The Obamas, Barack and Michelle both, pretty much diplomatically botched the recent visit of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his wife. Oddly enough, the U.S. Old Media seems uninterested in the story that is a hot topic in England, a story that's left many Brits a bit miffed.
As the visit of the national leader of our closest ally began, the President informed the Brits that he wouldn't be attending the joint press conference that was planned to be held once PM Brown's plane touched down. This threw the visiting delegation into a tizzy leaving them scrambling to explain the sudden change in plans to the folks back home. Still, meetings were had and things smoothed out. Eventually the visit seemed to right itself... then came the Obama's gift gaffes.
It is well understood that visiting diplomatic delegations come bearing gifts and gift giving is returned in like fashion by the host country. It is an ages old human practice in diplomacy after all. Usually the gifts are valuable, representative of the products of the nations involved, or at least symbolic of the history of those nations.
For his part, PM Brown gave two symbolic gifts and one that expressed national pride. Brown came bearing a pen holder carved from the timbers of the sister ship of that which gave the wood to create the famous "Resolute Desk," the desk that has been in America's charge since 1880. He also gave Obama the framed commission for that famous ship, the HMS Resolute. His third gift was a seven-volume biography of one of England's greatest leaders, Winston Churchill.
So, what did President Obama give the British PM? 25 movies on DVD. Yeah, that's it. Brown gives a symbolic gift like the pen holder fashioned from a famous British warship and Obama responds by sending a staffer to WalMart to pick up a few quick movies.
How thoughtful. Or not.
And I'm not the only one to scoff at this thoughtless gift. The entire British press is up in arms. Many in Britain are seeing this as entirely gauche and indicative of the low esteem in which the Obama's hold England.
Worse, no one is 100% sure that Obama was smart enough to know that DVDs made in America don't play on European DVD players. American DVDs are created in the "Region One" format while those in Europe play in "Region Two" format. A U.S. DVD just won't play on a machine made for the English market.
Not to be out done in tastelessness by her husband, Michelle got into the act, too. Mrs. Brown came bearing two outfits for the Obama girls from Topshop, one of Britain's trendiest and expensive women's wear retail outlets.
In return, Michelle apparently had a staffer run down to the White House gift shop and grab two toy Marine One helicopter models for the Brown's boys.
Class all the way, huh?
All of this is on top of the snub of the Brits that Obama tossed off immediately upon entering office. One of his first official acts was to summarily return to the Brits the generous gift of the most famous bust of Winston Churchill that has sat in the Oval Office since the attacks on 9/11.
This threw British diplomats into a tizzy really blindsiding them. Even when they reiterated that Obama could keep the generous gift to the American people, he rejected it without comment leaving the Brits at a loss for words.
Now, I thought that Obama was going to improve our relations with "the world" once he took office? So far, all he's done is tell our enemies he's their friend and carelessly wave off our actual friends.
And, as I mentioned at the top, the U.S. Old Media has been ignoring this story.
Imagine that?
(Photo credit: Jeff Moore/telegraph.co.uk)
Editor at Large
Comments Policy
Nearly a billion dollars to
March 7, 2009 - 05:28 ET by jdhawkNearly a billion dollars to Hamas, a terrorist organization that has declared war on the United States, and a 25 DVD video set and a couple of White House trinkets for our British allies - one of the few European countries to truly support or efforts in the War on Terror.
Can we recall this clueless a**hole, the first stupid liberal?
just an observation...
March 7, 2009 - 07:02 ET by i was just thinkingI'm not trying to hijack the thread, but your comment on money to Hamas is a subject that always has me fuming.
I'm in Beirut, where students at our school have been raising money for Gaza relief efforts.
What I don't understand is this: why in the hell are we sending our tax dollars - money that OUR country needs! - to Palestinian organizations? These organizations, including the PLO, have millions and millions of dollars in their bank accounts and coffers. In fact, the Egyptians captured two men crossing their border into Palestinian territory - the two men were carrying briefcases with millions of dollars in them.
I am surrounded by oil-rich Arab countries. Why are WE sending our money to help the Palestinians?!? They are the Arabs' "cause" - THEY should be forking over millions of dollars in oil money to take care of their own.
I just don't get it. It infuriates the hell out of me!
Thread hijacking?
March 7, 2009 - 09:03 ET by ThisnThatI've hijacked several threads so far commenting on this Hamas terrorist funding act. It just seems no one cares anymore. I agree that this is most outrageous, and it makes my blood boil. My son spent two tours of duty in Iraq to help try to contain or kill these terrorists -- and Obama back-doors their funding to the tune of a billion dollars.
You're right. If our economy is in bad shape, why are we funding terrorists? Obama is raising my taxes so he can give it away to terrorists? Obama needs to be impeached now. Not tomorrow -- now. This is treason.
___________________________________
The challenge is to follow a consistent plan despite inconsistent prices - Sarah Palin, State of the State of Alaska speech
you are right thisnthat
March 7, 2009 - 10:27 ET by candanceIt's not that we don't care about that, it's just that there's not much we can do about it. Passage of the spending bill proved that Obama will not tolerate opposition and will resort to blatant fearmongering and letting the stock market sink in order to get what he wants.
As much as giving money to Hamas is infuriating, so is his "negotiating" with Russia to try to contain Iran, lifting abortion bans on foreign spending, and crushing our economy to the point that people are thinking about growing their own gardens.
What can we do other than protest and hope the GOP gets its act together?
Good morning candance
March 7, 2009 - 11:04 ET by cocodrieThe radicals that were trying to destroy us in the '60s are now running the country. Present Obama is doing his best to establish a marxist state here in America.
Our SOS, Seldombinlaid, is busy alienating our allies and aiding our enemies.
May God have mercy on America.
Jesus Loves You
and now we find out that NOT ONLY did he fail to
April 1, 2009 - 18:59 ET by Cape Conservativebow to the queen (probably assumed she would bow to him!) but he gave her a two-handed handshake! A big no-no! And his entourage had to move their vehicle because it was blocking the traffic into Buckingham Palace. Golly gee, I am SO impressed with the 'cool' guy's LACK of protocol!
It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue. ~ Sam Adams
Well I dont blame him for not parking the car
April 1, 2009 - 19:07 ET by general companyBut isnt there anyone on his staff who can fill him in on protocal? He probably did expect a curtsy.
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
I was just....Excellent
March 7, 2009 - 10:20 ET by celatorI was just....Excellent point, and at the core of what is wrong with Obama's view of the world. It's yet another misread and a mess in the long list of screwups Obama is now famous for. There are many more to come. What a dolt. It will take years to undo the damage this guy does.
The Government cannot give to anybody anything which the government does not first take from somebody else. Dr. Adrian Rogers
I was going to go on
March 7, 2009 - 10:26 ET by MidAmericaI was going to go on vacation somewhere here in the US this year and now I can't. The state department warns against visiting countries that are state sponsors of terrorists.
MA... That
March 12, 2009 - 15:58 ET by bigtimerMA...
That statement says it all!
I see the date folks....but I clicked here by someone else's post in the comment section and caught this...which I found spot-on.
Can we recall Obama? You bet.
March 7, 2009 - 23:16 ET by CKA in Red State USAFirst, we have to ensure that in 2010, the Demockacrats or Dementocrats, whichever you choose to call them, become politically neutralized in Congress. That means they lose their majority status.
Then we repeat that in 2012 and also defeat Obama for re-election.
Meanwhile, we resist anything he does that endangers America and its freedoms. ANYTHING.
We force the Megalomaniac-in-Chief and Teleprompter-Reader-in-Chief to show his anger and impatience with those who refuse to bow to everything he says and does.
The real problem is
March 7, 2009 - 05:53 ET by richb313The real problem is that the Obamas' are so enamored with themselves they cannot even percieve how offensive thier behavior is to others. It is almost like they consider themselves Royalty and as such everyone else should be impressed to just be in thier presence. Is it me or does anyone else notice how much he poses in public with head slightly uplifted and chin thrust out.
Head tilted upward...
March 7, 2009 - 06:03 ET by jdlybrandSo he can look down his nose at the mere mortals who wait for a chance to lick his boots.
You hit the nail on the
March 7, 2009 - 09:53 ET by casel21You hit the nail on the head. Michelle and Barack are self-absorbed autocrats that HATE America. They accurately represent leftists.
They are poster children for the failures of affirmative action.
March 7, 2009 - 23:20 ET by CKA in Red State USAAnd, yes, they do hate America and, frankly, don't care if anyone knows it.
They're both megalomaniacs in their own right.
They're embarrassments, not because of the color of their skin, but the color of their politics and the absence of their allegiance to America.
And their apparent lack of decency, decorum and hospitality.
It is really a sign of insecurity - but hidden behind a bravado
March 12, 2009 - 15:51 ET by Cape Conservativemask that really doesn't hide it at all! She can appear on every magazine cover on sale at the grocery store and I am STILL unimpressed. I guess when the brownshirts start knocking at my door, I will have a change of heart (maybe, maybe not...after all this is MY country they are intent on destroying!)
I am reminded of that picture of Rahm E on inauguration day where he was caught thumbing his nose at someone. "We Won - Get Over It" is their message - loud & clear!
EVERY time this man walks out to READ! his remarks, my stomach does a huge flip-flop and a prayer is instantly uttered - PLEASE GOD, HELP AMERICA!!!
It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue. ~ Sam Adams
Shameful Treatment of Our Greatest Ally
March 7, 2009 - 06:21 ET by CBrauThe Obama's should be ashamed, although I'm sure they're not. With just a slight bit of effort, Mr. Obama could have acted appropriately dignified with our country's greatest ally. But no, I guess that was too much effort for Wonderboy. He was probably out tinkering with his teleprompter, or telling Gibbs how to respond to the Shelbyville News Gazette Op Ed piece from last Tuesday that was critical of the President's health care plans.
Meanwhile, the Hillary gaffe parade keeps going in Europe. "Overcharge" on a red button? My, my, my how very intelligent are all things "Dem", right? Can you imagine if President Bush and Condi Rice had snubbed a critical ally and presented their Russian counterpart with an improperly worded red button?
Isn't Hillary the smartest
March 7, 2009 - 09:20 ET by ThisnThatIsn't Hillary the smartest woman in the world?
___________________________________
The challenge is to follow a consistent plan despite inconsistent prices - Sarah Palin, State of the State of Alaska speech
Lets sum it up.
March 7, 2009 - 13:55 ET by mizflame98The Obama's insult Britan.
Hillary makes us a laughing stock in Russia.
Chavez thinks we should give it up and become Socialist; something that Obama is dilligantly working on.
Hillary shows herself to be a dumb blonde when she met with the EU.
Yeah, this is the new tone I guess Obama was talking about.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
Obama to UK...Drop Dead
March 7, 2009 - 06:40 ET by Jack BauerI've mocked this on a couple of other threads.
But I'll just repeat what I think is the REAL REASON for certain aspects of the "SMART DIPLOMACY -- which seems to mean diss your best ally, suck up to your enemies.
Normally here's what happens with such a visit from the elected leader of Great Britain -- who's happens to be a raving socialist whom Obama is trying to emulate ...
Gordon Brown has a Press Corps following him too ... and they're not ALL sychophantic leftists, especially reporters from the Times, the Daily Telegraph, the Daily Mail and the Sun.
So -- normally with your strongest ally the President would hold a joint press conference with two lecterns, lots of Stars & Stripes mingled with Union Jacks.
AND NO TELEPROMPTERS
Now with half the press being Brits, half of who are very critical of Brown AND Obama... the President would have been open to some very in your face questioning.
And Obama just cannot handle that.
Disgraceful
March 7, 2009 - 06:51 ET by jacktheripper........no other word for it
Obama
March 7, 2009 - 07:08 ET by adamsmithI don't know what people expect. As I've written many times before, the guy was only in the U.S. Senate for 141 days before he dropped everything to run for the Presidency. He's an amateur playing a role he was no way ready for. If Obama had been white or better yet a Republican white boy, he never would have been considered. What's funny is all his advisors are Clinton retreads, the same idiots who took all the "W"s off the White House computers before they left. The children are in charge of the schoolhouse. Only good thing about all this is Jimmy Carter Jr. will be voted out in 2012 if there are still elections..........
King Barry the boor
March 7, 2009 - 09:22 ET by nkviking75When George W. Bush was president he was portrayed as a boorish cowboy. But W. was the third generation of his family in public service, which included his father's tenure as ambassador to China and representative to the U.N. W. would have been, and was, a lot smarter about these things than King Barry.
While a less important gaffe, I've wondered by Chicago's president, Obama, apparently has failed to make a statement about the death of one of Chicago's most famous residents, Paul Harvey. Bush paid his respects in a statement on Harvey's website, but Obama appears to have remained silent.
When you put the clowns in charge, don't be surprised when a circus breaks out.
Jack, you forget this guy is a
March 7, 2009 - 11:48 ET by FastEdsocially ignorant Chicago pol. His actions are of the "hood", where all the former social graces are frowned upon or dismissed as being too much of "the man". It is too bad that the propagandists running the media haven't yet gotten over their kool aid stupor and will show this pretender for what he is.
I'm just wondering, does the prez think thie whole president thing is like a mock court? He's playing prsident, and hasn't figured out that this is the REAL thing.
There is no sense in being stupid, if you can't prove it! - my dad V
Quite, Jack
March 7, 2009 - 13:15 ET by BlondeI mentioned this yesterday. I really wish your government would "re-gift" the bust of Churchill to the President George W. Bush Presidential Library.
That would be poetic justice.
Our apologies for such inexcusable behavior. Totally appalling. Maybe the silver lining is the rest of your countrymen will get a clue about the Bamster.
I hope he fails, too.
I agree Blonde,
March 7, 2009 - 21:33 ET by RESTLESS 1I am quite sure that the shame I feel over the 0's actions, especially the bust of Churchill, considering the atmosphere in which it was given, is 100 time more than the faux shame the dems had over W's actions.
This is apalling, and there is NO EXCUSE for it. That bust was a gift to all of us.
* last sentence deleted due to vulgar content, but I REALLY wanted to post it.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
The statue wasn't a gift
March 8, 2009 - 00:57 ET by JerThe statue wasn't a gift to the American people. It was on loan to the Bush White House. That said, I think Obama was wrong not to extend its stay.
Jer
Jer,
March 8, 2009 - 01:13 ET by RESTLESS 1You are corect sir, on both counts. If the British did not ask for it back, then it should have stayed where it was.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
Restless, Disregard my
March 8, 2009 - 01:17 ET by JerRestless,
Disregard my other response to you reiterating the loan status.. Again, I don't know why Obama would deliberately offend the British by refusing the offer to allow the Churchill statue to remain in the Oval Office through his term. Figured he would be more politically savvy than that.
Jer
This merely shows his
March 7, 2009 - 07:02 ET by SlicksterThis merely shows his ignorance and arrogance, the teleprompter buffoon.
No surprise
March 7, 2009 - 07:11 ET by bknownst"Now, I thought that Obama was going to improve our relations
with "the world" once he took office?"
When he said the "world" he left out the word muslim. He meant to say "the muslim world" but he must have misplaced his teleprompter that day. Honest mistake, like all of his cabinet picks not paying their taxes.
Of Course MSM Won't Report It.
March 7, 2009 - 07:12 ET by Massage_Master07This "man", and I use the word VERY lightly, is a sorry, SORRY ass excuse for an American president. Not once, but TWICE does he insult our closest and strongest ally and supporter. Everything, and I do mean everything, that he has said and done shows just how much CONTEMPT and HATRED that he has forWestern Civilization in general and the USA and the free market system specifically. Of course, ALL liberal, marxist, progressive, socialist, communist people HATE the free market system, so why should THAT suprise anyone either here OR in England.
Of course, I didn't hear a THING about this or the insult he gave to England earlier this year from the MSM in trying to return the bust of Winston Churchill that's been in the White House since shortly after 9/11. It was given to the American people as a show and sign of solidarity in the War Against Terror between the two countries. Of course, I had to read about BOTH of these things online from FOREIGN newspapers. Specifically from England's newspapers. From what I've read, they are NOT happy about it in ANY WAY, shape or form. That includes people from the British Parliament all the way down to the man on the street.
So, way to go there, Olenibama or Whorebama, you freakin' MORON. Whichever one you choose. I like them both. LOL
Also, I'd like to add my two cents worth to some of the replies to this article. I don't think he looks like royalty with his nose in the air and his chin thrust forward. I'm guessing that he THINKS it makes him look presidential. I think it makes him look like someone is holding a stinky turd under his nose and can't get away from the smell, like Julia Childs used to look when she was talking to the camera while cooking. LOL
How embarrasing
March 7, 2009 - 07:35 ET by rockyracoonGee I sure hope that none of those DVDs are a porno. At least MO didn't have one of her flunkys buy the Brown boys a couple of bags of plastic toy soldiers in a bag that one could get at the local CVS.
I don't know what is more galling, the Hussein 0bamas lack of class, or the LMSM not reporting on this. This diplomatic gaffe would make for some wonderful material for the late night comedians, if they had the guts.
Apparently the comedians
March 7, 2009 - 09:49 ET by general companyare telling everyone that that Obama's are not good comedic material? Saw Robin Williams a week or so ago, he clamed thisBS while bashing Bush and getting boo'ed.
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
Regifting?
March 7, 2009 - 11:15 ET by ThatDudeDid our President really regift here? Also, I take it as Obama rejecting Churchill's strength and ideology by trying to pass back the bust. Stay classy prez.
So much for the management skills...
March 7, 2009 - 07:47 ET by JohnMcGrew...of the "Community Organizer in Chief". Typically, presidents have on staff people familiar with protocol to oversee such details. Why were they MIA? Too busy programming the teleprompter, I guess.
I can forgive the President for being clueless about which DVDs play in which DVD players, as most American's not into tech details don't know this either. But what I can't forgive is his seeming inabailty to run his own staff, or to listen to the people who he should know should know better about such details. Now he just looks like a goofus.
So much for all of this "mending" we've had to hear about for the last several years.
Protocol?
March 7, 2009 - 11:04 ET by NorthCoasterI'm the O, the One you've been waiting for, I don't need to follow no stinking protocol, I make the rules now, peasants!
Sarc off!
foreshadowing
March 7, 2009 - 07:50 ET by Catherwoodwhat the Brits are now seeing is what we will all see and come to realize in the very near future. The Obamas are way out of their league when it comes to the presidency. They have no idea how to act or what to do because they were not ready to assume the mantles. they are both no more than symbolic characters in a tragic play which is now unfolding before the eyes of the world. What's coming is not going to be pretty. The path to liberalism and socialism is paved with politically correct symbols such as the Obamas.
Play
March 7, 2009 - 11:13 ET by NorthCoasterI was thinking of a Shakespearean Tragicomedy, something of a Mid-summernight's Disaster.
Let me see, Rush Limbaugh would be Puck, Obama as Nick Bottom, Michelle as Titania..........................The rude mechanicals played by Rahm et. al...................
It's like I've said before.
March 7, 2009 - 07:50 ET by Dave DIt's like I've said before. Given that he's the first AA president he's, to paraphrase another recent statement, "Too historic to be allowed to fail." Of course if they don't report how will anybody know the difference. (I'm sticking with my other view too, short of literally soiling himself they won't criticize him and at this point I'm not sure if they'd do it then.)
Netflix?
March 7, 2009 - 08:04 ET by DingbatWhy didn't BO just give Gordon a Netflix subscription so he chose what DVD's he wanted? Wouldn't that be more personal?
ROTFLMFAO!!!!!!! Ding,
March 7, 2009 - 08:33 ET by rockyracoonROTFLMFAO!!!!!!!
Ding, your post was worded much better than mine, my hat's off to you. Thanks for the laugh!
He is just trying
March 7, 2009 - 09:54 ET by general companyTo get the Brown with the program, no doubt these videos were to help with their re-education? Either that or this is his way of giving Holywood a bailout. One thing for sure though, the Obama's are slob's
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
making lemonade out of lemons
March 7, 2009 - 08:06 ET by mom_roxOprah will probably slap an Obama's Favorite Movies label on the DVDs and include them in her Favorite Things. Then they will be become 'collectibles' along with the Obama Victory Plate. (At least Brown didn't receive a plate.)
This is just so tacky - I, too, am embarrassed. A gift does not need to be expensive, but thoughtful; these missed the mark by a mile.
Tacky
March 7, 2009 - 08:34 ET by DontFeedTheTrollsWow mom, tacky is the right word. I wouldn't be surprised to see some black velvet paintings of MLK and Malcom X hanging in the White House. Maybe a print of some dogs playing cards, too.
D
Keep the ILLEGALS out, join NumbersUSA to send free faxes to your reps.
that's just funny
March 7, 2009 - 09:33 ET by i was just thinkingHad to laugh about Oprah's new collection.
Now I also have to wonder about Star Wars being one of his choices. Does he think it might have been a better story line if the Jedi had tried to sit down and open a dialogue with the Emperor and Darth Vader?
Re-gifted?
March 7, 2009 - 18:16 ET by ThisnThatI wonder how many of these DVDs were re-gifted?
___________________________________
The challenge is to follow a consistent plan despite inconsistent prices - Sarah Palin, State of the State of Alaska speech
Obama doesn't have time
March 7, 2009 - 08:06 ET by MidAmericaObama doesn't have time for people sooo below his station such as a Prime Minister. The Queen of England? Now there's someone who is more of a contemporary. In fact, obama has even got his 'visit the Queen' outfit already picked out.
~MA
March 7, 2009 - 08:35 ET by choselife3xThat picture is a SCREAM.
Hope and Change=
Despair and Socialism
thanks!
March 7, 2009 - 09:51 ET by i was just thinkingI can guarandamnteeya THAT was funny. his "visit the queen" outfit... lmao
well if we don't have a
March 7, 2009 - 10:06 ET by MidAmericawell if we don't have a few laughs along the way we'll soon all be on anti-depressants..
Roaring with laughter
March 7, 2009 - 10:11 ET by celatorRoaring with laughter here....well done, and perfect timing.
The Government cannot give to anybody anything which the government does not first take from somebody else. Dr. Adrian Rogers
Oh my G-d Becky
March 7, 2009 - 12:35 ET by ecnirPI feel sorry for every single person who did not click on that link.
OH...MY...G-D...Becky,
Look at that Clock!
It is so BIG!
It's like...one of those rap guys'...boyfriends'...clocks.
I mean, his clock.
It's just so big.
I can't believe, it's just so...round!
It's just, like...out there.
I mean...gross!
The idiot in chief.
March 7, 2009 - 08:39 ET by c5thenThat is what Obama's nickname should be. Apparently he knows nothing and his staff is just as clueless.
Hey, I got the wrong "CHANGE"!
www.loyaltoliberty.com
Priorities
March 7, 2009 - 08:44 ET by acumenEstablishment Media Editorial Reply -- Why trouble ourselves with this triviality when Americans can get awesome toned arms like the First (time-in-my-adult-life) Lady while at the same time like really contemplating the miraculous graying of Fear Leader?
Gordon Brown is blind in one eye and poor vision in the other
March 7, 2009 - 09:39 ET by JWFThe new British Prime Minister lost the vision in one eye at a young age. And he only has 30% vision in the other.
http://www.health24.com/medical/Condition_centres/777-792-810-1690,40948.asp
The more I read about this, the more bizarre it gets. Even if he could watch the Region 1 dvd's on a Region 2 player. He would still have to find an NTSC region 1 and/or 2 player. England uses the PAL format.
Say, isn't Stevie Wonder coming to the White House? Maybe they could give him a set of binoculars.
Sincerely,
a Veteran of a 1000 psychic wars.
not to mention the fact that...
March 7, 2009 - 09:58 ET by i was just thinking... either a) Brown just might already own those DVDs or b) if he really wanted them, they certainly would be easy enough to find in London. Not exactly a well-thought-out gift.
Can only imagine the outrage and indignation from the MSM if Bush had presented such a lame gift. I tend to think of the difference between Bush and Obama, when meeting foreign leaders, as being something like this:
Bush: I'm very honored to meet you.
Obama: You're very honored to meet me.
JWF beat me to it, but I was going to post
March 8, 2009 - 04:15 ET by thebutlerdiditabout Brown's failing eyesite. On top of that, it was reported for some time in the British papers that Brown isn't a movie fan! I remembered reading it in the Telegraph back last year, and they brought it back up the other day. They are really p'od in their comments sections. I remember seeing a list of the movies that were gifted, I know Star Wars was one, ET, Scarface,Rocky, Godfather 1 & 2, but I can't remember any more, but you get the gist. I like how Hillary told the Europeans that our 2 party democracy was complicated enough,that she didn't get multi-party systems, and that our system of democracy had been in place a lot longer than theirs. I wonder what they were thinking when she said that? I wonder if anyone explained to her about the Greeks and that 2,000 yrs is a long time ago? As for Obama meeting the Queen, perhaps he will gift her with a PajamaGram? A year's subscription to O the magazine? Shamwows? Vermont Teddy Bear? Or maybe a Slap Chop? With the bonus Gratey?
All a Democrat needs is the upper-story window of public attention and the chamber pot of rhetoric. How else to explain the rise of Joe Biden? P.J. O' Rourke
A couple gummy bears
March 7, 2009 - 09:20 ET by ChrisMillsWell, it was better than what Obama wanted to give him before his advisors intervened - a couple gummy bears that had gotten "toasty warm" inside his pocket.
Trailer Trash of the First Order
March 7, 2009 - 09:31 ET by NoJellyHoly smokes, I used to think of the Billary show as the stuff of Beverly Hillbilly fame, but the trailer-trash crown has officially been passed on.
This is just...Disgusting.
At some liberal sites
March 7, 2009 - 09:38 ET by katiejanethe braindead are trying to spin the helicopters as a great gift - how that selection reflects how wonderful Mrs.Obama is because she "knows" that any l;ittle boy would much rather have a plastic toy than a fancy dress. The reality that the woman probably didn't even think to buy gifts for the Brown children and had no option other than the WH gift shop is just something they can't cmprehend. They don't say anything about the DVD set.
Michelle
March 7, 2009 - 11:19 ET by NorthCoasterOh $#it, I need something for the kids. Quick run down to the gift shop and get something.
OK, yes, two Marine 1 helicopters would be fine.
Yeah, right.....
Fifteen dollars each
March 7, 2009 - 13:12 ET by katainkentouch.
Marine One Double-snub?
March 7, 2009 - 13:54 ET by ecnirPDidn't we previously snub the Brits when they were leading the bidding on the new Marine One helicopter order? That makes this gift to the Brown children a nice coda to that story.
$15 Bucks
March 7, 2009 - 10:15 ET by VonuOk, I admit, I thought a model of Marine One might be kinda cool to have, I guess I had something else in mind. 15 bucks but it comes with a little jeep.
They raised the price!
http://store.whiteho...
This is the first one I found.
http://whitehouse.me...
$15 Bucks
March 7, 2009 - 11:50 ET by sherylsimsBut I bet the Obamas get the employee discount.
lol!
March 7, 2009 - 13:12 ET by katainkentAll that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. -Edmund Burke
Listening to UK talk radio,
March 7, 2009 - 10:16 ET by celatorListening to UK talk radio, lots of angry calls about Obama's insulting behavior coming in.
One caller said, "Clearly the new American President is not receiving the professional assistance he needs in international affairs." LOL. Talk about an understatement.
The Government cannot give to anybody anything which the government does not first take from somebody else. Dr. Adrian Rogers
"Clearly the new American
March 8, 2009 - 05:45 ET by i was just thinking"Clearly the new American President is not receiving the professional assistance he needs in international affairs."
Well now, come on... be fair... Joe "Plugs" Biden has been busy answering phone calls from people who want to know how the stimulus package is going to help their small businesses - you know, helping them build bridges over the creek, changing their thermostats... things like that! (Gotta listen to Rush to get that one, I think.)
Joe's been too busy to help Obama with foreign entanglements. Remember? That's what Joe was brought on board for!
Never fear, however... we've got Hillary Clinton, the great foreign affairs expert at the helm! If she had been in the country to advise Obama, you can certainly bet Brown wouldn't have gotten a cheesy ol' set of movies.
With each and every passing day, the level of knowledge, ability, and expertise in the new administration never ceases to amaze me. I stand in awe.
Clueless
March 7, 2009 - 10:17 ET by dboI wonder if Barack gave Michelle a toaster for Christmas?
The tots
March 7, 2009 - 11:23 ET by StarAZI hear the Obama girls don't get Christmas presents. Maybe Meanchelle is out of practice.
no, they don't get presents
March 7, 2009 - 13:11 ET by katainkentthey get lavish parties. And they don't get christmas gifts either. Its supposed to be a teaching tool for their children to keep them grounded. Maybe this was a teaching tool for the British PM.
I wonder if that makes them jealous of all the
March 8, 2009 - 04:19 ET by thebutlerdiditlittle rich kids who go to their private schools? With the macrobiotic diets? My daughter went to an expensive boarding school, about the same price a yr as the Obama girls school. Trust me, these kids have it all. I agree you shouldn't get them too much, but I think they should get a few very nice gifts. They deserve something for the trade-off for the massive change in their lives, especially since no one asked them. They seem like nice kids, cute, well-mannered. I hope they come out of political life o.k. So many end up screwy.
All a Democrat needs is the upper-story window of public attention and the chamber pot of rhetoric. How else to explain the rise of Joe Biden? P.J. O' Rourke
He can't even keep his promise to his daughters.
March 8, 2009 - 11:19 ET by mizflame98He still hasn't picked up the puppy yet. Another campaign promise down the drain.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
You're missing the sad point
March 7, 2009 - 10:48 ET by dervishthat to the minds of the people now running the government, a nifty gift set of Oscar-winning movies is an even better gift than a seven-volume biography of Churchill or some chunk of wood from an old boat. The teenagers are again in control of the government, and picking up where they left off in 2000.
"Liberals have many tails, and chase them all." H.L. Mencken
Obama
March 7, 2009 - 10:56 ET by NorthCoasterJust a child of the world.
One day he will grow up....................when?
It could have been worse
March 7, 2009 - 11:25 ET by StarAZI wonderi if Brown would have liked a copy of The Audacity of My Father or whatever it's called.
oooh!
March 8, 2009 - 05:36 ET by i was just thinkingThe Obama Gift-Pack Book set, personally autographed by The Great One... that beats a stuffy old set of boring Churchill books any day!
Maybe Obama could have just given him an autographed picture of himself. That's what Hitler used to do. An autographed photo of the Führer in a silver frame was one of the Nazi leaders' most cherished possessions - if they were lucky enough to receive one.
Give Present Obama a break.
March 7, 2009 - 11:25 ET by cocodrieGive Present Obama a break.
He didn"t attend the press conference because he didn't want to make a fool of himself in front of the whole world again.
He may have returned the bust of Churchill but he kept the busts of Che, Fidel, Marx, Lenin and many other heroic figures he admires.
Jesus Loves You
Give Present Obama a break.
March 7, 2009 - 11:25 ET by cocodrieGive Present Obama a break.
He didn"t attend the press conference because he didn't want to make a fool of himself in front of the whole world again.
He may have returned the bust of Churchill but he kept the busts of Che, Fidel, Marx, Lenin and many other heroic figures he admires.
Jesus Loves You
Well, Obama was elected in
March 7, 2009 - 11:30 ET by CortillaenWell, Obama was elected in part due to a perception of "youth", so he must just be trying to act the part. I suppose that's about as close to an honored campaign promise as we're likely to get. As for Michelle and Hillary... I dunno, maybe they were just following along? This is the level of juvenile behavior we can expect from the WH for the next four years. *sigh*
www.daybydaycartoon.... Proving that conservative comedy is very real.
"With your mind as high as Mt. Fuji you can see all things clearly. And you can see all the forces that shape events; not just the things near to you." - Miyamoto Musashi
did you read the article you linked to, Mr. Huston?
March 7, 2009 - 11:51 ET by nicholas nicklebyWith a name like that--shared by famous director John and his actor children Anjelica and Danny--you might be interested in the fact that these 25 movies were actually (according to the article you linked to) 25 movies selected by the American Film Institute?
Also in the category of things you don't know about, <a href="http://www.google.com/search?ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=navclient&gfns=1&q=multi+region+dvd+players">multi-region dvd players</a>!
Also, I think this would be a good example of how the American media doesn't report on things--except NPR got to this story one day before you did! (Check out the date on this: http://www.npr.org/t...).
So, let's sum up: a) your idea that this was just 25 movies is wrong--they are 25 of the AFI's top movies; b) your idea that the Brown's will need a whole new DVD player to play region 1 movies is wrong; and c) your claim that the US media has not reported on this is also wrong.
Seriously, for the sake of conservativism, stop playing gotcha games. I mean, think about it: Bush has a long history of hilarious verbal gaffes--a long history that may have been good for a laugh on dKos or other liberal websites, but a history which did not in any way prevent the implementing of Bush's policies.
So, if you don't like Obama's policies, try to formulate a policy response. Because the more you play gotcha games like this, the more you turn out to be the only one gotten.
American Film Institute?
March 7, 2009 - 11:56 ET by Cool ArrowWell, then, that's a horse of a different color.
Stamped with the imprimatur of the Film Actors Guild, no doubt.
Gosh, nick! I mean WOW! the real American Film Institute?
That makes the gift soooo special.
Obama - Change you can bereave in
haha, it spells FAG!
March 7, 2009 - 12:46 ET by nicholas nicklebyI was going to make a mean joke here, but on second thought, I'll let my refutation of WT Huston's post stand.
I mean, come on--the main point of this article (and this website) is that American media isn't telling you the news, but NPR beat Huston to this story. NPR? Huston apparently doesn't use Google to check the facts before he posts.
→ Who cares?
March 7, 2009 - 12:54 ET by Cool ArrowI was just cracking up over your attempt to legitimize a hastily chosen White House Gift Shop purchase with the "American Film Institute"
Obama - Change you can bereave in
I'm mostly cracking up over
March 7, 2009 - 12:59 ET by nicholas nicklebyI'm mostly cracking up over the fact that NPR beat Huston to a story that he claims no one else is telling.
(As for the AFI thing, see my response below to PrairieSky where I admit that the AFI connection doesn't make it a good gift.)
"I'm mostly cracking
March 7, 2009 - 13:07 ET by R D Helm"I'm mostly cracking up"
Finally, the unvarnished truth about something.
-Dave
This coup has gone on long enough. The time to put it down is NOW.
Zing!
March 7, 2009 - 13:17 ET by nicholas nicklebyAnother win for conservativism!
Come on, if you want to win elections you need to articulate policy positions, not rely on jokes.
Why?
March 7, 2009 - 20:41 ET by UpNorthThe media and democrats relied on one. What policy position did the Obamunist expound on, other than "Hope and Change"?
NPR
March 7, 2009 - 13:08 ET by cocodrieIf NPR had the story that means ten people heard it. You weren't one of them so Warner's story was news to you also.
The DVDs were a juvenile gift from a juvenile minded incompetent.
Jesus Loves You
Unfortunatly Nick
March 7, 2009 - 13:16 ET by general companyYou had to go to the comments section to get the rest of the story. Although I was suprised at how critical the npr artical was. Thing maybe looking up?
Iain Martin, a columnist and blogger for the Daily Telegraph, wrote that he found Obama to be rudeness personified toward Britain.
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
that would be an interesting post!
March 7, 2009 - 13:19 ET by nicholas nicklebyHey GC,
Rather than Huston's ill-informed post, a post on how NPR was being critical--now, that would be an interesting post to read here at NB.
nicky - BIG WOOOOOOOOOOEEEEEEEEEEE! One
March 16, 2009 - 20:23 ET by Cape Conservativetime NPR mentions something and you want to make a big deal over it. Where are the reports from the alphabets networks and liberals birdcage liners????
It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue. ~ Sam Adams
→ Hey Nick
March 7, 2009 - 11:59 ET by Cool ArrowSince y'all are so smart, do you know what a profit to earnings ratio is?
Obama - Change you can bereave in
Whoops. Someone is lost again.
March 7, 2009 - 12:33 ET by JWFNicotene Nicostain once again thinks he is on the DizzyKids website.
Shhhh. Don't anybody tell him. He is so proud. He learned a new word - formulate.
Yes, it is sad. He still thinks Bush is in charge. Can't seem to get over his happy years when he could scream like a child with turrets over and over again - BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH!!!!!!!
Sincerely,
a Veteran of a 1000 psychic wars.
it took me a moment, but I worked out what you meant.
March 7, 2009 - 12:42 ET by nicholas nicklebyTourette's, JWF. Turrets are what castles have.
→ Thanks, nick
March 7, 2009 - 12:45 ET by Cool ArrowBut Suicide bombers can have them too.
Obama - Change you can bereave in
See. Let's humour him. He is very sad after all
March 7, 2009 - 12:47 ET by JWFWhy thank you for correcting me nicknack!
There. That was easy. Now he thinks he has the upper hand. Throw him a misspelling or some poor puncuation.
Seriously guys, cut him a break. Mommy finally let him use the computer again. She found a plastic cover for the keyboard. Now he gets to drink all the yoohoo he wants.
Also, even the loony left makes fun of him over at Dkos. They don't like juvenile losers either. So we need to humour him.
Sincerely,
a Veteran of a 1000 psychic wars.
Now I remember. It has been so long, I almost forgot.
March 7, 2009 - 13:01 ET by JWFMommy sure does take away his computer a lot!
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/tom-blumer/2008/10/11/ibd-market-dive-due-impending-first-socialist-president-taxes-protection#comment-743650
We don't think a scummy little liar should be visiting the site of an honorable man like Sen. McCain. Now we have to break out the Spic & Span and clean all the servers.
Not only are you a liar but you are now costing people real money to clean off your scum.
Sincerely,
a Veteran of a 1000 psychic wars
This is the guy that picks a fight with Noel and then lies. He musta picked a fight with that Mucus Zuniggy guy and got kicked off the Dkos site again.
nick...It has been reported...
March 7, 2009 - 12:37 ET by PrairieSkythat Gordon Brown is not a particular fan of "cinema," as they call it across the pond, and probably couldn't care less about receiving 25 dvd's, whether they are on the vaunted AFI's list, or not. Apparently someone on "O's" staff didn't do their homework, huh?
And just because these films are on AFI's list, who cares? So what? I strongly doubt that PM Brown has ever even heard of the AFI, let alone would he know that these films were on it's list. The entire idea behind this "gift" is absurd, and completely inappropriate.
"...peace is the highest aspiration of the American People. We will negotiate for it, sacrifice for it, we will never surrender for it, now or ever." President Ronald Reagan~ January 20, 1981
That's a point
March 7, 2009 - 12:54 ET by nicholas nicklebyThat's a point, PS--it's not a great gift. I agree with that.
On the other hand, Huston seems to imply that this was a completely unthought-out gift, as if someone gave you 25 random movies. I was just pointing out that they weren't random--they were off the AFI's list. Still, as you point out, that doesn't make it a great gift.
On the other hand, the fact that they are off the AFI's list is just another thing that Huston either ignores or gets wrong. (I'd forgive him for not knowing about multi-region DVD players; but I think it's ridiculous that he's arguing that American media isn't telling this story when NPR beat him to it. You know how I found that out? I googled it.)
Now he is picking a fight with Mr. Huston.
March 7, 2009 - 13:08 ET by JWFMommy buys the really expensive DVD players, you know the ones that can play NTSC and PAL mutltiregional dvd's. Mommy is rich and has a lot of other hands.
nick...I think we all can agree...
March 7, 2009 - 13:07 ET by PrairieSkythat this choice was a bad one, and the fact that this set consisted of films on AFI's list, to me, is irrelevant. It was an inappropriate choice for the occasion, period.
That said, as you said, I had heard that NPR did have a piece on this, but as far as I am aware, they are pretty much it as far as the MSM goes. I have seen it covered on Fox News, but that's about it.
Anyway, let's just hope that the Obama's (and their staffs) have learned something from this, and won't make the same mistake in a similar circumstance, again.
"...peace is the highest aspiration of the American People. We will negotiate for it, sacrifice for it, we will never surrender for it, now or ever." President Ronald Reagan~ January 20, 1981
prairiesky - don't hold your breath ;-)
March 16, 2009 - 20:35 ET by Cape ConservativeWonder what 'the one' has up his sleeve for his visit to the Queen...a signed copy of our Declaration of Independence?? I'm sure Hillary will have her 'button procurer' come up with something fitting (and sure to offend '-)!
Say...are the British teleprompters compatible with our technology? Maybe we could bribe a technician to run a gardening book instead ;-) I'm sure there are plenty of willing volunteers after the many insults shown during the Brown visit! My guess is there will be no joint press conference - we'll have to just wait and see.
It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue. ~ Sam Adams
NPR
March 7, 2009 - 13:18 ET by katainkentI would grant that someone in the US covered the subject matter before this article was written, yes. What is NPR's audience for All Things Considered.
And I find it interesting that his actions were excused because he has far more important things on his mind. Doesn't he have a Protocol Office to do these things for him? Delegation is supposed to be one of the prime qualities for administrating.
not sure what you mean
March 7, 2009 - 13:32 ET by nicholas nickleby<i>What is NPR's audience for All Things Considered.</i>
Do you mean, katainkent, that NPR's show isn't very popular or isn't very popular with the same group that would read NB? You may be right about that, but I wish Huston had taken the time to verify his claim that no one has mentioned it, rather than put a patently false claim in his title. He either hasn't bothered to do his work or thinks you'll fall for it without verifying.
well I don't know about anyone else
March 7, 2009 - 14:29 ET by katainkentbut I always like to read up on all the subjects brought up here. For me, these articles are not the end of a subject, but a 'jumping off point'.But seriously, would you have run across the article in your everyday perusal of the news?
That's not really my point
March 7, 2009 - 15:03 ET by nicholas nicklebyHi K.,
If WT Huston had said "You probably didn't hear this because NPR covered it," I wouldn't be busting his chops over this. I'm busting his chops simply because he made a false claim in his title. (Whether or not we use his post as a jumping-off point doesn't change the fact that he's wrong. It is, as Ron Burgundy says in Anchorman, science--you can't argue with science. But, I should also say that you're right--it's a good thing that NB highlights stories that might otherwise get lost; I just wish the writers and editors did a better job of fact-checking (i.e., googling) some of their claims.)
I probably am busting his chops over something which no one else cares about, but I remember, during the election, NB used to have more interesting news and more interesting arguments about issues. Since the election I've seen posts on whether Obama broke the law by dumping his grandmother's ashes and about how Obama walked towards a window instead of a door at the White House. It's upsetting to me because I don't like single-party rule, but conservatives seem like they're intent on focusing on ridiculous stories like these instead of arguing about policy.
(Or, to put it another way, making jokes is good for a laugh when everyone is in on the joke--but you don't convert people to your way of thinking by making jokes or even by pointing out gaffes. The Republican party and the conservative movements are hemorrhaging people and need to start thinking about making arguments that work to convince people, not merely pointing and laughing. Huston's post is more of the latter--pointing and laughing--with the added demerit of being wrong in its central point, that no one in the MSM has reported on this.)
(Ok, I just realized I chewed your ear off--a phrase I don't hear so much, post-Tyson-Holyfield--about my political hopes for the future, derailing the conversation about the Obama-Brown gift gaffe of 2009. And, in the interest of transparency, I'll add that I like movies, which may explain why I think this gift gaffe isn't actually that exciting as news.)
quite alright!
March 7, 2009 - 15:49 ET by katainkentI have a certain affection for a well researched article so I can understand your point. Using absolute statements, particularly if they are false (intentional or otherwise) gives fodder to those who think all conservatives are closed-minded bigots.
I have a certain degree of frustration myself - only in that there is almost so much liberal bias out there now it is overwhelming. Think, if this had been Bush that made these gaffes how much air time this would get.
Here is what I took from the collection of 'gift gaffe' articles. The Obama administration is either naive, incompetant, or both. The majority of the media remains (for the most part) mum on the issue. Obama's popularity, right now, is a huge commodity that sells well. The media has invested a great deal of their credibility in selling this image. Anything that reduces confidence in him erodes, not only his popularity, but their ability to sell their product.
I don't view this a 'niggling point-and-laugh' article. We have heard time and again from the media about how Obama is a better statesman, how Obama will repair our international image, and how the world views Obama in preference to our previous President. Yet, he has managed to offend one of our longest and loyal allies by not taking the time or effort to review and execute simple protocol.
katainkent - and he did it in spades!!!!!
March 16, 2009 - 20:38 ET by Cape Conservative"...Yet, he has managed to offend one of our longest and loyal allies by not taking the time or effort to review and execute simple protocol."
It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue. ~ Sam Adams
kata...Protocol Office...
March 7, 2009 - 13:41 ET by PrairieSkyThere are a few possibilities here...None of which are good...Either "O" chose this "gift" himself, he had some dingbat staffer do it, or the folks that "O" has staffing the Protocol Office are likely as clueless and classless as he is...
Four years of this??? Brother...
"...peace is the highest aspiration of the American People. We will negotiate for it, sacrifice for it, we will never surrender for it, now or ever." President Ronald Reagan~ January 20, 1981
I'm not even pissed about the gift
March 8, 2009 - 00:38 ET by RESTLESS 1The returning of the bust is what pisses me off.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
R1... Agreed. Talk about
March 8, 2009 - 00:43 ET by bigtimerR1...
Agreed.
Talk about crass.
BT
March 8, 2009 - 00:52 ET by RESTLESS 1This asshole the 0 gives back a precious gift, one that commorates one of, if not the most, darkest days in our history. As far as I am concerned, it was not his to give back.
I will take a page from Blonde's book, and hope that they will re-gift to W's library. It should be at the 9-11 memorial.
As an aside, tears were brought to this NBer's eyes when I heard that they played our national anthem at the changing of the guard after 9-11. I may not always agree with the Brits, but at least they know decorum.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
R1... Agreed. I also
March 8, 2009 - 01:00 ET by bigtimerR1...
Agreed.
I also remember that with the changing of the guards in Britain.
My, how times have changed since 9-11 up to now in so many respects.
At times I just bow my head...I will only have that memory where for the first time in my life you could truly feel this nation united as a whole and savor it...
Now, unfortunately the enemy within has only made it a glancing moment every now and then.
Past pathetic.
A LOAN...
March 8, 2009 - 01:10 ET by JerIt was not a precious gift given back by Obama. It was property on loan from and returned to its British owners.
Jer
Jer... ...and it was/is a
March 8, 2009 - 01:16 ET by bigtimerJer...
...and it was/is a crass gesture.
Period.
Jer,
March 8, 2009 - 01:17 ET by RESTLESS 1Got it. See my response to you in the other thread.
It is still bullshit that he returned it without being asked to.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
Restless...
March 8, 2009 - 01:21 ET by JerI was just adding a comment to your other post. Agree with both you and bt: Crass gesture [unless there is some explanation we're not aware of].
Jer
Jer,
March 8, 2009 - 01:26 ET by RESTLESS 1I like that we agree that it was crass. Not sure I'm liking the qualifier.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
Restless
March 8, 2009 - 01:34 ET by shawn228Hey at least he did not give him a copy "Farenheit 911" and "The American President" ;-P
He had my vote
Where ya been Shawn?
March 8, 2009 - 01:37 ET by RESTLESS 1Geez, the Cowboys finally get rid of two cancers, (Terrell and Sooner Roy), and not a peep. What gives? So, whattaya think?
As to the 0's gifts, I though I was the worst gift giver in the world. Glad to find that there is at least someone worse than me. :)
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
Restless
March 8, 2009 - 02:03 ET by shawn228As much as I love the Cowboys, Since the season is still far away, The thing that has my curiosity is where will TO end up next.
Check out my thread when you get a chance, I thought this was a pretty good documentory. I thought it represented alot of the members concern on this site.
He had my vote
I like that we agree that
March 8, 2009 - 02:09 ET by JerI like that we agree that it was crass. Not sure I'm liking the qualifier.
Maybe the Brits decided to start charging rent.
Jer
It's still lame. Billy Joel
March 7, 2009 - 18:09 ET by GrannyGrump42It's still lame. Billy Joel gave Paul Simon a better fricking WEDDING present when he married Carrie Fisher. When Billy Joel is better at picking out gifts than your official White House Protocol Dude, you're pretty damned sad.
That man and his trashy wife are an embarrassment. But we knew that when he chucked the rose at Ground Zero as if he was tossing an old kleenex into a trash can.
Nick,
March 8, 2009 - 00:45 ET by RESTLESS 1Actually, I heard this on Rush 2 days ago, and he mentioned that they were the AFI's top 25. So what? The gift sucks. And so does the 0.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
my point
March 8, 2009 - 10:33 ET by nicholas nicklebyhey Restless,
My point wasn't that this was the awesomest gift ever--my point was that Huston screwed the pooch three times in the reporting of this story, to wit:
a) he claims that no other US media is reporting this story--when NPR reported on this story a day before he did. (This is really the most important mistake he made.)
b) he claims that Brown won't be able to watch because of Regions--when multi-region DVD players exist and are not ridiculously expensive. (As well, many DVD players allow their regionality to be switched a few times--or at least, that was the case 8 years ago.)
c) he imagines a scenario where some staffer ran out to a WalMart to pick up some movies, which makes it sound like it was completely unthought out--when really, though it may have been a last minute gift (and again, I'm not arguing that it was a good gift), there was an idea behind it. (Say what you want about that idea being dumb, but the fact that Warner Huston ignores that idea--or doesn't know about it--is just another way that he slants this post.)
To recap, my point: Huston should look stuff up before posting.
nickleby You aren't too
March 8, 2009 - 11:11 ET by Warner Todd Hustonnickleby
You aren't too bright, are you?
A) If NPR did it before, I did, indeed, missed that story. But it STILL does not take away from the fact that about every news outlet in England HAS covered it and almost no US sources have. My point is still valid even if one outlet covered it. (and I'm sure some more have picked it up since yesterday)
B) I did NOT "claim Brown won't be able to watch" the DVDs. You need some reading comprehension lessons. I said "no one is 100% sure that Obama was smart enough to know that DVDs made in America don't play on European DVD players." That is NOT a statement of FACT that Obama gave Brown DVDs that won't play in England. It is a supposition that he may have BUT NO ONE KNOWS.
C) Lastly, you need to go look up the word "sarcasm." It might help explain the "Walmart" crack to the comedy challenged such as yourself about what was going on there. Lighten up Francis, It's the weekend ans we always have lighter fare on the weekend.
So, your criticism is off the mark for the most part.
sarcasm is the last refuge of the scoundrel
March 8, 2009 - 12:54 ET by nicholas nicklebyWarner,
We've tangled over your misleading headlines before. (Remember, I sent you a message about the Obama Bracelet story from Sept. '08.) And I've also called you on your alarmist hysteria before (when the issue was the "fraud" over American Carol ticket sales). So, when I point out how you were wrong here because you jumped to a conclusion and didn't provide enough evidence (more on this at the end), I don't mean to say that you should correct this one post--I mean you need to start doing your job a little more carefully because you have a history of laziness and unwarranted hysteria.
So, feel free to say that I didn't understand your sarcasm on the third point. (Also: it's not nice to make fun of the comedy-challenged; anyway, I prefer to think of myself as differently comedically-abled.)
Feel free to miss my meaning on the second point (i.e., when you say that "DVDs made in America don't play on European DVD players," you are exposing your ignorance of how DVD-regionality works these days--although, given how fast technology changes, I don't blame you too much for that.)
But I can't budge too much on my first point. You've said something that is not only wrong, but easily verified. (NPR is actually the first hit for "Obama British gift" on Google.) Now, you could say, "well, only one doesn't matter"--but why open yourself to the charge of being wrong in the first place? Why didn't you just Google to check something before you posted your hysterical title?
That's all I'm saying: I don't want you to change your politics, and I'm glad that you're bringing attention to issues that otherwise might get let behind--I just want you to do your job better.
(Addendum: to help you do your job better, here's some notes on how to make an argument: Your argument has two parts: a) no one is talking about the gift gaffe here; and b) everyone is talking about it there. It's hard to prove absence (and easy to disprove it--look, <a href="http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2009/03/06/president-obama-raids-his-dvd-collection-for-british-prime-minister/">MTV's movie blog</a> scooped you by a day, as well). So, it's best to moderate claims like that; you could, for instance, note that TV news has not yet picked up the story, and that would be harder to disprove than your blanket generalization.
As for the fact that everyone is talking about it in the UK, you're on solider ground there, but you should still provide evidence to make your point. I've found an article on Giftgate (ha!) at the Guardian, the Daily Mail, and the Telegraph. But you only provide one article from the Guardian, and that article seems a little bemused by the fact that people are making a big deal over this issue: "Yet another example of the British press's apparent mission to feel
snubbed by Obama on Gordon Brown's behalf and obsession with the passing of the special relationship with Bush (which was - at best - bittersweet)." I couldn't find anything at the BBC on this, or at the Sun. So, you're on solider ground with this part of the argument, but if you really want to convince people, you might want to provide more evidence.)
(P.S. I know I'm just a liberal troll, according to most of the people here, but I'm serious when I say you need to do more work to convince people who aren't already convinced. Convincing new people to join the movement and to vote for conservative politicians is the only way the conservative movement will get back to electing people successfully. So, rather than spread evidence of your laziness over the internet (hello Canada Free Press!), it would be better to do more pre-posting research so that you had a chance at electing new people.)
→ Nickles
March 8, 2009 - 13:07 ET by Cool ArrowSarcasm is the last refuge of a scoundrel?
Are you serious? Or are you being sarcastic?
Obama - Change you can bereave in
Good evening nicholas
March 8, 2009 - 13:08 ET by cocodrieYour subject line calls all women scoundrels since sarcasm is where they all excel.
The rest of your post reveals your bitterness and deliberate misreading of the article.
Jesus Loves You
→ coco
March 8, 2009 - 13:19 ET by Cool ArrowDid you catch that?
Seems according to the liberal orthodoxy, any qualifiers are unimportant, (I want obama to fail if he leads this country towards Socialism)
Obama - Change you can bereave in
Good evening Cool
March 8, 2009 - 13:24 ET by cocodrieThat appears to be the only truth that entered his constipated brain.
Jesus Loves You
Zing! (part 2)
March 8, 2009 - 14:42 ET by nicholas nicklebyAnother devastating riposte for conservativism! A few more responses like this, and you're bound to retake the House, Senate, and White House.
This is a circular argument.
March 8, 2009 - 15:00 ET by katainkentTo Google "Obama British Gift" you would have to first know that there was a controversy. To know there was a controversy you would have had to heard it or read it in the media. Most of the mainstream media did not cover this (depends on if you consider NPR mainstream or not) Disclaimer : I listen to NPR All Things Considered probably less than 3 times per year. So, if you get your news from ABC, CBS, NBC, MSNBC or CNN then you probably would have never heard of this, therefore would not have Googled those specific words, and never know that NPR reported it! Lather. Rinse. Repeat.
Yes, for us--no for Huston
March 8, 2009 - 15:16 ET by nicholas nicklebyKatainkent,
You're right that to Google "Obama British gift" you would have to have heard of this news in the first place. But I'm not arguing about whether you and I can go Google something after we read about it here to double-check it. My point was that Huston clearly had heard of this issue (otherwise he couldn't have written about it, right?) and he should've taken the extra 5 seconds to double-check his claim himself.
So, you're right that many people would not have known about this issue at all without Huston's post, and (as I wrote in my long post to him) I think he provides a service in bringing attention to such an issue. However, he still got one of the basic elements of his claim wrong (both NPR and MTV's website covered this issue before he did); that doesn't mean he didn't provide something of value by telling us about Giftgaffegate.
I just think he should be more careful--there's got to be a lesson for conservatives in the story of the boy who cried wolf, which is: if you make little mistakes when you could easily avoid them, you're going to do damage to your credibility and fewer people are going to listen to you when you notice something really dangerous.
Good grief Nick
March 8, 2009 - 15:37 ET by general companySo you found one outlet that reported the story, Mr Huston has acknowledged that point,,,so what?
if you make little mistakes when you could easily avoid them, you're
going to do damage to your credibility and fewer people are going to
listen to you when you notice something really dangerous.
These pages are full of them, but not Mr. Huston's errors. Have cnn,mslsd,nbc,cbs,or abc covered this yet? Then Nick you are way out of order and Mr Huston is perfectly spot on. I cant believe you are still beating this dead horses. "Little mistakes"? give me a break,,,,,
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
shoot the messenger--or fix the message?
March 8, 2009 - 21:24 ET by nicholas nicklebyHey GC,
This probably does qualify as beating a dead horse, so I won't go through it again. Let's hope that Huston does his leg-work before he cries "the sky is falling" next time. If he does that, then I'll be happy.
(Anyway, I hope you realize that "they do it it too" is a pretty poor defense. Liberals and conservatives make that defense all the time. In this case, the paucity of that defense should be pretty obvious: just because NBC makes mistakes doesn't mean NB should make mistakes also. In fact, if NB has set itself up to watch out for liberal bias, they should make damn sure that they're not going to get called out for bias--or hysteria.)
Huston Huston Huston Huston
March 8, 2009 - 19:59 ET by JWFCould somebody please kick the jukebox.
WE GET IT. You have a crush on Mr. Huston. Please keep it to yourself.
Please note that unless you are very familiar, it is rude to refer to people by their last name.
Unless of course, you are a little liberal turd dropper, then you apparently don't care about manners.
Sincerely,
a Veteran of a 1000 psychic wars.
Well, Nick, I know watching ET was a
March 8, 2009 - 04:26 ET by thebutlerdiditwatershed moment in my life.I can see why it, and Jaws were included. See my post and JWF's upthread. The man is going blind, nearly! He also is NOT a fan of films. I knew this about him back last fall. How hard would it have been for Obama's minions to find this out? Maybe Google? They after all, are the most intelligent, coolest, hippest, tech-savvy gang we've ever had in the White House! Not only couldn't they get a Russian translation right, they didn't find anything out about the receiver of the gift, AKA our main ally. But don't let me harsh your indignation.
All a Democrat needs is the upper-story window of public attention and the chamber pot of rhetoric. How else to explain the rise of Joe Biden? P.J. O' Rourke
see my post above to restless
March 8, 2009 - 10:37 ET by nicholas nicklebyHey Butler,
You're right--giving films to a man who isn't a fan isn't a good gift. And you're right to hold Obama's feet to the fire on this for that. My problem with Huston's post was that he messed up when he tried to hold Obama's and the MSM's feet to the fire. When NPR beats you to a story, you shouldn't write the title "Obama's British 'Gift Gaffe' Not Reported by U.S. Media."
Again, I'm all for criticizing people, but you have to criticize them for the right things.
Mixed Feelings
March 7, 2009 - 11:53 ET by GothampcI have very mixed feelings about this.
On one hand, I think the Obamas gifts were very tacky. They put no thought at all into those gifts. Whether you like Gordon Brown or not, there should be some respect that he represents a country that is a friend and ally of the US.
On the other hand, it was the British press who four years ago assisted thousands of British citizens to write letters to people in Ohio asking US citizens to vote for John Kerry. So I don't think the British press has any place to be trying to take the higher road concerning international relations.
Those of us who have had Obama's number...
March 7, 2009 - 12:25 ET by PrairieSkyfrom the beginning are not the least bit surprised that he screwed this up...Very plainly, neither he, nor his militant America-hating wife, have any class or apparently any brains, either. Obama is so far out of his league it is laughable. I've been on the websites of some of the British media outlets, and have read a lot of the comments from readers about this, and the press and the British people, by and large, seem very insulted and aghast at the Obama's ineptitude.
The fact that our media have buried this story is also no surprise...Obamessiah blew this big time, and embarrassed himself and the country, and they'll do whatever they can to paper over the whole thing. Par for the course.
"The One" really dropped the ball on this one, and there seems to be a good bit of sudden disillusionment with the Brits' new favorite American politician...The leftist Brits (people and the press)swooned over Obama during the election, and were clearly rooting for him to win.
To make use of a favorite British term, "What a twit!"
I guess the bloom is off the rose now, huh?
"...peace is the highest aspiration of the American People. We will negotiate for it, sacrifice for it, we will never surrender for it, now or ever." President Ronald Reagan~ January 20, 1981
The cheeseball gifts were kinda bad
March 7, 2009 - 12:28 ET by StarAZI am really worried about the trillions, though.
Star...Right you are...
March 7, 2009 - 12:43 ET by PrairieSkyIn the broad scheme of things, this "story" is rather minor considering the mess that the economy is and the fact that Obama is making it worse. But still, it is a diplomatic embarrassment, and the Brits do regard Obama's "gift," in comparison to what PM Brown gave Obama, as an insult.
"...peace is the highest aspiration of the American People. We will negotiate for it, sacrifice for it, we will never surrender for it, now or ever." President Ronald Reagan~ January 20, 1981
I suggest a better term for the 0
March 7, 2009 - 21:51 ET by steve2526To make use of a favorite British term, "What a twit!"
My British grandfather would more likely have said "What a wanker!"
A member of the right-wing media
ps - all we can do is sit and 'hope' that the eyes of the world
March 12, 2009 - 16:22 ET by Cape Conservativeare being opened daily to 'the one'
It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue. ~ Sam Adams
It's the press conference
March 7, 2009 - 12:29 ET by slickwillie2001The gift deal is simple boorishness on the part of our so-called President. The more interesting aspect is the refusal to hold the traditional side-by-side press conference, matching lecterns, flags of both countries, etc. I see two reasons.
First, The Maximum Doofus does not want to share a stage with anyone where it appears they are equals. After all, he is 'The One'.
Second, these type of press conferences tend to be much less choreographed than Obammy's skills can tolerate. Imagine British journalists being told who could ask a question and what they could ask? They would simply revolt, unlike American sheep-media. Obammy didn't want the traditional style of press conference because he didn't want difficult questions. He has made it this far without any difficult questions, why start now?
PS Still, I am hoping the DVD set included the classic 'Trading Places'.
slickwillie...Excellent points and...
March 7, 2009 - 12:52 ET by PrairieSkyPerfectly said!
"...peace is the highest aspiration of the American People. We will negotiate for it, sacrifice for it, we will never surrender for it, now or ever." President Ronald Reagan~ January 20, 1981
Not Ready for Prime Time
March 7, 2009 - 12:41 ET by ecnirPOne of the knocks against Sen. Obama during the campaign was that he was not experienced enough.
These examples dealing with the British are perfect examples of why that was a valid argument. He simply hasn't been around enough to absorb some of the protocol necessary to work an international stage.
How did the Browns' know what size dresses the Obama girls needed? Didn't they have "their people" call "our people" to figure this out? If the Obama administration protocol people are AWOL, I can't wait to see the catastrophe that is bound to accompany the first official state dinner. Egads!
What's next? A case of pork rinds for Benjamin Netanyahu?
March 7, 2009 - 12:48 ET by R D HelmWouldn't surprise me in the least.
Good grief.
-Dave
This coup has gone on long enough. The time to put it down is NOW.
→ Too obvious RD
March 7, 2009 - 12:58 ET by Cool ArrowI'd expect something subtle like handmade German lampshades.
They only cost $900 million
Obama - Change you can bereave in
Dont look now, but Obama is heading for Turkey
March 7, 2009 - 13:04 ET by R D Helmhttp://hotair.com/ar...
Should we be worried?
-Dave
This coup has gone on long enough. The time to put it down is NOW.
PM Brown gets hosed by Mr.
March 7, 2009 - 13:11 ET by eaglewingz08PM Brown gets hosed by Mr. Obama and looks like he's not even been given cab money to get home after the screwing.
Great way for Mr. Obama to treat our allies and repair relationships with Old Europe. But then again, only the fools believed that Obama wanted to repair relationships with our allies, rather than making new alliances with our real enemies, Russia, Syria, Iran, Venezuela, Cuba, Hamass, Hezbollah, and the PLO.
Wonderful to see this
March 7, 2009 - 14:03 ET by RR GOPWonderful to see this enlightened team of geniuses building bridges and working with our allies that Bush alienated...the British, the Russians...hmm, need more popcorn for this show.
Let me guess. Hillary goes to France and asks Sarkozy why frog legs are so popular there.
One of the 24% who thinks George W. Bush was a great President. One of the 89% who wants to bring back the stock and pillory.
Obama is an embarrassment!
March 7, 2009 - 14:03 ET by jarrett.edwardsObama is an embarrassment! Those gifts
were tacky! Now Obama is visiting the Queen! Heaven help us! What
will he take her? Probably, a cheap housecoat and fuzzy slippers, or
maybe one of those “lovely” china plates with the One's image on
it. I am sorry to the British people, but just remember a lot of you
thought he would be wonderful!
Gifts?
March 7, 2009 - 15:11 ET by sherylsimsMaybe he will take her some lovely Obama collectable plates to display in her parlor.
Rotten Fish Wrap
March 7, 2009 - 15:27 ET by stratmanThere must be more to this story than simple Obama stupidity/naivety.
The President has at least two offices ready to help him with proper protocol and gift ideas.
Maybe the president and/or the first lady came up with the gift ideas themselves, either by choice or after the White House helpers dropped the ball. Realistically, I'm thinking that others had input and then did the shopping and wrapping. Barry/Michelle just agreed to the final choice.
Maybe the Obama's are ignorant, or, Barry stokes a mean grudge against the Brits for the alledged torturing of his Kenyan grandfather.
Maybe they're all incompetents or at best unprepared to do their jobs. This would not be surprising given The Zero has the worst hiring track record in history and whatever he touches (the economy, foreign diplomacy) turns to poison.
Whatever the scenario, Social Secretary and BFF Rogers will not be fired, acting Chief of Protocol Boluda may get axed, and the "defenders of the people's right to know" MSM will either ignore this story or soft pedal it and blame it on Bush's economic crisis or some such drivel snot.
*** Maybe Obama needs to send his peeps to this place***
strat-these are 'his mother's people' - he wrote in his bio
March 12, 2009 - 16:17 ET by Cape Conservativehe wanted nothing more to do with 'them' - guess we have discovered he is a man of his word - at least once!
It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue. ~ Sam Adams
The 0bama's are classless dolts
March 7, 2009 - 14:30 ET by kevinm13The 0bama's are classless low class losers. And remember that the Dems claimed we needed to reclaim relationships with the world community. This won't help.
Now, you see that Laura
March 7, 2009 - 16:28 ET by ConservativeRexNow, you see that Laura Bush had all the class in the world.
Obami's mate is as pathetic as he is. You can hear her now.."quick, run out to the White House store and get that white kid something, you know white kids like war things and stuff".
Well, that'll teach Brown to come over here and kiss Obami's ass.
Obami's done ticked off all of the UK. Funny though, he seems to get along just peachy with Middle Eastern potentates. Curious.
The Media should report the SOBama screw-up?
March 7, 2009 - 17:33 ET by DelsaWhy in the world would the media want to alert the masses what an F up they have for a president?
How crazy would that be?
The One has no clothes, they know it, and refuse to disclose it.
Right you are Delsa...but I
March 7, 2009 - 18:04 ET by bigtimerRight you are Delsa...but I have a feeling the majority of the msm aren't going to be able to continue to do this 24/7 for much longer...much to their chagrin.
Heck, he is doing nothing but campaigning 24/7 all over the place at the tax-payers expense, let alone all the partying they are doing in the WH weekly...he has yet to stay there and work...ooops, he doesn't know how to do such, he never has had to...this will catch up with him I betcha'...this cannot keep up forever, people are seething out here, while he jets here and there along with the daily breaking news segments, no people are going to tire of this...the economy is sinking, businesses will be closing up shop or leaving this country...nope, by 2010 I think there is going to be a change we can believe in.
Btw...I heard somewhere yesterday he is going to be taking another vacation in Europe somewhere...lovely, just lovely...(this won't anger anyone in the real world, now will it?)
You've got to keep in
March 7, 2009 - 18:13 ET by MidAmericaYou've got to keep in mind obama is almost 50 years old and has never had a real job until now. I believe he will just keep doing what he's always done in the past, travel, campaign and avoid any semblance of a daily work schedule. What he's doing now is his way of voting 'present' as President.
Not trailor trash
March 7, 2009 - 17:48 ET by DelsaChicago getto trash.
the King and Queen of Chicago Getto Trash. The best Chicago had to offer.
They have surrounded themselves with like trash.
Those who voted for these idiots are too stupid to be ashamed!
What else can we expect from
March 7, 2009 - 18:00 ET by GrannyGrump42What else can we expect from the man who casually just chucked a rose on the Ground Zero memorial? He has no class whatsoever unless he's out self-aggrandizing with Grecian columns.
What A Boob
March 8, 2009 - 11:31 ET by Mr.BohWas any of this recorded? I would love to see the PM's reaction.
As for the poor SOBama girls not getting Christmas presents?
March 7, 2009 - 18:20 ET by DelsaHell, they get trips to Hawaii and stay, at taxpayer expense, on sprawling estates.
Who need Christmas presents?
As to the gifts the SOBama's give?
I think the One picked them out after smoking crack in the gym bathroom.
Can't help but wonder...
March 7, 2009 - 20:03 ET by Sasquatch...what the 25 movies/DVDs were?
Fahrenheit 911? Titanic? Braveheart? Rick Steves' Guide to London?
I'm surprised Obama didn't throw in one of those ceramic collector's plates with his picture on it. That would have been more his speed.
→ Another DVD
March 7, 2009 - 20:18 ET by Cool ArrowYou've gotta know Yes We Can from NBC News is in that stack.
Obama - Change you can bereave in
Sasquatch and Cool... I
March 7, 2009 - 21:40 ET by bigtimerSasquatch and Cool...
I wouldn't doubt for a second those items you each mention weren't included along with shipping and handling.
Incredible!
March 7, 2009 - 21:34 ET by slickwillie2001Incredible developments on this story:
"The real views of many in Obama administration were laid bare by a State Department official involved in planning the Brown visit, who reacted with fury when questioned by The Sunday Telegraph about why the event was so low-key.
The official dismissed any notion of the special relationship, saying: 'There's nothing special about Britain. You're just the same as the other 190 countries in the world. You shouldn't expect special treatment.'"
From the article 'Barack Obama Too Tired to Give Proper Welcome to Gordon Brown': http://www.telegraph...
Perhaps if Obammy spent fewer late nights partying with Earth Wind and Fire and eating $100/lb Wagyu beef, and more time on the nation's business, we would not have insulted yet another nation?
well, the white house comment line is strictly 9 - 5 so
March 12, 2009 - 16:11 ET by Cape ConservativeI guess his extracurricular activities take precedence over allowing AMERICAN CITIZENS the opportunity to leave a message 24/7! Can't tie up the staff with issues from AMERICAN CITIZENS now can we!!!
"Hey guys, I've already answered 8 questions...that's enough now"
I wonder how the boys who brung him to the dance are going to feel upon learning he's standing them up for the annual Gridiron Dinner (link on Drudge). I'm sure they would have only thrown underhand soft lobs - but guess he was afraid to chance it.
It is no dishonor to be in a minority in the cause of liberty and virtue. ~ Sam Adams
Obama the solution?
March 7, 2009 - 22:47 ET by riverratThose who thought Obama was the solution - haven't defined the freaking problems..
Regardless of the problems THEY thought Obama would solve -- of what value is his solution if the Republic is destroyed, freedom lost and liberty stifled?
Obama is the most inept, unprepared, incompetent, over rated, deceitful lying bastard to ever occupy the White House...
Obama is a grave insult to every warrior who ever fought to build or defend the Republic....
For the second time in my adult life - I'm ashamed of the American President and the a$$h%#$ who voted for him.
riverrat... I'm with you
March 7, 2009 - 23:00 ET by bigtimerriverrat...
I'm with you all the way here with your sentiments in every way...
...A Grave Insult indeed.
I also fear for the Republic...they've only just begun.
Obama's insult to the U.K. is just one more step in his. . .
March 7, 2009 - 23:24 ET by CKA in Red State USA...plan to destroy America and its standing in the world.
Obama really doesn't care.
And it would appear that he either has a bunch of numbnuts for advisers who don't know how to advise him on his conduct, or he's simply too self-absorbed to take their advice.
My guess it's both.
He is a dangerous man.
Obama's Thoughtfulness
March 7, 2009 - 23:26 ET by maryoAw, come on, it was a collector's edition boxed set. And for the Brown boys - how they will always cherish a replica of The One's helicopter! This is class, Chicago-thug style.
Obama has no time for foreign relations, and certainly not with a Western democratic ally. He is busy working to fix the economy by borrowing more money than we can ever repay to spend on useless and wasteful projects.
Presidential Snub
March 7, 2009 - 23:42 ET by TN MomObama took his wife to a Five-Star restaurant for Valentine's Day dinner (they flew on AirForce 1 to Chicago for the evening), and they give cheap gifts to the Britian's PM.
Obama & Michelle just had a party with Stevie Wonder as entertainment...how much was spent?
Obama and Michelle are at Camp David this weekend.
***crickets chirping from MSM and the left***
Maybe Obama was insulted that Ted Kennedy was knighted
March 8, 2009 - 00:06 ET by ekslibThat news took media attention away from Obama, who probably thought the announcement should have been made at some other time.
President Neophyte
March 9, 2009 - 06:59 ET by 4 Borders PunditI think I might have summed it all up here:
http://borderpundit.com/2009/03/08/president-neophyte-meets-the-brits
But who knows? It's hard to keep up with all the gaffes that keep coming out of this Administration. I have a day-job, you know?!
class??? manners??? style???
March 9, 2009 - 12:54 ET by JIMMY1660i think not. Once again, a prime example of the very educated, not finding their a$$ with both hands.someone their on the White House staff has the savy on how to address each situation and with whom as the quest. these are arrogant boobs in the 1st degree. and BHO wants us to get closer to our allies, which ones, oh the communists.
BHO- ill equipped to lead America
Our Media is Corrupt Beyond Words
March 12, 2009 - 22:56 ET by RogerCfromSDOnly AMERICANS should be allowed to own major media in the U.S. And, any major media that consistently propagandizes for any one party should be financially penalized. I am sick to death of the liberal MSM media. I wouldn't want a wholly Conservative media, either, as that would be just as unfair and manipulative as what we have now.
A nation cannot be free without a free, unbiased media. We are not free.