Thought everyone might enjoy a bit of an update from here. We are having a lot of fun, but I have to say I’m really missing being on the blog. And, frankly, being mostly disconnected from news is painful. But catching up with everyone in person? I’m loving it!
After panels had concluded yesterday afternoon, and the FDL caucus that wasn’t really a caucus but was more of an “Oh, THAT is Redshift!” sort of meet and greet had concluded, a bunch of us went downstairs to find some food and beverages. The Hyatt that is attached to the convention center has a nice seating area both inside and out on a lovely, breezy patio.
And there is a pizza place that makes yummy thin crust pizzas that is adjacent to this, but it was packed full of YKos attendees. So, we improvised.
After pooling everyone’s money together, we got several pizzas and picked out a couple of choice tables on the patio. I sat by RevDeb and Kathryn in MA and Jessica (I think — oh, I hope I got that right, she’s a hoot and she works with Kathryn), and Scarecrow. Did I mention that Katymine brought me a fantastic cookbook back from her vacation in Crete? She’s giving me some copies fo photos that she took, so we’ll all get to go on vacation vicariously at some point during a Pull Up A Chair. (How fun is that?!?) Down the table from me a bit was Emptywheel and Siun and Virginia from the One Campaign and Ian Welsh and the fellow who developed of the Spotlight Project (that we love here at FDL, but whose name I’m blanking on because I’m so damned tired — James? Mark Steckel). I know I’m missing people — it was two large tables full of some very fun folks, so my apologies in advance if I’ve forgotten to add someone to the list.
I had run into Markos earlier on the way to the patio and caught up a bit with him. His gorgeous wife — who runs MotherTalkers — is here with their two cute kids. Apparently the new dinosaur exhibit at the Field Museum is fantastic. Maybe I can find some time to slip over and see it while I’m here — and pick up a little something for The Peanut while I’m at it. She loves all things dinosaur.
So, anyway, we get this pizza, and we are all sitting around chatting…and it hits me that THIS is my favorite part of these sorts of conferences. I’m sitting at a table with some incredible people — folks who are very politically active in their own communities, who work on local and state level politics, and who make the engine of our nation run with the work they do. And they are all such fun people, too.
We must have sat there for more than two hours just laughing and haggling over details about this or that issue, and talking shop about an incredibly wide range of topics.
Siun and Ginny and Ian were talking global economics and poverty at one point, while Marcy and I were haggling over a Congressional hearing that did not go as well as we would have liked. And then Swopa showed up — his flight got in later today — and he jumped right into the conversation without missing a beat while Marcy and I were talking CIPA intricacies from the unsealed bits in the Libby trial. It’s always great to see Swopa, and I’m hoping that he finally got something good to eat after a disaster with an exceptionally charred pizza that he had to take back. (Long story…)
Have I mentioned how much I love these folks? I really do.
I swear, it is just like we have all been family forever. And that goes for everyone reading here as well. Jane said yesterday that you really do feel like you know all the folks so well who talk back and forth with you on the blog because all of the political stuff we talk about means so much to all of us. I completely agree with her.
I had a reader come up to me today and tell me that she had never, ever been politically active. But she read a post of mine during the run-up to the election where I said “so, what have you done today?” and she thought about it and realized she hadn’t really done anything politically, and got to work on a local campaign. She said it has changed her life realizing that she can really DO something to make things better. I cannot tell you what that meant to me to know that. Truly. And it doesn’t seem like we say this enough: So, from all of us to all of you…thank you. For everything.
(Photo via Mr. T in DC.)
Related posts:
- Late Night: Fox & Friends Have No Clue About School
- Does Ben Nelson Have Four Friends?
- Marriott Calls Rape Victim “Negligent,” Outs Her to Family & Friends
- Keep Your Friends Close, and Lobbyists Closer: Is WH Drafting Own Bill Minus a Public Option?
- Jim Cooper: How to Win Friends and Influence People in the Tennessee 5th
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Christy, Jane, Scarecrow, Emptywheel . . . all of you . . . you’re the proverbial wind beneath our wings. Well, our wagging tails, I guess. SO envious of your YKos2 adventure, but also mighty glad you’re there. Makes it a vicarious adventure for the rest of us.
Redd! thanks for the update! those of us stuck at home are living vicariously…
and, we miss you too…
Hey, everyone, where are you??
Libby Trial Bloggers!!
I let ‘em know downstairs..
OldCoastie @ 3
Ding!
Good Day Firepups.
It sounds like things are going swimingly. Scarecrow’s post a few back speaks of Mr. Dean. He continues to impress. Scarecrow also speaks of Hillary. She continues to be un-impressive.
Thanks to all there who are drawing distinctions!
Keep up the good work and thanks so much!
Christy – will you let Scarecrow know that I think (if I’m reading correctly) that the WH appears to have caved on having Abu and McConnell oversee the “new” FISA changes and will put that back under FISA court review?
via Muckraker
You go all the way to Chicago only to eat thin crust pizza? Heathen.
That’s probably the only reason I’d go to YKos. To meet people and try to form real life communities. Blogs and political activism are wonderful,but community is where it’s at,IMO.
Hello Christy:
Please have a great time! Enjoy yourself with all the other FDLers!
It might help if all of us who have blogs put in posts to link to YearlyKos to make Jane, Christy and the other FDL authors’ ripples even wider. I wrote a generic one with the ustream link that is about citizen activism in action.
The benefit of what the FDL blogging experts is doing is incalculable and more influential than the MSM and campaign contributors wants anyone to know – and especially to acknowledge.
That SO explains how I felt when I met Marcy at a booksigning, like I’d known her for a long time. I’m happy you all are getting together in person and sharing the experience with us homebounders!
I totally understand the feeling – it was like that for us at our teensy weensy Central Texas Firepup picnic last month.
OT – GOP “leaders” whining live on CSPAN – call the waaahhhhhmbulance!
I’m working on developing my skills at having the last word on these threads.
Hello Everyone and let me say how envious I am at not being able to participate and meet all these people. Some of us have to keep the wheels of commerce going I guess. Have a great time and “blow the froth off a couple” for us who are only there in spirit. We’ll keep a light on in the window.
Glad you’re having a good time! Do not miss the city boat tours at N. Michigan Ave on the river (lakeside) at E. Wacker Dr, run by the Chicago Architectural Foundation.
If only we ran the world . . .
I was wondering what the “camaraderie” in the WH feels like. Or one of those Skulls and Bones meet ups. All fear all the time? They probably mistake that for power.
Misplaced Patriot @ 10
And it was Hotel pizza, ugh.
Gnome de Plume @ 20
It is interesting to imagine that the policies of the greatest nation in the world might depend upon the hit or miss of an errant towel snap.
OT … but this is a good one:
http://www.startribune.com/357/story/1339911.html
It’s a local op-ed on the bridge tragedy.
OT- The hypocritical republican presser on cspan now is incredible but par for the course. I have learned it is possible to laugh while nauseated.
Joe Klein’s conscience @ 23
Yes, Mr. Coleman states that he is not “just” pointing fingers at Gov. Tom [sic, thanks Larry King] Pawlenty. Well, I am. He’s had the better half a decade and all the reports to address these issues and he has ignored it!
twolf1 @ 16
Can’t figure out what their complaint is. What did I miss?
Dammit, Christy! I’m hungry now!
A special thank you to Jane and Redd for creating such a welcoming online community. FDL rocks!
Christy, that sounds so amazing! We are so proud of you and everyone else.
BTW: Judge rules against FBI in Jefferson seizure in Congress as unconstitutional! I’m sure you’ve already seen this, but for anyone who has not:
http://rawstory.com/news/2007/….._0803.html
Let the GOP eat burnt pizza.
twolf1 @ 16
Yea, Boehner really blew it.
Oh wow, who is that smart person asking Pence how what happened last night is different from holding vote on Medicare D open for 3 hours when repugs were in majority.
cpsan, repub presser now
solai @ 26
House erupts in chaos
johnSwifty @ 25:
LOL. On Wednsday night, even the mighty Keith O. called University of Minnesota “University of Mississippi,” and he also mispronounced Hennepin Avenue Bridge as “Henpin Avenue Bridge.” I’m not kidding. I’m sure the transcripts have been cleaned up by now.
bonkers @ 31
…speaking of Boehner…
The Call of Kosthulhu!
Brian Bilbray is really unhinged.
twolf1 @ 35
That’s why Boehner is whining so loudly — to cover up his own eff-up.
OT – reid/pelosi on one of the cspans at 12:30ish – whiney goopers will follow.
Pizza is fine, but there better not be any cocktail weenies bandied about.
-GSD
I’m glad you’re all having a wonderful time. But the Constitution is on fire. It’s time to come home.
Biodun @ 34
Hey,
Good to see your comments Biodun.
I’ve been on the road (family vacation) since Wed Afternoon, and haven’t been able to read FDL since Wed night in Omaha. I’m now sitting in a coffee shop in Frazier CO, and VERY happy to see your handle! I didn’t worry overly much about you being in a car on that bridge but you never know. Glad to see you’re safe and your sense of humor is still sterling! It is a time when humor is hard to come by.
Ok so it pizza for lunch here. It doesn’t take much to twist my arm about it.
keep on arguing about the procedure folks.
I sure beats the heck out of talking about passing the president’s Fisa-wish-red-herring.
Has the vote-count appeaared yet? Trying to catch up.
RockPaperScizzors @ 21
Should go to Connie’s or get delivery from them- IIRC there’s a small one in McCormick Place.
I posted the names of two great veg-friendly restaurants yesterday a.m. for any vegetarians @ YKos. Here they are again- Crofton on Wells is a few minutes away, the Chicago Diner is about 3-4 miles, but a lib hangout & strictly veg:
Crofton on Wells
The Chicago Diner
twolf1 @ 33
This sounds fishy by both political parties. Can anyone explain the procedural maneuvers here?
jayt @ 44
Bingo. We have a winnah! That’s what all this bluster is about.
Marie Roget @ 46
Go to Mr. Beef on Orleans near the Merchandise Mart for the best Italian beef in the country.
http://www.spychips.com/metro/scandal-payback.html
“other intelligence activities” ????
well, that *was* strange – gavel being brought down – twice – while the clerk continued to call the roll for votes.
What were the Repub’s chanting?
I don’t know who was in the Speaker’s chair, but he screwed up.
Hi Christy!
Hope you guys are having a blast!
We’re fiercely jealous here at the Lake, but trying to turn all that excess energy into smackin’ some lege-iz-later-s awake over junior’s latest FISA-grab-bag.
We’ll be good while you’re gone, sorta. Won’t chew up any slippers or climb the curtains. But someone stepped in the kibble bowl on a fly-bye thru the kitchen and, well, we’ll get out the broom a-fore you return. ;->
johnSwifty @ 42:
Thanks. Yellowdog Jim sent me a link of your comments responding to Newdealfarmgrrl about me from a thread on Wednesday night. So you remember that I don’t drive. I got a kick out of that. I used to work at the downtown end of the Third Avenue Bridge, and so the I-35W Bridge was always visible. And of course I’ve been a passenger in a car over that bridge countless times. Yep: There seems little to be happy about these days. Unless you’re at Yearly Kos. Have a gas in all your travels. See you here before the end of the summer sometime. (I just realized I could’ve gone email with this. But what the heck.)
If this is the issue that the Repub’s want to argue until closing for recess, I say more power to them.
OK, yesterday it was posted on FDL that President Dim Son Bu’ush had claimed that Democrats would be responsible for any incipient terrist attack coming this month if they didn’t approve his FISA changes. The cite for the quote was the ACLU. I posted a reply asking for a link.
I am unable to find anywhere where Bu’ush said such a thing. There’s no mention of it on the ACLU website today.
Anybody????
RFID chips with your pizza anyone?? Quote from link at me at #50:
“When I finished the slide portion of my lecture, FoeBuD’s Co-Director, padeluun, hooked up FoeBuD’s 13.56 MHz RFID reader to the laptop I was using and projected it onto a screen behind me. One by one he and Rena held the tagged Pantene shampoo, Kraft Philadelphia cream cheese, and Gillette razor blades we had bought at the Future Store up to the reader device so the audience could see the active tag data appear on the screen behind me.
Then came the extraordinary moment when padeluun picked up a METRO loyalty card and held it to the reader. Of course, this was just a joke and nothing was supposed to happen. So when a string of numbers DID appear on the screen, we all nearly jumped out of our seats!”
RockPaperScizzors @ 21
Actually it wasn’t bad. And really who cares? it’s the people!
She left out Marcy who was definitely part of the party!
Condi Rice, elitist asshat extraordinaire.
“Let’s get one thing straight,” Rice told the sales clerk, “You’re behind the counter because you have to work for the minimum wage. I’m on this side because I make considerably more.” The
Then we have Barbara Bush’s blue-blooded rantings and Rove telling people that he doesn’t want his child working in a field.
Now to find a Bastille.
-GSD
twolf1 @ 33
ohgoodgawd, jus’ can’t leave those kids for a minute *snerk*
just turn off the air conditioning.
that’ll take care of some of the trubble.
and you’ll need cleanup in aisle 6, extra towels in aisle 2
Redd,
You, Jane and others are really laying the ground work for an enormous people powered movement. It is such an inspiration and all made possible by the greatest “invention” since movable type – the internet.
The internets are such a precious resource to the people we simply cannot let this be taken away from us.
I hope the YKos is focusing on this and not taking for granted that you can press the on button and get connected to the net roots and the “truth”.
We must be ever vigilant.
Thanks to all of your brilliant and wonderful people… especially to Redd and Jane.
Biodun @ 53
Yeah, we’ll need to hook up soon. Maybe a Firepup “Coleman-b-gone” jamboree — with a healthy helping of “Pawlentys-an-ass” on the side.
It sounds like the kids in Chicago are having a good time and setting the bar high for intelligent discourse about REAL issues. That’s important work and it will be difficult to emulate at any other venue. But it is important to try.
Reading Scarecrow’s post earlier just makes my eyes misty over the thought of Howard Dean and where this country could be. We gotta get back on track!
On a more serious note, this is obviously what Bill O’Reilly and his masters at Fox fear the most – a well-organized and coordinated progressive movement.
BobbyG @ 55
I found a laundry-list of terrific talking points at ACLU, with which to pester the lege, but no booosh-kibbles. sorry.
Tom Steele @ 62
don’t cry for them, urgent tomina ;->
Adie @ 64
No, and I’ve been looking also.
And thanks to those for the link to the House blow-up.
I caught Howard Dean’s speach and it was wonderful. He noted that HB 118 was about making sure all voting machines had paper trails, that they were reliable, etc. I haven’t read the bill, but I’ve been waiting a long time for this one. Apparently, it’s up in the House just now.
I’ve decided to be feet on the ground just in my block, and make up a small petition of my own when I get the facts about HB118, and walk it around my little circle here in LA, then send it in.
I think this one is important.
I find that I’m sort of worried how I’ll be received by some of the folks around here, but I’m going to do it anyway, with my mind set firmly that ALL Americans, of whatever stripe or party, love their constitution, and I’ll go in with that attitude.
Firt time I’ve done something like this…
David W. Bartoo @ 17
patience, grasshopper…
the water refuses to boil as long as it’s being watched…
Yow! HB118 is about horseracing in Ohio! I’ll keep looking.
Larry Johnson on Valerie Plame Wilson
Judge Barbara Jones of the Southern District of New York upholds the Bush Administration’s plea for a summary judgment denying Valerie the right to write in her forthcoming book…. And lest there be any doubt, Valerie is not seeking permission to publish classified information. She is simply seeking to tell the story of her life using facts already in the public domain.
Tom Steele @ 62
And not just that, but that this progressive movement is “organized” from the bottom up, not from the top down.
am i glad i found the lake??? yesssssssss!!
i am following our firedogs as they represent for us back here lakeseide..keep those posts coming – trying to take it all in as i move thru the day but i’m keeping up lol – off to run errands but will check in later :^)
I spoke with Lt. Countertenor last night, and asked him about the bridge collapse. (He’s mechanical engineer, and I find his thoughts useful in things like this.)
He had a couple of interesting observations:
(1) The bridge (an arch-cantilever design) fall into the class of determinate structures, and that particular structural form is stable as long as the structure stands intact. Basically, if any element fails, the whole thing fails. There is no redundancy to speak of.
(2) The main span collapsed, then the approach spans collapsed. It looks like they used the bridge deck as structural element in tension in their computations. (That has to be checked in the engineering design logs, he says.) If that’s the case, then it’s entirely possible that the bridge collapse was caused by the deck maintenance that was going on. Basically, if the deck was chord in tension and the maintenance weakened it too much, the bridge collapses.
(3) He says he’s very glad that he isn’t the Major in that Corps of Engineers District.
I hope the Kos contingent is having a great time, but thin crust pizza in Chicago? Puhlease. Pizzeria Uno, Italian sausage.
BC
Checkpoints and searches at bus stops in Indiana:
http://dailykos.com/story/2007/8/3/03736/76330
jayt @ 51
yeah but, on purpose?
no more so than boosh with his smelly fyscha, i’m thinkin’, eh?
war is heQQ.
ya fight wit whut ya got.
tip over the checkers board.
oldest trick in the book..
this message has not been pre-approved for public edifyactionabilitation. @NOT
I wish I were there with you guys this year. One comes back incredibly charged up, ready to make a difference. Next year, the one JUST before a huge election, make it not so late in the summer, please.
PS Christy, say hi to Sterling Newberry from mommybrain. Sigh, I’m, such a geek. I love his brain.
Misplaced Patriot @ 10
Well, it was a Hyatt Hotel pizza, not Pizza Uno.
LS @ 73
Do this on NYC subways too.
eCAHNomics @ 77
Hey, eCAHN … you mentioned a BHS earlier this week. Which BHS were you talking about?
BC
OT New Froomkin
if i understand correctly… looks like reid and pelosi are going to give a press conference on “Democratic Congressional Agenda”… 12:30 on c-span3
Bargain Countertenor @ 78
I don’t recall your reference. The only BHS that comes to mind right now is Bennett High School.
Just got out of a great panel chaired by Cenk Uygur — “Left Behind by the Right” — featuring ex Republicans talkinga about the conversions from from dark side. John Dean, David Brock (Media Matters founder) and the editor of Huffington Post, standing in for Arianna Huffington, plus Eric Massa, who was real kickass gun who will be running again in NY to unseat a rubber stamp in one of the most Republican districts in NY.
selise @ 80
i’m almost too afraid to look, but i don’t dare not… please don’t let them cave!
From John Dean: opened with the joke about the little boy outside the President’s ranch, who was sitting by the road with a box of newborn puppies. Bush rides his bike, stops and asks, “what kind of puppies are those?”
The little boy says, “conservative republicans, sir?
A few days later, Bush and Laura drive by, see the boy and walk over. Laura asks, “what kind of puppies?”
“They’re lieberal, progressive, Democrats, ma’am.” Bush stares at him and asks incredulously, “what happened?”
“They opened their eyes.”
And the rest of the panel was about eye-opening.
Scarecrow @ 82
It’s not just about winning Congressional seats and the WH. A complete transformation of political thought needs to occur so that people finally realize how really dangerous Republican ideology is to the health, safety and welfare of every American. Without this transformation the Republicans will lie, steal and cheat their way back into power, even stronger and more sinister.
Scarecrow @ 82 –
thought david brock’s book, ‘Blinded by the Right: The Conscience of an Ex-Conservative” was a good and informative read. good summary of the ’90’s right-wing media machine.
Want you to know that your “credibility” is spreading. On yesterday’s Eight Forty-Eight, a Chicago Public Radio local program, their “Media Contributor” discussed the importance of the blogosphere in light of the Kos Convention here. Among other things, he talked about how the coverage of the Libby trial by people with real knowledge, documents to back up their analysis, etc. was really investigative journalism and pushed the regular media to do more. No mention of FDL specifically.
mc @ 70
yes but as long as Kos has such vehemence for Kuchinich I’m going to say ‘half-a-cup-of-progressive-for-now’
eCAHNomics @ 81
You said that someone reminded you of a high school chum, and asked if they’d gone to BHS (class of ‘62, I think). I attended a different BHS (Bakersfield), a little later.
BC
Tom Steele @ 62
EJ Dionne has a column in the WaPo today comparing Kos’ effects on the Democratic party with Limbaugh’s on the Right.
Democratic candidates know they owe a debt to Moulitsas. They’re paying homage to him because he has started to beat Limbaugh and O’Reilly at their own game. No wonder O’Reilly is so annoyed.
Bluetoe @ 85
sounds like a great panel.
Adie @ 73
C-Span right now re-running the Repub line-up and whine news conference.
My favorite part comes at the end when a reporter asks Mike Pence about Tom Delay’s old tactic of holding votes open until he could get a tally he liked.
Pence says (essentially) “Good question. That was different.”
Bush: Congress must stay until it OKs terror bill
President blames Democrats for not drafting eavesdropping bill he can sign
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20108672/
Laura Ingraham may be going toe to toe with Keith Olbermann–at least for one week:
JF @ 91
Except that Limpballs allows no exchange or interaction with/from the base. His were all (happily) “ditto heads.” We don’t find much of that around here – happily! :-)
BC @ 89
I hope your BHS was as fun & rewarding as mine was!
Is that a real Chicago pizza in the photo? Looks like one of those fancy-schmancy Italian pizzas to me. Don’t lie.
So a judge just ruled that Valerie Plame cannot release dates in her memoir because, get this, it’s CLASSIFIED.
How then, could the release of her identity, not represent TREASON?
It’s past the time to bring them down.
jayt @ 92
More explicit Pence: That was different, because we were doing it.
Oklahoma kiddo @ 93
helen thomas (bless her!) giving hell on this topic right now during the whitehouse presser
selise @ 80
Selise, it seems to be some sort of panel instead of Pelosi/Reid on C-3, even tho printed schedule says it should be P/R. Ya think they might have pulled back because of last night’s mess?
(C-Span still has repug waaaaaahmbulance whining presser – what a hoot that is!)
Clinton is going to attend the DKos break out sessions.
via Raw Story…
I think this will be good for her.
The President is such a cry-baby. Someone please change his diapers, stick a bottle in his mouth and put the little guy down for a nap.
Adie @ 100
no clue… maybe a delay?
selise @ 86
Yes, Brock talked about his days as part of the effort, his role in helping to smear Anita Hill on behalf of Clarence Thoms, hanging out wit hte attorneys on Ken Starr’s team that went after Clinton.
He now sees these people and unprincipled, dishonest, and indifferent to both. This behavior was regarded as acceptable for the cause.
He described Young Republicans of his time as living in what amounted to little more than a “cult,” providing safety to frightened little people — a theme Dean would pick up in his talk about the authoritarian followers.
“We can’t reover our democracy until we change one of the pillars of that democracy, the media. To the media, the Republican candidate looks like Romney, is strong like Fred, a leader like Rudy and independent like McCain.” But the Democaratic candidates are weak, vacillating, quarreling, etc.
Richmond @ 95
Can’t have any opinions from the masses, now can we?
For EJ Dionne to compare Rush Limbaugh with the DKos is just lazy journalism. What we have come to expect from the MSM, whether they are identified as “liber” or “conservative.” It’s like comparing apples and oranges. The MSM is slowly beginning to recognize that a new form of journalism is taking form that will eventually replace the pundits, bloviators and traditional media/press as representatives of the 4th Estate. The current holders of that title have failed democracy and the Republic miserably. The beginnings of the new 4th Estate are more in keeping with what the Founders expected of a free press. Make no mistake the dinosaur journalist and media darlings can see the handwritting on the wall and they are both bewildered and extremely threatened.
“So far the Democrats in Congress have not drafted a bill I can sign,” Bush said at FBI headquarters, where he was meeting with counterterror and homeland security officials. “We’ve worked hard and in good faith with the Democrats to find a solution, but we are not going to put our national security at risk. Time is short.” ->
Is this the same FISA law that Bush said did not need updating? The same FISA law that does not apply to President Bush in wartime. The same surveillance issue that the Patriot Act authorized? Is George Bush insisting AG Gonzalez be the sole arjudicator of legality of certina types of sirveillance? And what of the statemnt “Time is short”? Does George Bush know something we don’t know?
Hello, all! My co-worker is named Leslie LexSmith on the Daily Kos and she is amazing – a technical writer (i’m now a technical illustrator) and we whisper subversive doctrine to eachother when work is too opressive.
Lunch was great ($80 for 6 personal sized pizzas) – but the Marguerita is thin crust, bruschetta tomatoes, mozzatella and watercress (?). that is delicious.
It is definitely worth the trouble to gather with our fellow pups and deepen our friendships. The speakers i have most loved: John Dean, Eric Massa, Wesley Clark. We know Dean and Clark are wonderful; Massa is equally fantastic.
eCAHNomics @ 76
Do this on NYC subways too.
Those bus-stops are within spitting distance of me.
There is no real mass transit system in Indianapolis, and the buses, particularly the routes, are disgraceful. If they were checking for terrorists at those two particular stops, what I’m sure they found were about 98% poor black people.
OldCoastie @ 102
Aha — Markos rules? Good for Hillary. I should add an update to my earlier post.
selise @ 103
thanks. here i go opening up yet another window on the poor old machine here. please don’t crash, toobz, puleeze?! ;->
oh tee hee: Bilbray “just no way the mercun peeple gonna allow this to happen, nyah!..”
oh my, mentioned hell! oooooooo then that lovely reporter question about repug past sins. why is his face beet-red, heh?
selise @ 99
There are more than in few in my party who could take lessons from Ms. Thomas. We in this house absolutely adore this person.;0)
From the Raw Story link @ 102:
addendum: Pence w/ red face. “You can’t unstrike a gavel!”
hmmmm. gonna have to ponder that one.
Hensarling R-TX, HEY, the Dems PROMISED they wouldn’t act like we did! No fair!?! *g*
Scarecrow @ 110
well, i think it was you who said that one “fuck you” from markos is worth half a million from senator kerry (with an assist from our own RevDeb).
Neil @ 108
Like having advanced warning of 9-11?
Kathryn in MA @ 108
Traditional Marghareta is fresh tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and fresh basil, on a thin crust with just enough virgin olive oil to cover.
And yeah, it’s delicious. It’s the original pizza, even.
BC
Bluetoe @ 106
I think it’s a fair comparison, actually. If you read the piece, it is not about following one leader or set of ideas, but about how the two are invaluable at mobilizing their respective sides. How Limbaugh and the Right used traditional media, and how Kos and the Left are utilizing and taking advantage of new media.
He also touches on how Clinton was key to Limbaugh’s rise and how Bush has done the same for the rise of the Left through the blogs.
OKK
You have lotsa company in admiration of dear Helen Thomas. What an incredible person she is!
Hey guys. Looks as if C-Span (main channel) will carry Pelosi/Reid in a few minutes.
While waiting for them, they’re replaying filler of the day’s early a.m. discussion.
There is a war. Between my party and George W. Bush. And you will lose, Bush. And you will take the GOP down with you.
Adie @ 120
;0)
REPEATING HEADS-UP…
C-Span (1) will carry Pelosi/Reid presser momentarily, LIVE.
Not bad for doing murder.
CAMP PENDLETON — A military jury today sentenced Cpl. Marshall Magincalda to 448 days in prison and lowered his rank to private for his role in a plot to kidnap and execute an Iraqi man last year.
Magincalda, who will be released today after having served that long while waiting for his trial to begin, will be the second Marine released without receiving additional prison time after being convicted in the case.
Has Al-Qaeda “followed us here” already?
JF @ 119
Did Dionne in his article point out that Limbaugh mobilizes his base through lies, deception and out right hatred while DKos mobilizes through informed articles, comment and dialogue. It makes a trememdous difference. Limbaugh is nothing more than an outright propagandist of the worst order. The Blogs are modern day town criers.
selise @ 116
Maybe the pressure worked. I can’t wait to hear the outcome. A can imagine a lot of people were PO’ed before because they wanted to give her a chance. It will be interesting.
What I want: The left to start some serious think tanks and hire all of you, if you’d be willing to do it. Hi! Kiddo, eCAHN and LS.
Massa! Massa! Massa!
Seriously, Eric faces tough stuf fhere in the Southern Tier wing nut land (I keep looking for the listing in SOuthern Law Poverty Center for local militas). This is Republican because Dems are (fill in the blank) territory-reality not necessary. Plus some guy (I think from Rochester) is challenging Eric in primary.
Ruffian – what District is Massa going for?
Toby Wollin @ 131
NY 29 currently held by kiss Bush’s *** shotgun Randy Kuhl-frat boy for life
Biodun @ 126
MSNBC was speculating that it may be a prop for a fake documentary about the revolutionary war that some guy is shooting in the area.
todays news is primary opponent drops out!!!!!!!!!!
GO ERIC!!
Laura Ingraham is a really vile right wing hack. I found one thing I can agree with her about… tattoos… she hates them too.
I think that the blogs are becoming the equivalent to the right wing talk radio thingy and that is making them nervous cause they can’t buy up the blogosphere.
David W. Bartoo @ 129
Color me ready. Nice of you to ask.
Very interesting how the right captured the think tank route to advance their agenda & the left did not follow suit. I guess it’s because there are no rich folks who care about progressive ideas, Soros excepted.
link for Massa oppoent droping
http://rochesterturning.com/category/eric-massa/
Bluetoe @ 127
True, but his point is that they are both mobilizers of their respective sides. The fact that Limbaugh acts through falsehoods is immaterial to his effect on his listeners. Both Limbaugh and Kos are effective mobilizers.
Adie @ 124
thank you!
Public Service Announcement
While Chicago is in the limelight & visitors are here, I’d like to bring this to everyone’s attention.
Recently, BP Amoco (BP Petroleum) petitioned the State of Indiana for permission to drastically increase their volume of toxic dumping into Lake Michigan, from their Whiting Indiana refinery. Indiana granted the permission.
Involved are Ammonia, Mercury and what BP calls “Suspended Solids” (petro-sludge). Lake Michigan, as many know, is the source of drinking water for literally millions of people in several states. Whiting Indiana is visible from downtown Chicago, just a few miles south & east.
Since receiving approval for the increased dumping, opposition from state & local goverments, environmental groups, and many local grass roots organizations has been growing. Petitions are being circulated & law suits against BP are being threatened.
I urge everyone to help by signing petitions you may run across while in town. If you’re not here, on-line petitions are becoming available.
BP has little concern for our quality of life and resources. Likewise with George Bush’s EPA, who by granting BP tacit approval for the increased dumping, has sent the message that profits come before the interest & safety of the citizens.
Please help by being aware, spreading the word, and signing a petition to deny BP expanded toxic dumping rights.
Thanks
ok. that seals it. I’m going next year!
Ah, Houghton’s old district. I have no idea what the NYS Democratic folks are planning to help folks like Massa out in their first runs. I know that last year, when Arcuri was running and Hinchey was NOT, Hinchey did big fundraisers for the other folks to help them out. He was very upfront about it – encouraged us to contact friends in the other districts and so on. I know he helped Arcuri. Let’s hope there is more of this to help Massa as well. Spitzer’s behavior is NOT going to help going into this election, I’m afraid.
Joe Klein’s conscience @ 128
I missed the earlier part of this conversation so I don’t know what the current status of Hill’s visit is, but last night when they announced that she would be leaving before the breakout session and that a staffer would be left to deal with the DFH’s she got loudly booed. And I mean loudly. Maybe she heard it from whatever rarified cloud she’s living on and changed her mind. We shall see . . . .
Just doing another drive by. Again, being here with everyone is absolutely awesome.
Off to go to a panel with Fred Clarkson of Talk2Action and then to get my copy of Juan Cole’s new book signed before the peice de resistance— They are going to tell us what REALLY happened in the Lamont election and how the party screwed us. (my presumption. but I’m sure we will report back)
*poof*
Biodun @ 94
If it’s any indication, and IIRC, Ingraham had a show on MSNBC several years ago and, well, now she doesn’t. Maybe not a good omen for this one?
selise @ 139
Yes, thanks. Just got back from the vet w/three dogs in tow, but I’m on it now.
As for eating semi-burnt (or other) pizza in a crowded hotel, I really do agree w/RevDeb upthread- it’s the company that counts. Just thought our self-confessed foodie Christy might like a couple of referrals- Chi is a great place for restaurants, many of them close by to where YKos is being held…
George Bush, the AWOL president who ignored an August 6, 2001 briefing and remained on vataion in Crawford Texes, a briefing that said Osama Bin Laden is determined to strinke in the US, is now using national security legislation, FISA reform, a law the president has violated repeatedly and openly, as a political tool to make the Democrats looks bad…. and the MSM may, once again, report the story without question or analysis of its merits.
Toby:Second run- he came very very close to beting Randy last election. This was one of the areas that recd those mysterious, misleading robo calls claiming to be from Massa but nothing was ever followed up on by Dem’s (hello???? FCC??) Dirty tricks abounded in the end.
Toby Wollin @ 142
And I believe I read that our dear senator had no coattails,did not share her more-than-ample funds, and did not campaign for anyone. And we should vote for her for prez?
Spitzer-yep, I was afraid that he might blow up. Ds will have to win despite him.
We also need to work on getting better people in the state legislature.
Brian Lamb has a caller who speaking truth to power and demanding Brian put his citizen hat on – just told his guest “Wow”. First time I’ve seen Lamb near speechless.
Oh, eCahnomics – I hear you on the State Legislation folks. We have to drag around that totally useless self-promoting bag of garbage Tom Libous, though Donna Lupardo almost makes up for him.
We’re getting e-mails that FISA is up for grabs, with the WH rejecting a “compromise” and pushing for more extreme measures. Details unclear, but the concern is that without support from constituents, Congress may buckle to WH pressure.
Please take a moment to call your Congresscritters and urge them not to cave on this.
Here’s what we posted earlier:
If Congress has not yet acted, this is the time to contact the members and let them know your concerns about this legislation. Here’s an ACLU site you can use to urge Congress to delay this matter until it can be more carefully considered. More phone numbers are here:
1 (800) 828 – 0498
1 (800) 459 – 1887
1 (800) 614 – 2803
1 (866) 340 – 9281
1 (866) 338 – 1015
1 (877) 851 – 6437
You know what to do.
eCAHN @ 136
Seems so, find it hard to imagine there are no wealthy left-leaning folk. Guess they’re all cautious or hiding in Congress. Well, maybe not.
From Clinton campaign, Peter Daou explanation of Hillary plans to attend YKos sessions.
For the record, I went back after the conversation broke up and ordered another pizza, which was cooked right this time and was delicious.
And I saw some good avant-garde jazz at the Velvet Lounge, so thanks to mack for the tip!
David W. Bartoo @ 152
Rich folks vote their pocketbook. Then give gobs away to poor Africans to assuage their consciences.
Wonder if the Pelosi presser has been cancelled or moved up to later today? Anyone have an update?
Scarecrow @ 153
Oh, and I missed the chance to meet Scarecrow yesterday. If you’re reading this comment near the time I post it, come by M/X and say hello!
Swopa @ 157
Actually, I saw you walk by on your way to something, about 15 minutes ago. I’ll catch up.
What will be the reaction if Pelosi and Reid go along with Bush’s “reform” of FISA?
Bluetoe @ 159
It would be the Dem equivalent of the GOP’s “Friday News Dump” followed by “ta-ta, we’re off on recess.” I, for one, will be thoroughly pissed.
This is so sickening.
http://news.yahoo.com/photo/07…..YAFQ1H2ocA
Yes, Massa’s opponent droppped out.
I wouldn’t be shocked if Kuhl (the Republican incumbent) retired.
BobbyG @ 55, I read yesterday that Senator Lott made a similar comment but don’t remember where I read it.
Well I’ll be danged. I DO have a username here. This is Christy’s sekrit admirer from the FDL forum checking in. It was great to meet some Firepups yesterday. Kinda disappointed I didn’t see TRex though.
What’s this rumor that Madame Speaker may not be there tomorrow? Say it ain’t so!
Kit Bond railing on C-Span 2. TV muted. McConnell up. Just want to tweak his nose. Hutchinson trying to stay in the frame while Cornyn tries to elbow his way in. Seems it’s about FISA.
GSD @ 40
I think a One Time Only “cocktail weenies pizza” might be cool.
itwasntme @ 66
A paper trail isn’t binding. It isn’t the ballot and can’t legally even be reviewed.
So, the legislation is flawed. We need paper ballots which can be verified by eyeball.
OldCoastie @ 102
She’ll probably come away from it feeling beat up, but if we (and she) are lucky she’ll have an awakening.
So, the puppy dogs with newly opened eyes are Progressives eh? Heh.
Bargain Countertenor @ 118
Maybe the original American pizza, but not the original Italian pizza. Remember, tomatoes are native to America, so they didn’t have them before Columbus came over and nicked a few to take back. How did those Italians get along so long without tomato sauce on their pizzas?
I’m a local Chicagoan who got to go to YearlyKos because a friend in Seattle couldn’t go and gave me her ticket. So the first day I was a bit star struck as I walked the halls of McCormick place.
Oh look theres Markos. Those ladies at lunch look very nice. holy cow, it’s Christy and Marcy. Off to another session. That’s Glenn Greenwald and Mike Stark. Hmmm the guy sitting in front of me, David Sirota and best off all I met and talked to Sam Seder my fav Air America guy. Who else – oh yeah Cenk Uygur, David brock and “effing” John Dean!! Alright enough name dropping. I’m enjnoying the whole process and looking forward to the presidential forum. Is that Barack?….