Oh raoul wrote on Jul 22, 2008 3:51 AM:Good old sdraoul wants us to think that McCain's goof up about the Iraq-Pakistan border is just like Obama's about 57 states. Think about how desperate raoul is getting here, folks. After confusing Sunni and Shiite, McCain's error (two whole nations, Iran and Afghanistan lie between Iraq and Pakistan...) might sound to people like he has real confusion about the lay of the most important land in our foreign policy decisions. It might have been a confused slip, like Obama's, but put in the context of other things he's said and done (again, compare to other things Obama has said and done) I'm beginning to wonder realistically if perhaps McCain may be slipping. This is not an unreasonable thing to wonder about someone his age, who has an exhausting schedule as candidate or President, the stress, the demands to juggle a hundred things at once. I wish the media would cover McCain more so that we could see close up for ourselves if these are harmless gaffes or if we voters actually have something very important to think about here. This may not be yet another slogan-tossing matter. If McCain (or any candidate) is really not up for the job, the American people should have the opportunity to see for themselves and make a decision.

To why cant this taxpayer vote wrote on Jul 22, 2008 5:25 AM:You proceed from false assumptions, in thinking that if you vote you have a say in what happens in the society.

Here is some advice from someone older: Politicians don't listen to you no matter how old you are. They are an equal opportunity offender in thinking that it is "their" money that you pay in taxes, and that they know better than you--- regardless of your age--- in how to spend it for society.

Sorry to burst your bubble. But that is the truth of the matter.

Don't worry, you'll be old enough to be ignored by the politicians, er, I mean vote, sooner than you think. Time flies.

IRAQistan wrote on Jul 22, 2008 6:12 AM:The McCain people have been whining and crying because McCain kept pushing Obama to go to Iraq, even put a counter on its website showing how many days since his last trip, and now complaining and whining like babies because he takes the trip McCain demands and gets some media attention for it.
So yes, let's do have some media fairness for once.
McCain is and always has been the spoiled darling of the mainstram media pack.
Everyone is saying he has all this foreign policy "experience," but what have all his years as a Washington insider really gotten him?
When he went to Iraq himself, he made gaffe after gaffe, and couldn't tell the difference between the Sunnis and Shias until ex-Democrat Lieberman whispered sweet somethings in his ear.
Now Obama, who got it right from the start on everything about Iraq and the war against terrorism, and the McCain people are waiting to pounce on any little gaffe, but from this side of the Ocean, the safe side, McCain still manages to make a major gaffe and, of course, gets a free pass from the media.
This morning (7/21) on Good Morning America, ABC correspondent Diane Sawyer, a former Nixon press aide, asked McCain a question and he referred to the Iraq-Pakistan border. Hello, Iraq and Pakistan are almost 1,000 miles apart, separated by Iran (a little Freudian, maybe?).
Sure, he meant to say Afghanistan-Pakistan, but can you imagine how the conservos here and the mainstream media would have pounced on Obama if HE had said that? Think of how much mileage news commentators, and conservos on this blog, got when Obama made a slip of the tongue and said "57 states" instead of "57 primaries" (to include territories such as Guam, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc. as well as DC).
Yeah, let's do have a little media fairness.
McCain "foreign policy expertise" - more like too many years in the ivory towers of Washington, out of touch with Americans and the world.

Rick wrote on Jul 22, 2008 6:20 AM:Some of you actually think William Ficere, USMC retired ..., is concerned with facts?

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 6:26 AM:The news is reporting that another company, Wachovia, reports $8.86 billion loss in 2Q and cuts 6,350 jobs, as Pelosi and Hussein continue to say NO to drilling

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 6:36 AM:>>>>I am 13 years old and I have to pay taxes. Why can't I vote?>>>>

The reason you can't vote is because your public school teacher will tell you who to vote for and if you dont vote that way, you will flunk out. Your teacher cant think for himself, he thinks only what the yoonyun tells him to think, and he will force that on you. The public schools want to be sure you are only educated in diversity and your rights under SB777

Vista Granny wrote on Jul 22, 2008 7:01 AM:Wow! Priscilla pays taxes and demands a say so in society. I am a bit old fashioned. I think Priscilla should get out in the fresh air and sunshine, read some good books and have some fun. Let her parents gripe about paying taxes.

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 7:49 AM:I see the new poll shows the approval rating for the liberal controlled Congress is 11%. I'm guessing that is because Americans want $2.00 gas and to keep their jobs, while liberals lift their middle finger to drilling and commodity inflation. I suspect in November the gesture will be returned

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 7:54 AM:Did you see Hussein in the military chopper yesterday, trying to look like he was telling Patreus what to do?? LOL. It reminds me of Mike Dukakis riding that tank, and we know what that resulted in. (1 out of 50)

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:00 AM:>>>Algebra is not for everyone>>>

Well, apparently neither are english, geography, biology, spelling, chemistry, history, or arithmetic. The public schools just want you to learn 20 minutes of spanish, and your rights under SB777. And it shows, as the high schools seniors can't even pass an 8th grade equivalency exit exam. LOL-- And the teachers union runs perpetual ads that they deserve higher pay, benefits and smaller class sizes.

Bunnie Lover wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:03 AM:If your letter was meant to shock us, well it worked. Why would you write such a thing. Some of us raise rabbits as pets and I find your letter disturbing, and I am sure that was your intent. Perhaps I watched Fatal Attraction one to many times but I hate the thought of one of my bunnies being killed and eaten for dinner. Well to each his own.

Alf wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:08 AM:Well, "Vista Granny" at 7:01AM, you areright on one count, "Priscilla should get out in the fresh air and sunshine, read some good books and have some fun". As to being old-fashioned, naw, not hardly. Regards, Alf.

Oh Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:22 AM:If you want reminders of Dukakis that have a tragic, as well as a comic, twist, think about Bush landing on that carrier in his costume with the "Mission Accomplished" sign. Think of the strict orders to turn the ship so it would look like it was out at sea. Think about the guy you voted for twice. I'll take Obama over this charade anytime.

Focal Point wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:25 AM:Chuck[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 7:54 AM: The picture was taken by the military. I rather doubt that they would print such a picture that showed their commanding general in an inferior position. No. It is just Chuck's interpretation of a picture and nothing more.

Demand more wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:26 AM:I think we all should join in demanding more media coverage of McCain. I want him on camera at least as much as Obama is. I want to see him answer questions, including some tough ones. I want to see every error he makes lead to the same salivation by the media. I want Americans to see enough to judge whether McCain has enough on the ball for this job. The extensive coverage of Obama, allowing McCain to fly under the radar, is biased and doesn't give us a chance to evaluate the candidates fairly. Write to your local media outlets and demand more McCain coverage.

Apollo wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:45 AM:Re: Iraqistan 6:12 a.m.) and Demand more (8:26 a.m.)
I agree that McCain should get more coverage, as long as it is objective, not more of his many years of being spoiled as the media darling.
He has a lot of nerve to complain about media fairness. He is the one who pushed and goaded Obama to take this trip and, what does he expect? Obama takes the trip and the press cover it. I guess McCain just figured that everyone who goes to Iraq embarrasses themselves, like he did when he talked about Baghdad being as safe as Iowa while protected by legions of soldiers and helicopters and his repeated confusion about Sunni and Shia until finally Joe Lieberman corrected him on camera. And now he doesn't even know where the major countries are? Which border the terrorists are hiding along? And all these blunders came on the subject he is supposed to be the big expert on. But Obama, the supposed neophyte, has not made any McCain-like blunders yet. He was right on Iraq from the beginning, and is still right now.
Oh, but the New York Times wouldn't print his article?
Media fairness, please! The Los Angeles Times this morning reported that the New York Times has already printed Op-Ed pieces from McCain SIX TIMES - so "media fairness" demands they given Obama five more shots. And they did not even turn him down, just sent it back for rewrite. Newspaper editors do have their standards.
Yes, let's have more coverage of McCain, squirming in silent anguish, with face contorted in pain, as he tries to figure out how to respond to a question on Viagra before finally punting.

Focal Point wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:55 AM:William Ficere did really demonstrated that he is full of baloney. He is entitled to his opinion even if his statements are nonfactual. What irks me is the continued use of such terms of reference as, "grizzled old Marine" and the emphasis on his USMC (retired) LOL.
I do not care about his appearance or previous military service. Lastly, I am confident that Gen Clark would have done very well in the USMC if he had chosen that service.

Rick has it right wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:56 AM:Wing nuts only care about one fact. The fact that if you say it on the internet, someone will read it, and before long it becomes "truth".

Focal Point wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:57 AM:Chuck[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 6:26 AM: I think it was Phil Graham who led in the deregulation of banks and mortgage institutions. Yeah! You know the former Senator who had to step down form the McCain campaign. The same guy who thinks that the suffering of the American people is just a mental recession.

TOO OLD wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:59 AM:Apollo[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:45 AM: I quite agree. More coverage for John McCain! The more the better. Then the American people will see that Johnny Boy is just too darned old.

TOO OLD wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:01 AM:Chuck[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 7:54 AM: Don't worry. Obama was just practicing. In a few months, President Obama will be giving him a new mission. John McCain is just too darned old.

Focal Point wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:03 AM:Why can't this taxpayer vote? I am puzzled as to how a 13 year old is earning taxable income? Don't you have to be 14 years old with a worker's permit in order to work?

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:04 AM:>>>Then the American people will see that Johnny Boy is just too darned old>>> and that Hussein is just too darned Muslim

McCain coverage wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:11 AM:I'll make a prediction: if McCain DOES get more coverage, we will soon hear from his campaign and his supporters on this post that the media is unfair to him, asking him more questions than they ask Obama, showing his blunders, no fair! no fair! Any takers? (And when they debate, I would ask that both candidates go through a metal detector prior to going on stage! Only biological equipment allowed! I'll be watching with my buddies, drinking a brewskie each time McCain says "POW".)

Tehee wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:13 AM:Great comeback at 9:04 Chuck. Good grief! LOL

Por Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:19 AM:You know honey, a spoonful of sugar will help that medicine go down.

TOO OLD wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:29 AM:Chuck[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:04 AM: Obama is a Muslim? You see Chuck that is why people think you a liar. You tell lies. John is too darned old.

GFN wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:41 AM:To Bunnie Lover, 8:03...I too love rabbits...shaken, not stirred. Mr. Matthews was just kidding!!! Wasn't he??? It's a good thing chickens are ugly or we would not want to eat them!

Voter wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:45 AM:How about this! We let 13 year olds who pay taxes vote -- and we take away the vote from everyone who does not pay taxes?

The only thing worse than taxation without representation, is representation without taxation!

Oh Too Old wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:51 AM:Let me explain something to you. Chuck posts such simpleminded lies, and then he thinks this really gets under liberals' skins. Pretty sophisticated, isn't it? Says it all about Chuck. Then, once a month or so, he posts an adult comment and wonders why no one reads them, not realizing that he gave up his credibility for the previous 29 days running. Nothing you can do about it. Free speech even applies to potty-mouthed children.

Faux Chuckles wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:51 AM:It certainly is nice to have "to-the-point" comments without the self-important windbags (except Apollo)taking up my browser space. It is much nicer to breeze through a variety of comments instead of the ramblings of the usual blowhards overstating worthless points of view.

Except for Chuck; it still spews the most idiotic comments on the face of the earth.

ALBERTO wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:03 AM:13 OR 80 YEARS OLD WE ALL PAY TAXES, EVERY DOLLAR YOU SPEND YOU PAY TAXES.TO BAD YOU ARE 13,YOU JUST HAVE TO WAIT TILL YOUR 18.

Nick wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:03 AM:Sorry "Bunny lover", but rabbits are food. They were food longggggg before they were cute little pets. There are still people in this country who actually still hunt to eat. Deer, elk, moose, birds, fish, and yes, even rabbits. Do you eat chicken? meat? Yes, they were all living animals once too.
Maybe you should join PETA if it helps you feel better.
Just remember, PETA stands for People who Eat Tasty Animals.
I like a nice rabbit myself once in a while. It also takes me back to hunting with my dad when he was still alive and I was young.
Cheers, Nick.

Interested Party wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:07 AM:To the Home Solar Advocates: I am researching the number of home solar panels necessary to replace all of the fossil fuel in 10 years, as suggested by Al Gore.

I can't even find the average amount of electricity generated per square foot of solar panel? The question appears on Wiki Answers, but it is unanswered.

On TV, someone said we would need coverage of 4.2 billion rooms of homes to generate sufficient electricity.

Has anyone crunched the numbers?

To GFN wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:12 AM:I guess I didn't get the joke!! I agree with the Bunnie Lover, Robert Matthews letter may have been intended as a joke but I find it crude and insensitive. If they are selling live animals for consumption at that Farmers Market I hope they get shut down. I think chickens are cute, and by the way I don't eat chickens either.

to Interested Party wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:20 AM:I heard a Berkeley physicist interviewed on the radio. He said that Gore's challenge was a good political goad, but unrealistic. He gave a number of reasons that we do not have the technology yet. He talked, for example, about the need for a kind of metal that is transparent when in thin sheets. This metal is not mined in the US. It's used on all the flat screen tv's and in solar panels. Mining that stuff would have to increase exponentially and we don't know if there's even enough for what we wish we could use it for. I have no way to know if he's right. He claimed to be nonpartisan and had no good things to say about either "side" of the debate, accusing both of cherry-picking the science to a nauseating degree. Anyone know more about this?

to to GFN wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:23 AM:I'd rather they sell live animals and let the consumer take personal responsiblity for the creatures' deaths than pretend the infinitely cruel meat factories don't exist when we carve the meal. If we're going to eat meat/chicken, we should at the least have to watch them be killed.

TOO OLD wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:27 AM:John McCain said that "President Putin of Germany.." John is too darned old.

Oh Nick wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:28 AM:I have great respect, at least potentially, for people who eat what they hunt. I like to think of such hunters as being closer to the real deal of killing another creature, maybe having respect or gratitude for the dead animal. But then you give away the store with the PETA joke. It turns an honorable activity into just another macho game, full of contempt for anyone or anything that isn't for one's own pleasure or use. Instead of being closer to the real deal, I see that you put yourself even farther away from it. Too bad. This is what gives so many hunters a well-deserved bad name.

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:39 AM:>>>>In a few months, President Obama will be giving him a new mission.>>> Obama will be in the historical garbage heap with Hillary, if he doesn't embrace drilling to stop this gas and commodity inflation. People want cheaper gas now and their job protected, that is what McCain offers (and he's a liberals) The socialist Obama offers nothing but solar and wind power in 10 years

DD Wiz wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:43 AM:The post from "Interested Party" (10:07am) is either a put-on or someone demonstrating extremely weak research skills. Why don't you just call one of the many available dealers and ASK them?
My house has 30 solar panels generating 185 watts each. Deducting for expected imperfections in efficiency as well as going through the inverted to convert from DC to AC, the total net output is just under 5,000 watts. I measure the output and this is what I am actually getting, and is also confirmed by my actual energy bills from SDG&E (well, I'm not sur if "bill" is the right terminology since I'm prouducing more than I use -- perhaps "statement" is a better word.
Again, I'm not talking hypothetical or what a salesperson told me, this is my actual experience.
Same with the Prius, when I talk about my MPG, it is not the dealer's prediction of the EPA estimates, it is my actual experience for more than 4 years and 110,000 miles (varies low-medium 50's MPG) -- at least until I get it converted to plug in with lithium ion phosphate batteries.

To the NCT editor wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:53 AM:I am offended by the meaning to the acronym P.E.T.A being used by Nick. It may be intended to be funny but I am not laughing. I take cruelty to animals very seriously. Speaking about animals shaken, stirred, hunted I just don't see the point of that discussion on this forum.

Voter wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:00 AM:Alberto is correct -- we all pay taxes -- so those who pay local taxes should be able to vote in local elections; those who pay state income taxes should be able to vote in state elections; and those who pay national income taxes should be able to vote in national elections.

With computers, this is a piece of cake.

In fact, those who pay no national income taxes, but instead collect "earned income credits" (read "welfare") should be banned from voting in national elections until five years after they start contributing to national taxes.

It's called "fairness" and we liberals favor fairness. It is only fair that those who pull the wagon get more benefit than those who ride in the wagon.

sdraoul wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:03 AM:Obama goes to Iraq with a position in concrete, meets with the generals then says it doesn't matter what they say, I will stick to my position, the one eendorsed by the New York Tiems and William ayers and Jeremiah Wright.

I know better than the generals, really, says Obama.

As for General Clark, he was releived of his command two years early because he claimed accomplishments he didn't accomplish and ebcause he was so friendly with a war criminal.

General Clark personally ordered the bombing of the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade. He used maps that were years old.

Again, while he was a decorated soldier in Vietnam, he was releived -- FIRED -- BY THE CLINTON PENTAGON.

TOO OLD wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:07 AM:All are invited to jump on you tube and listen to John McCain. This guy is emotional and out of control. He is a threat to our national security. Of course, there are about 10 to 15 "senior moments." John McCain is too darned old.

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:13 AM:>>>>and we take away the vote from everyone who does not pay taxes?>>> how dare you. Arnold and the rest of the Sacramento liberals wouldnt let you take the vote away from the illegals. And heaven forbid, Jerry Brown ever does his job and prevents illegals from voting. They all swear to uphold the constitution of California, but only when it fits their personal agenda or they get enough money under the table.

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:16 AM:>>>I am offended by the meaning to the acronym P.E.T.A being used by Nick.>>>

Who cares what you are offended by. This country has freedom of speech, and your efforts to quell it by whining & sniveling to the editor goes straight to the character issue

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:18 AM:>>>I am offended by the meaning to the acronym P.E.T.A being used by Nick.>>

I think I'll have a big steak for dinner, while you have sprouts

OBSERVATION wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:22 AM:BAGHDAD -- After Barack Obama met with Iraqi leaders here on Monday, the Iraqi government outlined a possible schedule for a U.S. troop withdrawal that is similar to the plan the Democratic presidential candidate has pledged to follow if he is elected.

Its announcement bolstered Obama's credibility on a key foreign policy issue, early in a weeklong trip to the Middle East and Europe that was designed to reassure voters concerned he lacks the experience to be commander in chief

Easy Fix wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:24 AM:To the NCT editor
[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:53 AM: "I am offended by the meaning to the acronym P.E.T.A being used by Nick". OK, Easy fix, Stay off this fourm. I am offended by P.E.T.A. They are a Tree Huggers religion.

Carrot lover wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:31 AM:To GFN
[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:12 AM: Don't Let me catch you eating a poor helpless carrot. Veggie's have feelings too!! LOL

Sandy wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:31 AM:Somebody tell Priscilla how many taxes are added to a gallon of gasoline, then tell her how much profit the oil companies make on that gallon. Ask her to compare and contrast.

Well To the NCT editor wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:33 AM:You have every right to be offended, just as Nick has every right to write something that may offend some people. This paper and its website has every right to print or post either or none of your comments, that's called the First Amendment, applied to all.

He Who Watches the Watcher wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:35 AM:Transcript from CNN:
David Gergen
CNN Sr. Political Analyst
AC360° Contributor

Hello everyone - tried to post a blog earlier but I am afraid that it got lost in the system - perhaps it was eaten by that dog!

Anyway, to be brief, was trying to say tonight on air that I welcome the Obama trip overseas - and hope it sets a precedent for all future candidates. At the same time, as an old-fashioned institutionalist who was strongly shaped by working in the White House, I believe that whether a President is right or wrong on policy, we have only one President at a time and he must be the chief negotiator with other countries, especially in a time of war.

It is not clear that Senator Obama was trying to negotiate with Maliki - probably just the opposite - but in issuing that statement after the meeting, he left himself open to the charge that he was.

That’s why I thought it was a mistake - the first in what has been so far a very successful trip.

Hope this helps. Thanks.

Editor’s note: Here’s what David Gergen said Monday on AC360°:

“Barack Obama made the first mistake of his trip in releasing a statement in which he said exactly what Malaki had said in those conversations. We have a long tradition in this country that we only have one president at a time. He’s the commander in chief and negotiator in chief.

I cannot remember a campaign which a rival seeking the presidency has been in a position negotiating a war that’s underway with another party outside the country. I think he leaves himself open to the charge tonight that he’s meddling, that this is not his role, that he can be the critic but he’s not the negotiator. We have a President who does that.

So i think the underlying facts support him, but i think it was be a mistake to get intro these conversations and let it be used politically.”

ShawnP wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:37 AM:To "To the NCT editor" at 10:53 --- there's that pesky little thing called the First Amendment again; just as you have the freedom and the right to post/state your offense and disagreement, everyone has the right to post their thoughts and opinions.
Or, you can call 1-900-WAAAAAA.

Newbie wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:00 PM:I too am offended that someone, perhaps the NCTimes has forced someone to read and participate in this blog, and that someone found something that offends them.

Giving and taking offense is the stock and trade of a blog. Perhaps there is a Quilting and Sewing Blog where this is not so, but this Blog is topical and political.

And all this time I thought DD Wiz was the most humorless person on the Blog.
He has spent time in the pits, refueling, and someone has moved into first place!

TOO OLD wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:22 PM:JOHN McCain:
"The man who views the world at 50 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life." M.Ali

John is too darned old.

Peter wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:23 PM:Ficere may have had some things wrong, but the Clark defenders don’t seem to do any better. Clark was commanding a company, not a battalion when he was shot. The Nam vets here may have some comments about a company commander being so close to a burst from an AK-47 that he got hit four times, after all he one month into a six month command billet.

Freedom from offense wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:23 PM:Sorry, "to the", but we must celebrate the right of people to offend us. If you think about it, you'll agree that this is far preferable to anyone deciding what can and cannot be said on the basis of aesthetic taste. Besides, if Nick's comment was offensive to you, it was undoubtedly offensive to many people, all the worse for Nick's reputation. We can't make a rule to ban the immature, since this is in the eye or mind of the beholder. Chill and remember that your right to offend is also protected.

Floyd The Scientist wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:26 PM:A solar panel measuring 56 inches by 25 inches produces about 120 watts and has a list price of approximately $600.00. A 7-kilowatt system (enough to run your air conditioner) would would require 560 square feet and cost $35,000 plus installation, permits, taxes, and fees. You're welcome.

chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:26 PM:>>> but this past Sunday, Carlsbad Boulevard was closed for the running of the triathlon, preventing access to parking near the beach.>>>>

Sir, that marathon is scheduled a year in advance, is well publicized and is well posted weeks before the race. Just because you are too lazy to get up early enough or too lazy to to walk to a different section of beach, doesnt mean Carlsbad should cancel a tradition just because of you

BrownPaperBags wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:31 PM:I wonder how much $$$ was in those brown paper bags that Hussein handed to Malaki to say whatever he is going to say, when Hussein gets home???

Faux Chuckles wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:32 PM:On being offended: Unfortunately the blog editors at the NCTimes get to determine who's offensive comments are posted, so if they are offended, no one sees them. I enjoy alternative points of view and have no problem reading comments I find offensive so long as they are concise, to the point, and don't make me wade through lines of worthless diatribe before getting to the material that allows me to be righteously indignant. Chuck comes to mind.

Great Dirversion wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:35 PM:Wow, That (IMHO) ridicules P.E.T.A. Poster, got more reaction then anything BushMcbama could have come up with today. Good job!!

Bill wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:37 PM:How funny is it hearing these discredited liberals still insist Iraq is a quagmire?

The surge worked and they cant admit it now after all they have invested in that argument. Now we are seeing that liberals cant admit they were wrong.

You know?

Just like they asked of Bush?

However, Bush turned out to be right and not even CNN is calling Iraq a debacle anymore.

Bush has made a lot of liberals look really stupid.

Oh and speaking of judgment?

Obama said the surge wouldnt work to end sectarian violence in Iraq.

I have news for him....it did.

Yes people, judgment matters.

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:38 PM:The news is reporting that Iraq faces a tough sell in luring tourists to Baghdad. I bet there are almost as many kidnaps, kniveings, and murders in Baghdad as their are in Tijuana each night

Oh Gergen wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:39 PM:Speaking of 1-800-WAAAAAA, can you believe criticizing Obama for talking to Maliki? So the right gives him a hard time for not going to Iraq to see what's going on, and then slams him for doing what they suggest. Even Gergen doesn't claim that Obama initiated "negotiations" with Iraq. He went to find out what was up and Maliki (who just has to be sick of Bush's impertinent demands by now, his spitting in the face of the Iraqi democracy) told him what was on his mind. Why shouldn't he? I'm sure he'd do the same if McCain dropped in. Sickening and transparent, not a good combination. This is just the kind of slimy politics that we Obama supporters (and most other people) are up to here with. It tends only to strengthen our resolve to pursuade people to vote for Obama, to be done with this kind of thing. Thanks for the reminder. (And BTW, I saw today that McCain is getting much chummier with Obama's "time horizon" that the Iraqis actually desire! When you wash all the slime away, it looks a lot like a game of follow the leader, and the leader is Obama)

Oh Peter wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:42 PM:Now give McCain's career the same kind of scrutiny, ok? Are you saying you'd like to go on record as disputing Clark's military record? He didn't do this to McCain, you seem to realize, but are you willing to do this to him? Make some specific claims, please, so that your vast knowledge of what people in combat are supposed to do (that Clark failed to do) can be scrutinized. Thanks in advance (well, we'll never hear from this guy again LOL).

I cense a revolt wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:44 PM:Freedom from offense
[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:23 PM: Chill and remember that your right to offend is also protected: Are you kidding me!! Not with these censers, Your Freedoms are a new concept here. Go away, you will cause the masses to revolt, Upsetting the balance.

Focal Point wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:53 PM:Peter[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:23 PM:
Captains were wounded and killed in Vietnam. There is no fixed CP in the jungle. So, it is quite reasonable to expect a company CO to get shot.

Vista Granny wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:56 PM:About those rabbits. Of course people eat them. But selling live rabbits for food at a street market is too much like the Koreans selling young dogs for food on the sidewalks of big cities. We saw that and were somewhat sickened. Of course, the Chinese often sell live chickens for food in their little food shops -- at least they did when I was in Boston. It's all a matter of taste! (Pun intended)

EL PRESIDENTE wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:01 PM:He Who Watches the Watcher Obama did not negotiate anything. It was the Prime Minister who brought the subject of a time table for withdrawal up. It was not Obama. It was clear from the first that the three Senators are on a fact finding mission. The conversations are not negotiations, public or secret. Obama was not acting as the President in any way shape or form.

I sense a revolt wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:16 PM:My fault, Typo alert, I was thinking about putting in my 2 "cents" and writing "sense" and they merged, Kinda like "The Fly". Oops.

Ron wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:28 PM:What oh... I must'a missed this one!

The American Physical Society, an organization representing nearly 50,000 physicists, has reversed its stance on climate change and is now proclaiming that many of its members disbelieve in human-induced global warming. The APS is also sponsoring public debate on the validity of global warming science. The leadership of the society had previously called the evidence for global warming "incontrovertible."

In a posting to the APS forum, editor Jeffrey Marque explains,"There is a considerable presence within the scientific community of people who do not agree with the IPCC conclusion that anthropogenic CO2 emissions are very probably likely to be primarily responsible for global warming that has occurred since the Industrial Revolution."

The APS is opening its debate with the publication of a paper by Lord Monckton of Brenchley, which concludes that climate sensitivity -- the rate of temperature change a given amount of greenhouse gas will cause -- has been grossly overstated by IPCC modeling. A low sensitivity implies additional atmospheric CO2 will have little effect on global climate.

Larry Gould, Professor of Physics at the University of Hartford and Chairman of the New England Section of the APS, called Monckton's paper an "expose of the IPCC that details numerous exaggerations and "extensive errors"

What oh, "extensive errors".
That must mean it's bad.

Ron wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:47 PM:Wad I tell ya about the Liberal Democrats? Huh? What they are offering is the "Bus Pass Energy Plan. You know that one that Nick Leibham is offering?

Anxious to look like they’re doing something about rising oil and gas prices -- but unwilling to expand domestic oil drilling -- Democrats have introduced a bill that’s supposed to ease pain at the pump by offering alternatives to driving.

The bill does nothing to increase domestic energy supply. Instead, it’s focused on the demand side of the equation, and that’s earned it kudos from environmental activists.

According to the Environmental Defense Fund, the bill -- called the Transportation and Housing Options for Gas Price Relief Act of 2008 -- would allocate taxpayer money to:

-- expand public transportation;

-- encourage “pay-as-you-drive” auto insurance policies that reward low-mileage drivers with lower insurance premiums;

-- reduce commuting costs by providing incentives to employers and employees to take transit, bicycle, carpool, walk, or telecommute to work;

-- help local governments create "walkable, bikeable" communities;

-- help Americans make "smart" transportation and housing choices by educating them about their options;

-- create “location efficient mortgages" that would make owning a home near transit more affordable.

Wad I tell ya? It's the Bus Pass Energy Plan!

Ron wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:55 PM:Slimy? "Oh Gergen" @12:39 PM.

Speaking of 1-800-slimy.

Slimy wrong Rev. Wright.
Slimy Farakhan.
Slimy "Big Tony" Resko.
Slimy Bill Ayers.
Slimy, all on speed dial.

Vista Granny wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:59 PM:Thank you!! Next thing you know we will be buying our supper at the human society. There are limits people or at least there should be.

Sorry Ron wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:01 PM:You did miss it. Reardon posted that information and it has already been debunked. Back to work.

Ms M wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:02 PM:The cons are having a "hissy fit" with Obama traveling abroad. It is hysterical hearing the spin on his visit. Hannity is dizzy trying to put a negative spin on the trip and last night Gegen and company were doing their best to make Obama look bad. Fortunately, his visit is ALL over the TV and the net. Have you seen the clips of the military folks - I have NEVER seen them respond so positively to a political visitor. Barak Hussien Obama is LOOKING SO VERY PRESIDENTIAL - brings tears to the eyes of one very proud American. Hussien has the respect of people AROUND the world and he WILL return America to the once proud, poweful and respected nation that we were prior to Bush and the cons being in charge. Oh yes - I am so very, very, very, very GLEEFUL - you go BARAK HUSSIEN OBAMA!

Ron wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:08 PM:You know I always like to warn people about slick marketing & packaging.
The Obama team is apparently "stiff-arming" real reporters & journalists, and simply handing out talking points and memo's from his trip to both Afganistan & Iraq.
Kind of like, well.. selling soap.
Proctor & Gamble would be proud.

NBC News' Andrea Mitchell was spilling the beans on Barry {obviously she did not get her ticket on the Obama-palooza tour.
MITCHELL: Let me just say something about the message management. He didn’t have reporters with him, he didn’t have a press pool, he didn’t do a press conference while he was on the ground in either Afghanistan or Iraq. What you’re seeing is not reporters brought in. You’re seeing selected pictures taken by the military, questions by the military, and what some would call fake interviews, because they’re not interviews from a journalist. So, there’s a real press issue here. Politically it’s smart as can be. But we’ve not seen a presidential candidate do this, in my recollection, ever before.

We've never seen anything like this before, and it's smart?
Well, of course, he's the Messiah!


On his show, {Chris} Matthews goes on to suggest that the Obama peeps might be picking the people in the military cheering lines, filling them with adulating African Americans.

MATTHEWS: Let me ask you about access to the troops, Andrea. A lot of African-American faces over there, very happy, delighted faces. Is that a representation of the percentage of service people who are African-American, or did they all choose to join someone they like, apparently? What’s the story?
MITCHELL: I can’t really say that. Being a reporter who was not present in any of those situations, I just cannot report on what was edited out, what was, you know, on the sidelines. That’s my issue. We don’t know what we are seeing.

We don't know "what" we are seeing?

Oh, yes you do Andrea, you see it on TV selling soap, it's a commercial.

Oh raoul wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:09 PM:Knows better than the generals? Which generals? The ones that Bush canned because they didn't agree with him? LOL And I don't know what took you so long throwing Clark under the bus. Any military man, no matter what his record, will be, in your view, a fake or a liar if he is a Democrat. And any faux military man (can you say W?) will be heralded for his service to country if he is conservative. You display your typical respect for and loyalty to your "brothers in arms". Laughable.

Peter wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:10 PM:Clark probably attacked McCain’s service because Clark wants a position in Obama’s cabinet, and he does so while his defenders tout him as a war hero. Good for Clark that he served in the military, paying back an obligation for a higher education; too bad he got wounded while briefly serving as a company commander. At least he got a Silver Star and Purple Heart from the incident. If he had been a PFC he would have only gotten his Purple Heart. Clark served most of his career in staff positions, getting just enough command time so his fellow Arkansan could justify putting him at a NATO command where he served a much shorter tour than other that have held that post.

Question for DD wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:11 PM:Thanks for sharing some of the concrete details of your solar solution. Question: in light of what that physics guy said on the radio, I have to ask if you think that the technology and means of production for everyone to go solar is there or could be in ten years? It's one thing if a few people can afford it, or if there are enough raw materials for a few, but could a big chunk of the population go solar? Thanks in advance.

Joseph wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:11 PM:If anyone cares to check the APS website, they will discover that Ron is lying again. The APS has not changed their stance on climate change. Ron references a submission to a newsletter that states "Opinions expressed are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the APS or of the Forum." The APS website also notes that the newsletter submissions are not peer reviewed.

Thanks Ron wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:12 PM:Your "slimy" post makes my point exactly. You are the embodiment of it. And you delivered on cue. Thanks.

Faux Joe wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:16 PM:Faux Chuckles
[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:32 PM: That was a loooong bush to beat around, before getting to YOUR point! And I'm guessing that point was only to jab at Chuck. Do as I say, not as I do. Right Faux?

Ron Watcher wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:16 PM:Ron, your 1:28 is GENERALLY correct, except:

"The American Physical Society, an organization representing nearly 50,000 physicists, has reversed its stance on climate change "

Not exactly, In fact not at all. The Society publishes both peer-reviewed and no-peer reviewed. The Society NOW claims that the piece was NOT peer-reviewed, and Monckton says it was, and references the professor of physics in his latest letter who was assigned to do it.

Who knows?

But the Monckton article certainly stirred a screaming match within the physics community -- Monckton is one of those very English eccentrics who just happens to be brilliant, a bit of a savant.

But the Society itself has not changed its views, just opened the gates to a long-overdue discussion.

Gleeful As Well wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:17 PM:I am with you, Ms M. After eight years of unbearable anguish at the destruction of our beautiful country, my day has finally come around.

Thank God for His gift of Good Blessing Obama. America will once again rise and be respected around the world. America will go on to do good things and become a working partner in the Global Community. Barack Hussein Obama, A Leader for the 21st Century.

I am so proud. And, indeed, dancing with glee.

Hail To The Chief wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:20 PM:Oh you bet they're scrambling. The Repuke Slime Machine and Fox Network are so last century. The American People are done with hatred, fear and lies. Gramps McCain might has well hang up his nightcap and go home.

It's all over, baby.

Chuck wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:20 PM:>>>>The cons are having a "hissy fit" with Obama traveling abroad>>> Hardly, we just him to act as a senator, not the commander in chief. He can save that for his dog catching job when he is dispoded of politically in November

To PETA wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:25 PM:I'm having a juicy steak tonite. You and Hussein can have sprouts and parsley.

Ms M wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:28 PM:Ron
[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:55 PM:...um Ron, just thought I'd let you know that's old, really, really old stuff (can't call it news). And anyone who uses that old stuff as a talking point is showing pure DESPERATION!!! Yes, I am GLEEFUL11111111

Bill One wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:29 PM:OMG the APS is actually going to discuss the possibilty it's not man made? And the Birkenstock croud goes berserk!!

Bill One wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:30 PM:I'll take one of those steaks too!!

To To PETA wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:30 PM:Are you implying that members of PETA are terrorist?

To To PETA wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:34 PM:Yes, Chuck, you already said that once today. Take your memory pills and try not to sound like Old Man Yells At Cloud.

Ms M wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:34 PM:Peter
[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:10 PM:Clark probably attacked McCain’s service...ah Peter - Clark did NOT attack McCain's service. You know we can put this to rest. Give us the quote from Clark that does the attacking.

Apollo wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:39 PM:Re: SDRaoul (11:03 a.m.)
Please make up your mind!
You complain because Obama doesn't want to listen to the generals, then you cite the example of a general making a big mistake. So is it always a good idea to listen to the generals?
But actually, you don't seem to get it about how our system works.
The PRESIDENT is Commander-in-chief and sets the policy. The generals implement the policy. Obama has made it more than clear to anyone actually listening that he will listen to the generals as to tactical and strategical operations, but that he will set the policy, and they will execute the details to implement that policy.
Now what part of this are you finding so hard to understand?

Ms M wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:48 PM:Chuck
[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:20 PM:>>>>The cons are having a "hissy fit" with Obama traveling abroad>>> Hardly, we just him to act as a senator, not the commander in chief. He can save that for his dog catching job when he is dispoded of politically in November. Exactly - thanks for confirming my statements. You guys are spinning yourselves crazy. He is not ACTING like the commander in cheif - he is LOOKING presidential - very different - and it's killing you. Dog Catcher - cmon Chuck get over it - you're showing your frustration. It's just too bad that you don't have a better candidate that you can lift up instead of your very immature statements against BARAK HUSSIEN OBAMA, the next president of our country and it's killing you. Yes, I am so very very GLEEFUL -WHEEEEEEEEE!

Um Bill wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:48 PM:So to sum up your position: Five years of unnecessary war, 5 million refugees, hundreds of thousands dead, a nation in ruins...it all magically stops being a debacle if it gets calm (even if the calm equals a nation that is an ally of Iran that has told Bush that his plans for Iraq will not happen). And, you declare with assurance and finality: sectarian violence in Iraq is over. Hope you're right about that violence. Your claim about the debacle is absurd. It's exactly like Hagee saying that the holocaust was no biggie because it led to the state of Israel. Just as Hagee said this was God's plan, you claim similar authority for Bush's plan. See if you can think about why people might find this a morally repulsive position to take. Seriously, think about it. Oh, never mind.

Evidence wrote on Jul 22, 2008 3:02 PM:SDRAOUL: Reference the general order by which Gen Clark was relieved with prejudice two months before his normal rotation?

Evidence wrote on Jul 22, 2008 3:06 PM:Peter[-] wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:10 PM: Now you are seconding the Department of the Army simply based on your personal observation and opinion. Quite frnakly, I do not think you know about combat, decorations or even tours of duty. Clark was relieved without prejudice two months before the normal rotation.

DD Wiz wrote on Jul 22, 2008 3:07 PM:The posts from "Floyd The Scientist" (12:26pm) proving that he isn't, and "Question for DD" (2:11pm) discuss the cost and feasibility of solar panels pursuant to the details about my sytem I provided in my 10:43am post.
The figures provided by "Floyd" are extremely high and unrealistic. Either he is getting gouged, using old figures or making them up. Since this has been brought to his attention several times in the past, I can only guess as to his motivation. My figures are based on my actual experience, and are not hypothetical.
"Question" respectfully inquires about whether or not I consider Al Gore's ten year plan realistic. Of course, when JFK challenged the nation to send a man to the moon (and return) before the end of the decade, many did not consider that "realistic." I do consider it realistic in conjunction with wind, geothermal, hydroelectric, fuel cell and other renewable energies. Solar is only one part of the equation, but it is an important part.

Too Old wrote on Jul 22, 2008 3:23 PM:Wes Clark: sdraul states that Gen Clark was fired. So what! Generals get fired during war time quite often. Dug Out Dug MacArthur was fired by President Truman.
So what! The issue is whether John McCain has the command experience to be the Commander in Chief? John McCain is too darned old.

new boomer wrote on Jul 22, 2008 3:26 PM:I've always wondered what the dufus boomers were doing these days. You know the guys that were too dumb to get a student deferment during the Nam fiasco. Now I know. They got drafted and served in the military while the rest of us were getting an education. Now they are retired and, still without an education, opining about everything on this blog. Since it's clear you have learned to read, why don't you guys go back to school and bone up on all you missed out on by not keeping your grades up. And remember to the rest of us boomers the initials USMC translate to DUMB.

PITA wrote on Jul 22, 2008 3:29 PM:Don't worry about the rabbit or the dog, we're having the children for dinner.