Hi everyone.
My name's Brendan Skwire and this is my first post at Firedoglake! Before anything else, I want to thank Jane and Pach and Christy for inviting me on board, and special thanks to RBG for leading me through a last minute backstage tour.
Frankly, I have no idea how this happened: I feel a little bit like Fielding Mellish in Bananas, a midget among real writers, real reporters. Me, I'm just a loud-mouthed guy from Philadelphia by way of Rhode Island (with an accent that falls somewhere between Raymond Marble and Peter Griffin) who lives a couple paychecks away from the federal poverty line, doing what he can to get by. I got into blogging because my friends got tired of reading my outraged emails after the shameful appointment of Mr. Bush to the Oval Office, and it's been pretty much nonstop since.
Oy. My blog. A repository of angst, bile, profanity, filth, and fist-shaking eye-popping outrage. The kind of stuff that would shock my mother if she wasn't a repository of angst, bile, profanity, filth, and fist-shaking eye-popping outrage.
What's a schmuck like am I doing in a nice place like this?
I'll be honest with everyone. I'm a just writer and a person with a strong social conscience, plain and simple. I have no special qualifications to write about politics, and I am consistently in awe of my colleagues' work. I mean, Booman Tribune's arguments for impeachment? Glenn Greenwald's masterful arguments? And everyone here at FDL? Dude! I am so not worthy.
On the other hand: I live in a state that until recently was represented by two of the pre-eminent assholes in the US Senate. The one that couldn't stop obsessing about fucking dogs got fired: the one that:
- decried the the Military Commissions Act of 2006 as un-Constitutional then voted for it anyway (and is now trying to run to the front of the parade for the repeal thereof);
- the one who tried to give the President retroactive immunity from prosecution from charges related to the illegal NSA wiretap program and lied about it repeatedly;
- the one who boasted
-
- …and then voted to confirm Alito;
- the one who inserted language into the re-authorization of the PATRIOT Act that allowed Bush to conduct the ongoing purge of politically inconvenient attorneys, and who then pled ignorance, blaming it on his staff; and last but certainly not least,
- the one who sat on the Veterans Affairs Committee since goddamn 19-fucking-81 and has the audacity to have his staff claim "well, he's aware now" about the way our troops are treated when they return injured from Iraq?
Yeah, Arlen Specter's still around: the guy's like a case of the crabs: he sucks and sucks and sucks the blood out of you, he's irritating as hell, and he gives you a bad reputation. What's to like?
Also, I live in Philadelphia, one of our greatest and most schizophrenic cities. On the one hand we languish without a decent public transport system, goofy recycling, some of the worst gun violence in the country, and an entrenched and corrupt political machine. On the other, our extremely active progressive movement is trying its hardest to change all that, nationally AND locally. And Booman lives here too!
On top of all this I'm a member of the working poor, a separated parent, a homeowner, and a musician. I work in social services, and see people in far worse straits than me fighting for their very survival. In short, a guy with a lot on his mind. And on that note, I gotta put the kiddo to bed. What's on YOUR mind? I'll be back after bedtime stories and songs to chat with the grownups.
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Welcome, and “zed!”
FITZ!
Hi Brendan!
Just got my own kiddo to bed! Now I gotta read these links you posted! Back in a bit!
Welcome! Philly also has good art museums.
Welcome. You have some good company in Philly. Isn’t Duncan (Atrios) from there?
I like this guy already.
Hi Brendan, welcome! My kid is still up; we’re on school vacation this week: sleeping in and skiing.
AND, PS we are all happy that PA dumped Ricky. Sorry about the other one, a whack at him next time, or so.
Hi, Brendan. Welcome. Count me among your big fans.
OMG! Brendan! OMG I’m like….I’m like your BIGGEST fan! I love you and I want to have your children!
Heh. J/k. Well, not about the love part. You’re my brother so I have to love you. Anyways congrats on the guest post and I’m just dropping this comment to congratulate you (haven’t even read your post yet! Don’t worry, I will) and to tell everybody that you’re one hell of a fine writer and that they should all drop everything they’re doing and only read you from now on.
I kid! I kid! Anyways, again congratulations Brendan. I’ll talk to you most likely tomorrow or rather, I guess I’ll be seeing you tomorrow most likely, huh?
Peace. Dreya and I are in for the night.
Brendan smells good, i like him.
can we keep him?
Never been to Philadelphia. But if Booman lives there, that’s a plus. Social services? That’s good.
Hi Brendan – Our Senators sound a lot alike except mine are Democrats.
Welcome to the lake, where there is always a clean towel, a bartender, and a rabid lamb petting zoo.
Welcome. I look forward to your posts. FDL just keeps getting better and better…
There’s more than one kiddo? How is this possible?
EPU’d from the previous thread
Yeah, but to where?
Speaking of bartenders, it’s been a long day and I haven’t seen mine in almost two weeks.
Rock on folks, I will explore this thread in the AM.
Hi Brendan
What do you mean you’re not worthy? You’re a great writer. Welcome to FDL!
Are there any radicals in Penn?
Hiya! Please justify the continued existence of Philadelphia. Thanks! And good luck in your new job.
punaise @
1
punaise – isn’t zed = the letter z?
Oklahoma kiddo @ 20
Pinnacles?
President Gore said today in remarks before the ….
He’s a winner…..it’s obvious. :) I can’t wait to read more. My eyes are popping out with outrage every day at Chimpy and clan’s antics…… misery loves company!
Hi Brendan! Isn’t this just a blast?
Arlen Specter is a weasel’s weasel (translation: even weasels can’t stand him).
Brendan, tis a real pleasure to have you here! Ta me boyo!
From Philly huh, do you throw batteries at the Republicans?
Hey everyone! the kiddo’s gone to bed,
and I’m not long for the world of consciousness either.
Backstage tours?
I’ve never met or seen RBG, but I’m picturing him walking backward, carrying a loud umbrella, gesturing wildly to the right and left:
This is where the Peanut plays . . .
we’re walking, we’re walking . . .
Here is where we keep TRex’s kibble (CHOMP! CHOMP! CHOMP!) . . .
we’re walking, we’re walking . . .
and over here is where Jane keeps her taser locked up when she’s not threatening TRex with it . . .
we’re walking, we’re walking . . .
this is where the mods lurk . . .
we’re walking, we’re walking . . .
this is the backstage coffee pot. Christy’s Rule #1: If you take the last cuppa, you gotta make the next pot before you go.
Welcome to the ‘Lake, Brendan! Hope you enjoyed the tour!
s @ 25
WORD!
Oklahoma kiddo, Philly is super schweet. The host of Oklahoma Drinking Liberally spends a lot of time here.
Just want to drop in a George Miller-kicking-butt-on-the-floor-of-the-House-today video. A true thing of beauty it is.
At Crooks & Lairs:
http://www.crooksandliars.com/…..-its-done/
Twisted Martini @ 28
I’m not a huge baseball fan but I think we gave that bigoted turd John Rocker the D-cell salute. Does he count?
brendan, Any backlash since word of Specters rogue employee has been outed as the person who inserted the horrible USDA circumvention into the Patriot Act? Of course Arlens cry of innocence rang a bit hollow, I just wondered if the guy was fired etc.
Yikes! This guy’s on fire! I seem to remember a post late night last night about the dangers of premature crescendo-ing…hope that doesn’t happen here! Vilkommen, bienvenue, welcome…
Hi Brendan!
Don’t forget to give Philly props to Lambert and Company at CorrenteWire — although I liked the Mighty Corrente building more when it was High Victorian . . .
Fuck yeah he counts! Welcome to the lake bro, pouring you a martini…
moi @ 12
Well…as long as you promise not to allow him to chase the neighbors. And no digging holes in the yard, ya’ hear?
Now that Arlen can’t control the committee what does he do? Not that he did much when he controled the committee.
AZ Matt – Sorry but he did a whole lot of damage, imo. Unforgivable (to put it politely).
alank1 @
21
Sure,I’d love to do that for you.
We have an amazing mass transit infrastructure left over from the glory days of the late 19th/early 20th century: maps and cool photos here.
Also, we have the largest municipal park in the country, Fairmount Park. Archaeological excavations that probe the early history of working people.
A very active left: incredibly active. Sometimes I make fun of the super-crunchy types , but they have the right idea.
More justification? We rehabbed the PSFS building, one of the earliest skyscrapers. AND: you can STILL buy 3 story, 5 bedroom house for under $200K.
Stephen Parrish, CPA @ 22
well, technically speaking, yes,. it’s kind of a running joke, started inadvertently in *somebody’s* haste to bag a zero.
Brandon,
You’re cracking me up already. Love your straightforwardness. Cute pic too. I believe you have a lot to share with this audience.
Welcome!
Hey Brendan.
Love your city very much– the museum and the art, the Schuykill, the U., the people, our history and so much more.
Welcome.
I like his anger and his blog.
Thats what we need around here some angst, bile,and what else did he say? That too.
Maybe it will get enough people out of their soft chair into the streets to protest the Iraq war.
Eureka Springs, AR @ 41
Arlen Specter, simply put, is rotten to the core. I don’t think he’s a good person at all.
he plays this whole moderate game, but he’s very much the authoritarian. he gets the brunt of my calls. Speaking of which, for some real fun, check out the “Crank Calling Santorum” link Brendan Calling, under “greatest hits”. Good times.
I think his office recognizes my voice now.
Eureka Springs, AR @ 40
I am with you there. I should of clarified what I meant – what good things did do? Nada! No oversight of anything!
Peterr,
How did you know that bumbershoots are part of RBG’s repertoire? Nice tour.
And welcome Brendan. The Lake is a friendly place. Hope you enjoy the company here.
Got paid yesterday. Time to send another check off to support the FDL habit.
punaise @ 1
Welcome, and “zed!”
Stephen Parrish, CPA @ 22
punaise – isn’t zed = the letter z?
I think he’s speaking Canadian eh. :)
Here are some stats that the Democrats should read understand and embrace. Instead they will run in fear of being called socialists and advocates of ‘Hillarycare’.
SHOULD GOVERNMENT GUARANTEE HEALTH INSURANCE FOR ALL?
Yes
64%
No
27%
WHICH IS MORE SERIOUS?
Providing health insurance for all
65%
Keeping health care costs down
31%
-GSD
Brendan, such language….What will Howard Kurtz think?
Welcome.
-GSD
RevDeb @ 47
May blessings from on high descend upon you! Peace.
I am actually very much out of the loop today. I drove to Syracuse and back to pick up my little boy. I typically get a case of insomnia if I have something important to do in the AM, but last night was awful. I got less than 2 hours of sleep, and hit the road at 6:00 AM.
How did trial go? I take it no verdict? What’s going on w. Iran?
Forgive me now,
The only stem-cell research bill that Twirlin’ Arlen ever voted for was for HIM and his own.
He’s cured now, and he does not give a dammmmmn anymore.
(that goes for his big-time religion on habeas corpus, too!)
Welcome Brendan.
I have a sneaking suspicion that a certain JH likes the way you talk.
How did trial go? I take it no verdict? What’s going on w. Iran?
1. It was literally a wash out. Plumbing problems
2. No verdict
3. The administration is actually going to have to talk with Iran next week.
oh, I thought someone else would beat me to it, but no verdict.
RevDeb @
48
Doesn’t every tour guide carry an umbrella and walk backwards?
No verdict.
Jury spotted very cheerfully laughing with one another – seems the lot of them like each other, and are enjoying this being-a-juror-business very much. People here suspect they are a litter of new plameologists.
They asked to leave at 2 tomorrow (they do not have Friday off) in order to attend to personal matters–tomorrow is parent teacher meeting day.
There was a leak in the bathrooms today which flooded the courthouse.
Jane didn’t lose anything today.
I’m listening to the podcast of the Iglesias interview on NPR and have a question. He said he regrets that he didn’t call the DoJ to report the inappropriate calls from members of Congress. Would that be the same DoJ that fired him in favor of someone else? Why would he expect redress from them?
rxbusa @ 59
I wanna see his performance reviews. Tuesday?
What area of social services do you work in? (curiousity from a health and human services worker here – I’m in fundraising and prospect research)
President Noodle Nuts is still in the tank even though Dean Broderella said that he was on the path to a big comeback.
Approve Disapprove
CBS/NY Times
2/23-27 29 61
2/8-11 32 59
-GSD
AZ Matt, that George Miller video kicks ass.
THAT is how it’s done. THAT is how I want Democrats to speak. This whole Broderism crap drives me fuckin’ bananas, and always has.
Welcome Brendan from across the river in South Jersey.
AZ Matt @
33
Matt! Thanks for that link. All I could say was, “Yes, indeed!”
RevDeb — OT, I enjoyed your post earlier today about your Supreme Court experience. I read it out of real-time, but wanted to let you know.
On Topic: Yes, Yes! Ding Dong, Brendan can call any time! This is the kind of fire and enthusiasm that makes me think all is not lost with our dear country.
rxbusa @
61
What’s the likliehood of Iglesias challenging that doddering old, pajama wearing pud Domenici for his senate seat?
-GSD
How the *** do you get your kid to bed at 6:00
Its a quarter to 9 here and the nightly two hour is in full swing.
(just took a break to pop in and see what’s up befor reapplying pressure)
AZ Matt @ 40
Ankle-biting? Likes the taste of silk, and argyle, umm ummm…good.
Fellow Repugs now on notice to wear either wool or polyester (worn by all the seediest K Street Repug Lobbyists), ’cause Arlen “Spin me like a Top” Specter has been trained to rollover for those.
Broder-mortis.
-GSD
More, please.
GSD @ 50
Howard Kurtz can suck my dick.
I don’t even read his column, it’s so freakin’ smarmy. And it’s not even interesting. That’s what’s worse, none of those guys are even remotely interesting. Not Kurtz, not the clown Cohen, certainly not Mallaby. They just all come off as such uptight prigs.
GSD – 27! he he he
wake up congress
LindaR
Thanks. It was 10 years and a lifetime ago. If I knew then what I know now . . . not that it would make a difference.
Hi Brendan. Welcome to FDL. Give ‘em hell!
brendancalling @ 62
What is funny to me is he comes from across the San Francisco Bay, Oakland, from Pelosi. And she has handled the VP pretty well lately. Bay Area liberals = Junkyard Dogs for the purposes of ripping Repugthugs.
welcome brendan.
Glad to have you.
thanks for fighting the good fight.
we got a 2nd grader boy.
what flavor is your kiddo?
Oh! Hi Jane! i missed your greeting earlier. And before I forget (before In pass out on the keyboard) let me say THANK YOU ALL FOR SUCH A WARM WELCOME.
I still don’t know who had the idea to bring me on board, but whoever you are, thank you so much. I am really truly honored to be here.
I’ve been reading this blog for a long time, and it’s just great to be in the company of people who write so passionately and think so deeply. It’s a total honor, and I will do my best not to suck.
Donita Sparks @ 75
hey Donita! The Bags are back together and have a new album out!
Valley Girl – If you are here, check your email
So are the same Republican ass-clappers that were so outraged about Speaker Nancy Pelosi spending all of that money on her “luxury jet” going to go into red-alert mode over a 900 million embassy?
Didn’t think so.
-GSD
dammit, why did I have to mention richard cohen? now I’m imagining what his voice sounds like. It’s really nasal isn’t it? Someone tell me he sounds like Francis from Pee Wee’s Big Adventure.
I imagine Mallaby as sounding like a cross between Eric Idle and Donald Duck.
brendancalling @ 73
Oh, how I hate it when ‘Lakers mince words and pussyfoot, prevaricate and beat around the bush. *snort*
Glad you’re on our team, Brendan, nice to see you here at the Lake.
Welcome Brendan!
I know how you feel about that working poor thing. Rediculous isn’t it? I do think you fit in here just fine too. Your voice is as clear as can be, perfect!
bmaz @ 80
VG here, now. Was away, responding to your email ;).
The Junkyard Dogs will use Alberto as a chew toy!
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE ISSUES SUBPOENAS IN U.S. ATTORNEY FIRING SCANDAL
http://www.bradblog.com/
Arlen Specter always made a bold statement about what he was going to do, with cameras running. Then, when he went in his little room, he’d do just what Bushboy wanted him to do. A total weasel! Still is!
brendancalling @ 81
I’ll check it out. Thanks!
Loved your post, Brendan. Don’t discourage yourself—of course you are worthy!
You being from Philly reminded me of a funny family event I had a long time ago (musta been the early ’80s). I had an aunt and uncle who lived in Philly who came to my farm in Maryland to pick up an elderly aunt from Oklahoma from my Texas aunt and uncle (got all that family geography?) who had been traveling with her. Anyhow, at the dinner table the old folks started arguing politics in a way that was immediately clear to me had been going on for decades. The Texas uncle and the Oklahoma aunt were the long time progressives and the Philly relatives were the conservatives. It was great fun for me to realize what a long tradition the arguing in my family was…and helpful to me to realize that being the only liberal in my branch of the family didn’t come out of nowhere. I had always thought I was a mutant or something until I realized that I had been raised on it without knowing.
Too many straight guys hanging around this saloon, now.
Heh.
Welcome, Brendan!
oh Jane, can we keep him ?
Welcome To The Lake Brendan ! – actually a good post and on par with what we spoiled rotten Firedogs have become accustomed – please come back and visit any time you like
rxbusa — so cool. That is the legacy of being an American. I too remember staying up late into the night for family “discussions” when I was a kid. My parents were dysfunctional in all the mundane ways, but they were great about this. They loved talking politics and encouraged us kids to join in. We were never ridiculed for our opinions, as long as we had reasons for what we stated.
I thought all families were like that, ha!
Morris Sheppard @
17
First to look at Barbra’s new digs and then to Costa Rica.
aaahhh
From the Raw Story:
http://www.rawstory.com/news/2….._0301.html
aliasofwestgate @ 84
It really sucks to be working poor, but what’s worse is that when I compare my salary to my father’s when HE was my age, I make the same amount in dollars. Literally.
And I’m in good shape, relatively speaking: I own my house, I have a salary and benefits. It’s all spoken for from bills, student loan, and child support, but if my situation was a little different, I’d probably be doing OK.
I’m actually on my way out of working poor if things continue the way they’ve been going, but with the notion of “job security” out the window (didncha love that Clintonian “employability” line, and the whole “service economy”? how’s that working out?), what does that even mean anymore: pretty much everyone’s exposed to financial collapse. One bad illness, getting laid off at the wrong time, and you can be pretty well screwed. that’s how it happened with me. New boss, new priorities, and our whole office got dumped. i didn’t find a salaried job for a year and a half.
My best, and oldest friend? Not so good: he’s highly educated, and hasn’t found salaried work (as opposed to wage) in three years.
AZ Matt @ 86
That is some sweet sweet stuff. I could mainline that.
Hi Brendan,
Wow, you are from Rogue’s Island as well? Cool you understand the attitude of the smallest state in the union.
I submitted some 8mm film of Rocky Point from the 60’s to the movie project. I also met my (now ex) husband while working there in the games in the late 70’s. Very eye opening for a fairly sheltered small town girl.
I miss the park. There was no reason it couldn’t go on and be successful. Bad management, bad decisions.
welcome to FDL enjoy and do well!
The outrage is building. Not against Republicans mind you. Against my party, the Democrats.
Hi Brendan and welcome.
Currently investigating you blog.
“Crooks and Liars” has taken a pass on linking the latest post on mine.
Can you blame them?
M’self, I don’t think there’s been nearly enough “angst, bile, profanity, filth, and fist-shaking eye-popping outrage” around lately. :)
Oklahoma kiddo @ 100
big ditto!
GET SPINE– lots of us gave it to you and worked our tails off for it!
Ha! Anybody who starts a post with “Closeted, self-loathing homosexual Matt Drudge ” is A-OK in my book!
More please and SING OUT LOUISE!
Brendan, it’s nice to know I’m not the only one who “got into blogging because my friends got tired of reading my outraged emails” – yeah. Looks like you’ve found plenty of new ones here. Cheers.
Brendan, I’m sure I sound like your mother.
From a formerly fairly quiet person in Ohio fundamentalist country, I just finally had enough forever of Repubs and all their phoney piety and selfish fakey patriotism. As if they’re the only ones who love their country.
Now I breathe in, cuss out. Ahh. Repeat.
;) Welcome!
Checked out your site, it’s witty, informed and fun to read. I am looking for a change, love FDL too, but am done with HuffPO…….bad medicine.
Look forward to reading more on Brenden Calling…..really enjoyed all the stuff on bluegrass, cajun, and Hank Williams.
It’s clear you’ve got a lot of heart!!!!!
brendan calling has “Here Come The Liars“.
check it out.
Brendan is in da house!
(can we keep him?)
Screw up in Colorado and get employed in agricultural labor. Of course if they throw immigrants in then they will have a cheap, experienced workforce. Welcome to TancredoLand!
From the LA Times:
Colorado to use inmates to fill migrant shortage
Tough laws passed last year against illegal immigration have created a need for farmworkers.
By Nicholas Riccardi, Times Staff Writer
http://www.latimes.com/news/na…..;cset=true
Morris Sheppard @
6
Yes he is. Brendan should come out to Drinking Liberally if he can. It’s a good time.
I’ve been in the workforce a good 12 almost 13 years now. I’ve interviewed for several salaried jobs, and can’t get beyond the wage ones. This current one i absolutely love, except the corporation pays f*cking PEANUTS to Pharm Techs that are helping other people every day, and keeping from grave mistakes happening. If i didn’t love the people i work with, and my regular patients? I would have quit a year ago. This isn’t an easy job, and i still earn under 9$ an hour. If i wasn’t single with no dependants, i’d be in worse trouble. As it is, i’m still scraping because between personal med issues and random emergencies, i have no money to spare at ALL.
Royally f*cked only begins to explain it.
Employee Free Choice Act passed the House
UNION ! UNION ! UNION !
my standing apologies if previously posted
Brendan, welcome.
My beloved aunt Mary Jo just died 6 weeks ago. She had spent the 60’s and 70’s in downtown Philly not leaving with the other white folks. She taught art. She healed neighborhoods. She fought against nukes and the war in Vietnam and she made people create beauty.
She was so Philadelphia.
Good on you, Brendan. Make us see your city as you do.
Parenting note–the Monsterboy just cleaned up the recycling without being asked. This is a day of miracles.
Margot @ 106
What’s really sad is that the Repubs have fooled a lot of decent people from places like Ohio, NC, and TN. I’m a HUGE bluegrass, country, and old-time fan, and subscribe to a bluegrass list-serv. there are people there who i just love to pieces, great upstnding folks I know from festivals, people I’ve played music with, who have let my son (who only just turned 3 in January) sleep in their campers during late night picking sessions, and who I simply do not discuss politics with. Ever. under any circumstances. And they don’t bring it up with me either. And they keep getting screwed by the party they support, and not in the same way the Dems let us down, like really REALLY fucked over!
If you are on the egr prayer support list please go for it you will see why tomorrow.
I Love Jane Hamsher @ 110
Actually, I’m the host of Philly’s Drinkiing Liberally, I forgot to mention that.
It’s every Tuesday at 6 PM, the Tangier Bar at 18th and Lombard Streets. And yeah, Duncan’s almost always there. Same with Booman, Suzie Madrak, Upyernoz, Cabin Girl (from BMT), Rittenhouse Review shows up sometimes, everyone from All Spin Zone.
Philly has TONS of progressive bloggers. If you’re going to be in town, email me in advance.
EXCLUSIVE!
Mouse House Scores – Pix Fix For Flix …
News Junkie optioned by mega-family values studio…hush hush on the QT.
Have I mentioned lately that I really like you people? *grinz*
Okay, is it just me? I’m relatively new here – have things always “fit” like this at FDL? I sense something more powerful than the average blog here..feel like a part of something much bigger…a group dynamic, a shared karma, call it what you will..it feels DAMNED GOOD!
Oh yeah, and BRENDAN – YOU ROCK!
Welcome aboard, Brendan. You’re gonna fit in just fine.
Thanks to Jane and Pach and Christy for shanghai-ing you over here.
egregious @ 113
((((egregious))))
Allison, my condolences on your aunt’s passing. She sounds like a Philadelphian: there are some tough people here.
I’ve only been here since 1999, but it feels like my whole life.
Brendan’s usually there, extolling the virtues of Coffee Milk, Del’s Lemonade, and Quahogs.
I’m probably gonna sign off soon, I’m on two hours of sleep, and I want to check the blogs before I hit the sack (I haven’t even read my email today!) TRex is coming up soon though, so y’all stick around!
Hi Brendon. Welcome to the lake. Sorry you guys got stuck with Arlen.
karen allen @ 89
Exactly Karen. He is a little little man.
Mad Dogs @
27
I’ll never forget what he did to Anita Hill. There must be a special place in hell reserved for Arlen Specter.
Dude, i have a bottle of autocrat syrup in the fridge. no lie.
No stuffies though. I need to go back this summer for a stuffie. hey looks what’s back!
had a haven brothers lately?
I don’t know why my other post didn’t make it!
Its my 2nd poste here at FDL.
I like your passion Brendan, keep it up.
I personally think Brendan is F*ckn awesome!
So, last night on Letterman, McCain said
“Americans are very frustrated, and they have every right to be,” he said. “We’ve wasted a lot of our most precious treasure, which is American lives, over there.”
and Obama, in Iowa said,
“We ended up launching a war that should have never been authorized and should have never been waged, and to which we now have spent $400 billion and have seen over 3,000 lives of the bravest young Americans wasted,” he said.
So, 28 minutes ago, Adam Nagourney of the NYT writes a story called “2 Candidates Regret Saying Soldiers’ Lives Were Wasted”
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03…..ccain.html
Both statements are true, right? Why is this a story? Because it is some truths?
Hi Brendon, I live outside of Phila, can’t wait to read your blog. Isn’t it great that Santorum is gone – although maybe back in the Inquirer.
brendancalling @ 114
They can’t figure out why. They listen to Limbaugh and are still talking about the stained blue dress. The problem is: they put all of us in Dubya’s Nightmareland from Hell with them.
KestrelBrighteyes – About a year ago in complete state of politcal and patriotic despair, I hooked up to the net after several years away. Thinking to myself the net had to be hiding some folks as worried and pissed off as I was. It took me a couple of hours to discover blogs. FDL was the second or third blog I found and it had an immediate appeal such as what you describe. A year later I am much more informed, much more active, a whole lot more pissed off and addicted…) I never dreamed I would give a rats ass about a trial in the detail I am today. I always dreamed I would be able to support good candidates across the land, but this place made it possible in a way that I felt comfortable with.
That and so much more does feel DAMNED good!
ccmask @ 130
Creepy McCain wishes he could send thousands more young men and women to the Meat Grinder. Obama – not so much.
AZ Matt @ 109
As I recall, Rohrabacher (R-Batshit Insane) was saying the same thing in California about this time last year. Seems this is the `pugs way of getting around the minimum wage laws… need cheap labor? Arrest and convict it….
ccmask @ 130
Well, the definition of a gaffe is accidentally saying something that’s true.
ESAR Thinking to myself the net had to be hiding some folks as worried and pissed off as I was.
Welcome to my world. And thanks for your kind words of encouragement. You never know when they might just make the difference for someone on the edge. Just sayin’.
A chain of support. You’ll see soon.
Who would have thought…..
U.S. claims on North Korea come under scrutiny
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld…..813691.htm
Re: Specter.
Anita Hill is an Oklahoman. She was born in Lone Tree, OK. She is one of us. I’m proud to say.
brendancalling @ 127
Brendan!
Welcome to the Other World. Where people actually try to speak the truth.
It can be disorienting at times, bear with us.
Hope to hear from you often.
——————-egregious
egregious @
137
Ding!
ccmask @ 138
I heard some of that in the radio today. Gee, go figure.
OK I don’t know if you are a praying person or a positive energy person but whatever it is I need your Cherokee energy tomorrow morning big time.
U2 ‘brat
Brenden: Nice pic. Man, you guys rock. Ever since you broke out on the scene with “Going the Distance” and “Never There” I’ve been big fan. Put on a great show also! ;)
Seriously, thanks for the contribution.
Hi Brendan, glad you’re here! I’m in the midst of checking out some of those bluegrass videos on your blog – great stuff!
Morris Sheppard @
17
brendancalling @
42
brendancalling @
74
Lordy, lordy,lordy.
Eureka Springs, AR @
41
Indeed. But, what else can be expected of the author of the infamous “Magic Bullet” Theory???
Here is what I’ll be thinking about tonight as I drift off to sleep…
What if Pete Dominici is forced to resign due to his very unethical attempt to influence his local U.S. Attorney, as TPM and NPR are reporting, and then Gov. Bill Richardson appoints a Democrat to take Pete’s senate seat. Then the Democrats can tell Joe Lieberman to get lost.
Ahhhh. Life is good. ZZZZzzzzzzz
Atrios in da house!!!
Just getting here.
I hope I didn’t miss anything,
We’re so lucky to have the guy from Mythbusters here! I love that show!
j/k Brendan. Welcome. There’s lots of anger to share here. Just ask Tucker and Howie.
egregious, you are to kind, keep it up ;) I got your back any way possible.
did you see this.. Congressman Miller rant via crooks and liars and cspan
urban pirate @ 151
Are we there yet?
almost, peterr. almost. :)
feels like i am supposed to meet brendan. dont know why.
egregious @ 143
You have it. Is there reason for concern?
Hey folks, I’m logging off. Thanks so mucyh for the warm welcome, and thanks to FDL for inviting me on board. I’ll be back here next Thursday, same time (9:00 PM EST), so please com back.
In the meantime, visit me at Brendan Calling (which is more a play on The Clash than the Avon Lady, despite the title of tonight’s post). Also, I will be dropping in a bunch at the totally fucking awesome Suburban Guerilla next week, so please drop by both sites.
Good night for now, see you in comments, and I do believe it’s time for Mr. TRex, who is sure to kick your asses. Figuratively, that is.
egregious @ 155
drop by philly dl one of these tuesdays!
brendancalling @ 158
ok
Oklahoma kiddo @ 156
I’m on duty at the courthouse tomorrow. It might involve Talking With People.
egregious @ 160
Awww. You’re so cute.
((((((egregious)))))))
Welcome to the lake Brendan, you mentioned you work in Social Services in Philly. I have linked to a an example of terrific muck-raking jounralism in Milwaukee, that has to do with social services. Yesterday another death was announced, which Milwaukee County appears to have covered up so the series continues.
Perhaps some of the same problems exist in Philadelphia and perhaps you will find this of interest? You do not need a subscription. Abandoning Our Mentally Ill
I’m on duty at the courthouse tomorrow. It might involve Talking With People™.
I need the little trademark thingie :)
angie @
95
Costa Rica is very cool, but don’t overlook Panama.
Pensianado program is great…English, American dollar, banks, no property taxes for 20 years, discounted medical/dental, best restaurants, affordable condos, etc. Many perks Costa Rica doesn’t have yet.
Plus…it’s beautiful! And once you escape the taxi, people really still like Americans!
Hey TRex- Brendan needs to get some zzzzzsss, as you will appreciate if you have had time to follow his saga. So, when’s LATE NiTe coming?
Oklahoma kiddo @
20
My son and his wife are there, and their friends, all pretty liberal. They might be useful if I can stop them from voting Nader. Their hearts are in the right place — end the war now, universal health care, pro-choice, all the ‘correct’ answers. So far, anyway.
Terry Olson angie and Morris Shepard PLEASE do not quote each other anymore you’re gonna break the margins thx
egregious @ 163
well I hope you will be talking to us…) Pack a snack and keep away from the cafeteria in your wonderful shoes.
Dino Boy gets all pensive upstairs . . .
BerkshireHideaway @ 148
Oh my I do like the way you think! Stop my pounding heart!
Is this how it really works – Pete D. forced to resign and Gov. Richardson can appoint his replacement in the Senate?
Brendan, you arrived in Philly just as I was leaving after 18 years there. And you host Drinking Liberally! I’ve been trying to get my brother to pop in at Tangier, but he seems to have this weird prediliction for hanging out with his family instead.
A short Philadelphia story. 10 or 12 years ago there was a pretty major snowstorm- about 30 inches over a couple of days. Everything slammed shut, or course, but eventually the city began sending out trucks to haul snow away from major intersections. Said trucks took snow from all over the place and dumped all of it off the Schuylkill bridges adjacent to Center City.
The snow actually dammed the river, which started backing up towards Boathouse Row. A little metaphor for so much of city government.
Thanks to the powers that be for adding a pissed-off Philadelphia to the roster, and another reason to lurk at the Lake.
“Howdy” from Texas. Say, did anyone ever say which staffer from Specters office inserted that little ditty about the US attorneys and more importantly, do they still have a job?
ooo just had an earthquake – anybody else feel that?
come on up to late nite with TRex
http://www.firedoglake.com/200…..g-pensive/
Welcome Brendan!
It is not at all unusual for me to take up the defense of Philadelphia among the natives of the place. I’ve lived here 4 years and have thoroughly fallen in love with the place. Moved from Dallas. It’s true that I have questioned the sanity of moving here as I slipped towards poverty. But, it’s always so obvious that I’ve been lucky by comparison.
Philadelphia is such a complex mix of groups and cultures!
Keep talking about the weird things and the incongruities of this place. We need to see that to even begin understanding it.
The solid blogging coming out of Philadelphia can change not just this city, but the world. The “can” probably isn’t strong enought. It will.
egregious @
115
Not sure what this means, but I’ll chip in some meditation and thanksgiving, if that’ll do.
melfeasance @ 173
Where are you?
Never refer to yourself as not worthy. That’s bad for your psychology. Your clear, passionate style fits right in. Welcome on board.
Seperated parent? Now’s that painful. Take care of yourself.
Hi Brendan and Welcome to FDL!
You are one clever writer and I had a few
chuckles tonight..thanks!! Everyone here
will await your next adventure to the site…
I may not contribute a whole lot, but I try to
read most of the articles and many of the comments.
Jane has a great sense of who will fit here the best and she has picked another WINNER!!
Slainte from another New Englander…(MA)
Maureen
my god, imagine…3 story, 5 bedrooms, can’t get it out of my head….3stories, 5 bedrooms, 3 stories, 5 bedrooms, 3 stories, 5 bedroooooooomssss……
hpschd @ 177
California. The earthquake was centered on the Hayward fault line and it registered 4.2. I’m north of San Francisco but I felt it. My computer was shaking back and forth. Woohoo! Here are the details from the USGS
jeannefisk @
131
What did you think once Tierney bought(well he really didn’t put up much money .. he just got himself appointed CEO) the Inky? Did you really think he was telling the truth when he said he’d stay out?
brendancalling @
116
Welcome, dude!
Just have to make a comment off subject about the reference to Fielding Mellish in Bananas. That movie has a scene that IMHO is one of the three most hilarious scenes in motion picture history.
The scene is a news store where Woody Allen wants to discreetly but a really dirty magazine. Among the sight gags is copy of National Review displayed in the pornography section. That’s only a tiny fragment. Rent the movie and watch for this scene.
A word of caution. My sides ached for some time after viewing.
PS: appropos my comment about “Howard Kurtz Can Suyck My Dick”?
I stand by my comments. He’d better not forget the taint either.
brendancalling @
80
My idea. I love your stuff, and your NARAL writings have been super.
Don’t know much about Sanchez just the little I’ve seen on C-SPAN during debate. Haven’t seen her in action as JC chair. Can anyone edjumacate me? She comes across as a spitfire. I don’t get the impression she’s one for being bought off. Advise PLEASE!
Hey Brendan, Welcome! I was trying to figure out why your name was familiar, then I realized that you were a Pinetop! I know Jim from way back, and I’ve enjoyed many of your shows in both Philly and Northampton.
Brendan, this is way late and will probably be EPU’d, but welcome. People who can write the thoughts in their head succinctly always impress the hell out of me. And you seem to do that well. I like your turn of phrase. Keep on!
I suggest you find one of those tee shirts that spells it out:
Its All About Me
And then get back on topic, and away from your “I’m not worthy” schtick.
I come here for content, not biographies of bloggers.
And from my point of view, it’s all about ME not you. It’s about me getting what I came for and leaving quietly, generally.
When I finally got thru the I this and I that, the content was pretty good.
Nice Hat.
…especially the “…eye-popping outrage” Love that!
Can people in Philly still say “meet me at the Eagle” or was it removed when Wannamaker’s closed?
Background for you FDL members who are not familiar with Wannamakers. Wannamakers was to Philly like Marshall Fields was to Chicago – an upscale department store. Wannamakers occupied a full city block and was eleven stories tall. It was an imposing building that is listed in the Historical Register of Historic Places. The Eagle was (is still?) a statue in a four story atrium. Wannamakers was at the heart of the city in ways that go beyond geographical. It was a class act that can never be replaced. The center city deparment stores now are not much different than your local neighborhood stores with the exception that the local stores have more parking. A great many Philadelphians miss their Wannamakers.
Thanks. Far above average porn links.