That's right - Governor Sarah Palin has a laughably small amount of experience in the area of national governance or national security. She's been governor of Alaska for less than two years, and like any governor, head's up her states' National Guard! Yeah - that's national security experience, isn't it? (sarcasm). She favors teaching creationism right along side evolution in public schools, she's a life-long NRA member (doesn't bother me - just painting a picture), she's an extreme right-to-life person, having had a baby in April of this year that she knew from genetic testing (she believes in that???) would be born mentally challenged (Down's Syndrome). The picture? This is a woman that disgruntled Hillary supporters would switch to automatically, just because she is a woman? How insulting to Hillary supporters - to suggest that they supported Hillary only because she was a woman and that any random woman on the ticket of any major party would be sufficient to garner their vote.
But be careful, Joe Biden, when it comes time for the Vice Presidential Debate. Sarah Palin is a lady and will need to be handled with kid gloves, no matter if she can kill, process and cook a moose all by herself!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Best Speech of the Century!
Okay, before you have doubts, I'm just talking going back to 2000 (or to calendrical purists, 2001). The "Temple" motif was all tied in by the ending crescendo of Obama's acceptance speech - it was meant to evoke the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his "I have a dream" speech 45 years to the day, yesterday, ago. Even Reagan-speechwriter, Peggy Noonan, finally made that connection (despite her other criticisms).
Moreover, Barack was tough - If John McCain wants to have a debate about who has the temperament and judgement to be Commander-in-Chief, bring it on (okay, I'm paraphrasing some). And he had policy details to answer those who said all he spoke of was "Change" without any specifics.
I don't care what anyone says - the speech had peaks and valleys and built up just right to the MLK evocation. My favorite political analyst, Chuck Todd, NBC Political Director, said that as a speech it was expertly crafted to do what it had to do and he had to hand it to Obama and any speechwriter assistance that it had. In my unprofessional opinion, it was - GREAT!
Moreover, Barack was tough - If John McCain wants to have a debate about who has the temperament and judgement to be Commander-in-Chief, bring it on (okay, I'm paraphrasing some). And he had policy details to answer those who said all he spoke of was "Change" without any specifics.
I don't care what anyone says - the speech had peaks and valleys and built up just right to the MLK evocation. My favorite political analyst, Chuck Todd, NBC Political Director, said that as a speech it was expertly crafted to do what it had to do and he had to hand it to Obama and any speechwriter assistance that it had. In my unprofessional opinion, it was - GREAT!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Exchanges: July 28 - August 28
I not only posted my celebrity/CELEBRATE idea at Faxham (which maybe 8 people, including us 2 read) but I also went to a Community Blog at MyObama etc. and posted an abbreviated version. Wouldn't that be something if someone on the campaign picked up, and said, why didn't we think of that, and then they used the idea?! It'd be the greatest thing ever!
I noticed that little mistake Joe made too - he said something about McCain taxing oil companies some huge amount, when he meant to say, McCain would give them tax cuts of those huge amounts.
- - Ing, August 28, 2008
You should consider posting the celebrity paragraph below as a separate post on Faxham. Nicely put and drives home an important point. John McCain is no celebrity. Republicans generally (excepting the Terminator) are not celebrities. Oprah is a celebrity (I heard she is may be in Denver today). Chevy Chase is a celebrity (he was to the Pepsi Ctr last night). John Engler and Dick Cheney are not. Dick DeVos is not.
President Clinton's speech did two important things: made moot the age/exp issues (I too was young and inexperienced in '92) and tied the relative prosperity of the mid to late 1990s to the Democrats. Hillary did this too on Tuesday, but it was not a major topic within her speech. I loved his quip about 'you all know I love this' (or something similar) as he finally was able to get the audience to quiet down.
John Kerry was disappointing - very bland. Sort of makes me think of another reason W was able to secure his second term.
Joe Biden - made me realize why Obama selected Sen. Biden to run as VP. Although he misspoke at one point about either a budget or taxes (left out a word or two), his ability to discuss foreign affairs will be critical. I was waiting for him to say "... and I won't shoot my friends in the face..."
- - Fair, August 28, 2008
I thought Bill's speech was very good - better than Hillary's. I also liked Joe Biden's. The naysayers are not all in agreement, of course.
I think Obama should finesse his way around this "celebrity" accusation. To be a celebrity is to be celebrated, according to Merriam-Webster. We all know what it means to celebrate - to be happy about something or someone, often a milestone or accomplishment. That is what Obama has reached, and rightly to be celebrated - the first African-American to be nominated for the Presidency by one of the two major parties. What's not to celebrate? And look who is celebrating - millions upon millions of ordinary people, from all walks of life, of all ages, of all ethnic backgrounds. The "fat cats" aren't celebrating, the oil execs aren't celebrating, etc. etc. So let's think about the true meaning of being a celebrity and celebrate with Barack!
- - Ing, August 28, 2008
No - but I read it now, at your suggestion. Interesting. Wouldn't Joe Biden on the ticket help appeal to these Macomb County Reagan Democrats? Joe's a long-time blue-collar champion. (BTW - you never did tell me how impressed you must be with Joe's daily Amtrak commute of 250 miles round-trip.)
It's a good thing that Obama is strong, healthy and young - along with being awfully smart and even-tempered. This column is another example of the push me-pull me being exerted on him from angles all around. How can he possibly pull off every delicate balancing act he's being asked to perform in order to placate - moderate evangelicals, Macomb County Reagan Democrats, diehard Clintonites, Appalachian "hard-working white people" - the list goes on and on. How can he appeal to them all?
- - Ing, August 27, 2008
Did you get to read over Harold Meyerson's column in the Post?
- - Fair, August 27, 2008
I really do enjoy legal arguments because of the display of language and logical skills. But it really doesn't make me wish I had become a lawyer, years ago when I was choosing a profession. I could have perhaps been good at legal research and drafting work, but the public speaking aspect of being a trial lawyer would have driven me to distraction.
I'm looking forward to a break from watching political news next week - I may dip into the RNC coverage once in a while, but mostly I can't stand the way they're running their Fear/Smear campaign against Barack and I'll just avoid it.
- - Ing, August 27, 2008
I am not able to click through on the links. That's OK though. I did read through Granholm's 18 page order yesterday at lunch. I like how her hearing is timed to overlap with RNC coverage.
- - Fair, August 27, 2008
I'm glad we agree on Hillary! Yea!
Actually, I watched Mark Warner's entire speech and I thought it was very good. Hillary and Hillary-anticipation overshadowed him, but his content and delivery were excellent. I thought he brought in his cell-phone-business-fortune background in a good way. His appearance and gestures reminded me a little of RFK.
Yes, I read about Monica - who knows what really happened.
When I send you the G. Reports, can you click through to things like Court Opinions? Attached - it has a click-through for Granholm's Order re the Kilpratrick hearing next week. Interesting, if you like reading things like court opinions . .
- - Ing, August 27, 2008
No Way, No How, No McCain!
I thought Hillary Clinton "knocked it out of the ballpark" last night (I believe I heard that statement more than 10 times). I was out in DC with friends for dinner and the talk of the town was not Mark Warner, not Bob Casey, it was Hillary. It seemed as if most everyone was waiting for 10:30 to be able to hear what she would say. I have to laugh because Mark Warner was the keynote speaker - he spoke last night? :)
I don't know what more could have been asked of her. For those still unhappy Hillary, they need to get over it and fast. She delivered, to me, a clear message to her supporters. Those who didn't get her message never will. I see Obama is headed to Michigan with Sen. Biden. I hope they bring Bill and/or Hillary and leave one of the two behind for some extra stumping on behalf of her candidate in Michigan and Ohio.
Did you read where the Hon. Monica Conyers of the Detroit City Council supposedly caused a scene in a hotel lobby yesterday? Allegedly.
- - Fair, August 27, 2008
What did you think of Hillary's speech?
- - Ing, August 27, 2008
Remember Joe Biden's big line from one of the early debates - all Giuliani ever had to say was a noun, a verb and 9-11. It got a big laugh and lots of applause (from Democrats). He may be tempted now to say that all John McCain has to say is blah blah blah I spent 5 and a half years in a POW camp, confined to a small room. It IS all McCain has to say anymore - he even brought it up on Jay Leno. But I hope Biden does not give into this temptation - the uproar would be so great he'd have to be dropped from the ticket.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
Very thoughtful - even though I think of myself as intellectual, in many respects I give precedence to my emotional reactions (head v. heart is my theme today ;->). It's complicated - I don't think it's a gender thing, but maybe it is . . .
Hillary also definitely has a blue collar base now - I'm not sure why she appeals that way - I can see the appeal of Bill . . .I just read about an address he gave in Denver, not at the convention itself, but nearby. He says the race has been endlessly fascinating . . . do you look at The Page regularly? I don't need to just repeat what it says . . .
Okay, let's bet (I don't know what? If you ever come to Lansing at a convenient time again, lunch at the Peanut Barrel or Nip n Sip, depending on the season?) Who will McCane pick:
I say Romney - no harm, no foul, if you want to pick him too.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
Most definitely. Two things Obama needs to take note of, at the very least:
1) Bill Clinton is still relatively popular among Democrats, but more important, among most independents that do not follow politics every seven minutes. The economy was just that good during his tenure.
2) Speaking to point 1, Bill Clinton is EXTREMELY popular among blue-collar, white, working class voters. As popular as Ronald Reagan. Even though Reagan was a republican and Clinton signed NAFTA - it seems as this these voters still like the ex-Presidents. This is where personality and "face" trump substance and policy.
#2, to me, will be a big challenge for Obama and why Obama needs to get over the Clinton's antics (as they need to get over Obama). Obama *should* dispatch Bill and Hillary to Ohio, non-Atlanta Georgia, rural and Hampton Roads Va., Michigan, Pennsylvania and eastern Florida. I'm guessing race (and gender in the case of Fla.) will be an issues in these must win states. There is little time to introduce VP Biden to Michigan, Pa., Fla. and Ohio (Biden may help most in Va. and Fla. with is foreign affairs experience). The Clinton's need to be in the blue collar states the day after Denver campaigning for the ticket.
Poor Kwame Kilpatrick in Michigan instead of Denver tending to city business. He is one more distraction not needed in this state. Thanks for the update. I'll have to take a look at the Free Press.
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
Reading stuff over lunch, I guess it's possible that my "hero" Barack Obama has made some mistakes - like how to handle Bill Clinton. Just as Hillary supporters should "get over it" - the loss - Barack should "get over" any hubris he has with respect to Bill. There are still things he could learn from the aging Boomer ex-prez. . . .
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
You are absolutely correct. I don't know why I'm harping on the emotional side of things today - just how I'm feeling, I guess (pun intended).
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
That would be I'm voting with my heart AND head :) If only you knew him... Even the Detroit News endorsed Sara Roberts, the Democrat, to replace Jack Brandenburg instead of his son.
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
NOW you are voting with your HEART instead of your HEAD! :)
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
One last hurrah in Michigan. I want to be able to vote against Brian Brandenburg in the Mich. House race, 24th district (he is the one that wants to take is dad's term limited seat). They live down the street from my mother and he used to make fun of my sister because we lived in a brown house (??). Very official reason for wanting to make one last vote, right :)
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
Will you be a Virginian or Michigander voter this time?
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
She is the most "urban" gov. that we've (oops... make that Michigan has) had in a long time. She rode CATA last month :)
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
You may be too optimistic - because in politics, in public affairs in general, the public's reaction seems to turn on a pin (or like Lombard Street!) Detroiters may say - Kwame is hurting us, get rid of Kwame. And as soon as Granholm would remove him - instant reaction the opposite way - how dare she, that white, woman, non-urbanite!
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
I think enough other Detroit leaders - those on City Council, Dave Bing, some in the faith community - have said they would work to quell that. The City Council asked the Gov. to act - not like John Engler inserting himself in to the schools without an official ask from the City.
Perhaps I'm too much of an optimist!
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
I know. I want her to remove him, but I don't want that to cause a backlash, suppressing the Detroit vote.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
At what seemed like just yesterday I thought Sept. 3 could not arrive soon enough... it's next week!
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
Special Update, Tuesday, August 26, 2008, 9:56 am
Granholm, Denying Kilpatrick Requests, Schedules Removal Hearing
Denying motions by Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick to dismiss or delay hearings on removing him from office, Governor Jennifer Granholm on Tuesday ordered the proceedings to begin as scheduled at 9 a.m. September 3.
The governor’s order said the issues will be limited to whether the mayor authorized an $8.5 million settlement of a whistleblower lawsuit to further his personal and private interests and whether he concealed important information to the Detroit City Council.
More details on the proceedings will be in today’s Michigan Report.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
Well, I must say that I don't see your emotions engaged by this sort of thing - by family and friends but not by these strangers on TV or so on. With all our TV viewing, both cable news and fictional shows, we have an inordinate attachment to strangers on TV we will never actually know. I suppose it's just an acquired taste - Melodee isn't like us in this regard, either.
I posted in response to your post - different way of putting it, but sort of along the same lines - head versus heart.
I just read that Hillary is expected to speak about 10:30 pm.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
I was under impressed with last night's material (excepting Michele Obama; I thought she did well) at the convention. I posted about it on the blog.
I was watching CNN. At what time do you think Hillary will speak this evening? The news networks are covering the convention from 6pm - 12mn but want to be sure to DVR Hillary's bloc.
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
Teddy Kennedy was Great! That was the high point last night.
You'd asked for advice on which channel to DVR? I stand by my previous suggestions - MSNBC, CNN - but perhaps you just want the speeches without all the blathering and repetitive commentary. If so, you should record CSPAN1.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
Of course, we both love MSNBC, which some pundits call the Official Obama network. We LOVE Keith Olbermann, and the rest of the team is okay too. But if you don't want MSNBC for some reason, CNN isn't a bad second.
RE your post - I can't WAIT for McCain to tap Romney and then all the channels can start running clips of the awful things Romney and McCain said to each other during the Primary. And I don't agree with the analysis that Romney would give McCain Michigan - Romney's personal Michigan roots are more shallow that Joe's roots in the Scranton and Philly area of Penn.
- - Ing, August 25, 2008
Which channel do you recommend I set to have my DVR record? I'll need to DVR most of the convention because of my schedule. I was happy to hear about Biden this weekend and knew you were too. I posted to Faxham later last night after getting back from Pa. (more on that later - catching up this morning).
I def. want to be sure to capture Hillary's speech/"her night" among others.
Most important - Mayor Kilpatrick will NOT be in Denver!
- - Fair, August 25, 2008
It's Joe! (Biden) I posted to Faxham about Obama's pick of Joe Biden and noticed that you had posted a couple of days earlier, about how Obama should have let everyone know his pick already. I agree - it got to be almost a fetish on the part of the campaign, trying to keep the lid on till their text message went out. Anyway, I was happy with the choice and also happy that the Repubs were so conventional in their response - happy in that, that's the best they can come up with?
If you have had a chance to listen to any of the weekend coverage, you may have heard about Joe Biden something that should endear him to you forever - he takes the Amtrak train home from D.C. to Wilmington nearly every night! It started after he was first elected to the Senate and a tragic accident left him with two young motherless boys. He didn't even want to take the oath of office, but was persuaded and then he vowed to be home every night with those boys. It's a 250 mile round trip - can you imagine?!
Hillary's speech will be the one to watch this week - since I'm more into TV schedules than you - tonight - tribute to Ted Kennedy and the Kennedy family and Michelle Obama. Tuesday - Hillary. Wednesday - Bill followed by Joe. Thursday - Al Gore, followed by Obama.
- - Ing, August 25, 2008
You know - it's sort of like he is toying with the media - the way a cat plays with a mouse for awhile before it kills it?
- - Ing, August 22, 2008
Still no news but I heard at lunch about another possibility (which I'm sure you know about) - a lawmaker from Texas 'recommended' by Nancy Pelosi.
I was watching CNN on at lunch. The coverage of the wait game was downright ridiculous - tabloid like in fact.
How about that McCain home # gaffe! BOTH are elite :) You have one home and I have zero homes.
- - Fair, August 22, 2008
Below is why Obama needs to announce! The texting plan may backfire - burn some out.
- - Fair, August 22, 2008
Text hoaxes plague Obama VP plan
By: Carrie Budoff Brown
POLITICO August 22, 2008 10:12 AM EST
CHESAPEAKE, Va. – By the time Barack Obama is ready to announce his vice presidential pick, will anyone believe him?
In recent days, as speculation and anticipation has mounted, so too have phony text messages declaring Obama’s supposed running mate – from Evan Bayh and Hillary Rodham Clinton to Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps.
It’s a cruel twist in a prolonged game of guessing that has put political junkies and Democratic supporters on edge since the campaign announced last week that it would disclose Obama’s choice through text messaging, which is expected to happen by Saturday.
In the absence of real information, pranksters have filled the gap with guidance from the website Wonkette – and maybe Howard Stern, too.
“There is incredible enthusiasm for Barack Obama’s vice presidential announcement and unfortunately some people have used that enthusiasm and sent out hoaxes," said Obama spokeswoman Jen Psaki, who received one herself. “We can assure our supporters these texts did not come from the campaign and their data is secure. Everyone can also rest easy that despite their popularity, Mickey Mouse and Michael Phelps are not on the short list at this time.”
A Manhattan woman got excited when she received a message announcing Hillary Rodham Clinton, but soon realized it was a joke she saw nothing more about the choice on the Internet.
There also were reports of John Kerry, Walter Mondale and even Eliot Spitzer.
On Wednesday morning, Richmond lawyer Anne Leigh Kerr passed along bad information to political types after receiving a text message from an unknown number that, in formal language, announced that Obama selected Gov. Tim Kaine.
“Now, even if Tim Kaine himself tells me he's VP, I think I'll keep my mouth shut,” Kerr told Politico.
The website Wonkette might have something to do with the proliferation of hoax messages. At 2:07 p.m. Wednesday, managing editor Ken Layne posted a step-by-step manual from a reader under the headline: “Freak Out Your Friends With Fake Obama VP TXT.”
“We are proud to help cause confusion and excitement during this terrible boring week of no news at all,” Layne wrote in an email to Politico. “But we can't really take too much credit for it – apparently one of our readers listens to Howard Stern (which is still on the radio?) and heard of the veep TXT hoax, and figured out an easy way to do it through Verizon's TXT website.”
Layne said he has personally sent about 50 messages announcing Mondale.
“So many of my so-called friends have sent hoax (texts) to me now,” he added, “that I'll probably end up ignoring the real one.”
Ben Smith contributed to this story.
© 2008 Capitol News Company, LLC
But - if he is able to pull it off - keep the secret till the real text message goes out - it will bode well for his future. Because, Presidents do need to keep secrets, quite often.
- - Ing, August 22, 2008
Whoever knows for sure, isn't talking. The latest I've read is that Obama has already informed the runners-up that they are runners-up. The text message could go out, like - 30 minutes before the speech, or something.
- - Ing, August 22, 2008
Is that the latest - that the announcement will come (for sure) tomorrow? I thought the whole point of the exercise was that those who were signed up for the text message notice would get it at Obama's choosing, not some pre-selected, publicly known time.
- - Fair, August 22, 2008
I WANT TO KNOW! I WANT TO KNOW!
I don't want to wait for tomorrow - I want to know NOW!
(Obama's veep choice)
- - Ing, August 22, 2008
I read the entire Appeals court decision (since I have nothing better to do) on the MGRN and it did make sense to this educated layperson. The constitution provides for amendment and it provides for a general revision and the way the arguments went, it was pretty hard to see the MGRN as anything other than a general revision, which can only happen by a Constitutional Convention.
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
Catching up on Mich. news... I'm glad the stem cell research will be on the ballot. I'm indifferent to the medical marijuana ballot question. Too bad about MGRN! That would have been good - at least I think so.
- - Fair, August 21, 2008
You're right! Please tell Obama!
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
He should announce NOW so it gets on the news/in the media before the weekend. This is the last time many will listen to the radio in their cars or watch the evening news - Friday's seem to be up in the air for a lot in the summer season. Who will be paying attention on a nice sunny summer Saturday?
- - Fair, August 21, 2008
It's one of my first and throughout the day pages to go to because he updates it constantly and I like the funky - old-school feel to the page.
I still think Obama should have announced yesterday, and so he should have announced today and so I HOPE he announces tomorrow and NOT on Saturday - why drag it out so - it will be anti-climatic, perhaps?
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
I was actually able to open the Time blog webpage. I thought it was funny too - NOTHING! I wonder if any hidden bitterness will come out in her speech (or Bill's many camera appearances).
If Kaine is the VP selection, Va. will for sure be in play. I gather he is generally popular here. In Nothern Va. because folks are educated and in the military areas in the southeastern portion of the state (Kaine, from what I gather, is not so terrible to the DOD folks). Those are really the only two population bases that matter.
- - Fair, August 21, 2008
Please go to: (oh - maybe your system treats this as a bl*g and blocks it)
http://thepage.time.com/ and scroll down a bit to her picture and click on the link about upon what the speculation about Hillary being Veep is based. Fun-ny!
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
Still no news I see on the VP. I didn't think Va. Gov. Kaine would be in the running compared to Biden - Biden's more "veteran" appearance may be a bonus considering McCain's age. Just a thought. May not even be too much of an issue about which to worry.
- - Fair, August 21, 2008
I had hoped that Obama would announce his veep selection yesterday. I still think it will be Joe Biden, but now the media seem to be shifting to Tim Kaine because he has a style more similar to Obama-no drama.
There could still be the ultimate "head fake" - Hillary! Would not be my fave but infinitely better than her trying to take over the top spot at the convention!
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
I think he is doing all that he can do - except, maybe the Hawaii vacation was ill-timed.
If the Hillary-takes-over-at the convention scenario plays out, I will be very hard-pressed to vote for her. I think I would leave the presidential slot blank.
- - Ing, August 20, 2008
You made a good point about these polls a week or two ago. If the polling only included land line telephone collection methods - it is flawed in my opinion. Getting the cell phone generation to the polls is the challenge (although they [we :)] did turn out, if I recall correctly, during the Granholm/DeVos election two years ago).
The headache I read about was in Time magazine. The article explained a scenario where Hillary could still be the nominee come the convention if this sort of "Obama bad news" continues and the superdelegates think Obama is quickly losing his shining star power. He still hasn't made a big enough effort, at least to me, to reach out to the blue collar workers and the elderly - both demographics that may be swayed by race and "experience" [i.e. age].
- - Fair, August 20, 2008
You know how there are lots of different polling organizations, getting varying results - the latest Reuters/Zogby national poll has McCain up over Obama by 5 points. I'm worried. I haven't woke up with headaches lately, but I'm afraid this will bring them back :(
- - Ing, August 20, 2008
Just e-mail. I'm sure I'll hear the buzz as soon as something happens.
- - Fair, August 20, 2008
Are you signed up to get the text message of Obama's veep choice? I signed up for the e-mail, so the text messagers will all know first - and post on-line. . . .
- - Ing, August 20, 2008
Made my day :) Ha-ha (yet so sad b/c it's true).
- - Fair, August 20, 2008
The George W. Bush Presidential Library
Because I know you're all ANXIOUS to visit!!!
The GEORGE W. BUSH PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY is now in the planning stages. The Library will include:
The Weapons of Mass Destruction Room, which no one has yet been able to find.
The Hurricane Katrina Room , which is still under construction.
The Texas Air National Guard Room, where you don't even have to show up.
The Walter Reed Hospital Room, where they don't let you in.
The Guantanamo Bay Room, where they don't let you out.
The National Debt Room, which is huge and has no ceiling.
The Tax Cut Room with entry restricted only to the wealthy.
The Airport Men's Room, where you can meet some of your favorite Republican Senators.
The Economy Room, which is in the toilet.
The Iraq War Room. After you complete your first tour, they make you to go back for a second, third, fourth, and, sometimes, fifth tour.
The Dick Cheney Room, in the famous undisclosed location, complete with shotgun gallery.
The Environmental Conservation Room, still empty, but very warm.
The Supreme Court Gift Shop, where you can buy an election.
The Decider Room complete with dart board, magic 8-ball, Ouija board, dice, coins, and straws.
Additionally, the museum will have an electron microscope to help you locate the President's accomplishments.
Admission: Republicans - Free
Democrats - $1000 or 3 Euros
(Perhaps you haven't heard that his library has burned down. Both his books were destroyed in the fire and what really upset him is that he hadn't even finished coloring the second one.)
- - Ing, August 20, 2008
Yes - he has one of the Senate's more impressive comb-overs - our own Sen. Levin is king in that department.
- - Ing, August 19, 2008
And... he looks like he has experience... if you know what I mean.
- - Fair, August 19, 2008
Senator Joe Biden of Delaware has been in Wash. 20 years or so, but he speaks his mind - too much so! He has run for Prez in the past, including in 2007-08. When Obama first announced, it was Biden who said, He's clean, good looking, articulate - perceived as condescending at best, racist at worst. He chairs the Foreign Affairs Committee and something else and has mucho foreign affairs cred. I don't know about your issues, but he's from Delaware - he's got to like rail and mass transit!
- - Ing, August 19, 2008
Unfortunately I am not too familiar with him. I have a lot of catching up. What are his positions on some issues? What makes you like him? Do you know if he has a record on supporting mass transit, esp. rail :) ?
- - Fair, August 19, 2008
As early as tomorrow morning - as late as Saturday - he has reserved the spot in Springfield IL where he announced his candidacy for noon Saturday. Do you like Biden? The media is shifting his way. . .
- - Ing, August 19, 2008
Fuel prices seem to be decreasing still - hopefully air fare will as well. Makes Vegas all that more of a possibility.
When is Obama set to announce? Before the convention?
- - Fair, August 19, 2008
More and more I think the veep will be Biden and I'm pleased about that!
- - Ing, August 19, 2008
I'm actually not sure. I still see benefits of a Obama-Clinton ticket - especially since so many of Hillary's supporters are not automatically supporting (which is unfortunate) Obama for a number or reasons - the race issue, "lack" of experience, Is he a Muslim?, ... So many potential issues with that though.
I think former Va. Gov. Warner would be a nice pick... and I'm not just saying that b/c I live in Va.
- - Fair, August 18, 2008
So who is your current Obama Veep fave - I think I already said mine - Joe Biden. Hasn't always been, but things (in the world) change . . .
- - Ing, August 18, 2008
Add to that the still ticked off group of Hillary supporters - Time had an article two weeks ago that I just read. It mentioned older Florida female Jewish voters, for example, as a group Obama needs to work on that supported Hillary without any effort on her part.
- - Fair, August 18, 2008
The problem is, there is this continual drumbeat of muted criticism of Obama - that with the Republican incumbent having such low approval numbers, Obama should be doing better in the polls than he is - he's ahead, but not by much. His Veep selection has to be bang-up exciting, not boring like Evan Bayh. I'm thinking - Joe Biden.
Did you sign up for initial VP selection notification by e-mail? I got the invite to do so - and did - from one of my numerous Obama-e-mails.
- - Ing, August 18, 2008
I just heard about the Russia/Georgia (what's up with Atlanta - haha) issue - still not up to date on that. I took a break from reality you could say :) Poor John McCain... hopefully a lot of folks had their brains on "summer" mode during the week.
- - Fair, August 18, 2008
Did you hear much about the election while you were away? When Obama was on vacation, it seemed to be in a lull. Then there was the Russia/Georgia crisis - I kept waiting for someone to say - he's on vacation during such a crisis! But, one president at a time - that's my latest blog entry title. McCain really did overstep in his posturing way.
I think more than ever we're going to need the "young people" to turn out - I'm counting on you to help with that! (of course, you will vote - but getting out more vote, I mean).
- - Ing, August 18, 2008
Oh no - say it isn't so (John Edwards affair)
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/08/08/edwards.affair/
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
You know who Kwame is just like? Mugabe in Zimbabwe - someone just hanging on to power no matter how much his country (city) is being destroyed on account of him.
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
I have to remember they aim for the best...
- - Fair, August 8, 2008
The standard by which Repubs are judged is W - they are ALL better than him!
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
Why is Cox going on like he is? He sounds ridiculous. Are Mike Huckabee, Terri Lynn Land and Charlie Crist the only republicans with decent speaking skills?
- - Fair, August 8, 2008
Can you get live streaming video? I'm sure WDIV will be up with Cox's announcement, scheduled for 10:00 am. Apparently right now there is the Appeal hearing for "hiz honor" being in jail at present.
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
I can't believe what is going on with Kilpatrick. Unbelievable. You're correct (and I was talking about this yesterday with my grandfather) - the Gov. is much too weak. Talk about a situation needing immediate attention... We'll see what today brings.
- - Fair, August 8, 2008
The whole Kwame fiasco is bad not only for him and for Detroit but is hurting Granholm also. For some time I have come to the sad conclusion that she is a pretty weak political leader - her reaction/nonreaction in this case is just reinforcing that for all to see.
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
I don't know much about refining oil into gas or jet fuel - do they both get refined out of the same kind of oil? The price of a barrel of oil has come down significantly lately - maybe that's made it better for airlines as well as drivers . . .
- - Ing, August 7, 2008
By the way, I noticed flight costs have DECREASED - yes, decreased - on nwa.com. I was checking on prices yesterday. DC to Detroit was recently $205; is now $165 (was $119 or 127 prior to the fuel increases) for example.
- - Fair, August 7, 2008
Yes - I just saw that about Kwame myself!
Just read a disturbing piece in Time about how the Clintons - esp. he, but her too - are still not "over it." And maybe her followers will put her name in nomination at the Convention as a "symbolic gesture." Yet - it would be divisive. Those darn Clintons! Can't they ever see - it really is NOT all about them?
- - Ing, August 7, 2008
I see Mayor Kilpatrick was just sentenced to jail! WOW! I am just fine today, thank you. How are things on your end?
Thanks for the Report. I was looking forward to today's issue with the election recaps.
- - Fair, August 7, 2008.
Hi -
I will be polite today, and ask, how are you? ;->
- - Ing, August 7, 2008
Oh, I'm totally with you there - I would have liked the fall of the Kilpatricks to begin - them being in office under the circumstances can't be a good thing for Barack . . .
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
An article in the Detroit News mentioned Martha Scott as the spoiler, or something similar. Too bad... My opinion at least.
- - Fair, August 6, 2008
She had two opponents in the Primary - had she only had Waters, I think she would have lost.
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
I'll be out. I was standing in the rain in '06 for the Gov's race on election day.
How about US Rep. Kilpatrick winning in Detroit!!?!
- - Fair, August 6, 2008
Now per my other e-mail - I want YOU to go out in get-out-the-vote efforts, because you are young, number 1, and number 2, you look younger than you really are!
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
I TOTALLY agree (with your post). And another comparison I'd like to hear brought up - I can't remember exactly, but I think W had traveled outside the U.S. very little before he was elected.
I'm afraid to say it, but the whole election might hinge on your generation, and a little older, and younger, turning out as never before. There's got to be a huge - turn-out-the-young-people vote!
(Some say this is why Obama is not creaming McCain in the polls - younger folks don't have landlines to get the calls from pollsters on.)
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
I finally posted to Faxham last night.
- - Fair, August 6, 2008
The plan was for MSU to begin with. I can't remember one of the places, but the Pavilion was considered - they had a horse show, so no go. But T. TiVo-ed the speech for me, carried live on both Channel 6 and Channel 10. At one point, Obama said, "And right here at this university. . ." - the speech had been written for presentation at MSU and not updated.
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
Nicely done. I'm sure Obama could have filled Spartan Stadium easily! He should come back when MSU is in session.
- - Fair, August 5, 2008
You probably didn't have time to read my recent posts . . . [e.g., Obama's Speech was Great!]
- - Ing, August 5, 2008
There was a ballot proposal for Ingham County about preserving farmland (a millage proposal) and I meant to vote for it. Somehow I missed it on the ballot - I realized once I walked out of the polling place. We have long paper ballots that we mark on with a black pen (drawing a line between two arrows). This proposal must have been at the bottom of the ballot and I just neglected to see it. As returns came in, the %'s were close - and this morning, on TV, it was listed as 50%/50%. I had to get online at home (which I rarely do weekday mornings) to check it out. The proposal passed by 137 votes! 14,823 no and 14,960 yes. Whew!
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/04/AR2008080402415.html?hpid=topnews&sid=ST2008080402649&pos=
Gas Prices Apply Brakes To Suburban Migration
So in Onondaga, we live against the smart trend, with my long commutes and the distances to shopping. But at least we don't have a house with a monstrous footprint or an SUV. . .
- - Ing, August 5, 2008
At least the Report did a better job of reporting on Obama's FULL speech and not just little bits and bites out of it.
Saul Anuzis is so stupid - he says that McCain did not flip flop by changing his position on off shore drilling but he "adjusted" - so what's wrong with Obama "adjusting" on anything???
Also of note - Grebner is analyzing the Dem. Primary results - and reveals he voted the same as I (and you???) - for Mitt Romney.
- - Ing, August 4, 2008
Granholm, Stabenow, Levin, Dingell, Conyers, and Dillon were all introduced by name - both by a campaign person and by Barack. But we couldn't see them. They used one of the ballroom spaces, with no risers - just rows of chairs all at a single level. I stood up beyond (beside) the chairs for much of Obama's speech, so I could see him better. After the speech, I would have liked to get up closer where he was shaking hands so I could see him in a more informal manner, but there was just too big a crush of people.
The internet news sites are reporting on the speech in a disappointing way (AP attached). Releasing some gallons from the reserve and allowing some off shore drilling are such small parts - but these are the ones where they can say - reversal - flip flop. The big points from the speech were - get off foreigh oil dependency within 10 years. Invest heavily in alternative energy AND in American (Michigan) auto manufacturers to help them make more fuel efficient and alternative energy cars - BIG applause lines for these. And reduce energy consumption by 15%. I think he will do a similar speech later this week in Ohio and someplace else - I hope the press will start to report accurately.
- - Ing, August 4, 2008
Well good morning to you too :) I was at an offsite meeting this morning. I'm glad you were able to snag a ticket through P. Very nice of her. I can't even imagine the scene at the Lansing Center - how amazing! Was Gov. Granholm in attendance? Andy Dillon? Wow. I'm sure you were like a school girl in a candy store :) ha-ha... and on His birthday of all days.
I'm a bit tired from the trip to North Carolina (I had a blast, by the way). This message from you just made my day. So much so I'll have to again donate... via the Obama 'store.' I'll see what I will buy next.
- - Fair, August 4, 2008
As I wrote in Faxham over the weekend, I waited 2 ½ hours in line for tickets only to have them run out. But this morning at work, P. called me and she had an extra ticket!
It was absolutely wonderful - except for standing in line in high heels I wouldn't have worn, had I known . . . plus Barack was about a half hour late - BUT - it was a great speech about alternative energy, short term and long term solutions, bringing jobs back to Michigan - helping the auto industry with building fuel-efficient cars. And the crowd sang him Happy Birthday because today is his actual birthday - 47 years old. And to be in the same room with him, and and and it was just wonderful!
- - Ing, August 4, 2008
I know there is more than one way accomplish all these things [work stuff] - reminds me ("all deese tings" - an Arnold-ism) - have you heard what he has done in California? All state workers down to minimum wage or else laid off!
- - Ing, August 1, 2008
McCain's campaign sure learned lessons from Hillary's campaign - and not in a good way.
p.s. I made another $25 contribution at the website - I think I'm up to $100 now. I also ordered a pink, ladies Obama T-shirt. I'll wear it up on Mackinac Island this September!
- - Ing, July 31, 2008
- because it's an election year and Detroit's vote is very important to Obama being able to win Michigan. Can't look at these things in isolation. . .
- - Ing, July 31, 2008
I understand the point of Detroiters being upset about an "outsider" taking control, but when more than just Detroit is affected, that becomes a non-issue. Why is it fair that the rest of the state suffer because of that issue?
- - Fair, July 31, 2008
M. and I talked a little about the mayor and the guv - the situation is fraught with peril for Jenny. No matter how much Detroiters may complain about the mayor and want to see him out of there, they don't want that decision made by an outside-Detroiter. So, it's probably a continuing quagmire.
- - Ing, July 31, 2008
A lot of term limited lawmakers!
Any rumors about what Gov. Granholm will do re: Mayor Kilpatrick?
- - Fair, July 31, 2008
Report: July 25, 2008 Hi - When I'm behind on reports I usually don't try to catch up, but you have expressed a past interest in these local races. This contains bare bones details but it is so interesting to see that phrase, "termed out" over and over and over. Darn term limits! That's why we can't get any good law passed. Also, I think I recognized a situation you had written of before - a father-son team in a Macomb district?
- - Ing, July 29, 2008
I have the Obama bumper sticker on my back window - the glass - lower driver side corner. I had Granholm and Kerry-Edwards stickers in the same location; all peeled easily from the glass. I have NOT tried putting the sticker on a painted surface - just FYI.
My kickball tourney went well. I was out all day Saturday. We played in the shadow of the Washington Monument on the Mall - like it was an everyday thing to do!
- - Fair, July 28, 2008
I posted on Faxham over the weekend . . . I got the bumper sticker! Thanks! It says on the peel-off backing that it is a removable bumper sticker - I'd like to put that to the test. Really, the Grand Am is "my" car (it is in both our names) so I should just be able to put the sticker on if I want.
- - Ing, July 28, 2008
I noticed that little mistake Joe made too - he said something about McCain taxing oil companies some huge amount, when he meant to say, McCain would give them tax cuts of those huge amounts.
- - Ing, August 28, 2008
You should consider posting the celebrity paragraph below as a separate post on Faxham. Nicely put and drives home an important point. John McCain is no celebrity. Republicans generally (excepting the Terminator) are not celebrities. Oprah is a celebrity (I heard she is may be in Denver today). Chevy Chase is a celebrity (he was to the Pepsi Ctr last night). John Engler and Dick Cheney are not. Dick DeVos is not.
President Clinton's speech did two important things: made moot the age/exp issues (I too was young and inexperienced in '92) and tied the relative prosperity of the mid to late 1990s to the Democrats. Hillary did this too on Tuesday, but it was not a major topic within her speech. I loved his quip about 'you all know I love this' (or something similar) as he finally was able to get the audience to quiet down.
John Kerry was disappointing - very bland. Sort of makes me think of another reason W was able to secure his second term.
Joe Biden - made me realize why Obama selected Sen. Biden to run as VP. Although he misspoke at one point about either a budget or taxes (left out a word or two), his ability to discuss foreign affairs will be critical. I was waiting for him to say "... and I won't shoot my friends in the face..."
- - Fair, August 28, 2008
I thought Bill's speech was very good - better than Hillary's. I also liked Joe Biden's. The naysayers are not all in agreement, of course.
I think Obama should finesse his way around this "celebrity" accusation. To be a celebrity is to be celebrated, according to Merriam-Webster. We all know what it means to celebrate - to be happy about something or someone, often a milestone or accomplishment. That is what Obama has reached, and rightly to be celebrated - the first African-American to be nominated for the Presidency by one of the two major parties. What's not to celebrate? And look who is celebrating - millions upon millions of ordinary people, from all walks of life, of all ages, of all ethnic backgrounds. The "fat cats" aren't celebrating, the oil execs aren't celebrating, etc. etc. So let's think about the true meaning of being a celebrity and celebrate with Barack!
- - Ing, August 28, 2008
No - but I read it now, at your suggestion. Interesting. Wouldn't Joe Biden on the ticket help appeal to these Macomb County Reagan Democrats? Joe's a long-time blue-collar champion. (BTW - you never did tell me how impressed you must be with Joe's daily Amtrak commute of 250 miles round-trip.)
It's a good thing that Obama is strong, healthy and young - along with being awfully smart and even-tempered. This column is another example of the push me-pull me being exerted on him from angles all around. How can he possibly pull off every delicate balancing act he's being asked to perform in order to placate - moderate evangelicals, Macomb County Reagan Democrats, diehard Clintonites, Appalachian "hard-working white people" - the list goes on and on. How can he appeal to them all?
- - Ing, August 27, 2008
Did you get to read over Harold Meyerson's column in the Post?
- - Fair, August 27, 2008
I really do enjoy legal arguments because of the display of language and logical skills. But it really doesn't make me wish I had become a lawyer, years ago when I was choosing a profession. I could have perhaps been good at legal research and drafting work, but the public speaking aspect of being a trial lawyer would have driven me to distraction.
I'm looking forward to a break from watching political news next week - I may dip into the RNC coverage once in a while, but mostly I can't stand the way they're running their Fear/Smear campaign against Barack and I'll just avoid it.
- - Ing, August 27, 2008
I am not able to click through on the links. That's OK though. I did read through Granholm's 18 page order yesterday at lunch. I like how her hearing is timed to overlap with RNC coverage.
- - Fair, August 27, 2008
I'm glad we agree on Hillary! Yea!
Actually, I watched Mark Warner's entire speech and I thought it was very good. Hillary and Hillary-anticipation overshadowed him, but his content and delivery were excellent. I thought he brought in his cell-phone-business-fortune background in a good way. His appearance and gestures reminded me a little of RFK.
Yes, I read about Monica - who knows what really happened.
When I send you the G. Reports, can you click through to things like Court Opinions? Attached - it has a click-through for Granholm's Order re the Kilpratrick hearing next week. Interesting, if you like reading things like court opinions . .
- - Ing, August 27, 2008
No Way, No How, No McCain!
I thought Hillary Clinton "knocked it out of the ballpark" last night (I believe I heard that statement more than 10 times). I was out in DC with friends for dinner and the talk of the town was not Mark Warner, not Bob Casey, it was Hillary. It seemed as if most everyone was waiting for 10:30 to be able to hear what she would say. I have to laugh because Mark Warner was the keynote speaker - he spoke last night? :)
I don't know what more could have been asked of her. For those still unhappy Hillary, they need to get over it and fast. She delivered, to me, a clear message to her supporters. Those who didn't get her message never will. I see Obama is headed to Michigan with Sen. Biden. I hope they bring Bill and/or Hillary and leave one of the two behind for some extra stumping on behalf of her candidate in Michigan and Ohio.
Did you read where the Hon. Monica Conyers of the Detroit City Council supposedly caused a scene in a hotel lobby yesterday? Allegedly.
- - Fair, August 27, 2008
What did you think of Hillary's speech?
- - Ing, August 27, 2008
Remember Joe Biden's big line from one of the early debates - all Giuliani ever had to say was a noun, a verb and 9-11. It got a big laugh and lots of applause (from Democrats). He may be tempted now to say that all John McCain has to say is blah blah blah I spent 5 and a half years in a POW camp, confined to a small room. It IS all McCain has to say anymore - he even brought it up on Jay Leno. But I hope Biden does not give into this temptation - the uproar would be so great he'd have to be dropped from the ticket.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
Very thoughtful - even though I think of myself as intellectual, in many respects I give precedence to my emotional reactions (head v. heart is my theme today ;->). It's complicated - I don't think it's a gender thing, but maybe it is . . .
Hillary also definitely has a blue collar base now - I'm not sure why she appeals that way - I can see the appeal of Bill . . .I just read about an address he gave in Denver, not at the convention itself, but nearby. He says the race has been endlessly fascinating . . . do you look at The Page regularly? I don't need to just repeat what it says . . .
Okay, let's bet (I don't know what? If you ever come to Lansing at a convenient time again, lunch at the Peanut Barrel or Nip n Sip, depending on the season?) Who will McCane pick:
I say Romney - no harm, no foul, if you want to pick him too.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
Most definitely. Two things Obama needs to take note of, at the very least:
1) Bill Clinton is still relatively popular among Democrats, but more important, among most independents that do not follow politics every seven minutes. The economy was just that good during his tenure.
2) Speaking to point 1, Bill Clinton is EXTREMELY popular among blue-collar, white, working class voters. As popular as Ronald Reagan. Even though Reagan was a republican and Clinton signed NAFTA - it seems as this these voters still like the ex-Presidents. This is where personality and "face" trump substance and policy.
#2, to me, will be a big challenge for Obama and why Obama needs to get over the Clinton's antics (as they need to get over Obama). Obama *should* dispatch Bill and Hillary to Ohio, non-Atlanta Georgia, rural and Hampton Roads Va., Michigan, Pennsylvania and eastern Florida. I'm guessing race (and gender in the case of Fla.) will be an issues in these must win states. There is little time to introduce VP Biden to Michigan, Pa., Fla. and Ohio (Biden may help most in Va. and Fla. with is foreign affairs experience). The Clinton's need to be in the blue collar states the day after Denver campaigning for the ticket.
Poor Kwame Kilpatrick in Michigan instead of Denver tending to city business. He is one more distraction not needed in this state. Thanks for the update. I'll have to take a look at the Free Press.
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
Reading stuff over lunch, I guess it's possible that my "hero" Barack Obama has made some mistakes - like how to handle Bill Clinton. Just as Hillary supporters should "get over it" - the loss - Barack should "get over" any hubris he has with respect to Bill. There are still things he could learn from the aging Boomer ex-prez. . . .
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
You are absolutely correct. I don't know why I'm harping on the emotional side of things today - just how I'm feeling, I guess (pun intended).
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
That would be I'm voting with my heart AND head :) If only you knew him... Even the Detroit News endorsed Sara Roberts, the Democrat, to replace Jack Brandenburg instead of his son.
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
NOW you are voting with your HEART instead of your HEAD! :)
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
One last hurrah in Michigan. I want to be able to vote against Brian Brandenburg in the Mich. House race, 24th district (he is the one that wants to take is dad's term limited seat). They live down the street from my mother and he used to make fun of my sister because we lived in a brown house (??). Very official reason for wanting to make one last vote, right :)
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
Will you be a Virginian or Michigander voter this time?
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
She is the most "urban" gov. that we've (oops... make that Michigan has) had in a long time. She rode CATA last month :)
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
You may be too optimistic - because in politics, in public affairs in general, the public's reaction seems to turn on a pin (or like Lombard Street!) Detroiters may say - Kwame is hurting us, get rid of Kwame. And as soon as Granholm would remove him - instant reaction the opposite way - how dare she, that white, woman, non-urbanite!
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
I think enough other Detroit leaders - those on City Council, Dave Bing, some in the faith community - have said they would work to quell that. The City Council asked the Gov. to act - not like John Engler inserting himself in to the schools without an official ask from the City.
Perhaps I'm too much of an optimist!
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
I know. I want her to remove him, but I don't want that to cause a backlash, suppressing the Detroit vote.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
At what seemed like just yesterday I thought Sept. 3 could not arrive soon enough... it's next week!
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
Special Update, Tuesday, August 26, 2008, 9:56 am
Granholm, Denying Kilpatrick Requests, Schedules Removal Hearing
Denying motions by Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick to dismiss or delay hearings on removing him from office, Governor Jennifer Granholm on Tuesday ordered the proceedings to begin as scheduled at 9 a.m. September 3.
The governor’s order said the issues will be limited to whether the mayor authorized an $8.5 million settlement of a whistleblower lawsuit to further his personal and private interests and whether he concealed important information to the Detroit City Council.
More details on the proceedings will be in today’s Michigan Report.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
Well, I must say that I don't see your emotions engaged by this sort of thing - by family and friends but not by these strangers on TV or so on. With all our TV viewing, both cable news and fictional shows, we have an inordinate attachment to strangers on TV we will never actually know. I suppose it's just an acquired taste - Melodee isn't like us in this regard, either.
I posted in response to your post - different way of putting it, but sort of along the same lines - head versus heart.
I just read that Hillary is expected to speak about 10:30 pm.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
I was under impressed with last night's material (excepting Michele Obama; I thought she did well) at the convention. I posted about it on the blog.
I was watching CNN. At what time do you think Hillary will speak this evening? The news networks are covering the convention from 6pm - 12mn but want to be sure to DVR Hillary's bloc.
- - Fair, August 26, 2008
Teddy Kennedy was Great! That was the high point last night.
You'd asked for advice on which channel to DVR? I stand by my previous suggestions - MSNBC, CNN - but perhaps you just want the speeches without all the blathering and repetitive commentary. If so, you should record CSPAN1.
- - Ing, August 26, 2008
Of course, we both love MSNBC, which some pundits call the Official Obama network. We LOVE Keith Olbermann, and the rest of the team is okay too. But if you don't want MSNBC for some reason, CNN isn't a bad second.
RE your post - I can't WAIT for McCain to tap Romney and then all the channels can start running clips of the awful things Romney and McCain said to each other during the Primary. And I don't agree with the analysis that Romney would give McCain Michigan - Romney's personal Michigan roots are more shallow that Joe's roots in the Scranton and Philly area of Penn.
- - Ing, August 25, 2008
Which channel do you recommend I set to have my DVR record? I'll need to DVR most of the convention because of my schedule. I was happy to hear about Biden this weekend and knew you were too. I posted to Faxham later last night after getting back from Pa. (more on that later - catching up this morning).
I def. want to be sure to capture Hillary's speech/"her night" among others.
Most important - Mayor Kilpatrick will NOT be in Denver!
- - Fair, August 25, 2008
It's Joe! (Biden) I posted to Faxham about Obama's pick of Joe Biden and noticed that you had posted a couple of days earlier, about how Obama should have let everyone know his pick already. I agree - it got to be almost a fetish on the part of the campaign, trying to keep the lid on till their text message went out. Anyway, I was happy with the choice and also happy that the Repubs were so conventional in their response - happy in that, that's the best they can come up with?
If you have had a chance to listen to any of the weekend coverage, you may have heard about Joe Biden something that should endear him to you forever - he takes the Amtrak train home from D.C. to Wilmington nearly every night! It started after he was first elected to the Senate and a tragic accident left him with two young motherless boys. He didn't even want to take the oath of office, but was persuaded and then he vowed to be home every night with those boys. It's a 250 mile round trip - can you imagine?!
Hillary's speech will be the one to watch this week - since I'm more into TV schedules than you - tonight - tribute to Ted Kennedy and the Kennedy family and Michelle Obama. Tuesday - Hillary. Wednesday - Bill followed by Joe. Thursday - Al Gore, followed by Obama.
- - Ing, August 25, 2008
You know - it's sort of like he is toying with the media - the way a cat plays with a mouse for awhile before it kills it?
- - Ing, August 22, 2008
Still no news but I heard at lunch about another possibility (which I'm sure you know about) - a lawmaker from Texas 'recommended' by Nancy Pelosi.
I was watching CNN on at lunch. The coverage of the wait game was downright ridiculous - tabloid like in fact.
How about that McCain home # gaffe! BOTH are elite :) You have one home and I have zero homes.
- - Fair, August 22, 2008
Below is why Obama needs to announce! The texting plan may backfire - burn some out.
- - Fair, August 22, 2008
Text hoaxes plague Obama VP plan
By: Carrie Budoff Brown
POLITICO August 22, 2008 10:12 AM EST
CHESAPEAKE, Va. – By the time Barack Obama is ready to announce his vice presidential pick, will anyone believe him?
In recent days, as speculation and anticipation has mounted, so too have phony text messages declaring Obama’s supposed running mate – from Evan Bayh and Hillary Rodham Clinton to Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps.
It’s a cruel twist in a prolonged game of guessing that has put political junkies and Democratic supporters on edge since the campaign announced last week that it would disclose Obama’s choice through text messaging, which is expected to happen by Saturday.
In the absence of real information, pranksters have filled the gap with guidance from the website Wonkette – and maybe Howard Stern, too.
“There is incredible enthusiasm for Barack Obama’s vice presidential announcement and unfortunately some people have used that enthusiasm and sent out hoaxes," said Obama spokeswoman Jen Psaki, who received one herself. “We can assure our supporters these texts did not come from the campaign and their data is secure. Everyone can also rest easy that despite their popularity, Mickey Mouse and Michael Phelps are not on the short list at this time.”
A Manhattan woman got excited when she received a message announcing Hillary Rodham Clinton, but soon realized it was a joke she saw nothing more about the choice on the Internet.
There also were reports of John Kerry, Walter Mondale and even Eliot Spitzer.
On Wednesday morning, Richmond lawyer Anne Leigh Kerr passed along bad information to political types after receiving a text message from an unknown number that, in formal language, announced that Obama selected Gov. Tim Kaine.
“Now, even if Tim Kaine himself tells me he's VP, I think I'll keep my mouth shut,” Kerr told Politico.
The website Wonkette might have something to do with the proliferation of hoax messages. At 2:07 p.m. Wednesday, managing editor Ken Layne posted a step-by-step manual from a reader under the headline: “Freak Out Your Friends With Fake Obama VP TXT.”
“We are proud to help cause confusion and excitement during this terrible boring week of no news at all,” Layne wrote in an email to Politico. “But we can't really take too much credit for it – apparently one of our readers listens to Howard Stern (which is still on the radio?) and heard of the veep TXT hoax, and figured out an easy way to do it through Verizon's TXT website.”
Layne said he has personally sent about 50 messages announcing Mondale.
“So many of my so-called friends have sent hoax (texts) to me now,” he added, “that I'll probably end up ignoring the real one.”
Ben Smith contributed to this story.
© 2008 Capitol News Company, LLC
But - if he is able to pull it off - keep the secret till the real text message goes out - it will bode well for his future. Because, Presidents do need to keep secrets, quite often.
- - Ing, August 22, 2008
Whoever knows for sure, isn't talking. The latest I've read is that Obama has already informed the runners-up that they are runners-up. The text message could go out, like - 30 minutes before the speech, or something.
- - Ing, August 22, 2008
Is that the latest - that the announcement will come (for sure) tomorrow? I thought the whole point of the exercise was that those who were signed up for the text message notice would get it at Obama's choosing, not some pre-selected, publicly known time.
- - Fair, August 22, 2008
I WANT TO KNOW! I WANT TO KNOW!
I don't want to wait for tomorrow - I want to know NOW!
(Obama's veep choice)
- - Ing, August 22, 2008
I read the entire Appeals court decision (since I have nothing better to do) on the MGRN and it did make sense to this educated layperson. The constitution provides for amendment and it provides for a general revision and the way the arguments went, it was pretty hard to see the MGRN as anything other than a general revision, which can only happen by a Constitutional Convention.
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
Catching up on Mich. news... I'm glad the stem cell research will be on the ballot. I'm indifferent to the medical marijuana ballot question. Too bad about MGRN! That would have been good - at least I think so.
- - Fair, August 21, 2008
You're right! Please tell Obama!
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
He should announce NOW so it gets on the news/in the media before the weekend. This is the last time many will listen to the radio in their cars or watch the evening news - Friday's seem to be up in the air for a lot in the summer season. Who will be paying attention on a nice sunny summer Saturday?
- - Fair, August 21, 2008
It's one of my first and throughout the day pages to go to because he updates it constantly and I like the funky - old-school feel to the page.
I still think Obama should have announced yesterday, and so he should have announced today and so I HOPE he announces tomorrow and NOT on Saturday - why drag it out so - it will be anti-climatic, perhaps?
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
I was actually able to open the Time blog webpage. I thought it was funny too - NOTHING! I wonder if any hidden bitterness will come out in her speech (or Bill's many camera appearances).
If Kaine is the VP selection, Va. will for sure be in play. I gather he is generally popular here. In Nothern Va. because folks are educated and in the military areas in the southeastern portion of the state (Kaine, from what I gather, is not so terrible to the DOD folks). Those are really the only two population bases that matter.
- - Fair, August 21, 2008
Please go to: (oh - maybe your system treats this as a bl*g and blocks it)
http://thepage.time.com/ and scroll down a bit to her picture and click on the link about upon what the speculation about Hillary being Veep is based. Fun-ny!
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
Still no news I see on the VP. I didn't think Va. Gov. Kaine would be in the running compared to Biden - Biden's more "veteran" appearance may be a bonus considering McCain's age. Just a thought. May not even be too much of an issue about which to worry.
- - Fair, August 21, 2008
I had hoped that Obama would announce his veep selection yesterday. I still think it will be Joe Biden, but now the media seem to be shifting to Tim Kaine because he has a style more similar to Obama-no drama.
There could still be the ultimate "head fake" - Hillary! Would not be my fave but infinitely better than her trying to take over the top spot at the convention!
- - Ing, August 21, 2008
I think he is doing all that he can do - except, maybe the Hawaii vacation was ill-timed.
If the Hillary-takes-over-at the convention scenario plays out, I will be very hard-pressed to vote for her. I think I would leave the presidential slot blank.
- - Ing, August 20, 2008
You made a good point about these polls a week or two ago. If the polling only included land line telephone collection methods - it is flawed in my opinion. Getting the cell phone generation to the polls is the challenge (although they [we :)] did turn out, if I recall correctly, during the Granholm/DeVos election two years ago).
The headache I read about was in Time magazine. The article explained a scenario where Hillary could still be the nominee come the convention if this sort of "Obama bad news" continues and the superdelegates think Obama is quickly losing his shining star power. He still hasn't made a big enough effort, at least to me, to reach out to the blue collar workers and the elderly - both demographics that may be swayed by race and "experience" [i.e. age].
- - Fair, August 20, 2008
You know how there are lots of different polling organizations, getting varying results - the latest Reuters/Zogby national poll has McCain up over Obama by 5 points. I'm worried. I haven't woke up with headaches lately, but I'm afraid this will bring them back :(
- - Ing, August 20, 2008
Just e-mail. I'm sure I'll hear the buzz as soon as something happens.
- - Fair, August 20, 2008
Are you signed up to get the text message of Obama's veep choice? I signed up for the e-mail, so the text messagers will all know first - and post on-line. . . .
- - Ing, August 20, 2008
Made my day :) Ha-ha (yet so sad b/c it's true).
- - Fair, August 20, 2008
The George W. Bush Presidential Library
Because I know you're all ANXIOUS to visit!!!
The GEORGE W. BUSH PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY is now in the planning stages. The Library will include:
The Weapons of Mass Destruction Room, which no one has yet been able to find.
The Hurricane Katrina Room , which is still under construction.
The Texas Air National Guard Room, where you don't even have to show up.
The Walter Reed Hospital Room, where they don't let you in.
The Guantanamo Bay Room, where they don't let you out.
The National Debt Room, which is huge and has no ceiling.
The Tax Cut Room with entry restricted only to the wealthy.
The Airport Men's Room, where you can meet some of your favorite Republican Senators.
The Economy Room, which is in the toilet.
The Iraq War Room. After you complete your first tour, they make you to go back for a second, third, fourth, and, sometimes, fifth tour.
The Dick Cheney Room, in the famous undisclosed location, complete with shotgun gallery.
The Environmental Conservation Room, still empty, but very warm.
The Supreme Court Gift Shop, where you can buy an election.
The Decider Room complete with dart board, magic 8-ball, Ouija board, dice, coins, and straws.
Additionally, the museum will have an electron microscope to help you locate the President's accomplishments.
Admission: Republicans - Free
Democrats - $1000 or 3 Euros
(Perhaps you haven't heard that his library has burned down. Both his books were destroyed in the fire and what really upset him is that he hadn't even finished coloring the second one.)
- - Ing, August 20, 2008
Yes - he has one of the Senate's more impressive comb-overs - our own Sen. Levin is king in that department.
- - Ing, August 19, 2008
And... he looks like he has experience... if you know what I mean.
- - Fair, August 19, 2008
Senator Joe Biden of Delaware has been in Wash. 20 years or so, but he speaks his mind - too much so! He has run for Prez in the past, including in 2007-08. When Obama first announced, it was Biden who said, He's clean, good looking, articulate - perceived as condescending at best, racist at worst. He chairs the Foreign Affairs Committee and something else and has mucho foreign affairs cred. I don't know about your issues, but he's from Delaware - he's got to like rail and mass transit!
- - Ing, August 19, 2008
Unfortunately I am not too familiar with him. I have a lot of catching up. What are his positions on some issues? What makes you like him? Do you know if he has a record on supporting mass transit, esp. rail :) ?
- - Fair, August 19, 2008
As early as tomorrow morning - as late as Saturday - he has reserved the spot in Springfield IL where he announced his candidacy for noon Saturday. Do you like Biden? The media is shifting his way. . .
- - Ing, August 19, 2008
Fuel prices seem to be decreasing still - hopefully air fare will as well. Makes Vegas all that more of a possibility.
When is Obama set to announce? Before the convention?
- - Fair, August 19, 2008
More and more I think the veep will be Biden and I'm pleased about that!
- - Ing, August 19, 2008
I'm actually not sure. I still see benefits of a Obama-Clinton ticket - especially since so many of Hillary's supporters are not automatically supporting (which is unfortunate) Obama for a number or reasons - the race issue, "lack" of experience, Is he a Muslim?, ... So many potential issues with that though.
I think former Va. Gov. Warner would be a nice pick... and I'm not just saying that b/c I live in Va.
- - Fair, August 18, 2008
So who is your current Obama Veep fave - I think I already said mine - Joe Biden. Hasn't always been, but things (in the world) change . . .
- - Ing, August 18, 2008
Add to that the still ticked off group of Hillary supporters - Time had an article two weeks ago that I just read. It mentioned older Florida female Jewish voters, for example, as a group Obama needs to work on that supported Hillary without any effort on her part.
- - Fair, August 18, 2008
The problem is, there is this continual drumbeat of muted criticism of Obama - that with the Republican incumbent having such low approval numbers, Obama should be doing better in the polls than he is - he's ahead, but not by much. His Veep selection has to be bang-up exciting, not boring like Evan Bayh. I'm thinking - Joe Biden.
Did you sign up for initial VP selection notification by e-mail? I got the invite to do so - and did - from one of my numerous Obama-e-mails.
- - Ing, August 18, 2008
I just heard about the Russia/Georgia (what's up with Atlanta - haha) issue - still not up to date on that. I took a break from reality you could say :) Poor John McCain... hopefully a lot of folks had their brains on "summer" mode during the week.
- - Fair, August 18, 2008
Did you hear much about the election while you were away? When Obama was on vacation, it seemed to be in a lull. Then there was the Russia/Georgia crisis - I kept waiting for someone to say - he's on vacation during such a crisis! But, one president at a time - that's my latest blog entry title. McCain really did overstep in his posturing way.
I think more than ever we're going to need the "young people" to turn out - I'm counting on you to help with that! (of course, you will vote - but getting out more vote, I mean).
- - Ing, August 18, 2008
Oh no - say it isn't so (John Edwards affair)
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/08/08/edwards.affair/
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
You know who Kwame is just like? Mugabe in Zimbabwe - someone just hanging on to power no matter how much his country (city) is being destroyed on account of him.
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
I have to remember they aim for the best...
- - Fair, August 8, 2008
The standard by which Repubs are judged is W - they are ALL better than him!
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
Why is Cox going on like he is? He sounds ridiculous. Are Mike Huckabee, Terri Lynn Land and Charlie Crist the only republicans with decent speaking skills?
- - Fair, August 8, 2008
Can you get live streaming video? I'm sure WDIV will be up with Cox's announcement, scheduled for 10:00 am. Apparently right now there is the Appeal hearing for "hiz honor" being in jail at present.
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
I can't believe what is going on with Kilpatrick. Unbelievable. You're correct (and I was talking about this yesterday with my grandfather) - the Gov. is much too weak. Talk about a situation needing immediate attention... We'll see what today brings.
- - Fair, August 8, 2008
The whole Kwame fiasco is bad not only for him and for Detroit but is hurting Granholm also. For some time I have come to the sad conclusion that she is a pretty weak political leader - her reaction/nonreaction in this case is just reinforcing that for all to see.
- - Ing, August 8, 2008
I don't know much about refining oil into gas or jet fuel - do they both get refined out of the same kind of oil? The price of a barrel of oil has come down significantly lately - maybe that's made it better for airlines as well as drivers . . .
- - Ing, August 7, 2008
By the way, I noticed flight costs have DECREASED - yes, decreased - on nwa.com. I was checking on prices yesterday. DC to Detroit was recently $205; is now $165 (was $119 or 127 prior to the fuel increases) for example.
- - Fair, August 7, 2008
Yes - I just saw that about Kwame myself!
Just read a disturbing piece in Time about how the Clintons - esp. he, but her too - are still not "over it." And maybe her followers will put her name in nomination at the Convention as a "symbolic gesture." Yet - it would be divisive. Those darn Clintons! Can't they ever see - it really is NOT all about them?
- - Ing, August 7, 2008
I see Mayor Kilpatrick was just sentenced to jail! WOW! I am just fine today, thank you. How are things on your end?
Thanks for the Report. I was looking forward to today's issue with the election recaps.
- - Fair, August 7, 2008.
Hi -
I will be polite today, and ask, how are you? ;->
- - Ing, August 7, 2008
Oh, I'm totally with you there - I would have liked the fall of the Kilpatricks to begin - them being in office under the circumstances can't be a good thing for Barack . . .
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
An article in the Detroit News mentioned Martha Scott as the spoiler, or something similar. Too bad... My opinion at least.
- - Fair, August 6, 2008
She had two opponents in the Primary - had she only had Waters, I think she would have lost.
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
I'll be out. I was standing in the rain in '06 for the Gov's race on election day.
How about US Rep. Kilpatrick winning in Detroit!!?!
- - Fair, August 6, 2008
Now per my other e-mail - I want YOU to go out in get-out-the-vote efforts, because you are young, number 1, and number 2, you look younger than you really are!
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
I TOTALLY agree (with your post). And another comparison I'd like to hear brought up - I can't remember exactly, but I think W had traveled outside the U.S. very little before he was elected.
I'm afraid to say it, but the whole election might hinge on your generation, and a little older, and younger, turning out as never before. There's got to be a huge - turn-out-the-young-people vote!
(Some say this is why Obama is not creaming McCain in the polls - younger folks don't have landlines to get the calls from pollsters on.)
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
I finally posted to Faxham last night.
- - Fair, August 6, 2008
The plan was for MSU to begin with. I can't remember one of the places, but the Pavilion was considered - they had a horse show, so no go. But T. TiVo-ed the speech for me, carried live on both Channel 6 and Channel 10. At one point, Obama said, "And right here at this university. . ." - the speech had been written for presentation at MSU and not updated.
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
Nicely done. I'm sure Obama could have filled Spartan Stadium easily! He should come back when MSU is in session.
- - Fair, August 5, 2008
You probably didn't have time to read my recent posts . . . [e.g., Obama's Speech was Great!]
- - Ing, August 5, 2008
There was a ballot proposal for Ingham County about preserving farmland (a millage proposal) and I meant to vote for it. Somehow I missed it on the ballot - I realized once I walked out of the polling place. We have long paper ballots that we mark on with a black pen (drawing a line between two arrows). This proposal must have been at the bottom of the ballot and I just neglected to see it. As returns came in, the %'s were close - and this morning, on TV, it was listed as 50%/50%. I had to get online at home (which I rarely do weekday mornings) to check it out. The proposal passed by 137 votes! 14,823 no and 14,960 yes. Whew!
- - Ing, August 6, 2008
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/04/AR2008080402415.html?hpid=topnews&sid=ST2008080402649&pos=
Gas Prices Apply Brakes To Suburban Migration
So in Onondaga, we live against the smart trend, with my long commutes and the distances to shopping. But at least we don't have a house with a monstrous footprint or an SUV. . .
- - Ing, August 5, 2008
At least the Report did a better job of reporting on Obama's FULL speech and not just little bits and bites out of it.
Saul Anuzis is so stupid - he says that McCain did not flip flop by changing his position on off shore drilling but he "adjusted" - so what's wrong with Obama "adjusting" on anything???
Also of note - Grebner is analyzing the Dem. Primary results - and reveals he voted the same as I (and you???) - for Mitt Romney.
- - Ing, August 4, 2008
Granholm, Stabenow, Levin, Dingell, Conyers, and Dillon were all introduced by name - both by a campaign person and by Barack. But we couldn't see them. They used one of the ballroom spaces, with no risers - just rows of chairs all at a single level. I stood up beyond (beside) the chairs for much of Obama's speech, so I could see him better. After the speech, I would have liked to get up closer where he was shaking hands so I could see him in a more informal manner, but there was just too big a crush of people.
The internet news sites are reporting on the speech in a disappointing way (AP attached). Releasing some gallons from the reserve and allowing some off shore drilling are such small parts - but these are the ones where they can say - reversal - flip flop. The big points from the speech were - get off foreigh oil dependency within 10 years. Invest heavily in alternative energy AND in American (Michigan) auto manufacturers to help them make more fuel efficient and alternative energy cars - BIG applause lines for these. And reduce energy consumption by 15%. I think he will do a similar speech later this week in Ohio and someplace else - I hope the press will start to report accurately.
- - Ing, August 4, 2008
Well good morning to you too :) I was at an offsite meeting this morning. I'm glad you were able to snag a ticket through P. Very nice of her. I can't even imagine the scene at the Lansing Center - how amazing! Was Gov. Granholm in attendance? Andy Dillon? Wow. I'm sure you were like a school girl in a candy store :) ha-ha... and on His birthday of all days.
I'm a bit tired from the trip to North Carolina (I had a blast, by the way). This message from you just made my day. So much so I'll have to again donate... via the Obama 'store.' I'll see what I will buy next.
- - Fair, August 4, 2008
As I wrote in Faxham over the weekend, I waited 2 ½ hours in line for tickets only to have them run out. But this morning at work, P. called me and she had an extra ticket!
It was absolutely wonderful - except for standing in line in high heels I wouldn't have worn, had I known . . . plus Barack was about a half hour late - BUT - it was a great speech about alternative energy, short term and long term solutions, bringing jobs back to Michigan - helping the auto industry with building fuel-efficient cars. And the crowd sang him Happy Birthday because today is his actual birthday - 47 years old. And to be in the same room with him, and and and it was just wonderful!
- - Ing, August 4, 2008
I know there is more than one way accomplish all these things [work stuff] - reminds me ("all deese tings" - an Arnold-ism) - have you heard what he has done in California? All state workers down to minimum wage or else laid off!
- - Ing, August 1, 2008
McCain's campaign sure learned lessons from Hillary's campaign - and not in a good way.
p.s. I made another $25 contribution at the website - I think I'm up to $100 now. I also ordered a pink, ladies Obama T-shirt. I'll wear it up on Mackinac Island this September!
- - Ing, July 31, 2008
- because it's an election year and Detroit's vote is very important to Obama being able to win Michigan. Can't look at these things in isolation. . .
- - Ing, July 31, 2008
I understand the point of Detroiters being upset about an "outsider" taking control, but when more than just Detroit is affected, that becomes a non-issue. Why is it fair that the rest of the state suffer because of that issue?
- - Fair, July 31, 2008
M. and I talked a little about the mayor and the guv - the situation is fraught with peril for Jenny. No matter how much Detroiters may complain about the mayor and want to see him out of there, they don't want that decision made by an outside-Detroiter. So, it's probably a continuing quagmire.
- - Ing, July 31, 2008
A lot of term limited lawmakers!
Any rumors about what Gov. Granholm will do re: Mayor Kilpatrick?
- - Fair, July 31, 2008
Report: July 25, 2008 Hi - When I'm behind on reports I usually don't try to catch up, but you have expressed a past interest in these local races. This contains bare bones details but it is so interesting to see that phrase, "termed out" over and over and over. Darn term limits! That's why we can't get any good law passed. Also, I think I recognized a situation you had written of before - a father-son team in a Macomb district?
- - Ing, July 29, 2008
I have the Obama bumper sticker on my back window - the glass - lower driver side corner. I had Granholm and Kerry-Edwards stickers in the same location; all peeled easily from the glass. I have NOT tried putting the sticker on a painted surface - just FYI.
My kickball tourney went well. I was out all day Saturday. We played in the shadow of the Washington Monument on the Mall - like it was an everyday thing to do!
- - Fair, July 28, 2008
I posted on Faxham over the weekend . . . I got the bumper sticker! Thanks! It says on the peel-off backing that it is a removable bumper sticker - I'd like to put that to the test. Really, the Grand Am is "my" car (it is in both our names) so I should just be able to put the sticker on if I want.
- - Ing, July 28, 2008
The "Celebrity"
I think Obama should finesse his way around this "celebrity" accusation.
To be a celebrity is to be celebrated, according to Merriam-Webster. We all know what it means to celebrate - to be happy about something or someone, often a milestone or accomplishment. That is what Obama has attained, and rightly to be celebrated - the first African-American to be nominated for the Presidency by one of the two major parties. What's not to celebrate? And look who is celebrating - millions upon millions of ordinary people, from all walks of life, of all ages, of all ethnic backgrounds. The "fat cats" aren't celebrating, the oil execs aren't celebrating, etc. etc. So let's think about the true meaning of being a celebrity and celebrate with Barack!
He should embrace the term, and pivot, as they say, to it's inner truth!
To be a celebrity is to be celebrated, according to Merriam-Webster. We all know what it means to celebrate - to be happy about something or someone, often a milestone or accomplishment. That is what Obama has attained, and rightly to be celebrated - the first African-American to be nominated for the Presidency by one of the two major parties. What's not to celebrate? And look who is celebrating - millions upon millions of ordinary people, from all walks of life, of all ages, of all ethnic backgrounds. The "fat cats" aren't celebrating, the oil execs aren't celebrating, etc. etc. So let's think about the true meaning of being a celebrity and celebrate with Barack!
He should embrace the term, and pivot, as they say, to it's inner truth!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Hillary's Speech
My first reaction to Hillary's speech at the DNC last night was - great! She did a better-than-expected job. She did what she needed to do to sway her diehard followers. I was watching on MSNBC and Chris Matthews and Keith Olbermann also gave the speech high marks - out of the park, that sort of thing. But this morning there were nay-sayers. McCain said, she didn't say Obama was ready to lead. Okay - she did not - explicitly. But it was implicit - she said Obama was her candidate and that Democrats had to unite behind him and we had to have a Democrat - Barack Obama, specifically - in the White House again. Would she say those things about someone she thought could not be or was not a leader? But, as always, anything the least bit subtle - an implicit deduction, for example - is lost on McCain, Bush, Cheney or any Republican. Craig Crawford, of Congressional Quarterly, used to be a favorite pundit of mine. But he thought her speech was terrible for what it was supposed to be. Because she didn't provide any personal connection to Obama. Well, just, shut my mouth wide open, I guess Mr. Crawford is missing the heart-connection - so sad ;->
I do wish the polls would change. I know there is plenty of time, but McCain being ahead even in the slightest does interfere with my peace of mind and ability to sleep well!
I do wish the polls would change. I know there is plenty of time, but McCain being ahead even in the slightest does interfere with my peace of mind and ability to sleep well!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Blah and Blah and 5 and a half years as a POW . . .
It's sort of the equivalent of Joe Biden's famous remark in one of the Primary debates, about Rudy Giuliani: "All he can say is, a noun, and a verb and 9/11." Now, no matter what the criticism, John McCain brings up his five and half years spent in a POW camp during the Viet Nam war. The reason why he can't remember something - well, after five and a half years as a POW . . . Discussion of his multiple houses? - well, he spent five and a half years in a "home" that didn't have a kitchen . . .Even on Jay Leno the other night, he brought it up. And it is a radioactive topic! The Dems can't attack him on it - look what happened when Wesley Clark brought up just the sensible point that, actually, being shot out of your fighter jet and subsequently spending five and a half years as POW doesn't really qualify you to be Commander and Chief. My advice to Joe? You'll be tempted, but DON'T GO THERE! Just let us bloggers point out the ridiculous truth of John McCain's positions and justifications.
So easy to second-guess
Not trying to be too critical of your comments, Fair, but it is an age-old problem with political conventions - how much do you appeal to people's hearts, and how much to their heads?
It's been said repeatedly about Obama - oh, he has that soaring-rhetoric thing down, but where is the substance? Where are the discussions of the issues? But if he discusses the issues in any detail - he's boring! Maybe Bill Clinton really did have a unique talent, that he could speak about issues in wonky detail and somehow make it fascinating. Maybe hardly anyone can do that - certainly not his wife, not Al Gore, nor any Republican I've heard from. So, I'll take the soaring rhetoric that stirs my emotions. I don't need anything for my head because my mind has been made up forever - we gotta have a Democrat in the White House, no matter who it is.
So is the convention for the party and the delegates? Or is it meant to persuade undecided voters? I don't see why it can't be both. If yesterday was about emotion, that was for the Democrats mostly perhaps, although I'm sure some of the undecideds also have hearts! Today, tomorrow - yes, there can be more emphasis on issues. But it's a four-day event, after all - can't be all head, all the time!
It's been said repeatedly about Obama - oh, he has that soaring-rhetoric thing down, but where is the substance? Where are the discussions of the issues? But if he discusses the issues in any detail - he's boring! Maybe Bill Clinton really did have a unique talent, that he could speak about issues in wonky detail and somehow make it fascinating. Maybe hardly anyone can do that - certainly not his wife, not Al Gore, nor any Republican I've heard from. So, I'll take the soaring rhetoric that stirs my emotions. I don't need anything for my head because my mind has been made up forever - we gotta have a Democrat in the White House, no matter who it is.
So is the convention for the party and the delegates? Or is it meant to persuade undecided voters? I don't see why it can't be both. If yesterday was about emotion, that was for the Democrats mostly perhaps, although I'm sure some of the undecideds also have hearts! Today, tomorrow - yes, there can be more emphasis on issues. But it's a four-day event, after all - can't be all head, all the time!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Get to it...
A thought about the start of the Dem. convention:
> Where is the substance? One speech on the historic nature of this convention would be appropriate. To go on and on with "feelings" discussions seems ill-timed - - THE ECONOMY, healthcare, immigration... - those are the issues that need to be addressed.
I hope this is not an indication of things to come...
(By the way; where is ol' Zel Miller, D-Ga.?)
> Where is the substance? One speech on the historic nature of this convention would be appropriate. To go on and on with "feelings" discussions seems ill-timed - - THE ECONOMY, healthcare, immigration... - those are the issues that need to be addressed.
I hope this is not an indication of things to come...
(By the way; where is ol' Zel Miller, D-Ga.?)
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Good choice
I'm glad to see Sen. Biden on the ticket. The news created quite the buzz in the Lancaster, Pa., where I was this past weekend. Ing... now you don't have to keep waking up at random times during the night to check on VP status...
Who will McCain select? Michigan's native son Mitt-ney? Possibly a female candidate? Sen. Lieberman?
Who will McCain select? Michigan's native son Mitt-ney? Possibly a female candidate? Sen. Lieberman?
Saturday, August 23, 2008
It's Joe!
I agree, Fair, that trying to withhold veep selection news till the "last minute" and to give out the news first via text-messages - turned out to be something of a gimmick. And it ultimately failed, because two Democratic insiders broke the news to CNN at about 12:30 am this morning - before the campaign's planned text message release of wake-up time Saturday morning. I guess this forced the campaign's hand because they released the text message at 3:00 am. I woke up for some reason at 1:00 am and turned on CNN, so that's how I got the news.
To me, it is great news. I donated again to the campaign this morning (I'm over $100 now) and sent this Welcome message to Joe Biden:
Dear Senator Biden:
I am ecstatic that Barack Obama has chosen you to be his running mate and that you have accepted. I look forward to seeing your ability to fight back against the smear campaign-old school politics of the McCain campaign. I'm sure that you respect and admire Senator McCain due to your years of service with him in the Senate, but he's gone over to the "dark side" of Rovian politics. You can take that on, with your ability to cut to the chase, state the obvious, find the logical flaws in their "arguments", and to smile and be genial all the while. On the positive side, I totally respect your experience in the foreign policy arena. Obama has not conceded he has a lack in that regard by choosing you, but shows his greater judgement in knowing how to put together a GREAT TEAM!
CONGRATULATIONS!
[Ing], Onondaga (very small town),Michigan
To me, it is great news. I donated again to the campaign this morning (I'm over $100 now) and sent this Welcome message to Joe Biden:
Dear Senator Biden:
I am ecstatic that Barack Obama has chosen you to be his running mate and that you have accepted. I look forward to seeing your ability to fight back against the smear campaign-old school politics of the McCain campaign. I'm sure that you respect and admire Senator McCain due to your years of service with him in the Senate, but he's gone over to the "dark side" of Rovian politics. You can take that on, with your ability to cut to the chase, state the obvious, find the logical flaws in their "arguments", and to smile and be genial all the while. On the positive side, I totally respect your experience in the foreign policy arena. Obama has not conceded he has a lack in that regard by choosing you, but shows his greater judgement in knowing how to put together a GREAT TEAM!
CONGRATULATIONS!
[Ing], Onondaga (very small town),Michigan
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Who will notice?
Sen. Obama... tell us already! You need to send out your text message announcement ASAP. Who will be watching or listening to the campaign over one of the final summer vacation weekends? Only your most staunch supporters, that's who. Do you need to do much for them - probably not - they are with you.
You need to time this so that the majority of those not following politics every seven minutes hear the announcement and feel positive about your choice. Keeping us waiting... and building the excitement to the extreme... while a marketing trick also could lead to a 'let-down.' As more and more "can't wait" any longer - they may be more disappointed if their favorite for VP is not selected. It could play right in to the McCain Paris Hilton celebrity attack.
At least most seem to realize that one person (make that two... John Edwards) is off the list - - Sen. Hillary Clinton.
You need to time this so that the majority of those not following politics every seven minutes hear the announcement and feel positive about your choice. Keeping us waiting... and building the excitement to the extreme... while a marketing trick also could lead to a 'let-down.' As more and more "can't wait" any longer - they may be more disappointed if their favorite for VP is not selected. It could play right in to the McCain Paris Hilton celebrity attack.
At least most seem to realize that one person (make that two... John Edwards) is off the list - - Sen. Hillary Clinton.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Too close for comfort!
I'm not a huge sports fan, by any means, but there are certain contests that I like to follow. I really enjoyed Rafael Nadal beating Roger Federer at Wimbledon. I like for the Detroit Tigers to win (and, on behalf of T., for the Detroit Lions to win, too). I follow my alma mater in sports, somewhat, and the Olympics - but in nearly all these cases, I just want to know after the outcome, that my person or my team has won. I find watching a close contest, where I care about who wins, to be stressful, or at least, not enjoyable.
Now that McCain has pulled ahead of Obama in some big, national polls, I'm feeling the same sort of close-sports-contest stress! I want the election to be over and I want Obama to have won! Childish, I know . . .
Now that McCain has pulled ahead of Obama in some big, national polls, I'm feeling the same sort of close-sports-contest stress! I want the election to be over and I want Obama to have won! Childish, I know . . .
Sunday, August 17, 2008
One President at a time.
So this past week, Russia exerted cold war-like extensions of its power into the tiny, former part-of-USSR republic of Georgia. McCain immediately began bellicose saber-rattling - as if the U.S. has any available troops to fight off Russia. We are all Georgians!, he proclaimed - as if we have the will to take on Russia over such a country. Sure, it is a terrible thing which Russia has done, and I gather, it could have been foreseen had we not been distracted by the endless Iraqi quagmire. But McCain acted as if he were already President - to a dangerous degree, unlike the photo-op type stuff Obama did on his Middle East-European tour. Many of us are counting down the days, but honestly - George W. Bush is still President and we only have one President at a time. McCain (and weasel surrogate Lieberman) should just shut their mouths if this is all they can come up with.
Obama's restrained response was correct. But there is a growing chorus of voices out there - on his side! - saying he's being too soft, too muted. He needs an attack-dog Veep candidate - maybe it is time for Hillary after all and that is all part of why the Clintons are being given so much time at the convention. But the latest candidate I've heard being tossed to the top of the heap is Joe Biden. I'd be happy with him, if he could only learn to keep his mouth from running on and on, ahead of his obviously good mind.
Obama's restrained response was correct. But there is a growing chorus of voices out there - on his side! - saying he's being too soft, too muted. He needs an attack-dog Veep candidate - maybe it is time for Hillary after all and that is all part of why the Clintons are being given so much time at the convention. But the latest candidate I've heard being tossed to the top of the heap is Joe Biden. I'd be happy with him, if he could only learn to keep his mouth from running on and on, ahead of his obviously good mind.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Misdeeds, high and low
Misdeeds on display yesterday, lucky 08 - 08 - 08. First, the legal misdeeds of Kwame multiply - Fair and I both watch the same live-streaming video as A.G. Mike Cox announces new felony charges - isn't technology great? Many of us who care aboout Michigan and who care about Detroit would like Kwame to take the high road and resign - but he shows no indication of doing so. The calls have increased for the governor to remove him for "official misconduct" but this remains racially difficult. I guess being unselfish on behalf of a greater good is just pretty rare these days . . .
Then there is John Edwards and his confession of his 2006 affair. In his statement, he refers to falling into the trap of feeling special, narcissistic, the rules for others don't apply to him. This is so classic and such an object lesson for all those married politicians out there (as if Bill Clinton did not provide this lesson well enough - does it need to be revisited once every 10 years or so?) - just be faithful. It may be old-fashioned, it may not be consistent with how we've lived our entire lives - but we're not running for president. The sacrifices for that pursuit seem endless - just add - affairs, outside romances, whatever. I'm sure the temptations are legion, but the candidates just have to have that additional discipline. When you compare the benefits and costs of the affair in this context, you just gotta say - the U.S. presidency is the biggest prize. Isn't it worth more than that other . . .
Then there is John Edwards and his confession of his 2006 affair. In his statement, he refers to falling into the trap of feeling special, narcissistic, the rules for others don't apply to him. This is so classic and such an object lesson for all those married politicians out there (as if Bill Clinton did not provide this lesson well enough - does it need to be revisited once every 10 years or so?) - just be faithful. It may be old-fashioned, it may not be consistent with how we've lived our entire lives - but we're not running for president. The sacrifices for that pursuit seem endless - just add - affairs, outside romances, whatever. I'm sure the temptations are legion, but the candidates just have to have that additional discipline. When you compare the benefits and costs of the affair in this context, you just gotta say - the U.S. presidency is the biggest prize. Isn't it worth more than that other . . .
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Experience (d)?
Like Ing, I have my annoyances too...
Republicans seem to bet that the American public wants 'experience' over the unknown. True, I'd say, in most instances. Sen. John McCain clearly has a longer history serving in Washington. But is that what we want - someone who's been in Washington about as long this Blogger's been alive? I'm betting to think no, not now. At this point, our nation clearly needs something new - someone that can lead us to something better. OK, I'll say it... we need Change.
You see, to me, Obama has many years of experience. Sen. Obama worked in Illinois government for six years prior to coming to Washington four years ago. Oh, and, get this; George W. Bush had only six years in Texas government (after defeating then-Texan Gov. Ann Richards) and no time in Washington prior to, unfortunately, being elected President in 2000. Who did "W" run against in 2000 in the republican primary? Sen. John McCain - who, at the time, had 18 more years' federal experience than the second Bush.
Should this be an ad?
- -Fair
Republicans seem to bet that the American public wants 'experience' over the unknown. True, I'd say, in most instances. Sen. John McCain clearly has a longer history serving in Washington. But is that what we want - someone who's been in Washington about as long this Blogger's been alive? I'm betting to think no, not now. At this point, our nation clearly needs something new - someone that can lead us to something better. OK, I'll say it... we need Change.
You see, to me, Obama has many years of experience. Sen. Obama worked in Illinois government for six years prior to coming to Washington four years ago. Oh, and, get this; George W. Bush had only six years in Texas government (after defeating then-Texan Gov. Ann Richards) and no time in Washington prior to, unfortunately, being elected President in 2000. Who did "W" run against in 2000 in the republican primary? Sen. John McCain - who, at the time, had 18 more years' federal experience than the second Bush.
Should this be an ad?
- -Fair
Obama's Speech was Great!
Due to the generosity of a friend and a co-worker, I was able to get a ticket to Barack Obama's Lansing Center (Michigan) speech after all. It was absolutely wonderful. To be in the same room with him, to be part of a cheering, screaming, wildly applauding crowd - and to hear such a well-thought out speech on energy.
The only disappointment was in how some media outlets reported on the speech. His energy policy contains short-term and long-term components. The long-term components include investing in alternative energy, investing in auto companies to make the change-over to alternative fuels and/or fuel efficient vehicles, and - conservation: a 15% reduction in energy use, both at home and in the workplace. Short-term - he mentioned the Senate compromise that includes some off-shore drilling; and some withdrawals - I guess "swaps" - involving the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. These last two were what some media focused on - because - of course, they represent "shifts" or "flip flops" with respect to Obama's past positions.
The media seem to think their job is just to report on the back and forth campaign ads and to pick them apart. Both candidates, honestly, have plenty of policy points and issues - the media just don't find those "sexy" enough to report on.
The only disappointment was in how some media outlets reported on the speech. His energy policy contains short-term and long-term components. The long-term components include investing in alternative energy, investing in auto companies to make the change-over to alternative fuels and/or fuel efficient vehicles, and - conservation: a 15% reduction in energy use, both at home and in the workplace. Short-term - he mentioned the Senate compromise that includes some off-shore drilling; and some withdrawals - I guess "swaps" - involving the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. These last two were what some media focused on - because - of course, they represent "shifts" or "flip flops" with respect to Obama's past positions.
The media seem to think their job is just to report on the back and forth campaign ads and to pick them apart. Both candidates, honestly, have plenty of policy points and issues - the media just don't find those "sexy" enough to report on.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Obama Coming Here! (Lansing, MI)
Fair, you probably heard on the news that Barack Obama will be speaking on the topics of Energy, and also infrastructure and local government (according to the Lansing State Journal). And you would think, of course, Ing will make it to that speech. Well - - I tried, I waited in line about 2 and a half hours - but, no ticket. They ran out, I estimate, about 50 people ahead of me. I would have had to get in line about a 8:00 am instead of the 8:30 I did get there.
I'm hoping that those around me, and the hundreds in line behind, won't be too disappointed. The Journal said that if all ballrooms were combined, the Lansing Center venue could hold 5,700. I really don't think there were that many people ahead of me - they probably gave out VIP tickets and saved space for Democratic office holders, things like that.
The Lansing Center does seem too small for Obama - he could fill Spartan Stadium, with a bit more lead time. But after all - speaking to stadium-filling crowds feeds into the opposition's stereotyping of Obama - he's just a rock star, he's just a celebrity. I really don't think McCain's strategy will be successful in the long run. But it is an irritant and a distraction as the modern campaign response is to reply to the opposition almost instantly. Maybe Obama and his team just need to slow down slightly - let the ridiculousness of McCain's campaign just hang out there in the ether for Democratic pundits to poke holes in and bring down to earth.
I'm hoping that those around me, and the hundreds in line behind, won't be too disappointed. The Journal said that if all ballrooms were combined, the Lansing Center venue could hold 5,700. I really don't think there were that many people ahead of me - they probably gave out VIP tickets and saved space for Democratic office holders, things like that.
The Lansing Center does seem too small for Obama - he could fill Spartan Stadium, with a bit more lead time. But after all - speaking to stadium-filling crowds feeds into the opposition's stereotyping of Obama - he's just a rock star, he's just a celebrity. I really don't think McCain's strategy will be successful in the long run. But it is an irritant and a distraction as the modern campaign response is to reply to the opposition almost instantly. Maybe Obama and his team just need to slow down slightly - let the ridiculousness of McCain's campaign just hang out there in the ether for Democratic pundits to poke holes in and bring down to earth.
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