Exchanges: September 26 - October 24

Just as the MSM predicted Hillary 'the inevitable' in 2008.

- - Fair, October 24, 2008


They are a bunch of whining wieners, aren't they.

I guess the MSM isI think her ability level is similar to that of Sarah. ;-> already forecasting Palin in 2012.

- - Ing, October 24, 2008


Funny... but I don't feel the least bit sorry for any of them. Thanks for the link.

- - Fair, October 24, 2008


http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1008/14891.html

This is a really good article.

- - Ing, October 24, 2008


Oh... forgot to mention that Saturday-day is when I'll be canvassing in the far SW portion of Fairfax County. My first time taking action other than donating.

- - Fair, October 24, 2008


I certainly understand the impatience for it to be over with - all this, "If the polls were held today, Obama would win" stuff - it is definitely nerve-wracking. Hillary has been excellent when I've seen her, and I would like to see more of her. I believe she is busy helping to attain the 60-member "super majority" in the Senate - that would sure help out President Obama. I don't really believe in jinxes, I guess. I predict that the polls will hold or get wider and Obama will get a landslide and a mandate! And with long coattails!

- - Ing, October 24, 2008


I have faith in the team... I'm just getting impatient and want the vote to occur today while we are up. Who wouldn't want that while their side is up.

I am a sucker for the party 'celebs' to be on TV, especially when our party stars, such as the Clintons, Gov. Rendell, Maria Schriver, Colin Powell, etc... sound so put together as darlings of the media compared to the non-sense that is delivered from folks like Bay Buchanan, Pat Buchanan, Bill-O the Clown, Rush Limbaugh, Gov. Palin herself, etc... I'm sure the Obama-Biden team has the grassroots covered many times over compared to the McCain-Failin' campaign - - even in red states like Georgia and South Carolina.

- - Fair, October 24, 2008


But you haven't answered my question - there is over a week left of campaigning - why don't you have faith in the team that they know what to do and when to do it? In other words, I'm sure Obama will be back in PA, as well as the Clintons and Rendell is there all the time of course. Why aren't you sure about the campaign's ability to plan the future out? I'm not trying to picky-picky - I am just curious about your thinking.

- - Ing, October 24, 2008


None of those folks are out, at least not being covered in the media, on the trail. Gov. Rendell was on CNN or MSNBC (can't remember which) last night saying Obama needs to come back to Pa. Otherwise, I'm generally pleased with where we are as of last night.

Fair, October 24, 2008


What about the track record of the Obama team has you doubting that they will cover Pennsylvania as needed?

- - Ing, October 24, 2008


I'd add... "Let's quit! Enough already."

I hope things work out with his grandmother. I'm sure she would rather him succeed than have him worry about her. Why isn't Hillary all over Penna. and/or Ohio right now!?! Where is she, Bill, and people like Gov. Rendell? This is critical.

- - Fair, October 24, 2008


Friday, October 24, 2008
New Slogan for McCain

This came to me in a dream last night - a new slogan within the McCain-Palin campaign: "Let's quit!"


Very brief [blog post] - I don't usually tell my dreams to anyone but T. - but this would too good not to share. Also, I know you're worrying about where Obama is going to campaign in the last days, like he's GOT to go to Pennsylvania. I'm sure he will - I have every faith in his campaign doing the optimal thing with people and money resources.

- - Ing, October 24, 2008


It's a video - these are the same folks who did Paris Hilton's response to the Obama celebrity ads.

It's narrated by Ron Howard and includes Andy Griffith and Henry Winkler - you're not a boomer, but I still think you'd like it if you saw it on your home computer. The message from Ron is he has never revisited the Andy Griffith show and Happy Days show characters he played, but he puts on wigs and clothing and goes back - because he want s the country to be on the right track with Obama.

- - Ing, October 23, 2008


ACCESS DENIED! notice from our server filter. What was the content? Lots of blockage on my end.

- - Fair, October 23, 2008


Subject: Opie! Andy! the Fonz! - - for Obama - pretty funny!

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/cc65ed650d

- - Ing, October 23, 2008


Only what makes the headlines on the Post website. I'm not too sure, even if found guilty, that the Dem. challenger could win in Alaska. I would personally like to see Sen. Stevens retire.

- - Fair, October 23, 2008


On another topic, are you following Senator Stevens (Alaska) corruption trial? There's been some trouble in the jury room:

http://www.politico.com/blogs/thecrypt/1008/Trouble_at_the_Stevens_trial.html

- - Ing, October 23, 2008


I think her ability level is similar to that of Sarah. ;->

- - Ing, October 23, 2008


Is Hasselbeck an able political commentator or just one of the very few conservative stars on TV daily so Palin is stuck with her?

- - Fair, October 23, 2008


We love everything Keith does, of course. I even watch him do football highlights on Sunday night on NBC.

Never have been a fan of the View. I know about the political battles they have. I remember Elizabeth from Survivor - I'm sure you didn't catch that!

Those text messages - OMG! Although, it was many pages through the .PDF to get to the - let's say - meat of the matter. Embarrassing up the wazoo!

- - Ing, October 23, 2008


In other news... your buddy Keith Olbermann did quite a story on Bill-o The Clown's contract extension amid Fox Noise's lowest ratings. Nicely done. I see Gov. Palin has requested Elizabeth Hasselbeck from The View to campaign with her in Fla. this weekend. I don't watch The View so I'm not too familiar with Hasselbeck. Do you TiVO The View by chance?

- - Fair, October 23, 2008


I'll be sure and check out the Freep.

I'm signed up for Nov. 1, Sat. morning, and Election Day morning. I am going to take Monday off, to have a four day weekend, and I can also be flexible about when best to volunteer. The online sign-up thing said canvassing door-to-door - highest priority - or phone banking. I still signed up for phones. I don't want to have a bad back along with all the stress I will be feeling!


I think the trust issue with Barack could be racial - perhaps unconsciously so. For example, he is so smooth and well-spoken. Maybe that goes contrary to an inner stereotype. And then, his name is so "funny" sounding. I think there is a big difference between the way political junkies view him and those who haven't followed the campaign so closely. All I can say is that I outright love the guy, and I'm glad my mom and husband feel pretty much the same way (without the "love" word, of course).

- - Ing, October 23, 2008


Hi. I was just looking at the latest text messages between Kwame Kilpatrick and Christine Beatty released on the Free Press website. WOW! How embarrassing for both. I hope his kids don't read this until they are much older. His wife must be fuming.

I will be heading out to the southern portion of Fairfax County south of the Centreville area near Pr. William County's Manassas area (in short, I'll be walking Fairfax County, not Prince William) canvassing for the Obama ticket with at least three friends. Maybe more. Our work is to remind folks to vote - don't take the Obama-Biden leads in the Va. polls as a sign you can stay home. The "die hard" volunteers are the ones going to the more rural portions of Northern Va. By "die hard" I mean the folks that are experts at political discussion. Maybe next time for me.

Any more working the phone banks? You've done a lot I think.

I still am a bit nervous too. M., for example, will vote for Obama, but still doesn't think she "can trust him." What?!?!? I hear this a lot - my roommate said the same thing. What is he going to do? Come on... Again, I think this is a small factor of hidden or unintentional racism. I hope I just know a lot of ignorant people and others are not as, ummm, traditional...

- - Fair, October 23, 2008


I'm making progress on our latest exchanges compilation - should be posted by the end of the week.

Having trouble sleeping again - half due to cats - half due to worry over the election. Sure, Obama is doing well in the polls - I could be worrying way more - but stuff can happen in the time remaining. Oh, I'll be so happy when it is all over and the results are what we want! T. and I will need to celebrate, big time!

- - Ing, October 23, 2008


Michelle will be filling in, I read.

Sure, Joe could have said what he said more clearly - as an Obama/Biden I understand what he meant to say, but I've also seen how these words have been twisted by the opposition. However, overall, I am letting myself feel cautiously optimistic - not "cocky," mind you - but, as I heard it explained on NPR just now, even the Gallop "Traditional" Poll (most reliance on past voters, who tend to be white and not young) is showing the 10% lead.

Hope you are better soon for whatever you're going to do for the campaign. I think I am going respond to one of the e-mails I got that could involve phone calls to states more battleground than Michigan. Our land line plan is unlimited domestic long distance . . .

- - Ing, October 22, 2008


I hope his grandmother gets well. I'm sure she wants nothing more than to see Nov. 4 through. Not sure what it means from the campaign's perspective. I would hope the Clintons "fill in" on those days. They still draw the media like Obama, just without the massive stadium crowds.

How about Biden's remarks re: testing the new President? Not what is needed right now.

- - Fair, October 22, 2008


How do you think the campaign will be affected by Obama taking Thurs. and Fri. off to go to Hawaii and be with his ailing grandmother?

- - Ing, October 21, 2008

From the brief experience I've had volunteering for the Obama campaign, I find it hard to believe you would go door to door randomly - unless by your choice. The volunteer I met in charge at Lansing said canvassers would have notebooks of names and addresses - the effort is called, Knock for Barack. Are you all hooked in with my.barackobama.com? If so, I'm confident they know what they're doing.

Maybe I'll do some canvassing this weekend to see how it goes - maybe it won't be so hard on my back after all . . .

- - Ing, October 21, 2008


Not sure yet if we are just going door-to-door randomly or if we are canvassing. I'll do either of the two. I'd compare Pr. William Co. to the far eastern edge of Livingston County along I-96 and how it interacts with, say, Southfield, Troy, Dearborn, and Detroit.

Those commuters needs two sets of radio stations for two radio markets - the Brighton/Lansing stations and the Detroit area stations. In NoVa, they have the same situation - two sets of radio stations in one commute - DC stations and the Fredericksburg area stations.

- - Fair, October 20, 2008


That's a much more detailed picture than the national media is presenting, about VA - obviously. I liked the characterization of "Patio Man." So will you be canvassing? I guess the campaign likes that better at this point because so few people answer their phones any more. I wonder if robocalls are also less effective now due to the changes in how people use their phones . . .

- - Ing, October 20, 2008


I'm sorry... yes, for the election :) I am trying to get too many e-mails out. A story I just read in today's Post - includes Fairfax and Pr. William counties:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/19/AR2008101901697.html?hpid=topnews&sid=ST2008101901797&s_pos=

- - Fair, October 20, 2008

Final days? I think you mean the campaign, but it sounds ominous . . .

- - Ing, October 20, 2008


I believe Helvetica is available on Blogger (in the font pick list). If not, Arial for sure will be (one of the two). Helvetica is a Mac font; Arial is the Windows version - virtually the same.

- - Fair, October 20, 2008


You know there is a famous font, for newspaper headlines and advertising and such - Helvetica. I really haven't looked into the fonts available at Blogger so perhaps it is there.

I have a few tasks to do this week, so I should be able to get more upbeat, and paradoxically again, be fired up to do the compilation.

You're right about Sarah P. - from the clips I have seen, she isn't all that vibrant. Stock market up today - Ooops - will Obama lose a point or two in the polls?

- - Ing, October 20, 2008


You've talked me into it... I'll let you post the exchanges (thanks, I am busy this week).

I will be at work on Nov. 3 and now I have to come in Nov. 4. I just had a meeting scheduled for that day a few hours ago. Annoying. Oh well, it's not like I have to go vote in person or anything.

When I posted the image of the trains on Faxham I just used the simple cut and paste commands as if I was in MS Word. Which font did you want to use that isn't available? I prefer the Trebuchet font, but Blogger supports that font so I don't have any issues.

I think you should watch the SNL Palin performance. She really, in my opinion, let a good chance at 'looking good' get away from her - especially the spot during the fake news portion. From the look in her eyes it doesn't seem as if she is having fun (except for maybe a few moments in the opening segment).

- - Fair, October 20, 2008


Good post on our little-read blog . . . I knew you were going to mention somewhere, sometime about doing the exchanges compilation. I think I should do it, because I - honestly - have so little to do here. Everyone I know around here seems busy enough - and you do, too. But the lack of things to do has the paradoxical effect of making me lazy - I guess it is sort of like being depressed and not wanting to do anything at all. So, I'll aim to do the compilation this week.

Since we have election day off and since I expect I will be preoccupied (and nervous) as hell in the lead-up, I think I will take Monday off, also. But, if you are going to be at work both days and e-mailing about election news, I'll log on at home (if I'm not involved with get out the vote efforts . . .and even if I am, it would only be for the mornings). I should research about how to embed images or special fonts in the blog - if Obama wins, if HEAVEN FORBID, he does not - I want to post in superbig font, etc.

- - Ing, October 20, 2008


How was your weekend? I will be traveling to Prince William County with some friends in the final days...

- - Fair, October 20, 2008


Big weekend for Obama - reveals his campaign raised a record-breaking $150 mil in September, from hundreds of thousands of small donors (average donation: $86). Big money yes - but not from Big Monied Interests.

Then the Powell endorsement on Meet the Press - even better than the statement of support were the reasons given - Powell has been watching both candidates, how they did in the debates, how they handled the financial crisis - and he found McCain wanting and Obama superior. He questioned McCain's judgment on picking Sarah Palin, stating, she was NOT qualified to be President. And he questioned McCain campaign tactics with the Bill Ayers smears. Outside the NBC building he also answered the stupid "socialist" attacks - of course taxes redistribute funds, he said, of course no one wants to pay more taxes, but look at the state of infrastructure, and so on. . . Best performance by a Repub in support of Obama yet!

Sarah's performance on SNL, on the other hand - yes, we TiVo-ed it, but I'm going to boycott watching it. I've seen the clips and I like Tina Fey's Sarah better than Sarah's Sarah!

- - Ing, October 20, 2008


Tracking poll (Gallop) got tight again - Obama only up 2 points. Aaarrrgghhh! I don't WANT the race to tighten! I can't take it any more!

- - Ing, October 17, 2008


Good ones!

- - Ing, October 16, 2008


I found the entire "Joe the Plumber" lines to be a distraction. Of course McCain brought up "Joe." Another story from the repubs. I wonder if Lunch Bucket Bill, Pick-up Truck Pete, Kmart Kathy or Minivan Mary know Joe the Plumber?

- - Fair, October 16, 2008


The polls of viewers matter more than the pundits at this stage. I can't imagine that many undecideds will make up their mind based on cable TV commentators.

Did you see the Daily Show when John Oliver explained about undecideds with a pie chart? A big section of the pie was "Stupid" (there were also racist Democrats and other such). Then he had another pie breaking down the Stupids - it was truly hilarious.

Actually, most of the debate, I was in bed listening without watching - it was easier that way. I didn't see the gesture - it's probably on YouTube like everything else. Quote marks? Oh yes - that is offensive. That will eliminate any chance he has of getting disaffected Hillary undecideds.

- - Ing, October 16, 2008


While we seem to agree Obama won and the insta-polls reflect the same, I seem to get the feeling that the mainstream media, through their liberal lens, is saying that Obama only "held his own" while McCain was on the attack (or similar) - as if it were more of an even draw with only a slight slant toward an Obama win.

I can't see how that is the conclusion. Perhaps I am reading things the wrong way. Like you noted, Obama was able to answer all that was asked - both from Bob Schieffer AND Sen. McCain... right at the table.

Oh, I was meaning to ask, were you offended by McCain's use of the quotation gesture when he was describing for the "health" of a woman (or something like that)? The pundits on CNN (CNN had about nine of ten post-debate!) noted that may offend women.

- - Fair, October 16, 2008


Re Debates - bottom line - I'm glad they're over. If McCain keeps pretty much to the tone he had last night - and prevails upon Palin to do so as well - he'll be able to lose with his dignity and reputation essentially intact. And hopefully, Steve Schmidt - I believe the chief architect of the McCranky negative smear campaign tactics - will get his comeuppance!

- - Ing, October 16, 2008


Funny you ask, I just sent you an e-mail.

- - Fair, October, 16, 2008


So, what are your thoughts on the debate? how optimistic are you for victory on election day?

- - Ing, October 16, 2008


I watched most, but not all of the debate. I stayed up late enough to see that the instapolls gave the "win" to Obama. The "Today" show this morning focused on a Macomb County family named Ward - even if Michigan is pretty solid in the Obama camp, I guess we're still a good place to find undecided voters in distressed economic conditions (foreclosure, in the case of the Wards. I can't remember if they gave the community - running around getting ready for work, you know).

Thursday, October 16, 2008
Calm and cool Obama - Cranky McCain [blog post]

- - Ing, October 16, 2008

Wednesday, October 15, 2008
GoBiden :) [blog post]
My favorite question posed so far was the one about why each candidate's VP selection would be ready to lead... **GOBIDEN**; no Palin!

Posted by Fair at 6:43 PM


The format of tonight's debate should make for more interesting viewing. First off, Bob Schieffer is not afraid to jump in and try to supercede another recitation of talking points. Second, all will be seated, so that will make for a different dynamic.

So, are you getting e-mail invites to do this or that for the campaign? Phone banking works out well for my "ailments" - I think you would be good at canvassing - not quite door-to-door - you have a list of names and addresses and you knock on doors just to ask and make sure they will vote for Obama, and to leave behind literature otherwise . . .

- - Ing, October 15, 2008


I enjoyed the phone bank more last night because it was in someone's home - it was homey and the hosts were fun to listen to. Terry was on my list! I had names from Onondaga, Holt, and Mason. My last call was also interesting - I recognized the name as the guy who prepared and graded our property. When I said my little spiel - can we count on you to support Obama? - he said, Obama - that's the black one, isn't it. Well I can't vote for him. But he felt they were both awful and both liars because it would take Congress to get anything passed. Although he was going to vote for McCain, he said he believed Obama was going to win.

Transit topic - I went to a Jackson Technical Committee meeting today and it was at JTA office/garages. They showed off 6 or 8 brand new buses they just got from California, painted vibrant colors like black, lime green and fuschia and with bold swooshes on them. Really cool - you would have liked to have seen them, I bet.

- - Ing, October 15, 2008


How did last night go? I'm nervous for tonight but still plan to watch the debate. While flipping through the news networks last night I noticed that Bill O'Reiley-the-clown didn't even talk election news... I guess he can't handle things that aren't going his way.

Now I am trying to prepare myself for Sarah "Nothing-to-Loose" Palin going full speed with Rev. Wright attack ads.

- - Fair, October 15, 2008


Fair: Sounds interesting. Must be nice to meet other supporters. Will you be attending the Frank Kelley luncheon tomorrow?
Ing: No, I'm taking off early today so I have time to do more phone banking tonight. Can't take off THAT much time.

Fair: Do you know if the telephone numbers you are calling are for a pre-selected demographic, such as "seniors with more than one registered snowmobile" or other such characteristic? I am amazed at the detail these polling companies know about voters.
Ing: I see the name, age, gender, likely absentee voter, the way they lean (Obama, undecided, McCain, with strong to lean to as flavors).

Fair: More good news for Obama. I just hope it holds. Let's hope Gov. Palin continues to get upset at her own supporters on camera and on stage. Did you hear about the hockey game booing in Philadelphia? (Go Wings!)
Ing: Yeah - I never miss stuff like that as long as catch Keith Olbermann,

Fair: We do not get Election Day off. I was hoping to take the day off work but the way things are going I may have to come in to the office. I mailed my absentee ballot this morning. Should be to Harrison Twp. in about four days. My last Michigan election...
Ing: No chance you're ever moving back someday??? ;->

- - Ing and Fair, October 14, 2008

Subject: I PHONEBANKED!

Yes - I put in about 4 hours doing afternoon calls to senior (AL from work). I made about 170 calls but the vast majority were answering machines or no answer. One lady said I was the first who called her and she was happy to say she would be supporting Obama - that was nice. Some old codgers just hung up - but that's okay.

Just a little training, to say something like, Hi - My name is Susan and I'm a volunteer with Senator Barack Obama's campaign in Lansing. We'd just like to know if we can count on your support on Election Day.

Then, depending on the response, there were some other things to say, including an invite to a luncheon tomorrow with former AG Frank Kelley.

I'm phonebanking again tonight for a few hours in someone's home in Mason, and I've signed up for Saturday morning, November 1 and Election Day morning. Sure assuages the guilt I have been having about the campaign!

- - Ing, October 14, 2008


I didn't forget - I know you have Columbus Day off. But I didn't want to get behind with the reports this time of year.

Poll numbers looking great for our candidate, but of course, we can't any of us supporters take anything for granted. I think I will visit my mom this coming Saturday and then look into volunteering either of the following two Saturdays. I suppose they start get-out-the-vote calling early . . . .

- - Ing, October 13, 2008


But that's just it... I may volunteer. Donating is much easier.

- - Fair, October 1-, 2008


Yeah - George Will hasn't gone quite so far as to endorse Obama, but he's none too happy with the McCain campaign. There is some baseball manager quote: Is this the best you've got?

I've gotten several e-mail invites from the Obama campaign to devote a day volunteering. Yesterday, I got something similar in the mail from SEIU. I have real approach-avoidance conflicts over this. I WANT to volunteer and do what I'm able - not door-to-door, but phone calling would work - but then I also WANT to stay home and relax and do pretty much nothing. There - I said it. This conflict makes me feel guilty - only donating $ makes it any better . . .

I'm glad you might volunteer - you'd be so good at whatever they need done, I'm sure!

- - Ing, October 10, 2008


George Will noted in his recent column that Obama is benefiting from a free campaign mailing - - the delivery of everyone's third quarter 401(k) and other similar retirement account statements. Folks see their tanked investments and wonder why the McCain campaign is worried about an alleged inappropriate association with a Chicago university professor...

We can thank Hillary Clinton for making the Ayers and Rev. Wright issues "old news."

It wasn't until Tuesday or Wednesday of this week until I remembered we have Monday off. What a great fall surprise - an unexpected Holiday off work. What is on your agenda? I am thinking of going to the Obama campaign's northern Va. HQ to see if there something I'd be interested in doing on election day. I would take the day off for sure :)

- - Fair, October 10, 2008


So McSame is really trying to get into the mud now - problem is, there isn't much there, there. Ayers, the Chicago real estate guy, Rev. Wright - all already addressed in the Primary season.

Again, the financial indicators - as they go down, repug "stock" goes down. But how much financial pain will we have to take to ensure Dem victories across the board and all the way to the top?

- - Ing, October 10, 2008


Even though the news has been good for "our boy" lately, I felt so stressed out about the election yesterday that I felt like I couldn't watch any news, broadcast or cable. But by the time Keith Olbermann was on at 8pm on MSNBC, I was over it. It's great having an hour news/opinion cast where I know I am going to hear nothing to upset me as an Obama supporter or as a Democrat, for that matter. Must be how repugs feel about FoxNews (as Keith calls it, FoxNoise or FauxNews).

- - Ing, October 9, 2008


The pundits say if the economy remains the focus, it will go to Obama, game over. I'm watching the DJIA again and it is down a bit - I'm torn - I want the economy to remain the focus so the Dow being down is good for that - but on the other hand, my 451/457 accounts? I'm starting to tell folks maybe I will still be working into 2011 or 2012 after all. . .

- - Ing, October 8, 2008


I've already made up my mind so I get to sweat the small stuff... Who, honestly, is still undecided. We need to make more kool-aid :)

- - Fair, October 8, 2008


Sigh . . . I'm disappointed when you are disappointed with Obama - I guess you haven't drunk the kool-aid, like me.

No, seriously, you evidently watched it all or most of it, so you could very well be right. But in my opinion, anyone who is still using these debate performances to make up their mind who to vote for - they're being ridiculous and totally out of touch with how politics and government really work.

- - Ing, October 8, 2008


I actually was not happy with either. Obama (and McCain) needs to start answering questions posed to him by the voters he needs most - those that were mostly supporters of Hillary Clinton and come from the industrial mid-west and Pa.

Neither Obama nor McCain managed to answer a question without a "lecture" and that disappointed me. I know nothing can be solved on the quick ("W" has proved that it can actually be more harmful than good), but at the same time I thought both were lecturing too much on the same issues. A lecture would have been fine if a question would have actually been answered as asked by one of the audience members.

I do agree that Obama won - but it wasn't as clear as in the first debate. McCain, in all honesty, simply looked tired and played the true politician while Obama looked like something new and fresh... someone that can CHANGE :)

- - Fair, October 8, 2008


I watched only the very beginning of the debate. But I saw a fair amount of the punditry and excerpts. OBAMA WON! OBAMA WON! It seemed to be quite unanimous - McCain needed a "game-changer" and he didn't get it. Possible sound bite to remember? - McCain, on an Energy Bill vote "loaded with pork" - "Who voted for it? That one." With a nod toward Obama. Pretty disdainful.

Still - I don't think anyone can fix the economic free fall we may be in, worldwide . . .

- - Ing, October 8, 2008


Somehow, I think THIS time we are not taking "it" from the Rovian types - we may not answer every single charge, but I think we are fighting back on enough of them - I don't think we are being John Kerry-style wimps.

I've been watching the DJIA all day - it was steady about 100 pts down for a long time - now it is 250 pts down - I hope it doesn't totally tank - both for the sake of my 401k/457 accounts and for Obama - what can he (or anyone) really do? But he'll be asked, what would he do.

- - Ing, October 7, 2008


I'll take it! It is funny how many "East Coast Elite" republicans live here too. That's the Dem's fault for letting Karl Rove attach that Elite moniker to Dems. We should have fought back.

If East Coast Elite = Dems then Country Club Elite = republicans. At least East Coast cities are fun while country clubs tend to be stodgy and smell like cigars.

- - Fair, October 7, 2008


It's amazing to me how many people in this region associate things in relation to the Metrorail system. That's because you are all European-style East Coast Elites! ha ha ha ha

- - Ing, October 7, 2008


I live in more of the northwest portion of Arlington County, the Ballston-Clarendon neighborhood (the Orange Line on the Metro map). John McCain's HQ and condo is in the Crystal City neighborhood, Arlington County, in the southeastern portion of the county near National Airport (the Blue/Yellow Lines on the Metro map). It's amazing to me how many people in this region associate things in relation to the Metrorail system.

I live above the Virginia Sq.-GMU station and work west of the Vienna/Fairfax-GMU station. The rally/protest mentioned in the article was one station east of me at Clarendon, about 0.5 miles from my apt.

- - Fair, October 7, 2008


Very interesting. I hadn't even heard of a McCain brother, Joe, until the communist comment. So, did you live very close to the McCain condo/campaign HQ?

- - Ing, October, 7, 2008


Subject: Re: McCain/more on Washington's Metrorail system...McCain Pledge Sought For Dulles

Rail ProjectVote on Metro Funding Upset Va. Leaders
By Michael LarisWashington Post Staff WriterTuesday, October 7, 2008; A07

Virginia congressional leaders are lobbying Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) to make a commitment, before next month's election, to support funding for extending Metrorail to Dulles International Airport, one of the Washington region's top transportation priorities.
Rep. Tom Davis (R-Va.) and Sen. John W. Warner (R-Va), both of whom are retiring, are appealing to their longtime colleague to publicly back the Metro expansion, which has a rocky history with Bush administration officials. This year, federal officials voiced concerns that nearly sank the project, the first phase of which would stretch through Tysons Corner. Federal officials have since given the project a series of approvals.
"It's the nation's subway," Davis said. "Hopefully, I can get the senator, when he comes back here, to commit."
McCain was also one of two dozen senators who voted last week against a bill that included Davis's proposal to authorize $1.5 billion in dedicated funding to Metro over 10 years. The provision was part of broader rail safety and Amtrak funding legislation.
Davis said that he was disappointed with McCain's vote but that he thinks McCain's opposition was directed more at Amtrak.
A statement from the McCain campaign, however, targeted the Metro funding as well as Amtrak. "Senator McCain strongly objects to earmarks in the bill such as a $1.5 billion earmark for the Washington . . . Metro system and questions if this money is warranted above the needs that may exist among other mass transit systems in our country," the statement says. "With the serious financial situation facing our nation, this [multibillion-dollar] commitment of taxpayers' dollars can [be] dedicated to addressing far more important national priorities." The Dulles rail issue was not addressed.
Yesterday, several Democratic officials from Northern Virginia, including Alexandria Mayor William D. Euille, a member of the Metro board, and Arlington County Board member Jay Fisette, stood before a partisan crowd at the Clarendon Metro station to slam McCain for his vote.
One person in the crowd held a sign that said, "McCain = More Traffic." (A drive-by heckler yelled: "Don't believe them! Politicians lie like everyone else!")
"He doesn't understand the reality of the people who live here," Fisette said. "I'll meet him at his home in Crystal City, and we can take the Blue Line together."
McCain and his wife, Cindy, have a condominium apartment in Arlington, which is also home to his campaign headquarters.
Arlington Democrats said they were using the Metro vote to help spur a lopsided turnout for Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), who voted for the funding. Democratic leaders are seeking an 80 percent turnout for Obama in the county to make up for areas downstate that observers predict will break solidly for McCain.
Jim Dinegar, president and chief executive of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, said he, too, was disappointed with McCain's vote on dedicated funding, which requires matching funds from the District, Maryland and Virginia.
The District has set aside a portion of its sales tax revenue for its share, and Maryland's portion is included in the state's capital transportation budget. Gov. Timothy M. Kaine (D) has said Virginia will come up with its share, but officials have not indicated from where.
Dinegar said he was primarily focused on the rush of good news about Metro. "I was happy it passed, so I didn't follow up on the 'no' voters," he said.
He said he expects the new funding bill to replace years of "piecemeal" improvements to Metro with a more comprehensive approach. "Decisions can be made several years out. That's just good business," Dinegar said.
He also said both presidential candidates have a direct stake in Metro's future. "It is a transit system that moves more federal workers than any other transit system in the United States," Dinegar said. "Regardless of who wins, the majority of the next administration's workforce will be taking Metrobuses and Metrorail to work."
Fisette also blasted weekend comments by McCain's brother, Joe, who quipped Saturday that Arlington and Alexandria are "communist country." Fisette said he was disturbed by the remark.
"It's his brother, so it's not him. But it's offensive," he said, adding that, "too many times over the last eight years" Democrats have been called "unpatriotic" for opposing the Iraq war and taking other national security stands.
Quoted by Fair, October 7, 2008


So, I'm going to try and watch the debate tonight. After the things which McCain/Palin have been saying about Obama, I'd don't see how the presidential candidates can be civil to each other. It is obvious that the repub ticket has absolutely no respect for him, and don't mind outright lying about him, too.

- - Ing, October 7, 2008


I am too scared to check on my 401(k) balance. I haven't looked in months...

- - Fair, October 7, 2008


Another day, another loss of many dollars . . .

- - Ing, October 7, 2008


That was great that you were able to post yesterday, and I just loved your train image from Kos. So, are you or your friends or family starting to get (or have already gotten) kind of panic-worried over the economy? NPR and the BBC have better world reports and the news ain't good. Over the past few years, whenever the stock market would go down a lot, I would say to T. - don't worry - not unless it goes under 10,000 - it's not going to do that - and then yesterday it did. I know this is not a good idea, but I've gotten into the habit of having a website up on my desktop all day that shows the DJIA ups and downs. In my emotional, irrational way, I think - if only Obama gets elected, all will be fine, all will be okay. But he really isn't a miracle-worker. . . .

- - Ing, October 7, 2008


Of course I know that song. It's on my iPod. I'll be substituting your update until November.

- - Fair, October 6, 2008


Palin is really going to try and root around in the mud now - not only Ayers, but Rev. Wright.

Do you remember a song by Don Henley (also of the Eagles, but this was solo) called Dirty Laundry? There is a line that really makes me think of Sarah - the line in bold - substitute for bubble headed beach blond, topknot headed brunette - someone who relishes the bad, the dirt, etc.

I make my living off the evening news
Just give me something-something I can use
People love it when you lose,
They love dirty laundry
Well, I coulda been an actor, but I wound up here
I just have to look good, I dont have to be clear
Come and whisper in my ear
Give us dirty laundry
Kick em when theyre up
Kick em when theyre down
Kick em when theyre up
Kick em when theyre down
Kick em when theyre up
Kick em when theyre down
Kick em when theyre up
Kick em all around
We got the bubble-headed-bleach-blonde who
Comes on at five
She can tell you bout the plane crash with a gleam
In her eye
Its interesting when people die-Give us dirty laundry
Can we film the operation? Is the head dead yet?
You know, the boys in the newsroom got a
Running bet
Get the widow on the set!We need dirty laundry
You dont really need to find out whats going on
You dont really want to know just how far its gone
Just leave well enough alone
Eat your dirty laundry
Kick em when theyre up
Kick em when theyre down
Kick em when theyre up
Kick em when theyre down
Kick em when theyre up
Kick em when theyre down
Kick em when theyre stiff
Kick em all around
Dirty little secrets
Dirty little lies
We got our dirty little fingers in everybodys pie
We love to cut you down to size
We love dirty laundry
We can do the innuendo
We can dance and sing
When its said and done we havent told you a thing
We all know that crap is king
Give us dirty laundry!

- - Ing, October 6, 2008


Great points - you should post some of this at the blog - it's better in it's own post instead of being "buried" in the exchanges . . .

Mike Rogers is our Congressman - a repub who does the right thing once in a while.

- - Ing, October 6, 2008


Your post hit it home with me - an Obama supporter. What we have to now worry about are the voters who gave Obama the surge in the polls when George Bush's economy came crashing down and that set the tone for the election. The voters who change their minds based on the latest breaking news (forgetting the important issues focused on Federal government).

I hope these "feelings voters" don't get tricked in to this 'Obama is a terrorist' nonsense and garbage - the same voters that fell for the "God wants' you to vote for George Bush"- type lines and other silly campaign fodder. I'm hoping and I'm actually cautiously confident this time.

Bye Bye Reps. Knollenberg and Walberg - with McCain out of Michigan, there goes your Top of the Ticket attraction. (Ing - aren't you in Tim Walberg's congressional district?)

Did you hear that McCain's brother referred to Northern Va. as "communist country" on some radio talk show? Specifically, he was referring to the city of Alexandria and Arlington County, but I'm sure if ticked off a few (a lot) in Fairfax County as well. Fairfax folks seem to WANT to be associated with Alex. and Arl. as opposed to the rest of Va. I'll keep you posted on where this is headed.

- - Fair, October 6, 2008


Monday, October 6, 2008
Is it just me??? [blog post]
- - Ing, October 6, 2008

Where do you get to see donors over $200? Send me a link. Who knows, though, how fast the database is updated.

- - Fair, October 6, 2008


I donated too! I'm over $200 now - so I should show up in the Freep (or is it DetNews) tool that allows one to see donors by zip code.

I'm watching the House revote on the Bailout - conventional wisdom says it will pass and the DOW will likely be up 200 pts or so by the end of the day (it's up 253 now but it has been fluctuating.

The pundits say Joe and Jane sixpack don't care that Sarah strayed off topic - they just look at her firm demeanor and hear her glib words of strength . . . I was very touched by Joe choking up - but it's a good thing he held together and didn't cry - you're way too wrong to remember Muskie, but men running for high political office and tears don't mix.

- - Ing, October 3, 2008


My favorite part of the debate was when Sen. Biden, in an appropriate manner, struck back at Palin by noting John McCain (attacking McCain, not Palin) is no maverick when it comes to issues that matter to everyday people (or some other similar statement). My second favorite part was when he reminded everyone in a non-tacky manner that he too is a parent, and a single parent at that.

By the way... the other part I likes was the part(s) when Biden actually answered the questions posed by Gwen Ifill ;) Ha-ha.

I donated via the website today.

- - Fair, October 3, 2008


Friday, October 3, 2008
I watched the whole thing! [blog post]

- - Ing, October 3, 2008


I'm sure you're right. I can almost let myself feel happy and carefree about the future - but not quite, of course. The pressure will be on Joe, tonight, big time! I didn't look at it, but I hear there is a repug web ad that is a Joe Biden's greatest hits - gaffe edition.

- - Ing, October 2, 2008


WOW! I hope this means Hillary, Bill, and Joe Biden really work Penna., Ohio, Colo., Nevada, Va., and Fla.! Maybe an Oakland/Macomb County rally just to be sure hosted by Hillary... but that should be it.

One of the polls, although it is hard to believe, had Obama up nine percentage points in Virginia either yesterday or the day prior. I think obama would have an easier time with Colorado than Virginia.

- - Fair, October 2, 2008


Subject: AP: McCain giving up on Michigan
McCain giving up on Michigan
By NEDRA PICKLER – 43 minutes ago
EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Republican presidential candidate John McCain is giving up on winning Michigan.

Republican officials with knowledge of the strategy said the GOP candidate is shifting resources to other states. Democrat John Kerry won here in 2004, but McCain had tried to make it a target to switch parties this year amid economic problems in the state.
The news came as Barack Obama campaigned in the state Wednesday.
The Arizona senator canceled a trip to the state next week, he won't run ads on TV after this week and is dispatching staffers to states that show him in stronger position.
The Republican National Committee also just went on TV in Michigan, but there appears to be no plans for that buy to continue either.

I watched some of the MSU rally on CNN.com - he wasn't rained out - I heard something like a crowd size of about 20,000. Apparently someone fainted. They gave him a Magic Johnson MSU jersey.

- - Ing, October 2, 2008


I don't do a lot off work except watch TV and play with the cats. So, I am a big believer in not scheduling much activity. T. will watch the debate for sure - on one of the two sets - I think there is play-off MLB tonight? That will be competing for his attention. I will definitely start off watching, but if she "has her confidence back" and looks like she is making points against Joe, and/or if he does something stupid - I may fall to old patterns and wait for the punditry, afterward.

- - Ing, October 2, 2008


I will be watching. With my calendar being so "open" I've noticed that I feel less stressed out. Maybe I schedule too much on to my plate and this was my way to make that discovery.

I'm assuming you and T. will be watching it as well.

- - Fair, October 2, 2008


P. said no go, also. Watching the Joe and Sarah show tonight?

- - Ing, October 2, 2008


Will P. be attending? I'll be sure to keep an eye on CNN or other coverage for shots of campus.

- - Fair, October 2, 2008


No, don't think I'm going to make it to East Lansing today for Obama - too chilly, too much chance of rain (and no umbrellas allowed!), and too much standing around waiting. Now if YOU were here, we could go together, plus others of similar persuasion - I get energized being around "young people"!

- - Ing, October 2, 2008


You know, I wouldn't be surprised if, after the debate, in the spin room, if it is obvious that Joe "went easy on" Sarah, the McCain camp will spin that as sexism! (they took it easy on the girl - how sexist of them!)

- - Ing, October 1, 2008


Ha-ha! Now don't start sending money to the republicans :)

Bay Buchanan was on CNN last night again lowering the expectations for Gov. Palin. I believe she said something like 'votes will want to see a real person up on the podium' as if Joe Biden is some fake being.

- - Fair, October 1, 2008


Obama is up in the polls but I of course don't want to take anything for granted at this stage.

Weird experience driving into work today - I tuned in to NPR/Morning Edition in progress and listened to an obviously older, Republican Senator being interviewed about the bailout program, how the Senate would vote for it, how he had discussed it with Repub House colleagues - I didn't recognize the voice, didn't know who it was, but I thought - that guy sounds reasonable, glad to hear a Repub sound that way -only to find out it was McCain! And then he launched into his anti-Obama diatribe, how Obama has no experience and knows nothing, unlike Gov. Palin . . . weird!

- - Ing, October 1, 2008


It's still going to be tricky for Joe - I like the guy a lot, but he does have that tendency to spout off or to engage mouth before brain. He's bound to be on his best behavior - but maybe that will make him oddly stiff and unnatural - the spin-meisters go after every little mouth muscle twitch and eyelid flick in their "analysis."

Most important of all - he has to make sure there is no condescension toward Sarah, nor anything thing that can in the slightest be construed as sexism.

I'm going to try and watch more of this one myself . . . .

- - Ing, September 30, 2008


Oh how the republicans are lowering the bar for Gov. Palin's debate with Sen. Biden. 'Sarah Palin does not have the years' experience that Sen. Biden has with his many years in Washington...'

- - Fair, September 30, 2008


I keep track of my deferred comp. fairly closely - I check at least once a month and sometimes more often. When the Dow went down 500 points earlier in the month, my combined value (me and T., although his contribution to this is small) went down $7000. Then, this morning when I checked, we "lost" another $7000. Both drops were less than 4% of our total value. I'm taking it in good stead - the market goes up and down. I'm the MOST worried about how this will all come out for Barack, It could help or hurt him, ultimately. I just want to see him get elected so bad it hurts (I know - emotional response, again).

- - Ing, September 30, 2008


If the weather outlook changes I can see you heading out to campus. I am scared to look at the value of the 401(k) from the state of Michigan - I haven't been to the Citistreet website for six months or so. I guess time is on my side seeing how I'll be working a few more years! Good to hear you and everyone else at MDOT will be getting paid :)

- - Fair, September 30, 2008


In response to Wall Street woes, I made changes to my future contributions to my 401K and 457 plan - favoring stable value and bond funds. Not huge changes - just what seems prudent to me.

Obama is coming to MSU this Thursday afternoon! Adams Field - which is where the marching band practices, off West Circle Drive. You probably know that. But - - weather doesn't look good: 40% chance of showers. I think I will skip it - and be a fair-weather fan, I know . . . .

- - Ing, September 30, 2008


Yes - Repubs can't count. Also, all McCain did was "phone" people - that was his way of leading. Barack "phoned" people too. Phoning is what politicians do when they are working on persuading their fellows.

I heard that Barack is going to propose that the FDIC insured bank account limit go from $100,000 per person to $250,000. This will help some individuals as well as small businesses (payroll). There are other things I've heard about that would good ideas for Barack to suggest but if any backfire - the consequences are great. On the other hand, the consequences to the world economy of doing nothing . . .

- - Ing, September 29, 2008


From a story on CNN.com:

Republicans and Democrats blamed each other for the failure of the bill, which President Bush had urged Congress to approve.

The bill failed by a vote of 205 to 228, with 140 Democrats and 65 Republicans voting in favor and 95 Democrats joining 133 Republicans against.

"Barack Obama failed to lead, phoned it in, attacked John McCain and refused to even say if he supported the final bill. ... This bill failed because Barack Obama and the Democrats put politics ahead of country," he [Doug Holtz-Eakin] said.

Last I checked, and even in this story, the Dems seem to support this compromise rescue plan.

- - Fair, September 29, 2008


Did you watch the debate? I tuned in off and on, mostly on when Barack was talking. I watched a lot of the punditry afterward. So Barack said he agreed with John a lot - I totally agree with the spin that he looked nicely deferential to the older McCain (who in turn DISSED him by never looking him the eye) and that he showed you could disagree on many important things but still find agreement here and there. The spin is that to undecideds, this sort of demeanor is preferable - they don't want to see the never-say-die partisanship all the time. I also agree that Barack missed some opportunities but overall he did well.

Katie Couric's interview with Sarah Palin keeps coming out in devastating pieces - SNL had Tina Fey on again and totally nailed Sarah's incomprehensible level of incompetence. For part of the bit, they didn't even alter Sarah's own words! I sure hope that our Jennifer does a good job schooling Joe in the art of putting down a woman without seeming to do so - or at least without coming off as a condescending know-it-all!

- - Ing, September 26, 2008


It has given me a stomach-ache (I'm just one ache after another - like an old lady ;-> ) worrying about the bail out , that McCain would take credit for something unfairly if a deal comes about - from what I read, that is not the case - folks are saying it was a ploy, it was a mistake, etc. But the truth simply does not matter to that campaign. Neither does the liberal media. He can still claim he acted boldly and Obama did not . . . anyway, the debate should be more interesting than usual . .

- - Ing, September 26, 2008