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Friday Open Thread

I'd like to stay online and blog all day, but I have too much work to do. Here's a new open thread for you, all topics welcome.

(Title fixed, it's Friday not Thursday)

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  • David Brooks (5.00 / 1) (#11)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 01:09:13 AM EST
    Oh my sweet and fluffy Lord.

    The Crepes of Wrath

    I'll be all around on teevee. I'll be everywhere. PBS. NPR.  NY Times.  TED Talks.  Meet the Press.  Aspen Institute.  Davos.  Everywhere.

    Wherever you can look -- wherever there's a fight over how to pronounce charcuterie or soppressata -- I'll be there.

    Wherever there's a cop beatin' up a guy, I'll be there, penning maudlin columns about the lack of civility on Both Sides.

    I'll be in the way op-ed columnists scold Liberals about their tone when they're mad.

    I'll be there in the way pundits laugh when an orange racist rage monster and his army of fascist zombies stomp democracy to bits because it does not materially affect them one bit, and when those pundits are yucking it up about how great their investments are doing and how they can finally pay off their vacation home in Montauk, I'll be there, too...



    John (5.00 / 1) (#13)
    by FlJoe on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 11:42:47 AM EST
    Lennon hit the nail on the head decades ago
    Keep you doped with religion and sex and TV
    And you think you're so clever and classless and free
    But you're still fucking peasants as far as I can see
    A working class hero is something to be
    A working class hero is something to be
    There's room at the top they're telling you still
    But first you must learn how to smile as you kill
    If you want to be like the folks on the hill


    Parent
    oops (none / 0) (#14)
    by FlJoe on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 12:41:11 PM EST
    forgot to censor, sorry.

    Parent
    I (none / 0) (#12)
    by FlJoe on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 07:15:23 AM EST
    knew it was driftglass before I even clicked over.

    Parent
    SITE VIOLATOR (none / 0) (#20)
    by Peter G on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 10:42:11 PM EST
    I'm pretty sure.

    Parent
    A plug for a eatery in Java (none / 0) (#21)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 11:10:43 PM EST
    ??

    Wonder if they get a lot of business posting unreadable reviews on random sites

    Parent

    Irony (5.00 / 3) (#15)
    by FlJoe on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 12:59:55 PM EST
    arises from the grave
    Fired FBI chief James Comey used his private Gmail account hundreds of times to conduct government business -- and at least seven of those messages were deemed so sensitive by the Justice Department that they declined to release them.


    Part (5.00 / 1) (#185)
    by FlJoe on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 05:58:20 PM EST
    the second
    White House advisor Ivanka Trump used a personal email account for government business, The Washington Post reported Monday.

    "Ivanka Trump sent hundreds of emails last year to White House aides, Cabinet officials and her assistants using a personal account, many of them in violation of federal records rules, according to people familiar with a White House examination of her correspondence," The Post reported.

    Is it too soon for some some robust lock her up chants? Just asking for an uncivil friend.

    Parent
    Trey Gowdyt (none / 0) (#195)
    by KeysDan on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 11:10:53 AM EST
    Still has time to start an investigation....Benghazi-style.  But, probably no need for investigation since Ivanka claims only insignificant matters such as schedules were involved and the media will believe her.  

    Parent
    At least I managed to escape (5.00 / 2) (#18)
    by desertswine on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 09:56:51 PM EST
    the Crazy for a few days.  We stayed in Santa Fe at La Posada, a schmancy inn.  Then dinner and flamenco at el Farol.  After that, an hour's drive to Ojo Caliente to soak in the hot pools in the chill weather.  Sooo... relaxing.

    New Mexico did well in the elections..  virtually a clean sweep, including the odious Steve Pearce's district which was won by a young progressive woman named Xochitl Torres Small.


    I can't believe you went (none / 0) (#22)
    by Militarytracy on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 09:11:13 AM EST
    To Ojo Caliente. It was my grandparent's vacation spot. They went twice a year when they were working and then whenever they wanted to after they retired. They made many friends among regulars.

    Parent
    Twice a year is good. (none / 0) (#26)
    by desertswine on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 05:10:17 PM EST
    We try and go when the weather is cool.  

    Parent
    Awwww (none / 0) (#81)
    by Militarytracy on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 09:52:58 AM EST
    I'm just realizing they never got to say goodbye to their vacation family and friends. I lost both of them when Josh was 3 and 4. We were all always so worried about Josh, even them, that taking them to Ojo at least one more time got forgotten :(

    Parent
    Sinema (5.00 / 2) (#30)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 06:53:37 PM EST
    has been declared the winner in AZ!

    I am so hoping Kemp (none / 0) (#32)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 06:59:10 PM EST
    Gets forced into a run off.

    Parent
    I don't (none / 0) (#36)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 07:52:57 PM EST
    think it is going to happen but I guess we shall see. There are more uncounted votes than Kemp said which should be no surprise. Last time I checked Stacey had to get around 25K votes to force a runoff and I'm not sure there's that many votes out there.

    We already have one runoff scheduled for Dec 4th. It is for SOS and we have John Barrow running with a rep. However I do hope that the GOP sits home and we show up once again and elect Barrow. At least that will alleviate some of the problems going into 2020.

    Parent

    Where did you see this? (none / 0) (#34)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 07:03:47 PM EST
    I'm seeing she has expanded her lead but not declared the win yet

    Parent
    Dave (none / 0) (#35)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 07:50:09 PM EST
    Wasserman.

    Parent
    I don't think so (none / 0) (#37)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 07:56:46 PM EST
    She's now 30,000 ahead but I do not see it being called.

    Last I heard there was about 200,000 votes to count

    Parent

    22 minutes ago (none / 0) (#38)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 08:12:58 PM EST
    Democrat Kyrsten Sinema continues to gain ground in Arizona's gradual Senate vote count.

    Sinema now leads Republican Martha McSally by more than 30,000 votes. Sunday's totals included a batch from Maricopa County that Republicans hoped McSally could win. Instead, it added 2,200 to Sinema's lead.

    About 200,000 votes remain uncounted. Arizona typically counts its votes slowly.

    link

    Parent

    Now the AP (none / 0) (#55)
    by Ga6thDem on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 06:54:03 PM EST
    has called the race for Sinema. Almost all the ballots left are in Maricopa County that have done nothing but expanded Sinema's lead.

    Parent
    NBC too (none / 0) (#56)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 06:54:59 PM EST
    Martha McSallys dog (none / 0) (#60)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 07:58:04 PM EST
    She really deserves credit for that (none / 0) (#68)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 08:56:18 PM EST
    The party was pushing her to scream fraud.  Some of the stuff in that Twitter thread shows how POed they are that she showed some grace.

    Parent
    She's in anyway (none / 0) (#77)
    by jmacWA on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 05:10:11 AM EST
    As Josh Marshall pointed out, she is likely going to get McCains seat now, since Kyl was only a placeholder.  She had no need to complain

    Parent
    A quick update from the SoCal fires. (5.00 / 4) (#49)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 12:07:38 PM EST
    We are still under mandatory evacuation (since 2AM Thursday night). All of the open space around our canyon was completely burned. Heck, all of the open space for 30 miles around our canyon was completely burned. One home down the street from us was destroyed.

    Our house adjoins the open space and the fires burned down our back hill to w/in 15 feet of our house.

    The winds are back today whipping up the ash and hotspots. I just got  a call that there is more smoke in our canyon, another flare-up from the wind, so I guess there's good reason we're still under evacuation.

    Presently trying to get in touch with our homeowner's insurance agent; not surprisingly they're pretty busy today...

    Nuckin' Futs... (5.00 / 5) (#50)
    by kdog on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 12:58:55 PM EST
    glad you and the fam are safe old pal...all other things can be replaced, hopefully your house won't have to be one of them.  Keep us posted!

    Parent
    Thanks man, things have been pretty crazy. (none / 0) (#53)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 01:37:42 PM EST
    Geez, sarc! (5.00 / 1) (#61)
    by caseyOR on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 08:01:38 PM EST
    Glad you and yours are safe. Kdog is right. The stuff and the house are not important compared to your family. Still, I hope your place is still standing when you are finally allowed back in.

    Stay safe.

    Parent

    This is the hill behind our house, (none / 0) (#88)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 11:48:37 AM EST
    Friday AM, from a couple doors down.

    Parent
    Sarc, I don't know which is worse, (none / 0) (#66)
    by fishcamp on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 08:44:05 PM EST
    your fires or our hurricanes.  Guess it's a toss up.  If you have to flee don't forget to grab your fishing rods.  Good luck brother.

    Parent
    We stayed in Ventura (none / 0) (#87)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 11:47:06 AM EST
    over the weekend.

    Parent
    It must be terribly stressful, ... (5.00 / 1) (#76)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 02:11:49 AM EST
    ... not really knowing what to expect upon your return. Let's all just think positive thoughts tonight and hope / pray for the best of all outcomes, in that your neighborhood and your house will have survived the ordeal relatively unscathed and intact, and that your family's and neighbors' evacuations ultimately prove to have been a relative inconvenience rather than an actual life-saving move.

    Parent
    Thanks, I think most of us are fine. (none / 0) (#90)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 01:54:10 PM EST
    Our neighbor's home, about 6 houses down the street, is nothing but ashes.

    Parent
    Smelly and dirty, but home sweet home.

    Parent
    So good (5.00 / 2) (#96)
    by KeysDan on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 12:59:07 PM EST
    to learn that you all are safe.   Best regards.

    Parent
    Thanks Dan. (none / 0) (#97)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 01:08:05 PM EST
    Excellent News (5.00 / 1) (#98)
    by jmacWA on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 02:54:47 PM EST
    I hope you get rain

    Parent
    Thanks, we may get rain Friday. (none / 0) (#100)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 05:01:12 PM EST
    Emphasis on "may"...

    Parent
    Glad your house (5.00 / 1) (#99)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 04:47:13 PM EST
    was not hit by the fires. I'm sure smelly and dirty isn't all that great but it's 1000 times better than the alternative.

    Parent
    It is. The flames came w/in 15 feet. (none / 0) (#101)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 05:03:37 PM EST
    I saw photos from a neighbor; big, whipping flames. 20-30 feet high flames. One house about 6 doors down was sadly not so lucky...

    Parent
    Really glad to hear you're doing okay (none / 0) (#129)
    by CST on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 08:14:06 AM EST
    I think if this was happening on the east coast it would be all over the news 24-7.  I hope you get some rain and the worst of it is over.

    Parent
    Thanks CST. (none / 0) (#134)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 01:33:51 PM EST
    I want to buy (5.00 / 1) (#51)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 01:07:19 PM EST
    Brenda Snipes a drink.

    Or several drinks.

    RIP (5.00 / 1) (#52)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 01:26:25 PM EST
    Stan Lee

    We will not know his like again.

    In 1968 (none / 0) (#57)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 07:24:57 PM EST
    Between 1965 and 2001, Lee would write the monthly column Stan's Soapbox in Marvel Comics. In 1968, during the peak of the Civil Rights Movement, Lee penned a powerful essay about the evils of hatred and racism.

    Let's lay it right on the line. Bigotry and racism are among the deadliest social ills plaguing the world today. But, unlike a team of costumed super-villains, they can't be halted with a punch in the snoot, or a zap from a ray gun. The only way to destroy them is to expose them--to reveal them for the insidious evils they really are. The bigot is an unreasoning hater--one who hates blindly, fanatically, indiscriminately. If his hang-up is black men, he hates ALL black men. If a redhead once offended him, he hates ALL redheads. If some foreigner beat him to a job, he's down on ALL foreigners. He hates people he's never seen--people he's never known--with equal intensity--with equal venom.
    Now, we're not trying to say it's unreasonable for one human being to bug another. But, although anyone has the right to dislike another individual, it's totally irrational, patently insane to condemn an entire race--to despise an entire nation--to vilify an entire religion. Sooner or later, we must learn to judge each other on our own merits. Sooner or later, if man is ever to be worthy of his destiny, we must fill out hearts with tolerance. For then, and only then, will we be truly worthy of the concept that man was created in the image of God-a God who calls us ALL--His children.

    Great example of how he was able to say really important things in terms preadolescents understood

    Parent

    Original (none / 0) (#58)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 07:27:00 PM EST
    With a sign-off in Latin? How many (5.00 / 1) (#62)
    by Peter G on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 08:29:50 PM EST
    1960s adolescents could understand the words "pax et justicia"? Anyway, good on him, but 1968 was hardly "the height of the civil rights movement." The height of the movement was probably 1963-1964. By the middle of 1968, MLK had been assassinated, after Dr. King had redirected much of his attention to the Vietnam War and the problem of entrenched poverty.

    Parent
    "Peak" not "height" (none / 0) (#63)
    by Peter G on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 08:31:20 PM EST
    Sorry for misquotation.

    Parent
    That was a quote from BUZZFEED (none / 0) (#64)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 08:38:08 PM EST
    Not mine. But ftr I would have said it was certainly in the "midst" of it.  It was definitely a time when it was penetrating into popular culture.  And a very good time to speak to kids about it.

     As far as the Latin I would guess without googling, and I would have in 1968, that it means something like peace and justice.

    Parent

    The "peak of" comment I objected to (5.00 / 1) (#70)
    by Peter G on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 09:12:46 PM EST
    was not inside the block quote (which had no link, anyway). But that doesn't matter. I wasn't criticizing anyone personally; I was just disagreeing with the assertion that 1968 could be called the "peak" of the civil rights movement in any sense.

    Parent
    Correct (none / 0) (#72)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 09:26:21 PM EST
    I should have put it in quotes

    Parent
    After all (none / 0) (#65)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 08:41:06 PM EST
    By the time you were reading Stan you would certainly have been taught about "pax Americana"

    I had.  We're you a comic book fan as a child?

    Parent

    Yes, I was a comic book fan as a kid, but I read (none / 0) (#69)
    by Peter G on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 09:08:31 PM EST
    Superman and Batman (DC Comics), not Marvel. Not sure why that would have been, anymore. Maybe that I'm a few years older than you.

    Parent
    Oh (none / 0) (#71)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 09:22:07 PM EST
    I read those too.  But I think the Latin was part of a marketing plan if not a philosophy

    Of not talking down to their fans.  They told stories about flawed and conflicted "heros" and we (I at least) appreciated they seemed to think we were smart enough to appreciate the stories were not the good/bad, black/white world of, say, Superman.  

    I loved superman.  Played superman.  But it had less relevance to my life than the marvel stories.  I really think Marvel played a huge role in what became my view of the world.  DC not so much.

    Parent

    Btw (none / 0) (#67)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 08:54:19 PM EST
    I think they may have all, he wrote them for years, ended with that Sig.

    I was googling to see if I could find others but that one is sort of overwhelming the searches today.


    The first official "Marvel Bullpen Bulletins" page, from The Amazing Spider-Man #31 (Dec. 1965).
    "Bullpen Bulletins" (originally titled "Marvel Bullpen Bulletins") was the news and information page that appeared in most regular monthly comic books from Marvel Comics. In various incarnations since its inception in 1965 until its demise in 2001, it included items such as previews of upcoming Marvel publications (the "Mighty Marvel Checklist"), news about and profiles of Marvel staff members, occasional references to real-world trends and events, and perhaps most famously, "Stan's Soapbox" (alternately known as "Stan Lee's Soapbox"), a monthly column written by Stan Lee.

    wiki

    Parent

    Ha, ok. Found them (none / 0) (#73)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 10:04:39 PM EST
    Which is more Latin (none / 0) (#74)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 10:09:41 PM EST
    It actually stems from the Latin word excellere meaning "to rise, surpass, be eminent." Broken down: ex- meaning "out from" and -cellere meaning "rise high." It's the same root from which we get the English words, excel and excellent. The word excelsior itself was the adjective form of excellere and means, simply, "higher" or "superior."

    Ftr
    The dictionary definition is wood shavings. (I had no idea)

    Parent

    Excelsior (none / 0) (#78)
    by jmacWA on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 05:18:45 AM EST
    Had to memorize that poem in 6th grade... ughh... was never completely successful.

    Parent
    I remember the poem (none / 0) (#80)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 08:38:46 AM EST
    Peter G: "With a sign-off in Latin? How many 1960s adolescents could understand the words 'pax et justicia'?"

    ... many adolescents in the early 1970s, myself included, understood the meaning of "no lo contendere."

    ;-D

    Parent

    So true. But (none / 0) (#184)
    by Peter G on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 05:29:07 PM EST
    it's "nolo contendere" (two words), not "no lo contendere."

    Parent
    I guess I Spanishized it. (none / 0) (#205)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 06:49:49 PM EST
    El Viejo Freudio Slippo.

    ;-D

    Parent

    I did not (none / 0) (#59)
    by Ga6thDem on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 07:44:25 PM EST
    know that though there is a clip of him on twitter saying pretty much the same thing. And it was said in language that middle school kids could understand.

    Parent
    Rest in peace, Douglas Rain (1928-2018). (5.00 / 1) (#79)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 06:29:51 AM EST
    The classically trained Shakespearean actor will likely be best remembered by aficionados of great cinema as the voice of HAL 9000 in Stanley Kubrick's 1968 sci-fi masterpiece "2001: A Space Odyssey," an eerily banal off-camera performance which so brilliantly understated the wayward computer's paranoid malevolence.

    Ted Olson (5.00 / 1) (#83)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 10:42:05 AM EST
    link

    Conservative lawyer Ted Olson, former Solicitor General under President George W. Bush, is now representing CNN in a case against the White House.

    Earlier this year, Olson declined an offer to join President Donald Trump's defense team for the ongoing Russia investigation, which is being conducted by special counsel Robert Mueller.

    Just when you thought (5.00 / 4) (#114)
    by CST on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 11:48:27 AM EST
    The Trump administration couldn't possibly be more craven:

    "The White House is looking for ways to remove an enemy of Turkish President Recep Erdogan from the U.S. in order to placate Turkey over the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, according to two senior U.S. officials and two other people briefed on the requests."

    For a TLDR of the whole article, the Trump administration wants to hand over a US green card holder to the Turkish government so that the Turkish government doesn't come down to hard on Saudi Arabia of the Khashoggi killings.  This is the same guy that Michael Flynn was allegedly paid $15 million to kidnap for the Turkish government.

    Link

    William Goldman... (5.00 / 1) (#147)
    by desertswine on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:50:07 PM EST
    A few more steps and we'll be safe in the Fire Swamp!
    -Westley

    Rest in peace.

    He wrote (none / 0) (#149)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:55:57 PM EST
    One of the best Spephen King adaptations.  Hearts in Atlantis

    Parent
    Seth Moulten (5.00 / 1) (#191)
    by CST on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 08:21:33 AM EST
    Finally got some local press coverage.  I doubt it's what he was hoping for.  This last bit says it all, IMO.

    "The lack of content in the attacks on her is disturbing to me and seems personal."

    Link

    Today is the first day (5.00 / 2) (#196)
    by CST on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 12:19:05 PM EST
    That you can buy legal weed for recreational purposes in the U.S., east of the Mississippi.

    Two stores opened in MA today, both out in the central/western part of the state.  The first person to purchase was the Mayor of Northampton who swears it was just for historical purposes.

    Still waiting for Eastern MA to get anything, but I might have to take a drive this weekend if the lines aren't too crazy, you know, for historical purposes.

    I was listening (none / 0) (#1)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 03:49:33 PM EST
    to an interview with Nancy Pelosi. It would seem the game plan is to put forth popular legislation in the house like DACA, things that have wide support across the country and make the GOP reps be forced to vote against the bills. I am guessing all of these bills are going to just die in the senate and so I'm not sure how that is going to play out.

    I think that's a good thing (none / 0) (#24)
    by ruffian on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 10:50:34 AM EST
    whether they go anywhere in the senate or not. It clearly answers the question that the ignorant press always asks - 'but what are Democrats foooor?" And sets up for the next time there IS a Dam Senate, which could easily be after the 2020 election, given that the GOP faces an unfavorable Senate map in '20.

    the much needed House investigations can easily go on in parallel.

    Parent

    The thing is tho (none / 0) (#27)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 05:41:57 PM EST
    I hear and see all these bright eyed newbies talking about all this stuff that they will do around healthcare and all sorts of things.  Which is fine but I wonder if they realize anything - and everything - they might do legislatively will die quickly in the Senate.

    The truth it seems to me is to ONLY meaningful thing they will actually be able to do is oversight.

    So just do it.  Republicans damn sure would not be wringing their hands.  They would be laying plans.  I hope democrats are.


    Parent

    I would (none / 0) (#28)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 06:24:27 PM EST
    think Nancy is talking about things like DACA knowing they are going to die in the senate but more as record of who is for and who is against. It seems to me that she's thinking more of 2020 and getting rid of Trump. Maybe she needs to meet with the bright eyed newbies and tell them how things work. That they just need to do input on legisation and vote for things that sell in their district and that Mitch is going to likely kill every bill they work on.

    But yes the only that they really can affect is oversight. Since the GOP put out that spreadsheet I'm sure that is a starting point. We're also going to revisit Kavanaugh. Wonder what they will find with his financial problems?

    Parent

    oh jeezo. Pelosi and Schumer (none / 0) (#2)
    by leap on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 04:57:52 PM EST
    have got to GO AWAY How can we get them out of leadership positions? They are no help at all. They make things worse. D@mn them, anyway.

    Hand (5.00 / 3) (#5)
    by FlJoe on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 06:08:51 PM EST
    wringing drivel.
    There are gonna be a lot of new faces coming to this Democratic Congressional majority, and the first thing those new faces need to do is get in all the old faces, namely Chuck and Nancy and every horrible consultant they employ.
    Let's start a dog fight within the party, that will show them repugs
    !

    I have issues with the both of them, especially Schumer, but at least they are pros. The idea of these untested fresh faces doing anything but learning the ropes from the get go is absurd.

    IMO, Pelosi is one of the best legislative tacticians of our time, keeping the  diverse Democratic coalition together in good times and bad.I get why she is demonized by the right, they really do fear her abilities(and of course she's a woman) but I never understood the hate from the left. It seems she get's the blame for the overall fecklessness of the Democrats over the decades(YMMV on that count) while in truth she has been consistently competent in her realm.

    I won't defend Schumer, he consistently gets steamrolled by Mitch, and all he can do his tut-tut.

    Parent

    I agree (5.00 / 2) (#8)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 07:06:28 PM EST
    We need someone as tough as Pelosi in these dark and dangerous times and some naif legislator is definitely what we do not want. Besides almost every ad the GOP ran in the midterms featured Pelosi and it didn't do much for them electorally. Paul Ryan had terrible numbers and none of the people were screaming for him to be replaced other than the free dumbers. I guess we have our own version of the free dumbers now.

    Parent
    I can see your points about Pelosi, (none / 0) (#7)
    by leap on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 07:05:27 PM EST
    but Schumer is, and has been, useless, over and over again. His not even fighting Trump's right-wing federal court nominees a month or two ago was shocking.

    Parent
    Who (none / 0) (#9)
    by FlJoe on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 07:37:12 PM EST
    would you like to see? It seems the entire Democratic caucus acts neutered at the moment.

    Parent
    Klobuchar (none / 0) (#10)
    by leap on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 09:33:45 PM EST
    Merkley. Wyden. Harris. Whitehouse? They all have more moxie than Schumer. But seniority prevents much movement upward.

    Parent
    Show me someone in that group ... (5.00 / 4) (#16)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 01:32:00 PM EST
    ... of political firebrands in the so-called progressive caucus who can either match or surpass Nancy Pelosi's bona fide accomplishments as House Democratic leader, and I might consider taking this argument seriously.

    HINT: It's most certainly not Rep. Tim Ryan (D-OH), who's long been a featherweight blowhard with delusions of grandeur.

    In football, the "Hail Mary" can be a spectacular and exciting play on offense, when it works -- but the reason why it's so spectacular and exciting when it works is because it's only rarely successful.

    The same concept applies in politics. Far more often than not, long-lasting and meaningful change in public policy is best achieved incrementally, and not by throwing caution to the wind and seeking instant gratification. The worst legislative decisions are those made in haste without much if any due deliberation.

    So, leap, beware of those politicians who insist that there are easy answers and quick solutions to complicated issues and intractable problems. Remember, demagogy is not the exclusive province of those who reside on the starboard side of the political spectrum.

    Aloha.

    Parent

    I think Schumer (none / 0) (#3)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 05:22:29 PM EST
    Is a waste of oxygen.

    I have very mixed feelings about Nancy.  Yes, she is one of the only politicians in America less popular than Trump.

    But she us also a helluva legislator.  We have Obama care because of Nancy.  And we are moving into an intense new place.  Trumps says it's war and I'm sure it will be.  I think there is an argument to be made she is the only person to manage and keep together the new democrat majority.

    I heard a republican say today that no one wants her to be speaker as much as Trump.  Maybe so but he might be careful what he wishes for  

    Parent

    On (none / 0) (#6)
    by FlJoe on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 06:13:44 PM EST
    the same wavelength tonight I see.

    Parent
    Plus (none / 0) (#4)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 09, 2018 at 05:28:39 PM EST
    If I'm honest I have to admit that I like that she makes the Trumpettes cry.

    Parent
    FREAK KINGDOM (none / 0) (#17)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 10, 2018 at 03:38:16 PM EST
    not entirely sure what to think about this

    There are statements like this which I find very odd and a bit clueless...

    If you've ever felt Thompson a bit much to read on his own, "Freak Kingdom" makes a handy and stabilizing companion text

    I never felt that at all.  But this is a quote from the Salon journo.

    The writer says this..

    I read in Umberto Eco's "Ur-fascism," writing as an Italian who grew up in the 1930s during fascism, that fascism is messy totalitarianism, which is why it's so dangerous to America. It's the step that you cross over to, where suddenly what was going wrong in democracy becomes state-sanctioned authoritarian violence. And we've crossed that step a lot of times in American history, and we're at that point again. Eco gives his list of 14 features of fascism. And for him to say it's messy, it has no ideology, that it's about the cult of the central figure, it's about speaking for the group instead of the people who are victimized by the group, to read that and to look back at what Thompson was writing about and to see the word "fascism" repeated in his writing. When he says the central bent of the Hells Angels -- and I'm misquoting it -- was fascistic; they were violent men who didn't want to reason with you, they wanted to abuse anyone who had less power. That's a very American trait. We see it right now. It's happening, sadly and ridiculously, over and over again. To look back and hear him articulating it was, for me, terrifying but also invigorating

    Be curious to know what others who actually knew HST think about this.

    The two voices I miss most (none / 0) (#42)
    by Chuck0 on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 10:24:03 PM EST
    are HST and Frank Zappa (well and Warren Zevon). Especially considering the times.

    Parent
    Molly Ivins (5.00 / 1) (#44)
    by leap on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 10:59:17 PM EST
    I miss her more than any.

    Parent
    oh yes. And Molly Ivins. (none / 0) (#119)
    by Chuck0 on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 04:17:42 PM EST
    I lived in Fort Worth when she wrote for the Star-Telegram there.

    Parent
    It's odd (none / 0) (#48)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 12:02:18 PM EST
    But I miss Zappa almost every day.  Like an expired lover.  The music, definitely the music, but everything else.

    He was the most political artist of the 20th century.

    He would be crushed and horrified.  I believe it might be a fu@ked up consolation prize for dying at 52 is the he did not live to see this.

    Parent

    Stayed at a friends house for few days (none / 0) (#23)
    by McBain on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 10:16:39 AM EST
    last week.  He doesn't have a car, TV or WiFi. It isn't a money issue, he just doesn't need those things in his life most of the time.   I found the experience  mostly refreshing but somewhat inconvenient.

    I've taken a few day trips where I won't bring my phone.  Same thing, mostly refreshing, somewhat inconvenient.  Has anyone here disconnected for more than a day or two? Hard to do if you have family or work obligations/expectations to be available.  

     

    Most of Hawaii is actually very rural. (5.00 / 1) (#25)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 05:08:09 PM EST
    We're already the most geographically remote inhabited land mass on the earth, so it's really not that hard to find places here that aren't wired into the 21st century.

    The island of Moloka'i (pop. 7,200) is 25 miles across the Ka'iwi Channel from Honolulu, and it's only a 20/25-min. flight to get there, but when you arrive at Ho'olehua Airport it's like stepping into an earlier, almost bygone era. Even when I'm in the main town of Kaunakakai (pop. 1,500), I literally have to face east toward Honolulu to use my cell phone.

    Most Moloka'i residents have neither cell phones or internet service because it's cost prohibitive. 60% of them live at or below the federal poverty line, and most depend upon hunting, fishing and gathering for their daily subsistence.

    And 60 miles to our southwest on the Big Island, the Ka'u district (pop. 10,000) is perhaps the only place in the country that still mostly relies on party lines for its phone service. That's only now changing, and party lines will be gone by 2020 per court decree.

    Personally, I think it's important for our own mental and physical health and well being to disconnect occasionally from our electronic devices for extended periods. Our technology ostensibly exists to serve us, but it's often hard for us to remember who's supposed to be the master when we're hardwired and addicted to it. We're fast becoming a very impatient nation of short attention spans and desires for instant gratification -- that is, if we're not there already.

    I further believe that some people's propensity to treat every email, cell phone call and text message as an urgent matter requiring their immediate attention and response is likely reflective of their own personal failure to prioritize the truly important things in their lives. If you suspect that you fall into that category, you're probably right. And that admission is the first step to making a positive change.

    Aloha.

    Parent

    I was probably the last person I knew (none / 0) (#47)
    by CST on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 09:11:48 AM EST
    To get a cell phone, and in the first couple of years I'd routinely "misplace" mine for a few months every summer.  It's pretty much impossible to get away with that now.

    My parents recently moved to the Northeast Kingdom, Vermont, which is the least populated part of a very low population state.  Visiting them I don't have cell service and they have limited wi-fi with pretty small data caps so I try to cut that out as well.

    The upside is that Vermont (especially in the summertime) is not a bad place to be disconnected.

    Parent

    I was very late to the cell phone world and (none / 0) (#54)
    by McBain on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 04:31:12 PM EST
    then to the smart phone world.  I do check my texts and emails regularly, but 90% of the time I have my alerts turned off.  

    One thing I miss from the pre cell phone days is good phone connection quality.  I can't remember the last time I talked to someone landline to landline. You could actually have a decent conversation that way.  

    Parent

    100 years ago today ... (none / 0) (#29)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 06:31:54 PM EST
    ... the guns fell silent across the western front in France and Belgium as an armistice between Allied and Imperial German forces took affect, which ultimately brought to an end the First World War's four-plus years of then-unparalleled carnage across Europe and the Middle East.

    (I include the latter because some 2.5 million British and Commonwealth military personnel were ultimately deployed against the very game but otherwise decrepit Ottoman Empire, now modern-day Turkey, and 10% of them never returned home from a vast theatre of war that British military historians have sometimes diminutively dismissed as "the Sideshow." The Turks themselves, having foolishly disdained the wiser course of neutrality in Oct. 1914 to instead hastily join what proved to be the losing side, suffered 1.3 million dead, wounded and missing in their valiant but forlorn attempt to fend off the mighty British Empire.)

    An estimated 20 million people, including nearly 8 million civilian noncombatants, died in what was wistfully hoped to be "The War to End All Wars," rather than the mother of them all. Another 20 million were wounded or missing.

    "To understand why the U.S. fought in 1917, begin by considering the outcome if the United States had not fought. Minus U.S. reinforcements on land and sea, it's difficult to imagine how the Allies could have defeated a Germany that had knocked revolutionary Russia out of the war.

    "By the summer of 1917, the Western Allies had exhausted their credit in U.S. financial markets. Without direct U.S. government-to-government aid, they could not have afforded any more offensives in the West. The exhausted Allies would have had to negotiate some kind of settlement with Central Power forces occupying almost all of what is now Ukraine, Poland, and the Baltic republics in the east; most of Romania and Yugoslavia in Southern Europe, as well as a bit of Italy; and almost all of Belgium and most of northeast France.

    "Even if the Germans had traded concessions in the West to preserve their gains in the East, the kaiser's Germany would have emerged from such an outcome as the dominant power on the continent of Europe. The United States would have found itself after such a negotiated peace confronting the same outcome as it faced in 1946: a Europe divided between East and West, with the battered West looking to the United States for protection. As in 1946, the East would have been dominated by an authoritarian regime that looked upon the liberal and democratic Anglo-American West not just as a geopolitical antagonist, but as an ideological threat."

    In the United States, which entered the conflict belatedly, the First World War became much more unpopular after the fact than while it was being waged. And our resultant rejection of the 1919 Treaty of Versailles, and our subsequent disengagement and isolationism from our allies, had profoundly serious consequences 20 years later for not only our own country, but for the entire world as well.

    Aloha.

    "The Germans had initiated.. (5.00 / 1) (#40)
    by desertswine on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 09:56:04 PM EST
    peace negotiations on Nov 8, and their delegates had pleaded that fighting be suspended at once.  Marshall Ferdinand Foch, the Supreme Allied Commander, refused.  The signing of the armistice agreement was announced at 5:45 on the morning of Nov 11, but Foch decreed that the official ending time would be 11 o'clock.

    In the ensuing five hours and fifteen minutes, the two sides suffered a combined 10,944 casualties including 2,738 dead, according to historian Joseph E. Persico..."   Harper's Magazine


    Parent

    The armistice was initially ... (none / 0) (#43)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 10:31:14 PM EST
    ... only supposed to be for 20 days' duration. But in that intervening period, the Imperial German government collapsed completely, revolutionaries effectively seized power in Berlin, and Kaiser Wilhelm II and the royal family fled to neutral Holland. So rather than hold in place along the western front, the German Army abandoned their positions and returned home to deal with the Spartacist revolt of Karl Liebknecht and Rosa Luxemburg, which they suppressed in January 1919. Meanwhile, the Allies strengthened their own position militarily by entering Germany and occupying the Rhineland.

    Parent
    I'd say it's a little difficult (5.00 / 1) (#45)
    by jondee on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 12:13:29 AM EST
    to precisely guage how popular or unpopular that war really was in the U.S, when under the Espionage Act open, organized resistence to it could result in being sent to prison.

    Parent
    Several of the young activists (5.00 / 3) (#46)
    by Peter G on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 09:02:57 AM EST
    who had been prosecuted and some of them jailed for their opposition to the war (on anti-imperialist grounds, mostly) went on to join forces the next year with pacifists who had supported conscientious objectors (legally unprotected and horribly persecuted during the war), birth control campaigners and other feminists, immigrants' rights activists (opponents of the "Palmer raids"), labor organizers, and anti-racists to found what became, in 1920, the ACLU. Few of them were lawyers. They had the brilliant and original insight that if they promoted principled and even-handed interpretation and enforcement of the Bill of Rights and the Fourteenth Amendment -- rather than focus on their own separate radical causes -- they were more likely to score successes in public opinion and in the courts. ACLU's hundredth anniversary is just around the corner.

    Parent
    I was reading today (none / 0) (#31)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 06:56:06 PM EST
    About how the real winner was the Spanish Flu

    Initially the outbreak, which began in the Middle East in the spring of 1918 before reaching the Western Front shortly afterwards, took on a mild form.  However by the summer up to a third of influenza sufferers reported increasingly harsh symptoms, including bronchial pneumonia, heliotrope cyanosis and septicemic blood poisoning.  A sizeable number died of their symptoms.

    The pandemic inevitably had military consequences although a far higher number of civilian casualties were suffered.  The virus swept across German, Austro-Hungarian and Turkish battle lines prior to reaching France, thereby crucially inflicting casualties through sickness at a time when Germany and her allies could ill-afford such losses.  Quantifying the effects of such losses at a time of increasing Allied successes on the battlefield is however problematic.

    Each nation at war went to great lengths to conceal the extent of losses suffered through the virus, concerned that such reports would serve to encourage their enemies.  In reality each were suffering as badly as the other.

    Link

    Parent

    Left out the money quote (5.00 / 1) (#33)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 07:01:01 PM EST
    In the summer of 1918 a severe form of influenza - 'Spanish Flu' or 'La Grippe' - broke out which eventually claimed up to 70 million lives around the world


    Parent
    Yes, it is really shocking to be reminded (5.00 / 1) (#39)
    by Peter G on Sun Nov 11, 2018 at 08:33:29 PM EST
    that many more died of the flu in 1918 than in all of the horrendous First World War, military and civilian combined. Most of those deaths, IIRC, were in India. My own father, who was age 2 in 1918, apparently barely survived the flu that year (lucky for me).

    Parent
    ... to the Spanish flu in January 1919, only four days apart. She said that when the twins got sick, her grandparents quickly came over and relocated her and her other four siblings to their own house, in order to minimize their exposure. She was 17 at the time, and the twins were six years younger than her. She lamented not being there for them, but her own mother wouldn't hear of it, and she forbade her and the other children from returning home while there was illness in the house. Knowing what we do now about that particular flu strain's virulence, her mother's adamancy probably saved their lives.

    Parent
    Funny story (none / 0) (#75)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 12, 2018 at 11:31:42 PM EST
    My last film credit, and best -VFX supervisor, was a movie called DELGO.

    It was not a terrible movie.  Not great, not even that good, but not terrible.  For perspective at almost the same time another animated film was released that made reasonable money, SPACE CHIMPS.

    Space CHIMPS was not a better movie but it was advertised.  Our movie was released without a dollar of advertising because the guy, mentioned in the Slate link, had just spent all the money and hoped with a wide release in might get word of mouth.  It did.  Sort of.  It became sort of famous for being the biggest flop in history.  Really.  In history.  One of the late night shows, Letterman I think even did a segment about it.  

    Ha ha.  Very funny.

    The Other Terrible Movies That Deserve Disaster Artist-Style Biopics

    Delgo isn't so much a terrible movie as it is an exceptionally unfortunate one. This animated-action-adventure-romantic-comedy fantasy film about colonialism and bigotry (for children, mind you) didn't just bomb upon its release in December 2008--it bombed so hard that it set records. For years, Delgo had the distinction of having the worst opening weekend performance at the box office ever, grossing just $511,920 at 2,160 theaters across the country

    But my proposed "based on a true story" drama about Delgo wouldn't dwell on the film's failures. Instead, it would start several months after the film's disappointing reception at the box office, picking up the story in the summer of 2009, with the release of another, much more promising movie on the horizon: James Cameron's Avatar. A handful of critics took note of a few visual and thematic similarities between Delgo and Avatar at the time, prompting Fathom Studios to release a statement that they were considering suing.

    The thing about AVATAR is very true.  check out the side by side images

    Many many similarities.  Which I suppose were totally accidental.  Oddly enough.  I worked on it for three years and I can swear AVATAR was never mentioned.  And I'm assuming Cameron plagiarize either.

    Funny story
    More so years later.


    EXCELCIOR!! (none / 0) (#82)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 09:54:19 AM EST
    That may (none / 0) (#84)
    by KeysDan on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 11:25:09 AM EST
    account for Trump's flat persona in Paris, save for that flash of dental implants for Putin. And, his staying in his room, skipping Arlington. The indictments would have to be above coffee boy rank
     Maybe Don jr. Maybe Sessions.

    Parent
    Indeed (none / 0) (#85)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 11:30:16 AM EST
    And other stuff

    Parent
    Speaking of El Chapo. (none / 0) (#86)
    by fishcamp on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 11:44:10 AM EST
    Have they stripped him of his money and assets yet.  They always seem to do that, and it gives the presumption of guilt.  We all know the presumption of innocence is fiction in cases like his, but our law isn't supposed to act that way.  I would guess either his lawyer or another law firm will fight this so he can hire an excellent lawyer to defend him.  I mean there is enough money to go around to everybody isn't there?  Obviously I don't know how it works in these giant money drug trials.

    Only particular assets that can be directly (5.00 / 1) (#89)
    by Peter G on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 11:59:43 AM EST
    traced to an illegal source can be frozen before trial. The Supreme Court has ruled that the government and trial court do not have to release such funds to allow the defendant to hire counsel of choice, but will often agree to do so anyway. Even if they don't, the Federal Public Defender office for Southern and Eastern N.Y. (i.e., NYC), where the case is being held, is superb.

    Parent
    That's good to hear. (5.00 / 2) (#91)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 03:13:50 PM EST
    Peter G: "[T]he Federal Public Defender office for Southern and Eastern N.Y. (i.e., NYC), where the case is being held, is superb."

    It was a federal public defender in Hawaii, Alexander Silvert, whose dogged work on behalf of his client Gerald Puana ultimately took down both Honolulu's now-former police chief and the former No. 2 official in the City Prosecutor's office, Louis and Katherine Kealoha, who are both now awaiting trial in federal court on charges of bank fraud, public corruption and obstruction of a federal investigation. Another seven members of a once-elite but now-defunct HPD unit have already pleaded guilty to aiding and betting their boss's scheme.

    And honestly, the City and County of Honolulu is much better off today for Silvert having done that. He could've pleaded his client out to a lesser charge but he didn't because his innate sense, honed by nearly 40 years' practice as a criminal defense counsel, told him that the case against the defendant looked like a set-up. And such was the professional respect that Silvert had from the local FBI office that his detailed complaint quickly drew their attention, and a subsequent investigation by FBI special agents ultimately proved him right.

    It's often said in jest that nobody likes criminal defense attorneys until they actually need one. But there's a strong element of truth to that. You guys are the unsung heroes who ensure that our justice system, for all its flaws, works as well as it does.

    Aloha.

    Parent

    I knew Allie Silvert before he moved (none / 0) (#92)
    by Peter G on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 07:44:08 PM EST
    to Hawaii, 30+ yrs ago. He was a terrific lawyer even when he was a kid. Now he's a legend in the national public defender community.

    Parent
    Neither the Mexican Govt nor the (none / 0) (#126)
    by Jeralyn on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 02:57:23 AM EST
    US have seized his assets.

    In the U.S., forfeiture can be brought either by civil or criminal action. The Indictment in his case includes a request for forfeiture so it's via a criminal action, and that requires a conviction on the criminal charge (s) giving rise to the forfeiture. The Indictment says the Government is seeking $14 billion. That number seems to be excessive according to several experts. I think it's made up out of thin air, and I doubt he has anything approaching that left to seize.

    Parent

    Hey, Towanda ... Have you heard this new/old (none / 0) (#93)
    by Peter G on Tue Nov 13, 2018 at 09:09:08 PM EST
    Dylan song (from 1961) called "On, Wisconsin"?

    Yes, I have read reportage about it (5.00 / 4) (#94)
    by Towanda on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 12:14:44 AM EST
    in our local media. It's a bit of a ditty. Wisconsin did not bring out the best in Bob.  But whaddya expect from a Minnesotsn, dere hey.

    Parent
    THE PRICE OF EVERYTHING (none / 0) (#102)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 05:07:15 PM EST
    HBO has a doc that started this week on the crazy world of contemporary art.  If interested in the subject you will like it.


    The Price of Everything -- a dizzying, disorientating documentary about the art world
    Nathaniel Kahn's film is both sobering and hilarious

        If personal collectors increasingly outbid museums and galleries, so what (asks the film)? Public viewing facilities are cemeteries anyway: most of their aesthetic citizenry is buried underground. And aren't personal collectors keeping art's value high, where it should be? Or -- back to Oscar -- do we just mean art's price?

    A prominent figure in the film is Larry Poons, who rhymes with Koons but is his opposite. Rural and reclusive, quaint and pottering, he paints gigantic, serial canvases with exquisite neo-impressionist daubs. His work is Monet's waterlilies gone contemporary. But by the end even he has segue'd from Monet to Money. Hung in New York, he clinks champagne glasses with those about to be his tyrant-paymasters. He is a half-forgotten name (by some) now remembered. He is probably ruined -- with riches -- for life.



    That's link should work (none / 0) (#103)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 05:09:39 PM EST
    PS (none / 0) (#104)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 05:13:11 PM EST
    one of the artists interviewed is Mayilyn Minter

    Who I think was the source of the beautiful art of the dying woman in the final season of the Americans.

    Parent

    Oops (none / 0) (#105)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 06:09:47 PM EST
    Similar (none / 0) (#106)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 06:21:29 PM EST
    Have you seen "Bohemian Rhapsody"? (none / 0) (#152)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 07:37:03 PM EST
    We just caught it the other night. I've been a fan of Queen for forever, so of course I thought it was wonderful, despite the mixed signals I got from film critics, a few of whom -- seriously -- couldn't decide if the biopic was too gay or not gay enough. Thus, the view from silly critics with personal agendas. (Sigh!) Anyway, Rami Malek just rocked as Freddie Mercury, and he deserves at least an Oscar nomination for best actor. Just wanted to know what you thought, if you've seen it.

    Parent
    I have not (none / 0) (#154)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 07:46:47 PM EST
     But I definitely will.

    Also saw OVERLORD

    so good

    And if you want some well made brainless fun do MEG on payperview

    Parent

    Better Overlord review (none / 0) (#156)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 08:03:48 PM EST
    I saw "The Meg" ... (none / 0) (#161)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 04:12:31 AM EST
    ... in the theatre with my younger daughter on a very rainy afternoon here in Hilo. My wife was in Honolulu, and we were bored. It was so over the top that it was silly -- but it was also fun in a "Lake Placid" kind of way. I was entertained.

    Parent
    Agree about Bohemian Rhapsody (none / 0) (#187)
    by caseyOR on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 06:09:48 PM EST
    and Rami Malek's performance. Rami was amazing as Freddie Mercury. Really, everyone in the cast was good. And the cinematography was brilliant.

    The critics were generally completely wrong about this movie.

    Parent

    90 million (none / 0) (#170)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 03:59:27 PM EST
    NEW YORK(Reuters) - An iconic 1972 painting by British artist David Hockney soared to $90.3 million at Christie's on Thursday, smashing the record for the highest price ever paid at auction for a work by a living artist.


    Parent
    The subtext of that documentary (none / 0) (#171)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 04:24:25 PM EST
    Is the exploding luxury class who can spend 90 million on a painting.

    Parent
    Snowing like crazy here (none / 0) (#107)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 08:05:00 PM EST
    January weather

    Prediction is for the first snow (none / 0) (#108)
    by Peter G on Wed Nov 14, 2018 at 11:00:51 PM EST
    of the season tomorrow (Thursday), here in the Philadelphia area, beginning around mid-day.

    Parent
    We're getting the first snow tomorrow as well (5.00 / 2) (#111)
    by CST on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 09:58:55 AM EST
    Meanwhile, in Lawrence, one of the poorest towns in MA, 54% of gas meters are still disconnected because of the gas explosion that happened two months ago.  They are estimating that the work will be done in mid December.  Freezing temperatures are already here.

    Is it infrastructure week yet?  You'd think the catastrophe in California would lead to a little bit of soul searching.

    Parent

    A great Christmas idea. (none / 0) (#112)
    by Abdul Abulbul Amir on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 10:12:17 AM EST
    Because nothing says 'Merry Christmas' (5.00 / 4) (#113)
    by vml68 on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 10:26:39 AM EST
    like bullets and guns.
    If only, the three Magi had come bearing gifts that included the latest weaponry of the day.

    Parent
    D'Jesus Uncrossed. (none / 0) (#153)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 07:42:30 PM EST
    LINK. I think you'll appreciate this.

    Parent
    "Bipartisan criminal justice bill" (none / 0) (#115)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 02:53:22 PM EST
    any thoughts on this?

    President Trump, in his first attempt at bipartisanship since last week's election, endorsed a bill Wednesday aimed at reducing some prison sentences and better preparing inmates for life after incarceration.


    One (none / 0) (#116)
    by FlJoe on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 03:23:26 PM EST
    small step forward after a large step backwards
    Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions has drastically limited the ability of federal law enforcement officials to use court-enforced agreements to overhaul local police departments accused of abuses and civil rights violations, the Justice Department announced on Thursday.
    They will be locking them up (probably at a faster rate), just for a shorter time.

    This boggles  

    department lawyers must lay out evidence of additional violations beyond unconstitutional behavior
    WTF? Go ahead and violate the constitution, just don't leave marks!

    I suppose this will be passed with everyone patting themselves on their bi-partisan backs, selling this "kinder and gentler" prison planet as true reform.

    Parent

    It's sort of illustrates something (none / 0) (#117)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 03:38:05 PM EST
    I have thought for a while which is we are in a way fortunate Trump is so completely insane.  Because any tiny insignificant effort to be less insane would be fluffed and fluffed by the pathetic media beyond any reason.

    In other words it would be so incredibly easy for him to punk the press because they are so eager to report the tiniest example of him being not insane.  

    We are fortunate he is to insane to understand this.

    Not talking about this reform thing necessarily which I know little about but Trump and bipartisan in the same sentence is a red flag

    Parent

    Amen (none / 0) (#118)
    by FlJoe on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 04:02:31 PM EST
    to that.

    Parent
    So (none / 0) (#120)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 04:37:11 PM EST
    It's,said Trumps "answers" to Mueller could come as soon as tomorrow.

    This morning he screeched

    "The inner workings of the Mueller investigation are a total mess," he tweeted on Thursday morning. "They have found no collusion and have gone absolutely nuts." He added, without providing evidence, that Mueller's team was "screaming and shouting at people, horribly threatening them to come up with the answers they want," and called the investigators "thugs," "a disgrace to our Nation," and "highly conflicted."

    Tomorrow?

    Like Honig, former federal prosecutor Dan Goldman suggested that if Trump has learned anything about Mueller's recent moves, it'd likely be from defense lawyers whose clients have been ensnared in the investigation. Goldman, who worked on mob-related cases in the Southern District of New York, speculated that the president may know in advance that "indictments are coming, probably tomorrow." The special counsel's office has a pattern of releasing indictments on Fridays.

    NO WAY TO DELAY THAT TROUBLE COMIN EVERY DAY

    You ask, "Tomorrow?", as if (5.00 / 1) (#138)
    by Jack E Lope on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 04:16:59 PM EST
    ...you are thinking about how many days Drumpf has been in office.  

    So far, 665 days have elapsed.

    Parent

    I thought (none / 0) (#125)
    by Ga6thDem on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 08:55:46 PM EST
    Trump had not answered any of the questions and now basically was saying he was not going to.

    However I do agree something big is coming down the pike strictly based on Trump's meltdown about Mueller. He has not mentioned Mueller in quite a while and then all of a sudden he starts again. I would guess all those that we know about already Don Jr., Corsi and Stone are going to get indicted. And probably some others that we have not heard about yet.

    Parent

    2 days ago (none / 0) (#127)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 07:45:49 AM EST
    Trump could answer written Russia probe questions this week: source

    Rudy is flapping and squawking about some being "traps" but the news this week has been ateast some of the answers are coming.

    Parent

    I think he may have been told (none / 0) (#128)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 07:47:38 AM EST
    He has no choice.  Which could also help explain his downward spiral

    Parent
    Mass shootings (none / 0) (#122)
    by Abdul Abulbul Amir on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 08:18:43 PM EST
    You must be against all of that Christmas advertising by car companies.

    The number of people killed by motor vehicles is several orders of magnitude greater  than those killed in mass shootings. Think of the children.

    Think of the children (none / 0) (#123)
    by jondee on Thu Nov 15, 2018 at 08:41:28 PM EST
    are you referring to yourself now, or the actual children?

    I gave up building forts in the woods and playing pretend about being a big man with a gun when I was ten.

    Parent

    Wow. (none / 0) (#155)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 07:51:21 PM EST
    "Think first about how stupid the average person is. And then, realize that half the people in this country are even stupider than that."
    - George Carlin, American comedian (1937-2008)

    Given that exercise in logical contortion, I'd say the mustard has fallen off your pretzel.

    Oy.

    Parent

    CNN 1 (none / 0) (#130)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 09:31:00 AM EST
    Trump 0

    Let's hope it's the first half of a very bad day.

    Yes (none / 0) (#131)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 10:19:48 AM EST
    I am hoping for some very bad news for Trump and the GOP. The media seems to think that it is going to be within two weeks due to a filing having to do with Manafort.

    Parent
    Marsha Fudge (none / 0) (#132)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 11:21:29 AM EST
    Will not challenge Nancy

    This is about other leadership spots.

    I have to say (none / 0) (#133)
    by CST on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 12:42:55 PM EST
    The shine is coming off of Seth Moulten pretty quick.  The weird thing is that this whole debacle is getting almost no local coverage, despite him putting himself front and center.

    I bet he's upset about that, but it's probably in his best interest that it's not.

    Parent

    Wasn't because the media was (none / 0) (#136)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 03:46:40 PM EST
    Not pushing the death of Nancy story at every opportunity.

    After years in the wilderness dems may have learned a couple of things.

    Or not.

    Parent

    I noticed (none / 0) (#139)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 04:36:53 PM EST
    a lot of pushback from people who were not necessarily Nancy's biggest fans. The thing that really made people mad was there was no argument against Schumer who LOST and yet Nancy who won. It really ticked women off because again, it came off as misogyny.

    Parent
    #5whiteguys (none / 0) (#168)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 03:46:58 PM EST
    Is not bad for Nancy

    Parent
    What could go wrong? (none / 0) (#135)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 03:44:32 PM EST
    I totally want one.

    Dubai police take delivery of first training Hoverbikes

    Those numbers may not be all that impressive, but this is a motorcycle that flies and is actually for sale right now! Also, in the past year they have increased the top speed from 45 mph, and the cruise time from 20 minutes. Hoversurf is hard at work on more efficient battery and propulsion systems. The Hoverbike S4 is supposed to feature a ducted fan system which not only will deliver more lift for less energy, but is quieter and safer than having carbon fibre propellers spinning just a few feet from the rider (Some images show safety cages around them most do not)


    Video (none / 0) (#137)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 03:51:31 PM EST
    That looks safe... (none / 0) (#141)
    by desertswine on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:08:11 PM EST
    with all those spinning blades.

    Parent
    You know (none / 0) (#142)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:19:18 PM EST
    I'm not an engineer but would it not make more sense to have the propellers up?  Slightly above your head?  The way drones are often designed?

    It just seems that that would make falling off possibly less like falling into a meat grinder.

    Parent

    That's what I thought too.. (none / 0) (#143)
    by desertswine on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:29:17 PM EST
    It's not so much a "hoverbike" as it is a very large drone with a guy perched on the top of it.  Imagine running into something with all those spinning propellers.

    Parent
    Very soon (none / 0) (#144)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:39:35 PM EST
    An action movie sequence with decapitations



    Parent
    Supposedly (none / 0) (#145)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:41:16 PM EST
    Next gen will have propeller guards.

    So,  all fixed.

    /s

    Parent

    Ok (none / 0) (#140)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:03:19 PM EST
    Just got a call.  My brother in law asks, 'are you sitting down?"

    When I was he told me the story.  Earlier today his grandson, my nephew, was apparently laying in bed with his girlfriend and son who is almost three.

    That's when his gun, which for some reason no one can figure out he was carrying on his hip, slipped out of the holster.  At which point the almost three year old grabbed and shot his mother in the leg.  She is ok.  After being airlifted to Springfield to keep her from bleeding out.

    I feel unable to add any editorial comment here.  Just had to share.

    PS
    I saw WIDOWS today.  it's very good

    Not a joke (5.00 / 1) (#146)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:45:16 PM EST
    Feel free to be speechless or opinionated.

    I have done both.  My brother and I were just saying maybe the child needs a safer home.

    Parent

    Learned one crazy fact (none / 0) (#148)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 06:52:35 PM EST
    Glock pistols do not have an external safety that be can engaged and disengaged at will. Instead Glocks have various internal safety. mechanisms to ensure the pistol does not fire a round unless the trigger is pulled, ie. not when dropped, knocked etc.

    My first question was if you are going to have your stupid gun in bed maybe the safety should be on.  Was told they didn't have one.  Didn't believe it and googled

    Parent

    I think maybe (none / 0) (#150)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 07:01:29 PM EST
    They have earned bullet glasses for Xmas.

    Parent
    I forgot the best part (5.00 / 1) (#151)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 07:29:22 PM EST
    The kids name.

    Gunner.

    I know, it sounds made up.  Not.

    Parent

    Actually (none / 0) (#157)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 08:09:00 PM EST
    that's a good Norwegian name I believe. Kind of suprised that it is used in Arkansas though.

    Does the guy that was careless with his gun feel any remorse over all this?

    Parent

    I have not spoken to him (none / 0) (#159)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 08:12:10 PM EST
    I only hope he can understand how lucky it was he was pointing the gun out and not in.

    Hopefully he cares enough about the child ....

    I'm not holding my breath.

    And I'm sure they have no idea it's a Norwegian name.

    Parent

    From the internet: (none / 0) (#158)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 08:11:26 PM EST
    The name Gunner is a Swedish baby name. In Swedish the meaning of the name Gunner is: Battle strong.

    Parent
    They intended it (none / 0) (#160)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Nov 16, 2018 at 08:13:59 PM EST
    Exactly how it sounds.  Wouldn't know Swedish or Norwegian from Venusian

    Parent
    Makes me think of Will Farrell's (none / 0) (#165)
    by jondee on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 01:38:22 PM EST
    character Ricky Bobby and his two sons Walker and Texas Ranger..

    Seriously, how much of a goofball do you have to be to walk around with loaded gun in the house?

    Is that guy going to be charged with endangering the welfare of a child? I hope so.

    Parent

    He is the police so probably not (none / 0) (#166)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 03:40:38 PM EST
    County Sheriff deputy

    Parent
    If he was not (none / 0) (#167)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 03:44:30 PM EST
    She likely would not have been airlifted to emergency care.

    Maybe.  Probably not.  Helps to have the radio on you.

    Parent

    Just heard she is coming home (none / 0) (#169)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 03:53:07 PM EST
    From the hospital tomorrow

    I asked about "consequences"  

    So far none I can tell.

    Parent

    This is why we need (none / 0) (#178)
    by Peter G on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 09:09:31 AM EST
    Linea around again, to straighten this all out.

    Parent
    oh sure. (none / 0) (#182)
    by leap on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 10:41:54 AM EST
    She'd just make spliced Z-twist cordage out of it all.

    Parent
    On the question of Norwegian vs (none / 0) (#179)
    by Peter G on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 09:14:38 AM EST
    Swedish vs Venusian, I meant.

    Parent
    Pfft (none / 0) (#180)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 09:18:29 AM EST
    Just heard she is still in the hospital.

    Parent
    "Widows" is a fabulous movie. (none / 0) (#188)
    by caseyOR on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 06:18:30 PM EST
    Viola Davis rocks in this heist, love betrayal, political corruption film. Viola's performances are always brilliant. Forceful and nuanced.

    And the other women give compelling performances, also. Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Rodriguez, and Elizabeth Debicki are all good. The men, Liam Neeson and Colin Farrell and Robert Duvall and Daniel Kaluuya and Brian Tyree Henry, turn in good performances, but the women rock.

    I cannot recommend this movie enough.

    Parent

    I agree (none / 0) (#189)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 08:45:46 PM EST
    I love Viola.  Haven't yet seen the Queen movie yet but I'm also a big Rami Malek fan. New and final season of Mr Robot is coming

    Parent
    Just saw it last night. (none / 0) (#206)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 06:58:03 PM EST
    The movie's tag line should be: "Don't f*ck with Viola -- she will blow your sh*t up." And if it doesn't get Oscar nominations for Best Picture and Actress, there is no G*d.

    Parent
    Today (Nov. 18, 2018) ... (none / 0) (#162)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 04:56:42 AM EST
    ... is the 40th anniversary of the mass murder / suicide of over 900 members of the Rev. Jim Jones' People's Temple cult in "Jonestown" near Port Kaituma, Guyana.

    Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-CA), who served as staff attorney to the late Congressman Leo Ryan (D-CA), survived the assassination of her boss by cultists when they tried to leave with people who wanted out of Jonestown. She was shot five times, and still carries bullet fragments in her body from that awful day.

    Leo Ryan is one of only two members of the U.S. House to have been killed in office, and was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 1983 on the 5th anniversary of his assassination.

    Jonestown was a shocking tragedy which still resonates today.

    ATTACK OF THE 50 FOOT WOMAN!! (none / 0) (#163)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 10:35:51 AM EST
    TCM 12:30 central

    I wonder if there could be a political message here.

    Nahhhh

    That is one cool movie! (none / 0) (#164)
    by desertswine on Sat Nov 17, 2018 at 12:50:38 PM EST
    I just committed to Thanksgiving (none / 0) (#172)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 18, 2018 at 11:07:14 AM EST
    With the most rabidly pro Trump branch of my family tree.

    I was invited.  Which sort of surprised me.  And I am curious to see if or to what extent the Trump love has cooled.

    I have internally vowed to start no arguments.  That will be way easier than it might have been before the election.  I feel much less moved to argue about it with them.  

    Who is right will be clear soon enough.

    Tho the world may well have exploded by Thanksgiving.

    I'm starting to think if we don't hear from Mueller, like, next week we can probably start believing the story that Mueller has already subpoenaed Trump and it's being fought out in sealed court actions.  And we won't hear much until it is resolved one way or another.

    It would be an awsum Thanksgiving (5.00 / 1) (#173)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 18, 2018 at 11:14:02 AM EST
    Dinner conversation starter if Muller drops a buttload of indictments before the holiday.

    Parent
    I would (none / 0) (#174)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Nov 18, 2018 at 02:45:41 PM EST
    love indictments before Thanksgiving if for no other reason than no one is going to be talking about being on the Trump Train and mostly silent about politics.

    Parent
    'Enemies: The President, Justice & The FBI' (none / 0) (#175)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Nov 18, 2018 at 05:31:10 PM EST
    Starts tonight

    Alex Gibney's Showtime documentary series is all about Donald Trump, even when it's saying that it's about Watergate, Iran-Contra or various Bill Clinton scandals.
    There's a timer ticking on Showtime's Enemies: The President, Justice & The FBI.

    The four-part documentary series is effectively a three-part overture directed by Jed Rothstein and leading up to a feature-length conclusion from Alex Gibney, a fourth part that, in the 97-minute version sent to critics, promised to be "updated to reflect current events unfolding in DC." Gibney doesn't require a finite resolution of Robert Mueller's investigation into various nooks and crannies of the Donald Trump presidential campaign and administration, but with that pivotal fourth episode set to premiere on December 9, there's plenty of room for Gibney's argument and its conclusions to evolve.

    link

    All of Bill Clinton's "scandals," ... (none / 0) (#176)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sun Nov 18, 2018 at 10:30:14 PM EST
    ... such as they are, were wholly personal and rather tawdry in nature, whereas Watergate and Iran-Contra involved serious crimes against the state. Let's hope the producers avoid offering a false equivalence.

    Parent
    In my opinion (none / 0) (#177)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 07:53:37 AM EST
    If progressives are going to participate honestly in the reckoning we hope is coming in this country we have to stop making excuses for Clinton by doing things like putting scandals in quotes.

    Quite apart from the fact he wasted his presidency by doing stupid irresponsible and creepy things he was subject to the very same kind of kompromat as the pee tape.

    His scandals were absolutely not IMO "wholly personal".  He foolishly gave republicans a club to beat him with.  And they used it.

    The first episode of that series was excellent.

    I doubt very much "false equivalency" will be a problem.

    Alex Gibney is one of the greatest living documentary film makers

    Parent

    On that subject (none / 0) (#181)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 09:58:53 AM EST
    There is another Alex Gibney doc starting this week.

    THE CLINTON AFFAIR started last night on A&E but the first episode is aired again tonight followed by the second.

    I forgot about it last night but am now set to record.

    The events of the 1990s have of late become the stuff of historical drama for the first time, with fictionalizations of the Anita Hill hearings, the trial of O.J. Simpson, the crimes of Andrew Cunanan, and the Tonya Harding scandal on the small and big screens. Those works, executed with varying degrees of success, have the power to invent and marshall emotional truths in service of a grand argument. "The Clinton Affair" gives viewers less in the way of overarching ideas to chew on. But it does generate a sense that Clinton is being evaluated -- not by the blogosphere but by as exhaustively curious a lens as could exist -- and coming up badly wanting. As such, it breaks through its format, and feels less like a staid work of recitation than a turning point.

    "The Clinton Affair." A&E. Six episodes (five screened for review). Premieres Sunday, Nov. 18.

    Executive Producers: Alex Gibney, Blair Foster, Stacey Offman, Jemima Khan, Henrietta Conrad, Elaine Frontain Bryant, Molly Thompson, Evan Lerner.

    link

    Parent

    I would (none / 0) (#186)
    by Ga6thDem on Mon Nov 19, 2018 at 06:02:56 PM EST
    argue that basically we need a complete reckoning of the entire history of the country as it seems the problems from the civil war have never even been resolved and that was over 150 years ago. We need to quit deifying the founding fathers because while they were probably great thinkers "of their time" they were also greatly flawed people. We've only been led by flawed people the entire history of our country.

    Parent
    If you have an hour or so to face up (none / 0) (#190)
    by Peter G on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 12:13:38 AM EST
    to the history of racism, you might listen in on Jeff Robinson, director of the ACLU Center for Justice, in Jackson, Mississippi, Monday evening.

    Parent
    Clinton is a very smart guy (none / 0) (#192)
    by jondee on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 08:33:50 AM EST
    he had to know the Republicans were laying for him, and not in a nice way, as Groucho Marx used to say..

    Was he another star who surrounded himself with too many yes-men and enablers? I suspect that was a big part of it.

    As a side note, how he ended up being "friends" with the creepy RM Scaife, who bankrolled so many of those tawdry dirt-digging expeditions, is truly a mystery that passeth all understanding.

    Parent

    I only got through part of the (none / 0) (#193)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 09:00:06 AM EST
    First episode of The Clinton Affair but it's pretty clear it's not a hit job on anyone.  

    But its pretty fascinating in many ways.  I was struck by how similar the reasons were the public backed Clinton and Trump.  They thought he was "one of them".   Hey loved McDonald's food.  He slept around with questionable women.  

    Clinton's biggest mistake might have been using state employees to procure his women.  A lot of the first episode was about that.  We don't really know if Trump has done that but then he doesn't need to.  

    When I read it included Paula Jones I cringed a little but I have to say seeing her tell her story after the last couple of years lands a little different for me than it did at the time.

    As far as the why.  It's what he had always done.  He was famous for it in this state over 5 terms as governor.  Why would he stop?  Why would he understand he should.  Well, one can say as you did he should have known.

    Personally I think it was pure lust and hubris and lack of self control.

    Parent

    Mississippi Senate debate tonight (none / 0) (#194)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 10:01:36 AM EST
    on CSPAN

    Wal-Mart just yanked funding from the republican

    Uh oh (none / 0) (#203)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 05:47:48 PM EST
    Last night I watched.. (none / 0) (#197)
    by desertswine on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 01:00:40 PM EST
    "The Ballad of Buster Scruggs," the Coen Brothers movie that's now on Netflix.  It's a western, and an anthology movie, that is, it is made up of six separate stories. I highly recommend it.  It's not for kids as there is lots of killing. The stories can be upsetting but are thoughtful in that oddball Coen way.  Tom Waits as the prospector is particularly brilliant.  Visually, it is stunning, as you expect a Coen Bros film to be.  

    Waits and the Coens (none / 0) (#198)
    by jondee on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 02:03:20 PM EST
    thats a marriage made in heavan.

    I was just listening to Tom's old buddy Chuck E Weiss last night.

    Parent

    I was wishing that it was... (none / 0) (#199)
    by desertswine on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 02:47:16 PM EST
    on the big screen because of the beautiful landscapes.

    Parent
    Raw Story (none / 0) (#200)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 03:38:25 PM EST

    Special counsel Robert Mueller just filed a new and extensive motion that is being kept under seal for the grand jury, according to Politico reporter Darren Samuelsohn.

    The reporter posted a screen capture from the update showing Mueller made the November update as part of "Case Name: In re: Grand Jury Subpoena." It explained, "The following transaction was entered on 11/20/2018 3:49:22 PM EST and filed on 11/20/2018."

    link

    More Raw (none / 0) (#201)
    by FlJoe on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 04:25:39 PM EST
    President Donald Trump sought to use the Department of Justice to prosecute political enemies, The New York Times reported Tuesday.

    Specifically, Trump sought to target former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former F.B.I. director James Comey.


    Link
    Every day, every hour seems like a step further down the rabbit hole. When will the fever break?

    On the plus side, if you ever wondered what it was like to be governed by the criminally insane...now you know.

    Parent

    I get the sense (none / 0) (#202)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 05:08:17 PM EST
    The wheels are coming off.

    Trump has officially submitted his take home test to Mueller.

    Parent

    There is (none / 0) (#204)
    by Ga6thDem on Tue Nov 20, 2018 at 06:35:36 PM EST
    some specualation that there was a deadline that Trump had to meet or the indictments were going to rain down.

    I did not pop the champagne I have been saving when the GOP lost the house. I hope I remember to pop it on indictment day.

    Parent