President Obama smiles with Makenna Hurd of Mascot, Tennessee, and Noah Koch of Waterville, Maine, during the second annual ‘Kids’ State Dinner’, in the East Room of the White House July 9
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More photos and videos from the Kids’ State Dinner in this post
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@petesouza Stylish kid reporters interview Pres Obama at Kids State Dinner. Note photog who will have my job one day
Hello there, MP! 😀 It sure can; it was the shock because I was focused on seeing what you all were up to and expected to land in the middle of a thread. ( ps MP: I will respond to you ‘one of these days’ when I’m more ‘together’; in the meantime continue to take care.)
No worries, VC, interesting that I signed off that night just as you were posting… I had had a tough day, and after seeing the news of the bombings at Bodh Gaya, I had to shut down. You take care too, my dear dear VC!
Looks like I arrived just in time to eat – talk about good timing! Howdy folks, my first time sticking my nose in today, and no, I have no updated info yet. Will let you know when I know.
It sure was good to open the door and be met with happy faces and a happy mood! Now I have to go check for the highlights of today.
Again–For those of you complaining about the sequester, come October the GOP wants another one just like it, until we drastically cut Medicare the way they want, they will continue holding this country hostage.
So, focus on the upcoming sequester, try to stop it, the other one is ancient history!
Me too mighty one – I just got back from the dermatologist – I swear that guy finds lumps and bumps that are invisible to the rest of the world – so then I see PBO giving out hugs – and I feel so much better – it is truly amazing.
Yes, I know 99ts, I took a ‘detour’ yesterday on the way to PT, something like 12 blocks later I reached my destination… Still had to endure the grueling therapy session, and a bus ride home…. I thought my legs were both going to come off. Paying a high price today, nothing to do but to press on! Hence, when I said I want to hug PBO, Mr. Yardarm could not know I meant just a simple, healing hug! (you are a naughty boy, Mr. Yardarm!)
We know that someone cares yardarm – it is so endearing and absolutely wonderful – that the President, amid the issues he has to address, understand the benefit of a caring hug. If every world leader so understood – there would be no need for the endless concern about keeping folks safe from terrorism – let alone safe from idiots with 2nd amendment paranoia.
Not to mention the joy he gave that little girl’s family, 99ts. I have a Downs Syndrome nephew about that age and were he to encounter that kind of affirmation from the president, the entire family would be rejoicing
He just knows when and what is the right thing to do Jackie – I have never known such a man so skilled in human relationships. As some have tried – but few succeed – he can talk and mingle with princes and paupers – and everyone in between, including very young children and veterans in their 90s.
Well I was surprised that there was a new post so soon, so I’m posting this Congressional resource guide (PDFs and Excel spreadsheets you can download) for those who missed it earlier.
Vital Statistics on Congress is now free and online. (PDF and Excel downloads). via @RyanLizzza
http://t.co/jyBVwAfUrk
I also think the GOP overplays there hand the next time they go for drastic cuts in October.
The President is not having anything of it, and if we default and don’t fund the government the president should blame GOP with a nightly address while stock market crashes.
Lay it out for the world to see…
This is getting pathetic!
Jovie, it’s also why we have to keep our local team contacts active and flex our electoral muscles. Gerrymandering doesn’t protect ALL congressional seats and we can make our reps feel the heat.
Any simpleton should know by now there is a very good reason Mother Earth put all that toxic black waste material DEEP DEEP inside, away from the surface…
Very good point. Instead of investing in fracking technology, just imagine how far we’d be if these billionaires were spending that money and time on green technologies. Instead, they spend their days trying to shut down Tesla’s ability to sell cars to regular people. And that car is quite beautiful!
I am sure the kids had a wonderful time today at the Kid’s State Dinner. I don’t know who came up with this idea but it was a brilliant one. To have our lovely FLOTUS as the host, and have POTUS make a surprise visit, just great.
Alright, I’m off to bed now. Gotta get up early for work. Gonna send up my daily affirmations asking that both Pacific Rim and The Wolverine movies are worth my time and money. I’m counting on you Guillermo Del Toro and Idris Elba!
Also, I’m hoping Patton Oswalt is right:
@pattonoswalt 5m
Saw PACIFIC RIM earlier today. It’s all right if you’re into movies that are awesome and gut-punch you with brilliance.
McDonnell’s term is up this year. Hard to see how he would be dislodged before the November election. Frankly, I’d prefer to have the stink of corruption sully all the Republican candidates running this year.
Soon the MSM will be clamoring over the Annual Kid’s State Dinner the same way they clamor over everything that PBO participates in – take for instance the WHCD…By 2015, this will be a “hot” event in DC…
Done in, feeling a lot older than 62 should feel tonight.. be well, y’all, back tomoz! Sweet dreams of flying saucers landing (oh wait, they are too big to land, never mind, sweet dreams they will de-cloak and we will wake to skies filled with wonder!)
Such B.S. …….. Just like Charlie Christ, in Florida if your a Republican and are affiliated w/ President Obama….you are run out. Love his quote
“But the compact, upbeat, Midwesterner is sanguine — likening membership departures to separating the wheat from the chaff.”
I was wondering what all those tweets yesterday asking this hypocritical governor for permission for some very personal things – and some very basic, mundane things like going grocery shopping – were all about. Republicans are the Taliban, and they are offensively awful.
I’ve been off TOD the ENTIRE day! Not good. Trying to catch up, but it looks like so much happened today… I found this video of the Obamas with kids on one of the links – and I’m sure it’s made a debut here before, but it’s just lovely!
I don’t often quote ol’ Howard, but this is so true. Abortion just happens to be their “way in.” There are true believers against abortion, but most of this Republican crowd could not care less about anything to do with the procedure, if it’s for somebody they know.
I give credit to Howard Dean for stepping into this important battle – after declaring his wish to possibly run for President, versus certain other potential candidates for 2016 who have a bigger stake in this fight and yet remain silent.
Agree, although I’m not sure of the timing of his statement – could have been picked up from an earlier campaign or election cycle. He’s pretty consistent in most things, I’ll give him that, although he’s not a good candidate from my POV.
Then, I reserve my praise for Howard Dean, but still hold firm on certain other candidates who haven’t lifted a finger to help with this fight.
That said, I don’t think Howard Dean should run again – I don’t think he has what it takes to take the mantle from President Obama or to be a good president.
I think there are very few “true” believers against abortion – when it was their child who was raped – or his wife who was raped – or their child who has no hope of surviving the pregnancy – I think you could count on 1 finger any person who would want to continue that particular pregnancy. When it is someone else’s wife – or someone else’s child – well of course, they are true believers.
Totally agree, 99ts. It is the same way with same sex marriage. If there is a loved one in the family who is gay, then attitudes change, at least toward that person. At heart, it’s a complete lack of empathy. They simply cannot walk in someone else’s shoes. It must be their way or none at all.
Corporate welfare has got to stop. There's no fucking way the budget should be balanced on our backs. http://t.co/T1edtZEWIa— RC deWinter (@RCdeWinter) July 05, 2013
[ICYMI. The dumber-than-dirt guy who signed this law is still governor of Florida.]
Florida Accidentally Banned All Computers, Smart Phones In The State Through Internet Cafe Ban: Lawsuit
When Florida lawmakers recently voted to ban all Internet cafes, they worded the bill so poorly that they effectively outlawed every computer in the state, according to a recent lawsuit.
I’m way lost – why would anyone ban Internet cafes?? (I just read it – My gosh – these RWNJs throw out the baby with the bathtub every day of the week). I end up laughing at those who think their actions will solve “the sin of the world” – when it will have zero impact whatsoever – or make things worse. Come every season – folks are going to gamble – good luck with stopping that.
Texas State Rep. Jodie Laubenberg (R), the author of the radically anti-abortion bill making its way through the Texas Legislature this week, argued for hours on Tuesday that lawmakers should support her bill because of its strong protections for a person’s “pre-born life.”The bill, HB 2, responds to “the definite death to the 70,000-plus babies who have been aborted in this state,” Laubenberg said during remarks on the House floor. “HB 2 focuses on both the child and the woman.”
But back in 2007, she made the case against treating the unborn as people — at least, when it comes to qualifying for health care services.
During a House debate on an appropriations bill that year, Laubenberg, a staunch conservative, put forward an amendment that would require expectant mothers to wait three months before they could begin receiving prenatal and perinatal care under the Children’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, a program that helps cover uninsured children in low-income families.
It is extremely cynical of the males in the Texas legislature to ensure a woman brings in this bill – and extremely stupid for a women to agree to such a thing. Ms Laubenberg is 56 years old – so she will never be in need of an abortion. She has 2 children – so either only had sex 2 times – or had the benefit of sex education and contraceptives – with the knowledge that termination was available (she would have been quite young when Roe V Wade was passed.)
She has 1 daughter who may well be caught up with this legislation. Wonder what she would think if her daughter was forced to have an ultrasound against her will.
So much is said about the so-called GOP base and how intractable they are…what if we were able to build coalitions among this same base on common interests of concern namely Health Care….JOBs…Food access….Education….oftentimes it is when folks work together on common ground issues that barriers can be broken down….
PF, definitely some Republicans could be persuaded to fight for these things. Not all are rapid far right government haters. It’s certainly worth a try.
There’s an assumption embedded in the argument that no one disputes: namely, that whites will always be as conservative as they are now and will always vote Republican in the same numbers they do now. This assumption is wrong. White people—yep, even working-class white people—are going to get less conservative in coming years, so the Republicans’ hopes of building a white-nationalist party will likely be dashed in the future even by white people themselves.
I guess she’s running—–see Obama campaign gurus Jeremy Bird and Mitch Stewart are joining up with Hillary Clinton super-pac. Also notice she’s had a makeover——new hair color and style, professional makeup job, updated clothes.
Hey Layla—-were you the one who posted the instructive quote yesterday, I believe, about going out with champagne in one hand and chocolate in the other? If so, would you repost—–and whose quote was that? I enjoyed it.
Hey there, here is the quote, will try and find link later as going to work now….
‘Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways – Chardonnay in one hand – chocolate in the other – body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming ‘WOO HOO, What a Ride’
Wow, really surprised by that, I thought if they were getting involved again they’d opt for a younger, ‘fresher’ candidate than Hillary – and no, eh, disrespect to Hillary.
Perhaps this is the concession that Hillary has made that the same old same old will not do…although I am not sold on a candidate yet…I find it encouraging that she has learned some things from the Obama Campaign…
It’s definitely a smart move by her, no doubt, I’m just surprised by Bird and Stewart’s decision. And I honestly didn’t think she would run – this makes it look fairly certain that she will!
I’m going to sound horribly ageist, but the simple fact that she would be 77-ish at the end of two terms is ….. nuts. I honestly can’t believe she is considering running, but it looks like she is.
yea…I agree…age is a factor…being able to keep up with the mental and physical rigors of the office…but for me…Hillary’s greatest liability is not her age but her husband…sigh….
I’m surprised she’s running also. In spite of the constant Hillary push in the media, I believed she—-herself—-did not want to run, was looking forward to doing something worthwhile but more low key, where she could live a more normal life, that she was weary from all the high pressure positions. I knew Bill wanted her to run—-selfishly—- and there seems to be a huge Hillary fan club still hanging around who is pushing hard, for whatever reason….but I thought if it was her decision alone she would opt out.
Also agree that she—-and Joe B.—–are too old. That job requires someone 20 years younger—–not someone with the diminishing energy and acumen of someone in their 70’s. No matter how much one tries to stay fit and sharp, things happen as you age. That job is an unimaginably heavy load—-needs someone younger.
You are not ageist, Chips,. Age is an important factor when it comes to being leader of the free world. That’s why the minimum age is 35. Otherwise why can’t a 21-year old (who is legally an adult and can apply for any other job) run for President?
And while there is no maximum age, anyone who’s lived long enough can tell you that there are certain realities and hard truths about getting past a certain age that make it less than ideal to be tasked with running a complex country such as the US, let alone the rest of the world.
Hiya Hopefruit, completely agree, I’ve lost count of how many times we asked ‘how on earth does he do it?’ when we looked at PBO’s grueling schedule, especially on foreign trips – and he’s a relatively young and super fit man. I just don’t see how it’s remotely realistic for someone of Hillary’s age – certainly going in to a second term – to keep up that kind of pace, not least during an election campaign. And much as I love Joe, I think age rules him out too.
I’m surprised too by Bird and Stewart’s decision. And to be perfectly candid, disappointed. Maybe I’m not fair to the Clintons, but I don’t see them as the best people to carry Barack Obama’s legacy. I see them as too cosy with the military industrial complex, too cosy with corporate America in general. And they’re really too comfortable with the Beltway Culture for my tastes. And I’m not even touching all the difficulty that Hillary would have to assert her authority within the executive branch with the presence of Bill Clinton in the White House.
Gosh, the more I think of it, the more I’m really disappointed by Bird and Stewart’s decision. This move will be seen as Barack Obama endorsing Hilary. Watch the media this week. This will be all over the news. OF course, we don’t know if President Obama is really endorsing Hilary. But that’s how the media will play it. For once, I won’t blame them completely. Such high profile people from the Obama campaign moving to the Hilary train ? This is BIG.
Note: The only reason I could feel a little better about how this is transpiring is if I become convinced that the return of the Clintons is the only way to put a fatal blow to the radicalized republican party. The political power of the far right has to be destroyed for good. Only an historic defeat, for the Presidency AND for Congress, can do that. In my mind, even more than the defeat of Corporate America, the destruction of the far right is very important. They are destroying political institutions, ruining lives with their extremist economic policies, exacerbating racial tensions, endangering society stability with their nutty gun laws, endangering America’s reputation in the world, and on and on. The American Taliban have to be destroyed before they destroy America. It seems “sane republicans” are too afraid, too greedy, too power hungry to do the job, so the job will have to be done by democrats. Can a Clintons (with an s) candidacy accomplish that and is it the only candidacy that can accomplish that? Maybe. Sigh… (Maybe Barack Obama sees it like this too. He’s always been able to accept to pay a short term price in order to accomplish a bigger, long term goal).
Purely because of the age factor 57, I thought she would rule it out, despite her ambition. All her travel and work towards the end of her time as Sec of State seemed to take its toll, I was sure that would make her realize running for President – and a possible two terms – just wasn’t realistic.
I remember the toll the 2008 campaign. I wish optics weren’t so important, but Hillary shows stress very easily. I remember watching her standing on a stage during a campaign event in 2008, and I knew exactly where her back hurt, her knees. I know what it feels like to be her age.
the Republicans are planting the ‘age’ seed and their plan will be to wear her out. They will run a younger, robust candidate and they will calculate that the optics will be enough for the low information ‘indie’.
We should be done with Clintons and Bushes. She should do what is best for the country. But the CW is that no one can beat her, and she believes that. Repubs will find new, nefarious ways to try to beat her I’m afraid.
I’m reluctant to make age an issue at all, but there’s just no avoiding it, it is an issue – and it applies to VP Biden, and whatever ambitions he might still have, even more. And definitely, they will ruthlessly use it against her especially, as you say, if they run some young super-fit buck. If she does choose to run, it really will be a case of her ambition and refusal to accept she’s served her time overcoming good sense.
here’s the distinction I would make: I don’t question that a person in his/her 70’s can be President. I question how they can withstand the rigors of the modern Presidential campaign, which is 2+ years long with the media measuring every word, every wrinkle. Biden’s repetitiveness when he speaks now is going to doom him, although he would be a fantastic President.
Hillary’s true colors show when she is under stress; and one thing that was prevalent throughout the 2008 campaign was her sense of entitlement. The Clintons couldn’t (or wouldn’t) hide that. What I learned from 2008 about Hillary is that she doesn’t have greatness in her. She could not rise to greatness as a candidate (the only points she won were through under-handed methods), and I may be flamed for saying this, but she was a pedestrian SoS. I expect the Clintons to blame PBO for that but ultimately she did little to distinguish herself. Her ‘greatness’ as SoS is hype, in my opnion.
I’ll say this: we do not need a contentious primary season. Unless there was someone of PBO caliber and it looks like Hillary has an edge, I’d rather save her energy for the general. I’m trying to think strategically, the way that Republicans do.
All that being said, we’ve had enough Bushes and Clintons. But if Hillary’s our best path to keeping the WH, then I’m on board.
If she’s our candidate I will vote for her, I will support her, I will help get her elected. But I’d also like her to win me over so I can do those things with enthusiasm. I will do whatever I can because we CANNOT have a Republican in the White House. But I’d like her to understand that she has to prove to the entire country that she is worthy of support.
BillyBobBubba definitely gets in the way of my vote, maybe it’s good I am utterly flat broke, when will the emails start arriving? (do you suppose they will have the mailing list from OFA?)
This presidential run talk is all too premature. Wait until the 2014 elections…..that is when we have sifted through the possibilities. If Hillary is doing an inevitable thing again, she will lose again.
Yes, age does make a difference. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again…..70 is too old to start the presidency. I am 73 years old, and can tell a difference between now and 63, and I am in good health, mentally and physically. The presidency needs a younger person who has the physical, emotional and mental stamina to put up with all that happens. I will not throw in my support for any one yet…..I think our nominee has yet to be discovered.
bad talking point. The “repeal” of any LAW requires a majority of the congress, also ObamaCare has had it’s day in court and has been upheld by the Supreme Court of the United States. Any attack/ preservation of ObamaCare has to come from a majority of congress. Hillary can’t save anything. If by some miracle she became president and the majority of congress were republican and they decided to “repeal” ObamaCare, there is nothing she could do about it. Even is she vetoed it, then the majority of congress can override her veto power. Hillary can’t save the Democrats or their agenda. She’s more likely to give up on— sorry— TRIANGULATE with republicans— PBO’s legacy. Thanks but NO THANKS.
Sitting in the majority does not automatically mean they could override a veto. Republicans would need basically a 2/3 majority in both houses to do that which they won’t get anytime soon.
I’m not going to throw triangulate around because her husband did it. She is her own person so we shall see. Hopefully being around the greatest politician in my lifetime rubbed off on her.
This 2016 talk is pure distraction. Right now it’s all about 2014. I will say this. If Hillary really wants to help out then she and the entire Clinton team need to do everything they can to ensure Democrats win the midterms.
Of course! That’s what that was all a out, Demonize IRS so that when we make a stand we have the public in our side.
Bastards!
This is a sabotage on Obamacare again!
They can try – but they won’t succeed. This is 2013, not 2010. This is their last effort of desperation before the exchanges are up and running after October….
Love love LOVE the POTUS talking to the “Press”…he’s taking it very seriously, and I just love how he comes down to the young man’s level and looks him in the eye.
Just adorable.
Hopefruit,
The MSM obsession with the president is clear.
Let me ask you a question?
Do you think Tayvon trial gets as much publicity if a White President?
It’s all racial and division in the news, IMO!
I agree. There’s no denying that the election of Barack Obama has created a certain backlash from racist America. What the MSM is doing, with its wall to wall coverage of the Zimmerman trial, is EXACERBATING racial tensions in America.
But but but Hillary whoa Hillary… Is she too old, what about bill, will she or won’t she run, what about bill, Mitch Stewart sez…
Ugh!
Every day is Hillary day!
😦
I don’t hate her. I hate her husband. Also, too. she wouldn’t make a good president. She needs to bow out gracefully and let a newer, less Washington/Big Money Corrupted individual carrying on PBO’s legacy. She can’t be trusted to do so. Plus, she’ll be 70 at the end of the election/ god forbid, start of the first term. No thanks.
Unfortunately Shipmate, only the blog tyrants are able to post pics in the comments, more WordPress silliness, the only other way to do it is through tweets.
The Obama Diary 
So cute.
Congrats Betsy. I guess i shouldn’t have blinked first. 😀
Thanks VC
It was so dear how President Obama asked Makenna if she would like to give him a hug. Well, of course, she did! We all would!
I certainly would LOVE a hug from President Obama!!
Wow!
I opened the door and there was the invitation!
Blinking can cost you, VC….
Hello there, MP! 😀 It sure can; it was the shock because I was focused on seeing what you all were up to and expected to land in the middle of a thread. ( ps MP: I will respond to you ‘one of these days’ when I’m more ‘together’; in the meantime continue to take care.)
No worries, VC, interesting that I signed off that night just as you were posting… I had had a tough day, and after seeing the news of the bombings at Bodh Gaya, I had to shut down. You take care too, my dear dear VC!
Looks like I arrived just in time to eat – talk about good timing! Howdy folks, my first time sticking my nose in today, and no, I have no updated info yet. Will let you know when I know.
It sure was good to open the door and be met with happy faces and a happy mood! Now I have to go check for the highlights of today.
He is always super with kids. Kids know who is real.
His goodness just shines through!
Again–For those of you complaining about the sequester, come October the GOP wants another one just like it, until we drastically cut Medicare the way they want, they will continue holding this country hostage.
So, focus on the upcoming sequester, try to stop it, the other one is ancient history!
there’s another one? good grief. guess I better go find out about it.
I’m fascinated by the citrus and vegetable tablscapes. Inexpensive color. Must have smelled wonderful too in there
I want to give him a hug…
Me too mighty one – I just got back from the dermatologist – I swear that guy finds lumps and bumps that are invisible to the rest of the world – so then I see PBO giving out hugs – and I feel so much better – it is truly amazing.
Yes, I know 99ts, I took a ‘detour’ yesterday on the way to PT, something like 12 blocks later I reached my destination… Still had to endure the grueling therapy session, and a bus ride home…. I thought my legs were both going to come off. Paying a high price today, nothing to do but to press on! Hence, when I said I want to hug PBO, Mr. Yardarm could not know I meant just a simple, healing hug! (you are a naughty boy, Mr. Yardarm!)
Easy Pam. The naughty mat locker is still open! 😀
What did I say??????
Cap’n – see above! 😉
I read your mind. 😆
Uh, it may be you read your OWN mind this time, skipper! I am as innocent as a baby robin, just fledging the nest…. 😉
OH PUUUHLEEEZE ! Where are my boots? It’s gettimg around here. 8-o
We know that someone cares yardarm – it is so endearing and absolutely wonderful – that the President, amid the issues he has to address, understand the benefit of a caring hug. If every world leader so understood – there would be no need for the endless concern about keeping folks safe from terrorism – let alone safe from idiots with 2nd amendment paranoia.
THIS!
Not to mention the joy he gave that little girl’s family, 99ts. I have a Downs Syndrome nephew about that age and were he to encounter that kind of affirmation from the president, the entire family would be rejoicing
He just knows when and what is the right thing to do Jackie – I have never known such a man so skilled in human relationships. As some have tried – but few succeed – he can talk and mingle with princes and paupers – and everyone in between, including very young children and veterans in their 90s.
Well I was surprised that there was a new post so soon, so I’m posting this Congressional resource guide (PDFs and Excel spreadsheets you can download) for those who missed it earlier.
Just saw this tweet, and I thank you for this information. Wow!
I also think the GOP overplays there hand the next time they go for drastic cuts in October.
The President is not having anything of it, and if we default and don’t fund the government the president should blame GOP with a nightly address while stock market crashes.
Lay it out for the world to see…
This is getting pathetic!
Jovie, it’s also why we have to keep our local team contacts active and flex our electoral muscles. Gerrymandering doesn’t protect ALL congressional seats and we can make our reps feel the heat.
It was a wonderful event.
Going ahead by leaps and bounds… in the right direction!
Any simpleton should know by now there is a very good reason Mother Earth put all that toxic black waste material DEEP DEEP inside, away from the surface…
Very good point. Instead of investing in fracking technology, just imagine how far we’d be if these billionaires were spending that money and time on green technologies. Instead, they spend their days trying to shut down Tesla’s ability to sell cars to regular people. And that car is quite beautiful!
I am sure the kids had a wonderful time today at the Kid’s State Dinner. I don’t know who came up with this idea but it was a brilliant one. To have our lovely FLOTUS as the host, and have POTUS make a surprise visit, just great.
Anniebella – I am sure your beloved FLOTUS had much to do with this wonderful idea. She has put so much new meaning into the role of First Lady.
Glad to hear that my beloved FLOTUS had much to do with this wonderful idea. Because she is very much respected and admired.
Do that sound right, respected? Anyway I admire and respect our First Lady so much. Both of them, POTUS and FLOTUS.
Couldn’t agree more annieb – she is the most wonderful FLOTUS
A post I did a while back on this wonderful man… http://thelovelyplains.wordpress.com/2013/05/09/a-butler-well-served-by-this-election/
Maybe?
Seriously.
We’ll see come Friday.
Alright, I’m off to bed now. Gotta get up early for work. Gonna send up my daily affirmations asking that both Pacific Rim and The Wolverine movies are worth my time and money. I’m counting on you Guillermo Del Toro and Idris Elba!
Also, I’m hoping Patton Oswalt is right:
w00t! That’s a good recommendation!
I gotta go to bed too I –
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
(nitey nite TOD)
G’nite lamh and alice. Sleep tite and don’t let Wikidicks bite.
Ha – love all your “goodnights”!
🙂 🙂 🙂
GE TOD!
Complete list of honorees: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/07/03/president-obama-award-2012-national-medal-arts-and-national-humanities-m
This guy was on the shortlist to be Romney’s VP……..man if we could have been so lucky. Would have won the house easily.
The term “bought and paid for” takes on a whole new meaning! It’s a family affair!
Not to mention this slug’s family connections:
Like I said…family affair! 🙂
reminds me of Gov. Scott and HIS wife profiting from drug testing….
McDonnell’s term is up this year. Hard to see how he would be dislodged before the November election. Frankly, I’d prefer to have the stink of corruption sully all the Republican candidates running this year.
Soon the MSM will be clamoring over the Annual Kid’s State Dinner the same way they clamor over everything that PBO participates in – take for instance the WHCD…By 2015, this will be a “hot” event in DC…
It’ll be interesting to see if there’s just as much clamouring in 2017. 😉
Something tells me the answer will be no.
🙂
Done in, feeling a lot older than 62 should feel tonight.. be well, y’all, back tomoz! Sweet dreams of flying saucers landing (oh wait, they are too big to land, never mind, sweet dreams they will de-cloak and we will wake to skies filled with wonder!)
G’nite Mighty P! Sleep tight and don’t let Rand Paul bite. 🙂
Ugh, Rand Paul is nothing more than a wedgie… He can bite his own ass for all I care.. G’nite HF, you are lovely! Gone now…really.
Indeed, let him bite his own ass. 🙂 🙂 🙂
Rest, MightyPamela, so you can seize the day – again – tomorrow! (Hugs!)
{{{{{JO’B}}}}} here’s that hug!
🙂
you overdid it. You are going to make me come over there, aren’t you?
Give your body a chance to heal, MP. {{{{{MightyPamela}}}}}}
This is da bomb.
Only you, Yardarm, only you….. LOLOLOL 😆 😆
Moi?
LOL 🙂
Such B.S. …….. Just like Charlie Christ, in Florida if your a Republican and are affiliated w/ President Obama….you are run out. Love his quote
“But the compact, upbeat, Midwesterner is sanguine — likening membership departures to separating the wheat from the chaff.”
OK GN TOD…..sending virtual flowers to VC and Layla.
GN, LP & TY 4 the ‘fresh’ flowers. 😀 Sweet dreams!
I was wondering what all those tweets yesterday asking this hypocritical governor for permission for some very personal things – and some very basic, mundane things like going grocery shopping – were all about. Republicans are the Taliban, and they are offensively awful.
I’ve been off TOD the ENTIRE day! Not good. Trying to catch up, but it looks like so much happened today… I found this video of the Obamas with kids on one of the links – and I’m sure it’s made a debut here before, but it’s just lovely!
Love this So Much! Thanks theo.
🙂
Absolutely beautiful, Theo! Thanks for sharing these clips.
Thanks Nathkatun – they really are lovely – the images and the couple!
Awesome video, thanks Theo
A lovely video
Thank you so much!! This is wonderful! Let’s tweet this baby all over the place!
Thanks dudette!
I love Pete Souza’s comment about that one child with the camera having his job one day!
I don’t often quote ol’ Howard, but this is so true. Abortion just happens to be their “way in.” There are true believers against abortion, but most of this Republican crowd could not care less about anything to do with the procedure, if it’s for somebody they know.
I give credit to Howard Dean for stepping into this important battle – after declaring his wish to possibly run for President, versus certain other potential candidates for 2016 who have a bigger stake in this fight and yet remain silent.
Agree, although I’m not sure of the timing of his statement – could have been picked up from an earlier campaign or election cycle. He’s pretty consistent in most things, I’ll give him that, although he’s not a good candidate from my POV.
Then, I reserve my praise for Howard Dean, but still hold firm on certain other candidates who haven’t lifted a finger to help with this fight.
That said, I don’t think Howard Dean should run again – I don’t think he has what it takes to take the mantle from President Obama or to be a good president.
I’d take Dean over Clinton. Sadly, I don’t think Dean is electable anymore (and this coming from an ’03 Deaniac).
No Howard Dean for me.
I think there are very few “true” believers against abortion – when it was their child who was raped – or his wife who was raped – or their child who has no hope of surviving the pregnancy – I think you could count on 1 finger any person who would want to continue that particular pregnancy. When it is someone else’s wife – or someone else’s child – well of course, they are true believers.
Totally agree, 99ts. It is the same way with same sex marriage. If there is a loved one in the family who is gay, then attitudes change, at least toward that person. At heart, it’s a complete lack of empathy. They simply cannot walk in someone else’s shoes. It must be their way or none at all.
Only to admit in a day or two that their extensive surveillance and spying tools would put NSA to shame….
ROTFLMAO!!!
Realizing he’ll probably have my computer hacked, I felt I must ask.
HAHAHAHA! Someone needed to ask that question. 🙂 Let’s see if he responds. Probably will just block you….
[ICYMI. The dumber-than-dirt guy who signed this law is still governor of Florida.]
Florida Accidentally Banned All Computers, Smart Phones In The State Through Internet Cafe Ban: Lawsuit
When Florida lawmakers recently voted to ban all Internet cafes, they worded the bill so poorly that they effectively outlawed every computer in the state, according to a recent lawsuit.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/08/florida-banned-computers_n_3561701.html
Not surprising – these people are repressive and regressive.
And repulsive and …
Yup, yup.
I’m way lost – why would anyone ban Internet cafes?? (I just read it – My gosh – these RWNJs throw out the baby with the bathtub every day of the week). I end up laughing at those who think their actions will solve “the sin of the world” – when it will have zero impact whatsoever – or make things worse. Come every season – folks are going to gamble – good luck with stopping that.
This is happen when dumb, hateful people run the government. Ugh!
This is what happens… [Arrgh! I need caffeine!] 🙂
http://www.kpho.com/story/22798069/natural-gas-well-leaking-in-gulf-off-the-la-coast
Ha! Hear us roar:
I love this! I’ d love a t-shirt with this written on the back. It would sell like hotcakes at Democratic events.
Good one God!!!!
😆 That’ll go down well!
A sentiment shared with the many
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/09/texas-abortion-bill-author_n_3570588.html
Texas State Rep. Jodie Laubenberg (R), the author of the radically anti-abortion bill making its way through the Texas Legislature this week, argued for hours on Tuesday that lawmakers should support her bill because of its strong protections for a person’s “pre-born life.”The bill, HB 2, responds to “the definite death to the 70,000-plus babies who have been aborted in this state,” Laubenberg said during remarks on the House floor. “HB 2 focuses on both the child and the woman.”
But back in 2007, she made the case against treating the unborn as people — at least, when it comes to qualifying for health care services.
During a House debate on an appropriations bill that year, Laubenberg, a staunch conservative, put forward an amendment that would require expectant mothers to wait three months before they could begin receiving prenatal and perinatal care under the Children’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, a program that helps cover uninsured children in low-income families.
It is extremely cynical of the males in the Texas legislature to ensure a woman brings in this bill – and extremely stupid for a women to agree to such a thing. Ms Laubenberg is 56 years old – so she will never be in need of an abortion. She has 2 children – so either only had sex 2 times – or had the benefit of sex education and contraceptives – with the knowledge that termination was available (she would have been quite young when Roe V Wade was passed.)
She has 1 daughter who may well be caught up with this legislation. Wonder what she would think if her daughter was forced to have an ultrasound against her will.
Personal biography
http://votesmart.org/candidate/biography/50001/jodie-laubenberg#.Ud1JxZwmMaQ
And the web page is called “Vote Smart” – what a contradiction in terms.
Egypt’s prosecutor’s office has ordered the arrest of the leader of the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood movement, Mohammed Badie, state media report.
Mr Badie is accused of inciting the violence in Cairo on Friday in which at least 51 people were killed.
Several leading Brotherhood figures are already in detention and warrants have been issued for hundreds more.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-23256937
So much is said about the so-called GOP base and how intractable they are…what if we were able to build coalitions among this same base on common interests of concern namely Health Care….JOBs…Food access….Education….oftentimes it is when folks work together on common ground issues that barriers can be broken down….
Yes that would be ideal, however “hate” blinds them to common concerns!
I understand…esp. when it is continually stroked…but we have to break that wall…and build where we can….
Yup, saw it a few minutes ago. Disappointed that these guyz, after running the most exciting campaigns, signed up for the same old, same old.
PF, definitely some Republicans could be persuaded to fight for these things. Not all are rapid far right government haters. It’s certainly worth a try.
It is really our hope…to break thru the lockjam that corporate America uses to control all of us…
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/07/10/why-whites-will-abandon-the-gop.html
Why Whites Will Abandon the GOP
There’s an assumption embedded in the argument that no one disputes: namely, that whites will always be as conservative as they are now and will always vote Republican in the same numbers they do now. This assumption is wrong. White people—yep, even working-class white people—are going to get less conservative in coming years, so the Republicans’ hopes of building a white-nationalist party will likely be dashed in the future even by white people themselves.
I’ll believe it when I see it.
I guess she’s running—–see Obama campaign gurus Jeremy Bird and Mitch Stewart are joining up with Hillary Clinton super-pac. Also notice she’s had a makeover——new hair color and style, professional makeup job, updated clothes.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/la-pn-obama-campaign-leaders-clinton-pac-20130709,0,84.story
makeover shmakeover! she is who she is! not impressed…
Hey Layla—-were you the one who posted the instructive quote yesterday, I believe, about going out with champagne in one hand and chocolate in the other? If so, would you repost—–and whose quote was that? I enjoyed it.
Hey there, here is the quote, will try and find link later as going to work now….
‘Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways – Chardonnay in one hand – chocolate in the other – body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming ‘WOO HOO, What a Ride’
Thanks—love it, makes me 🙂
Oh hell yeah. I got the chocolate and am looking for some Chardonnay…..:lol:
Wow, really surprised by that, I thought if they were getting involved again they’d opt for a younger, ‘fresher’ candidate than Hillary – and no, eh, disrespect to Hillary.
Perhaps this is the concession that Hillary has made that the same old same old will not do…although I am not sold on a candidate yet…I find it encouraging that she has learned some things from the Obama Campaign…
It’s definitely a smart move by her, no doubt, I’m just surprised by Bird and Stewart’s decision. And I honestly didn’t think she would run – this makes it look fairly certain that she will!
hmmmmm…
it is interesting to note that they joined her so called super-pac…and not her campaign directly…
Step one!
I’m going to sound horribly ageist, but the simple fact that she would be 77-ish at the end of two terms is ….. nuts. I honestly can’t believe she is considering running, but it looks like she is.
yea…I agree…age is a factor…being able to keep up with the mental and physical rigors of the office…but for me…Hillary’s greatest liability is not her age but her husband…sigh….
I’m surprised she’s running also. In spite of the constant Hillary push in the media, I believed she—-herself—-did not want to run, was looking forward to doing something worthwhile but more low key, where she could live a more normal life, that she was weary from all the high pressure positions. I knew Bill wanted her to run—-selfishly—- and there seems to be a huge Hillary fan club still hanging around who is pushing hard, for whatever reason….but I thought if it was her decision alone she would opt out.
Also agree that she—-and Joe B.—–are too old. That job requires someone 20 years younger—–not someone with the diminishing energy and acumen of someone in their 70’s. No matter how much one tries to stay fit and sharp, things happen as you age. That job is an unimaginably heavy load—-needs someone younger.
said it all, PLUS……… the Bill Clinton factor.
You are not ageist, Chips,. Age is an important factor when it comes to being leader of the free world. That’s why the minimum age is 35. Otherwise why can’t a 21-year old (who is legally an adult and can apply for any other job) run for President?
And while there is no maximum age, anyone who’s lived long enough can tell you that there are certain realities and hard truths about getting past a certain age that make it less than ideal to be tasked with running a complex country such as the US, let alone the rest of the world.
Hiya Hopefruit, completely agree, I’ve lost count of how many times we asked ‘how on earth does he do it?’ when we looked at PBO’s grueling schedule, especially on foreign trips – and he’s a relatively young and super fit man. I just don’t see how it’s remotely realistic for someone of Hillary’s age – certainly going in to a second term – to keep up that kind of pace, not least during an election campaign. And much as I love Joe, I think age rules him out too.
I’m surprised too by Bird and Stewart’s decision. And to be perfectly candid, disappointed. Maybe I’m not fair to the Clintons, but I don’t see them as the best people to carry Barack Obama’s legacy. I see them as too cosy with the military industrial complex, too cosy with corporate America in general. And they’re really too comfortable with the Beltway Culture for my tastes. And I’m not even touching all the difficulty that Hillary would have to assert her authority within the executive branch with the presence of Bill Clinton in the White House.
Gosh, the more I think of it, the more I’m really disappointed by Bird and Stewart’s decision. This move will be seen as Barack Obama endorsing Hilary. Watch the media this week. This will be all over the news. OF course, we don’t know if President Obama is really endorsing Hilary. But that’s how the media will play it. For once, I won’t blame them completely. Such high profile people from the Obama campaign moving to the Hilary train ? This is BIG.
Note: The only reason I could feel a little better about how this is transpiring is if I become convinced that the return of the Clintons is the only way to put a fatal blow to the radicalized republican party. The political power of the far right has to be destroyed for good. Only an historic defeat, for the Presidency AND for Congress, can do that. In my mind, even more than the defeat of Corporate America, the destruction of the far right is very important. They are destroying political institutions, ruining lives with their extremist economic policies, exacerbating racial tensions, endangering society stability with their nutty gun laws, endangering America’s reputation in the world, and on and on. The American Taliban have to be destroyed before they destroy America. It seems “sane republicans” are too afraid, too greedy, too power hungry to do the job, so the job will have to be done by democrats. Can a Clintons (with an s) candidacy accomplish that and is it the only candidacy that can accomplish that? Maybe. Sigh… (Maybe Barack Obama sees it like this too. He’s always been able to accept to pay a short term price in order to accomplish a bigger, long term goal).
Big sigh again…
Really, Chips? I never for a minute thought her grace would win out over her ambition.
Purely because of the age factor 57, I thought she would rule it out, despite her ambition. All her travel and work towards the end of her time as Sec of State seemed to take its toll, I was sure that would make her realize running for President – and a possible two terms – just wasn’t realistic.
I remember the toll the 2008 campaign. I wish optics weren’t so important, but Hillary shows stress very easily. I remember watching her standing on a stage during a campaign event in 2008, and I knew exactly where her back hurt, her knees. I know what it feels like to be her age.
the Republicans are planting the ‘age’ seed and their plan will be to wear her out. They will run a younger, robust candidate and they will calculate that the optics will be enough for the low information ‘indie’.
We should be done with Clintons and Bushes. She should do what is best for the country. But the CW is that no one can beat her, and she believes that. Repubs will find new, nefarious ways to try to beat her I’m afraid.
I’m reluctant to make age an issue at all, but there’s just no avoiding it, it is an issue – and it applies to VP Biden, and whatever ambitions he might still have, even more. And definitely, they will ruthlessly use it against her especially, as you say, if they run some young super-fit buck. If she does choose to run, it really will be a case of her ambition and refusal to accept she’s served her time overcoming good sense.
here’s the distinction I would make: I don’t question that a person in his/her 70’s can be President. I question how they can withstand the rigors of the modern Presidential campaign, which is 2+ years long with the media measuring every word, every wrinkle. Biden’s repetitiveness when he speaks now is going to doom him, although he would be a fantastic President.
Hillary’s true colors show when she is under stress; and one thing that was prevalent throughout the 2008 campaign was her sense of entitlement. The Clintons couldn’t (or wouldn’t) hide that. What I learned from 2008 about Hillary is that she doesn’t have greatness in her. She could not rise to greatness as a candidate (the only points she won were through under-handed methods), and I may be flamed for saying this, but she was a pedestrian SoS. I expect the Clintons to blame PBO for that but ultimately she did little to distinguish herself. Her ‘greatness’ as SoS is hype, in my opnion.
I’ll say this: we do not need a contentious primary season. Unless there was someone of PBO caliber and it looks like Hillary has an edge, I’d rather save her energy for the general. I’m trying to think strategically, the way that Republicans do.
All that being said, we’ve had enough Bushes and Clintons. But if Hillary’s our best path to keeping the WH, then I’m on board.
I only hope she’s learned some things from PBO.
If she’s our candidate I will vote for her, I will support her, I will help get her elected. But I’d also like her to win me over so I can do those things with enthusiasm. I will do whatever I can because we CANNOT have a Republican in the White House. But I’d like her to understand that she has to prove to the entire country that she is worthy of support.
.
BillyBobBubba definitely gets in the way of my vote, maybe it’s good I am utterly flat broke, when will the emails start arriving? (do you suppose they will have the mailing list from OFA?)
I think the Clintons believe the polls and their own publicists – not a smart idea
okay?! I can’t support her. She is not the best person for the job, for all the above reasons PLUS Bill Clinton.
At lest she won’t repeal Obamacare!
This presidential run talk is all too premature. Wait until the 2014 elections…..that is when we have sifted through the possibilities. If Hillary is doing an inevitable thing again, she will lose again.
Yes, age does make a difference. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again…..70 is too old to start the presidency. I am 73 years old, and can tell a difference between now and 63, and I am in good health, mentally and physically. The presidency needs a younger person who has the physical, emotional and mental stamina to put up with all that happens. I will not throw in my support for any one yet…..I think our nominee has yet to be discovered.
They’re other issues besides Hillary.
A lot more prudent ones too.
Liberals get distracted rather easily.
Sigh!
Thank you.
bad talking point. The “repeal” of any LAW requires a majority of the congress, also ObamaCare has had it’s day in court and has been upheld by the Supreme Court of the United States. Any attack/ preservation of ObamaCare has to come from a majority of congress. Hillary can’t save anything. If by some miracle she became president and the majority of congress were republican and they decided to “repeal” ObamaCare, there is nothing she could do about it. Even is she vetoed it, then the majority of congress can override her veto power. Hillary can’t save the Democrats or their agenda. She’s more likely to give up on— sorry— TRIANGULATE with republicans— PBO’s legacy. Thanks but NO THANKS.
Sitting in the majority does not automatically mean they could override a veto. Republicans would need basically a 2/3 majority in both houses to do that which they won’t get anytime soon.
I’m not going to throw triangulate around because her husband did it. She is her own person so we shall see. Hopefully being around the greatest politician in my lifetime rubbed off on her.
This 2016 talk is pure distraction. Right now it’s all about 2014. I will say this. If Hillary really wants to help out then she and the entire Clinton team need to do everything they can to ensure Democrats win the midterms.
Of course she’s running. did anyone ever doubt it?
That tells you all you need to know about Walmart. And DC would be better for it, if Walmart pulls out.
These are the battles to be waged…and we are the ones (the workers/unions) that have to wage it…
Bye.
Of course! That’s what that was all a out, Demonize IRS so that when we make a stand we have the public in our side.
Bastards!
This is a sabotage on Obamacare again!
They can try – but they won’t succeed. This is 2013, not 2010. This is their last effort of desperation before the exchanges are up and running after October….
Love love LOVE the POTUS talking to the “Press”…he’s taking it very seriously, and I just love how he comes down to the young man’s level and looks him in the eye.
Just adorable.
LOL – I’m glad that others are noticing the MSM’s silly obsession with this President…
H/T Yardarm
🙂 🙂 🙂
Hopefruit,
The MSM obsession with the president is clear.
Let me ask you a question?
Do you think Tayvon trial gets as much publicity if a White President?
It’s all racial and division in the news, IMO!
I agree. There’s no denying that the election of Barack Obama has created a certain backlash from racist America. What the MSM is doing, with its wall to wall coverage of the Zimmerman trial, is EXACERBATING racial tensions in America.
Now Streaming… July 10, 2013 9:00 AM EDT:
Vice President Biden Speaks at the Opening Session of the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue – http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
I always thought Pat could have coached in the NBA and been successful.
Gm:) Great piece from Bob Cesca…because some people need things repeated over and over…
http://thedailybanter.com/2013/07/a-stellar-wind-primer-what-exactly-are-we-talking-about-regarding-the-nsa/
Have a terrific day everybody! 😀
But but but Hillary whoa Hillary… Is she too old, what about bill, will she or won’t she run, what about bill, Mitch Stewart sez…
Ugh!
Every day is Hillary day!
😦
It’s the MSM that keeps putting “Hillary” stories out there. And by the way I don’t believe that Chicago Tribune story.
It’s bc they know liberals hate her a way to divide us.
They’re controlling you!
Don’t you see it?
I don’t hate her. I hate her husband. Also, too. she wouldn’t make a good president. She needs to bow out gracefully and let a newer, less Washington/Big Money Corrupted individual carrying on PBO’s legacy. She can’t be trusted to do so. Plus, she’ll be 70 at the end of the election/ god forbid, start of the first term. No thanks.
Good morning all. It’s about that time for another thread, eh?
Moooooorning Shipmate! UT is our hostess with the mostest this morning, she’s working away on R&S and will unleash it soon!
Thanks Admiral. I got a few things on me mind that I want to say. BTW. What is the procedure to post a picture w’o doing it on a tweet first?
UT has posted!
Unfortunately Shipmate, only the blog tyrants are able to post pics in the comments, more WordPress silliness, the only other way to do it is through tweets.
So be it.
Rise and Shine!
http://theobamadiary.com/2013/07/10/rise-and-shine-549/