Obama keeps Broadway pledge

[daniel green]

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5juui7didNwh_vzBmJyrbjxkeF-IgD98GLDVO0

Taking Mrs Obama to NY for a broadway play after watching Malia play soccer--winning--this afternoon.

[baltoman99]

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0509/23122.html

President takes his wife to a Broadway show, a nice romantic evening of fun right? Well, not according to the RNC:

As President Obama prepares to wing into Manhattan’s theater district on Air Force One to take in a Broadway show, GM is preparing to file bankruptcy and families across America continue to struggle to pay their bills. ... Have a great Saturday evening – even if you’re not jetting off somewhere at taxpayer expense.

Read more: "Obama keeps Broadway pledge - Politico Staff - POLITICO.com" - http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0509/23122.html#ixzz0H2suBAYd&A


Only problem is, Obama didn't use Air Force One nor are we, the taxpayers paying for his tickets to the show.

And it's better, a reporter on CNN said earlier that this will come back to bite the Democrats in the mid-terms next year.

Honest to goodness, is it me or is the right really grasping at straws now?

[Vortex]

I think it's way beyond grasping at straws. Some folks are dog- paddling in water up to their nostrils thinking there is no life boat in sight. Or at least wishing there is no boat is sight so they can continue to whine and moan. I really feel sorry for them. JMO

[Susan43]

Petty, petty, petty.

[snookums1]

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0509/23122.html

President takes his wife to a Broadway show, a nice romantic evening of fun right? Well, not according to the RNC:

As President Obama prepares to wing into Manhattan’s theater district on Air Force One to take in a Broadway show, GM is preparing to file bankruptcy and families across America continue to struggle to pay their bills. ... Have a great Saturday evening – even if you’re not jetting off somewhere at taxpayer expense.

Read more: "Obama keeps Broadway pledge - Politico Staff - POLITICO.com" - http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0509/23122.html#ixzz0H2suBAYd&A


Only problem is, Obama didn't use Air Force One nor are we, the taxpayers paying for his tickets to the show.

And it's better, a reporter on CNN said earlier that this will come back to bite the Democrats in the mid-terms next year.

Honest to goodness, is it me or is the right really grasping at straws now?
It is disgusting what they find fault with. He paid for the entire trip with his own money. At the very least, they ought to get their facts straight. Not that they are big on facts.

[snookums1]

The people in New York lined the streets to snap pictures of the motorcade. They loved being that close to the president.

[Vortex]

Wait just a damn minute.

Considering the climate, I find this to be classless and tacky. IMO.

Classless and tacky that he didnt use AF1?

[MercedesV]

Wait just a damn minute.

Considering the climate, I find this to be classless and tacky. IMO.

The weather has been beautiful. Why are you worried about the climate?

[bbking]

I think it's way beyond grasping at straws. Some folks are dog- paddling in water up to their nostrils thinking there is no life boat in sight. Or at least wishing there is no boat is sight so they can continue to whine and moan. I really feel sorry for them. JMO


I agree. Who has time to whine?

[snookums1]

What does this mean? :confused:
Don't you know what love or like means? :confused:

[theal3]

He took a small plane, paid 1st class airfare, and for his own tickets, lodging and meals. Where's the Beef? Oh, cost of secret service? They get paid to protect him, 24/7 anyway. As does the military who fly the planes. And Oh, what's the problem with going to a Broadway show during a recession? I'm sure others went to the show, too. In fact Broadway is hurting due to the recession, IF you can afford it, support broadway.

This "beef" is beyond petty. IMHO

[baltoman99]

Wait just a damn minute.

Considering the climate, I find this to be classless and tacky. IMO.

Considering you were defending George W. Bush, show flew Air Force 1 to Arizona to present a birthday cake while New Orleans was drowning, your opinion on this matter show your hyporcrisy and your hatred of all things Democrat.

See, you can feign the outrage over things like this, but I've been around here a long time and you do nothing but defend all things Bush at every turn.

Seriously, why don't you drop the act and start posting like a serious poster. Or is game playing all you have. :rolleyes:

[snookums1]

How do you know "they loved being so close to the President." That's ridiculous. Do you know those people? :confused: I doubt they would stand 5 deep, waving and taking pictures of someone they did not like. Unless of course, they were into protesting, which they did not do.

[theal3]

The people in New York lined the streets to snap pictures of the motorcade. They loved being that close to the president.

Absolutely like NYorkers loved it when Clinton came to town, or put his offices in Harlem. It's a Blue State, like Oregon, I swear when he came here during the election, to Portland, it was the biggest turn out ever in Oregon History for rally to listen to his speech. For a sparsely populated state there were like nearly 80,000 people at the park and more along the route or in boat on the river. It was awesme. Oregon loved his visit. It was record breaking event!
Here's my favorite photo link to that:

http://thepage.time.com/photos-obamas-portland-rally-with-record-breaking-crowd/

[CindR]

The weather has been beautiful. Why are you worried about the climate?

:laugh: Good one, Mercedes. That made me chuckle.

[baltoman99]

Incredible how you missed the point. :rolleyes: The people who took the pictures were not loving Obama, they would have taken pictures of any celebrity who drove by in a limo - assuming they would know it. They were excited that a celebrity was driving by.

And , in case you haven't heard, Broadway is now closed to traffic and is a pedestrian walkway, which is why they were standing 5 deep.

Trust me they didn't love being "that close" to Pres Obama. And I am not the GOP. Turning Obama into a rock star has been overdone.


moo

Seriously, what makes your point anymore valid than the poster you're replying to? Are you in the heads of those taking the pictures to ask us to "trust me, they didn't love being that close to Pres Obama"? You know this for fact or are you just guessing?

BTW, I agree with one thing you're saying, turning Obama into a rock star has been over done. Problem is though you should be talking to the Fox News folks and Rush Limbaugh about that one seeing as how it was that group who tried to paint Obama as such.

[theal3]

:confused: Loved it when he put his offices in Harlem? :confused:

Which New Yorkers loved it?

Yes, he signed a 10 year lease and helped, is helping with the economic recovery and redevelopment Harlem. Don't you remember? It was in 2001.

http://www.angelfire.com/rant/pearly/htmls1/bill-harlem.html

[theal3]

Thank you for the link. I didn't interpret the article as saying that all New Yorkers loved Clinton having an office in Harlem.

It said the people of Harlem loved it.

Is Harlem all NYers?


I didn't say "all" New Yorkers, I said NYorkers when he opened the office in Harlem. Aren't Harlem folks New Yorkers?

[daniel green]

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0509/23122.html

snipped
Honest to goodness, is it me or is the right really grasping at straws now?

Oh, it's gone way beyond that.

This doesn't even remotely resemble the GOP, really. Not the GOP of yore.

From the link:

The RNC's Gail Gitcho added: "If President Obama wants to go to the theater, isn’t the Presidential box at the Kennedy Center good enough?”


It's not only petty and silly and ridiculous and whiney and childish and, frankly, just embarrassing, but it's a loser strategy.

Whine and carry on about every single thing and NOTHING seems important.

This scatter shot style is ludicrous. You wind up with a date night being just as horrible as Marxism/Fascism/Communism/Socialism is as horrible and urgent as mustard is as horrible and terrible and urgent as a flag pin is as horrible and urgent and the sky is falling as the Sup Ct nominee. Kinda like the kid who cried wolf, know what I mean?

No subtleties or nuances, no stressing of ideas or differences, just wearegonnabeagainsteverlittlethingnomatter what. And everythingiscrucial theskyisfalling. Sheesh.

Americans are so much smarter than that.

But, really, as a strategy it is such a loser.

[theal3]

Oh, it's gone way beyond that.

This doesn't even remotely resemble the GOP, really. Not the GOP of yore.

From the link:




It's not only petty and silly and ridiculous and whiney and childish and, frankly, just embarrassing, but it's a loser strategy.

Whine and carry on about every single thing and NOTHING seems important.

This scatter shot style is ludicrous. You wind up with a date night being just as horrible as Marxism/Fascism/Communism/Socialism is as horrible and urgent as mustard is as horrible and terrible and urgent as a flag pin is as horrible and urgent and the sky is falling as the Sup Ct nominee. Kinda like the kid who cried wolf, know what I mean?

No subtleties or nuances, no stressing of ideas or differences, just wearegonnabeagainsteverlittlethingnomatter what. And everythingiscrucial theskyisfalling. Sheesh.

Americans are so much smarter than that.

But, really, as a strategy it is such a loser.

Ditto all of the above! When GOPers lose, they lose their minds, IMHO. The sky is falling, the sky is falling. They need a leader to harness all the anger for something positive. It's like the Martians have landed to them: take me to your leader, or lead me to your taker?:biggrin:

If you believe strictly in the line that Father knows best: you're right only half the time or less. IMHO.

[Lady_Jean_La]

He took a small plane, paid 1st class airfare, and for his own tickets, lodging and meals. Where's the Beef? Oh, cost of secret service? They get paid to protect him, 24/7 anyway. As does the military who fly the planes. And Oh, what's the problem with going to a Broadway show during a recession? I'm sure others went to the show, too. In fact Broadway is hurting due to the recession, IF you can afford it, support broadway.

This "beef" is beyond petty. IMHO

http://www.theatermania.com/broadway/joe-turners-come-and-gone_150103/

Ticket Price: $46.50-$91.50

[Lady_Jean_La]

http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/RIALTO_CHATTER_Obamas_Coming_and_Going_to_JOE_TURN ERS_on_Broadway_20010101

The cast features Marsha Stephanie Blake, Chad L. Coleman, Michael Cummings, Aunjanue Ellis, Danai Gurira, Andre Holland, Arliss Howard, Ernie Hudson, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Amari Rose Leigh and Roger Robinson.

[Lady_Jean_La]

http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/President-Barack-Obama-Takes-Wife-Michelle-To-New-York-Broadway-Show-On-Promised-Date-Night/Article/200905415292083?lpos=World_News_First_Home_Article _Teaser_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_15292083_President_Barack_Obama_Takes_ Wife_Michelle_To_New_York_Broadway_Show_On_Promise d_Date_Night

Passers-by line a street as the motorcade of US President Barack Obama passes by May 30, 2009 in New York City. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will be attending

[theal3]

Great, he promised his wife to take her to a Broadway Show. And He delivered: And what a show. Why isn't anyone talking about THIS, which show about turn of Century Pittsburgh, and slaves etc:

http://www.lct.org/showMain.htm?id=186

Tony Award nominated, revived.
"August Wilson's JOE TURNER'S COME AND GONE is set in a Pittsburgh boarding house in 1911. Owners Seth and Bertha Holly play host to a makeshift family of people who come to stay, some for days, some longer, during the Great Migration of the 1910s when descendants of former slaves moved in large numbers from the South toward the industrial cities of the North, seeking new jobs, new lives and new beginnings."
===
I now want read or see this play: how appropriate. BTW, the original link, has great pic of the first couple. Fabulous looking.

I wonder how many GOPers will go to this play or did?. They might learn something about history.

[daniel green]

snipped
===
I now want read or see this play: how appropriate. BTW, the original link, has great pic of the first couple. Fabulous looking.

.

They looked gorgous. Loved her dress and hair.

Me, too, I wanna see that play! My husband so owes me a trip to NYC, too. I am gonna cash that in ASAP.

[CindR]

Ditto all of the above! When GOPers lose, they lose their minds, IMHO. The sky is falling, the sky is falling. They need a leader to harness all the anger for something positive. It's like the Martians have landed to them: take me to your leader, or lead me to your taker?:biggrin:

If you believe strictly in the line that Father knows best: you're right only half the time or less. IMHO.

When GOPers lose, they lose their minds.

This should be on a bumper sticker, seriously. You hit the nail on the head, theal. Great post. :thumbup:

[Banditta]

Incredible how you missed the point. :rolleyes: The people who took the pictures were not loving Obama, they would have taken pictures of any celebrity who drove by in a limo - assuming they would know it. They were excited that a celebrity was driving by.

And , in case you haven't heard, Broadway is now closed to traffic and is a pedestrian walkway, which is why they were standing 5 deep.

Trust me they didn't love being "that close" to Pres Obama. And I am not the GOP. Turning Obama into a rock star has been overdone.


moo

How do YOU know what the people were thinking? to turn it back to your complaint. How do you know if they would take pictures of any celebrity...Obama IS the president of the US. Why should we trust you about the "being close" to Obama. Your post is riddled with baloney.:laugh:
I'm so glad the Obamas are supporting the theatre...actors/actresses need jobs too.

[joolz]

Great, he promised his wife to take her to a Broadway Show. And He delivered: And what a show. Why isn't anyone talking about THIS, which show about turn of Century Pittsburgh, and slaves etc:

http://www.lct.org/showMain.htm?id=186

Tony Award nominated, revived.
"August Wilson's JOE TURNER'S COME AND GONE is set in a Pittsburgh boarding house in 1911. Owners Seth and Bertha Holly play host to a makeshift family of people who come to stay, some for days, some longer, during the Great Migration of the 1910s when descendants of former slaves moved in large numbers from the South toward the industrial cities of the North, seeking new jobs, new lives and new beginnings."
===
I now want read or see this play: how appropriate. BTW, the original link, has great pic of the first couple. Fabulous looking.

I wonder how many GOPers will go to this play or did?. They might learn something about history.

August Wilson is a brilliant playwright, and anyone who sees one of his plays will be amazed by the power of his drama.

On another note, people should try to remember (or learn:sneaky:) that during the great depression, the entertainment business - stage and screen especially - roared along like a lion, keeping a lot of people employed and a lot of people's minds off the daily struggle of their lives.
jmo

[Lady_Jean_La]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0O3jvX7saY&feature=player_embedded

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/8075618.stm

When the Obamas walked down the aisle to take their seats, “it was utter pandemonium,” said Tim Johnson, who was in the audience, and described a scene of shouting, clapping and a long standing ovation.

Meryl Streep sat a few rows in front of the Obamas, said Mr. Johnson, 52. “No one seemed to notice,” he said.

[Carol25]

What a great idea for the president to take Michelle on a date to NY for a show on Broadway! It had to be a pleasure for them both and terrifically exciting for everyone who saw them!

I hope they take time to do these things often! Hope they enjoyed the show! :thumbsup:

[logbump]

Actually, the trip required three planes.
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/05/30/soccer-dad-in-chief/

[ortiga]

http://www.theatermania.com/broadway/joe-turners-come-and-gone_150103/

Ticket Price: $46.50-$91.50

In other words, a lot loss than those "900 jobs" to get up front in the millenium Billy Joel concert.

[Lady_Jean_La]

Actually, the trip required three planes.
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/05/30/soccer-dad-in-chief/

The President deserves a few benefits, the USA only pays him what a college dean receives. jmo

[Lady_Jean_La]

They just said on FOX News, this cost taxpayers $50,000-$100,000.

The idea that it cost us nothing is a lie.

A week ago the President went to Las Vegas and Los Angeles for fund raisers and it cost $3 million. This was a bargain. jmo

[Banditta]

First of all, Obama isn't doing anything any different than most presidents we've had. Why is it an issue then? More blah blah. imo What is the difference between Obama and any other presidents? Anyone?

[theal3]

Where did you hear he paid 1st class airfare? He probably paid for dinner and the tickets.

"The Obamas flew to New York, not on the iconic presidential jet, but aboard a small military plane -- still dubbed Air Force One with the president aboard -- for a meal in Manhattan's West Village and a night at the theater."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090531/ts_alt_afp/uspoliticsobamavisit_20090531015948

Fox news reported it on TV yesterday, said he paid for the show tickets, meals and reinbursed govt. for 1st class air cost. They took a smaller govt. plane and helicopter, than what AF1 would have cost. And in any event where ever he goes it costs money for secret service, transportation etc.

[Lady_Jean_La]

First of all, Obama isn't doing anything any different than most presidents we've had. Why is it an issue then? More blah blah. imo What is the difference between Obama and any other presidents? Anyone?Change...

People want President Obama to have an electric limo. Prepare dinner on a solar cooker. Wear clothes made of hemp. jmo

[daniel green]

First of all, Obama isn't doing anything any different than most presidents we've had. Why is it an issue then? More blah blah. imo What is the difference between Obama and any other presidents? Anyone?

Well, the overwhelming popularity of the President and the First Lady is the difference.

Awsome pictures of ppl being so happy to see them!

[daniel green]

The President played golf today, too.

Is the sky falling yet? :wink:

[MoreThanThat]

They really seem like a loving couple. :smile: It's nice to see that today when you see so many unhappy couples.

[kristy5]

Fox news? The same Fox news you're always saying went to court so they could lie? Now you're using them as a reference? :lol:

They will use Fox when it suits their agenda.

[watcher2005]

The President played golf today, too.

Is the sky falling yet? :wink:

No... thanks to Obama! Praise Him. :loveeyes:

[Lady_Jean_La]

To whom does this lie belong?

Being the generous type that I am... I am giving you the benefit of the doubt in thinking that you take pride in your posts and opinions and would never allow yourself to be used as someone else's puppet by repeating their accusations simply because they said it was so... As important as your education seems to be, to you....and after reading your countless and unrelenting posts condemning a person for accusing others of misleading or lying and demanding they provide proof, I can't imagine you posting a comment such as "the idea that it cost us nothing is a lie" on these threads
without having specific evidence to back up your accusations...

Please provide a link to proof that the Obamas trip to NYC cost the taxpayers $50,000 - $100,000 that otherwise would not have cost them if the Obamas had stayed home that evening....

I don't have a link but think a cost of $100,000 is likely. But then I think that is the cost taxpayers pay to protect the President.

The trick in figuring the cost is knowing how cost are figured. Some cost like overtime for NYPD is pretty easy to estimate. Other cost are spread over years like the cost per hour flight time of an airplane. jmo

[MercedesV]

Obama did use Airforce One plus two other jets to ferry the press and staff, Marine One, and I'm sure a motorcade. The taxpayer will probably pick up a tab of several hundred thousand dollars for Obama's irresponsible night out while GM prepared to file bankruptcy.

Whatever plane that the President flies in automatically becomes Airforce One for that flight. The plane we think of as Airforce One was not used for the trip, a smaller plane was used. It became Airforce One when the President flew in it.

If Obama had stayed home would GM not have to file bankruptcy?

[baltoman99]

Obama did use Airforce One plus two other jets to ferry the press and staff, Marine One, and I'm sure a motorcade. The taxpayer will probably pick up a tab of several hundred thousand dollars for Obama's irresponsible night out while GM prepared to file bankruptcy.

Psst, let me let you in on something, if Barack Obama hoped on a little private glider it becomes Air Force 1. But I'm sure you knew that right?

But you and the rest will just continue to pass off the story that he used the flying office for a trip to New York. :rolleyes:

[Lady_Jean_La]

Wonder where Fox News and the RNC were when former President Bush flew to Texas on his multiple vacations and weekends instead of watching the store ? :rolleyes:
They were there. Remember the photos of world leaders at the ranch? Mr. Putin riding a horse? A King holding the President's hand? PM of the UK eating bar-b-que? Others? Remember?
:confused:

[Lady_Jean_La]

Psst, let me let you in on something, if Barack Obama hoped on a little private glider it becomes Air Force 1. But I'm sure you knew that right?

But you and the rest will just continue to pass off the story that he used the flying office for a trip to New York. :rolleyes:
I think Executive One would be more likely. jmo

[emdragon]

Obama did use Airforce One plus two other jets to ferry the press and staff, Marine One, and I'm sure a motorcade. The taxpayer will probably pick up a tab of several hundred thousand dollars for Obama's irresponsible night out while GM prepared to file bankruptcy.


You do know that any plane the President is on is called Airforce One right?

'irresponsible night out" lol give me a break you people are hilarious. How many times did GWB go to Crawford? You don't think that didn't cost the tax payers?

Oh the party of family values and the sanctity of marriage is complaining about a couple making sure they no matter what they remain focused on their marriage and each other- the irony is to much.

[Lady_Jean_La]

You do know that any plane the President is on is called Airforce One right?

'irresponsible night out" lol give me a break you people are hilarious. How many times did GWB go to Crawford? You don't think that didn't cost the tax payers?

Oh the party of family values and the sanctity of marriage is complaining about a couple making sure they no matter what they remain focused on their marriage and each other- the irony is to much.

Any Air Force plane the president is on is designated Air Force One. There have been Navy One, Army One, Executive One, etc.

[Amy Thist]

I think it's great that President obama and his wife Michelle have a date night and that they get out and about. This time it is New York and theatre supporting the arts. I just think that is wonderful and I bet the actors are so happy too. I think some people will condmen President Obama no matter what he does. I thinkt hey are such a cool couple.:smile:

[Lady_Jean_La]

A plane is referred to as Executive One IF it is a civilian aircraft and the President is aboard.

The other designations Navy, Marines, etc is when the destination is military.

The plane he flew to NY IS called Air Force I.

The reason for these differences in names are for security purposes and air traffic controllers.

Absolutely! :thumbsup:

[baltoman99]

They just said on FOX News, this cost taxpayers $50,000-$100,000.

The idea that it cost us nothing is a lie.

Well then, since the fair and balanced news station said then by all means it must be true. I mean, Fox News would never ever stear the American people wrong now would they? :rolleyes:

Of course, I never heard mention of how much tax payer money was being spent on the over 70 vacations George W. Bush took to his rance to clear brush. But hey, it is Fox News after all.

[liptonlite]

They just said on FOX News, this cost taxpayers $50,000-$100,000.

The idea that it cost us nothing is a lie.:lol: fox said, now there's a 'fact' from a source that sued for the right to lie.

[justaguy]

Obama did use Airforce One plus two other jets to ferry the press and staff, Marine One, and I'm sure a motorcade. The taxpayer will probably pick up a tab of several hundred thousand dollars for Obama's irresponsible night out while GM prepared to file bankruptcy.
any time a president goes anywhere it costs money. i remember all the visits Bush made to the ranch and to his parents place and to camp david.. all of those cost money vs if he had stayed at the white house. and i have NO problem with him going there..or obama doing this. if obama had stayed home, would GM be solvent?

[MiamiNice1]

link (http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/jun/01/curl-cost-nyc-weekend/)

Good article, exposes the hypocrisy of Obama and reveals a more likely cost of Obama's outrageous night on the town.

Great article that goes to the heart of the matter. Yes, the hyprocrisy is stunning. The extravagance, (on taxpayer's dime - er, THOUSANDS), after Obama's remarks to the CEOS and of course, while the country is in such desperate straits, is hideous.

People are losing their homes, many people like my lawn guy are buying LESS food at the grocery store, others have no health insurance, people are losing their jobs and pensions.

Obama couldn't wait until next year when things get better?? The Obamas couldn't find something to do to entertain themselves right there in WASHINGTON?

Maybe Gordon Brown, when he comes to visit, can provide the Obamas with a nifty boxed DVD special series of Broadway shows?



There was, of course, an ironic element of the trip. In February, Obama scolded corporate executives (while also costing Las Vegas some $130 million) when he said: "You can't get corporate jets. You can't go take a trip to Las Vegas, or go down to the Super Bowl on the taxpayers' dime."

But a Broadway show funded by people who are undergoing one of the toughest financial times ever, is justified?




imo

[MiamiNice1]

Yeah, DVDs that are region 2.

:laugh: Good one!

Also, was it necessary to bring along the official Whitehouse Doctor?! I thought Obama was young and in excellent physical condition? They could have least tried to be a little more considerate and cut costs by removing the extraneous people :shrug:

(btw, Good point, Raptor- no night off for the weary)

imo

[MiamiNice1]

Another related issue the whitehouse's refusal to disclose the cost of the date is proof that obama's vows of transparency were outright lies.
Big red flag right there. But I like how the article goes about its estimation by comparing the Photo Op of the plane hovering around NYC a couple weeks ago - that cost was $250,000. And there were no people or salaries involved like this time.

imo

[YoYo]

link (http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/jun/01/curl-cost-nyc-weekend/)

Good article, exposes the hypocrisy of Obama and reveals a more likely cost of Obama's outrageous night on the town.

Hypocrisy at its finest. IMO

[Carol25]

No one can claim that this job is as stressful as it gets. There aren't too many outlets for a president. The cost seems high, but if he and his wife get away four times a year, that's hardly a lot.

The cost is naturally going to be high. There is security and and even a doctor. Who know who's going to get cute in a mob. And transportatipn. I don't care if it does cost a lot. Let's let him have his breaks, too. Stir crazy presidents are dangerous, you know... So are stir crazy wives of presidents! Naggy wives don't help, lol!

[Lady_Jean_La]

I think some people find a distinction between going to your own house (Bush's Ranch) or a vacation (they all do) where things are set up to be a White House away from the White House. Often they even entertain foreign dignitaries and cabinet members.

What Obama did came off as a self-indulgent trip for no purpose other than to take his wife out on a date partially on our dime. There was no official reason for it. It came off as a power trip that he did because he could.

He could have served himself better imo if he would have chosen to set an example of what others could do for date nights in their own lives by doing something less extravagent. When asking others to tighten their belts, a good leader will show HOW.

jmo

Hopefully, the trip will stimulate the economy on Broadway, perhaps we should all go out and enjoy life. jmo

[beattherap]

No one can claim that this job is as stressful as it gets. There aren't too many outlets for a president. The cost seems high, but if he and his wife get away four times a year, that's hardly a lot.

The cost is naturally going to be high. There is security and and even a doctor. Who know who's going to get cute in a mob. And transportatipn. I don't care if it does cost a lot. Let's let him have his breaks, too. Stir crazy presidents are dangerous, you know... So are stir crazy wives of presidents! Naggy wives don't help, lol!
i'm all for a night on the town, but couldn't he have kept that promise some time when he was in ny, ct, nj, on presidential business... i don't think he'd have to worry about getting tickets to a play or dinner reservations.
imo.

[Carol25]

i'm all for a night on the town, but couldn't he have kept that promise some time when he was in ny, ct, nj, on presidential business... i don't think he'd have to worry about getting tickets to a play or dinner reservations.
imo.
We don't know what his agenda is like and this might have been the play they were waiting to see. We can undersatnd that couldn't we?

If there was a play you were dying to see and your husband says I have a business trip on Friday to NY, I'll take you for that show I promised. But you say the show I want to see doesn't open until next month!

[tricwebs]

the whiners are back:thumbdown:

What's most funny is all the people trying to analyze the cost of using the military personnel for the transport of the POTUS. Those military personnel are paid salary and do not collect overtime. They get paid if they fly or if they sit in the hangar. The hardware was already paid for, so the only cost is the fuel and other consumables.

All these "conservatives" are so concerned about President Obama's travel habits, but never even blinked with all the vacations taken by the previous office holder.

[ortiga]

Matters not who took or paid what for the "date nite". The money was spent, at a time when he should be setting an example.

I think it's interesting that "the prez" paid for the play tickets himself, since every penny he makes is paid by "We The People".

Remember he pays NO taxes now, nor does his wife, and yes she does get monies, maybe not in form of a salary but she gets it and even when they leave office they never will have to worry about taxes, healthcare or any of the other things "We The People" are expected to give up so it can be redistributed. pisses me off, but this is jmho


Got a link to the part where the president and first lady don't have to pay any taxes on their income while Obama is in office and afterwards? On their income, investments, purchases? FICA? etc?

[emdragon]

I think some people find a distinction between going to your own house (Bush's Ranch) or a vacation (they all do) where things are set up to be a White House away from the White House. Often they even entertain foreign dignitaries and cabinet members.

What Obama did came off as a self-indulgent trip for no purpose other than to take his wife out on a date partially on our dime. There was no official reason for it. It came off as a power trip that he did because he could.

He could have served himself better imo if he would have chosen to set an example of what others could do for date nights in their own lives by doing something less extravagent. When asking others to tighten their belts, a good leader will show HOW.

jmo

LOL
How did Cheney come off going hunting during war? Or the very many campaign trips Bush took while we had troops dying?

please do all of us your part included a favor and stop the petty whining about nothing.

[ortiga]

Read closer please....I indicated that it would have been better if there was other official business to help justify the trip. Everytime Bush went to Crawford, he had a "working vacation". He even had official business of meeting foreign leaders and cabinet members etc.

I wasn't posting here when Bush was President, so it isn't surprising that you don't recall what I said then.

Same thing. If you think Obama should stay in the White House and not go to NY to see a play and have a dinner, then you have to note that Bush left for vacation for huge periods of time, and during war time, also.

[Truberry]

Same thing. If you think Obama should stay in the White House and not go to NY to see a play and have a dinner, then you have to note that Bush left for vacation for huge periods of time, and during war time, also. We are still at War, where is the criticism of Obama going on dates at taxpayer expense? and at war time.

[Truberry]

I think the point is that he wasn't going to NYC for any other reason - it was a trip strictly for this date. No official business. Just personal pleasure.

I think getting out now and again is perfectly fine. I have to do it on a budget, so suggesting that it could be because of the one show you wanted to see smacks of elitism and would make Michelle look demanding. Let them eat cake!!
jmo
Plus the fact that our Economy is so bad.. many people can't afford a date let alone travel by plane and helicopter. Dinner and a movie in today's economy is more like a video and take out food to many of us.

[ortiga]

We are still at War, where is the criticism of Obama going on dates at taxpayer expense? and at war time.


I don't care. That's the point. But if you DO care, then you have to criticize other presidents at the same time. How many hundreds of times did Bush hop over to Camp David? Don't you think Bush was unfair to the country to in effect, establish a second white house, with all the extra expense involved?

[Truberry]

I don't get it. Are we supposed to be impressed that he kept a promise to his wife to spoil her? Was this a serious campaign promise? This will help our economy how? Is this supposed to make up for the promises he broke? The media is covering this and yet doesn't have time to talk about the fact that lobbyists are allowed back in Washington, Iran is getting Obama's blessing to have nuclear technology and the government is continuing their takeover of the private sector.

I guess all those who owned or worked for private dealerships, the investors who got kicked in the teeth and others who are standing in the unemployment line and losing their homes can have a temporary reprieve from their misery as they gleefully watch the president and first lady enjoy a fabulous evening out. I had many of those same questions. How does this kept promise help our Economy? I would rather have the promises to fix the Economy kept than to watch someone enjoy an expensive over the top date. Most men can't even afford a drive to a local diner. geesh.

There are so many promises that weren't kept that effect americans

poor Economy
no Jobs
tax hikes
Lobbyists
not ending the war
spending trillions

Im beginning to think the office of the President is just a joke. Nothing has improved since Obama took office. I really don't think a President has any power to fix anything, he's just in office for photos ops. I'm really getting ticked off and impatient with this new Administration.

[SeeksJustice]

Please, how many days has Obama taken as vacation days since being in office? How many?

How about this winner...most of the naysayers forgot that Bush loved to take Air Force One to the Ranch.

http://www.bostonherald.com/news/national/politics/general/view.bg?articleid=1062874

Title of the article pretty much says it all. Let me know what you have to say then and make sure you consider WHAT Bush did to this economy.

Thanks.

[SeeksJustice]

And just a little more to prove that it is all just what the spin doctors what you to believe...

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2009/5/31/132827/535

[SeeksJustice]

You all want to be "up in arms" about this one night when it is really no big deal in comparison to what Bush did. You cannot say that he spent "taxpayers" money when you all had/have nothing to say about how Bush spent "taxpayers" money, all the while wrecking our economy.

You can't call him out for one time and not have a gripe with the excessive amount of time that was taken by Bush and second to that, Reagan. Sorry, it is just more crying about nonsense.

[Lady_Jean_La]

That arguement only works until things change. When change comes then we won't be able to compare it to the past. jmo

[Lady_Jean_La]

It has never bothered me but now I wonder what people can put up with. Some day we may have a young single president dating two or three times a week. So, how much should the taxpayers be willing to spend so the president can have a date?

[Lady_Jean_La]

I'm wondering what cost makes people uneasy. I've never thought about it before but how much should tax payers pay so the president can have a date?

What if the USA had a young single president who liked to hit the singles bars in Las Vegas, Monte Carlo and Miami?

http://boards.insessiontrials.com/showthread.php?t=354351

[YoYo]

Please, how many days has Obama taken as vacation days since being in office? How many?

How about this winner...most of the naysayers forgot that Bush loved to take Air Force One to the Ranch.

http://www.bostonherald.com/news/national/politics/general/view.bg?articleid=1062874

Title of the article pretty much says it all. Let me know what you have to say then and make sure you consider WHAT Bush did to this economy.

Thanks.

Beside the point. Obama promised hope and change. He should be setting an example of how we all must "suck it up." Weren't those his words?

[emdragon]

Who the heck cares. It is a petty non issue.
Next you'll be complaining about how much the taxpayers pay to feed the President.

I would hope people are concerned about more important things.

And do I need to start a poll about how many threads about this you are going to start?

[Details]

Everything the President does will be expensive - we've only got one of them, and we have to make sure he stays in once piece, is maximally effective at his job, and is able to be monitored by the public. Air Force One costs a lot to run, secret service, police, doctors, reporters, all of this will cost us a lot of money, no matter where the President goes, and he needs to be able to travel, and it's not productive nor appropriate to chain him to his desk and say No vacations, No dates, No dinner out, period.

How much it would cost if we had some major socialite in office - we can deal with that when we have a slacker President - although we really didn't deal with it last time we had one.

[Details]

My husband and I just went out on a wonderful date this past weekend. Dinner and dancing.

Total cost-$100.00 -we had wine ;)- :wub:Are you a target for assassination? Is an entire nation depending on you as it's leader? Are you a public figure whose actions we expect to be able to monitor through the media just in case of corruption?

I have wonderful dates with my husband too - but I can go somewhere in a car or plane without worries of a SAM being fired at the airplane by terrorists. If I get sick, my company can wait for me to get better for a few days or weeks - I don't make urgent decisions of life and death. I don't even have to carry a case around that could blow up the world if I chose to launch.


Let the President pay what a NORMAL person would have to pay for such an evening, a NORMAL person who would be able to afford to waste the time to fly over there, spend a few days, and fly back - that's how any of us would do such a thing. The President - his time is too precious to allow it to be wasted - but if we are to charge him - let him be charged what he'd normally pay for such a night, not for all the precautions that are for the benefit of the American people.

[Details]

He chose his life. He knew the risks. It's all about sacrifice, remember?

He has his own money via his salary and his book deals. Use that money to take your wife out. Don't make a big production about taking your wife out. It can be done in secret. He likes the limelight, the celebrity, the papparazzi pictures.

If he wanted to make himself look like the great man he thinks he is, he'd accept responsibility for the payments due on the airfare instead of sticking it to the middle class he claims he wants to help out in this poor economy.

JMHOWe chose him. My point however was that the difference between your $100 dollar date night, and the costs required for a President to so much as have a late night sandwich at home, are in the very different situations the two of you are in - not in any waste.

And Presidents should not be allowed to have secrets. We like their lives to be an open book, aside from national security, so we know what they are really doing.

Nor is being President about sacrifice - it's about doing a job, an important one. We want him to be able to do it to the best of his ability - not burned out because we won't let him have a night out without charging him for all the extra protections a President is required to have.

[Lady_Jean_La]

I don't think anyone has made it an issue before. But surely the president and family have gone on dates many times. jmo

[Lyndawitha"Y]

Does anyone even remember this being an issue before? Did any previous President have "dates"? They went out on formal state events, vacationed together, campaigned together etc, but dates?

I think if we ever had a young, single President I would prefer him/her to worry more about how to run the country than to date. It should be on the Presidents own dime - we the people provide more than enough.
jmo

Im with you Raptor..All I can say is "OH..for pete's sake"!!



Obama is now Pres. of USA...and because of THAT everything he does is NEWS..( new Puppy as example..) but due to his Status..he must be protected ( comes with the territory)..So even if he wished to gow down the street to buy a case of (LOL)..there would be a full complement of Secret Service protecting him..Wonder if RNC will complain about the costs of protecting the Obama children?..Yep even they are targets by sickos!!

This outcry is so transparent...and in a way sad..IF thats all they can find fault with in the leader of their country..Geesh..Petty..petty...

LMS

[ahlou3]

I'd rather my money go on President Obama taking his wife out rather than what others have spent my money on.

Can't believe this is even an issue....he took his wife out...what the heck is wrong with that.

What about the trillions spent on WAR?

I hope he take her out at least once a month for the next four years.

[Details]

I didn't choose him. I didn't want that on my conscience. JMOYou didn't - but the American people as a whole did, and the American people as a whole pay for the protection necessary for a President to go about his everyday life. Whether it was Obama or McCain, we'd be paying for this constant protection, even for the most ordinary parts of his life - such as going on a date with his wife.

[Truberry]

Aame, you bring up a point that goes to the heart of the matter. I am concerned about what so many Obama supporters focus on. Never any real discussion about the details of what he is doing, only this dreamy vision of him coming to save the day. And when people realize that nothing has changed or actually has gotten worse, they say things like "he just hasn't gotten to me yet". They make excuses for anything that doesn't work and just blame it on the last administration.

Most of the detailed chat regarding the Obamas around here is about the more fluffy stuff, like this romantic night out with his wife. That type of stuff gets discussed ad nauseum while the details of his redistribution of wealth are avoided. Oh, but it must be good if the great Obama is doing it. We don't ever question Obama. He is wonderful and will save us all and we'll agree to let him do anything because he cares.

Obama is being treated as a superhuman celebrity and I've read more here about his wife's sense of style and lengthy descriptions of her dresses than about the nuts and bolts of Obama's plans for this country. I don't care what the first lady is wearing or where the president and his wife go on a date. After seeing so many other wealthy people trashed by this administration for their personal spending, I would expect that those in power lead by example. Somehow, the message I am getting is that they feel they are above everyone else. Certainly above reproach as far as some supporters are concerned.

They have no worries and never will. When I see the first lady wearing pricy shoes to a food drive or the first couple jet setting off for the perfect date, I realize that they are seriously out of touch with the average person. I am tired of seeing so many people in awe of them to the point where they defend anything they do. I haven't seen evidence that many fully understand what Obama is doing and I don't think it matters to them. You think he's kinda taking advantage of his status as President to live a frivolous and luxurious lifestyle? it seems to be about the perks and celeb status. This is something Rock Stars or Hollywood elitist would do, something lavish and over the top, expensive.

[Truberry]

I'd rather my money go on President Obama taking his wife out rather than what others have spent my money on.

Can't believe this is even an issue....he took his wife out...what the heck is wrong with that.

What about the trillions spent on WAR?

I hope he take her out at least once a month for the next four years.
At least ONE couple can afford to go out in this BAD ECONOMY.. most of us are trying to hang on to jobs and homes.

[Truberry]

Does anyone even remember this being an issue before? Did any previous President have "dates"? They went out on formal state events, vacationed together, campaigned together etc, but dates?

I think if we ever had a young, single President I would prefer him/her to worry more about how to run the country than to date. It should be on the Presidents own dime - we the people provide more than enough.
jmo And our Government expects us to be "patient" until the non-stimulus kicks in .. the WH is not effected by the poor economy evidently. Neither is the Congress.. Pelosi just flew with an entourage to China.. people have money to travel and it ain't us. We're just payin for other people to travel.

[Lady_Jean_La]

At least ONE couple can afford to go out in this BAD ECONOMY.. most of us are trying to hang on to jobs and homes.
I'm sure that includes cooks, servers and the people who supply restaurants. jmo

[Truberry]

It has never bothered me but now I wonder what people can put up with. Some day we may have a young single president dating two or three times a week. So, how much should the taxpayers be willing to spend so the president can have a date?


$100 would buy a nice dinner and a movie for those of us who can afford it with this poor economy and jobless rate in our country.

[ahlou3]

At least ONE couple can afford to go out in this BAD ECONOMY.. most of us are trying to hang on to jobs and homes.So this is the only couple who is going out - give me a break for (insert words).

Those with jobs should try to hang on to their jobs, I did.....and ho my home I did that as well.

Blame someone else for the bad economy the current President has only been in a very short while so he didn't cause the BAD ECONOMY. Twist it anyway you wish but he didn't and couldn't have cause the BAD ECONOMY.

[Lady_Jean_La]

$100 would buy a nice dinner and a movie for those of us who can afford it with this poor economy and jobless rate in our country.The last time I went for dinner and a movie both were packed. The shopping areas are always busy. This morning brunch was very crowded. Somehow it doesn't look like the Great Depression.

If the President stays home, perhaps more would. Would that be good?

[emdragon]

The last time I went for dinner and a movie both were packed. The shopping areas are always busy. This morning brunch was very crowded. Somehow it doesn't look like the Great Depression.

If the President stays home, perhaps more would. Would that be good?

You should have seen the Casino this week-end- the Casino floor was packed as was the Bingo Hall.... And they didn't seem to concerned as they feed the slots.

(and my area has been hit very hard with weather and transportation issues. )

[justaguy]

I think some people find a distinction between going to your own house (Bush's Ranch) or a vacation (they all do) where things are set up to be a White House away from the White House. Often they even entertain foreign dignitaries and cabinet members.

What Obama did came off as a self-indulgent trip for no purpose other than to take his wife out on a date partially on our dime. There was no official reason for it. It came off as a power trip that he did because he could.

He could have served himself better imo if he would have chosen to set an example of what others could do for date nights in their own lives by doing something less extravagent. When asking others to tighten their belts, a good leader will show HOW.

jmo and some of the time bush spent clearing brush..and other activities he found relaxing. should he have spent every minute thinking about us? i remember him being joked about and criticized for it...i didn't buy it...and i don't buy this. both are just "bumper sticker" nonissues used to rile the respective bases in my opinion.

[Alliekat]

Another useless poll for petty non issues taking up bandwidth! :rolleyes:

[barskin&co.]

Can you imagine how much it cost the taxpayers to pay for GW Bush's constant vacations?

Record Breaker! Bush Takes Most Vacation Days For Sitting PresidentPresident Bush recently spent his 879th day at his ranch in Crawford, Texas, since the Supreme Court, in all its great wisdom, elevated him to the presidency. This according to NPR's "Wait, Wait Don't Tell Me," which noted that Bush broke former President Reagan's record for taking vacations from the White House.rIt's interesting to recall, all these wild years later, that George W. Bush did not decide to buy the ranch near Crawford until after he decided to run for president. Apparently, after Ronald Reagan's example, it seemed presidential to cut brush on a ranch, and Bush was seeking a brush with history. Or something.


http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/03/11/politics/uwire/main3927378.shtml

I think Presidential "Date nights" are great for the President and make him a more effective leader in the long run. They are hardly outrageous expenses compared to other Presdents'.

[justaguy]

We are still at War, where is the criticism of Obama going on dates at taxpayer expense? and at war time.

some of us..are NOT criticizing bush for it..and saying same for obama.

yea if it was a weekly thing it would be a different matter.

[justaguy]

btw who is paying for the puppy chow? i did NOT work all my life to feed a pampered pooch. where has my america gone? where have all the cowboys gone? where have all the flowers gone?

[Price]

While POTUS Obama is the first multi-racial president, he took the same oath as the previous 43. To my knowledge, there was not an addendum saying he was swearing an oath of poverty or seclusion. The constant berating of this president, on such personal levels, is beneath that of an American citizen. I don't think I am alone in that opinion.

[Not Telling]

Matters not who took or paid what for the "date nite". The money was spent, at a time when he should be setting an example.

I think it's interesting that "the prez" paid for the play tickets himself, since every penny he makes is paid by "We The People".

Remember he pays NO taxes now, nor does his wife, and yes she does get monies, maybe not in form of a salary but she gets it and even when they leave office they never will have to worry about taxes, healthcare or any of the other things "We The People" are expected to give up so it can be redistributed. pisses me off, but this is jmho

Your post is not true...

The President and the First Lady file and pay their taxes just like everyone else does...
The only difference is their tax returns must be made public...

[Shelby1]

I did not vote for BO and I don't like paying for his "date nights" spent in NYC (why can't they have date night in D.C?). However, I can now tell my husband that if the President of the United States has time for date night, then so does he! :thumbsup:

[crocdog1]

He chose his life. He knew the risks. It's all about sacrifice, remember?

He has his own money via his salary and his book deals. Use that money to take your wife out. Don't make a big production about taking your wife out. It can be done in secret. He likes the limelight, the celebrity, the papparazzi pictures.

If he wanted to make himself look like the great man he thinks he is, he'd accept responsibility for the payments due on the airfare instead of sticking it to the middle class he claims he wants to help out in this poor economy.

JMHO

This may be off topic, but I would like someone to please explain what all of this nonsense about Obama's weekly cocktail parties and taking his wife out for a date has to do with all the tea in China?

The man has been in office 6 months and more has been said about his "off" time than any other President in the history of our nation.

Good Grief! Out of some 2,535 days as President, GWB spent over 900 days on retreats or vacations at Camp avid, Texas and Maine.

He spent over 400 days vacationing in Crawford Texas. Think of the huge Government expense. Air Force 1. Secret Service and the like. Just one of these Texas trips probably cost more than all the cocktail parties and the President's date with his wife.

Where was all of this outrage when GWB was President? Oh, I get it. If the Republicans do it, it's OK. If the Dems do it, it's a horrendous outrage.

Think of the huge BBQ parties, all at a time when our troops were being killed and horribly wounded in the two wars under his watch?

[Lady_Jean_La]

I did not vote for BO and I don't like paying for his "date nights" spent in NYC (why can't they have date night in D.C?). However, I can now tell my husband that if the President of the United States has time for date night, then so does he! :thumbsup:If everyone has a date night it will stimulate the economy. imo

[emdragon]

If everyone has a date night it will stimulate the economy. imo

Right and wouldn't also honor the sanctity of marriage?

[vonna]

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0509/23122.html

President takes his wife to a Broadway show, a nice romantic evening of fun right? Well, not according to the RNC:

As President Obama prepares to wing into Manhattan’s theater district on Air Force One to take in a Broadway show, GM is preparing to file bankruptcy and families across America continue to struggle to pay their bills. ... Have a great Saturday evening – even if you’re not jetting off somewhere at taxpayer expense.

Read more: "Obama keeps Broadway pledge - Politico Staff - POLITICO.com" - http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0509/23122.html#ixzz0H2suBAYd&A


Only problem is, Obama didn't use Air Force One nor are we, the taxpayers paying for his tickets to the show.

And it's better, a reporter on CNN said earlier that this will come back to bite the Democrats in the mid-terms next year.

Honest to goodness, is it me or is the right really grasping at straws now?

You're right. This is a perfect example of grasping at straws! I didn't hear all the clamor the many times Bush went to Crawford, Texas.

[rocknation]

They should not exceed the cost of the previous presidents' vacations.
:tongueside:

[Lady_Jean_La]

This may be off topic, but I would like someone to please explain what all of this nonsense about Obama's weekly cocktail parties and taking his wife out for a date has to do with all the tea in China?

The man has been in office 6 months and more has been said about his "off" time than any other President in the history of our nation.

Good Grief! Out of some 2,535 days as President, GWB spent over 900 days on retreats or vacations at Camp avid, Texas and Maine.

He spent over 400 days vacationing in Crawford Texas. Think of the huge Government expense. Air Force 1. Secret Service and the like. Just one of these Texas trips probably cost more than all the cocktail parties and the President's date with his wife.

Where was all of this outrage when GWB was President? Oh, I get it. If the Republicans do it, it's OK. If the Dems do it, it's a horrendous outrage.

Think of the huge BBQ parties, all at a time when our troops were being killed and horribly wounded in the two wars under his watch?

Something to think about, Washington, D.C. was attacked, Texas wasn't. Of course, some radicals camped in Texas but they could be watched and contained. imo

[Alliekat]

You're kidding, right? :lol:

mo

I don't think she is kidding...... :lol:

[FallenAngel♥]

Something to think about, Washington, D.C. was attacked, Texas wasn't. Of course, some radicals camped in Texas but they could be watched and contained. imo

were they being watched and contained on November 22, 1963?

[Lady_Jean_La]

You're kidding, right? :lol:

mo
No. But many improvements have been made since then. Now, the President can speak to the nation from Air Force One. imo