The GOP is the party of the Dork Bluff.

If you tell the truth you don’t have to remember anything.

— Mark Twain

So true.

re: #1 LudwigVanQuixote

The GOP is the party of the Dork Bluff.

The GOP is the party of the super rich and corporations. Heck, if I was a whore I'd want the richest clients as too.

/

If you tell the truth you don’t have to remember anything.

— Mark Twain

Something nobody knows about in Washington DC.

re: #3 Gus 802

The GOP is the party of the super rich and corporations. Heck, if I was a whore I'd want the richest clients as too.

/

Well those are the people that run the GOP. The rank and file seem to be semi-literate, whiny, neo-fascist, blatantly racist, hard hearted, hypocritical Jesus spouting (and debasing by their hypocrisy) ignoramuses with huge persecution complexes, much false bravado and pimple sized peckers.

I was going to make a comment but I forgot what it was.

re: #3 Gus 802

The GOP is the party of the super rich and corporations. Heck, if I was a whore I'd want the richest clients as too.

/

In short, it is the party of scared, aging white guys with little education and a grudge. They puff up their dreams of ninjadom, fear other races, religions and thoughts, and live vicariously through the "troops."

Homer Simpson is Catholic, Vatican paper declares

"The Simpsons" just got a blessing from the Vatican.

The official Vatican newspaper has declared that beer-swilling, doughnut-loving Homer Simpson and son Bart are Catholics -- and what's more, it says that parents should not be afraid to let their children watch "the adventures of the little guys in yellow."

"Few people know it, and he does everything to hide it. But it's true: Homer J. Simpson is Catholic", the Osservatore Romano newspaper said in an article on Sunday headlined "Homer and Bart are Catholics."

The newspaper cited a study by a Jesuit priest of a 2005 episode of the show called "The Father, the Son and the Holy Guest Star". That study concludes that "The Simpsons" is "among the few TV programs for kids in which Christian faith, religion and questions about God are recurrent themes."

The Simpsons pray before meals, and "in its own way, believes in the beyond," the newspaper quoted the Jesuit study as saying.

It's the second time the animated U.S. TV series, which is broadcast in 90 countries, has been praised by the Vatican.

I think m over at the stalker blog is a dude.

I wonder what that does for the homophobic guys there that hit on "her."

re: #8 NJDhockeyfan

WTF.
Come on, Pope.
You've got far bigger problems in your own organization that you need to address.
Sheesh.

re: #7 LudwigVanQuixote

In short, it is the party of scared, aging white guys with little education and a grudge. They puff up their dreams of ninjadom, fear other races, religions and thoughts, and live vicariously through the "troops."

The troops! The troops! It's always about the troop. Never about the principles. Always talking about wars like it's a fun experience (something we watch on the big screen). Pandering to emotions based on American's reactions to the costume (i.e. the uniform).

re: #7 LudwigVanQuixote

In short, it is the party of scared, aging white guys with little education and a grudge. They puff up their dreams of ninjadom, fear other races, religions and thoughts, and live vicariously through the "troops."

Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Are you dissin' ninja???

re: #12 Varek Raith

Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Are you dissin' ninja???

Fake wannabe ninjas like Ironfist and Grimcargo. Fake wannabe ninjas who compensate for their lack of manhood with excessive threat displays, and who on the inside, are scared like little kids who had a bad dream.

I mean like the fakes in the tea party and who watch Glen beck and who fantasize about rebellion and the Civil War all over again.

You know, the sort of balding, bear gutted "operators" who wear cammo all the time and masturbate to the centerfold in guns and ammo.

re: #9 LudwigVanQuixote

I think m over at the stalker blog is a dude.

I wonder what that does for the homophobic guys there that hit on "her."

Everyone on the Internet is a man, and all children are FBI agents.
/

re: #12 Varek Raith

Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Are you dissin' ninja???

Rambodom

/

re: #11 Gus 802

The troops! The troops! It's always about the troop. Never about the principles. Always talking about wars like it's a fun experience (something we watch on the big screen). Pandering to emotions based on American's reactions to the costume (i.e. the uniform).

And as such, an insult to actual soldiers.

Breaking news coming out of Russia...

Report: Several people shot dead at Chechen parliament

There were reports Tuesday that several people have been killed in a shooting incident at the Chechen Parliament in Russia.

re: #17 NJDhockeyfan

Breaking news coming out of Russia...

Report: Several people shot dead at Chechen parliament

Holy shit...I sense some bad juju ahead because of this.

re: #14 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Everyone on the Internet is a man, and all children are FBI agents.
/

LOL! Well I am certain, that Floral, SFZ, Marjoree, Alouette and Curious Lurker are women.

re: #13 LudwigVanQuixote

Fake wannabe ninjas like Ironfist and Grimcargo. Fake wannabe ninjas who compensate for their lack of manhood with excessive threat displays, and who on the inside, are scared like little kids who had a bad dream.

I mean like the fakes in the tea party and who watch Glen beck and who fantasize about rebellion and the Civil War all over again.

You know, the sort of balding, bear gutted "operators" who wear cammo all the time and masturbate to the centerfold in guns and ammo.

Who knew that in 2010 being a "conservative" meant sounding like a gang banger.

Wannabes.

re: #19 LudwigVanQuixote

LOL! Well I am certain, that Floral, SFZ, Marjoree, Alouette and Curious Lurker are women.

Exactly what they want you to think...

re: #21 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Exactly what they want you to think...

Not touching that with a ten foot pole.

re: #17 NJDhockeyfan

Breaking news coming out of Russia...

Report: Several people shot dead at Chechen parliament

Oy.

re: #22 LudwigVanQuixote

Not touching that with a ten foot pole.

I take it you've never seen the Rules of the Internet?

re: #24 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

I take it you've never seen the Rules of the Internet?

/b/

re: #21 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Exactly what they want you to think...

Hey, I heard that!! *glares at Kragar with hands on hips*

re: #26 CuriousLurker

Hey, I heard that!! *glares at Kragar with hands on hips*

Ruh-roh!
You're own your own, Kragar!

re: #22 LudwigVanQuixote

Not touching that with a ten foot pole.

Smart man, heh.

re: #20 Gus 802

Who knew that in 2010 being a "conservative" meant sounding like a gang banger.

Wannabes.

As a self-identified conservative of sorts, the current shit with "conservatives", the Tea Partiers, and the spineless GOP makes me want to vomit and reenact the shower scene out of The Crying Game...or out of Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.

And speaking of serendipidy, with my earlier posts, on the Stalker blog, they are talking about their "sizes."

Bunk writes:

@ doriangrey:
Look at it like this. 5-1/2 inches is considered average, but in metric it’s 14 centimeters. Much more impressive to the uninitiated.

You can't make this up!

re: #27 Varek Raith

Ruh-roh!
You're own your own, Kragar!

LOL, another wise one.

I'm going to hit the sack. Sweet dreams my scaly friends!

re: #28 CuriousLurker

Smart man, heh.

Not suicidal. Nope. I have a lot to live for.

P.S. check out my post on the "Dork Bluff"

re: #29 talon_262

As a self-identified conservative of sorts, the current shit with "conservatives", the Tea Partiers, and the spineless GOP makes me want to vomit and reenact the shower scene out of The Crying Game...or out of Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.

[Video]

Which is why I put conservatives in quotes.

re: #29 talon_262

As a self-identified conservative of sorts, the current shit with "conservatives", the Tea Partiers, and the spineless GOP makes me want to vomit and reenact the shower scene out of The Crying Game...or out of Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.

[Video]

And speaking of serendipidy, with my earlier posts, on the Stalker blog, they are talking about their "sizes."

Bunk writes:

@ doriangrey:
Look at it like this. 5-1/2 inches is considered average, but in metric it’s 14 centimeters. Much more impressive to the uninitiated.

You can't make this up!

re: #26 CuriousLurker

Hey, I heard that!! *glares at Kragar with hands on hips*

I fall back on the following 2 rules of the internet:

28. Always question a person's gender - just in case it's really a man.

29. On the internet, all girls are men, and all kids are undercover FBI agents.

re: #33 LudwigVanQuixote

Not suicidal. Nope. I have a lot to live for.

P.S. check out my post on the "Dork Bluff"

The ability to destroy planets is insignificant next to the power of a pissed off woman.

/Runs away and hides

re: #33 LudwigVanQuixote

Not suicidal. Nope. I have a lot to live for.

Hehehe.

P.S. check out my post on the "Dork Bluff"

I was lurking and saw it; too funny!

re: #37 Varek Raith

The ability to destroy planets is insignificant next to the power of a pissed off woman.

/Runs away and hides

No you shouldn't hide for saying that. They like it when you acknowledge such things :)

re: #39 LudwigVanQuixote

No you shouldn't hide for saying that. They like it when you acknowledge such things :)

I'll just be cautious and say it a lightyear or so over yonder.
;)

re: #35 LudwigVanQuixote

And speaking of serendipidy, with my earlier posts, on the Stalker blog, they are talking about their "sizes."

Bunk writes:

You can't make this up!

Shit, I'll bet most of them over in Stalker Land can't even see their "tools", much less get a valid measurement of them...

re: #37 Varek Raith

The ability to destroy planets is insignificant next to the power of a pissed off woman.

/Runs away and hides

12. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

13. Anything you say can be turned into something else. - fixed

re: #36 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

I fall back on the following 2 rules of the internet:

28. Always question a person's gender - just in case it's really a man.

29. On the internet, all girls are men, and all kids are undercover FBI agents.

*sparks fly out of eyes, looks around for something to throw...*

re: #42 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

12. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

13. Anything you say can be turned into something else. - fixed

That's better. *puts down cast iron skillet*

re: #43 CuriousLurker

*sparks fly out of eyes, looks around for something to throw...*

re: #45 Varek Raith

[Video]

Disaster averted. You may come out of your bunkers now. ;)

Rules of the Internet.

Screw rule 41.
DESU

re: #41 talon_262

Shit, I'll bet most of them over in Stalker Land can't even see their "tools", much less get a valid measurement of them...

Well the good news is that they won't be breeding.

re: #47 Varek Raith

Screw rule 41.
DESU

です！

re: #48 LudwigVanQuixote

Well the good news is that they won't be breeding.

Never doubt the tenacity of those without the good sense that the Lord gave them...

re: #19 LudwigVanQuixote

LOL! Well I am certain, that Floral, SFZ, Marjoree, Alouette and Curious Lurker are women.

Et Reine, aussi.

re: #43 CuriousLurker

*sparks fly out of eyes, looks around for something to throw...*

like so Image: LoPan.jpg

re: #52 WindUpBird

This one works I think

Image: Lo-Pan.jpg

re: #51 reine.de.tout

Et Reine, aussi.

Of course of course!

And Iceweasel too.

re: #52 WindUpBird

Yes! Exactly. LOL

re: #55 CuriousLurker

Yes! Exactly. LOL

GREEN FLAME!

re: #56 WindUpBird

GREEN FLAME!

BTW, where's windy?

re: #54 LudwigVanQuixote

Of course of course!

And Iceweasel too.

If not, someone better let Jimmy know... Fast.

re: #58 ozbloke

If not, someone better let Jimmy know... Fast.

Hehe. I actually know for a fact, as in I have spoken with her in person, that she is a she.

re: #58 ozbloke

Ohh and I have a humor post up.

I can never watch flash movies at work for some reason - I think the firewall blocks them (they show up but they don't actually load when it says loading...for an hour). So if anyone is in the same situation, here is the full video on YouTube:

I just watched it and I'm wondering why the cop didn't intervene. Honestly, I think it was a clear cut case of harassment on the part of the "security" detail. They were way out of line, and now we also discover that they were unlicensed. The Tea Partiers seem to be sending out their brownshirts to stiflle any questions or dissent - and I use that term deliberately. They are brownshirts and the Tea Party is a brownshirt organization of idiot mob rule.

The Tea Party is running as a canvas onto which voters can project their idea of what an honest, hard-working Washington outsider should be.

Any information about the candidate's actual past or qualifications might sully that canvas, and must be stifled.

Short work night.
One thing that ground mah gearz.
DO NOT TAKE ALL THE COFFEE I MAKE!
JERKS!

Oh, good morning!

re: #64 Varek Raith

"You kills the joe, you makes some mo'!"

It's a simple phrase, but a good one.

Put bluntly:

re: #67 Obdicut

Rofl.
XD

Good morning one and all! Had to get my jacket on to do 0100 rounds. Clear sky, beautiful moon and Venus hanging close to it.

Charles, I think it's time to upgrade your internet connection or computer or something. This is the slowest website I visit. Maybe move the servers back from the Galapagos or wherever.

re: #70 Bourdain's Breakfast

What on earth are you talking about? It loads fine for me.

Have you considered that the problem may be on your end?

American society at its most insightful:

Teri Hatcher: `My boobs have got bigger`

Teri Hatcher says her sexy storyline in Desperate Housewives is making her boobs bigger.
The actress, 45, appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live last night revealing a never-before-seen clip from an upcoming episode of the show.

[...]

'I've been spending a lot of days in lingerie,' Hatcher said. 'It's been very vulnerable and funny for me as an actress.

'Something about by breasts, it's like method acting. They seem to have just spontaneously gotten bigger. The wardrobe people are like, 'What is going on with you?''

More evidence of deep American insight:

American pastor says yoga is 'demonic'

An American pastor has provoked a religious row with Hindu leaders after denouncing yoga as a 'pagan' and 'demonic' practice.

Pastor Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill Church, Seattle, is waging a campaign against the increasing popularity of yoga in sports and church halls throughout the United States, warning that it is 'pagan' in its roots.

"Should Christians stay away from yoga because of its demonic roots?

"Totally. Yoga is demonic. If you just sign up for a little yoga class, you're signing up for a little demon class," he said, according to The Seattle Times.

His comments appeared to reflect a growing concern among Christian preachers in the United States as the number of people practicing yoga has soared beyond 15 million.

[...]

re: #66 Obdicut

"You kills the joe, you makes some mo'!"

It's a simple phrase, but a good one.

So what are acceptable Christian workouts, then?

Stone rolling?
Cross bearing?
Water walking?

Criticize all you want, Pastor Driscoll, but please provide us good Christians with some constructive alternatives

/

Hmmm...,

Evan Bayh sits on $10M as party worries
[Link: www.politico.com...]

Retiring Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh is sitting on a mountain of campaign cash that could help advance his political career, even as Democratic leaders urge senators to dig deep into their pockets right now to help save their threatened congressional majority.

Bayh’s latest Federal Election Commission report shows that he still has $10.3 million in his campaign account – a staggering amount for a lame duck senator — but he has yet to transfer any of that money to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

I doubt he wants to be governor of Indiana again so I wonder why he's keeping the money?

re: #73 freetoken

If you just sign up for a little yoga class, you're signing up for a little demon class,

He makes it sound adorable.

Jimmy McMillan: Karate Expert for NY Gov.

[Link: gawker.com...]

Some of his finest moments:

* On the deficit: "It's like a cancer. It will heal itself."
* On negative campaigning: "As a karate expert, I will not talk about anyone up here."
* On gay marriage: "The Rent Is 2 Damn High Party feels if you want to marry a shoe, I'll marry you."
* On... Jesus, I have no clue what prompted this one: "We plan to bulldoze some of those mountains in Upstate to make New York an independent state. I want my own cable company; I want my own telephone company."
* On the rent: Too damn high.

The rent is too damn high!

re: #77 Obdicut

He makes it sound adorable.

Small in stature, large in evil-ness.

Morning, all!

re: #73 freetoken

More evidence of deep American insight:

American pastor says yoga is 'demonic'

I for one am grateful for Yoga classes.

Girlfriend years ago enlightened me.

re: #67 Obdicut

Put bluntly:

[Video]

Totally rocks. I'd give you 10 updings for it at least. =)

Anyone else watch Chris Matthews on Morning Joe? Looks like that thrill down his leg is gone.

re: #83 RogueOne

Anyone else watch Chris Matthews on Morning Joe? Looks like that thrill down his leg is gone.

Stunning news.

//

re: #84 researchok

Fine. How about this one?

[Link: www.chicagobreakingnews.com...]

Much has been made of retiring Mayor Richard Daley's plan to draw down reserve funds to balance next year's city budget and how it could burden his successor.

But the chairman of the Finance Committee, Ald. Ed Burke, today talked about a far larger problem. One in four pension funds for city workers will go broke in the next decade, if current funding levels continue and markets don't improve, and all will be belly up by 2032 if nothing gives.

"It's similar to watching the house burn down without turning on the fire hydrant," said Burke, 14th, during the first day of hearings on Daley's proposed $6.15 billion budget. "At the present time, the city pension funds are actually selling assets to meet obligations."

I'm sure someone, maybe Krugman, will explain the problem isn't over-spending the problem is tax rates just aren't high enough.

re: #71 Obdicut

What on earth are you talking about? It loads fine for me.

Have you considered that the problem may be on your end?

UNPOSSIBLE!
I IZ INTEWEBZ MASTR!
/

re: #85 RogueOne

Do you understand that pensions need to be funded? As in, they are contractual arrangements that were made and need to be honored?

re: #87 Obdicut

Do you understand that pensions need to be funded? As in, they are contractual arrangements that were made and need to be honored?

Do you understand that government, at all levels, has spent their way into bankruptcy?

Our banks spent their way into bankruptcy. GMC spent its way into bankruptcy. They called on the government to bail them out...

Fox News Insinuates, but Investor Shrugs It Off
[Link: www.nytimes.com...]

Some critics of the proposed Islamic community center in Lower Manhattan, including commentators on Fox News, have linked the project to terrorism by seizing on a Saudi prince’s past financial backing of the imam at the center of the controversy.

Prince Walid bin Talal of Saudi Arabia is also the second-largest shareholder of Fox News’s parent, the News Corporation, with a stake worth more than $2 billion, which was not always disclosed on Fox News.

In fact, Prince Walid, in his first public comments about the matter, says he is actually opposed to the Islamic center’s being built in downtown Manhattan.

“I have been associated with this mosque in New York, but frankly speaking, I have nothing to do with it,” he said in an interview. “I’m not for putting that mosque there.”

Prince Walid offered a two-pronged explanation for why he was opposed to the project: he said out of respect for Islam, it does not belong at the proposed location because of its proximity to a strip club; and out of deference to the families of 9/11 victims who might feel antagonized, the Islamic center should not be near ground zero. “I respect all religions,” he said.

He says it's out of deference but my guess is he just doesn't understand his own bigotry./

re: #89 ralphieboy

Our banks spent their way into bankruptcy. GMC spent its way into bankruptcy. They called on the government to bail them out...

Preach!

re: #88 RogueOne

Do you understand that government, at all levels, has spent their way into bankruptcy?

No, because it's not true. They've spent their way into debt. Bankruptcy is something that's very, very different from being in debt.

Again: Do you understand that the pensions, legally, need to be funded, since they are monies that were promised to people for service? You can't tell workers "You'll get a pension" and then suddenly say, "Psyche!".

The money for the pensions is already spent. We can address new pension obligations by raising the retirement age and increasing contributions from employees, but yeah, it's probable that there will have to be a rise in taxes to pay for these pensions. Because the money is going to government workers who were promised the money for the work they performed.

A private company can't get out of paying money it owes to employees; neither can the government. I'm not sure why you want them to skip out on their obligations, either.

Government pension funding comes from two sources: Employees contributions and/or taxes.

When employee contributions can no longer fund their share of pensions the options are limited

Raise taxes
Reduce benefits for current recipients
Reduce benefits for future employees
Renegotiate and reduce future benefits
Renegotiate and increase retirement age.

There may be other options but they all include at least one of the above

re: #91 RogueOne

Preach!

We could have let those corporations go bankrupt and simply tried to cope with the social consequences of their economic failure.

re: #92 Obdicut

When you can't make the payments on your debt or your other obligations it's called being bankrupt. The money for the pensions hasn't already been spent because it was never there. Their pensions were based on promises that should never have been made and can't possibly be paid for. What you're asking is that the rest of the nation, people who don't have the money, to pay for exorbitant retirement funds. It's not going to happen. They wrote checks their asses couldn't cash.

Chicago is well on its way to bankruptcy and it's not alone. It does remind me of this story from Illinois earlier this year though:

Teacher pension millionaires
[Link: politifi.com...]

The pension fund scandal is like a slow-motion train wreck.

re: #94 ralphieboy

We could have let those corporations go bankrupt and simply tried to cope with the social consequences of their economic failure.

GM and Chrysler (two of the biggest employers in my part of the country) did go bankrupt. The only thing the bailout accomplished was to push their own pension debacle down the road a few years. We'll be having this argument again in a decade.

re: #5 LudwigVanQuixote

Well those are the people that run the GOP. The rank and file seem to be semi-literate, whiny, neo-fascist, blatantly racist, hard hearted, hypocritical Jesus spouting (and debasing by their hypocrisy) ignoramuses with huge persecution complexes, much false bravado and pimple sized peckers.

Time to put the brush away - Myself, my family members that are Republican and my friends who are also in the GOP kinda don't fit the meme.

I would not consider demonizing or name calling Democrats as a general rule.
Why? Because I have friends and family that identify as being Democratic and I have a base level of respect that prevents me from engaging in some broad diatribe.

Tactics and speech used to cast an entire group of people into a convenient bucket that stones can be thrown at should be challenged.
Are you to put Colin Powell into this bucket?

re: #96 RogueOne

GM and Chrysler (two of the biggest employers in my part of the country) did go bankrupt. The only thing the bailout accomplished was to push their own pension debacle down the road a few years. We'll be having this argument again in a decade.

Chrysler was going under in the late 70's. We had a chance to just let them go and retrain their workers. But we lacked the political will to do it then, and we still lack the political will.

re: #95 RogueOne

When you can't make the payments on your debt or your other obligations it's called being bankrupt.

If you have no other sources of revenue you can use, yes, it is. That isn't the case here.

Their pensions were based on promises that should never have been made and can't possibly be paid for.

Of course they can be paid for. What on earth are you talking about?

What you're asking is that the rest of the nation, people who don't have the money, to pay for exorbitant retirement funds.

You make the weirdest damn assertions. The pensions were part of compensation for work performed. Their terms were public, were agreed to by government and workers. That makes them obligations. If you consider them exorbitant, that has no relevance at all.

They wrote checks their asses couldn't cash.

Yes, the government overpromised a lot of pensions, raided pension funds (something that private industry does too-- it's always just so tempting having the pension fund just sitting there!), etc. etc. However, that doesn't change that the pensions are, in fact, obligations.

Chicago is well on its way to bankruptcy and it's not alone. It does remind me of this story from Illinois earlier this year though:

Oh, so now it's just on its way to bankruptcy? Could you make up your mind?

Teacher pension millionaires

You realize that story projects the pensions out to year 29 in order to make it's estimates? What percentage of people live to be 89, exactly?

And that it just appears to lie about how pensions are calculated anyway? Why does it project pension benefits exceeding final salary amounts?

I will say I do not want to see government default on their pension obligations. That sends the message that governments can default on their obligations and that is not acceptable.

In my opinion the pensions that are underfunded need to be renegotiated. That is fair to those on pensions now, current and future employees.

Recently, a neighbor (wrongfully) remarked that he thought it was time government pensioners contributed to his retirement. His understanding of government pensions was off target but the sentiment highlights the perceptions. That, and a look at government pensions in California, New York, etc., and isn't hard to understand his frustrations.

Couple that with the incredibly visible protests in France (raising the retirement age from 60 to 62 and despite generous working and pay conditions) it isn't hard to understand why pensions will be the next political battlefield.

I'm a big supporter of the pension system (in fact, I believe they should be expanded, predicated on employment) but the abuse and exploitation has to stop. Hundreds of thousands of employees receiving 100K plus pensions (or hourly employees that end up with with 80K-90K plus pensions), with yearly COLA is insane and cannot be sustained.

Don't get me started...!

re: #98 ralphieboy

Chrysler was going under in the late 70's. We had a chance to just let them go and retrain their workers. But we lacked the political will to do it then, and we still lack the political will.

It's a shame because it can be done. The city where my shop is located was built by GM. In the 70's there were 30 GM factories in a town of 60k people and now there are none. The town survived even though it didn't look like it was going to make it in the 80''s, it was forced to adjust and it did.

re: #96 RogueOne

GM and Chrysler (two of the biggest employers in my part of the country) did go bankrupt. The only thing the bailout accomplished was to push their own pension debacle down the road a few years. We'll be having this argument again in a decade.

Won't take that long.

re: #99 Obdicut

I'm confused as to what exactly your argument is based on since it doesn't seem to be based on real numbers. The city of chicago and the state of illinois can't come up with the money to pay their pension obligations much longer. I'm not the one making the accusation, they are. Are you telling me that they don't know what they're talking about?
[Link: articles.chicagotribune.com...]
[Link: www.lib.niu.edu...]

This shouldn't come as a big surprise. It's been an issue for more than a decade without anyone doing anything to fix the issue other than temporary bandaids. The problem isn't just in Illinois either, this is a national problem that needs to be addressed.

re: #103 RogueOne

The city of chicago and the state of illinois can't come up with the money to pay their pension obligations much longer.

Yes, they can. By raising taxes. That you think raising taxes is terrible doesn't mean it's not a legitimate option.

It's like saying that a company experiencing rising costs can't raise prices on its services.

This shouldn't come as a big surprise. It's been an issue for more than a decade without anyone doing anything to fix the issue other than temporary bandaids.

Absolutely correct.

Now, can you explain why the article you cited earlier projects pensions costs out to year 29 in order to make its argument?

Authorities seize 105 tons of marijuana in northern Mexico
Sorry, Rogue, they got your stuff.
/Dave's not here

re: #104 Obdicut

Yes, they can. By raising taxes. That you think raising taxes is terrible doesn't mean it's not a legitimate option.

It's like saying that a company experiencing rising costs can't raise prices on its services.

Absolutely correct.

Now, can you explain why the article you cited earlier projects pensions costs out to year 29 in order to make its argument?

Ph34r factor!

re: #106 Varek Raith

Ph34r factor!

shush!

re: #105 Varek Raith

Authorities seize 105 tons of marijuana in northern Mexico
Sorry, Rogue, they got your stuff.
/Dave's not here

Just remember,: even at the best of times, the authorities never seize more than 10% of the volume. All this bust means is that another 900 tons have gotten through...

re: #100 researchok

I'm suffering the visible protests in France tonight as they're blocking the roads near where I live while I go home.

If you hear of WWIII starting, and something akin to "the beaches of Normandy were a cake walk compared to the destruction visited upon these blockades in the Alps", you will know that I have passed them by and exactly whom it was that was responsible. =P

re: #109 Summer

I'm suffering the visible protests in France tonight as they're blocking the roads near where I live while I go home.

If you hear of WWIII starting, and something akin to "the beaches of Normandy were a cake walk compared to the destruction visited upon these blockades in the Alps", you will know that I have passed them by and exactly whom it was that was responsible. =P

Scaaarrrryyy...
*Hides*

re: #110 Varek Raith

Scaaarrryyy...
*Hides*

I just need a massive, rounded, piece of stout wood with a huge rusty nail in the head, and I'm good to go.

A bas les barricades!
Vive la liberte!

Hehe. See? I can be just as "revolutionary" as the unions. =P

re: #46 CuriousLurker

Disaster averted. You may come out of your bunkers now. ;)

Damn. Slept through the apocalypse again.

I hear it's really something to see.

Just watching the news with the reports out of France.
Agree with the 'why' or not the French sure know how to really protest. No mamby pamby rallies on a lawn. They sure go for it.

re: #113 Jadespring

They are defending what they consider to be one of their most significant social achievements: the right to retire at 60.

Let them drink Metamucil...

I hate engineers. How long does it take a guy to figure out that just because it works on paper doesn't mean it's going to work on the ground? 4 hours of my life wasted thus far on one stupid project.

re: #114 ralphieboy

They are defending what they consider to be one of their most significant social achievements: the right to retire at 60.

Let them drink Metamucil...

Is that it? Ah well whatever.

I just always watch these things an think what would happen if the protesty people here actually protested like they tend to do over the big pond. NA protests are wimpy feel good parties compared to what the folks over there do when they get mad at something.
None of this meet for a few hours, listen to people that make us feel good about whatever we're protesting and now lets go home for dinner I'm cause I'm starving stuff. :)

re: #116 Jadespring

Whever I get into a discussion of the comparative merits of the the European vs the US economic models, I point out that if the Europeans instituted the American syste, there would be rioting in the streets and the economy would collapse.

If the US instituted the European model, the economy would collapse and there would be rioting in the streets.

re: #117 ralphieboy

Whever I get into a discussion of the comparative merits of the the European vs the US economic models, I point out that if the Europeans instituted the American syste, there would be rioting in the streets and the economy would collapse.

If the US instituted the European model, the economy would collapse and there would be rioting in the streets.

Wow... deep...

re: #105 Varek Raith

Authorities seize 105 tons of marijuana in northern Mexico
Sorry, Rogue, they got your stuff.
/Dave's not here

Upding for my favourite Cheech and Chong line. Except, should be: Dave's not here, man.

re: #118 Walter L. Newton

Wow... deep...

Point is, the US system works for the people in America, the Euro system works for the Europeans, they each have their relative strengths and weaknesses but beyond a few details, one cannot be imposed on the other with any degree of success.

re: #120 ralphieboy

Point is, the US system works for the people in America, the Euro system works for the Europeans, they each have their relative strengths and weaknesses but beyond a few details, one cannot be imposed on the other with any degree of success.

Wow... deeper...

re: #120 ralphieboy

Point is, the US system works for the people in America, the Euro system works for the Europeans, they each have their relative strengths and weaknesses but beyond a few details, one cannot be imposed on the other with any degree of success.

I hope the French get their panties unbundled by Jan 2011, when I vacation in Paris.

That's precisely why I holiday in mid-winter, the prices are cheaper, the crowds are smaller and the French don't tend to greve and hit the streets in 0 (c) degree weather.

re: #120 ralphieboy

Point is, the US system works for the people in America, the Euro system works for the Europeans, they each have their relative strengths and weaknesses but beyond a few details, one cannot be imposed on the other with any degree of success.

agree completely.

re: #123 Aceofwhat?

agree completely.

What are you doing here? Didn't we get rid of you weeks ago :)

Someone has decided my little hurricane radio belongs to them. When I find out who took it, there will be a beating. And good morning.

re: #125 Cannadian Club Akbar

Someone has decided my little hurricane radio belongs to them. When I find out who took it, there will be a beating. And good morning.

What do you mean by "hurricane radio?" I have tons of radio's, almost a hobby... you need something...

re: #124 Walter L. Newton

What are you doing here? Didn't we get rid of you weeks ago :)

i miss you too, dear/

everything ok in southpark?

re: #126 Walter L. Newton

What do you mean by "hurricane radio?" I have tons of radio's, almost a hobby... you need something...

I have a little radio I bought during the '04 hurricane season. It takes 1 AA battery and works like a champ. I also bought external speakers for it.

O'Donnell: The First Amendment says what now?

[Link: www.sfgate.com...]

O'Donnell asked where the Constitution calls for the separation of church and state. When Coons responded that the First Amendment bars Congress from making laws respecting the establishment of religion, O'Donnell asked: "You're telling me that's in the First Amendment?"

Ah, France.

Why can't Americans take action against their government (at least in States as big/populated as France) like that?

re: #125 Cannadian Club Akbar

Someone has decided my little hurricane radio belongs to them. When I find out who took it, there will be a beating. And good morning.

Oh... by the way, I finally asked the girlfriend details about our little 3 day trip to Florida this coming Sunday... well... we are staying at the Sawn and Dolphin on the Disney property... I didn't even know that... never been to any Disney park or resort...

Her only free day is Tuesday, the day we fly back, she wants to split for 2 tickets (that's over 160 dollars) to see what we can of Epcot in 5-6 hours Tuesday...

I have all of Monday alone, so I'm thinking of spending the 82 dollars and go catch some thrill rides at one of the other parks... (82 dollars for an amusement park... steep)

Recommendations?

re: #130 laZardo

Ah, France.

Why can't Americans take action against their government (at least in States as big/populated as France) like that?

Because progressives would be whining that it's a bunch of conservatives trying to start another revolution... then they would run around in circles... and complain about it on a blog.

re: #131 Walter L. Newton

If you have never been to Disney, go. It rocks. I've been there about 33 times.

re: #130 laZardo

Ah, France.

Why can't Americans take action against their government (at least in States as big/populated as France) like that?

Lets start a riot!

re: #128 Cannadian Club Akbar

I have a little radio I bought during the '04 hurricane season. It takes 1 AA battery and works like a champ. I also bought external speakers for it.

I got one of those battery/wind up/solar things, works fine for an emergency... you want I sent you that?

re: #131 Walter L. Newton

If you've never been there it's worth the 80 bucks just to walk around.

re: #132 Walter L. Newton

Because progressives would be whining that it's a bunch of conservatives trying to start another revolution... then they would run around in circles... and complain about it on a blog.

At least progressives do so based on an actual issue. Younger-and-more-hormonal-than-me rioters aside...

re: #133 Cannadian Club Akbar

If you have never been to Disney, go. It rocks. I've been there about 33 times.

I've never set foot on a Disney anything, in my whole life, even though I'm an amusement park fanatic... considering my finances, 82 dollars at the almost end of month is a big hit for just going on rides, but I suspect I need to take advantage of the free trip to Florida (it's an IT conference, all paid except for my cheap air fare).

You mean the "Magic Kingdom" park... right... there are four different parks there...

re: #135 Walter L. Newton

I got one of those battery/wind up/solar things, works fine for an emergency... you want I sent you that?

As such?
[Link: www.ccrane.com...]

re: #137 laZardo

I was born during the detroit riots in '67. Tipping over cars and setting them on fire is in my blood, It's not my fault.

Just watched a riot on my lawn.

One of the baby chooks caught a frog. "Mine, mine, mine!' and she started running. The other babies started the chase. Back and forth, back and forth. "Cluck, cluck, squawk!!"

Big Daddy the roo comes racing around the corner, "Cock a doodle doo, what are you damn kids doing!" Lady chooks start freaking and join the schmozzle.

Back and forth, back and forth and then....
...... the frog gets dropped.

All holy hell breaks loose. Where the heck IS it? Chooks swarming and clucking pecking the ground.

Cock-a-doodle doo! Cock-a-doodle doo!

It's better then tv!!

re: #137 laZardo

At least progressives do so based on an actual issue. Younger-and-more-hormonal-than-me rioters aside...

Aren't you in Germany? I'm going to be in Paris in Jan. Maybe I could stop by and visit you and give you some of my conservative cooties :)

Over at MSNBC:

Dems make $250 pre-election pitch to seniors
Updated
Democrats are making a pre-election pitch to give Social Security recipients a one-time payment of $250, part of an effort to lure senior voters.

Blatant vote buying.

Link

Also, Towercam dawn.

re: #130 laZardo

Ah, France.

Why can't Americans take action against their government (at least in States as big/populated as France) like that?

Well, to their credit, even a sizeable portion of our left-leaning friends understand very basic things like "golly we can't just retire whenever we want and ask the government for unlimited money once we decide to retire".

Rioting over a 62YO retirement age...ah, Europe...where the left thinks that the State can make every dream come true and where the right takes their fascism seriously. But sitting in a French cafe with an incredible cappucino and a croissant straight from the oven makes it all better...

re: #138 Walter L. Newton

Go to Disney. Not Epcot or anything else. You will know it or your hotel will have a free shuttle to there. The Magic Kingdom.

re: #139 Cannadian Club Akbar

As such?
[Link: www.ccrane.com...]

Basically... yes... if you email me with a address, I could mail it to you.

re: #145 Cannadian Club Akbar

Go to Disney. Not Epcot or anything else. You will know it or your hotel will have a free shuttle to there. The Magic Kingdom.

Really... free... wow... Disney is generous... :) Ok... the Magic Kingdom is it.

re: #136 RogueOne

If you've never been there it's worth the 80 bucks just to walk around.

I don't know...every ounce of enjoyment i had last year was enjoying watching my kids have fun. It's worth the 80 bucks to walk around for those with the capacity to enjoy that kind of a day...i'd rather spend a free day on the beach or spend 40 bucks on a roller coaster park. But i'm odd like that-

re: #143 Ojoe

Over at MSNBC:

Dems make $250 pre-election pitch to seniors
Updated
Democrats are making a pre-election pitch to give Social Security recipients a one-time payment of $250, part of an effort to lure senior voters.

Blatant vote buying.

Link

Also, Towercam dawn.

happens all of the time. remember all of the union exceptions to Obamacare? same thing - blatant vote buying.

re: #145 Cannadian Club Akbar

Go to Disney. Not Epcot or anything else. You will know it or your hotel will have a free shuttle to there. The Magic Kingdom.

Like I said above, the girlfriend wants to go to Epcot Tuesday... her only free day... we fly out about 5:30 pm, so she thinks we can get in 4-5 hours or so. 164 dollars is a hell of a lot for 5 hours of an amusement park.

re: #142 Walter L. Newton

Still in Manila, which has plenty of religious conservatism as it is.

/seriously, our President was threatened with excommunication for wanting to make contraception more available.

re: #147 Walter L. Newton

Really... free... wow... Disney is generous... :) Ok... the Magic Kingdom is it.

Call ahead. But most places in Orlando and Kissemme should have a free ride. And trust me, the traffic in Orlando is the big suck. I lived there for a year.

re: #70 Bourdain's Breakfast

Charles, I think it's time to upgrade your internet connection or computer or something. This is the slowest website I visit. Maybe move the servers back from the Galapagos or wherever.

It'll cost ya.

re: #151 laZardo

Still in Manila, which has plenty of religious conservatism as it is.

/seriously, our President was threatened with excommunication for wanting to make contraception more available.

Oh... I don't know why I though you were in Germany... anyway... I wasn't talking about religious conservative cooties, I was talking about the much rarer conservative atheist cooties... no cure for that.

re: #152 Cannadian Club Akbar

Call ahead. But most places in Orlando and Kissemme should have a free ride. And trust me, the traffic in Orlando is the big suck. I lived there for a year.

We're staying in the Sawn/Dolphin right on the property, so I suspect that I'll never even see Orlando, except for the ride to/from the airport.

re: #144 Aceofwhat?

Well, to their credit, even a sizeable portion of our left-leaning friends understand very basic things like "golly we can't just retire whenever we want and ask the government for unlimited money once we decide to retire".

Rioting over a 62YO retirement age...ah, Europe...where the left thinks that the State can make every dream come true and where the right takes their fascism seriously. But sitting in a French cafe with an incredible cappucino and a croissant straight from the oven makes it all better...

What's the retirement age in the US? It's 65 here but I think you can do it at 60 but not get full benefits. Of course deals with respective job places run the spectrum. My Dad retired at 53, with a full pension deal. Some sort of early retirement plan that was part of some sort of downsizing and reorganization plan.

re: #145 Cannadian Club Akbar

Disney World is nice, and they've updated a couple of the longtime rides in the past couple of years to account for new Disney movies - 20,000 leagues under the sea is now the Finding Nemo adventure and the Pirates of the Caribbean ride is updated to showcase the movie characters (when it was ride that inspired the creation of the movie in the first place).

I prefer Epcot to Disney though, and I'd skip the Animal Park entirely. The Disney/MGM studios is interesting but I think that Universal Studios is the better of the two.

re: #155 Walter L. Newton

We're staying in the Sawn/Dolphin right on the property, so I suspect that I'll never even see Orlando, except for the ride to/from the airport.

Do you know what town it's in? Winter Park?

re: #157 lawhawk

I say Disney because it is something everyone should do at least once in their life.

re: #159 Cannadian Club Akbar

I say Disney because it is something everyone should do at least once in their life.

One of the best things I did as a teen was go to Disneyland when we were doing a band tour in California. We marched in the main street parade. It was neat because we got to go 'behind the scenes' and see everything behind the walls. We actually emerge right out of a wall after walking through this long tunnel. They have all of these entrances that are barely noticable if one isn't looking for them.

re: #148 Aceofwhat?

I don't know...every ounce of enjoyment i had last year was enjoying watching my kids have fun. It's worth the 80 bucks to walk around for those with the capacity to enjoy that kind of a day...i'd rather spend a free day on the beach or spend 40 bucks on a roller coaster park. But i'm odd like that-

I'm with CCA on the "you have to do it once in your life" idea. It's a beautiful park just to wander without even going on the rides. If I'm going to a park for rides (specifically coasters) then I'd hit Cedar Point or Kings Island but a trip to Cincy through Orlando would be one hell of a detour.

re: #160 Jadespring

You can take the entire park at Disney in Cali, put it in the parking lot of Disney Orlando and still park 500 cars. Not bashing them, just pointing it out.

re: #159 Cannadian Club Akbar

I say Disney because it is something everyone should do at least once in their life.

re: #157 lawhawk

Universal is good.

If you get a chance, take do Discovery Cove for a day. We had Seaworld passes for a week that included one day at Discovery Cove. That was about 7 years ago and my 16 year old son STILL raves about it

re: #156 Jadespring

What's the retirement age in the US? It's 65 here but I think you can do it at 60 but not get full benefits. Of course deals with respective job places run the spectrum. My Dad retired at 53, with a full pension deal. Some sort of early retirement plan that was part of some sort of downsizing and reorganization plan.

1. How the heck are you? I've been scarce recently and you were scarce before that. Family ok? Did you move/have success selling the homestead? Is there a post where you've already answered all of these questions so that you don't have to retype them for me;)

2. With regard to Social Security, one can choose to receive limited benefits starting at age 62 or wait until age 66 and receive full benefits (67 for those of us born after 1960, which is fine with me...i plan to live to 100). On the other hand, if you've saved enough of your money in a 401k, you can retire and begin to withdraw it at the age of 59-1/2.

re: #164 Aceofwhat?

Hey ,, I was asking around about you!!!

((even sent you an e-mail ,, NO response from you ,, WWHHHAAAAAA!!!))

Everything okay?

re: #163 sattv4u2

I went to Universal. Told them I needed to run to the car for my medication. Was actually a joint. Then did the "Back to The Future" ride. Heh.

Morning all.

OT on deficit reduction from, of all places, Esquire Magazine (the things you read on a longflight):

[Link: www.esquire.com...]

They convened 4 retired Senators (2 R, 2D) to look at how to balance the budget. What they came up with was pretty good. there is stuff in it for everyone to dislike, but as a package deal it looks about right.

re: #161 RogueOne

I'm with CCA on the "you have to do it once in your life" idea. It's a beautiful park just to wander without even going on the rides. If I'm going to a park for rides (specifically coasters) then I'd hit Cedar Point or Kings Island but a trip to Cincy through Orlando would be one hell of a detour.

Cedar Point > Kings Island, though. Anyone passing through cleveland needs to take a day to hit Cedar Point...an unbelievable collection of very large roller coasters. I haven't been there in too long (since college, actually).

re: #162 Cannadian Club Akbar

You can take the entire park at Disney in Cali, put it in the parking lot of Disney Orlando and still park 500 cars. Not bashing them, just pointing it out.

Yes I know. I've been to both parks. :) My Grandparents lived in Florida so any visit always had a visit to Disney as well. West Coast was my Great Aunt and Uncle--visits with them as kid- Disney!!

Another OT item, and if you have all seen it before, I apologize. But from the NYT, this startling fact: of all the Republicans running for US Senate this year, only ONE is willing to acknowledge that global warming is real problem. Only one.

[Link: www.nytimes.com...]

New report by India links Pakistan to deadly Mumbai terror attacks.

That's not going to make dealing with Pakistan-Indian relations any easier.

An American convicted in the 2008 Mumbai attacks said Pakistan's main spy agency was deeply involved in planning that strike, monitoring the preparations and providing funding and advice to the attackers, according to an Indian government summary of his interrogation.

The report gives the strongest indication of the involvement of Pakistani authorities in the attack, which killed 166 people, paralyzed India's business capital and froze peace efforts between Pakistan and India.

Under questioning by Indian officials, David Headley painted a detailed picture of how intertwined Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence agency was with the Lashkar-e-Taiba group accused of carrying out the attack, according to the report.

Headley, 50, from Chicago, was born Daood Gilani to a Pakistani father and an American mother. In March, he pleaded guilty in U.S. federal court to laying the groundwork for the Mumbai attack as well as preparing for an attack in Denmark.

It pretty much jibes with what observers have noted for a long time - the ISI is deeply connected with terror groups like LeT, which carried out the attacks.

re: #163 sattv4u2

re: #157 lawhawk

Universal is good.

If you get a chance, take do Discovery Cove for a day. We had Seaworld passes for a week that included one day at Discovery Cove. That was about 7 years ago and my 16 year old son STILL raves about it

Like I said above... the only day the girlfriend and I both have time together is Tuesday, the day we fly back (at 5:30 pm). She has already decided that she want to spring 164 dollars to spend 1/2 the day at Epcot.

I have all day Monday to do something. And I was wondering what would be the best bet for the money I don't have.

From the input above, seems like the Magic Kingdom park wins. So, the Magic Kingdom it is.

Any ride suggestions since I only have one day?

re: #165 sattv4u2

Hey ,, I was asking around about you!!!

((even sent you an e-mail ,, NO response from you ,, WWHHHAAA!!!))

Everything okay?

Oops...you sent me an email? Sorry dude! That's what i get for setting up an email for the main purpose of keeping in touch with lizards...i drop off the earth for a bit and it's tough to get in touch with me!

Yeah, i'm fine. Was laid off, and under circumstances that would normally make a person want to wage a national campaign against their former employer, but they drew up a pretty ridiculous severance package to pacify me, so i did the smart thing and took the money quietly. i may be dumb, but i'm not stupid!

but it was still a blow to my precious pride, so i sorta lost interest in current affairs and have been spending a lot of quality time with my family/kids. i determined to make up for every night i worked late or had to travel for business, and so far, it's been great!

Walter, I sent you a message. Lemme know if you got it.

re: #129 Kreniigh

O'Donnell: The First Amendment says what now?

[Link: www.sfgate.com...]

O'Donnell asked where the Constitution calls for the separation of church and state. When Coons responded that the First Amendment bars Congress from making laws respecting the establishment of religion, O'Donnell asked: "You're telling me that's in the First Amendment?"

Wait, that's not from The Onion????

//Only a little. I have a hard time believing that these people aren't faking it because how could the really be that stupid and still remember to breath?
:banghead:

Good Morning, all.

re: #164 Aceofwhat?

1. How the heck are you? I've been scarce recently and you were scarce before that. Family ok? Did you move/have success selling the homestead? Is there a post where you've already answered all of these questions so that you don't have to retype them for me;)

2. With regard to Social Security, one can choose to receive limited benefits starting at age 62 or wait until age 66 and receive full benefits (67 for those of us born after 1960, which is fine with me...i plan to live to 100). On the other hand, if you've saved enough of your money in a 401k, you can retire and begin to withdraw it at the age of 59-1/2.

I'm good. Good to see you too. I took a break from politics on the net which was only supposed to be for a few weeks but it ended up being many months. It was nice. Family is good. My sister finally figured out what was wrong and is slowly recovering with treatment.

We aren't selling or moving right now. It's still a possibility in the future. A few things came up for the hubby and his work so he's pursuing that. Few things came up for me too and it looks like I'm going to follow them and see where the lead. A few weeks ago I was talking about going back to school and getting an apprenticeship for being a chef. Still like to do that but this last week some opportunities got thrown in my lap which may mean actually working on a big community project in conjunction with doing a Masters degree. So I think I'm going to pursue this avenue and see how it pans out.

And thanks for the retirement info.

re: #173 Aceofwhat?

Sorry about the job loss

Glad you're turning into a positive

re: #175 wlewisiii

Wait, that's not from The Onion???

//Only a little. I have a hard time believing that these people aren't faking it because how could the really be that stupid and still remember to breath?
:banghead:

Good Morning, all.

SNL has been feasting on her...Kristen Wiig is genius.

re: #174 Cannadian Club Akbar

Walter, I sent you a message. Lemme know if you got it.

May take a few hours... I have a weird server... mail from someone NEW has get in line and wait to be scanned and confirmed before it is passed on to me... after that, it will recognize valid emails from you.

re: #176 Jadespring

I'm good. Good to see you too. I took a break from politics on the net which was only supposed to be for a few weeks but it ended up being many months. It was nice. Family is good. My sister finally figured out what was wrong and is slowly recovering with treatment.

We aren't selling or moving right now. It's still a possibility in the future. A few things came up for the hubby and his work so he's pursuing that. Few things came up for me too and it looks like I'm going to follow them and see where the lead. A few weeks ago I was talking about going back to school and getting an apprenticeship for being a chef. Still like to do that but this last week some opportunities got thrown in my lap which may mean actually working on a big community project in conjunction with doing a Masters degree. So I think I'm going to pursue this avenue and see how it pans out.

And thanks for the retirement info.

Very cool.

Oh, and my copy of Fallout: New Vegas is en route. /Drools

re: #180 Aceofwhat?

Very cool.

Oh, and my copy of Fallout: New Vegas is en route. /Drools

Ooo. I don't dare get that right now. I'd never get anything done. :) I think I'm going to put it on my Christmas list.

re: #180 Aceofwhat?

Very cool.

Oh, and my copy of Fallout: New Vegas is en route. /Drools

Blue moon...

re: #173 Aceofwhat?

I hate my job. I hate my boss. I hate people. I hate not being not being able to find a new job. I hate being too old and over experienced to be hired. People suck. I hate gubment rules that tell me I can't open a stand in my front yard. They can bite me and I might make them do that.

re: #174 Cannadian Club Akbar

re: #179 Walter L. Newton

May take a few hours... I have a weird server

Walter uses an e-mail server called Pony Express!!

re: #173 Aceofwhat?

Oops...you sent me an email? Sorry dude! That's what i get for setting up an email for the main purpose of keeping in touch with lizards...i drop off the earth for a bit and it's tough to get in touch with me!

Yeah, i'm fine. Was laid off, and under circumstances that would normally make a person want to wage a national campaign against their former employer, but they drew up a pretty ridiculous severance package to pacify me, so i did the smart thing and took the money quietly. i may be dumb, but i'm not stupid!

but it was still a blow to my precious pride, so i sorta lost interest in current affairs and have been spending a lot of quality time with my family/kids. i determined to make up for every night i worked late or had to travel for business, and so far, it's been great!

That's exactly what happened to me 6 years ago... including the "sign this" and be happy bribe.

Then the wife at the time, who suddenly felt her extravagant lifestyle may be upset due to my layoff, spent most of it... and then left.

re: #183 Cannadian Club Akbar

I hate my job. I hate my boss. I hate people. I hate not being not being able to find a new job. I hate being too old and over experienced to be hired. People suck. I hate gubment rules that tell me I can't open a stand in my front yard. They can bite me and I might make them do that.

Other than that, you have love!

re: #183 Cannadian Club Akbar

I hate my job. I hate my boss. I hate people. I hate not being not being able to find a new job. I hate being too old and over experienced to be hired. People suck. I hate gubment rules that tell me I can't open a stand in my front yard. They can bite me and I might make them do that.

that was genius

re: #187 Aceofwhat?

that was genius

He hates you for saying that!!
//

re: #180 Aceofwhat?

Mornin' Ace, everyone...

Ace, I saw this article on Religious Ignorance in the US this morning and thought I'd point it out to you...won't be online enough to discuss immediately, but will be on later in the day.

[Link: www.boston.com...]

Cheers.

re: #183 Cannadian Club Akbar

I hate my job. I hate my boss. I hate people. I hate not being not being able to find a new job. I hate being too old and over experienced to be hired. People suck. I hate gubment rules that tell me I can't open a stand in my front yard. They can bite me and I might make them do that.

Just do it!

Fight the power!

The revolution will not be televised!

re: #183 Cannadian Club Akbar

I hate my job. I hate my boss. I hate people. I hate not being not being able to find a new job. I hate being too old and over experienced to be hired. People suck. I hate gubment rules that tell me I can't open a stand in my front yard. They can bite me and I might make them do that.

It's hard being a court jester.

re: #190 Jadespring

Just do it!

Fight the power!

The revolution will not be televised!

Even if I have the best package!?!?!

//

If you tell the truth you don’t have to remember anything.

Except the exact title of the book from which you learned it, or the date on which the article was published and in which major newspaper, etc.

Everything will be disputed until it's proven, and then, disputed some more.

re: #193 lostlakehiker

Except the exact title of the book from which you learned it, or the date on which the article was published and in which major newspaper, etc.

Everything will be disputed until it's proven, and then, disputed some more.

I disagree!!

re: #190 Jadespring

Just do it!

Fight the power!

The revolution will not be televised!

It might be liveblogged.

re: #195 Decatur Deb

It might be liveblogged.

From Starbucks.

On a Macbook Pro.

re: #185 Walter L. Newton

That's exactly what happened to me 6 years ago... including the "sign this" and be happy bribe.

Then the wife at the time, who suddenly felt her extravagant lifestyle may be upset due to my layoff, spent most of it... and then left.

My wife has certainly been able to enjoy the fruits of my labor these past few years. However, she's so tired of moving around that she is expressly committed to being satisfied with a lower income if necessary to remain here in Jacksonville. I built enough of a track record and network that i could find work sooner rather than later (and i say that with all due thankfulness and humility, as it's not the case for millions of other unemployed) but it'd be in Chicago or New York or something like that.

So really it's me who will likely sacrifice by taking a lower position locally than i might be able to achieve somewhere else, but it's a sacrifice that i gladly make in gratitude for having moved her and the kids three times in the last five years.

And if she wants more money, she could always *gasp* get a job herself...she's not been in a hurry to do anything so drastic, though;)

re: #183 Cannadian Club Akbar

I hate my job. I hate my boss. I hate people. I hate not being not being able to find a new job. I hate being too old and over experienced to be hired. People suck. I hate gubment rules that tell me I can't open a stand in my front yard. They can bite me and I might make them do that.

But we love you!

re: #173 Aceofwhat?

Oops...you sent me an email? Sorry dude! That's what i get for setting up an email for the main purpose of keeping in touch with lizards...i drop off the earth for a bit and it's tough to get in touch with me!

Yeah, i'm fine. Was laid off, and under circumstances that would normally make a person want to wage a national campaign against their former employer, but they drew up a pretty ridiculous severance package to pacify me, so i did the smart thing and took the money quietly. i may be dumb, but i'm not stupid!

but it was still a blow to my precious pride, so i sorta lost interest in current affairs and have been spending a lot of quality time with my family/kids. i determined to make up for every night i worked late or had to travel for business, and so far, it's been great!

Very glad to hear life is getting better for you, Ace.
Now get busy on that home brewing project ;)

re: #190 Jadespring

Just do it!

Fight the power!

The revolution will not be televised!

I don't think anyone would fight it. 7 bucks a steak sub and $7 an Italian sausage. I might be able to pull this off. Even if just a sort time.

re: #189 darthstar

Mornin' Ace, everyone...

Ace, I saw this article on Religious Ignorance in the US this morning and thought I'd point it out to you...won't be online enough to discuss immediately, but will be on later in the day.

[Link: www.boston.com...]

Cheers.

am reading it now. would love to kick it around later, and i'm flattered that you thought of me. go get 'em-

re: #199 Ericus58

Very glad to hear life is getting better for you, Ace.
Now get busy on that home brewing project ;)

oh, i don't know...i like making regular donations to the Trappists/

re: #141 Jadespring

It's better then tv!!

re: #197 Aceofwhat?

in gratitude for having moved her and the kids three times in the last five years.

And if she wants more money, she could always *gasp* get a job herself...she's not been in a hurry to do anything so drastic, though;)

Sounds just like us

12 years ago, moved 3 times within 13 months (and not "local" moves,, non less than 900 miles)

Wifey has now settled into her role as Lady Of The South ,,, lots of charity work,,, (read , NO PAY),, lots of antiquing and yard sales (as a customer!!!)

Good morning lizards!

re: #198 Alouette

But we love you!

I only have a man crush on him!

re: #206 sattv4u2

I only have a man crush on him!

So.. no spooning tonight?
/

re: #205 NJDhockeyfan

Good morning lizards!

We'll see about that

There's still over an hour to go !!!

//

re: #207 Cannadian Club Akbar

So.. no spooning tonight?
/

Fork that!

re: #197 Aceofwhat?

My wife has certainly been able to enjoy the fruits of my labor these past few years. However, she's so tired of moving around that she is expressly committed to being satisfied with a lower income if necessary to remain here in Jacksonville. I built enough of a track record and network that i could find work sooner rather than later (and i say that with all due thankfulness and humility, as it's not the case for millions of other unemployed) but it'd be in Chicago or New York or something like that.

So really it's me who will likely sacrifice by taking a lower position locally than i might be able to achieve somewhere else, but it's a sacrifice that i gladly make in gratitude for having moved her and the kids three times in the last five years.

And if she wants more money, she could always *gasp* get a job herself...she's not been in a hurry to do anything so drastic, though;)

Back in 2005, I did pop an new job, in three months, paying half of what I was making with the DOE, but still more than enough for us to have a very comfortable life, and she worked too.

But something "snapped" in her... I never seen someone have a personality and mood swing like she did... fast and mean... almost survival like... it was a side I never seen before, nor did I see it coming.

Of course, that's a reoccurring theme for me... I trust people so much, that I rarely see things like that coming... I just expect people to act reasonable... bites me all the time.

But I won't change... I can't see going through life being suspicious of everything and everyone all the time.

I'm putting this in my 'kids say the darndest things' files.

Yesterday I had my first volunteer time with a garden club that's started up at a local school. Great kids and really, really keen. They're between ages 9-11. So we did some clean-up and picked the last of the tomatoes. They started in on the leeks. Five kids with trowels digging them and they're chattering as they go along.

One comments matter of factly, "You know I don't think Hitler fed people good food like this.' The others nodded, "yeah no way. He wasn't good"

I'm standing back and in my head, "Say what? What the fuck?"
I wondering what on earth this is all about when the supervising teacher comes over as another Hitler comment is made. She said, "yes you are talking about the Holocaust right now in your class. That's a deep subject."

Kids agree 'yep it is' and they go on digging the leeks.

re: #202 Aceofwhat?

oh, i don't know...i like making regular donations to the Trappists/

Keepeth your trappist shut.

re: #78 RogueOne

Jimmy McMillan: Karate Expert for NY Gov.

[Link: gawker.com...]

The rent is too damn high!

Finally found video:

I'd vote for this guy over Cuomo any day.

re: #210 Walter L. Newton

I'm the exact opposite. 11th commandment: Get them before they get you.

Out for a bit. Nap before work.

re: #210 Walter L. Newton

Back in 2005, I did pop an new job, in three months, paying half of what I was making with the DOE, but still more than enough for us to have a very comfortable life, and she worked too.

But something "snapped" in her... I never seen someone have a personality and mood swing like she did... fast and mean... almost survival like... it was a side I never seen before, nor did I see it coming.

Of course, that's a reoccurring theme for me... I trust people so much, that I rarely see things like that coming... I just expect people to act reasonable... bites me all the time.

But I won't change... I can't see going through life being suspicious of everything and everyone all the time.

I agree. I also believe it more noble to assume the best of people and be let down from time to time than to carry around a cloud of suspicion and doubt.

And my MIL snapped like that a few years ago...just packed up and left...my FIL is the nicest guy you'd ever meet. I'm not sure that it's one's job to 'see it coming'...it was her job to tell him that she was "changing" and ask him to work through it with her.

re: #215 Cannadian Club Akbar

Out for a bit. Nap Nip before work.

I usually drink AFTER work ,, but ,,,,

re: #207 Cannadian Club Akbar

Got your email... I probably will not be able to mail this out until next week... I'm fixing to be out of town later today through Wed. evening, and then back to work for a few days, and then the 3 day trip to Orlando... but you will get it ASAP... I hope you can put it to good use.

re: #212 Walter L. Newton

Keepeth your trappist shut.

it's so good once it hits your lips!

Beware!

Aliens Are Fattening Us Up For the Rapture

re: #213 RogueOne

Finally found video:

[Video]

I'd vote for this guy over Cuomo any day.

brilliant

re: #220 NJDhockeyfan

Beware!

Aliens Are Fattening Us Up For the Rapture

Well I can't prove it's not true so it could be true. AmIright?

re: #221 Aceofwhat?

brilliant

I'm thinking of starting a branch of the "The Rent is 2 Damn High" party here in Indiana. I'd have to glue the beard on since my genetics won't allow for facial hair.

re: #213 RogueOne

re: #221 Aceofwhat?

Whats with the Michael Jackson gloves !!?!?

AND ,, he could probably subsidize a few rents with what he pays to keep the sideburns/ cascading into the mustache so nice!

Teenager mauled by bear wearing a Lady GaGa meat costume to Halloween party.

re: #213 RogueOne

He has a background in education.

re: #225 Walter L. Newton

Teenager mauled by bear wearing a Lady GaGa meat costume to Halloween party.

Why would a bear be wearing a Lady GaGa costume!?!?!

re: #224 sattv4u2

re: #221 Aceofwhat?

Whats with the Michael Jackson gloves !!?!?

AND ,, he could probably subsidize a few rents with what he pays to keep the sideburns/ cascading into the mustache so nice!

The gloves are protection against agent orange, he thinks. He's not real sure according to the Gawker article. He's a karate expert so it might help him with breaking boards or something.

re: #224 sattv4u2

It has something to do with his service in Vietnam:

"Don't forget I was in Vietnam for two and half years and I have three Bronze Stars, but the chemicals of Agent Orange—dioxin and a lot of other chemicals mixed up—I would get sick. When I get home tonight, I know I'm not going to be able to breathe if I take them off. It could be psychological, I don't know, but I just put em on and wear them anyway."

re: #222 Jadespring

Well I can't prove it's not true so it could be true. AmIright?

No, it's totally true so now you have to prove it's false.

re: #229 lawhawk

It has something to do with his service in Vietnam:

Thanks

re: #227 sattv4u2

Why would a bear be wearing a Lady GaGa costume!?!?!

Because they were all out of Nixon masks?

re: #222 Jadespring

Well I can't prove it's not true so it could be true. AmIright?

I am especially disturbed by reports of aliens disarming nuclear weapons. Truly an act of the devil. God gave us those things to defend ourselves with...

re: #228 RogueOne

The gloves are protection against agent orange, he thinks. He's not real sure according to the Gawker article. He's a karate expert so it might help him with breaking boards or something.

So he's crazy, but might have come by it honestly. There's a bunch of guys like that out there.

re: #225 Walter L. Newton

Well, there was an angry goat that gored and killed a hiker in Olympic National Park the other day... the animals are getting restless.

/must be a sign of the blogapocalypse.

re: #234 Decatur Deb

So he's crazy, but might have come by it honestly. There's a bunch of guys like that out there.

He's no crazier than Paladino and probably do a better job than Cuomo.

Cool.

Canada's 3rd Largest City Elects First Muslim Mayor.

[Link: www.aolnews.com...]

A 38-year-old business professor and self-professed Twitter geek who used social media to spread his political message has been elected mayor of Calgary, becoming the first-ever Muslim to lead a major Canadian city.

Naheed Nenshi defeated longtime Calgary alderman Ric McIver on Monday night. He ran on promises to reel in a misspending city council, and appealed to voters of all stripes through social media and with his personal story of growing up as a second-generation, working-class immigrant. His campaign brochures were translated into 10 languages.

re: #237 Jadespring

When will he institute Sharia?

I seem to recall the Pentagon is in a nice area. Maybe the neighborhood has changed.

Shots fired at the Pentagon, police say

re: #236 RogueOne

He's no crazier than Paladino and probably do a better job than Cuomo.

So NY would be as well off it they grabbed the 10th person off the #15 bus and hauled them off to Albany.

re: #237 Jadespring

To add, this is in ALBERTA which generally is stereotyped as the Texas of Canada in terms of it's conservative bent.

re: #238 ralphieboy

When will he institute Sharia?

3 weeks from Thursday.

re: #240 Decatur Deb

So NY would be as well off it they grabbed the 10th person off the #15 bus and hauled them off to Albany.

Well, there's that too...NY is so screwed.

re: #239 Killgore Trout

I seem to recall the Pentagon is in a nice area. Maybe the neighborhood has changed.

Shots fired at the Pentagon, police say

Surrounded be Ft. McNair, the river, parkland, and an office/hotel wasteland.

re: #235 lawhawk

Well, there was an angry goat that gored and killed a hiker in Olympic National Park the other day... the animals are getting restless.

/must be a sign of the blogapocalypse.

In bear territory, too. Weird. Poor guy.

Still, it reinforces my #1 rule when hiking in bear territory. Carry a hand cannon.

re: #239 Killgore Trout

I seem to recall the Pentagon is in a nice area. Maybe the neighborhood has changed.

Shots fired at the Pentagon, police say

Arlington VA has changed a lot in recent years
The Pentagons not really in a "residential" area. It's sort of cordoned off by 385 to the south and east and two major roads north and west

re: #235 lawhawk

Well, there was an angry goat that gored and killed a hiker in Olympic National Park the other day... the animals are getting restless.

/must be a sign of the blogapocalypse.

Interesting... we had a basically calm bear season this spring/summer/fall... not to much activity... but deer... I've seen more deer this year than I've seen in a long time... packs (pride, flock, swarm whatever...) of 5,6,7 at a time...

Zombie Deer Apocalypse?