Me’Shell Ndegeocello Tributes Retro Prince

September 8, 2011 Leave a comment

Me’shell’s tribute to Prince in San Francisco and Oakland on March 11-13, 2011 cheers me up.  I wish I had seen one of these concerts live…or that she had sang any song when I saw her for my birthday in Oakland in 2005.

“I Wanna Be Your Lover”

“Controversy”

“Dirty Mind”

 

“Sexuality”

“Little Red Corvette” / “Pop Life”

“Something In the Water”

 

“Lady Cab Driver”

 

“Annie Christian”

 

“PartyUp”

 

“I Would Die 4 U”

 

“Let’s Go Crazy”

 

“Purple Rain”

 

“Sign O’ The Times”

 

BONUS:

Me’Shell plays the bass on the Arsenio Hall Show (circa 1994)

Fav Tweets for July 3 – July 15, 2011

July 15, 2011 Leave a comment

Sometimes, I see too many good tweets to RT without clogging up people’s timelines, so I save them to share later in one batch. Here are some of my favorite tweets from the past two weeks.

(Note: “Favorite” and “good” does not necessarily mean that I agree with the opinion or point of view expressed.)

Yep, many of them are grouped by related topic. See if you can see why. ;-)
Kyle Hillman kylehillman Kyle Hillman   +1 RT @VeronicaLudwig: Sometimes I wish I could ‘like’ or +1 a tweet… #nerdism 14 Jul

JD TheSmak JD   RT @yoyoha Facebook = Star Wars, Twitter = Empire Strikes Back, Google+ = Return of the Jedi. MySpace = Stupid prequels. 3 hours ago

paul goss pgoss paul goss   Navigating Google Plus: 6 Tips and Tricks netshelter.com/blog/2011/07/0… 8 Jul

Mac-Jordan MacJordaN Mac-Jordan   “Google’s +1 Button Already More Widespread than Twitter’s Tweet Button” Interesting post via @mashable http://ow.ly/5Aod8 9 Jul

 DJShay12 DJShay12 DJShay12   Why Competing with Google+ is Impossible http://bit.ly/q53Lxq 9 Jul

Northwest Fire NorthwestFire Northwest Fire   Microsoft accidentally reveals social networking plans http://bit.ly/nhDkYy 3 hours ago
Holly Golightly swannsong Holly Golightly   Internet Use Affects Memory, Study Finds nyti.ms/peY7Bs 20 hours ago


chirpstory chirpstory chirpstory   @allanbrauer‘s “Ryan Raises Debt” has hit 250 views. http://chirpstory.com/li/1923 4 Jul


The Toast TheToast2012 The Toast   President Obama to Eric Cantor: My presence is a present, kiss my ass 14 Jul

Fa'Quan Womack XVII KingCirca1984 Fa’Quan Womack XVII   Eric Cantor’s accent is the missing link between the English Accent and a Southern US drawl. #p2 #tcot 14 Jul

  rootless rootless_e rootless   I wonder how many people who comment on US politics on the internet could explain how a bill becomes law. 20%? 10%? 21 hours ago

rootless rootless_e rootless   A lot of progressives need to listen to Ray Charles explain how a bill becomes law. 11 Jul

Watt eva YOU like DoTPeRioD Watt eva YOU like   I’m so done w/ political commentary from people who have no clue about a damn thing, let alone politics. 5 hours ago

Angry Black Lady AngryBlackLady Angry Black Lady   It’s amazing that a group of ppl as unintelligent as The Tea Party are better political strategists than liberal ivy league fancypants. #p2 9 Jul

Ezra Klein ezraklein Ezra Klein   The budget deals of Reagan, Bush, Clinton and Obama, in one chart wapo.st/o6P3kN Today, the Tea Party would primary the Gipper. 7 Jul

Ken Young Kennymack1971 Ken Young   Funny to watch emoprogs and fauxgressives spin themselves crazy rather than admit PBO knows how to play and WIN this political game. Sad. 12 Jul

The New Deal TheNewDeal The New Deal   If I’m Wrong and @BarackObama Does Not Cut Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security, I Will Apologize. I Hope I Am Wrong. #p2 #topprog 10 Jul

stephanie tostyleandgrace stephanie   Just because you can say whatever you want, doesn’t mean you always should. Some folks need to learn the power of editing. 7 Jul
TMiami Only4RM TMiami   Dems need to understand there’s a way to vocally unequivocally draw our own lines in the sand in a manner that EMPOWERS our leaders vs GOP. 7 Jul 

IsrealDeep one word IsRealDEEP IsrealDeep one word   I liked a @YouTube video http://youtu.be/ceENtYqVS4Q?a Dr. Dennis Kimbro speaks on the Power of One 7 Jul

William K. Wolfrum Wolfrum William K. Wolfrum   Bernie Sanders should totally primary Obama. Because spending $Millions for 1 delegate is morally responsible. 12 Jul

The New York Times nytimes The New York Times

Democrats (Real Ones) Win Primaries http://nyti.ms/n2qsa9 12 Jul

Paul Porter IndustryEars Paul Porter   You can’t hurry success but you can damn sure pick up your pace and progress. 9 Jul

Khalid Hashi OfficialKhalid Khalid Hashi   If you keep letting where you’ve BEEN interfere with where you’re GOING, you’ll never get there. 5 Jul

Angry Black Lady AngryBlackLady Angry Black Lady   #PCCC are LIARS. Multiple bloggers (even respectable ones like @thereidreport) have uncovered #PCCC‘s lies. Stop asking dumb questions. #p2 3 hours ago

The Toast TheToast2012 The Toast   No one should ever take HUFFPO seriously when it comes to jobs & labor, since Zsa Zsa Huff won’t even pay her own workers right. #oratall 11 Jul

Chirpinator chirpinator Chirpinator   Adam Green’s Bold Progressives, the Green Question, and @BwayCarl: http://bit.ly/p6Q36z 13 Jul

Elon James White elonjames Elon James White   “The POTUS shouldnt do “A” because of “Outcome of A.” is a critique. “POTUS IS AN ASS. HE DONT CARE ABOUT PEOPLE!” Ridiculous. @mrdaveyd 8 Jul

Breaking News breakingnewsusa Breaking News   Murdoch’s News Of The World Dies http://bit.ly/nXrncS 10 Jul

Media Matters mmfa Media Matters   Expert: #Murdoch News Corp phone hacking may have violated U.S. law http://mm4a.org/nuY2Dp #p2 #notw 14 Ju

novenator novenator novenator   3 More Murdoch Papers Caught in Scandal, Market Value Decreases by $7 Billion #p2 #p2b is.gd/tEzGRc on @FreakOutNation 12 Jul

chirpstory chirpstory chirpstory   @allanbrauer‘s “Ryan Raises Debt” has hit 250 views. http://chirpstory.com/li/1923

Mike H. MrMike_H Mike H.   To those “fed up with President Obama” and think he’ll win without your vote in 2012… j.mp/p1d3yy 14 Jul

moment_um moment_um moment_um   The 10 Scariest GOP Governors: Bringing a Radical Right-Wing Agenda To a State Near You | | AlterNet: bit.ly/qixo35 7 Jul

Progressive Buzz progBuzz Progressive Buzz   In signing anti-abortion bill, Louisiana gov. compares women to criminals | #p2 #p2blogs http://bit.ly/n7WWhh 7 Jul

Dawn Nicole Martin dawnnicmar Dawn Nicole Martin   Michelle Bachmann Signs Pledge that Says Black Children Better Off During Slavery jackandjillpolitics.com/2011/07/michel… 8 Jul

fuseboxradio fuseboxradio fuseboxradio   F***. This. Heaux. Bachmann Signs Anti-Porn Pledge Saying Blacks Were Better Off During Slavery jezebel.com/5819322/bachma… (via @Jezebel) 8 Jul

Baratunde baratunde Baratunde Today, black unemployment is over 16 percent, but during slavery, every black man had a job! http://bit.ly/mZaoOW #BachmannLogic 8 Jul

The Toast TheToast2012 The Toast   Trickle-down economics means all the money is at the top and a few droplets fall to the bottom. What do you think “trickle down” means? 8 Jul
Al Franken

alfranken Al Franken   RT @AFLCIO Today’s #JobsCrisis Forum: The Time for Excuses is Over. Create Jobs Now http://bit.ly/oTCPJY #aflcio4jobs @AlFranken on panel 12 Jul

CSPAN cspan CSPAN   President Obama remarks on June #Jobs Report – LIVE online here: cs.pn/pjD10m 8 Jul

Randi Rhodes randiradio Randi Rhodes

Memo to Bachmann: Boehner would prefer you celebrate lost jobs behind closed #gop caucus doors, not on live TV exm.nr/p4Fzmg 8 Jul

Khalid Hashi OfficialKhalid Khalid Hashi   If something is not worth fighting for, then it is not worth keeping. 5 Jul

Gavin Newsom GavinNewsom Gavin Newsom   Thanks to @GilCedillo for his commitment on #CADreamAct & CASenate 4 getting job done. #DoTheRightThing 20 hours ago

The White House whitehouse The White House   What will you #AskObama? Tomorrow the President will answer your Qs on the economy & jobs in a Twitter @townhall: askobama.twitter.com 5 Jul

The Obama Diary TheObamaDiary The Obama Diary   “Auto industry is on hiring spree” tiny.cc/3zstf Thank you President Obama ;-) (Still against the bail-out, Mitt Romney?) 6 Jul

#JobHuntChat JobHuntChat #JobHuntChat   Welcome to #jobhuntchat. Tell us who u r & where ur from?  11 Jul

Idealist idealist Idealist   We love @rosettathurman‘s tips for nonprofit job descriptions. What drives u crazy about the ones you read on idealist? bit.ly/pDD0iH 7 Jul

Idealist idealist Idealist   Tweet back at us and we’ll think of ways to share your pet peeves with the orgs that post on our site! 7 Jul

Laura muhajabah Laura   Yes, these Hard Times will end bit.ly/obf1SB // sometimes it helps to take the long view. Dems winning 2012 elections also important 11 Jul

The Washington Post washingtonpost The Washington Post   Men, hit hardest in recession, are getting work faster than women http://wapo.st/oc7ivA 7 Jul

Policy Parables PolicyParables Policy Parables

Sex Workers Advocate for Decriminalization of Their Profession in Nigeria #food tiny.ly/zalf 7 Jul

Eli Tetteh elidot Eli Tetteh   Female soldiers more likely to be raped by their colleagues than killed by the enemy. http://mojo.ly/kV20sV | via @MotherJones #women 7 Jul

Charlie_O Charlie_O Charlie_O   Think your job sucks? Chinese workers sign promise not to kill themselves. dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1… 10 Jul

Russell Simmons UncleRUSH Russell Simmons   Embrace struggle .. It is your greatest teacher 8 Jul

MissLavadaRach MissLavadaRach MissLavadaRach   RT “@2thank: Teachers open the door but you must walk through it yourself. Proverb” 9 Jul

Northwest Fire NorthwestFire Northwest Fire

Rampant educator cheating found in Atlanta http://bit.ly/ogv8OD 20 hours ago

S Sovereign SovereignS S Sovereign   5 Lessons I Learned In School And Now Want To Forget theemotionmachine.com/5-lessons-i-le… via @StevenHandel 5 Jul


Paul Porter IndustryEars Paul Porter   From the Blacktop to the Blackboard: Hip-Hop’s Growing Role in Education cpro.gs/npfHPl 12 Jul

JuanCarlos HERNANDEZ jchernandezjazz JuanCarlos HERNANDEZ   The Four Pillars Of Music Development (Part Two) http://bit.ly/pIzMYy 7 Jul

Charley Langer charleylanger Charley Langer   Music is what I hear and something that I live by. It’s not an occupation or profession, it’s a compulsion. —Duke Ellington 7 Jul

manny hernandez  coolmanolo manny hernandez    Dear MTV, I was wondering if I could get my “M” back…you know, since you’re not using it. Sincerely, _usic. 12 Jul

Atane Ofiaja atane Atane Ofiaja   Mingus’ psychologist also wrote in the liner notes. How many people have their shrink opining about jazz music? #shitmingusdoes 8 Jul

PrinceSays PrinceBot PrinceSays   Did you ever find a reason why you had to die or did you just plan on leaving without wondering why? #Prince 14 Ju

Raphael Saadiq rayraysaadiq Raphael Saadiq   North Sea Jazz tonight, so much music, Seal, Bootsy, Larry Graham, Prince, UK band 9 Jul

Luiz Santos LuizSantosMusic Luiz Santos   WYNTON MARSALIS “CHEROKEE” youtube.com/watch?v=9OtZrI… #jazz #jazzlives #music 7 Jul

Rusty Redenbacher rustymk2 Rusty Redenbacher   RT @AudioForensicks:”With All Due Respect” “Eat A Dick for every person you spammed your crap music to without getting to know them first” 5 hours ago

CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   Know what annoys me to no end? When someone says that an artist’s music is wack and then says “But you should hear my shit though” 5 Jul

MrKinetik Mr. Kinetik   Relationships go a lot further than direct requests on here. The “Please Listen To My Demo” approach is not the best move. 5 hours ago

DoodlebugFtDOR DoodlebugFtDOR DoodlebugFtDOR   Share the DIGABLE FREE mixtape link with your friends…pretty please…lol http://bit.ly/aEbjJY #HIPHOP #IPODFRIENDLY 8 Jul

Alyssa Milano Alyssa_Milano Alyssa Milano   10 of the best music videos you’ve never seen: http://ow.ly/5y6Nw /via @flavorpill 7 Jul

Rahsaan Patterson mynameis2long Rahsaan Patterson   @Jazzzyone @Alyssa_Milano http://moby.to/40yupw 8 Jul

Rahsaan Patterson mynameis2long Rahsaan Patterson   Laying down. Dark room. Bomb ass headphones.  #favoritewaytolistentomusic 8 Jul

Sixes Jones SixesJones Sixes Jones   Since listening to “6 AM” by @mynameis2long Rahsaan Patterson, I get better gas mileage, and my shirts are whiter 9 Jul

Kristine cooldownmama  @Jazzzyone inthesound.us 7 Jul

Amanu Kaiju Amanu360 Amanu Kaiju   Rosa Amarilla by Amanu Kaiju via #soundcloud soundcloud.com/amanojahku/ros… 8 Jul

The Messiah
JanhovasWitnessThe Messiah
Ramel
itsRamelRamel

Javier Colon – Beautiful U R #theVoicehttp://blip.fm/~15t172

C'BS ALife Allah ALifeAllah C’BS ALife Allah   big pun age 28 dead from a heart attack due to morbid obesity #hoodhealth #hiphop 5 Jul

C'BS ALife Allah ALifeAllah C’BS ALife Allah   mc breed age 37 dead from kidney failure #hoodhealth #hiphop 5 Jul

Amanu Kaiju Amanu360 Amanu Kaiju   5 Things You Need To Know About The Cancer Causing Chemicals In Everyday Life http://j.mp/noYySh 13 Jul


mystic thatgirlmystic mystic   RT @OaklandDaily: 8th annual Healthy Living Festival is Friday http://sns.mx/ZBdYy5 12 Jul

Amorpour the Lovebar AmorpourLovebar Amorpour the Lovebar   Trying to rationalize going vegan to my Italian friends is useless. 7 Jul

veggie buzz veggiebuzz veggie buzz   by @Montana410: How Vegetarians Get Enough Protein http://bit.ly/98WvcO #vegetarians #vegan #protein: How Vegetarians Get… #veggiebuzz 9 Jul
Melanie Grimes HealthyLivingMG Melanie Grimes   *Benefit from the natural health of bananas #MGrimes : http://dld.bz/bEx 10 Jul
Melanie Grimes HealthyLivingMG Melanie Grimes   How to lower your #cholesterol naturally: http://dld.bz/HdHd 10 Jul
Melanie Grimes HealthyLivingMG Melanie Grimes   *Honey provides antibiotic benefits and low glycemic sweetener: http://dld.bz/GzKK 10 Jul

Melanie Grimes HealthyLivingMG Melanie Grimes   *Coffee lowers risk of diabetes and liver fibrosis, hepatitis and prostate cancer #MGrimes : http://dld.bz/bDx 9 Jul

Melanie Grimes HealthyLivingMG Melanie Grimes

Free Foods and Drinks for Dieters: http://dld.bz/HdGG 12 Jul

Jason Parker selfdeprecate Jason Parker

Gaydar.net offers Marcus Bachmann complimentary lifetime membership lgbtqnation.com/2011/07/gaydar… via @lgbtqnation 10 Jul

Alba onlychyld Alba   I am so sick of people suggesting men doing certain things is gay. You know what’s gay…being a man and liking dick. Grow up people! 5 Jul

John Whitehouseexistentialfish John Whitehouse

RT @nytimespolitics: California to Require Gay History in Schools http://is.gd/Bm5Ba8 // Great move, seriously. I’ll leave jokes for later. 20 hours ago

quippd Psychology quippdPsych quippd Psychology   Sexual orientation and gender conforming traits in women are genetic http://bit.ly/qqiWA0 7 Jul

Kristy T. digitalmiss Kristy T.   Black Girl Problems #24 Crossing the street to avoid the black guys on the corner. black-girl-problems.tumblr.com/post/7527884984 23 hours ago

Angry Black Lady AngryBlackLady Angry Black Lady   Essence hired a white male managing editor. WTF. | Where do Black Women Come First? Not at Essence sisterescape.blogspot.com/2011/07/where-… #p2 #blacknews #TFY 20 hours ago


Stare Huxtable FreedomReeves Stare Huxtable   Photo: The Africa they never show you. http://tumblr.com/xo53ajpaku

Dirk Lester Dirk2112 Dirk Lester   UNICEF responds to #HornOfAfrica food crisis that’s left 2mill children malnourished :: http://tinyurl.com/6gedr6n #Africa 21 hours ago

Roberto De Santis bobdesa64 Roberto De Santis   RT @worldconcern: ANALYSIS: #Drought in the Horn of Africa – does the world still care? http://bit.ly/nSuiE4 via @CBCNews 4 hours ago

AmeriCares AmeriCares AmeriCares   In #Uganda, 1 out of every 7 children dies before age 5. Our Medical Outreach Program is working to change that. http://dld.bz/aefmx 9 Jul

W.E.E. See You... WEESeeYou W.E.E. See You…   Fresh on WSY: Saturday Open Thread | Travels with The First Lady: Africa http://bit.ly/nGz2xd 9 Jul

Ptah Shadow PtahShadow Ptah Shadow   MT @Dima_Khatib: Darfur peace agreement … the final one ! Now being signed in Doha #Darfur MT –> : Addendum http://bit.ly/nL7JvR 14 Jul

Black Canseco BlackCanseco Black Canseco   Dear SOUTH #SUDAN: You’ve got a ton of oil, which means by Monday you’ll have more fake friends than a Reality TV star. #godbless 8 Jul

Kevin. Successington Kevin.   I was going to change my twitname to @KeepingItReal but, honestly, i’m fake. I think. 9 Jul
@TheReidReport Its “misery marketing” Make people believe everything is bad, things will be taken away, the only thing you can do is DONATE 7 Jul

jasonillian jasonillian jasonillian   Forget random acts of kindness. We need deliberate acts of compassion….great article by @hardlynormal

churchmarketingsucks.com/2010/11/homele… 20 hours ago

Nicole, Ph.D. ndcollier Nicole, Ph.D.   It’s important to do even small works in your local community – recognize and recenter those on the margins. #lifebalanceconf 5 hours ago

Oakland Daily OaklandDaily Oakland Daily   Old Oakland parks receive new attention http://sns.mx/ZddWy6 10 Jul

TIME.com TIME TIME.com   Outraged about the Casey Anthony verdict, one woman starts petition for ‘Caylee’s Law’ | http://ti.me/okcBgi (via @TIMEHealthland) 7 Jul

Khalid Hashi OfficialKhalid Khalid Hashi   In reference to Casey Anthony: God is still watching. His eyes are stronger than a jury. 5 Jul

AYYSIAN DIOR ItsAYYSIAN AYYSIAN DIOR   The awkward moment when Casey Anthony says she want more kids… 6 Jul
Dee-1 Dee1music Dee-1   Yesterday a 10 year old shot his 7 year old friend down here. This was his 2nd time shooting somebody in 2011. 8 Jul
Raye-TheZodiacChick RayeFemmeFatale Raye-TheZodiacChick   RT @JheneAiko: ” u can’t just go around making everyone feel special ” 10 Jul
CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   #HNH RT @CampyDun00: Shout out to the girls that tweet bout sucking dick to get more followers .. 14 Jul

For The Cancers ForTheCancers For The Cancers   a #cancer lady is not a booty call. believe that. 20 hours ago

ZodiacFact ZodiacFacts ZodiacFact   #ZodiacFacts How to Reassure a #Cancer : Emotional Support and Friendship 20 hours ago

G.R. of InternalHero Retrospect360 G.R. of InternalHero   Happy birthday my wonderful friend. I hope your day was as beautiful as you are. You deserve no less. @jazzzyone 6 Jul

Watt eva YOU like DoTPeRioD Watt eva YOU like   Oh snap: happy Happy HAPPY Birthday to one of muh fav ppl on twitter @Jazzzyone 4 Jul

Laura
@muhajabah Laura @Jazzzyone Happy birthday! 4 Jul via web

The Messiah JanhovasWitness The Messiah   @Jazzzyone Happy Birthday! ^_^ 6 Jul

Fa'Quan Womack XVII KingCirca1984 Fa’Quan Womack XVII   Happy birthday @Jazzzyone 4 Jul

Kristine cooldownmama Kristine @   @Jazzzyone Well, Happy Birthday!!! *hugs* How will you be celebrating? 4 Jul

AC Ambieno AC @   @Jazzzyone Well hot damn! Happy Birthday beautiful! *sings happy birthday in my best johnny gill voice* 4 Jul

Innocence Lost ArtsyNerd83 Innocence Lost @   @Jazzzyone u never told me ur exact born day was today! Have a happy one my fellow moon sister :) 4 Jul

Evette MsAreolaBrown Evette @   @Jazzzyone You’re a water lady too?! Happy times! Happy solar return lady! 4 Jul

Brent Lauren BrentLauren Brent Lauren @   @Jazzzyone Happy Bday for real this time J 5 Jul

Chirpinator chirpinator Chirpinator   @Jazzzyone Sweet dreams. Sounds like it was a great 4th (^_-)-☆ 4 Jul

Jennifer jenlea84 Jennifer   #FF @Jazzzyone @emokidsloveme @sandinbrick highlights from my “Bestest” list http://twitter.com/#/list/jenlea84/the-bestest 8 Jul

IsrealDeep one word IsRealDEEP IsrealDeep one word @   S/O @Jazzzyone #isrealdeep a GREAT person to follow 7 Jul
Raye-TheZodiacChick RayeFemmeFatale Raye-TheZodiacChick   RT @XSTROLOGY: A #Cancer sees no grey area & offers no second chances. Once you have hurt them, you are gone from their lives. 10 Jul  
Jazzzy One Jazzzyone Jazzzy One   A fool will always get the last word with me. 7 Jul
For The Cancers ForTheCancers For The Cancers   #cancer women are old fashioned. we like to be courted; so court us. 21 hours ago

Don Riley astrologybee Don Riley   #whoeverimarry better love to hug & kiss all day because Im a #Cancer & Im very affectionate! #astrologybee 10 Jul

RATEpdq RATEpdq RATEpdq   Kissing is a means of getting two people so close together that they can’t see anything wrong with each other. ~Rene Yasenek #quotes 12 Jul

Khalid Hashi OfficialKhalid Khalid Hashi   Never make the mistake of blaming people for being who they’ve always been. Blame yourself for not coming to terms with it sooner. 5 Jul

Jay Rankin UndertheNeonSky Jay Rankin   Don’t find fault, find a remedy. Henry Ford 7 Jul

Jill English  ArtDish Jill English    Love is temporary insanity curable by marriage. #bumpersticker 20 hours ago
Eric Payne EPayneTheDad Eric Payne   New Passive Aggressive Test Helps Husbands End Marital Strife: Whether or not men think they are… http://bit.ly/nPRSaT #relationships 9 Jul

Georg Grey Georg_Grey Georg Grey   Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy. 9 Jul

Mr. Lover Man MrLoverMan925 Mr. Lover Man   Accept the truth as is.. There is good & bad to life.. Seek to be better, dont lie to avoid the effort.. 5 Jul

Ramel itsRamel Ramel   Dear Men, WE need to read: Being a “good man” isn’t enough! by @t0ddalexander http://goo.gl/PAMMS P.S. Women too! 5 Jul

ZodiacFactZodiacFacts ZodiacFact   #ZodiacFacts How to Reassure a #Gemini : Communication about Expectations 20 hours ago

Raye-TheZodiacChick

RayeFemmeFatale Raye-TheZodiacChick   ” I’m not what you’re lookin’ for.” 10 Jul

For The Cancers ForTheCancers For The Cancers   does a #cancer good to write. our emotions are too strong for words sometimes. its best for us to write it all down… 20 hours ago

ZodiacFact ZodiacFacts ZodiacFact   #ZodiacFacts #Cancers,engage their audiences by depicting common, highly charged, emotional experiences accurately and with enormous impact. 21 hours ago

For The Cancers ForTheCancers For The Cancers   #cancers are naturally creative. dancers, singers, writers, poets, fine artists… anything creative. we’re born that way. 20 hours ago
       
Don Riley astrologybee Don Riley   #whoeverimarry better be smart & interesting & have multiple personalities because Im a #Gemini & I like to keep it new! 10 Jul

ZodiacFact ZodiacFacts ZodiacFact   #ZodiacFacts How to Reassure a #Scorpio : Don’t Play Power Games 20 hours ago

CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   This is my wish list. What I want not what I need, there’s a difference. These days I’m learning that words got power so I’ma be specific 4 Jul

CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   When people try to rip us apart we gotta work to stay together. Go through the seasons of love and never change with the weather 4 Jul

CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   You’re everything. Send your soul through your lips to my heart. Sweet music will start. I want you to be the muse for my art 4 Jul

CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   I want you to come to when I come through and make you shine like the sun do. I want you to be the valley for my river to run through 4 Jul

CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   If you blackout and collapse I want to help you to come to. Notice I haven’t yet got into what I want from you 4 Jul

For The Cancers ForTheCancers For The Cancers   #cancers don’t like people who contradict themselves. say what you mean; mean what you say 13 Jul

CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   #Shoutout to people that follow me & only retweet/comment on my tweets when you’re trying to “roast” me. What your life like? 8 Jul

Khalid Hashi OfficialKhalid Khalid Hashi   “The more you dislike people, the more you come to mirror them, you lose your own image & you portray their deficits”. 6 Jul

CHicks Catf1sh CHicks   RT @GeniusRetard: This generation loves voicing an opinion & being mad… 10 Jul

J-Breezy The Poet WatchJ J-Breezy The Poet   If u havent passed the devil yet on this road we call life…its probably because yall are both going in the same direction… 10 Jul

Kurt Vonnegut Kurt_Vonnegut Kurt Vonnegut   If there is a god, he sure hates people. 6 Jul

e princess leia e aWRITERchick ♥ princess leia ♥   Why don’t more people think about their purpose in life? 7 Jul

Bob Marleymvmnt bobmarleymvmnt Bob Marleymvmnt   Take time to meditate…. 14 Jul

quippd Psychology quippdPsych quippd Psychology   RT @Benjamin_Riggs What does #Buddhist #Psychology have to offer? Relaxing into the Hindrances. #Integral #Buddhism : http://bit.ly/mQjVwj 7 Jul

SAFA®i_BLaCK =À©... SAFARI_BLK SAFA®i_BLaCK =π√Ω…   SPREAD LOVE ☞☞ ❤❤ 5 Jul

G.R. of InternalHero Retrospect360 G.R. of InternalHero @   @jazzzyone I’d sure love too- I’m way curious. and their final album “The Love Movement” was a fav. : “Find A Way” : http://ow.ly/5AkXz 8 Jul

PrinceSays PrinceBot PrinceSays   Wherever U R, think of your dreams, Oh please, remember life ain’t always what it seems. #Prince, Wherever U Go, Whatever U Do 12 Jul

Khalid Hashi OfficialKhalid Khalid Hashi   Agreed! RT @TheeJerome: It’s so annoying when you want more for someone than they seem to want for themselves. 4 Jul

J-Breezy The Poet WatchJ J-Breezy The Poet   If people forgot about their problems as quickly as they forget about their blessings the world would be a much better place 3 Jul

Rahsaan Patterson Live

May 25, 2011 Leave a comment

Rahsaan is one of my favorite artists. He’s nice on record but absolutely brilliant live.

He performed live at BHCP Center Stage. Highlights include a cover of Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature” and Sade’s “Love Is Stronger Than Pride”.

If you enjoy any of these videos, follow him on Twitter or Tumblr and check for his upcoming album, Bleuphoria, on July 5, 2011.

Full-length concert:

Or you can skip to your favorite song below.

“Spend the Night”

“Human Nature”

“Love Is Stronger Than Pride”

“Come Over”

“The One For Me”

“Feels Good”

“Stop By”

Performs “Something In Common” with his friend, Lalah Hathaway (Yep, Donny’s daughter) on June 7, 2009:

President Obama Confirms Osama Bin Laden’s Death

May 1, 2011 Leave a comment

For posterity…

East Room
11:35 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT:  Good evening.  Tonight, I can report to the American people and to the world that the United States has conducted an operation that killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of al Qaeda, and a terrorist who’s responsible for the murder of thousands of innocent men, women, and children.
It was nearly 10 years ago that a bright September day was darkened by the worst attack on the American people in our history.  The images of 9/11 are seared into our national memory — hijacked planes cutting through a cloudless September sky; the Twin Towers collapsing to the ground; black smoke billowing up from the Pentagon; the wreckage of Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, where the actions of heroic citizens saved even more heartbreak and destruction.
And yet we know that the worst images are those that were unseen to the world.  The empty seat at the dinner table.  Children who were forced to grow up without their mother or their father.  Parents who would never know the feeling of their child’s embrace.  Nearly 3,000 citizens taken from us, leaving a gaping hole in our hearts.
On September 11, 2001, in our time of grief, the American people came together.  We offered our neighbors a hand, and we offered the wounded our blood.  We reaffirmed our ties to each other, and our love of community and country.  On that day, no matter where we came from, what God we prayed to, or what race or ethnicity we were, we were united as one American family.
We were also united in our resolve to protect our nation and to bring those who committed this vicious attack to justice.  We quickly learned that the 9/11 attacks were carried out by al Qaeda — an organization headed by Osama bin Laden, which had openly declared war on the United States and was committed to killing innocents in our country and around the globe.  And so we went to war against al Qaeda to protect our citizens, our friends, and our allies.
Over the last 10 years, thanks to the tireless and heroic work of our military and our counterterrorism professionals, we’ve made great strides in that effort.  We’ve disrupted terrorist attacks and strengthened our homeland defense.  In Afghanistan, we removed the Taliban government, which had given bin Laden and al Qaeda safe haven and support.  And around the globe, we worked with our friends and allies to capture or kill scores of al Qaeda terrorists, including several who were a part of the 9/11 plot.
Yet Osama bin Laden avoided capture and escaped across the Afghan border into Pakistan.  Meanwhile, al Qaeda continued to operate from along that border and operate through its affiliates across the world.
And so shortly after taking office, I directed Leon Panetta, the director of the CIA, to make the killing or capture of bin Laden the top priority of our war against al Qaeda, even as we continued our broader efforts to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat his network.
Then, last August, after years of painstaking work by our intelligence community, I was briefed on a possible lead to bin Laden.  It was far from certain, and it took many months to run this thread to ground.  I met repeatedly with my national security team as we developed more information about the possibility that we had located bin Laden hiding within a compound deep inside of Pakistan.  And finally, last week, I determined that we had enough intelligence to take action, and authorized an operation to get Osama bin Laden and bring him to justice.
Today, at my direction, the United States launched a targeted operation against that compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan.  A small team of Americans carried out the operation with extraordinary courage and capability.  No Americans were harmed.  They took care to avoid civilian casualties.  After a firefight, they killed Osama bin Laden and took custody of his body.
For over two decades, bin Laden has been al Qaeda’s leader and symbol, and has continued to plot attacks against our country and our friends and allies.  The death of bin Laden marks the most significant achievement to date in our nation’s effort to defeat al Qaeda.
Yet his death does not mark the end of our effort.  There’s no doubt that al Qaeda will continue to pursue attacks against us.  We must –- and we will — remain vigilant at home and abroad.
As we do, we must also reaffirm that the United States is not –- and never will be -– at war with Islam.  I’ve made clear, just as President Bush did shortly after 9/11, that our war is not against Islam.  Bin Laden was not a Muslim leader; he was a mass murderer of Muslims.  Indeed, al Qaeda has slaughtered scores of Muslims in many countries, including our own.  So his demise should be welcomed by all who believe in peace and human dignity.
Over the years, I’ve repeatedly made clear that we would take action within Pakistan if we knew where bin Laden was.  That is what we’ve done.  But it’s important to note that our counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan helped lead us to bin Laden and the compound where he was hiding.  Indeed, bin Laden had declared war against Pakistan as well, and ordered attacks against the Pakistani people.
Tonight, I called President Zardari, and my team has also spoken with their Pakistani counterparts.  They agree that this is a good and historic day for both of our nations.  And going forward, it is essential that Pakistan continue to join us in the fight against al Qaeda and its affiliates.
The American people did not choose this fight.  It came to our shores, and started with the senseless slaughter of our citizens.  After nearly 10 years of service, struggle, and sacrifice, we know well the costs of war.  These efforts weigh on me every time I, as Commander-in-Chief, have to sign a letter to a family that has lost a loved one, or look into the eyes of a service member who’s been gravely wounded.
So Americans understand the costs of war.  Yet as a country, we will never tolerate our security being threatened, nor stand idly by when our people have been killed.  We will be relentless in defense of our citizens and our friends and allies.  We will be true to the values that make us who we are. And on nights like this one, we can say to those families who have lost loved ones to al Qaeda’s terror:  Justice has been done.
Tonight, we give thanks to the countless intelligence and counterterrorism professionals who’ve worked tirelessly to achieve this outcome.  The American people do not see their work, nor know their names.  But tonight, they feel the satisfaction of their work and the result of their pursuit of justice.
We give thanks for the men who carried out this operation, for they exemplify the professionalism, patriotism, and unparalleled courage of those who serve our country.  And they are part of a generation that has borne the heaviest share of the burden since that September day.
Finally, let me say to the families who lost loved ones on 9/11 that we have never forgotten your loss, nor wavered in our commitment to see that we do whatever it takes to prevent another attack on our shores.
And tonight, let us think back to the sense of unity that prevailed on 9/11.  I know that it has, at times, frayed.  Yet today’s achievement is a testament to the greatness of our country and the determination of the American people.
The cause of securing our country is not complete.  But tonight, we are once again reminded that America can do whatever we set our mind to.  That is the story of our history, whether it’s the pursuit of prosperity for our people, or the struggle for equality for all our citizens; our commitment to stand up for our values abroad, and our sacrifices to make the world a safer place.
Let us remember that we can do these things not just because of wealth or power, but because of who we are:  one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Thank you.  May God bless you.  And may God bless the United States of America.
Here are some tweets from someone in Abbottabad who live-tweeted the killing without knowing it.
  1. Report from a taxi driver: The army has cordoned off the crash area and is conducting door-to-door search in the surrounding about 5 hours ago via TweetDeck
  2. naqvi I think the helicopter crash in Abbottabad, Pakistan and the President Obama breaking news address are connected. about 5 hours ago via web Retweeted by ReallyVirtual
  3.   Interesting rumors in the otherwise uneventful Abbottabad air today about 5 hours ago via TweetDeck
  4. ibi2010 1 dead and 1 injured in Abbottabad for heli crashed about 9 hours ago via Snaptu Retweeted by ReallyVirtual
  5. @raihak The day there is uninterrupted electricity in Lahore for a whole month, I will start packing my bags, until then, Abbottabad is home about 8 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to raihak
  6. And now, a plane flying over Abbottabad… about 9 hours ago via TweetDeck
  7. and now I feel I must apologize to the pilot about the swatter tweets :-/ about 9 hours ago via TweetDec
  8. terminalxpk The Major also says no “missiles” were fired and all such exaggerated reports are nothing but rumours #Pakistan about 10 hours ago via web Retweeted by ReallyVirtual
  9. terminalxpk A Major of the #Pakistan #Army‘s 19 FF, Platoon CO says incident at #Abbottabad where #helicopter crashed is accidental and not an “attack” about 10 hours ago via web Retweeted by ReallyVirtual
  10. Two helicpoters, one down, could actually be the training accident scenario they’re saying it was >> http://bit.ly/ioGE6O about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck
  11. Here’s the location of the Abbottabad crash according to some people >>> http://on.fb.me/khjf34 about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck
  12. @smedica ‘safer’ is a relative term that has lost its meaning in Pakistan about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to smedica
  13. @smedica I live near Jalal Baba Auditorium about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to smedica
  14. @smedica It must have been more, I started noticing the helicpoter when the noise got irritating – which part of Abbottabd are you in? about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to smedica
  15. @tahirakram very likely – but it was too noisy to be a spy craft, or, a very poor spy craft it was. about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck
  16. @smedica people are saying it was not a technical fault and it was shot down. I heard it CIRCLE 3-4 times above, sounded purposeful. about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to smedica
  17. @wqs figures, if they have the right to shoot planes flying over the president house, the must have the same instructions for PMA about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to wqs
  18. The abbottabad helicopter/UFO was shot down near the Bilal Town area, and there’s report of a flash. People saying it could be a drone. about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck
  19. @tahirakram they’re not saying anything about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to tahirakra
  20. @kashaziz technically, it is unidentified until identified, and it is a flying object, so year, why the hell not, we have seen weirder stuff about 10 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to kashaziz
  21. @tahirakram yea. *hides his giant swatter* about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to tahirakram
  22. @raihak yep, the mad power cuts have reached abbottabad – 14 hours daily – luckily I have a generator AND a UPS at the coffee shop about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to raihak
  23. Since taliban (probably) don’t have helicpoters, and since they’re saying it was not “ours”, so must be a complicated situation #abbottabad about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck
  24. @raihak Funny, moving to Abbottabad was part of the ‘being safe’ strategy about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to raihak
  25. @raihak I try, man, I try about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to raihak
  26. han3yy OMG :S Bomb Blasts in Abbottabad.. I hope everyone is fine :( about 11 hours ago via web Retweeted by ReallyVirtual
  27. @m0hcin the few people online at this time of the night are saying one of the copters was not Pakistani… about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to m0hcin
  28. @m0hcin http://bit.ly/ljB6p6 seems like my giant swatter worked ! about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to m0hcin
  29. @m0hcin all silent after the blast, but a friend heard it 6 km away too… the helicopter is gone too. about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck in reply to m0hcin
  30. A huge window shaking bang here in Abbottabad Cantt. I hope its not the start of something nasty :-S about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck
  31. Go away helicopter – before I take out my giant swatter :-/ about 11 hours ago via TweetDeck
  32. Helicopter hovering above Abbottabad at 1AM (is a rare event). about 12 hours ago via TweetDeck  
  33. Why are the Pakistani subjects so happy about seriously, our rulers take us through what comes after a ‘royal wedding’ every other day … 1:21 PM Apr 28th via Seesmic for Android  
  34. Abbottabad had power for 6/24 hours or so today, still waiting for the power brokers to have pity on us :-\ 1:18 PM Apr 28th via Seesmic for Android
Last night, President Obama also “killed” Trump at the White House Correspondents Dinner.

Here are the full remarks:

My fellow Americans.  (Laughter and applause.)  Mahalo!  (Laughter.)  It is wonderful to be here at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.  What a week.  (Laughter.)  As some of you heard, the state of Hawaii released my official long-form birth certificate.  (Applause.)

Hopefully this puts all doubts to rest.  But just in case there are any lingering questions, tonight I’m prepared to go a step further.  (Laughter.)  Tonight, for the first time, I am releasing my official birth video.  (Laughter.)

Now, I warn you — (laughter) — no one has seen this footage in 50 years, not even me.  But let’s take a look.

(“Secret Birth Video” plays.)  (Applause.)

Oh, well.  Back to square one.  (Laughter.)  I want to make clear to the Fox News table:  That was a joke.  (Laughter.)  That was not my real birth video.  (Laughter.)  That was a children’s cartoon.  (Laughter.)  Call Disney if you don’t believe me.  (Laughter.)  They have the original long-form version.  (Laughter.)

Anyway, it’s good to be back with so many esteemed guests.  Celebrities.  Senators.  Journalists.  Essential government employees.  (Laughter.)  Non-essential government employees.  (Laughter.)  You know who you are.  (Laughter.)

I am very much looking forward to hearing Seth Meyers tonight.  (Applause.)  He’s a young, fresh face who can do no wrong in the eyes of his fans.  Seth, enjoy it while it lasts.  (Laughter.

Yes, I think it is fair to say that when it comes to my presidency, the honeymoon is over.  (Laughter.)  For example, some people now suggest that I’m too professorial.  And I’d like to address that head-on, by assigning all of you some reading that will help you draw your own conclusions.  (Laughter.)  Others say that I’m arrogant.  But I’ve found a really great self-help tool for this:  my poll numbers.  (Laughter.)

I’ve even let down my key core constituency:  movie stars.  Just the other day, Matt Damon — I love Matt Damon, love the guy — Matt Damon said he was disappointed in my performance.  Well, Matt, I just saw “The Adjustment Bureau,” so — (laughter) — right back atcha, buddy.  (Laughter and applause.)

Of course, there’s someone who I can always count on for support: my wonderful wife Michelle.  (Applause.)  We made a terrific team at the Easter Egg Roll this week.  I’d give out bags of candy to the kids, and she’d snatch them right back out of their little hands.  (Laughter.)  Snatched them.  (Laughter.)

And where is the National Public Radio table?  (Cheering.)  You guys are still here?  (Laughter.)  That’s good.  I couldn’t remember where we landed on that.  (Laughter.)  Now, I know you were a little tense when the GOP tried to cut your funding, but personally I was looking forward to new programming like “No Things Considered” — (laughter) — or “Wait, Wait…Don’t Fund Me.”  (Laughter.)

Of course, the deficit is a serious issue.  That’s why Paul Ryan couldn’t be here tonight.  His budget has no room for laughter.  (Laughter.)

Michele Bachmann is here, though, I understand, and she is thinking about running for President, which is weird because I hear she was born in Canada.  (Laughter.)  Yes, Michele, this is how it starts.  (Laughter.)  Just letting you know.  (Laughter and applause.)

Tim Pawlenty?  He seems all American.  But have you heard his real middle name?  Tim “Hosni” Pawlenty?  (Laughter.)  What a shame.  (Laughter.)

My buddy, our outstanding ambassador, Jon Huntsman, is with us.  Now, there’s something you might not know about Jon.  He didn’t learn to speak Chinese to go there.  Oh no.  (Laughter.)  He learned English to come here.  (Laughter and applause.)

And then there’s a vicious rumor floating around that I think could really hurt Mitt Romney.  I heard he passed universal health care when he was governor of Massachusetts.  (Laughter.)  Someone should get to the bottom of that.

And I know just the guy to do it -– Donald Trump is here tonight!  (Laughter and applause.)  Now, I know that he’s taken some flak lately, but no one is happier, no one is prouder to put this birth certificate matter to rest than the Donald.  (Laughter.)  And that’s because he can finally get back to focusing on the issues that matter –- like, did we fake the moon landing?  (Laughter.)  What really happened in Roswell?  (Laughter.)  And where are Biggie and Tupac?  (Laughter and applause.)

But all kidding aside, obviously, we all know about your credentials and breadth of experience.  (Laughter.)  For example — no, seriously, just recently, in an episode of Celebrity Apprentice — (laughter) — at the steakhouse, the men’s cooking team cooking did not impress the judges from Omaha Steaks.  And there was a lot of blame to go around.  But you, Mr. Trump, recognized that the real problem was a lack of leadership.  And so ultimately, you didn’t blame Lil’ Jon or Meatloaf.  (Laughter.)  You fired Gary Busey.  (Laughter.)  And these are the kind of decisions that would keep me up at night.  (Laughter and applause.)  Well handled, sir.  (Laughter.)  Well handled.

Say what you will about Mr. Trump, he certainly would bring some change to the White House.  Let’s see what we’ve got up there.  (Laughter.)

(Screens show “Trump White House Resort and Casino.”)

So, yes, this has been quite a year in politics, but also in the movies.  Many people, for instance, were inspired by the King’s Speech.  It’s a wonderful film.  (Applause.)  Well, some of you may not know this, but there’s now a sequel in the works that touches close to home.  And because this is a Hollywood crowd, tonight I can offer a sneak peek.  So can we show the trailer, please?

(The parody trailer plays.)  (Applause.)

Coming to a theater near you.  (Applause.)

Let me close on a serious note.  We are having a good time, but as has been true for the last several years, we have incredible young men and women who are serving in uniform overseas in the most extraordinary of circumstances.  (Applause.)  And we are reminded of their courage and their valor.  (Applause.)

We also need to remember our neighbors in Alabama and across the South that have been devastated by terrible storms from last week.  (Applause.)  Michelle and I were down there yesterday, and we’ve spent a lot of time with some of the folks who have been affected.  The devastation is unimaginable and is heartbreaking and it’s going to be a long road back.  And so we need to keep those Americans in our thoughts and in our prayers.  But we also need to stand with them in the hard months and perhaps years to come.

I intend to make sure that the federal government does that.  And I’ve got faith that the journalists in this room will do their part for the people who have been affected by this disaster –- by reporting on their progress, and letting the rest of America know when they will need more help.  Those are stories that need telling.  And that’s what all of you do best, whether it’s rushing to the site of a devastating storm in Alabama, or braving danger to cover a revolution in the Middle East.

You know, in the last months, we’ve seen journalists threatened, arrested, beaten, attacked, and in some cases even killed simply for doing their best to bring us the story, to give people a voice, and to hold leaders accountable.  And through it all, we’ve seen daring men and women risk their lives for the simple idea that no one should be silenced, and everyone deserves to know the truth.

That’s what you do.  At your best that’s what journalism is.  That’s the principle that you uphold.  It is always important, but it’s especially important in times of challenge, like the moment that America and the world is facing now.

So I thank you for your service and the contributions that you make.  And I want to close by recognizing not only your service, but also to remember those that have been lost as a consequence of the extraordinary reporting that they’ve done over recent weeks.  They help, too, to defend our freedoms and allow democracy to flourish.

God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.

Other Obama speeches

My White House Correspondents Dinner tweets (in reverse chronological order):

  1. @DoTPeRiOd @izabellaspoppa #blameTrump Saturday, April 30, 2011 9:32:36 PM
  2. Just realized I wished @DoTPeRiOd happy bday & forgot about his twin @izabellaspoppa. Happy birthday, both of you! #figgityfail Saturday, April 30, 2011 9:31:31 PM

  3. Good night, funny people. I enjoyed ya. Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:57:11 PM

  4. Add: As a man RT @miriamwknc: Let’s start a Gaga birther movement. She was born in hell & no way she’s 25! Sh… (cont) http://deck.ly/~pOA5E Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:45:35 PM

  5. “Crazy Sexy Cool” (TLC / Left Eye Documentary) http://youtu.be/VPuZSDCu0HU via @GFM_FB #music Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:43:06 PM

  6. Now this is funny :-D RT @carleenbrice: Boom! RT @GottaLaff: Most people wait til AFTER, but Trump got screwed AT prom #NerdProm Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:41:42 PM

  7. RT @jstreveln: How A Birther Sees Obama’s Birth Certificate | http://t.co/UPkIXsp |#birthers #AfterBirthers #gop #fail Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:40:31 PM

  8. RT @seanpadilla RT @theferocity “Anyone who has ever struggled with poverty knows how extremely expensive it is to be poor.” – James Baldwin Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:39:18 PM

  9. —> RT @renwl Donald Trump Was Once Sued By Justice Department For Not Renting To Blacks http://t.co/qdx008v Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:38:28 PM

  10. MT @kamearachel they’ve found more dirt on #Trump in 3 weeks than they’ve been UNABLE to find on Pres Obama since he’s been in office #HMM Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:38:07 PM

  11. RT @xt04: I hope trump unexists himself tonight. Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:33:22 PM

  12. @TheDChampShow I’m intrigued. You have a link for that episode? Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:14:05 PM  in reply to TheDChampShow

  13. Obama is a #rumormongerer. I approve. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:13:06 PM

  14. Pres. Obama roasted Michelle and then looked over at her like, “You know I’m kidding, right? We good for tonight, right?” LOL #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:11:42 PM

  15. @TheDChampShow I gave up on #SNL 30 seasons ago. Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:10:42 PM  in reply to TheDChampShow

  16. @TheDChampShow Maybe I need to hear Seth’s part again, too…I was on the phone the first time. #lovingthis Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:08:46 PM  in reply to TheDChampShow

  17. Me, too. :-D #TheLyingKing RT @TheDChampShow: @Jazzzyone lol watching again! #lovingthis Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:07:36 PM

  18. RT @OTOOLEFAN: RT @CityAthena: If #Trump can’t take these jokes, how does he think he can handle being president? #WHCD #Nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:06:19 PM

  19. @aplusk Just you. Wasn’t uncomfortable enough for me. #WHCD #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:05:59 PM  in reply to aplusk

  20. @TheDChampShow Where there’s a Black man and a valet uniform, there’s a way. ;-) #whcd Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:05:09 PM  in reply to TheDChampShow

  21. @TheDChampShow Naw. I heard that one coming 2 mins. before he said it. With all of that material on Donald’s head…? Smh. Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:04:11 PM  in reply to TheDChampShow

  22. I want Rahm Emmanuel to be the entertainment at the 2012 #WHCD #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:00:28 PM

  23. Shoulda been you hosting. RT @TheDChampShow: @Jazzzyone If you like his delivery on #SNL #weekendupdate he wa… (cont) http://deck.ly/~um64u Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:58:31 PM

  24. It’s not funny to me until Donald starts crying. I could’ve handed Seth some “jokes” that would put Trump in therapy. #nomercryforracists Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:56:49 PM

  25. I don’t understand why people I think are hilarious think Seth was funny. #TwilightZone Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:54:14 PM

  26. Funnier than Seth’s Trump jokes -> RT @rhshoop727 Seth Myers should have added trumps ties that u can buy at Macy’s were made in China #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:53:45 PM

  27. Funny. RT @vdaze: Meyers: “Mr. President, if your hair gets any whiter the Tea Party will endorse it” #p2 #whcd #nerdprom via @allanbrauer Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:52:46 PM

  28. @IAmMikeRich Lawd. I quit you. That wasn’t funny. You are funnier than 3 Seth Meyers. Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:51:48 PM  in reply to IAmMikeRich

  29. @IAmMikeRich What one joke that Seth told was funny? Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:51:09 PM  in reply to IAmMikeRich

  30. @TheDChampShow :-D Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:49:10 PM  in reply to TheDChampShow

  31. Better timing than the pro. MT @washingtonpost: WATCH: President Obama’s speech at the #WHCD http://wapo.st/kykvkr Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:47:58 PM

  32. President Obama is better than me. Donald would’ve been overhearing my jokes from the parking lot. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:43:16 PM

  33. Should the media be congratulating themselves like this? Didn’t we just roast them for their support of birtherism? #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:41:03 PM

  34. Wow, Obama’s nodding whimsically at Seth’s “too idealistic”…Annnnd I finally laughed: “Now you look like Louis Gossett Sr.” #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:36:02 PM

  35. RT @ndcollier: @Jazzzyone Have you laughed yet? I mean, after President Obama sat down. <=only a chuckle or two Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:34:50 PM

  36. RT @TheDChampShow: @Jazzzyone lots of “heh, I get it.” smiling… Much like most of #SNL Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:34:33 PM

  37. @wyze43 Did all of that rest zap your wit? :-D Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:32:26 PM  in reply to wyze43

  38. You laugh at everything, Mikey Smiley. RT @IAmMikeRich: @Jazzzyone i did a lil bit Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:31:29 PM

  39. Have you laughed yet? I mean, after President Obama sat down. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:30:54 PM

  40. *waving* RT @TheDChampShow: Shoutout from the handful of people watching!!! #CSPAN #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:29:27 PM

  41. @wyze43 Whew. I know’d you were quick. Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:28:05 PM  in reply to wyze43

  42. Wanda Sykes is somewhere wondering why she isn’t on SNL. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:27:12 PM

  43. @IAmMikeRich He loves you back. Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:26:45 PM  in reply to IAmMikeRich

  44. Get this dude #offofmyteevee. A Comedy Central roast of Pres. Obama would be funnier. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:26:09 PM

  45. Yes, that’s why I…Is this thing on? *tapping mic* RT @wyze43: @Jazzzyone they say the same about us. Lol Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:25:11 PM

  46. Seth Meyers. Jimmy Fallon. All of these “hip” white comedians look alike to me. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:22:27 PM

  47. @DeLaProse See also @RandomAstrology Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:21:32 PM  in reply to DeLaProse

  48. I wish Chris Rock was the entertainment. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:21:04 PM

  49. whitehouse

    President Obama just presented a parody movie trailer @ the #WHCD Enjoy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=508aCh2eVOI Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:13:01 PMvia web Retweeted by you

  50. Ha. I knew it. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:16:32 PM

  51. I wanna see “The President’s Speech”. :-D #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:14:56 PM

  52. People are sucking up to Donald Trump at #nerdprom #WHCD: http://plixi.com/p/97559359 via @ktumulty Saturday, April 30, 2011 7:03:57 PM

  53. @sherisaid Yes, especially if by “remarkable”, you mean “enviable”. *bicep curls with a box of donuts* Saturday, April 30, 2011 6:19:13 PM  in reply to sherisaid

  54. C-SPAN’s archives: “Looking for friendly faces…Where are the 36% who like me?” – Fake Bush from 2006 #WHCD #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 6:10:55 PM

  55. While we’re waiting for the main entree, check out FLOTUS’ Q&A w/ kids on 4/28/11: http://bit.ly/lpZYqH #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 6:07:07 PM

  56. FLOTUS looks gorgeous. In other news, I’ll be having some bicep curls for dinner. #nerdprom #WHCD Saturday, April 30, 2011 6:00:19 PM

  57. RT @whuddafugger What is Donald Trump eating? Crow? #WHCD #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:54:13 PM

  58. The Jazzzy One’s Daily is out! http://bit.ly/aSMN2P ▸ Top stories today via @gradle @imollyhaze @oaklandbeat Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:43:50 PM via Paper.li

  59. @TheDChampShow @fureousangel :-X Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:37:48 PM  in reply to TheDChampShow

  60. @beautifulcurare No. Like Morris Chestnutt, Allen Payne discovered the electric shaver in the early 00s. Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:36:49 PM  in reply to beautifulcurare

  61. Dear Seth Meyers: Sarah Palin is there?! Oh pretty, pretty please let her be the subject of 99.99% of your jokes. #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:34:56 PM

  62. Spotted: fake boobs and the pretty dude from #GossipGirl. On C-Span? *double-checking channel* #nerdprom Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:32:20 PM

  63. @TheDChampShow *whispering* Obama Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:27:58 PM via Mobile Web in reply to TheDChampShow

  64. @thesselonious Lol! Don’t tell me you would turn away that pretty pussy…cat. Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:27:14 PM via Mobile Web in reply to thesselonious

  65. #nerdbomb RT @cnnbrk Official: Gadhafi and wife were in son’s house when it was targeted by airstrike http://t.co/NU5ytSI Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:25:44 PM

  66. @BrentLauren Thanks. She kinda reminds me of you: colorful. :) Where’s @MsQuitaChantel ? Ain’t seen her in a minute. 5:22 PM Apr 30th via Mobile Web in reply to BrentLauren

  67. TheDChampShow

    @Jazzzyone *takes off contacts, pushes up glasses* #nerdprom 5:20 PM Apr 30th via Echofon in reply to JazzzyoneRetweeted by you

  68. *handing you a corsage & pocket protector to match my burgundy dress* #nerdprom RT @TheDChampShow @Jazzzyone Me, too! 5:18 PM Apr 30th

  69. Watching #nerdprom, the reason I created this Twitter account 27 full moons ago. 5:15 PM Apr 30th

In Case You Missed It: About President Obama’s Birth Statement & the Racist Media

April 27, 2011 Leave a comment

This morning, I woke up to a sight for sore eyes: the people on my Twitter timeline were enraged at the media circus for facilitating “birtherism” to the point that President Obama had to address it in a press conference (after his Kenyan family addressed it two weeks ago).

Finally! The people’s misdirected anger has turned in the correct direction! For two years, I have consistently used Twitter and my blogs as platforms to write about my disgust for the media and for certain segments of the general population that continuously prop them up by loyally discussing and sharing their ridiculous talking points across social networking sites.

Thankfully, my timeline this morning made (almost) all of my points for me today. Because there were so many good tweets, I’m collecting them here to avoid sending a heavy stream of retweets down my timeline.


(Note:
The tweets are in reverse chronological order. Mixed in are some tweets that I don’t necessarily agree with but they show the mood of people and the different viewpoints that will lead to my conclusions later. And they are all relevant.)

»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

@giiilbeaux Donald Trump, on the other hand, isn’t good @ whatever the fuck it is that he does.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

@giiilbeaux Erykah Badu and Bun B are actually good musicians. It makes sense that people would be interested in them lol.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

Now you know where I officially stand on this issue. Don’t get mad @ me when I take action on my stance.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

But we make them rich and famous by scrutinizing their every stupid, callous move.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

They aren’t good people; they’re not good @ what they do, if they do anything @ all; and they’re only interesting when they fuck up.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

Every time you watch a reality TV show, ask yourself, “Why do I care about these people?,” and be honest with yourself.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

Y’all keep watching this shit and gassing people’s heads up to think they matter enough to sway Presidential elections.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

This isn’t me being an elitist intellectual snob. DONALD TRUMP SHOULD NOT BE FAMOUS. PERIOD. And our President just addressed him.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

Before last year, the only person I’d EVER heard mention Donald Trump was my dad, back when I lived in Brooklyn & Ivana divorced him.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

Now meta-celebrity culture is directly influencing political discourse. Donald Trump should still be a 1980s New York relic.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

You already know my extreme distaste for reality TV and meta-celebrity culture.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

If you live-tweet another episode of “Celebrity Apprentice,” don’t take it personally if I unfollow you.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

My timeline is full of retweets @ the moment because I can’t find the right words to verbalize my anger.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

RT @HTown_Rock: RT @KTRULocalShow: Oh and also, Jandek is playing live in the studio right now. http://ktru.org/on-the-air/listen-now
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

(How appropriate lol) RT @25thcenturygirl: listening to Syl Johnson’s ‘Is it because I’m Black’ album.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

@aliceinthewater I actually reminded a friend earlier this morning that this is the 2nd time Obama has released his birth certificate.
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

@KingJereremy I’m glad that you’re @ least physically OK. I’ve been hearing about a lot of fatal bike/car collisions lately :-(
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

MT @sickjew: While u’re looking for people’s birth certificates, I’ll be looking for a job. Some of us have to work for a living. #p2 #tcot
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

(Good to know lol.) RT @Scubydoobie: Men are sexiest when they’re just being themselves & handling their responsibilities and priorities
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

RT @shawnwood: I wish president Obama would use “Born in the U.S.A.” for his 2012 campaign theme song. That would be funny.
»
»
Sean P of C.Spaniels

seanpadillaSean P of C.Spaniels

For the record, I’ve never seen a single second of “The Apprentice,” and I don’t plan to.
»
Zerlina Maxwell

ZerlinaMaxwellZerlina Maxwell

by muhajabah
I love how the left is mad he released the birth certificate but most of u never called the birthers out this whole time #uhavenocredibility
»
Marc Ambinder

marcambinderMarc Ambinder

by muhajabah
Nine ISAF soldiers were killed in Afghanistan this morning, btw. Hate to say “btw,” but the news ain’t coverin the national security news
»
Laura
RE http://bit.ly/k6iu4c I regularly get asked where I’m “really” from & I’m white as can be. But apparently my hijab isn’t “American”.

»

Laura
Republicans regroup on Medicare, budget plan http://reut.rs/g7ZtJm // good job, citizens who’ve been giving them heat #proud
»
Laura

muhajabahLaura

@janieo Yeah, I’m not joking about this either. I don’t have time for that crap.
»
Laura
I don’t blame POTUS for doing what he felt he had to in order to try to move things forward. I only blame & hate those that made him have to
»
Laura
I have rarely been so ashamed and humiliated by my own fellow countrymen as I was watching the circus yesterday. We’re doomed.
»
Laura
And then yesterday, the same ppl went right on to tittering on air about whether a magna cum laude grad of Harvard Law is “qualified”
»
Laura
I don’t want to hear a single word against POTUS; he tried ignoring it for a month, not a damn person stood up and said “Stop” #birthers
»
Laura
‘We do not have time for this kind of silliness’ http://bit.ly/fEpE8b // once again POTUS was forced to be the adult cuz no one else is
Jazzzy One

JazzzyoneJazzzy One

by muhajabah
63% of all voters: won’t vote for Trump as POTUS; 50% said he’d make a “terrible” POTUS; 99% news shows: Trump is a great guest!
»
komonews.com

komonewskomonews.com

by muhajabah
Feds investigate sex bias complaints at Wash. state schools – http://bit.ly/fPWy3A
»
Lisa

mardigrasNOLALisa

by muhajabah
We, white people, still have to stay vigilant regarding racism and confront it where we find, even if it’s in ourselves
»
Joy Reid

TheReidReportJoy Reid

by muhajabah
Constantly being asked to prove your intelligence, loyalty, patriotism and “Americanness”… #blacktaxes
»
allanbrauer

allanbrauerallanbrauer

by muhajabah
BooMan speaks wisdom: The Dems Are Holding Our Lifeline boomantribune.com/story/2011/4/2…
»
Laura
The professional left thepeoplesview.net/2011/04/profes… by @rootless_e // tweeting this again because it’s just that good

»

Jeremy Jewitt

jeremyiswearyJeremy Jewitt

by muhajabah
Here’s why Barbour won’t run: He wouldn’t be able to win. #endofstory #next
»
Laura

muhajabahLaura

@vcthree online friends can sometimes be more “true” than people you know in person, if they care enough
»
Laura
Will somebody PLEASE shut this man up? Now. What racist trope is next? #facepalm http://bit.ly/gUIixx
»
Laura
@KnorthernKnight @janieo it’s great for ppl you really want to follow but they get a little carried away with RT-ing :D

BWD theonlyadult

  We’ve got your back too, Mr. President. We love you http://wp.me/p1cRdS-1Il 4 minutes ago

After watching his press conference this morning I must say…With all due respect…. FUCK DONALD TRUMP 7 minutes ago

  TIME.com TIME

Congratulations, America. Donald Trump is the boss of you | http://ti.me/ht2GT9 11 minutes ago

Erik with a K ThatguyEdub

RT @Wersching: RT @TVDoneWright: President Palmer apparently approves of President Obama ‘s birth-certificate … http://tmi.me/9qQtK 14 minutes ago

Paul Porter IndustryEars

  If you voted for Obama in 08 to prove you were not a racist… In 2012 you have to vote Obama to prove you’re not an idiot. 17 minutes ago

Patrice Thompson CosmicLifeCoach

  Patricia’s Astrology April 27: “Venus square Pluto, Sun trine Pluto” http://tinyurl.com/ydfykxf #Astrology #Obama #Bernanke 18 minutes ago

Vernon Mitchell, Jr. Negrointellect 

Never before in US History has one president had to continually prove, demonstrate, etc., his citizenship, race, & loyalty to the nation. 19 minutes ago

Amanu Kaiju Amanojahku

  Fuck a birth certificate! Fix this budget bullshit , the school bullshit, the health care bullshit and bring our people home from these wars 21 minutes ago

Toni Braxton tonibraxton

  Oh how I admired Donald Trump… What a waste! 23 minutes ago
»
Toni Braxton
tonibraxtonToni Braxton
However now I’m starting to view Donald Trump as an arrogant, racist, pompous, facetious individual.
»
Toni Braxton
tonibraxtonToni Braxton
I’ve always looked at Trump as an intelligent, smart, imminent, and kind of sexy (in an Elvis sort of way) guy.
[Jara's note: Really, Toni? Because I sure as hell didn't and don't.]
»
Leanne
If you’re a media hack, just STFU today. Don’t even start with the “how did it come to this?” BULLSHIT, okay?
»
Anya M
anyaeliseAnya M
i’m kind of disappointed that pres. obama gave in to the lunatics.
»
Street Senators
StreetSenatorsStreet Senators
RT this if you pledge not to watch Celeb Apprentice anymore. Stop supporting foolishness & bigotry. Can u do it?
»
MissLavadaRach
MissLavadaRachMissLavadaRach
RT @mars_jones #pleaseshutupif everything you talk about is depressing… We ain’t trying to hear that shit!! #word
»
Media Matters
mmfaMedia Matters
Wash. Times’ Kuhner: Obama Has “Black Nationalist Sympathies” http://mm4a.org/glIt19 #p2
»
TIME.com
TIMETIME.com
President Obama releases his birth certificate “We do not have time for this kind of silliness” | http://ti.me/hNfzMf (via @TIMEPolitics)
»
»
The Toast
TheToast2012The Toast
I remember the Clinton campaign releasing the Obama turban photo and snickering over “his native dress”. It was a member of the CBC at that
»
The Toast
TheToast2012The Toast
I hope Democrats don’t pat themselves on the back for birther issue, the Clinton campaign is the one who released photo of Obama in turban
»
Cord
Just to clarify: We live in a world in which reality TV slobs get to hijack the President, for racist kicks/ratings boosts. Fuck everything.
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W.E.E. See You...

WEESeeYouW.E.E. See You…

@lovelyladypa @TheToast2012 @joanwalsh Walsh is also the one who defended Harriet Christian who called POTUS an “inadequate black male”
»
Stan Scates
stanscatesStan Scates
RT @lawrence: NBC has created a monster and its name is Donald Trump. //LOL All US media played a part in the #MediaFail on #Birther story
»
The Toast
TheToast2012The Toast
Oh, I see @joanwalsh is concern trolling over Obama’s BC. Where was the concern when she let Paglia spread birther meme in Salon?
»
Brian Sinai
EthanRayneBrian Sinai
Now that the “Birthers” have been silenced, the “Combers” are out to get to the truth about Donald Trump’s hair.. #POTUS
»
leon kemp
wyze43leon kemp
I’m so weak at this one RT “@MissZindzi: X_X RT @PaulyPeligroso: Aug. 4, 1961 isn’t even a real day.”
»
CNN Breaking News
cnnbrkCNN Breaking News
Rep. #Giffords believed on way to witness husband’s space shuttle launch. http://on.cnn.com/ify3t2
»

President Palmer apparently approves of President Obama ‘s birth-certificate release. #24 http://yfrog.com/h24w3saj

»
ASW
New “Long Form Shirtificate of Live Birth” available at http://j.mp/eIrdZy: http://twitpic.com/4q5rvs #Obama2012 #TeamFuckYeah #p2 #tfy
»
W.E.E. See You...
WEESeeYouW.E.E. See You…
Look at @edhenrycnn gloat about doing the bidding of racists: http://twitter.com/#!/edhenrycnn/status/63235404408688641
»
The One
Is Donald Trump happy now? What’s next, his colonoscopy results? Old fuck…
»
Taraji P. Henson
TherealTarajiTaraji P. Henson
Donald Trump you’ve just been TRUMPED!!! Now #SATDOWN please and thank you kindly. I’m done. Good day mates (in my aussie accent)
»
W.E.E. See You...
WEESeeYouW.E.E. See You…
Some of the ones tweeting abt how it’s so “sad” that PBO had 2 give a stmt on his birth cert. work 4 the cable networks that pushed the lie
»
Melissa Harris-Perry
MHarrisPerryMelissa Harris-Perry
Did anyone secretly wish he was born in Kenya, served 8yrs, then left saying “Kenya runs this sucka like the Boston marathon!” #justasking
[Jara's Note: I'm sure this is hilarious to you.]
Meanwhile…
@jazzzyone RT @WEESeeYou To those who said Obama shld return Nobel Peace Prize, shld Desmond Tutu return his too? http://bit.ly/ekACOf (h/t @jazzzyone)

»
James Poniewozik
poniewozikJames Poniewozik
New post: Congratulations, America, Donald Trump Is the Boss of You. http://ti.me/ebeoyJ
»
Gail Leach
PnthrgrlgailGail Leach
This is a low point in the history that our President has to release his birth certificate because our media gives platforms to RACISTS.
»
Hovain Hylton
HovainHovain Hylton
Even with a blk president how far have we come as a people? When the president gotta show his paper work like he a slave with freedom papers
»
Monty Jey
WhoIsMoJeyMonty Jey
I TOTALLY agree with this! RT @Rhonnybay What Trump is smart about is how dumb media and the American peopl… (cont) http://deck.ly/~Lp4a0
»
TVDoneWright  (Adam)
TVDoneWrightTVDoneWright (Adam)
President Palmer apparently approves of President Obama ‘s birth-certificate release. #24 http://yfrog.com/h24w3saj
»
Simmons
People too weak to follow their own dreams, Will always find a way to discourage yours
»
Supreme Court USA
US_SupremeCourtSupreme Court USA
Bad Arguments: The Roberts Court & Religious Schools http://sns.mx/vhcSy7
»
Don Millard
OTOOLEFANDon Millard
Asshole Shrugged. RT @thinkprogress: BACKLASH: Paul Ryan abruptly leaves town hall to avoid senior citizen protesters http://thkpr.gs/hPBLZi
»
Astrology Blogs
astrologyblogAstrology Blogs
By @jdem759: The Essence for 27 April 2011: Testing the Waters of Change, Testing Boundaries http://ow.ly/1cmsDs

MY TWO CENTS
1. It’s nice to see most of my timeline on the same page here, but I’m disappointed that some of them have forgotten about the paid trolls who dutifully criticize President Obama’s credentials when they haven’t achieved even .0456% of what he has with their white “liberal” besties…until it’s time to support him again. Or the people who now have President Obama’s back because they can clearly see and understand the racist attacks against him. That is, until their favorite Black Spokesperson decides to revoke Obama’s Black Card again and he’s retweeted like mad – by the same people who decry the nonsense once it escalates to a President having to validate himself like a slave who dares to walk away from the plantation.
2. When will people learn to ignore crazy? Until we kick our national addiction to all of the circus acts, we are perpetuating the memes that the President has to eventually address. It’s not just the media’s fault. Yes, the cable news viewership is way down, but media personalities’ and blogger-whores’ popularity on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter is way up.
They are literally paid to keep certain talking points in discussion rotation, so those lunch breaks that you spend reading, discussing and sharing their tweets makes you an accomplice in the nonsense.
3. We do have control over what we pay attention to, so are we willing to count up the costs of our attention? Every time you repeat a stupid talking point, you are contributing to the messy political theater public discourse which President Obama has to take time away from his busy, do-something schedule of helping you to address. So choose your spoken/written concerns wisely.
If you’re unhappy about how the corporate media is indulging racists by choosing to focus on non-issues instead of discussing the news that you care about, then you can do at least one of the following three things to help:


1. Contact them about their programming:

Network/Cable Television

ABC News
147 Columbus Ave., New York, NY 10023
Phone: 212-456-7777

General e-mail: netaudr@abc.com
Nightline: nightline@abcnews.com
20/20: 2020@abc.com

CBS News
524 W. 57 St., New York, NY 10019
Phone: 212-975-4321
Fax: 212-975-1893

Email forms for all CBS news programs
CBS Evening News: evening@cbsnews.com
The Early Show: earlyshow@cbs.com
60 Minutes II: 60m@cbsnews.com
48 Hours: 48hours@cbsnews.com
Face The Nation: ftn@cbsnews.com

CNBC
900 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Phone: (201) 735-2622
Fax: (201) 583-5453
Email: info@cnbc.com

CNN
One CNN Center, Box 105366, Atlanta, GA 30303-5366
Phone: 404-827-1500
Fax: 404-827-1784
Email forms for all CNN news programs

Fox News Channel 1211 Ave. of the Americas, New York, NY 10036 Phone: (212) 301-3000 Fax: (212) 301-4229 comments@foxnews.comList of Email addresses for all Fox News Channel programs
Special Report with Bret Baier: Special@foxnews.com
FOX Report with Shepard Smith: Foxreport@foxnews.com
The O’Reilly Factor: Oreilly@foxnews.com
Hannity: Hannity@foxnews.com,
On the Record with Greta: Ontherecord@foxnews.com
Glenn Beck: GlennBeck@foxnews.com

MSNBC/NBC30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112 Phone: (212) 664-4444 Fax: (212) 664-4426List of Email addresses for all MSNBC/NBC news programs
Dateline NBC: dateline@nbcuni.com
Hardball with Chris Matthews: hardball@msnbc.com
MSNBC Reports with Joe Scarborough: joe@msnbc.com
NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams: nightly@nbc.com
NBC News Today: today@nbc.com

PBS2100 Crystal Drive, Arlington VA 22202 Phone: 703-739-5000 Fax: 703-739-5777The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer: newshour@pbs.org


National Radio Programs

National Public Radio
635 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001-3753
Phone: 202-513-2000
Fax: 202-513-3329

E-mail: Alicia Shephard, Ombudsman ombudsman@npr.org
List of Email addresses for all NPR news programs

The Rush Limbaugh Show 1270 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020 Phone (on air): 800-282-2882 Fax: 212-445-3963 E-mail: ElRushbo@eibnet.comSean Hannity ShowPhone (on air): 800-941-7326 Sean Hannity:212-613-3800 James Grisham, Producer: 212-613-3832E-mail: Phil Boyce, Program Director phil.boyce@citcomm.com


National Newspapers

The Los Angeles Times
202 West First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: 800-528-4637 or 213-237-5000
Fax: 213-237-4712

L.A. Times Contact Information by Department
Letters to the Editor: letters@latimes.com
Readers’ Representative: readers.rep@latimes.com
The New York Times
620 8th Ave., New York, NY 10018
Phone: 212-556-1234
D.C. Bureau phone: 202-862-0300
Fax: 212-556-3690

Letters to the Editor (for publication): letters@nytimes.com
Write to the news editors: news-tips@nytimes.com
Corrections: senioreditor@nytimes.com
New York Times Contact Information by Department
How to Contact New York Times Reporters and Editors

USA Today7950 Jones Branch Dr., McLean, VA 22108 Phone: 703-854-3400 Fax: 703-854-2078Letters to the Editor: editor@usatoday.com
Give feedback to USA Today
The Wall Street Journal
1211 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036
Phone: 212-416-2000
Fax: 212-416-2658

Letters to the Editor: wsj.ltrs@wsj.com
Comment on News Articles: wsjcontact@dowjones.com
The Washington Post
1150 15th St., NW, Washington, DC 20071
Phone: 202-334-6000
Fax: 202-334-5075

Letters to the Editor: letters@washpost.com
Ombudsman: ombudsman@washpost.com
Contact Washington Post Writers and Editors


Magazines

Newsweek
251 W 57th Street, New York, NY 10019
Phone: 212-445-4000
Fax: 212-445-5068

Letters to the Editor: letters@newsweek.com
Time
Time & Life Bldg., Rockefeller Center, 1271 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
Phone: 212-522-1212
Fax: 212-522-0003

Letters to the Editor letters@time.com
U.S. News & World Report
1050 Thomas Jefferson St., NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202-955-2000
Fax: 202-955-2049

Letters to the Editor letters@usnews.com


News Services / Wires

Associated Press
450 West 33rd St., New York, NY 10001
Phone: 212-621-1500
Fax: 212-621-1723

General Questions and Comments: info@ap.org
Partial Contact Information for the Associated Press by Department and Bureau

ReutersThree Times Square, New York, NY 10036 Telephone: 646-223-4000Reuters Editorial Feedback

United Press International1133 19th Street, NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036 Telephone: 202-898-8000 FAX: 202-898-8048 Comments and Tips: tips@upi.com

Source

2. Stop helping to spread the nonsense.

3. Share this post.

UPDATE 4/25/2011: What Does “Purple Rain” Mean? And Prince Live!

April 21, 2011 Leave a comment

I have been an uber-Prince fan since my dad took me to see Purple Rain in the theater (yes, I’m that old). There are so many memories involved with that day. My dad suffered from delusions of Superfly-ness and bought a turquoise Cadillac. One of my first celebrity crushes was jump-started. And more.

25+ years later, we’re still trying to figure out what “Purple Rain” means…

Read more…

Reflections: Art, Critical Thought and Education

March 25, 2011 Leave a comment

“Knowledge is to know the dots; wisdom is to join them.” – Aine Belton

I’ve met many people in my life.  I’m thankful for the ones who are unforgettable because of the wisdom that they share with me, the kind of wisdom that takes on new meanings as I have more experiences. The following are excerpts from conversations with Retrospect360 between March 21-24, 2011. Reprinted (still in “Twitter shorthand”) with permission.

Retrospect360: True art can only be compared against itself – a piece of art from one artist can, in my opinion, only be compared effectively to other pieces in that artists body of work- is there growth, is there motive, is there purpose behind the techniques used? These questions are not answered by comparing to other artists / canons- they can only be answered by the the artist themselves- or patterns found in the work each individual produces- in relation to themselves. Anything else is educated guessing – which is quite fun- I do it all the time- but I’m careful not to think of that in terms of ‘value’ or ‘not of value’ – art critics miss this point all the time- they get paid to ‘de value’ things. In my opinion, the only unsuccessful art is art void of motive. but 99% of all art has motive behind it- understanding that motive for each piece is the challenge. Even artist who say ‘they have no motive’ for a piece actually do- we are just challenged to figure it out. (fin)

(re:stated intentions) artist who say ‘they have no motive’ for a piece actually do- we are just challenged to figure it out. -art major is about exploring your motives- then expressing them effectively through work AND the written word- and thats also -art major is about exploring your motives- then expressing them effectively through work AND the written word- and thats also the problem- too many artists don’t value writing enough. Artists need to express their motives in writing. The problem- too many artists don’t value writing enough. Artists need to express their motives in writing. To add- artists really need to see themselves as scholars, they need to be, the critics are.

Science, philosophy, politics, even mathematics -one of the arenas of exchange for all of these is ‘many written journals’ published meant to be read by the constituents of each. Art is no different.

Me: [I asked about Leonardo da Vinci's written legacy.]

Oh yes, Leonardo (da Vinci) was an artist , a scientist, and much more ( supporting my point further: artist as scholar ) he wrote a lot about his scientific theories& abt his art- he was also a philosopher-so he mastered the written word concerning his art. The more one is willing to learn about anything and everything- the more they have to say abt the world / observations / human – experience, and the better artists they become.

Re: artists and writing- even if an artist never has to defend themselves in the arena of written thought – being able to write about their work promotes self exploration of their own theories, motives, feelings- imho knowing self stimulates excellent art. …. and at the very least- most artists in their lives, at some point in these days, will be asked to write a bio and a mission statement’ about their body of work, show, or overall vision- even as it changes and evolves (which it should).

(Re:translate/articulate why): Thank you very much for that. It comes from valuing words as highly as I value pencils & brushes. Interesting comments regarding benchmarking and the critique process. I confess that I am unfamiliar with the term benchmarking and have tried to read up on the concept. I haven’t had long to do that so it isn’t one I fully grasp yet. But once I think I have some footing I’ll likely revisit the topic with you abt it’s connection with critique. It’s a connection I’d like to understand more. Hmm, I think I understand the connection btwn bench marking & critique in regards to art. If best practices of other were not important – then no one would have ‘mentors’ or others who’s work they admire would they? :) As usual it seems that the best critique, as in most things, is truly a balance.

Me: You understand the concept of benchmarking if I apply it to art. Bc you helped me see how critics do it wrong. What have you found so far? Here’s some short basics: http://bit.ly/f3plNj It’s using pts for comparison of progress.A lot of people will weight pts. incorrectly. Or use comparisons that are irrelevant to what needs to be measured. Etc.

Retrospect360: Ah, I think I understanding benchmarking a little more – if I’m not mistaken, as a type of recorded progression – seeing & recognizing the growth and progress of each individual artists vision- taking that into account unto themselves instead of writing them off in in comparison to other genres / artists. I suppose where the dynamics outside the artist’s vision come into play is when their mentors & known influences outside of themselves are considered in the critique. But , too many recognize those ‘influences/inspirations’ as direct source of comparison and value placement which is imo a mistake often made. YES! In thinking on this I figured out what the 1% of VALUELESS art is! It’s intellectual thievery – pure imitation without the goal of study, commentary, or parody for personal gain.

(Re:Benchmarking) Wikipedia provides this info I read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benchmarking

(Re:Mentors as factors) It depends on the pov of the critic. Factoring mentor influences is inevitable- but the spin a critic takes w/ it is key. It was easy for many instructors in college two write off my work with their words- half of them did & half didn’t. But comparisons to other artists & mentors/influences are always made. But it’s as you just brilliantly stated, most points of reference towards value make no sense in regard to the artists vision, or are not relevant to the individual artists vision. It’s a round about way via words to say – that particular vision is somehow ‘not worthy’ of understanding. Critics do that all the time to dismiss what they do not understand. (correction) * easy for instructors in college ‘to’ write off my work with their words. This is mainly why I take all things critics say esp in review of film, art, & books w/ a grain of salt- esp paid critics.I’ll see 4 myself.

(Re Education-Buried treasure) You’re so right about this. Ok- our education system is flat- that’s true- ok we see that-I don’t deny it. (Video is right) – and yet somehow- thousands of critical thinkers are produced from that system-and get “fed” more of what they crave – when they go to college. Why- because they cared! They wanted to be better than what they are today- and were not afraid of the work it takes to get there. I’ve been on both ends of the educational extremes. I’ve been both a near hopeless child who could barely read to a – college bound high achieving accelerated advanced student. Most of that drive to achieve that came from within myself – thank God I had – a handful of excellent teachers to aid me in that mission- but If I didn’t want it- I couldn’t get it. Too many ppl are mentally lazy & – don’t value the repeated, lifelong, but gradual fruits of study. Ppl are addicted to the quick payoff and education is not that. The true tragedy is that ppl who have no desire to excel and tap into the “buried treasure” that would make them excellent in school – can’t pass that desire to their children, one can’t pass down to the next generation what one doesn’t value, so you have whole new generations of kids who don’t value education , studying hard, and becoming college bound b/c their parents didn’t. I’ve seen it too much in my life for it not to be true. And between the video being true, your point about people who find learning boring and wont engage , and the neglect of their -parents to teach the the value of focus , learning, study and achievement – combine all of those- and the failure is complete.

Me: *nods* and I thought I found a haven from all of that here, where I assumed curious people congregate. Curious, yes. Learners, no. Excellent teachers are buried treasures at this point. Are we graduating from college as critical thinkers or more indoctrinated?

Retrospect360: (Re:Curious yes, Learners, no) That is a very relevant and excellent distinction. One can become the other- but they have to desire it AND -be open minded enough to stop talking for a minute and listen -take in new (and possibly conflicting) ideas. Both traits together are rare.

(Re:graduating from college critical thinkers or more indoctrinated)That depends on the student- and if they are clairvoyant enough to take in knowledge from different (sources/courses/P.O.V.s) extract what’s useful,relevant, accurate,valuable & keep the BS in proper perspective.

Me: *ding!* But where are they supposed to learn how to develop clairvoyance to do this? College is “higher learning”. Elem & HS doesnt prep.

Retrospect360: Very good point. High Schools do not prepare students for college. Though I adore higher education- there is very much a “sink or swim” attitude about that system. Where do the students develop their clairvoyance? Two sources I can think of:1) Experience via never giving up. Pure concentrated determination through the trial and error process of failure and success. 2) Mentors (If their parents are not academically inclined to provide that type of support.) That’s where the beauty & value of having mentors comes in. But generally mentors won’t fall into their lap.Students have to have the moxi to seek out mentors who they can sense will understand their general P.O.V. on subjects studied- these mentors can be other instructors, teaching assistance, professionals in their field of study-etc. Mentors are the “unofficial” solution to the “academic shock” of higher education. The problem is that many students lack the positive self esteem, confidence, & serious mindedness to seek out and benefit from mentor relationships by hitting those “office hours” every week just to connect- and internalizing that “optional reading” assignment so that a mentor can take them seriously in a reciprocal connection of dialogue & idea exchange. Mentors who overlook these shortcomings because they see potential in someone are can be almost like saints. The problem is that in this country we call that “going the extra mile”, in other countries I think it’s just expected.

________________________________________________________________________________________

I wish I had known at 20 what I know now. I had teachers that wanted to mentor me but I didn’t recognize the worth in maintaining those relationships. They gave me references for jobs and then we lost touch. Okay, I didn’t bother to keep in touch. But now? I’m working on recognizing the value of my relationships with certain people and treasure them in the same way that I would a lovely piece of art. Both stretch my mind, remind me of the beauty in a world full of ugliness and add immeasurable value to my life.

If you enjoy art, check out Retrospect360′s website which features his growing Internal Hero comic universe. Follow him on Twitter for more insights into an artist’s creative process and life in general. You won’t regret it.

The video that sparked our conversation: “Changing Education Paradigms”

Insightful look into how our current educational system educates the creativity out of us and some suggestions about how to fix this problem by altering how we teach future generations.

Are you well-versed in comment etiquette? (via WordPress.com News)

February 21, 2011 Leave a comment

Everything I’ve been meaning to write but was too busy blogging to articulate.

Are you well-versed in comment etiquette? Which comment would you rather receive? "Great post! Check out my blog at someblog.wordpress.com." or "Well said! I know exactly what you mean about X, and I'm glad that I'm not the only one who thinks so. I would even say that A, B, C! Your candor is greatly appreciated." The second one, of course. Why? For one thing, it follows the etiquette guidelines below. But even more importantly, it was written with the intent to forge a relationship, not … Read More

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Categories: Random

Social Experiment: People’s Priorities & Perception of Beauty

January 20, 2011 2 comments

I’ll let you in on one of my secrets: I absolutely adore social experiments.

Because I relocated so much during my childhood, I had plenty of opportunities to become a mad sociologist, and I utilized most of them. As an adult, I thoroughly enjoyed my psychology and sociology classes because of the experiments that we ran, studied and unwittingly became a part of…

The great thing about social experiments is that they reveal the difference between how people think/believe/claim they would act in a situation and how they actually act. I still conduct social experiments and keep most of my findings to myself, but they are often the foundational basis for conclusions that I share later (for work, entertainment and learning purposes).

Would you find this clam beautiful if you didn't know it housed a pearl?

I’m quite fascinated with the subjects of perception vs. reality and what people find beautiful and socially acceptable. I have noticed in my own tests how often people ignore gems that I know they would enjoy or benefit from because of preoccupation with controversy, self-absorption, not valuing anything that doesn’t have a buzz or witty hype introduction attached to it, etc. So I was delighted to see someone attempt to answer the following question:

Will one of the nation’s greatest violinists be noticed in a D.C. Metro stop during rush hour?

Read on to find out the answer…

On that Friday in January, those private questions would be answered in an unusually public way. No one knew it, but the fiddler standing against a bare wall outside the Metro in an indoor arcade at the top of the escalators was one of the finest classical musicians in the world, playing some of the most elegant music ever written on one of the most valuable violins ever made. His performance was arranged by The Washington Post as an experiment in context, perception and priorities — as well as an unblinking assessment of public taste: In a banal setting at an inconvenient time, would beauty transcend?

The musician did not play popular tunes whose familiarity alone might have drawn interest. That was not the test. These were masterpieces that have endured for centuries on their brilliance alone, soaring music befitting the grandeur of cathedrals and concert halls.

Leonard Slatkin, music director of the National Symphony Orchestra, was asked the same question. What did he think would occur, hypothetically, if one of the world’s great violinists had performed incognito before a traveling rush-hour audience of 1,000-odd people?

“Let’s assume,” Slatkin said, “that he is not recognized and just taken for granted as a street musician . . . Still, I don’t think that if he’s really good, he’s going to go unnoticed. He’d get a larger audience in Europe . . . but, okay, out of 1,000 people, my guess is there might be 35 or 40 who will recognize the quality for what it is. Maybe 75 to 100 will stop and spend some time listening.”

No, Mr. Slatkin, there was never a crowd, not even for a second.

It was all videotaped by a hidden camera. You can play the recording once or 15 times, and it never gets any easier to watch. Try speeding it up, and it becomes one of those herky-jerky World War I-era silent newsreels. The people scurry by in comical little hops and starts, cups of coffee in their hands, cellphones at their ears, ID tags slapping at their bellies, a grim danse macabre to indifference, inertia and the dingy, gray rush of modernity.

Even at this accelerated pace, though, the fiddler’s movements remain fluid and graceful; he seems so apart from his audience — unseen, unheard, otherworldly — that you find yourself thinking that he’s not really there. A ghost.

Only then do you see it: He is the one who is real. They are the ghosts.

IF A GREAT MUSICIAN PLAYS GREAT MUSIC BUT NO ONE HEARS . . . WAS HE REALLY ANY GOOD?

The results of this experiment sadden me. I understand that in this modern age of information, we have limited attention to divide, but it’s been repeatedly proven that the masses are disproportionately drawn to negative or tragic stories, trivial info., ego-pandering, pure fuckery, self-promotion, etc. – especially the people who I most wish would become more informed, expansive and experimental in thought, tastes and experiences. This sociological fact is why we see so much of this nonsense in media outlets and social media networks. People want to believe that they’re not drawn to negativity or extremism, but the truth is that many – if not most – are…”Rubbernecking” at sites of tragedies prove this. It’s also a large part of the reason why I will continue to support Oprah Winfrey’s new network, OWN.

My answer to the thesis question posed in this article is YES. Many therapy patients would argue with me here, but beauty exists whether it’s recognized or acknowledged.

Why don’t people recognize beauty when they’re exposed to it and it costs nothing but a bit of time and attention?

There are many who discount the value of what appears to be free, offered in great abundance and unpopular. The underlying psychological assumption in these people is that if it’s all three of these, then it must be worthless.

Do you need a treasure map to direct you to hidden beauty? A group of explorers to follow to know which paths to take to find your pot o' gold?

I see this phenomenon happen time after time: when I’m the first person to recognize a low-key celebrity and then a huge crowd forms only after they see me ask for a picture; people following people on Twitter, Tumblr, Facebook, etc. when they don’t even like the posts just because they’re curious about the reason for the person’s relatively high follower count; the person who suddenly flip-flops their opinion because the majority of their friends share a different opinion. What we (Americans) criticize in politicians is a reflection of our society as a whole. Why do we expect people who obviously value popularity (this is also their bread and butter) not to be governed or influenced by polls (i.e. our wishy-washy opinions)? They become damned if they do listen to us and damned if they don’t. That’s madness.

Most people who I have encountered deny being a follower, yet society is full of people who take cues from others about how they should view or feel (insert culturally relevant whatever here) or which path they should take. We’re all influenced by our environment on some level (it’s not a coincidence that we’re called “followers” on Twitter or “friends” on Facebook though so many don’t know the people they are connected to)…but to what extent? The very unpopular yet open secret here is that the answer to that question is A LOT. About a week ago, I cut across a parking lot in a zig-zagging pattern down the wrong way and this woman followed me – even though there was plenty of empty space around us and a clear view to the exit. I had to pull over to shake her tail. This is not the first time someone has seemingly blindly followed me, but it’s one of the most obvious examples.

Marketers have about three categories to describe these types of (potential) customers and they are the easiest to target, particularly the ones who believe they are not influenced by strangers or their social circle.

Relatedly, I’m on an eternal search for people who recognize and value un-hyped beauty (minus the stamp of social approval) in unexpected places like I do (e.g. the people who originally post on Tumblr as opposed to the people who only click “like” and reblog if 5,000 other people have already done it before them), so we can marvel at the unearthed jewels together.

Read the full Joshua Bell experiment story in The Washington Post here. (Video by John W. Poole)

See Joshua’s career from prodigy to superstar below.

Were you surprised at the people’s overall reaction? How would you have reacted in this DC Metro stop? How often do you stop to hear the music or smell the roses? Are you mostly a follower, a trend-setter or trail-blazer? Do you share the same tastes with your friends? How much does it matter to you what others think? Do you base your opinions about things or people that you haven’t experienced on others’ opinions? How often do you disagree with the majority opinion? Do you enjoy taking unpopular stances just to be different? Does how much something (or someone) costs influence your level of appreciation or value of it? The mic is yours…

Related Posts:

Political Theater Presents “Obama’s 15-Move Strategy”

December 15, 2010 Leave a comment

Andrew Sullivan wrote a brilliant interpretation of President Obama’s Tax Cut “Compromise” strategy. He comes pretty damn close to what I see Obama doing during every “fight” (electoral, legislative, etc.). I’m always happy to see when someone with a high-profile media presence is able to 1.) see Obama’s strategy and 2.) have enough balls to go off corporate media script and enough patience to explain it to people.

It saves me so much time and energy.

(Note: It’s no surprise that while the  Tax Cut Compromise “debate” was occuring, I received a Rasmussen survey call with the economy as the subject. “They” know that this is the precursor to the Obama Admin changing the Tax Code, which would certainly improve affect the economy.)

FINAL RESULT: “Senate Passes Compromise Tax Plan by Wide Margin”

What he said.

We’ve seen this before. And before. And before.

In general, Obama’s strategy in 15 moves:

1. Obama plots out his strategy with advisors. Time passes. The Obama Admin makes some “small” initiative move that some of the press reports but it never becomes a media meme and is largely ignored by the public (which is where I spot it, post it on my blog if I feel like sharing/publicly bookmarking, and start speculating about his possible future intentions with my politically minded/active friends. I stopped tweeting at this stage because I rarely find anyone interested in or ready for the conversation. But eagle-eyed readers/”fans” spot it but don’t share/attribute it.)

2. After 3-4 more moves in that direction, his intentions become clearer and the MSM begins to report it by framing it as a possible loss for him.

3. He states his goal and it becomes a hot topic for public debate, with most of the pundits betting against him and/or staking his entire presidency on the (inevitable, likely) failure/loss.

4. GOP pundits take an absolute “no way!” position.

5. “Progressive” pundits take an absolute “yes way!” position that includes some impractical application of Obama’s goal (OFA gets involved in educating/whipping the public into supporting him by pressuring local Congress.)

6. Obama starts promoting his intentions. Sometimes, he makes “predictions”. (I silently listen to/watch the public’s reactions/understanding of the topic thus far, looking for people who “get” it without explanation and/or educating people who really want to understand what’s going on. Cue the jokes and commentary by news junkies/Twitter pundits who are now paying attention.)

7. When he begins to mock the “debate” (in townhalls, TV appearances, etc.), he’s about to get what he wants the way he wanted it (even if that means a public “loss”).

8. Afterwards, he explains what we gained (aka the progress we made or humbly accepts “defeat”) in a press conference or TV appearances (I spread the spin-defying facts with a short summary. Some “stealth” “fans” read/spread my info./opinion without attributing me as a source. Some arrogant idiot who just started paying attention wants to debate me. By now, I’m bored with this “brilliant” parroting of some pundit’s corporate-approved rhetoric that I’ve already heard/read a thousand times. I link to one of the “small move” stories and/or a historical event that provides context to the current issue.)

9. Congressional GOP provides weak media spin, releases skewed poll results that say America doesn’t approve of Obama, and/or shuts up altogether because they realize they lost another battle.

10. Far-left (well, right) Progressives (regular people and media personalities because very few of them are IN CONGRESS) calls Obama a punk-ass for “giving in to the GOP”. (I rant and spread clear-eyed strategical interpretations because I still can’t believe supposedly smart “Progressives” still don’t get the process/theater after seeing it happen a million times. Or maybe they do, but enjoy their money-making/attention-getting roles in it? Hmm…)

11. The majority of the public understands/accepts/believes Obama’s “spin” (aka reality).

12. The topic is now stale. The media (and political fringes) move on to the next one…

13. Obama advances the agenda he promised during his presidential run.

14. The public begins to feel the effects of progress…and *gasp* change.

15. Obama gets closer to hitting the 8 ball into the corner pocket.

Lather. Rinse. Repeat.

The Tax Cut Compromise is at stage 11 stage 12 (see “Final Result”).

2012 victory is at stage 1. (Hint: California’s midterms.)

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