Thursday, June 16, 2016

In Memoriam... Aridog

Aridog and his daughter Kim

Aridog's wife Judith sent ndspinelli a photo. He asked me to post it with the following announcement...
Mr. Richard has been cremated w/ the assistance of a fellow Vet. Dick's daughter, Kim, is making the funeral arrangements. They are hoping to have Dick's remains buried in Arlington. They have planned a funeral Mass @ their church,  Saint Cunegunda. Dick loved the children's Mass held @ 11:15a so that will be when they will celebrate his life. Judith will keep me abreast of any services @ Arlington.
As you can see from this photo, our friend Dick had much to live for! Judith says all of their Middle Eastern neighbors, who know him as "Mr. Richard" have been very kind to her.

  Nick

(we received the news last night - Link)

For a sample of Aridog's comments, read after the jump...
Personally, I have come to believe Obama is just bone head fucking dumb. Stupid as a bag of rocks. He is a tool of others. Malicious persons with anti-American and anti-democratic agendas. I doubt he pees without permission or assistance.
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/7/13

Synova said ... Dumb in the transcendent way that only really smart people can be dumb. I get what you mean, BUT... A.) That is a fantasy. B.) Had he actually grown up on the block, black or white in fact, like he tries to act, he would have been DOA a long time ago. Guys like him never survive without a wealthy coterie of ass munchers to protect them. Never. John Kerry is exactly the same. We call them shit birds back in the day...I still do.
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/7/13

Synova ... what "blocks" are you referring to? Some Hawaiian private enclave school like Barry O attended? Occidental (pardon my laughter) College? Dumb kills. Dumb is usually fatal more often than not. When one is not protected by his oh so special enclave, and no one finds a use for him otherwise, he's found DOA in the curb side gutter. Check out Chicago recently for young black men. Dumb = Dead. Barry survives only because he's had wealthy sponsors who think him a useful idiot and defenders who've kept him from self destruction. On his own he'd last less than a week. Dumb ass wouldn't even know where not to go. He'd strut like the peacock he is until someone tore his head off. The end.
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/6/13

A lot of interesting comments here that I'd love to respond to, individually, but I am too biased, and angry in general over this Syria affair, to be fair. One thing: War requires you reduce an enemy's means to resist, destroy all his resources, and in addition to material and materiel, that means women and children, future fighter breeders, in total war, which is the only kind you ever really win. I wonder if all these blood lust attack Syria fanatics understand this simple condition of war? BTW: Saddam Hussein gased far far more people than Assad is alleged to have done...and Ronald Reagan (1988) didn't do diddly squat, nor did Bush 41. Bush 41 did get himself hired out to the Saudis to liberate Kuwait, then quit half assed before anyone was defeated...a retreat is not a defeat, bitches. I flew my flag upside down for the entirity of Desert Storm. WTF, eh?...you don't atttack Saddam for the gassing of civilians, but you go after him for invading Kuwait...uh, like he woulnd't
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/7/13

One more thing...the same guy, Obama, that sponsored the surge in Afghanistan, Obama, with his acolyte generals McChrystal and Petraeus, neither of whihc ever commanded shit for a duration of anything...that same guy managed to double the losses for US soldiers and ISAF forces, in 3 years time over the prior 7 years total. THAT is the genius who will lead us in to the next war. You don't mind doubling losses now do you? I think the world has gone mad or is on meth.

79 comments:

Methadras said...

RIP Aridog. Much love from everyone at Lem's.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

I'm seeing somebody created a tag called "Post Aridog will love".

You might find something there to remember him by.

Amartel said...

RIP Aridog. Blessings and Godspeed. Wind at your back, dog by your side.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

On a 4th of July post Aridog said...

"Damn right I am "proud" to be an American. Here is what American soldiers do
every single time they get a chance. We're suckers. I did it in my time, and
hard men and women still do it. It is the only way to remain sane." - Aridog

Michael Haz said...

The Lord bless Richard and keep him.

The Lord make his Face to shine upon him
and be gracious to him.

The Lord lift up His countenance upon him
and give him peace.

In company with Christ
Who died and now lives
may he rejoice in Your kingdom
where all tears are wiped away.

Unite us together again in one family
to sing Your praise forever and ever.

Amen.

Synova said...

Just yesterday I thought of him, realized I hadn't seen anything for a long time, and wondered what he was up to.

I never knew that his name was Dick.

He was a wise guy. The world is poorer for his loss.

Dad Bones said...

I wondered why I haven't seen anything by him for awhile. All I know about him is from what I've read here and that amounts to quite a lot. What a man. I always enjoyed his comments and stories and was often humbled by his war time experiences plus his day to day life in his native Detroit where he lived and witnessed major changes.

You've attracted some impressive people here, Lem, and Aridog was one of the best.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Thanks DB

edutcher said...

Farewell, sir.

Trooper York said...

He was a good man and he will be sorely missed.

AllenS said...

Rest in Peace, my friend.

The Dude said...

Rest easy, sir, you did your duty and then some. May you be eternally surrounded by all your loved ones, two legged and four.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

I'm posting some of the Aridog comments ChipA has managed to pump out?

A lot of familiar names...

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

AprilApple said... I think it's very troubling that we don't know what information is true or not and who to trust... or not. I know what is true. Nothing about Syria is in any way in our best interest to intervene over. Period [sorry Chip]. Next question? on Vlad set trap?
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/5/13

bagoh20 said... The President is being more flexible after the election ... You know damned well that Putin just laughed out loud when he heard that. I'm sure he did. He also likely keeps a close watch on his pants zipper to prevent marauding sucking or kissing by certain politicians who are more flexible. Putin made my whole week by outright calling John Kerry a liar. Scary world when Putin is right and our entire administration is wrong. Maybe even Congress too, we'll soon see. on "Brutality of Syrian Rebels Posing Dilemma in West"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/5/13

Michael Haz said... Sixty, I think you may be right. No doubt in my mind that he's right...Obammessiah and his administration have favored al Qaeda and Muslim Bros. from day one. They actually think that for their weaselly support they will be given respect. They know nothing of history, which says nothing good about all the grand schools they all graduated from...ignorance can be retained even as your earn a parchment. on "Brutality of Syrian Rebels Posing Dilemma in West"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/5/13

When it comes to mediums of communication, at lot can be observed "between the lines" so to speak. I just received a questionnaire from the National Republican Party. It immediately asks if I am....(among other things I forget, since I tore it up and pitched it out)... o Conservative GOP o Independent, leaning GOP o Social moderate GOP o Tea Party Member o etc. etc. WTF? Really? I have to chose between Conservative and Tea Party? Can't be both? Bullshit! These guys can go fuck off with their internally sponsored divisions. Oh, they also asked for a sum between $25 and $1000 at this time. Sho' nuff, y'all hold your breath waiting for my check, um-kay. on “Every bit of info it gets is gold.”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/6/13

Lem said... Complimenting on a post like this one is impossible. No, it isn't. I was just about to do so when I saw the other comments. Why bother, eh? Nice pics Meade. That's a lie, Lem...Meade posted a video clip, not pictures, unless you mean "moving pictures." on “Every bit of info it gets is gold.”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog

Not a good sing...a v-e-r-y good thread subject, a dual subject actually, goes dead in under three hours. WTF is wrong here? Must be me. Or not. on “Every bit of info it gets is gold.”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/6/13

Perfect! on An update on Elizabeth O'bagy, Intelligence Analyst Emeritus
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/6/13

Kerry. If his lips are moving, he is lying. Always. on Kerry, with Chris Hayes
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/6/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

You know what?

I'll go ahead and post more Aridog comments up front, that way they may be easier to find later.

ndspinelli said...

Thanks to Chip and Lem in helping Richard "Dick" Thompson's grieving family. Judith is processing this through emails. What bodes well is she is able to laugh. Regarding his funeral. Judith said, "Richard told us all that if we did a traditional funeral and people came up to look @ him and said what people always say, 'Doesn't he look good' his reply was NO HE LOOKS F@#CKN' DEAD! Richard said he would haunt us if we did the traditional funeral."

Judith said Richard was cremated in his favorite jeans, his USACE hat, and a few memento's. You are all people w/ good hearts and should know your kindness to Judith, Kim, and Aridog's family is greatly appreciated. I just got to know Judith through Aridog's death, but she is an open, wonderful, woman.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

I'll continue to post some more, as duty permits...

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Icepick said... After a year they can't tell us what happened in our own compound in Benghazi when we had live video and dozens of people on hand. (Those survivors that they can't get before Congress.) But a few days after an attack in Damascus, in the middle of a civil war in which we are NOT allowed access, they knew what had been done and who had ordered it. Simple. Based on my time and experience in the military and as a "fed", the lie is the truth until the next lie is told. This administration has been a clinic on this technique, one incident after another. No facts are required. Imagination is so much easier to use than actual investigation. on Try This Pose In Front Of A Mirror
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/12/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

El Pollo Raylan said... I want someone to convincingly dismiss the gesture as nothing, or defend its obscenity. ricpic said ... He's a man-child ... Obama's just a juvenile delinquent with the most power of any man in the world. Asked and Answered. on Try This Pose In Front Of A Mirror
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/12/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

ST said ... A child abandoned by a parent, as Obama was by his father,... IIRC, how does the mother never living with the purported father and decamping almost immediately for Mercer Island, Washington qualify as dad abandoning his kidlet? Question: Has Obama's DNA ever been checked to determine actual paternity? Could Barack Sr. have been a convenient stand in stooge for Frank Marshall Davis who took those racy photos of Stanley Ann? Could Gee-maw and Gee-paw have packed their darling slut daughter off out of town for their own reasons? Yeah, there are kinds of possibilities for Obama's fucked up mind. Have I earned my tinfoil hat yet? :-)) on Try This Pose In Front Of A Mirror
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/12/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

bagoh20 said ... Obama just got out bullshitted, ... Why yes he did, and three cheers for that! on Putin Opines
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/12/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Amartel said... He doesn't want to be your president. Nope. He prefers to be your King. Kings can dismiss courtiers at will and are never bound by their advice. Yeah, that's Obama. on What if al-Assad had a son that looked like Trayvon?
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/12/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

bagoh20 said... I don't use shock collars ... Neither do I. Don't believe in them for the kind of dogs I usually deal with...however, I do own one, the mildest one made, with a setting so low it does what you say, mostly vibrates. I needed to use it only three times, years ago, on a big German Shepherd (Ikey Boy) who adored little kids 8 and under, and hated (adults = food group), all adults with about 6 exceptions. Problem: in a neighborhood with many little kids there are mothers ... mothers who occasionally must go and fetch up a recalcitrant kid by the ear or something, accompanied by squeals, etc. Naturally "Ikey Boy" wanted to go kill the mom...and started to go over fences to do so. First time I physically caught him and wrestled him to the ground. Then I went and got a very modest (one 9 volt transistor battery type) e-collar and set it for "medium." Next time Ikey tried to go over the fence, zap. After the third time he quit the fence crossing bit and just growled and on "Remote Control Dog"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/12/13

ndspinelli said...

I mentioned KarenS from the Turley blog. I put her and Aridog together knowing they were kindred spirits. Karen was raised in a military family and is an animal lover, her primary animals being horses. Here is how good a person Karen is. She was helping Judith in gathering writings of Aridog. And, after working hard all day Karen spilled out her heart to me. Her favorite horse of 16 years just died. But, she channeled that pain into helping someone else in pain. There's a powerful lesson for us to learn from that.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

rhhardin is correct of course, but he's talking about truly trainable dogs. For the rest ... owners of working pedigree Beagles and Springer Spaniels have had a cure for run-offs for some time. It is those triple D -Cell size Mag-lite style electronic collar controls you see them afield with now and then. The setting for full recall is "knock'em arse oer' tea kettle" and the indicator is a red button red. on "Remote Control Dog"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/12/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

bagoh20 said... Widespread atrocity didn't start with modern video. Besides, the fact that you are not watching won't stop them from doing it, recording it, and posting it. They mostly do it for each other, not people in the west. I fully agree that is how it used to be, pre-1968 and Uncle Walter pronouncements. Before that, the purpose was to intimidate the locals. After that the purpose was to both intimidate the locals and anyone else, the opposition especially, who listened to the new media broadcast propaganda. No need for huge rallies in a Nuremberg, so to speak. Once engaged with modern information transmission the effect is as Pogo said...like the Hawthorne Effect, but more like a spotlight on a drunk at a football game...when he/she notices, they act out even more. I recall letters from people I knew back home when I was half a world away...asking me if what they heard on television and read in newspapers could possibly be true. Fully 60% of it or more, IIRC, was on “I Saw a Scene of Utter Cruelty”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/13/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Dust Bunny Queen said... Reference: "Is it possible that the increased worlds attention on Syria is causing more people to die?" Yes. The Syrian rebels (aka Al Qaida) know that the American public is easily led by the nose from the MSM. That the majority of people are "tender hearted" and will want to feel that they are able to stop bad things from happening ... Ah...you've either read Vo Nguyen Giap as I've suggested or come to the same conclusions on your own. Out of the cluster of insurgent groups, if they prevail ... there will emerge one in control and it will be Salafist. on “I Saw a Scene of Utter Cruelty”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/13/13

DBQ ... understand your sentiments about Detroit, but Chicago is much larger and has a much bigger gang banger problem. Send the Chicago "youts" guns and personnel to Afghaniland, Syria, and Libya, and both Chicago and Detroit will be improved. Actually send them to Egypt...the military there knows how to deal with assholes... Chicago/Detroit Thug: "Yo, I got my rights, you owe me, give it up, Yo!" Egyptian Military: "K-BLAM! Blam Blam Blam." C/D Thug: **crickets** Egyptians: "NEXT?!" on Syria National Coalition rejects Chemical Weapons Convention
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/13/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Not exactly Janis Joplin or Tina Turner, but remember I am an old coot. My idea of Underground Rock is more along the lines of Pigmy Love Circus on Mad House Clown [studio version] or British Lout If PLC was in town, or nearby, even Chicago, and playing a club in their old way, I'd attend. on The World's A Mess It's In My Kiss
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/14/13

Lem said... I took Althouse's Establishment Clause Test. No you didn't. I checked.You demurred. You actually got it right by not taking a challengethat was logical nonsense: Here's my test: You have 30 seconds. Don't read the article and don't look anything up. Write one sentence articulating a secular purpose for having "In God We Trust" on the money. Do the best you can — that is, be on the Freedom From Religion side for the purposes of this exercise. Not possible. The "don't look anything up" phrase is the key...that the hostess presumes you are too ignorant to get it that she wrote a logical fallacy as a proposition....that you write a Freedom From Religion compliant statement giving purpose to use of the very term they wish removed. Category: Too cute by half on The World's A Mess It's In My Kiss
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/14/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Whoa. They glue, tape or otherwise afix the flare to the board. Man-up boys...hold & carry the flare in one of your hands, like skiers do when they come down a mountain, over bumps, at higher speeds. Burned the crap out of a couple pairs of Bogners and a down jacket or two that way. These guys aren't at much risk of burning themselves, so there's that :-)) on "Flare Surfing"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/16/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Just re-read all the comments on this thread. It reminds me of those semantic gibberish topics on TOP. Phx, you especially, seemed to go off the deep end on the issue of terminology as being more important than actual effects, as if a term is a cause of anything. Others defended a term as if it was sacrosanct, only one IIRC seemed to give it the levity semantic nonsense deserves [Bags]. I cited a specific example of how Obamacare is increasing certain care reductions....due in part to Obamacare's reductions in Medicare funding to fund other aspects of the law. And **crickets**. I think Bagoh20's "CCCP" is a perfect term for the reality of Obamacare. I don't think many people really grasp just how government bureaucracy works to expand its reach and deny benefits in the process....in turn funding increasing federal staff and crony business hand outs. But, as you age, you ARE going to learn. on “This is nasty business”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog

Oh, goodie...I've always wanted to be part of "they", now I am. How'bout that! on “This is nasty business”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/17/13

How comfortable are you with answering the questions on this Medicare required Wellness questionnaire? There are several versions, but you WILL be required to answer these questions on one form or another if you are 65+ years of age. I'm not saying it is good or bad. What do you think about it? Do you detect a "pattern" in the question series? What is it? on “This is nasty business”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/17/13

Let me say it another way: You have no business trying to determine how many turns of the vise screw should be made until your own nuts are in that same vise. THEN it has meaning...the rest is bureaucratic rhetorical bullshit. on “This is nasty business”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/17/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Trooper York asked ... ... do you think that medical care will be rationed as a function of Obamacare ...? Yes, it will...it has to be rationed, if only to make up for the take away from Medicare the PPACA entails. Turn 65 and enjoy MF'rs. I gave a simple example earlier on this thread. It will also apply to more serious matters. I am very glad my case went before the "Cancer Board" of a major hospital in 2012. By 2013 I doubt I'd have been allocated treatment. Treatment that was successful as of my last check up 21 August 2013, by the way. on “This is nasty business”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/17/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Purportedly that is a flow chart, but really, it is an organization of power chart. I've seen worse in both the military and the civil fed...but it is still a classic complex tautology....and those can not be defeated in politics. Propositional logic always wins in politics. It is a perfect system where total bullshit is considered valid. If you ever reach that point where that chart makes sense to you, from a process flow standpoint, watch out...little men in whites coats will be coming to take you away. Ha Ha. on We passed it. Guess what's in it.
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/17/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Leland .... I read your first sentence and jumped to a conclusion. Then I read the rest and deleted my post saying exactly what you had already said. Dang. on Obama: "Raising the Debt Ceiling... Does Not Increase Our Debt"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/19/13

ndspinelli said...

Enjoying reading the comments you have dug out of the archives, Lem. Judith and Kim[wife and daughter] are getting together tonight to commiserate. I am sure they'll be reading these and visualizing Aridog saying them.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Just for giggles, here is the text of the Continuing Resolution up for debate now. Maybe I missed it, but see if you can find a line specifically prohibiting funding of any kind for the ACA? What I see is an *ommission* of an ACA allocation under the H&HS section, presumably acting as "defunding." It makes no difference worded that way...any funding allocated to H&HS may be re-allocated as H&HS sees fit under the CR rules, not to mention funds from other allocations at the administration's discretion. Think not? Okay, tell me who would stop them? It's never been "stopped" before, and Justice is rather unlikely...aw, you know. If I have missed a section in my scanning of the text, please tell me and correct me. on 'Defund Obamacare Vote close to 250'
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/20/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Thank ChipA. He truly has performed a yeoman's job.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Bagoh20 ... Happy Birthday! You have a long ways to go before you look like a Truly Old Dude. These days I'm happy if no one thinks I am 80+. on "you have to say, please, no soup for you"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/22/13

AllenS said... Make everyone, especially to pro-Obamacare lovers, eat the shit sandwich also...Good on Paul. When Paul really calls their bluff and puts up a solid specific Joint Senate-House Bill (an Act of Congress) to eliminate the ACA, period, for everyone or apply it to everyone, including those who created exceptions for themselves (Congress) or acquired waivers otherwise, and lets see how the votes go then, with unions against, populace against, Congress-critters wanting to keep their FEHBP, Justices as well, etc. All the rest of this CR shit is just that...pure shit. on 'Rand Paul wants Chief Justice Roberts to enroll in Obamacare'
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/23/13

AprilApple ... as I've cited previously on this topic, a Continuing Resolution (CR) does NOT prevent any funding per se, even if a particular project is not mentioned in said CR. Politicians (Cruz and Paul included) are already calling this long term CR a "budget"...which it definitely is not, it is a Resolution to continue funding at prior levels and does NOT have defined appropriative authority within it. In short, the populace is being shucked and jived by DC, and the administration. Much bodice ripping and wailing and nothing will change when the CR passes. If the government is shut down, that will be a executive branch decision with or without specific provision for the ACA in the CR. CR's let agencies move money around, just like was done this year with the Obama Pre-school Initiative....that theoretically had no funding in the 2013 CR's. We are being conned now that these resolutions are budgets or the equivalent...and I will say again, that they are NOT, based on a couple on 'Rand Paul wants Chief Justice Roberts to enroll in Obamacare'
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/23/13

Joe Biden, America's Putin said...

RIP, Aridog.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

This one is current event-ely...

Liberals just hate guns, and they loathe the concept of self-defense, whether that self-defense takes the form of a gun or fists. Right. Except in my experience dogmatic local liberals insist on gun control for you, but not so much for them. If a Michigan liberal feels even moderately threatened, the hire armed body guards, or go apply for their own CPL...because shut up. In Michigan, remember, about 80%+ of Republicans are liberals, and the Democrats are hopeless ... you can't them apart if they don't have their lapel pin on. on "The U.S. Has More Guns, But Russia Has More Murders"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/23/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Lem ... while I admire Senator Cruz, the fact is a filibuster is a temporary measure, in this case, designed to defeat or sustain another temporary measure known as a Joint CR. At this point (channeling Hillary), Cruz has little choice but to try to slow ACA down, but he cannot stop it by temporary means when it is already the law of the land. The PPACA will still stand as the law of the land with or without funding text in a CR. By the time sundry lawsuits reach SCOTUS and hordes of new ACA participants are allowed to sign up without means testing for subsidy (deferred until 2015 by Executive Order IIRC), the ACA will be bumping along ruining lives as it goes. on "'Family glitch' in health law could be painful"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/24/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

What Pogo and AllenS said. May God bless you and keep you, Trooper. on Trooper Is In Our Thoughts And Prayers
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/26/13

You can't sleep? Stop looking at that picture. I'll do it for you. Great to hear you are recovering well, and sound chipper. Happy birthday and all that, and good of you to share with the nurses. on Happy birthday, dear Trooper
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 9/27/13

Cute video...young good looking guy. Now lets try it with Harry Reid in the naked man role and see how he's received? Or Alan Grayson? Or Al Franken? Or Henry Waxman? And of course, Carlos Danger! on Applause or Contempt for the "boner"?
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/1/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Lem said ... Why shouldn't the congress, thought its constitutional authority over the purse, not be able to say, well, we aren't going to finance this law given a number of factors, ... Very simply because Congress has surrendered its authority to formally budget. We've not had one for going on 5 years now. Do we see a pattern there? The Continuing Resolution, HJ 59 as amended (yes, I have read all of it) violates common sense, and tries to violate the Anti-Deficiency Act. The PPACA is a-l-r-e-a-d-y fully fund obligated for every damn thing scheduled for execution between now and 15 Dec 2013. In other words, the fine line between "authorization" and "appropriation" was already crossed for the purpose implied as challenging by Democrats or necessary by Republicans in this CR debate. BOTH were and are full of shit. There is other blarney in the debate about amending an authorization by a temporary measure like a "continuing" resolution. Hello!...a CR has a start date and an on Harry Reid
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/3/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

I'm not going to name the author of this piece, just say that it is the best succinct summary of how things work I've read this year: I don't think enough people realize that private business pays for everything. The excess prodcutive output of people working voluntarily and cooperatively in businesses pays for everything else. Everything the government does for you as well as everything you buy yourself starts out as private business productivity. It's the engine of it all. Consequently, whether you believe in big government or small, you should still recognize that supporting business is not only necessary, but primary. And what most of us want in the way of support is to be left alone, to be allowed to run without our shoes tied together. We know how to do our jobs, and if we don't some other business will replace us. Of course, we need roads, courts, police, and stability, etc., but that's rarely the focus of our government today. Handling those responsibilities has taken a back on Where private business succeeds
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/9/13

ndspinelli said...

Chip, You have done the Lord's work.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Leland said... Ref: The law was 100% on their side. Hey now, that was the law of the land at the time. Obama just changed the law. That's why the bondholders got stiffed. Why yes he did...just like he unilaterally changed the Affordable Care Act law that said everything starts 01 Jan 2014. Obama decided that businesses would not be required to met the specifications of the law until 2015, and some of those exempted & waived forever, but individuals would still be required to comply in 2014....as the PPACA stipulates for all of the above. No new legislation is necessary, because it is all in how the Executive Branch interprets the vague law, and it is designed to be that way...law by regulation. The SCOTUS agreed...a fee for non-performance is not classified as a tax, usually something applied to performance, not a penalty. When will the populace wake up and realize we are on the cusp of a pure autocracy where no legislature or court is necessary? That the opposition in Congress on “We always have enough money to pay our debt service”
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/9/13

Rabel said... And here - Kaiser - is a calculator which will give you an estimate for a Silver plan. And as for the other Kaiser calculators, it cuts off at age 64. I presume no Obamacare supplemental insurance for anyone on Medicare parts A & B. I could be wrong, but I have seen nothing saying otherwise. Obamacare does decrease funding for Medicare by the amount previously allocated for Medicare Advantage...which was a form of supplemental coverage in addition to A&B. I note that Humana and others are still selling "Medicare Advantage" plans however. Is it possible to fully separate the lies from the facts in this mess? For now I am not impacted as my coverage continues uninterrupted, but with ever increasing costs for accommodate Obammycare. Even automobile insurance has been impacted seriously in no-fault states by potential liabilities for unlimited medical care ... my own just went up $318.00 per year for PL on a record of no violations, no accidents, no claims of on We paid $634 m for Obamacare websites that dont work
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/10/13

I said... Maybe before anyone gets the right to vote in elections the law should require 3 years service in a government bureaucracy so voters would actually know a bit about how it really works. Another thing they'd learn is just what parts of government are totally unnecessary, starting with the hugely inflated senior executive levels, all "flag ranks", as well as our immense number of Generals and Admirals for an ever shrinking enlisted force. on "White House, IRS exchanged confidential taxpayer info"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/10/13

I am seriously amused by what is humorously called "government shutdown"... one where 80%+ of the government is still at their jobs and a majority portion of those actually furloughed will be paid for time not worked. In short, because we didn't get a amenable Continuing Resolution that only lasts a couple months, we don't have the money to run the government...er, ah, other than the 80% still working and the 20% who will be paid for not working, adding up to 100%> What shutdown are we having? We decides what gets "shut down" and in some cases shut down areas require 100% more federal employees to shut down that it does to leave open? I can't believe the populace of the USA is so naive that they actually buy in to this Kabuki Theater. Doesn't anyone realize that the very details of this shutdown, when virtually little is actually shut down, and what is "closed" is politically arranged, implies a future where Congress is irrelevant and the Courts are immaterial. I've seen the word on "White House, IRS exchanged confidential taxpayer info"
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/10/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

El Pollo Raylan ....gets it. His comment at 9:54 AM today nails it for what it is by way of analogy. Think about it...how many wheels, such as automobile wheels for example, do you see today that actually have a hub for a coordinating core or are most of them essentially comprised of strong spokes meeting to form a solid bond and run the wheel along its way? on When Negotiating Becomes Impassé
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/12/13

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Gawd, it this thing still going on? Rhythm and Balls said... Ari - also, lying is a part of the human condition. It's not just a political thing. But more often than not, it also just as easily boils down to mixed messages and confused priorities. If that rationalization gives you comfort, go for it. Bold face lies, however, are seldom a mixed message. They are intended to intimidate you, or at the very least confuse you. Bold face lies are what is expected of you, from you, and to you in government. Spend some time there in a leadership position is see for yourself. About the time a supervisor misrepresents blatantly something you've said, written, or analyzed, clearly, with math to back it up, and demands you concur...I suspect you will see some light. Mixed message or a lie? "I never said I draw a red line ... (it was everyone!)" Why, no you didn't, sir, the groveling acolytes all said. And that was a very minor fib among a sea of gigantic whoppers on B-O-T-H sides. on When Negotiating Becomes Impassé
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/12/13

Michael Haz said... The Treasury Department has the authority to pay interest on America's borrowings ... 1. True, up to a point ...e.g., if the President/Administration doesn't muddle with the system. 2. A failure of contingent collateral securing debt leaves debt insecure and at risk of a domino like collapse. If a government's money cannot survive a collapse, there can be no bailout. Contingent debt is founded on the idea of "full faith & credit"..when that is gone, it's done. 3. After this "shut down" charade I have no confidence that this administration party and this President won't do something incredibly stupid just to make a what he imagines is a political point. 4. Here is our vaunted Secretary of the Treasury's official unenlightened testimony about the debt ceiling, this week. And this after he advised the House earlier that we're out of money 17 Oct 13. 5. Do you feel encouraged? 6. Mr Lew has said: "Extending borrowing authority does not increase government on Why Insult the People you Lend to?
Remove content | Delete | Spam Aridog on 10/13/13

Christy said...

Rest in Peace, Aridog.

ndspinelli said...

CORRECTION: Judith chuckled about the photo mistake I MADE. That is Dick's daughter, Kim, not Judith. I feel like an idiot, but c'est la vie.

Judith is still processing and I will share more information. The last month was tough. Medicare required Ari be moved from a hospital to a rehab facility. That was done last Friday. But Ari had not been out of bed for days. At the rehab facility he tried to turn in bed, fell out, and ended up in the ER of ANOTHER hospital! The next day, Saturday 6/11/16, Father Zibigniew was visiting. A very weak Ari wrote a note to Father saying, "BLESS ME." Ari always said when Father blessed him he would feel warm all over. Judith said, "He made his decision and 2 days later the Good Lord abided it." Judith wants us to know Ari was smiling before he died on Monday. The Father had reassured Ari, "God loves us more than our sins."

Lem, if you could have my back and change the photo caption I will be eternally grateful. I know Ari is laughing.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Ok. No problem. Do you have something to replace it with?

Leland said...

RIP Aridog. Thanks for reposting the comments Lem. I think Aridog was one of the closest here to understanding me. Thanks for keeping us informed Nick.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Is that better?

Third Coast said...

Was thinking about the absence of Aridog posts a couple of days ago and suspected something was amiss. His commentary will be missed.

Bleach Drinkers Curing Coronavirus Together said...

Very, very sad news. Aridog was a great guy.

Rest in peace.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

I sent out a R.I.P. tweet mentioning he was an Althouse commenter.

ndspinelli said...

Lem, Great clutch hit. That's perfect now. Thanks.

ndspinelli said...

Lem, I forgot about Althouse. Good thinking!

ndspinelli said...

Leland, As I've said to others, no thanks needed. It's an honor. And as I've gotten to know his wife, Judith, it just seems so easy.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

Lem, I forgot about Althouse. Good thinking!

Most of his blog time is probably there, I'm guessing.

Bleach Drinkers Curing Coronavirus Together said...

I think Aridog was one of the few of this pack here and at TOP that I infiltrate whom I actually ever let get away with lecturing me.

He was the Ritmo Whisperer.

poppa india said...

I first knew Dick around 1960 at the Michigan boarding school we both attended. I was a sophomore in his senior year, so the acquaintance was short-lived. Then a few years ago I ran into him at TOP when he was discussing his high school years. Turns out we both were in the Army & in Viet-Nam about the same time, so we shared a few notes and some pictures. He was happy to hear that my son was in the Army in Korea , doing a job apparently similar to his work there. At school he was a popular and decisive student-leader and later had an interesting and useful life. My condolences to his friends and family. RIP

bagoh20 said...

Dick and I communicated some privately, but we never met in person. We worked together to help Palladian, and Dick's humanity and sweetness came through like a beacon. It was clear that he really cared about people. He was the perfect combination of strength, intelligence, and compassion that we rarely see, but most of us men hope to be to those around us. From what I can tell, he succeeded at being an unalloyed example of what a man should be. He will always be one of those rare men who I will think of when challenged to be my best. I hardly knew him, yet he gave me more than I could ask from the closest of friends. I'll miss you.

bagoh20 said...

It's amazing what you can assume to glean about a person just by reading their words, but I'm very confident I got him right. It's impossible for him to be otherwise and still to have written what he did over the years.

ndspinelli said...

bag, Both his wife and daughter marvel @ how true his words here and other blogs are so true to who he was. Not surprising. I think most of us are real. Reading his words the last day or so has been comfort to them. It's like watching home movies of him w/ friends. My old man had an 8mm camera for home movies. We would watch them around Christmas time. But, he had some he held back. We kids were of course curious. After he died we watched them. He and the neighbors would have parties and play spin the bottle. Just kissing, nothing more. But, it was so much fun to watch. Dad wasn't in many because he was the cameraman. Except when it was his turn to spin. Mom took the camera and it looked like a squirrel on crack w/ Parkinson's was shooting.

ndspinelli said...

His daughter is absolutely beautiful.

ndspinelli said...

poppa india, Thanks for the history.

JAL said...

@Michael Haz 2:16 PM
Amen and amen.

And may his family know God's comfort.

I always read aridog's comments.

I appreciate his wife letting ndspinelli know and then letting us know. We need to remember those who make this community unique.

Methadras said...

Wow, this is fantastic thing to read these old posts. Dammit, why are my eyes sweating?!

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

I sent spinelli a copy of all the comments ChipA was so wizardly able to squeeze out of the intertubes.

That Chip is something else.

Lem the artificially intelligent said...

I only posted like one fifth of what's available.

ndspinelli said...

I forwarded the archived comments to Judith, giving kudos to Chip for all his hard work.

virgil xenophon said...

Knew he was ill but although the days may drag, the weeks and months just fly by--especially at my age. I was thinking of him last week and wondering how he was getting along as it had been quite awhile since I had last read him here. I ALWAYS enjoyed reading his comments. We were muy simpatico about so very many things due mainly to our age and shared experiences. Never met the man, but certainly admired him. Fair winds and following seas as they say in the Navy. RIP, Aridog, RIP.

Chip Ahoy said...

About half way through, Aridog goes through a phase of saying "TILT!" to everything.





AllenS said...

I sent Palladian an email about Aridog's passing. I hope he is ok. Haven't heard from him in months.

ndspinelli said...

Chip, From an email I received this afternoon from Judith.

"Truly a labor of love. And for us, in place of 3 grueling days @ the funeral home we have been able to immerse ourselves in Richard's mind and follow his thoughts-some predictable and some not. What a gift. God bless you Chip for the peace your are bringing to broken hearts."

You are a very good man, Chip.

MamaM said...

Thank you, ND, for serving as the connection. I was sorry to hear of Aridog's death. He had a strong spirit, and was someone to whom honor, duty and integrity mattered. He stood up for what he believed was right, was unabashed in doing so, and attempted to work through conflict when he encountered it. I appreciated his openess, honesty, feistiness, and curiosity, along with the regard he held for those in his care and neighborhood. He spoke highly of his wife and daughter (though some of those comments may be lost forever in Trooper York's unsortable archives); and he held his beloved four legged companions close to his heart as well. His respect for his family, along with his devotion, was clearly conveyed. Aridog appeared to relish a good discussion and was willing to clarifiy points and ask questions for more info. I appreciated his comments and interactions online. He was one of a kind and he is and will be missed and remembered.

vbspurs said...

Aridog and I never inhabited Althouse at the same time, that I remember. But the loss of his life, and what it means to so many is one we all feel deeply. May God rest him in the peace of his love forever.

(Thanks so much, Lem, for letting me know -- and greetings to all my favourite commenters in the world. Miss you all)

Cheers,
Victoria

ndspinelli said...

Aridog liked the Turley blog. A guest blogger, Darren, sent Ari's widow all of his comments and Turley wrote a condolence email to her. Impressive.

Darcy said...

I was so sorry to hear. Gosh, I liked him.

He'd invited me to church at one time. I wish I'd done that.