OpenCitizen

Mission Accomplished

2011-05-06T16:04:00.002-05:00

(for real this time).

Thank you President Obama for doing what Bush and Cheney could not. We are proud to finally have a strong leader.

At least 40% of Republicans are idiots- like Trump

2011-04-27T20:29:00.000-05:00

Glad that the birth certificate was made public. Doesn't everyone know that you have to be a citizen of this country to be president. Sheesh. Stupid, gullible, traitorous republicans.

By the way, Trump said he would release his tax returns if the President showed his birth certificate. We are waiting, Donald. Or are you afraid to show how little you are really worth?

The eye doctor could have been nicer...

2010-10-01T15:36:00.000-05:00

I just had an eye exam and mentioned to the doctor that I was having more difficulty seeing closely. he asked my age and I responded with mid-40's. Rather than being kind, he simply asked me what I expected at my age, that it was normal, and that I should buck up and get some readers. Aaaargh. Maybe it's time to rethink that whole Lasik thing...

At the MIMA Summit in Minneapolis

2010-09-27T13:52:00.002-05:00

In my first workshop and we are discussing blogs, reminded me that I am VERY late in posting to mine. I hope this helps a little bit. Ran into my favorite client and got to sit with her, so that made my day.

I finally got my blog migrated. Finally.

2010-07-24T19:59:00.004-05:00

After Google pulled ftp support from its blogging community, I finally moved my blog to THEIR servers. Funny how that worked out, my bitterness toward the behemoth only lasted about 4 months. Now that all of my customization is gone and the hundreds of hours of custom programming can no longer be used, I will settle for a template.

More soon. Probably.

Democrats pass healthcare, Republicans still only push hate

2010-03-22T10:31:00.004-05:00

All of the Republicans in the House of Representatives decided it was better to do NOTHING than to provide healthcare for 32 million uninsured Americans. Disgusting.

Thankfully, we have TRUE Americans in the Democratic party that care about the elderly, the youth and the disaffected AND have taken steps to help them, just like Jesus would have done. If I hear one more Christian hypocrite rally against helping the poor, I am going to get sick.

Four more years!!! Four more years!!!!

More Disturbing Photos From Gay, Jewish, Oscar Protest

2010-03-09T23:16:00.004-06:00

Gay and Jewish Hate Groups Protest Oscars, 3-7-10

2010-03-09T23:02:00.005-06:00

On Sunday, March 7th, blocks down the street from the site of the 82nd Academy Awards ceremony in Hollywood, CA, anti-gay and anti-Jewish creatures descended on the intersection of Sunset and Highland in Hollywood, CA. Wearing t-shirts promoting discrimination and pulling children out of school to assist in such random, backwardness, some hillbilly folk shouted and even confused themselves a little with biblical monologues.

When will this madness end?! Grab a puke bucket and check out the photos and video...

Google Buzz is NOT the new Facebook

2010-02-12T00:39:00.008-06:00

This past week, Google has rolled out what is assumed to be the "Facebook/Twitter Killer."

Why not chat online, update your minute-by-minute daily status, make plans with friends, send and receive emails, all while balancing an obsolete paper phone book on top of your head with your Google email (Gmail) account? I can tell you why. If you use your Gmail account for your personal small business, like I do, then you don't want to lose business.

Before you get all comfortable and start buzzing comment postings about how much you hate that your co-worker wears too much body fragrance, or that your next-door neighbor should have been "tested," make sure to check your Google account's privacy settings.

You probably are mixing business and pleasure and not even know it.

Click here for Google Buzz privacy tips...

UPDATE 2.12.10 - After several complaints of privacy issues, Google has announced Thursday that it will be made easier to hide the lists of followers and followees of your Gmail Buzz account. It will also be made easier to block specific people from following your Buzz updates.

Google screws bloggers hard!

2010-02-09T16:47:00.004-06:00

I just found out that Google is forcing me to move my domain to Google servers and give them control over all my content. WTF? I am annoyed, and so are most other advanced bloggers. Bloggers have only a few weeks to move ALL of their content. This was the last straw for me, no google search in my future and I am looking for a replacement for the google analytics program.

By the way, can anyone recommend good blogging software? Blogger doesn't want us anymore.

Read more about the "explanation" and the complaints that are pouring in.

A Nightmare on Elm Street 2010 Trailer in HD

2010-01-27T20:27:00.000-06:00

Check out the MySpace trailer for the upcoming remake of classic horror film "A Nightmare on Elm Street," directed by Samuel Bayer and hitting theaters April 30, 2010.

A Nightmare on Elm Street in HD

Trailer Park Movies | MySpace Video

Now compare Wes Craven's original 1984 film trailer...

value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Adgp0v_mfTk&hl=en_US&fs=1&">

Judging by the looks of the new trailer, dreamstalker Freddy Krueger, now played by "Little Children" star Jackie Earle Haley, will indeed keep coffee shops in good business during the recession---and then some.

Learn to speak Tea Bag

2010-01-14T16:18:00.001-06:00

Thought this was spot on...

Palin joins Fox news as a political contributor. Hahahahahahahaha...

2010-01-12T10:35:00.005-06:00

OMG. This is priceless. Fox decides to add another dimwit to their lineup.

According to Palin, "I am thrilled to be joining the great talent and management team at Fox News. It's wonderful to be part of a place that so values fair and balanced news." You can't make THIS stuff up (event though she has probably tried).

Full story here. I can't stop laughing!

Say it isn't so... Haggard to be overseer of Colorado church

2009-12-31T09:51:00.002-06:00

Ted Haggard, who, after several weeks of reparative therapy and a diagnosis of "straight", is getting back into the ministry. In his new role as overseer he will counsel and advise church leaders on moral, ethical and religious issues. That is precious. How any church could invite this man into their ministry is beyond me, but to place him in an advisory role? OMG.

As long as he stays straight and doesn't hire any more male, meth-snorting hookers...

Full story.

Happy Holidays - here's to the new year!

2009-12-28T09:19:00.004-06:00

A little late with this wish, but I hope all of you have a great holiday season. It is truly a time to get in touch with loved ones and share a little of yourself. Most of my loved ones live out of state, but I feel their love all the same. Let's get 2010 off to a good start and show some love!

We know all Republicans hate gays, but what is the deal with these spineless democrats?

2009-12-04T11:07:00.004-06:00

In New York state, these are the eight democrats that are against equal rights for all Americans:

Aubertine (Upstate) - aubertin@senate.state.ny.us
tachowski (Upstate) - stachows@senate.state.ny.us
Addabbo (Queens) - addabbo@senate.state.ny.us
Onorato (Queens) - onorato@senate.state.ny.us
Diaz (Bronx) - diaz@senate.state.ny.us
Kruger (Kings) - kruger@senate.state.ny.us
Huntley (Queens) - shuntley@senate.state.ny.us
Monserrate (Queens) - monserra@senate.state.ny.us

Do not give money to these hateful hypocrites and liars. Sheesh. Nothing like our own party throwing us under the bus.

Anti-gay, bigot, lying Christian PORN queen has a tape (uh, no offense)

2009-11-05T13:34:00.004-06:00

OMG. This is the best. After becoming the princess of the Christian right and fighting against ALL that is wrong, i.e. gay marriage, the beauty queen has an x-rated tape. How the mighty have fallen... pleasuring herself on film - what a disgusting, whorish hypocrite. Sheesh.

I guess she never read the part of the Bible that says "Let he who is without sin cast the first stone." HA HA HA HA HA HA. I am going to be laughing all week about this one. I wonder how many of the Christian fundraisers she is scheduled to attend dump her. Serves the little bitch right, IMHO.

Oh yeah, Carrie, the Miss American pageant called and they want their boobs back. Waaaahhhh!!!!!

Bigot Keith Bardwell, of Louisiana, won't marry interracial couple. Whaaatt?

2009-10-16T09:47:00.003-05:00

A Louisiana justice of the peace said he refused to issue a marriage license to an interracial couple out of concern for any children the couple might have.

Keith Bardwell, justice of the peace in Tangipahoa Parish, says it is his experience that most interracial marriages do not last long.

OMG. I don't even know what to say, but I do know that the US Justice Department will not look too kindly upon this illegal discrimination. This is probably a plank in the most recent Republican party platform. Sheeesh.

Full story...

Fox has its panties in a bunch cuz we know it's not real news. Boohoo.

2009-10-13T14:09:00.002-05:00

I love it. As if the "news" from Fox channel is anything more than Republican spin. Sheesh. Everyone in the world knows that EXCEPT the ignorant 30% of our country that calls themselves Republicans.

More here.

Call the Traitors at Newsmax.com 1-800-485-4350

2009-09-30T09:09:00.004-05:00

They are posting articles about the necessity for there to be a military coup and Obama removed from power. This is unAmerican and disgusting.

When I called to complain, they simply told me that I was entitled to my opinion. Me AND millions of Americans who voted for Obama. (I think they forgot about that voting thing).

Send the traitors at this company a message, we support the Constitution, and their traitorous acts are criminal! Sheesh.

The unAmerican, criminal website is here.

Former President Jimmy Carter says Kanye's attack "uncalled for"

2009-09-17T02:28:00.007-05:00

Apparently singer Kanye West's MTV shananigans at the 2009 VMA's are enough to get the United States Presidents riled up. President Jimmy Carter is now taking aim at West's outburst against singer Taylor Swift.

If Kanye is shaking up the White House (and these blogs) by just being a "jackass," what will this do for his ego? The world may never know.

Click for story...

President Obama's Kanye Remarks Caught on Video

2009-09-16T23:35:00.002-05:00

After a tape-recording surfaced of President Obama's remarks regarding singer Kanye West's actions at last Sunday's MTV VMA show, the actual video has now been made available. You can see the President's gestures suggesting that he does not want his remarks recorded. Crazy!!! See below...

By the way, the jackass comment is right.

EXCLUSIVE...President Obama declares Kanye West a 'jackass'

2009-09-15T00:33:00.010-05:00

After Kanye West's ridiculous attention-seeking and brand-defining tirade Sunday night at the MTV 2009 Video Music Awards, just about every celebrity from Donald Trump to Kelly Clarkson to P!nk wasted no time ridiculing him in the press. It seems even U.S. President Barack Obama made an off-the-record comment calling West a 'jackass' for his tirade against 19-yr old country music star Taylor Swift.

It's one thing when the Donald (also an attention-seeker) slams a musical artist in the press, but when the leader of the free-world does it, that's gotta be something to sit back and reflect on... Ouch!!!

Click for the full article...

Kanye West, classless prick picking on a young girl. Shameless.

2009-09-13T21:33:00.002-05:00

Talk about a punk. Kanye West did not like the selection for best female video at the VMAs, so he storms the stage, grabs the microphone from Taylor Swift, and proceeds to brag up Beyonce. What a horrible disgusting LITTLE "man". He actually made Swift cry. Pathetic. Sheesh.

Full story

Screw you Pawlenty!

2009-09-11T13:28:00.005-05:00

Asked by a caller about the option of asserting the Tenth Amendment as a tactic to reject a successful health care overhaul by President Barack Obama during a tele-town hall organized by the Republican Governors Association, Pawlenty said, "that's a possibility."

Shameless anti-American ass. Resign and begin that run for 2012 - get Palin to join you for the DUMB AND DUMBER tour.

Full details if you can stomach them...

SC Rep Joe Wilson not only uncivil, he is a liar!

2009-09-10T14:10:00.003-05:00

Read the bill, Representative Jackass:

H.R. 3200: Sec 246 — NO FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR UNDOCUMENTED ALIENS

Nothing in this subtitle shall allow Federal payments for affordability credits on behalf of individuals who are not lawfully present in the United States.

I called his office to let him know that page 146 of the House bill has the information he missed. Sheesh. The best Republican money can buy.

Republican Assemblyman quits after spanky panky (Yes...Deja Vu)

2009-09-09T22:04:00.013-05:00

It has happened again folks. A politician of the "republican faith" has been entangled in a sex scandal. Can you believe it? Of course you can't. And why do I ask such rhetorical questions, you say?!

Well...Republican Assemblyman Mike Duvall of Yorba Linda, Orange County, CA has resigned his post after being exposed by the magical tape recorder. It seems Mr. Duvall forgot his mic was on during a regular appropriations committee meeting when bragging about adulterous spankings and sex exploits to a colleague in July. This, all while promoting "family values" and opposing same-sex marriage.

Duvall is quoted as feeling "remorseful and regretful." Is this because he cheated his family and constituents or because he got caught?! Hmmm...

Click here for story

Senator Kennedy dies at 77. Sad day for America.

2009-08-26T06:28:00.003-05:00

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts, the last surviving brother in a political dynasty and one of the most influential senators in history, died Tuesday night at his home on Cape Cod after a year-long struggle with brain cancer. He was 77.

Senator Kennedy always championed causes for the less fortunate, the poor and the needy. He will truly be missed as both a great Amercan and human being. Our condolences to his family.

More.

Pastor Piper claims latest Minneapolis tornado is the wrath of god against gay loving Lutherans. OMFG!!

2009-08-21T08:16:00.006-05:00

"The tornado in Minneapolis was a gentle but firm warning to the ELCA and all of us: Turn from the approval of sin. Turn from the promotion of behaviors that lead to destruction. Reaffirm the great Lutheran heritage of allegiance to the truth and authority of Scripture. Turn back from distorting the grace of God into sensuality. Rejoice in the pardon of the cross of Christ and its power to transform left and right wing sinners," according to Pastor Piper.

John Piper is the Pastor for Preaching and Vision at Bethlehem Baptist Church (Minneapolis, MN) and the founder of Desiring God.

Read it all for a good laugh. What a tool!

Tony Perkins going to hell for lying.

2009-08-11T16:38:00.009-05:00

One lie after the other. I am on the mailing list for the "Family Research Council" and am amazed that every email from Tony Perkins is full of lies, half-truths and misleading statements.

In yesterday's email "newsletter", he states "Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) imploded first, publishing an op-ed in USA Today that called anyone who disagreed with them "un-American." "

This wasn't about people who disagree, this was about obstructionist Republican THUGS that hate poor and uninsured Americans. Come on Tony.

God hates liars as much as homosexuals (according to his bible).

See you in hell, you hypocrite, Tony Perkins!

Creation/Dinosaur fantasy land knee-deep in tax fraud!

2009-08-06T09:18:00.003-05:00

OMG. This is great. The crazies that think humans and dinosaurs walked the earth together just 6,000 years ago owe nearly half-a-million in back taxes.

Kent Hovind, who founded the park and a ministry, Creation Science Evangelism, is serving 10 years in federal prison.

How did they think that there would ever be enough public support to fund this scam?! Sheesh

More here

Whacky Sarah Palin resigns as Governor of Alaska

2009-07-03T23:04:00.007-05:00

In an unexpected move, Sarah Palin announced that she is resigning as Governor of Alaska before the end of July. In an extremely disjointed speech, she did not give any concrete reasons NOR any indication of her future intentions. I think there is far more to this story than meets the eye...I can't wait to see what the next few days bring.

WTF? Listen to the full speech if you can stand it.

WARNING: Content is offensive to schooled minds.

UPDATE: Anderson Cooper eviscerates Palin spokesperson. Hehe.

Woohoo!! Norm Coleman loses Senate seat and, OMG, admits defeat!

2009-06-30T15:39:00.002-05:00

Finally, after months and months of depriving Minnesotans of two seats in the Senate, Al Franken has been declared the winner. Norm has become quite good at preventing progress, hell, he moved to the Republican party years ago to make it official.

Congratulations to the good people of the great state of Minnesota - two fine democratic senators. Now we just have to get rid of that chump Pawlenty.

Another typical Republican hypocrite - Sanford the cheater

2009-06-24T21:05:00.002-05:00

Another fine Republican Christian that can't keep his dick in his pants. These are the same people that think marriage is too "sacred" for the gays, but they have no problem defiling their own beds.And then he has the nerve to ask the press to stay away from his family - too late for that, you reap what you sow, and so does your family. Boohoo.

That begs the question: Why are most adulterers Republican Christians?

Carrie Prejean no longer queen, Perez still is

2009-06-15T07:56:00.002-05:00

Carrie Prejean finally had her crown taken away from her. It was not her opposition to same-sex marriage, nor her boob job, nor her nude underage photos (or lying about these photos). She simply did not fulfill the obligations of her contract. That is another sin, you know...breaking your word (otherwise known as lying). How the Christian right can embrace such a proud sinner I will never know, but they do.

Sheesh, have they no shame? (rhetorical question, dear readers)

More

Falwell's Liberty "University" bans democratic party groups

2009-05-23T00:36:00.006-05:00

What the hell are they thinking? Banning expression of political beliefs on a U.S. college campus.

I bet they would be singing a different ~~tune~~ hymn if secular schools began banning Christian groups from campus. Base the ban on the excesses of Christian intolerance, hate and hypocrisy (all of which go against what most Americans believe).

Sheesh.

More...

Single teen mother Bristol Palin preaches success of abstinence - you gotta be kidding.

2009-05-07T10:40:00.004-05:00

Have the Palins no shame? It's bad enough that the abstinence party has a poster child in the baby-birthing, unwed, slutty daughter Bristol, but to go on the national stage and discuss how realistic abstinence is? Sheesh. That is like Cheney promoting civil rights.

Sarah needs to raise her children and pay attention to what is going on at home, judging HER family instead of the families of others.

Hypocrites abound in the Republican party...no wonder their numbers are dropping faster than Bristol's panties.

More...

Proud of the first 100 days!

2009-04-30T13:48:00.002-05:00

What a difference a presidential election makes. To be able to watch the president speak, and know that he understands what he is saying, that he is intelligent and formulates rational opinions, dammit, that he can pronounce NUCLEAR!

We are already re-establishing ourselves as a leader in the world of public opinion, comprehensive national health care is going to become reality and human rights are not going to be subject to the whim of Republican US attorneys and torture-loving Vice Presidents.

Thank goodness for a return to sanity.

Bush, Cheney, Rice and his entire administration for torture

2009-04-24T06:11:00.003-05:00

Not that I am surprised. No intelligent American ever believed the never-ending lies of Bush and Cheney. Denials of waterboarding, denials of torture. All lies.

The Bush administration authorized the most heinous torture techniques, then lied to the American people about it. NO ONE is above the law, including the former administration. It's time to arrest, imprison, try, convict and punish the traitorous Anti-American Bush regime. Fortunately, it's not too late.

If they don't think there is a problem with waterboarding, let's do it to Laura Bush and Lynne Cheney and see if their husbands still think it is no big deal. Sheesh!

Give it up, Norm

2009-04-20T16:28:00.002-05:00

Former Senator (and eternal egoist) Norm Coleman has filed another appeal in an attempt to steal his old seat from the winner of the election, Al Franken.

I have called Coleman's campaign office numerous times urging him to finally concede to the inevitable, and he will not give it up. This time it's to the State Supreme Court and Coleman says the big problem is that he wants to insure we "franchise" people. Huh? We already counted the votes, nothing else here to see...

What a dumb shit.

More details at Politico.

Aaaaargh, it's almost tax day.

2009-04-13T09:21:00.002-05:00

And, once again, I have waited until the last minute to complete my tax forms and file my returns. It isn't as if I am not prepared - I have had all of the tax forms on my desk for several months. It isn't like I forgot - since I think about those damn taxes everyday. I guess I just found plenty of other things I'd rather do, which leads me to tonight, the night I am FINALLY going to get them done. (uhuh).

French Toast is back!

2009-04-03T06:46:00.006-05:00

Finally, a president that we can be proud of!

I just finished watching the joint press conference with President Obama and France's President Sarkozy and could not be prouder. Rejoining the ranks of civilized nations is long overdue, and the United States has just done that. We could have no stronger allies than those in Europe, and strong ties and allegiances are essential.

To see our reputation being repaired on the world stage is exactly what we need...AND it is damn exciting. I heard that they are even serving French Toast on Air Force one again (Bush changed it to American toast - how tacky).

The new Pet Shop Boys album is here (almost)

2009-03-30T17:40:00.010-05:00

Yeah...I know... I still have some of their music on my iPhone, and yeah, I love their music, and I still think they are totally cool. To listen to the entire album, use the widget on the right-hand side of the page. It isn't available in the U.S. until April 11. (Just click the song title to listen, there is also small controller after song 11 that allows you to pause the song and begin play.)

What do you think?

If you need even more, here is the Official Pet Shop Boys website.

GM CEO has to resign. Boohoo.

2009-03-30T07:58:00.006-05:00

It's about time that people be held accountable for their actions. Finally, Washington has asked General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner to resign as a condition of additional financial help from the government. (Incidentally, he has been CEO at GM for 8 years and with the company for 30).

"On Friday I was in Washington for a meeting with Administration officials. In the course of that meeting, they requested that I 'step aside' as CEO of GM, and so I have," Wagoner said in a statement posted to the GM Web site.

Now if we could only make the same, simple choices about the heads of the banking industry.

More here.

Lip synching on Idol is making me sick

2009-03-27T15:49:00.002-05:00

Okay. Now I understand that there may be challenges when group singing on live TV. I also understand that the premise of a singing talent contest is to sing. What I do not understand is how Idol can throw a singing competition where the contestants are lip synching their group numbers.

The blogs have all kinds of ideas, from blaming it on Scott, to lack of quality rehearsal time, to just a flat-out lack of talent.

Whatever the reason, I think it sucks. What do you think?

Do Tony Perkins and FRC want more children "spanked"?

2009-03-23T16:42:00.004-05:00

Always arguing the wrong side of every argument, Tony Perkins and the FRC have a problem with a new study that links spanking and physical punishment to bad adult behavior. The Family Research Council thinks hitting bad kids is okay, as long as it is viewed "in its larger context".

To quote, "The key both to the effectiveness of parental discipline (including spanking) and its effect on the child (whether positive or negative) lies in how the discipline is undertaken in its larger context, not simply what disciplinary tool is used. Studies have actually shown that a disciplinary style that balances firm control (including spanking) with positive encouragement results in the best outcomes for children."

What studies? Can you name one?

Disgusting. Rationalize beating children any way you want, Tony Perkins. You are slime.

More

Haggard and wife to appear on "Divorce Court" to tout strong marriage

2009-03-20T08:32:00.005-05:00

This made me more than a little nauseous this morning. Experienced male-prostitute buyer, cheater and meth user Ted Haggard is actually going on Divorce Court (with his ~~faghag~~ wife) and speaking with Judge Lynn Toler. They claim the interview is all part of an effort to show how a marriage can survive even the worst of times...

But wait, there's more...

"This is part of Ted's journey," Gayle Haggard said. "It's made him a better man. I see what has happened as a divine rescue."

Divine rescue? OMG. This woman needs to get a clue and her husband needs to just go away. By the way, they are being paid an undisclosed amount of money for the interview. Sheesh.

More

Happy St. Patty's Day from St. Paul

2009-03-17T16:29:00.005-05:00

The revelers were out in full force over the noon hour today in downtown St. Paul. I managed to avoid most of the drunks, (although there were a lot of them). I just wish I was feeling the same alcohol-induced intoxication that I observed. I also wish I didn't have to wait until 5 to join them.

One last thing...we all know the cops are going to be out in full-force tonight, so keep your drinking at home OR just take a cab.

This AIG bonus fiasco is giving me a headache!

2009-03-17T09:21:00.009-05:00

I have been waiting to see how this unfolds, and it does not look good. Despite the chiding Obama gave AIG, it appears that they are under no legal obligation to listen.

If the American people truly own 80% of this "company", how can our hands be tied? Let's just get this over with, declare bankruptcy, fire all the incompetents who did this, and start over.

There are a few petitions being circulated, please sign them and pass along the info.

This one at MoveOn says "Under no circumstances should the AIG executives who helped create the financial crisis receive bonuses. That's our money and you should do whatever it takes to get it back."

And here is the petition at FireDogLake that needs your signature.

Get writing!

UPDATE:
More links to relevant info:

Bailout King AIG Still to Pay Millions In Bonuses

AIG employees should return bonuses or face high tax

NY AG issues subpoena to AIG

We've made some changes at OpenCitizen

2009-03-16T06:49:00.005-05:00

As you may have already noticed, I made some substantial changes to OpenCitizen over the weekend. The whackjobs and heroes sections have been incorporated into the main page and I added sections on some of my favorite interested - legos and origami. I have also expanded the about me section to reveal a little bit more about your favorite blogger, Troy.

Please let me know what you think, I welcome all comments, suggestions and gripes.

Bristol Palin will not marry baby's daddy. Surprise, surprise.

2009-03-12T06:35:00.006-05:00

We knew it was a lie from the start...Bristol and Levi are not getting married, despite the fact that as recently as last month the wedding was still on.

This is what happens when young loose girls get pregnant and moms tell them the only birth control they should rely on is abstinence. How did that work out for you, Bristol?

Stand up and accept responsibility for your actions, Mother Palin should have raised her kids right, obviously she was more concerned with her career than her family. Sheesh.

Full story...

Science triumphs over fantasy at last!

2009-03-09T14:57:00.012-05:00

President Obama signed the Stem Cell Executive Order and Scientific Integrity Presidential Memorandum today, simultaneously, the U.S. joined the ranks of the scientifically enlightened.

He said, "By doing this, we will ensure America's continued global leadership in scientific discoveries and technological breakthroughs. That is essential not only for our economic prosperity, but for the progress of all humanity."

"That is why today, I am also signing a Presidential Memorandum directing the head of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to develop a strategy for restoring scientific integrity to government decision making. To ensure that in this new Administration, we base our public policies on the soundest science; that we appoint scientific advisors based on their credentials and experience, not their politics or ideology; and that we are open and honest with the American people about the science behind our decisions."

WOW. All I can say is that it's about time.

Full statement on the White House website.

Michele Bachman anti-Obama, anti-American

2009-03-06T06:20:00.006-06:00

Michele Bachman, the joke of Minnesota and the House of Representatives, once again placed politics over the good of our country.

In an interview yesterday with Bill Bennett, she summed up her beliefs this way:

"We need to do everything we can to thwart them (Democrats) at every turn to make sure that they aren't able to, for all time, secure a power base that for all time can never be defeated."

She is sounding more and more like Rush. I wonder if she also pops pills and cheats on her partner like most Republican politicians. What a horrid woman. What's next? Taking candy from children and beating small animals? Sheesh.

More info at Think Progress.

Tatiana is back on Idol - woohooo!!!

2009-03-05T08:13:00.005-06:00

Tatiana del Toro, the Idol wannabe that many love to hate, was given another chance by the judges Wednesday night. Tatiana was selected as one of the 12 finalists in the competition. Her over-the-top mannerisms and unusual laugh make her a front runner, or "dark horse" as the judges like to say.

Glad she's back, aren't you?

(and I KNOW I am going to hear about this...)

So it's come to this, Rush IS the Republican party!

2009-03-02T09:04:00.003-06:00

And I couldn't be happier. His twenty minute speech at CPAC turns into 60, and the crowds cannot get enough. A bigoted, drug addicted, adulterous liar. PERFECT for the Republicans, and yet, just more of the same.

If this keeps up, the Democrats will have no problem gaining seats in both houses, and will continue to aggressively promote our progressive agenda. Long live democracy!

I woke to a flood this morning. Sheesh.

2009-03-01T06:59:00.012-06:00

At 4:30 this morning I heard a vacuum cleaner running in the hall of my building. I got out of bed and stepped in water on the way to the front door. A waterline burst, and flooded the hallway AND the storage locker - MY storage locker - so I am spending the ~~morning~~ day going through wet cardboard boxes and salvaging all I can.

*UPDATE: They are now ripping apart my place looking for water damage. Not the way I was planning on spending my day off.

Yeah, I want to go see Britney.

2009-03-01T06:53:00.004-06:00

This week my friend Theresa asked me if I wanted to go with her to see Britney Spears and the Pussy Cat Dolls in concert. Her husband didn't care to go, and she thought of me right away. Of course my immediate reaction was a resounding YES, then I found myself slightly embarrassed to respond in the same fashion as a 15 year old girl, not a 40-something year old man (not that I really care).

Tickets are sold out, but we can find them on Craig's List for $150 each. Aaaargh...what to do...?

McDonald's would rather a customer get killed than have an employee intervene.

2009-02-23T16:16:00.004-06:00

Fast food giant McDonald's has denied workers compensation benefits to a minimum wage employee who was shot when he ejected a customer who had been beating a woman inside the restaurant.

A representative of the administrator for McDonald's workers compensation plan explained that "we have denied this claim in its entirety as it is our opinion that Mr. Haskett's injuries did not arise out of or within the course and scope of his employment."

I hope no big-wig from McDonald's is ever in trouble when I am on the clock. Sheesh, completely disgusting.

Full story...

US jobless hits 5 million, sets record high

2009-02-19T07:47:00.000-06:00

February is shaping up to be another brutal month of job losses: The number of laid-off workers receiving unemployment benefits hit an all-time high of nearly 5 million, and new jobless claims are at levels not seen since the early 1980s.

The Labor Department reported Thursday that the number of people receiving regular unemployment benefits rose by 170,000 to 4.99 million for the week ending Feb. 7, marking the fourth straight week continuing claims have hit a record.

And yet, we have Republicans voting against a stimulus package that will help put Americans back to work. Sheesh.

Full story...

We got the stimulus in spite of the Republicans!

2009-02-16T10:49:00.003-06:00

With just three Republican votes, Congress passed a $787.2 billion stimulus plan that President Obama calls a 'once-in-a generation' chance to act boldly and transform the US economy.

The bill aims to create (or save) 3.5 million jobs and help stressed families pay for food, housing, and health care. At $575 billion in spending and $212 billion in tax breaks, the plan also aims to leverage new economic activity and growth.

The Republicans have always been bad winners, and now that they have lost by a landslide, they are bitter losers. Sheesh, what a sorry bunch.

Full story...

GOP Senator Gregg withdraws as commerce nominee

2009-02-12T18:51:00.005-06:00

President Obama's choice for commerce secretary, Senator Judd Gregg, withdrew his nomination on Thursday, saying there were "irresolvable conflicts" between him and the administration.

Gregg had agreed to promote the President's agenda, but then decided he wouldn't. Saying one thing, then doing another. Soooo Republican of him.

Full story...

We have a deal!

2009-02-11T14:48:00.002-06:00

House and Senate negotiators reached agreement today on a stimulus plan with a cost of about $789 billion after scaling down the versions passed by both houses, congressional leaders announced.

"The differences between the Senate and House versions were resolved," Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid (D-Nev.) told reporters this afternoon.

He said the final version "creates more jobs than the original Senate bill and spends less than the original House bill." The bill passed by the Senate yesterday totaled $838 billion. The House version approved last week had a price tag of $819 billion.

Now that wasn't so hard, was it?

Full story...

Republican Steele's Campaign Spending Questioned

2009-02-08T12:20:00.002-06:00

Michael S. Steele, the newly elected chairman of the Republican National Committee, arranged for his 2006 Senate campaign to pay a defunct company run by his sister for services that were never performed, his finance chairman from that campaign has told federal prosecutors.

Corruption and the Republican party...the RNC will never change.

Full story...

Unemployment rises in 98% of cities

2009-02-05T06:06:00.002-06:00

In a sign that job losses are felt in every corner of the nation, unemployment rates rose in 98% of metropolitan areas across the country in December, according to a recent government report.

The Labor Department is expected to report Friday that the economy lost another 500,000 jobs, according to a consensus estimate of economists surveyed by Briefing.com. The national unemployment rate is expected to rise to 7.5% from its current level of 7.2%, its highest rate since January 1993.

And ther are politicians who are still uncertain we are in recession. Sheesh.

Full story...

Finally, a president that cares about children

2009-02-04T06:56:00.000-06:00

President Barack Obama sees expansion of government health insurance to millions of lower-income children as a first step of several to come in providing coverage for all Americans.

Ending a two-year effort by Democrats, Obama signed legislation Wednesday that will allow about 7 million children to continue coverage through the State Children's Health Insurance Program and allow an additional 4 million to sign up.

This is EXACTLY why having a democrat in the oval office is good for America. Good for us.

Full story...

Government finally launches criminal probe in peanut recall

2009-02-01T06:42:00.001-06:00

Responding to reports of shoddy sanitation practices and inspections, federal health officials have opened a criminal investigation into the Georgia peanut-processing plant at the center of the national salmonella outbreak.

The Obama administration on Friday pledged stricter oversight of food safety to prevent breakdowns in inspections.

Officials say Peanut Corp. of America sold tainted peanut products to food makers. At least 529 people have been sickened as a result of the outbreak, and at least eight may have died because of it. More than 430 products have been recalled.

How bad does it have to get until someone responds. Shesh.

Full story...

Blago is History

2009-01-29T22:11:00.002-06:00

The Illinois Senate voted to remove Gov. Rod Blagojevich from office Thursday, marking the first time in the state's long history of political corruption that a chief executive has been impeached and convicted.

The 59-0 vote followed several hours of public deliberation in which senator after senator stood up to blast Blagojevich, whose tenure lasted six years. And it came after a four-day impeachment trial on allegations that Blagojevich abused his power and sold his office for personal and political benefit.

Good riddance.

Full story...

Obama Signs First Piece of Legislation Into Law!

2009-01-29T10:18:00.003-06:00

President Obama this morning signed a law that expanded the time frame in which workers can sue for discrimination they have experienced based on gender, race, national origin or religion.

The legislation -- the first he has signed since becoming president nine days ago -- is named for Lilly Ledbetter, who after years as a manager at Goodyear Tire & Rubber discovered she was being paid less than her male counterparts. She filed suit and won a jury verdict in 2003. But the lawsuit was deemed invalid, because it wasn't filed within six months of when the discrimination -- unknown to Ledbetter at the time -- began.

"And I sign this bill for my daughters, and all those who will come after us," Obama added, "because I want them to grow up in a nation that values their contributions, where there are no limits to their dreams and they have opportunities their mothers and grandmothers never could have imagined."

The first thing he does is level the playing field. Woohoo. Proud to be an American again.

Full story...

100% of House Republicans hate on America

2009-01-29T07:12:00.004-06:00

After their president nearly-ruined our country, house republicans have the nerve to vote against a stimulus package aimed to help ordinary Americans. After making multiple compromises to the bill to gain republican support, EVERY republican voted against America and avoiding a depression.

What horrid people these republicans are. Sheeesh.

More...

Mercury in much of U.S. corn syrup

2009-01-28T10:03:00.003-06:00

Many common foods made using commercial high fructose corn syrup contain mercury as well, researchers reported on Tuesday, while another study suggested the corn syrup itself is contaminated.

In one study, published in the journal Environmental Health, former Food and Drug Administration scientist Renee Dufault and colleagues tested 20 samples of high fructose corn syrup and found detectable mercury in nine of the 20 samples.

But the Bush administration did not think the FDA needed any teeth to protect Americans. Sheesh - care for a little mercury with your yogurt?

Full story...

Congressional Budget Office compares downturn to Great Depression

2009-01-27T13:12:00.003-06:00

The nation's current recession is likely to be the longest since World War II, and by some measures could be the worst since the Great Depression, a new Congressional Budget Office forecast said Tuesday.

And it was only a few months ago that the republicans claimed that the fundamentals of our economy were strong. Now they are trying to thwart any attempts at recovery. Sheesh. Who voted in these republican yahoos?

Full story...

Caterpillar Moves to Cut 20,000 Jobs

2009-01-26T07:11:00.002-06:00

The heavy equipment maker, Caterpillar, said Monday morning in a statement that it planned to cut 20,000 jobs as part of an aggressive effort to lower cost as the economy continues to slow.

And the layoffs continue...

Full story...

State Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand to replace Clinton in Senate

2009-01-23T06:29:00.003-06:00

New York City television station WPIX is reporting that the state's Democratic governor, David Paterson, has settled on Democratic Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand as the successor for Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's now-vacant U.S. Senate seat.

Gillibrand is a moderate Democrat, the 42-year-old mother of two young children who lives in Hudson, N.Y., and is in her second House term.

Nice pick, Paterson.

Full story...

Obama keeps promise to close Guantanamo Bay

2009-01-22T15:07:00.003-06:00

Promising to return America to the "moral high ground" in the war on terror, President Barack Obama issued three executive orders Thursday to demonstrate a clean break from the Bush administration -- including one requiring that the Guantanamo Bay detention facility be closed within a year.

During a signing ceremony at the White House, Obama reaffirmed his inaugural pledge that the United States does not have "to continue with a false choice between our safety and our ideals."

We are already moving forward under Obama. What a relief.

Full story...

A new day in America - President Obama!

2009-01-20T08:03:00.003-06:00

The dawn of the new Democratic era - with Obama allies in charge of both houses of Congress - ends eight years of Republican control of the White House by George W. Bush. He leaves Washington as one of the nation's most unpopular and divisive presidents, the architect of two unfinished wars and the man in charge at a time of economic calamity that swept away many Americans' jobs, savings, homes and dreams.

As to the future, I know we can.

Full story...

More biting and less barking please.

2009-01-18T20:24:00.000-06:00

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said Sunday that she was open to pursuing investigations of abuses by the Bush Justice Department.

"I think that we have to learn from the past and we cannot let the politicizing, for example, of the Justice Department, to go unreviewed," Pelosi said on "Fox News Sunday." "Past is prologue. We learn from it."

If only we could believe these words. This is classic Democratic maneuvering. Bark Spot, bark.

Full story...

Another buh bye.

2009-01-16T13:50:00.003-06:00

Circuit City Stores Inc., the bankrupt consumer-electronics retailer, named four liquidators to sell the remaining merchandise in 567 U.S. stores before it goes out of business.

James A. Marcum, acting chief executive officer, said, "The company had been in continuous negotiations regarding a going-concern transaction. Regrettably for the more than 30,000 employees of Circuit City and our loyal customers, we were unable to reach an agreement with our creditors and lenders."

Another corporation that can't take care of itself. Sheesh.

Full story...

Good bye and good riddance!

2009-01-16T09:05:00.002-06:00

Finally, after 8 humiliating years, President Bush gave his farewell address to the nation.

After allowing our homeland to be attacked on 9-11, never getting Bin Laden, failing horrifically after Hurricane Katrina, torturing countless people, authorizing the killing of women and children, illegally spying on Americans, belittling our standing in the world, ruining our economy, decimating our middle class, depriving millions of healthcare, promoting racism and hate, we will finally have relief.

More...

Roland Burris sworn in as Obama Senate replacement

2009-01-15T14:27:00.002-06:00

It's official, we have a new senator, Roland Burris. The Illinois Democrat was sworn-in by Vice President Dick Cheney today at a Capitol Hill ceremony.

Will the circumstances of his appointment prevent him from being an effective legislator?

Full story...

Retail sales dive in December

2009-01-14T14:02:00.002-06:00

Retail sales plunged far more than expected in December, a record sixth straight monthly decline as consumers were battered by a recession, a severe credit crisis and soaring job losses, none of which are likely to ease anytime soon.

The recession is not only having an effect here in the United States, but also debilitating much of the rest of the world.

Sale anyone?

Full story...

Clinton confirmation hearing today

2009-01-13T11:04:00.002-06:00

It's supposed to be the hot seat, but the reception Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., got today from her fellow senators was decidedly warm as they began examining whether she has what it takes to become Secretary of State.

it is so exciting to see strong, smart people filling important roles, rather than cronies and political friends of a moron.

Full story...

Bush holds final news conference of presidency

2009-01-12T10:55:00.002-06:00

In his final news conference today, a candid President Bush reflected on the mistakes and milestones of his eight years in office and considered what lies ahead for President-elect Barack Obama.

In an event he billed as the "ultimate exit interview," Bush addressed the mile markers that will likely shape his legacy -- from the debate about weapons of mass destruction to the government's response to Hurricane Katrina.

All I know is that eight days can't go by quickly enough.

Full story...

Blagojevich impeached by Illinois house

2009-01-09T13:23:00.004-06:00

The Illinois House of Representatives voted 114-1 on Friday to impeach Gov. Rod Blagojevich on corruption charges that include allegedly trying to sell the U.S. Senate seat vacated by President-elect Barack Obama.

Here we go. Talk it up...

Full story...

Ouch. 2.6 million jobs lost in 2008.

2009-01-09T08:00:00.004-06:00

Yet another sobering government labor report released Friday showed the economy lost 524,000 jobs in December, bringing 2008's total job loss to 2.6 million.

Last year's steep drop in employment marked the highest yearly job-loss total since 1945.

It already seems that the scope of the Obama stimulus package may not be broad enough to right the wrongs of the last 8 years.

Full story...

Obama to select CNN Gupta as Surgeon General

2009-01-07T06:34:00.003-06:00

President-elect Barack Obama has offered the job of surgeon general to Dr. Sanjay Gupta, the neurosurgeon and correspondent for CNN and CBS, according to two sources with knowledge of the situation.

I never minded Dr. Gupta on CNN until a few years ago when he questioned Michael Moore's movie on healthcare, Sicko, and claimed that health insurance in this country isn't that bad... oh please.

Full story...

Loser Coleman suing to get seat he lost

2009-01-07T06:15:00.002-06:00

Republican Norm Coleman said Tuesday he is suing to challenge Democrat Al Franken's apparent recount victory in Minnesota's U.S. Senate race, delaying a resolution of the contest for weeks or months.

Even though Coleman, when he was ahead, said lawsuits like his were frivolous, he has now decided he does not want to be unemployed while facing huge legal challenges. Maybe his model wife in California can loan him some money.

What a jerk. It's time to go, loser.

Full story...

Israeli tanks, soldiers invade Gaza Strip -- it's on!

2009-01-03T16:08:00.002-06:00

Israel launched a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip on Saturday, sending tanks and infantry into battle with Hamas fighters who have defied eight days of deadly air strikes with salvoes of rocket fire into Israeli towns.

Here we go...

Full story...

Nearly 50% of Americans on Internet over one hour per day

2009-01-03T16:01:00.004-06:00

Americans' frequent use of the Internet has almost doubled over the last five years; 48% now report using the Internet more than one hour per day compared to 26% in 2002.

I cannot say that I am surprised, as almost everyone I talk to relies on the internet as their primary method of communication. What do you think?

Full story...

Pitbull Palin barking back about couples education

2009-01-01T11:47:00.002-06:00

Gov. Sarah Palin spent part of Wednesday countering what she considers inaccurate descriptions of how much education her daughter's fiance has, an effort culminating at the end of the day with her first public statement about her new grandson.

Palin got touchy when the unwed parents were referred to as "drop outs". According to Palin, Bristol is going back to school to get the final credit she needs for graduation and Levi is finishing high school online. Uhuh.

Full story...

Happy New Year OpenCitizens!

2009-01-01T10:40:00.003-06:00

2009 is here, and with it the prospects of an Obama presidency and a stronger democratic majority in congress. The last eight years of the Bush administration's incompetence will finally come to an end.

This year will also be a great year for OpenCitizen with many additional features planned for roll-out during the course of the next several months. One thing that will NOT change is our dedication to American democratic principles and our desire to expose hate and greed. (That's not too grandiose, is it?)

If there is anything you would like to see here in 2009, please let us know in the comments section.

Obama not afraid to do a little marketing

2008-12-31T13:12:00.003-06:00

President-elect Barack Obama is preparing to lead a full-scale marketing blitz to pass the massive new stimulus package that he says is needed to revive the slumping economy and put the nation on the course he laid out during his campaign.

It's one thing to have a great plan and message, it's quite another to ensure that the masses hear and understand it.

Full story...

Blagojevich snubs Senate, taps Burris for seat

2008-12-31T10:15:00.003-06:00

In a display of political bravado, disgraced Gov. Rod Blagojevich today appointed former Illinois Atty. Gen. Roland Burris to the U.S. Senate, challenging national Democratic leaders to reject the appointment of an African-American to the seat that propelled Barack Obama to the White House.

Has this man no shame? The bigger issue is the repercussions that this appointment could create. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid says he'll refuse to allow Roland Burris to fill Obama's vacant seat, setting up a standoff.

Full story...

Cheney clueless about his unpopularity

2008-12-29T13:51:00.005-06:00

So ... let's get this right ... Dick Cheney has broken dozens of laws, plunged our country into darkness, trashed civil rights, authorized the killing of thousands of innocents and he has no idea why he is unpopular. That is downright scary.

Full interview...

Virginity pledges don't work, increase later risk

2008-12-29T09:30:00.003-06:00

Teenagers who pledge to remain virgins until marriage are just as likely to have premarital sex as those who do not promise abstinence and are significantly less likely to use condoms and other forms of birth control when they do, according to a study released today.

I can't say that I am surprised. While I have no problem with parents encouraging abstinence, there are grave consequences for refusing to discuss birth control and/or protection.

Full story...

Franken ahead of Coleman by more than 250!

2008-12-21T11:14:00.000-06:00

So much for the Republican momentum. And there are already cries from the Rethugs that this election was stolen. Wah, wah, wah. Counting every vote is not stealing, it's called an election.

It looks like this trend will continue, and that Coleman will have to go back to his remodeled home and a brewing scandal.

Full story...

Chrysler shuttering 30 factories for a month

2008-12-18T08:51:00.003-06:00

More bad news on the automobile front affecting thousands of fellow Americans.

Chrysler has announced that at the end of this Friday's shift, all manufacturing facilities will be closed until January 19, 2009.

Chrysler has 30 facilities in North America. All will close temporarily.

Full story...

Obama selected Time's person of the year

2008-12-17T10:51:00.003-06:00

I couldn't agree more. Barack Obama managed to emerge from the democratic primaries a victor, then went on to win the country in a most decisive victory. Barack Obama is truly an American we can all be proud of!

Full story...

Caroline Kennedy to Seek Clinton's Senate Seat

2008-12-15T13:42:00.002-06:00

Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of an American political dynasty, has decided to pursue the United States Senate seat being vacated by Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York, a person told of her decision said on Monday.

Others likely to be considered for the Senate seat are members of Congress including Kirsten Gillibrand, a rising star in the Democratic party who represents an upstate district; Tom Suozzi, Nassau County chief executive and a former candidate for governor; and the New York State attorney general, Andrew M. Cuomo.

Full story...

McCain unsure if he'd support Palin for president

2008-12-15T13:26:00.004-06:00

This is rich.

Speaking to ABC's "This Week," McCain was asked whether Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin could count on his support. "I can't say something like that. We've got some great other young governors. I think you're going to see the governors assume a greater leadership role in our Republican Party," he said.

"Have no doubt of my admiration and respect for her and my view of her viability, but at this stage, again ... my corpse is still warm, you know?"

(just barely).

Full story...

Iraqi shoe-throwing reporter becomes the talk of Iraq

2008-12-15T09:02:00.002-06:00

The Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at U.S. President George W. Bush in a supreme insult has suddenly become the talk of Iraq, hailed by marchers as a national hero but blasted by the government as a barbarian.

I tend to think of him as more of an international hero...

Full story...