the many myths of Granny Grifter. Fascinating.
From Palingates: Someone on an earlier thread recommended following the comments of a poster on Huffington Post. I just went through those comments, and HIGHLY RECOMMEND (poster name is “inmyopinion”):
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/social/inmyopinion?action=comments
Say No to Palin in Politics @80 -
“It is the President’s hope that the Republican congressional leadership will also put forward their own comprehensive bill to achieve those goals and make it available online as well. ”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Guess we all know what THEY’RE gonna be doing this weekend!!!!!
(Way to go, President Obama…ever so politely nail their little hineys to the wall and shine a spotlight on them!)
Gyalist,
Where are you in Ireland?
Translated to mean, where do you live.
More recognition of First Nations in the Canadian Olympics. I received a message from a friend saying they are being broadcast in 8 aboriginal languages.
http://blogs.usask.ca/iportal/2010/02/2010_vancouver_olympics_to_be.html
Although I like things politically correct. There are moments that I would love the President to fly his thoughts over to the Republicans sometimes.
That was the longest must dragged version oh Oh Canada ever rendered. Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Cannnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn-aaaaaaa-daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa …
Tnx, LilyLady #87 – that is a juicy link.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/social/inmyopinion?action=comments
Much thanks for this write-up.
Thanks to all who enjoyed and commented on our 2010 Canadian Olypic opening ceremony.
We are a friendly and proud people just like the good and beautiful people of Alaska…and the other 49 USA States.
Many, many thanks to all of the wonderful people on this site – your best wishes and prayers are VERY MUCH appreciated! Just knowing there are so many kind folks helps to get through the tough times!
I was moved to tears at the beautiful display of the polar bear in lights, and the bear, and the wolf realizing that here in Alaska say ruh and her ilk would have had a helicopter shooting at these creatures in order to express their own values regarding their priority to remove these life forms at whim. Alaska needs to return to civility voluntarily.
The high value placed upon the wild creatures that live in Canada allowing them a place of honor in lights speaks volumes re the relative civility of Canada relative to Alaska when our government allows shooting from helicopters. I despise this current lack of appreciation of Alaska’s wild creatures. How naughty of me to say so. Shouldn’t I be sucking up to the current repub regime? What’s wrong with me; why can’t I accept stupidity in silence. Right ?
Buffalo gal-that was funny.
#
96
GreatGranny2C Says:
February 13th, 2010 at 5:21 PM
Many, many thanks to all of the wonderful people on this site – your best wishes and prayers are VERY MUCH appreciated! Just knowing there are so many kind folks helps to get through the tough times!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
we love you great granny. i am saying a prayer for your sis and hoping you are taking care of yourself.
78 Say No to Palin in Politics Says: February 13th, 2010 at 2:19 PM
LOL……”trap” is the Republican word of the week.
———-
Yeah, as in republicans need to shut their traps and get to work!
I might learn to like Titanic is someone other than Celine Dion “sang” the title tune… ga! Cannot stand that voice. Where’s the Miami Sound Machine when a nice female voice is needed? Or gimme Liz Phair. …
Gillibrand can count on my vote. i like that lady. as we say in new york ” she is a class act”. there is no higher compliment that can be given to anyone where i come from.
LiladyNY, does anyone know who “inmyopinion” is? i just read the first page of the comments and found myself wishing that person’s comments could be posted on the front page of every newspaper in the country. i learned things i didn’t already know and the person writes with authority. more convinced than ever that palin is pond scum in so many ways.
sauerkraut -
Back in the 80s , I saw the Miami Sound Machine in Miami when a little gal named Gloria Estefan fronted ‘em. I tremble just thinkin’ about the partyin’ we did back in those days.
Don’t know if this has been posted, but it’s a great video. Bravo for the next generation. Palin, move over for the palindrome.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42E2fAWM6rA
I just read “inmyopinion” and was blown away by his/her comments! There was quite a bit of anger behind them, at least it came across that way to me. But I believe everything that was said, and that is more than I can say about other comments for/against Palin that I’ve read.
I truly feel even more sorry for the kids after reading the comments. They need a lot of love, and a lot of mental health therapy after growing up with Sarah and Todd. My heart goes out to them.
106 1smartcanerican: Where is the post from “inmyopinion”? I can’t find it and am now curious to read it. Thanks.
Thanks Bub………not to worry about me…….my daughters do enough of that! Yup – they take excellent care of this old gal, so I shouldn’t be going anywhere any time soon if they have their way! But thank you once again.
Another topic – I’ve been reading the HuffPo comments from inmyopinion – he/she has some very valid points and certainly seems to know Palin, and the entire Alaskan political scene, quite well. I looked at her fan list and a number are familiar names from both the ‘flats and a couple of the other AK blogs. Sounds like someone who could write a very good book – maybe Shannyn needs to get this person on her show, or AKM could do an interview. Probably for his/her own peace of mind, anonymity would be the key.
Oh those East coasters! Ready to ‘step outside’, LOL.
I don’t care much for opening ceremonies, gotta say, didn’t watch it. Hockum. Beating the drums of nationalism. UGH. And don’t get me started about the torch run either! Journalists covering the Olympics from the broadcaster who ‘won’ the bid, torch running???? WTF?
More WTF is the Boston . com torch relay photos. Sure, beautiful pictures, but too many lead me to ask myself WTF? I could give a Dave Barry commentary on many of those. Photo #2. Too bad the former Olympian didn’t set the Prime Ministers hair on fire, the proroguing b^st^rd!
I do approve of KD Lang. Whadda voice. Have you heard her duet w/Roy Orbison? Wow.
#74 Say No To Palin In Politics
Your educated US murderers? No, I give you Canada’s.
What about our Top Canadian Military Official Charged With Murder — Commander Of Canada’s Biggest Air Force Base Charged With Murder Of 2 Women. No doubt more to follow. One doesn’t just start suddenly murdering women. Stranger yet, he went to the same University in the same year as another convicted serial murderer, Paul Bernardo. Robert Baltovich did 8 years in prison, wrongly accused of murdering his gf. Case still unsolved, till Col. Williams’ case….
Speaking of Chinese New Year, a friend [Vietnamese] is going to a gathering. Everyone is preparing all kinds of dishes. She felt hers wouldn’t measure up [she's so wrong], so she baked an apple pie! LOL.
Happy New Year then!
BakersDozen – Here’s the link for the comments that are well worth reading!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/social/inmyopinion?action=comments
I’m not sure if I’m reading this correctly or not! It appears that the Workforce Development Commission that Todd supposedly was appointed to by Sarah, DOES NOT EXIST! Is that how anyone else understands it? What sort of legal difficulties might come out of this if there really was not such a commission or position, yet he collected travel pay and had involvement in even more things that he shouldn’t have? The paragraph below is from this website: http://www.alaskadispatch.com/dispatches/politics/4050-the-shadow-governor?start=2
The only position to which Todd Palin was named was the state’s Workforce Development Commission. Van Flein said, in his statement, that Todd was appointed to head that hard-to-find state entity. A search of the state government Web site found no such commission. An attempt to contact the commission through the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development ended with a secretary in the commissioner’s office who’d never heard of the commission. State travel records do show Todd at times accompanying state Labor Department officials to developing mines as “the first gentleman” and a guest; nowhere is there a mention of his position with the workforce commission. Likewise, Todd’s e-mails don’t appear to reflect any involvement with the workforce commission, but they do show him being consulted on a whole bunch of other boards and commissions, from the Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority and the Permanent Fund Board.
Baker’s Dozen # 50—–I just checked out “The Sarah Palin story as told through Google Search”—– Funny!!
But I also saw on the same page under “recent Posts”
Joe the plummer is back—–very interesting
he says he can’t stand McCain or Palin.
Looks like the tide is turning??????
110 GreatGranny2C Says:
February 13th, 2010 at 8:17 PM
BakersDozen – Here’s the link for the comments that are well worth reading!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/social/inmyopinion?action=comments
___________________
Thanks!
Lies are always eventually exposed as lies. They can’t ever become the truth. LIes have only the power that we give them, by fearing them or believing them. But lies are only believed because lies “say” they are true.
No matter what, there will always be people who believe the lie. But the more the lie is exposed, the less power it has. However, as it gets closer to destruction, it also gets more vocal, strident, and attacks the truth more furiously.
However, the truth, and those on the side of truth, often make a big mistake. Since the truth is logical and also leads to better policy or solutions, those that believe the truth simply think others will believe it because they present the facts. They don’t think they need to be out there, working for it. We’ve seen that isn’t as effective, because it generally leaves the field open to the lies. It also doesn’t work because those who believe the lies are being handled by fear. LIes get a huge following by playing the fear card and saying the only way to be safe is to retrench to old ways of doing things.
It is incumbent on all of us that know the truth to speak it more loudly and firmly, even though we will often be ridiculed. I’m often guilty of thinking people will just go with the truth because it’s true. I’m hoping that those in Washington and in state capitals that know what’s real will be more energetic in promoting it, in using their microphone to promote it. Often, that’s what’s considered getting a spine. We just want to be too darned reasonable, but lies don’t compromise with the truth.
Well, this turned out long. I guess is was prompted by reading “inmyopinion”s reasoned and even tempered comments. They were well done, more persuasive than snark (which I must stop using myself) and will help convince those that are open to hearing the truth about the lies. Way to go “inmyopinion!”
Quetzalcoatl Says:
February 13th, 2010 at 8:08 PM
Oh those East coasters! Ready to ’step outside’, LOL.
I don’t care much for opening ceremonies, gotta say, didn’t watch it. Hockum. Beating the drums of nationalism. UGH. And don’t get me started about the torch run either! Journalists covering the Olympics from the broadcaster who ‘won’ the bid, torch running???? WTF?
**********************
thank you, i was feeling like the only one. i used to love the olympics then madison ave took over and split them into every two instead of four years. it’s all for the buck. i still get drawn in by the masterful way they market it, but basically just tune out.
when the olympics came to LA in 1984 i was so excited. i went to watch them running with the torch and i would cry, and i swear “Imagine” would be playing in my mind. imagine there’s no country. nothing to kill or die for, a brotherhood of man. that’s what the olympics used to mean to me. now it’s all about the buck.
@Irishgirl
I’m in Dublin.
Me too! North or South side?
Thanks posters! I just read all the comments of inmyopinion. Whew! That person sounds very educated on Alaska’s history and the Tundra Teatard. Fancinating reading and it confirmed many of my opinions. Too bad the comments stopped in January 2009. I wonder what happened to him/her. Maybe he or she is now in public office or is running for some office. In reading the comments, I felt like it was a man for some reason, but can’t say why.
Southside.
Me too! Stillorgan.
You are probably my next door neighbour!
#115 barbara,
Yes, it’s been coopted by ‘donors’ and ‘supporters’ of the corporate kind.
I do enjoy watching the individual competitions, but it sure has changed for the worse.
Poet Laureate of Vancouver, Brad Cran wrote some wonderful things regarding these Olympics.
“2010 Handbook for Entering Canada”
&
“Notes on a World Class City: Why I have declined to participate in the Olympic Celebrations”
http://bradcran.com/vancouver_verse/
&
“In Praise of Female Athletes Who Were Told No: For the 14 female ski jumpers petitioning to be included in the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.”
http://bradcran.com/vancouver_verse/in-praise-of-female-athletes-who-were-told-no/
@Irishgirl
Not quite! I’m in Rathgar.