14
Jan
12

a word …. or several

There’s a new (cranky) sheriff in town

Hi everyone,

Apologies for another cranky post. It’s triggered by a less-than-chirpy week on the blog when some went out of their way to put a miserably negative spin on any positive news. There were times I felt like I had dropped in to HuffyPost, or MittIsAwesome.com.

And then I got an email tonight from one of our friends here, pointing out some of the curious negativity in the comments the past few days, confirming what I’d already felt.

So, just a reminder:

– – – – > This is a place for those who support President Obama and who want him re-elected < – – – –

That’s simple enough to understand, right?

If you are not a supporter of the President, and would quite like to see Mr Bain occupy the Oval Office next year, then please, find somewhere else on the internet to play.

Even if you are a ‘supporter’ of the President, but are determined to demoralize everyone else with your endless GOP-talking-points-induced gloom, please find somewhere else on the internet to play.

GOP talking-point-crap, lies and smears about PBO, and links to sites that post that shit, are never welcome here. Ever.

**** Seriously, how many times do I have to say that? ***

So, I’m just going to block the people who post that stuff from here on in – and there’ll be no warnings or apologies. When your comments don’t appear, you’ll know you’re done here.

Again, “but, but, but…. PBO is doomed because [random wingnut name] say so” comments will go straight in to the trash.

As I’ve said time and time again, this is a place for supporters of the President to escape the bile they experience elsewhere. That doesn’t mean we can’t throw punches at each other and argue things out, it just means we have a common cause, and if you don’t share that cause then, please, go somewhere else.

I honestly don’t have the time – or desire – to argue it out, between now and November I only want people on the blog who are battling towards PBO’s re-election, anyone intent on trying to demoralize that effort ….. bye.

PS I asked someone recently to end their personal feud with someone else on the blog – they promised they would. And then they posted a miserably ugly personal attack on the same person, which I deleted as soon as I saw it. I won’t name the person, but they’re banned. I honestly try not to set many rules here, but the one rule that really matters to me is ‘no personal abuse’, we get enough of that on other sites we visit. Any one who can’t accept that rule …. sorry, this isn’t the place for you.


225 Responses to “a word …. or several”


    • January 14, 2012 at 12:54 am

      Awesome tigerfists88!! Loving the piece above Chips!! Tell ’em! 😆

      • 3 Mel
        January 14, 2012 at 11:17 am

        We got your back Chips well said and Ms Parker article was very nice, so let’s focus on PBO
        re-election and stay positive and NOt pay attention to garbage it’s not worth it.

    • 4 isonprize
      January 14, 2012 at 10:15 am

      I had to come back to this thread, just to say that I approve the picture of PBO that Chica used!!

      I LOVE HIM IN THAT BLACK COWBOY HAT!!! GOOD GUYS WEAR BLACK!!!

  1. 5 LOL
    January 14, 2012 at 12:54 am

    Thanks for the space of refuge Chips…alot of us appreciate it more than you will never know. Good Night.

  2. January 14, 2012 at 12:54 am

    ·oooO·.·.·.·.·.·.·.
    ·.·(·.·.)·.·.Oooo·
    ·.·.\·.(·.·.·.·(·.·.)·.·
    ·.·.·\_)·.·.·.·)·./·.·.
    ·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·(_/·.·.·
    ·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·
    ·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·
    ·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·
    ·.·Rock Wuz Here.·.
    ·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·
    ·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·

    FIRED UP…!!

    READY TO GO..!!! 😀

  3. 10 taiping1
    January 14, 2012 at 12:59 am

    Thanks! There’s trash everywhere else. We should emulate our First Family: love one another, focus on all the good that is being done, and help one another in the fight to win another four years in the old-fashioned way: block by block, by city, by state, by country, with all our international supporters. Yes we can, together! I am grateful, Chips, for your willingness to set rules of discourse and community standards. You are awesome. thanks.

    • January 14, 2012 at 3:20 am

      Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Chipsticks, I am so sorry you have to be an enforcer. But, we, who share your vision for this community appreciate everything you do to make sure this is a positive site that supports our awesome President, and his family. This week I was really saddened by the racial animus that I was reading. The other side is using race, in particular, as a distraction. We must not be drawn into attacks about race. Even when it seems we are trying to rebut some republican talking point, we need to use our energy in a more constructive manner. The President always say “from many, we are one!” I believe in that truth. TOD is a magnificent community. You are the very best for providing this safe haven for us all. Tonight, I attended a discussion at the DNC about what we must do in the remaining 296 days to re-elect President Obama. Everyday we should do all we can to grow the finances of the campaign, to do what we can to expand the person to person participation in the work of the campaign, and to get our friends, family, and others to join in our efforts. Everything is on the line! We really do need to be Fired Up! Ready To Go!

      • 12 DreamChaser57
        January 14, 2012 at 3:22 am

        well-stated

      • January 14, 2012 at 1:14 pm

        imo….

        we do not have enough constructive discussions about race and racism….i recently re viewed…the President’s speech on race that he gave here in Philly….

        it ever moves me…and gives even this 58 year old woman insight on how to see the other side…and renews my optimism that we can get over this hump….or at the very least…look it dead in the eye….

        Presssssssssss ON….!!

  4. 14 Cindy Sweatt
    January 14, 2012 at 12:59 am

    Thank you Chipsticks. I need this place.

  5. January 14, 2012 at 12:59 am

    Chips,

    I’m sorry that you have to keep repeating yourself to the point that you now have to be the only adult in the room. Seriously, I’m sorry that it’s come to this! However, I love this piece of Heaven you’ve created here and the care with which you’ve built it! We have your back and will work harder than ever to help you out and to re-elect PBO and VPJB!

    We must also turn Congress blue – especially the Senate! We must get PBO 63+ RELIABLY Democratic votes – our future and kids’ futures depend on it!

    Love all that you do and say on behalf of us and TOD family!!

    #ObamaBiden2012

  6. January 14, 2012 at 1:00 am

    Chips, what is the email addy for TOD site? or can anyone else provide that for me please 🙂

  7. 20 Michele
    January 14, 2012 at 1:06 am

    Great news… and can we please stop talking about the Kantor creature…

  8. January 14, 2012 at 1:14 am

    this is such a fabulous place to come to so I’m looking forward to pressing on and getting not only PBO re-elected but hopefully turning a lot of states a lovely shade of blue. Thanks for all the work you do Chips and thanks too to all of TOD and their positive contributions to this site!

    and now without further ado i think i need to go sle-

    zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

    (nitey nite. sweet dreams TOD and Chipstah) 🙂

  9. 24 ReallyKatherine!
    January 14, 2012 at 1:16 am

    Thank you so much Chips! I come to this place for refuge each day and have no interest in arguing or debating dialectical bull. I want the President elected. Done.

  10. 25 Betsy
    January 14, 2012 at 1:22 am

    Thank you Chips so much for all that you do. There is soooo much negativity out there, and am so glad you are staying on top of things. I’m sorry you have to go through this on your own blog. I’ve been so overwhelmed with work this week that I haven’t had time to comment that much. But I do love coming here and have learned so much. Thanks again.

  11. January 14, 2012 at 1:26 am

    wow, I’ve never seen chips so pissed off. Hope I’m not one of the causes.

  12. January 14, 2012 at 1:29 am

    Thank You Chips, I go with your idea that we have enough to do to re-elect our President Obama and don’t have the time for nut bags.4 more for 44

  13. January 14, 2012 at 1:34 am

    I just watched Ides of March and I’m glad I didn’t pay to see it. WTH? I wanted to see everything play out. dang.

    • January 14, 2012 at 2:06 am

      I’m on my SAGA AWARDS viewing fest….. started with Moneyball – LOVED IT. Then The Help – loved it much more than I thought I would, and knowing so much of that is still very much alive, ENRAGES ME.

      Next up for tomorrow:
      My Week With Marilyn
      Iron Lady

      I’m very upset I’m not getting We Need To Talk ABout Kevin – I love Tilda Swinton. And very sad that War Horse isn’t nominated for anything… really want to see it, and I just never go to theatres any more. However, I WILL BE AT THE FIRST SCREENING OF THE HOBBIT come December! 😀 😀 😀

    • 37 Walking_on_ Sunshine
      January 14, 2012 at 2:36 am

      I completely agree about the Ides of March. I did pay to see it. I really wanted to like it because I like George. But damn!

  14. 38 bonkers
    January 14, 2012 at 1:42 am

    Chips, Thank you so much for this! Never understand why people insistent upon being their own version of “realistic” here, can’t go start their own blog and they can all be “realistic” and “just ask the questions” together. Maybe you could just refund them their money and….oh wait. You’re the best, Chips!

  15. 39 DreamChaser57
    January 14, 2012 at 1:45 am

    Kudos for the cranky sheriff! Love it. Chips no need to be apologetic. Rules facilitate order and civility. I agree that the but, but, but….commentary while witty, demoralizes us. There are so many creepy nasty corners of the “net” to play – for the ignorant, reactionary, racist, sexist, mindless right-wing and PL drones…….

    Like SpongeBob said “Do not argue here, this is supposed to a magical place…”

    We do need to emulate the FirstCouple and be balanced and cerebral.

  16. 40 DonInVA
    January 14, 2012 at 1:53 am

    Chips, you have my support. Thank you for your efforts.

    That picture of Barack in the black cowboy hat at some 2008 campaign event in Dallas is a favorite of mine. It is one of the most psychologically revealing images of him that I have ever seen — the very cool calm collected intellect in the midst of chaos. That is definitely the person that we elected to lead us.

  17. 41 FTL
    January 14, 2012 at 1:54 am

    Good evening Chips. I see the fools are ratcheting up the mess. I hate it for you that you have to keep repeating yourself. I see you have had to do it a lot lately. You should know, which you probably already do, that there are people out that who make it their job to come on any site that is trying to be positive about PBO or is a site frequented by AAs and post a lot of mess. Trying to turn people against PBO or AAs against each other. It is sad really. I mean do you have that much time on your hands? Also it is sad how dark and evil their spirits are. No worries though we will win. Good always comes out on top.

  18. January 14, 2012 at 2:02 am

    Completely off topic, but because it’s AWESOME, just a HAPPY for everyone:

  19. January 14, 2012 at 2:09 am

    YES! Thank you for your site, and I’m sorry you have to slog through the negativity and bla-bla-bla talking points! I love this site!

  20. 51 PurpleShoesLA
    January 14, 2012 at 2:24 am

    Hello TOD peeps,

    Out celebrating my birthday today (it’s still Friday the 13th here on the West Coast) and while at dinner, I apparently was talking rather loudly (several glasses of Pinot Noir will do that for you) at my table of my peeps about the wonders of TOD. My sister told me that she saw a couple of people at the table next to us pull out their smart device and were talking about FLOTUS on ICarlie (sp?) and all the great pictures. So on my way to the WC a little later I stopped and asked them so whaddya think, great site right? And they gave me the thumbs up and said they were stunned by all video and pictures and none of it was in the news today. [Really? quelle surprise, I thought to myself. NOT!]. While I was telling them that they would be much better informed just checking out TOD on a regular basis then the “NEWS”, a man from another table leaned over and said what’s the name of the site again? When I told him, he whips out his Ipad, pulls up TOD and starts scrolling through the posts, saying wow this is great. Then a waiter/manager comes over and says “everything okay, what’s going on”. I told him, oh were just looking at this site called the obama diary and the waiter/manager goes, oh, yeah that site is great, I go there alot ! Cue the twilight zone music. 😆 😆 Anyhoo, thanks Chips for maintaining such a great place in cyberspace. At least I got my corner of the restaurant tonight clued in. G’night all! Obama/Biden 2012!

    • January 14, 2012 at 2:31 am

      🙂 🙂 🙂

      What a lovely anecdote. Have a great b’day fun.

    • 53 DreamChaser57
      January 14, 2012 at 2:32 am

      I hope you had an exquisite birthday. Sounds like it was dreamy. This site is truly phenomenal. A gem really, and like a gem for the uninitiated they have to excavate through the hard rock and other debris to find it.

    • 54 lovingandlaughing
      January 14, 2012 at 2:39 am

      Great story purpleshoes!

    • January 14, 2012 at 3:44 am

      oh man, that is great.

    • 56 Chi
      January 14, 2012 at 3:49 am

      Wow, purpleshoes…

      Happy birthday and thank you for sharing this lovely story…

      This is exactly what many mean when they say that this should stay the beautiful, positive place we always loved even when some accuse of of sticking our heads in the sand when we choose to focus on the loveliness that is our First Lady and President…

      I must also learn not to lose my temper with those who bring the doom and freak-out here, because then I only help make things worse…

      Happy birthday and many more…

    • January 14, 2012 at 7:39 am

      Wow! I can’t think of a better birthday, Purple. You were a TOD evangelist at that restaurant. Way to go and Happy Birthday.

    • 58 DoNoHarm
      January 14, 2012 at 8:33 am

      Pretty near how moveon.org was started, at a restaurant with “leaners” listening in. That’s another way to spread the message. Chip, thank you for all you do.

      • January 14, 2012 at 9:01 am

        And it shows how hungry this country is for positive news about what’s going on. Most people would like the job PBO’s doing, but they get demoralized by the 91% negative coverage he receives from the corporate media.

        • 60 EDP4BHO
          January 14, 2012 at 10:01 am

          Good morning TOD. Exactly right grumpy. We have a lot of talking down to do for folks to realize all is not lost.

        • January 14, 2012 at 10:05 am

          I told my wife that these media outlets are going to be in big trouble if Al-Jazera ever comes to cable.

          • January 14, 2012 at 10:47 am

            Al Jazeera English Arrives on N.Y. Cable
            By BRIAN STELTER| Published: August 1, 2011

            Al Jazeera English executives say they are making headway. On Monday, the channel will be carried in New York City for the first time, though only by subletting space from a channel owner. In New York City, starting Monday, Al Jazeera English will be simulcast for 23 hours a day on RISE, a cable channel adjunct to WRNN, a broadcast station in suburban New York. RISE is carried by Time Warner Cable (Channel 92) and Verizon FiOS (Channel 466) in New York City. RISE will carry one hour of local programming a day, as it is required to do under its carriage agreements. The other 23 hours it will have Al Jazeera English.

            Al Jazeera sublets space on a channel owned by MHz Networks in the Washington area as well, and its newscasts are carried by a handful of other outlets, including cable services in Ohio and Vermont, the Link TV network and a public TV station in Los Angeles.

            Read more: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/01/business/media/new-york-cable-channel-to-carry-al-jazeera-english.html?pagewanted=all

    • 63 gn
      January 14, 2012 at 2:15 pm

      Enthusiastic round of applause; bravo!

  21. 64 Bobfr (aka Our4thEstate)
    January 14, 2012 at 2:37 am

    #LandslideOBAMA2012 Yes We MUST

    p.s. Anyone, ANYONE, I encounter that even hints at not supporting LANDSLIDEOBAMA2012, with every fiber of their being, every second of their life, has a choice – for no more than the length of time it takes to read these few words – get on the OBAMA steamroller or BECOME PART OF THE PAVEMENT. Capice. FYI, my genes are deeply Italian irrespective of the gene pool dilution (for which I’m grateful or I wouldn’t BE) of the fact that a maternal ancestor of mine signed the Declaration of Independence so, if you are not transparently and totally committed to President Obama I will own you. Rest well.

    • 65 DreamChaser57
      January 14, 2012 at 2:49 am

      I found your comment hystericaly funny!
      On a more serious note, I’ve heard so much about voter suppression initiated by Republicans. I know that looks like different things in different states. What is the argument about needing an ID to vote? Is it because it is too expensive. Or is the concern that people who are in college might have a problem with their state of residency?

      I honestly do not understand the problem with people needing an ID. People were beaten, jailed, and slain for the right to vote. Is an ID truly a significant barrier?

      I agree with Tien Le’s sentiments – where she (assuming gender here) said it’s more important to comply with the laws than try to have them overturned.

      Perhaps, there is a solution that private citizens can facilitate. I will email a couple of civic organizations here in my state. I often think pleading with public officials is futile in this heated climate of election year.

      • 66 Bobfr (aka Our4thEstate)
        January 14, 2012 at 3:01 am

        You have a different sense of humor than I.

        You also are clueless regarding the rampant attempt to disenfranchise every eligible voter in the United States.

        The ancestor to whom I refer is Charles Carroll of Carrollton.

        Don’t mess with me.

        • 67 Bobfr (aka Our4thEstate)
          January 14, 2012 at 3:05 am

          That’s every eligible voter who is not WHITE, #teabagger indoctrinated, or in the upper 30 percentile of annual income, and preferably bigoted – i.e., just the type of stooges Koch & Norquist cherish. Hope that’s clear enough.

        • 68 DreamChaser57
          January 14, 2012 at 3:36 am

          Bobfr – I would encourage you to refrain from name-calling (clueless?), especially on this thread out of deference and respect to Chips and the community she has so lovingly crafted. Clearly, there was some confusion. I found your comment about you will own anyone who does not buy into the landslide of Obama lock, stock, and barrell hysterical. There is nothing funny about disenfrachisement. I even prefaced the voter suppression questions with “on a more serious note”.

          Anyway, I will simply google more information. I realize that people are on edge as this is an election year. However, I truly do hope that honest probing questions can be addressed seriously. I also hope that this community remains a place where engaging and respectful dialogue can take place unimpeded. In my view, that’s one of the things that makes this community so unique and special.

          In my view, the ultimate goal is to get PBO re-elected. Since we (grass-roots workers) have limited resources, I wonder if hurriedly rushing to every fight will make us lose sight of the ultimate goal. If someone has to bring an ID to vote, is it not just best to comply? It’s clear what Republicans are motivated by, but should a young person lose heart because they have to get an ID.

          • 69 Chi
            January 14, 2012 at 3:54 am

            I think Bob was joking DreamChaser…

            He has never posted a cross or even mildly disrespectful comment or word ever…

            I think something got terribly lost in translation here…

            • 70 DreamChaser57
              January 14, 2012 at 12:59 pm

              Thanks for your comment. However, I beg to differ. Name-calling is name calling no matter how you spiin it.

              • 71 Bobfr (aka Our4thEstate)
                January 14, 2012 at 1:07 pm

                I regret the use of the term ‘clueless’ and retract it. Your comment is and remains offensive as there is nothing the least bit hysterical or funny about the serious effort many of us grass roots workers are making to devise strategies to protect minorities, seniors, students and economically distressed citizens from having authorized identification in order to register to vote.

                All the best in your endeavors to support the President & Democrats.

                #PRESSON

                • 72 DreamChaser57
                  January 14, 2012 at 1:12 pm

                  That’s gracious of you Bobfr, I appreciate that. It certainly was not my intent to offend you. I thought your wording was clever and witty – about you will OWN anyone that is not supportive of securing a landslide victory for PBO. I respect the efforts of grass roots workers and feel their role in PBO’s re-election is essential.

                  #PRESSON

                  • 73 Bobfr (aka Our4thEstate)
                    January 14, 2012 at 1:16 pm

                    Kind of you to respond. We will prevail in our joint commitment to re-elect the President and provide him a strong Congress. Thank you.

                    Yes We Can … DO More Together – We Must!

      • 74 Walking_on_ Sunshine
        January 14, 2012 at 3:42 am

        I think it is important to comply with the laws UNTIL they are overturned. They need to be overturned but in the meantime with less than a year to go, we need to play it safe and comply. The important thing is to get everyone prepared to vote in THIS election.
        It’s very easy to vote in my home state. No ID required. I live in a state where it’s very easy to vote. I remember having a conversation with a black co-worker from a southern state who told me she was amazed how easy it is to vote here. We have same day registration. She told me some horror stories of how they would get flyers with the wrong voting date listed and other dirty tricks. That’s the reality of it.

      • January 14, 2012 at 3:59 am

        DreamChaser57, The issue is not about needing an ID. In fact, we have always been required to present an ID. The change that is causing problems is the limitation on the type of ID that will be permitted. In the past, the ID could be a photo ID with your name and address, a combination of serveral ID items when the individual did not have a photo ID, such as current bills for gas, electricity, or mail received recently, or neighbors who are known by poll workers could confirm who you are. So there were many types of acceptable ID. Now, in 31 states, the type of ID is strictly limited to a state issued photo ID. In many cases, in order to get the ID, individuals must have a birth certificate which many people do not have or are discouraged from applying for because of a prohibitive cost, inconvenient hours at far offices in order to purchase birth certificates. These are just a few challenges individuals face trying to conform to the new laws. Students cannot use college ID, veterans cannot use Veterans Administration ID, people who have always voted with no problem who are disabled have to stand for long periods to vote, and the early voting times are shortened or eliminated. These problems have been identified since the laws were enacted. The reputable surveys show seniors, Latinos, blacks, veterans, and students are targeted under these new laws. Yes, people were beaten, jailed, and actually murdered over the right to vote. Instead of making our right to vote more difficult, we should be finding simple, and secure ways to increase the number of people who are voting. You are right about “pleading with certain public officials in an election year being difficult.” However, the republicans have pretty much created this problem for this election year. They have pledged to make President Obama a one term President! This is just one of their many, many methods to deny citizens their right to vote for the person they support.

        • January 14, 2012 at 7:49 am

          This is a perfect summary, Gwendolyn. It’s the type of ID that’s at issue and also the fact that voters have to bring the ID each time they vote, rather than just the first time. Seniors who have not been informed of this change and have voted for years will have to be turned back, go home and face the long lines again, which will discourage them from voting. Students who do not live in the state will have a very difficult time voting. Our job is to get the information out to every voter, help them to get to the places where IDs are issued and, if necessary, pay for them. All these laws represent a HUGE hurdle that is being placed in the path of Democrats, but we MUST overcome it. In PA, they are still sitting on this legislation, which will shorten the time we have to get the word out. BUT we will get the word out and we won’t let these suppression efforts defeat us.

        • 77 anniebella
          January 14, 2012 at 8:26 am

          Gwendolyn, we have to do what we can, we can’t let these hateful no good Republicans win. They knew exactly what they were doing when they came up with these ID mess. They want to steal this election.

          • January 14, 2012 at 8:56 am

            This is so true. Last night I was at a “thank you volunteer” gathering for the recall Walker campaign in WI. A candidate that is running for alderman in Milwaukee told me that some of the people in his area will not be able to vote in the spring election. He said that some are from Puerto Rico and are citizens, however, some will need the ID that requires a birth certificate for verification. Unfortunately, to get a birth certificate from Puerto Rico takes 3 months. While they have been trying to educate everyone on this, there are still those people that wait too long, forget, don’t get the information, etc. I asked how many people will this affect and he thought maybe 100-200. Very sad!

          • January 14, 2012 at 9:11 am

            Anniebella, I think that whenever you mess with voting laws, you get some unintended consequences. The older population, which tends to lean conservative, will be the hardest hit by these rules since young ones can roll with the punches more easily. All these rules intended to suppress the D vote may end up discouraging a lot of elderly R’s as well. That’s why it’s so important that we identify elderly Obama supporters and help them to get all the information and identification they need. I anticipate a lot of arguments at polling places between voters and election judges as people who have voted all their lives try taking out their frustrations at the lowly inspectors and judges. The R state legislatures had better be prepared to deal with a lot of ugly feedback, which I hope starts to surface during the primaries.

            By the way, on election day we should all make sure that we bring folding chairs to our polling places and station Obama supporters there to help the elderly. If someone seems uncomfortable standing, offer them a chair. I have never found a voter who wouldn’t keep an elderly person’s place in line so they could sit, rather than stand. For crying children, be sure and bring lollipops, always asking a parent if offering candy is okay. I built up tremendous good will on election day, offering these simple services while wearing my Obama button. The R’s were shoving literature in people’s faces and we were helping. It makes a difference.

            • 80 JoJothecat
              January 14, 2012 at 12:20 pm

              The problem with “free” passports for every eligible voter is, you STILL need a birth certificate to get a passport. I don’t know what that will achieve?

              • 81 DreamChaser57
                January 14, 2012 at 1:09 pm

                Agreed. The other inherent problem is that it is cost prohibitive. States are crying broke everywhere. It is highly unlikely that the Republican contingent of State Legislatures are going to be receptive to this idea, especially during an election year. The election is in a matter of months. What is the most productive use of a potential voter’s tiime? Getting a state-issued ID and as a pre-emptive step getting a birth certificate if necesary. Or waging wars on State Legislatures? Even if the State Legislatures immediately relent, bureaucratic inertia would probably destroy any hopes of progress in this short window of time. After PBO’s second Inauguration, then these issues can be substantively addressed.

                • 82 Bobfr (aka Our4thEstate)
                  January 14, 2012 at 2:33 pm

                  A US passport is accepted as valid ID. No ‘State’s rights’ issue. What we are discussing involves the President authorizing the State Department to wave the fee for eligible voters with perhaps some income level threshold, e.g., those whose reported income in 2011 is less than $50,000.

              • 83 Bobfr (aka Our4thEstate)
                January 14, 2012 at 1:11 pm

                The reason for recommending the US Passport is because it is issued by the State Department and they could, more readily than most agencies, assist the elderly and others in acquiring the necessary validation of place of birth. Thank you.

      • 84 57andFemale
        January 14, 2012 at 4:47 pm

        If you’re a senior living on Social Security and haven’t driven a car in years, yes. A photo ID is difficult to obtain, even though you have been recognized as a voter for all of your adult life and now need to prove it.

        When WI DMV officials are instructed NOT to tell you that the voter ID is free, it is necessary to fight back.

        When you work at the times the DMV is closed and can’t afford to take time off to get an ID, it is voter suppression.

        When these laws are meant to keep the poor, the elderly, and those of color away from the polls, that is a serious problem.

        These people have one chance at changing policy — it’s their vote. ‘Voter fraud’ is so rare as to be non-existent. there is one reason and one reason only for these laws: to keep middle and lower class citizens from exercising their right to vote.

      • 85 nathkatun7
        January 15, 2012 at 1:18 am

        Dreamchaser, You are absolutely right in pointing out that “People were beaten, jailed, and slain for the right to vote.” However, I totally reject the dismissive implication of your question: “Is an ID truly a significant barrier?” For people who lived under the Jim Crow system it was legalized tactics that made it difficult to vote, like these ID requirements, that people fought against and “were beaten, jailed and slain…” Some of us old people, as well as students of history, remember questions, similar to your question, with regard to poll-tax/property requirements; Literacy/Understanding tests; and barring of people, with any conviction — including misdemeanors or trumped up charges — from voting. Lest we forget, the Jim Crow tactics never directly invalidated the right to vote; they just made it impossible for Black folks to exercise the right to vote. In other words, State laws, requiring people to pass literacy/understanding tests (usually administered by biased people), or to pay a poll tax if they didn’t own property, ended up denying Black citizens the right to vote without actually impacting the general right to vote for all citizens.

        To answer your question: Yes many elderly people who don’t drive, this is a significant and very uncalled for barrier. They have to obtain state issued ID’s some thing that does not come easily to old people. The same is true of many people, especially those in the inner cities who do not drive and depend on public transportation. In order to obtain ID’s they have to go through the maze of bureaucracy to obtain birth certificates and then pay for government issued ID’s. Yes this is a significant barrier to students, like my daughter who is going to college in New York, but still has a California driver’s license. Although she is a resident of New York, if she was required to obtain a NY Driver’s license, she will certainly be barred from voting. To be able to vote in California she has to re-register and then prove her one year residence in CA, if she has not been voting absentee as a CA resident. She has been in NY (now in graduate School) for seven years. Obviously we all have to work hard to try to deal with the reality of these malicious and uncalled for Republican voter suppression laws. I repeat: these are MALICIOUS, UNCALLED FOR, VOTER SUPPRESSION LAWS ENGINEERED BY THE TEABAG-REPUBLICANS. In my humble opinion, their intent is no different from the intent of the Jim Crow disenfranchisement laws. It saddens me to see a member of the TOD family minimizing the potential devastating impact of these ID laws in denying the right to vote to the elderly, students, and many people of color.

    • January 14, 2012 at 7:41 am

      As a fellow Italian, I love it.

  22. 90 PamfromCalif
    January 14, 2012 at 2:48 am

    Thanks Chips. Don’t comment very often but, I read this blog everyday and enjoy the “no drama” . Good night & Press On.

  23. 92 Walking_on_ Sunshine
    January 14, 2012 at 3:20 am

    Thanks Chipsticks. You do so much to give us a troll free place to follow the news about the First Family. I used to find myself reading things on the net with half the screen blocked so as not to see the horrible comments that were posted. I really never understood until the last three years the extent of the hatred and bile that people are willing to spew in order to give pain to others. It is such a relief to find a place where everyone is supportive of the President. I have also gained valuable insight into how others think and feel by reading the comments here. I think what you are doing is fantastic.

  24. 93 Mary Gray
    January 14, 2012 at 3:27 am

    Thanks for having this place of refuge. Its a safe haven for me.

  25. January 14, 2012 at 3:51 am

    Thanks, Chips, for this website! It is an island of LOVE and SANITY in a sea of HATE and INSANITY. I APPRECATE it a lot. PLEASE KEEP UP THE FABULOUS WORK!

  26. January 14, 2012 at 3:59 am

    As a non US citizen, I love coming here every day to check out what’s new and occasionally comment. We don’t get so much negative news about PBO here in Canada because he is universally loved almost everywhere except of course in the Red states and Iran. Even though he is your president, he is also an inspirational figure to many people outside of the US. What would we have known of his highly successful trips to Brazil, Ireland, Europe etc if not for this site and the amazing pictures which Chips pulls together from her resources. He and his entirely normal and delightful family represent what is good in people always showing, in words and deed, the qualities which we should all emulate as humans.
    I will never understand why the republicans feel that it would take a business man to run the US. Economics is really a small part of his job. Clearly the head of the government needs to have an even greater understanding of people. He should know how to bring together and encourage large and small communities of all types where people can work together for a common purpose….a job both the president and first lady have done for years. Their individual resumes are impressive.
    Chips, don’t be discouraged by the naysayers and negative s*$% t disturbers who like to inhabit dark corners and spit poison. They are belly crawlers for a reason. Your delete button is your best friend and their worst enemy. Keep up the great work! In the end, the positive and forward looking people who support this site will win out.

    • January 14, 2012 at 5:51 am

      Loved your post… it was a great read!! 🙂

    • January 14, 2012 at 7:47 am

      well said almablanca. Your comment about President Obama being universally loved is so very true here in the UK also. Seeing him with everyday people both in the US and abroad makes me wonder where the ill informed media and talk show hosts get their talking points from. I know the haters and trolls try to look big by posting poison on the internet but they have nothing better to do than to try to demoralize truly great people out of spite and jealousy.

      Thank you chips for this incredible oasis of support, intelligence, calm and humor it is truly a godsend.

    • January 14, 2012 at 7:57 am

      Hear, hear from India. My entire family are obamabots.

  27. January 14, 2012 at 4:11 am

    Thanks for making this a safe haven!

  28. 100 fanoTOD
    January 14, 2012 at 4:22 am

    dear Chipsticks, thank you so much for all you do for us and for the reelection of our magnificent President! thank you for being willing to do that hard s–t of making this gorgeous, precious, cherished place safe for us.

    i admire you more than words can express. i admire this community that much too.
    thank you, ALL!!

  29. January 14, 2012 at 5:55 am

    Thanks for keeping this site a place where I return Every Day !

  30. 102 nintendowii10
    January 14, 2012 at 6:39 am

    Good morning…

    • 103 Cos
      January 14, 2012 at 7:51 am

      I am loving how PBO is using his props. Great idea. He should use that “jobs chart”. I think folks will really take notice and the MSM will take notice more than they have.

    • 104 SUE DUVALL SMITH
      January 14, 2012 at 9:56 am

      PBO ALWAYS LOOKS SO FRESH,HOPEFUL AND UNDAUNTED BY THE REPUBLICAN UGLINESS OUTSIDE. HE IS A TRUE SOLDIER FOR AMERICA AND YOU CAN BET HIS BOOTS HAVE BEEN MADE HERE!

    • 105 Pamela
      January 14, 2012 at 1:20 pm

      Thank you, Mr. President!

  31. January 14, 2012 at 6:51 am

    This site has long been a haven for me, as I work in the “reddest” part of town. This is where I go to get some peace, and some hope, specially when it’s been a “very long day.”

    I am so very proud of our FLOTUS, she’s a gem, and one heck of a roll model.

    Oh, and btw? POTUS in that Stetson has got to be one of my all time favorite photos – thanks!

    • January 14, 2012 at 1:26 pm

      Greetings everyone…

      this site is indeed a haven,,,,but it is also a place for info and clarity….the many links and videos given by chips and others… …

      it is a place for action…..Donna and WiW…..

      it is a place for caring…..HZ…..

      it is an oasis…that gives spiritual nourishment…

      i feel blessed to have found it….

      Presssssssssss ON!

  32. 108 criquet
    January 14, 2012 at 7:02 am

    Was going to post this last night but fell asleep. Now this seems a good post to do it in!
    https://twitter.com/#!/farleftofright/status/158006928021266433

  33. 109 Alycée (@jazziz2)
    January 14, 2012 at 7:25 am

    Posted: Sat, Jan. 14, 2012, 3:01 AM
    Menendez reverses his blocking of a Circuit Court appointee
    By Joelle Farrell
    Inquirer Staff Writer

    A week after he was criticized as blocking her appointment for political payback, U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez (D., N.J.) reversed himself Friday and said he would support the nomination of a Newark judge to the federal appeals court in Philadelphia.

    Menendez said he had a change of heart after he spoke with Judge Patty Shwartz earlier in the day. He previously indicated he had been unimpressed with Shwartz during an interview and thought she was unqualified for a seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

    more —-> http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20120114_Menendez_reverses_his_blocking_of_a_Circuit_Court_appointee.html

    • 110 Cathy from MN
      January 14, 2012 at 7:54 am

      Glad to see that he was at least willing to listen to new information and change his position. This seems to be missing from our Republican Senators…

  34. 111 Julie
    January 14, 2012 at 7:45 am

    Sorry to see it’s come to the point of Chips having to post this but damn am I glad about the TOD rules! I frequent a couple of forums and one is filled with trolls who try to discourage all from supporting the President. I come here to get away from that noise.

    Love and encouragement to all of you TOD people!

    Julie

  35. January 14, 2012 at 7:54 am

    This Obama Texas Photo was the first image that spoke to me in 2007. The images of Obama I believe is what galvanizes a lot of us for a bunch of reasons. Me – “a black dude for president” were my thoughts in 2007. Could it really happen? Then I read his memoir and then the ’06 book. Ok.
    But it was the IMAGES that galvanized me the most.
    My next favorite photo was “Obama Shades” – you know the one getting out of the black SUV with his sunglasses on. Not sure if you still have that one Chip but I swear he looked badass and I just loved it.
    So Chips, along with the “events” of his life it is for me the PICTURES that touch my heart so much and I am so grateful for this site.
    Thanks again.

    • 115 TrumpDog
      January 14, 2012 at 9:23 am

      I purchased the Ebony mag that had that pic on the cover. I was actually a ” late supporter”; it wasn’t that I did not like Sen Obama – I just knew nothing of him. It wasn’t until he started winning the primaries that I started to really look at him and I was sold. I absolutely love, admire and believe in him now.
      Anyway, it wasn’t until later after that Ebony Mag was issued that I saw and found where it came from. I quickly ordered the back issue and plan to keep it forever. Great photo of a great man.

  36. 117 anniebella
    January 14, 2012 at 7:54 am

    Well Chipsticks you have to do what you have to do. I know the reason I come here is because of the support of the President and his family. I don’t come here to hear negative racists garbage like you fine at so many other places, and I thank you Chipsticks for that.

  37. January 14, 2012 at 7:57 am

    This site is not only a haven, but it is where the BEST information is found. I’m continually amazed at how much more informed I am than those who watch TV or read the ugly blogs. I continually get reactions like, “I didn’t know that,” when I talk to fellow Democrats. Then I direct them here. This is the only place that presents it straight and doesn’t try to mess with people’s heads by twisting the news. The job of patrolling this site has got to be exhausting. I’ve read so many snarky comments on sites throughout the net, that I’ve come to treasure the sanity that this place. We’ve got a lot of roller coaster riding ahead of us in the coming months. We’re human beings who will be down some days and up the next. But this is where we go to pull the team together, brush off the wounds, refresh the spirit and move forward.

  38. January 14, 2012 at 7:59 am

    It’s Tebow and Tom Brady tonite. Two evangelical quarterbacks. Brady is married to a super model, his wife is also the U.N. Ambassador for the environment!

    Also, Chris Hayes is getting on my last nerve.
    Feeling bad for al Qaeda! Really, Chris?

    • January 14, 2012 at 8:07 am

      At least he is mostly blaming the non closing of Guantano on congress.

    • 124 Linda
      January 14, 2012 at 8:07 am

      He got on my last nerve after the first show.

    • 126 anniebella
      January 14, 2012 at 8:11 am

      I must admit, there are times when people like Chris Hayes really pisses me off. How can you feel sorry for al Qaeda. These people would kill any American and not have one bit of sorrow for it, like they did 9/11. Jovie, the reason Hayes feels sorry for al Qaeda is ?

      • 127 anniebella
        January 14, 2012 at 8:15 am

        By the way, I think I’m pulling for Brady, I kind of had enough of this Tebow worshipping.

        • 129 nintendowii10
          January 14, 2012 at 8:40 am

          After my Steelers defeated themselves last week, I HOPE the Cheatriots shut the Tebow Donks up.

        • 131 Bill
          January 14, 2012 at 9:02 am

          I am not a person of faith and am very progressive, but I do not understand why some on the left do not like Tebow. He seems like a very nice young man. There are many worse people in the world such as every Republican running for president, and though he has been asked, he has endorsed none. Why all the hate towards an insignificant football player who has done nothing against humanity of which I am aware? It seems to be a waste of energy. Any thoughts?

          • January 14, 2012 at 9:07 am

            Sure. He is major pro life. For the left, that is a non starter!
            Just saying!

            • 133 Bill
              January 14, 2012 at 9:12 am

              So a 22 year old football player who grew up in an evangelical enviromnent is to be hated for his opinion? Just asking.

              • January 14, 2012 at 10:23 am

                Pro life or not I like the guy. He’s going to have a tough time in Foxboro tonight but so is the rest of the team. If I hated on everyone that had a different opinion than me I’d be living in a cave cut off from civilization. Like Miles Davis used to say, “If you agreed with everything I said then you would be me.”

              • 136 Left-Indie
                January 14, 2012 at 10:39 am

                You’re right, Bill, about how uncool it is to “hate” this guy. I think to most on the left he gives off the stink of the high & might evangelical who “hate big govmint” but loves it when it is applied to women’s rights and gay rights, not to mention base the bible’s entire morality only on those two bases. Who cares about poverty? Who cares about racism? Who cares about putting people to death that may not be guilty? Who cares about universal health insurance? Who cares about immigrants? Who cares about the terrible income inequality. Who cares about equal education…? That said, since he never articulated a possition on most of these, he just only give off the stink of it.

            • 137 TrumpDog
              January 14, 2012 at 10:24 am

              He is major pro life. For the left, that is a non starter!

              I’m not sure that is all together true. There are pro choice lefties that are also pro life.

              I think the media is a big problem in how Tebow is perceived.
              My annoyance with him is the idea that God plays a part in his winning. To me, that reduces the losing side to the thought that God was not rooting for their side.
              Just something about the God is worried about some football game just smacks of opportunism.

              I also think that if the guy was Muslim, there would be a national outcry in him bringing his religous beliefs on the public field. But then again, I guess majority rules, so….

              • January 14, 2012 at 11:46 am

                NFL players have been doing what Tebow is doing for decades. His thanking God has nothing to do with winning or losing.

              • 139 Mae who love our CIC
                January 14, 2012 at 12:15 pm

                Just what does any of us know about Tebow. I know that he graduated from UF, has always been a person of faith. Nice mother who frequented the USPS, 1100 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL.

                I think what bothers a lot of people is the fact that Tebow has a more outwardly display of his faith. God honors our faith in Him.
                God does care about every inch of us and He always does what is best for each of us. God gives us free will to choose him. And I think the media is to blame about why we discuss Tebow’s faith. Tebow is not arrogant, just bold in his faith and he does not care who knows it.
                We don’t know his personal circumstances, He appear to be a good decent human being and let us not devote a lot of thought process to his christian walk. Tebow is playing a ball game that he truly loves and he could be doing so many other mean things such as voter suppression, lying, killing and stealing.

      • January 14, 2012 at 8:15 am

        Because he hates Guantanamo. So does the President. Why not interview Jim Clapper, to get the administration POV? Nope! He interviews Al Qaeda. Not kidding!!!

    • 141 halo
      January 14, 2012 at 9:11 am

      Tom Brady is an evangelical?

  39. January 14, 2012 at 8:04 am

  40. 144 Alycée (@jazziz2)
    January 14, 2012 at 8:05 am

    Drone helping mission to get fuel to Nome, Alaska
    By Mary Pemberton
    Associated Press
    Posted: 01/12/2012 12:15:38 PM PST
    Updated: 01/12/2012 12:23:30 PM PST

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska — As a Russian fuel tanker slowly moves through the frozen Bering Sea toward an iced-in city in western Alaska, it has been getting help from an unusual source at its destination: a drone that flies overhead and sends images of the sea ice to researchers onshore.

    The camera-equipped drone looks like a smoke detector with wings and legs. It glides on 20-minute missions ranging from 10 feet to 320 feet above the ice, and its images can be instantly viewed on a tablet-type computer screen.

    more —–> http://www.mercurynews.com/nation-world/ci_19729214?source=rss

  41. January 14, 2012 at 8:21 am

    Robney biggest donors? Associates of Bain.

    That is a wow moment!

  42. January 14, 2012 at 8:22 am

  43. 150 Linda
    January 14, 2012 at 8:24 am

    OPEN LETTER TO W. MITT ROMNEYJanuary 13, 2012

    Dear Governor Romney,Today, the Washington Post reviewed the video “King of Bain.” The review seems to rest itscase on the “fact” that you left Bain to run the Winter Olympic Games in 1999. This date nowlooms important since the media has questioned facts stated in the video asserting that you couldnot have done much if any of the terrible things portrayed because you were not at Bain past1999.I personally reviewed all documentation, video, transcripts, government documents, mediareports and other research that went into the making of this video prior to agreeing to purchasethe distribution rights. I found the documentation to be in order and comprehensive.We want the hundreds of thousands of Americans who have seen this video in the past two daysto be aware of any discrepancies that may exist between the video and your version of the facts.Therefore, we will agree to revise our ads and/or the video to reflect any errors that may bepresent in the current version of the video. To do this, however, we respectfully request youanswer a few questions that might help guide our review.1.

    When did you leave Bain for good – full time or part time?2.

    When did you relinquish controlling interest in Bain, any Bain projects or Bain funds?3.

    When did you resign as the CEO?4.

    When was the last Bain document submitted to the government denoting you as an executiveat Bain?5.

    When did you receive the final check from Bain for any investment in which you had andinterest?We are certain you would like to clear up this matter quickly. We will await your response andstand committed to address any discrepancies. Hearing no response, we will assume you canoffer no evidence of errors and we will continue to stand by the film as presented.

    Kind regards and best of luck,

    Gregg Phillips

    Managing Director
    Winning Our Future PAC

    Is this a put up or shut up to Mitt ?

    • January 14, 2012 at 8:35 am

      Send that to CNN! We need to get that in the MSM!

    • 152 FiredUpInCA
      January 14, 2012 at 8:38 am

      “The media has questioned facts stated in the video asserting that you could not have done much if any of the terrible things portrayed because you were not at Bain past 1999.”

      Dear Mr. Romney,

      How can you claim all the jobs created by Bain after you left but none of the devastation created? Either own all of it or own none of it.

      • January 14, 2012 at 9:50 am

        This is an interesting development…

        Facts Strained in ‘King of Bain’
        Posted on January 13, 2012

        A 28-minute political documentary released this week by a pro-Newt Gingrich super PAC presents a one-sided, often distorted and misleading view of Mitt Romney’s years leading the venture capital firm Bain Capital. Interspersed with appropriately eerie music, the video focuses on four Bain-financed companies and features heart-wrenching interviews with people who portray Romney and Bain as ruthless, quick-buck corporate raiders who reaped huge financial rewards at the expense of faithful employees. But a closer look at the companies highlighted in the video reveals a murkier picture. The video often overstates, or outright distorts, Romney’s culpability for job losses or bankruptcies.

        Read more: http://www.factcheck.org/2012/01/facts-strained-in-king-of-bain/

    • January 14, 2012 at 8:32 am

      They had a History channel special on them, last night. Guess what? They tried to shut them down? Because of Racism! Ugh!

    • 156 Linda
      January 14, 2012 at 8:33 am

      Nice….

      But…who the heck decorated that room, Elvis ?

      • 157 anniebella
        January 14, 2012 at 8:45 am

        Linda when Gayle and FLOTUS when in that room doing their interview I think you could sense FLOTUS didn’t care for the red velvet. But changing the subject, what a great ideal to honor these men, who gave there all for this country, even though they were treated like second class citizens, or worse.

      • January 14, 2012 at 10:26 am

        They probably have to detox anytime they leave that room.

  44. January 14, 2012 at 8:29 am

    Financial companies are again stuffing mailboxes with credit card applications at a pace not seen since the last recession began four years ago, a sign that banks are relaxing their lending.

    Promising everything from cash back to airline miles to zero percent interest for nearly two years, credit card companies mailed out an estimated 4 billion offers nationwide last year, nearly triple the amount delivered in 2009 and the most since 2007, according to Synovate, a unit of French market research firm Ipsos. That’s equivalent to a dozen applications for every man, woman, and child in the United States.

    The surge in credit card mailings is another indicator of improving economic conditions and household finances in the United States, which in turn is creating a friendlier environment for borrowers. US banks eased standards for issuing credit cards throughout 2011, according a Federal Reserve survey of loan officers.
    http://mobile.boston.com/art/35/business/personalfinance/articles/2012/01/14/as_economy_improves_credit_offers_surge/

    • January 14, 2012 at 10:27 am

      Good news…. I think.

    • 165 JoJothecat
      January 14, 2012 at 12:53 pm

      I hope the american people are smarter this time and not collect a bunch of cc’s and max them out. They banks may have started lending but the bankruptcy laws have not changed. You still have to pay off those cards no matter if they claim a bankruptcy.

  45. 166 anniebella
    January 14, 2012 at 8:37 am

    Remember Mitt said he created hundred thousands jobs, then it was ten thousands, now in his new ad it only says thousands. Which one is it Mitt? This man has no problem telling lies.

    • January 14, 2012 at 8:43 am

      And the media covers for him!

    • 168 TrumpDog
      January 14, 2012 at 9:36 am

      Yep. Funny how when challenged on his bullshit Robney starts changing the numbers
      Just wait til the election where he will HAVE to back up his erroneous claims. I keep saying he’s digging a hole for himself tacking far right and outright lying about what Obama has said and not done. I really think it will bite him in the end.

  46. 169 Ceb
    January 14, 2012 at 8:40 am

    Thanks Chips for taking such a strong stand. One of the reasons that I do not post often is because of the sometimes negative and gloom and doom comments and awful links that had been showing up much too often. I had even stopped inviting people to come here because I did not want them to be discouraged by the behaviors that I have mentioned. I have come here long enough to know how to skip, scroll through or to completely avoid certain posts to get to the things that are important, informative and inspirational, a newcomer may simply get turned off never to return. When there is mess going on, I do not post (if you cannot say anything good, do not say anything). At times I feel as if I am watching a class of teenagers ( I have been a high school teacher for 29 years). Sorry that you have had to be the hall monitor for adults, but I am so glad that you are doing so. This wondrous place is a light, a joy, and a political powerhouse. Thanks for all that you do.

  47. January 14, 2012 at 8:41 am

    The President gives a great weekly address on insourcing!

  48. 171 Blue
    January 14, 2012 at 8:44 am

    Amen to that!

  49. 172 collegekay
    January 14, 2012 at 8:48 am

    Thank you Chips for reminding folks of this. This is a great site.

  50. 173 Cathy from MN
    January 14, 2012 at 8:49 am

    Thanks for maintaining a positive and informative site; we love it and need a place to share our support and ideas to ensure the 2012 election is a success!

  51. 174 Ladyhawke
    January 14, 2012 at 8:53 am

    VIDEO: Rachel Maddow Calls Out The GOP Lie That Obama Has Grown Government

    Maddow explained that the Republican talking points always stay the same against Democrats, even when they don’t make sense. The MSNBC host also pointed out that the Republican invectives have become disconnected from what is actually happening in governing.
    .
    .
    Obama has done more to cut government than any Republican president in the modern era, but this hasn’t stopped the GOP from playing to their base with outrageous claims that have no basis in fact. In recent months Obama has flummoxed the Republican Party, and with each voyage into their alternate Obama universe, Republicans take another step away from winning the White House in 2012.

    http://www.politicususa.com/en/rachel-maddow-obama-government

  52. January 14, 2012 at 8:55 am

    Good morning TOD! In reference to Chips post concerning house rules, I’ve tried to post articles from a wide variety of sources on many different subjects, some of which may affect us directly or otherwise and others that I find interesting. I don’t think that I’ve submitted articles which were negative, per se, or offensive in any way. But if I have, I offer my sincerest apologies because that was not my intention.~

    Workers Now Have Right to Class-Action Lawsuits Against Bosses
    By Mike Elk| January 11, 2012

    Last week, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled that it is illegal for employers to require their workers to sign mandatory arbitration agreements that prevent them from joining together to file class-action employment-related lawsuits. According to Alex Colvin of Cornell University School for Industrial and Labor Relations, 25 percentof nonunion employees are currently forced to sign mandatory arbitration agreements as a condition of employment that prevents them from filing class-action lawsuits.

    Read more: http://www.alternet.org/economy/153741/workers_now_have_right_to_class-action_lawsuits_against_bosses/

  53. 177 Brian
    January 14, 2012 at 8:57 am

    Crack that whip, Chips. (And thanks for making this site such a source for positive energy and hope!)

  54. 178 hopefruit2
    January 14, 2012 at 8:59 am

    Someone posted this lovely pic of our President and his family in Hawaii – roughly 8 years ago or so! Great walk down Memory lane 🙂

  55. January 14, 2012 at 8:59 am

    The President talks about insourcing and investing in America, for his weekly address.
    Makes you feel good.
    The Republicans talk about Keystone and slamming the President.
    Which one do you think is more inspiring!

    • 184 SUE DUVALL SMITH
      January 14, 2012 at 9:49 am

      SINCE ‘DAY ONE’ OUR AWESOME PBO HAS BEEN TRYING TO INSOURCE! IT’S REPUBLICAN GREED AND THEIR SELFISH AGENDA THAT CONTINUES TO TOSS OBSTRUCTION HIS WAY. HOWEVER…HE IS STRONG,PERSEVERING AND HIS COMPASSION FOR ALL OTHERS AND SELFLESS MOTIVATION WILL WIN OUT! HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL AND MAY OUR GOOD LORD DEEPLY BLESS HIS EVERY WAKING HOUR!

  56. 185 Elly in Maryland
    January 14, 2012 at 9:03 am

    This morning on NPR there was an interview with a guy from Blue State Digital, which I believe still works closely with the Obama campaign. He talked about intelligent consumption of news. He was part of Howard Dean’s campaign, talked about how they were so much in their own media bubble that they could not appreciate how damaged Dean’s campaign was after the Iowa caucus and the “scream.”

    How this relates to TOD – I come here because there is so much fantastic news posted that gets missed in the MSM – for example, I would not have heard about the Pres’s WH conference on “insourcing” if I had not read it here, plus other daily wonderful stuff coming from this administration.

    Now part of me thinks I’m putting myself in an Obama bubble, but there is so much other crap flying from all directions that I still hear and glance at in other media outlets, that I conclude this is a perfect site to come to. I’m always recommending it to people.

    Another thing the Blue State Digital guy said was something we know, that the number of “clicks” a story gets, promotes that story in the eyes of the editors of a site, and we know how often a site itself is visited matters to advertisers and affects the profitability of a site. So he was advocating intelligent, selective choices in media both for our individual intellectual benefit and for the overall elevation of those better sites and stories.

  57. January 14, 2012 at 9:06 am

    Prayer in Public Schools an Essential Right – Except for Muslims
    By Hrafnkell Haraldsson| January 13, 2012

    Apparently it’s ultra-super important for Christian kids to be able to pray at school but not so much for Muslim kids. We’ll get to that in a minute; first let’s make clear how the whole prayer in school thing works. It’s not that kids can’t pray, no matter what the Religious Right tells you. They can. They just can’t do it with the support of the school, because that’s a violation of the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause. The “public school prayer myth,” fueled by Christian fundamentalism and embraced by Republican political theology, rears its head just about every day somewhere in the country even while regularly ordering graduation ceremonies to be held in churches. But that’s gist for another article.

    Read more: http://www.politicususa.com/en/prayer-in-public-schools-an-essential-right-except-for-muslims

  58. 188 sonjiaduncan
    January 14, 2012 at 9:06 am

    Thank you for providing a troll free blog to read the news of the day. It is so important the negative remarks are everywhere. It is designed to turn us off and away from being involve in the reelection of President Obama.

  59. January 14, 2012 at 9:09 am

    ‘Behind The Eight Ball’: Terrible Times For The Minnesota Republican Party
    David Taintor January 13, 2012, 12:58 PM

    In short: the Minnesota Republican party is in shambles. Not only is it in financial disarray — it is $2 million in debt and Sutton resigned in early December under the sea of red ink — its Republican Senate leader, Amy Koch, recently resigned her leadership post after news broke that she had an “inappropriate relationship” with a subordinate staffer. “They’re not in a good position going into the 2012 election,” David Schultz, a law professor at Hamline University in St. Paul, told TPM. But now they’re “on the defensive where they can’t get their message or narrative out.”

    Read more: http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2012/01/behind-the-eight-ball-terrible-times-for-the-minnesota-republican-party.php?ref=fpnewsfeed

  60. January 14, 2012 at 9:21 am

    Note: Subscriber content preview~

    Iran to Let In U.N. Atomic Inspectors
    BY JAY SOLOMON| JANUARY 13, 2012

    Iran agreed to host a high-level team of United Nation’s nuclear inspectors later this month, Western diplomats said, a surprise development that could help to curb building tensions with the West. The diplomats on Thursday said Iran had tentatively agreed to receive a delegation from the United Nation’s International Atomic Energy Agency headed by the agency’s chief weapons inspector, Herman Nackaerts. The diplomats, who are based in Vienna, said the visit was tentatively set for Jan. 28. Unclear, said the diplomats, was whether Tehran would let the inspectors visit key nuclear sites and interview the Iranian official the U.S…

    http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204542404577157230874668296.html?mod=WSJ_hp_MIDDLENexttoWhatsNewsFifth

    • 191 SUE DUVALL SMITH
      January 14, 2012 at 9:43 am

      NOW THERE’S SOME NEWS WE COULD ALL USE! IT HURTS ME TO SEE SUCH BLOODSHED EVERYWHERE…INDEED…HUMAN BEINGS HAVE TO GET IT…BECAUSE GOD GETS THE LAST WORD!

    • 192 LunarSea
      January 14, 2012 at 10:07 am

      Hmm this is reminiscent of when the inspectors were welcomed into Iraq. The Iraqis were saying they didn’t have nukes or weapons of mass destruction. The inspectors agreed and the narrative on why we needed to go there changed overnight.

      Thank goodness the repubs (aka Cheney & his spawn) are not at the helm this go around. Let’s also hope things work out better this time. There are scores of good Iranians (see previous attempt at protesting in that country) that are getting squeezed because of their no good, terribly horrible, RWNJ equivalent of a government there.

  61. 193 TrumpDog
    January 14, 2012 at 9:33 am

    Thanks for providing a safe haven to read about and support our president. We have enough shit out there talking about him very negatively and it’s nice to come to a place that highlights the positive. The doom and gloom- no matter what our president does- gets on my nerves. It’s one of the few reasons I stopped my multiple daily visited at the Orange site.

    Thanks again for enforcing the house rules.

    • 194 SUE DUVALL SMITH
      January 14, 2012 at 9:39 am

      AMEN TO THAT! I LOVE MY PBO…AND NOONE IS GOING TO STOMP ON HIM…I CAN BE A VERY ANGRY WHITE LADY! AKA…GRANNY CAN KICK SOME ‘A’!!!!!!

      • 195 LunarSea
        January 14, 2012 at 10:09 am

        “AKA…GRANNY CAN KICK SOME ‘A’!!!!!!”

        lol -peeps best be quaking in their boots! Don’t ever try to mess with Granny! LMAO

      • 196 Puddin'
        January 14, 2012 at 6:16 pm

        “AKA…GRANNY CAN KICK SOME ‘A’!!!!!”…is you don’t know, you better ask somebody…cuz GRANNY DON’T TAKE NO STUFF 🙂 🙂

        Too cute!

  62. January 14, 2012 at 9:36 am

    Word. Or several. Seriously.

  63. 198 donna dem 4 obama
    January 14, 2012 at 9:47 am

    So many of us have invested our time, our treasure and our hope in the success of President Obama. Thanks Chips for keeping this site a positive haven of support for PBO.

  64. 199 LunarSea
    January 14, 2012 at 10:00 am

    Yeah! ChipsChica has put her foot down. A giant thank you is in order.

    This is the first post in a long time that I have not scrolled past lots of comments while rolling my eyes at the fascination and fixation of every lie posted on sites better left unnoticed. Today I read every comment in this post and enjoyed it.

    I so totally agree with the guy from Blue Digital, that even negative attention is attention. Which is why I never click on a lot of the the links that are posted, especially clips from Fox Spews & Huff N Puff. The webstats have no way of singling out whether the hit is in favor or opposition to a post. It merely counts the hit. More hits = more interest in the subject, as far as webmasters and ad peddlers go.

    So thank you Chips. I do realize the position you find yourself in (having to block posters) is not one you enjoy and for that I am as sorry as I am grateful.

    Hope your day gets better reading these comments. It shows that we stand with you and appreciate all your efforts. May your day be merry and bright.

    • 200 TrumpDog
      January 14, 2012 at 10:29 am

      Bugs me that a lot of “progressive” sites started with the misleading titles just to gain clicks (I’m specifically referring to you, Talking Points Memo!). We expect better for our side but the biggest doom, gloom and negative spin seemed to emanate from our side

  65. January 14, 2012 at 10:02 am

    North Carolina Workers Seek to Form Union to Fight Unfair Conditions at Sitel
    By Kenneth Quinnell| January 13, 2012 10:00 AM

    Workers at a Sitel call center in Asheville, N.C., are attempting to organize a union under the banner of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers to fight unfair conditions. The workers, mostly female, complained that they were being unfairly disciplined for bathroom breaks when the facility doesn’t have enough restrooms to accommodate the size of the workforce, with one bathroom serving nearly 200 women. Women waiting in line too long to use the bathroom were being punished, including a system where the cumulative punishments harmed their chances of obtaining promotions and pay raises. Sitel has a history of being staunchly anti-union:

    Read more: http://crooksandliars.com/kenneth-quinnell/north-carolina-workers-seek-form-u

    • 202 LunarSea
      January 14, 2012 at 10:10 am

      This company isn’t owned by Bain, or is it?

    • January 14, 2012 at 6:35 pm

      We had that problem at yearly International Diabetes Educational Seminars that I attended. The majority of thousands were women while the men’s restrooms remained empty even though many men attended but were outnumbered by us ladies. It was brought up for address and we were able to get the sign “MEN” changed to paper signs reading “WOMEN”. That was a relief for us!!!

      Dear Chips, thank you for your perservation in keeping our TOD a positive place for true Obamabots who live and breath to reelect our POTUS and love our FLOTUS. . I know it is straining for you to enforce and keep this a haven for us. We appreciate all that you do and stand by your side. United we stand, divided we fall. You are a most beautiful person and a dolt.

  66. January 14, 2012 at 10:06 am

    Washington state gay marriage proposal gets strong support
    Saturday, January 14, 2012

    A bipartisan group of lawmakers on Friday introduced a bill to legalize same sex marriage in Washington state, which gay rights groups hope will be the next state to approve nuptials after two-term governor Christine Gregoire announced her support. The bill was introduced in the Democrat-controlled Senate and has the backing of 21 Democrats and two Republicans, just two votes short of a majority in the 49-member chamber.

    It may take months to come to a vote in the Senate because of public hearings and committee debate. If successful, it would then go to a vote in the state House, where Democrats have a larger majority, before heading to Gregoire, who drew national attention recently by announcing her support of same sex marriage.

    Read more: http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2012/01/14/washington-state-gay-marriage-proposal-gets-strong-support/

  67. 206 lede3957
    January 14, 2012 at 10:11 am

    Thank you so much for explaining why you will delete “certain comments”; my heart is warmed. It is difficult for me to respond to and/or understand the hatred written about the President and his family. Please let us all who are able, work very hard for his re-election.

  68. 207 Waltjack
    January 14, 2012 at 10:18 am

    To help you out, can you come up with a way for us to tag a post as not in the best interest of this community? Maybe the people at wordpress have a solution.

  69. January 14, 2012 at 10:19 am

    Thank you Chipsticks. You are a treasure. What a wonderful place to share words of support for our hard-working President.

  70. 209 bizgirl
    January 14, 2012 at 10:33 am

    Chip, I just read your message and feel the same way. I also read, “if your post are not appearing consider this a sign you are not welcome here.” After years of floating around to find real news about our President, I found your site friendly, super informative and I enjoy the images and video content a great deal.

    I read the site every morning and evening and after a few months started posting here and there. Recently I noticed my post are not showing. I am a Obama supporter through and through. Do I have a place here?

    • January 14, 2012 at 12:30 pm

      Hi bizgirl, sorry I didn’t see your comment until now, I haven’t had a chance today to catch up with the site.

      You certainly have a place here, I’ve never read anything by you that drove me nuts! I’m so sorry if some of your comments haven’t appeared, I haven’t spotted any of them in pending or the spam folder, are you sure you didn’t forget to sign in with your name?

      I should have made it clearer in my rant (!), sometimes people forget to sign in properly so their comments go automatically in to pending and stay there until I see them – that doesn’t, of course, mean they’re banned!

      Thanks to everyone for tolerating my crankiness (!), really appreciate your understanding on this – now, let’s press on 😉

  71. January 14, 2012 at 11:19 am

    Good work, Chips! Thanks for policing your blog so the rest of us don’t have to read the opposition’s attacks. Make no mistake, IMO, the more attacks on your blog, the more power it has in the outside world, garnering all that attack attention. Obama supporters are NOT complaining and trying to discourage voters. Ever. They are all Obama antagonists, aka idiot Rethuglicans or even stupider Libertarians. Not Dems. Every single Democrat I know LOVES PBO. Deeply. They love your blog, too, Chips! ROCK ON AND 5 MORE YEARS!!!!!

  72. 212 Claire
    January 14, 2012 at 12:13 pm

    Thank you Chips for doing a job that may sometimes seem thankless. Please know that your efforts are greatly appreciated. I love the environment you have sought to create here.

    OBAMA 2012!!

  73. 213 Barbara
    January 14, 2012 at 12:21 pm

    here is my latest comment….just don’t get fed up and stop this blog! it is a wonderful site because I am so proud he is our president and want his re-election to be perfect. so, chips, hang in there and be “fired up and ready to go”

  74. 214 Claire
    January 14, 2012 at 12:28 pm

    I wonder if there is a place for people to post links to articles without having them be included in the comment threads. I try to read the comments and follow the discussions but it’s distracting to have so many excerpts and links to articles within the discussions.

  75. January 14, 2012 at 12:39 pm

    I’m so happy about this, Chips. Thank you.

  76. 216 Mae who love our CIC
    January 14, 2012 at 12:53 pm

    Chips I am thankful for this site. I come here all day and night, just to get good vibes about the world. There is so many people who are out of touch with what is going on in the world. They tell you all of the negatives; my comeback is, now tell me something positive. Some people just don’t know where to seek good information. I always tell them if they are looking to gain insight about our President and his administration the television is the last place to view for information.We must continue to be encouragers of the truth.

    Another thing that I find that is useful, is when you received those negative emails about our Prez., find the article that contains the truth and forward it to them and the negativity will hurriedly stop dead in its track. Beat them up with the truth.

    I am a staunch advocate of this site; I always invite others to come here to get good useful information.

  77. January 14, 2012 at 1:15 pm

    All I can say is Thank You and Hallelujah, Chips!

    I won’t ever completely quit reading this blog as I believe it is the VERY BEST Obama destination in cyberspace. However, over the past week, I’ve spent less time here and almost no time reading the comments as the chicken littling and endless kvetching was off the charts.

    We have an absolutely fabulous President, First Lady, First Family, and Administration that provide us with daily inspiration and accomplishment, so I am often puzzled and sometimes perturbed by the tendency of people (usually only a small minority, but very vocal) to constantly hand-wring and spread anxiety. This is not only here, but many places. It must be a quirk of human nature.

    Anyway, thank you for PRESSING ON! You are invaluable. ♥ ♥ ♥

  78. 218 Beverly Crosson
    January 14, 2012 at 1:23 pm

    Thanks for the rules, Chipsticks, and thanks for all the work you do here. I started with “the only adult in the room” and found you through that site. I miss that site, but you are amazing and I cannot say how grateful I am to have you bringing me what you do every day – the articles, the pictures, all good stuff. My printer is working hard! It does keep me centered on the job we have to do this year. As an older (!) person, I am catching up on all the techie things – and am planning to use facebook this year (maybe even tweet) to spread the good news, the true news of what our president has done, to every friend I have. You will help me with that, I know. Now if I can figure out all the ins and outs of facebook – –

  79. 219 Suzette
    January 14, 2012 at 1:27 pm

    This is why I love this blog. I know who I support (President Obama, his family and his relection). I may not comment all the while, but i visit everyday to get my daily fill of everything good about the Obama Presidency – comments, pictures, videos and others.

    Thanks Chips for this safe haven and keep up the good work.

  80. 220 Dudette
    January 14, 2012 at 2:19 pm

    3 small words, but they say everything:
    Thank you, Chips!

  81. January 14, 2012 at 2:24 pm

    Thank you, thank you all!!!!

  82. 222 S. Holland
    January 14, 2012 at 3:04 pm

    Thank you!! I, too, come here many times a day, especially after a bad, sour news day, to restore my hope & sanity! I love love this blog!

  83. January 14, 2012 at 7:52 pm

    Chips, I totally agree with you 100% plus. I have from the very beginning called this my “haven” then “our haven”, and I discovered that feeling as I read the contents of the comments and saw the beautiful outlay of the site.

    I was tired of where I was trying to keep abreast on the happenings of our beloved President, so finding TOD was such a very precious gift to me.

    I have mentioned to so many via e mail, phone conversations about our TOD Family and beautiful leader of our site, Chipsticks. I cherish their comments to me. They did not know that someone had taken the time to create such a beautiful place that focuses on POB in a very positive light.

    So, I hope and pray that I will always respect your hard work, Chips and Always respect this beautiful space and each other. Respect is a very important part of my life. I love more than anything in this part of my life than to do all that I can in a loving, and respectful manner to support and get President Obama reelected. And I see that we can do that as long as we stay focus and work hard to help you, Chips keep our haven a place for him.

    Thanks for all that you do each and everyday for all of us. This is my medicine daily. I would find it very painful to not have this beautiful haven to come to daily. Thanks again for enforcing the rules. I honor your rules and promise to keep them. Thanks so much, Chips. I love you back also.HZ

  84. 224 nathkatun7
    January 15, 2012 at 1:30 am

    Dear Chipsticks, As always, I come to this place late. First I am on west coast time. Second, and more importantly, I am not signed on to the blog at my office computer, because of policy issues, so I normally have to wait until I get home to log on. However, I wanted to say thank you for this statement. You’ve created a marvelous place for all of us who admire and strongly support President Obama. We all owe you a debt of gratitude for all the selfless work you put in to keep us focused on supporting the President. I totally agree with you that the TOD must not be a carbon copy of HuffPost or TPM!

    Once again, I thank you for creating and guiding this wonderful post, which is both serious and fun.

  85. 225 Dr. Sisco
    January 15, 2012 at 8:31 pm

    Thanks for all you do. For all of us who are working hard for PBO”s re-election this is the ONLY oasis from
    the mainstream Firebaggery/racist crap out there.


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