Hillary Clinton...plastic surgery shocker! Stranger @ Press conference...

That's my gal!

(before botched surgery)

As usual, old antsy moi, was channel surfing (my attention deficit disorder was kicking in as usual this lazy afternoon) when a Press Conference -  focusing on a crisis and overseas political update - caught my eye.

OMG!

For a moment, I thought I spied a familiar mug in the slew of Officials faces on-camera - but no - that wasn't Hillary Clinton (was it?).

When the woman spoke, there were no noticeable inflections in the muscles, any spontaneous light-hearted emotions welling-up, or even a spark of  truth rippling across the dead-looking expressionless skin.

In fact, this woman almost looked of Asian decent, somehow.

An imposter, perhaps?

The visage of the well-coiffed dame was flat, smooth, and strikingly unreal (odd).

Sure enough - when a caption below singled out the name of the speaker on the podium - it turned out be the Secretary of State.

What happened to Hillary's face?

At first, under closer inspection, I thought that perhaps Clinton had changed her make-up to a thicker flatter base for effect.

What effect, God only knows!

The "look" was all wrong for the former 1st Lady - because her skin came across as lifeless, one-dimensional, and stretched ( in an unhealthy restricted way).

From what I could fathom in my armchair perch at home - although Mrs. Clinton was prettied up a tad with rouge and lipstick and eye-liner - the problem was not due to a bad touch-up job by a cheap make-up artist!

It appears that - poor Hillary - had the misfortune (like comedian Joan Rivers) to run a-muck with a plastic surgeon with unskilled of surgeon's hand - or just ended up a victim of a botched-up botox injection at the hands of an aesthetician who wasn't paying attention.

The lively spontaneous expressions that once spread across Hillary's face - rife with smidgens of mirth, consternation, delight, wonder, and candor - were no longer evident in what used to be a charismatic persona which was a joy to marvel.

Did Hillary go under the knife in a bold-faced effort to look "younger" - or simply to succumb to her vanity (and a desire to be wrinkle-free?)

I thought Hillary had more common sense (and self-confidence) than that!

Now, she looks like just another fake socialite with stretched skin that bespeaks of hideous self-loathing and tiresome common fear of aging in our youth-oriented hedonisic society.

Was it a bid to keep hubby - slick Willy - in the sack?

News at 11!

 http://www.julianayrs.com

Hillary's new face macabre!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Chelsea Clinton Wedding...Wang was the thing!

Chelsea a Princess Bride in Vera Wang stunner!

No, mother did not wear tights, or a pant suit for that matter.

Instead, Hillary Rodam Clinton (U.S. Secetary of State) remained loyal and true to long-time pal - Oscar de la Renta - and made her grand entrance in an elegant wine-colored designer gown whipped up for the special occasion of her daughter's much-anticipated wedding.

As to Chelsea, well, right up until the 11th hour - the scintillating particulars - managed to remain shrouded in total secrecy.

What would you expect from the daughter of a former President?

Unfortunately for the Clinton's , a not-so-elusive Chelsea, got caught by ever-alert paparazzi slipping into Vera Wang's studio on the eve of the momentous occasion set to unfold in Rhinebeck (NY) on Sunday.

In two seconds flat, the tongues of uppercrust socialites were chattering, Wang is the thing!

Vanity Fair editors were miffed.

Sightings at Oscar's studio (de la Renta, silly!) had 'em firmly convinced that strong-willed Chelsea was going that-a-way for the crowning fairy-tale touch.

Women's Wear Daily got it right, though, after spying Chelsea at Wang's in a floppy chapeau that didn't quite manage to cover-up enough.

Ouch!

The floor-length gown subtly-imbedded with a smattering of jewel-like facets - and eye-catching shimmering waist-band fashion flourishes - surpassed all expectations of even the toughest discerning critic.

To many, the up-and-coming Wang - orbiting exclusively in her own exquisite fashion sphere - was a plum choice.

No surprise.

Since her brand was first introduced in 1990, the Wang persona - classical, full of whimsy, romantic - has become synonymous with wedding ensembles dripping with prestige, luxury, and hints of staggering social connections.

Tiers of white tulle bustled beneath a hand-stitched organza overlay in harmony with a gem-encrusted waist-band smacked of regal ambitions, for example.

And, a floor-length veil that draped (just so) over an elegant up-swept "do" - as the Princess Bride was escorted down the aisle by her father to the side of her husband-to-be - was truly the crowning touch.

Congrats Vera Wang, fashion Queen of the new millennium!

Clinton mobbed by well-wishers on eve of Chelsea's Wedding

http://www.julianayrs.com

Chelsea Clinton... marries beau Marc! Pomp & circumstance prevailed in tony Rhinebeck (New York)...

Quaint Rhinebeck (NY) setting for Chelsea's tony wedding!

Snap of lovebirds day before nupitals!

Chelsea is  no longer a single working gal!

Just moments ago, Secretary of State - Hillary Clinton and hubby (former U.S. President Bill Clinton) - issued an upbeat notice to the presss acknowledging that their little girl - Chelsea - marched down the aisle on Saturday July 31st and tied the knot with her longtime boy-toy Marc Mezvinsky.

After weeks of secrecy (and a truckload of frenzied media attention) the two lovebirds finally exchanged their vows at an exclusive estate on the Hudson River - once owned by eccentric multi-millionaire - John Astor IV.

Uh-huh.

Chelsea wed straight-laced Marc Mezvinsky after weeks of secrecy and a build-up that had celebrity watchers flocking to the small village of Rhinebeck for the evening's nuptials.

"Today, we watched with great pride and overwhelming emotion as Chelsea and Marc wed in a beautiful ceremony at Astor Courts, surrounded by family and their close friends," the Clintons beamed.

More than 400 guests allegedly turned-out at the historic estate to catch the solemn exchange of vows  up-close and personal.

"We could not have asked for a more perfect day to celebrate the beginning of their life together, and we are so happy to welcome Marc into our family. On behalf of the newlyweds, we want to give special thanks to the people of Rhinebeck for welcoming us and to everyone for their well-wishes on this special day."

Security was tight, but that didn't stop lookie-loo's of the highest calibre, from trotting into town for a little star-gazing.

Today, a few disgruntled locals whined that the pickings were slim.

Ted Danson and Madeleine Albright were spied openly in the streets, yes, but that was not enough to satiate their hunger for a gander at a handful of the high-profile celebs that were expected to slip into town for what was being billed as the undisputed "Wedding of the Century".

"Where's Streisand," some wondered aloud to each other.

Probably having a quiet tete a tete over a bottle of Clinton Vintage Wine with slick Willy somewhere cozy and private on the 400 acre estate.

While we're on the subject of vino, one Rhinebeck neighbour was surprised to thrust open her front door at the crack-of-dawn today, and stumble upon a gift from the Clinton clan.

In a thoughtful note, the Clinton's apologized for any unexpected disturbances the wedding may have caused in the neighborhood in recent days, and proferred up a bottle of wine to help wile away what just may be a noisy night ahead.

Tucked inside was a pass, guaranteed to expedite their comings-and-goings 'round the quaint village, while security is tight over the next forty-eight hours or so.

Indeed.

Officials restricted airspace over the estate and the upscale enclave will remain a no-fly zone until 3:30 a.m. on Sunday (August 1st).

Roads were also blocked off,  so the gift bag to potentially inconvenienced neighbors, was sure to alleviate a headache or two.

The Beekman Arms, the oldest Hotel in the country, proved to be the best perch for star-gazers to alight last night with cameras and leather-bound autograph books in tow.

The cocktail party tossed there by the Clintons attracted - chic high-profile guests, family, and friends - who turned up in their Sunday-best to toss back an ale or two.

No sight of Chelsea throughout the course of the day, though.

Inside sources whispered in my ear that the anxious bride-to-be was taking in a swirl of spa treatments alongside her gaggle of giggling bridesmaids.

On the other hand, one black sheep of the family stood out like a sore thumb.

Roger Clinton - Bill's sibling rival - was caught on camera by one network newsie  shuffling down the main street with it all hanging out.

Unlike Hillary & Bill - who were blessed with lodging at the Amy Leibowitz estate - I expect that Jolly Roger was booked into the local Motel 6 (twenty miles down the main strip).

Chelsea Clinton and Marc Mezvinsky were teenage pals in Washington, before they both packed up their bags, and headed out West to enroll in prestigious Standford University where love - obviously - blossomed.

Although it was rumored that Chelsea once dated Jake Gyllenhaal, nothing came of that alleged fling.

The groom - an investment banker - is the son of former U.S. Reps. Marjorie Margolies-Mezvinsky (Pennsylvania) and Ed Mezvinsky (Iowa).

Congrats Chelsea & Marc!

Chelsea drags a** to keep up prior to big day in Rhinebeck!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Hillary Clinton...Dick Morris quote on Secretary of State!

Dick Morris appeared on Bill O’Reilly's gab best this afternoon and the lively discussion turned to a comment that the Secretary of State uttered up on 60 minutes this past Sunday.

O'Reilly was eager to know - Morris being a friend of Hillary’s after all - if the best-selling author knew why the self-serving politician made a statement about the economy being pulled into the ditch.

Was Hillary taking a swipe at her boss - Barack Obama - or laying the groundwork for her own presidential bid a couple of years down the campaign trail (he wondered aloud).

“Was it just a spontaneous remark, Dick?"

Dick Morris laughed and quipped with nary a thought of repercussion.

“There is nothing spontaneous about Hillary.”
 
Gosh, he got that right!

http://www.thetattler.biz

Hillary Clinton...bandied about as potential Supreme Court nominee! Obama looney...

Stuff that respectable Justices are made of?

The scuttlebutt on the hill in Washington at the crack of dawn this morning was that Hillary Clinton's name is being bandied about as a potential candidate for the post of Supreme Court Justice.

Obama, say it ain't so!

Clinton is not worthy of the lofty prestigious perch - in the staid environs of the Supreme Court - at the  highest level of the judiciary in the land.

If you recall, during the Whitewater scandal, Mrs. Clinton not only twisted and distorted the facts - but on occasion - locked heads with investigators amidst a lot of nonsensical legal wrangling, dirty politics, and game-playing.

Oh, she's a slippery one, alright!

When Hillary was asked to produce documents, for instance, she begged off with the excuse that she - quite honestly - didn't know where the subject paperwork was.

One fine day when boxes of the incriminating documents turned up, Mrs. Clinton's fingerprints were the only ones spied on the wayward cartons.

Talk about a smoking gun.

Gotcha!

And who could forget the vicious unscrupulous attacks on Obama on the campaign trail?

Hillary and slick Willy are a disreputable duo - prone to feather their own nests - at the expense of others (the taxpayers, in particular).

The former Presidential hopeful's lack of moral rectitude bars her from assuming the post.

In a nutshell, installing Mrs. Clinton as a Justice would not only be a fatal misstep on the part of the President, but result in irreparable harm to the integrity of the Court.
 
Talk about a fox in the hen house!

 

http://www.thetattler.biz/

Bill Clinton...heart pains require immediate surgery! Hillary on way to New York...

Former President reflects on life!

Former President Bill Clinton was rushed to a New York hospital today after suffering pains in the chest.

Just a short while ago, his staff confirmed that the complaints were serious enough to require immediate surgery.

In a brief assessment on the fly, doctors noted for the record, that a bypass graft from a prior operation obstructed normal operating functons which required two stents to alleviate the coronary artery emergency.

The silver-haired statesman, has been involved hands-on with the United Nations as a special envoy to Haiti in recent weeks, in the aftermath of the violent earthquake which killed thousands.

Mr. Clinton just returned a few days ago from his second trip there since the natural catastrophe shook the Nation.

Sources close to President Clinton have assured well-wishers that he is in good spirits and will continue to focus on the work of his foundation and Haiti’s relief and long-term recovery efforts."

Mr. Clinton, suffered a quadruple coronary artery bypass surgery in 2004, and later developed rare complications affecting his lungs that required another operation six months later.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, on the job in Washington, plans to head to New York late this afternoon to be by her husband's side during the healing process.

The last scare caused Mr. Clinton to reflect on life a bit in the face of potential mortaliy.

 “It changed me,” he noted in a The New York Times interview.

“One of the things I noticed is that on normal days ever since I had that heart surgery, I’m a lot more laid back and a lot more relaxed and a lot more healthy."

“But I also noticed since I had the surgery – and this is what you picked up in the campaign – that if I’m really tired, it’s more difficult for me than it was when I was back in politics before I had the heart problem. I have no explanation for why that is. I’m just observing it. It’s neither an excuse for any mistake I made or anything else. I’m just explaining. It’s something I’ve noticed. My life has changed.”

Get well soon, Willy!
 

Bill & Hillary

(childhood sweethearts)

President Obama...State of Union speech! Hints at what's on agenda...

Today, I received an e-mail communication fromthe Senior Advisor to President Obama outlining the highlights of the State of the Union speech slated for broadcast tomorrow night (January 27th).

According to Valerie Jarrett, the President will stand before a joint session of Congress and summarily outline "where we are" and "where we're going to be" as a Nation.

In preparation for the annual address, Mr. Obama apparently issued a directive to his Cabinet to prepare a report for the American people, in advance of the landmark political event.

Jarrett underscored in her communication that there will be short videos - which focus on progress made in the first year of  Barack Obama's presidency - in addition to a report back from the Cabinet on what lies ahead for their departments and agencies to keep America moving forward.

For example, Secretary Sebelius will talk about the Department of Health and Human Services' successes helping to prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus.

Also, Chu - Department of Energy Secretary -will highlight the thousands of green jobs they’ve created using Recovery Act dollars.

Secretary Clinton intends to detail the Department of State’s efforts to restore global partnerships.

State of the Union address:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/2010-Cabinet-Reports/?e=27&ref=image

At this juncture, the President's "right-hand", went on to note that when President Obama took office a year ago the country faced an array of historic challenges such as an economy in freefall, job losses averaging almost 700,000 a month, a middle class under assault, two wars and badly frayed global alliances.

Jarett asserts that - "when faced with these unparalleled challenges" - the President and his Cabinet got to work by taking a few bold steps to rescue the country from a possible second Great Depression, rebuild the economy for the long-term (so businesses can thrive, the middle class can grow, and all our families can be more secure) and to restore America’s leadership in the world as the U.S.  wrestles with the global challenges of the 21st Century.

State of Union Address
Wednesday January 27th

Broadcast: 9 p.m. EST

View live! @ Whitehouse.gov

http://www.julianayrs.com

Barack Obama...last chance to dine with President June 18th! Contribute 5 bucks or more...

Looks like some of the Clinton "style" has rubbed off on the Barack Obama team!

Like slick Willy & wily Hilly before him, Barack is now rustling up campaign schemes to generate big bucks in the Washington arena.

Why not a chance-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dine with "King Tut" himself?

And, on this occasion, James Carville has been trotted out to orchestrate the fundraiser - natch - on the democrat-favored World Wide Web.

Here's a peak an e-mail invitation I just recently from the Obama camp (verbatim) to get you up-to-speed.

Dear Julian,

Just when I thought I've seen everything...

The Republicans have dragged out Newt Gingrich to headline a fundraising dinner.

President Obama and the Democratic Party are leading this country into the future.

Let the has beens and never weres in the Republican Party fight among themselves.

We want you to join us for a different kind of dinner.

No Newts allowed.

There is less than a week for your chance to win a free trip to Washington, DC on June 18th to meet President Obama, have dinner and go home with a photograph with him.

The dinner is on June 18th and the deadline to enter is less than a week away.

Enter now - the more times you give the more chances to win.

Contribute $5, $10, or more and be automatically entered for a chance to win a free trip to Washington DC to join President Obama on June 18th, and go home with a photograph with the President.

Sincerely,



James Carville

P.S. Even if you don't win coming to Washington to have dinner with the President, if you contribute $35 or more, you get a free "Proud Democrat" eco-friendly grocery tote. Act now - the deadline is less than a week away!

A tote that's eco-friendly?

Golly, you suckered me Barack, hook line & sinker.

Count me in!

Oprah, better pass on this high calorie pig-out!

www.julianayrs.com

Kirsten E. Gillibrand...photo of chat with Hillary curious! Oh, to be a fly on wall!

Ha!

That photograph of Kirsten E. Gillibrand and Hillary Clinton - the newly-crowned Secretary of State - on the front section of yesterday's New York Times was a titillating sight!

Those photogs were right on the ball, weren't they?

Now there was a moment captured on film worth a thousand words.

The expression on both their faces, well, very intriguing.

Oh, to have been a fly on the wall when that little bit of chit-chat went down.

Were they comparing notes, do 'ya think?

News at 11!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Caroline Kennedy...decision to pursue Senate Seat elicits quote of day!

Caroline Kennedy supported Obama in his campaign for President

Out-of-the-blue, Caroline Kennedy confided to a friend recently, her intention to pursue the Senate Seat being vacated by Hillary Clinton.

Caroline Kennedy is the daughter of former charismatic U.S. President, John F. Kennedy, and celebrated socialite and Art Patron, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.



After wrestling with the idea for a few days, sources reported that the normally camera-shy Kennedy, made up her mind to ask the Governor - David A. Paterson (New York) - to consider her for the post.

At the time of the announcement, the Governor could not be reached for comment because he is currently on a jaunt to Utica.

In spite of this, apparently Ms. Kennedy has been putting in personal phone calls to potential supporters in the political arena, to inform them of her intentions.

Her uncle, Robert F. Kennedy, once held that office.

A handful of agitated Democrats are allegedly questioning her credentials from the get-go.

The turn of events has managed to rustle up the quote of the day in my estimation.

When U.S. Representative Gary Ackerman (a Queens Democrat) was asked what - if any - were Ms. Kennedy's qualifications to hold the post, he allegedly quipped that he didn't really know except for one thing.

"She has name recognition, but so does J. Lo."

Ouch!

Bill Clinton...pimps for cash! Hillary for sale...

Today I received an e-mail from Bill Clinton enlightening me about the exciting news.

Yeah, I heard, Hillary was nominated to be next Secretary of State.

In a glowing tribute, slick Willy went on to boast that his hubby's bump up into the upper echelons of Government, was great news for the country.

"She understands the challenges we face, and her experience and judgment will help President Obama restore America's reputation in the world and make our nation more secure," he gushed in one fell swoop.

He concluded by asking that fans take a moment to celebrate the wonderful news by sending Hillary a message of congratulations.

But, you know the part I can't fathom?

Bill asked for contributions ranging from $10 to $1800 smackeroos

Is Hillary expected to pay a stipend under the table to Obama to seal the deal for her spanking-new post at the White House?

Me thinks, not!

Just goes to show 'ya, those money-grubbing Clintons are going to continue to gouge Americans until the poor souls have coughed up their last shiny penny, eh?

Greedy bast**ds!!!

When searching for a quote that was appropros, I stumbed on this one by a former President, Bill Clinton:

"I have news for the forces of greed and the defenders of the status quo; your time has come and gone. It's time for change in America."

That's what Obama promised us, but looks like American voters not only got much of the same, but short-changed in the process!

Hillary Clinton...truth about the post for Secretary of State?

Barack needs s tune-up already...

Some whined and complained that the Secretary of State issue dragged on too long.

It all started with a rumor that streaked around Capitol Hill in the blink of an eye.

The Secretary of State post was being offered to Hillary, those with their ears close to the wall excitedly whispered, to anyone within earshot.

But, no one would officially confirm or deny.

Then, a couple of days later - after the buzz subsided a tad - the team for the president-elect announced the plum role in the new administration would be hers for the taking if Hillary pined for the post.

At this juncture - a game of cat-and-mouse - ensued.

Finally, amid of lot of fanfare, Hillary appeared arm-and-arm with Barack and publicly accepted the Secretary of State post.

Personally, I think a secret pact was made between the two long ago.

If you recall, Mrs. Clinton was all spit-and-fire and reluctant to throw in the towel during the presidential race, even when her staunchest supporters had given up hope.

Then, there was a mysterious "closed-door" meeting on the heels on her announcement to continue with her bid for the Oval Office, come hell or high water.

Me thinks Obama and the Democrats promised her a part in the new administration if she would throw in her pantsuit.

What say you?

But, when the final decision was made on the Secretary of State job, there was one stumbling block.

Slick Willy's murky associations overseas - and questionable financial ties with foreigners of dubious proportions - unsettled a few.

From the get-go, I expect Hillary was inclined to jump in full-throttle and utter the quip - "I'll give it the old College try" - but was held back 'til a probe of her hubby was put to bed.

Did slick Willy pass muster?

Temporarily, yes.

Even still, many voters may be inclined to wonder after the Whitewater scandal and the Monica Lewinski brouhaha, if you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Notwithstanding, there may be another reason why Obama plucked Hillary up by the bootstraps in spite of the obvious reasons for passing on her as a potential candidate.

In the wake of Prop 8 protests - and a backlash against the Black Community - it occurred to me, God forbid, that Barrack may have chosen Hillary to appease gays who have become disenchanted with him.

After all, Hillary has always savored a good rapport with the LGBT community.

Because the feisty politician is pro-gay and pro gay-marriage, many in the gay community may now be pinning their hopes on her.

Surely she''ll strong-arm Obama about the issues, once she's firmly ensconced in the corridors of power in Washington, eh?

Personally, I think it was a mistake to have chosen Hillary for a couple of reasons.

Because Hillary is part of an old regime in Washington that voters thought they were casting out when they voted for Obama, the 44th President may be in for a bumpy ride at the hands of skeptical supporters when he takes his seat in the Oval Office come January.

Worse than that, I expect that Clinton skeletons will rattle his new administration in the new year -and ultimately - cast doubts on his ability to make sound decisions.

Gosh, looks like Barack is not as savvy or smart or as sophisticated as I originally thought.

Maybe he's just a puppet and someone else is pulling the strings?

Barack Obama...the irony of his candidacy. Old guard thwarts plans for change...

Just a regular American who likes to play ball!

I laughed-out-loud yesterday when I stumbled on a post by a blogger who whined that a nod to Hillary Clinton in the important role of "Secretary of State" amounted to a renege on the Obama promise for "change".

Contrary to his campaign platform, the president-elect appears to be turning to a tired old regime for candidates that voters were anxious to be rid of in the new administration, was the gist of the disgruntled supporter's plaintive wail.

In reflecting on the issue, I recalled another irony, too.

When Barack was tustling with his opponent on the campaign trail, there were times when voters accused Hillary of playing the race card.

The whole can of worms squirmed around the country ad nauseam for a few weeks - at which point - it was stressed way-back-when (by voters, republicans and democrats alike, and the media) that Barack was not a "Black" candidate!

No Sir.

Mr. Obama was just another hopeful from the Democrat camp with an eye on the big brass ring.

Funny, that!

When John McCain tossed the towel in - and conceded to Obama that dark and moody night - the press reported in a news flash (that ziz-zagged around the world in about two seconds flat) that the young upstart from places hither-to-unknown had become the 1st Black President of the United States.

Ah, they slipped, didn't they?

If the media outlets truly believed back in the summer of 2008 that Barack was not a black candidate, as alleged, they would have reported without hesitation on the eve of November 4th - that Obama had won the election to become the "44th President" of the United States - not the 1st Black President.

Yes, the whole political scam was just a lot of smoke and mirrors, wasn't it?

Undoubtedly, there are a few surprises yet to unfold in the future.

As Bette Davis's character once hissed in "All About Eve":

"Fasten your seat belts, it's going to a bumpy night!"

Barack Obama...to name Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State?

The big buzz around Capitol Hill today is that Barack Obama met with former Presidential hopeful - Hillary Clinton - to offer her a post in his administration as the Secretary of State.

Wild rumor or cruel joke?

News at 11!

Hillary Clinton...campaigning under HillPAC for 3 Senators!

I'm back...

Hillary is sending out missives again across the Internet via e-mail.

Under the auspices of HILLPAC - Hillary is the Honorary Chair - the aggressive former Vice Presidential Candidate is urging that voters focus on "sixty" as a magic number in the next two weeks.

In her own words, this is what Hillary had to say:

Dear Julian:

If we reach 60 Democrats in the Senate, then the days of Republican obstruction are over. With Barack Obama and Joe Biden in the White House and a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate, there's nothing we can't accomplish.

But we can't reach 60 if these three Democrats don't win their extraordinarily close races: Mark Begich up in Alaska, Jeff Merkley in Oregon, and Mark Udall in Colorado.

I need these three Democrats working side-by-side with me on the Senate floor to accomplish the goals you and I set out - rebuilding a strong middle class, health care for every American, and ending the war in Iraq.

Barack Obama needs their help to reach a filibuster-proof majority that will end GOP obstruction once and for all.

Feeling the pressure with only two weeks before Election Day, Republicans have stepped up their attacks against Democrats. They're putting everything they have into these races, and our candidates need to match their efforts dollar-for-dollar.

They're tight races where the polls have them tied or within striking distance, and your decision to support them right now could make the difference on Election Day.

Join me today and help Mark, Jeff, and Mark win.

Mark Udall has been a leader on clean energy issues in Congress and is running a great race for an open seat in Colorado -- now held by a Republican.

Jeff Merkley in Oregon is the son of a sawmill worker who was the first member of his family to attend college. He's running against the entrenched incumbent Gordon Smith, and now his race is right on the knife's edge.

Mark Begich is a lifelong Alaskan - he's the first mayor of Anchorage actually born in the city. He's is working hard to unseat Ted Stevens, who is facing corruption charges back in his home state.

These three great Democrats are all within striking distance of victory.

With just two weeks to go, now is the critical moment in their races. If you contribute to their campaigns today, you could be making the difference that gets us to that magic number of 60 votes in the Senate.

As we're celebrating a new direction for our country on November 5, with a Democratic President and a filibuster-proof Democratic Senate, you'll be so proud to know that you helped to make the difference.

Thank you so much for your hard work - we are almost there!

Sincerely,

Hillary Clinton...not proud of slick Willy?

Did she say orange?

Intriguing, that!

At the Democratic National Convention last night in Denver, Hillary noted in her much-anticipated speech - which tripped trillingly off the tongue - that she was a proud mother, proud Democrat, and proud American.

But, there was no mention of being a proud "wife".

Is slick Willy currently in the dog house?

News at 11!

Tucker Carlson...wardrobe choice a tad flamboyant?

Sloppy preppy look doesn't cut it at Democrats' big party in Denver

At first I didn't recognize Tucker Carlson kibitzing about at the National Democratic Convention on a morning news show.

After all, the high-profile pundit wasn't sporting his ubiquitous signature bow tie!

But, for the most part, his wardrobe choices were right on the money.

A classic Navy Sport coat was teamed with a coordinated dress shirt and understated - but tasteful - burgundy tie correctly knotted at the neck.

Smart. Classy.

But, the white slacks the perky talk-show personality chose to team the ensemble up with bordered on flamboyant.

Especially for the occasion - even if the MSNBC run-down on the Democratic goings-on in Denver - was being labelled the "Unconventional Convention Coverage".

A grey or charcoal slack - even one in taupe - would have been preferable.

Unless Tucker intended to take a short break from the convention hall for an afternoon jaunt on his yacht in the - um - harbour?

Naw. Didn't think so!

Remember Tucker, it's style - not the clothes - that make the man.

And, proper conservative attire that assures a coveted spot in the anchorman's chair!

Bill Clinton...e-mails an invite to moi to attend the Democratic National Convention...for 5 bucks!

I'll be third on the left behind Bill...



Gosh - I thought I put a block on e-mails from wily Hillary and slick Willy after they went down with the good ship lollipop - with the express intent of zapping all future communications into the spam mail box.

Well, maybe it slipped my mind. Or - just maybe the Clinton's have powerful Voo-Doo powers way beyond Yahoo's protective arm - that I am unfamiliar with.

You guessed it.

The persistent duo landed in my Yahoo mail box later this afternoon with an invitation for me to put in my face at the Democratic National Convention next week in Denver.

Get this! All I have to do is pay a paltry five bucks.

Is Barack aware of the cheapie party the Clinton's are tossing beneath his presumptive nose?

In the communication - addressed quite simply to "Dear Julian" - Bill starts off methodically by noting that he has done a lot of role-playing - um - played so many roles at so many of the Dem Conventions over the years.

Yeah, he's been a puppet, a pauper, a pirate and - oh, that was Frank Sinatra - wasn't it?

I'll let him use his own choice words,

"I've been there as a campaign worker, a governor, a keynote speaker, a nominee, a president, and a former president."

Then, he goes on to tease me a little,

"But no convention is quite like your first. There is nothing like seeing for the first time so many people in one place working toward one common purpose: electing the next Democratic president. It's an inspiration and you don't want to miss it if you have a chance."

I'll hop right to it, Bill.

So, what's the catch?

For starters, Bill urges that I act right away.

"Take Hillary up on her offer and contribute by midnight tonight for a chance to attend the Denver convention in person. You'll get to see Hillary speak on Tuesday, and Barack Obama - the next president (?) of the United States - on Thursday."

But, what about that McCain guy? 'Ya know, the wrinkly old dude that Paris Hilton is always fussing over?

He's of no consequence, I guess.

Besides, there's a bonus for me if I jump on the bandwagon tonight.

Bill notes Hillary will take time out of her busy schedule (!) to have a one-on-one chat with moi.

Fireside, I wonder?

Guess what? Bill also assures me he'll saunter by to say hello, too.

I must jot down a reminder on my "to do" list not to forget my miniature video cam.

But, I have to act fast; after all, the instructions - er - invitation is quite specific:

"Enter (?) before midnight tonight for a chance to see me, Hillary, and Barack Obama at the convention in Denver next week!"

If I don't respond by twelve on the dot, what will happen?

Will I turn into a pumpkin or - eghads - a full-fledged republican, do 'ya think?

Do you take pay pal?

Barack Obama...Penn "papers" painted Barack as "Foreign" at Clinton's behest!

Hillary gets busted...


They're known as the "Penn Papers".

Essentially - they are a sheaf of e-mails and documents that purportedly expose a handful of "dirty tricks" - conjured up by Pollster Mark Penn to cast a shadow of uncertainty over Barack Obama's "roots" and dissuade American voters from supporting the young political upstart in the 2000 Presidential Race.

Although newspaper reports note that Hillary Clinton passed on a handful of the calculated plots to derail the Senator from Illinois, one "plum" idea appealed to the Senator. So, she plucked it up - polished if off - and offered it up to the public as her own.

Based on the memo Penn submitted to her office - Hillary made it a point to emphasize in her speeches on the campaign trail that she was born in - "the middle of America, to the middle class, in the middle of the last century.

For good reason.

In a March 2007 memo, Penn theorized that it would be smart strategy to make an issue of the - "diverse multicultural upbringing" - of Obama.

Because Obama spent part of his childhood in Indonesia before returning to Hawaii, Penn conjectured,

"It is not possible to imagine America electing a president during a time of war who is not at his center fundamentally American in his thinking and his values."

Without a scrap of shame he argued,

"Obama's roots to basic American values and culture are at best limited."

So, Clinton deftly weaved the theme into her speeches.

For the most part, Americans were unaware they were being cleverly seduced.

Penn went so far as to urge Hillary to use - "fiery language" - that Reverend Jeremiah A. Wright Jr. was inclined to facilitate in his sermons to rile the congregation up.

And, he stridently recommended Hillary use the term "American" a lot to subtly infer a contrast with Obama.

"Let's explicitly own American in our programs, speeches, and values. He doesn't."

Imagine, the gall of the man!

Fortunately, Penn's over-the-top suggestions were rejected.

Now that the startling machinations of a campaign team have been revealed, can any American truly believe a politician in the future when they allege shame-faced that an inappropriate remark just "slipped out" or was simply a silly "misspeak" without mean-spirited intention?

Hillary, 'ya made a big boo-boo. You should have "shredded" the documents.

Although Clinton is essentially out of the race, political analysts note the information is particularly damaging to Hillary and Bill, at this juncture.

After all, slick Willy and wily Hillary are both slated to speak at the Democratic National Convention in Denver this month.

The "Penn Papers" are a sore reminder of hard-ball tactics - and gross errors-in-judgement (and slip-ups) - that cost Senator Clinton the ticket in the upcoming November election.

Hillary should have paid attention to an old proverb,

"The pen(n) is mightier than the sword."

Hillary Clinton...subtle push out the door! VP dream fades into oblivion...

The shadow knows...

If Hillary can't read the writing on the wall, then maybe she needs to stop in to a local gypsy to get a load of the score.

Pundits are snidely noting behind her back that there are ominous signs the VP ticket has most assuredly eluded her grasp. In fact, many are speculating that Obama's dream team is about to subtly usher the former Presidential hopeful out the back door.

Former Clinton aides have confirmed that Bill's better half is tentatively scheduled to speak on the second night of the Democratic National Convention, for instance.

Ouch!

Talk about a stake in the heart!

In the best case scenario a potential running mate is normally slated to rev up the Dems at a glittering gala on "opening night".

Notwithstanding the obvious, there are other potent signs that she's getting the "heave ho".

The Obama campaign has not asked Hillary to furnish financial records or personal background materials normally requested to single out potential Vice Presidential nominees.

Well, there could be two reasons for the latter.

They know Hillary is "broke", for one. Hapless Hill went bust trying to break bread with the "old boys network", if you recall.

On the other hand, maybe they've opted to forgo on that formality; after all, they'd want 'em in the near future, not around "doomsday".

No matter how you slice it, looks like Senator Clinton will be eating humble pie come fall!