Democratic Convention Watch: Open Thread

Tuesday, April 01, 2008

Open Thread

WE'VE MOVED! Democratic Convention Watch is now at http://www.DemocraticConventionWatch.com

What is McCain's latest "senior moment", what does Obama need to do to win in November or whatever else is on your mind.

And please be excellent to one another. We do not accept name calling or any attacks on our commenters. Any objectionable comments will be deleted. Try to be civil.

Thanks!

Previous Open Thread is here

9481 comments:

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suzihussein22 said...: What could be wrong with seeing 2 Reps. screw themselves(from Mike)? My other half is the biggest kid I've got, btw. LMAO; August 20, 2008 10:48 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: I sent the link to the Christian Science Monitor article to some on my email list. One of my cousins, who I always suspected was now a die-hard Repig evangelical voter (she lives in Phoenix, so I don't talk to her much), sent me back a retort about Senator Obama being (paraphrasing) "a Muslim with a loud mouth, bullying wife."

I lost my cool and sent her back a note telling her to take the " 'Muslim' shit and shove it", and that:

Either she was falling for the Reich-wing propoganda, or

She was not as intelligent as I had once thought she was.

Since I have more than 40 other first cousins, I really could give a crap what she now thinks of me.

Mike; August 20, 2008 10:49 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: suzi-

Here's what I posted for the photo caption contest:

"Hold on a second John ... let me pat your back to see if you have one of those wireless radio contraptions rigged under your suit like Bush did during one of his debates."
-----------; August 20, 2008 10:50 PM
suzihussein22 said...: leah-That would make Obama fluent in speed whispering. Whew, that was a mouthful! :); August 20, 2008 10:52 PM
Independent Voter said...: New Republican Logo

Not much difference between the two, but still a new logo nonetheless.; August 20, 2008 10:54 PM
Richard said...: Eeek! As of tonight538 has McCain winning 52.1% of the time, with popular vote tied 48.5-48.5%!; August 20, 2008 10:58 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: suzi-

The photos seem to be all there for me, which one are you talking about? Did you try refreshing the page?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tag/barack-obama; August 20, 2008 11:00 PM
suzihussein22 said...: iv dave-If elephants are a symbol of wisdom, then the logo shows his brains are...where?; August 20, 2008 11:01 PM
Independent Voter said...: Good for you Mike, that is good. My mother tried doing the same thing, but she knows better because I really rip into her. All I have to do is bring up McCain's cheating on his first wife (like my dad did to her, after she had waited on him hand and foot when he was injured as a cop.)

And then there was that little S&L scandal (Keating 5) that he was never held accountable for, where she had lost a lot of money that literally left us in the poor house. She's not happy about having to vote for him, but she's going to overlook McCain's BS and vote for him anyway.

I just don't get it. She hasn't learned that single issue voting (hers is based on 'pro-life') as opposed to a collection of policies would do a lot more for her and her husband. She doesn't understand (and dammit if I haven't tried explaining it) that education is the key to reducing abortions in this country. She believes that "abstinence-only" education works (even when she is smacked in the face with the facts). UGH!; August 20, 2008 11:03 PM
suzihussein22 said...: leah-If you're at the front page of HuffPo close to the bottom right, the selection to click on for Big Page News shows a white man with Barack Obama(the name) under it.; August 20, 2008 11:04 PM
Independent Voter said...: That's exactly the point suzi! LOL! Elephant's ass=McCain's "face/head" - except that it is giving too much credit to McCain. I truly didn't mean to offend the elephant.; August 20, 2008 11:05 PM
jean said...: Hey,
I have some good suggestions but nothing in the sarcastic mode?
I am going to work on it and see what happens.
jean; August 20, 2008 11:09 PM
suzihussein22 said...: m in md-It still had to be hard to be like that with family.

iv dave-My mom is beyond stubborn about most things also.; August 20, 2008 11:09 PM
Independent Voter said...: You know what? Would Obama be 'crazy' enough to pick up Ron Paul as his running mate? We haven't heard much about him since McDouchebag became the presumptive nominee.

I'm not saying that I support that by any means. I'm just kind of thinking "dark horse" and everything.

NOOOOOOOOO Leah, that is NOT my guess, I'm just throwing it out there.; August 20, 2008 11:10 PM
jean said...: Indy,
Crazy and demented are two different things.
You have no suggestions for the carol?

jean; August 20, 2008 11:12 PM
suzihussein22 said...: jean-I'll still be laughing with you.

Don't think I'm upset with anyone when my posting gets really random over the next month. I'm getting ready to show associates new register software and working overtime and my other half will be taking a full load of classes, work a part-time job, organizing a local debate between dems and reps, and is an officer in a non-trad student org.; August 20, 2008 11:15 PM
Independent Voter said...: LOL jean - well they are pretty close in most policies. Plus you have to remember he still has a pretty good following.

His supporters are planning a convention of their own during the week the RNC is having theirs.; August 20, 2008 11:17 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: suzi-

That white guy is just one o the photos that is on the Obama page. I think they rotate those photos depending on what photos are at the top of the Obama page. I have never looked down there before to get to Obama's page.

I normal click on POLITICS at the top of the page and then the Obama page usually has a link up top there in the headings...; August 20, 2008 11:19 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Have a good night, y'all.

http://tinyurl.com/zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

I hope this pic doesn't give you nightmares.; August 20, 2008 11:20 PM
jean said...: Thank you Indy.
And I thought I was over the edge putting a election "carol" together and you come up with Ron Paul as a dark horse VP LOL.

suzi,
Good luck. And do not forget school starts for the kids;)
jean
By the way I will take more suggestions.; August 20, 2008 11:21 PM
Independent Voter said...: Goodnight Suzi.; August 20, 2008 11:23 PM
Independent Voter said...: LOL jean. Ya, I figured that would give everyone a kick (Ron Paul) but I still added KO v. O'Really; August 20, 2008 11:24 PM
jean said...: I am being paged by kids and husband.
I will work on my little project;)
It needs to be done by Friday I think.
Have a good night.
jean; August 20, 2008 11:38 PM
Richard said...: Chris Matthews had a good point on Hardball tonight: letting this VP announcement go so long and building so much suspense is really setting people up for disappointment if his pick isn't a big-name game-changer. At this point, I think anyone on the shortlist with the possible exception of Sibelius will be a let-down to some degree. In fact, I think the only possible pick at this point who would live up to the hype and suspense is...

wait for it...

don't have a heart attack...

Hillary Clinton.; August 20, 2008 11:46 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: According to CNN (http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/meast/08/20/iraq.us.troops/index.html):

"U.S. and Iraqi negotiators have agreed to a preliminary draft of an agreement on the future of U.S. troops in Iraq, a senior U.S. military official said."

Seems that officials differ on what that agreement says:

Iraqi Deputy Foreign Minister Mohammed al-Haj Hamood indicates it includes a June 30 date for withdrawal of US troops from Iraqi cities and towns.

The U.S. official (an unnamed senior U.S. military official) said there are no dates in the agreement, only general time frames that would take into account conditions on the ground.

For the Bush [mal]administration, "time lines" became "time horizons" which now are called "time frames"? Will McCain use those phrases interchangeably, or decide to use one to the exclusion of the others?

Mike; August 20, 2008 11:51 PM
Vicki in Seattle said...: looks like suzi already called it a night. I was working till late, so I'm having dinner here at 9:20 pm.

the suspense is killing me ... in this day and age of instant gratification, it's almost impossible to just wait to find out something!

for me, Al Gore would knock it out of the park. Oh, I still think Biden is the most likely pick. but for me, Obama/Gore is the dream team.; August 21, 2008 12:23 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: nooooooo on the drop in EV's

let's show 'em a convention BUMP that carries through to November!!!; August 21, 2008 12:41 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 21, 2008 12:51 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: It's still early - a little drop downwards doesn't mean too much when we still have over two more months to go :)

76 days to the election!

Obama/Sebelius '08; August 21, 2008 12:54 AM
Aunt Jean said...: to the family of

US Rep. Tubbs Jones of Ohio

I send my heart felt condoles. I thought she was a very good woman.AJ; August 21, 2008 1:29 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: BARACKY II

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fNgA5xLxao

Yes We Can!; August 21, 2008 1:31 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Dave

I happen to agree with Beryl about putting a leash or muzzle on Bill. Even thought I like him and thought he did a wonderful job as president. But like most men they don't listen most of the time.

HaHa smartbutt: GOT YOU!!LMAO
AJ; August 21, 2008 1:32 AM
Independent Voter said...: AJ - LOL!

Oh I totally agreed with that part of beryl's post. It was the second "requirement" that I figured you would have had the problem with. LOL!; August 21, 2008 1:36 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Independant Voter-

You wanted the WHOLE shebang - here it is:

McCain Agrees That We Will Not Capture Bin Laden Without a Draft

Leaving aside the idea that illegal immigrants are enjoying the best medical care that this country can offer, this is a shocking admission from John McCain...from a town hall meeting earlier today:

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Senator McCain I truly hope you get the opportunity to chase Bin Laden right to the gates of hell and push him in as you stated on your forum. I do have a question though. Disabled veterans, especially in this state, have horrible conditions [...] My son is an officer in the Air Force, and I am a vet and I was raised in a military family. I think it is a sad state of affairs when we have illegal aliens having a Medicaid card that can access specialist top physicians, the best of medical and our vets can't even get to a doctor. These are the people that we tied yellow ribbons for and Bush patted on the back. If we don't reenact the draft I don't think we will have anyone to chase Bin Laden to the gates of hell.

JOHN MCCAIN: Ma'am let me say that I don't disagree with anything you said and thank you and I am grateful for your support of all of our veterans.

-----; August 21, 2008 1:40 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Dave

damn it now I'm going to have to go back to it. LOL AJ; August 21, 2008 1:48 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Now Beryl I could say the same thing but in reverse. That wasn't very nice. AJ; August 21, 2008 1:51 AM
Aunt Jean said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 21, 2008 1:52 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: From Daily Kos...

FAKE FAKE FAKE FAKE FAKE

Fake texts
by kos
Wed Aug 20, 2008 at 04:29:03 PM PDT

Someone is sending out fake text messages to people's cell phones claiming to announce Obama's veep pick. Some say it's Clinton, others Gore, and they look like this:

"Dear supporter, today our campaign joins in a historic partnership with Al Gore. Together we will move America forward. Yes we can."

The messages seem to come from 62262, which is the Obama text number. I don't know how easy or hard it is to spoof text messages, but someone is doing it.

Update: Ahh, Wonkette has instructions on how to do it.
------------------------; August 21, 2008 1:59 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah

that is out and out mean.I hope they find out the jerk or jerks doing it! AJ; August 21, 2008 2:12 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah and everyone else

it's been a long day and it took quite awhile to read most of the posts so I'm calling it a night. Goodnight to all. I hope we get some good news tomorrow!!! AJ; August 21, 2008 2:24 AM
Independent Voter said...: Goodnight AJ.

I'm sure beryl was joking on that part of the post. :); August 21, 2008 2:26 AM
suzihussein22 said...: jean-the repeal of the Patriot Act; August 21, 2008 7:21 AM
Karen Anne said...: "I don't know how easy or hard it is to spoof text messages, but someone is doing it."

It's apparently very easy to spoof phone numbers of callerid. I found that out when I was getting scam phone calls from a number that was some hapless business in the midwest somewhere. I have no idea if that translates to text messaging, about which I am clueless.

EVs, Alexander Hamilton was right.; August 21, 2008 8:14 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: well, it's a good thing they don't have the full list of people who signed up for early notification: a no-one like me is unlikely to get it. I have too much going on today to get too caught up in it.

See you all later!; August 21, 2008 9:07 AM
jean said...: Unbelievable.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/08/21/dems_pounce_on_mccain_admissio.html
McCain has no idea how many houses he owns.; August 21, 2008 10:56 AM
Beryl said...: "Now, Obama is trying to turn the tables.

Democrats also seized last week on comments McCain made during the Saddleback forum. Answering a question from Pastor Rick Warren about what the definition of rich is, McCain said "$5 million," before quickly realizing his mistake."

Did I not tell you all a week ago that the Dems must go negative to win this thing? I saw that the negative attacks were going to be successful for the Repugnicans then.

They now need to loose the attack dogs. Not just a kick-butt VP but the whole arsenal. They need to expose McCain as the fraud, liar, and loose cannon that we know him to be. They need to expose his backers as war profiteers and oil companies bent on molesting the middle class.

The Dems need to parade the heavyweights in front of every camera -- local and national from now until election day. Clark, Biden, Clintons, Nunn -- everybody -- non-stop telling the world what a BAD decision McCain is for this country.

It is time to pull the gloves off and bring that gun to the knife fight.

It is time to spend every $$ we donated to the cause.

It is now or never because McCain means World War III and Armageddon. (It is going to happen anyway but we need to make every attempt to prevent it.); August 21, 2008 11:46 AM
jean said...: Now Nader is in the mix, NO not as VP.
He says HRC is the only way to go.
Please do not beat me;)
If Obama doesn't make a decision soon I may collapse.
I am at work and My Heart is not in it.
jean; August 21, 2008 2:32 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: New Obama ad regarding McCain's 7 houses...

http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/seven_ad

.
p.s. Today is only Thursday and McCain is taking the day off at his home in Arizona. It must have worn him out having to do the Faith Forum last Saturday. He normally takes EVERY Saturday and Sunday off!; August 21, 2008 2:42 PM
Beryl said...: I somewhat agree for the first time in a long time with Nader. Clintons are old-style politicians who effectively bare-knuckle fight. We need this now.

Obama's gentleman's approach is appropriate to discredit Pat B.'s claims that he is a "angry black man". However, he needs surrogates to step up and step up quickly going on the attack.

Ed Shultz and Randi Rhodes are good on Progressive Radio but they are not reaching the deceived but honest Rush LIMPbaugh listeners.; August 21, 2008 2:47 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: The FULL Mother Teresa story/LIE !
------------

The Anatomy of a Deception: How The McCains Changed Their Baby Adoption Story Just Before 2008 Campaign Began

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-nickolas/the-anatomy-of-a-deceptio_b_120381.html

.; August 21, 2008 2:56 PM
jean said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 21, 2008 3:03 PM
Karen Anne said...: Jean, does anyone listen to crazy old uncle Ralph any more :-); August 21, 2008 3:28 PM
Independent Voter said...: LEAH! WOW!!!!!!!! That ad "Seven" is good. I really wish they would get a new person to do the voice-over. The guy is WAY to "soft".

Obama needs the voice of a rabid bull dog in attack ads. The beginning of the ad was good (for the soft and compassionate voice) but to attack McDouchebag he needs a stronger voice.

Of course, that is just my opinion.; August 21, 2008 3:30 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: It seems that John McCain's answer to everything is that he was a POW!
----

McCain Camp Plays POW Card On House Gaffe

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/21/mccain-camp-plays-pow-car_n_120428.html

-------------------------; August 21, 2008 3:36 PM
Beryl said...: Leah,
Seven is a terrific ad! That is what I'm talking about. Speak truth to power!

Jean,
Although, she is not my first choice for POTUS or VP, I won't be mad if HRC becomes VP. We need to win the WH and McCain is dangerous for America. I honestly do not believe we will have a country in 4 years under McCain rule.

I still want to believe in HRC (Leah - I know, I know) and pray that she does the right thing if she is selected:

1. Go to the states where she has the greatest strength like OH and PA. Tell "her people" that they are hurting THEMSELVES by supporting McCain.

2. Play a low profile here in Colorado and other former Red states so Obama still has a chance to win them.

3. For the good of the country and WOMEN, step up and show how WOMEN can run things without their husbands butting in.

Bill needs to spend all of his time in Appalachia and similar places deprogramming those folks. They need to put away their biases for their OWN good. If he can't control himself, now is a good time for him to take a trip abroad.; August 21, 2008 3:57 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Grrrr.. The McCain camp has released a SEQUEL the 'The One' ad....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PetxaA42OuE

.; August 21, 2008 4:20 PM
jean said...: beryl,
I deleted my comment so you would not get the hot seat.
Things are way to stressed right now.
I agree.
And remember, Bill has deprogrammed quite a bit.
jean; August 21, 2008 4:30 PM
jean said...: Starting to get in the pissed off mode.
Obama said yes he has made a decision.
That is it.
Done.
No other comment other than you will see.
jean; August 21, 2008 4:36 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: My guess is that Obama will announce the VP pick Friday afternoon. That way it will be in the evening news and the media will be talking non-stop about whoever it is all the way to the time that Obama and the VP take the stage in Illinois on Saturday.; August 21, 2008 5:10 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Obama's 2008 VP Pick Contest

Leah - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (Caroline Kennedy)
Vicki - Senator Biden (Gore)
Rich - Gov. Bill Richardson (Biden)
Independent Voter - Senator Lincoln Chafee (Powell/Biden)
apissedant - Gov. Tim Kaine (Sebelius)
AJ - Senator Jack Reed
Beryl - Chuck Hagel (Biden/Sebelius/Clark/Kaine/Clinton/Richardson)
Karen Anne - Senator Evan Bayh (Gore/Lincoln Chafee)
tmess2 - Senator Evan Bayh (Gov. Salazar)
Oh Canada - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
jean - Senator Biden (Reed)

Have I missed anyone?

Anyone one else have a guess?

Note:
1) No one knows anything yet except for Obama and Michelle.
2) Obama has not told any of the possible picks if they are the one or not.
3) The VP will be at the Springfield, Ill, Obama event Saturday.
4) The VP pick will be announced anytime between now and the event Saturday. The Obama supporters will be text messaged/emailed first before they release a formal announcement to the press.; August 21, 2008 5:12 PM
Richard said...: CNN seems to think Obama will make his announcement tonight, but I'm not sure...; August 21, 2008 5:20 PM
Beryl said...: http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalradar/2008/08/obama-gives-vp.html

"[Obama] said he was looking for not just a partner but a sparring partner. "I want somebody who's independent, somebody who can push against my preconceived notions and challenge me so we have got a robust debate in the White House."

HRC, Biden? They have strong opinions -- I definitely think so. We'll all know soon.; August 21, 2008 5:22 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: In A Bind, GOP Throws Kitchen Sink At Obama

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/21/in-a-bind-gop-throws-kitc_n_120449.html

.
Note: And as per the article the media isn't biting!; August 21, 2008 5:25 PM
Independent Voter said...: Leah, here's what I wrote on the HuffPo article about JM's continued use of the POW card.

Interview (I=Interviewer) with John McCain (JM):

I: "Obama says your energy policy does nothing but give tax breaks to the oil companies".
JM: "I was a POW".

I: "How many homes do you own"?
JM: "I'm not sure, I'll have someone get back to you on that. By the way, did I mention I was a POW?"

I: "You say you know how to win in Iraq. Please define victory in Iraq."
JM: "I was a POW."

I: "Many people say that you are too old and too senile to serve as Commander in Chief."
JM: "I was a POW, DAMMIT! I need a nap. Now leave me alone." I'm telling you I was a god-damned POW! I know nothing about the frickin' economy, I don't give a rats behind about other people's homes being foreclosed on, I am NOT Bush damn it, he was AWOL while I was a POW! DAMMIT WHEN ARE YOU PEOPLE GOING TO STOP BUGGING ME ABOUT THESE PETTY LITTLE ISSUES, I WAS A POW!"; August 21, 2008 5:44 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: August 21, 2008: The Day John McCain's Campaign Died

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mitchell-bard/august-21-2008-the-day-jo_b_120433.html#postComment

.; August 21, 2008 5:49 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Here's is an article that says it much better than I could ever say it:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/aj-rossmiller/obama-bomaye_b_120384.html

-------
This what I was saying yesterday about Obama saving up his good punches for later in the race!; August 21, 2008 5:53 PM
jean said...: Indy,
Why are you going to school with your obvious skills as a journalist.
I know that is not your current major;)
jean; August 21, 2008 6:00 PM
Independent Voter said...: Leah, the article you posted at 5:53 is also reinforcing what I was saying about Clinton the other day. Meaning that the candidate (in this case Obama) needs to peak at just the right time. Clinton peaked right before the primaries began, and then began to peak again at the end of the primary contests, where Obama peaked in February which I believe was his plan all along.

So I say let McCain peak now so that Obama can come back and whollop him in September and October, all the way up through November 4th.; August 21, 2008 6:00 PM
Independent Voter said...: jean - ROFLMAO; August 21, 2008 6:01 PM
Beryl said...: Good one, Indy!; August 21, 2008 6:08 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Indy-

What you wrote for the HuffPost comment is great!!! LOL :); August 21, 2008 6:26 PM
Independent Voter said...: Why TANKS! ;); August 21, 2008 6:29 PM
Independent Voter said...: Well dammit! They moderated me off HuffPo. I guess they probably deleted it because of my "god-damned" phrasing. I guess I'll have to put it back up and change the wording a little.; August 21, 2008 6:33 PM
Beryl said...: The recent buzz regarding the "independent" VP pick is Bloomberg or Nunn.

Thoughts?; August 21, 2008 6:34 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Is Dodd still a possibility?; August 21, 2008 6:40 PM
Independent Voter said...: Remember Dodd is "Women of the Senate" speaker. LOL!!!!!; August 21, 2008 6:48 PM
Beryl said...: Yeah, Indy. It is really good so reword and post it everywhere.; August 21, 2008 6:53 PM
Independent Voter said...: I think Bloomberg would be a very good pick, from an economy point of view. I read an article the other day that his name was going to be on the ballot in VA, but that he would be on the ballot as president.; August 21, 2008 6:54 PM
Independent Voter said...: Thanks beryl. I've even tried rewording it and nothing so far.; August 21, 2008 6:54 PM
Independent Voter said...: Oh well. I give up. I'll try and post it on another story. They don't seem to want to put it up on that story.; August 21, 2008 7:04 PM
jean said...: Ok,
The latest "Source" says Obama had a hang up between Change and Years in Washington.
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/
OKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is a cat and mouse game and guess what we are:0
I am over it.
jean; August 21, 2008 7:07 PM
Independent Voter said...: Jean, LOL! Don't stress so much! You know the old cliche' - "Curiosity killed the cat". We don't want you to be the cat in this case. LOL; August 21, 2008 7:14 PM
Beryl said...: I still think it is Biden, y'all.

I don't think it is HRC because they are so prominent at the convention. Their center stage appearances will enable the Dems to properly acknowledge, pay homage to, worship the Clintons one more time before we officially move on.; August 21, 2008 7:14 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Sam Nunn Almost Certainly Ruled Out As Obama VP

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/08/21/cross-nunns-name-off-the-list/

.

p.s. Grrrrr... I can't stand it!!! Chris on MSNBC is STILL talking about Hillary as VP. I will be glad when the VP's name is out and this will be over!!!; August 21, 2008 7:15 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Beryl-

Good point!!!

Hillary as to be in Denver on Tuesday ... and Obama and the VP will be on the road doing rallies Mon, Tues, and Wed.. then will show up in Denver on Thursday!

Great clue Beryl!; August 21, 2008 7:19 PM
jean said...: Indy,
Just stop it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Goodness Gracious.
jean; August 21, 2008 7:20 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Obama's 2008 VP Pick Contest

Leah - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (Caroline Kennedy)
Vicki - Senator Biden (Gore)
Rich - Gov. Bill Richardson (Biden)
Independent Voter - Senator Lincoln Chafee (Powell/Biden)
apissedant - Gov. Tim Kaine (Sebelius)
AJ - Senator Jack Reed
Beryl - Chuck Hagel (Biden/Sebelius/Clark/Kaine/Clinton/Richardson)
Karen Anne - Senator Evan Bayh (Gore/Lincoln Chafee)
tmess2 - Senator Evan Bayh (Gov. Salazar)
Oh Canada - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
jean - Senator Biden (Reed)

Have I missed anyone?

Anyone one else have a guess?

Note:
1) No one knows anything yet except for Obama and Michelle.
2) Obama has not told any of the possible picks if they are the one or not.
3) The VP will be at the Springfield, Ill, Obama event Saturday.
4) The VP pick will be announced anytime between now and the event Saturday. The Obama supporters will be text messaged/emailed first before they release a formal announcement to the press.; August 21, 2008 7:22 PM
Beryl said...: Leah
I agree. I'll be glad when the selection is known, the complaints begin and end, and the convention gives the Clintons a chance to unite those in the party who want to defeat the Evil Empire.

It is kind of a separation of the wheat and the chaff. The unified party (wheat) will work together. Those who won't get with the program (chaff) will need to get out of the way.; August 21, 2008 7:24 PM
jean said...: That's it.
4:24 and going for a cocktail.
I obviously need one and the kids don't need picked up;)
jean; August 21, 2008 7:25 PM
Beryl said...: Did you all hear about the Biden family all rolling up to his house? Andrea Mitchell described the action at his home and his behavior on Hardball.

Yeah, I really think it is Biden.; August 21, 2008 7:27 PM
jean said...: beryl,
Do you think Biden's family knows and the media did not find out?
jean; August 21, 2008 7:33 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Biden better watch out. IF it is Biden and Biden had been told not to tell ANYONE at all and he told his family and that was why they showed up like that and Obama hears about it it will piss Obama off and Obama could still have time to change his mind! LOL ;); August 21, 2008 7:33 PM
jean said...: There you go Leah LOL
jean; August 21, 2008 7:37 PM
Independent Voter said...: LOL! jean, have one for me ;)

Leah, I'll put it this way, I agree with beryl (I think it will be Biden) HOWEVER all of this - meaning Biden's family all showing up at his home - could be a tactic being used to simply throw the media off the real VP's trail.

Now the REAL clue will be whether or not Biden leaves his home tomorrow and doesn't return (that is provided Obama doesn't send out the soon to be infamous text message).; August 21, 2008 7:44 PM
Beryl said...: Jean - I don't know. Andrea Mitchell mentioned that members of his family came to his house and Biden was mysterious. He said that Bayh and Kain were also quiet but nothing was going on at their houses.

You are right Leah, I'd hope that the Biden family didn't get told early.

You never know. They may have planned a family gathering and the VP announcement had nothing to do with it. We are all speculating based on nothing at all.; August 21, 2008 7:45 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Hmmm... I wonder if since there are all the FAKE text messages out there Obama will hit the send button while he is on stage tomorrow at one of his rallies. Then people will know when the REAL message is being sent out! :); August 21, 2008 7:46 PM
Beryl said...: All the talk about libations has gotten me wanting something blended.

hmmm

Strawberries, almond milk, ice, Kahlua....; August 21, 2008 7:49 PM
jean said...: Hey,
Everything is Fine;)
Talked to the Neighbor.
She just told me that the VP is the Principle at my kids High School, and as long as you have a Hall Pass you are good.
It seems a long time away till the decision and I am going with that.
Levity:)

jean; August 21, 2008 7:51 PM
jean said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 21, 2008 8:01 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: The McCain draft question was just now brought up again on Countdown with Keith!; August 21, 2008 8:23 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Experts: Obama-Ayers Ad May Be Illegal

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/21/experts-obama-ayers-ad-ma_n_120495.html

.; August 21, 2008 8:26 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Great quote from Countdown...

"The people that know aren't talking and the people that don't know are talking."; August 21, 2008 8:44 PM
Independent Voter said...: Sorry everyone, I left the door unlocked. I can't blame Jean for this one.; August 21, 2008 8:54 PM
jean said...: Indy,
I love fresh air and I am sure the breeze is coming.
Don't you love the cool nights (at least last night). For August so far it is OK.
jean; August 21, 2008 9:11 PM
Beryl said...: Just in!!

FROM: The Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office
DATE: August 21, 2008
TIME: 4:50 P.M.
Phone: 720. 874.4165
M E D I A R E L E A S E
HAZARDOUS MATERIAL CALL AT SENATOR McCAIN’S DENVER HEADQUARTERS
At approximately 3:15 p.m., Mountain Time, the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office and the Parker-South Metro Fire Department responded to a call of a suspicious package, containing an unknown powder, that was delivered to Senator John McCain’s Denver Campaign Headquarters located at 6300 block of South Racine Circle.
At this time the scene has been secured and several people who may have been exposed to the substance are being examined by medical personnel. We have HAZMAT personnel on scene, and the substance is being examined to determine if it is hazardous.
The investigation is ongoing. Additional information will be released when available.
E N D; August 21, 2008 9:15 PM
Independent Voter said...: ROFL jean! Yes, this summer has been VERY tolerable. I would say we've only had about 2 maybe 3 weeks (at least down here in the downtown area) that it got too warm (and humid) but that is a collective total. So ya, this summer has been great.; August 21, 2008 9:18 PM
Independent Voter said...: beryl, I was going to say something VERY mean, but I am refraining. You know the Patriot Act and all.; August 21, 2008 9:21 PM
Beryl said...: Jean
I substituted the Kahlua with Amaretto. I also added some raspberry DaVinci sugar-free syrup.

Yummmy!

It yielded two 12 ounce glasses at only around 200 calories (mainly because of the liqueur).; August 21, 2008 9:21 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Beryl-

CNN had a breaking news headline about that several hours ago ;)

I betcha it was just baby powder in the envelopes (one in Colorado and one in New Hampshire(?) ).

I am wondering if the McCain folks did it to get some press and get everyone to stop talking about McCain's 8 houses ;); August 21, 2008 9:21 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Beryl

what do you call this drink:

Strawberries, almond milk, ice, Kahlua

I have a whole bottle of Kahlua and this sound great. The only thing else I have a question about is almond milk where do you get that? AJ; August 21, 2008 9:27 PM
Beryl said...: Leah - When I look at the time, it did come out a few hours ago but it only hit my inbox 1 hour ago.

I guess you know now that I live in Arapahoe County.

BTW, I got tickets to Obama's speech. I may not go though. It is going to be a zoo downtown!

------------------------

Congratulations, we are pleased to inform you that you will be joining Barack Obama for his acceptance speech at Invesco Field at Mile High.

Barack chose to accept the nomination at a free public event because of his belief in making government accessible to everyone.

Your Community Credential can be picked up Thursday, August 21st – Friday, August 22nd from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the following location:

1180 S. Buckley Rd., Suite E
Aurora, CO 80017
Total number of Credentials: 1

HOW IT WORKS:

To pick up your credential you will need an ID and full contact information. If you are picking up a credential for a guest, you must have full information for that individual as well.

Please have ready:

* First and Last name
* Full address
* Home phone number
* Email (if applicable)
* Cell phone number (if applicable); August 21, 2008 9:28 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Beryl-

I really really really think you should go!

I had a ticket to go to Obama's rally here in Houston before the primary but I wasn't feeling well that evening so I stayed home and now I wish that I had dragged my butt over there to hear him speak.

You need to go and be part of history!; August 21, 2008 9:32 PM
Independent Voter said...: :( UGH! I'm still bummed. I know he keeps pushing the HRC thing, but DAMMIT! I'm gonna miss me some Dan Abrams after tonight......I know you guys don't like him. I'm done ranting!

Do you guys think they are going to be covering the convention during the 6 o'clock ?; August 21, 2008 9:33 PM
Beryl said...: AJ
I got the almond milk (Blue Diamond brand) from supermarket. I like the vanilla flavored kind and it is only 40 calories per cup!

There is no name for the drink -- it is something I felt like making for dinner.

1 1/2 cups of Strawberries
1 1/2 cups of almond milk
1 cup ice
a splash of Amaretto
a splash of DaVinci sugar-free Raspberry flavoring
Splenda (just a little)

It was quite tasty and filling.

I think I'd use the Kahlua with bananas. The Amaretto seemed better with strawberries.; August 21, 2008 9:39 PM
apissedant said...: New Obama picture from the rally tonight. =)

There was an idiot in the audience that talked about the gold standard. Obama responded properly to the stupid question though. =); August 21, 2008 9:40 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: apissedant-

Where's the picture?
In your pocket?; August 21, 2008 9:45 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Beryl

well it sounds very tasty.

AJ; August 21, 2008 9:46 PM
Independent Voter said...: p'd ant - YOU SUCK!!!!!!!! I hate, you, I hate you, I hate you!

Just kidding! Nice picture. He doesn't come out this way anymore :(

The closest he came to a "public" forum here was during the short period he spent here for the debate in Los Angeles.; August 21, 2008 9:46 PM
apissedant said...: Dave,
I guess you'll have to move to a battle ground state. ;)

I made a video of the overflow room. That's where I spent most of the time, because I didn't get a ticket until the event started and someone I knew got upgraded to VIP status and gave me their lowly general admission tickets.

The overflow room was pretty packed, and the excitement even in that room was pretty amazing. People were getting up and cheering, clapping, and all we had was a big projection screen. I thought it was amazing that John McCain can't get people energized in person, and Obama can do it over the television.

I got to go in the main forum a few minutes before it ended, just long enough to snap off a few pictures. =)

By the way, I hate town halls. Most people that ask questions are idiots. If I wanted to see idiots speak, I'd turn on Fox News.

The gold standard boy took the cake though. He made everyone else look like a rocket scientist.; August 21, 2008 10:04 PM
jean said...: beryl,
I will check out the drink.(tonight)
I TRY to walk 3-4 miles every morning6-7am with a friend (she is a Rep)we go at least 4 times a week
and we have an agreement.
Don't mess with our cocktails or our Pasta.
No counting calories;)
Tonight is Pasta and cocktails so I really need to walk tomorrow:0
jean; August 21, 2008 10:04 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Hehehehe...

Hillary Rosen on CNN just said (regarding the VP pick)

"This is like Christmas time and we can't wait for Santa Claus so we can see what's under the tree!"; August 21, 2008 10:06 PM
jean said...: Thanks Leah,
I have not been working on the election carol.
Been busy with work.
Guilt ridden now.
jean; August 21, 2008 10:18 PM
Independent Voter said...: Ok, so when Abrams started this show (roughly a year ago) his hair was dark brown. Did he really go that gray or was he dying his hair back then?; August 21, 2008 10:21 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: John McCain Needs to Lay Off the POW Talk

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/brandon-friedman/john-mccain-needs-to-lay_b_120475.html

Good article!; August 21, 2008 10:24 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Indy-

Abrams said that this is his third goodbye (three shows) ... my guess is that after the election and after a long vacation he will probably come back next year with a new show ;); August 21, 2008 10:31 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Obama's 2008 VP Pick Contest

Leah - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (Caroline Kennedy)
Vicki - Senator Biden (Gore)
Rich - Gov. Bill Richardson (Biden)
Independent Voter - Senator Lincoln Chafee (Powell/Biden)
apissedant - Gov. Tim Kaine (Sebelius)
AJ - Senator Jack Reed
Beryl - Chuck Hagel (Biden/Sebelius/Clark/Kaine/Clinton/Richardson)
Karen Anne - Senator Evan Bayh (Gore/Lincoln Chafee)
tmess2 - Senator Evan Bayh (Gov. Salazar)
Oh Canada - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
jean - Senator Biden (Reed)

Have I missed anyone?

Anyone one else have a guess?

*We're running out of time now, thank goodness :); August 21, 2008 10:38 PM
Independent Voter said...: Leah, I hope so. Who knows, they may just put him back into a managerial position.; August 21, 2008 10:38 PM
apissedant said...: Good article Leah.
Captures the voice of those of us that served quite well. Just wait until the RNC, after that... hopefully the American people will truly have had enough of the ludicrous justification and "qualifications" that he claims being a POW gives him.; August 21, 2008 10:38 PM
jean said...: Just an interesting piece.
Religion is being less viewed as important in politics.
In my opinion a good thing.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/08/21/religion.politics/index.html?eref=ib_topstories; August 21, 2008 10:41 PM
Beryl said...: He has really worn out the POW thing. It has lost its effectiveness and reminds me how much in need he is of therapy.

We need a contest on what time before the Saturday announcement we'll get our text messages.; August 21, 2008 10:44 PM
Beryl said...: Obama said,

"On this particular issue, if you believe that life begins at conception ... and you are consistent, then I can't argue with you on that," he said. "What I can do is say, 'Are there ways we can work together to reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies?' "

Years from now children will study the responses in school and recognize that Obama's answers were the best.

I was so disappointed with the "Christians" who applauded McCain's unthoughtful responses.; August 21, 2008 10:49 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Beryl-

Okay.

Everyone state the day and time you think the announcement will be made and I will put it next to your VP pick on the list :)

My guess is Friday 3pm.; August 21, 2008 10:57 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah I wil take 4:30 pm. AJ; August 21, 2008 11:11 PM
Independent Voter said...: jean, I read that earlier and I'm RIGHT there with ya. It is definitely a good thing. I really hope that number gets even higher.; August 21, 2008 11:13 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 21, 2008 11:21 PM
Richard said...: I'll take Noon tomorrow, s'il vous plaît. By the way, how are we going to determine the exact time the announcement is made? Depending on how many people have signed up it may take an hour or more to send all the messages.; August 21, 2008 11:21 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah I forgot Friday on my time. AJ; August 21, 2008 11:22 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Rich-

My guess is that CNN will have an announcement on their website within one minute of it being official.
We can use the CNN time for our contest if everyone is good with that.; August 21, 2008 11:23 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 21, 2008 11:26 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Rich

how we can do it is we can do the honor way. The time on text mess. The earliest one. AJ; August 21, 2008 11:26 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah

before I said about the text mess. I didn't see what you said. It really doesn't matter to me that sounds as good as any to me. AJ; August 21, 2008 11:30 PM
Richard said...: A comment on the timing of the announcement: it all depends on whether Obama wants his VP choice analyzed on the Friday evening news/talk shows or if wants to have Saturday to set the tone before it's analyzed on Sunday A.M. shows. There are things to be said for both, but I tend to think that he will want to build up interest so more people will be watching on Saturday. In any case, I think this whole thing has been mishandled; the delay has created suspense which is likely to leave everyone disappointed come Saturday.; August 21, 2008 11:31 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: I'm wondering if he is going to make a 3 AM phone call to tell him/her ;); August 21, 2008 11:31 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Rich-

Some people might be disappointed but probably not too many.

Obama has gotten tons of free press the past couple of days regarding the VP pick and the 'wait'.

And it seems like 'everyone' is focused on Obama on the secret VP - so it has worked in his favor so far ;); August 21, 2008 11:34 PM
Richard said...: Using the time of the CNN announcement sounds reasonable to me. They will be sure to be flooded with contacts as soon as the first texts go out.

Personally, I haven't signed up for the text. I'm going with email, which I think may turn out to be faster than SMS; an SMTP server can send out emails far faster than even the fastest bulk SMS gateways I've heard of.; August 21, 2008 11:34 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: Leah,

I'll bite:
VP nominee: Senator Biden (no second choice - too many possibilities)

Time: Friday, 3:45 PM
That timing misses the Noon news in all times zones except Alaska and Hawaii, but gives the networks time to prepare the bio for the evening news. Plus hits the airways just before most are preparing to leave work for the weekend, so they'll probably hear about it, and it won't be a surprise when they get back Sunday night/Monday morning, which then means they won't be distracted from the convention.

How's that for timing justification/obsfucation ???? VBG

Mike; August 21, 2008 11:37 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Obama's 2008 VP Pick Contest

Leah - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (Caroline Kennedy) – Friday 3pm
Vicki - Senator Biden (Gore)
Rich - Gov. Bill Richardson (Biden) – Friday 12pm noon
Independent Voter - Senator Lincoln Chafee (Powell/Biden)
apissedant - Gov. Tim Kaine (Sebelius)
AJ - Senator Jack Reed – Friday 4:30 pm
Beryl - Chuck Hagel (Biden/Sebelius/Clark/Kaine/Clinton/Richardson)
Karen Anne - Senator Evan Bayh (Gore/Lincoln Chafee)
tmess2 - Senator Evan Bayh (Gov. Salazar)
Oh Canada - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
jean - Senator Biden (Reed)
Mike in Maryland - Senator Biden (no second choice) Friday, 3:45 PM

Have I missed anyone?

Anyone one else have a guess?

Be sure to state your DAY and TIME guess for the announcement - time is running out!
:); August 21, 2008 11:47 PM
jean said...: Ok,
Which time zone I am not sure is being considered or if it matters.
I am thinking 12:30pm eastern for water cooler talk.
Thanks Leah.
jean; August 21, 2008 11:48 PM
Beryl said...: Friday, 2pm ET

I'm assuming everyone is going with ET.; August 21, 2008 11:49 PM
jean said...: I forgot to say Friday.
I have to go through a bunch of files(lovely).
Have a good night.
jean; August 21, 2008 11:51 PM
Aunt Jean said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 21, 2008 11:53 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah

I liked your 11:31pm post.That was cute but not very subtle. LOL AJ; August 21, 2008 11:54 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Jean
have a good night. AJ; August 21, 2008 11:55 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Obama's 2008 VP Pick Contest

Leah - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (Caroline Kennedy) – Friday 3pm Texas time
Vicki - Senator Biden (Gore)
Rich - Gov. Bill Richardson (Biden) – Friday 12pm noon
Independent Voter - Senator Lincoln Chafee (Powell/Biden)
apissedant - Gov. Tim Kaine (Sebelius)
AJ - Senator Jack Reed – Friday 4:30 pm
Beryl - Chuck Hagel (Biden/Sebelius/Clark/Kaine/Clinton/Richardson) – Friday, 2pm ET
Karen Anne - Senator Evan Bayh (Gore/Lincoln Chafee)
tmess2 - Senator Evan Bayh (Gov. Salazar)
Oh Canada - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
jean - Senator Biden (Reed) – Friday 12:30pm eastern
Mike in Maryland - Senator Biden (no second choice) Friday, 3:45 PM

Have I missed anyone?

Anyone one else have a guess?

Be sure to state your DAY and TIME guess for the announcement - time is running out!
:); August 21, 2008 11:57 PM
jean said...: The IOC is investigatin the Chinese gymnist according to new info.
About time.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/olympics/2008/08/21/bc.oly.gym.underage.chinese.ap/index.html?cnn=yes
Now I am going to view my files;); August 21, 2008 11:57 PM
apissedant said...: Friday at 4:45; August 22, 2008 12:09 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: I can't believe I actually read this whole article...

The Game-Changer Scenario

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/21/the-game-changer-scenario_n_120467.html

----

I am sorry Aunt Jean but I do hope that Obama doesn't pick Hillary and then the pundits will just stop focusing on her and start focusing on Obama so Obama can stay in the spotlight and get this election won. This has nothing against Hillary - it is that when they talk about Hillary they are not focusing Obama and we need to keep Obama as the main focus. I think you can have only 'one important person' at a time and the VP should be more in the shadows.; August 22, 2008 12:10 AM
Independent Voter said...: jean, THANK YOU for posting that information about the Chinese gymnasts. I hope the IOC does the right thing.

The only problem that I have is that although the age issue gave the Chinese an unfair advantage, it is not the fault of the athletes but that of the government. Know that they are under a communist regime, it would be extremely difficult for the athletes to refuse (if allowed to refuse at all.) I can't say that I would like to see their athletes stripped of their medals (because the athletes performed very well), however I would like to see the official medal count adjusted to reflect as though they never received those medals (as a punishment to the Chinese government.) This would embarrass the Chinese government just as much as their "you're too ugly to be on stage" fiasco during the opening ceremony.; August 22, 2008 12:15 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: BUT- the one thing that keeps popping into my head that Obama has said so many times in his speeches and townhalls (and I have watched least 200 of those) is: "Just remember this, when all of this is over and done, Hillary and I will still be friends and on the same team, you can bet on that" (or some such words to that effect)

I keep remembering that even though I'd like to forget it LOL ;); August 22, 2008 12:15 AM
apissedant said...: Leah,
I completely agree with your latest analysis on the Hillary debacle. This has been my view before she even announced that she was running for President. Edwards and Biden were my top choices from early on... and I made a not so full switch to Obama a few weeks before Edwards dropped out. After his response to the Wright issue, and the Pennsylvania gun issue, I truly realized this WAS the candidate I wanted.

Funny that things everyone else concluded as negative I found to be the final selling point. =)

From that point on, I just wanted to stop hearing about Hillary, Edwards, or any of the others, because it always seemed to take away from his message that I loved so much.

I can't wait until Hillary and Bill are old news. How long can the right wing keep bringing up the same old crap before people stop caring? It turns out the public likes negatives, and they'll keep listening more than a decade later. =/

The article is silly. Naming the whole candidate just gives them over a dozen new people to run negative ads against. Naming Al Gore brings up the same old crap. Naming Hillary brings up the same old crap.

All we need is a bunt. If he swings for the fences, he increases the odds of throwing the game away.; August 22, 2008 12:23 AM
apissedant said...: Dave,
Why do we care how old the gymnasts are? The fact is, these kids are training from the age of 4 or younger in many cases. They are competing at these ages too. Why not let them compete at the Olympics?

Also, with all our steroid scandals, I don't think we can scream too loud on this issue.; August 22, 2008 12:25 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: apissedant -

According to the folks on the news the age issue is very important.

Those 13 and 14 year old gymnasts are more limber and can do things that you can't do when you are older at 16 years of age. So they should not be competing in the wrong age group. It all comes down to playing by the rules and not cheating in order to get an edge.; August 22, 2008 12:41 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah mine is tx too. AJ; August 22, 2008 12:45 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah

on your 12:10 post I can understand why you said that, about Obama not picking Hillary.No hard feeling about it.
AJ; August 22, 2008 12:50 AM
apissedant said...: Leah,
There is no younger age group. The article talks about how they have been continually upping the age requirement to prevent the gymnasts from getting injured.

This is a joke, because the gymnasts are still doing the exact same tricks whether they are competing in the olympics or competing in something else in order to train for the olympics.

That was my point earlier; these kids train from a ridiculously young age, so the idea that not allowing them to compete is for their own safety is a giant joke.

To me, it is more of an issue of whether it should be considered cheating at all, not whether it they should be punished for cheating. They should be punished, but I think we should revert back to the old rules.; August 22, 2008 12:55 AM
apissedant said...: I had a few links to show, but my firefox crashed. I found an ask the gymnast website, and it said age 3 is a great age to start gymnastics, but it should only be a fun activity until age 5, implying that after age 5 it should be more work and competition.

I found another one that complains if you're 15 this cycle, you'll be 19 the next cycle. The same theories of flexibility and weight that give you a slight advantage this cycle, give you a huge disadvantage in the next cycle. Due to this, people born in certain years will effectively have no chance of winning the gold. Kind of a double edged sword, but in one case, you're seeing the best gymnasts in the world, and in the other case, you're seeing the best gymnasts of the world of a certain age bracket.; August 22, 2008 1:11 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Well everyone I'm off to bed goodnight. Aj; August 22, 2008 1:43 AM
Mike in Maryland said...: AP,

As one who thinks the rules should be followed as written until they are changed by the appropriate authority (might be carry-over from when I wrote contracts?), if the rules state that you must be 16 or older during the year of the Olympics, then you must be 16 or older during the year of the Olympics. It's called upholding the rules as they are written.

That same principle follows for elections - if you turn 18 on November 5 this year, you cannot vote. That one day most likely won't make a measurable difference in how you would have voted, but that doesn't matter - if your 18th birthday falls after the election, even by just hours, you are not old enough to vote in that election.

The one way I could see it as (partially) unfair is if one of a pair of twins was born just before midnight and one born after midnight, then 18 years later the one twin was old enough to vote, while the other was not. Or if one of the set of twins was old enough to compete in the Olympics and the other was not.

No matter what, though, a bright line must be drawn, and observed. Otherwise, confusion reigns. If people later think the rule should be changed, then change it. But until it is changed, the rule needs to be followed.

Mike; August 22, 2008 1:47 AM
tmess2 said...: I will go with Friday at 3:30 p.m. EDT. That gives Cafferty just enough time to praise it as a brilliant pick.; August 22, 2008 2:14 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Obama's 2008 VP Pick Contest

Leah - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (Caroline Kennedy) – Friday 3pm Texas time
Vicki - Senator Biden (Gore)
Rich - Gov. Bill Richardson (Biden) – Friday 12pm noon
Independent Voter - Senator Lincoln Chafee (Powell/Biden)
apissedant - Gov. Tim Kaine (Sebelius) – Friday at 4:45
Aunt Jean - Senator Jack Reed – Friday 4:30 pm Texas time
Beryl - Chuck Hagel (Biden/Sebelius/Clark/Kaine/Clinton/Richardson) – Friday, 2pm ET
Karen Anne - Senator Evan Bayh (Gore/Lincoln Chafee)
tmess2 - Senator Evan Bayh (Gov. Salazar) – Friday at 3:30 p.m. EDT
Oh Canada - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
jean - Senator Biden (Reed) – Friday 12:30pm eastern
Mike in Maryland - Senator Biden (no second choice) Friday, 3:45 PM

Have I missed anyone?

Anyone one else have a guess?

Be sure to state your DAY and TIME guess for the announcement - time is running out!
:); August 22, 2008 2:16 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: AJ- Goodnight.

Mike - I agree with your Olympics (age/rules) comment.

.; August 22, 2008 2:17 AM
Mike in Maryland said...: Seems another controversy is brewing at the Olympics. The Washington Post is reporting that the Beijing Olympic Committee is using the orchestration of Peter Briener of at least the US national anthem, and probably most others, without attribution, permission or compensation. Breiner orchestrated the anthems for the Athens games in 2004, and is of the opinion the Chinese didn't change his orchestrations.

The deputy director for communications for the Beijing Olympics said in response to inquiries from the Post: ". . . All the anthems and songs used at the Beijing Games were orchestrated by Chinese musicians."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/21/AR2008082103668.html?hpid=artslot

Mike; August 22, 2008 2:28 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Anyone believe the bull that TIME is putting out that McCain has chosen Mitt Romney as his VP?

I think that is misinformation that someone is putting out to take the spotlight away from Obama.; August 22, 2008 2:40 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Wooo hooooooooo!

This is great!!!

Heard Any Good "John McCain's Got a Lot of Houses" Jokes?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rj-eskow/heard-any-good-john-mccai_b_120505.html

.; August 22, 2008 3:03 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Obama's 2008 VP Pick Contest

Leah - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (Caroline Kennedy) – Friday 3pm Texas time
Vicki - Senator Biden (Gore)
Rich - Gov. Bill Richardson (Biden) – Friday 12pm noon
Independent Voter - Senator Lincoln Chafee (Powell/Biden)
apissedant - Gov. Tim Kaine (Sebelius) – Friday at 4:45
Aunt Jean - Senator Jack Reed – Friday 4:30 pm Texas time
Beryl - Chuck Hagel (Biden/Sebelius/Clark/Kaine/Clinton/Richardson) – Friday, 2pm ET
Karen Anne - Senator Evan Bayh (Gore/Lincoln Chafee)
tmess2 - Senator Evan Bayh (Gov. Salazar) – Friday at 3:30 p.m. EDT
Oh Canada - Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
jean - Senator Biden (Reed) – Friday 12:30pm eastern
Mike in Maryland - Senator Biden (no second choice) Friday, 3:45 PM

Have I missed anyone?

Anyone one else have a guess?

Be sure to state your DAY and TIME guess for the announcement - time is running out!
:)

Goodnight!; August 22, 2008 3:07 AM
Independent Voter said...: p'd ant - I agree with you on the ages of the Olympic gymnasts. And as M in M mentioned, the age restriction was set and were accepted by ALL participating countries before the games began. However we have SEVERAL junior elite gymnasts who are just as good if not better than 3 of our elite gymnasts. Bridgette Sloan and Samantha Peszeke (as much as I like them) are not as good as some of our junior elites, but those junior elites were not age eligible, therefore could not compete.

The biggest reason that the younger Chinese gymnasts had the advantage is both mental AND biological reasons. Mentally, most 13 & 14 year olds are pretty fearless when it comes to competition and performing the "big tricks". Biologically, most female gymnasts bodies mature at a much later age, therefore the younger they are, the shorter and lighter weight they are. When you are considering doing acrobatics on something 4 inches wide and 4 feet off the ground the center of gravity is much different than that of a 15 or 16 year old. In addition, on the uneven bars, many judges take points off for those who have to bend at the hips or spread their legs to get past the low bar when doing giants on the high bar. Someone who is shorter (like a 13 or 14 yo) go swing through without having to do either of these things.

Most injuries that take place in female gymnasts (beyond the broken bones) are are using ankle sprains. 13 & 14 year olds are typically as not susceptible to sprains like the older gymnasts because they have had the added weight pounding on the joints etc. Now I'm all in favor of lowering the age restriction, but until those rules are changed, every country needs to be playing on a level playing field.

Just to give you an example, Shawn Johnson used to be able to do her opening tumbling run (double twisting double back - in the tucked position) in the laid out position just 3 years ago because she was 20 pounds lighter and about 3 inches shorter. I'm not quite sure of how she was on the beam 3 years ago, but she could have challenged anyone in the world on the floor exercise 3 to 4 years ago.; August 22, 2008 3:45 AM
suzihussein22 said...: I'm guessing 4 p.m. central, which leaves me out of luck. Ill be working and getting my daughter some new hiking shoes for an Appalachian Trail Saturday. How's that for a walk, jean? :); August 22, 2008 7:26 AM
apissedant said...: Dave,
Totally agree. It is a stupid rule, but you still have to follow it. The excuse to change it to 16 was ridiculous, and maybe the controversy will get them to change it back. Probably not.; August 22, 2008 7:31 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: Leah, I think it will be 6 pm - 9 pm eastern - specifically, right at 6 pm. Enough time for people to get it in the evening and it to be the hot buzz on Friday night in bars and at dinner tables.

that also makes it from 3 to 6, pacfic.

I live in fear that I'll be driving when my phone goes off, and drive right off the freeway from excitement.; August 22, 2008 9:49 AM
Beryl said...: I'd like to change my guess (not the time). I WANT Chuck Hagel but I know he won't be selected.

Clark (Biden)– Friday, 2pm ET; August 22, 2008 11:07 AM
Richard said...: AP - the age requirement is now 16 by Dec. 21 in the Olympic year for all athletes in all disciplines. Why should the rules in gymnastics be any different than, say, diving or swimming? The Olympics are a competition for adults.; August 22, 2008 11:12 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah I forgot my backup for VP Clinton.; August 22, 2008 11:17 AM
jean said...: suzi,
It sounds like a very nice walk.
I would suggest getting some mole skin for wearing new boots.
For the back heels and the little toes. It seems one always gets blisters with new boots;)
I really hope my 12:30pm guess is correct. It will make it a much shorter day.
jean; August 22, 2008 11:20 AM
Dilbuck said...: Huffington Post reporting that it is expected to be a McCain-Romney ticket. Toss a few more evangelicals Obama's way due to Romney being a Mormon. The Christian base won't like that pick.; August 22, 2008 11:37 AM
Richard said...: While I would love to believe that McCain's pick is going Romney, I highly doubt McCain has made his final decision without first seeing whom Obama will pick. There is too much potential advantage in choosing second to ignore.

I think the most that can probably be said is that Romney is a likely choice if Obama chooses someone bland like Biden or Bayh.; August 22, 2008 11:44 AM
Beryl said...: Dilbuck -
I think McCain can give up on the Christian vote (period/full-stop). The majority of Christians are pulling away from the Repugnicans largely because of
1. The lie-based war
2. Many Repugs who were caught in sex deed/crimes
3. Broader view of Christian practices not supported by Repugs
4. McCain's personal behaviors (marital, Sturgis, etc.)

There is nothing he can say or do to fix the above in the next few months. The only thing McCain has now is his "patriotism" so he needs Romney to address the economy. He also is young, "attractive" and is a decent debater.

I think the Repugs are sorry they selected McCain as their nominee.; August 22, 2008 11:48 AM
Beryl said...: Feingold?
http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/2008/08/scooped-obamas-vp-choice-solve.php; August 22, 2008 12:00 PM
Vicki in Seattle said...: OBAMA OBAMA OBAMA OBAMA 08!!!!; August 22, 2008 12:02 PM
Vicki in Seattle said...: OBAMA OBAMA OBAMA OBAMA 08!!!!; August 22, 2008 12:03 PM
Richard said...: Looks like I lose (or are we playing by Price is Right rules?). I hope Jean is right about 12:30, but at this point I wouldn't be surprised if we don't get our text messages and emails until tomorrow morning, perhaps even just minutes before the joint appearance. The Obama Campaign (from now on known as The OC) seems to be playing this for maximum momentum. We'll see if it works.; August 22, 2008 12:15 PM
jean said...: Crap.
Rich I do think we are going by the Price is Right rules.
Guess we are going to wait.
Sat does look as a strong possibility.
jean; August 22, 2008 12:34 PM
apissedant said...: rich,
When did the olympics become a competition for adults? I never got that memo. The age requirement on gymnastics used to be 13.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/othersports/article-518650/Daley-youngest-Olympian.html

The olympics has never before been a competition for adults, and what is more, a 16 year old is not an adult.

http://www.speakout.com/activism/issue_briefs/1387b-1.html

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/brennan/2008-01-24-young-skaters_N.htm

http://www.archaeology.org/online/features/olympics/olympia.html

It is believed the ancient olympians were between the ages of 12 and 17.; August 22, 2008 12:34 PM
Richard said...: AP - you did not address the fundamental point of my entry, which was that the age requirements are currently the same across the board. Why should they be lowered for gymnastics?; August 22, 2008 12:38 PM
apissedant said...: Wouldn't transportation be a major thing to keep under wraps if he doesn't announce until tomorrow?

How would he get the candidate to Illinois without anyone noticing?

Logic would assume if he wants to keep it under wraps, he has to announce before he ships them off to the joint appearance. I really think he'll make it before the evening news.

I'm 0 for like, 11 so far, so you should totally trust my judgment.; August 22, 2008 12:38 PM
apissedant said...: rich,
I found the summation of your post to be, "the olympics is a competition for adults." I argued against that point. Why should the age requirement be 16 in any event? Most events would be limited by the strength and speed requirements of the sport, which would only come post puberty. The others that do not have this requirement, have no need to force an arbitrary restriction on these talented athletes.; August 22, 2008 12:40 PM
Richard said...: And, AP, I did not say "have always been"; I said "are." Sixteen has beent he rule since 1996.; August 22, 2008 12:43 PM
apissedant said...: Rich,
I never said that you said "has always been." I just argued that the olympics has always been a competition of the best athletes, regardless of age, so why should that have changed? I also argued that 16 is not an adult.; August 22, 2008 12:53 PM
jean said...: Ok,
Passing time of which I think what Ap is doing.
The rules are 16 and if they were to be contested it should of been before the games.
If someone changes their age to compete it is wrong.
Everyone follows the same rules.
jean
I wish the OC would hurry up and send out the info.; August 22, 2008 1:00 PM
apissedant said...: No one is arguing whether or not the rules are 16, or that those that violate the current rules should not be punished. The argument is whether the rule makes any sense at all, and whether or not the rule should be repealed.

What's more, olympic football has a rule that says only 3 players can be over the age of 23. This counters the, "olympics is supposed to be an adult competition" argument as well. If so, the soccer rules would not set a maximum number of older players.

I say it is supposed to be the display of the best athletes in the world. As long as they are not using any performance enhancing illegal substances, I have no problem with them competing regardless of their age.; August 22, 2008 1:03 PM
apissedant said...: That is also an example of a specific sport that has been given an exception to the olympic rules. Where as other events require an athlete is only over the age of 16 during the year of competition, soccer requires that almost all of the players are under 24 during the year of the olympics.

If soccer can be given an exception, why not gymnastics?; August 22, 2008 1:06 PM

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