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Saturday Morning Open Thread

Staying up all night is for the young. I finished my project at 6 am and am just now getting to sleep (5am.) I'lll be back this afternoon. In the meantime, since our last thread is full, here's a new open thread, all topics welcome. I hope I don't get a really big number to pay when my acct. hands me the return. I might just go hide under the bed if that happens.

Hope your weekend is more relaxing than mine.

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    Good night Jeralyn! (5.00 / 2) (#1)
    by ruffian on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 06:02:21 AM EST
    Half my weekend will be spent in colonoscopy prep, if it makes you feel any better.

    Speaking of gross, my FL Governor choices are between a medicare-robbing current Republican and a DINO ex-Repubiican...even so I hope this is true.  Give me the DINO!

    Rick Scott put up a negative ad with the tag line (none / 0) (#2)
    by ruffian on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 06:37:42 AM EST
    'Charlie Crist loves Obama'...I certainly hope it backfires on him in a state where African-American turnout is always crucial.

    Parent
    Yeah, they both seem to be (5.00 / 1) (#3)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:07:07 AM EST
    putting up too many negative ads.  I'm with you on hoping for Charlie, but it's mostly because he probably would not have turned down all the Federal funds that were available to the state of Florida, like Rick the d!ck did.  As I'm  sure you probably know, the prep for the colonoscopy is much worse than the actual event.  Hopefully you will be polyp free. I'v heard mixing a bit of vodka with those gallons of weird stuff helps.  Buena suerte compañero.

    Parent
    Is there any current polling on that race ... (none / 0) (#44)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:50:38 PM EST
    ... from reputable pollsters?

    Parent
    So far they are basically (none / 0) (#50)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:18:27 PM EST
    neck and neck.  The Miami Herald blasts both candidates daily regarding their election funds.  Gov, Scott is refusing to declare all his income but claims Charlie Christ, our past Governor, who was a Republican, but is now a Democrat is fighting stories of illegal money, so, I guess the answer is no.

    Parent
    I dunno (none / 0) (#85)
    by Amiss on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 07:40:16 PM EST
    But I got 4polling accounts on Friday.

    Parent
    Donald, there is an article (none / 0) (#182)
    by fishcamp on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 05:38:00 AM EST
    on the front page of the Miami Herald today, Monday, about Charlie Christ and Rick Scott, which I would post, but I have to drive up to dreaded Miami to get to the Acura dealership for an airbag recall.  If I don't leave now I won't be back until late, and I'm not good with late anymore.

    Parent
    Thanks for the tip. (none / 0) (#198)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 10:16:13 PM EST
    I'll look it up online.

    The latest poll for our own gubernatorial race has Democratic State Sen. David Ige up by 12 points over former GOP Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona, 45-33%. As I suspected he would, he's finally pulling away, especially in the wake of his surprisingly impressive debate performances in recent weeks. Prior to those debates, the last poll had him up by only five.

    The independent gubernatorial candidacy of former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann has proved a complete fizzle if not a non-starter; he's polling in single digits. Hopefully, he'll finally take a hint that voters really don't like him, and he'll retire from electoral politics.

    Aloha.

    Parent

    My FL brother is working very hard for (5.00 / 3) (#5)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:18:26 AM EST
    Crist, including organizing an event at an AA church, where Crist was well-received.

    Parent
    I like Crist's negative tagline re: Scott (5.00 / 4) (#9)
    by Molly Bloom on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 09:12:04 AM EST
    Rick Scott too shady for the sunshine state.  Pithy and humouros, easily remembered.

    Parent
    and (5.00 / 2) (#84)
    by Amiss on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 07:36:52 PM EST
    So true, too. He just makes me feel creepy and gives me the shivers whether on TeeVee or in person.
    To me, the worst kind of a thief is the kind that hurts those that are unable help themselves, whether it be too young or too old. Those that need Medicare the worst.

    Parent
    That sums (none / 0) (#12)
    by Ga6thDem on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 10:42:32 AM EST
    up the entire GOP campaign. Obama s*cks.

    Works with far right pretty well I would imagine but will it work with anybody else is the $64,000.00 question.

    Parent

    It didn't work for Al Gore to (5.00 / 1) (#21)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:13:07 AM EST
    distance himself from Bill Clinton.

    Parent
    Obama seems to be pretty popular on the ... (none / 0) (#46)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:59:02 PM EST
    ... west coast. Out here, his popularity is a foregone conclusion, given his native son status and the fact that the University of Hawaii is one of the finalists for his presidential library.

    Parent
    That prep liquid is. For me, only barely (none / 0) (#4)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:16:43 AM EST
    tolerable if it is very chilled. But the nurse told me another victim heats the stuff like tea.

    Parent
    This past year I have had so many colonoscopies. (5.00 / 1) (#87)
    by Amiss on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:03:45 PM EST
    They are really awful. I thought that an angiography or angiography or angioplasty would be much worse, but I think the prep for a colonoscopy gets my vote. Not only that my colon was ruptured, the pain was unreal and I was being accused of being all kinds of a drug addict because I was complaining of hurting so much. I ended discharging myself AMA because I was not getting any better. My husband came and got me,discharged me took me to another hospital. The surgeon said I was very close to death and only my husband coming for me saved me.

    Parent
    What a traumatic ordeal for you. (none / 0) (#91)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:22:54 PM EST
    Has your health improved?

    Parent
    Yes, (5.00 / 2) (#135)
    by Amiss on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 01:06:58 PM EST
    It has been a little over a year. I am not 100 per cent. I am diabetic, so being off my feet for so long contributed to what is diabetic neuropathy. I appreciate your kind thoughts. I guess I just think everyone needs second opinions medically,now.

    Parent
    Terrible story (none / 0) (#92)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:24:13 PM EST
    i barely survive one every three years.

    Parent
    My sympathies (none / 0) (#10)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 09:24:16 AM EST
    Recommend you start... (none / 0) (#37)
    by unitron on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:03:32 PM EST
    ...prep a day earlier than they say to.

    Been there, wish I'd done that.

    Next time, gonna know to do it.

    Parent

    You fast (none / 0) (#65)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:15:12 PM EST
    for an extra day?  Really?
    I barely make it the required time.

    Parent
    Before this thread becomes (5.00 / 6) (#13)
    by CoralGables on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 10:43:25 AM EST
    a tangled mess of bitching, could someone start talking about pies or tzatziki sauce or dolphin/mahi-mahi/dorado sandwiches again. Thank you.


    Hear, hear. Anything, really. Just make it (5.00 / 4) (#16)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 10:57:09 AM EST
    interesting.

    Parent
    NYT sends 2nd graders to Daniel (5.00 / 1) (#22)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:16:56 AM EST
    to have the $220 tasting menu:

    link, including video

    Parent

    That's awsum (none / 0) (#23)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:18:37 AM EST
    Cute!! (none / 0) (#25)
    by Angel on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:46:03 AM EST
    I'm making potato leek soup today. (5.00 / 3) (#24)
    by Angel on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:37:27 AM EST
    Awoke to rain and cooler temps, and since Mr. Angel is working on our income taxes I thought a little comfort food would be a nice gift.

    Parent
    If anyone ever doubted that food could (5.00 / 5) (#33)
    by Anne on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 01:12:13 PM EST
    bring people together, help politically polar opposites find common ground, look no further than some of these TL threads...

    Tomorrow we are having a family gathering to celebrate my daughter's and husband's birthdays, so food is very much on the agenda.

    Here's my menu:

    Warm Bacon and Cheese dip
    Crab Rangoon dip
    Brie and crackers

    Grilled beef tenderloin
    Bacon-wrapped green bean bundles
    Carrots with onion and dill
    Crispy Potato Cups

    Pumpkin Spice Bundt cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting/glaze.

    Oops, I forgot to get the ice cream!

    Parent

    Yum! (5.00 / 1) (#41)
    by Zorba on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:35:56 PM EST
    Sounds great, Anne!
    If we weren't expecting company tomorrow, I would be tempted to "drop in."
    ;-)

    Parent
    I'm experimenting with making steak (5.00 / 1) (#72)
    by ZtoA on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 05:00:11 PM EST
    I bought a bit of ribeye and tri-tip. I tried Squeaky's malliard process link last nite and yum. But I like an even more tender steak. So today I'm going to experiment with first a salt only dry brine, then sous vide them to "rare" doneness, then I will dry them and malliard them as quickly as possible. Cooking steak in butter is very yum (and I don't have an outside grill anymore). Tomorrow night I'll have just a couple of family over and will test out the method I like best on them. Will make the pan fried potatoes with onions too.

    And I'm still working on my idea for a broccoli salad. For starters I'll have some finger foods, and they have agreed to having a soft boiled egg tasting, a good "cage free" egg and an excellent and expensive "pasture raised, foraging, 100% organic, certified humane, local" egg. My sister has a friend who has some nice chickens (in the city, oddly) and gives my sister fresh eggs sometimes, which she swears are the best eggs she has ever tasted. So we'll see if we can get something like that (for special treats) from the local healthy and expensive grocery store: New Seasons. I also love duck eggs.

    It is a celebration dinner on Sunday so I love cooking ahead and planning and thinking of the things we are going to celebrate. My sister knows, likes, and can afford good wines so she'll bring something great!

    Parent

    Tri-Tips are for grillin' (none / 0) (#74)
    by nycstray on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 05:51:12 PM EST
    or at least seared on a screamin' hot cast iron and then in the oven for 20-30min, mimicking the proper grilling protocol :)

    Parent
    Don't have a grill but I do have a cast iron pan (5.00 / 1) (#76)
    by ZtoA on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 06:02:58 PM EST
    This is only the second time I have gotten that cut. I'm sort of new to cooking beef or any red meat actually. So is you have a method and recipe you are willing to share I'm all ears. (eyes, actually since this is a blog)

    Parent
    With cast iron (none / 0) (#80)
    by nycstray on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 06:35:39 PM EST
    I heat the pan screaming hot and keep it there and give both sides a very serious sear. (You are talking the full cut of meat called a tri-tip (2lb-ish), right?) and then I pop it in a 300 oven for about 20-30 minutes. You basically want this cut medium rare when rested. I can tell when to take mine out by sight because I've cooked so many. Be sure and slice against the grain. I usually just rub before cooking with salt/pepper/garlic/cumin/chipotle. It's a really easy cut to cook as it's best done 'easy' imo.  On a gas grill, I do the same; screaming hot grill, sear both sides, turn grill down and one side off, move meat to non flame side, cover and walk away for 20minutes.

    I love tri-tip. It's really good left over in a fresh garden salad, with eggs etc . . . main thing is don't overcook and rest to keep those juices in the meat. A good sear goes a long way . . .   :)  I usually serve it up Mexican style with fresh salsas (3 different ones), some variety of dried beans cooked up simple, soft tortillas, guac, limes/cilantro/mexican sour cream, but you can also design other meals around it.

    Parent

    Searing Myth (5.00 / 1) (#129)
    by squeaky on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 10:25:42 AM EST
    Myth #2: "Sear your meat over high heat to lock in juices."
    The Theory: Searing the surface of a cut piece of meat will precipitate the formation of an impenetrable barrier, allowing your meat to retain more juices as it cooks.

    The Reality: Searing produces no such barrier--liquid can still pass freely in and out of the surface of a seared steak. To prove this, I cooked two steaks to the exact same internal temperature (130°F). One steak I seared first over hot coals and finished over the cooler side of the grill. The second steak I started on the cooler side, let it come to about ten degrees below its final target temperature, then finished it by giving it a sear over the hot side of a grill. If there is any truth to the searing story, then the steak that was seared first should retain more moisture.

    What I found is actually the exact opposite: the steak that is cooked gently first and finished with a sear will not only develop a deeper, darker crust (due to slightly drier outer layers--see Myth #1), but it also cooks more evenly from center to edge, thus limiting the amount of overcooked meat and producing a finished product that is juicier and more flavorful.

    The Takeaway: When cooking thick steaks, start them on the cooler side of the grill and cook with the lid on until they reach about ten degrees below final serving temperature. Finish them off on the hot side of the grill for a great crust. For thinner steaks (about an inch or less), just cook them over the hot side the entire time--they'll be cooked to medium rare by the time a good crust has developed.

    Serious Eats

    Parent

    Searing Myth (5.00 / 3) (#143)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 02:41:34 PM EST
    sounds like a romance novel

    Parent
    The sear is not to keep the juices in (none / 0) (#136)
    by nycstray on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 01:26:32 PM EST
    the resting is. I just like a good sear on my meat. I'd be nervous doing it on the grill last, as there are generally distractions (aka family) and I feel lucky to pull it off before overcooking (I HATE my meat even slightly over cooked). With trip-tip, it's pretty easy to get an
    even center to edge cook, aka I've never had an uneven problem. In fact, it never even occurred to me it could be a problem . . .

    Parent
    Old Habits Die Hard (none / 0) (#139)
    by squeaky on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 02:28:43 PM EST
    I have been experimenting with (none / 0) (#99)
    by ZtoA on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:33:29 PM EST
    lower heat cooking of meats. I love raw meats, and fish anyhow. So the Malliard process is a medium heat dry cast iron "browning" of a steak. I have cooked steaks (not tri-tip) in a very hot cast iron pan and then stick it in a 500 degree oven. Always get great results from that.

    With this experiment I dry brine the meats and keep them out of the frig while brining for a couple of hours and let the meat come to room temps. Then I'm vacuum packing them and slow cooking them to a rare doneness. Then I take them out of the vacuum packs, let them dry, and then quickly do a malliard browning. First test was pretty gook but I only had 2 bites tonite since, well, I can't eat a big or a lot of steak in one sitting unless it is a 'special'  dinner. I do want to try some of your ideas, so thank you for that! the salsa and the mexican sour cream.

    I don't cook every day or even every week. I live on leftovers, often frozen. So doing a special dinner means weeks of meals for me. :)

    Parent

    Best Ribs (5.00 / 2) (#141)
    by squeaky on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 02:36:35 PM EST
    Brine 30/70 (sugar/salt) overnight... next day dry rub, vacuum seal, sous-vide @143ºF for 48 hours, wipe dry, coat with wet sauce (not necessary) and blowtorch to finish.

    Derived from Douglas Baldwin in his essential (free) book:

    A Practical Guide to Sous VIde Cooking


    Parent

    Torches (none / 0) (#148)
    by Yman on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 03:15:55 PM EST
    Does it matter what type of torch (or fuel) you use?  I've heard conflicting things about "food grade" torches vs. regular, old "plumbing" torches.

    Parent
    Plumber Torch Fine (none / 0) (#153)
    by squeaky on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 04:01:34 PM EST
    The type of gas that you choose isn’t as important as the completeness of its combustion. Propane, butane, MAPP, and acetylene are all great so long as you adjust the flame of the torch so that it is a fully oxidizing flame. This is a flame that is produced with an excess of oxygen—either from the surrounding air or supplemented with compressed oxygen. You can tell that you have an oxidizing flame when the torch is burning dark blue, is relatively short in length, and hisses and roars.
    Modernist Cuisine

    The problem is off taste imparted from the gas. If used as described above plumber's propane torch should be fine. I have read that MAAP is the best, it burns much hotter, which can be a problem too.

    I use this

    More discussion here:

    egullet

    ChowHound


    Parent

    Hmmmm I may have to get a new (5.00 / 1) (#156)
    by ZtoA on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 04:16:30 PM EST
    torch, which I can always use in my studio too.

    I have that Sous Vide for Home Cooks book and it is great. Very simple. Sous vide makes cooking ahead for just regular meals and special ones very easy. I like easy and yummy.

    Parent

    I just use a couple of lit (5.00 / 1) (#169)
    by Mordiggian 88 on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:59:41 PM EST
    kitchen matches and move them around the meat at a high rate of speed.

    Parent
    I have a small butane torch in the kitchen (none / 0) (#186)
    by Militarytracy on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 09:48:04 AM EST
    Drawer for creme brûlée, never used :). Inspire me squeaky!

    Parent
    Sous Vide (5.00 / 1) (#194)
    by squeaky on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 12:13:22 PM EST
    The torch is particularly great for sous vide which is water bath in plastic bag cooking...  the food gets cooked evenly but no caramelized crust...  so blow torch is a must.

    But your little torch can come in handy for lots of things like crisping chicken, or duck skin, fish skin, or fish, cheese toasts, fried eggs (cooking the whites and not yellow), s'mores and of course creme brûlée..

    Parent

    Always "the source" on cooking for (none / 0) (#197)
    by Militarytracy on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 04:13:16 PM EST
    The palates in this house.  I hate a runny egg or a runny omelet, but had never thought of using the torch.  It is Josh and spouse who are the carnivores here.

    I leave meat cooking to my husband when he is home.  I just don't have the taste that creates the enthusiasm for it, while I appreciate the care he takes.  He works hard to create moist tender meat main courses, sometimes a crisp skin or outer layer is sacrificed for that, but no more.  I had never thought of it.  And it is so simple.

    Parent

    What is "practical" about that? (none / 0) (#149)
    by nycstray on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 03:22:08 PM EST
    Practical (none / 0) (#154)
    by squeaky on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 04:05:52 PM EST
    Practical Guide means a useful guide for those who practices the given technique.

    practical |ˈpraktikəl| adjective
    1. of or concerned with the actual doing or use of something rather than with theory and ideas: there are two obvious practical applications of the research.


    Parent
    Burned But Rare (none / 0) (#131)
    by squeaky on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 11:19:51 AM EST
    If you like your Steaks really rare and do not want to give up burning the outside you may want to try the Toulouse-Lautrec method of cooking steak.

    Parent
    How interesting (none / 0) (#133)
    by ZtoA on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 12:30:12 PM EST
    I did not even know he was a cook. fun idea for a dinner with artist friends! And ones who have dogs who would like the top and bottom steak (tho I might like the leftovers of those too).

    Parent
    We put an induction range in (none / 0) (#89)
    by Militarytracy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:13:27 PM EST
    Thank goodness I didn't have to part with my cast iron fry pan.  Some things must be cooked in it to be wonderful.

    Parent
    I have a large cast iron (5.00 / 2) (#93)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:25:40 PM EST
    Dutch oven that is great for pot roast.  I like using it in winter on the small wood stove.


    Parent
    Bliss (5.00 / 1) (#137)
    by Militarytracy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 01:37:34 PM EST
    I use (none / 0) (#78)
    by Ga6thDem on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 06:25:19 PM EST
    a dry salt brine for my thanksgiving turkey and everybody raves about it.

    Parent
    Are you hungry? (none / 0) (#14)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 10:51:09 AM EST
    I will be (5.00 / 1) (#15)
    by CoralGables on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 10:56:51 AM EST
    as soon as the recipes kick into high gear. Perhaps we could go with salsa varieties today :)


    Parent
    I have found (5.00 / 3) (#18)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:01:29 AM EST
    the internet a to be a trove.  

    Tangy Tomatillo Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes


    Parent

    Are you a gazpacho fan? (5.00 / 2) (#34)
    by Anne on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 01:19:28 PM EST
    Ever tried Ina Garten's recipe?

    It's so easy, and I think if you made it chunkier, it would make a great salsa.

    I was skeptical it could taste so fresh using canned tomatoes, but it does.  I use the Muir Glen organic whole tomatoes.  Made it for a crowd recently - at the height of fresh tomato season - and no one would believe me that I used the canned tomatoes.

    Best salsa, though, was the big batch we made a couple years ago with veggies from our garden - we canned it with the hope it would last longer that way, but we ran out a lot quicker than we wanted to!

    Parent

    of course, MOBlue, I'm starving (none / 0) (#30)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 12:55:56 PM EST
    but let's see,  both Miami and Florida State are ahead at half time, the fighting Ducks play UCLA at 3:30, Federer beat Djokovic in the semis in Shanghai, and when the smog lifts in Los Angeles U.C.L.A.

    Parent
    ... even a Stage-4 smog alert wouldn't have saved the Bruins.

    Parent
    Glad to hear (none / 0) (#183)
    by MO Blue on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 06:28:30 AM EST
    Federer beat Djokovic. I have never warmed up to Djokovic. Can't pinpoint why I don't like him, I just don't. And Ferderer is just Federer - what more needs to be said.

    I like  professional tennis but have never tracked results in Shanghai.

    Parent

    I'm making (none / 0) (#17)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 10:58:18 AM EST
    Shepherds Pie.  I have it down.  I make them and freeze them.

    Parent
    And listening to (none / 0) (#19)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:06:05 AM EST
    One factlet (5.00 / 1) (#20)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:11:19 AM EST
    interesting to some in this link is that Emmy Lou Harris is an obsessive MLB fan.

    Parent
    Do you freeze (none / 0) (#32)
    by Ga6thDem on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 01:10:34 PM EST
    it with the mashed potatoes on top?

    It's a great way to use leftovers but nobody in my family likes it. Hubby says it just has "no taste".

    Parent

    Well that would depend (5.00 / 1) (#35)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 01:27:07 PM EST
    on what you put in it I guess.  Mine has tons of taste.  And it freezes excellently
    Sort of my own recipe I developed over the years.  

    Parent
    Well, then, (5.00 / 1) (#40)
    by Zorba on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:29:58 PM EST
    give with the recipe, Capt.!

    Parent
    There isn't really a recipe (5.00 / 1) (#60)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:53:31 PM EST
    more like a philosophy.  Shepherds Pie can be very boring and bland as noted.  Mine is not.  First fresh Vegs are very important.  It's like a savory parfait.  With the bottom veg layer the biggest.  Some Vegs always make it in.  Onions garlic carrots green peas corn mushrooms.   Beyond that I like to vary. Almost anything works. Asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower.  I made a really good batch once with roasted brussel sprouts. Then you have the sauce for the Vegs. I make a creamy roasted garlic gravy with stock. The kind of stock depending on the meat.  Beef and lamb, or pork or I have also used chicken or turkey.  I do this a lot. It's one of my favorite things t have in the freezer.
    Chunks of meat.  Definitely chunks not ground.
    Then you have potatoes.  I make very garlicky mashed and spicy ones.  Also I like spicy in general so various peppers including hot peppers like jalapeños go in every layer usually.
    Bottom line, fresher is better for everything from veggies to meat to stock.  I like using those small disposable metal pans.  They are much better heated in a real oven woth extra cheese of your choice.


    Parent
    Oh (none / 0) (#61)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:55:21 PM EST
    And if you are freezing don't overlook the veggies.

    Parent
    Um (none / 0) (#62)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:56:27 PM EST
    overCOOK not over look.

    Parent
    Dolphin sandwich? (none / 0) (#29)
    by Jack203 on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 12:47:06 PM EST
    I sure hope not.

    Parent
    Dude, grilled Flipper is totally awesome! (none / 0) (#42)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:47:44 PM EST
    Seriously, though, we already had this discussion in yesterday's open thread. The Mahimahi / Dorado is also known as the common dolphinfish. That's what CG was referencing.

    Aloha.

    Parent

    I made (none / 0) (#39)
    by Zorba on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:28:40 PM EST
    Shrimp Pad Thai last night.  Turned out great, really quite easy, and plenty of leftovers for today.
    I basically used this recipe.
    Except I also added some tamarind juice and some cilantro, plus a little finely chopped hot peppers.
    And had extra Sriracha sauce, basil leaves, cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced hot peppers on the table, to add as desired.
    Not a salsa recipe, but it was tasty.    ;-)

    Parent
    Doctors' Without Borders working hard in (5.00 / 4) (#28)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 12:40:38 PM EST
    Africa:

    NYT

    heroes (5.00 / 3) (#31)
    by Jack203 on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 12:59:28 PM EST
    I've been reading too much about the worst humanity has to offer in ISIS lately, it is good to read something about courageous people that devote themselves to helping others.

    Parent
    Western Australia opera company in (5.00 / 1) (#38)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:07:39 PM EST
    Perth voluntarily decides not to present Bizet's opera "Carmen" for two seasons. Why?  Two choices. (1) b/c the company received a grant from a public agency which promotes good health, or (2) b/c the singer the mgt. wanted for the lead role was already committed to perform w/the opera company in Sidney.

    The first act of "Carmen" is set outside a cigarette factory in Sevilla.

    Perhaps this purist opera company is not aware of the availability of fake cigarettes frequently substituted in plays.

    The Guardian

    Some friends just dropped off a (5.00 / 2) (#43)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:48:47 PM EST
    Black Grouper,at my dock, they were afraid to keep in the boat since it is only 23" instead of the legal 24".  It's so big it would feed six people.  So it's grilled Grouper, Budweiser, and the fighting Ducks this afternoon.  Wish I did have some Tzatziki to go with it.  My cats are hopping around like maniacs right now, since the fish is still flopping in the sink.  You have to chill them before filleting.  Guess I'll have a Bud while the fish cools.

    Parent
    Aren't you worried about a warrantless (none / 0) (#45)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 02:57:35 PM EST
    search by state fish and game warden?

    Parent
    No (5.00 / 1) (#51)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:21:21 PM EST
    Cryptic. Shouldn't you be? (none / 0) (#58)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:37:58 PM EST
    What if the fisher person is a snitch?

    Parent
    The captain is my neighbor, and (none / 0) (#63)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:09:40 PM EST
    the FWC, Florida Wildlife Commission, is way too busy on weekends, checking out the lobster divers, who always have something illegal, like life jackets, fire extinguishers, licenses, and if you have a whistle.  You don't need an anchor, by law, but you must have a whistle.  Weekends are also popular for the Cuban migration, since the ocean is loaded with many boat who would rather keep fishing, than become tied up testifying.  Help is given if needed, but most Cubans arrive in go fast boats with food and water.  Also, if you stand on a 23" fish it turns into a 24" legal one.  My canal is very hidden and I'v never heard of the FWC coming to any door.  Don't worry Oculus I'll be fine.  Would you eat a fresh one inch too short Grouper filet?

    Parent
    Most assuredly re eating the squashed fresh fish. (5.00 / 1) (#64)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:15:04 PM EST
    Are there lobster traps in FL?  Do people become entwined in the rope from the trap to the buoy?  

    Parent
    No, but boat propellers do regularly. (none / 0) (#70)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:47:43 PM EST
    Oh for pity's sake (none / 0) (#77)
    by Zorba on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 06:11:20 PM EST
    I know that I have schooled you on how to make Tzatziki sauce, fishcamp.  As you well know, it's not that hard to make.
    So don't whine about not having any Tzatziki sauce.
    I have no sympathy for you.      :-)

    Parent
    Zorba, I certainly can make Tzatziki, (none / 0) (#81)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 07:07:40 PM EST
    and all because of you, but the grocery store is 23 miles away and with all the ball games on I'm only venturing out to the grill, and no farther.  It was delicious, and I gave a nice filet to the older woman across the street, that unfortunately has cancer.  She was very thankful, because only fishermen get fish that fresh.  Tomorrow I'll take another filet into my favorite Japanese restaurant, where they will prepare it much differently than I ever could.  They even have different types of finishing salt, which was a new one for me.

    Parent
    Won't somebody please think about... (5.00 / 1) (#140)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 02:33:55 PM EST
    THE WEDDING VENDORS???

    Gay marriage is winning.  Even on FOX News.

    Ted Olson and Chris Wallace destroy Tony Perkins


    "What are you suggesting?" Wallace asked. "That there's going to be polygamy, that people are going to be marrying their pets?"

    "I didn't say that," Perkins replied defensively.

    "Alright, you and your wife live happily in this house," Wallace said. "There's a same-sex couple living here. What's the damage to you?"

    "Let's talk about the wedding vendors that have been put out of business," Perkins said.



    OMG! Perkins is a sitcom comedian ... (none / 0) (#144)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 02:46:33 PM EST
    ... who's desperately trying to outrun his own laugh track.

    Parent
    Here is a fun (5.00 / 1) (#155)
    by ZtoA on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 04:13:07 PM EST
    But you know what (none / 0) (#146)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 02:52:46 PM EST
    i think he's right about one thing.  At least in 2016.   He and Mike Huckabee are on the same page.  If the republican nominee doesn't come out waving the Bible and breathing fire there will be an independent right wing candidate.   And his might be Mike Huckelberry.

    Parent
    I doubt (none / 0) (#150)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 03:25:27 PM EST
    there will be a third party candidate but I'm willing to be that the GOP nominee holds all the views that Huckabee and Perkins want them to. Ted Cruz has been having a meltdown about the same thing. And there are no "moderates" running in the GOP primary except maybe the joke otherwise name Jeb Bush.

    Parent
    I just (none / 0) (#151)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 03:27:21 PM EST
    think it's more likely that they sit home "to teach the GOP" a lesson. They are already threatening that for 2014 in some races like KY Senate.

    Parent
    So an increase in the number... (none / 0) (#199)
    by unitron on Tue Oct 14, 2014 at 08:38:54 PM EST
    ...of people who want to and are legally allowed to get married is going to be bad for wedding vendors?

    An increase in demand is going to be bad for business?

    Are all the straight people going to avoid getting married now because it's no longer an exclusive enough club?

    Parent

    Krugman: Obama more consequential President (5.00 / 1) (#147)
    by Politalkix on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 03:03:08 PM EST
    than Reagan and Clinton. link

    He's basically (5.00 / 2) (#152)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 03:41:02 PM EST
    basing that on health care. Time will tell whether it lasts or not. It is probably NOT going to last in it's current form due to the exploding costs of insurance in this country. I do agree that Obama is not a gifted politician however.

    Parent
    You're right Ga, (5.00 / 2) (#162)
    by fishcamp on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:01:53 PM EST
    it probably won't last in it's current form, but it will last.  Remember I mentioned months ago that it took the French 15 years to finish rolling out their health care program.  They started in 1945 at the end of WWll, and finally finished in 1960, and I suspect it too is continually changing.  Now ,if one earns one million Euros per year, their tax is 75%.  At least they're not above taxing the fat cats like we seem to be.

    Parent
    Also, FDR's Social Security program ... (5.00 / 1) (#177)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:01:01 PM EST
    ... covered less than half of all Americans in its initial incarnation. The great social initiatives of our time often evolved from sometimes inauspicious beginnings to become so over a period of many years or even decades.

    Parent
    Well (none / 0) (#166)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:28:03 PM EST
    I hope it will be continually evolving from what it currently is because it is still leaving a lot of people falling through the gap.

    Parent
    'Saw part of the interview; and, (5.00 / 2) (#159)
    by christinep on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 05:59:58 PM EST
    Krugman clearly states that the reshaping of healthcare in our country via the ACA is the stuff of a consequential presidency.  I agree.

    Parent
    The ACA will be Obama's legacy. (5.00 / 1) (#160)
    by Angel on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 06:34:17 PM EST
    Just as the Iraq and Afghanistan debacles will be Bush's legacy.  

    Parent
    The full Rolling Stone article (none / 0) (#161)
    by Politalkix on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 06:34:21 PM EST
    New Advice Column? (5.00 / 2) (#163)
    by KeysDan on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:04:06 PM EST
    Cardinal Raymond Burke, Prefect of the Vatican Supreme Tribunal of Apostolic Signatura (formerly Archbishop of St. Louis), during a Vatican synod, took a question from an Austrian couple who wanted to know if they should invite their gay son and his partner to the family Christmas dinner and celebration.

    The Dear Ray response,  was that gay marriage should not be imposed on family members, especially children.  As evil and disordered, the son and his partner must be keep away from impressionable children, including grandchildren. who might be at the family gathering.  So, mutter and vater, just say no.

    History tells us that parents need to (5.00 / 6) (#168)
    by MO Blue on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:52:07 PM EST
    Protect their CHILDREN from their priests rather than worrying about having a gay couple attend a family gathering.

    Parent
    If the Church could rid themselves (5.00 / 1) (#185)
    by MO Blue on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 09:12:07 AM EST
    of cretins like Burke, there might be hope for them yet.

    VATICAN CITY (AP) -- Catholic bishops are showing unprecedented openness to accepting the real lives of many Catholics today, saying gays have gifts to offer the church and should be accepted and that there are "positive" aspects to a couple living together without being married.

    A two-week meeting of bishops on family issues arrived at its halfway point Monday with a document summarizing the closed-door debate so far. No decisions were announced, but the tone of the preliminary document was one of almost-revolutionary acceptance, rather than condemnation, with the aim of guiding Catholics toward the ideal of a lasting marriage.
    ...
    Bishops also called for "courageous" new ways to minister to families, especially those "damaged" by divorce. The document didn't take sides in the most divisive issue at the synod, whether Catholics who divorce and remarry without an annulment can receive Communion.
    link



    Parent
    Yes, I don't know if (5.00 / 3) (#195)
    by KeysDan on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 12:28:30 PM EST
    this document qualifies as a baby step--probably more a cherub step. but for the Vatican, that is still something.  This document, as preliminary as it appears,  is probably what made Cardinal Burke and his other yesterday men colleagues freak out.   Whether or not this document goes anywhere theologically, it will certainly alter the tone (which is in a way, the practice of  theology).  The Pope will have to have forbearance to effectuate these ideas.

    The Church not only self-inflicted wounds on itself, but has damaged more broadly the rights of women and couples to birth control.  Pope John XXIII and then Pope Paul Vii (who enlarged it) created the Pontifical Commission on Birth Control.

    It became a 72-member committee of physicians, women (a few), theologians, bishops and cardinals.   The majority (a vast majority) determined that birth control was not intrinsically evil (what a relief) and that Cathoic couples should be allowed to decide birth control procedures for themselves.  And, that birth control was an extension of the already approved cycle methods.

    Pope Paul VI, rejected his own Commission's report in his encyclical, Humanae Vitae (subtitled, the regulation of birth) in 1968.  Paul noted that the Commission was not unanimous (true, about seven where in the minority, but the minority included a powerful Cardinal).  

    And, for those who think that this is all internal Catholic stuff that does not effect the larger community, they need look no further than the Hobby Lobby decision.  


    Parent

    Jesus (none / 0) (#164)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:07:49 PM EST
    pun intended

    Parent
    Just in case you (5.00 / 3) (#165)
    by KeysDan on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:23:58 PM EST
    are unfamiliar with this man of God, he is known for his elaborate gold and red vestments, including a train longer than any bride in the last few centuries.  He is a fan of the grandest of rituals, as well.  The Pope has his work cut out for him with powerful men like him around him.

    Parent
    Pope (none / 0) (#167)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:31:05 PM EST
    definitely has his work cut out for himself on a lot of things. John Paul probably will be seen as one of the worst popes recently. I'm sure there are some centuries ago that would probably beat him out in the awful department. It is going to take a long time to undo John Paul's legacy because he was there so long.

    Parent
    Unbelievable, and (none / 0) (#170)
    by fishcamp on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:04:56 PM EST
    Merry Christmas.

    Parent
    59 year-old female is free after (none / 0) (#6)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:28:22 AM EST
    serving 17 years of an LWOP sentence:

    link

    The Knick (none / 0) (#7)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:43:26 AM EST
    About the gorgeous scene on the steps.  

    Is it my imagination or is the lighting overall becoming darker and more somber?  I whis I had kept earlier episodes on the DVR to compare.  It just seems to get more and more beautiful.

    Yes, poor Algie and the pregnant lady.  Poor crazy lady in the straight jacket.  Poor baby.  Poor Bertie. (Or whatever his name is).  Etc etc.

    Oh GRIMM (none / 0) (#8)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:44:28 AM EST
    when is it on.  I searched a couple of day ago an only found OnDemand.  I will search again.

    I broke down and bought the first (5.00 / 2) (#26)
    by ZtoA on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 12:10:55 PM EST
    2 seasons on DVD. Glad I did too because I can't watch a show on my laptop now - well I can, but the cursor flits all over the screen and beaks the mood. I'm watching the episode based on "Girl with No Hands" which I know so well. I recently did several visual interpretations of that tale.

    Parent
    Ah (none / 0) (#36)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 01:28:18 PM EST
    i see.  I won't buy it but there should be other ways.

    Parent
    hulu (none / 0) (#196)
    by sj on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 01:27:27 PM EST
    New season starts the 24th.

    Parent
    Mordiggoan88 (none / 0) (#11)
    by jimakaPPJ on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 09:29:18 AM EST
    New data? From 2012 this time? (none / 0) (#184)
    by Mordiggian 88 on Fri Oct 10, 2014 at 08:35:28 PM CST
    All your links are old, except for the LAT link that you omitted the title of the article, substituting the date.

    Are you telling me that:

    This year's loss was 1.92 million square kilometers 741,000 square miles) less than the total loss that occurred in 2012.

    October 7 2014 is old news?

    Of course if you want old news I give you this from July 5 2005 from Dr.Phil Jones's private email that was later hacked.

    The scientific community would come down on me in no uncertain terms if I said the world had cooled from 1998. OK it has but it is only 7 years of data and it isn't statistically significant.

    of course the trend continues. I think 9 more years makes it "statistically significant."

    Let the blog-clogging begin! (5.00 / 1) (#47)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:00:55 PM EST
    No, please let it end here. (5.00 / 3) (#48)
    by Angel on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:07:54 PM EST
    Agree (5.00 / 5) (#66)
    by Jeralyn on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:16:25 PM EST
    Jim and Mordigan, please limit yourselves to four comments per thread. You are both blogclogging, see the comment rules. We only have space for 200 comments per open thread. If you want to keep responding to each other on the same topic, please get your own blog.

    Parent
    Thank you. (5.00 / 4) (#75)
    by nycstray on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 05:52:09 PM EST
    One swallow doesn't a summer make (none / 0) (#27)
    by Mordiggian 88 on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 12:33:39 PM EST
    And the fact that the latest data doesn't go against the general trend is something you conveniently overlook.

    Let's look at a longer term perspective than 2012-2014, shall we?

    Following the seasonal daily minimum of 5.02 million square kilometers (1.94 million square miles) that was set on September 17, 2014 (6th lowest in the satellite record)Arctic sea ice has started its seasonal cycle of growth. Arctic sea ice extent averaged for the month of September 2014 was 5.28 million square kilometers (2.04 million square miles), also the 6th lowest in the satellite record.

    6th lowest in the satellite record.

    Which proves what, exactly?

    Thanks for the opportunity to clear up your understanding of what the data means to these 'researchers'.


    Parent

    It proves that the trend is broken... (none / 0) (#54)
    by jimakaPPJ on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:34:46 PM EST
    just as Dr Jones noted in his 7/5/05 email the incident means only that.

    But, warming had plateaued around 1998 and continues.

    And...long lost NASA satellite photos show huge holes in the Arctic ice in the 60's...

    In the meantime the question of Mann's errors is addressed:

    Appearing on-line in the journal Geophysical Research Letters (and sans press release) is a paper led by Penn State's Martin Tingley that examined how the temperature response from volcanic inferred from tree-rings compared with that of observations. Tingley's team concluded that tree-ring based temperature proxies overestimated the temperature response caused by large volcanic eruptions. Instead of responding only to the cooler temperatures, the tree rings also included signals from reduced light availability (from the shading effect of volcanic aerosols) and the two effects together produced a signal greater than what would have been produced by cooler temperatures alone. This is basically the opposite of what Mann and colleagues concluded.

    Link

    Parent

    Wingnut blogs as sources (5.00 / 1) (#73)
    by Yman on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 05:08:08 PM EST
    Who cares about all those all those fancy-schmancy scientists with their data and their scientific studies?

    Not Jim.

    Parent

    What has 2005 (none / 0) (#56)
    by Mordiggian 88 on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:36:43 PM EST
    have to do with the sea ice data from 2014?

    Parent
    This made my (none / 0) (#53)
    by Angel on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 03:34:02 PM EST
    We have a few brown recluse (none / 0) (#67)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:19:23 PM EST
    spiders down here, but, I'v only seen two.  I did find out they can jump.  I found that out after I was trying to coax one onto a magazine, to check it out more closely.  Horrors.

    Indeed (5.00 / 1) (#68)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:26:33 PM EST
    big year here too for whatever reason.  I have wacked a couple.  

    identifying

    Parent

    We have a relative of the brown recluse ... (none / 0) (#101)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 12:00:16 AM EST
    ... out here called the brown violin spider, but they don't appear to be all that common and I've never seen one personally. Rather, we have centipedes, and I often see them hanging out around the outside of our house, so I worry more about them than spiders. They are also somewhat poisonous with a wickedly painful bite, but their toxin isn't deadly to otherwise healthy humans. They are voracious predators that can grow up to 8" long, and they'll take prey such as cane spiders, anole lizards and even mice.

    I've only been bitten by spiders twice, both times outside of Hawaii. The first time was by a black widow at my grandmother's house in Pasadena back in 2000, and by a button spider -- an African relative of the black widow -- in Cape Town, on our very last day in South Africa in 2010. Both bites were very painful and later became infected, and I had to take antibiotics in both instances.

    Aloha.

    Parent

    Zombiephiles (none / 0) (#69)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:28:42 PM EST
    new season of The Walking Dead starts tonight.

    Oops (none / 0) (#71)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 04:48:10 PM EST
    Tomorrow Night.  Standard Marathon until then.

    Parent
    Where has (none / 0) (#79)
    by Ga6thDem on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 06:28:56 PM EST
    Armando Big Tent been lately? I hope he comes back soon and starts blogging on the primaries.

    I hope he does too. (5.00 / 1) (#83)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 07:14:29 PM EST
    (Good thing I don't depend on him re college football)

    Parent
    Query: assuming no one was injured or killed, (none / 0) (#82)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 07:07:47 PM EST
    how does local law enforcement have juridiction to act here?

    dispute between two factions of Native Americans re a casino

    Maybe because some Indian casinos (none / 0) (#86)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 07:52:56 PM EST
    are not on a reservation, but just a plot of land owned by the tribe, and if they took the fight outside they could be under a different jurisdiction.  Just a speculation.

    Parent
    Most Indian land (none / 0) (#88)
    by Mordiggian 88 on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:06:28 PM EST
    is held in trust by the Federal government for the tribe in question.  Sometimes the tribe can sell a piece of land for a tribal member to build a house on, but if he/she has no descendants, the tribe will take the land back on the death of the tribal member.

    Parent
    Bingo. (none / 0) (#90)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:18:56 PM EST
    Wow, every word may be true (none / 0) (#94)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 08:46:22 PM EST
    His campaign called her Abortion Barbie. (3.50 / 2) (#95)
    by Angel on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 09:01:14 PM EST
    She's been called all sorts of names and attacked not only for her stance on abortion -a woman's choice, but for the fact that she had one.  That's as personal as you can get.  So I don't really see any difference in what her campaign has done.  

    I don't care for the gutter politics but in this case the line was crossed long ago by Abbott's campaign.

    Parent

    I don't disagree (5.00 / 2) (#96)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 09:29:24 PM EST
    but I don't think that makes that ad a good idea.   Even from a strictly political point of view.

    Parent
    It would've been a great ad ... (none / 0) (#102)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 12:03:02 AM EST
    ... but for the image of the wheelchair.

    Parent
    Probably (none / 0) (#104)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:29:59 AM EST
    but 'other than that Ms Lincoln, how did you like the play?'

    It's funny I woke up sort of early and have cable news on while I feed the dogs and make coffee.  There is of course a "panel".
    The only one who thought the ad was not out of bounds was the republican.  

    Parent

    The use of that empty wheelchair image ... (none / 0) (#142)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 02:41:06 PM EST
    ... ended up muddying an otherwise effective and pertinent message she was seeking to convey to voters with that ad. You used to work in Hollywood, so I'm probably not saying anything you don't already know about how an inadvertently negative still / video image can trump the substance of your product if you're not careful.

    Parent
    Well, Abbott has used his wheelchair to garner (none / 0) (#117)
    by Angel on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:17:54 AM EST
    sympathy so why can't someone else use the image of the wheelchair?  He put it out there first.  And when you get down to it, the wheelchair is what the ad is about.  He used the system to get millions of dollars when he was hit by a falling tree in a storm yet he wants to deny anyone else the same opportunity.

    As I said before, I don't like gutter politics.  But I dislike hypocrites even more.  

    Parent

    Max Cleland was a triple amputee (none / 0) (#118)
    by Mordiggian 88 on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:30:46 AM EST
    from a grenade blast in Vietnam, but that didn't stop the RW freaks from making fun of him for his 'mistake'.

    Being in wheelchair didn't stop the Republicans for attacking him in ads when as a Senator he didn't vote for everything that GWB wanted passed by the Congress.

    Tell the truth and shame the devil.  That is what Wendy Davis is doing here.  

    Parent

    Very good point (none / 0) (#120)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:35:04 AM EST
    and democrats have whined about that non stop ever since.  Justifiably.  But that ad was actually effective.   This one is not.    And worse it probably gives republicans something to counter with every time that's mentioned.

    Parent
    It will take a few days (none / 0) (#122)
    by Mordiggian 88 on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:40:16 AM EST
    for the ad to take effect, if any, but you're probably correct that showing what an S.O.B a Republican candidate in a Texas race only probably enhances his standing in the electorate.

    Parent
    To be clear (none / 0) (#119)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:32:16 AM EST
    Abbott is a snake.  He has done and no doubt will continue to do things and run ads "worse" than this one.  
    That's really not my point.  IMO this was dumb.  It was a dumb thing to do.  It has managed to do what the Abbott campaign has not managed to do.  Make Abbott a sympathetic figure.  To some.  Honestly, probably to enough.
    It's was bad political stategerie.

    Parent
    He is going to win and was always going to win (none / 0) (#121)
    by Angel on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:38:41 AM EST
    so the ad won't make any difference in the outcome.  But some people will know more about who and what he is because of it.  Abbott's going to be a worse governor than Perry because, as you said, he's a snake, and a self-righteous one at that.

    Parent
    I agree (none / 0) (#123)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:42:19 AM EST
    so why do this.  This ad is going to get a lot of attention.  All the wrong kind.  Davis has had a pretty positive image so far.   Why do this?

    Parent
    Don't know why she did it, but probably a (5.00 / 2) (#126)
    by Angel on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:47:14 AM EST
    Hail Mary pass along with the opportunity to just try to show people the truth of who and what Abbott is.  She's been demonized for her abortion. And I mean demonized.  Maybe she just got tired of all of that and wanted to strike back.  

    Parent
    Have to agree with both of you (none / 0) (#130)
    by Yman on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 11:03:01 AM EST
    I think the issue - Abbott's hypocrisy on tort reform - is entirely fair game.  That being said, this was a dumb move politically.

    Parent
    You all bring up good points. (none / 0) (#138)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 02:20:40 PM EST
    I cringed when I first saw Wendy Davis' ad, but Greg Abbott has been rather shameless about playing up the fact that he's a paraplegic, so to a great extent he left himself open to that line of political attack. Just because your physical condition renders you ADA-qualified, it does not necessarily follow that you're also a nice guy.

    When I worked in the state legislature, we had a state representative named Terrance Tom, who was both blind and an attorney. He chaired the House Judiciary Committee, was whip-smart, and one marveled at how he well he had overcome his adversity to be an effective attorney.

    But truth be told, Rep. Tom was also a miserable, mean-spirited, cold-hearted and self-absorbed SOB who was wholly in the pockets of the big land trusts, development interests and the local banks, and he would regularly wield his handicap fiercely as a political bludgeon, whenever it suited his purposes.

    When he would do so on the floor of the House, we used to snark that he must be channeling Stevie Wonder's evil twin, because he would rock his head back and forth while sitting in his chair, before suddenly springing to his feet to spew some of the most incredibly vicious and cruel things regarding those individuals who either opposed his agenda or crossed him.

    It should be noted that Rep. Tom (who was a Democrat) was also the state legislator who foisted upon us the very first anti-gay marriage constitutional amendments to be enacted anywhere in the country, back in 1996 and '98, so his vile presence in our Capitol chambers ultimately had national implications as well.

    But fortunately, he tried to parlay that notoriety into a State Senate seat and lost, and so he was suddenly out of the loop both completely and abruptly. And there were very few if any of us senior staffers in the Capitol who were sorry to see him finally gone, and more than a few of his colleagues were happy to bid him good riddance.

    Aloha.

    Parent

    Staying up all night is for the young... (none / 0) (#97)
    by ZtoA on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 09:51:39 PM EST
    and the stupid and the insomniacs among us. I plan to take a half of an ambien at 9 tonite and finally get a good night of sleep starting at 10. yes, sad, it is a Saturday nite and I'm going to bed early. Hopefully. Going to start another episode of Grimm and that may lead to two. :) OK maybe delay that ambien for an hour or two... no more!

    I'm "de-stressing" now, after a long day of work and two glasses of very good port and now a yummy glass of health food soda. My sous vide machine is making happy noises nearby. So glad that Jim did not take over the entire thread. My scroll finger appreciates the rest.

    I have a "good feeling" about the midterm elections. But I live in a progressive bubble so I don't know if my "feelings" are reality based.

    The last trial I did, which lasted (5.00 / 2) (#98)
    by oculus on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 10:08:26 PM EST
    two weeks, convinced me retirement should be sooner than later. 5 hrs. Of sleep a night worked during the trial, but the post-trial recovery was rough. Maybe '.cause my go-to food was trail mix with chocolate.

    Parent
    Oculus (5.00 / 1) (#157)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 05:15:29 PM EST
    Watching a movie called Microcosmos, which is great, but there was a part I thought you would like.  a beautifully shot romantic encounter between two snails. To the music of "Amour d'escargots, by composer Bruno Coulais " apparently written for the occasion

    Parent
    Every time I visit Amazon now (5.00 / 1) (#158)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 05:29:15 PM EST
    i get pictures of sniper camouflage.  Because tracy made me google it the other day.  Great.  The NSA probably has the gps of my house permanently programmed into a drone someplace.

    Parent
    Dude, the trick is to hit several other things (5.00 / 3) (#171)
    by nycstray on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:30:32 PM EST
    before you leave the site. It also keeps ads for unwanted items from showing up on other pages you are viewing. After looking at something 'sniper' related, I hit the dog food section and clicked on several high end brands, now I get those ads with cute dogs pics ta boot ;)

    Parent
    Great tip. Thanks. (5.00 / 2) (#173)
    by oculus on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:38:43 PM EST
    So (none / 0) (#175)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:40:54 PM EST
    L'Amour d'escargots??

    Parent
    After I change "devices." (none / 0) (#176)
    by oculus on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:59:47 PM EST
    I wonder if they sell fertilizer? (none / 0) (#172)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:36:10 PM EST
    Ha ha ha (none / 0) (#191)
    by Militarytracy on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 11:21:29 AM EST
    It looks like they may now have sold out of the versions I thought were identical to the sniper school photo.  Will Americans dress like ISIL for Halloween?  It's a great way to revive that ninja outfit in the bottom of the Halloween rough tote.

    Parent
    For some reason, not only must (none / 0) (#174)
    by oculus on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:40:37 PM EST
    I constantly log in here, but also, I am not getting video sound. Will try phone.

    Parent
    I watched the snails and then, (none / 0) (#178)
    by ZtoA on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 11:05:18 PM EST
    before a dinner tonite, showed it to my sister and my biologist/legalist niece of mine - and her boyfriend walked in. They did not seem to appreciate the beauty of the snails while I kept exclaiming how beautiful this is. Was good tho - set the 'tone' for the whole (fun fun) dinner to follow. So you're influence reaches into more dinners than you may realize. (we did not eat snails for dinner FYI).

    Parent
    How was the steak? (none / 0) (#179)
    by oculus on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 11:30:54 PM EST
    I thought I had commented with this (5.00 / 4) (#180)
    by ZtoA on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 12:10:22 AM EST
    about a few minutes ago, but evidently did not. I blame my mistake on the port. I tried to say this:

    Steak was fantastic. Dry salt only brine a rib steak... then sous vide cook it till it is "rare" temp (125). Cool and pop into the frig. Then the next day cut it out of the foodsaver bag and let it dry and come to room temp.

    Malliard it the squeaky recommended method, just more quickly - not the 10 minutes, but more like 5 - control the temp - medium to medium high (kept paper towels handy to clean out cooking fats before adding butter). Then let it rest for a timed 15 minutes (by that time we all were just waiting to dig into it). The steak was tender and tasted "real" and the browning (not charring) was delicious. They watched me do the butter basting and that was all around fun. Not a huge or expensive cut of meat got so much mileage for 5 people. Someone commented that I should get a cooking show on TV so we just went with that. I think I might have given credit to squeaky or to Alain Ducasse, but I can't remember....  ;)

    Finished the stove top roasted potatoes (cooked with grass fed butter and bacon grease) and set out the broccoli salad while the steak 'rested' (broccoli salad -my own new recipe - it was a great hit and I liked it too _ added some pretty hard cooked and quartered duck eggs to the recipe)(this was my first attempt at actually creating a real recipe and it was a fun adventure) out and a nice baguette and a great room temp butter. Self grind pink H salt on the table. Easy-peasy and just a big hit and the dinner was so much fun !!

    Finished dinner with a few fresh berries, some 'paleo' cookies I made (wanted to try to bake something since reading comments here --and for my mom, who will be staying with me for 2 weeks for winter holidays and supposedly does not "do" gluten and I wanted to practice making something she can enjoy then) , a very expensive port and a very expensive bit of blue cheese ($15 !!!! for a local oregon made blue) with the rest of the locally made bread and nice butter and a few hunks of 80% cocoa chocolate bar for dessert. The entire meal, including the $60 bottle of port and the $15 slice of blue cheese for the dessert, was around $150.  $150 for 5 with leftovers for lunch tomorrow which I sent home with guests.

    I always want to make or go to a meal that is like Babette's Feast - where differences seem to melt into a nice moment or two. Tonight it worked for a tiny bit for my family.

    ____

    we were celebrating my niece getting a good new job in the legal field (she will be great) and her boyfriend also getting a good new job also as a paralegal and another as a legal advocate for homeless youth in the legal system. And my sister is probably going to be invited to Dubai as an economist expert in the next couple of months, and I have just finished with my last scheduled public appearances for a show I just opened. So de-stressing all around (except for my sister who never gets a chance at de-stressing).

    Parent

    Wow. (none / 0) (#181)
    by oculus on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 12:31:08 AM EST
    Segue is "snail." (none / 0) (#188)
    by oculus on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 11:11:28 AM EST
    Awsum (none / 0) (#189)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 11:16:13 AM EST
    i ordered that cd.
    After just listening while cooking I decided I love it.

    Parent
    The CD may include the lyrics of the song. (none / 0) (#192)
    by oculus on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 11:32:37 AM EST
    (Per commenters on line trying to locate the text.) How about posting it here?

    Parent
    ....Kay (none / 0) (#193)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 11:53:57 AM EST
    Awsum (none / 0) (#190)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 11:16:23 AM EST
    i ordered that cd.
    After just listening while cooking I decided I love it.

    Parent
    LOL !! my go to "food" (none / 0) (#100)
    by ZtoA on Sat Oct 11, 2014 at 11:42:01 PM EST
    these past few days (weeks?) has been Tim's Sea Salt and Vinegar potato chips. Super yummy, but not life sustaining (I think). (maybe would be if they sprayed some vitamins and protein onto the chips -- with extra msg and some other "healthy" additives)

    Parent
    Oh geez (none / 0) (#103)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:21:11 AM EST
    another Ebola case in Dallas.  One of the mans healthcare workers.

    On the upside, maybe some news people will actually immolate on air.

    Person was aparrently (none / 0) (#105)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:54:21 AM EST
    in the "secondary" risk group.  Meaning there was a group considered more likely to be exposed.  

    No idea what, if anything, that means.

    Supposedly following all the safety and protection guidelines.  

    Parent

    So (none / 0) (#111)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:14:13 AM EST
    its a female nurse.  Considered a secondary risk.  Might this mean someone not in direct contact with the patient but in contact with contaminated objects?  Might the problem be she considered herself a secondary risk and did not follow safety guidelines closely enough?  

    Parent
    The good (5.00 / 1) (#128)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 10:13:15 AM EST
    news is that it can be treated. We treated two here in Atlanta that survived. Maybe that is why we are not freaking out in GA like some other places. We had TWO Ebola infected people treated here and no one else contracted it.

    Parent
    Oops (none / 0) (#106)
    by Uncle Chip on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:56:31 AM EST
    another Ebola case in Dallas

    What are you trying to do by telling us that -- start a panic here on TL???

    This has been declared an Ebola Free Zone and such news reports just cannot be allowed here.

    Well since the news is now out and the Ebola barrier has been breached, are there any good recipes that go with it???  

    Parent

    It's called information (5.00 / 3) (#108)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:03:50 AM EST
    Generally welcome here.  Hysteria, chronic linking to crazy right wing web sites, somewhat less welcome.

    Parent
    Stupid ipad (5.00 / 2) (#109)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:05:32 AM EST
    freaking out again

    Did you think maybe I died of Ebola mid sentence?

    Parent

    It was just hiccup (none / 0) (#110)
    by Uncle Chip on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:12:18 AM EST
    and hiccups are not symptomatic of Ebola -- yet that we know of.

    BTW NBC is saying that the worker was wearing a moonsuit when [s]he treated Duncan and it was on his second visit.

    Oh Wait -- is NBC considered a right wing news site????  

    Parent

    That's not what the news conference said (5.00 / 1) (#112)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:17:08 AM EST
    i just watched it.  It said she wore the standard gloves apron mask and face shield.  

    Not at all the same as a "moon suit"

    See how bullsh!t gets started?

    Parent

    Maybe her actual exposure was (5.00 / 3) (#116)
    by Anne on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:08:11 AM EST
    before she started using all the protective clothing - you know, like closing the barn door after the horses have left.  Could she have been someone who was exposed when he first came to the hospital?

    I realize there are people at TL - Uncle Chip, for example - who appear to have been dreaming of the moment when the second case here pops up, so he can sarcastically taunt those who have simply been trying to provide information without a big dose of panic on the side.  I don't understand that attitude, I really don't.  I don't know why he seems actually glad for this news, but it's disturbing.

    Funny why he isn't wondering about those considered primary contact people - like Duncan's family and those in the apartment with him.  One would think they'd have contracted the virus before the nurse, but perhaps this is how panic works: it makes people stop thinking rationally, and leads them to ignore logic or try to get more information.

    If there's a haz-mat suit for panic, better get outfitted - I hear it's highly contagious and Chip seems to have a raging case.  I've got birthday party cooking to do, so I'll have to check back later - with luck, the entire place will not have gone up in flames.

    Parent

    Yep (none / 0) (#184)
    by jbindc on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 07:30:16 AM EST
    <blockquoteFunny why he isn't wondering about those considered primary contact people - like Duncan's family and those in the apartment with him.  One would think they'd have contracted the virus before the nurse, but perhaps this is how panic works: it makes people stop thinking rationally, and leads them to ignore logic or try to get more information.blockquote>

    Still waiting to hear about all the people he infected in the airport(s), the plane, and all those he came in contact with before he went to the hospital....

    Parent

    I guess this is why (none / 0) (#187)
    by jbindc on Mon Oct 13, 2014 at 10:39:39 AM EST
    So [s]he wore (none / 0) (#113)
    by Uncle Chip on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:35:30 AM EST
    all of that gear less than a moonsuit, the protective gear recommended by CDC in such ER circumstances, and yet still became infected.

    That's the point and that's not bullsh!t and that will send shockwaves throughout hospitals everywhere, as was stated on NBC.

    Parent

    Oh yeah?? (5.00 / 2) (#132)
    by desertswine on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 11:58:28 AM EST
    Well I'm not taking any chances.  I'm breaking out my old Tom Ridge Anti-Terrorism kit...  duct tape, plastic sheeting, the works baby.  And all flights from Texastan must be halted immediately.

    So what's the "alert level" anyway.

    Ridge urged people to put together an emergency kit stocked with a three-day supply of food, flashlights, batteries, medicines and other supplies -- including duct tape and plastic sheeting to seal windows and doors in case of chemical attack.

    Last week, a similar recommendation, issued three days after the Bush administration raised the terror alert level from yellow (elevated) to orange (high), sparked a run on emergency supplies and sent administration officials and even President Bush scrambling to reassure people that there was no need to panic



    Parent
    Kidding, of course, about going the full Tom Ridge (none / 0) (#134)
    by desertswine on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 12:32:53 PM EST
    It's called information (none / 0) (#107)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 07:59:52 AM EST
    Generally welcome he

    Parent
    CDC says innocent breach of protocol. (none / 0) (#124)
    by Angel on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:43:07 AM EST
    They are saying (none / 0) (#125)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:46:27 AM EST
    the most likely time was when removing the protective gear.

    Parent
    Tha is for taking the blog-clogging from (none / 0) (#114)
    by Mordiggian 88 on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:41:29 AM EST
    James and I, Uncle Chip and CaptHowdy.😳

    Whatever it takes (5.00 / 1) (#115)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 08:42:52 AM EST
    Because having Ebola is oh so (none / 0) (#127)
    by Angel on Sun Oct 12, 2014 at 09:51:46 AM EST