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FORD
08-26-2009, 01:46 AM
Ted Kennedy Dies of Brain Cancer at Age 77
'Liberal Lion' of the Senate Led Storied Political Family After Deaths of President John F. Kennedy, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy

Aug. 26, 2009—

Sen. Ted Kennedy died shortly before midnight Tuesday at his home in Hyannis Port, Mass., at age 77.

The man known as the "liberal lion of the Senate" had fought a more than year-long battle with brain cancer, and according to his son had lived longer with the disease than his doctors expected him to.

"We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever," the Kennedy family said in a statement. "He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it."

Sen. Edward Moore Kennedy, the youngest Kennedy brother who was left to head the family's political dynasty after his brothers President John F. Kennedy and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy were assassinated.

Kennedy championed health care reform, working wages and equal rights in his storied career. In August, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom -- the nation's highest civilian honor -- by President Obama. His daughter, Kara Kennedy, accepted the award on his behalf.

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, known as Ted or Teddy, was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in May 2008 and underwent a successful brain surgery soon after that. But his health continued to deteriorate, and Kennedy suffered a seizure while attending the luncheon following President Barack Obama's inauguration.

For Kennedy, the ascension of Obama was an important step toward realizing his goal of health care reform.

At the Democratic National Convention in August 2008, the Massachusetts Democrat promised, "I pledge to you that I will be there next January on the floor of the United States Senate when we begin the great test."

Sen. Kennedy made good on that pledge, but ultimately lost his battle with cancer.

Kennedy was first elected to the Senate in 1962, at the age of 30, and his tenure there would span four decades.

A hardworking, well-liked politician who became the standard-bearer of his brothers' liberal causes, his career was clouded by allegations of personal immorality and accusations that his family's clout helped him avoid the consequences of an accident that left a young woman dead.

But for the younger members of the Kennedy clan, from his own three children to those of his brothers JFK and RFK, Ted Kennedy -- once seen as the youngest and least talented in a family of glamorous overachievers -- was both a surrogate father and the center of the family.

And certainly it was Ted Kennedy who bore many of the tragedies of the family -- the violent deaths of four of his siblings, his son's battle with cancer, and the death of his nephew John F. Kennedy Jr. in a plane crash.

Kennedy, Youngest Kennedy Brother, Led Political Dynasty in Wake of Tragedy

Edward Moore Kennedy was born in Brookline, Mass., on Feb. 22, 1932, the ninth and youngest child of Joseph P. Kennedy and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy.

His father, a third-generation Irish-American who became a multimillionaire businessman and served for a time as a U.S. ambassador to Britain, had risen high and was determined that his sons would rise higher still.

Overshadowed by his elder siblings, Teddy, as he was known to family and friends, grew up mostly in the New York City suburb of Bronxville, N.Y., and attended private boarding schools. He was expelled from Harvard during his freshman year after he asked a friend to take an exam for him.

After a two-year stint in the Army, Kennedy returned to earn degrees at Harvard and then the University of Virginia law school. He married Virginia Joan Bennett, known by her middle name, in 1958. The couple would have three children, Kara, Teddy Jr. and Patrick.

By the time he reached adulthood, tragedy had already claimed some of his siblings: eldest brother Joe Jr. was killed in World War II, sister Kathleen died in a plane crash, and another sister, Rosemary, who was mildly retarded, had to be institutionalized following a botched lobotomy.

But then the family hit its pinnacle in 1960, when John F. Kennedy became president.

His brother's ascension created a political opportunity, and Joe Kennedy decided he should take over JFK's Senate seat. Ted Kennedy was only 28 at the time -- two years short of the required age -- so a family friend was found to hold the temporary appointment.

In 1962, Ted Kennedy -- backed by his family money and the enthusiasm his name generated among Massachusetts' Catholics, was elected to the Senate.

The Only One Left

In 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas. His brother Robert became the focus of the family's -- and much of the country's -- dreams.

Following the tragedy in Dallas, Robert and Ted Kennedy became closer than they had ever been as children.

"When I was working for Robert Kennedy, there was hardly a day in which the two of them didn't physically get together, I would say at least three or four times," said Frank Mankiewicz, who served as an aide to Robert Kennedy. "I mean, if, if Sen. Robert Kennedy wasn't in his office, and nobody knew where he was, chances are he was seeing Ted about something."

Five years later, while pursuing the Democratic presidential nomination in 1968 against Lyndon Johnson, Sen. Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed. That left Ted as the only surviving Kennedy son.

"He seriously contemplated getting out of politics after Robert's death," said Kennedy biographer Adam Clymer. "He thought, you know, it might just be too much. He might be too obviously the next target and all of that. But he decided to stick it out and as he said on more than one occasion, pick up a fallen standard."

Kennedy was seen by many as his brothers' heir, and perhaps he could have won the White House had he stepped into the presidential race then. But he didn't. And the very next year there occurred a tragedy that would forever block Ted Kennedy's presidential ambitions.

In July 1969, following a party on Martha's Vineyard, Kennedy drove off a bridge on the tiny Massachusetts island of Chappaquiddick. The car plunged into the water. Kennedy escaped, but his passenger did not.

Kennedy later said he dived into the water repeatedly in a vain attempt to save Mary Jo Kopechne, one of the "boiler room girls" who had worked on Bobby Kennedy's campaign. But Kopechne, 28, drowned, still trapped in the car.

Questions arose about how Kennedy had known Kopechne -- he denied any "private relationship," and Kopechne's parents also insisted there was no relationship -- and why he failed to report the accident for about nine hours.

Kennedy pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of leaving the scene of an accident. He received a two-month suspended sentence and lost his driver's license for a year, but the political price was higher.

Kennedy was re-elected to the Senate in 1970, but the accident at Chappaquiddick effectively squashed his presidential hopes.

He ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic nomination in 1979 against incumbent President Jimmy Carter.

Once when his daughter Kara, then 19, was passing out campaign leaflets, a man took one and said to her, "You know your father killed a young woman about your age, don't you?"

Kennedy Curse: Political Power, Personal Tragedy

Sen. Ted Kennedy was not done confronting personal tragedy.

In 1973, 12-year-old Teddy Jr. was diagnosed with bone cancer, and he had to have a leg amputated. Kennedy's marriage to Joan deteriorated. Some blamed her drinking, others cited his alleged womanizing. The couple divorced in 1981.

In contrast, Kennedy's career in the Senate continued to flourish.

He supported teachers' unions, women's and abortion rights, and health care reform. He sponsored the Family and Medical Leave Act. And he was seen as a stalwart of the Democratic Party, delivering several rousing speeches at conventions.

Former Boston Glober reporter Tom Oliphant, who covered Kennedy's career in Washington, observed, "It's not all back slapping and, and personal relationships. I think one of the things that sets Kennedy's politics apart is his, what I call his dirty little secret. He works like a dog."

Political analyst Mark Shields said Kennedy's "concerns were national concerns, but his forum for achieving his ends and changing policy, became the Senate. And he mastered it like nobody else I've ever seen."

But another family incident exposed Kennedy's vulnerabilities and held him up to public censure.

A nephew, William Kennedy Smith, was accused of raping a woman at the family's estate in Palm Beach, Fla. The case generated lurid headlines around the world. Kennedy was at the estate at the time of the alleged attack and had been at the bar where Smith met his accuser.

Eyebrows were raised even further when a young woman who had been with Kennedy's son Patrick that night revealed that she had seen the senator roaming around the house at night, wearing an oxford shirt but no trousers.

Smith was acquitted following a highly sensational trial, but the incident definitely left a dent in Kennedy's armor. His alleged heavy drinking and womanizing were widely lampooned, and in October 1991 he thought it prudent to be low-key in his opposition to Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas, who had been accused of sexually harassing a former subordinate.

Kennedy's life, both professional and personal, took a turn for the better in 1992.

He married Victoria Reggie, a divorced attorney with two children from a previous marriage, Curran and Caroline. That year Kennedy also supported Bill Clinton, an open admirer of the Kennedy clan.

"Well, sometime during our courtship, I realized that I didn't want to live the rest of my life without Vicky," Kennedy said about his wife of nearly 30 years. "And since we have been together, it's made my life a lot more fulfilling. I think more serene, kind of emotional stability."

Elected in 1992, President Bill Clinton appointed Kennedy's sister, Jean Kennedy Smith, ambassador to Ireland. And in 1994, Kennedy had the satisfaction of seeing his son Patrick elected to the House of Representatives from Rhode Island.

But tragedy returned that year.

In May 1994, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis died of cancer. Kennedy had remained close to his sister-in-law, who once quit her job at a publisher's after it came out with an unflattering biography of Ted.

Kennedy's Battle With Cancer Lost

Kennedy had served as a surrogate father for many of his nephews and nieces, but he may have been closest to Jackie's children, Caroline and John F. Kennedy Jr.

He was horrified when in July 1999, five years after Jackie's death, John Jr. and his bride of two years, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, along with her sister Lauren Bessette, were killed when the small plane John was piloting crashed off the Massachusetts island of Martha's Vineyard.

Sen. Kennedy led the family during the harrowing wait for information as Coast Guard crews searched for the missing plane.

When the bodies were retrieved from the ocean, Kennedy and his two sons went to identify the remains. The senator's eulogy for his nephew who "had every gift but length of years" and "the wife who became his perfect soul mate" touched grief-stricken Americans.

It was an all-too-familiar sight for those who remember Ted Kennedy mourning the deaths of his brothers John and Robert, and helping the family bear up after the deaths of Robert's sons David and Michael.

For decades, it was Ted Kennedy who carried the burden and led the way as the patriarch of a family seen as America's answer to royalty.

Copyright © 2009 ABC News Internet Ventures

FORD
08-26-2009, 01:48 AM
The last of the Kennedy brothers has left us. Truly the end of an era.

Rest in peace Teddy. :(

DavidLeeNatra
08-26-2009, 02:23 AM
what a family saga...RIP

bueno bob
08-26-2009, 02:25 AM
As far as Ted's personal life, I'm not qualified to say...was he guilty of murder? Don't know that either...but the era of the Kennedys has truly come to an end, and for that, it's not only a historic moment in America's saga but also a sad one.

hideyoursheep
08-26-2009, 03:26 AM
Let someone here try running their car into a creek leaving the passenger behind and NOT calling the cops for 48 hours.

There are people doing hard time for weed-related crimes, and Ted walked?

That's some Republican shit right there.

FORD
08-26-2009, 03:31 AM
‘The Cause of My Life’
Inside the fight for universal health care.

By Edward M. Kennedy | NEWSWEEK

Published Jul 18, 2009

From the magazine issue dated Jul 27, 2009

In 1964, I was flying with several companions to the Massachusetts Democratic Convention when our small plane crashed and burned short of the runway. My friend and colleague in the Senate, Birch Bayh, risked his life to pull me from the wreckage. Our pilot, Edwin Zimny, and my administrative assistant, Ed Moss, didn't survive. With crushed vertebrae, broken ribs, and a collapsed lung, I spent months in New England Baptist Hospital in Boston. To prevent paralysis, I was strapped into a special bed that immobilizes a patient between two canvas slings. Nurses would regularly turn me over so my lungs didn't fill with fluid. I knew the care was expensive, but I didn't have to worry about that. I needed the care and I got it.

Now I face another medical challenge. Last year, I was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. Surgeons at Duke University Medical Center removed part of the tumor, and I had proton-beam radiation at Massachusetts General Hospital. I've undergone many rounds of chemotherapy and continue to receive treatment. Again, I have enjoyed the best medical care money (and a good insurance policy) can buy.

But quality care shouldn't depend on your financial resources, or the type of job you have, or the medical condition you face. Every American should be able to get the same treatment that U.S. senators are entitled to.

This is the cause of my life. It is a key reason that I defied my illness last summer to speak at the Democratic convention in Denver—to support Barack Obama, but also to make sure, as I said, "that we will break the old gridlock and guarantee that every American…will have decent, quality health care as a fundamental right and not just a privilege." For four decades I have carried this cause—from the floor of the United States Senate to every part of this country. It has never been merely a question of policy; it goes to the heart of my belief in a just society. Now the issue has more meaning for me—and more urgency—than ever before. But it's always been deeply personal, because the importance of health care has been a recurrent lesson throughout most of my 77 years.

Nothing I'm enduring now can compare to hearing that my children were seriously ill. In 1973, when I was first fighting in the Senate for universal coverage, we learned that my 12-year-old son Teddy had bone cancer. He had to have his right leg amputated above the knee. Even then, the pathology report showed that some of the cancer cells were very aggressive. There were only a few long-shot options to stop it from spreading further. I decided his best chance for survival was a clinical trial involving massive doses of chemotherapy. Every three weeks, at Children's Hospital Boston, he had to lie still for six hours while the fluid dripped into his arm. I remember watching and praying for him, all the while knowing how sick he would be for days afterward.

During those many hours at the hospital, I came to know other parents whose children had been stricken with the same deadly disease. We all hoped that our child's life would be saved by this experimental treatment. Because we were part of a clinical trial, none of us paid for it. Then the trial was declared a success and terminated before some patients had completed their treatments. That meant families had to have insurance to cover the rest or pay for them out of pocket. Our family had the necessary resources as well as excellent insurance coverage. But other heartbroken parents pleaded with the doctors: What chance does my child have if I can only afford half of the prescribed treatments? Or two thirds? I've sold everything. I've mortgaged as much as possible. No parent should suffer that torment. Not in this country. Not in the richest country in the world.

That experience with Teddy made it clear to me, as never before, that health care must be affordable and available for every mother or father who hears a sick child cry in the night and worries about the deductibles and copays if they go to the doctor. But that was just one medical crisis. My family, like every other, has faced many—at every stage of life. I think of my parents and the medical care they needed after their strokes. I think of my son Patrick, who suffered serious asthma as a child and sometimes had to be rushed to the hospital for treatment. (For this reason, we had no dogs in the house when Patrick was young.) I think of my daughter, Kara, diagnosed with lung cancer in 2002. Few doctors were willing to try an operation. One did—and after that surgery and arduous rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, she's alive and healthy today. My family has had the care it needed. Other families have not, simply because they could not afford it.

I have seen letters and e-mails from many of these less fortunate Americans. In their pleas, there's always dignity, but too often desperation. "Our school is closing in June of 2010, which means that I will be losing my job and my health insurance," writes Mary Dunn, a 58-year-old schoolteacher in Eden, S.D. "I am a Type I diabetic, and I had heart bypass surgery in 2005. My husband is also a teacher [here], so we will both be losing insurance. I am exploring options and have been told that I cannot stay on our group policy or transfer to another policy after our jobs cease because of my medical condition. What am I to do after 39 years of teaching to acquire adequate health coverage?" Dunn also serves as mayor of Eden, for which she is paid $45 a month with no health benefits.

How will we, as a nation, answer her? I've heard countless such stories, including one from the family of Cassandra Wilson, a 14-year-old who once was a competitive ice skater. She's uninsured because she has petit mal seizures, often 200 times a day. Her parents have run up $30,000 on their credit cards. They've sold her skating equipment on eBay to pay for her care.

These two cases represent only those patients who lack coverage. We also need to find answers for the increasing number of Americans whose insurance costs too much, covers too little, and can be too easily revoked when they face the most serious illnesses.

Our response to these challenges will define our character as a country. But the challenges themselves—and the demands for reform—are not new. In 1912, when Theodore Roosevelt ran for a third term as president, the platform of his newly created Progressive Party called for national health insurance. Harry Truman proposed it again more than 30 years after Roosevelt was defeated. The plan was attacked, not for the last time, as "socialized medicine," and members of Truman's White House staff were branded "followers of the Moscow party line."

For the next generation, no one ventured to tread where T.R. and Truman fell short. But in the early 1960s, a new young president was determined to take a first step—to free the elderly from the threat of medical poverty. John Kennedy called Medicare "one of the most important measures I have advocated." He understood the pain of injury and illness: as a senator, he had almost died after surgery to repair a back injury sustained during World War II, an injury that would plague him all of his life. I was in college as he recuperated and learned to walk without crutches at my parents' winter home in Florida. I visited often, and we spent afternoons painting landscapes and seascapes. (It was a competition: at dinner after we finished, we would ask family members to decide whose painting was better.) I saw how the pain would periodically hit him as we were painting; he'd have to put down his brush for a while. And I saw, too, how hard he fought as president to pass Medicare. It was a battle he didn't have the opportunity to finish. But I was in the Senate to vote for the Medicare bill before Lyndon Johnson signed it into law—with Harry Truman at his side. In the Senate, I viewed Medicare as a great achievement, but only a beginning. In 1966, I visited the Columbia Point Neighborhood Health Center in Boston; it was a pilot project providing health services to low-income families in the two-floor office of an apartment building. I saw mothers in rocking chairs, tending their children in a warm and welcoming setting. They told me this was the first time they could get basic care without spending hours on public transportation and in hospital waiting rooms. I authored legislation, which passed a few months later, establishing the network of community health centers that are all around America today.

Some years later, I decided the time was right to renew the quest for universal and affordable coverage. When I first introduced the bill in 1970, I didn't expect an easy victory (although I never suspected that it would take this long). I eventually came to believe that we'd have to give up on the ideal of a government-run, single-payer system if we wanted to get universal care. Some of my allies called me a sellout because I was willing to compromise. Even so, we almost had a plan that President Richard Nixon was willing to sign in 1974—but that chance was lost as the Watergate storm swept Washington and the country, and swept Nixon out of the White House. I tried to negotiate an agreement with President Carter but became frustrated when he decided that he'd rather take a piecemeal approach. I ran against Carter, a sitting president from my own party, in large part because of this disagreement. Health reform became central to my 1980 presidential campaign: I argued then that the issue wasn't just coverage but also out-of-control costs that would ultimately break both family and federal budgets, and increasingly burden the national economy. I even predicted, optimistically, that the business community, largely opposed to reform, would come around to supporting it.

That didn't happen as soon as I thought it would. When Bill Clinton returned to the issue in the first years of his presidency, I fought the battle in Congress. We lost to a virtually united front of corporations, insurance companies, and other interest groups. The Clinton proposal never even came to a vote. But we didn't just walk away and do nothing—even though Republicans were again in control of Congress. We returned to a step-by-step approach. With Sen. Nancy Landon Kassebaum of Kansas, the daughter of the 1936 Republican presidential nominee, I crafted a law to make health insurance more portable for those who change or lose jobs. It didn't do enough to fully guarantee that, but we made progress. I worked with my friend Sen. Orrin Hatch of Utah, the Republican chair of our committee, to enact CHIP, the Children's Health Insurance Program; today it covers more than 7 million children from low-income families, although too many of them could soon lose coverage as impoverished state governments cut their contributions.

Incremental measures won't suffice anymore. We need to succeed where Teddy Roosevelt and all others since have failed. The conditions now are better than ever. In Barack Obama, we have a president who's announced that he's determined to sign a bill into law this fall. And much of the business community, which has suffered the economic cost of inaction, is helping to shape change, not lobbying against it. I know this because I've spent the past year, along with my staff, negotiating with business leaders, hospital administrators, and doctors. As soon as I left the hospital last summer, I was on the phone, and I've kept at it. Since the inauguration, the administration has been deeply involved in the process. So have my Senate colleagues—in particular Max Baucus, the chair of the Finance Committee, and my friend and partner in this mission, Chris Dodd. Even those most ardently opposed to reform in the past have been willing to make constructive gestures now.

To help finance a bill, the pharmaceutical industry has agreed to lower prices for seniors, not only saving them money for prescriptions but also saving the government tens of billions in Medicare payments over the next decade. Senator Baucus has agreed with hospitals on more than $100 billion in savings. We're working with Republicans to make this a bipartisan effort. Everyone won't be satisfied—and no one will get everything they want. But we need to come together, just as we've done in other great struggles—in World War II and the Cold War, in passing the great civil-rights laws of the 1960s, and in daring to send a man to the moon. If we don't get every provision right, we can adjust and improve the program next year or in the years to come. What we can't afford is to wait another generation.

I long ago learned that you have to be a realist as you pursue your ideals. But whatever the compromises, there are several elements that are essential to any health-reform plan worthy of the name.

First, we have to cover the uninsured. When President Clinton proposed his plan, 33 million Americans had no health insurance. Today the official number has reached 47 million, but the economic crisis will certainly push the total higher. Unless we act now, within a few years, 55 million Americans could be left without coverage even as the economy recovers.

All Americans should be required to have insurance. For those who can't afford the premiums, we can provide subsidies. We'll make it illegal to deny coverage due to preexisting conditions. We'll also prohibit the practice of charging women higher premiums than men, and the elderly far higher premiums than anyone else. The bill drafted by the Senate health committee will let children be covered by their parents' policy until the age of 26, since first jobs after high school or college often don't offer health benefits.

To accomplish all of this, we have to cut the costs of health care. For families who've seen health-insurance premiums more than double—from an average of less than $6,000 a year to nearly $13,000 since 1999—one of the most controversial features of reform is one of the most vital. It's been called the "public plan." Despite what its detractors allege, it's not "socialism." It could take a number of different forms. Our bill favors a "community health-insurance option." In short, this means that the federal government would negotiate rates—in keeping with local economic conditions—for a plan that would be offered alongside private insurance options. This will foster competition in pricing and services. It will be a safety net, giving Americans a place to go when they can't find or afford private insurance, and it's critical to holding costs down for everyone.

We also need to move from a system that rewards doctors for the sheer volume of tests and treatments they prescribe to one that rewards quality and positive outcomes. For example, in Medicare today, 18 percent of patients discharged from a hospital are readmitted within 30 days—at a cost of more than $15 billion in 2005. Most of these readmissions are unnecessary, but we don't reward hospitals and doctors for preventing them. By changing that, we'll save billions of dollars while improving the quality of care for patients.

Social justice is often the best economics. We can help disabled Americans who want to live in their homes instead of a nursing home. Simple things can make all the difference, like having the money to install handrails or have someone stop by and help every day. It's more humane and less costly—for the government and for families—than paying for institutionalized care. That's why we should give all Americans a tax deduction to set aside a small portion of their earnings each month to provide for long-term care.

Another cardinal principle of reform: we have to make certain that people can keep the coverage they already have. Millions of employers already provide health insurance for their employees. We shouldn't do anything to disturb this. On the contrary, we need to mandate employer responsibility: except for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees, every company should have to cover its workers or pay into a system that will.

We need to prevent disease and not just cure it. (Today 80 percent of health spending pays for care for the 20 percent of Americans with chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer, or heart disease.) Too many people get to the doctor too seldom or too late—or know too little about how to stay healthy. No one knows better than I do that when it comes to advanced, highly specialized treatments, America can boast the best health care in the world—at least for those who can afford it. But we still have to modernize a system that doesn't always provide the basics.

I've heard the critics complain about the costs of change. I'm confident that at the end of the process, the change will be paid for—fairly, responsibly, and without adding to the federal deficit. It doesn't make sense to negotiate in the pages of NEWSWEEK, but I will say that I'm open to many options, including a surtax on the wealthy, as long as it meets the principle laid down by President Obama: that there will be no tax increases on anyone making less than $250,000 a year. What I haven't heard the critics discuss is the cost of inaction. If we don't reform the system, if we leave things as they are, health-care inflation will cost far more over the next decade than health-care reform. We will pay far more for far less—with millions more Americans uninsured or underinsured.

This would threaten not just the health of Americans but also the strength of the American economy. Health-care spending already accounts for 17 percent of our entire domestic product. In other advanced nations, where the figure is around 10 percent, everyone has insurance and health outcomes that are equal or better than ours. This disparity undermines our ability to compete and succeed in the global economy. General Motors spends more per vehicle on health care than on steel.

We will bring health-care reform to the Senate and House floors soon, and there will be a vote. A century-long struggle will reach its climax. We're almost there. In the meantime, I will continue what I've been doing—making calls, urging progress. I've had dinner twice recently at my home in Hyannis Port with Senator Dodd, and when President Obama called me during his Rome trip after meeting with the Pope, much of our discussion was about health care. I believe the bill will pass, and we will end the disgrace of America as the only major industrialized nation in the world that doesn't guarantee health care for all of its people.

At another Democratic convention, in arguing for this cause, I spoke of the insurance coverage senators and members of Congress provide for themselves. That was 1980. In the last year, I've often relied on that Congressional insurance. My wife, Vicki, and I have worried about many things, but not whether we could afford my care and treatment. Each time I've made a phone call or held a meeting about the health bill—or even when I've had the opportunity to get out for a sail along the Massachusetts coast—I've thought in an even more powerful way than before about what this will mean to others. And I am resolved to see to it this year that we create a system to ensure that someday, when there is a cure for the disease I now have, no American who needs it will be denied it.

This story was written with Robert Shrum, Senator Kennedy’s friend and longtime speechwriter.

Find this article at Ted Kennedy Speaks Out on Health-Care Reform | Newsweek Politics | Newsweek.com (http://www.newsweek.com/id/207406)

FORD
08-26-2009, 03:51 AM
Nancy Reagan Statement on Senator Kennedy
August 26, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"I was terribly saddened to hear of the death of Ted Kennedy tonight. Given our political differences, people are sometimes surprised by how close Ronnie and I have been to the Kennedy family. But Ronnie and Ted could always find common ground, and they had great respect for one another. In recent years, Ted and I found our common ground in stem cell research, and I considered him an ally and a dear friend. I will miss him."

FORD
08-26-2009, 03:53 AM
Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy
August 26, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, D.C. — Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today on the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy:

"Today, with the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, the American people have lost a great patriot, and the Kennedy family has lost a beloved patriarch. Over a lifetime of leadership, Senator Kennedy’s statesmanship and political prowess produced a wealth of accomplishment that has improved opportunity for every American.

Senator Kennedy had a grand vision for America, and an unparalleled ability to effect change. Rooted in his deep patriotism, his abiding faith, and his deep concern for the least among us, no one has done more than Senator Kennedy to educate our children, care for our seniors, and ensure equality for all Americans.

Ted Kennedy’s dream of quality health care for all Americans will be made real this year because of his leadership and his inspiration.

Sadly, Senator Kennedy left us exactly one year after he inspired the nation with his speech of optimism, vitality, and courage at the Convention in Denver.

On behalf of all Members of Congress, and personally on behalf of my family, today and in the days ahead, our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Kennedy family, especially with Senator Kennedy’s devoted wife Vicki, and with Kara, Teddy Jr., and our colleague Patrick, who made their father so proud. I hope it is a comfort to them that our nation and the world mourn their loss and are praying for them at this sad time."

FORD
08-26-2009, 03:54 AM
Reid Statement on Senator Kennedy
August 26, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, DC—Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid made the following statement today… “The Kennedy family and the Senate family have together lost our patriarch. My thoughts, and those of the entire United States Senate, are with Vicki, Senator Kennedy’s children, his many nieces and nephews, and his entire family. “It was the thrill of my lifetime to work with Ted Kennedy. He was a friend, the model of public service and an American icon.

"As we mourn his loss, we rededicate ourselves to the causes for which he so dutifully dedicated his life. Senator Kennedy’s legacy stands with the greatest, the most devoted, the most patriotic men and women to ever serve in these halls. Because of Ted Kennedy, more young children could afford to become healthy. More young adults could afford to become students. More of our oldest citizens and our poorest citizens could get the care they need to live longer, fuller lives. More minorities, women and immigrants could realize the rights our founding documents promised them. And more Americans could be proud of their country.

Ted Kennedy’s America was one in which all could pursue justice, enjoy equality and know freedom. Ted Kennedy’s life was driven by his love of a family that loved him, and his belief in a country that believed in him. Ted Kennedy’s dream was the one for which the founding fathers fought and for which his brothers sought to realize.

The liberal lion’s mighty roar may now fall silent, but his dream shall never die."

FORD
08-26-2009, 05:02 AM
Statement from President Obama:

"Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy. For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts. I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited as President from his encouragement and wisdom.

"An important chapter in our history has come to an end. Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time. And the Kennedy family has lost their patriarch, a tower of strength and support through good times and bad. Our hearts and prayers go out to them today—to his wonderful wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family."

sadaist
08-26-2009, 05:10 AM
I never liked the whole Camelot or American Royal Family stuff associated with the Kennedys. Brain cancer is not a good way to go. But look at it this way. The guy lived 77 years. A whole heck of a lot longer than his brothers, and he lived a whole lot better than his lobotomized sister. Lived a very wealthy & privileged life to a good solid old age and was healthy for most of it (and out of prison). Surprised his liver didn't get him long ago. Not a bad run and he beat the odds.

fryingdutchman
08-26-2009, 05:25 AM
All the bars in New England will dim their lights for one minute tonight....

I was never a big fan of the Kennedy's overall, mostly due to the way many of them conducted their personal lives.

However, separating that from their political achievements and the issues they championed, it is indeed sad that Ted is gone.

It is truly the end of another era in America...and it goes well beyond the realm of politics. The Kennedy's were an iconic American family...unfortunately it wasn't always for the right reasons.

2009 has really turned out to be a hell of a year filled with epic-sized losses.

Panamark
08-26-2009, 06:58 AM
When I was a child the Kennedy's were as popular in Australia as the inbred German British Royals...
He would have to be close to the last one of that era to pass on ?
At least it wasnt at the hands of an assassin or some bizzarre accident gone wrong.
I would take 77 years tomorrow if offered to me. However I hate to think what cancer
in your think tank is like. Bad enough anywhere else. Hope he didnt suffer too much in
the final years... RIP TED.

Nickdfresh
08-26-2009, 07:30 AM
Pity. Regardless of what anyone thinks of his past, he was a very good senator that provided actual knowledgeable leadership in a forum mostly made up of ignorant assclowns....

Va Beach VH Fan
08-26-2009, 09:23 AM
As far as Ted's personal life, I'm not qualified to say...was he guilty of murder? Don't know that either...but the era of the Kennedys has truly come to an end, and for that, it's not only a historic moment in America's saga but also a sad one.

Today's not the day to discuss that, but it does make one think, without Chappaquiddick, does Teddy beat Ronny in 1980 ??

ELVIS
08-26-2009, 09:29 AM
Teleprompter Statement from President Obama:

"Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy. For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts. I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited as President from his encouragement and wisdom.

"An important chapter in our history has come to an end. Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time. And the Kennedy family has lost their patriarch, a tower of strength and support through good times and bad. Our hearts and prayers go out to them today—to his wonderful wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family."


Obama didn't write that...

RIP Ted

Nickdfresh
08-26-2009, 10:01 AM
Today's not the day to discuss that, but it does make one think, without Chappaquiddick, does Teddy beat Ronny in 1980 ??

I think he beats Ford in 1976, or even Nixon in 1972...

standin
08-26-2009, 10:04 AM
Obama didn't write that...

RIP Ted

Elvis didn't write that.

~
Take care, Mr. Kennedy.

Igosplut
08-26-2009, 10:35 AM
Today's not the day to discuss that, but it does make one think, without Chappaquiddick, does Teddy beat Ronny in 1980 ??

I was never a fan of his, but his legacy (and influence) is far greater serving 40+ years in the senate than it would have been as President.

But I would have to say Chappaquiddick killed his chance at the big seat.

Great book on that era of his life Senantorial Privilege (http://www.amazon.com/Senatorial-Privilege-Chappaquiddick-Leo-Damore/dp/0895265648)
by Leo Damore.

Like every good Cape Codder I have an original hardcopy. Very good book, mostly factual writing, no celeb bullshit..

Oh, and RIP Teddy...

ZahZoo
08-26-2009, 10:37 AM
No politician comes off with a clean slate and no controversy during their time... history can sort it out once the dust settles.

Good bad or otherwise... Kennedy provided several decades of leadership and contributed to keeping and making this country great. Another passing of a significant era and a great American.

RIP Ted.

Seshmeister
08-26-2009, 10:44 AM
Don't know anything about his domestic record but I'm glad he never made president. Chappaquiddick was no blow job in the oval office or even covering up a burglary. He was a poodle of the Israelis and duped into raising money for Irish terrorists so responsible for spreading misery and death to hundreds if not thousands.

jhale667
08-26-2009, 11:07 AM
Obama didn't write that...

RIP Ted

Keep your mindless Obama-hate out of this, you inbred asshat. :fufu:




R.I.P. Senator Kennedy. :(

Mr Walker
08-26-2009, 11:14 AM
Jesus just handed Mary Jo Kopechne a pair of swimmies.

kwame k
08-26-2009, 11:24 AM
RIP Teddy......Yeah, Chappaquiddick pretty much fucked his chances for any real shot at the Presidency, I agree with that.

Good Senator and given the personal tragedy he suffered throughout his, I can maybe understand how he had his issues. Losing 3 brothers and being the youngest couldn't of been easy in that family.

kwame k
08-26-2009, 11:25 AM
double post

lesfunk
08-26-2009, 11:55 AM
Karma's a bitch. Evil prick :fufu:

VanHalener
08-26-2009, 12:11 PM
It's about fucking time that dude croaked and gave someone else a chance.
I'm not glad he is dead, but money and a name has carried him wayyyy to long. America doesn't need lifers in the Senate, or anywhere else if you ask me.

Our highest judges maybe, but nowhere else.

Va Beach VH Fan
08-26-2009, 12:17 PM
He's gonna be buried at Arlington, about 90 feet from Bobby....

And before anyone starts chirping, he qualifies on actually two separate criteria, an active member of Congress, and a Korean War veteran...

FORD
08-26-2009, 01:39 PM
Ted Kennedy
By Howard Dean - August 26, 2009, 11:51AM

We will miss Senator Ted Kennedy as a nation, and I will miss him as a human being. Over the next few months, as we debate his life's passion, which was Universal Health Care, we will feel his presence everywhere. He will be in the Senate Chamber, in the committee rooms, in the White House, and in the minds of most of the reporters old enough to have witnessed the trajectory of this extraordinary generation of America's First Family from it's beginning. Much has been written about Ted Kennedy already. He was indeed extraordinary. My mother, who was a solid Upper East Side Republican until 2004, once happened to sit next to him at a wedding of a mutual friend. She had never met him before. I'm sure the exchange was lively, and being a Dean, I doubt my mother gave him much quarter. A week later, a beautiful, kind, and very personal handwritten letter arrived from Ted Kennedy. My mother, like so many other Americans, was hooked by the Kennedy charm and grace.

Ted Kennedy was a man with a long career of determination as well as charm. When President Obama signs a Health Care Reform bill late this year, Ted Kennedy may not be standing there next to him, but his presence will be deeply apparent in the Oval Office as the President's pen moves across the page.

FORD
08-26-2009, 01:42 PM
August 26, 2009

"This Misbegotten War"
Farewell, Senator Kennedy
By CINDY SHEEHAN

"My vote against this misbegotten war (Iraq) is the best vote I have cast in the United States Senate since I was elected in 1962."
Senator Ted Kennedy

I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Kennedy family and the people of Massachusetts on the death of Senator Edward Kennedy.

I was invited to visit with the Senator in September of 2005 right after my first foray into presidential vacation adventures. I walked into an office on Capitol Hill that was a mini American History Museum. The Senator displayed his own art, memorabilia from the Kennedy family and even framed child's artwork from his children and various nieces and nephews.

Gathered around a large marble fireplace (unlit in the September Washington DC heat) and surrounded by his Portuguese Water dogs, we talked about loss and war and peace.

We commiserated on my tragic loss of Casey and the losses that his mother Rose had to endure in her life. No matter what one thinks of the Kennedy family, they have been hit hard with tragedy.

The Senator and I talked about the wrongness, even criminality of the US foreign policy in the Middle East and I find it serendipitous that I am on Martha's Vineyard the day he died.

In the next few days, we will be working on an International People's Declaration of Peace (IPDoP) here in Massachusetts where I have always felt overwhelming support for a message of peace and justice.

In the spirit of peace and to honor Ted Kennedy's legacy, Camp Casey Martha's Vineyard will go forward and hopefully at the end of the week, we will have a wonderful first draft of the IPDoP that we can present to the globe: a people's grassroots movement to counteract the violence of governments all over the world.

We will be leaving Martha's Vineyard and taking this Declaration all over the world to advocate that, finally, we the people of this planet refuse to be used as pawns of failed and violent policies.

FORD
08-26-2009, 01:46 PM
BOSTON -- Senator John Kerry today released the following statement on the passing of Senator Edward Kennedy.

"We have known for some time that this day was coming, but nothing makes it easier. We have lost a great light in our lives and our politics, and it will never be the same again. Ted Kennedy was such an extraordinary force, yes for the issues he cared about, but more importantly for the humanity and caring in our politics that is at the center of faith and true public service.

“No words can ever do justice to this irrepressible, larger than life presence who was simply the best -- the best Senator, the best advocate you could ever hope for, the best colleague, and the best person to stand by your side in the toughest of times. He faced the last challenge of his life with the same grace, courage, and determination with which he fought for the causes and principles he held so dear. He taught us how to fight, how to laugh, how to treat each other, and how to turn idealism into action, and in these last fourteen months he taught us much more about how to live life, sailing into the wind one last time. For almost 25 years, I was privileged to serve as his colleague and share his friendship for which I will always be grateful.

“Teresa and I send all our love to Vicki, Teddy Jr., Patrick, Kara and their family, and to the entire Kennedy family for whom Teddy was always a rock at times like this. Massachusetts and our entire nation feels their loss and grieves with them."

FORD
08-26-2009, 01:52 PM
http://d.yimg.com/a/p/uc/20090826/largeimagejd090826.gif

ppg960
08-26-2009, 01:59 PM
As far as Ted's personal life, I'm not qualified to say...was he guilty of murder? Don't know that either...but the era of the Kennedys has truly come to an end, and for that, it's not only a historic moment in America's saga but also a sad one.

Couldn't have said it better myself. A saga has come to an end. The Kennedy's really influenced American politics over the last 50 years. They helped shape the American Landscape to what it is today.

Mr Walker
08-26-2009, 02:10 PM
They helped shape the American Landscape to what it is today.

Booze... loose women... deceit... death & living dangerously...
All the things that make the US the greatest country in the fucking world... bitches!

:war: :hogan: :dafinger:

hideyoursheep
08-26-2009, 03:29 PM
I think he beats Ford in 1976, or even Nixon in 1972...

I think he kicks Nixon's ass in 72 and gets re-elected in er-ah...76;)

FORD
08-26-2009, 03:39 PM
Sadly, I don't think he ever could have been President. They murdered Bobby when he was almost certain to be elected, they would have murdered Teddy too. He was an important voice in the Senate, but still only one vote out of 100. As President he might have had a little more power into certain things.... like investigating the murders of his brothers. And that would have never been tolerated.

sadaist
08-26-2009, 03:42 PM
Wasn't he in a small plane crash that nearly killed him? Seems like this family was both blessed and cursed at the same time.

Va Beach VH Fan
08-26-2009, 03:53 PM
Wasn't he in a small plane crash that nearly killed him? Seems like this family was both blessed and cursed at the same time.

Yeah, believe it was in '64... Broke his back....

thome
08-26-2009, 04:46 PM
He was someones, Brother, Uncle, Dad, etc...for that, R.I.P.

I will/would say the same about Charlie, Hitler,Saddam,and any other MF this world has twisted.

Other than that ..............

Big Train
08-26-2009, 05:07 PM
I can't speak badly about the man, as much I disagree with him politically. I grew up in MA and he was like the bedrock, always there.

It's unlikely we will see a Senator as dominant as he was ever again. Liveshot Kerry now has his hands full.

It's unclear going forward how MA runs, since he had a very tight blend of support across unions, educationial institutions and local government. My guess is much less smoothly going forward (he was the only guy who could have pulled off the Big Dig, which provided a generation's worth of construction work).

Kristy
08-26-2009, 06:34 PM
Ted Kennedy must have had balls made from cast iron. In a lot of ways he was the last of a dying breed (no pun intended) of Senators who wasn't afraid to criticize the behavior of any Administration he served under. His grilling of that douchebag Rumsfield of why he couldn't give him a solid reason for us being in Iraq was classic. Say what you want about him but he will be missed.

Big Train
08-26-2009, 06:36 PM
Having your state wrapped up for decades will give you that ability.

kwame k
08-26-2009, 08:03 PM
Here's a pretty good story on Teddy's political legacy, with some nice statements from the Repukes.........


By LAURIE KELLMAN, Associated Press Writer – 53 mins ago
WASHINGTON – In an era of bitter political division, Sen. Edward M. Kennedy's death silenced a singular voice of bipartisanship at a time when colleagues are struggling with angry constituents and each other over an elusive plan to overhaul the nation's health care system.
Some lawmakers said Tuesday the current stalemate is the result of Kennedy's absence for the past few, crucial months. Some hope to rescue the embattled legislation as his legacy.
It's not clear that the post-Kennedy Senate includes anyone with the credibility among ideological opponents, the dealmaking skills or the inside knowledge to strike a quick agreement.
"There is nobody else like him," said Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H., who alternated with Kennedy over the years as chairman and ranking minority-party member of the health committee. "If he had been physically up to it and been engaged on this, we probably would have an agreement by now."
"Teddy was the only Democrat who could move their whole base," Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, said. "If he finally agreed, the whole base would come along even if they didn't like it."
Kennedy lost the fight he couldn't win Tuesday, to brain cancer at 77. But he had won countless others by embodying an increasingly rare type of bipartisanship — the kind perceived not as a threat to ideology or fundraising prowess, but as a way of getting something done, however imperfect.
"Bipartisanship takes a person that has leadership and personal charm, quite frankly, and a desire to get a result," said former Senate Republican Leader Trent Lott of Mississippi. "He didn't try to destroy you. That's what's happening in Washington now. It's gotten so mean."
Over 47 years in the Senate, Kennedy evolved into an institution himself, equal parts liberal icon and dealmaker who combined those skills to forge agreement on some of the most sweeping and controversial social legislation of his time.
Kennedy worked out an agreement with President George W. Bush on the No Child Left Behind Act. He regularly worked with Hatch, notably on a federally funded program for those with HIV/AIDS, health insurance for lower-income children and tax breaks to encourage the development of medicines for rare diseases.
When he compromised, Kennedy's base may have grumbled but did not question his fidelity to liberal principles. Republicans trusted him to be straight with them in tough negotiations and not make it personal. And no one questioned his knowledge of Senate procedure, rivaling even West Virginia's Robert C. Byrd, who no longer plays a big role in Senate business.
Without Kennedy, the 99-member chamber lacks anyone playing precisely his role doling out the goodwill and procedural expertise necessary to make the Senate wheels spin through controversial legislation. The Democratic caucus falls from an effective supermajority of 60, enough to kill Republican filibusters, to 59, including two independents.
No one is irreplaceable in the Senate, or so a popular saying goes. But John McCain, R-Ariz., called Kennedy just that in a statement Wednesday. McCain, last year the GOP presidential nominee, was even clearer over the weekend.
"He had a way of sitting down with the parties at a table and making the right concessions, which really are the essence of successful negotiations," McCain said on ABC's "This Week."
"It's huge that he's absent," McCain added. If Kennedy had been engaged in the debate past June, when he handed his committee chairmanship duties to Chris Dodd, D-Conn., "I think the health care reform might be in a very different place today."
Democrats widely mourned Kennedy's passing on personal and political grounds and urged their colleagues to adopt Kennedy's big-picture view of the world generally and health care specifically. There was talk Wednesday of honoring Kennedy within the Capitol, possibly by posting his portrait in the Senate Reception Room with the likenesses of other senators hailed for their bipartisan accomplishments.
"My hope is that this will maybe cause people to take a breath, step back and start talking with each other again in more civil tones about what needs to be done, because that's what Teddy would do," said Dodd, Kennedy's close friend who has taken a lead role on health care negotiations and is, himself, battling prostate cancer.
"We all share the same principles. How you get there is complicated, but that's what Senator Kennedy dedicated his life to," Dodd added. "In his memory, I will do everything I can as long as I can stand in the United States Senate to help us achieve that goal."
Vice President Joe Biden, in a tearful salute to his friend, said Kennedy raised the level of discourse and senatorial behavior and in the course of rising from dark chapters of his own life embodied the most selfless human qualities.
"It was never about him ... he never was petty," Biden told reporters, recalling how Kennedy stood by him when the former senator's wife and child were killed in a car accident.
"I just hope we remember how he treated other people and how he made other people look at themselves and look at one another," Biden added. "That will be the truly fundamental, unifying legacy of Teddy Kennedy's life if that happens, and it will for a while at least in the Senate." Link (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090826/ap_on_go_co/us_kennedy_impact;_ylt=AnJ1ejMQ4YGYcYnZFNjBNP2yFz4 D;_ylu=X3oDMTJpczVhcXNiBGFzc2V0A2FwLzIwMDkwODI2L3V zX2tlbm5lZHlfaW1wYWN0BGNwb3MDMgRwb3MDOARzZWMDeW5fd G9wX3N0b3J5BHNsawNrZW5uZWR5c2Fic2U-)

Nickdfresh
08-26-2009, 09:17 PM
It's about fucking time that dude croaked and gave someone else a chance.
I'm not glad he is dead, but money and a name has carried him wayyyy to long. America doesn't need lifers in the Senate, or anywhere else if you ask me.

Our highest judges maybe, but nowhere else.


You don't know dick. His charisma, ability to actually get shit done, reach across the isle, and a tenacious reputation are what carried him as the "Lion of the Senate."

Some of his closest friends were Republicans and everyone respected him, many described him as immensely likable...

Nickdfresh
08-26-2009, 09:19 PM
He's gonna be buried at Arlington, about 90 feet from Bobby....

And before anyone starts chirping, he qualifies on actually two separate criteria, an active member of Congress, and a Korean War veteran...

I forgot he was in Korea...

FORD
08-26-2009, 09:20 PM
From Mike Malloy's website.....



Mike's Daily Blog
Senator Ted Kennedy

August 26th, 2009

He was, of course, the only Kennedy brother we got to watch grow old.

Joe died young fighting in WWII; Jack and Bobby were assassinated in each of their life’s prime by the right-wing, neo-Fascist madness that continues to poison this country; Ted died last night at the age of 77 after a lengthy fight against brain cancer.

I heard the news of his death early this morning as I was driving my 5-year-old daughter Molly to her kindergarten class. She was belted into the seat behind me looking at the illustrations in, “Bedknobs and Broomsticks,” or, as she insists, “reading” her current favorite book.

The sun was pouring bright morning light over the country roads that take us into the nearby town where Molly goes to class when I tuned in to CNN on Sirius radio. Wolf Blitzer was talking with correspondent Dana Bash about Senator Kennedy’s passing at 11:30 last night. My first reaction was a profound sadness – and a rush of hot tears that momentarily refracted the sunlight into blurry flashes of gold and yellow against the still shadowed macadam road.

And that surprised me. Why this reaction? Why the tears? I don’t know. I was not hearing of the death of a friend or a family member. While Ted Kennedy’s journey certainly was embedded in my consciousness, a person who traveled with me as a part of my own life’s experiences, he was always removed, like the central character in a novel that one reads and then reads again. Perhaps the announcement was simply another reminder of the scope of the tragedy that has been the Kennedy Family - a monumental Shakespearean tragedy, far beyond what any family should be fated to endure.

Or maybe it was yet another notice – and they seem to be arriving daily – of my own mortality, my own profound insignificance; the accelerating passage of time that demands attention, finally, in every person’s life. The insistent awareness that the river flows more rapidly the further it travels toward its ultimate destination.

Maybe it was neither of these. Maybe it was simply the juxtaposition of CNN’s reporting of his death and the presence of my daughter reading her book in the seat behind me as we drove through the early morning sunshine to her second day of kindergarten.

- MDM

FORD
08-26-2009, 09:37 PM
Teddy
By William Rivers Pitt
t r u t h o u t | Columnist

Wednesday 26 August 2009

For me, a few hours ago, this campaign came to an end. For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die.

- Sen. Edward M. Kennedy

The nation awoke on Wednesday morning to the news that Sen. Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts had passed away in the night, in his bed, with his family by his side. The television news networks overflowed with metaphors for the moment - the Liberal Lion, the Last Brother, the End of an Era, the Last Chapter - but it was a man who was dead. Just a man, one we had come to know intimately during his half-century of service, triumph, heartbreak, disgrace and diligence.

Just a man whose brother Joe volunteered to fly an experimental weapons platform in 1944 and was killed when the plane abruptly exploded; just a man whose brother John was cut down by an assassin's bullet in Dallas; just a man whose brother Robert died on a dirty kitchen floor in California, victim of another assassin. Just a man who narrowly escaped death when his own plane crashed, breaking his back and maiming him forever. Just a man whose family was visited with more tragedy than any one man should have to bear.

And, yes, just a man who made tremendous mistakes, who drank too much, who partied too hard, whose irresponsibility took the life of a young woman named Mary Jo Kopechne and spawned a generation of insults, judgments and bumper stickers that read, "My gun has killed less people than Ted Kennedy's car." The Chappaquiddick incident, as it came to be known, nearly annihilated Kennedy's political career, and was surely the central reason why his attempts to win the presidency all ended in failure.

Would we as a nation have been better off if Kennedy's political career had been derailed by his own shortcomings and tremendous mistakes? There are some who will surely say this is so, and they have every right to that opinion. Without Ted Kennedy in the Senate, however, the nation may well have never seen the passage of bills like the Immigration and Nationality Act, the National Cancer Act, the COBRA Act, the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Ryan White AIDS Care Act, the Civil Rights Act (1991), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, the Mental Health Parity Act, the State Children's Health Insurance Program, and the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, all of which and more he championed during his long service in the Senate. Kennedy sponsored more than 2,000 pieces of legislation in his time, and it can honestly and truly be said that his efforts have served more people than any five presidents who came and went under his watchful Irish eyes.

"The fact that his tangible accomplishments transcended his mythic role in the Kennedy drama," wrote The Boston Globe on Wednesday, "attests to the vast extent of his legislative impact. In each of four areas, he dominated legislative politics for more than four decades, spanning ten presidencies, and played a large role in transforming the government's relationship to the people. Bill by bill, provision by provision, he expanded government health support to millions of children and the elderly, helped millions more go to college, opened the immigration doors to millions of new Americans from continents other than Europe, and protected the civil rights bulwark of the '60s through a long period of conservative domination. And by the time his life ended yesterday, surrounded by loved ones in a gentle scene that contrasted sharply with the violent deaths of his brothers, Ted Kennedy had built a nuts-and-bolts legacy to stand beside that of his presidential brother as a figure of hope and his senatorial brother as a figure of compassion."

Teddy was just a man, but ended his life as something far more than that. Teddy, now gone from us, has become an idea, a bulwark, a standard and a clarion call to service and national duty. He will no longer be in the Senate working for us, and it is impossible to believe someone will step forward to stand in his place. He was just a man, and he has finally paid that death we all owe in the end, so the rest is up to us all. The dream he spoke of can indeed end, and surely will, if we let it. He guarded it, tended it and enriched it for so long, but that is over. It is up to us now, just as he would want it to be.

Link: t r u t h o u t | Teddy (http://www.truthout.org/082609R)

kwame k
08-26-2009, 09:57 PM
The common denominator here is bi-partisanship.......Ted had it, period.

All this talk about had he been well, we'd have a Health Care bill are a little overboard and said out of respect for the deceased only. This has been his so-called life's work/mission and it's failed every time to get a passable bill. He would of been huge for any shot of getting bi-partisan support and would have been a key player in passage of the bill but I don't think any one person could bring about a passable bill. Too much greed and money to be made by leaving the status quo. Most people in congress are beholden to one type or another Medical Special Interest Group. They all say they are in favor of reform but at the end of the day all we'll have is a bunch of words and hollow promises.

FORD
08-26-2009, 10:09 PM
Bipartisanshit (not a typo) isn't going to work with the current batch of Repukes. Teddy was old school, and he kept trying to work with the filthy fucks, but it wouldn't get him anywhere with this crowd. Must preserve corporate profits at all costs. :rolleyes:

kwame k
08-26-2009, 10:10 PM
Agreed, FORD.

FORD
08-26-2009, 10:15 PM
Dear Friends,
Senator Kennedy and Dennis Kucinich

http://kucinich.us/images_for_emails/Ted-Kennedy-Kucinich.jpg
Senator Kennedy visits then Cleveland City Councilman
Dennis Kucinich at St. Alexis Hospital, May 4th, 1971

"I first met Senator Kennedy on May 4, 1971, when he visited me at St. Alexis Hospital in Cleveland. I was then a Cleveland City Councilman recovering from an injury and, somehow, he discovered I was in the hospital and paid a surprise visit to my room. He was visiting hospitals as part of his national effort to raise awareness of the need for reform of our health care system. I was elated to meet him. The visit began a friendship which has spanned four decades, during which time I had the privilege of serving with Senator Kennedy in the United States Congress.

His compassion and caring was always personal and always real. When my brother Perry died unexpectedly in December of 2007, Ted Kennedy was one of the first to call with condolences, sharing his sympathetic understanding of what it means to lose a sibling.

He had a powerful sensitivity to human emotion and his life writ large the range of human experience: great triumphs and sudden reversals. His tenacity often came against the heavy burden of deep personal tragedy, which enlarged the quality of his spirit, and made his frequent expressions of humor poignant and profound. Yes, he made himself into one of the greatest Senators, with his advocacy for human rights for health care, education and worker protections.

But Ted Kennedy was more than a great Senator. He was a great friend."

Sincerely.
Dennis

jhale667
08-26-2009, 10:37 PM
Bipartisanshit (not a typo) isn't going to work with the current batch of Repukes. Teddy was old school, and he kept trying to work with the filthy fucks, but it wouldn't get him anywhere with this crowd. Must preserve corporate profits at all costs. :rolleyes:


Nailed it.


Agreed, FORD.


Clever-trousers! ;)

Va Beach VH Fan
08-26-2009, 10:49 PM
I need to semi-correct myself...

He technically was a Korean War "veteran", but he was never in the Korean theater of operations... He was a private first class and served in the military police at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, then located in Paris and now in Belgium.

It's like my Dad is a World War II veteran, but he didn't join the Navy until 1946 and was only stationed in Jacksonville... It was that way until July 1947....

Va Beach VH Fan
08-26-2009, 10:52 PM
Bipartisanshit (not a typo) isn't going to work with the current batch of Repukes. Teddy was old school, and he kept trying to work with the filthy fucks, but it wouldn't get him anywhere with this crowd. Must preserve corporate profits at all costs. :rolleyes:

I laughed out loud today listening to Wolf Blitzer talking about how Kennedy's death will make everyone "buckle down" and get healthcare reform complete...

That, my friends, is bovine feces...

These dudes are a different breed, and I don't mean that in a good way...

FORD
08-26-2009, 11:12 PM
Obama said he "promised Teddy". Let's hope he remembers that.

Seshmeister
08-27-2009, 12:13 AM
Hmm... he promised a lot of things.

Best case scenario is a fail already.

ELVIS
08-27-2009, 03:12 AM
Yep...

Nitro Express
08-27-2009, 12:34 PM
I think Ted Kennedy was a troubled individual. He grew up under a crooked father. He was the spoiled rich kid. He his older brothers tragicly and was expected to be the next JFK. Add in alcoholism and you have a mess. In his older years he knew he was going to be just a senator and set out to be the best senator he could be. He also was the last remaining patriarch of the Kennedy family. I think Ted Kennedy was a complicated stew of the worst and the best.

Nitro Express
08-27-2009, 12:38 PM
My dad had some dealings with the Kennedys when he worked for the Sun Valley Company. They used to vacation there and got banned due to non payment of bills. He said the Kennedys were a wierd combination of the best and the worst. This of course depended on what one you were dealing with and the circumstances. He told me Eunice Kennedy was always the nicest of the bunch.

Big Train
08-27-2009, 05:17 PM
Is there an appropriate time in all of this whitewashing to mention negligent homicide?

kwame k
08-27-2009, 05:20 PM
Is there an appropriate time in all of this whitewashing to mention negligent homicide?
Already mentioned but have at it ;)

Big Train
08-27-2009, 05:23 PM
I'm just saying before we go too nutty on "he was a hero to all" stuff. I know Ford would rather not talk about Mary Jo and her suffering, as real as it is.

As a witness to 25 years of MA politics, I've seen him do just as much underhanded stuff as attempts at great works.

kwame k
08-27-2009, 05:30 PM
I'm just saying before we go too nutty on "he was a hero to all" stuff. I know Ford would rather not talk about Mary Jo and her suffering, as real as it is.

As a witness to 25 years of MA politics, I've seen him do just as much underhanded stuff as attempts at great works.

That could be said of any Politician and any point in our history as a country.

Yeah, Chappaquiddick was a low point and how much he paid or used his influence to get out of it will never be known. At best in a few years we might get the real info on it, now that he's dead but I doubt it.

So really all we know is he delayed reporting the accident. The whys are purely rumor and speculation, unless you have the verifiable facts.

FORD
08-27-2009, 06:20 PM
Ted fucked up in that incident, no question. But what pisses me off is the Repukes (including those in the whore media) who want to dwell on that while they have defended far worse things done by the BCE. And at least Teddy did a lot of good things that more than balanced that out.

And as far as Chappaquiddick goes, how do we know Teddy's car wasn't tampered with? This was 1969, the year after RFK was murdered. Just like the plane crash came the year after JFK's murder. It's quite possible they were trying to take Teddy out as well. In fact in 1964 (when RFK was still Attorney General) Teddy (as a sitting Senator) would have seemed the more likely of the brothers to run for President.

Big Train
08-27-2009, 06:44 PM
FORD, please with the BCE stuff. So by your logic, if Cheney were to do good works, donate millions and get funding for liberal causes, he would be a great guy in your book?

The facts are well established Kwame. Henry Rollins wrote a good piece in Vanity Fair about it.

Where's Mary Jo Kopechne's Eulogy?: Henry Rollins | Vanity Fair (http://www.vanityfair.com/online/politics/2009/08/wheres-mary-jo-kopechnes-eulogy.html)

Not Far Under The Surface. Let’s say I am driving myself and a passenger in my car at night. I accidentally drive off a bridge into the water below. I am able to get out of the submerged vehicle but for some reason, I am unable to free the passenger. I gather two friends, a relative and my lawyer and return to the scene. We are unable to rescue the person trapped in the car. Several hours later, myself nor the two others I took to the site have called the authorities. In fact, it’s two fishermen who find the car the next morning as even then, no one has been called to the scene. The car is removed from the water and it is determined that its occupant is dead. This tragic incident is made international news by my circumstances. I am very well known, a United States senator. My family is incredibly powerful. There are allegations that I had been drinking heavily hours up to the time I got into the vehicle with the passenger. I deny this for the rest of my life. That at no point did I make an attempt to call for rescue would probably be considered by many people to be outrageous and horrible, perhaps a crime that would carry a prison sentence. Can you imagine what the parents of the deceased would be going through when they found out that their 28-year-old daughter died alone in total darkness? I serve no time. Not inconvenienced by the burdensome obstacle of incarceration, I seek to maintain my elected position. I am successful and remain a senator for the next four decades. Would any deed I performed in that time, besides going to prison for the negligent homicide I committed all those years ago, be enough to wipe the slate clean? After my passing, would you fail to mention the incident and the death of this innocent person in reviewing the events of my long and lauded life? You wouldn't forget about her, would you? That would be negligent.

Big Train
08-27-2009, 06:47 PM
None of this is meant to be speak ill of a dead man, so much as to get real balance here as he gets the saint treatment, which I feel is unwarranted. He may have done good works and I believe he was a decent man, but I feel the "Lion" stuff overstates it quite a bit.

kwame k
08-27-2009, 06:57 PM
None of this is meant to be speak ill of a dead man, so much as to get real balance here as he gets the saint treatment, which I feel is unwarranted. He may have done good works and I believe he was a decent man, but I feel the "Lion" stuff overstates it quite a bit.

You'll never catch me defending Chappiquiddick and really it has and should be mentioned, as far as a fair and balanced reporting of Teddy's legacy.

Do you know if Mary Jo's parents were paid off or intimidated into not pressing a civil suit?

The time frame is the clincher in this and why in the fuck would you call your lawyer first instead of the police. Even if Teddy was drunk he had enough clout and money that the cops would of never pressed charges. They would of ruled it an accident and Teddy could of gone onto bigger things, IMO.

Something has never set right with me about that........

Having said all that I still think he was a good Senator and has passed some good legislation. Love the fact he said voting no on the Iraq war was his proudest moment.

Va Beach VH Fan
08-27-2009, 06:58 PM
Here's Ted Kennedy.....

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thome
08-27-2009, 07:00 PM
FORD;1378272]Ted fucked up in that incident, no question. But what pisses me off is the Repukes (including those in the whore media) who want to dwell on that while they have defended far worse things done by the BCE. And at least Teddy did a lot of good things that more than balanced that out.



"Balanced out" is a bad analogy for you FORD, who I respect.

What these people are saying is all of these "Good Things" should never have taken place, he should be in prison for mutliple crimes not just, Involuntary Manslaughter.

There is no Statute of Limitations of murder, even in death he could be tried.

Even the best Lawyer wouldn't have been able to get him off, Involuntary Manslaughter.

So one must assume even the District Attorney was bought off with cash.

Leaving the scene of a accident,( wasn't even a crime to the DA) as you know was his only warrant to appear.

That would negate any Senatorail future..

In honor of all the assholes who voted for him for 40 years, in his home state, as a thier Senator, and all of the people who think he was a good man who stood up for democracy, the truth and justice.

Upon arriving at the funeral home, his coffin will be ejected out of the hearse and will rest upsidedown underwater in the pond of the cemetery for over 24 hours .

(Till some passerby happends to see it.)


That's how people feel about him.

The Lawyer, The Attorney, The Senator,His Honorable Senator Kennedy

Nitro Express
08-27-2009, 07:27 PM
Is there an appropriate time in all of this whitewashing to mention negligent homicide?

Ted gets drunk. Gets in car with drunk girl hoping to take her somewhere and bang her. Drives off a bridge. Drunk Ted manages to get out and nurses his hangover. How is this homicide?

sadaist
08-27-2009, 07:30 PM
I'm just saying before we go too nutty on "he was a hero to all" stuff.

Always happens. Look at Michael Jackson. After he died we heard more about how great his music, dancing, and charitable contributions were than anything else. Death usually = all is forgotten.

Va Beach VH Fan
08-27-2009, 07:38 PM
Always happens. Look at Michael Jackson.

Or Ronald Reagan....

FORD
08-27-2009, 07:57 PM
http://editorialcartoonists.com/cartoons/SherfJ/2009/SherfJ20090827_low.jpg

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 08:07 PM
Is there an appropriate time in all of this whitewashing to mention negligent homicide?

Or cliches...

Negligent homicide in 1969? You mean like Nixon and Kissinger privately admitting that the Vietnam War was lost and the Vietnamese would inevitably collapse once the US withdrew, but yet still sent hundreds of good men to their death.

Or we can go on about Bush, the guy you voted for despite knowing what a fail he was...

lesfunk
08-27-2009, 08:15 PM
Bush was the worst. He set the stage for the commie pinkos to take over

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 08:22 PM
Bush was the worst. He set the stage for the commie pinkos to take over

Then so did the stupid asses that voted for him. TWICE!!

lesfunk
08-27-2009, 08:28 PM
That's one mistake America won't make with the current president

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 08:35 PM
That's one mistake America won't make with the current president

Yeah. He's not fucking retarded.

Big Train
08-27-2009, 08:36 PM
Or cliches...

Negligent homicide in 1969? You mean like Nixon and Kissinger privately admitting that the Vietnam War was lost and the Vietnamese would inevitably collapse once the US withdrew, but yet still sent hundreds of good men to their death.

Or we can go on about Bush, the guy you voted for despite knowing what a fail he was...

Yea, murder is a cliche, I get it.

How about we stick to the person in question, instead of sidestepping it looking for other things to compare it to?

FORD
08-27-2009, 08:40 PM
Bush was the worst. He set the stage for the commie pinkos to take over

Commie pinkos? Shit, I'm still waiting for Obama to do anything remotely "liberal". Let alone anything that could be even jokingly called "communist".

chefcraig
08-27-2009, 08:48 PM
The time frame is the clincher in this and why in the fuck would you call your lawyer first instead of the police.

Remarkably, Charles Lindbergh did the exact same thing after discovering his son had been kidnapped. The outcome of both cases remains dubious to this day.

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 08:55 PM
Yea, murder is a cliche, I get it.

Why, whomever was murdered, Agatha Christie?

Let us all know on that one, mmm'kay?

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UXXtCpkeKiA/R1QFevtnd-I/AAAAAAAACAY/gT7lvs8doM4/s200/peter_sellers_inspector_clouseau_pi.jpg


How about we stick to the person in question, instead of sidestepping it looking for other things to compare it to?

You mean focusing on one singular tragic accident, and attempting to define an entire life by it?

Big Train
08-27-2009, 09:06 PM
mmmmmkay Inspector..

Her name was Mary Jo Kopechne

I get that the basic concepts escape you sometimes...

Negligent homicide is a criminal charge brought against people who, through criminal negligence, allow others to die.

When you leave the scene of a crime and forget or more accurately, DECIDE, not to call for help until your defense is established, that is negligent.

You know like when you go home, call your lawyer, come back with them, decide you can't do anything and then wait till morning for whoever comes by to find her...that sort of thing.

I'm not trying to define his life, but it did define a large part of the character he chose to live his life by. That is willfully being ignored in the media at this point.

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 09:27 PM
mmmmmkay Inspector..

Her name was Mary Jo Kopechne

Really? You sure?


I get that the basic concepts escape you sometimes...

Negligent homicide is a criminal charge brought against people who, through criminal negligence, allow others to die.

Yeah, because he was planning on driving off a bridge the whole time. I'm pretty sure he "allowed her to die" too. I mean, what would make a nicer Sunday morning than driving off a bridge and allowing someone to die?

Or maybe there were other mitigating circumstances? Such as it was an unlit rural road on a backwater island at night...


When you leave the scene of a crime and forget or more accurately, DECIDE, not to call for help until your defense is established, that is negligent.

It's not really "negligent." His driving was "negligent" and his actions were appalling to an extent. I'm not defending them. But he was obviously in shock and there was probably no question that she was dead at that point.


You know like when you go home, call your lawyer, come back with them, decide you can't do anything and then wait till morning for whoever comes by to find her...that sort of thing.

I never said anything other than that he should have called the police. But, it wouldn't have saved her if he did. You and your silly partisan ilk act as if he had a choice of her life and death that night and chose the latter. That's bullshit..


I'm not trying to define his life, but it did define a large part of the character he chose to live his life by. That is willfully being ignored in the media at this point.

I agree with the first point, but you've buried your head underground if you believe the latter. NPR, the bastion of "liberal media" did an extensive package of the events at Chappaquiddick and it was a pretty obvious 800lbs. gorilla when one discusses Ted's presidential aspirations as it killed them. Perhaps even in Ted's own subconscious judging by his bizarre, almost surreal answer to the question, "why do you want to be president?" in an interview during the 1980 primary season. So no one COULD have ignored it. You think they "ignored" it because they didn't dwell on it every third sentence...

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 09:34 PM
Don't know anything about his domestic record but I'm glad he never made president. Chappaquiddick was no blow job in the oval office or even covering up a burglary.

Nixon did far more than just "cover a burglary." And yes, Chappaquiddick was no blow job. But it also killed what MIGHT have been his presidential aspirations. There are those that would argue that he never wanted it, and was pushed to candidacy by family and sycophants. But he was morbidly sure he'd end up like his three dead brothers if he did become POTUS...


He was a poodle of the Israelis and duped into raising money for Irish terrorists so responsible for spreading misery and death to hundreds if not thousands.

He also did more to bring peace to Northern Ireland than any of your shitty British politicians in bed with ("loyalist") "terrorists" themselves...

Various shades of gray my friend. Various shades of gray...

Seshmeister
08-27-2009, 09:54 PM
Nixon did far more than just "cover a burglary." And yes, Chappaquiddick was no blow job. But it also killed what MIGHT have been his presidential aspirations. There are those that would argue that he never wanted it, and was pushed to candidacy by family and sycophants. But he was morbidly sure he'd end up like his three dead brothers if he did become POTUS...


That's even worse.

A girl had to die because he didn't want to say he was too scared to run for president?

Also he used the Jewish lobby against Carter when Carter was quite rightly not vetoing Israeli illegalities in the UN and making more progress in the Middle East than any other president ever has. There was some collusion between British politicians and loyalist groups but the loyalist scumbags weren't setting bombs off in public places.

As I said I know nothing of his domestic work but from where I am he looks very dark grey...

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 10:04 PM
That's even worse.

A girl had to die because he didn't want to say he was too scared to run for president?

Oh please. You're smarter than that. Really? Is that what I said?


Also he used the Jewish lobby against Carter when Carter was quite rightly not vetoing Israeli illegalities in the UN and making more progress in the Middle East than any other president ever has.

He used the Jewish Lobby as part of his own agenda to enact health care reform and to unseat a President and candidate widely seen as faltering and vulnerable to the GOP. He was, Reagan defeated him. How'd that work out for Israel? Pretty well I'd say...


.There was some collusion between British politicians and loyalist groups but the loyalist scumbags weren't setting bombs off in public places.

Actually, some residents of Dublin might say otherwise. In any case, the Unionist militants didn't need too. Those on power don't set off the bombs in their spheres of control. The resistance to them does.

The Unionist terrorists were too busy abducting 'Papists' and murdering them in ritualistic, serial killer fashion, which is sort of what began the modern round of the "Troubles" (1969-2001)


As I said I know nothing of his domestic work but from where I am he looks very dark grey...

As opposed to what? Reagan? Thatcher? He was the opposition to them...

Seshmeister
08-27-2009, 10:19 PM
You know fine that NORAID at best naively raised money that was used to buy bombs which were set off killing hundreds of innocent civilians in the UK. Northern Ireland is a complex place but the bare facts are that it was a democracy and could have voted to join the rest of Ireland at any time. It's also funny to read now in released government papers that was the absolute last thing Dublin wanted because it could never have been able to cope with the security situation.

I hate both sides in that stupid conflict but I obviously am not a fan of one of the main guys that helped pour petrol on the situation whether it was through stupidity or as a way of keeping power and votes. I don't agree he was a hugely significant figure in bringing peace except from the point of view of ending the flow of guns and money that he had previously been help send.

The real end of the major armed struggle in NI was 9-11 because after that it was unthinkable that people in the US would send money to terrorist organisations again. Their government may but not the man in the street.

I can see though that if he was the opposition to Reagan and Thatcher for you then that counts for a lot.

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 10:43 PM
You know fine that NORAID at best naively raised money that was used to buy bombs which were set off killing hundreds of innocent civilians in the UK.

NORAID raised money for the PRIA no doubt about it. I'm not apologizing for their terrorist actions nor do I agree with many of the fuckwits in the organization.

--But--

You'd have to show me the statistics of the "hundreds" of innocents. I think 3,000 were killed in total on all sides, and most were combatants in one form or another. And many were of all sectarian affiliations that were killed by both sides as dumbfuck terrorists tend often not to check the religious upbringing of their victims...


Northern Ireland is a complex place but the bare facts are that it was a democracy and could have voted to join the rest of Ireland at any time. It's also funny to read now in released government papers that was the absolute last thing Dublin wanted because it could never have been able to cope with the security situation.

Then it was what I think either Adams or Jefferson called "The Tyranny of Democracy." And you could just as easily state that the South in the United States was a "democracy" during segregation and the "Jim Crow" era when blacks were being lynched.

But I totally agree that any unification of Ireland involves a popular democratic plebiscite of the populace. And of course the Irish gov't feared that they would simply exchange roles with the British and have their vastly less funded army patrolling districts of protestants in Belfast and Derry where the British Army had been previously...


I hate both sides in that stupid conflict but I obviously am not a fan of one of the main guys that helped pour petrol on the situation whether it was through stupidity or as a way of keeping power and votes. I don't agree he was a hugely significant figure in bringing peace except from the point of view of ending the flow of guns and money that he had previously been help send.

There would have been no guns and money sent if the British had more controlled their Unionist lapdogs that pretty much wanted to ethnically cleanse Northern Ireland of Catholics to prevent inevitable long term result of the very vote you've mentioned above as early as the late 1960s. If he poured gasoline on the situation, then so be it. But the British government did fucking more to create an effective Provisional Irish Republican Army than did any stupid US politicians that was "Irish in name only," or a "Lucky Charms" Irishman who was of a well-to-do family that was largely ignorant of their immigrant past and was pretty much unaware of it until Democratic political operatives pushed JFK to visit the 'homeland' in the early 1960s..


The real end of the major armed struggle in NI was 9-11 because after that it was unthinkable that people in the US would send money to terrorist organisations again. Their government may but not the man in the street.

That's partly true. But there were also genuine reforms within the UK system that the Nationalists could no longer dismiss and the whole gorilla in the room is that Catholic "Irish" are out reproducing the Protestants in NI and the Irish economy is getting stronger, which sort of makes Armalites and bombs obsolete and even more stupid and indefensible than they generally are...


I can see though that if he was the opposition to Reagan and Thatcher for you then that counts for a lot.

Well, what does supporting them do for you?

Jesus Christ
08-27-2009, 10:51 PM
The Irish situation troubles Me greatly. Both sides claim to follow Me, but neither act like it. :(

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 11:09 PM
The Irish situation troubles Me greatly. Both sides claim to follow Me, but neither act like it. :(

STFU! You're the problem in all this!:(

Seshmeister
08-27-2009, 11:09 PM
Well, what does supporting them do for you?

I'm not sure I put that correctly.

I meant that if he was a banner to stand behind during those times for you then I guess you will cut him more slack than I would since I had different people over here fighting Reagan and Thatcher, probably even less effectively... :)

Jesus Christ
08-27-2009, 11:25 PM
STFU! You're the problem in all this!:(

Ouch! Why don't you hammer some more nails in Me, Nicodemus? How is it My fault when those who claim to be My followers do not live by My teachings? :(

Seshmeister
08-27-2009, 11:31 PM
Speaking in fucking riddles and disappearing for 2000 years?

Or was that the tooth fairy I always get you 2 mixed up...?

Jesus Christ
08-27-2009, 11:36 PM
They weren't riddles, they were parables. And it's a great way to tell a story and let one think for themselves what it means.

As for My extended absence, that's Dad's idea.

GAR
08-27-2009, 11:41 PM
Commie pinkos? Shit, I'm still waiting for Obama to do anything remotely "liberal". Let alone anything that could be even jokingly called "communist".

Ever heard of this new thing called ObamaCare, where all the Senators in these town hall meetings are getting railed at over supporting it without first fixing Social Security, Medicare, and kicking the insurance and PPO's asses over dropping coverage for subscribers?

Ever heard of that? You know, the "socialist state" trend?

Ever heard of this whole "progressive" movement that's now ending with the death of Dead Ted?

FUCK the Kennedys! Fuck Obamacare..

Nickdfresh
08-27-2009, 11:42 PM
Ever heard of this new thing called ObamaCare, where all the Senators in these town hall meetings are getting railed at over supporting it without first fixing Social Security, Medicare, and kicking the insurance and PPO's asses over dropping coverage for subscribers?

Ever heard of that? You know, the "socialist state" trend?

Ever heard of this whole "progressive" movement that's now ending with the death of Dead Ted?

FUCK the Kennedys! Fuck Obamacare..


You benefit greatly, oh toothless fuck.

GAR
08-28-2009, 12:03 AM
"Deaddy Kennedy" - LMAO

Loser.
Legacy of NOTHING.
Worst. Senator. EVER.

Fuck the BAHSTAHD.

Jesus Christ
08-28-2009, 12:09 AM
Go to Hell, GAyR.

You're going there anyway, so ye might as well not wasteth any more time.

yah
08-28-2009, 12:18 AM
Good night Uncle Ted,
I'll miss ya!

sadaist
08-28-2009, 02:23 AM
You mean focusing on one singular tragic accident, and attempting to define an entire life by it?

That's the way society is though. I can't remember the last time I heard a word on OJ Simpsons football greatness. Not comparing what he allegedly did to what Kennedy did, just using him as an example how one event can define a persons entire life. John Edwards will now always be defined by this recent affair.

sadaist
08-28-2009, 02:28 AM
Ever heard of this whole "progressive" movement that's now ending with the death of Dead Ted?


I'm afraid his passing may only invigorate the movement. He actually might help get more accomplished for his side dead than he did alive. But isn't that what many strive for? To have such an impact on pushing their ideas & beliefs that it continues even stronger after their death?

Basically he will be more of an inspiration to like minded individuals now that he is gone.

GAR
08-28-2009, 02:34 AM
It's really really great that all the Kennedy's have to do is get attend a college so they can do the basic math in order to read their Joe Kennedy and Co. trust fund checks.

I think it's fantastic the family fortune's now somewhere between 3/4 of a trillion dollars on up, and as a Kennedy your biggest worry is how to spend enough on charity as a tax dodge and cover your intent ripping off Wall St. and investment banking by "donating" your life to one of "public servitude" doing what you do publicly as you do in your private life: giving away money.

Unfortunately, the Treasury income isn't the Kennedy income, so giving away what's left of that to Freinds of the Bahstehn / San Fagsisco set is money they're not entitled to.

I hope you Massachusettes retards vote an Independant or Republican in Deaddy's place for once in your brainwashed minds.

GAR
08-28-2009, 02:38 AM
Good night Uncle Ted,
I'll miss ya!

Good news for you: you won't have to!

Uncle Dead's cancer-ridden brain is going on tour Sen. Kennedy's body takes final poignant tour - Yahoo! News (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_kennedy_memorial)

Sen. Kennedy's body takes final poignant tour


<cite class="vcard"> By STEVE LeBLANC, Associated Press Writer Steve Leblanc, Associated Press Writer </cite> – <abbr title="2009-08-27T23:28:31-0700" class="recenttimedate">8 mins ago</abbr>
<!-- end .byline --> BOSTON – Sen. Edward M. Kennedy began his final journey Thursday, first past landmark after landmark bearing his family's famous name and then to his slain brother's presidential library where mourners lined up by the thousands to bid farewell to him and an American political dynasty.
Crowds assembled along the 70-mile route that snaked from the family's compound in Hyannis Port to the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, where his body lay in repose. More than 20,000 people waited in line to file past his closed casket and mark the end of a national political chapter that was equal parts triumph and tragedy.
Kennedy's widow, Vicki, who greeted well-wishers filing past the casket, said the outpouring was deeply moving for the family.
"I just want to thank them so much for coming this evening and showing love and support for my husband," she said. "It's a tremendous solace to all our family."
For many, it was hard to untangle Kennedy's larger-than-life role as statesman from his role as neighbor and local celebrity, whether he was taking a turn conducting the Boston Pops or throwing out the first pitch for the Red Sox.
"It was Teddy's home team. It just seemed appropriate to leave him the cap," said James Jenner, 28, placing a Sox cap he was wearing near the entrance to the library. "It symbolizes everything that he loved about his home state and everything he was outside the Senate."
The motorcade started in Hyannis Port, at the Cape Cod home where Kennedy's family held a private Mass. Eighty-five relatives traveled in the motorcade. They passed several sites that were significant to the senator, including St. Stephen's Church, where his mother, Rose, was baptized and her funeral Mass celebrated, and a Boston park he helped create that was named for his mother.
Among those making the trip were Kennedy's nieces Caroline, daughter of former President John F. Kennedy, and Maria Shriver, daughter of his late sister Eunice; and his son Patrick Kennedy, a Rhode Island congressman.
Mourners crowded the end of the barricaded road leading to the family compound before the motorcade departed.
Virginia Cain, 54, said she walked 2 miles from her summer home in Centerville so she could watch the procession and witness history.
"I can remember where I was when President Kennedy died, and I'll remember where I was when the senator left Hyannis Port," she said.
A bouquet of white and yellow lilies lay on the lawn of David Nylin's vacation rental near the Kennedy home, where a U.S. flag flew at half-staff in Kennedy's honor. Nylin, 38, said people had been stopping near his house to leave flowers since Kennedy died late Tuesday.
"The Kennedys and Hyannis and the Cape, they just kind of go hand in hand," he said.
On Main Street in downtown Hyannis, flags, flowers and personal notes lay at the base of a flagpole outside the John F. Kennedy Museum, where about two dozen people gathered.
Someone had placed an old Kennedy campaign sign with a new inscription: "God bless Ted, the last was first," referring to his ascension to political greatness after his two older brothers were assassinated.
Several enlarged photos showed events in Kennedy's life — meeting with Martin Luther King Jr., reading to a school girl. A rosary hung over a picture of Kennedy standing in his office.
Echoes of the Kennedy history were hard to miss as the motorcade traveled through the city.
Vicki Kennedy put her hand over her heart as the procession passed St. Stephen's. A crowd that had gathered there applauded, and niece Caroline and other family members acknowledged them with a wave from their cars.
"When a member of the Kennedy family passes, it's like family. It feels like family," said Jeanne Pagano, 54, who was on the sidewalk outside the church. "I really loved the man and the family. I loved them."
The motorcade also crossed the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, a park created by the Big Dig highway project, which Kennedy helped shepherd through the Senate. It paused at Faneuil Hall, where the historic bell rang 47 times — once for each of Kennedy's years in the Senate.
The procession also passed the Massachusetts Statehouse — with it life-size statue of John F. Kennedy, accessible to tourists Thursday for the first time since just after the Sept. 11 attacks — and a nearby building where Kennedy opened his first office as an assistant district attorney and where John Kennedy lived while running for Congress in 1946.
After passing the John F. Kennedy Federal Building in the city's Government Center complex, the motorcade headed to the library, where Kennedy's body will remain until his Saturday funeral.
Scott Howe, 46, and his 15-year-old son, Austin, from Laurel, Md., were among those gathering outside the library.
"He seemed to really care about his constituents," Scott Howe said. "The Kennedy family — despite the money they had, had a big streak of altruism."
The family planned an invitation-only private memorial service for Friday evening at the library.
All the living presidents were expected to attend the funeral Mass on Saturday at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Basilica — commonly known as the Mission Church — in Boston's working-class Mission Hill neighborhood. President Barack Obama is scheduled to deliver the eulogy.
Shortly before the Mass, 44 sitting senators and 10 former senators will be among a group of about 100 dignitaries who will pay their respects to Kennedy at the library before making their way to the church.
Included in the group is former Sen. Birch Bayh of Indiana, who pulled Kennedy from the wreckage of a small plane that crashed near Springfield, Mass., in June 1964. The pilot and a legislative aide were killed, and Kennedy suffered a broken back that caused him pain the rest of his life.
"The Impossible Dream," Kennedy's favorite song, from the musical "Man of La Mancha," will be played at one of the services, according to the person familiar with the arrangements.
The city may soon have one more Kennedy landmark. Planning is already under way for a building to house a new Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the Senate.
Kennedy will be buried Saturday evening near his assassinated brothers — former President Kennedy and former Sen. Robert F. Kennedy — at Arlington National Cemetery in northern Virginia.
___
Associated Press writers Ray Henry in Hyannis Port and Denise Lavoie, Jeannie Nuss and Russell Contreras in Boston contributed to this report.

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 06:31 AM
"Deaddy Kennedy" - LMAO

Loser.
Legacy of NOTHING.
Worst. Senator. EVER.

Fuck the BAHSTAHD.

Then he matches your posting record here at the Army, boy grabber...

hideyoursheep
08-28-2009, 06:37 AM
Yea, murder is a cliche, I get it.

Make up your fucking mind. Negligent homicide or murder, which is it with you?


They were probably both hammered. Ted had to be, because Joan was a fine looking unit back then. After losing 3 brothers, I think he earned it.

And he's Irish.

The Oldsmobile maybe didn't have power steering, I dunno. Ever driven a vehicle without it? Drunk? With a chick all over you? (all speculation) Not as easy as you think. (fact)

The car rolls right, over the bridge into the water, driver's side up. The water's cold a hell, the window is open, Ted steps on Mary Jo to get out of the car because she's on the bottom, he swims to safety and shits himself for the next 40 years, making amends the best way he can.

Negligent?

Yes.

Murder?

No fuckin way.


:D

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 06:42 AM
That's the way society is though.

What do you mean? Like Micheal Jackson?


I can't remember the last time I heard a word on OJ Simpsons football greatness.

You wouldn't really here much about it anyways since he last played well around 1976. And living in the town where he set his records, I can tell you it is a difficult issue separating the wife-beating, murdering ass-fuck from the guy on Ralph Wilson Stadium's (formerly Rich Stadium) "Wall of Fame." Many think he should be pulled off, others think (like me) that what he did on the field and after he retired is two separate things.

Not that anyone is inviting him anywhere near here once he gets out of prison (where he belongs). And yes, O.J. did express interest at attending Bills events after the murders of Nicole and Ron Goldman, and they told him to go fuck a duck...


Not comparing what he allegedly did to what Kennedy did, just using him as an example how one event can define a persons entire life. John Edwards will now always be defined by this recent affair.

But the only people "defining" are his partisan enemies, which is ironic since most Republicans who knew him personally were his friends and thought him an honest and decent man that fought for the underdog. I think one of the most interesting tributes was given by former governor and NH Senator John_E._Sununu (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_E._Sununu). He and Kennedy and various staff were arguing over points on some bill when Sununu inexplicably began screaming an a low level aid/staffer. Kennedy grabbed him and shouted in his bellicose manner that "if you yell at someone, yell at me, not him." That broke a deadlock, and the bill got done largely because of that. And Sununu became close friends with Kennedy after. Most are respectful and allowing him to lie in state in peace...

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 06:48 AM
Ouch! Why don't you hammer some more nails in Me, Nicodemus? How is it My fault when those who claim to be My followers do not live by My teachings? :(

Sorry Jesus, but it took Clinton, George Mitchell, and Teddy to get them to stop the shooting, not you. You never seem to be around where you're needed...

Igosplut
08-28-2009, 07:19 AM
The Oldsmobile maybe didn't have power steering, I dunno. Ever driven a vehicle without it? Drunk? With a chick all over you? (all speculation) Not as easy as you think. (fact)

The car rolls right, over the bridge into the water, driver's side up. The water's cold a hell, the window is open, Ted steps on Mary Jo to get out of the car because she's on the bottom, he swims to safety


:D

It was a loaded six-month old Olds delta 88. He missed the curve that that the road took to line up with the bridge. The diver figured that she had an air pocket in the car for about 10 mins (based on what he saw finding her diving on the car that morning).

firestarter
08-28-2009, 08:05 AM
RIP His legacy will always be the 1969 tragedy.

lesfunk
08-28-2009, 10:56 AM
"This just in..... Former senator Edward Kennedy is still dead. Updates at 11..."

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 11:16 AM
I've never understood this 'lying in State' shit, it's not even an open coffin.

People queuing for hours to walk around a box. They do it here with royals and thousands of idiots turn up too.

Bizarre behavior.

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 11:16 AM
I've never understood this 'lying in State' shit, it's not even an open coffin.

People queuing for hours to walk around a box. They do it here with royals and thousands of idiots turn up too.

Bizarre behavior.

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 11:41 AM
You'd have to show me the statistics of the "hundreds" of innocents. I think 3,000 were killed in total on all sides, and most were combatants in one form or another.

CAIN: Sutton Index of Deaths (http://cain.ulst.ac.uk/sutton/tables/Status.html)

The majority were innocent civilians.

Big Train
08-28-2009, 11:45 AM
Make up your fucking mind. Negligent homicide or murder, which is it with you?


They were probably both hammered. Ted had to be, because Joan was a fine looking unit back then. After losing 3 brothers, I think he earned it.

And he's Irish.

The Oldsmobile maybe didn't have power steering, I dunno. Ever driven a vehicle without it? Drunk? With a chick all over you? (all speculation) Not as easy as you think. (fact)

The car rolls right, over the bridge into the water, driver's side up. The water's cold a hell, the window is open, Ted steps on Mary Jo to get out of the car because she's on the bottom, he swims to safety and shits himself for the next 40 years, making amends the best way he can.

Negligent?

Yes.

Murder?

No fuckin way.


:D

I'm ok with calling it homicide.

Baby's On Fire
08-28-2009, 07:20 PM
All the bars in New England will dim their lights for one minute tonight....

I was never a big fan of the Kennedy's overall, mostly due to the way many of them conducted their personal lives.

However, separating that from their political achievements and the issues they championed, it is indeed sad that Ted is gone.

It is truly the end of another era in America...and it goes well beyond the realm of politics. The Kennedy's were an iconic American family...unfortunately it wasn't always for the right reasons.

2009 has really turned out to be a hell of a year filled with epic-sized losses.

How they conducted their personal lives? Are you suggesting they should have been foot tapping under the walls of men'sroom stalls like certain Republican Senators?

Baby's On Fire
08-28-2009, 07:40 PM
Commie pinkos? Shit, I'm still waiting for Obama to do anything remotely "liberal". Let alone anything that could be even jokingly called "communist".

Or the fact that the "commie pinkos" disappeared over 20 years ago. I don't think "commie pinkos" ever applied to China and Cuba, but rather the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

Somebody give that motherfucker a history lesson, or give him taped copies of 1986 news......

sadaist
08-28-2009, 08:07 PM
What do you mean? Like Micheal Jackson?



I was using Michael of an example of how when people die, we tend to concentrate on the positive things they did in life. At least for a short time.

sadaist
08-28-2009, 08:12 PM
I've never understood this 'lying in State' shit, it's not even an open coffin.

People queuing for hours to walk around a box. They do it here with royals and thousands of idiots turn up too.

Bizarre behavior.


Some are people paying respects. Some are probably just curious, especially in the open casket situations. Some just do it so they can say they were there. Hell, maybe some are there just to make sure he's really dead. I don't find it all that peculiar.

Baby's On Fire
08-28-2009, 08:17 PM
Tell us one single thing MJ did that was not positive? I mean aside of his multi-millions (yes MILLIONS) of charitable donations.

And don't tell me tall tales of totally unsubstantiated, unproven, undocumented claims devoid of any factual evidence whatsoever of "child molestation"

He didn't fucking do it, end of discussion. There are no facts whatsoever to prove or even strongly suggest he's guilty.......No credible facts at all. (And "evidence" and allegations from grifter parents doesn't fuckin' count)


After all, don't you Americans brag so loudly about how you have the "best Justice system in the World" (much like you still delude yourselves into claiming you still have the best "healthcare in the World"). So if MJ was guilty, he'd be in jail. Right???

My proof in point is that you dumbfucks TWICE voted for Bush...proof of extrememe and unmitigated gullibility and stupidity.....I am and will always remain astonished beyond words at the incredible gullibility or flat-out stupidity of the American-public-at-large.

So by that same stupidity, MJ is guilty because some fucking douchebag, grifter low-life parents who "love their children" made allegations against MJ...well,l 2 parents IN TOTAL actually...out of the many thousands.....but en suddenly it wasn't so egregious when the money appeared....well, let's let the "molestation" slide, now that the money appeared......so MJ MUST be guilty,,,cuz after all, he was accused....and the US justice system is the greaest in the World...so he MUST be guilty after all, the evdicne be damned.......

My sincere apologies to those few Americans who are not gullible and stupid.....The mighty few of you.

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 08:22 PM
How about making an apology to the majority of Americans who

a) You should stop stereotyping all the fucking time.

b) Are able to make posts in the correct fucking thread.

Baby's On Fire
08-28-2009, 08:29 PM
Um...no.

It is a fact most Americans are gullible by simple virtue of this fact: They TWICE voted an idiot into office, despite it being abundantly clear after the first term that Bush was an idiot, and a liar, and criminal, and corrupt, etc.

Yet they fell for the horsehsit and voted him in again....Simply astonishing. Incomprehensible, really.

How is that steroetyping? It's a fucking fact.

Now let's add to this the adamance that they are the best at fucking everything...best health care, best justice system...it never fucking ends, despite inarguable facts to the contrary.

Why not just speak the truth?

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 08:33 PM
The UK voted Thatcher in 3 times and she was an odious evil cunt who called Mandela a terrorist and was pals with Pinochet who was a mass murderer.

I'm guessing that maybe there are some asshole politicians in Canada too?

Igosplut
08-28-2009, 08:48 PM
Tell us one single thing MJ did that was not positive? I mean aside of his multi-millions (yes MILLIONS) of charitable donations.

And don't tell me tall tales of totally unsubstantiated, unproven, undocumented claims devoid of any factual evidence whatsoever of "child molestation"

He didn't fucking do it, end of discussion. There are no facts whatsoever to prove or even strongly suggest he's guilty.......No credible facts at all. (And "evidence" and allegations from grifter parents doesn't fuckin' count)




Just because you like MJ, or whatever your motivation to vigorously defend him in the face of the fact that he beat things in court to most people means bullshit.

The guys a pedophile, where there's smoke, there's fire....Fuck your Canuck ass if you don't like that opinion. Some give so much to charity to cover their ass for the other skeletons in their closets.

Were you in the room to absolutely say he didn't do it??? You know fuck-all, and YOU have no credibility either asshole....

Va Beach VH Fan
08-28-2009, 09:11 PM
Um...no.

It is a fact most Americans are gullible by simple virtue of this fact: They TWICE voted an idiot into office, despite it being abundantly clear after the first term that Bush was an idiot, and a liar, and criminal, and corrupt, etc.

Yet they fell for the horsehsit and voted him in again....Simply astonishing. Incomprehensible, really.

How is that steroetyping? It's a fucking fact.

Now let's add to this the adamance that they are the best at fucking everything...best health care, best justice system...it never fucking ends, despite inarguable facts to the contrary.

Why not just speak the truth?

I disagree on your MJ opinion, but this is spot on....

Really reminds me of the Bill Maher commentary that I posted a week or two ago.....

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 09:21 PM
Bill Maher is right most of the time and I'll never understand particularly the second election of Bush. I really wish there hadn't been all the loss of posts here over the years because I would fucking love to start a 'I told ya so' thread about Bush made up of the dozens of posts I made about Bush here before he was even elected.

I'm just saying with BOF he is falling into the easy trap of anti Americanism which sometimes comes across of small neighbor syndrome like Scotland does with England and New Zealand with Australia.

Even in 2004 Bush got 52&#37; of a 60% turnout so less than 1 in 3 Americans voted for him.

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 10:13 PM
CAIN: Sutton Index of Deaths (http://cain.ulst.ac.uk/sutton/tables/Status.html)

The majority were innocent civilians.

Slightly over half were innocent civilians. And the IRA/INLA didn't kill them all....

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 10:15 PM
I was using Michael of an example of how when people die, we tend to concentrate on the positive things they did in life. At least for a short time.

Well then, you contradicted yourself...

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 10:15 PM
I'd like to chime in and say I fucking hate the Kennedys and everything they represent.

Carry on.

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 10:16 PM
I'd like to chime in and say I fucking hate the Kennedys and everything they represent.

Carry on.

I thought you're a Libertarian who likes being fucked by the rich?

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 10:18 PM
Um...no.

It is a fact most Americans are gullible by simple virtue of this fact: They TWICE voted an idiot into office, despite it being abundantly clear after the first term that Bush was an idiot, and a liar, and criminal, and corrupt, etc.

Yet they fell for the horsehsit and voted him in again....Simply astonishing. Incomprehensible, really.

How is that steroetyping? It's a fucking fact.

Now let's add to this the adamance that they are the best at fucking everything...best health care, best justice system...it never fucking ends, despite inarguable facts to the contrary.

Why not just speak the truth?

And the PM that you voted in who sucked his dick, nightly?

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 10:19 PM
The UK voted Thatcher in 3 times and she was an odious evil cunt who called Mandela a terrorist and was pals with Pinochet who was a mass murderer.

I'm guessing that maybe there are some asshole politicians in Canada too?

Yeah, um, Stephen Harper, who couldn't lick Bush's asshole enough?

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d9/Stephen_Harper_G8_2007.jpg/225px-Stephen_Harper_G8_2007.jpg

I have no problem with foreigners who want to criticize the US, but fucking please! When I see Canadians and Aussies who elected PM's that couldn't get enough of America's sperm in their collective mouths yelling about how politically stupid we are...well, get fucked!

Kristy
08-28-2009, 10:19 PM
Um...no.

It is a fact most Americans are gullible by simple virtue of this fact: They TWICE voted an idiot into office, despite it being abundantly clear after the first term that Bush was an idiot, and a liar, and criminal, and corrupt, etc.

Yet they fell for the horsehsit and voted him in again....Simply astonishing. Incomprehensible, really.

How is that steroetyping? It's a fucking fact.

Now let's add to this the admittance that they are the best at fucking everything...best health care, best justice system...it never fucking ends, despite inarguable facts to the contrary.

Why not just speak the truth?

Most Americans? They..? Could you please generalize a little more? After all, my gullibility is getting the best of me. Your brilliant nouns used to describe the monstrosity that was the Bush Administration the could as easily be applied to your government but who seriously cares when a country that big has little influence in the world?

And while it may be true that most Americans are not too bright but I myself NEVER voted for Bush. Now, does that make me likable to you or not? Oh, that's right, it was the vague "they" crowd that placed him in Office but since you can't pinpoint who or what "they" are exactly it's much easier to stereotype without actually resorting to stereotyping.

I can easily apply your logic to your country and citizens. I lived in Canada for 8 months and can say not many of you frozen hillbillies are too smart, either. Why most I seen in Manitoba alone were drunken Indian-hating racists, hockey-worshiping never drove a vehicle past the year 1974 Molson swill-sipping rednecks; I'm guessing British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, even fisherman off of Newfoundland must also be of the same ilk? But hey, I'm not stereotyping here, just going off what I know by what I've seen. Kind of like you.

Oh, as for "they" who are the "best at everything." By that is "they" (follow me here) America's educated? You know, the ones who don't dress in overalls, wear wife beaters, actually have a job and go to work each day at a job that...I dunno, has to do with research into the cures for cancer among other diseases, giving their time to help the sick and dying? Or is "they' those who train hard at a sport where your frozen hillbilly asses gets kicked every Olympics for example? Or is "they' your Canadian generalization view of America because the CBC showed aired most nights while Bush was in Office a bunch of gun-toting southern rednecks with missing teeth screaming "We're number one!" into a camera? Who is this "they?" I'm curious to know.

You know little of "facts" Please come back with a solid argument when you do.

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 10:21 PM
I thought you're a Libertarian who likes being fucked by the rich?

Your problem is that you don't think. Do you think if you call me a 'libertarian' a few more hundred times it will make up for your inability to argue? :hee:

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 10:27 PM
Your problem is that you don't think.

Oh right, like you're an intellectual who's not just an internet argument jack-off troll...

What college did you go to again?


Do you think if you call me a 'libertarian' a few more hundred times it will make up for your inability to argue? :hee:

No. I just think it will expose your crippling world view and paradigm of unambiguous sophistry completely devoid of the basic precepts of human nature...

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 10:30 PM
Slightly over half were innocent civilians. And the IRA/INLA didn't kill them all....

Well you said most were combatants.

A typical incident was the killing of Lord Mountbatten. The IRA viewed him as an 80 year old member of the British establishment so blew up his boat. Blowing up an old rich fuck to me is kind of weak but whatever.

Listening to the father of the 16 year old Irish kid who used to help out on the little boat telling how he at first mistook the body of one of the other children as his before finding his little boys head in a bucket of fish is upsetting.

I'm not so worried about the fat man who helped raise the money to kill those kids dying in luxury in his late 70s.

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 10:47 PM
Well you said most were combatants.

Many "civilians" were combatants. You know, like the ones throwing Molotov Cocktails at the police/army?


A typical incident was the killing of Lord Mountbatten.

A royalist pedophile BTW...


The IRA viewed him as an 80 year old member of the British establishment so blew up his boat. Blowing up an old rich fuck to me is kind of weak but whatever.

It was a fail and he was a 'symbolic' target which is silly shit, yes.


Listening to the father of the 16 year old Irish kid who used to help out on the little boat telling how he at first mistook the body of one of the other children as his before finding his little boys head in a bucket of fish is upsetting.

Of course it is.

So is hearing how young Catholic men and women (and sometimes Protestants, mistakenly as the people who do these sort of things are undiscerning retards) that were randomly abducted off the streets of Belfast and fucking torture murdered with knives and cleavers by the "Red Hand Commando" (Protestant, Ulster Unionist Terrorist fuckwit serial killer faggots) for no apparent reason other than to terrorize the "Paddies" into shutting the fuck up in their evil (but peaceful) civil rights movement in 1968.


I'm not so worried about the fat man who helped raise the money to kill those kids dying in luxury in his late 70s.

Neither am I. The Provisional IRA never would have existed if your gov't hadn't let Unionists run an apartheid state in the United fucking Kingdom with terrorist henchmen. In 1968, the IRA was led by a bunch of drunken Marxist idiots swilling Guinness in Dublin. By 1969, the organization had split into the "Provos" who essentially were seen as the only means to defend Catholic parts of Belfast and Derry while the Marxist faded into the "Officials." It happened because the very state structures such as the RUC joined the riots in the areas and began destroying the "Bogside" neighborhoods...

How did that happen? Did it all come out of a vacuum? You piss and moan about the shitty injustice in Afghanistan. But the IRA were no different than the Taliban, and your Unionists were the same type of fucks who legitimized the rape of wives not freely giving sex to their husbands...

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 10:51 PM
What college did you go to again? Which degree? You don't want to compare dick sizes on this topic.





No. I just think it will expose your crippling world view and paradigm of unambiguous sophistry completely devoid of the basic precepts of human nature...

"paradigm of unambiguous sophistry?" :biggrin: Do you remember those old Woody Allen movies where he used to use big words inappropriately all the time to be funny? That's you. :hee:

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 10:58 PM
Which degree?

451 Fahrenheit? The one you know well...


You don't want to compare dick sizes on this topic.

Right, because people with degrees pontificate on the dick-size analogies...


"paradigm of unambiguous sophistry?" :biggrin: Do you remember those old Woody Allen movies where he used to use big words inappropriately all the time to be funny? That's you. :hee:

Thanks for the kudos.

You know those films where the Three Stooges spoke in grunts and monosyllabic retorts? Well, you can guess....

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:05 PM
You know those films where the Three Stooges spoke in grunts and monosyllabic retorts? Well, you can guess....

The funny thing is...you proved my point, but you don't realize it. A person who could argue properly would easily expose my "paradigm of unambiguous sophistry" (:hee:). Since you can't argue, you try to do it by calling me "libertarian" over and over.

Nice work, Woody. :hee:

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 11:09 PM
But the IRA were no different than the Taliban, and your Unionists were the same type of fucks who legitimized the rape of wives not freely giving sex to their husbands...

Fuck off Nick don't ever call them 'my unionists'.

Seriously that's not nice.

I was brought up in the West of Scotland which is NILite and there is many a time I've risked a broken face taking on those bigoted fucks.

Real life shit not interweb nonsense.

sadaist
08-28-2009, 11:10 PM
Well then, you contradicted yourself...

Not really, or if so unintentionally. But I should have specified more the alive vs. dead. When someone dies we tend to focus on positive things they have done, at least at first. However, when a person is alive, they are many times they are defined based on a single past event.

There are so many examples where a person was basically only thought of on either some horrible or some great thing they did.

It is interesting how we weigh other peoples actions at different times and changing circumstances.

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:12 PM
But the IRA were no different than the Taliban,


:umm::hee:

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:13 PM
The funny thing is...you proved my point, but you don't realize it. A person who could argue properly would easily expose my "paradigm of unambiguous sophistry" (:hee:). Since you can't argue, you try to do it by calling me "libertarian" over and over.

Nice work, Woody. :hee:

Do you seriously believe that anyone gives a douchebag like you any sort of credibility when you are arguing about arguing? And not about actual policies?

And you are a Libertarian. You're just too much of a pussy to admit it and to stand by your convictions...

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:18 PM
Do you seriously believe that anyone gives a douchebag like you any sort of credibility when you are arguing about arguing? And not about actual policies?

I'm not the one vying for internet credibility, Nick. Look in the mirror.




And you are a Libertarian. You're just too much of a pussy to admit it and to stand by your convictions...

Speaking of not arguing "about actual policies"... Spend less time trying to figure out my label and focus on the issue, Woody.

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:18 PM
Fuck off Nick don't ever call them 'my unionists'.

Seriously that's not nice.

I was brought up in the West of Scotland which is NILite and there is many a time I've risked a broken face taking on those bigoted fucks.

Real life shit not interweb nonsense.


Right, just like I nearly got into a fight with an "Irish Nationalist" in a pub on "Saint Paddies' Day" as he unapologetically spun the whole "Black and Tan" mantra of "real IRA, 32-counties Republic" of bullshit...

That was real life shit too, dude. And those people have guns...

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:19 PM
Right, just like I nearly got into a fight with an "Irish Nationalist" in a pub on "Saint Paddies' Day" as he unapologetically spun the whole "Black and Tan" mantra of bullshit...

That was real life shit too, dude. And those people have guns...

Now comes the, 'i'm really a badass in real life' schtick... Didn't see that coming. :hee:

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:24 PM
I'm not the one vying for internet credibility, Nick. Look in the mirror.


The fuck you aren't. Then log off and fuck off. You have such a hard on here it's not funny!


Speaking of not arguing "about actual policies"... Spend less time trying to figure out my label and focus on the issue, Woody.

What's your "label" then? What's the issue again? That the fact that .00001% of people have their laptops searched while flying in from unstable, failed states is somehow of a horrible civil liberties abortion? I disagreed with you, and then you're the one shitting your Depends over it, pookie...

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:24 PM
I wonder if that post was for Kristy's benefit? :hee:

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:25 PM
Now comes the, 'i'm really a badass in real life' schtick... Didn't see that coming. :hee:

Hey, the adults are talking fuckwit. Go back to skullfucking your Ron Paul poster...

Don't forget to hang up all your "degrees."

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:26 PM
What's your "label" then? What's the issue again? That the fact that .00001% of people have their laptops searched while flying in from unstable, failed states is somehow of a horrible civil liberties abortion? I disagreed with you, and then you're the one shitting your Depends over it, pookie...

Uh... wrong thread, sophistry-boy... :hee:

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:27 PM
Hey, the adults are talking fuckwit. Go back to skullfucking your Ron Paul poster...

Don't forget to hang up all your "degrees."

Pretty sure you started it with me, "fuckwit." How do you "skullfuck" a poster?

Tell me and Kristy more about your badass life in bars where you take on guys with guns. :biggrin:

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:28 PM
I wonder if that post was for Kristy's benefit? :hee:

You seem far more fixated on her than I am, dummy...

Seshmeister
08-28-2009, 11:29 PM
Right, just like I nearly got into a fight with an "Irish Nationalist" in a pub on "Saint Paddies' Day" as he unapologetically spun the whole "Black and Tan" mantra of "real IRA, 32-counties Republic" of bullshit...

That was real life shit too, dude. And those people have guns...

Fine but the minute someone decides it's ok to explode a bomb killing children to make a purely political point they permanently lose the right for their cause to be considered.

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:30 PM
You seem far more fixated on her than I am, dummy...

Yes, I clearly seek to impress. So Nick...when you're "skullfucking" people in bars...do you ask them where they went to college, too? :hee:

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:32 PM
Pretty sure you started it with me, "fuckwit."

Oh, fucking please show us all that post...


How do you "skullfuck" a poster?

I'm pretty sure you've rigged it appropriately and found a way...

'
Tell me and Kristy more about your badass life in bars where you take on guys with guns. :biggrin:

I have a better idea, why don't you leave her out of this since I've never mentioned her and rarely post to her at all, asshole. You're the one obsessed, not me, dickhead. Glad to know that you're into being creepy and weird about chicks though. I never would have guessed...

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:35 PM
I have a better idea, why don't you leave her out of this since I've never mentioned her and rarely post to her at all, asshole. You're the one obsessed, not me, dickhead. Glad to know that you're into being creepy and weird about chicks though. I never would have guessed...

http://thm-a04.yimg.com/image/c380b88883645b8e

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:36 PM
Yes, I clearly seek to impress. So Nick...when you're "skullfucking" people in bars...do you ask them where they went to college, too? :hee:

Wow, how insecure are you?

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:38 PM
Wow, how insecure are you?

Well, when I'm in the presence of such a badass...who also uses HUGE words, albeit inappropriately... what do you expect?? :hee:

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:47 PM
Fine but the minute someone decides it's ok to explode a bomb killing children to make a purely political point they permanently lose the right for their cause to be considered.

I think the IRA bombing campaign(s) were shit and horrible.

But they rarely killed children and (mostly) operated on the pretense of avoiding civilian "casualties" and avoided bombing things like airliners.

But I'm not defending them, nor do I in anyway support offensive violence whether it was the PIRA, the UDA, the British Army, or the Red Cross...

But there was a reason it happened, and it didn't come from fucking nothing...

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:49 PM
Well, when I'm in the presence of such a badass...who also uses HUGE words, albeit inappropriately... what do you expect?? :hee:

Boring...


Try harder.

:handjob:

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:53 PM
http://thm-a02.yimg.com/image/d32ea49ba2b9c1a6

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:54 PM
http://thm-a02.yimg.com/image/d32ea49ba2b9c1a6

Desperate much?

Blackflag
08-28-2009, 11:56 PM
http://thm-a02.yimg.com/image/d32ea49ba2b9c1a6

I dedicate that owning to the memory of Edward Kennedy. RIP.

Nickdfresh
08-28-2009, 11:59 PM
I dedicate that owning to the memory of Edward Kennedy. RIP.

Why would he care if you're owned?

Satan
08-29-2009, 12:00 AM
Go to Heaven, Pibbles.

hideyoursheep
08-29-2009, 01:44 AM
Now comes the, 'i'm really a badass in real life' schtick... Didn't see that coming. :hee:

Tell me and Kristy more about your badass life in bars where you take on guys with guns. :biggrin:
Well, when I'm in the presence of such a badass...

....


:rolleyes:

BumFag, I'm willing to bet you've never made such an ass of yourself in public because sweetheart, there really are people out there who demand respect and will most definitely hook you up with a new set of dentures once you cross the line.

I think you need to explore the real world a little harder.

I also think NickD makes you wet. :homoswitch:

GAR
08-29-2009, 02:34 AM
You like poems? Here's a Haiku I wrote for Lefty the other day:

A Cunnilingus
Is like us
Singing With One Tongue

(she was not amused)

Blackflag
08-29-2009, 03:07 AM
BumFag, I'm willing to bet you've never made such an ass of yourself in public because sweetheart, there really are people out there who demand respect and will most definitely hook you up with a new set of dentures once you cross the line.

And let me guess... you're one of them, right? :hee:

God, it's soooo dramatic in here tonight. So many badasses on the internet these days! :biggrin:

bueno bob
08-29-2009, 03:08 AM
So many badasses on the internet these days! :biggrin:

And let me guess... you're one of them, right? :hee:

Blackflag
08-29-2009, 03:10 AM
Nah, I'm a lover, not a fighter.... ask your girlfriend.

sadaist
08-29-2009, 05:32 AM
Wait. Did Ted Kennedy die?

jacksmar
08-29-2009, 10:36 AM
Why aren't there more JFK Jr jokes out there?
They just haven't surfaced yet.

Why was JFK Jr flying that night?
Teddy Kennedy offered him a lift.

What if Teddy Kennedy was aboard?

1. They could have used him as a flotation device.
2. Teddy would have swam to shore.
3. Everyone else would have still drowned.

Who killed David Kennedy?
Syringe Syringe

If the Kennedys are like royalty in the US, what is JFK Jr's title?
Prince of Tides

What about JFK Jr's future as a political leader?
Dead in the water.

Which Kennedy is Left? Whatever her name is, she won't have to shop for black dress.

jacksmar
08-29-2009, 10:42 AM
What was Ted Kennedy's wedding present to his new wife?
A life preserver.

What did Teddy Kennedy say when asked if he would consider
running for President?
He said he'd have to drive off that bridge when he got to it.

What did Teddy Kennedy say when he heard of JFK's assasination?
A1: Now John has brains on the outside of his pants too.
A2: He couldn't have been shot in the temple! We're not Jewish!:biggrin::happy0065:

sadaist
08-29-2009, 06:26 PM
Can anyone answer why we call him Ted? His name is Edward. How did it go from Edward to Ted?

FORD
08-29-2009, 06:44 PM
The one I could never figure out is how "Peggy" is a nickname for "Margaret". Guess it's common enough, but I don't know how they got that one.

FORD
08-29-2009, 06:54 PM
Could be. I seem to remember reading somewhere that Meg Ryan was called Peggy in high school.

bueno bob
08-29-2009, 08:59 PM
Nah, I'm a lover, not a fighter.... ask your girlfriend.

Even you should admit that's awfully amateurish.

I mean, even for you.

Blackflag
08-29-2009, 09:01 PM
Could be. I seem to remember reading somewhere that Meg Ryan was called Peggy in high school.

Renew your subscription to People? :hee:

sadaist
08-29-2009, 09:04 PM
I asked a coworker that same question years ago. My coworker's name is John, but he goes by "Jack." He said it's "an Irish thing." Edward --> Ted. John --> Jack. I wonder if that's also why "Hank" is the diminutive of Henry?

Come to think of it now, a family friend was called Jack though his given name was John. Irish man. You're probably on to something with that. Thanks.

FORD
08-29-2009, 10:25 PM
Renew your subscription to People? :hee:

No, actually your mother mentioned it when I was balls deep in her ass. Thought it was an odd time to be thinking about Meg Ryan, but what the hell.

jacksmar
08-29-2009, 10:35 PM
You were thinking of Nolan Ryan, Seattle queen.:finger33:

"A group of investigators in Seattle, where methamphetamine abuse is a growing problem, have characterized drug use and sexual risk behaviors, social and ecological contexts, and service needs of men who use drugs and have sex with men. Three methods were used for this research: unobtrusive observations, focus group interviews, and individual interviews. Nearly all the men interviewed were HIV positive or had an AIDS diagnosis, and almost all identified themselves as gay or bisexual."

http://www.nida.nih.gov/STRC/Role3.html

FORD
08-29-2009, 10:56 PM
Funny....most of the tweakers I've seen in this area are rednecks. Presumably hetero, though I didn't really check the gender of the sheep they were fucking :sheepshagger:

FORD
08-29-2009, 10:59 PM
BTW.... why are all the right wingers here obsessed with gay sex? I swear you think about men fucking other men than the men who actually fuck other men do.:homoswitch:

Nickdfresh
08-29-2009, 11:06 PM
...

"A group of investigators in Seattle, where methamphetamine abuse is a growing problem, have characterized drug use and sexual risk behaviors, social and ecological contexts, and service needs of men who use drugs and have sex with men. Three methods were used for this research: unobtrusive observations, focus group interviews, and individual interviews. Nearly all the men interviewed were HIV positive or had an AIDS diagnosis, and almost all identified themselves as gay or bisexual."

NIDA - The Sixth Triennial Report to Congress (http://www.nida.nih.gov/STRC/Role3.html)


Republican members of congress have really fallen on hard times...

thome
08-29-2009, 11:36 PM
dead drunk

23 dui's

money bought and paid

bury the prick already

jhale667
08-29-2009, 11:42 PM
BTW.... why are all the right wingers here obsessed with gay sex? I swear you think about men fucking other men than the men who actually fuck other men do.:homoswitch:


In Jerksmear's case Repuke = Closeted. :lol:

jacksmar
08-30-2009, 12:25 AM
Nice try FORD. I’m still stepping over pussy after all these years. That’s the beauty of being a good looking man and being able to play Eruption and Dance The Night Away in my band. Tampa and St Pete Beach has more women than I can eat.
Tampa, Forbes.com The Best Cities For Singles (http://www.forbes.com/lists/2005/3/2414.html)

Seattle is the new Frisco. All the fags go there for free needles and fags need drugs to be fags. The rest of the pot smokers and casual use drug fucks go to Seattle for easy sex with each other and easy women. The easiest pussy to get is some high Seattle broad after a protest march. Some hairy legged broad, fifteen layers of dirty flannel, and cunt hair from navel to the middle of her back aroused by people that haven’t bathed in weeks. Surprised your leader FBHO didn’t end up there instead of Chicago. He’s a drug user too.

Florida tits smell like Coppertone and Hawaiian Tropic. They taste like cotton candy. And very tanned.

They used to run an IndyCar race in Portland but it fell off the schedule. We have the race in St Pete now. Pussy on yachts, pussy on the beach, and pussy in a race car. (Danica Patrick)

Get a band jhale.

Baby's On Fire
08-30-2009, 12:35 AM
Bill Maher is right most of the time and I'll never understand particularly the second election of Bush. I really wish there hadn't been all the loss of posts here over the years because I would fucking love to start a 'I told ya so' thread about Bush made up of the dozens of posts I made about Bush here before he was even elected.

I'm just saying with BOF he is falling into the easy trap of anti Americanism which sometimes comes across of small neighbor syndrome like Scotland does with England and New Zealand with Australia.

Even in 2004 Bush got 52% of a 60% turnout so less than 1 in 3 Americans voted for him.

I am not anti-American at all. I love the USA.....I am going to Miami very soon, a place I love to be.

I work with a lot of law enforcement in Canada and the USA...and let me tell you...the USA law enforcement kicks ass....most of the Canadian law enforcement are a bunch of lazy worthless half-wits....Just like our politicians.

Canada is a beautiful country...more free than the USA...but Canada is totally irrelevant on the world stage....the USA rules the day in that regard which is exactly why I follow the USA impact on World affairs.

It is a great country and I hate to see it go to shit.....

Baby's On Fire
08-30-2009, 12:39 AM
And the PM that you voted in who sucked his dick, nightly?

I didn't vote him in. I have NEVER voted...can you believe it?

Why? Because who the fuck am I gonna vote for in this country? They're all a bunch of fucking criminal yet irrlevenat half wits...good for fucking nothing.
I can't even NAME a politician in Canada...cuz I simply don't give a shit.

Canada is a great country...and will always be a great country no matter what group of assholes are "running" it.

The status quo is always here in Canada......it matters not one bit who is in power.

jhale667
08-30-2009, 12:47 AM
I’m still stepping over pussy after all these years. That’s the beauty of being a good looking man and being able to play Eruption and Dance The Night Away in my band.

...and then you wake up. You're probably more like chick-repellent...


Get a band jhale.

Is that all you've got? Really?
Uh, had one.. will again -douche. Played a fly-out gig last month actually. :fufu:
I'll be outplaying you publicly again soon, don't worry. :tongue0011:

And unless you're in a VH tribute band, playing Eruption in its entirety in a club band (even if you can) is beyond ghey. :turninggay:

Blackflag
08-30-2009, 12:48 AM
Nice try FORD. ...

I don't know who Jacksmar is, but that's some funny shit right there.

Blackflag
08-30-2009, 12:51 AM
And unless you're in a VH tribute band, playing Eruption in its entirety in a club band (even if you can) is beyond ghey. :turninggay:


Uh... what?? :hee:

jhale667
08-30-2009, 12:57 AM
Before the ass-bandits completely derail this thread...:rolleyes:

Remembering Ted Kennedy, My Friend of 56 Years
by Ted Sorensen


After all the magnificent eulogies and obituaries, what more and what new can be said about Ted Kennedy, my friend of almost exactly 56 years and the leader of all the causes in Washington in which I believe -- a more peaceful world, a more just America, a more humane and progressive United States government.

Too many people still think about the human frailties that characterized his youth; and those without sin are permitted by scripture to cast the first stone against him. But that past only emphasizes the extraordinary extent to which, like his brothers Jack and Bobby, Ted grew as his responsibilities increased. His determination to achieve his brothers' goals was genuine and unrelenting, his devotion to each of his own many causes over the years was sincere and unflagging. He became known on both sides of the Senate aisle for his careful selection and retention of a brilliant staff, and - with their help - doing his homework in preparation for every Senate debate.

Most people do not realize the extent to which he was, in the final analysis, a survivor. Both his oldest brother and his oldest sister were killed in plane crashes, but he survived the plane crash that broke his back and killed the pilot and co-pilot. As the younger brother of two assassinated young liberal heros, he received his own share of anonymous hate mail and death threats, but he survived to age 77. Both after his plane crash and his automobile accident, I sat at his bedside, wondering if he would have the strength to go on. But he did, and for this last year I had hoped that somehow he would come back again and go on to even greater heights as a champion of America's final effort to achieve accessible health care for all of its citizens.

As a friend, he could be funny, full of laughter and as interested in frivolity and gossip as anyone else in Washington. He had the good fortune to meet and marry Victoria Reggie, whose parents were a wonderful politically-oriented and active Democratic Party couple in Louisiana whom John F. Kennedy and I had met long before Teddy had met Vicki. But she was the saving grace of the latter portion of his life, even before he was suddenly struck by brain cancer; and she was as well the caregiver and schedule coordinator who made his last year a time of peace that included recreation as well as a continuing voice in legislation.

He is fortunate as well to be survived by three remarkable children, who have had their own encounters with illness and adversity: Rhode Island Congressman Patrick Kennedy, who could someday rise, if all goes well, to be a leader of not only his Party but the House of Representatives; Edward Kennedy, Jr., who has learned from his father's leadership on health care, his two uncles' fight for universal access to quality medical care, and his own early setback -- when cancer took his leg -- to make a career out of providing advice and assistance to medical and hospital facilities -- particularly those helping the orthopedically disabled -- all over the world; and Kara Kennedy Allen, Ted's daughter, who has shown the same caring for the least fortunate in her own career. Kara works for Very Special Arts, the creative counterpart to Special Olympics founded by her aunt Jean; and serves as well on the Board of the National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Facing lung cancer in 2003 but currently in remission, she too has personal experience with the highs and lows of healthcare in this country.

Clearly, Teddy Kennedy's own legacy will live on through his children, through the hundreds of important pieces of legislation that he authored, through the brilliant staff that he assembled and dispersed to other important roles around the country, and through the books, articles and speeches he has produced in his 46 years as a United States Senator. Above all, his legacy will live on through the millions of friends he has made and nurtured over the years, both in and out of politics, both in and out of the United States, among members of many races, religions and nationalities. Among all those friends for whom he did so much good, some will mourn and miss him more than others. I am among those who will miss him most.



Ted Sorensen is the former Special Counsel and Advisor to President John F. Kennedy and most recently the author of Counselor: A Life at the Edge of History.

Ted Sorensen: Remembering Ted Kennedy, My Friend of 56 Years (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ted-sorensen/remembering-ted-kennedy-m_b_270542.html)

jhale667
08-30-2009, 01:00 AM
Uh... what?? :hee:

Dude, it's the guitarist equivalent of "Stairway to Heaven"...:biggrin:

FORD
08-30-2009, 01:08 AM
Before the ass-bandits completely derail this thread...:rolleyes:

Remembering Ted Kennedy, My Friend of 56 Years
by Ted Sorensen


Kara Kennedy Allen, Ted's daughter, who has shown the same caring for the least fortunate in her own career. Kara works for Very Special Arts, the creative counterpart to Special Olympics founded by her aunt Jean




Mr. Sorenson certainly knows the Kennedy family far better than I do, but I always thought it was Eunice Kennedy Shriver and her husband Sargent Shriver who founded the Special Olympics, not Jean Kennedy Smith?

http://specialolympics.org/eunice_kennedy_shriver_biography.aspx

Blackflag
08-30-2009, 01:10 AM
Dude, it's the guitarist equivalent of "Stairway to Heaven"...:biggrin:

And we know everybody hates that song. :umm: Look, if you can't play it, that's cool...nothing to be ashamed of. :hee:

FORD
08-30-2009, 01:34 AM
While the immediate successor to Ted Kennedy's senate seat is yet to be determined, someone with a familiar name is already campaigning....... for 2044!

August 29, 2009
11-year old Kennedy announces for Senate
Posted: August 29th, 2009 10:21 AM ET
http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/08/29/art.kennedyiii.gi.jpg
Sen. Ted Kennedy's 11-year-old grandson announced his candidacy for Senate in 2044.

(CNN) – For the first time in nearly six decades, it seems likely a Kennedy won't be either representing Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate, or seeking the office. But one member of the legendary political family is already laying plans to reclaim the seat.

Long-term plans.

He doesn't reside in the state – and won't be constitutionally eligible to run for the office for another 19 years – but on Friday, Sen. Ted Kennedy's 11-year-old grandson announced his candidacy for Senate in 2044.

"I plan to become the senator of Massachusetts when I turn 45," Edward Kennedy III confidently told New England Cable News.

Kennedy's grandfather represented the state in the Senate for 47 years. His great-uncle, President John F. Kennedy, served as senator from Massachusetts from 1953 until he won the White House in 1960.


The younger Kennedy also reflected Friday on the loss of his grandfather. "We should be happy for him that he is with his brothers and sisters in heaven, not sad because he's not with us," he said. "Because when we go to heaven, we'll be with him and it will be one big happy family."

Sen. Ted Kennedy's son, Rep. Patrick Kennedy of Rhode Island, is the only member of the family currently serving in Congress.

jhale667
08-30-2009, 01:35 AM
Look, if you can't play it, that's cool...nothing to be ashamed of. :hee:

Actually I can. That's not in question. ;)
It just isn't done. Particularly in LA...y'know, unless you're in the Atomic Punks.
But that's another thread entirely...

Blackflag
08-30-2009, 01:49 AM
The guy calls you a cocksucker, etc. ... and your response is about Van Halen cover band etiquette? As if there is such a thing.

Seriously?

:hee:

Blackflag
08-30-2009, 02:07 AM
While the immediate successor to Ted Kennedy's senate seat is yet to be determined, someone with a familiar name is already campaigning....... for 2044!

August 29, 2009
11-year old Kennedy announces for Senate
Posted: August 29th, 2009 10:21 AM ET
http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/08/29/art.kennedyiii.gi.jpg
Sen. Ted Kennedy's 11-year-old grandson announced his candidacy for Senate in 2044.

(CNN) – For the first time in nearly six decades, it seems likely a Kennedy won't be either representing Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate, or seeking the office. But one member of the legendary political family is already laying plans to reclaim the seat.

Long-term plans.

He doesn't reside in the state – and won't be constitutionally eligible to run for the office for another 19 years – but on Friday, Sen. Ted Kennedy's 11-year-old grandson announced his candidacy for Senate in 2044.

"I plan to become the senator of Massachusetts when I turn 45," Edward Kennedy III confidently told New England Cable News.

Kennedy's grandfather represented the state in the Senate for 47 years. His great-uncle, President John F. Kennedy, served as senator from Massachusetts from 1953 until he won the White House in 1960.


The younger Kennedy also reflected Friday on the loss of his grandfather. "We should be happy for him that he is with his brothers and sisters in heaven, not sad because he's not with us," he said. "Because when we go to heaven, we'll be with him and it will be one big happy family."

Sen. Ted Kennedy's son, Rep. Patrick Kennedy of Rhode Island, is the only member of the family currently serving in Congress.

Please make it stop... In the name of all those who hate a privileged, elite ruling class, nepotism, and smarmy people...please make it stop. :barf:

bueno bob
08-30-2009, 03:59 AM
Nice try FORD. I’m still stepping over pussy after all these years. That’s the beauty of being a good looking man and being able to play Eruption and Dance The Night Away in my band. Tampa and St Pete Beach has more women than I can eat.
Tampa, Forbes.com The Best Cities For Singles (http://www.forbes.com/lists/2005/3/2414.html)

I doubt seriously you have a band at all, personally.


Get a band jhale.

Gay.

bueno bob
08-30-2009, 04:01 AM
And we know everybody hates that song. :umm:

The song itself is...alright, but I hate watching local acts cover it. It's fucking boring and unoriginal since, well, everybody did it (and many continue to).

Bands that cover Stairway are inevitably lame and stupid.


Look, if you can't play it, that's cool...nothing to be ashamed of. :hee:

LOL

Eddie would piss himself and run off stage in terror if both of them were on together. Trust me on that.

FORD
08-30-2009, 04:08 AM
Really, Jerksmear does have a band........

http://www.bigqueer.com/uploads/132068.jpg

jhale667
08-30-2009, 04:12 AM
The guy calls you a cocksucker, etc. ... and your response is about Van Halen cover band etiquette? As if there is such a thing.

Seriously?

:hee:

Uh, actually he called FORD gay. I suggested he was in fact the (not so) secret bone-smoker. He told me to uh, get a band. Remember?
This was right after FORD was talking about being balls deep in your mom's ass, IIRC....:biggrin:

Jerksmear "steps over pussy" in the same way GAyR "has guitars"...in his mind...:hee:

Now can you just get over it already, or do you still have sand in your vagina, bitch-boy? ;)

sadaist
08-30-2009, 04:31 AM
and Ted Kennedy is still dead. Brain cancer I believe.

thome
08-30-2009, 09:21 AM
sadaist.... and Ted Kennedy is still dead. Brain cancer I believe.


Nope! he just woke up seems it was another alcoholic coma family is embarassed, again.................. he was just -Dead Drunk-.

Wait....... word is he is dead again seems.... he would have been ok, but he woke up in his coffin upside down under water....family sais he is really -Dead Drunk- again.

Family pleads guilty to leaving the scene .....You know .....


In honor of all the assholes who voted for him for 40 years, in his home state, as a thier Senator, and all of the people who think he was a good man who stood up for democracy, the truth and justice.

Upon arriving at the funeral home, his coffin will be ejected out of the hearse and will rest upsidedown underwater in the pond of the cemetery for over 24 hours .

(Till some passerby happends to see it.)

scamper
08-30-2009, 07:31 PM
Yeah. He's not fucking retarded.

I wish he was.

Nickdfresh
08-30-2009, 08:04 PM
I wish he was.

Why do you hate America?

hideyoursheep
08-30-2009, 09:22 PM
God, it's soooo dramatic in here tonight. So many badasses on the internet these days! :biggrin:

That's why you should get down on your knees and give thanks to the holy trinity for giving you a forum to spew your nonsense...

Al Gore, for inventing the internet...


David Lee Roth...


Sarge, who sent you to purgatory once already for being an asshole..


Bow down.

You're used to it.

:fufu:

standin
08-30-2009, 09:26 PM
Nope! he just woke up seems it was another alcoholic coma family is embarassed, again.................. he was just -Dead Drunk-.

Wait....... word is he is dead again seems.... he would have been ok, but he woke up in his coffin upside down under water....family sais he is really -Dead Drunk- again.

Family pleads guilty to leaving the scene .....You know .....
It is an annoyance when you have to judge and be judged.

Accountability takes pastimes to a completely new level.
:hitch:

hideyoursheep
08-30-2009, 09:27 PM
Why aren't there more JFK Jr jokes out there?
They just haven't surfaced yet.

Why was JFK Jr flying that night?
Teddy Kennedy offered him a lift.

What if Teddy Kennedy was aboard?

1. They could have used him as a flotation device.
2. Teddy would have swam to shore.
3. Everyone else would have still drowned.

Who killed David Kennedy?
Syringe Syringe

If the Kennedys are like royalty in the US, what is JFK Jr's title?
Prince of Tides

What about JFK Jr's future as a political leader?
Dead in the water.

Which Kennedy is Left? Whatever her name is, she won't have to shop for black dress.



What was Ted Kennedy's wedding present to his new wife?
A life preserver.

What did Teddy Kennedy say when asked if he would consider
running for President?
He said he'd have to drive off that bridge when he got to it.

What did Teddy Kennedy say when he heard of JFK's assasination?
A1: Now John has brains on the outside of his pants too.
A2: He couldn't have been shot in the temple! We're not Jewish!:biggrin::happy0065:

Bad taste........but funny.:biggrin:


Where did you find these jokes? Sean Hannity's FaceBook page?




I wonder if HanNazi will continue the hiccup whenever he mentions Ted Kennedy from now on?:umm:

Blackflag
08-30-2009, 10:25 PM
That's why you should get down on your knees and give thanks to the holy trinity for giving you a forum to spew your nonsense...

Al Gore, for inventing the internet...


David Lee Roth...


Sarge, who sent you to purgatory once already for being an asshole..


Bow down.

You're used to it.

:fufu:

You're a boring little Nickdfresh wannabe, aren't you? Like Nick, but less original. Does he use your head as a nut-rest? :hee: Go eat the dick, wannabe. :biggrin:

hideyoursheep
08-30-2009, 10:43 PM
You're a boring little Nickdfresh wannabe, aren't you? Like Nick, but less original. Does he use your head as a nut-rest? :hee: Go eat the dick, wannabe. :biggrin:

I don't wanna be Nick.


I sure as fuck wouldn't wanna be you, because I couldn't imaging going through life without balls.

The only time you can pretend to have any is when you log in, so enjoy, you miserable cunt!:tongue0011:

Blackflag
08-30-2009, 11:03 PM
I couldn't imaging going through life without balls.

Don't feel bad about it - everybody has their vice. Maybe that explains why you like Nick so much? :hee:

hideyoursheep
08-30-2009, 11:57 PM
The one black guy in Yakima can kick your ass, maybe that's why you're such a racist?

You should feel bad about that.

Blackflag
08-31-2009, 12:15 AM
You're really hung up on machismo, aren't you? Are you going to tell us about all the ass you kick now? It was Nick's turn, now it's yours. Tell us, tough guy. :hee:

You're like one of those former high schoolfootball players who's 40, fat, and working fast food ... but still talking about who he can beat up (on the internet). :hee: How adorable.

Blackflag
08-31-2009, 12:16 AM
I couldn't imaging going through life without balls.

:hee:

hideyoursheep
08-31-2009, 12:22 AM
:hee:

Yeah..congrats..you nailed me on spelling.

A freebie. Low hanging fruit for you to pick.

The ONLY thing you could ever nail anyone on.

Yet it took your ignorant ass 2 hours to realize.

Not very quick-witted, are you?

hideyoursheep
08-31-2009, 12:24 AM
You're really hung up on machismo, aren't you? Are you going to tell us about all the ass you kick now? It was Nick's turn, now it's yours. Tell us, tough guy. :hee:

You're like one of those former high schoolfootball players who's 40, fat, and working fast food ... but still talking about who he can beat up (on the internet). :hee: How adorable.

:lol:

If you only knew!



Enough thread-jacking for today...it's rude, and you're boring the hell out of me.

Blackflag
08-31-2009, 12:26 AM
Yeah..congrats..you nailed me on spelling.

A freebie. Low hanging fruit for you to pick.

The ONLY thing you could ever nail anyone on.

Yet it took your ignorant ass 2 hours to realize.

Not very quick-witted, are you?

No, simp...it's your insatiable hunger for balls that's funny. Your spelling is always bad. :hee:

Blackflag
08-31-2009, 12:27 AM
:lol:

If you only knew!



Tell us! Don't hold back...it's the internet! Tell us what a super-badass you are... :hee:

( http://thm-a02.yimg.com/image/16c4d6acf06b9a08 )

hideyoursheep
08-31-2009, 12:38 AM
Tell us!

"Us"????

:lmao:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aylTZqvwc_0&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aylTZqvwc_0&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Blackflag
08-31-2009, 12:44 AM
"Us"????

:lmao:



Well, surely you're not portraying yourself as a badass solely for my benefit, are you...? I feel so special now. :hee:

GAR
08-31-2009, 05:00 AM
:lol:

If you only knew!



Enough thread-jacking for today...it's rude, and you're boring the hell out of me.

http://www.geocities.com/LRampey/unvanqui/retreat.jpg

hideyoursheep
08-31-2009, 05:18 AM
<a href="http://s185.photobucket.com/albums/x119/brakeman_2007/?action=view&current=Hot20John20at20Platos.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x119/brakeman_2007/Hot20John20at20Platos.jpg" border="0" alt="plato's retreat john bolton"></a>

<a href="http://photobucket.com/images/platos%20retreat" target="_blank"><img src="http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a396/ujin13/Nightlife70/platos_retreat_prav_std.jpg" border="0" alt="&iuml;&eth;&agrave;&acirc;&egrave;&euml;&agrave; &ecirc;&euml;&oacute;&aacute;&agrave; Pictures, Images and Photos"/></a>


BumFag left the mat GAR...do I need to call security?

GAR
08-31-2009, 05:21 AM
I musta misread you're "I'm done thread jacking for today" as an exit sign.

hideyoursheep
08-31-2009, 05:55 AM
I musta misread you're "I'm done thread jacking for today" as an exit sign.


It was...then....you came in here with BumFag's coch in your hand, carrying the retard torch....

Now, I am done.

GAR
08-31-2009, 06:39 AM
It was...then....you came in here handing me my ass as usual...

Now, I am dumb.

Stop hitting yerself!
Stop hitting yerself!
Stop hitting yerself!

Nickdfresh
08-31-2009, 06:53 AM
Don't feel bad about it - everybody has their vice. Maybe that explains why you like Nick so much? :hee:

Do you really have to fixate on me?

http://drrockshow.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/glenn_close_fatal_attraction.jpg

Nickdfresh
08-31-2009, 06:58 AM
You're really hung up on machismo, aren't you? Are you going to tell us about all the ass you kick now? It was Nick's turn, now it's yours. Tell us, tough guy. :hee:
...

Um, douchebag, please show one post where I've been 'an internet badass' here. If I seem like an "interweb badass," it's only because you're an easily frustrated weak suck that meltsdown when shown what a nonsensical fraud he and his worldview is...


I do find it amusing though that one of the first pricks here to hurl unprovoked foul insults at people simply because he disagrees with them is the one running around calling everyone an internet tough guy now...

bueno bob
08-31-2009, 12:18 PM
I do find it amusing though that one of the first pricks here to hurl unprovoked foul insults at people simply because he disagrees with them is the one running around calling everyone an internet tough guy now...

:notworthy:

Va Beach VH Fan
08-31-2009, 01:02 PM
Enough already, you guys give me a fucking headache....

Closing...