The 2008 Presidential Inauguration

[Matt]

I like the Bidens a lot but I disagree. Other soldiers have been denied leave for everything from funerals of their parents to weddings of their siblings, but Biden's son gets to come back? It seems a bit unfair :down:

[Marx]

I like the Bidens a lot but I disagree. Other soldiers have been denied leave for everything from funerals of their parents to weddings of their siblings, but Biden's son gets to come back? It seems a bit unfair :down:

I think I'm going to start referring to you as 'Mr. Doom and Gloom'. MDAG, for short. :cwink:

[BlackLantern]

Funeral for a parent...yes....wedding, not so much....but yea, it's a bit unfair

[Matt]

I think I'm going to start referring to you as 'Mr. Doom and Gloom'. MDAG, for short. :cwink:

Come on man, its unfair, and this is coming from about as big of a Biden supporter as they come. I do however, think they need to put him on indefinite leave. He is the Vice-President's son. There has been all kinds of publicity of his being over there. It is like Prince Harry. Having him over there puts not only him, but everyone around him in constant danger.

[Paradoxium]

They are the elites they are entitled to special privileges beyond the average people who are beneath them. Yes they are better than you pitiful humans. :cmad:

Now lets blow this 150 million masturbatory party (which includes generous "donations" by the recently bailed out companies) to show how awesome thems elites are. We have to make this special cause Obama he is black, and he does not ride on the coattails of his racial identity and let it define him. Cause we are a meritocratic society that are racially blind. Progressss...! :wow:

[Kelly]

I call ******** on this approval by our armed forces.....


Complete and utter ********...

[Matt]

I call ******** on this approval by our armed forces.....


Complete and utter ********...

Like wise. You hear stories on the news all the time of kids, 18 and 19 being denied leave for funerals of parents, siblings, even spouses...yet Biden gets one for a party?

[redfirebird2008]

Like wise. You hear stories on the news all the time of kids, 18 and 19 being denied leave for funerals of parents, siblings, even spouses...yet Biden gets one for a party?

Agreed. Definitely favoritism going on.

[Paradoxium]

Lulz I wonder if anyone in the MSM has the balls to call them out on this.

Though it would hamper the **** sucking contest :woot:

[Marx]

Come on man, its unfair, and this is coming from about as big of a Biden supporter as they come. I do however, think they need to put him on indefinite leave. He is the Vice-President's son. There has been all kinds of publicity of his being over there. It is like Prince Harry. Having him over there puts not only him, but everyone around him in constant danger.

I never said that it was fair to the rest of our troops. I just said that it was good to hear that he will be able to make the inauguration. I also do not believe that he should be serving in a war zone now that his father is the Vice-President. It's exactly like Prince Harry.

[Sebastos]

Is there anyone here that planned on attending?

[tzarinna]

I'm going to be volunteering while I'm there.

[Spidey-Bat]

Come on man, its unfair, and this is coming from about as big of a Biden supporter as they come. I do however, think they need to put him on indefinite leave. He is the Vice-President's son. There has been all kinds of publicity of his being over there. It is like Prince Harry. Having him over there puts not only him, but everyone around him in constant danger.
Not really. Prince Harry is in line to the throne. Biden's son isn't in a position to succeed Biden.

He and everyone around him was in danger even before Biden was named VP and Obama won.

[redfirebird2008]

Not really. Prince Harry is in line to the throne. Biden's son isn't in a position to succeed Biden.

He and everyone around him was in danger even before Biden was named VP and Obama won.

Uh, Biden has a direct connection to Obama. Terrorists would have a motive to capture Biden's son and hold him ransom, forcing the President to either give in to their demands or let his VP's son be killed. So yes, Biden's son being over there puts not only him in danger but also anyone around him.

[redfirebird2008]

Just an indication of the kind of people the Secret Service is having to deal with:

http://halturnershow.blogspot.com/2009/01/inauguration-attack-none-of-them-are.html

And here's another one:

http://www.wlox.com/Global/story.asp?S=9688975

[Kelly]

I don't think Biden's son is anywhere near the same as Prince Harry....


But, I don't care....................I hate losing anyone in battle, and I'm ready for the whole Iraq war to move on and let them take care of it themselves.

[BlackLantern]

Just an indication of the kind of people the Secret Service is having to deal with:

http://halturnershow.blogspot.com/2009/01/inauguration-attack-none-of-them-are.html

And here's another one:

http://www.wlox.com/Global/story.asp?S=9688975

I don't get how this Turner guy sees it as "usurping the Constitution"....is there a part in there that says "white people only for President"??

[redfirebird2008]

I don't get how this Turner guy sees it as "usurping the Constitution"....is there a part in there that says "white people only for President"??

He "believes" Obama isn't a citizen. I have co-workers who believe everything this guy says on his blog. The only thing they haven't done is threaten him, thank God. But it's scary to think how many people believe the garbage that is passed around in emails, etc. despite it being debunked so many times. At the heart of it is blatant racism.

[Sebastos]

CNN is having a whole weekend coverage leading up to the Inauguration. Obama is talking right now. :up:

[Kelly]

That guy will be one of the lesser problems the Secret Service will be dealing with....

[Kelly]

CNN is having a whole weekend coverage leading up to the Inauguration. Obama is talking right now. :up:


Yep, its on Fox as well....



Imagine that....:cwink:

[redfirebird2008]

That guy will be one of the lesser problems the Secret Service will be dealing with....

I agree. The real threats are the ones that aren't stupid enough to post their plans on the Internet.

[Kelly]

I hope this doesn't happen to me for the next 4 to 8 years...BUT, everytime Obama is out in the open in a speech, walking etc.....I have this sick feeling in my stomach. I hate that feeling...

[redfirebird2008]

I hope this doesn't happen to me for the next 4 to 8 years...BUT, everytime Obama is out in the open in a speech, walking etc.....I have this sick feeling in my stomach. I hate that feeling...

Same here. I was very scared for him at the Convention with 85,000 people all around him. The whole thing gave me a very nervous feeling. And given how much he likes to mingle with the people, it has been and will continue to be a very difficult job for the Secret Service.

[Kelly]

I had the same problem with Reagan, and I was just a youngster.....he soooo loved getting right into the crowd, and that drove me crazy...

[Sebastos]

Yep, its on Fox as well....



Imagine that....:cwink:

Oh really? There's hope afterall. :hehe:

[Kelly]

Theres always hope.....

[Matt]

CNN is having a whole weekend coverage leading up to the Inauguration. Obama is talking right now. :up:

I'm sure people will say I hate Obama or something along those lines...but this is over the top. Its historic, we get it. I don't need a fluff piece on every aspect of the inauguration right down to the porta-john where the cater takes a piss. I'm sure in this time of war and reccession the media could actually cover a real story...or if they must focus on the inauguartion 4 DAYS BEFORE IT HAPPENS they could at least try to give the illusion that they are unbiased by maybe asking some military officials why Beau Biden got a leave from Iraq for a party, when kids no older than 18 have been denied leave for funerals of their parents.

[redfirebird2008]

I had the same problem with Reagan, and I was just a youngster.....he soooo loved getting right into the crowd, and that drove me crazy...

Yeah, it's dangerous for them to do that. But both Reagan and Obama seem to be very passionate about interacting with normal people to keep them grounded. I'm sure the Secret Service is grateful that Bush went to Crawford so often. It is fairly secluded, which makes security for them a much easier job. Imagine when the Obamas want to go to Chicago for a weekend or something. One of the biggest cities in the country. Just another headache for the Secret Service to deal with. I'm sure they wish he would make Hawaii his "Western White House" instead of Chicago, since Hawaii is a lot more secluded.

[Sebastos]

Theres always hope.....

Only sometimes for "Fix" news.

[redfirebird2008]

I'm sure people will say I hate Obama or something along those lines...but this is over the top. Its historic, we get it. I don't need a fluff piece on every aspect of the inauguration right down to the porta-john where the cater takes a piss. I'm sure in this time of war and reccession the media could actually cover a real story...or if they must focus on the inauguartion 4 DAYS BEFORE IT HAPPENS they could at least try to give the illusion that they are unbiased by maybe asking some military officials why Beau Biden got a leave from Iraq for a party, when kids no older than 18 have been denied leave for funerals of their parents.

I don't disagree with you although I will say that when the President speaks, I want to hear what he has to say. That's always been my attitude. Even though I think Bush has done a bad job, I still want to hear what he has to say. So I think it's appropriate that they are covering Obama's speeches along this train tour. But they need to drop the wall to wall coverage and deal with real news stories instead. They can break into their regular news reporting to show his speeches, but beyond that they need to stop being so over the top.

[Kelly]

Yeah, it's dangerous for them to do that. But both Reagan and Obama seem to be very passionate about interacting with normal people to keep them grounded. I'm sure the Secret Service is grateful that Bush went to Crawford so often. It is fairly secluded, which makes security for them a much easier job. Imagine when the Obamas want to go to Chicago for a weekend or something. One of the biggest cities in the country. Just another headache for the Secret Service to deal with. I'm sure they wish he would make Hawaii his "Western White House" instead of Chicago, since Hawaii is a lot more secluded.


Yeah, Hawaii would be much better.....you aren't getting on that island except by air....lol

[Spidey-Bat]

Uh, Biden has a direct connection to Obama. Terrorists would have a motive to capture Biden's son and hold him ransom, forcing the President to either give in to their demands or let his VP's son be killed. So yes, Biden's son being over there puts not only him in danger but also anyone around him.

Of course they have to know where Biden's son is first (which requires more than a Google search) and then actually capture him. Both of which are not as easy as people are making it out to be.

[Matt]

I don't disagree with you although I will say that when the President speaks, I want to hear what he has to say. That's always been my attitude. Even though I think Bush has done a bad job, I still want to hear what he has to say. So I think it's appropriate that they are covering Obama's speeches along this train tour. But they need to drop the wall to wall coverage and deal with real news stories instead. They can break into their regular news reporting to show his speeches, but beyond that they need to stop being so over the top.

I'd agree with you, if his speeches were of substance...but it seems to me that this train tour is him going from place to place and essentially saying the same thing at each stop. Maybe cover one a day and show highlights of the others? Forgive me for saying so...but this train tour seems like little more than shameless grandstanding. Obama has always had a taste for the theatrics, to put it lightly. This is no different. THere is no need for every news network to be covering every word he says (especially when most of them are repetitive) in what is little more than exercise for his ego.

[Matt]

Of course they have to know where Biden's son is first (which requires more than a Google search) and then actually capture him. Both of which are not as easy as people are making it out to be.

A little money (which Al-Queda has) goes a long way. But seriously, why even take the risk?

[redfirebird2008]

I'd agree with you, if his speeches were of substance...but it seems to me that this train tour is him going from place to place and essentially saying the same thing at each stop. Maybe cover one a day and show highlights of the others? Forgive me for saying so...but this train tour seems like little more than shameless grandstanding. Obama has always had a taste for the theatrics, to put it lightly. This is no different. THere is no need for every news network to be covering every word he says (especially when most of them are repetitive) in what is little more than exercise for his ego.

Every single thing this guy does is shameless grandstanding to you. What's new? You don't want to hear what he says. I do. And millions upon millions of others do too.

And I don't think he's going to be saying the same thing at each stop. His speech in Deleware is quite a bit longer than the one in Philadelphia. Though Biden is also scheduled to speak in Delaware.

[Kelly]

I see where you are coming from Matt, but in the whole scheme of things......just not a big deal to me.

[Matt]

Every single thing this guy does is shameless grandstanding to you. What's new? You don't want to hear what he says. I do. And millions upon millions of others do too.

And I don't think he's going to be saying the same thing at each stop. His speech in Deleware is quite a bit longer than the one in Philadelphia. Though Biden is also scheduled to speak in Delaware.

Come on man, going on a train tour? You don't think it is a bit much? There is really no better way the President Elect, who takes the most important job in our country in 3 days, can spend his time than riding around in a luxury train giving slightly differing speeches at each stop in order to continue to draw some kind of parallel to Lincoln which he is obsessed with creating? You really don't see how that is grand standing? :dry:

I see where you are coming from Matt, but in the whole scheme of things......just not a big deal to me.

Its not a big deal. I am just bored with it being on the news. By March he is going to be like 2007 Lindsey Lohan. Oversaturated to the point that no one gives a damn.

[redfirebird2008]

Come on man, going on a train tour? You don't think it is a bit much? There is really no better way the President Elect, who takes the most important job in our country in 3 days, can spend his time than riding around in a luxury train giving slightly differing speeches at each stop in order to continue to draw some kind of parallel to Lincoln which he is obsessed with creating? You really don't see how that is grand standing? :dry:


It's no different than past Presidents. They all grand stand out the ass. "Mission Accomplished" in the pilot uniform, anyone? Grandstanding is part of being a politician and being the head of the country. The ability to inspire is important, whether you realize it or not. Lincoln was a grandstander and he's one of our greatest Presidents. Same goes for FDR.

[Matt]

Just gonna throw it out there...maybe he should actually, have a couple days in office and accomplishes something before he parades himself around declaring himself the new Lincoln. I know that will be unreasonable to many, many people here...but it just seems like common sense to me.

[BlackLantern]

I see where you are coming from Matt, but in the whole scheme of things......just not a big deal to me.

as far as Bidens kid...it can send a bad message that there is all this talk of change, but the rich and priveliged still get special treatment

[Matt]

The media would actually have to report on it for that to happen and I wouldn't hold your break on that.

[redfirebird2008]

Just gonna throw it out there...maybe he should actually, have a couple days in office and accomplishes something before he parades himself around declaring himself the new Lincoln. I know that will be unreasonable to many, many people here...but it just seems like common sense to me.

I don't think he's declaring himself a new Lincoln. Lincoln is from his state and Obama wants to use a moderate approach similar to Lincoln. He is standing on the shoulders of Lincoln and trying to use his model to be a decent leader. What the hell is wrong with at least trying to take a similar approach to governing as one of our best Presidents? I'd say it's a pretty good model to follow, with the giant exception of Lincoln's suspension of Habeas corpus.

And by the way, Obama has already done a lot more than Bush ever did to work with Congress and negotiate in a civil fashion. He's doing a lot more behind the scenes than you realize, but then again I don't expect you to give him credit for that since every little thing he does is a giant deceit plan.

[Spidey-Bat]

A little money (which Al-Queda has) goes a long way. But seriously, why even take the risk?

He should still fulfill his service time. If it is a danger, then station him elsewhere overseas.

[Kelly]

Now, one thing I do have a problem with is the fact that the Inauguration will cost 4x the amount it did in the previous.


With that said, 50 million of the 150 million, comes from Hollywood and big corporations donors....but the largest part of the money goes to security....THAT comes from the Federal Tax payers....

I think we could have chilled in the $$$$ area on the Inauguration.....the front loading of this Inauguration with the train ride, is pushing the cost up, so that I have a problem with.....but he can grandstand all he wants, its his Inauguaration..

[redfirebird2008]

Now, one thing I do have a problem with is the fact that the Inauguration will cost 4x the amount it did in the previous.


With that said, 50 million of the 150 million, comes from Hollywood and big corporations donors....but the largest part of the money goes to security....THAT comes from the Federal Tax payers....

I think we could have chilled in the $$$$ area on the Inauguration.....the front loading of this Inauguration with the train ride, is pushing the cost up, so that I have a problem with.....but he can grandstand all he wants, its his Inauguaration..

I was under the impression that the costs were just for the ceremony and balls. But you are probably right, the train ride is likely part of the cost. In that sense, it's completely unnecessary. And yes, they are spending too much on the Inauguration, although whatever amount is spent on security is appropriate in my opinion...especially with nutjobs like Hal Turner running around the country. They need to drop the balls altogether. Such a huge waste of money and time. I think the President should have the Inauguration, eat lunch, and get to work.

[Kelly]

I agree...

[BlackLantern]

I agree...

wholeheartedly

[Marx]

I'm sure people will say I hate Obama or something along those lines...but this is over the top. Its historic, we get it. I don't need a fluff piece on every aspect of the inauguration right down to the porta-john where the cater takes a piss. I'm sure in this time of war and reccession the media could actually cover a real story...or if they must focus on the inauguartion 4 DAYS BEFORE IT HAPPENS they could at least try to give the illusion that they are unbiased by maybe asking some military officials why Beau Biden got a leave from Iraq for a party, when kids no older than 18 have been denied leave for funerals of their parents.

How's it goin MDAG? :cwink:

[Kelly]

I love it.....the conductor of the train Biden rides daily, just introduced Biden.....that's cool.

[Marx]

It's great to see all of them on the stage together! http://www.superherohype.com/forums/images/smilies/icon14.gif

[Kelly]

I think its very provocative in that, this is the same train trip that Lincoln took....BUT, when Lincoln did it, he couldn't stop in Delaware because it was slave state, and it was too dangerous, but here we have our first black President, taking the same trip,and adding that stop.


Kinda cool...

[Marx]

I think its very provocative in that, this is the same train trip that Lincoln took....BUT, when Lincoln did it, he couldn't stop in Delaware because it was slave state, and it was too dangerous, but here we have our first black President, taking the same trip,and adding that stop.


Kinda cool...

I think so too Kel. (And whatever your political standing, whether you like the guy or not, you have to admit that it is really great to see so much excitement in this country again.)

[Marx]

The OBAMA/BIDEN Train
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/ebat9/Obamatrain.jpg

[redfirebird2008]

I think its very provocative in that, this is the same train trip that Lincoln took....BUT, when Lincoln did it, he couldn't stop in Delaware because it was slave state, and it was too dangerous, but here we have our first black President, taking the same trip,and adding that stop.


Kinda cool...

Pretty cool. I like how Obama references history in his speeches. I learned something new today, or perhaps I learned it before but forgot it. He said in his Delaware speech that Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution. That's a pretty cool little bit of trivia.

[Spidey-Bat]

How much is all of this costing?

[redfirebird2008]

LMAO, just learned another cool bit of trivia. Lincoln's VP, Andrew Johnson, ruined the Inauguration for the rest of time for future VP's. Up until and including Johnson's VP Inauguration, the VP was allowed to give a speech before the President's Inaugural address. Well, Johnson had a cold on the day of the Inauguration so he began drinking brandy to try to get rid of the cold. Sure enough, he got up on stage for his Inaugural speech drunk as a skunk. Lincoln was heavily embarrassed and forced to stop Johnson's speech. He apparently told his staff to "never let that man speak in public again." LOL.

[Matt]

150 million. Nearly four times that of an average inauguration. And people can say it til the cows come home but security wasn't exactly lax at any other inauguration (especially Bush's 2nd one where riots were anticipated). I find it very hard to believe that more than half of this money is going to security.

[redfirebird2008]

150 million. Nearly four times that of an average inauguration. And people can say it til the cows come home but security wasn't exactly lax at any other inauguration (especially Bush's 2nd one where riots were anticipated). I find it very hard to believe that more than half of this money is going to security.

How many people were at Bush's Inaugurations? 2 million are expected at this one, which is probably 10 times as many for Bush's.

[Spidey-Bat]

150 million. Nearly four times that of an average inauguration. And people can say it til the cows come home but security wasn't exactly lax at any other inauguration (especially Bush's 2nd one where riots were anticipated). I find it very hard to believe that more than half of this money is going to security.
So Obama is putting the country $150M more in debt after 1 day in office. How lovely.

[Kelly]

I have a feeling that as news coverage is showing. You will have those people that "want" to be a "part" of history. Because once the stands go up, most of the people will see nothing except what is on the big screen.

Also, just like in Colorado....the perimeter is growing larger by the second.......

I have a feeling we will have far less than what is being expected.....

[Kelly]

So Obama is putting the country $150M more in debt after 1 day in office. How lovely.


No.....50 million + is paid by donors to the Inaugural fund.....most are Hollywood celebrities in this case, with some large corporations giving as well.

Another portion is paid for by Maryland and Virginia, and then another portion, mostly the security...which would be there ANYWAY, is paid for by us, the taxpayers...

[Marx]

So Obama is putting the country $150M more in debt after 1 day in office. How lovely.

That's just not correct.

[redfirebird2008]

So Obama is putting the country $150M more in debt after 1 day in office. How lovely.

No. Half of it is private donations. So it's $75 million debt. :hehe::wow:

[redfirebird2008]

I have a feeling that as news coverage is showing. You will have those people that "want" to be a "part" of history. Because once the stands go up, most of the people will see nothing except what is on the big screen.

Also, just like in Colorado....the perimeter is growing larger by the second.......

I have a feeling we will have far less than what is being expected.....

What do you mean Colorado? The DNC?

Yes...

[Spidey-Bat]

No.....50 million + is paid by donors to the Inaugural fund.....most are Hollywood celebrities in this case, with some large corporations giving as well.

Another portion is paid for by Maryland and Virginia, and then another portion, mostly the security...which would be there ANYWAY, is paid for by us, the taxpayers...

Are these the same corporations that are laying off thousands of workers?

[redfirebird2008]

LOL at Kel answering my post inside my own post. Talk about Big Brother (or Big Sister in your case). haha

[Kelly]

oooh lord.....lmao


Sorry Red...........

I'm on heavy NyQuil at the moment.......



TODAY, the edit button is too close to the quote button.....lol

[Kelly]

Are these the same corporations that are laying off thousands of workers?


Hmmmmm.....fair question.....I don't know.



ALSO, there is a little box that some of you checked on your taxes that pay for this as well....

[BlackLantern]

I don't recall a box that says "Money for train and overblown ceremoney"

[redfirebird2008]

oooh lord.....lmao


Sorry Red...........

I'm on heavy NyQuil at the moment.......



TODAY, the edit button is too close to the quote button.....lol

HAHA...NyQuil is the good stuff. :woot:

[Kelly]

HAHA...NyQuil is the good stuff. :woot:


Especially when you are just drinking it out of the bottle......which I am.:o:csad:

[Kelly]

I don't recall a box that says "Money for train and overblown ceremoney"

Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa....


It's right at the top.....:cwink:

[Matt]

How many people were at Bush's Inaugurations? 2 million are expected at this one, which is probably 10 times as many for Bush's.

You are aware that Obama could've capped the number of tickets, right? Past presidents have done it. Not all 2 million had to be let attend. History or not, it is not unreasonable to just tell some people to stay home considering the outrageous costs.

[Matt]

Are these the same corporations that are laying off thousands of workers?

Hmmmmm.....fair question.....I don't know.



ALSO, there is a little box that some of you checked on your taxes that pay for this as well....

Actually, the biggest donors are the banks that Obama is asking for another 350 billion to bail out after the first 350 billion disappeared.

[Marx]

I don't recall a box that says "Money for train and overblown ceremoney"

In all seriousness, what is the history of the train being used? Is it new? Refurbished?

[redfirebird2008]

You are aware that Obama could've capped the number of tickets, right? Past presidents have done it. Not all 2 million had to be let attend. History or not, it is not unreasonable to just tell some people to stay home considering the outrageous costs.

Oh I am fully aware of that. I'm just not in favor of denying regular people an event that has been, oh...230+ years in the making.

[Matt]

Oh I am fully aware of that. I'm just not in favor of denying regular people an event that has been, oh...230+ years in the making.
Most of the 2 million there, will be as Kel pointed out, watching on a jumbo-tron miles away from where Obama is speaking. Taking that into account, capping at...I dunno, 1 million seems fairly reasonable.

[Matt]

In all seriousness, what is the history of the train being used? Is it new? Refurbished?

It is a luxury train rented off of a company based in Florida.

[redfirebird2008]

Most of the 2 million there, will be as Kel pointed out, watching on a jumbo-tron miles away from where Obama is speaking. Taking that into account, capping at...I dunno, 1 million seems fairly reasonable.

We don't know how many will show up. For all we know it'll be 5 degrees outside and only 1 million or less will show up. Who knows.

[Kelly]

Well, the organizers are going to always inflate the numbers......they are worse than Baptist Preachers counting the people in the pews....:cwink:





Imagine this......just two things that will keep people away.

They are closing the bridge from Virginia into D.C....they have to go around to Maryland.
AND
If, just 1.5 million come in, and a good majority ride metro....it will take 8 hours to get the last person on and gone....

[Matt]

We don't know how many will show up. For all we know it'll be 5 degrees outside and only 1 million or less will show up. Who knows.

It doesn't matter. We've still spent the money for 2 million. If we capped it at 1 million, we'd have only spent the money for 1 million.

[Marx]

We don't know how many will show up. For all we know it'll be 5 degrees outside and only 1 million or less will show up. Who knows.

I just read an article that suggested upwards of 2.5 million.

[Kelly]

I just read an article that suggested upwards of 2.5 million.


That was the organizers count a week ago, they have since taken it to 2 million.

[redfirebird2008]

It doesn't matter. We've still spent the money for 2 million. If we capped it at 1 million, we'd have only spent the money for 1 million.

This is true. But as I said, I'm against stopping people from going who want to go. It is one of the two most important Inaugurations in history next to Washington's. Sadly, that's what happens when you have 400 years of denied human rights in the North American colonies and country. It tends to inflate the importance of something that normally wouldn't be all that important.

[Kelly]

I don't care......


I love the pomp and circumstance of this whole thing.........





Also, as I said, the majority of the money goes to security, and 1 million or 2 million doesn't matter.....there is/was still going to be a huge amount of security for this, simply because of the age we live in....

[Marx]

That was the organizers count a week ago, they have since taken it to 2 million.

I've heard both.

[Marx]

I don't care......


I love the pomp and circumstance of this whole thing.........

The larger majority of Americans do. (You wouldn't know that from being in here though.)

[Matt]

This is true. But as I said, I'm against stopping people from going who want to go. It is one of the two most important Inaugurations in history next to Washington's. Sadly, that's what happens when you have 400 years of denied human rights in the North American colonies and country. It tends to inflate the importance of something that normally wouldn't be all that important.

With all due respect, that is a ****ing cop out and frankly, I'm sick of hearing it. Yes, people were oppressed. Its horrible, but it is the past and in the here and now, Obama is president. Setting a cap and telling people, "Watch it on TV. It is what you'll be doing here anyway," to save close to 100 million dollars in a time of a tremendous deficit and reccession is not going to change the historic nature of the event.

[redfirebird2008]

With all due respect, that is a ****ing cop out and frankly, I'm sick of hearing it. Yes, people were oppressed. Its horrible, but it is the past and in the here and now, Obama is president. Setting a cap and telling people, "Watch it on TV. It is what you'll be doing here anyway," to save close to 100 million dollars in a time of a tremendous deficit and reccession is not going to change the historic nature of the event.

Obama isn't the President...yet. :woot:

[Matt]

The larger majority of Americans do. (You wouldn't know that from being in here though.)

Do you have a poll to back up that number? Furthermore, most people are not as obsessive as us here that they would know the price tag, would they? :cwink:

[Kelly]

The larger majority of Americans do. (You wouldn't know that from being in here though.)


Well, I ***** about the cost of alot of things......*smiles* but I still do them....

[redfirebird2008]

Do you have a poll to back up that number? Furthermore, most people are not as obsessive as us here that they would know the price tag, would they? :cwink:

Most people don't give a crap one way or the other. What are the percentages of eligible people who actually vote? Like 50%? Most just don't give a damn at all about anything except their day to day challenges.

[Marx]

Do you have a poll to back up that number? Furthermore, most people are not as obsessive as us here that they would know the price tag, would they? :cwink:

I didn't give a number. I said the larger majority. :cwink:

[Kelly]

Most people don't give a crap one way or the other. What are the percentages of eligible people who actually vote? Like 50%? Most just don't give a damn at all about anything except their day to day challenges.


It is a proven fact that Americans like it when Presidents do the "feel good" stuff.....and this is included in those findings....some may see less historical relevance in this than others, but I teach primarily minority students (which I guess would make them the majority in my classroom..lol) in my classroom, and this is RELEVANT to them, and this is my 5th Inauguration as a teacher.....

They are far more interested than I have ever seen before....

[redfirebird2008]

It is a proven fact that Americans like it when Presidents do the "feel good" stuff.....and this is included in those findings....some may see less historical relevance in this than others, but I teach primarily minority students (which I guess would make them the majority in my classroom..lol) in my classroom, and this is RELEVANT to them, and this is my 5th Inauguration as a teacher.....

They are far more interested than I have ever seen before....

Yes, it is a very symbolic thing. No one can ever tell those kids that they can't be whatever they want to be in this country if they work hard.

[Nightwing]

I'm sure people will say I hate Obama or something along those lines...but this is over the top. Its historic, we get it. I don't need a fluff piece on every aspect of the inauguration right down to the porta-john where the cater takes a piss. I'm sure in this time of war and reccession the media could actually cover a real story...or if they must focus on the inauguartion 4 DAYS BEFORE IT HAPPENS they could at least try to give the illusion that they are unbiased by maybe asking some military officials why Beau Biden got a leave from Iraq for a party, when kids no older than 18 have been denied leave for funerals of their parents.
Agreed. Like you said it is historic, but the whole world is moving with something happening every hour yet you won't be hearing or seeing it within these four days. The media doesn't have to necessarily stop on the Obama Inaugural and leave those who actually want to know what's going on around the world hanging. I could understand if they covered the inauguration a day before it happens, but four?

This is why I like watching the European news, sure you'd have to speak French to understand but it really is global and different then other news channels. For instance, they're covering Obama's "train day" today, as well as keeping you informed on other things.

[Kelly]

We are getting their here as well, for instance, I'm about to watch extensive news coverage of the ceasefire in Israel....

[souvlaki]

Y'know, there is a simple solution for those of you annoyed by the amount of coverage... turn off the tv. Whether or not some of you think it's worth all four days of coverage the fact of the matter is a lot of people do care, and want to see the coverage, which I think is a good thing. When was the last time people cared this much about the political process, or the inauguration of a President? Cable news has been primarily focused on the Presidential election since January with practically no non-political coverage since September. I don't see why anyone is shocked that the media is milking this for all it's worth, they've been doing as much since long before Obama was even the nominee, let alone the President-Elect. I don't remember the last time I tuned into a cable news network and didn't see extensive political coverage.

[BlackLantern]

http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/2009/01/17/Exclusive_TV_rights_for_inauguration_sold/UPI-78371232213016/


Money spent on balls

[Marx]

Y'know, there is a simple solution for those of you annoyed by the amount of coverage... turn off the tv. Whether or not some of you think it's worth all four days of coverage the fact of the matter is a lot of people do care, and want to see the coverage, which I think is a good thing. When was the last time people cared this much about the political process, or the inauguration of a President? Cable news has been primarily focused on the Presidential election since January with practically no non-political coverage since September. I don't see why anyone is shocked that the media is milking this for all it's worth, they've been doing as much since long before Obama was even the nominee, let alone the President-Elect. I don't remember the last time I tuned into a cable news network and didn't see extensive political coverage.

Souv just lined up all the nay-sayers for one big ole b**** slap! :funny:http://www.superherohype.com/forums/images/smilies/icon14.gif

[souvlaki]

Well, in the long run it really doesn't matter anyhow. Sure, it's non-stop news coverage right now but in a month or so things will get back to normal, and once again no one will care. As a political junkie I'm enjoying all this coverage... yes... even the coverage on the porta-potties, because I know in a couple months the interest wont be there, and the news media will go back to pre-election level political coverage. We only get an inauguration every four years, and given the historic nature of this particular inauguration I think it warrants the four days worth of coverage. I had to sit through six months of the OJ Simpson trial taking over network television every day... four days is nothing.

[Marx]

PROTESTERS LINING UP TO GREET OBAMA IN WASHINGTON
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/01/17/protesters-lining-up-to-greet-obama-in-washington/

President-elect Barack Obama isn't back in Washington yet but the protestors have lined up to greet and remind him of a host of issues that await him following the swearing in. With construction on the presidential reviewing stand continuing and tourists snapping photos, protestors in orange prison jumpsuits unfurled signs to raise their voice on Guantanamo, the Gaza situation and Iraq.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/ebat9/Mallprotesters.jpg

[Matt]

Souv just lined up all the nay-sayers for one big ole b**** slap! :funny:http://www.superherohype.com/forums/images/smilies/icon14.gif


Not really. My TV is off. I'm simply annoyed that I cannot turn to it for news updates on issues other than what dog Obama is picking or who is catering the inauguration.

[BlackLantern]

I've learned that if you fart in coveralls, it drifts upward.....

[Marx]

Not really. My TV is off. I'm simply annoyed that I cannot turn to it for news updates on issues other than what dog Obama is picking or who is catering the inauguration.

I kid, man. I kid. :oldrazz:

Everyone is entitled to their opinion. If we all had the same opinion, we would live in a very boring world.

[redfirebird2008]

Wow, that guy who sang the National Anthem in Baltimore has a BOOMING voice. Impressive.

[Marx]

I've learned that if you fart in coveralls, it drifts upward.....

That's good to know. :funny:

[Kelly]

I was good with all the festivities today until Cummings (D) Rep from Maryland spoke....damn can they stop the partisan rhetoric for 1 damn day.....1 damn inaugural day????? geeeez....

[Kelly]

Dead air.....................dead air..................................dead air.

[Kelly]

The music is cracking me up....


It's like a hokey musical where the people are about to say I love you, and the music breaks out......lmao.

[redfirebird2008]

The music is cracking me up....


It's like a hokey musical where they people are about to say I love you, and the music breaks out......lmao.

I think that music is from The Patriot. I recently watched it.

[souvlaki]

I was good with all the festivities today until Cummings (D) Rep from Maryland spoke....damn can they stop the partisan rhetoric for 1 damn day.....1 damn inaugural day????? geeeez....

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.

[Nightwing]

After all that he's been through, I'm glad Biden is where he is today.

[redfirebird2008]

I was good with all the festivities today until Cummings (D) Rep from Maryland spoke....damn can they stop the partisan rhetoric for 1 damn day.....1 damn inaugural day????? geeeez....

Agreed. Obama is trying to put partisan hackery aside in favor of at least some kind of bi-partisanship. The country should follow his lead, and that includes the knuckleheads in his own political party.

[Marx]

I was good with all the festivities today until Cummings (D) Rep from Maryland spoke....damn can they stop the partisan rhetoric for 1 damn day.....1 damn inaugural day????? geeeez....

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.

Agreed. Obama is trying to put partisan hackery aside in favor of at least some kind of bi-partisanship. The country should follow his lead, and that includes the knuckleheads in his own political party.

I think that all of the partisan bickering should have no place in this inauguration.

But alas, I just read an article talking about all of the RNC Chair candidates pulling partisan politics on Obama to further themselves among the party.

[redfirebird2008]

I think that all of the partisan bickering should have no place in this inauguration.

But alas, I just read an article talking about all of the RNC Chair candidates pulling partisan politics on Obama to further themselves among the party.

Yeah I saw one GOP chair candidate's advertising to his fellow Republicans. It was a 30 second ad. Pretty typical anger-filled, partisan attack on Obama. If they want to run away from bi-partisanship, they will continue losing elections for a long time.

[souvlaki]

I think that all of the partisan bickering should have no place in this inauguration.

But alas, I just read an article talking about all of the RNC Chair candidates pulling partisan politics on Obama to further themselves among the party.

Oh, I'm sure the partisan politics will always be there. Luckily it appears that those politicians are being marginalized more and more every day. Obama has the highest approval rating of any incoming President since Dwight D. Eisenhower's second term inauguration, and I think a large part of that has to do with his "red states, blue states" bi-partisan politics. I don't think anyone wants to see politicians on either side being overly partisan anymore, and they realize the only way s*** is going to get done is if we work together and put aside our differences.

[Kelly]

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.


It just seemed that according to him (Cummings), our country is NOW, going to get it right......and I don't mean, different from the past 8 years....but ever. And then of course, yes....the past 8 years blah...blah...blah.....Bush himself, was not mentioned....but you knew what he was talking about. Just not needed.

[Kelly]

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.


It just seemed that according to him (Cummings), our country is NOW, going to get it right......and I don't mean, different from the past 8 years....but ever. And then of course, yes....the past 8 years blah...blah...blah.....Bush himself, was not mentioned....but you knew what he was talking about. Just not needed.

I

[Kelly]

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.


It just seemed that according to him (Cummings), our country is NOW, going to get it right......and I don't mean, different from the past 8 years....but ever. And then of course, yes....the past 8 years blah...blah...blah.....Bush himself, was not mentioned....but you knew what he was talking about. Just not needed.

I was

[Kelly]

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.


It just seemed that according to him (Cummings), our country is NOW, going to get it right......and I don't mean, different from the past 8 years....but ever. And then of course, yes....the past 8 years blah...blah...blah.....Bush himself, was not mentioned....but you knew what he was talking about. Just not needed.

I was shocked

[Kelly]

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.


It just seemed that according to him (Cummings), our country is NOW, going to get it right......and I don't mean, different from the past 8 years....but ever. And then of course, yes....the past 8 years blah...blah...blah.....Bush himself, was not mentioned....but you knew what he was talking about. Just not needed.

I was shocked that

[Kelly]

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.


It just seemed that according to him (Cummings), our country is NOW, going to get it right......and I don't mean, different from the past 8 years....but ever. And then of course, yes....the past 8 years blah...blah...blah.....Bush himself, was not mentioned....but you knew what he was talking about. Just not needed.

I was shocked that Shepherd

[Kelly]

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.


It just seemed that according to him (Cummings), our country is NOW, going to get it right......and I don't mean, different from the past 8 years....but ever. And then of course, yes....the past 8 years blah...blah...blah.....Bush himself, was not mentioned....but you knew what he was talking about. Just not needed.

I was shocked that Shepherd Smith

[Kelly]

What did he say? And I agree completely. I despise Bush, but I'll honestly be pretty damn disappointed if I hear his name once during the inauguration ceremony. I'd like to think people could put aside their differences for one day and drop the rhetoric.


It just seemed that according to him (Cummings), our country is NOW, going to get it right......and I don't mean, different from the past 8 years....but ever. And then of course, yes....the past 8 years blah...blah...blah.....Bush himself, was not mentioned....but you knew what he was talking about. Just not needed.

I was shocked that Shepherd Smith didn't say anything.....because it was very blatant....but Fox in its coverage today has been nothing but positive, and this is cool, that's cool....etc, they've kept politics out of it.

[Marx]

Wow! A QUADRUPLE post! That's pretty impressive Kel! :funny:

[redfirebird2008]

I was shocked that Shepherd Smith didn't say anything.....because it was very blatant....but Fox in its coverage today has been nothing but positive, and this is cool, that's cool....etc, they've kept politics out of it.

I agree. Fox has had very nice coverage today.

[redfirebird2008]

Wow! A QUADRUPLE post! That's pretty impressive Kel! :funny:

Read them closely. She edited each successive one to say something different. Don't know if it was intentional but I think it's pretty funny. :hehe:

[Kelly]

Wow! A QUADRUPLE post! That's pretty impressive Kel! :funny:

Yeah, that Nyquil is working overtime...lol



I agree. Fox has had very nice coverage today.


I love Bill and Megan....so I started with them as far as the coverage. They've brought on alot of historians which has been very interesting.

[Kelly]

Read them closely. She edited each successive one to say something different. Don't know if it was intentional but I think it's pretty funny. :hehe:

Yeah, I was editing all along.....damn I should have read them before I deleted them.....that's hysterical....and NO it was not intentional it was Nyquil....:oldrazz:

[redfirebird2008]

Yeah, I was editing all along.....damn I should have read them before I deleted them.....that's hysterical....and NO it was not intentional it was Nyquil....:oldrazz:

You know what they say. Humor is always more effective when it's unintentional. :p :hehe:

[Kelly]

Maybe that's why my students laugh at me so much........hmmmmmmmmmmm...

[redfirebird2008]

Maybe that's why my students laugh at me so much........hmmmmmmmmmmm...

hehe. :woot:

[Captain Planet!]

Good speech by Obama. I'm happy he stopped in Baltimore. I would have gone if it wasn't so cold.

[danoyse]

We got an email at work yesterday that we are going to be having an inauguration brunch on Tuesday. They'll be showing the coverage in one of the conference rooms and we're all welcome to drop what we're doing to watch. :up:

[redfirebird2008]

We got an email at work yesterday that we are going to be having an inauguration brunch on Tuesday. They'll be showing the coverage in one of the conference rooms and we're all welcome to drop what we're doing to watch. :up:

Lucky you. I'm in Midland, TX and I work in the oil and gas industry. My co-workers all think Obama isn't even American and they think he's a terrorist. They all worship Bush. I will be bringing headphones and watching it on my computer.

[danoyse]

Lucky you. I'm in Midland, TX and I work in the oil and gas industry. My co-workers all think Obama isn't even American and they think he's a terrorist. They all worship Bush. I will be bringing headphones and watching it on my computer.

I think we have one person in my department who's not a fan. The rest of my office acted like we just won the Superbowl and the World Series on November 5th last year. In fact, one still has an "Obama Mama" pin over her desk.

[Kelly]

Our principal told the teachers to continue with curriculum since we are so close to state testing......

BUT, it's part of my curriculum....*smiles*

[redfirebird2008]

I think we have one person in my department who's not a fan. The rest of my office acted like we just won the Superbowl and the World Series on November 5th last year. In fact, one still has an "Obama Mama" pin over her desk.

The only politics I've ever talked with my co-workers is the bailout. I'm against it just as much as they are. Otherwise I do not say anything when they spew their lies about Obama. I'd rather keep my job than bother educating them. They don't want to be educated. It's willful ignorance because they are smart people, they just choose to ignore every fact that flies in the face of the bullcrap emails being sent to them by right wing sources. And they are pretty nice people so long as they don't start talking about politics, and then it's like they turn into completely different people.

[redfirebird2008]

Our principal told the teachers to continue with curriculum since we are so close to state testing......

BUT, it's part of my curriculum....*smiles*

Do you teach History or Government?

[Captain Planet!]

The teachers here are being forced to watch the inauguration.

[BlackLantern]

Its my day off from work....so Ill do whatever

[souvlaki]

My boss knew I was a pretty big Obama supporter so he was nice enough to give me the day off. I'm planning on a day of heavy drinking and celebration with my friends.

[terry78]

This inauguration better go off without a hitch. I mean no weirdness, no nuts trying to protest or attempt to do mock assassination type ****, etc. Anything out of the ordinary happens the perps will definitely get a maximum punishment.

[redfirebird2008]

This inauguration better go off without a hitch. I mean no weirdness, no nuts trying to protest or attempt to do mock assassination type ****, etc. Anything out of the ordinary happens the perps will definitely get a maximum punishment.

The nuts have the right to protest. That's one of the great things about our country. They can protest all they want so long as they do it peacefully. Assassination attempts, even pranks, will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

[Spidey-Bat]

This inauguration better go off without a hitch. I mean no weirdness, no nuts trying to protest or attempt to do mock assassination type ****, etc. Anything out of the ordinary happens the perps will definitely get a maximum punishment.

I wonder if Obama is gonna be wearing a bulletproof vest.

[redfirebird2008]

I wonder if Obama is gonna be wearing a bulletproof vest.

Yes. There was an article about it a while back. He refused to do it for a while even though the Secret Service kept insisting on it. But once they busted the meth head plot at the Democratic Convention, he gave in and has been using one since then apparently.

[Marx]

Read them closely. She edited each successive one to say something different. Don't know if it was intentional but I think it's pretty funny. :hehe:

I saw the 'progression'... :funny:

Lucky you. I'm in Midland, TX and I work in the oil and gas industry. My co-workers all think Obama isn't even American and they think he's a terrorist. They all worship Bush. I will be bringing headphones and watching it on my computer.

I have a co-worker like that too.

This inauguration better go off without a hitch. I mean no weirdness, no nuts trying to protest or attempt to do mock assassination type ****, etc. Anything out of the ordinary happens the perps will definitely get a maximum punishment.

Protesters are already there. I posted an article about it on the last page (I believe.) They are dressed as Gitmo detainees.

[Marx]

TEARS FOR OBAMA IN BALTIMORE
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/01/17/tears-for-obama-in-baltimore/

You could see people crying during Obama's speech in Baltimore. Some people told us ahead of time that they would. They said they had cried out of happiness so many times during this election, and they were pretty sure they were going to be emotional seeing Barack Obama here today.

This is a rare treat for them. Maryland was firmly in Obama's column in the general election, so folks here didn't get to see him campaign a whole lot.

This is one of the few times they have been able to see him in person.

Does anyone have the numbers from the Baltimore rally? I heard that they were expecting around 100,000 people.

[redfirebird2008]

TEARS FOR OBAMA IN BALTIMORE
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/01/17/tears-for-obama-in-baltimore/



Does anyone have the numbers from the Baltimore rally? I heard that they were expecting around 100,000 people.

They cut it off at 40,000 and said it was at full capacity.

[Marx]

They cut it off at 40,000 and said it was at full capacity.

That makes sense. From what I could see of the War Plaza, it didn't seem like a very large, open space. There were lots of high-rise buildings and parking garages in the area.

*waits for someone to come in and make the argument that there should be a cut off at the inaugural in DC*

[redfirebird2008]

That makes sense. From what I could see of the War Plaza, it didn't seem like a very large, open space. There were lots of high-rise buildings and parking garages in the area.

*waits for someone to come in and make the argument that there should be a cut off at the inaugural in DC*

Those buildings were all blocked off and I wouldn't be surprised if the Secret Service swept them before the event and kicked anyone out who was in them. From my understanding they're a bunch of municipal buildings that were likely empty anyway since it's a weekend.

They also had bulletproof glass set up similar to his victory speech in Chicago. It's sad that it's necessary, but I am glad they're doing what is necessary rather than being nonchalant about it. And I think both he and Michelle are very courageous for mingling with the people. If I were them, I'd stay behind the glass as much as possible. Today on CNN they were talking about whether he would get out for the traditional walk to the White House or whether he would stay in the limo all the way to the White House. If I were them I know which one I'd choose but I won't be surprised if they choose to make the walk.

[Marx]

Those buildings were all blocked off and I wouldn't be surprised if the Secret Service swept them before the event and kicked anyone out who was in them. From my understanding they're a bunch of municipal buildings that were likely empty anyway since it's a weekend.

They also had bulletproof glass set up similar to his victory speech in Chicago. It's sad that it's necessary, but I am glad they're doing what is necessary rather than being nonchalant about it. And I think both he and Michelle are very courageous for mingling with the people. If I were them, I'd stay behind the glass as much as possible. Today on CNN they were talking about whether he would get out for the traditional walk to the White House or whether he would stay in the limo all the way to the White House. If I were them I know which one I'd choose but I won't be surprised if they choose to make the walk.

I never said that I thought the building were full of people. (Because I do not believe they were.) I'm just saying that the layout presented a big security risk. That bullet proof shield only works when the shooter is firing from the ground. Obama was standing several feet back from that shield.

I was very surprised by how much Barack and Michelle, and Joe and Jill did mingle with the crowd. I even saw them hugging people!

[redfirebird2008]

I never said that I thought the building were full of people. (Because I do not believe they were.) I'm just saying that the layout presented a big security risk. That bullet proof shield only works when the shooter is firing from the ground. Obama was standing several feet back from that shield.

I was very surprised by how much Barack and Michelle, and Joe and Jill did mingle with the crowd. I even saw them hugging people!

Oh I know you weren't saying that. I just figured while we were on the subject I'd bring it up. :yay:

By the way, that bulletproof glass is pretty tall. Like 10-12 feet tall. Another thing that makes me feel a bit better about the whole thing is that he agreed to start wearing a bulletproof vest a while back after the Secret Service kept insisting on it. If someone wants to take him out, they will likely have to shoot him in the head. That helps decrease the risk quite a bit. Reagan got shot in the chest. I'm sure that any time he is near high rise buildings the Secret Service will sweep the entire area to make sure no one even has a chance to try something crazy.

[redfirebird2008]

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/rids/20090118/i/r1574237518.jpg

Notice the license plate. It's interesting, he is the 44th President and he was elected 44 years after the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964. That is a stunning coincidence.

[BlackLantern]

look its great, its historic....but this country is a ****ing wreck right now, partying is the last thing the President should be doing.....

[Marx]

Oh I know you weren't saying that. I just figured while we were on the subject I'd bring it up. :yay:

By the way, that bulletproof glass is pretty tall. Like 10-12 feet tall. Another thing that makes me feel a bit better about the whole thing is that he agreed to start wearing a bulletproof vest a while back after the Secret Service kept insisting on it. If someone wants to take him out, they will likely have to shoot him in the head. That helps decrease the risk quite a bit. Reagan got shot in the chest. I'm sure that any time he is near high rise buildings the Secret Service will sweep the entire area to make sure no one even has a chance to try something crazy.

I would say that the shield is 6-7 feet tops. (Granted I never saw a straight on angle that was far enough out to see the top of the shield.)

[redfirebird2008]

look its great, its historic....but this country is a ****ing wreck right now, partying is the last thing the President should be doing.....

WTF? That post came out of nowhere. It's a picture of his damn limo. He uses it for transportation. You have a problem with that too? Damn.

[BlackLantern]

I was talking about the inauguration, not the limo....

[redfirebird2008]

I was talking about the inauguration, not the limo....

So you gonna criticize Reagan, who came in with 10 Inaugural balls at a time of insane inflation, unemployment, the Cold War still going on, etc.? You can't simply say that the new guy isn't allowed to party when all these other bastards have lived it up over the years.

[BlackLantern]

I wasn't aware when Reagan did it (as I was 2, at the time), I am now so yes I will criticize....and like Reagan, it's a time where jobs are disappearing and lots of families are eating cereal for dinner, but CHANGE apparently doesn't mean sacrifice....someone let me know when he actually gets to work

[Addendum]

It'll be on Tuesday, just like when any other president is inaugurated.

[redfirebird2008]

I wasn't aware when Reagan did it (as I was 2, at the time), I am now so yes I will criticize....and like Reagan, it's a time where jobs are disappearing and lots of families are eating cereal for dinner, but CHANGE apparently doesn't mean sacrifice....someone let me know when he actually gets to work

That would be Wednesday when he meets with his national security team to discuss how to get the hell out of Iraq.

I said it before and I'll say it again, I think they need to do away with the balls. President should be sworn in, have the outdoor parade or whatever, have lunch at the White House, and get to work.

[CelticPredator]

look its great, its historic....but this country is a ****ing wreck right now, partying is the last thing the President should be doing.....

Everyone needs some chill time. Its not like he's going to be taking vacations every week....:cwink:

[danoyse]

One of the more fanatical conservatives (he's convinced the recession is a media ploy) on another board I read is furious because his kid's school is going to be letting them watch the inauguration speech. He claims that there was a historical significance to the first Bush inauguration in 2001 - the son of a former president being sworn in - and that the school didn't show that inauguration. So he's yelling about all kinds of bias.

I just reminded him that the reason the school didn't show it was because January 20, 2001 was a Saturday.

:lmao:

[Backdrifter]

look its great, its historic....but this country is a ****ing wreck right now, partying is the last thing the President should be doing.....

Yeah, especially $200m dollar partying...

Meh, oh well... we can just print more money, right?

[redfirebird2008]

So apparently the costs of the Inauguration have been blown completely out of proportion. The reported amount spent on Bush's Inauguration did NOT include security costs while everyone is reporting the cost of Obama's INCLUDING security costs and then making a DIRECT comparison with Bush's without security. So much for that liberal media bias eh?

http://mediamatters.org/columns/200901170003?f=h_top

Regarding Bush's 2005 Inauguration: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A22427-2005Jan19.html

The $40 million does not include the cost of a web of security, including everything from 7,000 troops to volunteer police officers from far away, to some of the most sophisticated detection and protection equipment.

Media Matters' reporter believes that Obama's Inauguration WITHOUT security will cost around $45 million. Last I checked, with 4 years of inflation that is a pretty similar amount to what was spent on Bush's. This was pretty irresponsible reporting on people's parts to compare apples and oranges while claiming it was an apples and apples comparison.

[redfirebird2008]

Yeah, especially $200m dollar partying...

Meh, oh well... we can just print more money, right?

Too bad for you this entire thing has been debunked. See my post directly above this.

[Backdrifter]

I don't remember saying anything about Bush... But, it's always right v. left around here, apparently. Nobody could possibly form their OWN opinions about current events. :rolleyes:

I am really more concerned with frivolous government spending. This would be a prime example of frivolous government spending.

And I really could give a crap what Media Matters says about anything.

There doesn't need to be some huge celebration for any new president, especially in times of great economic downturn.

[redfirebird2008]

I don't remember saying anything about Bush... But, it's always right v. left around here, apparently. Nobody could possibly form their OWN opinions about current events. :rolleyes:

I am really more concerned with frivolous government spending. This would be a prime example of frivolous government spending.

And I really could give a crap what Media Matters says about anything.

There doesn't need to be some huge celebration for any new president, especially in times of great economic downturn.

I agree that there doesn't need to be a huge celebration, but that doesn't change the fact that there was some really irresponsible reporting going on here. Around a week before the $160 million claims about Obama's Inauguration began making the rounds, the New York Times posted this article:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/06/us/politics/06donors.html

In 2005, Mr. Bush raised $42.3 million from about 15,000 donors for festivities; the federal government and the District of Columbia spent a combined $115.5 million, most of it for security, the swearing-in ceremony, cleanup and for a holiday for federal workers.

Ahem...that is $157 million right there between Bush's fundraising and government spending. Bottom line is that these Inauguration festivities are ridiculous, but Obama isn't spending "4 times as much as Bush" like people keep lazily claiming.

[Marx]

One of the more fanatical conservatives (he's convinced the recession is a media ploy) on another board I read is furious because his kid's school is going to be letting them watch the inauguration speech. He claims that there was a historical significance to the first Bush inauguration in 2001 - the son of a former president being sworn in - and that the school didn't show that inauguration. So he's yelling about all kinds of bias.

I just reminded him that the reason the school didn't show it was because January 20, 2001 was a Saturday.

:lmao:

:funny:

[Marx]

I don't remember saying anything about Bush... But, it's always right v. left around here, apparently. Nobody could possibly form their OWN opinions about current events. :rolleyes:

I am really more concerned with frivolous government spending. This would be a prime example of frivolous government spending.

And I really could give a crap what Media Matters says about anything.

There doesn't need to be some huge celebration for any new president, especially in times of great economic downturn.

It's only left vs. right around here when certain posters attack the other side for the very same reasons they choose to look away from in their own party.

[BlackLantern]

good post Backdrifter.....I feel the same way....

[Marx]

POLL: OBAMA POPULARITY GROWS AS INAUGURATION NEARS
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/18/poll.obama.rating/index.html

A national poll suggests that President-elect Barack Obama is more popular than ever despite recent speed bumps on the road to his inauguration.

The CNN/Opinion Research Corp. survey released Sunday also indicates that most Americans see Obama's inauguration as a chance for the nation to come together.

Eighty-four percent of those surveyed say they approve of how Obama is handling the presidential transition. That's up 2 points from the middle of December and up 5 points from the beginning of December.

The rise in approval also comes after a series of missteps in the Obama transition over the past few weeks: the announcement by New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson that he was withdrawing from his nomination as commerce secretary after news of a federal grand jury investigation in his home state; the disclosure of Treasury Secretary-designate Timothy Geithner's failure to pay $34,000 in taxes; and pushback by Republicans and even some Democrats to Leon Panetta's nomination as CIA director.

"If the public is blaming Obama for those missteps, it isn't registering in his approval rating," CNN polling director Keating Holland said. "You know the country is in the middle of a honeymoon when six in 10 Republicans have a positive view of Obama."

The poll also indicates that six in 10 Americans think Obama's inauguration will be a celebration in democracy. Only four in 10 felt that way when George W. Bush was inaugurated as president eight years ago.

The poll also suggests that those surveyed see Obama's inauguration as a chance for the country to come together, rather than a political celebration, Holland said.

[Matt]

POLL: OBAMA POPULARITY GROWS AS INAUGURATION NEARS
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/18/poll.obama.rating/index.html

I credit a big amount of this due to our country's desparity for things to get better/have any one but Bush in office. If things don't at least start showing signs of improvement fairly soon...polls will plummet, I think. At least to around 50 % or so. He won't reach Bush numbers any time soon unless he does something really bad.

Another reason for this, is the media. I have seen more stories on Obama's dog selection than I have Geithner's tax dodging. In fact, I've only seen one story on Geithner's tax dodging and the CNN Headline was, "Geithner: An Honest Mistake," dead serious. :csad: When the media stops kissing Obama's ass, the public will be able to form real opinions on him and the events happening around him.

[Marx]

I credit a big amount of this due to our country's desparity for things to get better/have any one but Bush in office. If things don't at least start showing signs of improvement fairly soon...polls will plummet, I think. At least to around 50 % or so. He won't reach Bush numbers any time soon unless he does something really bad.

Another reason for this, is the media. I have seen more stories on Obama's dog selection than I have Geithner's tax dodging. In fact, I've only seen one story on Geithner's tax dodging and the CNN Headline was, "Geithner: An Honest Mistake," dead serious. :csad: When the media stops kissing Obama's ass, the public will be able to form real opinions on him and the events happening around him.

Wow...I must have missed that one. Was there a question mark behind it? Or were they seriously calling it an honest mistake?

[Matt]

Wow...I must have missed that one. Was there a question mark behind it? Or were they seriously calling it an honest mistake?

Nope, no question mark. Just Geithner: An Honest Mistake.

I know that is what Geithner and Obama are claiming but I love the way they stated it as fact. They could've atleast had it read, "Geithner claims an honest mistake." or as you suggested a question mark, but nope. It is sad the way the media is fellating this administration. People can claim Obama is different all they want, but a presidential administration with no oversight is never a good idea, no matter how "different," the president is. He has no oversight from Congress as they are his own party and it will be no different than Bush circa-2005. And the media is clearly not going to give him oversight and that is dangerous. And sadly I do not think it will change as he is their rockstar.

[Marx]

Nope, no question mark. Just Geithner: An Honest Mistake.

I know that is what Geithner and Obama are claiming but I love the way they stated it as fact. They could've atleast had it read, "Geithner claims an honest mistake." or as you suggested a question mark, but nope. It is sad the way the media is fellating this administration. People can claim Obama is different all they want, but a presidential administration with no oversight is never a good idea, no matter how "different," the president is. He has no oversight from Congress as they are his own party and it will be no different than Bush circa-2006. And the media is clearly not going to give him oversight and that is dangerous. And sadly I do not think it will change as he is their rockstar.

Wow...that's sad. And I dare say... :facepalm

[Matt]

Yep. I'll see your :facepalm and raise you an :ikyn

[Marx]

Yep. I'll see your :facepalm and raise you an :ikyn

:funny::woot:

[BatMatt]

In May I'll officially become part of the media Matt, I like Obama, but I shall challenge him for ya ;)

[Matt]

:up: I'm glad to hear it, and I wish you the best of luck. In times like this we need more real journalists. Not fluff spewing spawn like Katie Couric :cwink:

[Morg]

One of the more fanatical conservatives (he's convinced the recession is a media ploy) on another board I read is furious because his kid's school is going to be letting them watch the inauguration speech. He claims that there was a historical significance to the first Bush inauguration in 2001 - the son of a former president being sworn in - and that the school didn't show that inauguration. So he's yelling about all kinds of bias.

I just reminded him that the reason the school didn't show it was because January 20, 2001 was a Saturday.

:lmao:

*chuckles* That's funny

[danoyse]

Another reason for this, is the media. I have seen more stories on Obama's dog selection than I have Geithner's tax dodging. In fact, I've only seen one story on Geithner's tax dodging and the CNN Headline was, "Geithner: An Honest Mistake," dead serious. :csad: When the media stops kissing Obama's ass, the public will be able to form real opinions on him and the events happening around him.

John King was just grilling Obama and David Axelrod about the Geithner choice on CNN about 20 minutes ago.

[Matt]

'bout time someone is. $34,000 is not a mistake. It is a crime.

Speaking of our Treasurer-to-be...apparently Geithner was aware of his obligations as early as 2004.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123194884833281695.html?mod=special_page_campaig n2008_mostpop

[Kelly]

The media has been kissing the feet of Obama for awhile now......It will be interesting to see how long they continue.

If they want my respect back, they better start showing some watchdog tendencies...

[redfirebird2008]

The media has been kissing the feet of Obama for awhile now......It will be interesting to see how long they continue.

If they want my respect back, they better start showing some watchdog tendencies...

You mean like those watchdog tendencies when they helped the Bush administration sell the Iraq War? The media are owned by corporations. So are the two major political parties. Go figure that the media won't rock the boat on politicians in these two parties. Now if an Independent ever got in office, you can bet your ass the media would be all over him/her.

[Matt]

Sadly that is true. But the media will ensure an independent never takes office.

[redfirebird2008]

Sadly that is true. But the media will ensure an independent never takes office.

Exactly, it's a vicious cycle and it's precisely why the two party system is entrenched. When you have both parties AND the media owned by the same people (the likes of General Electric, et al), it's difficult to ever get someone in there who won't follow their little rules.

What's that old saying about Presidents? They get taken into a smokey room with the REAL power brokers of this country and they're told exactly what they can and can't do.

[Kelly]

The New York Times, NBC, MSNBC, Chicago Sun sure as hell didn't help him sell it.

And why is it, that when something (that is quite obvious IMO) is brought up about Obama, I never get facts as to why my opinion is incorrect. All I ever get is "well Bush did it...yada, yada, yada....

I swear its like I'm in the Hannity and Colmes Forum.....

The media won't rock the boat with the Republican party? Are you kidding me? A democrat has to fornicate on camera, on the senate floor.....and NBC would STILL figure out a way to give it only 2 minutes on their local stations only.

It has to be a Blago, Spitzer. etc.



Bush ****ed things up for this country,.....that is a duh.

But anyone who doesn't think that Obama has not been put up on a pedistal by the mainstream, as well as celebrity media are the people that IMO, will be the cause of his disaterous fall.

This country is ****ed up.....no doubt, and until the media takes off their rose colored glasses when it comes to Obama and realize he is not the Messiah to end all of our woes....the better.

IMO, that will only screw up his ability to do what he needs to do.

I think Obama is an extremely intelligent, logical, strong leader.....and I think that his desires in what he wants to do during his time as President are sincere, forthright, and good. But, he himself is already realizing that the road ahead is far above his pay grade as he likes to say, and it is going to take time....

The media needs to do their job at the deepest level....and when they have people like Lee Cowan (Reporter covering Obama for NBC saying, "it's hard not to be biased...." fire his ass, and get someone in there that can do their job.


The media and many others putting Obama up on a pedistal far above "The President" will only hurt Obama, it sure as hell in the long run is not going to help him.


IMHO.

[StrainedEyes]

The concert today is only airing on HBO, and HBO invited all the service providers to give everyone HBO during the concert. So if you don't pay for it you can still watch it. The concert starts at 2:30.

http://hbo-u.rd.llnw.net/webcon//weareone/img/bg_v6_free.gif

[Kelly]

Thanks Geo, I was going to post that information and forgot about it.....


Kudos to HBO...

[redfirebird2008]

The New York Times, NBC, MSNBC, Chicago Sun sure as hell didn't help him sell it.

And why is it, that when something (that is quite obvious IMO) is brought up about Obama, I never get facts as to why my opinion is incorrect. All I ever get is "well Bush did it...yada, yada, yada....

I swear its like I'm in the Hannity and Colmes Forum.....

The media won't rock the boat with the Republican party? Are you kidding me? A democrat has to fornicate on camera, on the senate floor.....and NBC would STILL figure out a way to give it only 2 minutes on their local stations only.

It has to be a Blago, Spitzer. etc.



Bush ****ed things up for this country,.....that is a duh.

But anyone who doesn't think that Obama has not been put up on a pedistal by the mainstream, as well as celebrity media are the people that IMO, will be the cause of his disaterous fall.

This country is ****ed up.....no doubt, and until the media takes off their rose colored glasses when it comes to Obama and realize he is not the Messiah to end all of our woes....the better.

IMO, that will only screw up his ability to do what he needs to do.

I think Obama is an extremely intelligent, logical, strong leader.....and I think that his desires in what he wants to do during his time as President are sincere, forthright, and good. But, he himself is already realizing that the road ahead is far above his pay grade as he likes to say, and it is going to take time....

The media needs to do their job at the deepest level....and when they have people like Lee Cowan (Reporter covering Obama for NBC saying, "it's hard not to be biased...." fire his ass, and get someone in there that can do their job.


The media and many others putting Obama up on a pedistal far above "The President" will only hurt Obama, it sure as hell in the long run is not going to help him.


IMHO.

The media did not do their job in the leadup to the war in Iraq. MSNBC had the likes of Lester Holt cheerleading the damn thing.

As for putting Obama on a pedestal, I agree. They are setting insanely high expectations for him, though I think it's more the "celebrity media" than anything else. The celebrity media has more of a connection with people who aren't politically active. When you set someone up as some kind of messiah amongst people who don't pay attention to politics and don't realize how hard it will be for Obama to dig us out of the ditch we are in, it sets him for massive failure with the public at large even if he does a halfway decent job. People are expecting him to be one of the best Presidents ever, which is an insane expectation.

[Backdrifter]

I agree that there doesn't need to be a huge celebration, but that doesn't change the fact that there was some really irresponsible reporting going on here. Around a week before the $160 million claims about Obama's Inauguration began making the rounds, the New York Times posted this article:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/06/us/politics/06donors.html



Ahem...that is $157 million right there between Bush's fundraising and government spending. Bottom line is that these Inauguration festivities are ridiculous, but Obama isn't spending "4 times as much as Bush" like people keep lazily claiming.
Yeah but is George W. Bush being sworn in? That is in the past, my friend. I think it it is pretty stupid, too. But, I am not so jaded by political lines to have to compare everything Obama does to Bush or vice versa. I'm not fan of Bush, never was, never will be.

What this is really about, with you, is thinking you are successfully attacking someone based off of blind assumptions about their political affiliations or beliefs.

Person A: Did you hear Obama did blah blah blah?

You: Well, BUSH did blah blah blah. So THERE!

[redfirebird2008]

Yeah but is George W. Bush being sworn in? That is in the past, my friend. I think it it is pretty stupid, too. But, I am not so jaded by political lines to have to compare everything Obama does to Bush or vice versa. I'm not fan of Bush, never was, never will be.

What this is really about, with you, is thinking you are successfully attacking someone based off of blind assumptions about their political affiliations or beliefs.

Person A: Did you hear Obama did blah blah blah?

You: Well, BUSH did blah blah blah. So THERE!

Bottom line is there was irresponsible reporting on this. The MEDIA directly compared Obama's Inauguration to Bush's Inauguration. I think both are over the top. Let's call a spade a spade and actually compare them from a legit standpoint though if we're going to compare them. The media didn't do that and it's pretty pathetic from a journalistic standpoint.

[redfirebird2008]

This concert is excellent so far.

[terry78]

Yeah, we're putting Obama on a pedestal, but as soon as this ***** makes one error in office, we'll turn on his ass. That's how we as society treat each other.

[redfirebird2008]

Garth Brooks totally brought the frickin' house down. Holy crap.

[BlackLantern]

Yeah, we're putting Obama on a pedestal, but as soon as this ***** makes one error in office, we'll turn on his ass. That's how we as society treat each other.

and you say that like it's a bad thing...:oldrazz:

[Matt]

This concert is excellent so far.

You're watching a concert instead of football!?! It is championship Sunday! And people are watching a concert featuring Bono and Beyonce over football!?! Obama has brought change alright. He has turned our country into a bunch of...to quote Arnold, "girlie-men."


Kidding, kidding...I'm switching back and forth...mostly for The Boss. :cwink:

[Holiday]

When does Bruce come on? Anyone know? I'll watch that but otherwise I'm watching football.

[redfirebird2008]

You're watching a concert instead of football!?! It is championship Sunday! And people are watching a concert featuring Bono and Beyonce over football!?! Obama has brought change alright. He has turned our country into a bunch of...to quote Arnold, "girlie-men."


Kidding, kidding...I'm switching back and forth...mostly for The Boss. :cwink:

I'm not an NFL fan. I root for Wes Welker (fellow Tech grad) and Darren Sproles. Neither one of them are playing right now so I really couldn't care less. I'm mainly a college football fan.

[redfirebird2008]

When does Bruce come on? Anyone know? I'll watch that but otherwise I'm watching football.

Bruce was the first one who played. He played "The Rising," which is one of the songs used during the campaign.

[redfirebird2008]

Bruce is on again now!

[redfirebird2008]

I cannot listen to this song without thinking of the JibJab video from the 2004 election. "And yes I won 3 purple hearts!" LOL.

[Matt]

I'm not an NFL fan. I root for Wes Welker (fellow Tech grad) and Darren Sproles. Neither one of them are playing right now so I really couldn't care less. I'm mainly a college football fan.

But, the Steelers are in the play-offs. That is a reason to watch :csad:

Bruce is on again now!

Thanks for the heads up :up:

I cannot listen to this song without thinking of the JibJab video from the 2004 election. "And yes I won 3 purple hearts!" LOL.

LOL, me too.

Still, Bruce really is the man. He is the second best Bruce in America (the first being Campbell).

[redfirebird2008]

But, the Steelers are in the play-offs. That is a reason to watch :csad:

I'll probably watch that one. Isn't it on at 6:30 EDT? The concert ends around 5:30 I think.

[redfirebird2008]

Actually it's over now, not at 5:30 EDT. So I guess I will be watching some football now. :p

[Holiday]

Tom Hanks was there chatting it up with Obama. Wild stuff.

[redfirebird2008]

Tom Hanks was there chatting it up with Obama. Wild stuff.

Hanks gave one hell of a tribute to Abe Lincoln.

[Kelly]

Announcement from your friendly neighborhood independent!

If you did not have the enjoyment of watching the Concert at the Lincoln Memorial, it is my strong suggestion that you buy the DVD when it comes on sale...

Regardless of your political views, regardless of your religious views, regardless of your musical preference.....this was a concert for no one in the world other than..."The American People"...

They read words from Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan. For this old independent, it gave me a glimpse of what I hope for in my government...

The music brought emotion to my soul, the words of past presidents were food for my intellect...

It was uplifting, emotional, thought provoking, and will bring a tear to the most cynical of you here...

You owe it to yourself to start your year off by watching all of the "good" that our country is about...

[BlackLantern]

You know the Republicans are so ticked off with this because they could never get Hollywood or the entertainment industry behind them like this....

[souvlaki]

You know the Republicans are so ticked off with this because they could never get Hollywood or the entertainment industry behind them like this....

They probably could if the constitution didn't forbid Arnie from running.

[Matt]

You know the Republicans are so ticked off with this because they could never get Hollywood or the entertainment industry behind them like this....

They've got umm...Britney Spears...and umm Drew Carey...and ummm...the other Baldwin brother who is not Alec or Billy! And umm...err...does Joe the Plumber count as a celebrity yet? :cwink:

But seriously, Republicans have the most bad ass celebrity of all. Clint Eastwood. If Gran Torino came out during the summer, Obama would've thrown the election out of fear of Clint Eastwood growling at him. Alternatively, if Mike Huckabee won the primary, he would've won the election as Americans would've feared the mighty round house kick of Chuck Norris. And if Romney won the primary, he could've won the election by promising to have Bruce Campbell play him in a bio-pic. The votes would've poured in for that!

Republicans have the celebrities. Just don't know how to use them.

[souvlaki]

They've got umm...Britney Spears...and umm Drew Carey...and ummm...the other Baldwin brother who is not Alec or Billy! And umm...err...does Joe the Plumber count as a celebrity yet? :cwink:

But seriously, Republicans have the most bad ass celebrity of all. Clint Eastwood. If Gran Torino came out during the summer, Obama would've thrown the election out of fear of Clint Eastwood growling at him. Alternatively, if Mike Huckabee won the primary, he would've won the election as Americans would've feared the mighty round house kick of Chuck Norris. And if Romney won the primary, he could've won the election by promising to have Bruce Campbell play him in a bio-pic. The votes would've poured in for that!

Republicans have the celebrities. Just don't know how to use them.

Now that I think about it, Republicans seem to have the action hero market cornered. Is Stallone a Republican as well?

[SentinelMind]

Now that I think about it, Republicans seem to have the action hero market cornered. Is Stallone a Republican as well?

Yes, he endorsed McCain in the primaries shortly after Huck and Chuck were yucking it up.

[souvlaki]

Yes, he endorsed McCain in the primaries shortly after Huck and Chuck were yucking it up.

That's right! I forgot about that. Wasn't John Wayne a lifelong Republican as well?

[Backdrifter]

Obama hosting pricey party in a dicey economy
By MATT APUZZO, Associated Press Writer Matt Apuzzo, Associated Press Writer – Sat Jan 17, 1:23 pm ET

WASHINGTON – Unemployment is up. The stock market is down. Let's party.

The price tag for President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration gala is expected to break records, with some estimates reaching as high as $150 million. Despite the bleak economy, however, Democrats who called on President George W. Bush to be frugal four years ago are issuing no such demands now that an inaugural weekend of rock concerts and star-studded parties has begun.

Obama's inaugural committee has raised more than $41 million to cover events ranging from a Philadelphia-to-Washington train ride to a megastar concert with Beyonce, U2 and Bruce Springsteen to 10 official inaugural balls. Add to that the massive costs of security and transportation — costs absorbed by U.S. taxpayers — and the historic inauguration will produce an equally historic bill.

In 2005, Reps. Anthony Weiner, D-N.Y., and Jim McDermott, D-Wash., asked Bush to show a little less pomp and be a little more circumspect at his party.

"President Roosevelt held his 1945 inaugural at the White House, making a short speech and serving guests cold chicken salad and plain pound cake," the two lawmakers wrote in a letter. "During World War I, President Wilson did not have any parties at his 1917 inaugural, saying that such festivities would be undignified."

The thinking was that, with the nation at war, excessive celebration was inappropriate. Four years later, the nation is still at war. Unemployment has risen sharply. And Obama pressed Congress to release the second half of a $700 billion bailout package in hopes of rescuing a faltering banking industry.

Obama's inauguration committee says it is mindful of the times and is not worried people will see the four days of festivities as excessive.

"That is probably not the way the country is going to be looking at it," said committee spokeswoman Linda Douglass. "It is not a celebration of an election. It is a celebration of our common values."

Douglass said the campaign sought to keep costs down by having the same decorations at each of the 10 balls, eliminating floral arrangements and negotiating prices on food.

"Those at the Obama administration are trying to be reflective of the climate," McDermott's spokesman, Mike DeCeasar, said Saturday.

The festivities began Saturday with a speech at Philadelphia's historic 30th Street train as Obama's trip began.

Sunday's concert at the Lincoln Memorial includes performances by Sheryl Crow, Stevie Wonder, Garth Brooks and others. Denzel Washington and Queen Latifah will read historic passages. HBO paid $2.5 million for the exclusive rights to broadcast the concert.

Monday, the inaugural committee is hosting a national day of service, followed by three "bipartisan dinners" and a concert at the Verizon Center honoring military families. The Disney Channel will broadcast the concert, which includes performances by teen stars Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers, as part of a $2 million deal that also gave ABC the exclusive rights to broadcast one inaugural ball.

The television deals allowed the committee to recoup about $5 million of the $15 million production costs for the televised events, Douglass said.

Security and transportation costs are being paid by taxpayers. And with millions of tourists expected to descend on Washington for Tuesday's inauguration ceremony, Bush declared a state of emergency, allowing the district to recover some costs for the event.

The inauguration committee is paying for 10 stadium-style screens to broadcast the inauguration ceremony on the National Mall. It is also hiring garbage and recycling services and renting thousands of portable toilets for what one supplier called "the largest temporary restroom event in the history of the United States."

Obama has pledged transparency in his inauguration fundraising. He has disclosed inaugural donors as the fundraising continued, though he is not required to do so until after the ceremony.

Many of the fundraisers are well-known moneymen and women in Democratic circles. Those leading the list raised at least $300,000. They include two of Obama's top campaign fundraisers: Louis Susman, who retired this month as vice chairman of banking giant and government bailout recipient Citigroup, and billionaire Hyatt hotel heiress Penny Pritzker.


Hats off to Wilson on not throwing a completely ridiculous party. So much for all that change we've been hearing about...:whatever:

[redfirebird2008]

So much for all that change we've been hearing about...:whatever:

That's ticky tack. I'll see how he governs before I decide whether it's a total crock of crap. If he treats the Republicans with as much respect as he has so far, that to me will be a huge change from what's been going on in Washington for the last two Presidencies. I suspect the ultra liberals will be heavily disappointed by that. They think change means implementing left wing policies.

[Backdrifter]

The party bears every indication that he will continue the big spending expansionist government that W perpetuated. I see no change coming. I see a change of face, not a change of pace.

[BlackLantern]

Not at all....as of Friday another 30,000 Americans are going to be out of work between now and March and our government is throwing these big opulent functions that the common folk can't even afford to attend.....get in the office and get to work already....

[Matt]

Now that I think about it, Republicans seem to have the action hero market cornered. Is Stallone a Republican as well?

Actually, yes. They also have Tom Selleck, Kevin Sorbo, Bo Duke, Bruce Willis, and Jean-Claude Van Damme.

They also have the washed up comedian marked sealed up. David Spade, Norm McDonald, Ben Stein, and worst of all...Jim Belushi are all Republicans.

Other markets the Republicans have clinched:

They've got all of America's favorite game show hosts (Regis, Bob Barker, Drew Carey, Pat Sajak, and Alex Trebek).

Hot chicks from Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Emma Caulfield, Eliza Dushku, and Sarah Michelle Gellar).

They're really good with former athletes (Dan Marino, Arnold Palmer, Don Schula, Roger Staubach, Joe Montana, Jack Nicklaus, Lynn Swann, Wayne Gretzky, Jerome Bettis [though he campaigned for Obama], Magic Johnson, Karl Malone, Don Mattingly, Mario Lemieux, Jim Kelly, Franco Harris, and their crowning achievment...Charles Barkley!).

Plus they have a couple child stars thrown in for good measure like Ricky Schroeder and Shirley Temple.

Their musician selection actually isn't bad. I'm suprised they don't have more concerts. Martina McBride, Destiny's Child, Meatloaf, Kid Rock, and Alice Cooper. Alice ****ing Cooper.

Plus they do have a couple A-listers like Vince Vaughn, Robert Duvall, and the Rock.

Their music selection really isn't bad. I'm suprised they don't use some of these celebrities more.

[souvlaki]

That's ticky tack. I'll see how he governs before I decide whether it's a total crock of crap. If he treats the Republicans with as much respect as he has so far, that to me will be a huge change from what's been going on in Washington for the last two Presidencies. I suspect the ultra liberals will be heavily disappointed by that. They think change means implementing left wing policies.

Exactly. Despite the fact that I've always considered myself more liberal than most, I've grown increasingly more disenchanted with the progressive left of late. They have become just as big of a joke as the far right is of late, and now that Obama has won they are just going to become louder and more obnoxious. It seems to me like most of them want a liberal Bush, someone that dismisses half the country as if their opinion means nothing. Partisanship solves nothing.

[souvlaki]

Actually, yes. They also have Tom Selleck, Kevin Sorbo, Bo Duke, Bruce Willis, and Jean-Claude Van Damme.

They also have the washed up comedian marked sealed up. David Spade, Norm McDonald, Ben Stein, and worst of all...Jim Belushi are all Republicans.

Other markets the Republicans have clinched:

They've got all of America's favorite game show hosts (Regis, Bob Barker, Drew Carey, Pat Sajak, and Alex Trebek).

Hot chicks from Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Emma Caulfield, Eliza Dushku, and Sarah Michelle Gellar).

They're really good with former athletes (Dan Marino, Arnold Palmer, Don Schula, Roger Staubach, Joe Montana, Jack Nicklaus, Lynn Swann, Wayne Gretzky, Jerome Bettis [though he campaigned for Obama], Magic Johnson, Karl Malone, Don Mattingly, Mario Lemieux, Jim Kelly, Franco Harris, and their crowning achievment...Charles Barkley!).

Plus they have a couple child stars thrown in for good measure like Ricky Schroeder and Shirley Temple.

Their musician selection actually isn't bad. I'm suprised they don't have more concerts. Martina McBride, Destiny's Child, Meatloaf, Kid Rock, and Alice Cooper. Alice ****ing Cooper.

Plus they do have a couple A-listers like Vince Vaughn, Robert Duvall, and the Rock.

Their music selection really isn't bad. I'm suprised they don't use some of these celebrities more.

Yeah, it doesn't make much sense to me either. Especially the musicians. It seems like all they ever do is use the same obnoxious country artists over and over without any variety.

[Holiday]

They're really good with former athletes (Dan Marino, Arnold Palmer, Don Schula, Roger Staubach, Joe Montana, Jack Nicklaus, Lynn Swann, Wayne Gretzky, Jerome Bettis [though he campaigned for Obama], Magic Johnson, Karl Malone, Don Mattingly, Mario Lemieux, Jim Kelly, Franco Harris, and their crowning achievment...Charles Barkley!).

I believe Barkley considers himself a Democrat now, but I'm not sure. Also, John Elway and John Lynch are Republicans. They both spoke at rallies for McCain this past election.

[Matt]

Yeah, it doesn't make much sense to me either. Especially the musicians. It seems like all they ever do is use the same obnoxious country artists over and over without any variety.

I was actually writing that as a joke at first, but then upon reading their musicians and A-Listers I was shocked that they don't use more. Bruce Willis, the Rock, Vince Vaughn, Adam Sandler, and Robert Duvall are all card carrying Republicans. Plus Alice ****ing Cooper and Kid Rock! Why not use these celebrities?

[Matt]

I believe Barkley considers himself a Democrat now, but I'm not sure. Also, John Elway and John Lynch are Republicans. They both spoke at rallies for McCain this past election.

Is Barkley a Democrat now or did he just campaign for Obama as a Republican like Jerome Bettis did? If Barkley is really a Democrat now...Republicans are so ****ed :o

[redfirebird2008]

I was actually writing that as a joke at first, but then upon reading their musicians and A-Listers I was shocked that they don't use more. Bruce Willis, the Rock, Vince Vaughn, Adam Sandler, and Robert Duvall are all card carrying Republicans. Plus Alice ****ing Cooper and Kid Rock! Why not use these celebrities?

Because Kid Rock doesn't fit in well with their ultra formal BS at their conventions. He cusses a lot, which is something they can't stand. And he has sex out of wedlock, which is another thing they can't stand. If I remember right, he offered to perform at one of the conventions for Bush but he was turned down.

[Marx]

I was actually writing that as a joke at first, but then upon reading their musicians and A-Listers I was shocked that they don't use more. Bruce Willis, the Rock, Vince Vaughn, Adam Sandler, and Robert Duvall are all card carrying Republicans. Plus Alice ****ing Cooper and Kid Rock! Why not use these celebrities?

Alice ****ing Cooper probably still scares the harder right. :hehe:

He is amazing in concert though! I saw him this past summer!

[terry78]

I was actually writing that as a joke at first, but then upon reading their musicians and A-Listers I was shocked that they don't use more. Bruce Willis, the Rock, Vince Vaughn, Adam Sandler, and Robert Duvall are all card carrying Republicans. Plus Alice ****ing Cooper and Kid Rock! Why not use these celebrities?

Because they're too fun loving and aren't about to get on stage being all uber-patriotic.

[redfirebird2008]

By the way Matt, congrats to your Steelers. Super Bowl bound. :)

[redfirebird2008]

Because they're too fun loving and aren't about to get on stage being all uber-patriotic.

What are you talking about? Kid Rock does USO tours for the troops overseas all the time.

[Matt]

Because Kid Rock doesn't fit in well with their ultra formal BS at their conventions. He cusses a lot, which is something they can't stand. And he has sex out of wedlock, which is another thing they can't stand. If I remember right, he offered to perform at one of the conventions for Bush but he was turned down.

Alice ****ing Cooper probably still scares the harder right. :hehe:

He is amazing in concert though! I saw him this past summer!

Because they're too fun loving and aren't about to get on stage being all uber-patriotic.

All probably true.

[Matt]

By the way Matt, congrats to your Steelers. Super Bowl bound. :)

Thanks, but if McGahee doesn't get up it kind of dampers it :csad:

[Marx]

By the way Matt, congrats to your Steelers. Super Bowl bound. :)

Boo hiss! :cmad:

err...I mean, yay! Congrats to the Steelers! :whatever::oldrazz:

[Kelly]

Well, the concert was not partisan....and that was what made it special...


I don't really care which party has what celebrities, I don't listen to celebrities.....

[Holiday]

Is Barkley a Democrat now or did he just campaign for Obama as a Republican like Jerome Bettis did? If Barkley is really a Democrat now...Republicans are so ****ed :o

I just read he considers himself an Independent, he left the Rebublican party in '06.

No politicans should want his support though anyways with his recent jow blob/DUI trouble. :wow:

[redfirebird2008]

No politicans should want his support though anyways with his recent jow blob/DUI trouble. :wow:

That whole fiasco was hilarious. :hehe:

[Marx]

Well, the concert was not partisan....and that was what made it special...


I don't really care which party has what celebrities, I don't listen to celebrities.....

I agree. I thought that the concert was done very well.

[p4poetic]

Wednesday, Jan. 21- Obama and Biden participate in a prayer service.

THIS IS FOR ALL THINGS INAUGURATION!

Discuss.

Is it bad that I think he should shout out THANK YOU ALLAH sometime during this service to **** with the ultra conservative Republicans?

Now that I think about it, Republicans seem to have the action hero market cornered. Is Stallone a Republican as well?

And Dean Cain :( But he's recently became an independent, and confirms that he's not a staunch republican, so I guess that's not so bad. However, Brandon Routh was for Obama :D Dean voted for Obama during the primaries but said on Larry King he'll be voting for McCain in the general election. I just don't get my husband. I mean seriously, all of his views are against most of what Republicans' hold. He's extremely liberal, he's pro-choice, he wants the troops home as soon as possible, he's ****ty, he isn't overly religious, etc. He looked really foolish on Larry King with Sheryl Crowe, who was far more informed and gave a better argument for why she's voting for Obama. I like to think that the interview does not exist.

I looked at the list of McCain supporters. A whole bunch of has beens and really old people.

They've got umm...Britney Spears...and umm Drew Carey...and ummm...the other Baldwin brother who is not Alec or Billy! And umm...err...does Joe the Plumber count as a celebrity yet?


Britney Spears is not a Republican, lol. People take that she is just because in a 2003 interview, she said we should have faith in our president. How that translates to being in the GOP is beyond me.

[Malice]

I don't know about you....
The amount of money being spent here to me, is downright wrong. I know its important for our country when it comes to a black being in the white house....but this is just wrong...we don't need to be spending that money.

I don't know if Obama is somewhat in charge of the Inauguration or not, but if he is, he is starting out with a negative....

Who technically is in charge of organizing and paying for it? Anyone know?

[Sebastos]

I'll be forced to watch it on C-Span, cause the hotel i'm staying at cut off CNN. :o

[danoyse]

You're watching a concert instead of football!?! It is championship Sunday! And people are watching a concert featuring Bono and Beyonce over football!?! Obama has brought change alright. He has turned our country into a bunch of...to quote Arnold, "girlie-men."


Kidding, kidding...I'm switching back and forth...mostly for The Boss. :cwink:

It wasn't just Bono - it was all of U2! And they sang "Pride" on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. So cool!!

And Bruce!!!! (I've seen him in concert 10 times, you think I'm going to skip him now?!)

That was a great concert. :up:

[Kelly]

I don't know about you....
The amount of money being spent here to me, is downright wrong. I know its important for our country when it comes to a black being in the white house....but this is just wrong...we don't need to be spending that money.

I don't know if Obama is somewhat in charge of the Inauguration or not, but if he is, he is starting out with a negative....

Who technically is in charge of organizing and paying for it? Anyone know?


Yeah, we discussed this earlier...

It is costing approximately 150 million.
A portion is paid for by private donors, about 50 - 60 million. The states of Maryland and Virginia pay for a portion, and the security is paid by the taxpayers...

[Kelly]

Also, to those that were wondering where the Republicans were on stage.....Garth Brooks is a strong Republican....AND HE BROUGHT THE HOUSE DOWN......

[Sebastos]

Scratch that, CNN is back. :hehe:

[BlackLantern]

Also, to those that were wondering where the Republicans were on stage.....Garth Brooks is a strong Republican....AND HE BROUGHT THE HOUSE DOWN......

a nice paycheck will do that.....

[redfirebird2008]

Also, to those that were wondering where the Republicans were on stage.....Garth Brooks is a strong Republican....AND HE BROUGHT THE HOUSE DOWN......

You sure he's a strong Republican? He has a song called "We Shall Be Free" that seems to indicate he supports gay rights. There's a line in the song about loving whoever we want to love. And it seems to be a song entirely about civil rights. What are the odds of a "strong" Republican supporting gay rights?

[Kelly]

He is a card carrying Republican....and I guess in regards to that line, I guess it is how you want to interpret it.....