A Pattern of Fear: Nebraska GOP's Health Care Problem

Show Ben The Light (0.00 / 0)

I'm starting to wonder if the SEIU is using the Republican strategy for building.  The Repugs beat on the Guns, God & Gays drum forever to stir up the morons & never did a damn thing to pass anything to solve any of the issues.  If they had, they couldn't use the issues to stir up the morons.

Now the SEIU has Jane & Co. talking health care reform & EFCA, but they're backing the Benator who is determined to undermine their issues.  It's true, sugar attracts more roaches than vinegar, but I'm more inclined to believe the carrot & stick approach works better.  SEIU is all carrot & no stick.  If they're serious they need to get out some 2x4's and show the Benator the light.

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by: R. Schommer @ Wed Jun 17, 2009 at 18:39:37 PM CDT

Speak loudly and carry a really big stick (0.00 / 0)

I've come to the conclusion, like you R.S., that the only way we're going to get anything done around here is to speak very loudly, and carry a really big stick. What has fawning over Sen. Nelson gained for the Nebraska Democratic Party after all these years? He still acts like the most Republican of all the Senators in the Democratic Caucus, voting for the things that Democrats believe in only when it is something that is going to pass easily anyway. On those issues that are critical to us, he seems to vote in a "bipartisan" way, meaning he sides with the Republicans. Recently he delivered a slap in our faces by going against the Employee Free Choice Act, something the NDP SCC voted unanimously to support!

Some time ago, I posted a comment critical of Sen. Nelson on the NDP blog. What was the result? The NDP blog no longer allows common Democrats to post anything there. It has deteriorated into nothing but a showcase for pro-Nelson propaganda. Censorship has reared its ugly head and the Senator has demonstrated all to clearly his stranglehold on our party. When even an officer of the party (I am the 3rd CD Associate Chair - one of the NDP's 13 officers) is silenced in order to protect Nelson's kingdom, then we have trouble right here in River City my friends.

I believe the Nebraska Democratic Party belongs to the people, not to the vested interests that have bought and paid for Sen. Nelson's votes. When the only way to carry on any debate about whether or not we Liberals within the party should support Nelson, seeing as how little he has supported us, we are muted. I have decided to take my crusade public. In fact, I have even posted my comments over on Leavenworth Street. It is sad that, in order to freely discuss matters that concern Nebraska's Liberal Democrats, we find a more open access to public on blogs like NNN and Leavenworth Street than we can on our own party's website.

While over on Leavenworth Street, I noticed that they have posted a screen grab from Lisa Hannah's (3rd CD Chair) Facebook page. I was aware of this some time ago, but now that it is out in the open I feel obliged to comment on it. I find it disgraceful that Lisa, after having benefitted by working for both Scott Kleeb and his wife, Jane, has chosen to bite the hands that fed her. Evidently she was fired from her job with SEIU/Change That Works Nebraska, then she attacked them with the same argument that many Republicans used against Scott during his runs for Congress in 2006 and 2008. She wrote, "Beware of fake cowboys and girls, and false Nebraskans."

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 01:33:03 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

R U kidding me? (0.00 / 0)

How can anyone think they can convince Nelson of anything without giving him money first. That is the only thing that crook understands. Is the SEIU funneling cash into his wallet?

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by: Ed @ Sat Jun 20, 2009 at 22:49:28 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Brian, you're a hypocrite (0.00 / 0)

Lisa's generalities mentioned on social networking sites are, in your opinion, evil and hateful attacks. Yet you attack her weekly (I assume you're a busy man who can't get to it more frequently). Furthermore, you attack Ben Nelson.

I always thought Democratic party existed solely to get people elected, yet you believe they exist to morph the United States of America into the United Stated of America as approved by Brian T Osborn. Since when did all things political need your stamp of approval?

I surmise that your attacks on Lisa are based on your attempt to usurp her authority and replace it with your own. It's a coup without the ak-47's or fancy uniforms. You're trying to drive her out by bullying her, and accuse her of doing just that. The fact is, you're damp at the thought of taking over as Chair. You can taste the power.

As for attacking Nelson, why bother, he listens to people who have something constructive to say. You don't.

BTW the screen capture from Lisa's facebook acct was almost certainly done by Bud Pettigrew. Bud is one of Brian's disciples, and does what he's told. Lisa unfriended him. Bud once called Lisa "Hitler" in a most Osbornesque way. I recommend not EVER doing that again.

Lisa's issues with Jane Kleeb should be private, but they're now not. Do you know whare they let her know she was being terminated? In the middle of a busy Starbucks. That's some Nebraska values right there.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 12:07:53 PM CDT

Usurp power? (0.00 / 0)

Roger you seem to answer your own questions when you accuse Brian of "usurping power".  What about accepting responsibility?  "Power" in voluntary organizations will always flow to those who are willing to accept the responsibilities.  Whatever power has been "usurped" has been because the person who was supposed to take the responsibility didn't and somebody else had to pick up the slack.  I did not say that happened you did.  What responsibilities did Lisa not accept and where did Brian pick up the slack?
You state that Lisa's issue with the Kleebs should be private.  You are correct but who posted the issue on Facebook, a distinctively not private place?
Brian is not Lisa's problem.  Lisa is not Brian's problem.  Both of their problems are self-induced.  Lisa made the tragic mistake of not getting the powers that be, in 2008, in the NDP Leadership, to sign off on her being the 3rd CD Chair.  Brian does not hide his light under a bushel basket very well.  He knows that.
Frankly the rest of us are getting tired of the matter.

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by: tomh @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 15:21:59 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Brian.. (0.00 / 0)

thinks any decision made by Lisa has to be ratified by him before it's finalized. Since when did that become the norm? Brian wants control, and attacks Lisa in the hopes she quits. Betchya a dollar that any decisions he makes as chair won't be submitted to the assoc chair for review.

Facebook, if set to private, friends only viewing, is for eyes only of those friends. Bud Pettigrew did some spying for Brian.  

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by: Roger Hannah @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 17:37:11 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Be careful what you post (0.00 / 0)

Mr. Hannah,

My criticisms of your wife and Sen. Nelson are certainly not evil nor hateful. They are criticisms rightly applied to address situations that I do not support.

As a citizen of Scotland, one that has openly criticized the U.S. Government and our American society, you probably are unaware of some of the rights that our U.S. Constitution affords us. Freedom of speech is one of those that I find most sacrosanct. As for the Nebraska Democratic Party constitution, it lists at least five reasons for its existence. Allow me to list them for you as they appear in its preamble:

We, the members of the Nebraska Democratic Party in order
1) to advance the principles of social justice and democracy,
2) to uphold human and civil rights and constitutional government,
3) to affiliate with and advance the interests of the National Democratic Party,
4) to aid in the election of Democratic officials, and
5) to organize and perpetuate a representative and effective party organization in the State of Nebraska,
do establish this constitution for the Nebraska Democratic Party.

Now, my reading of that indicates that the Democratic Party exists for more than the mere act of getting people elected. My reading of the U.S. Constitution, in particular - its Bill of Rights, indicates to me that I have the right to my own opinions and the right to freely express them.

Rest assured I do not lust after the position of Chair of the 3rd CD, the thought of that does not get me "damp." To be honest with you, the responsibilities such a position entails delivers about as much satisfaction as does herding cats. The "power" inherent in that position isn't all that you have been led to believe.

Sen. Nelson listens to those that line his pockets, and those that can sway votes away from him.

If I were Bud Pettigrew, the Chair of Chairs of the Nebraska Democratic Party, I believe I would be looking into suing you for slander, based on the accusation you have made against him on this blog. You have no evidence of what you claim. I would, however, recommend that you and your wife refrain from posting things on Facebook, and other social networking sites, that you wouldn't want to be read by the entire world. As a person who's employment is dependent on keeping a Green Card valid, I would also be extremely careful about tossing around veiled threats against American citizens. Remember that nothing on the internet is private nor secret, and, it is permanent.

Oh, and by the way, Mr. Pettigrew is a man of his own mind. I do not control him. Nor do I have "disciples." Would that I did.

I am glad that you and your Mrs. can afford to frequent Starbucks. Evidently the Kleebs paid her well. So tell me, Roger, why was she terminated?

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 16:02:17 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Brian (0.00 / 0)

I stated my opinion of what political parties exist to do. Not what they stand for. I'm curious to hear how Nelson and my wife contravene those things you believe the NDP stands for.

As for Bud suing me. I don't recommend a slander suit as I wrote that he called my wife Hitler. That would be libel; a case I welcome as I'd eagerly show the judge and jury the copy of the e-mail in which he calls my wife Hitler.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 17:43:23 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Libel / slander (0.00 / 0)

I don't know either of you guys, but as someone who got an A in Comm Law (maybe even an A+ -- it was a long time ago), I can tell you that you're not going to have much luck suing someone for libel because they said something mean in an email. The whole point of the libel / slander claim is that you've been publicly defamed, and it appears that the only one who has made this Hitler line public is the representative of the victim (which kind of undermines the idea that the victim suffered from this attack). Now on the other hand, publicly accusing someone of doing something they didn't do would be more eligible for a libel or slander charge (if that lie met the rest of the libel / slander criteria).

And for the record, this is not legal advice. And John Fogerty was sued for ripping himself off.

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by: Neal Obermeyer @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 18:36:24 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Roger (0.00 / 0)

You stated your opinion and I stated facts, hoping you would learn something of value. To slake your curiosity, I offer you this:

Sen. Nelson has spoken publicly against issues that the NDP, in resolutions voted upon by the NDP State Central Committee, and in its Platform, have elected to support. He has also frequently opposed issues that President Obama needs his help on. Given the overwhelming support of the Nebraska Democratic Party that President Obama received, I would think our party's "most important Democrat," as your wife tends to call him, should try to help him achieve his goals rather than constantly offer resistance in the name of bi-partisanship.

As for the things that your wife and I have disagreed on, sometimes quite publicly, they generally deal with her style of leadership. She has, in the past, arbitrarily cancelled a meeting that the 3rd CDO had voted to hold, giving as her reason that her parents were having their wedding anniversary on the same date. Then she didn't hold another meeting until nine months into her term, despite the CDO's expressed desire to meet more frequently. She attempted to appoint the Secretary and Treasurer of the 3rd CDO, completely disregarding the fact that we had already established that they would be elected. She attempted to eliminate a committee, - again, voted upon by the body of the 3rd CDO - and replace it with one of her own choosing, including appointing a new chair of the committee, without so much as a nod to others in the organization.

In the year that she has held the position as Chair of the 3rd CD, she has attended exactly one meeting of the 3rd CDO. I chaired the most recent one, in McCook, because she had a wedding to attend which was much more important for her, yet she questioned everything that happened there, without even contacting me, but including several of her Hastings friends in the discussions. She promised that I would have a parliamentarian from Hastings there to assist at the meeting ... who never showed, but finds fault with all that was done.

At our last 3rd CD Caucus meeting, I raised a point of order concerning a topic that she had just raised ... and she tried to throw me out of the meeting for being "out of order." Her conduct was abhorrent and rude. She answered her cell phone in the middle of the meeting she was chairing and talked at length, ignoring the members of the Caucus, wasting their time.

I may not have called your wife by a name like "Hitler" but I have told her that I think she acts like a dictator. I do not tolerate despots very well.

Lisa also has a very limited understanding of what the NDP Constitution has to say about the Congressional District Organizations. Many of her comments lead me to believe that she hasn't even read it. If she had, she would understand that the CDOs are NOT subordinate to the NDP State Central Committee. I think she must believe they are something like an affiliated caucus, which they most definitely are not.

Neil Obermeyer answered your silly statement about libel, and your evident culpability in slandering Bud Pettigrew.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 19:58:49 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Roger, again. (0.00 / 0)

The complete quote from your wife's infamous Facebook comment was: "Beware of fake cowboys & girls, and false Nebraskans. Roger suggests a malkey (sic) on them."

Curiosity got my cat. I just had to find out what the word "malkey" meant, so I looked it up:

Malky - a Scottish term used to mean a beating, 'kicking' or even murder. (e.g., "Ye're gannae get the malky" or "I'm getting malkied tonight" (I'm going to get drunk/intoxicated).) It was a staple of the TV comedy series Rab C. Nesbitt. Malky is now widely used by Scottish youth as a word for headering someone, e.g. "I'm going to header you" would be said "A'm gonnae malky ye"

So, tell me Roger, is it a good thing for a foreign national to be making violent threats against American citizens, especially when they are his wife's ex-employers?

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Fri Jun 19, 2009 at 00:17:47 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

Header? (0.00 / 0)

You should take more care of your cat. I realize they are an independent species, but neglect is no laughing matter.

In other news, somebody thinks Irony is what you diggy out of the groundy with a picky.

I hav'nae gied some radge a malkie in a guid fortnight of mair. Ah sais tae him, "Ye keekin at mah burd?" He sais "What if ah am?" he'd a been chibbed, but he wiz a fanny.

I wouldn't dream of talking like that to her current employers.

As for you attempts to intimidate me. Do call the police. I'll happily talk to them, NNN, Leavenworth Street, and anyone else who's curious to see why someone is so desperately hateful of my wife to threaten her husband with deportation, lawsuits and arrest. I find it laughable. Personal attacks on my wife, not so much.

Besides, if you're going off on me, you're not doing any of the usual damage you usually accomplish.

   

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by: Roger Hannah @ Fri Jun 19, 2009 at 19:23:33 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

The truth. (0.00 / 0)

You said you were "curious to hear how Nelson and my wife contravene those things you believe the NDP stands for." So I told you.

I offered you some good advice. You come back play acting like a tough guy.

I don't "go off" on people, Roger. I do criticize where criticism is called for. I'm sorry you and your wife can't handle the truth.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Fri Jun 19, 2009 at 20:36:18 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Threats. (0.00 / 0)

I am probably one of the very few members of the NDP that have actually worked, as a civilian, overseas. I have experienced the situation of having to behave myself while a guest in a foreign country in order to maintain my employment there. My suggestions to you were offered as sound advice, from someone that has lived a similar experience. You chose to accept that good advice as veiled threats.

Maybe I, and anyone else who read Lisa's Facebook comment, interpreted it incorrectly. We'd love to hear her explanation of it.

By the way, I find your defense of your wife quite honorable, however misguided. Anyone involved in politics, at any level, cannot expect to be treated with kid gloves. It is an ugly sport only for the strong hearted.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Fri Jun 19, 2009 at 20:54:29 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Re: Ugliness (0.00 / 1)

Anyone involved in politics, at any level, cannot expect to be treated with kid gloves. It is an ugly sport only for the strong hearted.

Brian-

Your idea of treating people "with kid gloves" includes showing any respect at all for those with different opinions than your own.  Your idea of being "strong hearted" justifies endless assaults on people's character and competence without any sense of common decency.

You've embraced this "ugly sport" so completely that it long ago perverted your motives, and you now drip poison into the heart of the Nebraska Democratic Party.  Congratulations - the ugliness in politics is you.

Whether filing ludicrous charges against the NDP with our highly partisan Republican Attorney General or now leaking stories damaging a fellow NDP leader to a highly partisan Republican blog, I hope you are very proud of yourself.

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by: Kyle Michaelis @ Fri Jun 19, 2009 at 22:21:32 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Coming from you Kyle. (0.00 / 0)

I'll take all of that as a compliment.

So I don't play the game according to those, like you, that have rolled over and allowed neo-Republicans to play them like a fiddle. My experience with fighting is that, when you play by the Marquess of Queensbury rules, you get hurt nearly as much as your adversary, even if you win. The best thing to do when challenged is to use blunt force, making sure your opponent goes down quick and doesn't get back up.

There you go again with your "ludicrous charges" attack. You know, Kyle, the charges I made have never been disproved and you have never made the slightest attempt at disproving them, despite my frequent invitations to do so. All you've done is, as always, sling rhetoric at it, shouting your accusations of heresy at me.

Roger accused Bud Pettigrew of leaking info to Leavenworth Street. Now you are accusing me of it. Neither of you have admitted the fact that what was displayed there was written by Lisa Hannah for all the world to see. Then, rather than defend, with an explanation, what was written, you attack the messenger. Once again, never addressing the real issue.

You rant about "showing respect for those with different opinions," and yet, how much respect have you ever shown for my differing opinions? Whenever I refuse to follow the mantra laid out by you, and others, that expect oaths of fealty to those who fight against the demonstrated collective will of the NDP, as voted upon in resolutions, and written into our party platform, you make it into a rant against me.

When I fight against what, in my opinion, are the forces that have done, and are doing, damage to the Nebraska Democratic Party, then you are damned right that I am very proud of myself, Kyle.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Sat Jun 20, 2009 at 11:16:29 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

I wasn't going to comment (0.00 / 0)

But in this case, I have to say something that a wise person once told me (i.e. my mother).  I find the statement to be quite useful and pertinent to this discussion.

'You become a slave to spoken words that are made out of anger and spite, but you can become a master of them when you with-hold your comments.'  I.e. If you have nothing nice to say then don't say it at all.

I don't presume to know what motivates you, Brian.  I think your heart is in the right place.  I just don't like seeing visceral anger that stems from bitterness coming from anyone.  I think it's repugnant.  It might come as a surprise but I was once a spiteful person (some say I might still be).  However I found out the hard way that life is WAY too short to be like that.  I just wish that perhaps maybe you can realize that words do matter to people and how you use them can affect the outcome of relationships.  Sometimes the consequences of saying nasty statements can be far worse than what actions can do.  But don't take it from me because I'm not nearly as experienced in life as you are.  I'm sure you'll dismiss what I say, anyways.  But I do like to believe that common courtesy is a gift that is as virtuous as patience.

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by: Luke P. @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 11:15:20 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

Silence is golden? (0.00 / 0)

Luke,

When you are content with the status quo, then holding your tongue is an admirable thing to do. When you realize that the only way to effect change is for you speak out, then do as my great-great-great grandfather, David Crockett, said: "Be always sure you're right, then go ahead." He also said, "Let your tongue speak what your heart thinks."

When you are attending tea parties and social events then the advice you give probably is appropriate. Politics however, is a whole 'nother beast. We cannot expect things to change when we sit on our hands. Politics is all about ideas and no one will know what ideas you support when you remain silent.

This nation we live in came about because men with strong wills, strong hearts, and even stronger words, stood up to despots like King George III. They were willing to sacrifice everything, including their lives, to ensure that we could speak our minds. Freedom to say what we wish was so important that it is included in the very first part of the Bill of Rights.

I admit that I quickly run short of virtues such as common courtesy and patience. As you grow older, and the time left for you to make your mark in this world diminishes, you might find that anger and impatience become more effective tools. I know I have.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 11:58:12 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

Not taking a side here but have to laugh... (0.00 / 0)

I'm not taking sides in this sophmoric personal insult-a-thon but I did snicker when I read this gem:

"...the only way to effect change is for you speak out..."

Brian, If your statement were true, we'd all beliving in Brian T Osborn Land occasionally bowing in the direction of our supreme exalted leader Brian T. Osborn.

(that's the cue to attack me for my anonymous posting)

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by: huskersolon @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 12:50:54 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

You need a lesson in logic (0.00 / 0)

By speaking out, change is not guaranteed.
However not speaking out guarantees nothing will change.

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by: TedK @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 14:17:39 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I don't want to disappoint you. (0.00 / 0)

Husker Solo,

Evidently you haven't read enough of the things I've written over the years. I really don't want people to follow me, I want them to open their eyes, their ears, and their minds, and then use their own voices to drown me out. I have invited exactly that time and again.

The one thing in politics that irritates me the most are those that are blindly devoted followers, and those that expect to be blindly followed. How then does that fit in with your hallucination of me being a "supreme exalted leader?"

This "sophmoric (sic) personal insult-a-thon" has its origins in my diatribe - that you could note, were you not so eager to make your own misguided point -that is against censorship. Now, if what you said were true, wouldn't I be one of those that favor the stifling of others' opinions?

Oh, and so as not to disappoint you for hiding behind your mother Anon's skirt. You already know what I think of anonymous posters, and it ain't good.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 15:35:49 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I never said Silence is Golden (0.00 / 0)

What I tried to get across is that sometimes it best to keep personal opinions to yourself when they are overtly negative towards a person.  You can let it be known that you loathe a person but they don't need to know the extent of how much you do.  I don't like my brother and he knows it, but I don't tell him how much I wish he would just jump off a cliff at times.

You are correct, there are times to be loud and proud of your opinions and to make a stand.  I couldn't agree with you more.  However I believe that life is a two way street and that the opposite of drawing a line in the sand can be pertinent, at times.  That can be keeping your opinions to yourself.

Anyways, I'm not gonna post anything after this cause I'm trying to be a man of my word and display what I said into action.  laughs  Let's see if I can do that.  

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by: Luke P. @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 17:29:21 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Lets use this energy to go canvass for healthcare (0.00 / 0)

Hi all--we welcome you to use this energy to go canvass with us this weekend.  You can sign up on mybo.com or on our facebook page.

Seems silly to argue over anything but the facts of this post--Republican officials in our state do not want healthcare passed and that should be our focus right now.

As for any comments directed at Scott and I...feel free to keep using them--they are lame, out of touch and simply not true. Seems really silly to be attacking us when folks should be attacking bad policy makers.

http://www.facebook.com/event....

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by: janekleeb @ Thu Jun 18, 2009 at 18:16:12 PM CDT

Brian (0.00 / 0)

Could you try a bit harder? I haven't been deported yet, and I'd so like a free trip back to a country where left wingers get elected and we get universal health care.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Fri Jun 19, 2009 at 23:09:20 PM CDT

Oooooooooo! (0.00 / 0)

I've gotta get me some chihuahua repellent!

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Sat Jun 20, 2009 at 11:17:09 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

Chihuahua repellent? (0.00 / 0)

You're cruel to digs as well as cats? That's a shame.

As I was saying to my acquaintance, Crusty Vernon, while negotiating the purchase of a consignment of Turkish dry-clean only raincoats, "What is love, but a second hand emotion?" Such fatigue of the heart can mean a resurrection of the spirit when confronted with the epiphany of new adoration.

On the other hand, you could be the kind of person who feels it amusing to mace small defenseless animals. Is that the kind of person who can get Democrats elected? I have my doubts.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Sat Jun 20, 2009 at 20:19:45 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Sounds like (0.00 / 0)

you all need to work on Sen. Ben as well. What's with his getting tons of cash from the insurance companies then smooching up with them?

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by: Ed @ Sat Jun 20, 2009 at 22:46:19 PM CDT

Funny! (0.00 / 0)

This is one of the most entertaining threads I've read on a blog in months. The tiff between this Osbron guy and Hannah is hilarious. IF I were Hannah, I'd quit while I was behind. Brian uses reason in his arguments while Roger is coming off like a bar-room buffoon.

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by: Ed @ Sat Jun 20, 2009 at 23:01:12 PM CDT

Really funny! (0.00 / 0)

Don't trust buffoons! Gather a few together in one place, and all of a sudden you're being lifted in the air and carried by the trade winds you end up in Madrid. I like buffoons that you can make buffoon animals out of. Giraffes are my very special favourite.

I know I'm overweight, but I'm hardly inflatable. I demand an apology! Refusal will be considered cowardice!*

*To be made in person.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Sun Jun 21, 2009 at 01:28:27 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

Aaaaaagggghhhh (0.00 / 0)

I can't get the song, 99 Luftbuffoons out of my head. Curse you to Iowa!

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by: Roger Hannah @ Sun Jun 21, 2009 at 02:38:47 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

And now for something completely different... (0.00 / 0)

First malkeys now curses.  Why not try a white flag or at least consider a peace treaty?  Like the man said give up while you're behind.

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by: R. Schommer @ Sun Jun 21, 2009 at 14:01:08 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

man up? (0.00 / 0)

I wasn't aware there was a competition being played out here. Besides I answered questions put to me. Brian did not. Does that qualify as a glorious victory for the hardworking proletariat? No wonder the GOP are shafting us with our pants on. The left wingers are so busy waxing their own carrots that they've forgotten to get people elected to carry forward progressive policies.

When did you, Brian, Ed (Brian without the tights and cape), actually get help people elected? Or even run the opposition close. That's what the 3rd CDO should be doing. Lisa tried to get a grassroots campaign director out here but Brian's cadre of merry men blew a chunk of the available finances on a party.

Brian's attempting to oust Lisa and take over as glorious leader. Should that happen, a number of counties will split from the party and Brian will get to run his Plucky Loser social club with a bunch of his brown-nosers. They'll organize meeting for the times convenient times like graduation and homecoming weekends. Make sure the press are there to hear him publically criticize the only federal elected officer the Democratic party has for daring to represent everyone in the state, not just those on the radical fringe.

If my invoking Tina Turner has vexed, perturbed, and discombobulated you, it'll be nothing on the horror that Brian will wreak as he makes sure that even good state senators like of Annette Dubas are ousted. Then the 3rd CDO will truly have fulfilled its role in Brian's eyes. He doesn't take the ball and go home when he doesn't like what being played. He punctures the ball and beats up the other kids. If he can't win and revel in the glory, he'll make sure nobody plays.

You deserve a straight reply this time. One time offer. Brianed don't.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Sun Jun 21, 2009 at 22:55:24 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

An invitation. (0.00 / 0)

Nice to see you're such an expert on the 3CDO.  Since you haven't been to a meeting lately, I thought I'd extend you a personal invitation to attend the next one scheduled to meet in Allince in September.  We'll let you make a motion to allow your wife to drain the treasury to hire a grassroots campaign director.  Of course if someone else makes an earlier motion (that passes) to blow all the money on some other equally or even less worthy cause there's not much we can do about that... It's an organization run by the membership.  We don't encourage maniacal egos to run the organization, and don't recognize titles such as "Fearless Leader" or "Hitler" or "Dictator" or...

Come on out.  You might be surprised at our western hospitality.

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by: R. Schommer @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 00:11:48 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

it's been stellar so far (0.00 / 0)

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by: Roger Hannah @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 18:24:24 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I didn't answer your questions? Bullshit! (0.00 / 0)

Roger,

Here are all of the questions that you have asked me from this thread (all of which I provided answers for - sober up and pay attention!)

Since when did all things political need your stamp of approval?

Never. But I reserve my right to state my opinions and exercise the right of free speech that most of my family served in the military to defend. By the way, in which branch of Her Majesty's military did you serve?

I'm curious to hear how Nelson and my wife contravene those things you believe the NDP stands for?

I provided you a very specific list of actions that Sen. Nelson and your wife have committed to lose my respect for them.

Brian.. thinks any decision made by Lisa has to be ratified by him before it's finalized. Since when did that become the norm?

It isn't, because I don't believe that. I do, however, expect the existing rules that govern the NDP, the 3rd CD Caucus, and the CDO3 to be respected. I also support decisions made by the CDO3 body, which Lisa believes she has the authority to ignore.

Could you try a bit harder?

Why do I bother? You obviously have comprehension problems, but I will help you to understand if you will just pay attention and quit going off on unintelligible rants.

You're cruel to digs as well as cats?

Digs? Actually, I love most animals, ankle biters ... that's another thing.

Is that the kind of person who can get Democrats elected?

I've done a far site more than you and Lisa put together. Tell me, Roger, how many victorious elections are you and Lisa going to take the credit for? I know the guy that put together the Chelsea Clinton event, so don't try to keep that one as your claim to fame.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 00:29:57 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

Clinton event (0.00 / 0)

Steve Bennett asked Lisa to arrange a room, and get the word out. Whoever you spoke to claiming to have done so is a liar.

People don't need to have served in the military to enjoy the freedom won by those who have. Or do the bill of right apply to those who can go "hooyah!" My grandfather lost four brothers between the two world wars so don't even go there. I was at a concert in Helsinki, Finland where the band Killdozer were playing. An American band, but their stage backdrop was a hammer and sickle USSR flag. Not a great idea in Finland, some guys were about to lynch the band, but three marines on leave jumped on the stage and said "we don't agree with what they're doing, but we'll die to ensure they have the right to do so." They respect freedom of speech, it's a shame you don't.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 18:21:18 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I'll have to ask him. (0.00 / 0)

I'm sure that Paul W. will be very interested to read your comments, since he is the guy that cut the check. Mr. B. may have asked Lisa to do some things, but he wasn't the guy that actually got things done, now was he?

I never raised the question of who "enjoys" the freedoms. I just reminded you of who provided them. Those are very nice stories about what others have done to defend your rights, my question was, however, about what you have done to deserve them. Or are you just another one of those freeloaders that waves a flag and thinks that makes you a patriot?

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 19:09:42 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Roger, you are delusional. (0.00 / 0)

So the GOP is shafting the Scottish Socialist Party with their pants on? I wouldn't be bragging about that too much, but then again, you are the guy that wanted to watch his wife get it on with the lesbian midget after the CDO3 meet-and-greet in North Platte last year.

Yeah, Lisa wanted to blow the CDO3 Treasury by getting one of her good buddies to come in and feed us a line of bullshit, then split the proceeds after the meeting no doubt. And again, with my "cadre," my "disciples," etc.? What "chunk of available finances" and "party" are you talking about? Try to separate your fantasies from reality Roger. Maybe AA could help you with that.

Which counties would split from the NDP, Roger? You said it, now tell the truth. Which ones? You are just making up crap to make it seem you know what you are talking about?

There isn't a single day in the entire year that is "perfect" for having meetings. Conflicts abound. But, once the body of an organization has made a decision to meet, the chair of the organization does NOT have the authority to cancel it, nor to dispute the validity of the date. Your wife doesn't understand that.

Tina Turner? WTF? Put down the pint, lad.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 00:47:07 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

which counties (0.00 / 0)

most of the ones who think you're a bully who has no idea what you're doing. You see I listen. I don't just assume what everyone has said and throw a conniption when said assumption was wrong.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 18:23:30 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

And ... (0.00 / 0)

the question remains ... which counties? Do they have names? You know, like Hall County, Adams County, Buffalo County, Thomas County, ... ?

I also await your specifics concerning your accusation of some "party" that I, and some unnamed  "cadre of merry men blew a chunk of the available finances on ..." Where did this event take place? Who attended? How did I, who am not the Treasurer of the CDO3 get my hands on the money? Howard County Chair, Marion Bahensky, the President of the Nebraska Democratic Women and recipient of the NDP's Morrison-Exon Award in 2008 is the CDO3 Treasurer. Are you telling me that you consider her to be a dishonest person?

Oh, and since this whole discussion with you initiated because someone over on Leavenworth Street discovered that your wife had written something on her Facebook page the morning after she was fired from SEIU and posted it, let's get to the bottom of that shall we?

I assumed, given that Lisa was fired in a Starbucks, according to your own words, that it must have been a snap decision. Tell us, what exactly did happen there, Roger? What would cause Lisa to post, the following morning, something so incredibly similar to the kind of comments that Republicans used against Scott and Jane Kleeb? She wrote, "Beware of fake cowboys & girls, and false Nebraskans." Can you see why I, and others, might assume that it was a derogatory comment directed towards two people that are highly respected by the Nebraska Democratic Party?

If my conclusion was wrong, then please ... enlighten me. Amaze me with the truth! Show me the error of my ways.

Oh, by the way, when you wrote the following on your own Facebook page - He doesn't get it, and that makes it quite enjoyable. Brian will be a pain in the ass regardless, so If I can deliberately make him look stupid. Great. - was that for my benefit or are you really such a fool that you really believe only your "friends" can see it? You're making the same error in judgement that Lisa has.

You see Roger, it is important that when you are accusing someone of something, you must use real world examples to shore up your argument, or at least have the real world evidence available for use should you be asked to produce it. Otherwise you are nothing but a prevaricator of the worst kind. Now put up or shut up.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 19:47:27 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I'm still waiting ... (0.00 / 0)

Roger? Roger? Are you there Roger? YooHoooooooo! Roger!

We're waiting with bated breath a reply from you that includes some real facts, and (oh why not?) truth.

By the way, you know that guy, Bud Pettigrew, the Nebraska Democratic Party's Chair of Chairs, once a Recon officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, the guy you falsely accused of "outing" your wife and betraying his "Facebook friendship" with her? Guess what? He was awarded the NDP's Bob Kerrey award last Saturday night at the Morrison-Exon dinner. You sure have made a habit of crapping on some pretty fine people.

My own discord, with Sen. Nelson, is at least based on some very readily definable philosophical differences with him. I give him guff, not for disagreeing with my personal political stances (Hell! That would be easy) but for disagreeing with the consensus of the Nebraska Democratic Party as defined in its resolutions as voted upon by the State Central Committee and its Platform that is ratified by the State Convention.

By the way, why is it that I am arguing with you?  Lisa is the one that posted the snide remark against the Kleebs. She is the one that was fired, inexplicably, by SEIU. Why don't you go get her and have her come on here and explain all that for us? That would be nice.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 23:29:43 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Hello ... is anyone out there? (0.00 / 0)

Roger,

I, and I am sure many others, are awaiting your replies.

It is one thing to come on here and throw unfounded accusations around, defaming the name of very honorable people, but quite another to broadcast outright lies. It has been more than 24 hours since my last communication here, you have logged on to NNN several times since then, and yet, you have not offered a single shred of evidence, nor a single truthful statement, to back up any of your slanderous claims.

I have noticed that the chair of one of the NDP affiliated caucuses has posted a comment on a listserv reserved for NDP officers, SCC delegates and county chairs lambasting "attacks" that have occurred against "women." I can only surmise that she is referring to what has occurred on this NNN thread. I have also been contacted by another officer of the NDP who alleges that my criticism for how your wife was, despite rules to the contrary, elected to go to the Democratic National Convention as a delegate. Now the issue is, who, in their attempt to garner a favorable audience, and to cast aspersions upon the "perpetrators" of such infamy, would have contacted them with their decidedly one-sided sob story. Was it you, or someone very close to you?

I have not leveled "personal" attacks against your wife, Lisa Hannah. I have criticized her for actions that she has taken in her capacity as Chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party 3rd Congressional District. It is entirely legitimate to raise questions about improper behavior committed by an elected official. To cry "foul" just because she is a woman is indeed "sexist" activity. In the modern Democratic Party, women are just as capable, and just as responsible, as men. If they commit deeds worthy of criticism, then they must take accept the rancor that is directed their way. To do otherwise would be unfair ... and sexist.

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by: Brian T. Osborn @ Wed Jun 24, 2009 at 03:47:50 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

I'm sorry... (0.00 / 0)

...I can't come to the computer right now. I'm currently in the basement disemboweling two rather wealthy Arabic men, out of whose skins I intend to sew a Snuggie™. However, leave your diatribe after the beep (please supply your own beep) and I'll get back to you in two Sheikhs.

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by: Roger Hannah @ Sat Jun 27, 2009 at 21:34:05 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

grass roots person (0.00 / 0)

I do not recall Lisa bring up the subject of bringing anybody to our next meeting.  In fact I do not recall anybody bringing this subject up at any recent meeting.  That might be one reason why the organization did not authorize it. Therefore it is entirely unfair to blame us for not doing what we never asked to do.
If Lisa thinks it is a good idea then she should bring it up at the meetings.  She can bring it up at the September 26th meeting.  She can also suggest her ideas to the rest of us via email so we can discuss it before the meeting.

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by: tomh @ Mon Jun 22, 2009 at 21:06:42 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Previous comments (0.00 / 0)

If the majority of Democrats in the Third District knew what really was going on between the "leaders" of the Third District, they would all leave.  I was a convert a year ago.  I organized, and ran a great caucus, had a great local convention, and have defended Democratic ideals in one of the most Republican counties in the State.  I attended the state convention, and have attended three of the four meetings that were held.  I have attended the E/M dinners, and have written letters to editors.  I have done more than the average Democrat in this state.

I have never apologized to anyone for becoming a Democrat.  I am fed up, pissed off, and totally disappointed in my party.  Depending on what happens in GI this weekend, I will either remain a Democrat, or become nonpartisan.  There is absolutely no reason to use NNN or Leavenworth St to continue this horseshit.  If the energy and passion used in this infighting was put towards building and helping the party, we might just win something.  The time has come, grow up!!! Steve Leach

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by: Voice of Reason @ Fri Jun 26, 2009 at 09:32:49 AM CDT

Steve.... (0.00 / 0)

you've certainly lived up to your screen name on this one.  You have my deepest apology as a Nebraska Democrat for the absurd and self-destructive behavior of a few individuals who fancy themselves "reformers" and believe that entails tearing down fellow Democrats rather than putting forward better ideas and winning actual elections.

There's a long-standing dysfunction in our party, and it breaks my heart that it's AGAIN driving away good Nebraskans who recognizes the need for change in our state and who just want to make a difference.  We're going to do better than this, Steve.  I promise you that.  This is your party - not theirs.  And, you're needed more than anywhere else in the Third Congressional District where our only hope for salvation lies in common sense and results-driven leadership.

When we elect our next Democratic Governor or Congressman - when we elect a more open-minded and forward-thinking Legislature - it's going to be on the backs and with the votes of people like you.  Please hang in there as best you can, and eventually we will give the people of Nebraska the Democratic Party that they deserve and the better vision for our state's future that they demand.

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by: Kyle Michaelis @ Fri Jun 26, 2009 at 20:14:17 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Hmm... (0.00 / 0)

Up until now, I've stayed out of this d*ck waving contest, but it seems to me you would have much more credibility on this issue if you hadn't been a participant in the whole thing.  I would suggest, if you believe anything you just wrote, you try leading by example.

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by: Darwin @ Fri Jun 26, 2009 at 20:42:00 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Kyle's comment. (0.00 / 0)

Thank-you Kyle for all you've done.  The Voice of Reason has now left the bldg, for good.

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by: Voice of Reason @ Sun Jun 28, 2009 at 12:36:53 PM CDT