A Few of FR's Finest....Every Day....11-20-02

dansangel; Billie

[dansangel]

A Few of FR's Finest.....
......Every Day

FR is a Treasure Trove of talented, compassionate, patriotic, wonderful people who gather every day to discuss the latest news and issues; salute and support our military and our leaders;  tell a few jokes;  learn a new word;  write poetry;  pray for those in need;  and congratulate those who are deserving. Thank you, Jim Robinson, for giving us the vehicle in which we can express ourselves.

Free Republic made its debut in September, 1996, and the forum was added in early 1997.   I can remember lurking when there were only a few regulars who posted, and now there are over 60,000 who have registered for posting privileges. The forum is read daily by tens of thousands of concerned citizens and patriots from all around the country and the world.

A Few of FR's Finest November 11, 2001

So many people have written me since my original Veteran's Day Tribute, asking how they, or a loved one, could be included in that tribute. Since I can no longer add the photos to the body of the thread, I've been including them in additional posts as I received enough to make another collage.

Still that doesn't seem to be enough. I think there's never been a better nor more appropriate time to keep the faces of our own Veterans and Active Military in front of FReepers--every day! That's why I wanted to do yet another Daily Thread .....ABOUT FReepers .....and FOR FReepers. But not only about our Military FReepers; for all FReepers! Wouldn't it be nice to get to know a few of the other FReepers as well? That's why, in addition to seeing FR's Finest Military Personnel every day, I thought it might be fun to feature a different FReeper (or FReepers) each day. If you would like to be pictured, or know someone who would, please FReepmail me and we'll turn the spotlight - on YOU - for the day!

And do let me know if you'd like your picture added to the groups of Veterans/Active Military below. I will keep this page updated, and continue to add them to the comment section of the original Veteran's Day thread as well.

<

TOP: Q6-God, Scan59, Mama Bear and JKPhoto's son, ofMagog.
MIDDLE:  Big'ol_freeper, JustAmy's great uncle, Prodigal Son.
BOTTOM:  JustAmy's husband, JustAmy's brother-in-law, JustAmy's brother.

TOP: dakine's wife, MeeknMing's dad, Auntbee's nephew, MilitiaMan7, AlasBabylon.
BOTTOM:  Joe Brower, Temple Owl, Temple Owl's wife, dutchess' dad, Aomagrat.

TOP: ladtx #2 son; DiverDave's twin Don; petuniasevan and husband
poorman; Mustard; ladtx #1 son;
BOTTOM: AlamoGirl's brother Floyd; AG's dad; AG's brother Jim (inset);
WVNan's husband; ladtx Aunt Eva.

We now have eleven groups of veterans/active military; we will post each group of three or four twice a week, with thumbnail/links of the remaining seven or eight groups on each thread. Click on any of the thumbnails below to see the group full-size.

         

GROUP 1A: TOP: Logos, SwedeGirl's hubby, Neil E Wright, FallGuy, 1John, Sneakypete MIDDLE:  T'wit, COB1, LadyX, Dick Bachert, 68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub BOTTOM:  YankeeinSC, Delta21, JoeSixPack1

GROUP 2A: TOP:  Bosniajmc, AFVetGal, Archy, A Navy Vet MIDDLE:  4TheFlag, Aeronaut, 68Grunt, Xinga BOTTOM:  Codger, AAABest, Clinton's A Liar, Duke809, dcwusmc

GROUP 3A: TOP:  mc5cents, Norb2569, LBGA's son, VanJenerette MIDDLE:  Jim Robinson, KJenerette, davidosborne, KG9Kid BOTTOM:  gwmoore, Equality7-2521, SAMWolf

GROUP 4A: TOP:  porgygirl, Phil V., MudPuppy, NorCoGOP MIDDLE:  RaceBannon, OneidaM, rdb3, jwTexian BOTTOM:  USMC Vet, TheMayor, Vineyard, rhododogma

         

GROUP 5A: TOP:  spectr17, RightOnline, SERE_Doc, Tet68. MIDDLE:  FutureSnakeEater, RightOnline's wife, CIApilot, Clamper1797. BOTTOM:  usmcobra, onedoug, DiverDave, Joe6-pack.

GROUP 6A: TOP:  g'nad, AgThorn's son Justin, SLB, AgThorn's son Brett. MIDDLE:  fish70, razorback-bert, CheneyChick, Leroy S Mort, Mark17. BOTTOM:  Terry's Take, Taxman, DinkyDau.

GROUP 7A: TOP:  ValerieUSA's son Grant, SK1Thurman, kd5cts, RangerVetNam, dansangel and .45man's son-in-law Tony.BOTTOM:  rangerX, Old China Hand, Trish, Howlin's dad, Mustang.

GROUP 8A: TOP: ohioWfan's son, MamaBear's father-in-law, MamaBear's dad, ladtx. MIDDLE:  The Mayor's niece, M.Kehoe, Beach_Babe's son-in-law. BOTTOM:  deadhead's dad, HiJinx, Severa's hubby, viligantcitizen's granddad.

                     

>

"Can Someone With A Name Like That Be Serious?"

Photo of painting by combat artist John Steele painted in 1966.


grumpster-dumpster Freeper since June 15, 2001

I have to admit that it was a bit disconcerting the first time I checked out grumpster-dumpster's profile page. The main reason is that "the grumpster" (as he likes to refer to himself) writes in the third person. This gives one the impression that he is describing a close friend, rather than himself!

The information that the grumpster (a.k.a. Greg) sent for this profile was again written in the third person. After getting my mind-set straightened out (i.e. this was NOT some disinterested third party that had e-mailed me on the grumpster's behalf), I set about putting together this tribute. It was a real pleasure for me because I have met up with the grumpster on other threads and our exchanges have always been enlightening as well as pleasant.

Grumpster spent 32 years in the Navy (mostly active with a little reserve time thrown in). "I was lucky! I had a great occupation in the Navy (Intel) and got to see much of the world," the grumpster says. "I got to work at least once with every warfare community (surface, sub, air, and special-op) within the Navy! I just wish my final tour could have been aboard ship, but I'll admit that I'm really enjoying my retirement."

grumpster-dumpster lurked around Free Republic for about a year before he jumped in and started posting (under a different screen name...Is C'usn).

"When I first found Free Republic I was on active duty in the Navy towards the end of my career. I don't know exactly why I was so drawn into the FR scene, but I suspect it was because the people seemed to have such a patriotic-fervor."

The grumpster continues, "There was another reason of course; there was an aspect that cannot be underestimated. Since I was at the end of a 32 year career, I realized that I didn't know much about 'civilian life'."

"Believe it or not, Free Republic is a tremendous opportunity for those leaving military service to observe and interact with the population they soon will be joining. There's a wealth of knowledge and a real feel for what's going on in the country; essential services for those about to leave a cloistered society with specific rules and regulations to follow."

Politically, grumpster considers himself very conservative. He does list some disappointments with getting involved in the conservative movement. "Just before the 2000 election, I called the regional Republican chairman to volunteer. Never heard back from him or any other official," he says. "Since I live in one of the strongest Rat areas in the country, you would think that any help offered might be seized upon. Not here, evidently. This is one of those areas the Republicans have just written-off as being un-winnable. That's sad because there are more and more conservatives showing up each day."

Grumpster is very big into volunteerism. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus in the local community. He enjoys the fund-raising activities and the spirit of community, faith, service, patriotism and accomplishment afforded by working for others in need of a helping hand - not a handout!

"The best advice anyone can get (IMHO) is to choose your friends wisely. While the anonymity of Free Republic is very appealing to those of us who tend to the shy side, it's also a great place to meet and discuss issues or concerns with other like-minded people who soon become "friends" in a way unique to the times," the grumpster says. (Yes, he really does talk that way!)

As for the future:
Grumpster acknowledges that it's time to get a real-job! "Retirement's been great! I've had the time to do some of the volunteer work I always wanted to do. I even got to 'sleep-in' a few days!"

On a more serious note regarding the future:
The grumpster hopes and prays for a day when the unborn finally get "Justice under the Law."

"It has been a long journey breaking away from the PC regulations and indoctrination forced upon the military services," he says. "But, the future looks pretty bright to me. The atrocities committed on 9/11 have brought forth in this country a 'Patriotic Attitude' I don't think any of us (with the exception of the WWII generation) has ever experienced before. If that doesn't give you faith in God and Country, nothing will. And, I'm truly thankful that Free Republic and FReepers everywhere are such an essential part of that future! "

When you're feeling a bit down and need to lift your spirits, take time out and visit grumpster-dumpster's profile page. It is apparent that he is a very upbeat person from the irony that permeates every sentence.

One example of his humor: "Grumpster-Dumpster has no use for phonies... Just the other day he was telling President Bush and Mel Gibson how much he hates a 'name-dropper'." LOL! :-)

Please join me in giving another deserving FReeper - one who is witty, concerned and just plain fun to get to know - a warm welcome to FR's Finest...

Today that Finest is
grumpster-dumpster!

THIS WEEK'S THREADS

11-18-02 "Outrageous Outtakes"

11-19-02 "The Holidays Are Coming"

Opinions by our own 'King of Ping' The guy's good, folks!

Thanks, Mixer!

     1) Click on the graphic to open the Calendar.
     2) Once there you can click on any month and even click to the right to go into next year. Once you are in the month that you joined FR you will need to click on the number in the calendar and then an add item screen will come up.
     3) In the next box enter your name in the "Calendar Text" field and then click on submit.
     4) If any of the screens fail to load simply click on refresh in your browser and that will usually fix it.
     5) If all else fails or simply if you want me to do this for you send me an FReepmail and I will gladly do it for you. ~Mixer

[dutchess]

"Is Gizmo going to the Keys with ya?"

Unfortunately not. He's staying home with Codee and Fred the Cat and a housesitter. A cute story. A couple years ago we were going on our two week dream trip for our 25th. Giz would sit in the half packed suitcase for hours. The day before we were leaving he started limping terribly. I immediately took him to the vet. who did everything including xrays and could find nothing. He continued to limp at home until I sent him outside where the neighbor dog was waiting. He went running down the hill, then looked sheepishly back at me and started to limp again. I'm sure he'll come up with something again before we leave!

The good news is the housesitter loves them dearly and I'm sure we'll miss "the kids" more then they'll miss us!

[MeekOneGOP]

Ah, the power of prayer, Meekie! We all are so happy for you and your Dad.

Thanks.

Thank goodness we have Carlsbad Carl to help us through all the tense times. Long may his pencil stir the brew, adding its special flavor..:))

LOL ! Keep up the good job, CarlsbadCaveman!!

[lodwick]

MUD bttt

[MeekOneGOP]

Thank ya'll.....

[dutchess]

Another story about that trip. I was at a business meeting and during a break one of my collegues was asking about the trip and what we were doing with "the kids". I replied that my secretary was going to stop in the morning and evening to feed them and a neighbor would check on them inbetween. Another person (who didn't know me and was trying to be polite) asked how old my kids were. I said 13 and 4 at which point her jaw dropped and she started stammering... We finally realized she thought we were talking about little people LOL. The poor lady was ready to call Childrens Services on me.

[Mudboy Slim]

Howdy, my FRiend...

"Should Bill Clinton Be Immune From Prosecution Fer His Crimes?!!"

From another thread, a discussion about whether or not America should hold Bill Clinton accountable for the multiple felonies he and his Administration have committed...

bayourod in bold

"...focus only on the question of whether Bill Clinton should be brought to trial. This was the great question when Nixon resigned and Ford pardoned him because he didn't think the nation should be put through the ordeal of a trial of Mr. Nixon."

First off, Nixon was never accused of committing a criminal offense vis a vis Watergate. Ford pardoned him, but there was never an actual law broken...I would argue that Clinton has committed multiple felonies that, if prosecuted, would have him in jail until the day he passed on to his Final Judgement.

"Some of the considerations should be:
1. How serious was the offense? Was it a technical violation such as comingling union contributions in hard money accounts; or was it a universally recognized crime such as murder of a potential witness?"

While I seriously believe Clinton has most likely conspired to have folks murdered, I've yet to see the concrete evidence; still, just because he's an ex-POTUS, should he be allowed to get away with rampant Abuse of Power, blatant Obstruction of Justice and Perjury, and making a mockery of our existing Campaign Finance Laws? I say no.

"2. What was the impact of the crime on the nation? Was the impact negligible like pardoning someone for going AWOL during World War II; or does the crime threaten the very existence of the country, such as selling China the secrets enabling them to destroy every major city in the nation?"

As the highest-ranking member of the Executive Branch, IMHO Clinton's crimes have done major damage to the legitimacy of our government, and thereby the "very existence of the country." How can a blatant abuser of our laws be allowed to go absolutely unpunished in a Land that claims that "NO MAN IS ABOVE THE LAW"?! Explain that to the teenager imprisoned for smoking a weed in his basement.

"3. How strong is the evidence? Is it circumstantial, relying on the testimony of dubious witnesses; or is there incontrovertable physical evidence such as video recordings and records written in Bill's hand?"

The arrogance Clinton has displayed in committing multiple felonies has resulted in a carelessness that will bear fruit in any SERIOUS investigation of his crimes. There are many, many people within his sphere of influence who know where the skeletons are buried, and they have likewise committed crimes in his service. As these underlings are brought to Justice and plead out, they will provide valuable testimony linking Clinton to any number of crimes that you and I may never even been aware of. And Clinton has been extremely sloppy in leaving documented proof of his guilt to be readily discovered by hungry investigators.

"4. Was the offense committed as an official act, such as selling seats on trade missions, or was it entirely separate from official duties, such as rape?"

SHEEESH, my FRiend, I cannot believe you actually believe this is a consideration. We are a Nation of Laws, and if those laws are legitimate enough to prosecute you or me for, why not some hayseed from Arkansas?

"5. Would prosecution cause bitter division among Americans because the offense is one that people hold strongly held opposite opinions on, such as lying about having sex because that's what gentlemen are taught to do; or one that everyone is in agreement on, such as using FBI files to blackmail elected officials?"

Once again, if folks are going to argue that the Laws are invalid, how come we don't see an uprising calling for said laws to be revoked, so that you and I cannot be held accountable for them, just like the ex-Most Powerful Man in the FReeWorld?!

"6. How would prosecution effect future policy. Would it create a public outcry for campaign finance reform that would result in destruction of our First Amendment rights and turn the government over to liberal Democrats? Would it appear to Democrat voters as petty vindictiveness on the part of Republicans that would result in such a backlash that Democrat Senators would be forced to reject confirmation of pro-life judges?"

Here, my FRiend, you are arguing political strategy. Fair enough, as that seems to be most FReepers' argument against holding the ex-First Felon accountable for his many crimes against this Nation. My response is that this is a very important time in our Country's history, as we are deciding whether or not We the Sheeple will sit idly by and allow Rampant Corruption to go on at the highest echelons of the Federal Guv'ment, and do absolutely NOTHING!!

SHEEESH...Clinton's not a frickin' KING!! He's no different than you or I!! Are LeftWing DemonRATS going to actually argue that a corrupt ex-POTUS should be allowed to get away with committing multiple felonies? If so, are the Sheeple going to go along meekly and support those same hopelessly-corrupt individuals in the next election? If so, we've already lost this Country, and we should readily expect to go the way of the once-great Roman Empire.

"Now to answer your question. I believe we elected a President who is of extremely high moral character who loves this country and is trying as hard as he can to do what he sincerely believes is best for our nation. I believe that he chose an honest, conscientious, competent Attorney General. I have complete confidence in their judgment and will support whatever decisions that they make."

Here, my FRiend, we are in complete agreement...however, I believe Dubyuh and Ashcroft need to hear from folks who "sincerely believe [what] is best for our nation" is that the Guilty--no matter how Powerful or allegedly popular--are brought to Justice!! Are we a Nation of Laws? Or are certain folks in this Country ABOVE the Laws that govern and restrict the rest of us?

Seriously, my fellow FReepers, am I just a Right-Wing Whacko for expecting the Laws of this Nation to apply to ALL Americans...even those who once held office at the highest echelons of our Federal Guv'ment?!

FReegards...MUD

1 Posted on 07/14/2001 23:39:12 PDT by Mudboy Slim (Justice Fer All!!)

[grumpster-dumpster]

You folks have fun now!

I'm off to do some investigations for the "Peace through Beer" Foundation. (Rumor has it that the local "suds-shop" is serving an inferior brand of "Bud"... Duty calls!)

Thanks again for all the super comments...And let's all pledge to say a special prayer for our service people tonight!

-grump

[Mudboy Slim]

"Peace through Beer" Foundation.

Do y'all have a website that explains the Rules fer Admittance?!

LOL and FReegards...MUD

[JustAmy]

"I'll leave the joke telling to Amy!"

The only new jokes that I have received will have to wait until JustFrank gets out of the woodshed. (Billie will probably pull them before you get a chance to see them, so be quick!!) LOL

[JustAmy]

Now lodwick ..... what kind of treatment is that???

Howdy Lodwick!

[HiJinx]

Well, now, I dunno about you guys...
I'm of the opinion there is no more authentic Mexican food outside of Mexico than what you'll find in Arizona. This is especially true of places like El Charro in Tucson, La Parilla Suiza in Phoenix, or LaCasita in Sierra Vista.
Just my 2 cents, y'know!

[Billie]

Just saying hello and thank you again for being here, BIS.

[Billie]

:) About that raise.......maybe Mix will share his daily burger and fries with you from McD's. )

[Billie]

At Post #45, I was thinking you're sure late today, but then I remembered that dansy posted today's thread practically before today even started! :)

Two candles for this date in 1968 and two for 1969.

[SpookBrat]

Thanks for the thread today. I enjoyed reading about your life Mr. Grumpy. I also appreciate the good advice you have for everyone.

Hmmmmm...as far as name droppers go...I met James Woolsey once. He was a nice man. He tried to keep me from throwing up. LOL That's about it.

[Diver Dave]

Hey Spookie. Stay the course for the unborn babies.

[Billie]

yummmmmmm! And just enough gooey powdered sugar icing on those cinnamon rolls!

[SpookBrat]

Meek, I'm so glad to see you and hear about your dad. You are such a sweet man, I can easily picture you lovingly taking care of your father. I'm happy to hear he is alive and doing better.

Chinese flower for Ming...

[Billie]

Hey, Auntbee - how are you today?!

[JustAmy]

"I take it back!!"

Ahhh .... come on, I was just taking a bow!