Video: Gilad Shalit Alive
I must admit this is a real surprise; after three years I was very afraid that kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit was dead: Video Shows Captive Israeli Soldier in Good Health.
I must admit this is a real surprise; after three years I was very afraid that kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit was dead: Video Shows Captive Israeli Soldier in Good Health.
3 | vxbush Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:31:15am |
Yes, I had to admit I figured it would have been easier for his captors to kill him than keep him alive. I'm glad to find out I was wrong.
4 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:33:25am |
If the world were not so blind, it would stop for one minute and see the lengths Israel goes to preserve one life compared with the cult of death infecting fatah and hamas who butcher each other with reckless abandon when they cannot reach Jews.
6 | Summer Seale Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:34:06am |
Why he isn't alive and safe in Israel by now, I lay blame for at the feet of the world community and the stupid UN at this point.
7 | MandyManners Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:35:17am |
re: #3 vxbush
Yes, I had to admit I figured it would have been easier for his captors to kill him than keep him alive. I'm glad to find out I was wrong.
He's been a useful chip for them.
8 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:35:19am |
I had long thought the man had gone on to meet his maker. I am glad that I was wrong. Now, get him home!
9 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:35:56am |
re: #2 kay1212
Excellent news. Let's hope he's released soon.
Unfortunately, handing over terrorists just means there will be more kidnappings.
10 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:36:15am |
re: #8 MrSilverDragon
I had long thought the man had gone on to meet his maker. I am glad that I was wrong. Now, get him home!
I read that the 19 female prisoners are already being prepped for transfer. But who knows.
11 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:36:31am |
And the demands will be as they've been since the day he was captured; Hamas wants nearly 1,000 terrorists released. Of the 20 Palestinians released, 14 were convicted of attempted murder of Israelis.
As noted here, the reason Israel agreed to this was because they figured that the sentences of these 20 were due to be completed within the next year and shortening their sentences minimally to find out whether Shalit was alive was worth it.
I still think it's bad, since it shows that Israel is still more than willing to trade terrorists in great numbers for Shalit.
Where is the pressure on Hamas to release Shalit on humanitarian grounds?
12 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:36:36am |
I'm going to rain a bit on the parade here.
Do we know for certain when this video was made, and that it wasn't made a few years ago, and is now being passed off as "new"?
13 | Locker Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:36:38am |
Good news. Let's hope he gets home to his family safely.
14 | Daniel Ballard Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:36:54am |
I had read they traded a group of captured Palestinian women for the tape. I do not recall the details. What will it take for the man to be released if it takes a big release to get a tape for heavens sake?
CNN
[Link: edition.cnn.com...]
16 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:37:53am |
re: #12 Honorary Yooper
Apparently the video shows him reading from a Palestinian paper from September 14th of this year.
17 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:39:21am |
It's of course wonderful news that he's alive and (seemingly) well. But I'm angry that Israel has to pay for this video clip by releasing 20 goddamn terrorists. "You never pay for a proof of life".
And doubtless hundreds more will have to be released to actually get Shalit home.
I still hope the Mossad and Sayaret Matkal can cut short that devil's bargain by finding out where he is, raiding it, killing his captors, and freeing him unharmed.
19 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:39:59am |
re: #12 Honorary Yooper
I'm going to rain a bit on the parade here.
Do we know for certain when this video was made, and that it wasn't made a few years ago, and is now being passed off as "new"?
I assume he's reading from a recent newspaper, that seems to be the point of the video.
20 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:41:15am |
re: #3 vxbush
Yes, I had to admit I figured it would have been easier for his captors to kill him than keep him alive. I'm glad to find out I was wrong.
He's worth more alive than dead. Hamas made that calculation and that's why the price is going to be as high as it has always been - hundreds, if not more than a 1,000 Palestinian terrorists for Shalit.
21 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:41:19am |
re: #18 buzzsawmonkey
Avinu Malkeinu, batel machshvot soneinu.
Avinu Malkeinu, hapayr atzat oyvaynu.
Avinu Malkeinu, kalay kol tzar umasteen mayaleinu.
Translation for the Hebraically-challenged?
22 | vxbush Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:42:22am |
re: #20 lawhawk
He's worth more alive than dead. Hamas made that calculation and that's why the price is going to be as high as it has always been - hundreds, if not more than a 1,000 Palestinian terrorists for Shalit.
I appreciate the high value that Israel puts on the life of its citizens who are kidnapped, but I have often felt that they have simply created more problems by giving in to the demands to release hundreds of prisoners.
24 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:43:11am |
re: #16 lawhawk
Apparently the video shows him reading from a Palestinian paper from September 14th of this year.
OK, that would mean he was alive at least as recently as Spetember 14th. I don't understand Hebrew or Arabic, so all I have to go on is translations.
I really don't trust Hamas not to pull stunts.
25 | ROPMA Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:43:25am |
I wonder if he has been forced to convert to Islam? I am glad that he is alive.
26 | Diamond Bullet Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:43:36am |
Good news, although I agree that it's awful to have to release militants in exchange for video footage. Still, in the grand scheme of things it's interesting to note that 20 Palestinian militants aren't worth anything more than some video footage. If the democratic nation you're dedicated to destroying considers you no more valuable than 1/20th of a video tape, it may be time to go home and re-think your life.
28 | gunslingah Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:44:46am |
29 | sattv4u2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:44:55am |
re: #12 Honorary Yooper
I'm going to rain a bit on the parade here.
Do we know for certain when this video was made, and that it wasn't made a few years ago, and is now being passed off as "new"?
The news that he is reading is from within the last 2 weeks or so
30 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:45:24am |
He appears to be wearing an IDF uniform, in good condition. Interesting.
31 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:45:35am |
re: #11 lawhawk
And the demands will be as they've been since the day he was captured; Hamas wants nearly 1,000 terrorists released. Of the 20 Palestinians released, 14 were convicted of attempted murder of Israelis.
As noted here, the reason Israel agreed to this was because they figured that the sentences of these 20 were due to be completed within the next year and shortening their sentences minimally to find out whether Shalit was alive was worth it.
I still think it's bad, since it shows that Israel is still more than willing to trade terrorists in great numbers for Shalit.
Where is the pressure on Hamas to release Shalit on humanitarian grounds?
So Hamas considers one Israeli worth 1000 Palestinians.
Next time Israel is accused of "disproportionate response" they should say it is by Hamas' standards, because Israel hasn't killed 1000x the number of Israelis killed.
And they should say, until that number has been reached, the world should shut up about "disproportionate response".
Not that they should kill 1000x Palestinians, just point out the "disproportionate" way Israel is criticized.
32 | Summer Seale Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:46:10am |
re: #21 Occasional Reader
Translation for the Hebraically-challenged?
re: #21 Occasional Reader
Translation for the Hebraically-challenged?
I'm sorry, but we don't use the word "challenged" anymore. "Challenged" denotes a person may be beneath others in their abilities to perform certain tasks which more people around them might not find to be the same case.
Henceforth, you must use the following term for lack of non-personally native language skills: pre-learning non-native language ability skilled.
Thank you.
33 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:46:18am |
re: #12 Honorary Yooper
I'm going to rain a bit on the parade here.
Do we know for certain when this video was made, and that it wasn't made a few years ago, and is now being passed off as "new"?
He was shown holding and reading from a recent newspaper.
34 | Earth56 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:46:31am |
re: #4 Creeping Eruption
If the world were not so blind, it would stop for one minute and see the lengths Israel goes to preserve one life compared with the cult of death infecting fatah and hamas who butcher each other with reckless abandon when they cannot reach Jews.
You forgot deaf and dumb
37 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:47:14am |
38 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:47:25am |
re: #27 buzzsawmonkey
What are these "militants" you speak of? Do you perhaps refer to terrorists?
Aren't they Hamas peace activists?
/
39 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:47:51am |
40 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:47:58am |
re: #34 Earth56
You forgot deaf and dumb
Does the world play pinball?
/who's on first... followed by lovin' spoonful
41 | Spare O'Lake Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:48:09am |
I too wish for his release.
But the price is very high indeed, for Israel clearly encourages the Islamofascist terrorists to do more of the same by releasing terrorists in exchange for a video.
*spit*
*puke*
42 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:48:22am |
re: #35 FrogMarch
Emaciated, if you ask me. They probably fattened him up some and cleaned him up for the video. He's been in captivity for 1,194 days.
For comparison purposes, the Iranian takeover of the US embassy and the hostage debacle lasted 440 days.
43 | Randall Gross Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:48:49am |
I'm both surprised and well pleased that Gilad Shalit is alive and that hope persists. There's no "however" or "but" statement I'll make here because this is Israel's concern and business, I couldn't pretend to have valid advice for them on this.
44 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:49:08am |
re: #40 MrSilverDragon
Does the world play pinball?
/who's on first... followed by lovin' spoonful
I made a "Who" Odds and Sods joke a week or two ago and nobody got it - or did but it was so bad it did not warrant a response.
45 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:49:16am |
Here's an article from the Jerusalem Post with a translation.
46 | FrogMarch Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:49:44am |
He looks as if he hasn't seen the sun in ages.
We can only imagine the hell hole where he is kept.
47 | Killgore Trout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:50:11am |
Wow. I thought for sure he was dead. Great News!
48 | FrogMarch Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:50:27am |
re: #42 lawhawk
Emaciated, if you ask me. They probably fattened him up some and cleaned him up for the video. He's been in captivity for 1,194 days.
For comparison purposes, the Iranian takeover of the US embassy and the hostage debacle lasted 440 days.
My thoughts exactly.
49 | Colin Nelson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:50:27am |
Egypt played an interesting role in this exchange.
50 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:51:57am |
re: #47 Killgore Trout
Someone in Hamas must have thought that Hamas was worth more alive than dead.
51 | Baier Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:52:41am |
Great news, especially because there is no consequence for brutally torturing and murdering Israelis.
52 | Douchecanoe and Ryan Too Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:53:15am |
He's alive. Great news.
NOW GO GET HIM BACK.
53 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:53:45am |
OT, but I'm going to have to go to an engineering meeting soon. Can't be real bad news, as there is pizza.
Unless we find out there are fewer slices than engineers.
54 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:54:45am |
re: #42 lawhawk
Emaciated, if you ask me. They probably fattened him up some and cleaned him up for the video. He's been in captivity for 1,194 days.
For comparison purposes, the Iranian takeover of the US embassy and the hostage debacle lasted 440 days.
He does look thin. And yep, I cannot imagine the ordeal.
(My personal philosophy when I'm visiting kidnap-heavy places like Colombia; if I have any ability to do so, I'd rather fight than get taken. Of course, the victim doesn't always really have that option.)
55 | Diamond Bullet Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:54:51am |
re: #27 buzzsawmonkey
What are these "militants" you speak of? Do you perhaps refer to terrorists?
Trick question; we all know that terrorists ceased to exist on January 20, 2009. Similarly, following a somewhat Freudian typographical error in a State Department press release, the war on terror is now just an "overseas contingency hoperation".
56 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:55:23am |
re: #53 Kosh's Shadow
OT, but I'm going to have to go to an engineering meeting soon. Can't be real bad news, as there is pizza.
Unless we find out there are fewer slices than engineers.
IDK. I remember a bank meeting with donuts. Two people got fired.
57 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:55:26am |
re: #53 Kosh's Shadow
OT, but I'm going to have to go to an engineering meeting soon. Can't be real bad news, as there is pizza.
Unless we find out there are fewer slices than engineers.
Doesn't that problem lend itself to an engineering solution?
58 | Killgore Trout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:55:31am |
re: #50 lawhawk
Someone in Hamas must have thought that Hamas was worth more alive than dead.
They usually don't have the restraint. Hezbollah used to have a little discipline but even they couldn't keep captives very long. I'm surprised Hamas could restrain from killing him for more than a week.
59 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:56:54am |
re: #53 Kosh's Shadow
OT, but I'm going to have to go to an engineering meeting soon. Can't be real bad news, as there is pizza.
Unless we find out there are fewer slices than engineers.
From my experience, you really have to worry when they say, "there's ice cream in the kitchen." Every time I've heard that spoken, there's been layoffs.
Every. Time.
60 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:57:29am |
re: #58 Killgore Trout
They usually don't have the restraint. Hezbollah used to have a little discipline but even they couldn't keep captives very long. I'm surprised Hamas could restrain from killing him for more than a week.
And as I noted above, I also find it interesting that in this video, they allow him the relative dignity of wearing an IDF uniform. It might not mean much, but it called my attention.
61 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:57:42am |
62 | Baier Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:58:07am |
re: #60 Occasional Reader
And as I noted above, I also find it interesting that in this video, they allow him the relative dignity of wearing an IDF uniform. It might not mean much, but it called my attention.
It is curious that they didn't humiliate him.
63 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:58:34am |
re: #60 Occasional Reader
And as I noted above, I also find it interesting that in this video, they allow him the relative dignity of wearing an IDF uniform. It might not mean much, but it called my attention.
Well, at least I haven't been kidnapped by thugs for three years.
64 | sattv4u2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 8:59:57am |
re: #62 Baier
It is curious that they didn't humiliate him.
heh,,, we're seeing a few minutes out of a 1200 DAY holding
God knows what tales he'll tell once released
65 | Truth Stick Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:01:11am |
I'd all but given up hope that he was still alive, mainly because of who was holding him.
66 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:02:15am |
I just hope he hasn't been too Stockholmized.
67 | sattv4u2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:03:42am |
re: #66 Cato the Elder
I just hope he hasn't been too Stockholmized.
I don;t think there are many blondes in Hamas!
//
68 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:04:27am |
re: #66 Cato the Elder
I just hope he hasn't been too Stockholmized.
From the people I've known that have been in the IDF, I'd say there's a strong chance he hasn't. Those are some of the toughest people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing.
69 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:04:29am |
re: #67 sattv4u2
I don;t think there are many blondes in Hamas!
//
Just their groupies from Europe, I guess...
70 | Spare O'Lake Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:04:42am |
The Islamofascist terrorists in Gaza will all have to be dealt with sooner or later. Displays like this, while clearly a short-term propoganda victory for Hamas, will hopefully build Israeli morale and strenghthen Israeli resolve in the longer term, to utterly crush the enemy.
71 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:04:49am |
re: #67 sattv4u2
I don;t think there are many blondes in Hamas!
//
You would actually be surprised by the number of blue eyed, blonde arabs. This is the gnetic legacy of the Crusaders, who left behind some wild oats.
72 | Baier Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:04:55am |
re: #64 sattv4u2
heh,,, we're seeing a few minutes out of a 1200 DAY holding
God knows what tales he'll tell once released
G-d willing.
I mean only on the video. Most of these videos I've seen include nasty physical attacks or the hostage reading some crazy anti-west screed while standing in front of some sort of flag or emblem. It is curious that this video is so, well, restrained.
74 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:05:29am |
re: #64 sattv4u2
heh,,, we're seeing a few minutes out of a 1200 DAY holding
God knows what tales he'll tell once released
I'm sure, but I think Baier's point (and mine) was, they aren't going out of their way to humiliate him in the video... make him wear an orange jumpsuit, say "allahu akbar", etc.
75 | sattv4u2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:05:53am |
re: #68 MrSilverDragon
From the people I've known that have been in the IDF, I'd say there's a strong chance he hasn't. Those are some of the toughest people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing.
Agreed, but 1200 days IS 1200 days!
As stated upthread, the Iranian hostage takeover was just a little over 1/3rd of that (440 days)
76 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:06:10am |
re: #71 imp_62
You would actually be surprised by the number of blue eyed, blonde arabs. This is the gnetic legacy of the Crusaders, who left behind some wild oats.
Ever see the movie True Romance? That reminds me of a scene between Christopher Walken and Dennis Hopper.
77 | sattv4u2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:07:23am |
re: #74 Occasional Reader
I'm sure, but I think Baier's point (and mine) was, they aren't going out of their way to humiliate him in the video... make him wear an orange jumpsuit, say "allahu akbar", etc.
At this point in the "negotiations" (the release of 1000 or so of their "freedom fighters") it would have done them more harm. If they were to do humiliation via a video it would have been within the 1st months of his captivity
78 | poteen Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:07:39am |
79 | Charles Johnson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:07:40am |
Michelle Malkin is celebrating the fact that the United States lost its Olympic bid today. Celebrating -- just because she wants Obama to fail, and she's gloating over every failure.
This is where the rhetoric of "FAIL" leads -- they're openly celebrating when America loses, just because Barack Obama is President.
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
82 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:07:47am |
re: #76 Creeping Eruption
Ever see the movie True Romance? That reminds me of a scene between Christopher Walken and Dennis Hopper.
Ewww. Christopher Walken did Dennis Hopper???
83 | psyop Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:08:05am |
What great news. Having seen more videos than I care to remember (part of my job while deployed) where things went very badly for the prisoner, it is fantastic that this appears to be just a ransom situation.
Now, let's see how the International Community reacts...
86 | Dianna Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:08:44am |
re: #71 imp_62
You would actually be surprised by the number of blue eyed, blonde arabs. This is the gnetic legacy of the Crusaders, who left behind some wild oats.
To say nothing, of course, of the long, long dominance of the Ottomans, and the Janissaries, who were European.
87 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:08:50am |
88 | psyop Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:09:02am |
re: #79 Charles
Michelle Malkin is celebrating the fact that the United States lost its Olympic bid today. Celebrating -- just because she wants Obama to fail, and gloating over every failure.
This is where the rhetoric of "FAIL" leads -- they're openly celebrating when America loses, just because Barack Obama is President.
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
Guess she wanted Bush to fail as well.
meh
89 | Douchecanoe and Ryan Too Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:09:10am |
re: #79 Charles
Michelle Malkin is celebrating the fact that the United States lost its Olympic bid today. Celebrating -- just because she wants Obama to fail, and gloating over every failure.
This is where the rhetoric of "FAIL" leads -- they're openly celebrating when America loses, just because Barack Obama is President.
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
I don't get it either, Charles. People are stupid.
90 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:09:29am |
re: #82 imp_62
Ewww. Christopher Walken did Dennis Hopper???
Think of the children!... no wait... on second thought, don't.
91 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:09:29am |
92 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:09:46am |
re: #79 Charles
Michelle Malkin is celebrating the fact that the United States lost its Olympic bid today. Celebrating -- just because she wants Obama to fail, and gloating over every failure.
This is where the rhetoric of "FAIL" leads -- they're openly celebrating when America loses, just because Barack Obama is President.
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
This is utterly stupid.
That said, there have been lots of Olympics in the US over the years. I'm happy for Brazil.
93 | Randall Gross Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:09:50am |
re: #79 Charles
Michelle Malkin is celebrating the fact that the United States lost its Olympic bid today. Celebrating -- just because she wants Obama to fail, and gloating over every failure.
This is where the rhetoric of "FAIL" leads -- they're openly celebrating when America loses, just because Barack Obama is President.
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
Some, but not all of them, are paddling deeper into the fever swamps.
94 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:09:52am |
re: #86 Dianna
To say nothing, of course, of the long, long dominance of the Ottomans
The Ottomans ultimately lost their empire, because they were a bunch of La-Z-Boys.
95 | Mostly sane, most of the time. Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:10:01am |
The IDF can't go get him back if they don't know where he is, and we can't be certain that other countries aren't willing to let them keep him there.
96 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:10:23am |
97 | Eowyn2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:10:26am |
Why didn't hamas ask for 100 men to be released and give up a 10 minute video in return?
Mossad now knows he is alive, or was two weeks ago. I hope the get him home soon.
98 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:11:09am |
re: #79 Charles
Self-destructive behaviour of the kind that will delay any kind of political counter-balance to the current hyper-liberal congressional majority from developping.
99 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:11:12am |
re: #79 Charles
Michelle Malkin is celebrating the fact that the United States lost its Olympic bid today. Celebrating -- just because she wants Obama to fail, and she's gloating over every failure.
This is where the rhetoric of "FAIL" leads -- they're openly celebrating when America loses, just because Barack Obama is President.
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
I was actually hoping for Tokyo, but then again, I am biased.
100 | Eowyn2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:11:20am |
101 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:11:21am |
102 | Charles Johnson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:11:47am |
Within minutes of turning on the contact form, I received two hate mails.
103 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:11:55am |
She who must Be Obeyed just called to remind me to pick up my arba minim (for the jewish holiday /note). BBL
104 | Killgore Trout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:12:15am |
re: #79 Charles
The Hot Airheads are thrilled to. They consider it some sort of great victory.
105 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:12:15am |
re: #92 Cato the Elder
This is utterly stupid.
That said, there have been lots of Olympics in the US over the years. I'm happy for Brazil.
Apparently Madrid is still a conten-dah.
106 | Baier Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:12:16am |
re: #83 psyop
Now, let's see how the International Community reacts...
/The UN Human Rights just released a statement condemning Israel because it now has video evidence of an Israeli Soldier illegally in Gaza
107 | Eowyn2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:12:16am |
re: #94 Occasional Reader
The Ottomans ultimately lost their empire, because they were a bunch of La-Z-Boys.
The gluttons stuffed themselves
108 | J.S. Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:12:17am |
re: #92 Cato the Elder
(although Rio hasn't been, officially, chosen yet either...)
109 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:12:49am |
re: #102 Charles
Within minutes of turning on the contact form, I received two hate mails.
Geez, did you install a waiting room for after-hours?
110 | Mostly sane, most of the time. Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:12:50am |
I'm assuming we won't see Dr. Shalit today, as he will have more important things to do, but I wanted to let him know that my prayers are with his family right now.
111 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:13:01am |
re: #99 Kragar (proud to be kafir)
I was actually hoping for Tokyo, but then again, I am biased.
Oh, no! There goes Tokyo!
112 | Douchecanoe and Ryan Too Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:13:03am |
re: #102 Charles
Within minutes of turning on the contact form, I received two hate mails.
Anything worth sharing, or is it the run-of-the-mill "fuck you, Charles" sort of stuff?
113 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:13:30am |
114 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:13:57am |
re: #102 Charles
Within minutes of turning on the contact form, I received two hate mails.
Any decision on the hatemail page yet? I'm sure the senders would love constructive commentary from lizards.
116 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:14:42am |
117 | Charles Johnson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:15:05am |
The comments at Michelle Malkin's site are just unbelievable.
118 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:15:17am |
re: #113 Occasional Reader
I wasn't going to couch it in those terms, but...
Methinks you've turned into a stool pigeon.
119 | Charles Johnson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:15:56am |
Check this one out:
On October 2nd, 2009 at 9:49 am, cicerokid said:
She wants to make a personal sacrifice? Never a Mayan priest around when you need one…
121 | badger1970 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:16:21am |
Rio getting it had nothing to do with its crime rate, a rate that even dwarfs Chicago, but good for Brazil. The US delegation appeared too heavy-handed and desperate, and frankly obamas' sales pitches were pretty poor in promoting the city.
Now back to something more important. I too, am amazed that Galid Shalit is still alive. Israel's patience with murders, thugs and terrorist is just amazing. Now get him home.
123 | Eowyn2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:16:40am |
124 | Charles Johnson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:16:44am |
And this reply:
On October 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 am, Kingfish said:
On October 2nd, 2009 at 9:49 am, cicerokid said:She wants to make a personal sacrifice? Never a Mayan priest around when you need one…
That is assuming sasquatch has a heart to cut out in the first place.
125 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:17:08am |
re: #118 pre-Boomer Marine brat
Methinks you've turned into a stool pigeon.
I don't take insults like that lying down... I'm no recliner.
126 | Guanxi88 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:17:21am |
re: #124 Charles
And this reply:
Even better than the first. She's a sasquatch, is she? Great; and I gotta share a country with these people?
127 | Douchecanoe and Ryan Too Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:17:30am |
re: #124 Charles
Wow. The vast unhinged, indeed.
128 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:17:38am |
re: #108 J.S.
(although Rio hasn't been, officially, chosen yet either...)
Oh. I misread something somewhere.
Well, if it can't be Chicago, go Rio! I'd finally have an excuse to visit.
Of course, everyone knows the last Olympics will be in 2012. The Mayan calendar says so.
129 | Charles Johnson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:17:54am |
Another:
On October 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 am, cicerokid said:
Learn to samba, sasquatch!
130 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:18:12am |
re: #122 Guanxi88
Classy, very classy.
(Although I *do* think Michelle Obama's self-pitying "sacrifice" comment was really silly.)
131 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:18:46am |
re: #125 Occasional Reader
I don't take insults like that lying down... I'm no recliner.
Then I shall modify my repartee into a stool sample.
/*running like hell*
133 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:18:57am |
re: #128 Cato the Elder
You need an "excuse" to visit Rio?!
134 | Guanxi88 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:19:05am |
re: #130 Occasional Reader
(Although I *do* think Michelle Obama's self-pitying "sacrifice" comment was really silly.)
Of course it is; such a strain on her, caring for us poor benighted bastards.
135 | Charles Johnson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:19:09am |
And an idiot from the stalker blog shows up:
On October 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 am, Ed Mahmoud abu al-Kahoul said:
On October 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 am, cicerokid said:Learn to samba, sasquatch!
Keep that up and Kilgore Trout will show up dropping the “N” word to see if the mods or admins can delete it in 30 seconds or less. Failure to do so, of course, in LGF thinking, would make Mrs. Malkin’s blog a white supremacist hate site.
136 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:19:43am |
re: #128 Cato the Elder
Oh. I misread something somewhere.
Well, if it can't be Chicago, go Rio! I'd finally have an excuse to visit.
Of course, everyone knows the last Olympics will be in 2012. The Mayan calendar says so.
Will there be dancing in the sand? Just like that river twisting through a dusty land?
137 | Guanxi88 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:20:17am |
re: #136 Kragar (proud to be kafir)
Will there be dancing in the sand? Just like that river twisting through a dusty land?
She don't need to understand.
138 | J.S. Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:20:45am |
re: #126 Guanxi88
(although, you may never know where (or from what country) the comments originate from...)
139 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:20:49am |
re: #136 Kragar (proud to be kafir)
Will there be dancing in the sand?
Hard to do these days, what with the monkey infestation on the beaches.
140 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:20:50am |
re: #133 Occasional Reader
You need an "excuse" to visit Rio?!
Something to make me not look like just another thong tourist...
142 | Douchecanoe and Ryan Too Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:21:26am |
re: #135 Charles
As if calling the First Lady of the United States "sasquatch" doesn't already make their commentary racist enough. I don't understand these people.
143 | Gus Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:21:55am |
re: #129 Charles
Another:
I'd be willing to bet that more than half of Malkin's readership think they speak Spanish in Brazil.
144 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:21:55am |
re: #134 Guanxi88
Of course it is; such a strain on her, caring for us poor benighted bastards.
Yep... flying to Denmark on a private jet, staying in a five-star suite... oh, the sacrifice!
145 | Guanxi88 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:22:58am |
re: #138 J.S.
(although, you may never know where (or from what country) the comments originate from...)
I'd be surprised if these SOB's weren't her in the States. Unless, of course, one does not discount the possibility that they're posting from the past, or from some alternative future, from the Boerstadt.
146 | badger1970 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:23:02am |
re: #143 Gus 802
I'd be willing to bet that more than half of Malkin's readership think they speak Spanish in Brazil.
Or Austrian /
147 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:23:32am |
re: #129 Charles
Another:
On October 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 am, cicerokid said:
Learn to samba, sasquatch!
Samba? OK, what's with all the Brazilian stuff today?
/Disappointed about the loss of the bid. Malkin can go fuck herself.
148 | Eowyn2 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:23:33am |
re: #125 Occasional Reader
I don't take insults like that lying down... I'm no recliner.
and you can say that with a straight backed face
149 | Dianna Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:23:37am |
re: #142 thedopefishlives
The sasquatch does not exist, though.
What that means, I'm not sure; it's just the first thing that came to mind.
150 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:23:40am |
re: #141 buzzsawmonkey
Far better that it should come on a matter such as the siting of the Olympics, and before he attempts to tackle the problem of Iran, than that the limits of his persuasive abilities be forcibly brought to his attention when actually addressing the Iranian situation.
Excellent point.
151 | Killgore Trout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:23:59am |
re: #135 Charles
Ah, Ed the weatherman. I wouldn't be surprised if the start a cleanup out of fear of being exposed.
153 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:24:19am |
re: #147 Honorary Yooper
Samba? OK, what's with all the Brazilian stuff today?
Presumably a reference to Rio de Janeiro still being in the running for the site.
154 | ryannon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:24:38am |
The mere fact that he's alive and apparently in good health is the best news I've seen in a long time.
155 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:25:08am |
re: #149 Dianna
The sasquatch does not exist, though.
What that means, I'm not sure; it's just the first thing that came to mind.
Of course he exists, I have proof.
156 | Douchecanoe and Ryan Too Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:25:27am |
re: #149 Dianna
The sasquatch does not exist, though.
What that means, I'm not sure; it's just the first thing that came to mind.
Well, yeah, but you think about the stereotype of the fictional sasquatch - a large, dark, hairy, lumbering monster. You wouldn't call a white person a sasquatch - or at least, these racist jerkfaces wouldn't. I'm generally not one that sees a lot of commentary as racist/sexist, but that one is one that offends my sensibilities.
157 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:25:29am |
re: #153 Occasional Reader
Presumably a reference to Rio de Janeiro still being in the running for the site.
As I said in the previous thread, fine let it go to Rio. I hope the decision bites the IOC in the ass.
158 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:26:08am |
re: #151 Killgore Trout
Ah, Ed the weatherman. I wouldn't be surprised if the start a cleanup out of fear of being exposed.
Ed keeps proving what a jerk he is.
160 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:26:37am |
re: #155 Kragar (proud to be kafir)
Of course he exists, I have proof.
Sasquatch is a robot used by really good-looking extraterrestrials who are hiding in the mountains in California to spy on us humans. Don't you people watch t.v.?
161 | Charles Johnson Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:27:23am |
re: #141 buzzsawmonkey
Except that this was not a rejection of Obama -- the bottom line is that the IOC didn't like Chicago's bid.
I'm sure the spin is going to be that Obama failed, though. And this, by the way, completely puts the lie to the idea that people who say they want Obama to fail really mean they want his policies to fail.
No, they want Obama to fail, and if that means America fails too, they're just fine with that.
162 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:27:28am |
163 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:27:29am |
re: #158 Honorary Yooper
Ed keeps proving what a jerk he is.
Ed has been drunk on more blogs than most people ever visit.
Hi, Ed!
164 | Killgore Trout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:27:39am |
re: #158 Honorary Yooper
Rayra was the first poster I confonted over at Hot Air about the Wookie stuff. He's a real piece of work too.
167 | badger1970 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:28:06am |
re: #157 Honorary Yooper
The World Cup was given to South Africa, how much worse would the Olympics going to to Rio?
168 | MJ Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:28:09am |
Let's not forget that the capture of Gilad Shalit and his imprisonment as well as the lack of Red Cross visits represents a war crime.
I'll say it one more time- it's a War crime.
Got that, Susan Rice? It's a war crime.
Got that UN?
Got that AI?
Got the HRW?
169 | Killgore Trout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:29:35am |
re: #161 Charles
It's also preposterous for the right wing blogs to claim credit for this. The Olympic committee does not read right wing blogs. These choices are usually made my exchanging bribes and favors.
170 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:29:37am |
re: #168 MJ
Let's not forget that the capture of Gilad Shalit and his imprisonment as well as the lack of Red Cross visits represents a war crime.
I'll say it one more time- it's a War crime.
Got that, Susan Rice? It's a war crime.
Got that UN?
Got that AI?
Got the HRW?
-Crickets
171 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:29:51am |
re: #164 Killgore Trout
Rayra was the first poster I confonted over at Hot Air about the Wookie stuff. He's a real piece of work too.
Yeah, Rayra's pretty ugly. However, even Ed seems to be too much for Rayra at times. These folks earned their bannings. Ed is busy slandering Charles when he can, and wherever he can.
172 | Dr. Shalit Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:30:37am |
Cousin Gilad looks a bit wan and thin, otherwise OK. J Post says he wants to come back to family. If he gets out I'd like to go. Question now seems to be how many and which Hamasniks will be released in exchange.
As for the Olympics - let Rio have it - unless MITT ROMNEY runs the show, Olympic Games are expensive losers for whatever city gets them. It took 30 years for Montreal to pay off the loss. The nation of "Brasil" can better afford the Billion Dollar Los than the City of Chicago and State of Illinois. That is all.
-S-
173 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:30:38am |
re: #141 buzzsawmonkey
In fact, some news reports claimed that Michelle's speech before the IOC was even better than the President's, although the snippets I read suggests that it was more personal anecdote than actually showing how the Chicago bid would be superior to the other cities vying for the Olympics. Clearly, the President didn't get it done.
And, as you note, the inability to convince and sway the judges shows the limits of his oratory and persuasive abilities to sell Chicago. If he can't get it done on this secondary issue, what does it say about his abilities on far more serious concerns?
174 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:30:55am |
re: #169 Killgore Trout
These choices are usually made my exchanging bribes and favors.
Which is one reason I'd have preferred the President of the United States not get involved with the thing to begin with.
175 | MJ Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:30:59am |
Anne Frank: the only existing film images
176 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:31:01am |
re: #169 Killgore Trout
It's also preposterous for the right wing blogs to claim credit for this. The Olympic committee does not read right wing blogs. These choices are usually made my exchanging bribes and favors.
Which is why I am blown away that CHICAGO didn't get the bid. I mean c'mon . . .its Chicago. They got out-corrupted. What a disgrace.
177 | Dianna Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:31:03am |
I really couldn't care less about what city gets the Olympics, but I thought Chicago was a terrible choice.
But is Rio really any better? Not because of crime, but because of traffic.
I read that they'd have to come up with a new word for gridlock if Chicago was chosen. Is Rio any better?
178 | Gus Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:31:07am |
re: #161 Charles
Except that this was not a rejection of Obama -- the bottom line is that the IOC didn't like Chicago's bid.
I'm sure the spin is going to be that Obama failed, though. And this, by the way, completely puts the lie to the idea that people who say they want Obama to fail really mean they want his policies to fail.
No, they want Obama to fail, and if that means America fails too, they're just fine with that.
True. The bottom line is also that Brazil is the odds on favorite for the Summer Olympic Games in 2016 which would be the first for South America. It's not a "rebuff" by any means only to those that want to manipulate this decision for what would amount to pithy ideological gain. They used this to criticize him before the decision was made and now they will continue to use after this decision by the IOC.
179 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:31:17am |
re: #167 badger1970
The World Cup was given to South Africa, how much worse would the Olympics going to to Rio?
Don't know, just hope an IOC decision for Madrid or Rio bites them.
Yes, I wanted Chicago to win. I would've loved having the Olympics a mere 40 miles from me.
181 | CommonCents Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:32:14am |
re: #152 CommonCents
This CommonCents guy is a DUMB ASS! The reason the hits were so low might be because I can't type. My apologies. The numbers are MUCH higher with the proper spelling.
Charles, would you mind erasing my #152.
p.s. I still have no love for the UN.
182 | StillAMarine Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:32:20am |
re: #141 buzzsawmonkey
Well said! Perhaps this will penetrate Obama's narcissism enough to indicate to him that he cannot get what he wants just by his personal charm and by making concessions. This might be a good thing in the end.
183 | badger1970 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:32:28am |
As for the Olympics would travel visas to the US be an issue and be part of the reason the Windy City didn't get it?
184 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:32:56am |
re: #177 Dianna
I really couldn't care less about what city gets the Olympics, but I thought Chicago was a terrible choice.
But is Rio really any better? Not because of crime, but because of traffic.
I read that they'd have to come up with a new word for gridlock if Chicago was chosen. Is Rio any better?
I think Rio would be challenging because of crime, traffic, and other infrastructure issues. Also, my utterly non-scientific impression is that the hotel industry in Rio is curiously underdeveloped, given the city's tourism prominence. I wonder if they'll have the "surge" capacity, so to speak.
185 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:33:25am |
re: #183 badger1970
As for the Olympics would travel visas to the US be an issue and be part of the reason the Windy City didn't get it?
According to NPR this morning, this was a concern voiced by the IOC officials.
186 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:33:46am |
re: #183 badger1970
As for the Olympics would travel visas to the US be an issue and be part of the reason the Windy City didn't get it?
Coud be, could also be mobs beating people to death in the streets there being fresh in people's minds
187 | erraticsphinx Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:33:57am |
I'm sure if Obama didn't go to Copenhagen, the same people would be attacking him "for not standing up for America!". And now, it's totally 100% the fault of his.
It's pretty sad.
188 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:35:35am |
re: #169 Killgore Trout
It's also preposterous for the right wing blogs to claim credit for this. The Olympic committee does not read right wing blogs. These choices are usually made my exchanging bribes and favors.
And every head of state from every potential host country lobbies the committee. And they listen politely and then decide, based on an old Greco-Roman subornation formula.
Get over yourselves, wingbats.
189 | Dr. Shalit Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:35:38am |
Was Pres. Obama going to the IOC meeting more foolish than Gov. Palin resigning?
Discussion?
-S-
192 | Truth Stick Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:36:21am |
re: #160 Occasional Reader
Sasquatch is a robot used by really good-looking extraterrestrials who are hiding in the mountains in California to spy on us humans. Don't you people watch t.v.?
I always knew the Swedish Bikini Team, was in cahoots with Bigfoot.
193 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:37:08am |
re: #189 Dr. Shalit
Was Pres. Obama going to the IOC meeting more foolish than Gov. Palin resigning?
Discussion?-S-
No. See my #188.
But thanks for another opportunity to bash the winkin' bimbo.
194 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:38:00am |
re: #186 Kragar (proud to be kafir)
Coud be, could also be mobs beating people to death in the streets there being fresh in people's minds
Well... that particular issue wouldn't exactly come down in Rio's favor.
I have a friend who does social work in a big favela (slum) in Rio. She sort of has a "pass" to go in there, because the gangs know who she is. She recounts how one day she was walking down the street with some of the local community folks, and saw that one of the drug gangs was getting ready to "necklace" a guy from a rival gang they'd caught (that's execution via gasoline-filled tire placed around the victim's neck, for those of you not familiar with the term). There was nothing she could do... had she tried to intervene, she'd have been lucky to merely get away with a beating; and if she called the police, they would not come.
196 | Dianna Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:38:43am |
re: #189 Dr. Shalit
Was Pres. Obama going to the IOC meeting more foolish than Gov. Palin resigning?
Discussion?-S-
Nooo!
Actually, I was more confused by Obama's visit than anything else.
197 | tokyobk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:39:37am |
I know a very non-right wing guy from that town who thought it was bad for Obama to pitch Chicago because it smacked of patronage returns for his homies.
IMO, he should not have gotten involved without being 99% sure he could close the deal (maybe he was?) because he does need to think about his reputation now for getting things through.
198 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:40:28am |
re: #195 StillAMarine
What about that beer Cato?
Did you ever email me? I don't recall seeing anything.
199 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:40:57am |
re: #198 Cato the Elder
Did you ever email me? I don't recall seeing anything.
You can e-mail beer? Where the fuck have I been?/
200 | JRCMYP Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:41:22am |
re: #32 Summer
I'm sorry, but we don't use the word "challenged" anymore. "Challenged" denotes a person may be beneath others in their abilities to perform certain tasks which more people around them might not find to be the same case.
Henceforth, you must use the following term for lack of non-personally native language skills: pre-learning non-native language ability skilled.
Thank you.
Don't be a jerk.
201 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:41:29am |
202 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:41:50am |
re: #199 Creeping Eruption
You can e-mail beer? Where the fuck have I been?/
Only flat beer. 'Cause you have to scan it first.
[rimshot]
203 | StillAMarine Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:41:55am |
I did e-mail you. No wonder you didn't reply. I will make another try ...
204 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:42:01am |
re: #194 Occasional Reader
Well... that particular issue wouldn't exactly come down in Rio's favor.
I have a friend who does social work in a big favela (slum) in Rio. She sort of has a "pass" to go in there, because the gangs know who she is. She recounts how one day she was walking down the street with some of the local community folks, and saw that one of the drug gangs was getting ready to "necklace" a guy from a rival gang they'd caught (that's execution via gasoline-filled tire placed around the victim's neck, for those of you not familiar with the term). There was nothing she could do... had she tried to intervene, she'd have been lucky to merely get away with a beating; and if she called the police, they would not come.
True, but the knowledge violence occurs is different than having it be front page news at the time the decision was being made, at least in this kind of venue.
205 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:42:16am |
re: #200 JRCMYP
Don't be a jerk.
Um... I believe it was just a joke. I certainly did not take offense to it.
206 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:42:25am |
re: #197 tokyobk
I posted this on a lower thread:
It's another example of BHO's fading image. Granted, his presence might not have meant a thing one way or the other. But, it was like his gambit on health care--he put a personal stake on getting it done with the IOC and it looks like he failed-- emphasis on "looks". I don't care who is in the WH, you don't put the prestige of that office on the line unless it's a sure bet.
207 | Dr. Shalit Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:42:38am |
re: #193 Cato the Elder
Cato the Elder -
As you are aware I like the "w-b." Thought her resignation was bizarre and a wrong move. Think the same about the Copenhagen trip.
-S-
209 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:43:37am |
Seeing how the leaders of all 4 countries made personal pitches to the IOC, I'd say that all 4 candidate cities really made their best case and they no city could be called an "underdog" or "favorite" selection. Will anybody be blaming Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama for Tokyo's loss?
210 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:44:01am |
re: #208 buzzsawmonkey
How to recognize humor from a long way away.
The satire. The...satire.
You must be from the suburbs... perhaps Larch-mont?
211 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:44:11am |
re: #169 Killgore Trout
Which is even more embarrassing that a scion of the Chicago political machine could not pull it off./
212 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:44:43am |
Why not e-mail beer? You can get rid of the by-product by peeing into your computer. All those MOSFETs in there have drains.
213 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:44:45am |
re: #202 Cato the Elder
Only flat beer. 'Cause you have to scan it first.
[rimshot]
And it comes out as warm, British beer, if you use "hotmail".
214 | Killgore Trout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:45:41am |
The drudge headline is laughable...
WORLD REJECTS OBAMA: CHICAGO OUT IN FIRST ROUND
Heh.
216 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:46:33am |
re: #211 calcajun
Which is even more embarrassing that a scion of the Chicago political machine could not pull it off./
They couldn't round up enough dead IOC voters on short notice.
217 | Gus Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:46:56am |
re: #214 Killgore Trout
The drudge headline is laughable...
Heh.
Worse than that:
THE EGO HAS LANDED
WORLD REJECTS OBAMA: CHICAGO OUT IN FIRST ROUND
What a bunch of losers.
218 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:47:11am |
219 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:47:17am |
Well, I'm back. This was just on schedule, dealing with bugs and features, etc.
Next week, we'll have the company meeting where we'll learn what they'll tell us of what went on in the board meeting.
220 | Douchecanoe and Ryan Too Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:47:20am |
re: #217 Gus 802
The Stupid (tm) is out in full force this afternoon, I see.
222 | Gus Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:48:18am |
re: #220 thedopefishlives
The Stupid (tm) is out in full force this afternoon, I see.
Another day of either outrage or glee. Sort of reminds me of the bullies on the Simpsons or Beavis and Butthead.
223 | Killgore Trout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:48:40am |
re: #211 calcajun
Chicago is certainly corrupt but it's small town local stuff. The real decision makers are international financiers, construction firms, billionaire media moguls, etc.
224 | Douchecanoe and Ryan Too Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:48:40am |
re: #222 Gus 802
Another day of either outrage or glee. Sort of reminds me of the bullies on the Simpsons or Beavis and Butthead.
Heheheheh... You said "butt".
225 | AuntAcid Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:48:54am |
re: #209 Surabaya Stew
Seeing how the leaders of all 4 countries made personal pitches to the IOC, I'd say that all 4 candidate cities really made their best case and they no city could be called an "underdog" or "favorite" selection. Will anybody be blaming Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama for Tokyo's loss?
Harry Caray?
226 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:48:56am |
re: #209 Surabaya Stew
Will anybody be blaming Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama for Tokyo's loss?
I fear PM Hatoyama has merely awakened a sleeping giant, and filled it with a terrible resolve.
227 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:48:58am |
re: #208 buzzsawmonkey
How to recognize humor from a long way away.
The satire. The...satire.
He used... sarcasm. He knew all the tricks, dramatic irony, metaphor, bathos, puns, parody, litotes and... satire. He was vicious.
228 | JRCMYP Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:49:56am |
re: #79 Charles
Michelle Malkin is celebrating the fact that the United States lost its Olympic bid today. Celebrating -- just because she wants Obama to fail, and she's gloating over every failure.
This is where the rhetoric of "FAIL" leads -- they're openly celebrating when America loses, just because Barack Obama is President.
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
I completely, totally agree with you. "Yay! 'We' lost the Olympic bid! Victory for the USA to be complete lunatics!"
229 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:50:21am |
The BBC is live casting the 2016 Olympics selection process for anyone interested here: [Link: news.bbc.co.uk...]
230 | karmic_inquisitor Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:50:24am |
Late to the thread but I still cannot understand why Israel keeps rewarding kidnappings. Even though many of the 20 that they traded a video for were due to be released in the next year this still rewards terror.
Perhaps politicians in Israel are just conditioned to parroting the line that "one of ours is worth one thousand of theirs" but that asymmetry sure creates an opportunity for anyone wanting to employ "asymmetric tactics".
231 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:50:35am |
re: #226 Occasional Reader
I fear PM Hatoyama has merely awakened a sleeping giant, and filled it with a terrible resolve.
Almost tora gut laughing at that.
233 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:02am |
re: #220 thedopefishlives
I sense a disturbance in the dumb...
234 | sagehen Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:04am |
re: #92 Cato the Elder
That said, there have been lots of Olympics in the US over the years. I'm happy for Brazil.
The United States has hosted a total of eight games: more than any other country. France has hosted five and Germany, Italy, and Japan have each hosted three games. Canada and the United Kingdom will host their third games in 2010 and 2012 respectively.
To date, no Olympic games have been hosted in the continents of Africa or South America. Other major geographic regions which have not hosted the Olympic games include the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Oceania (unless Australia is considered part of Oceania).
[Link: en.wikipedia.org...]
1904 St Louis (summer)
1932 Lake Placid (winter)
1932 Los Angeles (summer)
1960 Squaw Valley (winter)
1980 Lake Placid (winter)
1984 Los Angeles (summer)
1996 Atlanta (summer)
2002 Salt Lake City (winter)
235 | JRCMYP Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:11am |
re: #205 Occasional Reader
Um... I believe it was just a joke. I certainly did not take offense to it.
But of course, it was just a joke. How could I have missed that?
236 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:15am |
237 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:17am |
238 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:31am |
re: #221 MikeySDCA
Perfectly put! BTW, where did you decide to take the kids?
Still haven't decided 100% yet. Either Legoland and the Aquarium they have or the Wild Animal Park.
239 | tokyobk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:39am |
re: #206 calcajun
I agree. Like him or not or his policies, he has to be really aware of this now with so many issues that are so important to all of us.
I always liked Obama as a person and was pilloried here by some for saying all along that he was smoking McCain (at a time when people were arguing that how McCain was playing Obama like a true fighter pilot would). But that was base don perceiving Obama as super savvy. He has shown much less of that in office, or maybe the issues are just so big, or, maybe he does not have the mandate he thought.
240 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:48am |
241 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:55am |
242 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:51:58am |
re: #232 Picayune
And the winner is RIO!
Woot. Nude women's volleyball! Wait...don't they already... Oh, never mind.
243 | karmic_inquisitor Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:52:07am |
I am glad that Rio is getting it. Brazil will host one hell of a party.
244 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:52:14am |
re: #236 Honorary Yooper
It was a pearl of a joke.
Glad to hear it... I was worried it would only rate a Zero.
245 | Sharmuta Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:52:34am |
I'm so happy for his family that they still have their boy. May he be brought home soon.
246 | Ojoe Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:52:45am |
Why not just have the Olympics in grease
every time from now on?
247 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:53:03am |
re: #232 Picayune
And the winner is RIO!
...and the losers will be us, because we'll be innundated by that Duran Duran song for years to come.
248 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:53:04am |
re: #241 pre-Boomer Marine brat
Beware, I harbor more.
Soryu going to tell them to us, or not? I Hiryu can be quite funny when you want to be.
250 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:53:19am |
re: #244 Occasional Reader
Glad to hear it... I was worried it would only rate a Zero.
I o-Kate it before I posted it.
251 | jaunte Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:53:32am |
re: #246 Ojoe
Why not just have the Olympics in grease
every time from now on?
Cultural nudity taboos?
253 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:53:46am |
re: #246 Ojoe
Why not just have the Olympics in grease
every time from now on?
Just go off interstate 66, you'll find plenty of places!
254 | Ojoe Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:54:07am |
re: #248 Occasional Reader
Plz. carrier on with your funny jokes
255 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:54:09am |
re: #252 MikeySDCA
WAP is wonderful but very expensive, in the middle of nowhere and hotter than hell.
Legoland it is!
256 | tokyobk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:54:16am |
re: #172 Dr. Shalit
Cousin Gilad looks a bit wan and thin, otherwise OK. J Post says he wants to come back to family. If he gets out I'd like to go. Question now seems to be how many and which Hamasniks will be released in exchange.
As for the Olympics - let Rio have it - unless MITT ROMNEY runs the show, Olympic Games are expensive losers for whatever city gets them. It took 30 years for Montreal to pay off the loss. The nation of "Brasil" can better afford the Billion Dollar Los than the City of Chicago and State of Illinois. That is all.-S-
I felt hope about this case which I had thought I lost.
257 | karmic_inquisitor Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:55:00am |
re: #246 Ojoe
Why not just have the Olympics in grease
every time from now on?
As John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John age, it would become more and more difficult to watch.
258 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:55:12am |
re: #248 Occasional Reader
Soryu going to tell them to us, or not? I Hiryu can be quite funny when you want to be.
Hey-- can I join this Kongo line? I do like the Tone of the conversation.
259 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:55:47am |
re: #257 karmic_inquisitor
As John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John age, it would become more and more difficult to watch.
Time has been kind to only one of those two.
260 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:56:22am |
re: #249 buzzsawmonkey
If you go to Legoland, make sure you have the leg o' lamb if you lunch at the cafeteria.
Or an Eggo if it is around breakfast time.
261 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:56:36am |
re: #246 Ojoe
They still need to fix what they did in 1904. The IOC awarded Chicago the games then, but gave them to Saint Louis after Saint Louis raised a stink about them [STL] having a world's fair at the same time. Subsequently, the 1904 Olympics became a footnote to the 1904 Saint Louis World's Fair. Did not make the IOC happy.
IMHO, they still owe Chicago for that injustice.
262 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:56:37am |
re: #258 calcajun
Hey-- can I join this Kongo line? I do like the Tone of the conversation.
Sure, Yamato's well jump right in.
263 | subsailor68 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:56:40am |
re: #238 Kragar (proud to be kafir)
Still haven't decided 100% yet. Either Legoland and the Aquarium they have or the Wild Animal Park.
Hi Kragar! I lived in San Diego back when the Wild Animal Park was opened, and had some friends that worked there (they loved it). Heard a story about the naming of the tram that runs through the park. I guess a lot of entries had been received, but management couldn't make a decision. A couple of employees came up with the name Wgasa Bush Line. Management loved it, and that became the name. Turns out the employees were just sick and tired of the waffling, and Wgasa actually means Who Gives A Shit Anyway?
(Can't swear it's true, but sure hope it is!)
264 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:57:03am |
re: #260 Creeping Eruption
Or an Eggo if it is around breakfast time.
Or their spaghetti with Prego!
265 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:57:14am |
re: #234 sagehen
The United States has hosted a total of eight games: more than any other country. France has hosted five and Germany, Italy, and Japan have each hosted three games. Canada and the United Kingdom will host their third games in 2010 and 2012 respectively.
To date, no Olympic games have been hosted in the continents of Africa or South America. Other major geographic regions which have not hosted the Olympic games include the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Oceania (unless Australia is considered part of Oceania).
[Link: en.wikipedia.org...]
Well, most of the countries of the Middle East wouldn't allow an Israeli team, and they wouldn't send theirs to Israel.
266 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:57:16am |
re: #248 Occasional Reader
Soryu going to tell them to us, or not? I Hiryu can be quite funny when you want to be.
*bangs head on keyboard, barfs on carpet*
267 | StillAMarine Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:57:27am |
I am very happy that Gilad Shalit is alive and in seemingly good health, but disturbed that Israel appears to be bending, even if only a little, to the demands of barbarians.
268 | MandyManners Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:57:37am |
re: #232 Picayune
And the winner is RIO!
(Psst: don't let OR see this or he'll not get anything drafted today.)
269 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:57:44am |
re: #260 Creeping Eruption
Or an Eggo if it is around breakfast time.
Food? Legoland? I've been there and it ... oh bother..
270 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:58:59am |
re: #253 MrSilverDragon
Just go off interstate 66, you'll find plenty of places!
Or somewhere out on highway 61
271 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:59:03am |
re: #207 Dr. Shalit
Cato the Elder -
As you are aware I like the "w-b." Thought her resignation was bizarre and a wrong move. Think the same about the Copenhagen trip.
-S-
Oh, come on. Prime ministers and presidents lobby for Olympic bids all the time. It's standard operating procedure. Don't make me make you google it.
Quitting your job as governor to "write" a book and give "talks" is not even in the same universe as Obama going to Copenhagen.
272 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:59:14am |
273 | JRCMYP Fri, Oct 2, 2009 9:59:55am |
re: #173 lawhawk
In fact, some news reports claimed that Michelle's speech before the IOC was even better than the President's, although the snippets I read suggests that it was more personal anecdote than actually showing how the Chicago bid would be superior to the other cities vying for the Olympics. Clearly, the President didn't get it done.
And, as you note, the inability to convince and sway the judges shows the limits of his oratory and persuasive abilities to sell Chicago. If he can't get it done on this secondary issue, what does it say about his abilities on far more serious concerns?
But what should he have done, exactly? Lie to them? I'm not sure I follow your logic here.
274 | CommonCents Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:00:04am |
re: #246 Ojoe
Why not just have the Olympics in grease
every time from now on?
Womens events only, plesae.
275 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:00:37am |
re: #243 karmic_inquisitor
Yep, the Windy City can't do Mardi Gras like New Orleans, But Rio does (invite the world to come party, safely)! So, I believe that Rio can't get up to speed to host the world and put on a Big Show.
That's got to be one long, disappointing plane ride home from Denmark.
276 | SanFranciscoZionist Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:00:37am |
re: #25 ROPMA
I wonder if he has been forced to convert to Islam? I am glad that he is alive.
Has that ever come up with Hamas or its parent groups before? I don't recall it.
277 | StillAMarine Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:00:45am |
re: #245 Sharmuta
I'm so happy for his family that they still have their boy. May he be brought home soon.
It is good that some of us remember the purpose of this thread is Gilad Shalit and not the loss of the Olympic bid.
278 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:00:46am |
279 | CommonCents Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:01:44am |
re: #248 Occasional Reader
Soryu going to tell them to us, or not? I Hiryu can be quite funny when you want to be.
Have you ever seen the Final Countdown with Kirk Douglass and Martin Sheen? Excellent movie.
281 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:01:51am |
re: #274 CommonCents
Womens events only, plesae.
It promises to be an Olympics where the spectators are more scantily dressed than the athletes...and there's not a damn thing wrong with that.
282 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:01:57am |
Blame it on Rio... it wins the opportunity to host the Games.
283 | Ojoe Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:02:26am |
285 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:02:27am |
286 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:02:28am |
re: #272 calcajun
Yamato ...
I've gotta go wash the crud off.
The thread's getting Mogami by the minute.
287 | Sharmuta Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:02:56am |
re: #277 StillAMarine
I got here late. I'm moved to tears- I cannot imagine his family's pain, or their joy that he's still alive. It must be bittersweet news.
288 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:03:03am |
re: #273 JRCMYP
No, I'm simply stating that for all of Obama's supposed prowess with rhetoric and the ability to sway people, he couldn't get it done. In fact, the reports I read said that Michelle did a better job, but I didn't see that either.
289 | karmic_inquisitor Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:03:05am |
BTW - Brazil has a reciprocation policy regarding tourism from the US.
They basically make US citizens jump through an equivalent hoop that Brazilians have to jump through if they want to visit here.
That means visas, background checks, lots of paperwork and then immigration hassles upon arrival. IIRC the visa is good for 7 years. FYI to anyone contemplating a trip down there (which is worth the hassle, IMO).
290 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:03:10am |
re: #279 CommonCents
Have you ever seen the Final Countdown with Kirk Douglass and Martin Sheen? Excellent movie.
Now look what you've gone and done.
291 | ryannon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:04:10am |
re: #246 Ojoe
Why not just have the Olympics in grease
every time from now on?
That's a pretty slippery proposition.
Someone would need to seriously butter-up the Olympics Committee members first...
292 | StillAMarine Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:04:14am |
re: #287 Sharmuta
I got here late. I'm moved to tears- I cannot imagine his family's pain, or their joy that he's still alive. It must be bittersweet news.
Bittersweet -- just like the history of Israel. Thank you for caring.
293 | SanFranciscoZionist Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:04:22am |
re: #71 imp_62
You would actually be surprised by the number of blue eyed, blonde arabs. This is the gnetic legacy of the Crusaders, who left behind some wild oats.
Lots of redheads in the area too, and that predates the Crusaders. The whole coastal area is a wild genetic jumble--trade routes from wayback when. It always freaks out people who expect all Arabs to be dark.
294 | CommonCents Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:04:35am |
re: #290 Kragar (proud to be kafir)
Wish I could but the "all seeing eye" at the office does not allow me.
295 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:05:06am |
re: #279 CommonCents
Have you ever seen the Final Countdown with Kirk Douglass and Martin Sheen? Excellent movie.
Wow, I haven't seen that movie in decades. That or the Philadelphia Experiment (which popped into my mind when I saw the other title).
I feel old.
296 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:05:30am |
re: #286 pre-Boomer Marine brat
I've gotta go wash the crud off.
The thread's getting Mogami by the minute.
That was the Ise-ing on the cake of my day.
297 | Occasional Reader Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:05:55am |
re: #289 karmic_inquisitor
That means visas, background checks, lots of paperwork and then immigration hassles upon arrival
I didn't find it that much of hassle to get my Brazil visa. Went to the consulate, filled out a form, dropped off my passport, had the visa in (IIRC) about a week. Upon arrival, the only additional immigration hassle is that they take your photograph and, I think, make you do an electronic fingerprint. It actually came out in the new some time back that many times, the camera didn't even work... they were just pretending to take your photo.
298 | lawhawk Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:06:09am |
re: #284 buzzsawmonkey
Well, as someone pointed out the other day, where would you rather have the games? Here (Rio - some may be NSFW) or here (Chicago, where they may be NSFW for entirely different reasons).
299 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:06:16am |
re: #291 ryannon
That's a pretty slippery proposition.
Someone would need to seriously butter-up the Olympics Committee members first...
Make for a treacherous lube run.
301 | Semper Fi Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:06:19am |
re: #79 Charles
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
I think the right is lacking a real leader. It seems the far right has taken over but it seems that's only because several people, e.g., Malkin, Beck, Limbaugh, etc. are speaking similarly. I look for this to continue until a charismatic someone steps to the fore and provides direction toward those attributes for which Republicans can identify.
You are our Fearless Leader. You put in the time with hands-on management/nurturing and this is a terrific blog.
The Republican Party is in need of someone similarly dedicated.
Thank you
303 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:07:48am |
re: #300 buzzsawmonkey
All truly patriotic cakes have "Of Thee" icing.
(banging head on desk) And with that little bon mot, I'm back down into the salt mines.
BBL
304 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:07:56am |
re: #296 calcajun
That was the Ise-ing on the cake of my day.
Why do I suspect there's Mikuma-ing from you.
305 | Sharmuta Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:08:03am |
re: #292 StillAMarine
Bittersweet -- just like the history of Israel. Thank you for caring.
I hope he's home soon.
307 | karmic_inquisitor Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:08:23am |
BTW - The toxic gasbag Radon and his lemmings are having a "let's cheer the bad news" orgy right now.
These were the same people who screamed foul when the left held bad news orgies under the Bush admin.
Bad news is bad news. For all of us. Cheering for it is as reprehensible now as it was then.
308 | Racer X Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:08:58am |
Rio gets Olympics?
I'm shocked.
Chicago / Rio . . . hmmm... tough choice.
309 | StillAMarine Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:09:37am |
re: #304 pre-Boomer Marine brat
Kore wa baka, baka, baka!
310 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:10:01am |
re: #300 buzzsawmonkey
All truly patriotic cakes have "Of Thee" icing.
And mountainous majesties popping out of them?
/heh ... let's see if someone takes off on that
311 | karmic_inquisitor Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:10:27am |
re: #297 Occasional Reader
I didn't find it that much of hassle to get my Brazil visa. Went to the consulate, filled out a form, dropped off my passport, had the visa in (IIRC) about a week. Upon arrival, the only additional immigration hassle is that they take your photograph and, I think, make you do an electronic fingerprint. It actually came out in the new some time back that many times, the camera didn't even work... they were just pretending to take your photo.
Good news. It was more of a pain for me last time I renewed (4 years ago). But I go there on business so I have hoops I have to jump through relating to getting letters from business partners there vouching for me and stating that I won't be staying and taking jobs from Brazilians. Again - reciprocity.
312 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:11:08am |
re: #289 karmic_inquisitor
BTW - Brazil has a reciprocation policy regarding tourism from the US.
They basically make US citizens jump through an equivalent hoop that Brazilians have to jump through if they want to visit here.
That means visas, background checks, lots of paperwork and then immigration hassles upon arrival. IIRC the visa is good for 7 years. FYI to anyone contemplating a trip down there (which is worth the hassle, IMO).
Good for them. I wish Europe would do the same. Americans might complain if instead of an automatic six-month visa to the EU (for which we don't even have to apply) they got treated to the runaround and expense my German novelist friend has to endure in order to come here and teach as a guest professor. Every. Single. Time. From. Scratch.
The US Embassy in Berlin charges something like two dollars a minute to put you on hold and wait to get a date to come in and wait to apply for your visa. Two bucks a minute for a local call from Berlin to Berlin.
Truth.
314 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:12:09am |
re: #313 buzzsawmonkey
I understand that someone performs a sex act with a pie in the film "American Pie," but to the best of my knowledge nobody ever tried to layer cake.
They have, just trust me on this one
315 | pre-Boomer Marine brat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:13:29am |
re: #313 buzzsawmonkey
I understand that someone performs a sex act with a pie in the film "American Pie," but to the best of my knowledge nobody ever tried to layer cake.
*pound head on keyboard*
316 | karmic_inquisitor Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:13:36am |
re: #313 buzzsawmonkey
I understand that someone performs a sex act with a pie in the film "American Pie," but to the best of my knowledge nobody ever tried to layer cake.
It is a big Internet. It is somewhere.
317 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:15:52am |
318 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:15:56am |
re: #306 buzzsawmonkey
Not to mention that Rio can easily build an Olympic Village by just hacking out a few square miles of rain forest, while Chicago has much less available land.
Rio is a beautiful city, but not all that safe. I don't remember what it's like, weather-wise, in winter, but I assume that's when the Olympics will take place (July or so).
320 | JRCMYP Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:16:51am |
re: #288 lawhawk
No, I'm simply stating that for all of Obama's supposed prowess with rhetoric and the ability to sway people, he couldn't get it done. In fact, the reports I read said that Michelle did a better job, but I didn't see that either.
You are implying a comparison to something. Can you really compare the importance and effort put into a sales pitch for the Olympics to (insert more important thing here)? I think that's a little silly. Moreover, following your logic, you can make the reverse argument: Brazil's spokesperson (whoever that was--I have no idea who made their speech) should be negotiating on our behalf of the rest of the world leaders. Because clearly that person gave a helluva speech.
321 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:17:13am |
re: #275 Picayune
Pardon my typo: Rio CAN get up to speed to host the world!
322 | SFGoth Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:17:35am |
BFD - he'll still be in captivity when he's 80. It's time for an ultimatum. Shalit alive, unharmed, now, or a lot of Hamassholes are gonna wish they'd never fucked with him.
323 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:17:57am |
re: #289 karmic_inquisitor
BTW - Brazil has a reciprocation policy regarding tourism from the US.
On those occasions that I've gone to Brazil, I used my British passport (I'm not a US citizen), and I didn't require a visa.
324 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:18:56am |
325 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:19:13am |
re: #313 buzzsawmonkey
I understand that someone performs a sex act with a pie in the film "American Pie," but to the best of my knowledge nobody ever tried to layer cake.
That would be an intentional torte.
I so could not resist.
326 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:19:19am |
re: #322 SFGoth
BFD - he'll still be in captivity when he's 80. It's time for an ultimatum. Shalit alive, unharmed, now, or a lot of Hamassholes are gonna wish they'd never fucked with him.
Yeah, that works with people who cherish martyrdom.
Good thing Israel doesn't "think" like you do.
327 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:19:50am |
re: #323 John Neverbend
On those occasions that I've gone to Brazil, I used my British passport (I'm not a US citizen), and I didn't require a visa.
Brazil-the final stop for many British criminals./
328 | SanFranciscoZionist Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:20:26am |
re: #130 Occasional Reader
(Although I *do* think Michelle Obama's self-pitying "sacrifice" comment was really silly.)
Well, it was. The problem is that when you respond to a dumb comment with racially tainted ugliness, you pretty much blow your chances of being sided with. Not you personally. Them. You know.
329 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:20:47am |
Charles,
The weirdest thing just happened. A big black stripe appeared between comment 179 and 180. Never seen it before. I took a screen shot and could send it to you if you want to see what it looked like. After a minute or so, it just disappeared.
330 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:21:32am |
re: #213 Occasional Reader
And it comes out as warm, British beer, if you use "hotmail".
Room temperature only.
331 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:21:56am |
re: #324 Surabaya Stew
re: #312 Cato the Elder
Thanks for making it clear to those of us who don't understand how painful it can be to enter the United States. This really is a bigger problem than is common knowledge.
Yeah, and in my friend's case she has always come here with temporary professorships from Ivy League colleges and universities in her pocket, not as a tourist. To the Embassy, she's just another potential Atlantic Wetback.
332 | abbyadams Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:21:57am |
re: #126 Guanxi88
Even better than the first. She's a sasquatch, is she? Great; and I gotta share a
countryplanet with these people?
FTFY.
333 | sagehen Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:22:13am |
re: #293 SanFranciscoZionist
Lots of redheads in the area too, and that predates the Crusaders. The whole coastal area is a wild genetic jumble--trade routes from wayback when. It always freaks out people who expect all Arabs to be dark.
That's 'cause David was such a slut.
334 | karmic_inquisitor Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:22:16am |
re: #325 calcajun
That would be an intentional torte.
I so could not resist.
For a minute there I thought I read "international torte" in which case i would have mentioned the poverty in Rio's inner-city gateaus.
335 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:22:44am |
re: #320 JRCMYP
The leaders of all four potential host countries made a personal pitch to the IOC today. Were it just Obama up there, loosing in the first round would have been a major shock, but seeing how competitive this process has become, I imagine that any future candidate city that doesn't have a president or prime minister pitching for them will be a non-starter.
336 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:23:04am |
re: #329 medaura18586
Charles,
The weirdest thing just happened. A big black stripe appeared between comment 179 and 180. Never seen it before. I took a screen shot and could send it to you if you want to see what it looked like. After a minute or so, it just disappeared.
That was Rodan suffering a blackout while trying to kill us all with whisky breath.
337 | Creeping Eruption Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:23:06am |
re: #334 karmic_inquisitor
For a minute there I thought I read "international torte" in which case i would have mentioned the poverty in Rio's inner-city gateaus.
Desert puns sure are no cake-walk,
338 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:23:29am |
re: #327 calcajun
Brazil-the final stop for many British criminals./
It must be the lack of visa requirements.
340 | abbyadams Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:24:40am |
re: #191 buzzsawmonkey
Do you not think that if New York, or Los Angeles, or any other major American city was in the running, he would have gone? I think you're reaching.
341 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:25:28am |
re: #329 medaura18586
Charles,
The weirdest thing just happened. A big black stripe appeared between comment 179 and 180. Never seen it before. I took a screen shot and could send it to you if you want to see what it looked like. After a minute or so, it just disappeared.
Did you find out the answers to your questions about Birthright Israel?
342 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:26:28am |
re: #334 karmic_inquisitor
Poverty in Rio's inner-city gateaus.
C'est doberge.
(for the uninitiated--it's a NOLA delicacy. See here...Gambino's Bakery
343 | Flyers1974 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:27:54am |
re: #288 lawhawk
No, I'm simply stating that for all of Obama's supposed prowess with rhetoric and the ability to sway people, he couldn't get it done. In fact, the reports I read said that Michelle did a better job, but I didn't see that either.
I think that Obama's campaign rhetoric and the election hype has stuck in the minds of his detractors more than his supporters. I doubt there is any correlation between what his supporters once claimed of him and his ability to get something done today. I'd also guess that even if had the abilities his partisans claimed, it wouldn't make or break some Olympic committee's decision.
344 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:28:24am |
re: #342 calcajun
Ya got to eat it to believe it. Gambino's is the best, and it's now located on Vets in Metairie.
345 | sagehen Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:29:00am |
re: #318 John Neverbend
Rio is a beautiful city, but not all that safe. I don't remember what it's like, weather-wise, in winter, but I assume that's when the Olympics will take place (July or so).
But it's the summer games, right? So they'll probably have it in March.
346 | SixDegrees Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:29:47am |
re: #191 buzzsawmonkey
True, it was the IOC rejecting Chicago's bid. But Obama did go there himself to lobby on Chicago's behalf, did he not? Thus, he did place himself at least somewhat "in play" as part of the lobbying process--and whatever his presence brought to the bolstering of Chicago's claim, it was not sufficient.
It's certainly overreaching to call this a "failure for Obama," but nonetheless the fact that his vaunted persuasiveness was not enough to make up for whatever Chicago's bid lacked does attest to persuasiveness's limitations. And, as I say, the fact that mere persuasiveness does have limitations is something that this most persuasive of Presidents would do well to keep in mind--and better far that such reminders should come over something like this than when dealing with some issue where lives are in the balance.
Actually, the fact that Rio put up $14.4 billion to back it's claim - more than any of the other contenders, by a very wide margin - seems to have been the deciding factor. If anyone wants to bitch about something, the incredibly corrupt IOC, rotten from top to bottom and permanently exuding slime from every pore, would be the place to focus attention.
347 | sagehen Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:30:33am |
re: #320 JRCMYP
Moreover, following your logic, you can make the reverse argument: Brazil's spokesperson (whoever that was--I have no idea who made their speech) should be negotiating on our behalf of the rest of the world leaders. Because clearly that person gave a helluva speech.
Andrea Mitchell is raving about how great Rio's video presentation was... somebody with better google-fu than me should try to track that down and share it with us.
348 | reine.de.tout Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:30:37am |
re: #342 calcajun
C'est doberge.
(for the uninitiated--it's a NOLA delicacy. See here...Gambino's Bakery
oh, HELLS bells.
Here I am trying to stay away from sweets for a bit.
Trip to local Gambinos is in my immediate future, I believe.
349 | StillAMarine Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:31:21am |
re: #322 SFGoth
BFD - he'll still be in captivity when he's 80. It's time for an ultimatum. Shalit alive, unharmed, now, or a lot of Hamassholes are gonna wish they'd never fucked with him.
... or any other Israeli citizen for that matter. I am getting more and more fed up with the double standard that is applied to Israel vs Hamas, Hizbullah, and the rest of the poxy poltroons that some call Palis. In the end, that double standard is really racist in that people expect Israel to behave in a manner that is more than just civilized and beyond reproach, yet they seem to expect the Palestinians to behave like barbarians. Not very flattering to Palestinians.
350 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:31:48am |
Just got the OK to skate out at lunch time and then its a weeks vacation, 9 days off in a row and the kids will be gone for 5 of those.
351 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:32:21am |
re: #344 Picayune
Yep. My Dad's office used to be across the street from Ledner's at one time. I remember going to the Gambino's shop on Washington when I was a kid.
352 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:32:29am |
re: #341 John Neverbend
More or less. I'll need them to send me a package though. My Jewish lineage is pretty diluted so I am not sure if I even qualify, especially since I'm an atheist. I'd sure love to go visit Israel though.
353 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:33:18am |
re: #350 Kragar (proud to be kafir)
I hate every fiber of your being./
Seriously-- gotta work in the office this weekend.
354 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:34:13am |
re: #353 calcajun
I hate every fiber of your being./
Seriously-- gotta work in the office this weekend.
355 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:34:42am |
re: #351 calcajun
Moi aussi! NOLA was the most wonderful city back then.
356 | Dreader1962 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:34:46am |
re: #347 sagehen
Andrea Mitchell is raving about how great Rio's video presentation was... somebody with better google-fu than me should try to track that down and share it with us.
I saw all of the presentations and I thought Rio was the best, in my opinion. Chicago was too centered on congested city scenes. That was somewhat of a problem with the Tokyo presentation as well.
I do think that the travel issues to the US were a factor - we should balance out our entry/exit procedures with as many countries as we can to address the same security concerns where we can. I recently traveled to the UK and entry was a breeze. If we put up similar barriers as what was described above with Germany for UK travelers, I'm not surprised that it creates a negative perception of the US.
The Drudge headline is still screaming that 'World Rejects Obama...' - what, was he exiled to the moon or something. I'm not too happy with Drudge lately - is there a better news conglomerate site?
357 | SixDegrees Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:34:55am |
re: #79 Charles
Michelle Malkin is celebrating the fact that the United States lost its Olympic bid today. Celebrating -- just because she wants Obama to fail, and she's gloating over every failure.
This is where the rhetoric of "FAIL" leads -- they're openly celebrating when America loses, just because Barack Obama is President.
What the hell is wrong with the right wing?
I heard part of his pitch on the radio this morning. It was good - I can't find any fault with it, other than the apparent new "tradition" of having heads of state's participation in such events become mandatory.
Rio outbid all the other cities, plain and simple. $14.4 billion smackers. If we're going to direct outrage anywhere, I'd suggest directing it at the IOC - a large fraction of that bid is going to go directly to lining it's members pockets, over and above the out and out bribes they openly solicit along the way.
Not a peep, of course, about any of this from the Malkin Militia. Just as there hasn't been a peep out of them over this "controversy" since April 2007, when Chicago made the final cut - over two and a half years of silence.
358 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:35:16am |
re: #339 medaura18586
Hope so! he he
He's been hitting the bottle pretty hard lately, according to his friends and his own admissions.
The next effect will be a Red Stripe.
359 | J.S. Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:38:08am |
re: #343 Flyers1974
CNN mentioned that during the speeches for the Olympic bid, the words "hope" and "change" were used...and (so the CNN reporter suggested) this may have worked back in 2008 during a campaign speech, "for a domestic audience", but it may not have gone over so well in Denmark, 2009...(what I find somewhat troubling is this -- as I believe I've mentioned before -- I don't think the kind of anti-Americanism as expressed during the Bush years was due solely to George Bush -- it reflected something deeper going on in Europe -- and I don't think even an Obama can overcome it...)
360 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:38:35am |
re: #352 medaura18586
More or less. I'll need them to send me a package though. My Jewish lineage is pretty diluted so I am not sure if I even qualify, especially since I'm an atheist. I'd sure love to go visit Israel though.
The odd thing is that whenever I've been asked to prove my Jewishness, I've never been asked if I believe in God. Usually, all I do is produce my mother's orthodox ketubah (marriage contract).
361 | Racer X Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:38:59am |
Did anyone else see the tape of Letterman admitting he slept with staffers? Why did the audience laugh?
362 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:40:30am |
re: #361 Racer X
Did anyone else see the tape of Letterman admitting he slept with staffers? Why did the audience laugh?
Nervousness
363 | Dreader1962 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:40:30am |
re: #361 Racer X
Did anyone else see the tape of Letterman admitting he slept with staffers? Why did the audience laugh?
I think it was a combination of things - his audience must be made up of rabid fans ready to laugh at everything and he made the admission as if it was part of a comedy monologue.
364 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:40:31am |
re: #361 Racer X
Did anyone else see the tape of Letterman admitting he slept with staffers? Why did the audience laugh?
Why does anyone care? He's not a governor.
365 | Flyers1974 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:41:11am |
re: #324 Surabaya Stew
re: #312 Cato the Elder
Thanks for making it clear to those of us who don't understand how painful it can be to enter the United States. This really is a bigger problem than is common knowledge.
Sometimes its painful for US citizens as well. An aqucaintence of mine was traveling back from Canada to the US a couple weeks ago. There may have been some flag (Lebanese Christian) or it could have been a random stop. Anyway, he was detained for five hours, and of that five hours he was questioned for a couple minutes. The border guy who stopped him apparently asked (and this was separate from the official questioning by a DHS guy, who was professional and apologetic) how much money he made, and upon recieveing an answer, became enraged. Thereafter he sat for five hours, and missed his flight. The angry border dude and the five hour wait could have been coincidental, but sounds funny to me.
366 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:41:29am |
re: #359 J.S.
I think the IOC was hoping for change - $$$. Rio's bid had a Big Spender backing it, a very wealthy Brazilian. Maybe that's the deal, as Rio put up more mulla than the other bidders.
367 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:41:32am |
re: #361 Racer X
Did anyone else see the tape of Letterman admitting he slept with staffers? Why did the audience laugh?
Because infidelity doesn't mean quite as much nowadays. Verility on the other hand...
368 | SanFranciscoZionist Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:41:39am |
re: #360 John Neverbend
The odd thing is that whenever I've been asked to prove my Jewishness, I've never been asked if I believe in God. Usually, all I do is produce my mother's orthodox ketubah (marriage contract).
Halachically, your belief in God is totally irrelevent.
369 | Dianna Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:42:06am |
re: #361 Racer X
I heard about it. I don't have the faintest idea what's funny about it, either.
370 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:42:20am |
re: #359 J.S.
CNN mentioned that during the speeches for the Olympic bid, the words "hope" and "change" were used...and (so the CNN reporter suggested) this may have worked back in 2008 during a campaign speech, "for a domestic audience", but it may not have gone over so well in Denmark, 2009...(what I find somewhat troubling is this -- as I believe I've mentioned before -- I don't think the kind of anti-Americanism as expressed during the Bush years was due solely to George Bush -- it reflected something deeper going on in Europe -- and I don't think even an Obama can overcome it...)
Anti-Americanism has been a feature of European politics since the Vietnam war. I grew up with it as a dual citizen in Europe in the 70s and it continues to this day. It is not dependent on who is in the WH; it is a deeply rooted antipathy to the invasion of American culture, the dependence on American military might for their own safety, etc. Obama won't be able to cure it, as little as GWB caused it.
371 | Mad Al-Jaffee Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:42:29am |
re: #353 calcajun
I hate every fiber of your being./
Seriously-- gotta work in the office this weekend.
Don't forget to put the new cover sheets on the TPS reports.
372 | albusteve Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:42:51am |
re: #364 Cato the Elder
Why does anyone care? He's not a governor.
for the same reason people hang on every word Glenn Beck utters?
373 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:43:15am |
re: #371 Mad Al-Jaffee
Don't forget to put the new cover sheets on the TPS reports.
That's the 8th time I've heard that today.
374 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:43:16am |
re: #360 John Neverbend
The odd thing is that whenever I've been asked to prove my Jewishness, I've never been asked if I believe in God. Usually, all I do is produce my mother's orthodox ketubah (marriage contract).
My mother was no practicing Jew either, and she got married under communism, so even if she had been, her marriage would have been secular as religion was outlawed in my home country. It was a pure coincidence that her father, atheist but of Jewish descent, married her mother, also atheist, but from a mostly Jewish town.
375 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:43:20am |
re: #368 SanFranciscoZionist
Halachically, your belief in God is totally irrelevent.
Yes, it's an interesting distinction. That's why Hillel didn't speak about belief in God to the heathen who wanted to be taught about Judaism while standing on one leg.
376 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:43:33am |
re: #367 MrSilverDragon
Because infidelity doesn't mean quite as much nowadays. Verility on the other hand...
Was it all female staffers?/
377 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:44:09am |
378 | Mad Al-Jaffee Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:44:09am |
re: #373 MrSilverDragon
That's the 8th time I've heard that today.
Sounds like someone has a case of the Fridays.
380 | Kragar Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:44:51am |
381 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:44:52am |
re: #374 medaura18586
My mother was no practicing Jew either, and she got married under communism, so even if she had been, her marriage would have been secular as religion was outlawed in my home country. It was a pure coincidence that her father, atheist but of Jewish descent, married her mother, also atheist, but from a mostly Jewish town.
I'd be very surprised if you didn't qualify for the program. Go for it!
382 | albusteve Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:44:53am |
re: #366 Picayune
I think the IOC was hoping for change - $$$. Rio's bid had a Big Spender backing it, a very wealthy Brazilian. Maybe that's the deal, as Rio put up more mulla than the other bidders.
Rio can afford the games, Chicago can't...even half the people polled by the Trib (I think) didn't want the games...it's not a popular notion...BO had nothing to do with it
383 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:45:38am |
re: #363 Dreader1962
I think it was a combination of things - his audience must be made up of rabid fans ready to laugh at everything and he made the admission as if it was part of a comedy monologue.
There's an ambiguous headline to an article about Letterman in the Grauniad.
"By revealing that he had been blackmailed over sexual affairs, Letterman put the ordeal behind him. We should do the same."
Who can honestly say that at some time in their lives, they haven't been blackmailed over sexual affairs? I know I have. (Apologies to Monty Python).
384 | Dreader1962 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:45:39am |
re: #370 imp_62
Anti-Americanism has been a feature of European politics since the Vietnam war. I grew up with it as a dual citizen in Europe in the 70s and it continues to this day. It is not dependent on who is in the WH; it is a deeply rooted antipathy to the invasion of American culture, the dependence on American military might for their own safety, etc. Obama won't be able to cure it, as little as GWB caused it.
Although it is not universal. When I was in Belgium in the '80s, my landlord apologized for the behavior of the students protesting the American military (I had not even brought the subject up). He was a child when Belgium was liberated from the Nazis and the house that I was renting was his old family homestead. It was partially destroyed in an American bombing raid - the Germans had a camp in the area and had seized their home for billeting.
Of course, that generation is dwindling away.
385 | SixDegrees Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:45:51am |
re: #366 Picayune
I think the IOC was hoping for change - $$$. Rio's bid had a Big Spender backing it, a very wealthy Brazilian. Maybe that's the deal, as Rio put up more mulla than the other bidders.
You bet that's what drove the selection. The IOC is corrupt from top to bottom. Rio put up $14.4 billion for it's bid; Chicago ponied up a mere $4.8 billion - hardly enough to cover dinner and whores for the IOC committee members.
Instead of faux outrage and delight over 0bama's "loss," it would be worthwhile for the New Media to spend some of it's time looking into IOC dirt and slime. There's a treasure trove of pus oozing out of the IOC, just waiting to be sponged up.
386 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:46:22am |
re: #381 Cato the Elder
I'd be very surprised if you didn't qualify for the program. Go for it!
My rhetorical ace up my sleeve is: Mistah, seriously, who claims Jewish heritage when they don't have it? No one wants to just "be" a Jew these days. Not much of anything sexy about it.
387 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:47:19am |
re: #365 Flyers1974
Sometimes its painful for US citizens as well. An aqucaintence of mine was traveling back from Canada to the US a couple weeks ago. There may have been some flag (Lebanese Christian) or it could have been a random stop. Anyway, he was detained for five hours, and of that five hours he was questioned for a couple minutes. The border guy who stopped him apparently asked (and this was separate from the official questioning by a DHS guy, who was professional and apologetic) how much money he made, and upon recieveing an answer, became enraged. Thereafter he sat for five hours, and missed his flight. The angry border dude and the five hour wait could have been coincidental, but sounds funny to me.
Yes, this is another big problem at our borders; as citizens have no recourse against the actions of our government representatives. Having a middle-eastern sounding name could have been why your friend was detained, or it could have been the result of the border patrol dudes' hissy fit. Either way, I strongly doubt it was a coincidence.
388 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:47:22am |
Progress!
Facebook just announce the addition of lingua latina to its list of supported languages.
hoc diligo
389 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:48:06am |
re: #382 albusteve
Yep, Limbaugh said this am, after the vote, that BHO did not want to go to Denmark to make the pitch for CHI, and was pushed into going. Time will tell.
Meanwhile, in the US Senate Finance Committee today...
390 | Honorary Yooper Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:48:16am |
re: #370 imp_62
Anti-Americanism has been a feature of European politics since the Vietnam war. I grew up with it as a dual citizen in Europe in the 70s and it continues to this day. It is not dependent on who is in the WH; it is a deeply rooted antipathy to the invasion of American culture, the dependence on American military might for their own safety, etc. Obama won't be able to cure it, as little as GWB caused it.
I hate to say it, but that is Europe's own damn fault. They got us into not one, but two world wars. I wonder if they can even be trusted with militaries. They sure as hell haven't proven they can. Their cultures have been exported, but God-forbid, those barbaric Americans dare to export their culture to Europe.
European anti-Americanism is very old, and goes back further than the 70s.
391 | SanFranciscoZionist Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:48:25am |
re: #383 John Neverbend
There's an ambiguous headline to an article about Letterman in the Grauniad.
"By revealing that he had been blackmailed over sexual affairs, Letterman put the ordeal behind him. We should do the same."
Who can honestly say that at some time in their lives, they haven't been blackmailed over sexual affairs? I know I have. (Apologies to Monty Python).
I have to say that I don't have the slightest interest in Letterman's ordeal.
392 | Kosh's Shadow Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:49:18am |
re: #385 SixDegrees
You bet that's what drove the selection. The IOC is corrupt from top to bottom. Rio put up $14.4 billion for it's bid; Chicago ponied up a mere $4.8 billion - hardly enough to cover dinner and whores for the IOC committee members.
Instead of faux outrage and delight over 0bama's "loss," it would be worthwhile for the New Media to spend some of it's time looking into IOC dirt and slime. There's a treasure trove of pus oozing out of the IOC, just waiting to be sponged up.
Why would the media cover that and risk accreditation for their reporters at the Olympics?
393 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:49:55am |
re: #390 Honorary Yooper
Their cultures have been exported, but God-forbid, those barbaric Americans dare to export their culture to Europe.
The irony is of course that our culture nowadays has far more of an impact on them than their culture has on us.
394 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:50:00am |
re: #391 SanFranciscoZionist
I have to say that I don't have the slightest interest in Letterman's ordeal.
Amen. I care more about the neglected homeless people I see every day walking city streets talking to themselves. I wonder how they feel anout their heath insurance?
396 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:50:26am |
re: #386 medaura18586
My rhetorical ace up my sleeve is: Mistah, seriously, who claims Jewish heritage when they don't have it? No one wants to just "be" a Jew these days. Not much of anything sexy about it.
Well, I don't know about that, but I'm always wanting to "be with" sexy Jews.
Went to a majority Jewish school, and my first love imprints were hot yiddishe maydeles.
397 | Dreader1962 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:50:51am |
re: #383 John Neverbend
There's an ambiguous headline to an article about Letterman in the Grauniad.
"By revealing that he had been blackmailed over sexual affairs, Letterman put the ordeal behind him. We should do the same."
Who can honestly say that at some time in their lives, they haven't been blackmailed over sexual affairs? I know I have. (Apologies to Monty Python).
What is bizarre is that apparently the man who was trying to blackmail him was a long-time CBS employee - said to be Robert Halderman.
398 | MrSilverDragon Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:50:59am |
re: #378 Mad Al-Jaffee
Sounds like someone has a case of the Fridays.
No, but I do have a case of Newcastle Brown Ale, so win.
399 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:51:17am |
re: #394 imp_62
Amen. I care more about the neglected homeless people I see every day walking city streets talking to themselves. I wonder how they feel anout their heath insurance?
Especially their mental-health insurance...
401 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:51:54am |
re: #397 Dreader1962
What is bizarre is that apparently the man who was trying to blackmail him was a long-time CBS employee - said to be Robert Halderman.
That has been confirmed. Haldeman tried to deposit the phony check.
402 | SixDegrees Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:52:23am |
re: #392 Kosh's Shadow
Why would the media cover that and risk accreditation for their reporters at the Olympics?
Good observation. Although I was suggesting that the ones currently making all the noise over 0bama - PJM, Hot Air, Malkin et all - ought to be the ones leading such investigations, instead of wasting their time trying to spin each day's events into an anti-0bama cloud of fluff.
403 | Flyers1974 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:52:39am |
re: #370 imp_62
Anti-Americanism has been a feature of European politics since the Vietnam war. I grew up with it as a dual citizen in Europe in the 70s and it continues to this day. It is not dependent on who is in the WH; it is a deeply rooted antipathy to the invasion of American culture, the dependence on American military might for their own safety, etc. Obama won't be able to cure it, as little as GWB caused it.
Also, everyone is going to resent the biggest guy on the block, fair or not. It wouldn't make sense for the French to complain about Costa Rica, for example. And I think the degree of anti-Americanism varies to a great degree. I was in Italy in the mid-1990's and I saw no signs of anti-Americanism. I've never been to France, but I'm sure it's different there - and different within France, i.e., Paris v. countryside.
404 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:52:59am |
re: #398 MrSilverDragon
No, but I do have a case of Newcastle Brown Ale, so win.
*on his way to MrSilverDragon's place - bringing chips*
405 | The Sanity Inspector Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:53:15am |
re: #27 buzzsawmonkey
What are these "militants" you speak of? Do you perhaps refer to terrorists?
Yeah, when I hear "militants", I think of full-of-shit radical college students, taking over the dean's office.
406 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:53:27am |
re: #396 Cato the Elder
Well, I don't know about that, but I'm always wanting to "be with" sexy Jews.
Went to a majority Jewish school, and my first love imprints were hot yiddishe maydeles.
What a one-way street that is. I'm sure there are hot Jewish chicks. But I'll fall off my chair if anyone can point out a sexy Jewish man.
/taps fingers... waits for takers
409 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:54:59am |
re: #390 Honorary Yooper
I hate to say it, but that is Europe's own damn fault. They got us into not one, but two world wars. I wonder if they can even be trusted with militaries. They sure as hell haven't proven they can. Their cultures have been exported, but God-forbid, those barbaric Americans dare to export their culture to Europe.
European anti-Americanism is very old, and goes back further than the 70s.
Nothing scarier to behold than an armed Austrian. Not sure why that is even okay under international law.
410 | The Sanity Inspector Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:56:07am |
re: #391 SanFranciscoZionist
I have to say that I don't have the slightest interest in Letterman's ordeal.
"Celebrity sleeps with secretary" is a dog bites man story if there ever was one.
411 | SixDegrees Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:56:26am |
re: #408 buzzsawmonkey
Would it be churlish to chuckle at our President, schooled in some of the most resolutely corrupt politics to grace our fair land, being bested by a level of corruption that makes those who schooled him seem like pikers?
Wotthehell, I'll risk it.
I don't see how he was "bested." Chicago bid $4.8 billion. Rio bid $14.4 billion. End of story.
412 | Flyers1974 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:57:05am |
re: #387 Surabaya Stew
Yes, this is another big problem at our borders; as citizens have no recourse against the actions of our government representatives. Having a middle-eastern sounding name could have been why your friend was detained, or it could have been the result of the border patrol dudes' hissy fit. Either way, I strongly doubt it was a coincidence.
I'd have less of a problem if they questioned him for five hours - that would lead me to believe that they saw something that needed to be investigated. Otherwise, why would they waste their time? It was the five minutes of routine questions following the five hours (and the obvious sympathy of the DHS Officer) that makes me believe this was a petty abuse of power.
413 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:57:13am |
re: #391 SanFranciscoZionist
I have to say that I don't have the slightest interest in Letterman
's ordeal.
There... that's better.
414 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:57:36am |
re: #407 Picayune
Join us. Find out. Bring your own stash, though.
415 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:58:35am |
re: #409 imp_62
Nothing scarier to behold than an armed Austrian. Not sure why that is even okay under international law.
Because armed Austrians go on to make Hollywood blockbusters and use the profits to silence those who wish to disarm them.
416 | The Sanity Inspector Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:58:40am |
417 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:58:52am |
418 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 10:59:20am |
re: #396 Cato the Elder
Went to a majority Jewish school, and my first love imprints were hot yiddishe maydeles.
I went to a similarly populated school but with the opposite results. That's probably because I grew up in an area with only a very small percentage of Jews.
419 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:00:16am |
420 | Dreader1962 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:00:51am |
re: #401 imp_62
That has been confirmed. Haldeman tried to deposit the phony check.
Well, he just screwed up any semblance of a peaceful retirement. Maybe he was strapped for money and did something desperate? Looks like jail time for him.
As to Letterman - I don't watch his show and I don't know him personally. It does not appear that he violated the law, and unless one of the staffers alleges sexual harassment, that's where it ends.
421 | DaddyG Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:01:00am |
re: #385 SixDegrees
You bet that's what drove the selection. The IOC is corrupt from top to bottom. Rio put up $14.4 billion for it's bid; Chicago ponied up a mere $4.8 billion - hardly enough to cover dinner and whores for the IOC committee members.
Instead of faux outrage and delight over 0bama's "loss," it would be worthwhile for the New Media to spend some of it's time looking into IOC dirt and slime. There's a treasure trove of pus oozing out of the IOC, just waiting to be sponged up.
They tried in Atlanta and Salt Lake City. No one cares enough to stop the party.
422 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:01:13am |
re: #415 Surabaya Stew
Because armed Austrians go on to make Hollywood blockbusters and use the profits to silence those who wish to disarm them.
At least he apologized for his father's Nazi past. Most Austrians still claim to be victims of Nazism. Austria on average I seem to remember is the most anti-Semitic country in Europe.
423 | Rexatosis Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:01:13am |
I am glad Gilad Shalit is still alive, now hopefully Israel can get him home.
Regarding the 2016 Olympics. It is a huge loss for President Obama both domestically and internationally. President Obama put his political capital on getting the Olympics for Chicago when he decided to go to Copenhagen. It was supposed to be a tight race between Chicago and Rio. It was not, Chicago finished last! Either the Obama Administration cannot count and wasted political capital on a complete lose/lose situation (which will not make the Blue Dog Democrats feel confident to lay their political futures on the line for the Administration since the ability to count seems to be lacking in the White House and the 2010 election is coming fast while their poll numbers continue to decline) or President Obama deluded himself into thinking he could sway the IOC delegates with his lofty rhetoric (and that delusion merely reinforces French President Sarkozy's scathing comments on the POTUS' naivete and will must cause our allies serious concern regarding negotiations with Iran and N. Korea.) If the problem is the former (bad math skills) it can be cured by firing the White House staff responisble for polling regarding the IOC vote, if the problem is the latter we have a serious problem.
424 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:01:16am |
re: #414 imp_62
No stash necessary. Cheech & Cong Chips come in green with a guacamole flavor and are made of the finest, tasty buds! But I can bring some cold Bohemias that come from the same place as the buds, though. What say?
425 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:02:18am |
re: #424 Picayune
No stash necessary. Cheech & Cong Chips come in green with a guacamole flavor and are made of the finest, tasty buds! But I can bring some cold Bohemias that come from the same place as the buds, though. What say?
Where are you and where have you been all my life?
426 | Flyers1974 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:02:18am |
re: #395 buzzsawmonkey
You seem to be under the mistaken impression that I am attaching significance to the fact that it was Chicago that was under consideration. I do not know where you obtained this notion, but it was not from anything I have written.
I was discussing the actual limitations of Obama's powers of persuasion, as contrasted with what many people, including Obama, seem to believe them to be--which has nothing to do with whether he was attempting to persuade on behalf of Chicago, Los Angeles, New York--or Boise.
Who knows what Obama believes? I use rhetoric as does most everyone posting here, it doesn't follow that I think I have any special ability to persuade.
427 | John Neverbend Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:03:18am |
re: #406 medaura18586
What a one-way street that is. I'm sure there are hot Jewish chicks. But I'll fall off my chair if anyone can point out a sexy Jewish man.
/taps fingers... waits for takers
I found it by searching for "Moshe Dayan". I understand that a lot of women found him to be attractive. They sensed his power and sought the life essence. He did not avoid women, and he certainly did not deny them his essence.
428 | badger1970 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:03:58am |
re: #392 Kosh's Shadow
Why would the media cover that and risk accreditation for their reporters at the Olympics?
It would be the right thing to do. /
But you are correct, especially that it's dang near the same timezone of US.
430 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:04:41am |
re: #425 imp_62
Where are you and where have you been all my life?
And I mean that in a Platonic-share-your-beers-way...
431 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:05:18am |
re: #425 imp_62
Party Central of the Universe - New Orleans!
432 | Picayune Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:06:35am |
re: #423 Rexatosis
Look at WH Senior Adviser, Valerie Jarret.
433 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:06:58am |
re: #422 imp_62
Because armed Austrians go on to make Hollywood blockbusters and use the profits to silence those who wish to disarm them.
At least he apologized for his father's Nazi past. Most Austrians still claim to be victims of Nazism. Austria on average I seem to remember is the most anti-Semitic country in Europe.
1. I forgot to add the "/" to my post, was actually meant to be sarcastic!
2. I seem to recall that about Austria as well.
434 | Mad Al-Jaffee Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:07:21am |
436 | Neutral President Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:08:20am |
re: #263 subsailor68
Hi Kragar! I lived in San Diego back when the Wild Animal Park was opened, and had some friends that worked there (they loved it). Heard a story about the naming of the tram that runs through the park. I guess a lot of entries had been received, but management couldn't make a decision. A couple of employees came up with the name Wgasa Bush Line. Management loved it, and that became the name. Turns out the employees were just sick and tired of the waffling, and Wgasa actually means Who Gives A Shit Anyway?
(Can't swear it's true, but sure hope it is!)
437 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:08:21am |
re: #399 medaura18586
At this rate, all the government will be able to afford is tin-foil.
438 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:09:24am |
re: #419 medaura18586
OK, Rudd may be a putz.
What about a craggy older writer?
That would be Amos Oz.
439 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:09:53am |
re: #438 Cato the Elder
OK, Rudd may be a putz.
What about a craggy older writer?
That would be Amos Oz.
Too lefty and whiny.
440 | Spare O'Lake Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:10:27am |
re: #406 medaura18586
What a one-way street that is. I'm sure there are hot Jewish chicks. But I'll fall off my chair if anyone can point out a sexy Jewish man.
/taps fingers... waits for takers
Paul Newman, according to my wife.
441 | Dianna Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:13:57am |
re: #419 medaura18586
No, he most definitely does not.
Huh.
Can we have an example of what is sexy? I rather liked both.
442 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:14:35am |
443 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:16:01am |
re: #427 John Neverbend
I found it by searching for "Moshe Dayan". I understand that a lot of women found him to be attractive. They sensed his power and sought the life essence. He did not avoid women, and he certainly did not deny them his essence.
hmmm... he's alright, but doesn't really do it for me. I am embarrassed to admit it, but my aesthetic ideal of the male form is almost strictly Nordic. I'm from the Mediterrenean myself, but I find Mediterrenean men unattractive, with their bushy eyebrows and hairy chests and intense features. The look is a bit too primitive for my taste. North-Italian spaghetti Western actor Mario Girotti (known as Terence Hill) remains the golden standard.
444 | transient Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:19:12am |
re: #386 medaura18586
My rhetorical ace up my sleeve is: Mistah, seriously, who claims Jewish heritage when they don't have it? No one wants to just "be" a Jew these days. Not much of anything sexy about it.
I also think you should go for it. It does not matter whether or not you are practicing or believe in God. I'm not sure what, if any, criteria they require to prove your "Jewishness," but contact them and ask if you do not have any of the usual legal documents (bat mitzvah/ ketubah, etc.) A letter from a rabbi who knows you may also serve.
445 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:19:15am |
re: #429 buzzsawmonkey
Just off the top of my head, Kirk Douglas, in his day, and Ricardo Cortez--an early sound actor whose Yiddishe name I forget--in his day.
Given that most Jewish actors--like Douglas and Cortez, and for that matter Edward G. Robinson (even though I'm not entering him in the "sexy" sweepstakes) changed their names to avoid being too Jewish for the box office, there are doubtless a lot more. Some people find Liev Schreiber a hunk, or so I'm told--what is remarkable about him is that he went against type and never troubled to adopt a nom-de-plume.
I looked them all up, and while I can see why they could be considered attractive, there's just a je ne sais pas about each of them that leaves me cold.
446 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:20:08am |
re: #442 Cato the Elder
Was I talking to you? Well, was I?
Aww c'mon quit yelling at me. Having a crap day to begin with. I just got fed up with Oz while reading A Tale of Love and Darkness.
447 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:21:22am |
re: #446 imp_62
Aww c'mon quit yelling at me. Having a crap day to begin with. I just got fed up with Oz while reading A Tale of Love and Darkness.
Have a better day.
I loved that book.
448 | sagehen Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:24:29am |
re: #403 Flyers1974
And I think the degree of anti-Americanism varies to a great degree. I was in Italy in the mid-1990's and I saw no signs of anti-Americanism. I've never been to France, but I'm sure it's different there - and different within France, i.e., Paris v. countryside.
The French hate everyone. Even each other.
449 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:25:27am |
re: #444 transient
I also think you should go for it. It does not matter whether or not you are practicing or believe in God. I'm not sure what, if any, criteria they require to prove your "Jewishness," but contact them and ask if you do not have any of the usual legal documents (bat mitzvah/ ketubah, etc.) A letter from a rabbi who knows you may also serve.
One of my relatives was famous in my country--minister in the first cabinet of Albania in 1912. He also saved Albania's Jews, because the Italian fascists tried to recruit him in their puppet government to lend it credibility (he was a public figure) and he accepted a post in the Regal Council, as it was called, on the condition that he be given control over all census data and birth registries of Jews and that he would never have to hand that information in. That was far-sighted in 1938 or 1939, when he had the Italians sign an affidavit to that effect. It came handy when the Germans took over in 1943, because the first thing they demanded was a list of all Jewish families. Lef Nosi, my great great uncle, had already destroyed all the records. He was a secular Jew himself...
In 1945 when the Axis lost and the Communists "liberated" the country, they had him executed as a collaborator and his name was vanquished from all history books--Orwell in practice.
450 | subsailor68 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:25:40am |
re: #436 ArchangelMichael
LOL! Thanks! I never even thought about snopes! The wife of a friend was working at the park (became a tram driver), and she told us about it. I always figured it was true - too much fun not to be!
451 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:25:56am |
452 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:26:30am |
re: #447 Cato the Elder
Have a better day.
I loved that book.
I enjoyed the narrative colour. I did not like that he made his rather non-unique experiences in the days leading up to statehood seem unique.
453 | Spare O'Lake Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:27:53am |
re: #445 medaura18586
I looked them all up, and while I can see why they could be considered attractive, there's just a je ne sais pas about each of them that leaves me cold.
Then maybe you don't like Jewish men.
454 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:28:17am |
re: #449 medaura18586
Medaura - I cannot find the beginning of your comment string. Why and towards whom are you trying to establish your Jewish heritage?
455 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:28:49am |
re: #454 imp_62
Medaura - I cannot find the beginning of your comment string. Why and towards whom are you trying to establish your Jewish heritage?
I would like to visit Israel through Birth Right.
456 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:29:34am |
re: #453 Spare O'Lake
Then maybe you don't like Jewish men.
No, it's not that I don't like Jewish men. But I like almost only blond, blue-eyed, Nordic men. The sets happen to not overlap much.
457 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:30:10am |
re: #455 medaura18586
I would like to visit Israel through Birth Right.
Where do you live? (Country)
458 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:30:44am |
re: #457 imp_62
Manhattan. But not a US citizen yet.
459 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:31:06am |
re: #452 imp_62
I enjoyed the narrative colour. I did not like that he made his rather non-unique experiences in the days leading up to statehood seem unique.
Everybody's experiences are unique, and in a different sense, nobody's are.
The mark of a good writer is being able to show both sides in a wider context. He did that for me. But let us not argue tastes...
460 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:31:49am |
re: #458 medaura18586
Manhattan. But not a US citizen yet.
Where was your previous country of residence/citizenship?
461 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:32:23am |
re: #460 imp_62
Previous country of residence was Canada. Existing country of citizenship is Albania. But I'm a green card holder.
464 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:34:21am |
re: #461 medaura18586
Previous country of residence was Canada. Existing country of citizenship is Albania. But I'm a green card holder.
Did you attend services in an organized setting in Canada (Chabad, or other congregational setting?)
465 | Dianna Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:35:45am |
466 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:35:46am |
re: #464 imp_62
Nah, I'm an atheist,... that's the problem. But nearly half my family is Jewish in heritage and that means something to me.
467 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:37:08am |
re: #465 Dianna
Perfect features overall. Lips, eyes, eyebrows, cheekbones, jawline, chin. Superior craftsmanship in his making.
468 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:39:07am |
re: #445 medaura18586
Hey, if Walter Matthau could be a sex symbol, there's hope for us all.
(BTW-- great spy comedy-- "Hopscotch")
469 | calcajun Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:40:11am |
re: #458 medaura18586
Ha. NYC isn't part of America, according to Tom Wolfe--it's an Open City, like Danzig before the war./
470 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:40:13am |
471 | shutdown Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:44:30am |
re: #466 medaura18586
It might be difficult for you to establish that you are Jewish to the satisfaction of Birthright. However, you will find that other organizations are supportive. If you consider yourself Jewish, join a congregation in Manhattan and see if the rabbi will support you after a time has gone by in which you show some commitment to the community. Alternately, look at cufi.org; if it seems interesting, get in touch with them and see if they have some programming/financial support available for educational trips to Israel.
472 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:44:37am |
Wait, Paul Newman was Jewish? I find his looks a bit overhyped, but he'd definitely surpass all the alternatives presented so far.
473 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:46:54am |
re: #471 imp_62
Too much work. I might just pay for it out of my own pocket. I work for a Jewish magazine and that should speak for my support of the community, but I don't want to verge on religious affinity -- that's what getting involved with a Rabbi sounds like. It may make more sense to go at it alone anyway, because I want to bring my husband along, who is most definitely not Jewish in any sense.
474 | SFGoth Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:47:02am |
re: #326 Cato the Elder
Yeah, that works with people who cherish martyrdom.
Good thing Israel doesn't "think" like you do.
I note that the top dudes who run Hamas do not worship martyrdom, which is why they are routinely killed fleeing. Try again, and maybe apologize while you're at it.
475 | sagehen Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:49:26am |
re: #406 medaura18586
What a one-way street that is. I'm sure there are hot Jewish chicks. But I'll fall off my chair if anyone can point out a sexy Jewish man.
/taps fingers... waits for takers
also David Duchovny, Jon Stewart, Ken Olin, Paul Reiser, Harrison Ford, James Caan, Tony Curtis,
476 | Cato the Elder Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:51:26am |
re: #474 SFGoth
I note that the top dudes who run Hamas do not worship martyrdom, which is why they are routinely killed fleeing. Try again, and maybe apologize while you're at it.
I hope you're not holding your breath.
477 | bofhell Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:58:36am |
re: #475 sagehen
also David Duchovny, Jon Stewart, Ken Olin, Paul Reiser, Harrison Ford, James Caan, Tony Curtis,
Not to mention (back in the day) William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy. To quote Adam Sandler (also Jewish) "'Cause you can spin the dreidl with Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock-- both Jewish!"
478 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 11:58:53am |
re: #475 sagehen
Harrison Ford looks alright. River Phoenix looks like a girl. The rest of the list is not even on the same zip code as sexy. And Jon Stewart?... Jon Stewart???
479 | transient Fri, Oct 2, 2009 12:05:48pm |
re: #475 sagehen
also David Duchovny, Jon Stewart, Ken Olin, Paul Reiser, Harrison Ford, James Caan, Tony Curtis,
Harrison Ford? Really?!
480 | Dancing along the light of day Fri, Oct 2, 2009 12:07:35pm |
I am so grateful Shalit is still alive.
Wonderful news. Now, to get him home!
481 | Mad Prophet Ludwig Fri, Oct 2, 2009 12:09:14pm |
re: #480 Floral Giraffe
I am so grateful Shalit is still alive.
Wonderful news. Now, to get him home!
Absolutely.
It would be a lovely thing to see Israel simply cut all supplies to GAza and say no power or water until you give him back.
482 | bofhell Fri, Oct 2, 2009 12:22:46pm |
re: #481 LudwigVanQuixote
Absolutely.
It would be a lovely thing to see Israel simply cut all supplies to GAza and say no power or water until you give him back.
I'd love to see that too, but in the end, the Gaza borders are too porous and Hamas is (probably) too well stocked.
483 | Surabaya Stew Fri, Oct 2, 2009 12:34:03pm |
re: #479 transient
Harrison Ford? Really?!
Yes, his mother is Jewish. Which is funny, because Adam Sandler in the Chanukah song says: "Harrison Ford is one quarter Jewish...not too shabby!" Which goes to show that even those who research the subject can be mistaken.
484 | Gearhead Fri, Oct 2, 2009 12:38:52pm |
I glad he's alive. Now give him back, you sick ___s!
485 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 1:09:16pm |
re: #481 LudwigVanQuixote
Absolutely.
It would be a lovely thing to see Israel simply cut all supplies to GAza and say no power or water until you give him back.
What Israel did instead was release 20 female prisoners to Hamas just to get that video, proving that he was alive. That's no winning strategy.
486 | LostxOne Fri, Oct 2, 2009 1:17:59pm |
re: #23 buzzsawmonkey
Sorry for the down ding I clicked faster than I moved the mouse. That's what I get for reading ahead instead of paying attention.
487 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 1:23:40pm |
re: #486 LostxOne
You can undo your dings if you want.
488 | theheat Fri, Oct 2, 2009 1:31:21pm |
I'm totally shocked he's still alive. I really didn't expect this. I hope he gets to come home to his family, and no longer used as a negotiation tool. Nothing good as ever come of negotiations with Hamas and the Palestinians, except more hostages replace the ones released.
489 | LostxOne Fri, Oct 2, 2009 1:36:21pm |
re: #487 medaura18586
Really, I've been registered for a while but never really commented so I'm not that up on everything. So how do undo a ding?
490 | medaura18586 Fri, Oct 2, 2009 1:39:58pm |
re: #489 LostxOne
You go back to that comment and ding the other way. That offsets your original ding.
491 | LostxOne Fri, Oct 2, 2009 1:56:08pm |
re: #490 medaura18586
Done & Done. Thanks for the help Medaura!
493 | bj Fri, Oct 2, 2009 2:25:07pm |
Channel 2 blocked youtube because of copyright laws. You can view Gilad here: [Link: news.walla.co.il...]
Our prayer for this Sukkot is that Gil is finally returned to his family and country and those of us who love him, that the world learns lessons from having to deal with bloody terrorists like hamas and that the harvest is bountiful.
494 | Stalbet Fri, Oct 2, 2009 2:53:36pm |
We knew he was alive, you know why?
No proof he wasn't. That's Israeli mentality.
I thank the ones who convinced the terrorists to release this video.
The cruelest of the cruelest to do to someone is keeping him from their loved ones. We should always keep the MIA and POW in the back of our minds, wherever we go and wherever we are!
Let Shalit go!!!
495 | AtadOFF Fri, Oct 2, 2009 4:20:55pm |
This is impossibly great news! I was certain, certain that he was long dead. I hope they find a way to get him home safely.
496 | Mickey Blumental Sat, Oct 3, 2009 1:51:32am |
re: #22 vxbush
I agree. Hamas has already announced, suprise surprise, that there are going to be many more Gilaad Shalits in the future. Why would they not go for that strategy? Kidnap one soldier and hold an entire country by the balls? It's ridiculous.
497 | Mickey Blumental Sat, Oct 3, 2009 5:44:00am |
re: #493 bj
Did they really block it? For copyright law? If anything, shouldn't the Hamas be getting the royalties since it's their production?
It's disgusting that a corporation treats this tape as a money maker.
498 | bj Sat, Oct 3, 2009 6:47:26am |
re: #497 Udon
Did they really block it? For copyright law? If anything, shouldn't the Hamas be getting the royalties since it's their production?
It's disgusting that a corporation treats this tape as a money maker.
That's what was on the screen when I first clicked on it so I went to the Israeli site.
Personally, as much as I want Gil returned I hope Israel turns around and blows gaza out of the earth but it won't/can't because the US will ring its hands, threaten and complain and the "international community" will continue to castigate Israel for the slightest move toward freedom. Strange, kudos are given when another country finally rescues its hostage(s) but Israel is treated like the bastard at a family reunion.