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Thursday Morning Open Thread

Open Thread.

(Update (Jeralyn): I am still dealing with Comcast problems. Seven days and they still can't figure out how to connect my phones and keep my internet going. A tech is here now. I will post later, assuming I still have internet.)

< Post-Debate Thread | Clinton-Castro Appearance in San Antonio >
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    Jeralyn (5.00 / 1) (#2)
    by Ga6thDem on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 12:00:50 PM EST
    I am so sorry. Not only have to had to deal with the move from h*ll you've had to deal with the cable company from h*ll as well. Good luck!

    deGrom, Greinke... (5.00 / 1) (#3)
    by kdog on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 12:57:43 PM EST
    Mets v Dodgers deciding Game 5 tonight at Chavez Ravine...oh baby, the anticipation is killing me!

    Go get 'em Boys, the Cubbies are waiting...

    Murphy (5.00 / 1) (#84)
    by Repack Rider on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 10:56:16 PM EST
    ... stealing an undefended third base while the Dodgers put on the fancy shift was the key run in a one run game.  If he's not on third, he doesn't score on the sac fly.

    Dodgers gave it away.  Utley is not a factor.  Perfect.

    Parent

    What can you say... (5.00 / 2) (#96)
    by kdog on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:11:33 AM EST
    about Daniel Murphy...one man offense!  RBI double in the first, single and scored with the stolen base that will live forever in Mets lore in the fourth, go-ahead game winning home run in the 6th.  The power of Christ compels him;)

    Jacob deGrom...talk about true grit.  In a jam almost every inning, half of his pitches 100+ pitches came with runners in scoring position. And after surrendering 2 in the first, throws 5 zeros up there to keep us in the game.  Boy's got guts, and sometimes guts is enough.

    Mighty Thor in his first relief appearance, striking out the Mighty Leprechaun Justin Turner to end the 7th dropping a nasty duece.

    And how about Jeurys Familia coming on for a 6 out save, 6 up 6 down and 16 up 16 down for the series.  Game, Set, Match motherf8ckers.

    Pack your bags Second City...you got a date in the Big City with the Miracle Mets.  Woo-Hoo!

     

    Parent

    Reinserting about the sartorial (none / 0) (#85)
    by oculus on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 11:14:00 PM EST
    choices for the post game analysis on TBS. Dusty and Pedro.  

    Parent
    I am rooting for your (none / 0) (#5)
    by Zorba on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:15:55 PM EST
    Mets to beat the Dodgers, Kdog.  Can't stand the Dodgers.
    If it winds up being the Mets vs the Cubs, now that's a problem for me, because I have strong ties to both Chicago and New York, so either winning would be fine with me.  It would be kind of "let the best man win!"   ;-)
    (If the Dodgers do wind up in the World Series, however, I would pull for them, despite my dislike, because I could never root for any American League team, ever.)

    Parent
    Thanks Z... (none / 0) (#6)
    by kdog on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:22:07 PM EST
    We'll take all the potitive rooting vibrations we can get.

    Now if you really wanna help, do you know anyone in LA who could possibly slip Justin Turner a mickey?  Former Met fan favorite is absolutely killin' us this series...he scares me more than Greinke.  

    Parent

    Go Mets!!! (last time I will be saying that) (none / 0) (#10)
    by ruffian on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:47:16 PM EST
    I doubt there is a Cubs fan that would not rather play the Mets then the Dodgers in this series...well except for the ones that live in LA and can get tickets :-)

    Parent
    Those sound like famous last words... (none / 0) (#12)
    by kdog on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:56:19 PM EST
    to me Ruff, should the Mets pull it out.  Trust me, you don't want none o' this Mets Magic!

    Your lineup could make mincemeat out of any pitcher not named Kershaw, Greinke, deGrom, Syndergaard, Harvey, Matz, or Familia...you do the math;)

    Parent

    I dunno k (none / 0) (#19)
    by jbindc on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:24:44 PM EST
    All the games that went to 5 had crazy stuff happen in th.  So far, all the home trams have won - Mets have to break that streak.

    But I'm with you - Go Mets!

    Parent

    Home teams win (none / 0) (#30)
    by CoralGables on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:02:44 PM EST
    And only teams wearing blue win.

    One of those two will guaranteed hold up again tonight.

    Parent

    Probably right - going purely on planning to win (none / 0) (#47)
    by ruffian on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 04:38:19 PM EST
    and who we most want to beat. The revenge dish is cold enough now.

    Luckily the fates do not care what we want....we will see what happens!

    Parent

    Collins is looking at his (none / 0) (#70)
    by oculus on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 08:10:47 PM EST
    lineup card. Bottom of the 3rd.

    Parent
    OK, bring it on!!!!!! (none / 0) (#88)
    by ruffian on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 05:19:24 AM EST
    Just do it! (none / 0) (#44)
    by jimakaPPJ on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 04:16:25 PM EST
    I'm still bleeding from the collapse of our pitching but if the Redbirds can't beat KC the Mets will have to!

    Parent
    As many runs scores through 4 (none / 0) (#71)
    by CoralGables on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 08:40:04 PM EST
    as I expected in the entire game.

    Parent
    DeGrom is doing great now. (none / 0) (#72)
    by oculus on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 08:52:21 PM EST
    But looks to me like (none / 0) (#74)
    by CoralGables on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 09:01:44 PM EST
    the 6th inning could be his last due to a high pitch count.

    Parent
    And Greinke too (none / 0) (#75)
    by CoralGables on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 09:10:51 PM EST
    It's going to go to the bullpens quite soon.

    Parent
    How appropriate. Utley pinchhits (none / 0) (#77)
    by oculus on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 10:19:35 PM EST
    Bottom of the 9th. An out!

    Parent
    Quote from... (5.00 / 1) (#98)
    by kdog on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:17:18 AM EST
    comedian and big-time Mets fan Jim Breuer...

    "Chase Utley.  What's he chasing?  NOTHING!"

    Parent

    Mets win!!!! (none / 0) (#78)
    by oculus on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 10:21:29 PM EST
    I never expected the bullpens (none / 0) (#79)
    by CoralGables on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 10:22:25 PM EST
    to be better than the starters.

    Parent
    Mattingly: de Grom did a nice job. (none / 0) (#82)
    by oculus on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 10:40:36 PM EST
    AMAZIN!! (none / 0) (#83)
    by desertswine on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 10:45:28 PM EST
    What do the oddsmakers say about (none / 0) (#89)
    by ruffian on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 05:51:14 AM EST
    the Cubs-Mets series? It is interesting....Mets have home field advantage because the Cubs got in on the wildcard, but Cubs had the better record on the season. I'm thinking it is pretty much a coin toss!

    Parent
    Cubs will be favored... (none / 0) (#97)
    by kdog on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:15:48 AM EST
    and the sentimental favorite, to be sure.  We were 0-7 against you this year, which means we're due.  Prediction...Mets in 6.

    Fun fact...the goat of "Curse of The Goat" fame?  His name was Murphy.

    Let's have some fun Ruff!  

    Parent

    Mets favored in Game 1 (none / 0) (#102)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:03:31 AM EST
    Color me surprised... (none / 0) (#105)
    by kdog on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:26:57 AM EST
    Home and Harvey I suppose.  Cubs favored to win the series...5/7 to the Mets 6/5.

    Parent
    Lester v Harvey Saturday night (none / 0) (#104)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:24:45 AM EST
    Would you give up smokes for the rest of the year for Mets in the WS?

    Parent
    Are you sh&tting me? (none / 0) (#109)
    by kdog on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:42:45 AM EST
    Last night was a two pack game.

    Parent
    Very excited! I hope it can take it. (none / 0) (#174)
    by ruffian on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 10:09:56 PM EST
    Got the black cat ready?

    I only wish my dad was here. He passed 4 yrs ago today- if he had known the Cubs would be meeting the Mets in the playoffs in a few years maybe he would have hung in there!

    Parent

    Santa Claus... (5.00 / 1) (#4)
    by ScottW714 on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:10:59 PM EST
    ...was able to sway the North Pole into allowing marijuana dispensaries.

    Really, not a joke.

    Liberals come back from the dead, (5.00 / 4) (#7)
    by Anne on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:39:50 PM EST
    finally:

    From Digby, writing at Salon:

    What a difference a decade makes. On Tuesday night, the Democratic presidential candidates not only openly identified themselves as progressives, they embraced gun control, support for Planned Parenthood, criminal justice reform, LGBT and immigrant rights, and a long, impressive list of progressive economic reforms. The moderators even asked if the candidates considered themselves to be capitalists, a question so startling it would have drawn gasps from the audience in the not too distant past. Instead of rushing to defend their all-American capitalist bona fides as they once would have done, Bernie Sanders matter of factly said he didn't consider himself a "casino capitalist," and Hillary Clinton said she hope to save capitalism from itself. These comments from front-running Democratic candidates would have once been the headlines in the morning papers. Instead, it pretty much passed unnoticed. Indeed, it appears that even the word "socialism" is once again respectable, a development which would have caused the political establishment to collectively call for the fainting couch just a few years ago.

    [...]

    From the perspective of the progressive base, having Democratic presidential candidates debate on this field is a breath of fresh air. For decades they've been cast as silly naifs obsessively concerned with foolish issues of economic fairness and social equality.  And now the two frontrunners for the Democratic presidential nomination were not extolling their "moderate" credentials or parroting conservative tropes with a slightly liberal twist.  The argument on that stage the other night was over the best way to define, explain and achieve progressive goals. It appears that the left has finally managed to stop the rightward momentum of American politics and that the big ship may be turning around. And none too soon.

    Sing it, sister!

    More like Liberal who came back (5.00 / 2) (#34)
    by jondee on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:11:58 PM EST
    and forced Hillary to be more liberal..

    Did she ever once publicly utter the words "I'm a progressive" in 2008?

    Parent

    Not quite (5.00 / 3) (#48)
    by jbindc on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 04:38:35 PM EST
    Clinton was one of the most liberal members during her time in the Senate. According to an analysis of roll call votes by Voteview, Clinton's record was more liberal than 70 percent of Democrats in her final term in the Senate. She was more liberal than 85 percent of all members. Her 2008 rival in the Democratic presidential primary, Barack Obama, was nearby with a record more liberal than 82 percent of all members -- he was not more liberal than Clinton.

    Clinton also has a history of very liberal public statements. Clinton rates as a "hard core liberal" per the OnTheIssues.org scale. She is as liberal as Elizabeth Warren and barely more moderate than Bernie Sanders. And while Obama is also a "hard core liberal," Clinton again was rated as more liberal than Obama.

    She's always been liberal.  You just weren't paying attention (or are so skewed that it wouldn't matter).


    Parent

    There's a reason people wanted to (5.00 / 2) (#90)
    by Anne on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:31:24 AM EST
    have someone like Sanders in the race, and it wasn't because Clinton was too liberal, it was because she needed to be moved/pushed to the left.  

    And there's a reason people want Sanders to stay in it as long as he can, and it isn't because he's a moderate who will keep her in the center, it's because he's a liberal who has already gotten her to move to the left, and the longer she stays there, and is on the record with more liberal positions, the harder it's going to be for her to retreat when/if she's nominated - and if she does retreat to "the center," that center will be farther to the left than it was when all of this started.

    You can cite all the sources you want, jb (and you, too, christine), but those of us who actually are liberal would never, ever classify Clinton as a hard-core liberal.  Never.

    It isn't Hillary Clinton who is reviving liberalism; left to her own devices, and absent any kind of challenge for the nomination, I do not believe she'd be taking some of the progressive positions she has in recent weeks.  Not saying that even as a somewhere-in-the-center candidate she wouldn't be orders of magnitude more sane and more progressive than anything on the other side of the aisle, but let's not kid ourselves about this: she's no hard-core liberal.

    Parent

    Well, Anne (2.00 / 1) (#93)
    by jbindc on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 07:51:48 AM EST
    You keep saying you can only go by her words and actions.  I have shown you proof by her words and votes that she is a liberal.

    Now, "liberal" encompasses a lot of things, so maybe you are so far to the left that no, most liberal politicians won't show up on your radar, in which case, maybe it's you and the minority of people who feel as you do (many on this board) who are out what mainstream liberalism is like.

    You criticize lentinel for never being happy and not being realistic, but the question is - are you realistic?  You can like Bernie Sanders and his ideas (even if some of them just are pie in the sky), but I prefer someone who agrees with my world view most of the time, who can actually get elected, and can actually get stuff done. YMMV.

    Parent

    I think you've completely missed (5.00 / 3) (#103)
    by Anne on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:04:29 AM EST
    the point of my comment, which mostly had to do with the dynamics and effect of having Bernie Sanders in the race.  But I am also reacting to the assertion that, based on some votes, Clinton falls into the "hard-core liberal" category.  We both may find her to be progressive on many issues, but hard-core?  No.  If she's considered a hard-core liberal, it's only because the Overton window has shifted because of the extreme rightward movement by Republicans and efforts by Democrats to try to meet them in the middle.  And that speaks to my point about the role Sanders is playing in this race: he's moving that window in the direction I think most Democrats want to see it go - that's why people wanted Clinton to face a challenge from the left.

    Is Hillary Clinton opposed to the TPP without Bernie Sanders pushing her there?  I don't think so.  The Secretary of State, who called it the "gold standard" of trade agreements, and advocated for it around the world, would not - in my opinion - have come out against it without the influence of Sanders.

    Keystone Pipeline: is she against it without Sanders?  I don't think so.  She dithered and ducked and dodged and delayed taking a position for far too long, and I don't think she opposes it without the groundswell of opposition that Bernie Sanders, by his own opposition, has helped generate.

    At the risk of being accused of beating a dead horse, she voted to give Bush the authority to wage war in Iraq.  She voted for the Patriot Act.  She supports the national security state.  These are not liberal positions.  

    She's much better on domestic issues, on issues of women and children and families - but I think even there, Sanders is pushing her to the left.  He's forcing her to stake out positions she's going to have trouble backing off of if she's the nominee.  And as Democrats who have bemoaned the conceding and accommodating of Republicans for far too long, we want that dynamic.

    It remains to be seen what and how much Clinton can get done - she's never been president before, and we don't know how Republican the Congress will be - and while I know you're itching to remind me how little support Sanders had for his agenda in the Senate, I don't know that you can judge the future performance of a president with the past performance of a Senator.  That argument was made about Obama, too, as I recall.

    I think I'm as realistic as anyone.  I've never believed that any candidate can keep every promise, accomplish every goal, win on every issue, but I like the call to action message that Sanders is pushing, and feel it's been a positive addition to the entire process.  I think he genuinely wants the people to take back some of the power we've ceded to the people we've been electing - and I don't know how anyone can disagree with that.

    I'm watching and listening and assessing, and along the way, I'm going to have positive and negative responses to things.  As my daughter and I were discussing the other day, we're probably both going to vote for Sanders in the primary, but we both feel that the insanity that has the Republican party in its grip is such that if Clinton is the nominee, we are likely to vote for her.

    If you want to snipe and sneer at that, have at it, but I don't think there's anything I've said here, or in my previous comment, that should call for that kind of response.


    Parent

    Hard core liberal? (5.00 / 3) (#107)
    by MO Blue on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:36:35 AM EST
    42 Democratic Senators voted to expand SS benefits. Hillary Clinton during recent debate:

    Asked again whether she would expand Social Security benefits, Clinton conceded that she would expand benefits for some of the program's poorest beneficiaries, specifically citing widows and single women.

    "I want to enhance the benefits for the poorest recipients of Social Security," Clinton said. "We have a lot of women on Social Security, particularly widowed and single women, who didn't make a lot of money during their careers and they are impoverished and they need more help from the Social Security system."
    link

    On this issue HRC is to the right of 42 Democratic Senators and many Democratic House members. Expanding SS benefits across the board maintains the program as a social insurance program. Increasing benefiits only for the poorest recipients turns elements of the program into a welfare program and makes it much more vulnerable.


    Parent

    That would make her more to the left (5.00 / 1) (#108)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:41:43 AM EST
    Although I'm not saying that makes her approach better or worse.

    Parent
    Disagree (5.00 / 4) (#113)
    by MO Blue on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:52:04 AM EST
    Adopting policies that would turn SS into a welfare program is offering it up to Republicans on a platter for privatization.

    The reason it has public support is because it is not considered a "welfare program where those people get stuff for free."

    Parent

    Thanks, jbindc (none / 0) (#54)
    by christinep on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:30:12 PM EST
    It is nice to be able to cite a real record, isn't it!

    While I understand that some will always have a "litmus test" of 1 or 2 issues, political life has always seen the one-issue voter (see, e.g., the anti-abortion bunch)... by the same token, full & extensive records do tell us a lot more than rhetoric ever can.  'Though I especially appreciate HRC's long-held & demonstrated potion with regard to the women in our society--choices, options, pay equity--I appreciate her full record all the more.

    Parent

    Sort of.... (none / 0) (#41)
    by lentinel on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 04:01:38 PM EST
    but she quickly, in my view, backtracked to let everyone know that she really was a moderate who works across the aisle to get things done and all that malarkey.

    Parent
    My point simply was, (5.00 / 1) (#67)
    by lentinel on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 07:42:36 PM EST
    that for the purposes of the debate, she declared herself to be a "progressive".

    On September 10, she declared herself to be a moderate. Her actual quote:

    I've been accused of being a moderate. I plead guilty.

    Hillary Clinton. September 10th.

    Anybody who wants HRC to be president, good luck to them and to all of us. No problem.

    But I think at least we should keep our eyes open.

    Parent

    Of course, I forgot ... (none / 0) (#55)
    by christinep on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:37:31 PM EST
    It might be offensive to some--this notion that a democratic republic contemplates checks & balances, compromises, and all-that-working-with-others stuff.  Some do think that it is far better to state one's position, demand that it be upheld, and--if those who disagree are so foolish as to disagree--then simply walk away bemoaning the ignorance of another not compliant with our wishes.  The Republican Freedom Caucus offers a model for that avenue.

    Two things: Yes, this is sarcasm; yes, it is my firm conviction that inability to work-across-the-aisle from time to time--inevitably leads to the Repub Freedom Caucus and their ilk.  (Our convictions differ, I suppose.)

    Parent

    "lecturing behavior" (5.00 / 1) (#56)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:48:39 PM EST
    for details, read Deborah Tannen

    Parent
    Well (none / 0) (#59)
    by Ga6thDem on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 06:09:06 PM EST
    I kind of sympathize with people who cringe about the phrase "working together" after Obama. Though the problem with Obama isn't that he tried to work with the GOP so much as he can't negotiate and would end up giving away the store to make the GOP happy.

    Parent
    Ga6th: I think that the matter (none / 0) (#62)
    by christinep on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 06:55:53 PM EST
    of negotiation and how it is done, certainly, should be critiqued--as you say--and that is often the case in any settlement (political, legal, etc.)  I respect your position about what constitutes an acceptable compromise.  

    What my point is in my comment above:  Compromise itself is how things are usually accomplished ... in so many areas of life.  Any long-term friendship, partnership, and--obviously--marriage ... the glue more often than not comes down to a willingness to give & take at times.  Love can be lost or languish in heated argument IF compromise isn't employed.  And, for politics and the big differences that exist on the path to governance, that initial bonding love isn't there at the outset. IMO, individual and organizational and government chasms/gaps require similar principles of compromise to get unstuck, to get things done.  

    Believe me, I do think that governmental agreements/deals/compromises should always be subject to scrutiny and questioning and disagreement ... so, I do read you and hear you in your concerns about what are acceptable compromises.  My concern is really with those who seem to present an all-or-nothing, a my-way-or-the-highway, approach to government ... and demonize others who don't agree.  Lately, the right and ultra-right have showcased what happens when everything/everyone is held to a litmus test ... instead of the "no man is an island" way of living, I swear that they will end up with an "everyone is an island" approach to disagreement in and out of government. Talk about a libertarian's dream, huh?  Just get them some barbed wire.  In the same way--whether we like to hear it or not--I'd venture that we have a few examples on the further left of a my-way-or-the-highway attitude as well.  And--by way of response to another nearby commenter--that is not preaching; that is simply saying.

    Parent

    I firmly (none / 0) (#69)
    by FlJoe on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 08:02:35 PM EST
    firmly believe that Hillary would easily and successfully switch from "working with" Republicans to "working them over" when needed, an ability that Obama never seemed to have.

    believe that Hillary would easily and quickly switch from "working with" to "working over" the Republicans as needed.

    Say what you will about Hillary, you can be assured she knows what she is facing, has already faced.

    When it comes to the trench warfare our federal government has become, you could not ask for a better person to have in the foxhole.

    Make no mistake the right wing will come at any Democratic president hard, Hillary has seen it up close and personal for years. Incoming with her name on it is no big deal, she seems
    to even enjoy it.

    No


    Parent

    I agree (none / 0) (#91)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 07:10:00 AM EST
    with what you are saying and don't think Hillary would make the same mistakes Obama has made w/r/t the GOP.

    Parent
    FlJoe: Diplomat & Fighter (none / 0) (#126)
    by christinep on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 01:06:20 PM EST
    You are so right.  Not just in the role of SOS but also in approach & style demonstrated well throughout the years, HRC will work across the aisle ... as a sharp practitioner of the art of negotiation and as one focused on results.  Yet, she is an exceptional fighter who does not flinch when circumstances call for hard moves ... one who knows when to go on offense and defense as well.  

    HRC is much more than the one-dimensional figure that the right has persistently, but unsuccessfully, tried to cast ... she is a person of deep strength on many dimensions.  (And, she can probably walk and chew gum at the same time too.)

    Parent

    Let's Not Forget... (none / 0) (#15)
    by ScottW714 on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:11:37 PM EST
    ...how four years makes a difference as well, no one running throwing Obama under the bus this time around, if anything they were all pretty complimentary to him in the debate.

    Although, the Afghan announcement will probably cause a little rift w/i the party.

    Parent

    Coma. (none / 0) (#68)
    by lentinel on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 07:44:34 PM EST
    Although, the Afghan announcement will probably cause a little rift w/i the party.

    Uh uh.
    I don't think anybody's going to say sh-t.

    Parent

    This is interesting (5.00 / 1) (#9)
    by Repack Rider on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:47:12 PM EST
    A church in DC opposes bike lanes in front of the church because it would be an infringement of religious freedom.  Religious freedom apparently now applies to public streets and rights of way.

    Discuss.

    As a bicyclist I would like to point out that "bike paths" or "multi-use" paths are not built for cyclists, they are built for drivers, to get those pesky bicycles out of the way.

    I have to use such paths now and they suck.  They are poorly maintained, and they mix pedestrians, toddlers, dogs on leash, and bicyclists who are actually trying to get somewhere and ride between 20 and 25 mph, depending on wind direction.  Not a good combination.  Now and then a two-year old walking ahead of the stroller veers across the path without warning.  Or people have those retractable dog leashes that are invisible to cyclists stretched across the path while the dog roots around unseen in the bushes.  Or pedestrians walk four abreast.

    Just give me part of the street, okay?

    yes, I'm sure it will be reported (none / 0) (#11)
    by ruffian on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:50:42 PM EST
    on Fox as the 'War on Parking in Front of Church'.

    this stuff makes me crazy.

    Parent

    This is not the kind of church (5.00 / 1) (#26)
    by jbindc on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:47:08 PM EST
    Or rather, its membership, is not the kind FOX would defend.

    Parent
    Let me guess... (none / 0) (#13)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:01:25 PM EST
    ... the church "needs" the space to park the preacherman's stretch limo?

    Parent
    on a multi-use path (none / 0) (#17)
    by The Addams Family on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:18:16 PM EST
    pedestrians always have the right of way, & bicyclists need to ride at a speed that allows quick stops

    if you're riding at 20 to 25 mph, you don't belong on a multi-use path

    Parent

    um, yup. (none / 0) (#38)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:49:16 PM EST
    Actually, (none / 0) (#18)
    by jbindc on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:20:59 PM EST
    They agreed to installing unprotected bike lanes.  The city originally planned to have protected lanes, so never fear bikers, you can still bike even though the congregants lost the ability to diagonally park on Sundays.

     

    Parent

    The lanes aren't protected unless they are (4.50 / 2) (#22)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:34:53 PM EST
    completely separated from the roadway.  Painted lines and pretty words aren't much of a barrier to 3,000 pounds of steel or aluminium.

    Parent
    I don't get the "religious freedom" (none / 0) (#23)
    by Anne on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:37:24 PM EST
    part of the argument - what am I missing?

    Parent
    Their argument (none / 0) (#24)
    by jbindc on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:44:49 PM EST
    Is basically that allowing bike lanes (thus taking away parking) prevents congregants (many of whom moved out of the city because they've been gentrified out) from attending services.

    Parent
    I don't think much of that argument; (5.00 / 2) (#28)
    by Anne on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:57:20 PM EST
    I just don't see how lack of parking infringes on anyone's religious freedom.

    Parent
    Shows what you know. It definitely interferes (none / 0) (#29)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:59:30 PM EST
    with the preacherman's right to save his flock from their money.  

    Parent
    You may be right (none / 0) (#33)
    by jbindc on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:09:51 PM EST
    I agree (none / 0) (#35)
    by jbindc on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:12:08 PM EST
    Although I am sympathetic to the church. They are by the Convention Center, where it's hard enough to find parking on Sundays, and now these bike lanes will take away some more.

    Parent
    Well They Can Always... (5.00 / 1) (#39)
    by ScottW714 on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:53:09 PM EST
    ...install a drive through healing service just like Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church here in Houston.

    Parent
    Conceptually I sympathize, actually (5.00 / 1) (#58)
    by sj on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:59:14 PM EST
    I don't think it impinges on their religious freedom, but I sympathize.

    There are some streets in Denver that apparently have a similar issue. The resolution here is that lanes that are normally drivable become street parking Sunday mornings.

    Parent

    As someone who lives on one... (none / 0) (#92)
    by MileHi Hawkeye on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 07:49:08 AM EST
    of those streets, I don't mind that at all.  One lane less traffic is a good thing - any day of the week.

    Parent
    The city could slso (none / 0) (#94)
    by jbindc on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:00:59 AM EST
    Forbid bike traffic on Sundays for a set number of hours.  Why not?

    But more seriously,

    But some of these stories made the historically black church's claim sound like a frivolous gripe about inconvenience, completely ignoring the issues of race and gentrification behind the complaint.

    Indeed, leaders of the United House of Prayer for All People allege the proposed lanes are part of a larger plan to force black churches out of gentrifying neighborhoods, NBC Washington reports.

    SNIP

    The letter alleges that "similar parking restrictions have already forced some churches to relocate to the suburbs," though it does not cite specific establishments.

    The letter also suggests that since the church is tax-exempt, church officials suspect the city sees them as a "drag" on tax revenue. If they sold their property, it would likely be acquired by developers who were not tax-exempt, the church argues.

    So where does the "religious freedom" argument come in? The church's lawyers argue that three of the bike lane proposals -- those that would limit parking near the church -- would "substantially burden" the free exercise of religion by restricting access to the church.

    Link

    Parent

    Sunday (5.00 / 1) (#110)
    by CST on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:43:26 AM EST
    Is usually a pretty big biking day as well.

    This is a tough one, because while I generally sympathize with the bikelane cause, Churches do have a real parking problem in a lot of places and there's something off about kicking out the businesses who were there first.

    Is there any transit in the area?  Is driving the only way to get to the church?  I think that question is relevant.  But I think if they could lose a lane of traffic on Sundays that would be the best compromise, you usually don't need it as much that day anyway.

    I don't like the religious exemption for a public roadway planning project, that's just a terrible precedent.  But it's also not good that they haven't seemed to address the issues of the church at all during the planning process.  They are still an active part of the public and deserve a say in their neighborhood.

    Parent

    Two of the day x (5.00 / 2) (#121)
    by jbindc on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:37:14 AM EST
    Metro lines are about a block away from the church.  However, metro riding on weekends is a gamble around here.  Usually, they are doing repair work, and they have a "weekend schedule" to begin with, so it's not uncommon to wait 20 minutes or more for a train.  And if a congregant (many of whom may be older) has to switch lines, their commute to church may take an hour or so - just for a few miles total distance from their house.

    I guess they could all Uber or call a cab, but these aren't rich people to begin with, and it seems kind of icky to tell these people to pony up some more money to go to church so  middle and upper middle class (mostly white) people can take pleasure rides on bikes, many of them very expensive with the latest equipment.

    Parent

    Well it looks like (none / 0) (#135)
    by CST on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:14:38 PM EST
    from the article, they aren't actually going to put in bike lanes there anymore.

    "Ultimately, after a much-heated back-and-forth between the church, city and cycling advocates, the city agreed to make the bike lane unprotected in front of the church."

    Which is essentially how this should work.

    No one has a religious right to a public roadway.  That being said, everyone, including the church, should have a say in what happens to their neighborhood.

    Parent

    Obscenity? (5.00 / 1) (#21)
    by kdog on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:27:41 PM EST
    Brilliant protest idea down at UT Austin...students upset about the state university concealed carry policy are gonna strap up with d*ldos in violation of the state university obscenity policy.

    C*cks not Glocks

    hmmmmmmmmmmm (1.00 / 1) (#86)
    by zaitztheunconvicted on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 12:20:08 AM EST
    I assume that everybody will simply ignore the dildos and that will pass and that over the next few months, from time to time, people will carry arms   . . .

    I don't think that a protest involving carrying dildos is going to last or to cause some group to change the policy on concealed carry on campus . . .

    So, why do you think this is such a great idea, other than, some young women will seem to be slightly more silly because they are carrying around dildos in public . . . and someone like me would be taking photographs of them and finding it interesting or fun . . .

    Parent

    So, it sounds like you're moving to Austin... (5.00 / 2) (#87)
    by Mr Natural on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 03:57:08 AM EST
    Move to Austin.. (5.00 / 2) (#99)
    by jondee on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:26:01 AM EST
    since he honors people's right to defend their bodies and possessions but not to defend their privacy and personal dignity..

    Parent
    One can only hope (5.00 / 3) (#139)
    by shoephone on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:53:12 PM EST
    Or, more specifically, those of us women who walk Greenlake can hope.

    Parent
    I like it because... (5.00 / 2) (#100)
    by kdog on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:36:16 AM EST
    it's clever...perfectly illustrating the total lack of logic and reason in considering a pleasure aid more dangerous or "obscene" than a loaded weapon.

    It may be silly to bring a d*ldo to class, but it is far sillier to bring a loaded weapon to class.

    Parent

    I believe it also (5.00 / 4) (#106)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:31:17 AM EST
    Highlights in a subtle way the little discussed aspect of under sized junk and its relationship to the need to carry a gun or drive a monster truck.

    Just my opinion.

    Parent

    That angle... (none / 0) (#115)
    by kdog on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 10:56:22 AM EST
    didn't even dawn on me...more brilliance.

    Parent
    Imagine the NDA bumper stickers (none / 0) (#118)
    by Mr Natural on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:24:32 AM EST
    They'll take my d*** when they pry it from my cold dead hands...

    Parent
    D*ldos don't pleasure people... (5.00 / 1) (#119)
    by kdog on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:29:22 AM EST
    People do.  

    Parent
    maybe (5.00 / 1) (#120)
    by FlJoe on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:36:47 AM EST
    we should start NDA to counter the NRA.  Though we will have have to come up with a better publication name then American Dildoman.

    Steely Dan could definitely provide the theme music.

    Parent

    it wasn't that long ago (none / 0) (#117)
    by Chuck0 on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:17:20 AM EST
    that possessing more than 5 di*ldos was a crime in Texas. No limits on how many guns you can own.

    Parent
    The O'Legacy: Three Wars for the Price of Two (5.00 / 3) (#27)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:52:05 PM EST
    What's at the bottom of this ongoing (5.00 / 2) (#32)
    by jondee on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:06:17 PM EST
    absurd-under-the-circumstances obsession with getting Assad out at all costs?

    Especially when NO ONE knows who the eff these mythic "moderate rebels" are from one second to the next..

    Parent

    And, (none / 0) (#40)
    by lentinel on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:55:50 PM EST
    lest we forget, Guantánamo.

    A lasting scar on the conscience of the country.

    Parent

    And, (none / 0) (#43)
    by lentinel on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 04:14:32 PM EST
    the ongoing shame of the drone killings.

    Documents detailing a special operations campaign in northeastern Afghanistan, Operation Haymaker, show that between January 2012 and February 2013, U.S. special operations airstrikes killed more than 200 people. Of those, only 35 were the intended targets. During one five-month period of the operation, according to the documents, nearly 90 percent of the people killed in airstrikes were not the intended targets. In Yemen and Somalia, where the U.S. has far more limited intelligence capabilities to confirm the people killed are the intended targets, the equivalent ratios may well be much worse.

    Not the legacy we hoped for in 2008.

    Parent

    This Just In... (none / 0) (#46)
    by ScottW714 on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 04:31:24 PM EST
    U.S. officials consider Colorado prisons for Gitmo detainees

    One of the options is to house inmates at Colorado State Penitentiary II, or Centennial South Correctional Facility.

    The prison, completed in 2010, was mothballed in 2012 following a change in policy that dramatically decreased the number of inmates held in maximum-security state facilities.

    "We have certainly been looking for something to do with that empty prison," said Adrienne Jacobson, spokeswoman for the Colorado Department of Corrections. "We continue to pay for it."

    The prison, which has 948 single-bed cells, cost $208 million. Annual payments are $20 million, she said.



    Parent
    "an empty prison" (none / 0) (#51)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:15:42 PM EST
    Some would consider that a mark of progress.  Not here, though.  

    Parent
    Don't forget Yemen. (none / 0) (#63)
    by desertswine on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 06:59:36 PM EST
    No ground troops (that we know) but drones aplenty.

    Parent
    Whups.... (none / 0) (#65)
    by desertswine on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 07:07:47 PM EST
    Forgot about the Cameroons. Ha ha how could I have been so silly.

    Parent
    Oh, good lord (5.00 / 2) (#64)
    by Ga6thDem on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 07:03:51 PM EST
    This is hysterical. Fox News fell for a con man saying he was an ex-CIA agent. This is the guy who was spinning all those lies about Muslims in America

    link

    No COLA this year for Social Security recipients (5.00 / 1) (#76)
    by Dadler on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 09:29:43 PM EST
    Plus, a leap in Medicare premium unless (5.00 / 1) (#80)
    by oculus on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 10:28:55 PM EST
    Congress acts.

    Parent
    Something needs to be done about the (5.00 / 3) (#125)
    by Anne on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 12:13:58 PM EST
    weight given to energy prices when calculating the cost of living, because as I understand it, it was the huge drop in gas prices that pushed it down down and nixed any cost-of-living increase in Social Security benefits.

    Meanwhile, the things seniors spend money on - prescriptions, utilities, housing, food - all went up, and are still going up, so no increase in SS, plus the increase in Medicare premiums for some, will have a significant and negative impact on those for whom Social Security is their only source of income.

    This kind of says it all:

    Still, people receiving Social Security benefits have seen their buying power fall by 22 percent since 2000, according to an estimate from the Senior Citizens League. Average Social Security benefits have grown to $1,166.30 a month in 2015 from $816 in 2000, according to the report. But retirees would need a monthly benefit of $1,418 to have the same purchasing power they had when they first retired, the survey found.


    Parent
    I'm not a doctor (2.00 / 4) (#81)
    by CoralGables on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 10:34:05 PM EST
    but you may want to take two of these. Your posts lack imagination.

    Pill 1

    Pill 2

    Parent

    Your post lacks empathy (5.00 / 3) (#95)
    by MO Blue on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:08:25 AM EST
    While you may not like his writing style, IMO your comment is a rather callus remark about a real problem that will negatively impact millions of seniors next year.

    Your "be happy" songs do nothing to put food on the table or pay for needed medicine. Your joke (?) falls flat IMO.

    Parent

    It wasn't a joke (none / 0) (#101)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:01:29 AM EST
    Sorry (5.00 / 3) (#111)
    by MO Blue on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:44:41 AM EST
    I was giving you the benefit of the doubt. My mistake.

    Parent
    No need for your benefit (2.00 / 1) (#112)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:51:01 AM EST
    Only thing that ever appears to make dadler happy is music or the Dons. (pretty sure it's the Dons)

    Parent
    Why should (5.00 / 2) (#124)
    by MO Blue on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:59:02 AM EST
    millions of older Americans on fixed incomes facing the largest premium increase in the history of Medicare with no COLA offset make Dadler happy?

    Also, evidently you haven't been paying attention. Dadler actually shines with delight and happiness when he talks about his family.

    Parent

    I was having a hard time (5.00 / 1) (#122)
    by sj on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:46:00 AM EST
    figuring out where you were coming from there:

    I'm not a doctor (2.00 / 1) (#81)
    by CoralGables on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 09:34:05 PM MDT

    but you may want to take two of these. Your posts lack imagination.

    Was this one of your comments where you were being intentionally obnoxious? Or was it one of your unintentionally obnoxious comments?

    Thank for the clarification.

    Parent

    Google Book Scanning Legal, says Court (5.00 / 1) (#114)
    by Mr Natural on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 10:23:18 AM EST
    Reuters: Google book-scanning project legal, says U.S. appeals court

    A byproduct of Google's effort is fantastic OCR (optical character recognition) software that google makes available for google docs.  It's how I convert local municipal documents (like meeting minutes) into searchable text.  I wouldn't have to if the jerks in charge weren't deliberately reducing our ability to monitor and catalog their actions by publish this type of document as jpg images embedded in pdf documents - instead of as the cutable/copyable/editable text which the pdfs originally comprised.

    How does one turn a perfectly useful pdf into unuseable, barely readable jpg images embedded in a pdf?  Easy. Use a scanner set to output pdfs.

    The jerks do the same thing for FOIA results.

    Well In All Fairness... (5.00 / 1) (#143)
    by ScottW714 on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 03:08:45 PM EST
    ...OCR software used to change words and numbers and instead of risking errors, it's just easier to scan and know that a decimal isn't going to create a firestorm.

    I have yet to use OCR technology that is reliable for numbers, namely worksheets, where there are columns and subtotals.

    I think OCR software was pushed years ago and I think many people simply don't trust it.  Me being one of them.

    I don't think it's fair to assume anyone is deliberately doing anything, it's just easier to scan and not proof read, especially large documents.

    That being said, I absolutely hate non-searchable pdf's.

    Parent

    Endless Rounds of "Vietnamization" (5.00 / 1) (#138)
    by Mr Natural on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:35:49 PM EST
    Neil Young's new website (5.00 / 1) (#155)
    by Mr Natural on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:02:43 PM EST
    Go Earth

    Buried in the links to websites about sustainable agriculture, alternative energy, and biking - is a link to Bernie Sanders' campaign and to "Flush the TPP."

    Laurence Lessig nails my issues with Sanders (5.00 / 1) (#179)
    by ruffian on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 10:51:04 PM EST
    on the Bill Maher show. It is that Sanders says many things I agree with and we should do, but there is no way they are going to get done with the political system as messed up as it is now.  I just can't get excited about those ideas until the movement for them knocks out a few hundred congress people. and for that to happen we have to get the money out of politics first.

    That's (none / 0) (#184)
    by Ga6thDem on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 07:17:26 AM EST
    largely me too. I really think he should be included in the next debate. I mean if we can have a block of granite like Chafee in the debate we should include someone like him who actually has some ideas.

    Parent
    How really generous of you (5.00 / 2) (#188)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 09:15:32 AM EST
    being willing to allow Sanders to participate in the next debate.

    Maybe for the third debate you can get the DNC to allow HRC to have the stage all by herself. That way she can debate with herself.

    I love the magical thinking involved with the meme that HRC will somehow work across the isle and get

    Democratic policies
    through the current structure of the Republican House. She and she alone has this power. Sounds much like the rhetoric that was put forth about Obama in 2008. Talk about pretty pink ponies.

    Parent
    Not everyone thinks so (none / 0) (#189)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 09:22:58 AM EST
    IMO Hillary is possibly the only person in the country as polarizing as Obama.  Maybe even more in her own way.

    I think what that comment meant is that Lessig should be included in the next debate.  I completely agree.  I have no idea on what grounds he was excluded from the first and the other two were included.

    Lessig in running for the sole purpose of bringing some very important topics to the table.  He should be in the debate.

    Parent

    Perhaps (5.00 / 3) (#197)
    by FlJoe on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 10:38:08 AM EST
    she is polarizing but there is no good reason for it. The, somewhat justified, knock on her from the left is that she's too much of a centrist/corporate Democrat, in this current political environment that species is one of the most non-polarizing creatures in Washington. The only reason she is "polarizing" is because she is the Democratic front runner(and named Clinton!). Imagine the "polarization" that would magically appear if Bernie were the front runner(and a socialist!).

    If there was no real polarization in this country, I am quite sure the media would create some, they need two distinct poles for their both-siderism world to continue to spin.

    Parent

    Yes, I believe the (5.00 / 1) (#199)
    by KeysDan on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 10:51:48 AM EST
    reference was intended for Professor Lessig. He said he was excluded from the debate because he was not considered a serious candidate.  He noted that his proclamation of resigning the presidency after achieving his fundamental goal was a mistake--doing so with candor laced with humor.

    Another observation, and one that troubles me with the Senator Sander's candidacy in a general election, is the senator's seeming disinterest in the need to explain and educate the electorate on his meaning of democratic socialism. He is focused, on message, and does not veer. It is working in the primary, energizing many, but it will need to be broadened.

     During the debate, and again on the Maher Show, he seemed to feel that references to Denmark and other Scandinavian countries was self-evident.  When Bill Maher, who is a Sander's supporter, tried to help Sanders with examples of socialism in the USA

    that are popular and widely accepted (e.g., social security, veterans admin) he seemed non-plussed.

      And, the socialism disparagement part is what needs to be cut off at the pass.  A complicated, but basic understanding of how Sander's ideas can be financially achieved is presented in the business section of the NYT.

      In my view, Sander's needs to work on a simplified plan that addresses the obvious swift-boating already in motion (e.g. Trump's communist; Paul's Pol Pot charges) and surely much more to come.    

    Parent

    Come to think of it (none / 0) (#191)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 09:33:10 AM EST
    The reason he is running is likely the same reason he was excluded.

    Parent
    Thanks for clearing that up (none / 0) (#192)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 09:34:20 AM EST
    for me. I will have to apologize to GA. Somehow I missed that he was running.

    My question still remains to those who object to Sanders because he will not be able to get his policies passed. What magical powers does HRC possess that will allow her to get Democratic agenda items through a Republican majority House.

    Parent

    Speaking only for myself (5.00 / 1) (#194)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 09:53:52 AM EST
    That has almost nothing to do with it.  I am supporting Hillary, or endorsing Hillary I guess, because I believe she is the only choice that can win.   I believe that.   It's not just about Bernie but honestly IMO he has exactly zero chance of winning a general election even less than for example a couple of the others.   That's what I think.  I get that you don't agree but I think ruffian does.   And there is a lot the next president can effect besides legislation.  Namely and most importantly, the Court.

    I like Bernie.   I'm glad Bernie has been in the race.  Afaiac it has been all good no bad as a result of his candidacy.   Lessig could have a similar effect.

    Parent

    One more bit (5.00 / 1) (#195)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 10:12:02 AM EST
    Reince Priebus recently (2014) said this-

    The Republican Party will be ruined if one of their candidates can't win the White House in 2016, the chairman of the party admitted Friday morning.

    "I do think that we're cooked as a party for quite a while as a party if we don't win in 2016. So I do think that it's going to be hard to dig out of something like that," Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus told the Washington Examiner.

    I have heard similar thoughts from other republican opinion makers.   The next election is very high stakes for them and they understand it.   They will do anything to win.  Anything.  The 2016 election will not be for the faint hearted or inexperienced in such matters.   There is simply to much at stake.

    IMO

    Parent

    Talk about the demise of the (5.00 / 3) (#203)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 11:12:21 AM EST
    Republican Party has been going on since 2006. I remember when the Dems took control of Congress all the talk about how the Reblicans were crushed and the Dems would be in control for decades to come.

    I think that Priebus' comment is meant to put fear into the hearts of Republicans who may not like what is going on in their party so that they will become involved regardless of their misgivings.

    Of course, the reality now is that the Republicans are stronger than ever and control local, state and federal governments across the country.

    Personally, I'm not buying this.

    Parent

    I may not agree with you (5.00 / 1) (#196)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 10:28:21 AM EST
     but I can understand the reasoning behind your choice. OTOH, the reasoning to choose HRC over Sanders because he could not get his policies through a Republican Congress does not make the slightest bit of sense to me. Somehow the idea that HRC will get good stuff passed in the same environment has not been supported by anything other than the premise that she is willing to compromise. Please, please someone tell me what the Republicans definition of compromise is other than get everything they want, give nothing in return and then demand more.


    Parent
    I apologize for my comment regarding (none / 0) (#193)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 09:40:59 AM EST
    the debate. Somehow I missed the fact that Lessig has announced he was running.

    My comment regarding the magical thinking remains. IMO the idea that HRC, and she alone, can somehow get good legislation through a Republican house is not only wishful thinking but magical thinking.

    Parent

    I agree (5.00 / 1) (#205)
    by FlJoe on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 11:51:42 AM EST
    given the current landscape getting any decent legislation through the monkey house will be nearly impossible for any Democratic president. Hillary knows that, Bernie knows that, although sometimes the supporters of both seem to forget it. Of course

    Realistically any progress towards a more fair, just and equal country is going to be a long hard slog, with progress being made a bloody inch at a time. Once you concede that neither of them will be able to push a meaningful agenda it does take the wind out of Bernie's big ideas sail.

    I happen to think that Hillary is much better equipped to handle that kind of warfare. Any time I game out early spring 2017 and try to imagine what vile creature has been chosen as head howler, I feel confident with Hillary at the helm, the best I can muster is  a "hopeful" for Bernie.

    Parent

    Why should Lessig (none / 0) (#201)
    by CoralGables on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 10:53:53 AM EST
    be invited to the debate while ignoring the other 50 people that have filed to run as a Dem?

    Parent
    Please, please tell me (none / 0) (#190)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 09:28:21 AM EST
    exactly what type of legislation HRC will be able o get passed with the political system as messed up as it is now?

    Please list the Democratic agenda items that Obama has  been able to get passed since the Republicans have had the majority in the House?

    These are real questions whose answers might provide some insight into how HRC might be able to get good stuff done.


    Parent

    CaptHowdy (5.00 / 1) (#206)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 12:04:50 PM EST
    This is now.

    The Republicans control 31 state legislations and 31 Governorships. The Republicans have drawn up the districts in states so that it they will control the House until at least 2022 and the change will only occur if the Dems can find a way to win back the state legislations. They also control voting laws and are structuring their state systems to make it harder or impossible for Democratic voters to vote.

    I would love for you to be right but I don't think you are.


    FlJoe (5.00 / 1) (#208)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 12:23:00 PM EST
    I disagree that the fact that no Democratic president will be able to get good stuff passed takes the wind out of Bernie's sails.

    A president, if they use their office wisely, has a better platform than a Senator to put forth their ideas before the citizens of this country. Bernie will be selling good ideas that actually are wanted and needed by the vast majority of the people in this country. Much better and easier to sell than warmed over moderate Republican ideas IMO.

    Nibbling at the edges of moderate Republican policies and selling them as the best that can be done so that you can say you passed something and can work across the isle does not IMO result in policies that are good for the average citizen but only acts to rehabilitate the Republican Party and promote them as the party of good ideas.

    Local controls the (5.00 / 1) (#209)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 12:49:31 PM EST
    make up of House of Representatives through redistricting. They have accomplished their goals in that respect. Local controls, for the most part, the voting process in their state and they are chipping away at the ability of Democratic voters  to actually cast their votes. If they accomplish even some their voting right goals, they will control the Senate and the presidency as well.

    I am not dismissing the importance of the courts but I'm not sure that a Democratic president will even  be able to maintain the status quo in the Supreme Court. I am doubtful that any real liberal replacement for the liberal judges will get through the advise and consent process. As for the Federal courts evidently Obama did not understand the importance of the federal court system when he had the majority in both houses of Congress. Not all of these vacancies are the result of the Republicans in the Senate.

    Vacancies in the Federal Judiciary
    114th Congress
    Last updated on10/16/2015
    Total Vacancies:67
    Total Nominees Pending:29

    All of this, is not to say that a Democratic president is not preferable to a Republican one but to paraphrase Mark Twain

    The stories of the demise of the Republican Party are greatly exasperated.


    MO blue (5.00 / 1) (#211)
    by Ga6thDem on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 06:15:51 PM EST
    I was talking about Lessing not Bernie.

    Ga6thDem (5.00 / 1) (#212)
    by MO Blue on Sun Oct 18, 2015 at 07:55:01 AM EST
    Yes, CaptHowdy pointed that out to me yesterday and that is why I wrote the following comment to you:

    I apologize for my comment regarding (none / 0) (#193)
    by MO Blue on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 09:40:59 AM CDT
    the debate. Somehow I missed the fact that Lessig has announced he was running.

    I guess you somehow missed the it.

    Another tragic case where someone didn't do (1.00 / 1) (#140)
    by McBain on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:53:26 PM EST
    what the cop asked him to do
    http://tinyurl.com/qyft2u2
    Another lawsuit filed.

    There was some kind of a struggle before shots were fired.  Hard to see everything in the video.    

    Nobody clicks on tinyurl links (5.00 / 2) (#141)
    by shoephone on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:56:56 PM EST
    How many times does that need to be reiterated?

    Parent
    Or That Daily Mail is a Tabloid (5.00 / 1) (#144)
    by ScottW714 on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 03:14:14 PM EST
    LOL (none / 0) (#152)
    by sj on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 04:22:21 PM EST
    So apparently you clicked on his tinyurl.

    Parent
    Says who? (none / 0) (#145)
    by McBain on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 03:22:05 PM EST
    Says pretty much (5.00 / 1) (#151)
    by sj on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 04:21:29 PM EST
    everybody on this site -- who talks about your links or reads your comments.

    It seems rather trollish to act is if this is first you are hearing about it. In my view.


    Parent

    I can't tell you how sick I am (5.00 / 2) (#154)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 05:49:15 PM EST
    Of this subservient population BS.  
    If we all just followed instructions.
    You know, if only we were all just subservient enough, none of these things would happen.   If we just knew our place and avoided eye contact and made no quick or threatening moves all of this could be avoided.

    What utter twisted insidious evil bullsh!t.

    Please make it stop.  The craven mewling after the fact justification is as bad as the act of violence.

    Parent

    Not sure how (none / 0) (#156)
    by sj on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:04:31 PM EST
    that relates to McBain's insistence on using tinyurl, but OK.

    I never click on one of them no matter who provides it because they totally obscure the destination.

    I am not the first person to say this. Actually, maybe I was.

    Parent

    It was more about the message (5.00 / 1) (#158)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:07:38 PM EST
    That the method

    Parent
    Still not sure what you're talking about (none / 0) (#160)
    by sj on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:13:40 PM EST
    But that's fine. It's martini time here. Have a good weekend.

    Parent
    Thread head (5.00 / 1) (#164)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:20:32 PM EST
    Another tragic case where someone didn't do (1.00 / 1) (#140)
    by McBain on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:53:26 PM EST
    what the cop asked him to do
    http://tinyurl.com/qyft2u2
    Another lawsuit filed.
    There was some kind of a struggle before shots were fired.  Hard to see everything in the video.    

    Reply to This |  1  2  3  4  5



    Parent
    I've never heard anyone complain about someone (2.00 / 1) (#167)
    by McBain on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 07:57:44 PM EST
    using tinyurl before.  The the first link I ever posted in here wasn't condensed at all and Jeralyn  pointed out two methods for doing so... tinyurl being one of them.

    Your comment that "nobody clicks on tinury links" is obviously not true. I'm not quite sure what your problem is?  

    Parent

    Correction... (none / 0) (#168)
    by McBain on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:11:11 PM EST
    shoephone said "nobody clicks on tinyurl links"  

    Parent
    Have you been living in a bubble? (5.00 / 3) (#175)
    by shoephone on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 10:12:37 PM EST
    The aversion to clicking on tinyurl links has been stated ad nauseam on this blog, by more than just me.

    Here, let me make it easy for you to understand: tinyurl links are blind links. They don't show the source web address when the reader is moving the mouse over it. Therefore, people have no idea what site they are being led to, if it is p*rn, if it may have viruses or malware, or, most basically, if it's a source they would trust in the first place.

    I, and many others, will not click on a tinyurl link. You can do whatever you like. But, if you want more than a very small minority to click on your links, make the source known. Continuing to post tinyurl links is trollish behavior, in my opinion.

    Parent

    Jeralyn says.. (none / 0) (#178)
    by desertswine on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 10:39:25 PM EST
    they skew the site.  I'm not sure what that means, but if she don't like em, then neither do I.  I don't clik on them.

    Parent
    I don't believe that's correct (none / 0) (#181)
    by McBain on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 01:42:19 AM EST
    see my response to shoephone below

    Parent
    This is what Jeralyn says (none / 0) (#180)
    by McBain on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 01:40:59 AM EST
    in the "comment" section under "menu"

    URL's within the body of the comment must be in html format or they will be deleted as they skew the site. Use the link button at the top of the comment box to paste in the url. You can also find a shorter link via tinyurl.com and post that.

    She doesn't seem to have a problem with tinyurls.  

    Parent

    Yes she does McBain. (5.00 / 1) (#198)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 10:41:14 AM EST
    While she stated in the original "comment" section that tiny url's can be used, she has repeatedly asked people to not use them.  I think you know this.

    Parent
    No I don't know this (1.00 / 1) (#200)
    by McBain on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 10:52:00 AM EST
    If someone can show me where she says that I won't use them.  No one has ever complained to me before yesterday.

    Parent
    America's Afghan Tour Held Over Indefinitely. (none / 0) (#1)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 11:57:19 AM EST
    News Shocker: Drones kill small fraction of target (none / 0) (#8)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 01:41:41 PM EST
    but lots of other people.

    nearly nine out of 10 people who died in airstrikes were not direct targets, The Intercept reported.


    Parent
    This is funny... (none / 0) (#14)
    by kdog on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:11:05 PM EST
    Illinois Lottery welching on all winning tickets over $600, at least temporarily.

    Governments make the worst bookies...

    Yeah, I would Suggest... (5.00 / 1) (#20)
    by ScottW714 on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:27:21 PM EST
    ...the residents give the state IOU's on April 15th and see how they like it.  I assume there is an exorbitant penalty for paying late with interest.

    Of course the state makes the worse bookies, you win $100M and end up with about $34M in your bank account.  Even the craziest bookies could never get a vig of 66%, that is paid by the winner.

    What a racket, both winners and loser pay.

    Parent

    I'm betting that (none / 0) (#37)
    by Zorba on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:46:36 PM EST
    Illinois will somehow find the money to go after anyone who doesn't pay their state taxes, Scott.  
    Money coming in, less and less money going out.
    Scott, you're right.  It's a sweet racket.

    Parent
    That is funny. Last I heard that story, (none / 0) (#16)
    by Mr Natural on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:16:52 PM EST
    they were only welching on payments of $25,000 and up.

    Parent
    They're not the only ones (none / 0) (#25)
    by Zorba on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 02:46:19 PM EST
    getting welched on in Illinois, dog.
    Payments to physicians with patients who work for the state (and have health insurance as part of their compensation package) are not receiving their payments in a timely manner (having in some cases to wait many months for it).
    Illinois is also talking about delaying (who knows how long?) pension payments to retired state employees.
    Social service organizations have been denied promised state tax dollars and some are in danger of closing.
    Yes, it's not good that the lottery winners are not receiving their payments.
    But I'm more worried about the pensioners, the poor who depend upon the social service programs, and the state employees and their families, some of whose physicians are now demanding payment up front, because they don't know when they'll get paid.  Not all state employees are well paid enough to be able to afford to pay their doctors cash on the barrel head.
    It's a mess in Illinois (I have relatives there), and it's not particularly funny to me.

    Parent
    Outrageous... (none / 0) (#31)
    by kdog on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:06:01 PM EST
    but I'll bet the state is still collecting sales taxes, property taxes, etc.

    Like Scott said...some racket.  And yes, not funny.

    Parent

    I'd have to check with my relatives there, (none / 0) (#36)
    by Zorba on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 03:42:13 PM EST
    but I'm sure you're right.
    Illinois has no budget agreement, which is delaying payments that are promised by the state, but they can still collect, after all.
    Grifting, that's what it is.  Collect, but don't pay out.
    Yes, it's a pretty good racket, all right.

    Parent
    I am in illinois, and it is a mess. (5.00 / 2) (#66)
    by caseyOR on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 07:13:08 PM EST
    Of course we are all expected to pay each and every tax and pay them on time. The state, however, well not so much.

    The state legislature, controlled by Democrats, and our new hedge fund billionaire governor Bruce Rauner are at loggerheads. Rauner will not sign any budget the legislature passes unless that budget contains Rauner's proposals to make, as he claims, Illinois easier for, and more attractive to, businesses. Rauner wants to Scott Walkerize Illinois.

    Rauner has a nifty list of wants, including the idea that public employee unions can still negotiate for their members, just not on salary, perks or working conditions.

    The state has been on the verge of bankruptcy for years. That Rauner refused to renew an income tax increase, thus immediately cutting stte frevenues, has not helped. Today the state comptroller announced that Illinois could no longer make the required contributions to the state employees pension plan. For now, retirees will continue to get their checks, but plan payments will cease.

    The thing that has people POed about the lottery payments is that the money to payout is there in the state accounts, but  the comptroller insists that because of state law she cannot write those checks to lottery winners.

    This is a godawful mess. And people are being hurt in very real ways by this stalemate.

    Parent

    A case of a billionaire, (none / 0) (#49)
    by KeysDan on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:02:50 PM EST
    first-time elected to anything Republican governor doing things his way, or the highway. While Illinois has had major budget problems, Governor Bruce Rauner is addressing the budget shortfall by allowing a state income tax increase to expire, and demanding changes in public union collective bargaining, capping civil lawsuit damages, a property tax freeze, and making changes in workers  compensation. Moreover, the governor is demanding that the Democratic legislators support his "business agenda."   Hence, no budget.

    Parent
    He's the Illinois version (5.00 / 2) (#52)
    by Zorba on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:20:29 PM EST
    of Scott Walker (although way, way richer) and is in the process of destroying much of what made Illinois  great state.

    Parent
    Yes, he is. (5.00 / 2) (#57)
    by Towanda on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:49:30 PM EST
    My progeny escaped Wisconsin for Illinois to get away from it . . . and it now followed them there.

    At least there are a lot more jobs in Illinois -- including in sustainable energy, the field of one of my progeny.  Walker campaigned against it, so the progeny left Wisconsin the day after his election.  

    Now, we only can hope that the Walker wannabe in Illinois doesn't emulate Wisconsin to the extent of destroying the economy there, too.

    Well, we also only can hope that Illinois continues its tradition of sending governors to prison.

    Parent

    Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner (R), (5.00 / 1) (#60)
    by KeysDan on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 06:40:53 PM EST
    seems to have a "Scott Gene Pool" displaying not only those fine character qualities of Scott Walker (R.WI), but also, those of Rick Scott (R. FL).

      Ethics for one, Rauner managed to get his daughter in Chicago's Walter Peyton College Prep School, although a resident of a fancy North Shore suburb.  He provided,  shortly thereafter, a $250,000 gift.

    Ability to govern for two, Rauner just can't understand why the Democratic legislature does not snap to it. He never had that trouble with his employees when he was CEO of his equities and other business firms.

     He promised to "run the  state like a business" apparently seeing no difference. Yes he has business experience.  As part of his business empire, he ran nursing homes.  However, these facilities also ran into scandals and lawsuits, involving mistreatment of disabled patients, deaths in bathtubs, abuses, and deplorable living conditions.

    And, he has no use for aesthetics. No cash value. He believes that he can solve some of the state budget problems by selling the Thompson Government Center in the heart of Chicago's loop.

    The beautiful state presence in Chicago (Springfield is the Capitol) was designed by the renowned architect Helmut Jahn in 1985.  It is named after a former Republican governor, Jim Thompson, whose idea it was, and represents what is probably Thompson's best (only) achievement, if you do not count the fact that he is one of few recent governors of Illinois not to wind up in jail.  Rauner finds the modern building to be ineffective and inefficient, what with an atrium and all.

    Parent

    Rauner has closed (none / 0) (#73)
    by Zorba on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 08:57:36 PM EST
    the Illinois State Museums, as well, including the flagship, 138-year old state museum in Springfield.

    Link

    Parent

    And right on cue, Jim Thompson is blaming (none / 0) (#116)
    by caseyOR on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:01:46 AM EST
    former Democratic governor Pat Quinn for the possible closing of the Thompson building.

    Parent
    FIB's (none / 0) (#42)
    by ScottW714 on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 04:06:27 PM EST
    You know you have left Wisconsin when you hit 1001 tollbooths to drive on crappy roads.

    But Karma gave them the Bears so I guess it all evens out.

    Parent

    It's a Festivus Day Miracle... (none / 0) (#45)
    by ScottW714 on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 04:26:29 PM EST
    Donald Trump and Ben Carson are both threatening to boycott the next Republican presidential debate if CNBC, who is hosting the event, and the Republican National Committee do not change the stated format of the event.

    "Neither Mr. Trump or Dr. Carson will participate in your debate if it is longer than 120 minutes including commercials and does not include opening and closing statements," the letter, obtained exclusively by NBC News and signed by both candidates, reads.

    LINK

    Maybe they could bill the network, then I am sure at least the doctor would show up.

    Are we really at the point were people seeking the Presidency can't be bothered for more than 2 hours every month with trying to convince the public why they should vote for them.  JFChrist

    NBC Should Say:

    So sorry gentlemen to have burdened you with having to deal with debates in your quest for presidency, looks like we will have 8 participants.


    Honestly (none / 0) (#50)
    by Ga6thDem on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:06:34 PM EST
    isn't that the truth? They should just have a debate without them and see how it rolls.

    Parent
    Well, this will give (none / 0) (#61)
    by KeysDan on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 06:54:01 PM EST
    Ben Carson more time to grift...er...hawk his new book.  He is suspending his campaign for a book tour.  

    Parent
    The "progressive" speaks: (none / 0) (#53)
    by lentinel on Thu Oct 15, 2015 at 05:27:08 PM EST
    I've been accused of being a moderate. I plead guilty.

    Hillary Clinton. September 10th.

    Hotel (none / 0) (#123)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 11:49:19 AM EST
    I understand if you are not watching this.  The AHS franchise has never really been for everyone.  That fact was never more evident than in this weeks episode.  1 hr 40 min randomly and wonderfully enough.

    They are clearly intent on pushing the boundaries of basic cable.   I am totally down with that.   But I watch the show because in spite if its frequent silliness,  silliness that is presented so beautifully and artfully that the silliness ceases to be the point, it is occaisionally transcendent.   Every so often there is a moment that just blows the doors off.  There was such a moment in this weeks extended episode.  

    After a cringeworthy sex scene bathed in blood - which is the scene being twittered about - there is a moment of pillow talk between Lady Gaga and the boy toy.  This is the transcendent part.   The boy toy, after finding out she is over 100 yeas old and some of the ground rules of vampirism in this context - "what about stakes and silver bullets, do they kill us?"   "B!tch please, of course the do.  You are only immortal if you are smart" , asks what her favorite era was.

    She says the late 70s.  And then she describes them complete with flash back footage to the balcony of the Saint.  She, in a couple of sentences, explains how anyone gay or who lived in the gay scene feels about surviving that era.   It was a remarkable moment.  The kind where you wipe the tear and say "what the f@ck just happened?"

    It's why I watch the series.

    What's going on in Iowa?!? (none / 0) (#127)
    by Robot Porter on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 01:27:29 PM EST
    There have been no polls released in two weeks.

    I can't believe no one is polling.

    Are they embargoed for some strange reason?

    Anyone have the inside scoop on this?

    No clue (none / 0) (#128)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 01:34:01 PM EST
    but there is one out of NH today.

    Meaningless as it's just one poll but Clinton +2

    Parent

    Not that meaningless ... (none / 0) (#129)
    by Robot Porter on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 01:38:06 PM EST
    it's following the Gravis one that had the race within three points.

    This may be the trend in NH.  Which is bad, bad, bad news for Bernie.

    BUT I AM ASKING ABOUT IOWA.

    This is the longest without a poll in Iowa since April.

    Something must be going on.

    Parent

    Maybe they're sick and tired of being polled. (5.00 / 1) (#134)
    by MileHi Hawkeye on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:03:15 PM EST
    Its also harvest time, Taylor Swift was in Des Moines, the Governor is busy trying to run the state into the ground, the Iowa football team is undefeated and the Cubs are in the play-offs.

    Parent
    Or they could be ... (5.00 / 1) (#136)
    by Robot Porter on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:22:28 PM EST
    holding out for more corn subsidies.

    Ethanol, baby!

    Parent

    They did 8 in August (none / 0) (#131)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 01:52:07 PM EST
    only 4 in September. Give it a week and see if a couple pop up, thereby getting back close to repeating the 4 again this month.

    I ignore Gravis until they prove they actually do any polling. A one person business working from home, grabbing money from campaigns, is quite likely polling the way he is asked to poll.

    Parent

    Either way ... (none / 0) (#132)
    by Robot Porter on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 01:59:22 PM EST
    Bernie can probably start some vacation planning for March.

    Parent
    Another poll of interest (none / 0) (#142)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 03:07:28 PM EST
    NBC National Poll has Jeb in 6th place. Guessing that wasn't the shock and awe that was planned.

    Next to drop out of the GOP race? I'm guessing Jindal or Rand Paul. Both have financial issues now.

    Parent

    Remember where John Kerry ... (none / 0) (#157)
    by Robot Porter on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:07:15 PM EST
    was at this time in '03?

    When you're an establishment candidates polls don't matter at this stage. So Jeb doesn't need to worry much.  The current top three will never be nominated by any Republican Party ever.  So sixth place is something of a misnomer.

    But if you're a Bernie Sanders polls do matter.

    Parent

    Maybe (none / 0) (#165)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:23:27 PM EST
    the polls don't mean much for Jeb but honestly the GOP establishment has a riot on their hands this year. Jeb could still be the nominee but at this point I can only seeing him getting it through a brokered convention or the super delegates deciding on him. And I understand the party is starting to look to other people like Rubio.

    Parent
    It's (none / 0) (#166)
    by FlJoe on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 07:25:44 PM EST
    the trend lines that have to be disturbing for Bush, he has lost over half his support over the last 3 months most of it to the anti-Bush Trump and unexplainable, but not Bush, Dr. Carson. Even if one or both of them fade Bush seems unlikely to regain those votes.

    Even if the polls are not empirically accurate it makes no difference, politics is perception and the perception is Jeb is flailing.

    Parent

    SNAP Poll: Who talks to Pollsters on the phone? (none / 0) (#137)
    by Mr Natural on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:26:23 PM EST
    Do any of you?

    I don't.  I hang up.  Quickly.

    Parent

    Somebody (5.00 / 1) (#146)
    by FlJoe on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 03:30:34 PM EST
    does or I would be out of a job, dialed 30k numbers for a couple 100 surveys today. Calling Republicans they are kind of easy.

    Parent
    What's easy about Republicans? (none / 0) (#169)
    by Mr Natural on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:18:40 PM EST
    (a snark free question)

    Parent
    From (none / 0) (#182)
    by FlJoe on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 06:18:35 AM EST
    my experience they are more likely to take political surveys. Mainly because of the demographics, older and white is easy, younger minorities are extremely hard to poll.

    I also think that because of talk radio and Fox, Republicans tend to remain poltically energized and opinionated even during off years.

    Parent

    I Did Once... (5.00 / 1) (#147)
    by ScottW714 on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 03:47:08 PM EST
    ...last election cycle, they actually called my work number, half hour later I said never again.

    So put me down for one.

    Parent

    I almost never pick .. (5.00 / 1) (#159)
    by Robot Porter on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:10:22 PM EST
    up the phone.  But, if I do, it means I have time.  So I will answer polls.

    They polled me on the last mayoral election in NYC.

    Parent

    Sometimes, we do so, as a protest (5.00 / 4) (#162)
    by Towanda on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:15:52 PM EST
    of all of the polling to which we are subjected in a swing state.

    We respond to screw 'em up.  For example, I am a 19-year-old male libertarian who loves Rand Paul.

    And we are not alone in this, we know; it's the stuff of regular discussions at the bagel shop, regaling each other with screwing up X#$%!! polls.

    Just something to keep in mind when relying on polls.

    Parent

    It's my understanding (none / 0) (#148)
    by Repack Rider on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 03:58:42 PM EST
    ...that some of the polling outfits were embarrassed that their results were being used to sort GOP candidates between the kiddie table and the grownup table.  So they stopped putting out results, and now the GOP has to figure things out for themselves.

    That's not something they're good at.

    Parent

    Like Rand Paul... (none / 0) (#149)
    by ScottW714 on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 04:10:51 PM EST
    ...who put this memo out:
    "There are some in the media who are pushing the false narrative that Senator Rand Paul (SRP) is on the ropes," reads the missive from Paul's campaign manager, Chip Englander, and his chief strategist, Doug Stafford, which is crafted in the form of an internal campaign memorandum.
    LINK

    They day after he accused the government of indicting his ex-aids to hurt him politically.  Yeah, Rand I don't think anyone is worried about you becoming president, much less the government, which of course you are a part of.

    The guy still thinks he's a contender, damn the GD polls.

    Parent

    Not worried now ... (none / 0) (#163)
    by Robot Porter on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:17:55 PM EST
    but he was polling very high a ways back.  

    Remember Watergate.

    Parent

    Only Gallup (none / 0) (#150)
    by CoralGables on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 04:15:57 PM EST
    And only with national primary polls, which has nothing to do with Iowa.


    Parent
    Explain to me ... (none / 0) (#130)
    by sj on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 01:48:03 PM EST
    It isn't ... (none / 0) (#133)
    by Robot Porter on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 02:00:54 PM EST
    but don't say it too loudly or you'll rapidly find yourself labeled a conspiracy theorist.

    Parent
    Oh, good lord (none / 0) (#153)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 05:41:31 PM EST
    Peggy Noonan is now blaming the rise of Donald Trump on Obama. These people are prime examples of the mental health problem in this country.

    She is the worst. (none / 0) (#173)
    by ruffian on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:46:10 PM EST
    I can't think about how much money she must make or I go off the deep end.

    Parent
    El Chapo on the run!! (none / 0) (#161)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 06:14:19 PM EST
    What El Chapo's cell sounded like to guards... (none / 0) (#170)
    by Mr Natural on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 08:22:26 PM EST
    El Chapo's Cell Sounded Like A Construction Site And Guards Didn't Care

    The newly released version of the video includes a series of noises so loud they can be heard over the television in Guzmán's cell. It sounds at times like the banging of hammers, the whir of a drill or some other power tool. And yet, guards didn't react as they watched the footage.


    Parent
    What makes you think the guards (5.00 / 2) (#171)
    by oculus on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:19:13 PM EST
    were watching the monitor?

    Parent
    Hey, The Knick is back! (none / 0) (#172)
    by ruffian on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 09:29:07 PM EST
    How much do I love Clive Owen? answer: a lot

    Parent
    Yes (none / 0) (#176)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 10:17:40 PM EST
    Just saw it.

    Cocaine to Morphine to sailboats.

    Ok

    Poor sister Harriet

    Parent

    Is that the same actress playing (none / 0) (#177)
    by ruffian on Fri Oct 16, 2015 at 10:27:08 PM EST
    Sister Harriet? I didn't recognize her. But my memory is not good....so many shows.

    Parent
    It is (none / 0) (#183)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 07:14:52 AM EST
    I don't think you watch The Americans but if you are watching The Bastard Executioner the male lead, Matthew Rhys, is now a regular.  He is "The Wolf".  Leader of the resistance and secret brother of Lady Love.

    I also didn't recognize him at first because of the scraggly hair and beard.

    Parent

    Geez, Howdy... (5.00 / 1) (#185)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 08:03:32 AM EST
    not sure how you have time to watch all those shows.  I try but those pesky fish out there get in the way of TV time.  Caught a batch of Mangrove and Mutton Snapper yesterday, so we're having an old fashioned fish fry today.  Lotta people eat fried fish down here, but I grill mine.  And yes, I'm making a batch of Tzatziki today.  The Florida City produce guy brings down all kinds of fresh fruit and veggies on weekends.  Once again I can practice my strange Spanish with him.  Years ago I gave up on the perfect verb declensions and the accent.  They know I'm a gringo and will never get it right.  I learned my Spanish in the taxi cabs and cantinas of the world.  Cervecas help.

    Parent
    It's easy if you don't fish (5.00 / 2) (#186)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 08:23:51 AM EST
    The only foreign language I usually need is redneck.

    Alcohol definitely helps with that.

    Parent

    Sister Harriet (none / 0) (#187)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 08:32:36 AM EST
    For those who don't know, is the center of one of the best subplots of this story.
    She is a nun who is the only source for safe abortions.  This is obviously not in her official capacity.   This season starts with her in jail having been busted for what she does.  We don't yet know exactly how that happened.   We did get the full judgment from her order from the Mother Superior.  So I'm guessing she won't be a nun this season.  But being a show about early medicine I think she will be around.

    Parent
    Maybe some nun bopping (none / 0) (#202)
    by fishcamp on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 11:05:30 AM EST
    will give her special dispensation from her Ecclesiological bad performances.  Sounds like I better make time for this show.

    Parent
    MoBlue (none / 0) (#204)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 11:41:21 AM EST
    The demise of the Republican Party

    That was then.  They have lost the popular vote in 5 of the last 6 elections.  2016 will make 6 out of the last 7.

    Plus they can't even pick a speaker of the House.  IMO we are seeing a party implode.   This has been predicted for years.   But it does not happen fast.   I have admitted I thought it would happen for the last three presidential election cycles.  IMO we are seeing it happen.   If Trump is the nominee, I and have decided I think he may well be, he will lose.  Spectacularly.  That is going to trigger an actual autopsy.   The party will be very different in 2020.

    IMO


    Local is one thing (none / 0) (#207)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 12:08:07 PM EST
    The presidency, and controll of the courts, is another.    Make no mistake they understand how important this is.

    I hope I'm right too.

    :)

    btw
    We will know if Biden is running before Thursday.

    IMO, Nobody 'controls' the Courts. (none / 0) (#210)
    by Mr Natural on Sat Oct 17, 2015 at 02:16:06 PM EST