With appreciation to HCR for your reach from America’s origins to the present day with analysis, synthesis, and lucidity. Thank you Peter Ralston for “Only One,” a striking and 'smoking' winter scene. That icy water looks as my hands and feet feel.
A special thank you to Congressman Jamie Raskin representing Maryland’s 8th Congressional District in the U.S. House as he serves all Americans with uncommon devotion and goodwill.
May we the people work our way toward respect and understanding of one another.
Dreams
Langston Hughes - 1901-1967
Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow.
From The Collected Poems of Langston Hughes published by Alfred A. Knopf/Vintage.
James Mercer Langston Hughes was born February 1, 1901, in Joplin, Missouri. His parents divorced when he was a young child, and his father moved to Mexico. He was raised by his grandmother until he was thirteen, when he moved to Lincoln, Illinois, to live with his mother and her husband, before the family eventually settled in Cleveland, Ohio. It was in Lincoln that Hughes began writing poetry. After graduating from high school, he spent a year in Mexico followed by a year at Columbia University in New York City. During this time, he worked as an assistant cook, launderer, and busboy.
I just started reading Congressman Jaime Raskin’s book. Although I am maybe only a quarter into it, I highly recommend it. It is a deeply personal story of his son Tommy’s death that he intertwines with the tragic of January 6 and the threat to our democracy. Thank you Heather for all that you do💖
Rep.Raskin's story as told in the documentary Love and the Constitution, which aired last night is a worthy companion to his book...altho' it was painful to watch at times.
Thank you, Heather, for providing us with a place to stand and a wider vision than I might have otherwise.🌿
The book is one of the best I've read in a very long time. He's a remarkable man who feels deeply about much, and is willing to share his pain. Unusual...
Good morning, Karen. The story of his son is one not uncommon to many children in this country. Their spirit is being crushed by the palpable hate exuding from people resigned to corners of opinion, not fact. The weight on children born with extraordinary sensitivity of relationship is barely understood by them. His son’s choice to end his pain is tragic.
My wife surprised me with a copy on Friday. Now I have to decide whether to read Raskin or Elizabeth George's new book, which is what I picked up. Or, finish rereading the DeSilva series on Gabriel Allon the art restorer/Israeli spy. Such a quandary.
Fred, perhaps you could devote time to each book each day. I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be confused. Sort of like skipping from channel to channel to channel on TV.
Rereading the one on Saladin and Syria. Intense. Do you read his afterthought acknowledgements? I find good scholarship behind the backdrop for his thrillers. Reminds me of Nelson DeMille for story detail. I read prerelease Europe copy of the Lions Game on return flight from Amsterdam in spring of 2000. Horrified by the presentience of 9/11. DaSilva came easily to my attention.
I'm reading it also, and about in the same place you are. It is extraordinary. And, for the first time, I truly realized the horror and fear that the congresspeople felt as the rioters were getting closer and closer with staff texting them about the events outside their door.
Thank you for recommending this book. It's beautiful. quietly heroic. it reminds of the intelligence and heart that exists fighting for democracy in the midst of all the chaos and loud noise. Main stream media distracts our attention from so much that is important. Thank you to Heather for the opposite.
Fern You’ve selected one of my favorite poems, which should be a mantra for all of Heather’s followers. Years ago, in a discussion with over 100 high school seniors about ‘a life worth living,’ I gave them a handout with this poem, which followed John Lennon’s statement ‘Life is what happens, when you have other plans.’
Good morning, Fern. Your comment about Jamie Raskin makes my long held wish about the House of Representatives rise in my mind today just like the sea smoke in the picture. The raging partisanship and desire for more in our legislative bodies, small and large, across the country speak to greed and discontent of the bully minority thinking that louder and violent wins the day because there must not be enough to go around. If only our House of Representatives was the body of legislators elected by the people to be at-large representatives of the entire state they hail from, the number being proportionate to the population of the state. No districts gerrymandered by party. Only representatives working for the people so that devotion becomes common and goodwill extends towards all. When one works for the common good of democracy guaranteed by the Constitution, then partisanship takes a back seat to Of, By, and For the People.
I get political parties. It’s a healthy concept. But it’s become a deadly one.
I also vote for a candidate ticket at every level that calls for two people (e.g. President and Vice President, Governor and Lt Governor) to be representative of both parties.
I’ve always been a very stubborn Pollyanna when accused of such. It comes from my decades of working with children in building classroom and school community. Impossible unless differences are seen through a positive and fruitful lens. That very thing is under attack now in public education. The greedy effort by adults to not allow children to recognize difference at all. I’ll run for school board again just to fight that effort. That insurgent accomplishment will destroy the common good of public education and must be resisted by every sane adult.
(And thank you for Langston Hughes this morning. His work always stirs my spirit.)
Love this poem! Thank you for sharing. I also have great respect and admiration for Jaime Raskin. What fortitude he had to carry on as he did, and has, after his son’s death.
Enjoy the sea smoke and a quiet evening early in a turbulent year: Ukraine, Putin, Xi, Kim, Covid, House 1/6 Committee,Trumpimania’s slippery slope, an upward-trend economy, ‘sedition’ writ large, voting machinations, the possible child of BBB, and oh yes, Congressional elections in November….
You have a hilly marathon ahead with fulsome support from a multitude of fans. Please pace yourself as you share your reportage on Trump’s slump and and President Biden’s upswing prior to a glorious end-of-year finish by your comforting Maine fireplace.
Sea smoke, eh? Never heard of it. See, even when you don't mean to, you teach us things. Thanks to Peter for the beautiful photo. Rest well, my friend.
What if the TV news came up on schedule and announced; “Nothing happened today you really need to know about, so why not turn the TV off and spend some time with your children.”
That Ann Murray song got a fair amount of airtime on our local station. Reminded me of what we were dealing with even back then! Thanks for the blast from the past, Jean-Pierre.
Ralph a TV newscaster announcing ‘there’s no important news today’ is a revolutionary thought! No murders in NYC? No fires in Newark? No whale beached on the Jersey shore?
(With a possible mention of Covid, Ukraine, and Winter Olympics slipped between ads).
Actually, I haven’t watched a TV ‘news’ program since mid-September, 2021, except for several sneak peeks of the PBS News Hour. An opportunity to actually engage with your family and friends, pursue a hobby, OR EVEN READ A BOOK!
Many many Americans have lost a facility to read with comprehension (if they ever possessed it). Perhaps TV newscasters with nothing to say ‘that you really need to know about’ could be retrained (at last a useful federal skills training program) to focus on books and the joy of reading [The campaign to ban substantive books could be transformed into ‘why reading challenging literature matters’]
Advertising lobbyists would go bonkers, purchases of a bevy of unnecessary products would plummet, and people might gradually experience withdrawal symptoms as part of their breaking their staccato bad news addiction. Could this lead to Huxley’s BRAVE NEW WORLD? Please turn off the TV and think about it.
Heather, thanks for sharing Peter Ralston’s photography. The images are full of light and hope and beauty. And they go well with your letters that cut through so much sadness to give us bigger perspectives and paths that lead to hope. Deep appreciation.
Ps. I live on the northern coast of California and am intimately familiar with fog. But the sea smoke is amazing!
For some reason the fact that tfg repeatedly tore memos, etc. into little pieces (and threw them on the floor—how juvenile is THAT??) after being reminded of the Pres. Records Act really frosted me. Why this? Just seemed I guess like a big F*** Y** to us and to the law which he, of course, is above. POS.
Wow! Is that what they call liquid smoke? Mistical ...
By the way, just in case you missed these - pretty sure the issue has not gone away, and certain those working to strike the balance appreciate participation from concerned citizens ...:
... “legitimate political discourse" [1] ...?
"The Republican Party has now endorsed violence as a legitimate form of political expression. This is not only a threat to the survival of our democracy – but also to each and every one of us living in this country.
"For too long, Republican officials have tried to minimize the insurrection. Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ) claimed that a federal investigation into the riot was “harassing peaceful patriots,” while Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) likened the invasion of the Capitol to a normal tourist visit. [2]"
Sign if you agree: the January 6th insurrection was anything but “legitimate political discourse” – and we must never let it happen again.
"... voters should decide the outcome of elections – not an angry and racist mob. Common Cause will continue our work with our partners and activists around the country to defend our democracy from these authoritarian efforts."
But if Rupert Murdoch spews “legitimate political discourse” it must be true. When are we going to kick his non-journalist” lying arse to the curb? If this isn’t Hitler’s best Big Lie, what is?
Jeri, I ask myself each of those questions just about every day. I wish I knew more about the FCC. Do they have any requirements regarding broadcasting the truth versus propaganda? Maybe someone here knows about their rules.
Sorry, but I just read Robert Hubbell’s second paragraph today. It explains better than I ever could. “How good was the report on the economy? It was so good that Fox entertainers posing as journalists suggested that the numbers were part of a “White House conspiracy” to sandbag the media…When Fox News is reduced to claiming that good news is a conspiracy theory, you knew the news is true.” No Schitt Sherlock.
Despite the “Fox News” moniker, they are legally “entertainment.” And under no requirement to be truthful. The cult doesn’t know or care. It’s the biggest scam ever pulled on the country.
He's a pawn. Folks who believe it without question are like sheep being herded into a slaughterhouse ... may their eyes and ears be opened - may we find peace !!!!
The FCC regulates the air waves. Not cable. Back when cable was introduced the cables Lobbyist had too much money. So were able to have their way the government. Very few regulations. We can only hope there isa government office creating regulations to change that. Misinformation And political propaganda is a huge problem right now. And must be addressed.
As I understand it, "revolution" is supposed to be about change - a turning of the wheel - not the same old story, over and over again - stuck in the muck of static old ways.
The American Revolution may have been a (not so peaceful) 'transfer of power' from the rule of kings - to what? That remains to be seen. If murderous mob rule is to be the law of our times, it is nothing new.
I have to ask:
Do you jokers and players think you are the top of the food chain?
Do you not recognize that it all comes around - if not to you personally, then to your progeny?
Golden Rule prevails, baby ...
"Do unto others as you would have others do unto you."
Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is very clear:
No Member of Congress may serve if they "engaged in insurrection or rebellion" against the United States of America.
On January 6, several Republican Members of Congress aided and abetted the violent mob that attacked the U.S. Capitol with the intention of stopping the legal certification of President Joe Biden's victory -- and they continue to spread lies and conspiracies about these events.
The 14th Amendment was written and enacted in 1868, after the Civil War, to prevent those who had assisted the Confederacy from ever holding office in the U.S. government or in state and local government.
Today, Members of Congress like Rep. Madison Cawthorn, after having aided and abetted the January 6, 2021 insurrection, continue to engage in the same dangerous conduct that led to the violent attack on our nation’s Capitol last January. Cawthorn has told his supporters that they "all need to be storing up some ammunition" to respond if elections "continue to be stolen."
Demand election officials keep all insurrectionists off the ballot – including currently serving members of Congress – for violating the 14th Amendment now!
I certainly agree insurrectionists should be banned from running for office, but to whom exactly is this "petition" addressed? To me, it's more a position statement than a petition, and I've found that "petitions" like this are just another way for organizations to solicit contributions.
Good question Mim - and good point! It might be best just to contact our members of Congress - maybe write letters to the editors of local papers - for all I know, petitions like this could be like driftnets scooping up blind innocents protesting blindly - could wind up as somebody's snack ... still, I like to support organizations working to make a difference - especially when I don't have wherewithal to gather the facts and articulate the concern ... either way, thanks for the wake up call!
Kathleen Thanks for correcting my faulty memory. I thought that the Republican National Committee had sanctioned ‘illegitimate political intercourse.’ It’s refreshing that they can agree on at least one GOP policy.
Kathleen With the RNC’s bevy of false facts can you really be certain that i was kidding about “illegitimate political intercourse?’ Certainly sounds like a Trump policy.
It sure does Keith - I'm not too sure about anything except the pain in my neck right now - please forgive if I missed the point ... more power to you if you-can sort it out!!
Off Topic: On the J6 Capitol Breach Cases, the DOJ has announced another 23 gullty pleas on Monday morning. That`s over 35 case resolutions since late Friday. The facts are not getting any better for defendants who are scrambling for plea deals.
And another bit of good news. The Friday job report. Here is President Biden’s comment.
"Our country is taking everything that COVID has to throw at us, and we've come back stronger," President Biden said in remarks at the White House following the report. "If you can't remember another year when so many people went to work in this country, there's a reason. It never happened."
Higher wages means higher prices means higher inflation to eat into the higher wages. Higher interest rates means higher costs on consumer and public debt
Like the old joke about why there are no one-armed economists.
“Well, here is what I think is going to happen. On the other hand, yada, yada,yada.”
But, I’ll settle for a tiny ray of sunshine these days. Even a temporary one.
The best news I read yesterday on justsecurity.org was that Col.Vindman, has brought Legal suit to Don Jr, Giuliani ,and Aiders & Abetters . And you are going to Love the Law they used “The Klan Act “. Looks like all the bases are covered, and Not Appealable. I was Cheering out loud in my living room . TFG has about 18-20 cases against him .And of course they are dragging thru the courts. The discussion about Vindman’s hinged on if Impeachment was a Court of Law ? They gave the reason why it is. What happen to him and his brother was the “ Enough ! “ Actually it’s brilliant ! Because it proves the guilt on ‘Someone ‘ who can’t be held accountable. But still Guilty ! So Justice will be served finally, for JustU.S.! Can hardly wait for tomorrow. Been thinking about Ppl in those cold Temps. So sending warm thoughts and stay safe.
I hope those multiple cases against the defeated former president which are "dragging thru the courts" aren't obscured by a permanent version of "sea smoke" when the elections, nine months from tomorrow, take place. They could result in the nation entering a long, cold period of "sea smoke." But we won't let that happen, will we? Heating up the atmosphere will clear up the "sea smoke."
Don’t know how the other cases will play out ? And I can see why the DOJ didn’t go after TFG on 1/6, he had Ex. Priv. up until 1/20. But…..what they did to Vindman and His Bro, (who had nothing to do with anything.) And Diarrhea Mouth ( Trump Sr ) without any “Sea Smoke “ clouding his words, said Out loud, for the world to hear. What he was going to do to Vindman for testifying against him and……then it was done to Him and Bro. You know “Orders from the Top ! “ I see this one as a Slam Dunk ! As I recall, S—T ! runs down hill. Haha! It may not lock him up, but he is done with “Politics “ with a guilty verdict ‘Whomever it flows over ‘. I’m betting Yankee Dimes on this case.
Thank-you Dr. Cox-Richardson and Mr. Ralston. For a couple of years I worked as a marine surveyor along the ME and NH coasts. It was scenes like that which made the frozen salt spray fouling lines and equipment (and my beard) worth the trouble.
I’ve had a couple of friends around the boatyard who were and are lobstermen. Don’t know how they do it, all year round. It seems to be like being a miner (at least of the hard-rock variety) or a fisherman or a firefighter: a hard and dangerous occupation that gets into the blood, often to be passed down in the family. Truly, everyday heroes.
With appreciation to HCR for your reach from America’s origins to the present day with analysis, synthesis, and lucidity. Thank you Peter Ralston for “Only One,” a striking and 'smoking' winter scene. That icy water looks as my hands and feet feel.
A special thank you to Congressman Jamie Raskin representing Maryland’s 8th Congressional District in the U.S. House as he serves all Americans with uncommon devotion and goodwill.
May we the people work our way toward respect and understanding of one another.
Dreams
Langston Hughes - 1901-1967
Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow.
From The Collected Poems of Langston Hughes published by Alfred A. Knopf/Vintage.
James Mercer Langston Hughes was born February 1, 1901, in Joplin, Missouri. His parents divorced when he was a young child, and his father moved to Mexico. He was raised by his grandmother until he was thirteen, when he moved to Lincoln, Illinois, to live with his mother and her husband, before the family eventually settled in Cleveland, Ohio. It was in Lincoln that Hughes began writing poetry. After graduating from high school, he spent a year in Mexico followed by a year at Columbia University in New York City. During this time, he worked as an assistant cook, launderer, and busboy.
I just started reading Congressman Jaime Raskin’s book. Although I am maybe only a quarter into it, I highly recommend it. It is a deeply personal story of his son Tommy’s death that he intertwines with the tragic of January 6 and the threat to our democracy. Thank you Heather for all that you do💖
Rep.Raskin's story as told in the documentary Love and the Constitution, which aired last night is a worthy companion to his book...altho' it was painful to watch at times.
Thank you, Heather, for providing us with a place to stand and a wider vision than I might have otherwise.🌿
The book is one of the best I've read in a very long time. He's a remarkable man who feels deeply about much, and is willing to share his pain. Unusual...
Raskin for president!
Good morning, Karen. The story of his son is one not uncommon to many children in this country. Their spirit is being crushed by the palpable hate exuding from people resigned to corners of opinion, not fact. The weight on children born with extraordinary sensitivity of relationship is barely understood by them. His son’s choice to end his pain is tragic.
Christine, you're right, and Jamie is deft at helping us to feel Tommy's pain.
The film on MSNBC last night, "Love and the Constitution,' is about Jaime Raskin, also. It should go well with his book.
My wife surprised me with a copy on Friday. Now I have to decide whether to read Raskin or Elizabeth George's new book, which is what I picked up. Or, finish rereading the DeSilva series on Gabriel Allon the art restorer/Israeli spy. Such a quandary.
My two cents....choose the Raskin book.
I agree Annette Fred. Choose the Raskin book.
Fred, perhaps you could devote time to each book each day. I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be confused. Sort of like skipping from channel to channel to channel on TV.
Certainly possible. Raskin won't be my at night just before I sleep. Beginning today after snow shoveling.
I so enjoyed the Gabriel Allon character. Learned so much in that series.
Rereading the one on Saladin and Syria. Intense. Do you read his afterthought acknowledgements? I find good scholarship behind the backdrop for his thrillers. Reminds me of Nelson DeMille for story detail. I read prerelease Europe copy of the Lions Game on return flight from Amsterdam in spring of 2000. Horrified by the presentience of 9/11. DaSilva came easily to my attention.
He is a very intricate author.
I'm reading it also, and about in the same place you are. It is extraordinary. And, for the first time, I truly realized the horror and fear that the congresspeople felt as the rioters were getting closer and closer with staff texting them about the events outside their door.
Yes, it's the best telling of the fear they all felt. And isn't amazing the selective amnesia most rethuglicans have about that day.
"RETHUGLICANS" - I love it!
Thank you for recommending this book. It's beautiful. quietly heroic. it reminds of the intelligence and heart that exists fighting for democracy in the midst of all the chaos and loud noise. Main stream media distracts our attention from so much that is important. Thank you to Heather for the opposite.
I’m so glad you read it Liz. It is a beautiful book that touches my soul. I hope many more will read it too
Thank you for this poem, Fern. I love the little bio on Langston Hughes. Also, Jamie Raskin is one of my favorite leaders.
We need more Jamie Raskins and more Langston Hughes in our society.
Fern You’ve selected one of my favorite poems, which should be a mantra for all of Heather’s followers. Years ago, in a discussion with over 100 high school seniors about ‘a life worth living,’ I gave them a handout with this poem, which followed John Lennon’s statement ‘Life is what happens, when you have other plans.’
Good morning, Keith. Very happy to see you.
Fern As I used to say eons ago in Chile IQUALMENTE!
Por seguro estás muy amable
Good morning, Fern. Your comment about Jamie Raskin makes my long held wish about the House of Representatives rise in my mind today just like the sea smoke in the picture. The raging partisanship and desire for more in our legislative bodies, small and large, across the country speak to greed and discontent of the bully minority thinking that louder and violent wins the day because there must not be enough to go around. If only our House of Representatives was the body of legislators elected by the people to be at-large representatives of the entire state they hail from, the number being proportionate to the population of the state. No districts gerrymandered by party. Only representatives working for the people so that devotion becomes common and goodwill extends towards all. When one works for the common good of democracy guaranteed by the Constitution, then partisanship takes a back seat to Of, By, and For the People.
I get political parties. It’s a healthy concept. But it’s become a deadly one.
I also vote for a candidate ticket at every level that calls for two people (e.g. President and Vice President, Governor and Lt Governor) to be representative of both parties.
I’ve always been a very stubborn Pollyanna when accused of such. It comes from my decades of working with children in building classroom and school community. Impossible unless differences are seen through a positive and fruitful lens. That very thing is under attack now in public education. The greedy effort by adults to not allow children to recognize difference at all. I’ll run for school board again just to fight that effort. That insurgent accomplishment will destroy the common good of public education and must be resisted by every sane adult.
(And thank you for Langston Hughes this morning. His work always stirs my spirit.)
Salud!
Thanks Fern. Reading James Mercer Langston Hughes is a wonderful way to start the day!
Love this poem! I painted it on the wall when the kids were growing up.
Love this poem! Thank you for sharing. I also have great respect and admiration for Jaime Raskin. What fortitude he had to carry on as he did, and has, after his son’s death.
As always, Fern, thank you for lifting our spirits. Thank you also for reminding us what a great poet was Langston Hughes.
Wonderful, Fern. Thank you! We need poetry and beautify of sea smoke!
Enjoy the sea smoke and a quiet evening early in a turbulent year: Ukraine, Putin, Xi, Kim, Covid, House 1/6 Committee,Trumpimania’s slippery slope, an upward-trend economy, ‘sedition’ writ large, voting machinations, the possible child of BBB, and oh yes, Congressional elections in November….
You have a hilly marathon ahead with fulsome support from a multitude of fans. Please pace yourself as you share your reportage on Trump’s slump and and President Biden’s upswing prior to a glorious end-of-year finish by your comforting Maine fireplace.
It's never too late for Keith to bring hope and a smile. Thank you and good night,
Fern, I was just thinking the same thing. He never disappoints. Sleep well!
Beautiful job of a future summation Keith, and yes, our support for the Professor is indeed fulsome! You have words....
May our support of President Biden be fulsome also.
Salud, Gus!
Setting the scene. Important that we all hold that in our minds. Thank you, Keith.
Sea smoke, eh? Never heard of it. See, even when you don't mean to, you teach us things. Thanks to Peter for the beautiful photo. Rest well, my friend.
What if the TV news came up on schedule and announced; “Nothing happened today you really need to know about, so why not turn the TV off and spend some time with your children.”
Yeah, and what if it rained beer on Sundays.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=iV8KpnvhLCo&feature=share
Awesome! Love her music always, but had not heard that one. Wish we could all sing that.
That Ann Murray song got a fair amount of airtime on our local station. Reminded me of what we were dealing with even back then! Thanks for the blast from the past, Jean-Pierre.
It’s the Bryant Gumbel reference that dates some of us.
Thank you Jean-Pierre
Great lyrics!
I just sent this to everyone I know, Jean-Pierre. Thanks!
Anne will be pleased. :-)
Ralph a TV newscaster announcing ‘there’s no important news today’ is a revolutionary thought! No murders in NYC? No fires in Newark? No whale beached on the Jersey shore?
(With a possible mention of Covid, Ukraine, and Winter Olympics slipped between ads).
Actually, I haven’t watched a TV ‘news’ program since mid-September, 2021, except for several sneak peeks of the PBS News Hour. An opportunity to actually engage with your family and friends, pursue a hobby, OR EVEN READ A BOOK!
Many many Americans have lost a facility to read with comprehension (if they ever possessed it). Perhaps TV newscasters with nothing to say ‘that you really need to know about’ could be retrained (at last a useful federal skills training program) to focus on books and the joy of reading [The campaign to ban substantive books could be transformed into ‘why reading challenging literature matters’]
Advertising lobbyists would go bonkers, purchases of a bevy of unnecessary products would plummet, and people might gradually experience withdrawal symptoms as part of their breaking their staccato bad news addiction. Could this lead to Huxley’s BRAVE NEW WORLD? Please turn off the TV and think about it.
Agreed - although we’ve found CBS Report’s Adam Yamaguchi’s social exposés to be worthwhile.
I agree. The only tv news I ever watched was the PBS Newshour, and I gave that up, oh, two years ago anyway.
Nowadays I read HCR’s letters every morning, scan the NYT and Guardian headlines, and I’m done.
I like both ideas. I'll break out my emergency beer buckets.
Wow! If that ever happened, the world would truly be at peace. (Not referring to the raining of beer but that’s okay too! )🙂
Heather, thanks for sharing Peter Ralston’s photography. The images are full of light and hope and beauty. And they go well with your letters that cut through so much sadness to give us bigger perspectives and paths that lead to hope. Deep appreciation.
Ps. I live on the northern coast of California and am intimately familiar with fog. But the sea smoke is amazing!
For some reason the fact that tfg repeatedly tore memos, etc. into little pieces (and threw them on the floor—how juvenile is THAT??) after being reminded of the Pres. Records Act really frosted me. Why this? Just seemed I guess like a big F*** Y** to us and to the law which he, of course, is above. POS.
Exactly! Perfect abbreviation!
Wow! Is that what they call liquid smoke? Mistical ...
By the way, just in case you missed these - pretty sure the issue has not gone away, and certain those working to strike the balance appreciate participation from concerned citizens ...:
... “legitimate political discourse" [1] ...?
"The Republican Party has now endorsed violence as a legitimate form of political expression. This is not only a threat to the survival of our democracy – but also to each and every one of us living in this country.
"For too long, Republican officials have tried to minimize the insurrection. Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ) claimed that a federal investigation into the riot was “harassing peaceful patriots,” while Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) likened the invasion of the Capitol to a normal tourist visit. [2]"
Sign if you agree: the January 6th insurrection was anything but “legitimate political discourse” – and we must never let it happen again.
https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-now-trying-to-overthrow-our-democracy-is-not-legitimate-political-discourse/
1) https://www.commoncause.org/press-release/national-republican-party-dangerously-declares-january-6-attack-legitimate-political-discourse/
2) https://www.thedailybeast.com/gop-lawmakers-claim-trump-supporters-were-the-true-victims-of-capitol-riot
"... voters should decide the outcome of elections – not an angry and racist mob. Common Cause will continue our work with our partners and activists around the country to defend our democracy from these authoritarian efforts."
Devon Nir, Digital Strategies Manager
and the team at Common Cause
https://www.commoncause.org/
Common Cause
805 Fifteenth Street NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20005
202.833.1200
But if Rupert Murdoch spews “legitimate political discourse” it must be true. When are we going to kick his non-journalist” lying arse to the curb? If this isn’t Hitler’s best Big Lie, what is?
Jeri, I ask myself each of those questions just about every day. I wish I knew more about the FCC. Do they have any requirements regarding broadcasting the truth versus propaganda? Maybe someone here knows about their rules.
Sorry, but I just read Robert Hubbell’s second paragraph today. It explains better than I ever could. “How good was the report on the economy? It was so good that Fox entertainers posing as journalists suggested that the numbers were part of a “White House conspiracy” to sandbag the media…When Fox News is reduced to claiming that good news is a conspiracy theory, you knew the news is true.” No Schitt Sherlock.
Damnit! Can’t “heart” what you said, Jeri, but Fox is like the ever screaming child in the grocery store!
But it is loved by all the “mutineers”
Despite the “Fox News” moniker, they are legally “entertainment.” And under no requirement to be truthful. The cult doesn’t know or care. It’s the biggest scam ever pulled on the country.
Seriously, who finds it 'entertaining' - and what does it take to be a 'personality' a shallow pool, indeed ....
Sadly, some take it to be news, and true news at that. But Rupert’s game has always been propaganda in the service of greed.
He's a pawn. Folks who believe it without question are like sheep being herded into a slaughterhouse ... may their eyes and ears be opened - may we find peace !!!!
The FCC regulates the air waves. Not cable. Back when cable was introduced the cables Lobbyist had too much money. So were able to have their way the government. Very few regulations. We can only hope there isa government office creating regulations to change that. Misinformation And political propaganda is a huge problem right now. And must be addressed.
Moreso, address the mindless glut of consumer culture on auto-pilot ... who swallows it whole without even chewing ...?!
... already in the sewer ... just a tool in the hands of higher powers ... we are tested according to our choices and behaviors in response ...
Side note:
As I understand it, "revolution" is supposed to be about change - a turning of the wheel - not the same old story, over and over again - stuck in the muck of static old ways.
The American Revolution may have been a (not so peaceful) 'transfer of power' from the rule of kings - to what? That remains to be seen. If murderous mob rule is to be the law of our times, it is nothing new.
I have to ask:
Do you jokers and players think you are the top of the food chain?
Do you not recognize that it all comes around - if not to you personally, then to your progeny?
Golden Rule prevails, baby ...
"Do unto others as you would have others do unto you."
Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is very clear:
No Member of Congress may serve if they "engaged in insurrection or rebellion" against the United States of America.
On January 6, several Republican Members of Congress aided and abetted the violent mob that attacked the U.S. Capitol with the intention of stopping the legal certification of President Joe Biden's victory -- and they continue to spread lies and conspiracies about these events.
The 14th Amendment was written and enacted in 1868, after the Civil War, to prevent those who had assisted the Confederacy from ever holding office in the U.S. government or in state and local government.
Today, Members of Congress like Rep. Madison Cawthorn, after having aided and abetted the January 6, 2021 insurrection, continue to engage in the same dangerous conduct that led to the violent attack on our nation’s Capitol last January. Cawthorn has told his supporters that they "all need to be storing up some ammunition" to respond if elections "continue to be stolen."
Demand election officials keep all insurrectionists off the ballot – including currently serving members of Congress – for violating the 14th Amendment now!
https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-if-you-agree-january-6-insurrectionists-must-be-banned-from-running-for-office/
We will not stop fighting to save our democracy. Thank you for being a part of this fight.
Rick Weiland, Founder
https://www.takeitback.org
P.O. Box 2017,
Sioux Falls, SD 57101
(605) 274 8706
I certainly agree insurrectionists should be banned from running for office, but to whom exactly is this "petition" addressed? To me, it's more a position statement than a petition, and I've found that "petitions" like this are just another way for organizations to solicit contributions.
Good question Mim - and good point! It might be best just to contact our members of Congress - maybe write letters to the editors of local papers - for all I know, petitions like this could be like driftnets scooping up blind innocents protesting blindly - could wind up as somebody's snack ... still, I like to support organizations working to make a difference - especially when I don't have wherewithal to gather the facts and articulate the concern ... either way, thanks for the wake up call!
Who will have the guts to say NO
... say YES to what really matters and let that ol' River Of Sh!t roll on by ...
If only…
... make it so ...
Signed and shared.
Thank you Terry - even one voice in the wilderness is heard on high ...
Kathleen Thanks for correcting my faulty memory. I thought that the Republican National Committee had sanctioned ‘illegitimate political intercourse.’ It’s refreshing that they can agree on at least one GOP policy.
... kidding?
Kathleen With the RNC’s bevy of false facts can you really be certain that i was kidding about “illegitimate political intercourse?’ Certainly sounds like a Trump policy.
It sure does Keith - I'm not too sure about anything except the pain in my neck right now - please forgive if I missed the point ... more power to you if you-can sort it out!!
"Liquid smoke" is bottled and purchased from the baking/spice aisle of your grocery store. It's great for making Barbecued Beef Brisket.
Thank you Carla - a relief to know they aren't barbecuing the bay!!
Sure! Liquid Smoke means you do not have to have a fancy behemoth smoker on your patio to make a great Barbecue. :-)
Even with my little junior sized smoker, I use Liquid Smoke to make my barbeque sauces.... and some other things when forced to cook indoors.
Off Topic: On the J6 Capitol Breach Cases, the DOJ has announced another 23 gullty pleas on Monday morning. That`s over 35 case resolutions since late Friday. The facts are not getting any better for defendants who are scrambling for plea deals.
And another bit of good news. The Friday job report. Here is President Biden’s comment.
"Our country is taking everything that COVID has to throw at us, and we've come back stronger," President Biden said in remarks at the White House following the report. "If you can't remember another year when so many people went to work in this country, there's a reason. It never happened."
Wages were up sharply for non-supervisor jobs extending a 4 month trend. The 10 year Treasury note hit 1.92 percent late Friday.
Everything is a mixed bag, isn’t it.
Higher wages means higher prices means higher inflation to eat into the higher wages. Higher interest rates means higher costs on consumer and public debt
Like the old joke about why there are no one-armed economists.
“Well, here is what I think is going to happen. On the other hand, yada, yada,yada.”
But, I’ll settle for a tiny ray of sunshine these days. Even a temporary one.
The best news I read yesterday on justsecurity.org was that Col.Vindman, has brought Legal suit to Don Jr, Giuliani ,and Aiders & Abetters . And you are going to Love the Law they used “The Klan Act “. Looks like all the bases are covered, and Not Appealable. I was Cheering out loud in my living room . TFG has about 18-20 cases against him .And of course they are dragging thru the courts. The discussion about Vindman’s hinged on if Impeachment was a Court of Law ? They gave the reason why it is. What happen to him and his brother was the “ Enough ! “ Actually it’s brilliant ! Because it proves the guilt on ‘Someone ‘ who can’t be held accountable. But still Guilty ! So Justice will be served finally, for JustU.S.! Can hardly wait for tomorrow. Been thinking about Ppl in those cold Temps. So sending warm thoughts and stay safe.
I hope those multiple cases against the defeated former president which are "dragging thru the courts" aren't obscured by a permanent version of "sea smoke" when the elections, nine months from tomorrow, take place. They could result in the nation entering a long, cold period of "sea smoke." But we won't let that happen, will we? Heating up the atmosphere will clear up the "sea smoke."
Jack
Don’t know how the other cases will play out ? And I can see why the DOJ didn’t go after TFG on 1/6, he had Ex. Priv. up until 1/20. But…..what they did to Vindman and His Bro, (who had nothing to do with anything.) And Diarrhea Mouth ( Trump Sr ) without any “Sea Smoke “ clouding his words, said Out loud, for the world to hear. What he was going to do to Vindman for testifying against him and……then it was done to Him and Bro. You know “Orders from the Top ! “ I see this one as a Slam Dunk ! As I recall, S—T ! runs down hill. Haha! It may not lock him up, but he is done with “Politics “ with a guilty verdict ‘Whomever it flows over ‘. I’m betting Yankee Dimes on this case.
Gorgeous photo!
Thank you for taking a night off: it reminds the rest of us to maintain a sense of proportion.
Always love the photos you pick. May everyone sleep well and wake refreshed, ready to fight the good fight another day!
Thank-you Dr. Cox-Richardson and Mr. Ralston. For a couple of years I worked as a marine surveyor along the ME and NH coasts. It was scenes like that which made the frozen salt spray fouling lines and equipment (and my beard) worth the trouble.
And your beard 😂
How mystical and enchanting! The perfect seascape to envision just before settling into a warm bed. Sleep well and deep, dear Heather!
Thank you Heather for sharing this incredible photo and for all you do, everyday.
You are appreciated more than you will ever realize.
Be safe. Be well.
Cold here tonight. And bed is calling. Care for yourself, please, this week, professor. You are and American gem.
I’ve had a couple of friends around the boatyard who were and are lobstermen. Don’t know how they do it, all year round. It seems to be like being a miner (at least of the hard-rock variety) or a fisherman or a firefighter: a hard and dangerous occupation that gets into the blood, often to be passed down in the family. Truly, everyday heroes.