Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Sue C. Iddy, Sioux City, IA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:15:32 GMT

#5 -- For anyone interested, here’s another article that explains some of the quirks and problems involved in the Iowa caucuses --

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/02/us/politics/02vote.html?_r=1&ref=politics&oref=slogin

But I don’t need odds-makers to tell me how to vote -- I have my horoscope -- let’s see how helpful it would be for tomorrow (if I really lived in Iowa, of course) --

“You're in too good (or weird) a mood to make up your mind about anything important today -- so blow it off, if at all possible! It's a good day to explore options, but not to commit to any one in particular.”

All right … back to the oddsmakers.

#4 -- Newt Gingrich lurking in the shadows? Bite your tongue, Countdown. This entire republican thing is already bad enough.

#1 -- If all of California (I assume we’re talking about the males) will soon be exes of a Bimbo (Paris Hilton), who really is (or are) the bimbo(s)?

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:16:07 GMT

Keith, you are a sight for sore eyes. Welcome back and Happy New Year to you and all y’all here at Newshole!

Thanks for the SIMPSONS reference in “Bushed!” ‘Ol Gil may just get his break after all! :)

Sorry, the float/car at the end of ANIMAL HOUSE beats that Rose Bowl parade float HANDS DOWN!!

And, Keith, you know I love ya’, but I don’t need 3 copies of your book. Through a wonderfully generous holiday misunderstanding and miscommunication, I already have 2 in my house! :)

And, finally, at least for this post, Keith, you had to paraphrase the great Abbott & Costello “Who’s On First” for the first bimbo update of the new year?! YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO BE A BASEBALL FAN! Just as an FYI, back in my junior high speech competition days, I knew BOTH PARTS of that routine! Do I rule or what?!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:24:28 GMT

On to all the newsy news that's fit to blog about, All those ads tonight in Iowa…haven’t those poor people had their phones, their mail, and their airwaves violated enough? Because Indiana's primary is always too stinkin' late to make a difference, the only comparable experience I've had to what people in Iowa have been going through was attendance at a conference in Cincinnati, OH the weekend before the Nov. 2004 presidential election. EVERY AD on TV was a Bush or Kerry ad, and their "people" were on every street corner trying to make their case for their guy. You couldn't get me out of Ohio soon enough that weekend.

Senator Clinton, you’re “a new beginning”? You’ve been around an awfully long time to be “new.” And, I liked the Edwards ad!

On the Republican side, are Republicans ever happy about about anything – really? Huckabee’s confusing Leno with Letterman is a bad bad move from this “Hoosier”!! A Republican demo derby sounds fun! I’d participate in that! This cold weather has put me in a mood most most MOST foul (check local listings)!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

TearsForFears.com — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:26:07 GMT

I mae b stupd but U wach Musto leve them al aloan n du som reale nuus 4 anothr 5 mins.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

greenbrier — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:27:32 GMT

I think Jonathan Turley confirmed my skepticism about the announcement of a criminal probe into the CIA interrogation tapes scandal. A federal prosecutor isn't ever gonna be truly independent.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:33:28 GMT

Speaking of "Hoosiers," how 'bout that Lee Hamilton? I'm proud and pleased as punch to be a “Hoosier” tonight! Can Professor Turley volunteer to be the “special” or “independent counsel”? Let the rolling of heads begin! Don’t worry, I’m not getting my hopes up. Too much history has taught me otherwise.

“…a crime to torture suspects…” That quaint idea must be one of those "left" things. Sorry, I just couldn't help myself. Funny that all these of the "law and order" crowd didn't get that memo.

To any Iowans here, good luck tomorrow. Please, please, please, please, PPPLLLEEEZZZEEE carefully consider and think about what you do.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Pat, south of the windy city, IL — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 02:52:48 GMT

Keith-shame on you!!
The number one story on Countdown tonight is the 3 bimbos. C'mon. Don't you think they really should be limited to the oddball segment or even WPIT. If I want to know about the bimbos, I will watch something like ET or Inside Edition. On the eve of the Iowa Caucus and the bimboos make number one on the countdown???? That is just pitiful!!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

PUD Laguna Niguel CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 03:09:13 GMT

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Mike, AL — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 03:21:32 GMT

Hope everyone had a happy new year. Watching Auburn whip (by 3) Clemson was a great way to bring in the new year. Now the journey to elect a new president begins and we finally get rid of the dumbo administration. Yes, it's going to be a great year.
Steve, we are all counting on you to start this caucus out right.
Vote Edwards...or Biden....or Obama...or Dodd....or Dennis.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 03:51:54 GMT

There are 383 days until the end of this regime on 1/20/2009
There are 368 days until the end of this Congress on 1/5/2009 ???
There are 306 days until election day -- 11/4/2008

The first Caucus is today! Evaluate ALL the candidates and think wisely before you vote.

And we are counting down.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

David Molinero — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 04:22:12 GMT

Fortune Cookie (Swan Song Edition) (Hans Christian Andersen) (Sent Saturday, December 29, 2007 9:55 PM)

I never said that you believed in Nothing, just that the song Imagine promotes belief in Nothing.

Is there Nothing that you wouldn't Kill or Die for?

I bet that you're thankful that our Police and Military would Kill (Hopefully very Seldom) and Die(Hopefully even more seldom) for our protection.

If someone broke into my home, threatening my Family, I would put myself with a Shotgun between the perp and my family ready to shoot.

I just can't Imagine having nothing to Kill or Die for. It would make life not worth living.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

R. NorCal — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 05:03:25 GMT

I know this will probably get lost in the crush of submissions after Keith's very, very loooong vacation, but if you want to predict who will win the Iowa caucuses, just use your best judgement as to who the Bush crime syndicate and the warmongering neocons would most like to see win, and then have a look at this. Too bad this information didn't get out sooner.
http://www.bollyn.com/index/?id=10759

On the eve of the caucuses, I still do not believe any of polls we've been shown. Ron Paul should be wiping the floor with all of 'em. You don't get 18 million in donations in one quarter and come out under 15 percent.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Steve Turner Cedar Falls Iowa — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 05:20:21 GMT

#1. Caucus is a Native American word that basically means, "Meeting with your Lawyer", something that our Top Three Trash Goddesses are familiar with. #2. "Will you still woo me? Will you still sue me? When I'm One-Oh-Four?" #3. Bet Gonzo is doing some 'Caucusing' himself, right now. #4. What if the "Tonight Show" striking writers are name Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John? What if it's R-Mega-Don? Maybe Huck will 'Rapture', right in front of Jay Leno! #5. The final estimate I heard was Three Republicans from Shenandoah, and one from Sioux Center, were going to show up. And Four Democrats, one from Oscaloosa, one from Waukee, one from Fertile, and Crazy Louie from down the street, here in Cedar Falls. That's all who definitely would causus. That means .000137 of one percent of an Iowan, will choose the next Sacred Leader of America. We are truly humbled.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Sheryl Stolzenberg, Lake Mary, Florida — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 05:23:04 GMT

It was sad but not surprising to hear an 'expert' explain that the people of Iowa are 'representative' of the rest of the US, so all the power they have to shape the decision on candidates is warranted. Iowa's population as of 2006 was 45% rural. For the same time period, the US population was 17% rural. Any questions about why the federal government is less involved in helping urban areas replace decaying bridges, levees and sewer lines that serve large areas? Oh, but we have lots and lots of corn syrup; just what we need as we become more obese.

When you promise to support corn till it grows out of your ears, you don't have much left over to help the rest of the US...and of course Iowa's population is more than 90% white, while the US is approximately 60% white. Again, Iowa is not a representative slice of the US population. And political parties - which are private clubs and not an arm of the government - have no more right to deny people the opportunity to have their voices heard during a primary than does a President to 'line item veto' a law by using a signing statement to refuse to enforce something he doesn't like. Our rights to vote came from Constitutional amendments, not the bylaws of political parties. Or are we now in Pakistan, where the Constitution can be suspended - or in Sadam's Iraq, where the Baath party decided who had rights?

Isn't it ironic that a member of our military can risk her or his life to defend the right of Iraqis to vote under a Constitution, whether they are Sunni or Shia - and then come home to Michigan or Florida and have no right to a meaningful primary vote if registered Democrat....Everyone is concentrating so hard on the excitement of the race, you are missing the dangerous precedents that are being set.

I think I'll just give up. My vote never counted, but at least I used to think it did. I'll just send a lot of tea bags to the clone that ends up in office this time around.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

MaryS, Poway, Calif. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 06:08:04 GMT

Shakespeare and the Greek Playwrights understood the value of comic relief in their great tragedies. For me, at least, Oddball and "Best Persons" fill that role amidst the grimness of the real news. Enough of the blond bimbos and celebrity "news," though. Please!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura in Los Angeles — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 06:45:38 GMT

Welcome back Keith..you looked "mav-vel-ous".

Can someone please tell me why Iowa is so important to a presidential election? What makes them so important in picking the candidates? This has been going on for as long as I can remember. I don't want to call myself ignorant, maybe just uninformed.

I really don't think anything will come of the destroyed CIA tapes investigation. I'm must cynical that way.

Huckabee reminds me of Dan Quayle. Confused, confused. The poor man should read a newspaper, books, ask questions, have good people beside him telling him what is going on. He looks mighty sad when he doesn't even know the correct reasoning behind Jay and Letterman going back to work in spite of it.

Britney, Paris and Linsay..still trashing around, will always trash around and do we care? Please don't report every night about their latest escapades..boring.

and Keith, I'm halfway through your book. I'm loving it. Was shocked about that Anthrax scare and your comment about the NY Post's insulting reporting of it. You said "turned into a gaffaw by morons, for morons"..loved that!

Have a great day everyone.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Sue, still sick and grumpy in West Allis, Wisconsin — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 07:40:47 GMT

Well, it looks like there's going to be a cover-up .... er ..... investigation of the whole Waterboarding Tape Destruction thingie. Interesting how special prosecutors were absolutely necessary when Clinton was president, but not, when there is real, actual criminal activity, they think it's OK to just investigate themselves.

I'm glad Jonathan Turley agrees.

And, cripes, why 10 dull, inane minutes with Musto, Paris, Brittany, and Lindsay. You guys have been off for over a week! Wasn't there some real news story that could have been covered? Did you all think we were drooling with anticipation for more of that overdone and overblown crapola?

And how about posting more than 1 stinking thread? Would it kill ya to post an additional one? After all, people have been squeezing that last thread to death since it was the only one recently up? You guys trying to chase us away?

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

JAM, Pittsburgh, PA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:38:24 GMT

This is a message to:

Pam B., CA, Krista S., Tru M., Laura in LA, Steve Turner, BA Buddusky, Jamie (formerly of CV, now in Italia), MK - Indy, Anomoly, Pat in Boston, the overworked NH intern(s?), and any one of my ol' fellow bloggers I've missed (and even to you, Larry and scott):

In spite of the odd, sad, indefensible and otherwise irritating goings-on of the past few weeks, I hope you all have had a safe and happy holidays, and may you all stay safe - and sane - this coming year.

Peace.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

gator,stuart,fl — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:46:09 GMT

I'm not sure why anyone would want to succeed Bush The Dumbest. When he leaves office next year the debt will be 10 trillion dollars, gas may well be threatening 4 dollars a gallon, the dollar may cost less than toilet paper, we will still be bogged down in two little third world countries with no end in site, the recession will be in full bloom, we will still be importing cheap, unsafe crap from China and Dumbya will be out on the speech circuit " replenishing the old coffers ". H.L. Mencken was right, but the moron actually took office in 2000. If we can finally get 60 seats in the senate occupied by people who actually have the country's best interest at heart we might start to get some slowing of this rush to mediocrity that we find ourselves in but I'm not going to hold my breath. One thing I know for sure is that I will not vote for a Republican. After 1988, when the GOP became the party of profiteering, fearmongering and religious zealotry, I left the party, registered as a Democrat and have been ever since. The GOP is run by intransigent, narrow-minded free marketers who think everything is for sale including people. Ethics and integrity no longer exist in the GOP.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Jamie, Lago Patria, Italia — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:55:59 GMT

WOW-a new thread-thank goodness.

Again, I can't reiterate with how pleased I am that I am living out of the country during another election year (though God knows we had to deal with the entire PAST year as an election year). Anyway, not having to be inundated with endless ads, phone calls, knocks on doors,. etc., has been wonderful. Don't know how you folks in Iowa do it.

On the news channel I do get, I still have to endure the endless blips and blurbs of the candidates. I wouldn't vote for Huckabee, but I'll tell you what, I'd take him over Romney any day. Huckabee calls it has he sees it, while Romney looks as though he's about ready to cry-tsk, tsk. No worries though, as there isn't one Republican (for many reasons), that I would vote for-I'm not exactly thrilled with any of the Dems for that matter.

On another note, my brother is home from Iraq, had his surgery on Sunday and went home on Monday-he's doing well. Now begins his recovery and physical therapy, and the hopes that he can get back and take care of his guys (medics), and make sure they all make it home safe and sound.

Happy New Year all-I hope this blog stays around for a while longer this time.

Ciao!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

JoAnn Moundsville WV — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:59:16 GMT

Just want to say that I'm proud of our "Mountaineers".
They deserve a win after all the hoopla of the last couple weeks. Also I hope the people of Iowa make some good choices, because our country depends on them. Happy New Year everyone!!!!!!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

JAM, Pittsburgh, PA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 13:09:25 GMT

...And one more thing:

We, who are griping about politics, Jamie Lynn & train-wreck sis, brushing snow off our frozen cars, the temp being 58F in my apartment but 15F outside, Countdown not updating, KO being absent, writers' strikes, etc., etc., etc. Consider this:

We have domiciles that are relatively warm in the winter, cool in hot summers; we have internet access, we have cable t.v., we have the freedom to disagree with each other, in person or online, or by cell phone or by fax, and most of us can complain to our government without being made to disappear (even if our emails do). Most of us can get in our car or on a public bus without worry that it will be shot at or blown up en route to our destination. We've got the right to complain about our job or lack of one. We've the right to complain about, well anything - most of us...

All of that can change in an instant. And we should be grateful. Love while you can, smile whenever possible, and when you have a bad day, remind yourself it could be much, much worse. If you find that hard, turn on "Jerry Springer", "Maury", or "Judge Judy" and if the people on those shows don't make you feel better about yourself, realize that you have the t.v., the cable, the home, the education, the access to information, the self-respect, self-esteem, whatever.... Every person on this blog is better off than many others around the world.

To my old friends: I miss our discourse, but, even though I caved to send these messages, I will not use Internet Explorer as my browser (and what a wonderful world that for 99% of sites, I don't have to); I'll check in from time to time, however. And if any of the bloggers ever want to get in touch with me, I can be reached at: sweet_hot_grrl at hotmail.com (but, of course, put that in email format, and I only check that once a month or so because I have to use IE to do so - but that's okay, since I set it up mainly as a spam-recieving account).

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Susan, Dale City, VA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 13:14:41 GMT

Hi Keith,

EXCELLENT job on the book! I finally bought TRUTH & CONSEQUENCES, and spent the entire evening reading it. It was great to see your thoughts on what prompted each Special Comment as well as the comment itself. Thanks again.

I'm glad to see that FINALLY, a criminal investigation is going to probe into the destruction of the CIA waterboarding (torture) tapes. It will be very interesting to see what develops.

As far as the caucuses go, I hope to see John Edwards or Christopher Dodd pull ahead, but I have a strong feeling I'm going to be disappointed. I'll make sure to tune in at 8pm to see what happened. Looking forward to seeing the results.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

HM, sprung from the ivory tower for the holidays — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 13:21:46 GMT

Just a quick post since I have to make the day-long drive back to the ivory tower today. (There should be some law against starting spring semester before the BCS games are over.)

It was refreshing to hear Jonathan Turley say that the results and the motivations behind waterboarding are immaterial to the issue of whether or not it is torture.

The Mencken quote before the Huckabee news was priceless, but I think that great and glorious day actually occurred in January 2001. Here's hoping it doesn't repeat itself.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Kevin of NJ — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 13:28:26 GMT

Wow, check this picture out. STAY OUT OF THE WATER!!!

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=505753&in_page_id=1770

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anna Molly — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:05:26 GMT

Hello backwater --

It’s always good to see you, even when you just drop by to tease me with my own words.

Wouldn’t it be nice if personal was not always political? But even those dancers had to seek political asylum to follow their personal dream. Sometimes people just have to do the best they can with what they have and hope it’s enough.

I’m pretty sure you don’t have any problems with your memory, backwater, but feel free to drop by any time for a refresher, or just to say hello. Here’s looking at you. And don’t forget to look up tonight. There’ll be meteors, and not just in Iowa.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anthony Neff, Raleigh, NC — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:17:35 GMT

Welcome back, Keith! Great point on Iowa. I live in NC, so the nominee will already be decided before I even get a chance to vote. I think we need regional primaries.

The book is great (I had missed a couple of these comments, so it's nice to have them all together in one volume).

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:29:37 GMT

Good caucus morning to all! I have a question/"complaint and grievance" (I'm making my way through my George Carlin DVD set that I received for Christmas) for my "Democratic brethen" in Iowa. Why is your caucus process so stinkin' complicated? Why can't you do like the Republicans a la whoever has the most votes/support wins? Are Iowa Democrats trying to show off their "new math" skills or what? I think math is Satan's spawn; that's why I was a history and English person in my undergrad and grad school days. Thanks in advance for the civics lesson.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Frederick Sweeney — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:31:51 GMT

Loved the "margarine of error" pun, a true groaner. Ole!, Countdown, or should I say Ole-o?

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Chris F, Just O'er the border in Williconsinois — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:38:45 GMT

And a gracious good morning/afternoon/whatever to the Countdown/News Hole gang! As we here in the Great State of Williconsinois anxiously eyeball our western neighbors (we're considering sending blankets and coffee a la the Red Cross [and possibly the National Guard] - ya'll certainly been through the fire and the flood in the last several months!) a conundrum of sorts has arisen: What exactly, is the correct nomenclature for a Caucus Goer? A Cache of Caucusers? A Chart? A Flitter? How 'bout "A Decidery of Caucus Goers?"

Steve and Sue and the rest of our Iowa brethren, to the extent possible, get some rest today. Decide well tonight.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:57:01 GMT

Watching the latest polling numbers coming out of Iowa it would seem that the people do not feel they have much of a choice among the current candidates. When a race is this close (especially on the Dem side), it would seem that what the people are really saying is we are not sure about you, or you, or you, rather then saying we are for you. Are the votes for a particular candidate being cast because we truly want and feel comfortable with this or that person, or are the votes being cast for a particular candidate because we are saying we don't want the other candidates? Are the voters in Iowa for or against somebody? There is a big difference.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:17:37 GMT

What I have to say next is kind of sort of off-topic from last night but is connected in a "big picture" sort of way, so thanks in advance for your indulgence. As I said before, Santa got the impression that I'd been good last year, so I received George Carlin's DVD set for Christmas. All of his HBO specials are in the set plus a couple of interview DVDs. I've been making my way through each one during my daily exercise routine. Yesterday's DVD was his HBO show soon after 9/11. Even my cynical angry Mr. Carlin was showing some of that non-partisan hope and pride that was so abundant in the weeks after the attacks. He said that if "Governor Bush" (yep, he used the words "Governor Bush") handled the terrorists well, he should consider running for President in Nov. 2004. Also, let "that Italian guy from Brooklyn" be in charge of terrorism policy - not a bunch of DC WASPs. BTW, Mr. Carlin's plan for rooting out OBL and his ilk in Afghanistan would have worked swimmingly with minimal loss of life; it involved NFL fans and flatulence.

Any way, my, my, my how things changed. And, because our government and the political climate in general have changed so horribly and so drastically, the process that's beginning in Iowa today is all the more vital and important. As Keith expressed more eloquently in one of his "Special Comments," no "traditional" enemy could've sqandered all of that good will. Only the person/people to whom that good will was granted could've thrown it all away so completely. The stakes are high, and by the time Indiana's primary rolls around IN MAY (too stinkin' late to make a difference barring a screw up of biblical proportions by the leading candidate), the proverbial deal will be done. So, not only to the people in Iowa today, but to voters in all states who are holding their primaries in the next few weeks, good luck, be informed about your vote, and [insert deity of your choice here] bless the United States of America.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Marcia Kurtenacker, Madison, AL — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:19:00 GMT

I know you'll be up to your eyeballs in Iowa caucus coverage, Keith, but please promise to give some major smirk-time to the unfolding, rather sordid affair and divorce of 'family values'scion Scaife at your earliest convenience. Many juicy details in Vanity Fair (you know Kenneth Starr read it all)

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:19:38 GMT

For once, I thought the Iowa campaign was fascinating to follow. Very interesting. The candidates were all terrific in the last few weeks. It appeared there were huge crowds for Obama, Clinton & Edwards. I just hope that whoever ends up in third place this evening doesn't give up. I wouldn't want one caucus to derail anyone's chances in the future. I'd love to see Webb as a VP choice.

At long last we have a presidential election year. We have turned the corner on Bush, Cheney, Rove, Rumsfeld.....suddenly they all appear soooo old.

Time for an entirely new direction - and time to pass the torch, hopefully to a new generation.

Happy New Year everyone.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anna Molly (loves real political wargames) — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:42:04 GMT

Here’s another article that explains the mechanics of the Iowa caucus --

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/01/03/iowa.caucuses.101/index.html

On the democratic side, according the CNN poll conducted on Tuesday, Hillary Clinton is leading, with Barack Obama in second, within the margin of error, and John Edwards is third, well outside the margin of error.

According the latest MSNBC poll, however, Obama was at 31 percent among likely Democratic caucus-goers, Edwards at 27 percent, and Clinton 24 percent. “Obama and Edwards gained ground overnight in the tracking poll, and Clinton fell four points to third place — a finish that, if it held, would deal a dramatic setback to the one-time Democratic front-runner.”

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22485901/

You have to wonder how things can change so fast. That’s why I plan to rely on my horoscope, instead. I predict inconclusive results followed by a whole lot of talking about the meaning of it, or lack thereof, both tonight and for days to come.

Finally. Real political wargames. It’ll be better than another bowl game, for sure.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anna Molly — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:51:41 GMT

Well, it’s starting to look like Kenya is shaping up to be another Pakistan –

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/africa/01/03/kenya.violence/index.html

“Kenya's opposition party has called off Thursday's banned public rally and urged its supporters to go home, but hopes to stage another one next week. Supporters and leaders of Raila Odinga's Orange Democratic Movement had been blocked from getting to the rally in Nairobi's city center by government forces who used tear gas and water cannon to disperse the crowds. "We are a peaceful people who do not want violence," William Ruto, a top official with presidential candidate Raila Odinga's party told The Associated Press …. Opposition leader Odinga called the meeting despite a government ban on such gatherings, having been forced to abandon his first attempt on Monday soon after the onset of the conflict. Despite this week's two failed gatherings, the ODM now hopes to hold one next Tuesday to protest the result of the elections, in which President Mwai Kibaki controversially retained power.”

Hey, who knows? Maybe this time we’ll pay attention BEFORE someone gets shot. On second thought … probably not.

Here we go again.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura in Los Angeles — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:34:46 GMT

Off topic: David Letterman with a beard..No! Conan O'Brien with a beard..No! Letterman said he is going to have a barber go on the show and shave it off..I hope so. Robin Williams was funny making fun of Letterman. I know they maybe got bored while off because of the strike, but please guys don't grow hair on your face and scare us all.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Greg Diesel(Boston, MA) — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:47:56 GMT

Isn't it great that in our great democracy, only people in about 10 states seem to have any say in who becomes president...gotta love it

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

R. NorCal — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:50:28 GMT

Now this is interesting "Judicial Watch Announces List of Washington’s “Ten Most Wanted Corrupt Politicians” for 2007"
http://www.judicialwatch.org/judicial-watch-announces-list-washington-s-ten-most-wanted-corrupt-politicians-2007

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Gracie, Henderson NV — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:09:41 GMT

Hi Keith,
You adorable goofball!! I found last night's show refreshing and a pleasure to watch. Ugh... with one exception... what's the deal with the #1 story? Did you have 5 extra minutes to waste? Who the heck cares about these three women anyway? We have seen way too much of them because of their predictable and never ending crappy behavior. Who really gives a s*@t? If I want to see flapdoodle like that, I can tune into Access Hollywood or some other show like that.

Well Mr. KO, I can get over it!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

A, CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:10:47 GMT

Keith, you should know better and corrected Musto: Olvia de Haviland and Joan Fontaine were sisters.
Glad you are back loved the blue tie's return too.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

ek, mpls mn — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:40:55 GMT

Anna Molly, Re your last post (before Christmas) on the Cuban ballet dancers that were seeking political asylum in the US: It's a good thing you dug a little deeper and found out they wanted to leave Cuba for personal, not political, reasons. Seeking more opportunities to dance is certainly a personal motivation, and one which most of us can readily understand. The personal is NOT political....the personal is NOT political. I must remember this. PUD Laguna Niguel CA (Sent Wednesday, January 02, 2008 10:09 PM)

I haven’t been following the threads that closely, but I presume you’re referring to this story:
http://www.buffalonews.com/cityregion/otherwny/story/232360.html
In a previous life, I was a paralegal specializing in immigration law, and worked on a fair number of asylum cases, including defecting artists. I just want to comment that asylum IS POLITICAL; it is NOT granted for personal reasons. There is a whole heap of evidentiary standards applicants must make, and the authorities doing the enforcing are fairly draconian in their decision-making process. Don’t make judgments on what you read in the newspapers in cases like this—quite simply, reporters often don’t have any clue what the @#@#!@#!%%% they’re talking about here.

Just saying. I could elaborate on what I think about the heart-wrenchingly horrible situations, where people were denied because the situations were personal not political, but I would just get myself all stressed again – getting too old for that on a daily basis. That’s one of the reasons I made the job shift.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Groucho Marx (puter literate in the hereafter) — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:55:37 GMT

Either this blog is dead or my ISP has stopped--

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:39:47 GMT

Hey JAM - how are you??? So nice to hear from you and so nice that you're thinking of us. Here's wishing you as well a healthy & happy 2008.

Sincerely,
Pat

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Alison Brennan, Sacramento, CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:40:40 GMT

Under the Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966, Cubans who arrive in the United States do not have to show that the reasons for their defection are political; they are assumed to be fleeing persecution and are automatically granted refugee status. So Cuban defectors don't need to make any claim of political persecution.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Kevin of NJ — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:40:52 GMT

Huckabee reminds me of Dan Quayle. Confused, confused. The poor man should read a newspaper, books, ask questions, have good people beside him telling him what is going on.

Laura in Los Angeles (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 1:45 AM)

I have to say that there is alot of candidates who are misspeaking recently (ie Hillary, Obama, etc). I would chalk it up to election fatigue. They have focused soooo much energy on Iowa, that alot of the candidates are losing their focus. This happens alot as candidates barnstorm across states, with uneven access to reliable news. My suggestion to candidates is to take a breath, and regain their focus on discussing the issues, at a slower pace.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:44:15 GMT

JAM, Pittsburgh, PA (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 7:38 AM) I happily pass the same thoughts and wishes to you!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:45:55 GMT

I can't tell you how impressed I am with the campaign workers in Iowa. A majority of them are so young. They seem to be involved in this election process in big way. They are working their backsides off to get their candidate elected and it shows.

Great, great job. Good luck to you all.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:49:28 GMT

Jamie, Lago Patria, Italia (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 7:55 AM) I'm so glad to hear your brother's OK. I don't know if you've read anything from the previous thread, but 3400 Indiana National Guard troops had their "send off" ceremony at the RCA Dome yesterday. This deployment is the largest of fighting forces from Indiana since WWII. 90 out of 92 of Indiana's counties are represented by at least one soldier. I couldn't watch any coverage of the ceremony - way way too sad.

On a brighter note, should you find yourself visiting in laws back here in "the Circle City," I expect to be contacted for some honest-to-goodness Italian food!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:51:54 GMT

JAM, Pittsburgh, PA (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 8:09 AM) Thanks for making me feel guilty about complaining about the frozen pipes to my washing machine yesterday and not being able to do laundry. ;)

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:53:11 GMT

Kevin of NJ (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 8:28 AM) That person's gonna need a bigger boat.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:56:26 GMT

Chris F, Just O'er the border in Williconsinois (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 9:38 AM) Hi! I've read in a couple of places that some candidates are using pizza to "get out the vote." Hell, that would work with me! The only person I won't eat pizza from is our Dictator-Wanna-Be. He'd probably lace it with some kind of Halliburton concoction that would turn my insides into, to quote Mr. Carlin, "liquid $hit."

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:00:05 GMT

Pat, Boston, MA (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 10:19 AM) Amen, Pat. A-freakin'-men!! Sadly, though, the half-life of the damage done by those you mentioned will be very, very, very long.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher (proud [??!!] "Hoosier"), Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:03:26 GMT

Laura in Los Angeles (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 11:34 AM) My fellow "Hoosier" Dave looks like a dirty old man! If Ball State University takes a look at that pic, they make take his name off that communications building they just named for him. BTW, I live in the same neighborhood where he was raised [insert awe-inspired gasps here]. ;D

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:05:10 GMT

A, CA (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 12:10 PM) I thought they were sisters, too, last night. Thanks for proving me correct! It's so infrequent that I'm right about anything, so I'm going to enjoy this.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura in Los Angeles — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:07:23 GMT

JAM 7:38 AM..I have missed you friend. So glad you are doing ok. Keep warm. Don't be a stranger, I don't care if you are protesting MS, you need to keep in touch. HAPPY NEW YEAR..health and happiness to you and yours.

JAM 8:09 AM..thank you for the reminder that we are extremely lucky. Whenever I start to feel otherwise, I will remember your post. Take care friend..loved hearing from you.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura in Los Angeles — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:16:18 GMT

Jamie Lago Patria, Italia Thursday, January 3, 2008 7:55 AM..Hi Jamie..so glad your brother is doing fine. At least he'll be home for awhile. Take care Jamie, my thoughts with you always..

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura in Los Angeles — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:19:54 GMT

Kevin of NJ Thursday, January 3, 2008 1:40 PM..you're right Kevin. I can't imagine that they are still standing. Probably not sleeping well, eating on the run, overwhelmed by people all around them, I have to say to be a politician stumping must take an enormous amount of stamina. I don't know if I could ever do it. My hats off to them.

Hope you and your Mrs. are doing well.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Sue, still sick and grouchy in West Allis, Wisconsin — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:22:08 GMT

Sheryl Stolzenberg, Lake Mary, Florida (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 12:23 AM)

Sheryl - well spoken rant on the overly extroardinary amount of pull that Iowa has. Corn, corn, corn and more corn.

I must correct one thing, however. It's not corn syrup itself that's the bad stuff. The really bad stuff is High Fructose Corn Syrup which turns directly into fat and does not turn into energy like sugar, honey, or even regular corn syrup. If you look at the usage of High Fructose Corn Syrup, you will see the increase in obesity in this country parallels the use of High Fructose Corn Syrup. The unwarranted political influence of Iowa essentially promotes the overuse of this crap (it's in nearly everything - check the ingredients) and stops any meaningful investigation or regulation.

How much has Iowa influenced the production of ethanol, which currently takes over a gallon of fossil fuel to produce less than a gallon of ethanol? Have they prevented research into other renewable sources because they have gobbled up all the available funds?

While I believe that small states should have a greater voice, however, the dominance of Iowa and their infamous "Corn Pledge" that candidates are forced to take, gives them almost an exclusive ability to determine who will be president as well as what products will be available to us.

JAM - nice to hear from you again, but I'm wondering why you are having problems with Internet Explorer?

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

scott henderson nv — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:27:15 GMT

I don't know why y'all b'tch when Olbermann talks about blond bimbos. Those segments are the only ones where he is even half way accurate.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura in Los Angeles — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:27:37 GMT

Krista Swisher (proud [??!!]"Hoosier"), Indianapolis, IN Thursday January 3, 2008 2:03 PM..LOL! he does look like a dirty old man doesn't he! Robin Williams kept referring to him last night as General Lee..he was really funny.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura in Los Angeles — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:34:02 GMT

Kevin of NJ Thursday, January 3, 2008 8:28 AM..oh man, this picture is truly scary. I would absolutely freak at the sight of this following me.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

junebug — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:42:42 GMT

Actually, most studies show that high fructose corn syrup is converted into energy just like any other sugar . . . the problem is that it is very high in calories and American food companies have started putting it in EVERYTHING. Funny anecdote: my boss's family was in Paris for a vacation several years ago . . . his wife ordered a sumptious looking French pastry, took one bite and threw it away. She was expecting the sticky sweet taste of an American knockoff of a French pastry. We use too much sugar (no matter where it comes from) in this country. That's what's making us fat.

Also, soft drink consumption (one of the main sources of HFCS) is over the top. When I was a kid drinking Dr. Pepper made with pure cane sugar, we drank a soft drink a couple of times a week. Most kids nowadays drink 3-4 a DAY or more. It's the quantity, not the quality.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:52:23 GMT

JAM (7:38 AM Post):

Thank you JAM and here's back at ya on having a safe, wonderful and serene 2008. Your thoughts are appreciated.

Anna Molly (10:51 AM Post - "Well, it’s starting to look like Kenya is shaping up to be another Pakistan"):

History is a repetitive series of events where the players, circumstances and locations may be different but the threads of time that hold us to the highs and lows of mankind as well as the forces that drive human beings remain the same. We have forsaken what should have been major efforts to learn how to preserve the dignity of the human race to improving the means by which we make pawns of or eliminate members of the human race. Kenya may become another Pakistan but is this surprising? It is simply a repeat of man's history to make pawns of or to elimnate others of the human race. What is shocking to us in the States is not that it still occurs but rather the means used. Whereas those in Kenya still rely on the machete others who have advanced beyond the status of a third world country will one day rely on the neutron bomb to reach the same goal. And that goal is to force others to do the bidding of whoever seeks power over others.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Tom, Philadelphpia, PA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:22:44 GMT

Now Gator from FL, if this doesn't happen...

"'m not sure why anyone would want to succeed Bush The Dumbest. When he leaves office next year the debt will be 10 trillion dollars, gas may well be threatening 4 dollars a gallon, the dollar may cost less than toilet paper, we will still be bogged down in two little third world countries with no end in site, the recession will be in full bloom, we will still be importing cheap, unsafe crap from China and Dumbya will be out on the speech circuit " replenishing the old coffers "

Will you have the guts to admit your hatred for all things GOP was just that, blind hatred?

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Fortune Cookie — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:42:19 GMT

David Molinero (Sent Wednesday, January 02, 2008 11:22 PM)

David – Happy New Year – nice to see you got your computer fixed. I believe in many things, and I never said there IS nothing I would kill or die for. I’m just can’t agree that, if there was nothing to kill or be killed for, it would not make life worth living. For example, I liked Full Moon’s idea of sitting around and feeding each other grapes. That could work, in the right context. I can think of other ways to spend my time, as well, that don’t involve killing or dying, but would still be pretty entertaining.

To me, the possibility of dying should never be THE motivating factor in human activity. THAT sounds suicidal to me. However, the RISK of dying may be a valid factor in determining whether an activity is worth attempting. If that’s what you mean, then I agree. Certainly, risk is sometimes acceptable, depending on the overall goal (or thrill) to be achieved (in my case, fundamental liberty, maybe, or space flight, or sailing across the Pacific; bungee jumping not so much). That’s a personal calculation we make all the time, and people calculate differently. Soldiers, police officers, and firefighters take risks because they believe what they do is worth it. Personally, I would just as soon there was no risk for them to take. Some people take risks for money. Some even thrive on risk, and I respect that; but hopefully it isn’t because of a secret death wish.

If my freedom or family was threatened, I would do what I could to defend it. That’s a risk well worth taking, for sure. But I prefer peace and wouldn’t make a very good soldier. I’m not ashamed of that.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Brandon, Schleswig, IA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:54:52 GMT

3 hours and 37 minutes until the Caucuses!

I cannot wait! Already arranging my Biden gear to show my support.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anna Molly aka Anomaly — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:57:24 GMT

JAM, Pittsburgh, PA (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 7:38 AM)

Same wishes to you, JAM. BTW, I read your message about Internet Explorer and am wondering what your issue is. On my PCs, Google works fine for me accessed through Internet Explorer. I use Safari on my MACs and can also can use Firefox, but I no longer need it. No more twirly circles and really good quality.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

bobf — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:59:46 GMT

Tom from Philadelphia, will you have the guts to admit your hatred for all things CLINTON was just that, blind hatred? Republicans own the hatred market. You use it in politics like oxygen is to humans. You republicans swift boat people, but then turn around and accuse other people of hate? You are such a hypocrit it makes me want to REPUKE. Hatred is what the republican congress was all about during the Clinton impeachment trials. You repukes were falling over yourselves trying to get on soapboxes professing your hatred of Bill Clinton. Hey Tom, how about this, In the lead up to the Iraq war, anyone disputing this president was cast as unpetriotic or a terrorist sympathizer. The 2 ditto heads that called me that, neither ever served or did anything for this country. Just like all you gutless cowards in the republican party. Hatred is a republican trait that is used to bash and belittle anyone that disagrees with republican dogma. So give me a break on your blind hatred. if I want hatred, just listen to FOX radio or FOX network and they will teach you to hate all things liberal. Funny, last time I checked, liberals are americans and you hate them more than terrorists. Republicans run on fear and hate. That is the republican party.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

JHoward, Salyersville, KY — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:03:08 GMT

Don't wear your good shoes to look at the Republican field...If it wasn't the middle of winter, I wouldn't even be wearing shoes, so thanks for the warning!

Seriously, it's scary to think that the fate of the nation rests on Iowa. The only thing scarier would be if it were my state instead. People here are convinced that all Muslims are terrorists, and that we need to throw them all in lockup just like the Japanese in WWII. And these are the Democrats! Bush's plan is working like a charm here in the redneck states. I hope people who live in places where your vote actually matters will think long and hard, and vote with your head instead of your heart. Hillary or Obama will never win in the south, & without the south nobody can win.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:16:41 GMT

JAM, Pittsburgh, PA (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 8:09 AM)

Try using FoxFire http://www.foxfire.com/

It's a Mozilla based browser, it's free and it's not IE. I've been using it for years, and I can't remember the last website that it didn't handle well.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anna Molly — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:16:49 GMT

ek, mpls mn (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 12:40 PM)

Hi ek – I hope you're doing well and had a great holiday. That looks like the right link, or one of them. It’s certainly the right story. So, just cutting through the legal mumbo-jumbo (I don’t blame you for dumping that career), are you saying that those dancers are NOT likely to get asylum? I can’t speak for backwater (that’s for sure), but I would be sorry to hear that. Socialized medicine or no socialized medicine, people who want to dance deserve to dance.

Or, is it maybe just possible they could get asylum based on the fact that it would embarrass Castro? In other words, is political asylum itself possibly a political football, or something like that? What was your experience with that?

By the way, I haven’t gotten very far with Cold Comfort Farm, but I’m working on it. How’s the snow up there? Ours is deep, but we’re expecting a big thaw this weekend. Have you read anything interesting lately? And speaking of Pierce Brosnan (remember?), I’ve been thinking of that movie he made with Renee Russo about art theft (do you know which one?). I got a DVD of How to Steal a Million for Christmas, and that appears to be the original version of the other movie. It was great. Have you seen it?

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:25:05 GMT

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anna Molly aka Anomaly — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:26:04 GMT

Tom, Philadelphpia, PA (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 3:22 PM)

Tom – gator can speak for himself, of course, but I’m wracking my poor, pathetic, dimmocrat ninny brain to figure out which of those things in gator’s post you believe is NOT likely to be the case when President Bush leaves office? Unless maybe you mean we’ll be bogged down in MORE THAN TWO third-world countries – that’s certainly possible. Please illuminate. Obviously, I need some help on this one.

By the way, I don’t think we’ve met before. Nice to meet you, sir.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:33:16 GMT

scott henderson nv (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 2:27 PM)

It makes perfect sense that you would like the bimbo stories and the rest of us hate them. It confirms my opinion of you. Most of us here think with our brains, you appear to think with something else.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:42:00 GMT

Tom, Philadelphpia, PA (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 3:22 PM)

There are times when I am glad to be wrong. Having Bush/Cheney continue to live down to my expectations of them is one of those times. Unfortunately, Bush/Cheney haven't failed to disappoint yet.

Meanwhile, if the dynamic duo does continue on their present course, at what point would you admit that their ideas were not in the USA's best interests? In other words, at what point will you admit that you are wrong?

Unless you are a billionaire, you shouldn't be voting Republican, their goal is the demise of the middle class and every time they bring out a wedge issue to distract the values voters, they win and you lose.

I used to be a Registered Republican, I left because I could see the writing on the wall. Look around you, check out the employment and wage statistics, if that doesn't scare you then you are heartless.

Let me know when you wake up and smell the coffee, we can always use another member.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anna Molly aka Anomaly — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:53:10 GMT

Scott (2:27 PM Post): Welcome back Scoot. Some time no see. Hope the holidays went well for you. Just one thing. Read my post to Anna Molly above (2:52 PM). Then stop proving my point about man's desire to control and the hopelessness of the human race. C A, Tuscaloosa, AL (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 4:25 PM)

Thanks, C A, for your always thoughtful reply to my post. History repeats, for sure. Sadly, as always.

scott – Please try to remember advanced liberal trick #22 – must not make pawns of us inferior liberals for your own amusement. We already know Countdown is never accurate about anything but the bimbo segments, but frankly we don’t care, as long as he wears a blue shirt or tie. By the way, I’d be curious to know which parts of the bimbo segments you think Countdown IS accurate about? And how do you like Michael Musto? Me, not so much. Violates advanced liberal rule #4 because he lacks subtlety, don’t you think?

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Chris F, Just o'er the border in Williconsinois — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:21:59 GMT

Krista, 1:56 Post

Hope things are a little warmer down in "The Nap" and I've got your back, pizza-wise. A good ole deep dish from the Union Jack or from Mama Bear's in Bloomington could lure me clear across the state! LOL! Take care, sister!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Faire Elinor — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:31:59 GMT

Anna Molly, it was THE THOMAS CROWN AFFAIR--1999 remake of a 1968 Steve McQueen-Faye Dunaway heist film--

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

ek, mpls mn — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:30:39 GMT

Or, is it maybe just possible they could get asylum based on the fact that it would embarrass Castro? In other words, is political asylum itself possibly a political football, or something like that? What was your experience with that? Anna Molly (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 4:16 PM)

You've got it in the proverbial nutshell. Not surprising since you are really on a roll today!

As another poster mentioned above, cutting to the chase, yeah Cuba does get special treatment because of Castro, as do some other countries -- just because. However, dancers from some OTHER countries would have a job on their hands. Even when their countries are falling apart due to civil war before our eyes (every night on the news), we've had to prove their membership in a particular tribe/ethnic/religious division, that they/their families have undergone beatings, imprisonment, killing, etc. because of their membership in that particular subgroup. Even when the State Dept. issues reports that such proofs are often unavailable due to chaos going on in the country at that particular moment, it is not an automatic thing. Refugees suffering such things on a daily basis regardless of the required political twist can be, and often are, seen as economic refugees and not granted asylum without such "proofs".

The whole thing makes (and made) me physically ill, although I have to say these were spiritually rewarding tasks to work on when successful.

On that happy note, keep with CCF -- believe me, it is well worth it. Haven't seen the Brosnan flick you mention, but I'll check it out. Have you read the Iain Pears art history murder mystery series? Quite fun--I like to think they're what he wrote to pay the rent while working on "Instance of the Fingerpost." Right now, I'm starting on Jasper Fforde's nursery crime series (just can't stay away from Jurisfiction).

Hoping for double-digit temperatures for the next few days. It may melt last week's snow just enough to make a skating rink out of my driveway.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Anna Molly — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:55:51 GMT

Faire Elinor (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 5:31 PM)

Faire -- Now that you mention it, I remember. But How to Steal a Million is the same story, with the roles twisted bit -- Audrey Hepburn stealing back her grandfather’s fake statue and Peter O’Toole as the private investigator specializing in stolen art. It’s still great. You should check it out if you haven’t seen it.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:13:54 GMT

Chris F, Just o'er the border in Williconsinois (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 5:21 PM) Thanks! I'm doing laundry! I'm doing laundry!!

My favorite place to get "za" in Indianapolis is a place called WBs (the initials of the owner). It's on the corner of 62nd St. & Allisonville Rd. It is good stuff, and I've had lots of pizza in lots of places.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Sheila Bloom, Alexandria, Virginia — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:24:33 GMT

Who died and made the press kingmakers? For four years now the press has gone on and on and on about 2008 elections. The electorate (or the people I know) are sick of it. By the time November 2008 comes along, most voters will be too comatose to go to the polls.

The press has given Hilary a free ride ever since she ran for the Senate in NY. They knew (and so did everyone else) she would be running for President. It's probably why she never divorced Bill; she needed him for her dog and pony show.

How about more time for Edwards (my candidate, win or lose) or Dodd or Kucinich? How about putting the lid on elections until the year of an election? How about the press, including Olbermann, zipping it up regarding candidates night after night after night. I think the American voters have lost their chance to elect their candidates. The press is doing it for them.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Charles Kellis — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 02:43:43 GMT

Why nobody says that Obama has no chance to win general election? I can't imagine ladys from south voting for a black man and having a black women as their first lady. I think if God wants to punish America more than we already are people will vote for Obama and he will lose the general election. Nation, think again with your brains not with your Bible or with your generous wishes and dreams for promised change.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Faire Elinor — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 02:43:50 GMT

JHoward, Salyersville, KY (Sent Thursday, January 03, 2008 4:03 PM)

ANOTHER hillbilly? Great! Me, I'm hating this cold weather for the same reason!

And I live in the same sort of area. People around here often mistake Dubya's pronouncements for something akin to gospel--but the Dems tend to be a little more skeptical.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Tom, Philadelpiha, PA — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 06:45:29 GMT

“the guts to admit your hatred for all things CLINTON was just that, blind hatred”

My ctrl F is off line at the moment, so please be a dear and find where I said that.

“Republicans own the hatred market.”

Of course they do, therefore Democrats own the love and peace market. So neat, so tidy.

“You republicans swift boat people”

Yep, something completely unheard of by Democrats.

“You repukes”

Ohhhh, repukes instead of Republicans, now that’s clever! Gee, are you a dumbo-crat? Get it, dumb instead of Dem… Much like Olby’s Fox Noise instead of news.

“Just like all you gutless cowards in the republican party.”

Yep, you keep drinkin that kool aid Olby media matters and daily kos serves up and you and your brave patriotic Democrats will do just fine.

“Hatred is a republican trait that is used to bash and belittle anyone that disagrees with republican dogma.”

Something truly unseen on the left.

“liberals are americans and you hate them more than terrorists”

Okay.
“Republicans run on fear and hate”

Yep.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura..always wanting to learn something new..in Los Angeles — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 08:22:20 GMT

Anna Molly (loves real political wargames) Thursday, January 3, 2008 10:42 AM..thanks ever so much for the link to the mechanics for the Iowa caucus. Our local station also had Iowa Caucus 101 explaining how it works. It's becoming clearer now. Thanks again.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Jamie, Lago Patria, Italia — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 10:14:55 GMT

JAM, welcome back-I've missed you too!

Laura, Pam and my other fellow Californians: Brace y'erselves me hardies (or whatever that word is), as the rains and winds are a comin'. Seriously, be careful, it taint going to be pretty.

Krista: We've thought more than a few times about 'transplanting' ourselves to the Indy area-mainly for the cost of living-we'll see. Since Ft Ben closed, there isn't a lot in the way of military facilities for our use-must take advantage of those benefits we earned.

Laura, thanks for the kind words about John. I found out last night that he won't be going back to Iraq (at least not this deployment). They (his commanders) want him to recover and stay behind to cover medical boards. However, he's lucky he's in NC right now and not here, or else I'd kill him for calling our house at 0330 this morning-grrrrrr!

Ciao!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

gator,stuart,fl — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 13:25:10 GMT

Tom, Philadelphia PA 1/03 3:22PM
Sorry, Tom, hatred is not in my vocabulary. That emotion is the province of small-minded, frightened people whom I avoid whenever possible. As I mentioned, I used to be a Republican. I actually voted for many Republican candidates from Nixon up through Reagan because at the time I thought they were the most able administrators running in their given years. In the late 80's, however, a certain meanness and scorched earth mentality crept into the party typified by Lee Atwater and the rise of Newt Gingrich. In 2000, the GOP nominated and the country elected? a moral chameleon named George Bush, whose only real claim to fame was screwing the Texas taxpayers into building a baseball stadium so his 200,000 dollar investment turned into a 15,000,000 windfall. The fact that anything that goes to the oval office has to go through Cheney's office first shows what an empty suit Dumbya is. Based on what happened last night, I see that the people of Iowa agree with me. Number one, the Democratic caucuses outdrew the Republican caucuses two to one and the Republican nominee is philosophically closer to the Democrats when it comes to the role government plays in the citizens' everyday lives. There will be no orange security alert issued by the Homeland security department two weeks before the election this time around. I think the American people as a whole are tired of constantly being told they must be afraid by a party that seems unable to do anything to alleviate that fear and only seems to want to exploit it to maintain power. On to New Hampshire and hopefully my man Obama will do it again. It would be nice to have someone with some character and vision in the White House.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Alison Brennan, Sacramento, CA — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 18:32:42 GMT

I think Musto meant Joan Plowright.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Chris F., Just o'er the border in Williconsinois — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 18:35:31 GMT

Krista, 7:13 Thursday post!

"WB's"? I think I've been there! Since I can't drive anywhere in 462XX without running over a relative, the next time I'm headed down that way maybe we can split some chow!

Until then, ciao, bella!

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Laura in Los Angeles — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 19:40:20 GMT

Jamie, Lago Patria, Italia Friday, January 4, 2008 5:14 AM..oh Jamie..sooo happy your brother will be staying awhile.

The sky is getting nasty. I just heard on the news we will be getting 1/2 to 1 inch of rain an hour! I fear for those folks living near the burn areas. It will be devastating for them. Mudslides everywhere. God help them. Thanks Jamie..my fellow Californian for your concern. Take care friend.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

Helen Chester Lenoir NC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 16:47:59 GMT

well we don't have to vote any more the news media picks our presidents for us.we don't even have to use our heads any more just let the media do it.

Countdown Wednesday: Eve of Iowa

kermit mellon nenana, ak. — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 22:32:59 GMT

[o'rielly on xmas] 13dec07? about mail orders from places like dicks sports and borders or b&n was mad they would not use the term delivery for christmas. he passed on jumping on the book sellers [?] but he tried to contact the sporting goods place saying on the air "i called this guy...ah..dick, who is he anyway i don't know him." finally o'rielly admits it on the air.