I was talking to DougJ about how awesome it would be to send someone from Balloon Juice to the DNC, and I knew ABL was already credentialed, so Doug and I talked about ways to get her there. As you all know, she is fucking nuts, and wanted to rent an RV and go cross country with her friend. One of my ideas was to do a BJ/ABL across America, and have readers across the country sponsor her and give her a bedroom each night in different states. After a drink or two more, DougJ and I said “Wow. What a fucking stupid idea. Let’s send hot single women to predators all across the country.” So we shit-canned that idea.
Then I worked on other ideas- like they could fly into Pittsburgh, I would pick them up, they could rent an RV, and head to Charlotte from here. That turned out to be a shit idea, too. So we looked at options inside Charlotte and direct flights, and hotel prices were astronomical. As this was happening, I was also talking to ABL, and trying to get her ideas on how to make this happen.
And as I talked to her, I kind of got intrigued. “Hey- maybe I would have fun at the DNC?” Things went downhill from there.
Long story short, by the end of the night I had reserved rooms for me and ABL, she’ll be flying into Pittsburgh with her friend, I’ll pick them up, we’ll spend a night here in Home Crap Home with her getting spooned by Rosie, and then we are driving to Charlotte in the Subaru family truckster with all sorts of left wing propaganda in the form of bumper stickers, attending the convention, and then driving back here where she and her friend can fly back to LA. It’s by far the cheapest option, I’ve rented the rooms and paid 300 bucks for us to have access to the Daily Kos tent, and it is done.
Never thought I would come out of my shell this way, but the more I talked to ABL the more jealous I got. I want to be there. I want to be part of the excitement. I hate what Obama is doing with marijuana, I hate what he is doing with the drones, and I hate the fact that homeowners got the shaft but banksters got bailed out. But I’ll be goddamned if I am not one of the happiest mofos on the planet that he is our President, and I want to be there with everyone else to cheer him on to the November elections.
Having said that- I can’t afford this. I need some help offsetting the costs. I can personally cover the rooms and the gas for the family truckster, but the flights from LA are going to cost money, and there will be all sorts of other expenses. I know I’ve asked you all to send Mistermix and DougJ and Kay and others places, so now I am asking for you to chip in a couple bucks to send fatboy, lover of Lily and Rosie, and Tunch’s employee, to the DNC. I’m going to bring a camera, an Iphone, a laptop, a video camera, and a decrepit liver, so it should make for good blogging.
Thanks in advance. I can not believe how excited I am to go to this. Having a crazy drunk black lady will make it even funner. Is that a word- funner? It’s 3:30. I dunno.
SpaceSquid
Somebody better make this into a movie.
AxelFoley
There’s a joke in there somewhere, but I’m not gonna touch it.
GxB
Sounds like we may need a fund for bail too… or rehab…
Mister Papercut
SpaceSquid:
And if Tunch features anywhere in it, best shoot it in IMAX.
Linda Featheringill
Sounds like fun!
TenguPhule
This is going to be the start of another one of those stuck naked in on the roof/broke your arm in the bathroom incidents, isn’t it?
Santiago
Omigad, make this happen.
blackfrancis
Who is starting up the surgery fund?
Have a great time John.
blackfrancis
@SpaceSquid: I’d watch that. Maybe a youtube update every night!
chuck butcher
If I could afford a buck I’d send twenty just to make this happen – less painfully, anyhow. ABL will keep you squared away – if not out of trouble (or somehow naked broken and animal assaulted)
;-)
North_O_49
That’s why I keep coming back to read this blog: you people are intelligent, insightful, erudite and full-blown, bat-shit crazy…
cfkdaddy
The internet demands pictures and bi-hourly blog updates of you and ABL.
THE INTERNET MUST BE OBEYED.
Seriously, I’ll kick a couple bucks your way Friday.
Looking forward to it, wish I could go out to the DNC.
Oh yeah, and fuck the Rom-Holes and the Ry-holes!
MTiffany
Ermahgerd, rerd trerp!
DH
Good for you! You will have fun.
demkat620
I will kick in a couple bucks on Thurs when I get paid.
We need full reports John and at some point both of you need to be wearing full on Tunch Gear.
I am so excited for you. How cool!
BillinGlendaleCA
Who are you and what did you do with Cole?
Studly Pantload, the emotionally unavailable unicorn
Z@cfkdaddy:
“The internet demands pictures and bi-hourly blog updates of you and ABL.
THE INTERNET MUST BE OBEYED.”
Ahem. We are aware of all internet traditions.
raven
Great, getting the bite an hour before sunrise. I’m in you cheese eater!
Betty Cracker
OMFG, I can’t wait for the updates! My kiddo and I are teaming up to do some citizen journalism around the RNC, which is occurring not terribly far from where we reside, so BJ will be covering the entire political spectrum. With beer!
Warren Terra
Wait, you’re going on a road trip to a convention with your attorney? And she’s from Los Angeles?
Forget the Subaru. You’re going to need a Great Red Shark, high-tech recording equipment, and plenty of drugs. Unless you know where you can get ahold of a Vincent Black Shadow?
Chris W
Don’t forget bail money…you’ll need bail money.
raven
Is ABL part Samoan? 40 years since Fear and Loathing and we get this!
Baud
I thought the goal was to avoid exposing ABL to predators…
Randy P
I’m with the “catch up to you on payday” crowd. Don’t get discouraged if it takes till Friday for the fundraising to kick off.
geg6
@Warren Terra:
Heh. That was exactly my thought.
danielx
Fear and Loathing in Charlotte.
Dibs on the movie rights.
raven
This seems to be the only picture of Dr Gonzo and Raoul!
geg6
And Cole, I’ll kick in later this week. But any chance of meeting up with you guys when they get into PIA? I live about 15 minutes from the airport. I’d love to be very small part of the adventure.
danielx
@Warren Terra:
Clearly great minds think alike. But some of those, uh, supplies will be hard to come by these days, and SO expensive.
And for chrissakes leave the ibogaine at home; you break out that shit and there’s no telling what will happen.
raven
@danielx: Will there be bats?
dance around in your bones
Come out of your shell?!
Dude, you are seriously on the verge of naked mopping again!
I think Cole has partaken of some naturally grown yet inexplicably illegal substance. Have a blast and…..
“Turn the goddam music up! My heart feels like an alligator!”
(HST)
raven
Bad craziness
RosiesDad
@Warren Terra: Really, they should be podcasting the entire adventure.
raven
Mornin Joe is going off the rails denying that there is any relationship between the Ryan and Akin position on abortion. Fucking screaming at Mika.
RosiesDad
Well I hope Mika is screaming back.
raven
@RosiesDad: Whoever that Brian guy is just walked off the set.
Schlemizel
my guess is you will have enough money buy the end of the day Tuesday that you should be able to hold a contest and send two members of the lowly commenters brigade with you.
To show that I am not fishing to be one of those two I’ll just say up front I have 0 vacation (I’m an American dammit!) and couldn’t afford the time away from work as I have two college educations I am paying for currently.
dance around in your bones
@raven: raven, why Why WHY watch Mourning HO??
Might as well stick with the ibogaine.
raven
@RosiesDad: Fuck no, she just makes that stupid fucking face she does when she’s being humiliated. Great example for all the women she’s always whining about.
raven
@raven:
Brian Sullivan
raven
@dance around in your bones: Because it’s there.
Linda Featheringill
@Betty Cracker:
Very nice that you’re poking around the Rep convention. Do share with us!
RosiesDad
Brian Sullivan, conservative twit from CNBC. I just saw that. But I missed what led up to it.
Older_Wiser
If there’s any doubt that Republicans are bad for women and will set our rights back a thousand years, read this:
Tampa, Florida (CNN) – The Republican Party is once again set to enshrine into its official platform support for “a human life amendment” to the Constitution that would outlaw abortion without making explicit exemptions for rape or incest, according to draft language of the platform obtained exclusively by CNN late Monday.
“Faithful to the ‘self-evident’ truths enshrined in the Declaration of Independence, we assert the sanctity of human life and affirm that the unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed,” the draft platform declares. “We support a human life amendment to the Constitution and endorse legislation to make clear that the Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children.”
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2012/08/20/first-on-cnn-gop-prepares-tough-anti-abortion-platform/
I’d contribute, but living only on SS, as a woman, is tough enough, so will have to be there w/you only in spirit.
pixelpusher
I’m in.
Also think we should equip John with a Go-Pro to document the proceedings. But where to affix it?
RosiesDad
@raven: But it’s a nice pout, isn’t it?
dance around in your bones
@raven: Oh, well then.
Truly, I’d rather shoot staples into my forehead.
Valdivia
wooo hooo! Go represent :)
Patricia Kayden
@raven: You should watch Current TV — Bill Press is much better than Morning Joe.
I’ll kick in some funds as well for the “JC/ABL Excellent Adventure”. Y’all are going to have a great time in Charlotte. Looking forward to the videos.
RosiesDad
@dance around in your bones:
Truly, it does feel that way sometimes.
Randy P
@raven: Excellent. This is the type of head ‘sploding I’ve been hoping for. And it’s still only August.
kay
You’ll have fun!
Tell ABL to interview the southern delegates. They’re the most gossipy about Republicans and the most enthusiastic about being there.
I bet West Virginia Democrats are in need of moral support, so go see them. They split them up by hotel, so go see your people, John. Can’t be easy to be a West Virginia Obama delegate.
Also. Anderson Cooper is incredibly, shockingly, good looking but normal and friendly and Marc Halperin looks miserable and uncomfortable in his own skin.
I think the other bloggers are going to be thrilled you finally appeared.
Linda Featheringill
@raven:
That’s funny. He is promulgating the idea, you know. Giving it lots of air time, at no cost. Way to go, Joe!
YellowJournalism
Why do I get the feeling that your road trip will be less National Lampon and more Thelma and Louise?
As soon as they hit the road, we will need to start a bail fund.
Mystical Chick
Seriously? I cannot WAIT for details of this adventure! It’s like a match made in some liquor soaked brain but it’s a good one!
Dollars sent – you go, girl! :)
amk
You crazy sunvabitch. Though I’m not an ‘murkan, I will chip in. Why ? ‘cos you’re a crazy sunvabitch and ABL is a cool lady. And of course, there are the critters.
How long I got for chipping in ? A week, ten days ? Or do you want it yesterday ?
dance around in your bones
Better bring some Acapulco shirts – I think you have the car, the tape recorder (for special music) covered, but possibly not the cocaine.
Though it would be irresponsible not to speculate.
amk
cole, this tweet is for you.
arguingwithsignposts
well this should be interesting. i’m interested to see some reporting about all the douchebag conservative bloggers.
danielx
@raven:
Hey, it’s the South. Anything is possible in the way of wildlife.
Josie
Keep the Paypal button up until Friday (payday) and I’ll chip in a little. This could make a convention almost worth watching.
Citizen_X
Curses! They’ve uncovered my plan.
Anyway, you know the rules, ABL: pics or GTFO. The more compromisey the betterer.
Summer
I’ll be sure to kick in some money. And if you want to stop for a drink and refreshments in Durham with a mostly lurker, two dogs, and a cat, you’re welcome here.
Anya
Count me in. Grandpa promised to pay all my credit cards so I am feeling extra generous.
@raven: You have a strong tolerance. I cannot stand Mika’s batered woman syndrome and the all-white-boy-club that is the Morning Joe show. But most of all, I cannot stand Joe Scarborough’s arrogant smirk.
RoonieRoo
Good! I am glad you are going and I am even happier you can say what you want the President to do different. He has said repeatedly that he expects us to hold his feet to the fire and that is exactly what you and ABL need to do at the DNC. I’ll see how Grumpy and I can help if you can keep that paypal button up.
raven
@Anya: He just started walking it back, “I didn’t know Ryan held those views”.
arguingwithsignposts
I really really wonder what pictures Joe Scarborough has of the head of programming at MSNBC, because I cannot think of another way Joey Scar is a TV talker on the “liberal” MSNBC unless there’s blackmail involved.
raven
Sullivan is tweeting that it was a setup.
arguingwithsignposts
@raven: what was a set-up?
BruceFromOhio
So my co-conspirator owed me $40. Instead of blowing at the tables or on booze, I just donated it to this whatever-it-is-you-call-it.
@Chris W: This. Always gets overlooked, always ends up on the critical path.
Rommie
Hah, DougJ is such an instigator!
You’re gonna need a wider screen to film Tunch, or people will wonder why the projector is off.
The Thin Black Duke
No need to worry about JC & ABL. After all, they are professionals.
The Ancient Randonneur
Has Johnny Depp agreed to play Cole’s part in the movie?
The Thin Black Duke
And is Angela Bassett playing ABL?
Omnes Omnibus
@The Ancient Randonneur: He’s going to play Tunch. I assume CGI will be involved.
Nina
Sooner or later a crate of grapefruit must be involved. Congratulations, I am unaccountably jealous.
kc
I’m in, but only if y’all let me buy you drinks in Charlotte.
gravie
OK, sent a few bucks your way. Represent us real good now, OK?
Shalimar
@arguingwithsignposts: I always assume it is the other way around. Scarborough is the type of show they would like to program. The liberals at night stay on the air because they make money.
satby
@Older_Wiser: I’ll chip in $20 for you Older, and another $20 from me. I get paid Friday too, so it’ll be then.
The Other Bob
Hourly podcast?
The Other Bob
BTW – went to the DNC in 1996 for Clinton. I was the youngest from my state – which is kinda sad really. Had a blast though.
Kay
Scarborough didn’t know Ryan held those views because none of the media celebrities bothered to mention it.
Because, you know, economic issues are for serious people and little things like one of the most far Right voting records in the House on issues that affect women personally and directly (and economically, incidentally) are unimportant, “interest group” stuff. This “interest group” is better than half the voter universe.
Ryan co-sponsored 8 bills with the nutjob. Can you imagine the outcry if Obama had selected a VP as far to the Left as Ryan is to the Right?
Kerri
Lurker here, but am pitching in $20… For the stories, man!
Cassidy
So, We’ve all seen this movie before. Who’s going to be standing outside who’s window with a boombox in a few months?
Baud
@Kay:
Amazing because Maddow has been on this for months. You would think it would come up at the MSNBC picnic. Maybe she should start leaving post-it notes around the office or something.
J.A.F. Rusty Shackleford
Can we really be considered predators if you send the women right to us? I mean there’s not even any stalking involved…where’s the sport in that?
Spork
This could be more interesting than most movies today. I’m in for the cost of an evening at the movies (2 tickets, popcorn, soda, candy, parking, babysitter … we’ll maybe not *that* much). Just wondering if this one ends up like Thelma and Louise.
RosiesDad
@raven: Well, they’re replaying the first hour so I just got to watch the beginning of the argument. Heilemann and Mika actually do make the critical point about Akin: the fact that he and Ryan co-sponsored legislation that tries to differentiate “forcible rape” from some other kind of rape is going to be problematic for Romney – Ryan if they are going to try to make inroads with independent woman voters.
And really, the point Joe was trying to make–that it was so long ago that it doesn’t matter is nonsense. Because Ryan is only 42. And because the proposed bill was put forth last year.
Cassidy
Well, none of us are Republicans or Catholic Priests and ABL and friend are female, so really it’s a negligible risk.
Seanly
Is it a camera that can focus? If yes, I am in for $20. I could do more, but wife quit a good paying job before having another one lined up…
Ah, what the hell, you can have the $20. I’ve never met you, but I like you.
Kay
@Baud:
Can you imagine if Joe Biden had pushed NHS type health care in the Senate and then Obama picked him for VP?
That’s the equivalent of Paul Ryan and Social Security privatization.
Too far Right for George Bush on Social Security, Paul Ryan. Paul Ryan is far, far Right, and media should report that, because it’s important to know.
I love Rachel Maddow. She’s the best interviewer on television, as far as I can see. She’s genuinely good at it, and it’s difficult to do well.
T. Scheisskopf
Somewhere, The Good Doctor is grinning like a mule eating briars, pouring himself another medical ether martini and rubbing his hands together in anticipation of the potential chaos.
Chaos can be good. Cleansing.
If I was not a Life Member of The Working Poor, I could send money. But you all have my prayers.
Jim Pharo
J Griffin, shut up.
It’s OK to ask for money to pay for what is your mission but our cause.
Try not to get arrested. It’s expensive.
bemused
@RosiesDad:
I very much enjoyed Mika calling Akin stupid over and over.
RosiesDad
@bemused: I’ll spend the day hoping that Akin stays in the race.
arguingwithsignposts
Re: Akin – maybe someone could put up a Countdown To Akinpocolypse clock.
Cassidy
Did Akin just jump into the lead for being the first to say ni-(clang)?
S. Holland
Ok, I kicked in!!!! Can’t wait for the stories…….and yes, I’m jealous!! Wish I could be there!
300baud
Griffin, eh?
Very glad to support this. Need more? Ask for more. Even if it’s for something ridiculous. Especially if it’s something ridiculous.
RosiesDad
I think we have the right to expect “Greetings from the Convention” updates on a regular basis.
And pictures, lots of pictures. Cole with Terry McAuliffe. Cole with Bill Clinton. Cole with Howard Dean. Cole with Chuckie T. Cole at the bar mud wrestling with some hotties a la John Candy in Stripes.
bemused
@RosiesDad:
Yes!
Republicans want to rein in Akin hard and try to sweep this under the rug but it’s too damn late, imo. The knuckle draggers, Boehner’s description, like Akin reveal the creepy beliefs and agendas of their extreme right legislators.
I’d like to know if Paul Ryan believes women’s bodies have a special secretion to repel rapist’s sperm that only activates when rape is “forcible”. Maybe not but there is no difference in Ryan’s intent to wage war on women.
Mister Papercut
@dance around in your bones:
Fear and Loathing in Mecklenburg County?
It could work.
Violet
This is awesome! There better be plenty of video!
John PM
I will chip in. My vicarios-thrill-ometer just went to 11!
SteveinSC
John Cole: I’ll send $40 but not through fucking PayPal. You figure how to get the money to you in an envelope (we can use our usual covert method, i.e. I’ll tell the postman to put it under the white stone by the bench, know what I mean? Know what I mean?) Also I can hook you up with the best
barbeque placessoup kitchens around Charlotte. A word to the wise: My cousins will be on the lookout for you, but since they are serious rednecks, that won’t be all that good, especially with you dicking around with a crazy black woman.John PM
@Omnes Omnibus: Actually, I think that Andy Serkis had already signed on to play Tunch.
shirk
Done.
Movie? Gear? Hell, I now fully expect an historic brokered convention, with Cole and ABL inciting the Democrats to adopt a plank calling for Tunch to replace the bald eagle as official country mascot.
(Also, too: What @North_O_49 said: John Griffin Cole and this community are fucking awesome. I drift in and out of reading other blogs, but this is THE one blog that is always, always on my daily to-read list. I just wish I had time to do more than lurk.)
Raven
@SteveinSC: They need to run down and get a picture of themselves at the Peach Butt!
tjmn
I’ll contribute, but y’all will have to wait til I get home on Sunday. Having a senior moment trying to remember paypal password. Or maybe the Diet Dew hasn’t kicked in yet. I’m going with the dew explanation.
Trinity
I cannot express how very excited this makes me! Woot!
Balloon-Juice REPRESENT.
I’m dropping you a few $$ right now John. And there must be pics provided or it didn’t happen. :)
thruppence
I’m with SteveinSC @105 – set up a PO Box (like digby has) and I’ll chip in some snail mail fail bail.
SteveinSC
@Raven: That will just look sweet. Set the camera up for delayed shutter, get this Gaffney landmark full in the scene, drop trousers, then moon the hell out of I-85 traffic and share, I mean share. Think of this wonderful tableau of brown butt, huge, peachy butt and doughy, lily-white butt. The mind reels.
peach flavored shampoo
……aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnd fuck you too!
dance around in your bones
@Mister Papercut: Perhaps Fear and Loathing on the DNC Trail ?
David
Just sent you $100. I’ll drink a little less tonight and its a wash.
metricpenny
I wanna go too! Not really. This introvert is developing hives just thinking about it. But I know it’s going to be a laugh a minute with you two wits hanging together.
You’ve got my support. Enjoy!
wenchacha
@Cassidy: I would love to start a meme with Rmoney holding that boombox. And the text would be “Say Anything.” Because he will.
Paul in KY
@The Ancient Randonneur: I was thinking John Goodman could do it. ABL would be played by Lawryn Hill.
evap
I just kicked in a few dollars for you. I can’t wait to see the pictures, read the blogs, etc. The local Dems are giving out tickets to the convention in exchange for volunteer hours, and I am really tempted. Alas, I can’t get away due to work duties. Having you two there is the next best thing!
Any chance you could swing by Atlanta on the way to/from? I guess it’s not really on the way now that I think about it…
utterdregs
Mostly lurker ponies up, though not without qualms Charlotte will be left a smoking radioactive crater. Oh well – bygones!
Shadow's Mom
I’ve kicked in; looking forward to the coverage
clone12
Kicked in some scratch. You kids better enjoy yourselves.
TaMara (BHF)
Damn, JC, if I wasn’t in the process of starting my own business, I’d kick in, just for the stories. I was at the DNC in 2008 and it was amazing. I’m go glad you decided to go. I think I’ll scrape 5 bucks out of my piggy bank and enter the latest meet the Prez contest so I can try and join you.
Librarian
John, doesn’t this mean that you’ll have to buy some new clothes? You can’t go to Charlotte with the wardrobe you’ve got now, from what I’ve seen. I’m sure there will be a few occasions in which you’ll have to look decent.
Laura Clawson
The fuck? The one thing I devoutly do not wish to go to would be my one damn chance to meet John Cole?
etherealfire
Whoa, I’m seriously excited to hear this! I hope my contribution buys lots of on camera face time from you both. Send us lots of on the scene reports, please. The DNC will never be the same :)
Vernon Bush
Hi,
Can you provide/post a snail mail address to send contributions. I have a personal grudge against using PayPal.
Rgds
V
Cassidy
@wenchacha: I was envisioning the updated adventures of Cole’s cross country drive and then a WTF? post from ABL (X-posted to ABL just to piss of the haters)as she was woken up at 2AM with 2 dogs, a cat, and a big dude holding a Boombox singing along to “In Your Eyes”.
different-church-lady
I think that might have been the weirdest letter to Penthouse ever.
Older_Wiser
@satby: Wonderful! Thank you so, so much!
ATL Redhead
The Daily Show’s going to have some serious competition! We just need to get you an over-the-top graphics package, or better yet, a super-ridiculous, amateur package.
Jebediah
I am jealous.
RossInDetroit, Rational Subjectivist
Okay, I’m in for a small donation and holding back a larger one for the inevitable cleanup bill.
Charlotte is a nice town. Big enough to be interesting and Southern enough to be warm and friendly. I used to commute there for work so I don’t know what it’s like downtown on weekends. But the airport is swell and convenient.
Gloryb
@Shalimar: Yeah, since it’s Jack Welch’s spot, I assume they want this type of program.
I remember his wife was quoted as saying there are two Anericas, one with Mitt singing “America the Beautiful,” and the other with the Prez singing Al Green.
Gloryb
@Shalimar: Yeah, since it’s Jack Welch’s spot, I assume they want this type of program.
I remember his wife was quoted as saying there are two Anericas, one with Mitt singing “America the Beautiful,” and the other with the Prez singing Al Green.
1badbaba3
Between the cat shaving(!!!), self-feeding puppehs, and the drunk dog wettings, I had briefly considered advising Cole to marry up quickly, as it was clear that pet chaos reigned. I had no idea the lengths he would go to lure women into his dungeon, er…um…lair. “Yeah, Imani, I said convention. Of course Barack will be there, we go way back to basic. No,leave the rusty pitchfork with Minna. Okay, see you there.” Genius, Dude. An inspiration to us all.
ABL
The RV was an awesome idea and you know it.
ABL
Is now a good time to mention that I’m allergic to cats?
etherealfire
@Paul in KY: Lauren Hill, perfect. How about Phillip Seymour Hoffman for John – smart, funny, edgy and just a leeetle bit neurotic???
RossInDetroit, Rational Subjectivist
@ABL:
For retirees. I’m envisioning something more like a Panamera and a Get Out Of jail Free card.
halteclere
If you don’t get enough $$ from the BJ community to pay for this trip, engine-heated hot dogs are pretty good. Just make sure you put them on your engine (wrapped in tin foil, of course) about 4-hours prior to stopping to eat!
Lysana
Okay, fuck it. This drew me back in. I still can’t donate, but the idea of the two of you hitting the DNC is way too delicious.
askew
I’m in for $25 but I expect lots of blog posts/tweets/youtube videos documenting this trip.
Dlw32
DUDES!!! Kickstarter!!
Origuy
For full effect,you have to park the RV at Walmart. Actually, I’d like to see Fear and Loathing in Tampa, but Cole really would need drugs and ABL bail money if they did that.
I have to see how much is left in the Paypal account. I’m off for a week in the Rockies and I’m going to need spending money.
SuzieC
@Vernon Bush:
Agreed. Have never used paypal, don’t intend to start. Want to chip in a few bucks for you crazy kids, tho.
1badbaba3
J. Cole and DougJ,
If the blog thing doesn’t work out, you guys could become travel agents. Or U.S. Reps.
FlyingToaster
I’m in.
Make sure you keep your phones charged up so you can ask for (more) bail money.
And we expect snarky comments about the non-union venue. Seriously.
EddieInCA
EddieInCA –
In for a hundy…
Your transaction ID for this payment is: 09845487SB8555634.
Go JC/ABL!!!
Chat Noir
OK, I kicked in a few bux. Look forward to the blog posts and pics.
staci
@arguingwithsignposts: I think he cut a deal with the Republican party regarding covering up the dead intern story and he is still paying back.
Shane's Dentist
/delurk
Done and done.
Comrade Colette Collaboratrice
You people are insane. I’m down with that. I donated, but if there are nekked pictures of Cole Imma get my money back.
AliceBlue
Dammit, if I hadn’t had a big car repair bill and a vet bill, I’d be sending you a few dollars. I’ll see how things look at the end of the week.
I agree with what Kay said–spend some time hanging out with delegates from southern states. We southern Dems are a nice bunch and we need the moral support.
dance around in your bones
Also, I’d throw in a few sheckels but numbah one – don’t use Paypal and numbah two – don’t have any sheckels, ducats, coin, or fucking money.
I been broke so long it looks like up to me.
But – go crazy, dudes and dudettes!
Or, behave in a style fitting to serious bloggers. (Bwahaahaahaa!)
Srsly, just keep us informed.
Paul in KY
@etherealfire: I think Phillip Seymour Hoffman would really work.
Wish I’d thought of him.
Paul in KY
@SuzieC: Me no use Paypal either.
pat
OK, I’m a sucker for every weird cause that comes along. I’ll stuff some cash in an envelope and trust it to the USPS.
Have fun, keep us posted, try not to wake up every day with a hangover.
Oh, and this is my favorite blog, the one I visit after realitychex.com . I trust you guys and Marie Burns to let me know what’s happening. And Charlie Pierce, of course. And I like ABL a lot.
dance around in your bones
@Paul in KY:
Cole has said numerous times that he most resembles Philip Seymour Hoffman.
And after that late-night drunk-post first picture evah in ten years I must say I have to agree.
Though we love him anyway.
A big heart and a sense of empathy and a willingness to change one’s mind when they realize they are wrong go a loooooooooong way with me.
Paul in KY
@dance around in your bones: Cool.
piratedan
cut to scene….. roadside Interstate 77, just south of Beckley WVa, southbound…..
“and do you know why I pulled you over Mr… Cole is it?”
Next scene…. roadside Interstate 77, just north of Wytheville, Va, southbound….
“and do you know why I pulled you over Mr…. Cole?
cut to next scene…. roadside Interstate 77, just south of Statesville, NC, southbound
“Mr. Cole, would you and your associates mind stepping out of the car…….please keep your hands where I can see them at all times”.
Warren Terra
@dance around in your bones:
I realize they’re not the actors who most strongly represent our protagnists, but nonetheless: Cole is to be played by Johnny Depp, and ABL is to be played by Benicio Del Toro. It can’t happen any other way.
Spatula
Ah. From Republican tribal borg to Democratic tribal borg.
So at last, all pretense will be dropped and full assimilation will be attained.
Have a MAHVELOUS time at the Village cocktail parties, Cole.
Will you and ABL be sitting on the convention floor with the other “racist, rape enabling” bloggers?
dance around in your bones
@Warren Terra:
I thought Benecio was fabuloso in that movie; Johnny D seemed to just try a little too hard – almost veering into parody (if that is even possible when portraying HST)..
I don’t know… I was around during HST’s whole career (from reading his dispatches in the old unstapled newsprint Rolling Stone) and he just kind of radiated a basic decency along with the wild rhetoric and incredible insights. If you have ever read his letters you know what I mean.
Not that I didn’t love the movie. I just preferred the original (not sure how THAT could happen anymore!).
dance around in your bones
@Spatula:
Spatulas are especially good for flipping pancakes and burgers.
Cassidy
@Spatula: Wow. You really are just an unpleasant person. I may be a dick, but I can at least take part in a fun conversation. You must be one unhappy person. I feel sorry for you.
Spatula
@Cassidy:
Are you here to make happy talk regardless of what you think about an issue?
I’m very happy. Career I love, grown kids I love, a great dog, beautiful house, peace of mind, and I don’t find it necessary to seek my personal affirmation on the Intertrons as do you.
Knowing and speaking one’s mind are key elements of self-respect. You should try it.
Oh! Oh! Oh!…and I’m in rehearsals for an October production of the Tony and Pulitzer award winning Broadway musical “Next To Normal,” in which I am portraying the key role of Dan, the father/husband. The music and message are great.
So yeah…I am VERY happy. Thank you for giving me pause to remember that. :D
EL
@North_O_49:
My sentiments exactly, with the addition of “pet obsessed.” Paypal Transaction ID: 64G717005V019652K
Paul in KY
@Warren Terra: Benecio Del Torro would get another Oscar if he could pull that off. Depp too.
Felanius Kootea
Just saw this and chipped in $20.00 on PayPal. Take lots of pictures ABL!
Cassidy
@Spatula: You’re so happy that you come to a blog, hide behind a handle and attempt to stalk/berate/belittle someone who has no impact on that life you described. Sure. Again, I feel sorry for you.
dance around in your bones
@Spatula:
Ain’t THAT the truth. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you get a personal affirmation of any kind here, just universal scorn. And yet, here you are, day after day…..uhhh, porque?
You must be so proud.
Ann Marie
I gave a few bucks, but I’m a little worried about John’s tendency to have weird accidents. We will need the regular updates just to know John and ABL are still alive!
Cassidy
Because they’re just so damn happy.
Bago
@RosiesDad: Get a ustream kit.
Spatula
@Cassidy:
That is rich, coming from a nimrod who uses some of the most aggressive, hateful language against commenters it doesn’t like on this blog, and that is saying a LOT.
By the way, please tell me your real name, and quit hiding behind that silly nym, you coward.
Take your sorryfeelings and stuff it please.
Cassidy
My last name is Cassidy. I’ve never hid who I am and where I’m from. Hell I’ve even put my email on here.
You’re just so happy, you keep coming back. I really do pity you. It’s sad that someone claims to have so much, but is just drawn here. You can’t even enjoy those fine things you claim to have.
dance around in your bones
Coming from some dipshit that calls itself Spatula, and apparently changes its name every two weeks or so, THAT’S rich.
Darkrose
How long do we have to chip in? As a CA state worker, I get paid once a month, but if you’re still collecting after Sept 1, I’m totally in. As long as we get pictures.
1badbaba3
Let’s not bicker, or argue about ‘oo killed ‘oo….
Spatula
@Cassidy:
hahaha…keep telling yourself that.
What’s your first name? Quit hiding behind that last name only shit.
Spatula
@1badbaba3:
:D
But you see…folks like Assidy and Boners SIMPLY CANNOT ABIDE even one commenter who posts something outside their BJ hive mind groupthink.
Apparently the reason they cannot do this is because they are so happy and live and let live or something…
Tone In DC
@amk:
(Belated) LULz.
dance around in your bones
Ok, so what’s YOUR first name? Dirty? Cheapo? Flimsy? McMegan-ish expensive? Ultra-exclusivo?
Dude, you’re a Spatula, and proud of it.
And I know what your other names are. It’s NOT HARD to figure it out.
Syntax, how does it work??
Jebediah
@dance around in your bones:
I’m only seeing any of this because I am at work. At home, all I could tell you for sure is that “Spatula” is really, really into pie.
Tone In DC
Yeesh!! Folks, please…
SCROLL PAST. The flat, wide kitchen implement has nothing better to do than this.
ABL and John, enjoy yourselves. And feel free to find some A. Weiner type pix of Akin, Ryan and Rmoney for prime time with LoD in Charlotte.
Spatula
@dance around in your bones:
Could you explain what you are babbling about?
Assidy is the one accusing people “hiding” behind their nyms kind of like everyone else on the Internet.
Why do you give a fuck what I post? Read or not and scroll past…idiot.
Spatula
@Jebediah:
Jebby, good for you. No, really, that’s really cool.
Good, good for you!
Aet
Take notes on the trip. This sounds like a plausible idea for a Thompson novel.
dance around in your bones
@Spatula:
Uhhh – nope. Anyone with half a brain has already figured out the context.
dance around in your bones
@Tone In DC:
You’re right. I have just been feeling unusually contentious today..
Pie it is!!
eta: aaaaaaaaaaaah, esta mucho mejor ahorita :)
mainmati
Would like to contribute but Pay Pal is a brutal organization. I signed up in 2004 in oder to get SkypeOut, which was new. But I was working overseas and my credit card was in the USA. I was immediately (and insanely) designated as a criminal and not allowed to use Pay Pal. I have a very good job and a very good credit rating but clearly Pay Pal will only let you use their service if you only ever live in the USA.
So, alternatives?
Polar Bear Squares
I’m a broke unemployed law grad who can’t pass the Bar but I’ll be more than happy to send you a mixed CD filled with angry hip-hop to rock out to and possibly some of my wife’s spaghetti just because its that damn good. Good luck and have a great time. Can’t wait!
AirBetty
This might too much of a PIA but those people who don’t want to use Paypal – consider using Dwolla. It’s an Iowa based company looking to change the way we pay for stuff. It takes some time to set up and it takes 3 days to actually receive the money but it’s set up like a bank with all of the safeguards. And it’s very clear and easy to use with none of the switcheroos that Paypal is famous for. I use it with a client (small biz) and it works fine as long as you allot a bit of extra time for stuff to clear.
AirBetty
Also – to those people who want to send a paper check but don’t want to invade JC’s privacy getting his actual address…isn’t there a way to just send mail to his Post Office in care of General Delivery or something…and then JC goes to pick up mail at the counter? This used to be a possibility way back when. To get a PO box you have to shell out $40 for 6 months. You’d have to get the name of his town though….
sgoode
Happy to chip in. My mom, sister and I will also be in Charlotte for the festivities – 2 days of volunteering and then for the acceptance speech on Thursday night.