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The Classical Saturday Morning Coffee Break & Prayer Revival
[H/T Sharon(Willow's Apprentice). I see there is another Misanthrope in the building]
2) Be kind, be nice. Or else.
3) Running with sharp objects should be done during the Movie Thread.
4) Have a great weekend!
AoSHQ Weekly Prayer List Please submit any prayer requests to me, “Annie’s Stew” at apaslo at-sign hotmail dot com. Prayer requests are generally removed after four weeks unless we receive an update. Prayer Requests:
3/5 – IrishEi has learned that she needs major surgery on 3/16, and she would really appreciate prayers.
4/4 Update – Irish Ei posted her health update. She quit smoking 8-10 years ago, after reading Alan Carr’s “Easy Way to Quit Smoking”, on Ace’s recommendation. Since then, she has gone for the annual low-dose CT scan of her lungs that is offered to smokers/former smokers. They were always negative, until this year. She had one very small spot, which was confirmed as Stage I CA. The spot was removed, and no chemo or radiation is needed. She has been home for a week and is feeling better and stronger every day. She did want to encourage everyone to take whatever screenings are offered. She had no symptoms at all, and her doctor had suggested that she could stop with the annual CT scans. But early detection is crucial. 3/10 – Update on Susan, who we have been praying for as she battles cancer. She is hospitalized again with an infection in her colon that quickly turned bad. The doctor says the signs are sepsis but they are running tests to make sure. The good news is that the pancreatic cancer was and is responding to the chemo and her cancer numbers are going down. God bless and thank you!
3/23 Update – Susan finally was able to come home. She is doing better than expected. Thanks to everyone for your prayers. 3/14 – Retired Buckeye Cop asks for prayers for Mrs. Cop’s cousin, “A.B”. He has been diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver. He is a retired police officer who was hit by a car years ago. He attempted to deal with the pain by self-medicating with too much Tylenol, which ended up poisoning his liver. His only alternative is a liver transplant, but he is uncertain if he wants to have surgery.
4/11 Update – A.B. got a second opinion and testing determined his live score was 15. (21+ means transplant time.) That’s bad, but not as critical as initially thought. He went to the Cleveland Clinic for a third opinion, and testing found that his score had dropped to 9 and a liver transplant was not even something to consider. The doctor suspected a reaction to Ozempic and told him to stop taking it for 6 months. 3/21 – FenelonSpoke asked for prayers for her son, who is still looking for work. He has a horticulture major, and would ideally like something related to research, but he is certainly willing to labor outdoors.
4/10 – FenelonSpoke’s son got a job. She sends her thanks to everyone who prayed on this thread here and elsewhere. 3/21 – Count de Monet gave prayers of thanks for a son who has been accepted into the IBEW Apprenticeship program. He will earn while he learns for 4 years on his way to becoming a Journeyman Electrician. 3/21 – pookysgirl asked for prayers as they start IVF again. 3/22 – Retired Buckeye Cop has a happy prayer request. His 16 year old grandson said he is feeling a call to the priesthood within the Catholic Church. He is a devout young man who has particular compassion for the poor. (He thinks he might want to be a Franciscan friar.) Please pray for L. H. as he pursues the vocation of religious life. 3/24 – GMAC posted that he has received his death sentence. His prostate cancer has metastasized into his bones. Medication will slow it down, but there is no stopping it. He doesn’t know how much time he has, but plans to do some travelling while he can. He sends his compliments to “the wittiest group of morons” he has ever had the pleasure of reading. He will still be lurking. 3/28 – Cosda posted the happy news that a new grandson should be arriving on 3/28. 3/28 – Defenestratus asked for prayers for grief at the loss of a dear friend and boss of 20 years, who passed away unexpectedly on St. Patrick’s Day. 3/28 – San Franpsycho posted that Pnina bat Surel is not improving, sadly. She has had a third hospitalization, and this has taken a toll on her. She is not bouncing back like she has before. 3/28 – From about The Time posted that prayers would be appreciated after the last chemo treatment for Lymphoma. It went reasonably well - thanks for the prayers. 3/28 – Hrothgar asked for prayers for a dear and long time close friend and former neighbor, Daniel, who is scheduled for open heart surgery in mid-April. Prayers for his wife would be appreciated as well, as she will be carrying a heavy load for the next few months. 3/28 – NR Pax posted an update on his father, who we had prayed for in January after his stroke. Dad is going through PT and OT every day at home. Mom got some cooperative people at the VA and a note was put in his record that he was not to have any appointments more than fifteen miles from his house. Things are still rough as Mom is handling things like taxes, investment accounts, and the banking. And Dad’s condition is stable, but it will change sooner or later. But they are living in a great retirement community and he’ll be taken care of. 3/28 – Jordan61 posted that Mr. Jordan61 is back in the hospital. His sepsis has returned and gotten into where his compression fracture is, and he has vertebral osteomyelitis. The doctor is supposed to come in today and let them know the plan.
4/9 Update – On 4/1 Mr. Jordan61 was released from the hospital with six weeks of IV antibiotics, which Jordan61 is administering every 8 hours. He’s in a lot of pain; they’ve given him oxy, fentanyl, and dilaudid, and nothing seems to touch it. From what they were told, the pain won’t subside until the infection is cleared up. For the time being, he is bed-bound and they are limiting his movement as much as possible to keep the pain to a minimum. Jordan61 will send updates with progress. 4/3 – Teresa in Fort Worth posted an update. Her chemo seems to be holding things steady for now. Unfortunately, as she is receiving a steroid, she has gained about 25 pounds. Her blood sugar has also jumped up about 40 points (which only happens when she is on steroids). 4/4 – Reforger posted that his wife’s father passed away on 4/3. After a 50 year battle with Hep C, he fell and broke his neck. He lasted about a month, in and out of induced comas, and now the pain is over. Reforger lost his father on Holy Saturday (years ago) and now his wife lost her father on Good Friday. 4/11 – Eromeros craves prayers for Mrs. E., as she has been diagnosed with lymphoma. She begins infusions on 4/23. For submission guidelines and other relevant info, please contact Annie's Stew, who is managing the prayer list. You can contact her at apaslo at-sign hotmail dot com. If you see a prayer request posted in a thread comment, feel free to copy and paste it and e-mail it to Annie's Stew. She tries to keep up with the requests in the threads, but she's not here all of the time, so she may not see it unless you e-mail it to her. Please note: Prayer requests are generally removed after four weeks or so unless we receive an update. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.
Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Worst and first.
Posted by: Victor Tango Kilo at April 18, 2026 07:59 AM (f0sNM)
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 18, 2026 08:00 AM (kOluj)
3
Nope- too slow.... Mornin' VTK
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 18, 2026 08:00 AM (kOluj)
4
duly nooded
Posted by: Bilwis Devourer of Innocent Souls, I'm starvin' over here at April 18, 2026 08:01 AM (w/O5Q)
5
Powerline Week in Pictures:
https://tinyurl.com/4czwfh29
Midwest Chick:
https://tinyurl.com/bd4b4uv2
https://tinyurl.com/4czwfh29
Midwest Chick:
https://tinyurl.com/bd4b4uv2
Posted by: I am the Shadout Mapes, the Housekeeper at April 18, 2026 08:01 AM (skR0U)
6
Looks at post time. Looks at computer time. Looks up time dilation.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 18, 2026 08:02 AM (AkEZC)
7
Good morning horde!
Prayers for all the Horde, including Captain Whitebread who is back in ICU with a leg infection that sounds very serious.
Prayers for all the Horde, including Captain Whitebread who is back in ICU with a leg infection that sounds very serious.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:02 AM (LmPA0)
8
Prayers for all.
Posted by: Mick at April 18, 2026 08:03 AM (HFx9z)
9
Good morning horde
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 08:03 AM (Ia/+0)
10
Time is an illusion. Lunchtime doubly so.
Posted by: I am the Shadout Mapes, the Housekeeper at April 18, 2026 08:04 AM (skR0U)
11
I got a little prayer of thanksgiving (lowercase t), join in if you like... i just got a new job a month or so ago, and I'm really enjoying it. And now Wifey just got an offer on a new job that sounds really great too, after more than a decade of putting up with her old job's soul crushing absurdity and desperately searching for an Out.
It's been a pretty insane few years in the Otoko household recently, so it's nice to have some nice upheaval for a change.
It's been a pretty insane few years in the Otoko household recently, so it's nice to have some nice upheaval for a change.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:05 AM (Ot/FD)
12
Good morning again dear morons and thanks to annie and mh and you horde for praying
{grammie}
{TiFW}
Hiya JT
{grammie}
{TiFW}
Hiya JT
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 08:07 AM (RIvkX)
13
Congrats to youse in Casa-otoko! That's great news
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 18, 2026 08:07 AM (kOluj)
14
It's been a pretty insane few years in the Otoko household recently, so it's nice to have some nice upheaval for a change.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:05 AM (Ot/FD)
That's great man.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:05 AM (Ot/FD)
That's great man.
Posted by: Alex Trebek at April 18, 2026 08:08 AM (bss/y)
15
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, forever. Amen.
Oh my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls to heaven, especially those most in need of Thy mercy. Amen.
Oh my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls to heaven, especially those most in need of Thy mercy. Amen.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:09 AM (ZOv7s)
16
g'mornin' again, 'rons
g'mornin' again, 'rons
Posted by: AltonJackson at April 18, 2026 08:09 AM (2/MrR)
17
"Hey Wife, your insurance is better than what I'd get at new job, so I'm gonna stay on yours."
"That's nice, Husband. Hey, guess what?"
"... Life Event?"
"Life Event!"
"That's nice, Husband. Hey, guess what?"
"... Life Event?"
"Life Event!"
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:09 AM (Ot/FD)
18
It's been a pretty insane few years in the Otoko household recently, so it's nice to have some nice upheaval for a change.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:05 AM (Ot/FD)
---
God be praised! I had a tyrant of a boss for eight years, and it took a while to decompress. So be patient, and congratulations!
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:05 AM (Ot/FD)
---
God be praised! I had a tyrant of a boss for eight years, and it took a while to decompress. So be patient, and congratulations!
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:10 AM (ZOv7s)
19
It's been a pretty insane few years in the Otoko household recently, so it's nice to have some nice upheaval for a change.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:05 AM (Ot/FD)
====
b"h
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:05 AM (Ot/FD)
====
b"h
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 08:10 AM (RIvkX)
20
I was blessed to have a career that was very enjoyable and fulfilling.
If you love your job, you never work a day in your life.
If you love your job, you never work a day in your life.
Posted by: no one of any consequence at April 18, 2026 08:10 AM (qFwJc)
21
After many hours fixing the Dakota, the batterie ist kaput.
Posted by: torabora at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (KtOUo)
22
If you love your job, you never work a day in your life.
Posted by: no one of any consequence at April 18, 2026 08:10 AM (qFwJc)
It's ironic because if you really really hate your job, you never work a day in your life, either!
Posted by: no one of any consequence at April 18, 2026 08:10 AM (qFwJc)
It's ironic because if you really really hate your job, you never work a day in your life, either!
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (Ot/FD)
23
My son sent me this interview with one of the ROTC students who took out the armed terrorist at Old Dominion. Fascinating story.... seems he could likely use our prayers as well:
https://youtu.be/vypsVdwa8wk
https://youtu.be/vypsVdwa8wk
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (kOluj)
24
Oh boy. Local news report from California on a massive drop in public school attendance lol. https://tinyurl.com/y7ccmy83
Highlights: CA government estimated 10,000 fewer public school students for the 25/26 school year. There's a drop of 75,000 instead.
That's only a drop of 1.3% overall, and 6.6% in private schools, 3.7% in homeschooling.
A concerned parent at the end said she worried, because her biggest issue was class size, and fewer students would mean less money to hire more teachers. 🤡 🌎
Highlights: CA government estimated 10,000 fewer public school students for the 25/26 school year. There's a drop of 75,000 instead.
That's only a drop of 1.3% overall, and 6.6% in private schools, 3.7% in homeschooling.
A concerned parent at the end said she worried, because her biggest issue was class size, and fewer students would mean less money to hire more teachers. 🤡 🌎
Posted by: Intercepted Reddit Transmissions brought by the Intrepid AoS Liaison at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (ycI94)
25
Please also pray for my husband's mental and emotional well-being as he faces the transition of possible forced retirement in 3 months
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (6U1c2)
26
Yesterday, just in time for the upcoming hurricane season, I received my annual premium due for flood insurance.
Yikes!
Guess I should cut down on my coffee consumption. Those K-cups go for over a dollar, each.
Yikes!
Guess I should cut down on my coffee consumption. Those K-cups go for over a dollar, each.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 08:12 AM (Y1sOo)
27
It's been a hectic week. Monday my MIL went into the hospital with multiple issues. Thursday Dad went in. MIL is still there, Dad is out. Both will be ok, as well as can be expected for 87 and 89 year olds.
Also, my GSD Bruno started chemo for his lymphoma and responded well. Lymph node swelling is down 95%. Prayers from the Horde have no doubt helped.
All in all, I feel blessed when I see what some other folks are going thru. Lord, please help us all.
Also, my GSD Bruno started chemo for his lymphoma and responded well. Lymph node swelling is down 95%. Prayers from the Horde have no doubt helped.
All in all, I feel blessed when I see what some other folks are going thru. Lord, please help us all.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:12 AM (vFG9F)
28
Morning, all. No covfefe for me, as I am still in my pyjamas.
I'm having something called "Boston Tea Party Blend" which I picked up at the Kittery Trading Post in Kittery ME. It's like a poor man's Earl Grey.
I'm having something called "Boston Tea Party Blend" which I picked up at the Kittery Trading Post in Kittery ME. It's like a poor man's Earl Grey.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:13 AM (qRla/)
29
Though he hasn't asked for it, Ill add a prayer intention for Insomniac, whose life is stable, but could (and should) be better.
Let us pray that the Holy Spirit descends upon him, filling him with renewed hope and resolve, and that he may, perhaps, rejoin our community and be a source of joy, hope and inspiration for others.
Let us pray that the Holy Spirit descends upon him, filling him with renewed hope and resolve, and that he may, perhaps, rejoin our community and be a source of joy, hope and inspiration for others.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:13 AM (ZOv7s)
Posted by: no one of any consequence at April 18, 2026 08:14 AM (qFwJc)
31
Warai-otoko, congrats to both of you!
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:14 AM (LmPA0)
32
"Guess I should cut down on my coffee consumption. Those K-cups go for over a dollar, each.
Posted by: one hour sober"
Kroger's Donut Shop K-cups are pretty good (imho) and come in at about 33 cents each. One or maybe two cups a day is my limit.
Posted by: one hour sober"
Kroger's Donut Shop K-cups are pretty good (imho) and come in at about 33 cents each. One or maybe two cups a day is my limit.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:14 AM (vFG9F)
33
29 Though he hasn't asked for it, Ill add a prayer intention for Insomniac, whose life is stable, but could (and should) be better.
--
Have you guys heard from him?
--
Have you guys heard from him?
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:15 AM (LmPA0)
34
People don't quit jobs as much as they quit bosses.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at April 18, 2026 08:15 AM (2Ez/1)
35
"Please also pray for my husband's mental and emotional well-being as he faces the transition of possible forced retirement in 3 months
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport "
I know it's not what you want for your husband, but I wish someone would force me to retire. I hope though that he is able to adjust, or finds something else to do. Sometimes change happens and only later do we find it was for the better.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport "
I know it's not what you want for your husband, but I wish someone would force me to retire. I hope though that he is able to adjust, or finds something else to do. Sometimes change happens and only later do we find it was for the better.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:17 AM (vFG9F)
36
I was blessed to have a career that was very enjoyable and fulfilling.
If you love your job, you never work a day in your life.
Posted by: no one of any consequence at April 18, 2026 08:10 AM (qFwJc)
---
My approach to life is based on that of my father, who said that all the men before him would get up before dawn, and go out in the fields or down into the mines, and they thanked God that they could do that. He sits at a desk with air conditioning. How can he complain?
He saw work as what you do to pay for hobbies, and it doesn't matter if you like it, so long as you are good at it. I'm teaching that to my kids so they don't do the stupid "Chase your special dream!" b.s.
That being said, there were a few years when I couldn't wait to go to drill and do more planning and wargaming. As I told my wife at the time, it was like being paid to drink beer and watch football. Alas, all good things, etc.
If you love your job, you never work a day in your life.
Posted by: no one of any consequence at April 18, 2026 08:10 AM (qFwJc)
---
My approach to life is based on that of my father, who said that all the men before him would get up before dawn, and go out in the fields or down into the mines, and they thanked God that they could do that. He sits at a desk with air conditioning. How can he complain?
He saw work as what you do to pay for hobbies, and it doesn't matter if you like it, so long as you are good at it. I'm teaching that to my kids so they don't do the stupid "Chase your special dream!" b.s.
That being said, there were a few years when I couldn't wait to go to drill and do more planning and wargaming. As I told my wife at the time, it was like being paid to drink beer and watch football. Alas, all good things, etc.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:18 AM (ZOv7s)
37
Good morning Horde, prayers up for all of you and your loved ones.
Posted by: Debby Doberman Schultz at April 18, 2026 08:18 AM (0nHVk)
38
Have you guys heard from him?
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:15 AM (LmPA0)
---
I'm in regular contact with him.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:15 AM (LmPA0)
---
I'm in regular contact with him.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:18 AM (ZOv7s)
39
one hour sober - we use these in our Keurig coffee maker:
https://tinyurl.com/438zynjd
Probably saved us hundreds of $ by now...
https://tinyurl.com/438zynjd
Probably saved us hundreds of $ by now...
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 18, 2026 08:19 AM (kOluj)
40
Warai-otoko. Is the life event the career changes or are you hinting at something else?
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at April 18, 2026 08:19 AM (kxiH3)
41
En mi casa toman Bustelo!
Posted by: Caffiend at April 18, 2026 08:19 AM (oftw2)
42
So I have been seeing commercials for something called "American Cruise Lines," which runs ships somewhat akin to Viking Cruises longships, traveling around New England, the SE, PNW and the Mississippi. I decided to send for a catalogue.
Fares start at $4000 per person for your basic "Standard Waterview" cabin. For that kind of money, I can travel by car or rail anywhere I like, stay in a great hotel, Air B&B or such and still have plenty of folding green left over.
I'm sure these cruises are great, if you can afford them. I can't.
Fares start at $4000 per person for your basic "Standard Waterview" cabin. For that kind of money, I can travel by car or rail anywhere I like, stay in a great hotel, Air B&B or such and still have plenty of folding green left over.
I'm sure these cruises are great, if you can afford them. I can't.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:20 AM (qRla/)
43
Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
St. Apollonius, Roman senator and martyr, pray for us.
****
I have prayed Rosaries for the Horde's intentions, both stated and unstated -- particularly for those that are suffering.
Hail Mary, full of grace, blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
St. Apollonius, Roman senator and martyr, pray for us.
****
I have prayed Rosaries for the Horde's intentions, both stated and unstated -- particularly for those that are suffering.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:21 AM (ksbjf)
44
A concerned parent at the end said she worried, because her biggest issue was class size, and fewer students would mean less money to hire more teachers. 🤡 🌎
Posted by: Intercepted Reddit Transmissions brought by the Intrepid AoS Liaison at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (ycI94)
It's almost Pavlovian, but in a perversely farcical way. Monkey rings a bell, and gets shown a picture of a banana. No actual banana, but yet the monkey can't even imagine not ringing that bell anymore.
Slap that "Funding" bell silly, and a picture of a teacher pops up. Teetcher mean skool moar gud! Yayyyy!
Posted by: Intercepted Reddit Transmissions brought by the Intrepid AoS Liaison at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (ycI94)
It's almost Pavlovian, but in a perversely farcical way. Monkey rings a bell, and gets shown a picture of a banana. No actual banana, but yet the monkey can't even imagine not ringing that bell anymore.
Slap that "Funding" bell silly, and a picture of a teacher pops up. Teetcher mean skool moar gud! Yayyyy!
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:21 AM (Ot/FD)
45
And please keep Devyn in your prayers. Young mother of 2 with a mass on her esophagus. Doc said scar tissue and she will be looking at a second opinion. Hoping both docs agree.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at April 18, 2026 08:21 AM (kxiH3)
46
Good morning, all. Going to post a (for now) final update on my parents.
Dad is still going through all kinds of therapy. The VA has been really helpful to him. I know that things aren't going to get better and all of this is just managing the decline but he's got mom and a good bunch of professionals helping him out.
As for mom, she's handling things as best as she can. She's not sleeping much at night since dad wakes up every 1-2 hours but she's keeping him from hurting himself. And as much as it sucks, I'm waiting around for The Call that means I have to fly out to CA.
Dad is still going through all kinds of therapy. The VA has been really helpful to him. I know that things aren't going to get better and all of this is just managing the decline but he's got mom and a good bunch of professionals helping him out.
As for mom, she's handling things as best as she can. She's not sleeping much at night since dad wakes up every 1-2 hours but she's keeping him from hurting himself. And as much as it sucks, I'm waiting around for The Call that means I have to fly out to CA.
Posted by: NR Pax at April 18, 2026 08:21 AM (+NIRm)
47
30 Demographics.
Fewer teachers are needed.
Posted by: no one of any consequence
True. They mentioned two reasons:
1- people in general are having fewer children
2- Trump's immigration crackdown is scaring illegals away
I think there is a third reason. Citizens with means or conservative values are fleeing the state. That would explain the higher rate in private school and homeschooling decline. That means capital is fleeing, lowering tax revenue. Doom spiral?
Fewer teachers are needed.
Posted by: no one of any consequence
True. They mentioned two reasons:
1- people in general are having fewer children
2- Trump's immigration crackdown is scaring illegals away
I think there is a third reason. Citizens with means or conservative values are fleeing the state. That would explain the higher rate in private school and homeschooling decline. That means capital is fleeing, lowering tax revenue. Doom spiral?
Posted by: Intercepted Reddit Transmissions brought by the Intrepid AoS Liaison at April 18, 2026 08:22 AM (ycI94)
48
Good morning everyone. So sorry to hear about Mrs. Eromero. I'll be praying my rosary for all of you today.
One hour sober, have you ever tried using those refillable K-cups? You can get them at Marshall's etc or of course on Amazon. You just put your own coffee in them and you don't have to mess with the store-bought K-cups.
One hour sober, have you ever tried using those refillable K-cups? You can get them at Marshall's etc or of course on Amazon. You just put your own coffee in them and you don't have to mess with the store-bought K-cups.
Posted by: bluebell at April 18, 2026 08:22 AM (afFes)
49
Though he hasn't asked for it, Ill add a prayer intention for Insomniac, whose life is stable, but could (and should) be better.
I'm glad for him. As I said, he was my brother in depression, so I am happy he is doing better.
I'm glad for him. As I said, he was my brother in depression, so I am happy he is doing better.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:22 AM (qRla/)
50
People don't quit jobs as much as they quit bosses.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at April 18, 2026 08:15 AM (2Ez/1)
---
I've never done that. I had a period of job instability in my early 30s where I spent 12 out of 18 months unemployed and because of that, I've held onto each job like terrier holds a rat, and I've been able to outlast (and usually outmaneuver) bad bosses. I'm now under 10 years from retirement, which makes me even more tenacious.
I also have a good employment law attorney.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at April 18, 2026 08:15 AM (2Ez/1)
---
I've never done that. I had a period of job instability in my early 30s where I spent 12 out of 18 months unemployed and because of that, I've held onto each job like terrier holds a rat, and I've been able to outlast (and usually outmaneuver) bad bosses. I'm now under 10 years from retirement, which makes me even more tenacious.
I also have a good employment law attorney.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:22 AM (ZOv7s)
51
Good Saturday morning, horde!
Prayers for all on the list, and all the others. For all who are suffering illness, who are grieving, who are deployed in the defense of our nation, who are making hard decisions, who are estranged from their families, who despair.
Prayers of thanksgiving for those who spread joy and give assistance to others.
Lord, bless us, and have mercy on us.
Prayers for all on the list, and all the others. For all who are suffering illness, who are grieving, who are deployed in the defense of our nation, who are making hard decisions, who are estranged from their families, who despair.
Prayers of thanksgiving for those who spread joy and give assistance to others.
Lord, bless us, and have mercy on us.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:23 AM (h7ZuX)
52
one hour sober - we use these in our Keurig coffee maker:
https://tinyurl.com/438zynjd
Probably saved us hundreds of $ by now...
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher
They work well and that is a very good price. They used to sell in the grocery store for more than $5 each.
https://tinyurl.com/438zynjd
Probably saved us hundreds of $ by now...
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher
They work well and that is a very good price. They used to sell in the grocery store for more than $5 each.
Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 18, 2026 08:24 AM (/lPRQ)
53
I'm in regular contact with him.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
That's great! Tell him I am praying for him.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
That's great! Tell him I am praying for him.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:24 AM (fE6HJ)
54
40 Warai-otoko. Is the life event the career changes or are you hinting at something else?
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at April 18, 2026 08:19 AM (kxiH3)
no, nothing like that, we were just a little worried about getting stuck without insurance, but a spouse changing jobs does indeed qualify as a "Life Event", which means the holy priests of Healthcareism will grudgingly tolerate us buying some body insurance outside of their precious sanctified seventeen minute window in October.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at April 18, 2026 08:19 AM (kxiH3)
no, nothing like that, we were just a little worried about getting stuck without insurance, but a spouse changing jobs does indeed qualify as a "Life Event", which means the holy priests of Healthcareism will grudgingly tolerate us buying some body insurance outside of their precious sanctified seventeen minute window in October.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:24 AM (Ot/FD)
55
Nec, I was wondering the same thing - thought there may be a mini-otoko on the way . . .
Posted by: bluebell at April 18, 2026 08:25 AM (afFes)
56
I'm sure these cruises are great, if you can afford them. I can't.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:20 AM (qRla/)
---
I have a coworker who goes on cruises every winter, and he literally works just for the fun of it - his parents were loaded, and he inherited huge tracts of land that he rents out to neighboring farmers. He likes his job, and his income is pure fun money.
Must be nice.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:20 AM (qRla/)
---
I have a coworker who goes on cruises every winter, and he literally works just for the fun of it - his parents were loaded, and he inherited huge tracts of land that he rents out to neighboring farmers. He likes his job, and his income is pure fun money.
Must be nice.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ZOv7s)
57
one hour sober - we use these in our Keurig coffee maker:
https://tinyurl.com/438zynjd
*****************
Thank you. That's a buy for me.
https://tinyurl.com/438zynjd
*****************
Thank you. That's a buy for me.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (Y1sOo)
58
My approach to life is based on that of my father, who said that all the men before him would get up before dawn, and go out in the fields or down into the mines, and they thanked God that they could do that. He sits at a desk with air conditioning. How can he complain?
He saw work as what you do to pay for hobbies, and it doesn't matter if you like it, so long as you are good at it. I'm teaching that to my kids so they don't do the stupid "Chase your special dream!" b.s.
That being said, there were a few years when I couldn't wait to go to drill and do more planning and wargaming. As I told my wife at the time, it was like being paid to drink beer and watch football. Alas, all good things, etc.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:18 AM (ZOv7s)
Something I learned over the years is that you can love your job, but it won't love you back. If you dropped dropped dead, you would be replaced and quickly forgotten.
I really like my job and frankly it's pretty stress-free, but it's not my life. It pays for my hobbies, lets Mrs. Cop be a stay-at-home Church Lady, and lets me support my parish.
He saw work as what you do to pay for hobbies, and it doesn't matter if you like it, so long as you are good at it. I'm teaching that to my kids so they don't do the stupid "Chase your special dream!" b.s.
That being said, there were a few years when I couldn't wait to go to drill and do more planning and wargaming. As I told my wife at the time, it was like being paid to drink beer and watch football. Alas, all good things, etc.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:18 AM (ZOv7s)
Something I learned over the years is that you can love your job, but it won't love you back. If you dropped dropped dead, you would be replaced and quickly forgotten.
I really like my job and frankly it's pretty stress-free, but it's not my life. It pays for my hobbies, lets Mrs. Cop be a stay-at-home Church Lady, and lets me support my parish.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ksbjf)
59
I'm glad for him. As I said, he was my brother in depression, so I am happy he is doing better.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:22 AM (qRla/)
--
"Better" is very much a relative term. I mentioned you had asked about him and he replied to me in record time, so you are very much on his mind as well.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:22 AM (qRla/)
--
"Better" is very much a relative term. I mentioned you had asked about him and he replied to me in record time, so you are very much on his mind as well.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:27 AM (ZOv7s)
60
Slap that "Funding" bell silly, and a picture of a teacher pops up. Teetcher mean skool moar gud! Yayyyy!
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:21 AM (Ot/FD)
*fiestbunp*
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:21 AM (Ot/FD)
*fiestbunp*
Posted by: Mary Cloggenstein from Brattleboro, VT at April 18, 2026 08:29 AM (skR0U)
61
Insom's a good dude, and I'm glad to hear he's hanging in there, if not thriving as he might.
I was just thinking of him yesterday morning, oddly enough.
I was just thinking of him yesterday morning, oddly enough.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at April 18, 2026 08:29 AM (BI5O2)
62
Something I learned over the years is that you can love your job, but it won't love you back. If you dropped dropped dead, you would be replaced and quickly forgotten.
I really like my job and frankly it's pretty stress-free, but it's not my life. It pays for my hobbies, lets Mrs. Cop be a stay-at-home Church Lady, and lets me support my parish.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ksbjf)
---
Well, all it took was the vaxx mandate and I was out the door. Much sympathy, very nice sendoff, but also: turn in your gear and train your replacement as fast as possible.
When the mandate was lifted, I was pleased to have a couple of people reach out to me and ask me to come back, which was very nice.
I really like my job and frankly it's pretty stress-free, but it's not my life. It pays for my hobbies, lets Mrs. Cop be a stay-at-home Church Lady, and lets me support my parish.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ksbjf)
---
Well, all it took was the vaxx mandate and I was out the door. Much sympathy, very nice sendoff, but also: turn in your gear and train your replacement as fast as possible.
When the mandate was lifted, I was pleased to have a couple of people reach out to me and ask me to come back, which was very nice.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:29 AM (ZOv7s)
63
Decaf "coffee" is known in the trade as Depresso.
Posted by: Caffeinated Carlo at April 18, 2026 08:30 AM (oftw2)
64
It sounds like a lot of the larger companies are really getting on board with this "Work Life Balance" concept. We pay you to work forty hours a week. Work your buns off for those forty hours a week. Be as productive as you can and try to stay focused. And when your day is done, pencils down and get the hell out of here. Forty hours of good motivated work is worth a lot more to the bottom line than sixty hours of burned out pissed off zombies lumbering around doing sweet F.A.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:30 AM (Ot/FD)
65
Must be nice.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ZOv7s)
I say that a lot. Not so much for travel, but a great deal of money would allow me to buy my dream house and afford to dress the way I prefer.
I find myself wishing I had money, but then remember that the truest thing I ever wrote was, "Do you know what the most horrible words in the world are? 'I wish.'
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ZOv7s)
I say that a lot. Not so much for travel, but a great deal of money would allow me to buy my dream house and afford to dress the way I prefer.
I find myself wishing I had money, but then remember that the truest thing I ever wrote was, "Do you know what the most horrible words in the world are? 'I wish.'
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:31 AM (qRla/)
66
All right, folks, I have some errands to run and writing to do, so I'm calling it a morning. See you on the Book Thread tomorrow.
Hope you all have a lovely day.
Hope you all have a lovely day.
Posted by: Mary Poppins' Practically Perfect Piercing (aka Eloquent Depression) at April 18, 2026 08:32 AM (qRla/)
67
26 Yesterday, just in time for the upcoming hurricane season, I received my annual premium due for flood insurance.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 08:12 AM (Y1sOo)
Speaking of flooding, looks like northern Michigan has had a terrible week of it. Prayers up that the remaining dams hold.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 08:12 AM (Y1sOo)
Speaking of flooding, looks like northern Michigan has had a terrible week of it. Prayers up that the remaining dams hold.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (h7ZuX)
68
My first "real" job, one that paid bills and had insurance, was awesome. On Sunday night, I would look forward to coming in and telling everyone how my weekend went and hearing from them as well. We'd gather at the file cabinets that were something of a makeshift table and talk and drink coffee, and then off to work.
We were a political p.r. shop, and used to do mock news releases (NEVER ON LETTERHEAD!!!) and every cube or office had cartoons on the walls. In-jokes all over the place. I was there for five years until a leadership change and I was laid off.
I lost that job in 2004. We still get together. We have an email list, and about every three months we have dinner and update each other on kids, grandkids, job changes and now - retirements. It's crazy.
We were a political p.r. shop, and used to do mock news releases (NEVER ON LETTERHEAD!!!) and every cube or office had cartoons on the walls. In-jokes all over the place. I was there for five years until a leadership change and I was laid off.
I lost that job in 2004. We still get together. We have an email list, and about every three months we have dinner and update each other on kids, grandkids, job changes and now - retirements. It's crazy.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (ZOv7s)
69
Good morning Horde. Thx MisHum. Prayers for the Horde and their loved ones in need.
Could use a few prayers myself. Still in rehab after my gout/sepsis battle. They seem to have been dealt with , though antibiotics still being applied. Been doing therapy to get stronger.
Could use a few prayers myself. Still in rehab after my gout/sepsis battle. They seem to have been dealt with , though antibiotics still being applied. Been doing therapy to get stronger.
Posted by: Smell the Glove at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (gu0hJ)
70
Omar says she is not worth $30 million dollars it was an accounting mistake and she and her husband have a net worth of $95k.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (vFG9F)
71
60 Slap that "Funding" bell silly, and a picture of a teacher pops up. Teetcher mean skool moar gud! Yayyyy!
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:21 AM (Ot/FD)
*fiestbunp*
Posted by: Mary Cloggenstein from Brattleboro
*fiestabump*
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:21 AM (Ot/FD)
*fiestbunp*
Posted by: Mary Cloggenstein from Brattleboro
*fiestabump*
Posted by: Consuela "Si Se Puede" Mendoza from East Los Angelos at April 18, 2026 08:35 AM (ycI94)
72
Omar says she is not worth $30 million dollars it was an accounting mistake and she and her husband have a net worth of $95k.
Posted by: fd
IOW they offshored their $30 mil.
Posted by: fd
IOW they offshored their $30 mil.
Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 18, 2026 08:36 AM (/lPRQ)
73
70 Omar says she is not worth $30 million dollars it was an accounting mistake and she and her husband have a net worth of $95k.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (vFG9F)
I was going to try to describe the strength with which I just sighed in exasperation, but then I realized you probably could hear it yourself from where you're at.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (vFG9F)
I was going to try to describe the strength with which I just sighed in exasperation, but then I realized you probably could hear it yourself from where you're at.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:36 AM (Ot/FD)
74
Since it is religious-related, I'd like to discuss the "Trump as Jesus" picture. When I first heard of it, I expected an image of Pres. Trump on the Holy Cross, or at the Last Supper. Instead, it looked like he was wearing a red martyr's stole with angels in the background while he healed someone by gift of the Holy Spirit (the spark in his hand). My reaction was "meh"
The people shrieking "ZOMG! Blasphemy! reeee!!!" have nothing to say about things that disturb me as a Catholic.
1) Upcoming psycho-sexual movie with Anne Hathaway as an aging Pop Tart wearing headdresses that look like halos while being in skimpy outfits. The title of the movie? Mother Mary. It obviously sexualizes the Blessed Virgin Mary.
B) The idiot article a few years ago in The Atlantic criticizing the Rosary.
iii) A Crucifix put in a jar of urine, and called "art" back in the 1990s.
The people shrieking "ZOMG! Blasphemy! reeee!!!" have nothing to say about things that disturb me as a Catholic.
1) Upcoming psycho-sexual movie with Anne Hathaway as an aging Pop Tart wearing headdresses that look like halos while being in skimpy outfits. The title of the movie? Mother Mary. It obviously sexualizes the Blessed Virgin Mary.
B) The idiot article a few years ago in The Atlantic criticizing the Rosary.
iii) A Crucifix put in a jar of urine, and called "art" back in the 1990s.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:37 AM (ksbjf)
75
You shouldn't despise your job. I've been there and it sucks. But give it time, because it's usually a personnel issue, as noted above. I give a job 3-4 years before I cut and run.
For instance, at my current job, I was right at the 3.5 year mark, and I hated it so much that I dreaded waking up and going there, because my boss was an acolyte of Satan. I had a very sick child at the time, so when I told the wife I was quitting, she said "no don't do it, we can't afford it," and I complied.
Not a week later, my boss's boss called and he said "I just cut her Satanic ass loose, largely because of how bad she was to you."
I had never once complained - but people can see these things. If they're good bosses, that is. It's been 5 years since then, and I still like my job.
For instance, at my current job, I was right at the 3.5 year mark, and I hated it so much that I dreaded waking up and going there, because my boss was an acolyte of Satan. I had a very sick child at the time, so when I told the wife I was quitting, she said "no don't do it, we can't afford it," and I complied.
Not a week later, my boss's boss called and he said "I just cut her Satanic ass loose, largely because of how bad she was to you."
I had never once complained - but people can see these things. If they're good bosses, that is. It's been 5 years since then, and I still like my job.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at April 18, 2026 08:37 AM (BI5O2)
76
If you dropped dropped dead, you would be replaced and quickly forgotten.
Heard a great quote on a video about that. "If you drop dead tonight, HR would post your job vacancy before your family posts your obituary."
Heard a great quote on a video about that. "If you drop dead tonight, HR would post your job vacancy before your family posts your obituary."
Posted by: NR Pax at April 18, 2026 08:38 AM (+NIRm)
77
his parents were loaded, and he inherited huge tracts of land that he rents out to neighboring farmers. He likes his job, and his income is pure fun money.
Must be nice.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ZOv7s)
It is nice, because he has the right attitude. Compare and contrast with, say, Hunter Biden or the Kennedy clan, who are never satisfied and are one train wreck after another in pursuit of something money can't give them.
Must be nice.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ZOv7s)
It is nice, because he has the right attitude. Compare and contrast with, say, Hunter Biden or the Kennedy clan, who are never satisfied and are one train wreck after another in pursuit of something money can't give them.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:38 AM (h7ZuX)
78
On the way, Smell the Glove. I hope that gout pain is subsiding.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:38 AM (vFG9F)
79
Here's a song I find extremely uplifting from one of my favorite bands (that isn't exactly known for being uplifting) 😂🤘🏼
https://youtu.be/Qr1UOfvMFt0
https://youtu.be/Qr1UOfvMFt0
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 18, 2026 08:38 AM (kOluj)
80
Speaking of flooding, looks like northern Michigan has had a terrible week of it. Prayers up that the remaining dams hold.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (h7ZuX)
---
We are getting a lot of rain even in mid-Michigan. The local synagogue has put in a shipyard, and they seem to be going round the clock on something.
Since I logged in, it has actually gotten darker here. Heavy overcast and yet more rain. Oy vay!
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (h7ZuX)
---
We are getting a lot of rain even in mid-Michigan. The local synagogue has put in a shipyard, and they seem to be going round the clock on something.
Since I logged in, it has actually gotten darker here. Heavy overcast and yet more rain. Oy vay!
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:40 AM (ZOv7s)
81
I had never once complained - but people can see these things. If they're good bosses, that is. It's been 5 years since then, and I still like my job.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at April 18, 2026 08:37 AM (BI5O2)
The opposite happens a lot, that I've seen before. Not myself, personally, but it's a thing. Everyone around you is great. Everyone's trying. Your boss is pretty cool, your boss's boss is pretty cool. On paper things should be great. But the organization is so cripplingly dysfunctional from the board and the C-suite, and the people in charge of being in charge are so thoroughly disinterested in the actual functioning of the company as a company, that the whole things isn't much more than a hostage situation with an org chart.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at April 18, 2026 08:37 AM (BI5O2)
The opposite happens a lot, that I've seen before. Not myself, personally, but it's a thing. Everyone around you is great. Everyone's trying. Your boss is pretty cool, your boss's boss is pretty cool. On paper things should be great. But the organization is so cripplingly dysfunctional from the board and the C-suite, and the people in charge of being in charge are so thoroughly disinterested in the actual functioning of the company as a company, that the whole things isn't much more than a hostage situation with an org chart.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:41 AM (Ot/FD)
82
The people shrieking "ZOMG! Blasphemy! reeee!!!" have nothing to say about things that disturb me as a Catholic.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:37 AM (ksbjf)
---
They are literally the meme. "No, I think Christianity is stupid and don't believe in it at all, but if I act all offended about something Trump did and call it blasphemous, maybe you will do what I want."
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:37 AM (ksbjf)
---
They are literally the meme. "No, I think Christianity is stupid and don't believe in it at all, but if I act all offended about something Trump did and call it blasphemous, maybe you will do what I want."
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:43 AM (ZOv7s)
83
Something I learned over the years is that you can love your job, but it won't love you back. If you dropped dropped dead, you would be replaced and quickly forgotten.
------
This is the other side of the coin. You shouldn't love your job too much, because it could go at any time.
Even if you're self-employed and can't be laid off, you shouldn't love it too much, because it will become an opportunity cost to other things you neglect as a result. It'll be cold comfort on your deathbed.
------
This is the other side of the coin. You shouldn't love your job too much, because it could go at any time.
Even if you're self-employed and can't be laid off, you shouldn't love it too much, because it will become an opportunity cost to other things you neglect as a result. It'll be cold comfort on your deathbed.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at April 18, 2026 08:43 AM (BI5O2)
84
It is nice, because he has the right attitude. Compare and contrast with, say, Hunter Biden or the Kennedy clan, who are never satisfied and are one train wreck after another in pursuit of something money can't give them.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:38 AM (h7ZuX)
They're trying to fill the God-shaped hole in the souls with liquor or drugs or sex. I look at people that don't have religious faith, and see people anxious and afraid of life in general. I might be anxious about a specific event, but I know God wins in the end.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:38 AM (h7ZuX)
They're trying to fill the God-shaped hole in the souls with liquor or drugs or sex. I look at people that don't have religious faith, and see people anxious and afraid of life in general. I might be anxious about a specific event, but I know God wins in the end.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:44 AM (ksbjf)
85
Ach. I just realized I pretty much hijacked the prayer thread and turned it into a "Bitch about work on a Saturday" thread... ! Sorry, everyone.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:46 AM (Ot/FD)
86
Mornin', Horde.
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 18, 2026 08:47 AM (Wnv9h)
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 08:47 AM (GD0B3)
88
I think there is a third reason. Citizens with means or conservative values are fleeing the state. That would explain the higher rate in private school and homeschooling decline. That means capital is fleeing, lowering tax revenue. Doom spiral?
Posted by: Intercepted Reddit Transmissions brought by the Intrepid AoS Liaison at April 18, 2026 08:22 AM (ycI94)
---
I think we are closing in on a tipping point regarding public education. More people than ever before are childless, and part of that is that they get more cash to spend on themselves. While they are liberal, they are also greedy, and are starting to balk and paying for something they don't use.
Enrollment is also falling, so the per-student expenditures are crazy for what you get.
Meanwhile, the people having kids are choosing private schools or home schooling, further eroding popular support. We're not there yet, but I think it's not that far off. Higher education is already starting to collapse, which will further undermine support for traditional prep schools.
Surging skilled trade positions will replace the old K-12-college model.
Posted by: Intercepted Reddit Transmissions brought by the Intrepid AoS Liaison at April 18, 2026 08:22 AM (ycI94)
---
I think we are closing in on a tipping point regarding public education. More people than ever before are childless, and part of that is that they get more cash to spend on themselves. While they are liberal, they are also greedy, and are starting to balk and paying for something they don't use.
Enrollment is also falling, so the per-student expenditures are crazy for what you get.
Meanwhile, the people having kids are choosing private schools or home schooling, further eroding popular support. We're not there yet, but I think it's not that far off. Higher education is already starting to collapse, which will further undermine support for traditional prep schools.
Surging skilled trade positions will replace the old K-12-college model.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:47 AM (ZOv7s)
89
Could use a few prayers myself. Still in rehab after my gout/sepsis battle.
Posted by: Smell the Glove at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (gu0hJ)
Prayers up. Sepsis is such a danger. Is there a lot more of this than there used to be, or am I just more aware of it because of the work I do (hospital financial assistance), and so many prayer requests about it. The medical bills from sepsis are often in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the length of hospitalization. So, sure, I see it a lot. But it seems like there's been a lot more of that in the last two years than in the previous several.
Are there stronger bacterial strains running around out there than there used to be?
*hatches new conspiracy theory
Posted by: Smell the Glove at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM (gu0hJ)
Prayers up. Sepsis is such a danger. Is there a lot more of this than there used to be, or am I just more aware of it because of the work I do (hospital financial assistance), and so many prayer requests about it. The medical bills from sepsis are often in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the length of hospitalization. So, sure, I see it a lot. But it seems like there's been a lot more of that in the last two years than in the previous several.
Are there stronger bacterial strains running around out there than there used to be?
*hatches new conspiracy theory
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:48 AM (h7ZuX)
90
The people shrieking "ZOMG! Blasphemy! reeee!!!" have nothing to say about things that disturb me as a Catholic.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:37 AM (ksbjf)
---
They are literally the meme. "No, I think Christianity is stupid and don't believe in it at all, but if I act all offended about something Trump did and call it blasphemous, maybe you will do what I want."
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:43 AM (ZOv7s)
Exactly my point.
I didn't see the picture of Pres. Trump as a holy man(?) being blasphemous. There was no mockery that I could perceive.
To paint with a broad brush, but Protestants tend to be iconoclasts. The now-controversial picture is consistent with Catholic iconography. The only controversial point is, will Donald Trump be a saint?
I would argue that he is attempting to make the entire world a safer place. His life was spared by a miracle at Butler, Penn. for a reason.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:37 AM (ksbjf)
---
They are literally the meme. "No, I think Christianity is stupid and don't believe in it at all, but if I act all offended about something Trump did and call it blasphemous, maybe you will do what I want."
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:43 AM (ZOv7s)
Exactly my point.
I didn't see the picture of Pres. Trump as a holy man(?) being blasphemous. There was no mockery that I could perceive.
To paint with a broad brush, but Protestants tend to be iconoclasts. The now-controversial picture is consistent with Catholic iconography. The only controversial point is, will Donald Trump be a saint?
I would argue that he is attempting to make the entire world a safer place. His life was spared by a miracle at Butler, Penn. for a reason.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:50 AM (ksbjf)
91
Are there stronger bacterial strains running around out there than there used to be?
*hatches new conspiracy theory
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:48 AM (h7ZuX)
---
Overuse of antibiotics created superstrains. This is is known. I get emails from my health insurance actually saying that antibiotics should be treated as a last resort, and maybe riding out that cold is better for you.
*hatches new conspiracy theory
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:48 AM (h7ZuX)
---
Overuse of antibiotics created superstrains. This is is known. I get emails from my health insurance actually saying that antibiotics should be treated as a last resort, and maybe riding out that cold is better for you.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:51 AM (ZOv7s)
92
Ach. I just realized I pretty much hijacked the prayer thread and turned it into a "Bitch about work on a Saturday" thread... ! Sorry, everyone.
******
It's an open thread. Moose up top told ya:
"1) This is an open thread. Feel free to lurk, opine and/or bloviate."
******
It's an open thread. Moose up top told ya:
"1) This is an open thread. Feel free to lurk, opine and/or bloviate."
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 08:51 AM (Y1sOo)
93
Are there stronger bacterial strains running around out there than there used to be?
*hatches new conspiracy theory
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:48 AM (h7ZuX)
I don't know. Maybe we've just gotten better at fighting sepsis when it does happen, so you see hospitals trying to win against it, which is more visible and noticeable as an administrator than the doctors declaring Game Over and closing the file.
*hatches new conspiracy theory
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:48 AM (h7ZuX)
I don't know. Maybe we've just gotten better at fighting sepsis when it does happen, so you see hospitals trying to win against it, which is more visible and noticeable as an administrator than the doctors declaring Game Over and closing the file.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:51 AM (Ot/FD)
94
No worries, Warai-otoko.... sometimes we gotta pull out the splinters before we can set our minds to feeling grateful for our blessings.
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 18, 2026 08:51 AM (kOluj)
95
I don't know quite what the dispute, if such there be, between Trump and the Pope is, but I don't take it too seriously. Papal pronouncements tend to be elliptical and I don't know His Holiness wasn't referring to the variety of African conflicts. Besides, it's not doctrinal, so there's no point to listening.
I don't know quite what the dispute, if such there be, between Trump and the Pope is, but I don't take it too seriously. Papal pronouncements tend to be elliptical and I don't know His Holiness wasn't referring to the variety of African conflicts. Besides, it's not doctrinal, so there's no point to listening.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 08:53 AM (tgvbd)
96
While they are liberal, they are also greedy, and are starting to balk and paying for something they don't use.
I'm a conservative and my wife and I never had kids. I also dislike paying for something I don't use and am not allowed to have any input over.
I'm a conservative and my wife and I never had kids. I also dislike paying for something I don't use and am not allowed to have any input over.
Posted by: NR Pax at April 18, 2026 08:53 AM (+NIRm)
97
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:47 AM (ZOv7s)
The ivies certainly lost their cachet. Now smart, wealthy, normal parents see them for what they are, hotbeds of Marxism-Jihadism (TM by me!), and rather send their progeny elsewhere. And the employers are no longer fixated on ivy diplomas. The gild is off. Zinc and crap underneath.
The ivies certainly lost their cachet. Now smart, wealthy, normal parents see them for what they are, hotbeds of Marxism-Jihadism (TM by me!), and rather send their progeny elsewhere. And the employers are no longer fixated on ivy diplomas. The gild is off. Zinc and crap underneath.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 08:54 AM (GD0B3)
98
I would argue that he is attempting to make the entire world a safer place. His life was spared by a miracle at Butler, Penn. for a reason.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:50 AM (ksbjf)
---
There is a deep irony in the current (fake) furor. Trump has negotiated the end of wars several times. At every step in the Iran situation, he has negotiated until it became clear that it was fruitless. He then waged a minimalist campaign, with incredibly low casualties and collateral damage, and kept begging for a cease fire.
In pursuit of that, he threatened total war on a millenarian death cult theocracy, which agreed! And he was vilified for that as well. Now there is no actual war, just slow negotiations and maneuvering.
What is even more remarkable is that he is doing this to end the threat China poses to the world. By crushing China's foreign trade and access to oil, he is ending the Taiwan war before it can start.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:50 AM (ksbjf)
---
There is a deep irony in the current (fake) furor. Trump has negotiated the end of wars several times. At every step in the Iran situation, he has negotiated until it became clear that it was fruitless. He then waged a minimalist campaign, with incredibly low casualties and collateral damage, and kept begging for a cease fire.
In pursuit of that, he threatened total war on a millenarian death cult theocracy, which agreed! And he was vilified for that as well. Now there is no actual war, just slow negotiations and maneuvering.
What is even more remarkable is that he is doing this to end the threat China poses to the world. By crushing China's foreign trade and access to oil, he is ending the Taiwan war before it can start.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:54 AM (ZOv7s)
99
“ If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.”
Genesis 4:7
Genesis 4:7
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 08:56 AM (upeQk)
100
I don't know quite what the dispute, if such there be, between Trump and the Pope is, but I don't take it too seriously. Papal pronouncements tend to be elliptical and I don't know His Holiness wasn't referring to the variety of African conflicts. Besides, it's not doctrinal, so there's no point to listening.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 08:53 AM (tgvbd)
Families will be sundered. Weekend dinners ruined. Aunty Sally is going to need to triple her budget for brown liquor and SSRIs. All because Orange Man had the nerve to pick a fight with the Pope by sitting there like a monster getting called a racist war-monger by the Pope. This is serious.
reee.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 08:53 AM (tgvbd)
Families will be sundered. Weekend dinners ruined. Aunty Sally is going to need to triple her budget for brown liquor and SSRIs. All because Orange Man had the nerve to pick a fight with the Pope by sitting there like a monster getting called a racist war-monger by the Pope. This is serious.
reee.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:56 AM (Ot/FD)
101
It is nice, because he has the right attitude. Compare and contrast with, say, Hunter Biden or the Kennedy clan, who are never satisfied and are one train wreck after another in pursuit of something money can't give them.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:38 AM (h7ZuX)
I recall someone from the UK (before they all went nuts) noting that Princelings - those raised in families with great power and wealth, yet who are never able to exercise any of that power themselves - have always been nothing but trouble in any society they turn up in.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 08:38 AM (h7ZuX)
I recall someone from the UK (before they all went nuts) noting that Princelings - those raised in families with great power and wealth, yet who are never able to exercise any of that power themselves - have always been nothing but trouble in any society they turn up in.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 08:56 AM (yGQJD)
102
Got something had to do outside done
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 08:56 AM (Ia/+0)
103
the whole things isn't much more than a hostage situation with an org chart.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:41 AM (Ot/FD)
----------
Perspective matters, I suppose. I look at my business quite ofter as adult day care.
Good day horde! May all go well for you today.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:41 AM (Ot/FD)
----------
Perspective matters, I suppose. I look at my business quite ofter as adult day care.
Good day horde! May all go well for you today.
Posted by: Huck Follywood at April 18, 2026 08:57 AM (U0NbE)
104
I'm a conservative and my wife and I never had kids. I also dislike paying for something I don't use and am not allowed to have any input over.
Posted by: NR Pax at April 18, 2026 08:53 AM (+NIRm)
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Right, but "conservative" is the operative phrase. I have three kids and two grandkids, and I still vote against every school millage because I know how much of it is wasted.
I also remember going to the very same high school and how much better the education I got then was than the much, much, much more expensive one they are giving now.
Posted by: NR Pax at April 18, 2026 08:53 AM (+NIRm)
---
Right, but "conservative" is the operative phrase. I have three kids and two grandkids, and I still vote against every school millage because I know how much of it is wasted.
I also remember going to the very same high school and how much better the education I got then was than the much, much, much more expensive one they are giving now.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:57 AM (ZOv7s)
105
Mohammedist-Leninism?
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 08:57 AM (Ot/FD)
106
Certainly Europe looks to be doomed to.be under Islam. Had Iran have nukes wouldn't be safe for the world.
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 08:58 AM (Ia/+0)
107
“ Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
James 5:14-16
James 5:14-16
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 08:58 AM (upeQk)
108
Early this morning I had nothing on my schedule. I now have something on my schedule. Her Majesty wants to get the RV reloaded prior to her trip to Tulsa next week.
Early this morning I had nothing on my schedule. I now have something on my schedule. Her Majesty wants to get the RV reloaded prior to her trip to Tulsa next week.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 08:58 AM (tgvbd)
109
There is a lot of astroturf amplified by the online algos. Minority opinions, unacceptable in polite society before, foreign to Americans and American values, are being promoted as "mainstream". Which they are not, of course. The algorithms are concocted outside the US and amplified by forces outside of the US. I wonder how many pics of paki cellphone farms people need to see to realize they are being had. Majority are not, they don;t live online, and X is not real life, but minority of wackjobs are getting louder, because they think there is a legion of them in the US. Buddy, your legions are in Turkey and Phakisgtan.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 08:59 AM (GD0B3)
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 09:00 AM (tgvbd)
111
What is even more remarkable is that he is doing this to end the threat China poses to the world. By crushing China's foreign trade and access to oil, he is ending the Taiwan war before it can start.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:54 AM (ZOv7s)
It amazes me how few will see this, but I should have expected it. Some troll showed up in the ONT with the standard leftist claims that this war was doing nothing, wasted a lot of money, blah blah so on and so forth.
They have no clue how many Big wars have now been stopped before they happen just by this one rather small and brief war.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:54 AM (ZOv7s)
It amazes me how few will see this, but I should have expected it. Some troll showed up in the ONT with the standard leftist claims that this war was doing nothing, wasted a lot of money, blah blah so on and so forth.
They have no clue how many Big wars have now been stopped before they happen just by this one rather small and brief war.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:01 AM (yGQJD)
112
So I have been seeing commercials for something called "American Cruise Lines," which runs ships somewhat akin to Viking Cruises longships, traveling around New England, the SE, PNW and the Mississippi. I decided to send for a catalogue.
Fares start at $4000 per person for your basic "Standard Waterview" cabin. For that kind of money, I can travel by car or rail anywhere I like, stay in a great hotel, Air B&B or such and still have plenty of folding green left over.
I'm sure these cruises are great, if you can afford them. I can't.
Posted by: Mary Poppins'
Because of the Jones Act, if the voyage is completely in American waters with no foreign port, the ship must be American built and have an American crew. I guess the cost savings for third world crew are substantial.
Fares start at $4000 per person for your basic "Standard Waterview" cabin. For that kind of money, I can travel by car or rail anywhere I like, stay in a great hotel, Air B&B or such and still have plenty of folding green left over.
I'm sure these cruises are great, if you can afford them. I can't.
Posted by: Mary Poppins'
Because of the Jones Act, if the voyage is completely in American waters with no foreign port, the ship must be American built and have an American crew. I guess the cost savings for third world crew are substantial.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at April 18, 2026 09:01 AM (0U5gm)
113
Since this is the prayer thread, I want to mention that, since my long overdue Confirmation last Sunday, where i was sealed with the Holy Spirit,
I feel a certain peace In my heart and mind.
Nonbelievers may say "placebo effect" but it feels like happiness.
I feel a certain peace In my heart and mind.
Nonbelievers may say "placebo effect" but it feels like happiness.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (fE6HJ)
114
I don't know quite what the dispute, if such there be, between Trump and the Pope is, but I don't take it too seriously. Papal pronouncements tend to be elliptical and I don't know His Holiness wasn't referring to the variety of African conflicts. Besides, it's not doctrinal, so there's no point to listening.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 08:53 AM (tgvbd)
The Church hierarchy chose to get into spat with Pres. Trump. If they want to be politicians that just happen to wear Roman Collars, well Pres. Trump is not the man to tolerate that bull$h!t.
I'm disgusted with Arbp. Broglio's "we need to wait for the mullahs to get nukes" before it's a Just War. As Archbishop of the Dioceses of the Military Services, he knows better.
If Pope Leo XIV wants to castaway the good will of millions of Catholics to be a shill for the Democrat party by mangling the Gospel, that's on him.
Pres. Trump painted them into a corner by proclaiming "Pope Leo likes criminals and wants Iran to have nukes." Then when some reporterette tried a gotcha question concerning the Iranian regime still executing protesters, Pres. Trump just replied, "Tell that to the Pope."
Boom.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 08:53 AM (tgvbd)
The Church hierarchy chose to get into spat with Pres. Trump. If they want to be politicians that just happen to wear Roman Collars, well Pres. Trump is not the man to tolerate that bull$h!t.
I'm disgusted with Arbp. Broglio's "we need to wait for the mullahs to get nukes" before it's a Just War. As Archbishop of the Dioceses of the Military Services, he knows better.
If Pope Leo XIV wants to castaway the good will of millions of Catholics to be a shill for the Democrat party by mangling the Gospel, that's on him.
Pres. Trump painted them into a corner by proclaiming "Pope Leo likes criminals and wants Iran to have nukes." Then when some reporterette tried a gotcha question concerning the Iranian regime still executing protesters, Pres. Trump just replied, "Tell that to the Pope."
Boom.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (ksbjf)
115
Good morning Hadrian!
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:03 AM (fE6HJ)
116
70 Omar says she is not worth $30 million dollars it was an accounting mistake and she and her husband have a net worth of $95k.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM
_______
It's a write off, Jerry.
They just write it off.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 08:34 AM
_______
It's a write off, Jerry.
They just write it off.
Posted by: Kramer at April 18, 2026 09:03 AM (2Ez/1)
117
OT: This is the last day to vote early and vote No in the VA Apr 21 election on redistricting. Right now, this is projected to be like the AG race of last year - a tight D win. So, it's time to see if we can flip that (I'm not optimistic, but every person who gets out to vote would make me more so)...
I voted Thursday night and it's a rapid vote - should be no lines and take 5 minutes...
I voted Thursday night and it's a rapid vote - should be no lines and take 5 minutes...
Posted by: Nova Local at April 18, 2026 09:03 AM (tOcjL)
118
Certainly Europe looks to be doomed to.be under Islam. Had Iran have nukes wouldn't be safe for the world.
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 08:58 AM (Ia/+0)
---
Edward Feser has destroyed his credibility over the last few weeks. He may know a lot about doctrine and philosophy but his understanding of economics, diplomacy and strategy is pathetic, and he's getting dragged just about every time he posts.
He actually wrote that a nuclear Iran would be responsible and present no threat to peace, and people (properly) were in full AYFK?! mode. Like they wouldn't use nukes to shield them from retaliation for even more terror attacks.
They've violated very agreement they've ever made. It's really strange, but of course Orange Man Bad, and Feser still hates the Dems for forcing him to support Trump. But he hates Trump even more.
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 08:58 AM (Ia/+0)
---
Edward Feser has destroyed his credibility over the last few weeks. He may know a lot about doctrine and philosophy but his understanding of economics, diplomacy and strategy is pathetic, and he's getting dragged just about every time he posts.
He actually wrote that a nuclear Iran would be responsible and present no threat to peace, and people (properly) were in full AYFK?! mode. Like they wouldn't use nukes to shield them from retaliation for even more terror attacks.
They've violated very agreement they've ever made. It's really strange, but of course Orange Man Bad, and Feser still hates the Dems for forcing him to support Trump. But he hates Trump even more.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:03 AM (ZOv7s)
119
Vmom! Congratulations! That's wonderful.
Posted by: bluebell at April 18, 2026 09:04 AM (afFes)
120
"And the Lord said to Cain, "Why are you annoyed, and why has your countenance fallen?
Is it not so that if you improve, it will be forgiven you? If you do not improve, however, at the entrance, sin is lying, and to you is its longing, but you can rule over it."
Is it not so that if you improve, it will be forgiven you? If you do not improve, however, at the entrance, sin is lying, and to you is its longing, but you can rule over it."
Posted by: runner, austere religious scholar at April 18, 2026 09:04 AM (GD0B3)
121
We do nothing to build our immune system. My husband's sepsis could have been avoided if his doctors treated his lymphedema. But they blew me off every time I asked about his legs.
Posted by: Notsothoreau at April 18, 2026 09:04 AM (wOXCn)
122
I'm conservative and childless (not by choice mind you sadly).
Last November, my little coast Maine town of ~10,000 voted on a school construction referendum. It was going to pay for extensive renovations to the elementary school, and a brand new middle school, and security related renovations to the high school.
10,000 population. The referendum amount? $145 MILLION. Absolutely and completely bonkers. There are less students enrolled in the elementary, middle and high school than I had in my graduating high school class - and the student population keeps dropping as this town becomes more and more economically unsustainable for young families.
Eventually a ~$100m amount was narrowly approved after the 3rd referendum vote finally succeeded. It was clear that the supporters were going to keep putting it on every ballot until it was approved. My property tax bill will now go up by 20%. Completely and utterly ridiculous.
Last November, my little coast Maine town of ~10,000 voted on a school construction referendum. It was going to pay for extensive renovations to the elementary school, and a brand new middle school, and security related renovations to the high school.
10,000 population. The referendum amount? $145 MILLION. Absolutely and completely bonkers. There are less students enrolled in the elementary, middle and high school than I had in my graduating high school class - and the student population keeps dropping as this town becomes more and more economically unsustainable for young families.
Eventually a ~$100m amount was narrowly approved after the 3rd referendum vote finally succeeded. It was clear that the supporters were going to keep putting it on every ballot until it was approved. My property tax bill will now go up by 20%. Completely and utterly ridiculous.
Posted by: Defenestratus at April 18, 2026 09:04 AM (WYStd)
123
I don't know quite what the dispute, if such there be, between Trump and the Pope is, but I don't take it too seriously. Papal pronouncements tend to be elliptical and I don't know His Holiness wasn't referring to the variety of African conflicts. Besides, it's not doctrinal, so there's no point to listening.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh
I haven't listened to the pope in over 20 years. Lotsa hinky shit at the Vatican from 2005- on.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh
I haven't listened to the pope in over 20 years. Lotsa hinky shit at the Vatican from 2005- on.
Posted by: Mr Aspirin Factory at April 18, 2026 09:05 AM (d9FiM)
124
Since this is the prayer thread, I want to mention that, since my long overdue Confirmation last Sunday, where i was sealed with the Holy Spirit,
I feel a certain peace In my heart and mind.
Nonbelievers may say "placebo effect" but it feels like happiness.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (fE6HJ)
It's been forgotten, but after Confirmation, you are a Warrior for Christ. Going to a parish (or a Protestant denomination) where you praise God and give glory to Jesus for his sacrifice confers great gifts from the Holy Spirit.
I feel a certain peace In my heart and mind.
Nonbelievers may say "placebo effect" but it feels like happiness.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (fE6HJ)
It's been forgotten, but after Confirmation, you are a Warrior for Christ. Going to a parish (or a Protestant denomination) where you praise God and give glory to Jesus for his sacrifice confers great gifts from the Holy Spirit.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:05 AM (ksbjf)
125
BXVI is the real Pope anyway, Frankie and Leo are just some greasy dudes cosplaying as a chess piece.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 09:06 AM (Ot/FD)
126
Nonbelievers may say "placebo effect" but it feels like happiness.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (fE6HJ)
---
Congratulations! God be with you!
They say that because they hate seeing happy religious people. What drives them completely insane is seeing people who are suffering, but also content, trusting in God, learning from their suffering.
Envy is a powerful sin.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (fE6HJ)
---
Congratulations! God be with you!
They say that because they hate seeing happy religious people. What drives them completely insane is seeing people who are suffering, but also content, trusting in God, learning from their suffering.
Envy is a powerful sin.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:06 AM (ZOv7s)
127
95
I don't know quite what the dispute, if such there be, between Trump and the Pope is, but I don't take it too seriously.”
Comes down to this: pope Bob had a private conference with dem strategist David Axelrod to see what could be done to help out Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections. Trump objected to that.
95
I don't know quite what the dispute, if such there be, between Trump and the Pope is, but I don't take it too seriously.”
Comes down to this: pope Bob had a private conference with dem strategist David Axelrod to see what could be done to help out Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections. Trump objected to that.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:07 AM (yGQJD)
128
>>I'm sure these cruises are great, if you can afford them. I can't.
One of those run from here in Pensacola to New Orleans with port calls in Mobile, Ocean Springs, Biloxi and Gulfport. Eight days and seven nights for $4,065.
I'll pass.
One of those run from here in Pensacola to New Orleans with port calls in Mobile, Ocean Springs, Biloxi and Gulfport. Eight days and seven nights for $4,065.
I'll pass.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:07 AM (Y1sOo)
129
The brouhaha with the Pope and Cardinals is an op engineered by the globohomo left, just like the op engineered by Tucker Carlson.
They are fighting back against Trump and us.
They are fighting back against Trump and us.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:08 AM (RIvkX)
130
In case you had travel plans,
"IRGC Khatam Al Anbia HQ Spox announced that the Strait of Hormuz is closed."
"IRGC Khatam Al Anbia HQ Spox announced that the Strait of Hormuz is closed."
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:08 AM (GD0B3)
131
Please also pray for my husband's mental and emotional well-being as he faces the transition of possible forced retirement in 3 months
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (6U1c2)
Retirement under the best circumstances is big transition. Take this time to explore your surroundings to find ways to fill the downtime. Conversely, don't feel guilty about doing nothing. Read, take walks, drink more coffee. Tomorrow you can do the dishes...
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 08:11 AM (6U1c2)
Retirement under the best circumstances is big transition. Take this time to explore your surroundings to find ways to fill the downtime. Conversely, don't feel guilty about doing nothing. Read, take walks, drink more coffee. Tomorrow you can do the dishes...
Posted by: Joe Kidd at April 18, 2026 09:08 AM (nbLIj)
132
On topic for prayer thread, started reading a book I bought for KTE a while ago : The Seven Spiritual Weapons by St Catherine of Bologna.
It's short, but so far I am still in the biographical intro to get context.
It's short, but so far I am still in the biographical intro to get context.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:09 AM (fE6HJ)
133
I'm disgusted with Arbp. Broglio's "we need to wait for the mullahs to get nukes" before it's a Just War. As Archbishop of the Dioceses of the Military Services, he knows better.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (ksbjf)
---
He is part of the Liberal wing of the clergy, and they would rather wreck the Church than see it become more traditional. Hence bishops actually preventing TLM and driving those people away from the faith.
Salvation of souls is not on their agenda.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (ksbjf)
---
He is part of the Liberal wing of the clergy, and they would rather wreck the Church than see it become more traditional. Hence bishops actually preventing TLM and driving those people away from the faith.
Salvation of souls is not on their agenda.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:09 AM (ZOv7s)
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:10 AM (Y1sOo)
135
>>Since I logged in, it has actually gotten darker here. Heavy overcast and yet more rain. Oy vay!
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:40 AM (ZOv7s)
*****
I wish you could send some of that rain to western NC. It's been very dry and unseasonably warm. Not a good combination.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 08:40 AM (ZOv7s)
*****
I wish you could send some of that rain to western NC. It's been very dry and unseasonably warm. Not a good combination.
Posted by: Rufus T. Firefly at April 18, 2026 09:10 AM (S+2Xo)
136
>I don't know quite what the dispute, if such there be, between Trump and the Pope is
----
the Pope is taking on Trump because that's way easier than taking on the systematic massacre of Christians in Africa and throughout the moslem world
Trump has pointed this out, and some people have taken offense
----
the Pope is taking on Trump because that's way easier than taking on the systematic massacre of Christians in Africa and throughout the moslem world
Trump has pointed this out, and some people have taken offense
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 09:10 AM (ZxPkt)
137
Comes down to this: pope Bob had a private conference with dem strategist David Axelrod to see what could be done to help out Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections. Trump objected to that.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:07 AM (yGQJD)
---
Alternative take: Cardinal Cupich arranged the audience and Pope Leo agreed, and the "op" was just the meeting.
Oh, and as a courtesy to other people on this thread, please use the official title. You're needlessly offending your friends.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:07 AM (yGQJD)
---
Alternative take: Cardinal Cupich arranged the audience and Pope Leo agreed, and the "op" was just the meeting.
Oh, and as a courtesy to other people on this thread, please use the official title. You're needlessly offending your friends.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:12 AM (ZOv7s)
138
It's really strange, but of course Orange Man Bad, and Feser still hates the Dems for forcing him to support Trump. But he hates Trump even more.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:03 AM (ZOv7s)
There is a generation of Catholics that came of age during the tumult immediately after Vatican II. God is love and war is bad, dontcha you know?
There is such a thing as Just War for a reason. While I'm certain that Pope Pius XII mourned the loss of civilian lives, I doubt he lost any sleep over the fact that the Allies were kicking the $h!t out of the Axis powers.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:03 AM (ZOv7s)
There is a generation of Catholics that came of age during the tumult immediately after Vatican II. God is love and war is bad, dontcha you know?
There is such a thing as Just War for a reason. While I'm certain that Pope Pius XII mourned the loss of civilian lives, I doubt he lost any sleep over the fact that the Allies were kicking the $h!t out of the Axis powers.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:12 AM (ksbjf)
139
>>Since this is the prayer thread, I want to mention that, since my long overdue Confirmation last Sunday, where i was sealed with the Holy Spirit,
I feel a certain peace In my heart and mind.
Happy for you.
I feel a certain peace In my heart and mind.
Happy for you.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:13 AM (viF8m)
140
Prayers up for Mrs Eromero!
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 09:13 AM (hOUT3)
141
and good morning everyone
best wishes and positive vibes to all who are in distress this day
best wishes and positive vibes to all who are in distress this day
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 09:13 AM (ZxPkt)
142
Nah, I'll stick with Pope Bob.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:13 AM (Y1sOo)
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:14 AM (LmPA0)
144
the Pope is taking on Trump because that's way easier than taking on the systematic massacre of Christians in Africa and throughout the moslem world
Trump has pointed this out, and some people have taken offense
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 09:10 AM (ZxPkt)
---
This is a media myth. Pope Leo references Christian martyrs in Africa and elsewhere regularly, and maintains Francis' practice of weekly calls to the Holy Family parish in Gaza. My inbox is packed with this stuff from Catholic media.
The lamestream media does not report that because they want low-information Catholics to hate the Pope and leave the faith.
Trump has pointed this out, and some people have taken offense
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 09:10 AM (ZxPkt)
---
This is a media myth. Pope Leo references Christian martyrs in Africa and elsewhere regularly, and maintains Francis' practice of weekly calls to the Holy Family parish in Gaza. My inbox is packed with this stuff from Catholic media.
The lamestream media does not report that because they want low-information Catholics to hate the Pope and leave the faith.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:14 AM (ZOv7s)
145
The United States built the bomb using 1940's tech and knowledge.
The muslims who want the bomb seem to have a hard time building one in the year 2026.
The muslims who want the bomb seem to have a hard time building one in the year 2026.
Posted by: Somethings Missing at April 18, 2026 09:14 AM (onPc6)
146
I have to admit to not really following the whole Trump/Pope/Catholics thing. Seems to me like it's mostly manufactured outrage amplified by the media and a few online personalities.
Trump has no filters. The Pope oughta stay in his lane.
Beyond that? Don't care. Both will do as they please anyway.
Trump has no filters. The Pope oughta stay in his lane.
Beyond that? Don't care. Both will do as they please anyway.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 18, 2026 09:15 AM (AkEZC)
147
Nah, I'll stick with Pope Bob.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:13 AM (Y1sOo)
---
I will pray for you to find peace. It is sad that annoying your online friends pleases you. God bless you.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:13 AM (Y1sOo)
---
I will pray for you to find peace. It is sad that annoying your online friends pleases you. God bless you.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:16 AM (ZOv7s)
148
My plan is to work until noon on the day of my funeral.
My plan is to work until noon on the day of my funeral.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at April 18, 2026 09:16 AM (2Ez/1)
149
good morning MisHum, Horde
Posted by: callsign claymore at April 18, 2026 09:17 AM (/6r4m)
150
Oh, and as a courtesy to other people on this thread, please use the official title. You're needlessly offending your friends.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:12 AM (ZOv7s)
All right. Like Trump, I have an issue with giving respect to those who act in a way that deserves no respect.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:12 AM (ZOv7s)
All right. Like Trump, I have an issue with giving respect to those who act in a way that deserves no respect.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:18 AM (yGQJD)
151
Thank you Retired Buckeye Cop and A.H. Lloyd
You along with Hadrian and the other Faithful of the Horde are great inspirations to me
You along with Hadrian and the other Faithful of the Horde are great inspirations to me
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:18 AM (LmPA0)
152
Good morning, morons and 'ettes!
I could use some prayers as I wait to hear about layoffs. Our conservative boss said we'll have a $2 million shortfall. If I can retire after next year if I make the cut. Not ideal, because I planned to continue for years.
This past week, a friend was eager to ask me about the Pope/Trump "rift". Explained to her that it doesn't matter since Trump is a pro-life president. She didn't get it. I found a YT video to explain called "You Think Trump and Leo Are Enemies. You're Half Right." She won't like it (because she's a lib) but she'll get it.
I could use some prayers as I wait to hear about layoffs. Our conservative boss said we'll have a $2 million shortfall. If I can retire after next year if I make the cut. Not ideal, because I planned to continue for years.
This past week, a friend was eager to ask me about the Pope/Trump "rift". Explained to her that it doesn't matter since Trump is a pro-life president. She didn't get it. I found a YT video to explain called "You Think Trump and Leo Are Enemies. You're Half Right." She won't like it (because she's a lib) but she'll get it.
Posted by: NaughtyPine at April 18, 2026 09:19 AM (LncTM)
153
>>I will pray for you to find peace. It is sad that annoying your online friends pleases you. God bless you.
I'll wager that you were a hall monitor in high school.
I'll wager that you were a hall monitor in high school.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:19 AM (Y1sOo)
154
> Pope Leo references Christian martyrs in Africa and elsewhere regularly
-----
references them
how's that going
-----
references them
how's that going
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 09:19 AM (ZxPkt)
155
I admire patience of people who can maintain a civil political conversation with a lib. Remain friends and all that.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:21 AM (GD0B3)
156
A new "Just War" Theory:
It's just war, man. Relax. We've survived millennia of incessant war, and we'll never be rid of it. A world with no war is a world with no people on it.* If there were one human left on earth, he'd eventually be compelled to start punching himself in the face.
*(Which i'd honestly be fine with. But I'm too poor to be a comic book super villain.)
It's just war, man. Relax. We've survived millennia of incessant war, and we'll never be rid of it. A world with no war is a world with no people on it.* If there were one human left on earth, he'd eventually be compelled to start punching himself in the face.
*(Which i'd honestly be fine with. But I'm too poor to be a comic book super villain.)
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 09:21 AM (Ot/FD)
157
I see the Pope is now walking around with a microphone. What is he, an activist? An influencer? A game show host?
This is absurd. Maybe he can belt out a couple of Frank Sinatra tunes.
This is absurd. Maybe he can belt out a couple of Frank Sinatra tunes.
Posted by: Rev. Wishbone at April 18, 2026 09:21 AM (Fbc0I)
158
Audit the Vatican !
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:21 AM (GD0B3)
159
All right. Like Trump, I have an issue with giving respect to those who act in a way that deserves no respect.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:18 AM (yGQJD)
---
No one is asking you to call him "His Holiness," just recognize the office he holds (which you are free to dispute).
Thank you.
On a side note, Pope Leo is currently in Cameroon and I believe he is headed to Angola next. Probably nothing about that in the mainstream coverage.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:18 AM (yGQJD)
---
No one is asking you to call him "His Holiness," just recognize the office he holds (which you are free to dispute).
Thank you.
On a side note, Pope Leo is currently in Cameroon and I believe he is headed to Angola next. Probably nothing about that in the mainstream coverage.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:21 AM (ZOv7s)
160
Alternative take: Cardinal Cupich arranged the audience and Pope Leo agreed, and the "op" was just the meeting.
Oh, and as a courtesy to other people on this thread, please use the official title. You're needlessly offending your friends.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:12 AM (ZOv7s)
Pope Leo seemed to be getting off to a good start last year. Then Bp. Martin pulled his lunacy in the Diocese of Charlotte and suppressed the TLM parishes (apparently while still Cardinal Prevost, Leo had told Martin to not do so). In hindsight, this was an obvious challenge to Pope Leo's authority.
The mending of fences with the SSPX was abandoned, and it seems Cardinal Cupich is the real power behind the Seat of Peter. Time will tell, but it's up to Pope Leo to decide if he wants to be a "real" Pope or a failed figurehead. He still has time to pursue his original agenda, but he's going to have to deal with his buddies in Chicago -- Pope Leo's window of opportunity seems to be closing.
I also beg members of the Horde to use the Pope's correct name. It is offensive to me to call him "Pope Bob."
Oh, and as a courtesy to other people on this thread, please use the official title. You're needlessly offending your friends.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:12 AM (ZOv7s)
Pope Leo seemed to be getting off to a good start last year. Then Bp. Martin pulled his lunacy in the Diocese of Charlotte and suppressed the TLM parishes (apparently while still Cardinal Prevost, Leo had told Martin to not do so). In hindsight, this was an obvious challenge to Pope Leo's authority.
The mending of fences with the SSPX was abandoned, and it seems Cardinal Cupich is the real power behind the Seat of Peter. Time will tell, but it's up to Pope Leo to decide if he wants to be a "real" Pope or a failed figurehead. He still has time to pursue his original agenda, but he's going to have to deal with his buddies in Chicago -- Pope Leo's window of opportunity seems to be closing.
I also beg members of the Horde to use the Pope's correct name. It is offensive to me to call him "Pope Bob."
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:22 AM (ksbjf)
161
This is a media myth. Pope Leo references Christian martyrs in Africa and elsewhere regularly, and maintains Francis' practice of weekly calls to the Holy Family parish in Gaza. My inbox is packed with this stuff from Catholic media.
The lamestream media does not report that because they want low-information Catholics to hate the Pope and leave the faith.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:14 AM (ZOv7s)
====
Do you have a reference to the series of attacks on Easter services in Nigeria? To my knowledge Pope Leo has said nothing about this.
The lamestream media does not report that because they want low-information Catholics to hate the Pope and leave the faith.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:14 AM (ZOv7s)
====
Do you have a reference to the series of attacks on Easter services in Nigeria? To my knowledge Pope Leo has said nothing about this.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:23 AM (RIvkX)
162
Can we go back to Bitching About Work On Saturday?
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 09:24 AM (Ot/FD)
163
Since this is the prayer thread, I want to mention that, since my long overdue Confirmation last Sunday, where i was sealed with the Holy Spirit,
I feel a certain peace In my heart and mind.
Nonbelievers may say "placebo effect" but it feels like happiness.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (fE6HJ)
~~~~~
That's so wonderful, vmom! Very happy for you.
I feel a certain peace In my heart and mind.
Nonbelievers may say "placebo effect" but it feels like happiness.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:02 AM (fE6HJ)
~~~~~
That's so wonderful, vmom! Very happy for you.
Posted by: IrishEi ?! at April 18, 2026 09:25 AM (3ImbR)
164
Because of the weather, I have to attend Mass this afternoon at my local parish. For the first time in a long time, I won't be receiving Communion. No point in risking another catastrophe with the Host.
Because of the weather, I have to attend Mass this afternoon at my local parish. For the first time in a long time, I won't be receiving Communion. No point in risking another catastrophe with the Host.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 09:25 AM (tgvbd)
165
China is exploiting Cameroon, got in there to mine for gold. Cameron is rich in oil, diamonds, gold, rare earths are there too.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:26 AM (GD0B3)
166
Good morning bois and grrls.
"3) Running with sharp objects should be done during the Movie Thread."
Crashing around in a power loader while using a flamethrower is also acceptable during the Movie Thread.
"3) Running with sharp objects should be done during the Movie Thread."
Crashing around in a power loader while using a flamethrower is also acceptable during the Movie Thread.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at April 18, 2026 09:27 AM (kpS4V)
167
Thank you Retired Buckeye Cop and A.H. Lloyd
You along with Hadrian and the other Faithful of the Horde are great inspirations to me
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:18 AM (LmPA0)
====
All of you I pray for hashem's blessing.
You along with Hadrian and the other Faithful of the Horde are great inspirations to me
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:18 AM (LmPA0)
====
All of you I pray for hashem's blessing.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:27 AM (RIvkX)
168
Update for my good friend Dan who survived complex open heart surgery on Tuesday. He is sitting up and bitching so to a large extent, it seems like it went well, but (and as I expected) they are not going to release him back into the wild as soon as he would like, so he is not a happy camper.
Thanks to the Horde for the prayers and please pray also for his dear wife who now has even more to put up with!
Thanks to the Horde for the prayers and please pray also for his dear wife who now has even more to put up with!
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 09:27 AM (hOUT3)
169
Pope Leo seemed to be getting off to a good start last year. Then Bp. Martin pulled his lunacy in the Diocese of Charlotte and suppressed the TLM parishes (apparently while still Cardinal Prevost, Leo had told Martin to not do so).
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:22 AM (ksbjf)
---
Damian Thompson, a very severe critic of Francis, has said that Pope Leo is determined to restore a sense of calmness and continuity within the Church. He wants to change, but he wants it to happen slowly, feeling organic, rather than like a new politician taking office.
So he is working incrementally rather than lashing out Francis-style. I can see that, and I can also see that snakes like Cupich are trying to undercut him, knowing that he will not respond in kind. But he is working, slowly replacing curia, and he is reassigning a lot of Francis' cronies.
But those expecting a Trumpian house-cleaning will be disappointed. Anyhow, I think that's an accurate reading of what is going on.
I'll also note that having the senior Catholic chaplain issue just war directives is unprecedented. It is resurrecting the trope of Catholic dual loyalty. Obscene.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:22 AM (ksbjf)
---
Damian Thompson, a very severe critic of Francis, has said that Pope Leo is determined to restore a sense of calmness and continuity within the Church. He wants to change, but he wants it to happen slowly, feeling organic, rather than like a new politician taking office.
So he is working incrementally rather than lashing out Francis-style. I can see that, and I can also see that snakes like Cupich are trying to undercut him, knowing that he will not respond in kind. But he is working, slowly replacing curia, and he is reassigning a lot of Francis' cronies.
But those expecting a Trumpian house-cleaning will be disappointed. Anyhow, I think that's an accurate reading of what is going on.
I'll also note that having the senior Catholic chaplain issue just war directives is unprecedented. It is resurrecting the trope of Catholic dual loyalty. Obscene.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:28 AM (ZOv7s)
170
>>Alternative take: Cardinal Cupich arranged the audience and Pope Leo agreed, and the "op" was just the meeting.
Before he became Pope, Leo had a Twitter account. If you haven't seen what he wrote you might want to check it out.
Faith is a wonderful thing and above man. Institutions made by men are not. When members of the cloth leave their lane and become political actors they are subject to the same criticism as anyone.
Before he became Pope, Leo had a Twitter account. If you haven't seen what he wrote you might want to check it out.
Faith is a wonderful thing and above man. Institutions made by men are not. When members of the cloth leave their lane and become political actors they are subject to the same criticism as anyone.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:28 AM (viF8m)
171
China is exploiting Cameroon, got in there to mine for gold. Cameron is rich in oil, diamonds, gold, rare earths are there too.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:26 AM (GD0B3)
I got to see a bit of Pope Leo celebrating Mass in Cameron, courtesy of EWTN (a Catholic cable network). It was pretty cool to see a bunch of African clergy wearing black cassocks and white surplices. The choir was ... different ... lots of dancing along with the singing.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:26 AM (GD0B3)
I got to see a bit of Pope Leo celebrating Mass in Cameron, courtesy of EWTN (a Catholic cable network). It was pretty cool to see a bunch of African clergy wearing black cassocks and white surplices. The choir was ... different ... lots of dancing along with the singing.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:29 AM (ksbjf)
172
NaughtyPine, similar to what hubby's veen goibg thru for the past several years.
Praying it works out and that you navigate the anxiety of it well.
Praying it works out and that you navigate the anxiety of it well.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:29 AM (fE6HJ)
173
We are getting rain and a forty degree temperature drop today, which is nice, as it has been too warm for spring.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at April 18, 2026 09:30 AM (0U5gm)
174
Lots of mackerel snapper inside baseball stuff up in here. I'm sure it means something to those what know.
It'd just rather sit in my boat thinking about God than sit in church thinking about fishing.
It'd just rather sit in my boat thinking about God than sit in church thinking about fishing.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at April 18, 2026 09:30 AM (2Ez/1)
175
Leo will not attack Chicoms or Islamists. He is not JPII who took on Communism. It is safer to attack the West. Who was he talking about in his recent address in Cameroon :"The masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild,” the Pope told those gathered. “They turn a blind eye to the fact that billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found.”
And, in words that were picked up by media outlets around the world, the Pope warned his listeners that “the world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants”."
And, in words that were picked up by media outlets around the world, the Pope warned his listeners that “the world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants”."
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:30 AM (GD0B3)
176
I don't hate EVERYBODY before coffee. I just hate all the people I come in contact with.
Posted by: tankdemon at April 18, 2026 09:31 AM (39NW8)
177
>>It'd just rather sit in my boat thinking about God than sit in church thinking about fishing.
This guy gets it.
This guy gets it.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:32 AM (viF8m)
178
I think the faithful would like to see the Pope equally vocal in the same forums regarding current events and their relationship to the gospels. Granted, some of that is due to the selective impulses of the media. That he was a critic of Republicans prior to being elevated doesn’t help the matter, and you would like to believe in order to remove any appearance of bias he would be mindful of that. I think it’s fair criticism to say he hasn’t. Nor has he seen the need thus far to say something that would alleviate people’s criticisms. Not specific to the president, but on the issue involve. Like it or not, if he’s going to offer opinion that isn’t ex cathedra, he should strive to be equal. The constant appearance of kowtowing to islam and overlooking their continual efforts to wipe out Christians doesn’t help either.
And yes, I think the root of this is an evil that’s looking to drive people away from Christ. And it has a home in the Democrat Party, who runs on an anti life platform antithetical to Catholic teaching. But alas.
And yes, I think the root of this is an evil that’s looking to drive people away from Christ. And it has a home in the Democrat Party, who runs on an anti life platform antithetical to Catholic teaching. But alas.
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 09:32 AM (egaJw)
179
Joe Biden used to walk around with a microphone regaling us with tales from his glorified past. Like Jimmy Kimmel with a brain aneurysm.
Posted by: Rev. Wishbone at April 18, 2026 09:32 AM (Fbc0I)
180
Faux Pope Leo is doing huge disservice to his high station and his church, degrading both with his rather hackneyed political expostulations.
Posted by: Ordinary American at April 18, 2026 09:32 AM (E2lD7)
181
Before he became Pope, Leo had a Twitter account. If you haven't seen what he wrote you might want to check it out.
Faith is a wonderful thing and above man. Institutions made by men are not. When members of the cloth leave their lane and become political actors they are subject to the same criticism as anyone.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:28 AM (viF8m)
Yes, his past actions as Cardinal Prevost are of a Leftist-bent. However, some men have changed after being elected to the Papacy.
That's why I wrote that he has to decide what kind of Pope he wants to be.
Faith is a wonderful thing and above man. Institutions made by men are not. When members of the cloth leave their lane and become political actors they are subject to the same criticism as anyone.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:28 AM (viF8m)
Yes, his past actions as Cardinal Prevost are of a Leftist-bent. However, some men have changed after being elected to the Papacy.
That's why I wrote that he has to decide what kind of Pope he wants to be.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:32 AM (ksbjf)
182
170 >>Alternative take: Cardinal Cupich arranged the audience and Pope Leo agreed, and the "op" was just the meeting.
Before he became Pope, Leo had a Twitter account. If you haven't seen what he wrote you might want to check it out.
Faith is a wonderful thing and above man. Institutions made by men are not. When members of the cloth leave their lane and become political actors they are subject to the same criticism as anyone.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:28 AM (viF8m)
And before he became president, Trump was a strong pro-choice democrat (see a 1999 interview in his own words).
Evaluate them on who they are now, not who they were then.
Before he became Pope, Leo had a Twitter account. If you haven't seen what he wrote you might want to check it out.
Faith is a wonderful thing and above man. Institutions made by men are not. When members of the cloth leave their lane and become political actors they are subject to the same criticism as anyone.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:28 AM (viF8m)
And before he became president, Trump was a strong pro-choice democrat (see a 1999 interview in his own words).
Evaluate them on who they are now, not who they were then.
Posted by: Nova Local at April 18, 2026 09:33 AM (tOcjL)
183
Probably saved us hundreds of $ by now...
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher
Yep, I bought some with a K-machine for my parents. Thanks to former commenter Heather, who apparently thinks we're too stinky to comment here anymore.
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher
Yep, I bought some with a K-machine for my parents. Thanks to former commenter Heather, who apparently thinks we're too stinky to comment here anymore.
Posted by: weft cut-loop at April 18, 2026 09:34 AM (diia5)
184
Morning, Horde.
Mr. Jordan61 is doing a bit better. He's able to get up with a walker and go to the bathroom, so at least I don't have to deal with bedpans anymore! Getting up wipes him out for about an hour afterwards though. He's getting cranky and bored being in bed all day. Two weeks of IV antibiotics down, four to go.
Mr. Jordan61 is doing a bit better. He's able to get up with a walker and go to the bathroom, so at least I don't have to deal with bedpans anymore! Getting up wipes him out for about an hour afterwards though. He's getting cranky and bored being in bed all day. Two weeks of IV antibiotics down, four to go.
Posted by: Jordan61 at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (DYstD)
185
134 The Strait of Hormuz is closed.
Moeslim out front shoulda told ya.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:10 AM (Y1sOo)
The Strait is completely open again. Which is why oil prices are falling rapidly and Starmer and Macron are plotting to send ships there, a step they were terrified of taking as long until the fighting was long over.
The US navy is still interdicting Iranian shipping, however. So instead of being closed to anyone but the Iranians, it’s now open to anyone but them.
Moeslim out front shoulda told ya.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:10 AM (Y1sOo)
The Strait is completely open again. Which is why oil prices are falling rapidly and Starmer and Macron are plotting to send ships there, a step they were terrified of taking as long until the fighting was long over.
The US navy is still interdicting Iranian shipping, however. So instead of being closed to anyone but the Iranians, it’s now open to anyone but them.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (yGQJD)
186
My property tax bill will now go up by 20%. Completely and utterly ridiculous.
Posted by: Defenestratus at April 18, 2026 09:04 AM (WYStd)
But think of the graft...
Posted by: Defenestratus at April 18, 2026 09:04 AM (WYStd)
But think of the graft...
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (hOUT3)
187
My family would appreciate prayers. My dad passed away on 4/9 after complications from a fall. He was 95 and a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the 34th Inf Rgt. Of course there is a lot more I could write but mostly I'd ask for prayer for my mom, who is absolutely heartbroken.
Posted by: PA Dutchman at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (h/O4U)
188
I asked my young priest recently about how I can deal with doubts about the Church because of actions of the leadership.
He said remember they are human, and pray for them sincerely, for the Holy Spirit to guide them.
He is young and shows great love of traditions, so I feel that this is really what he does too.
Apparently St Catherine of Bologna struggled with disagreement with her superior too, so i look forward to her thoughts.
He said remember they are human, and pray for them sincerely, for the Holy Spirit to guide them.
He is young and shows great love of traditions, so I feel that this is really what he does too.
Apparently St Catherine of Bologna struggled with disagreement with her superior too, so i look forward to her thoughts.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (fE6HJ)
Posted by: Limerick Lover at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (2Ez/1)
190
Isn't "mackerel snapper" considered derogatory toward RCs?
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM (Y1sOo)
191
I'm not Catholic so the Pope is not anyone to me except another guy with an opinion. To be fair , I feel the same way about Protestant leaders.
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM (0cOSz)
192
Good morning all
Sending positive thoughts and hugs to all who need a boost today. I hope everything goes smoothly for Mrs Eromero. Vmom, congratulations on getting your husband full time now, just a word of warning. Don't let him take up day trading.
For my part, I had a revelation yesterday. I feel normal. I woke up and went about my routine and did stuff without worrying if I was going to hurt something. I'm still 29 but Life is Good.
❤️💃
Sending positive thoughts and hugs to all who need a boost today. I hope everything goes smoothly for Mrs Eromero. Vmom, congratulations on getting your husband full time now, just a word of warning. Don't let him take up day trading.
For my part, I had a revelation yesterday. I feel normal. I woke up and went about my routine and did stuff without worrying if I was going to hurt something. I'm still 29 but Life is Good.
❤️💃
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM (kJmSS)
193
Probably saved us hundreds of $ by now...
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher
Yep, I bought some with a K-machine for my parents. Thanks to former commenter Heather, who apparently thinks we're too stinky to comment here anymore.
Posted by: weft cut-loop at April 18, 2026 09:34 AM (diia5)
What? and I just took a shower before jumping into the thread!
People come-and-go here at the HQ.
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher
Yep, I bought some with a K-machine for my parents. Thanks to former commenter Heather, who apparently thinks we're too stinky to comment here anymore.
Posted by: weft cut-loop at April 18, 2026 09:34 AM (diia5)
What? and I just took a shower before jumping into the thread!
People come-and-go here at the HQ.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM (ksbjf)
Posted by: Sorry. Couldn't resist at April 18, 2026 09:37 AM (2Ez/1)
195
Do you have a reference to the series of attacks on Easter services in Nigeria? To my knowledge Pope Leo has said nothing about this.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:23 AM (RIvkX)
---
Yes, and he visited Nigeria. You don't see that because the media does not report it. They want you to think that all Pope Leo does is hate Trump. This is all artificial.
I get daily emails from aleteia.org and if you hit the Pope Leo button you will see endless mentions of violence all over the world. Lebanon, Sudan, Iraq, Nigeria, etc.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:23 AM (RIvkX)
---
Yes, and he visited Nigeria. You don't see that because the media does not report it. They want you to think that all Pope Leo does is hate Trump. This is all artificial.
I get daily emails from aleteia.org and if you hit the Pope Leo button you will see endless mentions of violence all over the world. Lebanon, Sudan, Iraq, Nigeria, etc.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (ZOv7s)
196
“ Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.”
Matthew 4:23
Find him. Ask him to heal you or your loved ones.
He will answer the call.
Blessings and prayers out to all who seek healing.
Matthew 4:23
Find him. Ask him to heal you or your loved ones.
He will answer the call.
Blessings and prayers out to all who seek healing.
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (egaJw)
197
Tired of lame-ass black pillars?
This chick has a nice reply to them:
https://x.com/grey4626/status/2045133850292941284
Also check out the reply at the bottom of her tweet.
Tired of lame-ass black pillars?
This chick has a nice reply to them:
https://x.com/grey4626/status/2045133850292941284
Also check out the reply at the bottom of her tweet.
Posted by: naturalfake at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (iJfKG)
198
On the heels of Trump's virtuoso press gaggle in which he freewheelingly addresses no end of jabbering, hostile questions on every subject under the sun with focus, decisiveness and sure-footed competence, democrats call for 25th Amendment action for his mental unfitness.
This after the four years of slack-jawed, rambling, verbal incoherence of Biden in full view of the world.
This after the four years of slack-jawed, rambling, verbal incoherence of Biden in full view of the world.
Posted by: Ordinary American at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (E2lD7)
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (RIvkX)
200
172 NaughtyPine, similar to what hubby's veen goibg thru for the past several years.
Praying it works out and that you navigate the anxiety of it well.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:29 AM (fE6HJ)
Thank you. I pray your husband keeps his jon as long as he wants.
The bright spot is that I told my doctor about the possibility of losing my insurance. He's helping me find options.
Praying it works out and that you navigate the anxiety of it well.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:29 AM (fE6HJ)
Thank you. I pray your husband keeps his jon as long as he wants.
The bright spot is that I told my doctor about the possibility of losing my insurance. He's helping me find options.
Posted by: NaughtyPine at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (LncTM)
201
Apparently St Catherine of Bologna struggled with disagreement with her superior too
Thought he was full of baloney.
Thought he was full of baloney.
Posted by: Commissar of plenty and festive little hats at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (Kt19C)
202
OMG, this morning's conference from the Oval Office..Joe Rogan is responsible for forcing the Trump Administration to declassify pot, and expedite its distribution. Via MAHA darling RFK jr. And now Rogan is standing behind Trump (at least I think it's him, he is too short so the head is not that visible). After trashing Trump on his show. OK. If that is they way Trump wants to play it.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (GD0B3)
203
Seriously , Rogan is the shortest man there!
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (GD0B3)
204
Crashing around in a power loader while using a flamethrower is also acceptable during the Movie Thread.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at April 18, 2026 09:27 AM (kpS4V)
---------
*checks calendar*
*marks down movie thread, goes to garage to gas up skid loader and flamethrower *
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes. at April 18, 2026 09:27 AM (kpS4V)
---------
*checks calendar*
*marks down movie thread, goes to garage to gas up skid loader and flamethrower *
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (kOluj)
205
@foxnewspolitics
·
19h
ARCH APPROVED: Federal arts commission clears Trump's 250-foot triumphal arch concept for Washington, D.C.
-----
cue the blizzard of lawsuits from the TDS brigades
·
19h
ARCH APPROVED: Federal arts commission clears Trump's 250-foot triumphal arch concept for Washington, D.C.
-----
cue the blizzard of lawsuits from the TDS brigades
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (ZxPkt)
206
Jordan61
Prayers up from here for the both of you!
Prayers up from here for the both of you!
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 09:40 AM (hOUT3)
207
Prayers for all cited here.
Our children have scheduled the memorial service and burial for their father, who passed away earlier this week from cancer that had metastasized into much of his body. It will take place on May 1.
I was treated to breakfast by our daughter and her longstanding partner snd then a movie by my son's family for my birthday on Thursday. My age now matches my high school graduation year. No, it's not twenty-nine.
Prayers for all cited here.
Our children have scheduled the memorial service and burial for their father, who passed away earlier this week from cancer that had metastasized into much of his body. It will take place on May 1.
I was treated to breakfast by our daughter and her longstanding partner snd then a movie by my son's family for my birthday on Thursday. My age now matches my high school graduation year. No, it's not twenty-nine.
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (xG4kz)
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (egaJw)
209
Isn't "mackerel snapper" considered derogatory toward RCs?
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM (Y1sOo)
__________
It was so intended, but I think it's funny and occasionally use it myself in a self-deprecating way.
Isn't "mackerel snapper" considered derogatory toward RCs?
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM (Y1sOo)
__________
It was so intended, but I think it's funny and occasionally use it myself in a self-deprecating way.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (tgvbd)
210
ARCH APPROVED: Federal arts commission clears Trump's 250-foot triumphal arch concept for Washington, D.C.
-----
cue the blizzard of lawsuits from the TDS brigades
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (ZxPkt)
Build two.
Paint them gold.
Get McDonald's to pay for it.
Donald. McDonalds. Wheels within wheels, man....
-----
cue the blizzard of lawsuits from the TDS brigades
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (ZxPkt)
Build two.
Paint them gold.
Get McDonald's to pay for it.
Donald. McDonalds. Wheels within wheels, man....
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (Ot/FD)
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (GD0B3)
212
*shakes head
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (GD0B3)
213
So, how were her sammich making skills?
Posted by: Sorry.
She is a patron of painting, so I assume her sammiches were very artistic
Posted by: Sorry.
She is a patron of painting, so I assume her sammiches were very artistic
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (fE6HJ)
214
Isn't "mackerel snapper" considered derogatory toward RCs?
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM
Yes. The correct term is "mackerel-snapping papist".
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM
Yes. The correct term is "mackerel-snapping papist".
Posted by: NaughtyPine at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (LncTM)
215
Defenestratus:
My city has had flat school enrollment for the past 10 years. In that 10 year period the local school budget has more than doubled as have my property taxes. It’s graft all the way and nobody cares. People keep voting for bond measures to increase funding and taxes 70/30 every time they’re on the ballot. All you have to do is say “for the children” and 70% of voters will open up their wallets for another $500 in property tax.
My city has had flat school enrollment for the past 10 years. In that 10 year period the local school budget has more than doubled as have my property taxes. It’s graft all the way and nobody cares. People keep voting for bond measures to increase funding and taxes 70/30 every time they’re on the ballot. All you have to do is say “for the children” and 70% of voters will open up their wallets for another $500 in property tax.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (OC4HQ)
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (Y1sOo)
217
Evaluate them on who they are now, not who they were then.
Posted by: Nova Local at April 18, 2026 09:33 AM (tOcjL)
---
Good advice. I used to be a classic "spiritual not religious" kind of Christian and despised the Catholic Church. To be honest, I'm kind of shocked that so many non-Catholics care about what he does, I certainly didn't. I knew 2 things about Pope John Paul II: he was shot and he was Polish.
Totally tuned him out and regarded him as irrelevant. So it is weird to me to see people fixate on him. If I happened on this thread when I was like that, I'd either change the subject or leave.
Posted by: Nova Local at April 18, 2026 09:33 AM (tOcjL)
---
Good advice. I used to be a classic "spiritual not religious" kind of Christian and despised the Catholic Church. To be honest, I'm kind of shocked that so many non-Catholics care about what he does, I certainly didn't. I knew 2 things about Pope John Paul II: he was shot and he was Polish.
Totally tuned him out and regarded him as irrelevant. So it is weird to me to see people fixate on him. If I happened on this thread when I was like that, I'd either change the subject or leave.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (ZOv7s)
218
Posted by: PA Dutchman at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (h/O4U)
I am sorry for your loss. I pray for comfort for you and your family.
I am sorry for your loss. I pray for comfort for you and your family.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (h7ZuX)
219
I always end my prayer requests with ' but I accept your will to be done'.
I always have concerns that some people will lose faith if prayers are not answered.
I always have concerns that some people will lose faith if prayers are not answered.
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (0cOSz)
220
Krebs v Carnot, condolences to you and uour family. And hugs.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (fE6HJ)
221
The other one I like is that the rôle of the Catholic laity is praying, professing and believing. Or, pray, pay and obey.
The other one I like is that the rôle of the Catholic laity is praying, professing and believing. Or, pray, pay and obey.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 09:44 AM (tgvbd)
222
Isn't "mackerel snapper" considered derogatory toward RCs?
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM
Yes. The correct term is "mackerel-snapping papist".
Posted by: NaughtyPine at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (LncTM)
I thought it was "mackerel-snapping Romish papist"?
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM
Yes. The correct term is "mackerel-snapping papist".
Posted by: NaughtyPine at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (LncTM)
I thought it was "mackerel-snapping Romish papist"?
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:44 AM (ksbjf)
223
201 Apparently St Catherine of Bologna struggled with disagreement with her superior too
++++
Hellmans vs Dukes.
++++
Hellmans vs Dukes.
Posted by: Mayo wars at April 18, 2026 09:44 AM (2Ez/1)
224
>>That's why I wrote that he has to decide what kind of Pope he wants to be.
I watched my church that I knew as a place of faith and healing turn into a carnival of woke. It's very sad. Generations of my family attended and found fellowship.
But I discovered I don't need a building or a special day to do the right thing and I definitely don't need a committee to elect someone to tell me how to interpret His word. I'm a pretty poor Christian with a more flaws than I can count but I know the difference between a man of God and a politician.
I watched my church that I knew as a place of faith and healing turn into a carnival of woke. It's very sad. Generations of my family attended and found fellowship.
But I discovered I don't need a building or a special day to do the right thing and I definitely don't need a committee to elect someone to tell me how to interpret His word. I'm a pretty poor Christian with a more flaws than I can count but I know the difference between a man of God and a politician.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:45 AM (viF8m)
225
really like my job and frankly it's pretty stress-free, but it's not my life. It pays for my hobbies, lets Mrs. Cop be a stay-at-home Church Lady, and lets me support my parish.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ksbjf)
Damn decent job.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ksbjf)
Damn decent job.
Posted by: From about That Time at April 18, 2026 09:45 AM (sl73Y)
226
Netflix could do themselves a solid by running a show, "Where in the World is Hunter the Bagman?"
Offer fabulous prizes for confirmed sightings!
Netflix could do themselves a solid by running a show, "Where in the World is Hunter the Bagman?"
Offer fabulous prizes for confirmed sightings!
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at April 18, 2026 09:45 AM (xG4kz)
227
Texas bbq is the best.
I’m here only to create controversy.
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (egaJw)
I had an awesome pulled pork sammich yesterday. I don't know if it was the best but it was pretty damn good.
I’m here only to create controversy.
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (egaJw)
I had an awesome pulled pork sammich yesterday. I don't know if it was the best but it was pretty damn good.
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:45 AM (0cOSz)
228
My family would appreciate prayers. My dad passed away on 4/9 after complications from a fall. He was 95 and a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the 34th Inf Rgt. Of course there is a lot more I could write but mostly I'd ask for prayer for my mom, who is absolutely heartbroken.
Posted by: PA Dutchman at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (h/O4U
God bless all of you.
Posted by: PA Dutchman at April 18, 2026 09:35 AM (h/O4U
God bless all of you.
Posted by: Stateless - He ain't heavy, he's my dog. Old, but full of life. at April 18, 2026 09:46 AM (Sco7b)
229
PA Dutchman, I sm cery dorry gor your loss.
May perpetual light shine upon him, and may he rest in peace.
May the Lord comfort your mom, and sll of you, in this time of mourning.
May perpetual light shine upon him, and may he rest in peace.
May the Lord comfort your mom, and sll of you, in this time of mourning.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:47 AM (fE6HJ)
230
Good advice. I used to be a classic "spiritual not religious" kind of Christian and despised the Catholic Church. To be honest, I'm kind of shocked that so many non-Catholics care about what he does, I certainly didn't. I knew 2 things about Pope John Paul II: he was shot and he was Polish.
Totally tuned him out and regarded him as irrelevant. So it is weird to me to see people fixate on him. If I happened on this thread when I was like that, I'd either change the subject or leave.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (ZOv7s)
That's why the "ZOMG!!! Drumph is a blasphemer!!! reee!" rhetoric from the Commies is so palpably false. They hate Christianity - particularly the Catholic Church - so it's all an act.
Why Christians fall for it just mystifies me.
Totally tuned him out and regarded him as irrelevant. So it is weird to me to see people fixate on him. If I happened on this thread when I was like that, I'd either change the subject or leave.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (ZOv7s)
That's why the "ZOMG!!! Drumph is a blasphemer!!! reee!" rhetoric from the Commies is so palpably false. They hate Christianity - particularly the Catholic Church - so it's all an act.
Why Christians fall for it just mystifies me.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:47 AM (ksbjf)
231
OMG, this morning's conference from the Oval Office..Joe Rogan is responsible for forcing the Trump Administration to declassify pot, and expedite its distribution.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (GD0B3)
---
I think the issue was that many states have legalized it, but it is in a financial gray zone because of federal regulations, which means lots of cash-only transactions and questionable banking arrangements, which is tailor-made for corruption.
Hopefully this will allow more financial transparency and less corruption. I mean, that was the whole point - pot was readily available, unevenly enforced, and an income source for cartels and gangs. Making it legal was supposed to drain that source of income.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (GD0B3)
---
I think the issue was that many states have legalized it, but it is in a financial gray zone because of federal regulations, which means lots of cash-only transactions and questionable banking arrangements, which is tailor-made for corruption.
Hopefully this will allow more financial transparency and less corruption. I mean, that was the whole point - pot was readily available, unevenly enforced, and an income source for cartels and gangs. Making it legal was supposed to drain that source of income.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:47 AM (ZOv7s)
232
Marcus T, I love you, but all barbecue is the best. It's like trying to choose which child you love best - and throwing the others in the trash.
Posted by: NaughtyPine at April 18, 2026 09:48 AM (LncTM)
233
Isn't "mackerel snapper" considered derogatory toward RCs?
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM
It's a nice signal like someone using the N-word that they're are a silly person and you don't need to pay attention to anything they have to say.
Isn't "mackerel snapper" considered derogatory toward RCs?
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM
It's a nice signal like someone using the N-word that they're are a silly person and you don't need to pay attention to anything they have to say.
Posted by: naturalfake at April 18, 2026 09:48 AM (iJfKG)
234
Please pray for my friend Mary F., who was just sent to a long-term recovery facility after having a tracheostomy.
(I tried sending a prayer request to the "Annie's Stew" email address, and couldn't get through.)
(I tried sending a prayer request to the "Annie's Stew" email address, and couldn't get through.)
Posted by: Sam Adams at April 18, 2026 09:48 AM (X+xvk)
235
I get daily emails from aleteia.org and if you hit the Pope Leo button you will see endless mentions of violence all over the world. Lebanon, Sudan, Iraq, Nigeria, etc.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (ZOv7s)
====
I was curious if he had spoken to the attacks 2 weeks ago during Easter Mass and there is nothing there. Yes, he has addressed "violence" in general but not specifically.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:38 AM (ZOv7s)
====
I was curious if he had spoken to the attacks 2 weeks ago during Easter Mass and there is nothing there. Yes, he has addressed "violence" in general but not specifically.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:48 AM (RIvkX)
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at April 18, 2026 09:48 AM (fE6HJ)
237
really like my job and frankly it's pretty stress-free, but it's not my life. It pays for my hobbies, lets Mrs. Cop be a stay-at-home Church Lady, and lets me support my parish.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ksbjf)
Damn decent job.
Posted by: From about That Time at April 18, 2026 09:45 AM (sl73Y)
Thanks. I consider my job a gift from God.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 08:26 AM (ksbjf)
Damn decent job.
Posted by: From about That Time at April 18, 2026 09:45 AM (sl73Y)
Thanks. I consider my job a gift from God.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at April 18, 2026 09:49 AM (ksbjf)
238
The pope is politician.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 09:49 AM (OC4HQ)
239
My city has had flat school enrollment for the past 10 years. In that 10 year period the local school budget has more than doubled as have my property taxes. It’s graft all the way and nobody cares. People keep voting for bond measures to increase funding and taxes 70/30 every time they’re on the ballot. All you have to do is say “for the children” and 70% of voters will open up their wallets for another $500 in property tax.
---------------
"The government will always have a great reason for needing just a little more of your money"
-- Stuff Thomas Jefferson Said (1826) vol. II, Large Print Ed.
---------------
"The government will always have a great reason for needing just a little more of your money"
-- Stuff Thomas Jefferson Said (1826) vol. II, Large Print Ed.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at April 18, 2026 09:50 AM (+HNx/)
240
Just went by the little church which I serve. In the town there were two boys riding their bikes ( not e-bikes, thankfully ) trying to "out pedal" each other and looking like they were having a blast. In the town there was also a pink dogwood and a lilac. All of this made me happy!
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at April 18, 2026 09:50 AM (6jy2V)
241
Mornin' Horde. I may have mentioned in the past I'd been attending sessions of Celebrate Recovery, a faith-based recovery program. Well, the one I'd attended for nearly 8 years had its final session Thursday, because the dear lady who was its driving force suffered a stroke and entered hospice care this past Sunday. She's been increasingly frail for some time, and the program had been struggling as well, but it's devasting for all involved. I'd ask for prayers for C.H. and her family (formal and recovery) at this time.
Posted by: Brother Tim, still standing at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (FIwBs)
242
Apparently some drugs that help with opioid and other addictions?
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (GD0B3)
243
219 I always end my prayer requests with ' but I accept your will to be done'.
I always have concerns that some people will lose faith if prayers are not answered.
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (0cOSz)
That phrase seems so fitting as an essential component of a prayer; we humans see though a glass darkly, thus we never fully see or understand God's eternal plans.
I always have concerns that some people will lose faith if prayers are not answered.
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (0cOSz)
That phrase seems so fitting as an essential component of a prayer; we humans see though a glass darkly, thus we never fully see or understand God's eternal plans.
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (hOUT3)
244
Seriously , Rogan is the shortest man there!
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (GD0B3)
Is it like George Stephanapolus standing next to Trump??
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:39 AM (GD0B3)
Is it like George Stephanapolus standing next to Trump??
Posted by: dantesed at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (Oy/m2)
245
To be fair , I feel the same way about Protestant leaders.
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM (0cOSz)
I was raised in a heirarchical mainline Protestant church, but as my life has progressed I have found myself in growing sympathy with some of my congregational ancestors, who believed strongly that there should be no organized heirarchy at all in the church, only collections of equal believers with one or more temporarily designated to handle certain specific tasks as needed.
It’s a very old American tradition (predating America of course) as exemplified by the quakers, the shakers, the congregationals, the early Methodists, the dissenters, and a great majority of rural churches with no connection to major population centers. Far more numerous than most realize, because they have only word of mouth to tell of their existence. The polar opposite of control from the top.
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:36 AM (0cOSz)
I was raised in a heirarchical mainline Protestant church, but as my life has progressed I have found myself in growing sympathy with some of my congregational ancestors, who believed strongly that there should be no organized heirarchy at all in the church, only collections of equal believers with one or more temporarily designated to handle certain specific tasks as needed.
It’s a very old American tradition (predating America of course) as exemplified by the quakers, the shakers, the congregationals, the early Methodists, the dissenters, and a great majority of rural churches with no connection to major population centers. Far more numerous than most realize, because they have only word of mouth to tell of their existence. The polar opposite of control from the top.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (yGQJD)
246
Experimental , but helped veterans that went off the rails.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (GD0B3)
247
Texas bbq is the best.
I’m here only to create controversy.
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (egaJw)
You are correct, Marcus T.
Texas BBQ is best.
The admittedly delicious but training-wheels BBQ of the heretical Pork Worshipers of the East Coast is...fine.
I’m here only to create controversy.
Posted by: Marcus T at April 18, 2026 09:41 AM (egaJw)
You are correct, Marcus T.
Texas BBQ is best.
The admittedly delicious but training-wheels BBQ of the heretical Pork Worshipers of the East Coast is...fine.
Posted by: naturalfake at April 18, 2026 09:52 AM (iJfKG)
248
Is it like George Stephanapolus standing next to Trump??
Posted by: dantesed at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (Oy/m2)
Trump is sitting, and they are about the same height.
😂
Posted by: dantesed at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (Oy/m2)
Trump is sitting, and they are about the same height.
😂
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 09:52 AM (GD0B3)
249
Just went by the little church which I serve. In the town there were two boys riding their bikes ( not e-bikes, thankfully ) trying to "out pedal" each other and looking like they were having a blast.
---------
Say hey to Gomer.
---------
Say hey to Gomer.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at April 18, 2026 09:52 AM (+HNx/)
250
bikes ( not e-bikes, thankfully )
—
Ha!!
Yeah no such thing as an ebike. It’s a battery operated moped.
—
Ha!!
Yeah no such thing as an ebike. It’s a battery operated moped.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 09:53 AM (OC4HQ)
251
They used to dig up dead popes and put them in an actual courtroom to judge them Generally Crappy Dudes and then "execute" their half-rotted body and bury them again.
A couple goofballs calling each other doody-heads on social media is hardly the stuff of Apocalypse.
A couple goofballs calling each other doody-heads on social media is hardly the stuff of Apocalypse.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at April 18, 2026 09:53 AM (Ot/FD)
252
All you have to do is say “for the children” and 70% of voters will open up their wallets for another $500 in property tax.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (OC4HQ)
The worst part of the whole ordeal was the absolute vilification that I endured when I spoke up against the referendum. I was in favor of a (still outrageous) $45m renovation that focused on health and safety improvements to the building (apparently the buildings have inadequate HVAC systems and still don't meet federal guidelines for security precautions) but I was told that I'm just voting "No" because I have no kids in those schools.
The original plans called for an outdoor amphitheater on the middle school grounds. In Maine! It's winter for most of the school year! What do you need an outdoor amphitheater for?! My entire Junior year of highschool was taught inside of a TRAILER!
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (OC4HQ)
The worst part of the whole ordeal was the absolute vilification that I endured when I spoke up against the referendum. I was in favor of a (still outrageous) $45m renovation that focused on health and safety improvements to the building (apparently the buildings have inadequate HVAC systems and still don't meet federal guidelines for security precautions) but I was told that I'm just voting "No" because I have no kids in those schools.
The original plans called for an outdoor amphitheater on the middle school grounds. In Maine! It's winter for most of the school year! What do you need an outdoor amphitheater for?! My entire Junior year of highschool was taught inside of a TRAILER!
Posted by: Defenestratus at April 18, 2026 09:53 AM (WYStd)
253
Just signing in after making coffee.
Any mention of us Catholics or the Pope and what any one of us believes here this morning?
Really? I'm shocked.
Any mention of us Catholics or the Pope and what any one of us believes here this morning?
Really? I'm shocked.
Posted by: Tonypete at April 18, 2026 09:53 AM (cYBz/)
254
Heroq
Let me guess -- your local school board schedules votes for millage increases as stand alone elections during times of the year when many folks are elsewhere. This pretty much insures passage of the requested funding that a low voter turnout favors.
It is racketeering behind a thin veil of legality.
Heroq
Let me guess -- your local school board schedules votes for millage increases as stand alone elections during times of the year when many folks are elsewhere. This pretty much insures passage of the requested funding that a low voter turnout favors.
It is racketeering behind a thin veil of legality.
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at April 18, 2026 09:54 AM (xG4kz)
255
Totally tuned him out and regarded him as irrelevant. So it is weird to me to see people fixate on him. If I happened on this thread when I was like that, I'd either change the subject or leave.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (ZOv7s)
=====
He was a world-historical figure who helped free millions from the yoke of communism.
When he came to New York in 1979 it was explosive.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:43 AM (ZOv7s)
=====
He was a world-historical figure who helped free millions from the yoke of communism.
When he came to New York in 1979 it was explosive.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:55 AM (RIvkX)
256
But I discovered I don't need a building or a special day to do the right thing and I definitely don't need a committee to elect someone to tell me how to interpret His word. I'm a pretty poor Christian with a more flaws than I can count but I know the difference between a man of God and a politician.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:45 AM (viF8m)
---
I was like that. There were two problems. The first was that because I interpreted scripture my own way, I interpreted it in a way that justified or excused my sins. I was objectively very immoral, but considered myself fundamentally good.
I eventually came to understand that there is a huge body of reference material on scripture, many centuries in the making that can help me understand it better. It's been very fruitful and while I'm still a sinner, I now have a firm moral compass to guide me on my journey.
And perhaps because of that, I feel a contentment that I lacked.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:45 AM (viF8m)
---
I was like that. There were two problems. The first was that because I interpreted scripture my own way, I interpreted it in a way that justified or excused my sins. I was objectively very immoral, but considered myself fundamentally good.
I eventually came to understand that there is a huge body of reference material on scripture, many centuries in the making that can help me understand it better. It's been very fruitful and while I'm still a sinner, I now have a firm moral compass to guide me on my journey.
And perhaps because of that, I feel a contentment that I lacked.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:55 AM (ZOv7s)
257
I'm not a doody-head. YOU'RE a doody-head!
Posted by: Goofball at April 18, 2026 09:55 AM (2Ez/1)
258
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at April 18, 2026 09:52 AM (+HNx/)
I would if I knew who Gomer was, unless you mean Gomer Pyle. I guess an old fashioned bike is kind of old fashioned.
Oh, yes, there was a man fishing with his son which also made me smile.
I would if I knew who Gomer was, unless you mean Gomer Pyle. I guess an old fashioned bike is kind of old fashioned.
Oh, yes, there was a man fishing with his son which also made me smile.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at April 18, 2026 09:55 AM (6jy2V)
259
Making it legal was supposed to drain that source of income.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:47 AM (ZOv7s)
I fear you underestimate the ability of The Ivy League Liberal Lawyers Guild to distort every law ever written!
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 09:47 AM (ZOv7s)
I fear you underestimate the ability of The Ivy League Liberal Lawyers Guild to distort every law ever written!
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 09:56 AM (hOUT3)
260
It’s a very old American tradition (predating America of course) as exemplified by the quakers, the shakers, the congregationals, the early Methodists, the dissenters, and a great majority of rural churches with no connection to major population centers. Far more numerous than most realize, because they have only word of mouth to tell of their existence. The polar opposite of control fromPosted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (yGQJD) the top.
I've started attending church services held in a bar.
I've started attending church services held in a bar.
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 09:56 AM (Y1sOo)
261
Oh, yes, there was a man fishing with his son which also made me smile.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at April 18, 2026 09:55 AM (6jy2V)
----------
That's what I meant!
*whistles the Andy Griffith theme song*
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at April 18, 2026 09:55 AM (6jy2V)
----------
That's what I meant!
*whistles the Andy Griffith theme song*
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at April 18, 2026 09:57 AM (+HNx/)
262
>>It’s a very old American tradition (predating America of course) as exemplified by the quakers, the shakers, the congregationals, the early Methodists, the dissenters, and a great majority of rural churches with no connection to major population centers. Far more numerous than most realize, because they have only word of mouth to tell of their existence. The polar opposite of control from the top.
So Rhode Island.
So Rhode Island.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 09:57 AM (viF8m)
263
> Tired of lame-ass black pillars?
This chick has a nice reply to them:
https://x.com/grey4626/status/2045133850292941284
Also check out the reply at the bottom of her tweet.
Posted by: naturalfake
-----------
She, and "Tex" are not wrong. There's a strategic reason we snatched Maduro and are now involved in the Hormuz/Iran. Oil. Cutting China off of it. And cutting their access to it with strategic alliances in and around global trade chokepoints.
The EU should be shitting bricks about now as they're next.
This chick has a nice reply to them:
https://x.com/grey4626/status/2045133850292941284
Also check out the reply at the bottom of her tweet.
Posted by: naturalfake
-----------
She, and "Tex" are not wrong. There's a strategic reason we snatched Maduro and are now involved in the Hormuz/Iran. Oil. Cutting China off of it. And cutting their access to it with strategic alliances in and around global trade chokepoints.
The EU should be shitting bricks about now as they're next.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 18, 2026 09:58 AM (AkEZC)
264
I'd ask for prayers for C.H. and her family (formal and recovery) at this time.
Posted by: Brother Tim, still standing at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (FIwBs)
=====
Prayer for her complete and immediate healing.
Posted by: Brother Tim, still standing at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (FIwBs)
=====
Prayer for her complete and immediate healing.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:58 AM (RIvkX)
265
In my neighborhood Opie is an Asian kid who's an anchor baby for his Chinese parents.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at April 18, 2026 09:58 AM (+HNx/)
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 09:58 AM (tgvbd)
267
>>>People keep voting for bond measures to increase funding and taxes 70/30 every time they’re on the ballot. All you have to do is say “for the children” and 70% of voters will open up their wallets for another $500 in property tax.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (OC4HQ)
****
There's another aspect of this, people believe if schools are "good" it adds to the value of their property. So, maybe they look at it as an investment or maybe it's just passive extortion.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 09:42 AM (OC4HQ)
****
There's another aspect of this, people believe if schools are "good" it adds to the value of their property. So, maybe they look at it as an investment or maybe it's just passive extortion.
Posted by: Rufus T. Firefly at April 18, 2026 09:58 AM (S+2Xo)
268
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 09:51 AM (yGQJD)
Yes the Holy Spirit is in each of us who has truly accepted Christ and will guide us. I'm amazed at organized Christian religion and how its members allow its leaders to control them in light of how the New Testament portrays organized religion. Just my personal thoughts.
Yes the Holy Spirit is in each of us who has truly accepted Christ and will guide us. I'm amazed at organized Christian religion and how its members allow its leaders to control them in light of how the New Testament portrays organized religion. Just my personal thoughts.
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:59 AM (0cOSz)
269
“The worst part of the whole ordeal was the absolute vilification that I endured when I spoke up against the referendum. ”
That’s SOP. We also had a bond measure for fa massive increase in the fire fighter budget recently. Anyone who expressed any concern was of course labeled some kind of firefighter hater who wants people (specifically children) to burn in their homes.
I’ll save you the suspense and tell you how the vote went 80/20 for. Of course.
That’s SOP. We also had a bond measure for fa massive increase in the fire fighter budget recently. Anyone who expressed any concern was of course labeled some kind of firefighter hater who wants people (specifically children) to burn in their homes.
I’ll save you the suspense and tell you how the vote went 80/20 for. Of course.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 09:59 AM (OC4HQ)
270
We're standing right here.
Posted by: White pillars at April 18, 2026 10:00 AM (2Ez/1)
271
Thanks for the Coffee Thread and Prayer Revival, Mis Hum and Annie!
May God's grace and mercy rain down on all of His children this fine spring day.
And may God continue to bless the U.S.A. and Israel.
May God's grace and mercy rain down on all of His children this fine spring day.
And may God continue to bless the U.S.A. and Israel.
Posted by: Legally Sufficient at April 18, 2026 10:01 AM (vrNzf)
272
Re: school bonds etc. Our local district has us voting on sinking funds. Right now, it has to make budget cuts and some people are outraged that building improvements are still being made. Nope, they can't raid that fund. The older people learned the hard way when a previous superintendent hired all his buddies for various jobs, drained the "rainy day fund" and left when the roofs and heating systems started failing.
Posted by: NaughtyPine at April 18, 2026 10:02 AM (LncTM)
273
There's another aspect of this, people believe if schools are "good" it adds to the value of their property. So, maybe they look at it as an investment or maybe it's just passive extortion.
Posted by: Rufus T
I live in a small city where all the schools are the same. Very little diversity so there’s no big dividing lines in school quality. In fact if there is room, any kid can attend any school in the district. It’s not like some areas where your cross the street and home prices are 30% higher because the school there is better.
Posted by: Rufus T
I live in a small city where all the schools are the same. Very little diversity so there’s no big dividing lines in school quality. In fact if there is room, any kid can attend any school in the district. It’s not like some areas where your cross the street and home prices are 30% higher because the school there is better.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 10:03 AM (OC4HQ)
274
Posted by: Harry Vandenburg at April 18, 2026 09:59 AM (0cOSz)
I always note the preaching to the scribes and Pharisees in the New Testament as being a clue!
I always note the preaching to the scribes and Pharisees in the New Testament as being a clue!
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 10:03 AM (hOUT3)
275
I was curious if he had spoken to the attacks 2 weeks ago during Easter Mass and there is nothing there. Yes, he has addressed "violence" in general but not specifically.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:48 AM (RIvkX)
---
Right, because it was Easter, the most solemn day of the liturgical calendar. That's not a place for commentary on current events. He has commented about it, and continues to address it. He is visiting Africa right now.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:48 AM (RIvkX)
---
Right, because it was Easter, the most solemn day of the liturgical calendar. That's not a place for commentary on current events. He has commented about it, and continues to address it. He is visiting Africa right now.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 10:03 AM (ZOv7s)
276
Saw an interesting snippet in re the story about Britain being poorer than Mississippi. Another study showed that while our top 10% were far better off than Europe's, our bottom 10% were no worse off than Europe's.
Saw an interesting snippet in re the story about Britain being poorer than Mississippi. Another study showed that while our top 10% were far better off than Europe's, our bottom 10% were no worse off than Europe's.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:04 AM (tgvbd)
277
I’m not religious or Christian. I honestly don’t get the fuss with that Trump Jesus meme. It’s obviously a joke and it’s part of his personality. If after 10+ years of Trump in politics these people still don’t get it I guess they never will.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 10:06 AM (OC4HQ)
278
My entire Junior year of highschool was taught inside of a TRAILER!
Posted by: Defenestratus
I too spent some time in a trailer in school. What a trauma. Look how we turned out.
Posted by: Defenestratus
I too spent some time in a trailer in school. What a trauma. Look how we turned out.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 10:06 AM (vFG9F)
Posted by: Sam Adams at April 18, 2026 10:06 AM (X+xvk)
Posted by: LaQuisha at April 18, 2026 10:06 AM (2Ez/1)
281
These drugs that they are talking about are available now on experimental level, maybe through the VA? Was not clear. Apparently helps with PTSD, depression, and other disorders. They will be researching it through the exec order Trump signed.
Posted by: runner at April 18, 2026 10:07 AM (GD0B3)
282
The sidebar still razzes TuCa for remarks about Jesus receiving favorable comment in Islam. Please note Sura XIX in the Koran (“Interpretation” of Arberry 1955)
Sura 19 is entitled “Mary”, and is a Meccan verse. It says nice things about Mary, Jesus, John the Baptist, etc.
The Meccan (earlier) verses sometime say nice things about our Bible narratives. The later Medinan verses are the ones that are hostile to “ People of the Book”.
Educated Westerners really need to at least skim a little bit in an English “ interpretation “ (can’t say “translation” ) of the Koran.
At least look up the distinction between the Meccan and Medinan verses. ( Wikipedia has used several spellings of those words in the past few years.)
Sura 19 is entitled “Mary”, and is a Meccan verse. It says nice things about Mary, Jesus, John the Baptist, etc.
The Meccan (earlier) verses sometime say nice things about our Bible narratives. The later Medinan verses are the ones that are hostile to “ People of the Book”.
Educated Westerners really need to at least skim a little bit in an English “ interpretation “ (can’t say “translation” ) of the Koran.
At least look up the distinction between the Meccan and Medinan verses. ( Wikipedia has used several spellings of those words in the past few years.)
Posted by: Fenderbender at April 18, 2026 10:07 AM (1FEc1)
283
When I think of red pillars I think of Petra.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 10:07 AM (vFG9F)
284
Right, because it was Easter, the most solemn day of the liturgical calendar. That's not a place for commentary on current events. He has commented about it, and continues to address it. He is visiting Africa right now.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 10:03 AM (ZOv7s)
====
You're misunderstanding me.
I do not expect him to address this personally while he is celebrating Mass on Easter.
I have not heard any specific condemnation of attacks on churches during Easter Mass in Nigeria at all at any time and found none on the site you mentioned.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 10:03 AM (ZOv7s)
====
You're misunderstanding me.
I do not expect him to address this personally while he is celebrating Mass on Easter.
I have not heard any specific condemnation of attacks on churches during Easter Mass in Nigeria at all at any time and found none on the site you mentioned.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 10:08 AM (RIvkX)
285
what happened to Opie's mom
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 10:08 AM (ZxPkt)
286
Saw an interesting snippet in re the story about Britain being poorer than Mississippi. Another study showed that while our top 10% were far better off than Europe's, our bottom 10% were no worse off than Europe's.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:04 AM (tgvbd)
Saw a u-toob video of a British guy asking Brits on the street where they thought the UK would rank if it were a state. On average the answer was 7th. When they were told it was 51, they were in disbelief and many of them just rolled their eyes and said yeah mate that’s bullshit and accused the interviewer of being some far right misinformation blah blah blah.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:04 AM (tgvbd)
Saw a u-toob video of a British guy asking Brits on the street where they thought the UK would rank if it were a state. On average the answer was 7th. When they were told it was 51, they were in disbelief and many of them just rolled their eyes and said yeah mate that’s bullshit and accused the interviewer of being some far right misinformation blah blah blah.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 10:08 AM (OC4HQ)
287
He was a world-historical figure who helped free millions from the yoke of communism.
When he came to New York in 1979 it was explosive.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:55 AM (RIvkX)
---
Yeah, when you're a kid you don't follow that sort of thing closely. Battlestar Galactica was far more important to me at that time. When I got older, religion was a topic I generally avoided.
My grandparents wouldn't let it drop, though, and my conversion greatly pleased (and relieved) them, and in retrospect I know that their prayers were a big part of what brought me around.
The Church has flaws, but we live in a fallen world, and all human institutions are therefore tainted. At the same time, I have found the Church to be a place of solace, of hope, and of healing. I recommend it for everyone, but obviously people can do as they wish. And now chores call me. God bless!
When he came to New York in 1979 it was explosive.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at April 18, 2026 09:55 AM (RIvkX)
---
Yeah, when you're a kid you don't follow that sort of thing closely. Battlestar Galactica was far more important to me at that time. When I got older, religion was a topic I generally avoided.
My grandparents wouldn't let it drop, though, and my conversion greatly pleased (and relieved) them, and in retrospect I know that their prayers were a big part of what brought me around.
The Church has flaws, but we live in a fallen world, and all human institutions are therefore tainted. At the same time, I have found the Church to be a place of solace, of hope, and of healing. I recommend it for everyone, but obviously people can do as they wish. And now chores call me. God bless!
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at April 18, 2026 10:08 AM (ZOv7s)
288
and is Aunt B Andy's aunt or Opie's aunt
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 10:09 AM (ZxPkt)
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 10:09 AM (vFG9F)
290
Have last cup.of coffee, should go run weed whacket around today
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 10:09 AM (Ia/+0)
291
He was a world-historical figure who helped free millions from the yoke of communism.
When he came to New York in 1979 it was explosive.
Posted by: San Franpsycho
******************
Greatest Pope of my lifetime.
When he came to New York in 1979 it was explosive.
Posted by: San Franpsycho
******************
Greatest Pope of my lifetime.
Posted by: Sam Adams at April 18, 2026 10:10 AM (X+xvk)
292
>>Saw an interesting snippet in re the story about Britain being poorer than Mississippi. Another study showed that while our top 10% were far better off than Europe's, our bottom 10% were no worse off than Europe's.
Geography has been both a blessing and a deteriment to us. Many Americans haven't had the luxury of traveling and seeing the world for themselves and instead rely on the media to tell them about other countries and cultures.
There is no other country in the world remotely like America. We were all blessed with being born or immigrated to the most amazing country there has ever been no matter what the idiots in the box say.
Geography has been both a blessing and a deteriment to us. Many Americans haven't had the luxury of traveling and seeing the world for themselves and instead rely on the media to tell them about other countries and cultures.
There is no other country in the world remotely like America. We were all blessed with being born or immigrated to the most amazing country there has ever been no matter what the idiots in the box say.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:12 AM (viF8m)
293
Dammit, Barney! You said we were going to the diner in Mount Pilot! I fixed my hair and everything!
Posted by: Thelma Lou at April 18, 2026 10:12 AM (2Ez/1)
294
Gomer is with Floyd in Mt. Pilot at the moment. They're looking into a joint real estate investment.
Posted by: Sam Adams at April 18, 2026 10:12 AM (X+xvk)
295
> The Strait of Hormuz is closed.
---------
Iran/IRGC can't "open" or "close" the Hormuz. The area's an active war zone. Shipping companies, their insurers and crews either decide to enter, exit or stay out of the area.
The US put restrictions on which vessels could enter/exit based on departure/destination. Iranian ports were off limits coming and going. There's nothing stopping a shipping company from falsifying information, a ship's captain changing AIS codes or whatever it takes to get a prohibited cargo/vessel into, or out of, the Persian Gulf.
It's whether one's willing to risk it and potentially lose a billion dollar ship and billions of dollars of cargo in an attack by Iran/IRGC or the USN.
It's obviously apparent the IRGC is a loose cannon and still calls some, if not all of the shots. (Pun intended.) The US has the upper hand here. I'd start to escort certain vessels that were associated with governments we currently don't have a beef with. IOW, the EU and China would be shit outta' luck here.
---------
Iran/IRGC can't "open" or "close" the Hormuz. The area's an active war zone. Shipping companies, their insurers and crews either decide to enter, exit or stay out of the area.
The US put restrictions on which vessels could enter/exit based on departure/destination. Iranian ports were off limits coming and going. There's nothing stopping a shipping company from falsifying information, a ship's captain changing AIS codes or whatever it takes to get a prohibited cargo/vessel into, or out of, the Persian Gulf.
It's whether one's willing to risk it and potentially lose a billion dollar ship and billions of dollars of cargo in an attack by Iran/IRGC or the USN.
It's obviously apparent the IRGC is a loose cannon and still calls some, if not all of the shots. (Pun intended.) The US has the upper hand here. I'd start to escort certain vessels that were associated with governments we currently don't have a beef with. IOW, the EU and China would be shit outta' luck here.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 18, 2026 10:12 AM (AkEZC)
296
Another study showed that while our top 10% were far better off than Europe's, our bottom 10% were no worse off than Europe's.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:04 AM (tgvbd)
You’ll have to look far and wide to find a “poor” person in this country who is skin and bones, rather than obese. Except for Somalians, who always remind me of stick figure drawings from some cartoonish nightmare.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:04 AM (tgvbd)
You’ll have to look far and wide to find a “poor” person in this country who is skin and bones, rather than obese. Except for Somalians, who always remind me of stick figure drawings from some cartoonish nightmare.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 10:13 AM (yGQJD)
297
Three men who played key roles in bringing down the Soviet Union:
A B-list Hollywood actor
A Roman Catholic priest
A shipyard electrician
A B-list Hollywood actor
A Roman Catholic priest
A shipyard electrician
Posted by: You could look it up at April 18, 2026 10:14 AM (2Ez/1)
298
Iran/IRGC can't "open" or "close" the Hormuz. The area's an active war zone. Shipping companies, their insurers and crews either decide to enter, exit or stay out of the area.
Posted by: Martini Farmer
******************
I was just making a joke. Every thirty minutes the Iranians come out with another statement, claiming the strait is now open, claiming it is now closed, but always pretending that they are the ones in control. I find this mildly amusing.
Posted by: Martini Farmer
******************
I was just making a joke. Every thirty minutes the Iranians come out with another statement, claiming the strait is now open, claiming it is now closed, but always pretending that they are the ones in control. I find this mildly amusing.
Posted by: Sam Adams at April 18, 2026 10:15 AM (X+xvk)
299
> Three men who played key roles in bringing down the Soviet Union:
A B-list Hollywood actor
A Roman Catholic priest
A shipyard electrician
----
there was a shopkeeper's daughter as well
A B-list Hollywood actor
A Roman Catholic priest
A shipyard electrician
----
there was a shopkeeper's daughter as well
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 10:16 AM (ZxPkt)
300
We were all blessed with being born or immigrated to the most amazing country there has ever been no matter what the idiots in the box say.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:12 AM (viF8m)
____________
Just like Canadian nitwits (not all of Canadians) have to point to not being Americans instead of hard accomplishments, European nitwits (not all of Europeans) have to point to bennies instead of hard accomplishments.
We were all blessed with being born or immigrated to the most amazing country there has ever been no matter what the idiots in the box say.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:12 AM (viF8m)
____________
Just like Canadian nitwits (not all of Canadians) have to point to not being Americans instead of hard accomplishments, European nitwits (not all of Europeans) have to point to bennies instead of hard accomplishments.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:17 AM (tgvbd)
301
"I wanted to come to a country where the poor people are fat."
Posted by: Immigrant from India at April 18, 2026 10:18 AM (2Ez/1)
302
289 "what happened to Opie's mom
Posted by: Don Black "
They never did drag the pond.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 10:09 AM (vFG9F)
Opie’s mom done R-U-N-O-F-F-T.
Btw what the heck is “Opie” short for?
Posted by: Don Black "
They never did drag the pond.
Posted by: fd at April 18, 2026 10:09 AM (vFG9F)
Opie’s mom done R-U-N-O-F-F-T.
Btw what the heck is “Opie” short for?
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 10:18 AM (yGQJD)
303
> Iran/IRGC can't "open" or "close" the Hormuz. The area's an active war zone. Shipping companies, their insurers and crews either decide to enter, exit or stay out of the area.
Posted by: Martini Farmer
******************
I was just making a joke. Every thirty minutes the Iranians come out with another statement, claiming the strait is now open, claiming it is now closed, but always pretending that they are the ones in control. I find this mildly amusing.
Posted by: Sam Adams
******************
I get that. Many people, perhaps not here, think the Hormuz can actually be "open" or "closed" by Iran/IRGC or even the USN. They've flip-flopped on this, what? 3-4 times already.
I think both the mullahs and the IRGC think they're in charge. On that matter, I think the IRGC has an edge.
Posted by: Martini Farmer
******************
I was just making a joke. Every thirty minutes the Iranians come out with another statement, claiming the strait is now open, claiming it is now closed, but always pretending that they are the ones in control. I find this mildly amusing.
Posted by: Sam Adams
******************
I get that. Many people, perhaps not here, think the Hormuz can actually be "open" or "closed" by Iran/IRGC or even the USN. They've flip-flopped on this, what? 3-4 times already.
I think both the mullahs and the IRGC think they're in charge. On that matter, I think the IRGC has an edge.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 18, 2026 10:19 AM (AkEZC)
304
297 Three men who played key roles in bringing down the Soviet Union:
A B-list Hollywood actor
A Roman Catholic priest
A shipyard electrician
Posted by: You could look it up
*****************
I'll never forget seeing the Soviets driving troop transports straight into and over crowds of Polish welders and shipyard workers. Lech Walesa and his men were absolutely heroic.
When the Soviet Union collapsed, it did so in part because Soviet troops refused to drive tanks over their own people. Amazing to witness.
China, on the other hand....
A B-list Hollywood actor
A Roman Catholic priest
A shipyard electrician
Posted by: You could look it up
*****************
I'll never forget seeing the Soviets driving troop transports straight into and over crowds of Polish welders and shipyard workers. Lech Walesa and his men were absolutely heroic.
When the Soviet Union collapsed, it did so in part because Soviet troops refused to drive tanks over their own people. Amazing to witness.
China, on the other hand....
Posted by: Sam Adams at April 18, 2026 10:20 AM (X+xvk)
305
leave their lane and become political actors they are subject to the same criticism
It was foolish to think that a funny hat would faze The Golden Scalp Weasel.
It was foolish to think that a funny hat would faze The Golden Scalp Weasel.
Posted by: DaveA at April 18, 2026 10:21 AM (FhXTo)
306
I missed the tech thread - I didn't much want to get out of bed this morn - but I'm happy to bitch about Adobe's enSHITTified experience.
Every time I go to the library the Reader pops up with offers to buy the full suite, various "helpful" tutorials, that offer to use AI so Adobe can steal all my work, and a useless left sidebar.
It's awful. I just want to get to my PDF, annotate or print, get out.
Every time I go to the library the Reader pops up with offers to buy the full suite, various "helpful" tutorials, that offer to use AI so Adobe can steal all my work, and a useless left sidebar.
It's awful. I just want to get to my PDF, annotate or print, get out.
Posted by: gKWVE at April 18, 2026 10:21 AM (E6ouU)
307
The poorest American is richer than 80% of the world’s population. Americans have no idea how good they have it compared to the rest of the world.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 10:23 AM (OC4HQ)
308
It is amusing to see comparisons being made between Great Britain's declining economy and which of our "bottom most" states are now surpassing it. Mississippi was the first one cited and now Alabama is closing in.
Whether these are apples to apples comparisons I can't say, but it is satisfying to see the haughty Euros getting taken down a notch or two.
It is amusing to see comparisons being made between Great Britain's declining economy and which of our "bottom most" states are now surpassing it. Mississippi was the first one cited and now Alabama is closing in.
Whether these are apples to apples comparisons I can't say, but it is satisfying to see the haughty Euros getting taken down a notch or two.
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at April 18, 2026 10:23 AM (jGgTr)
309
"Opal." I was supposed to be a girl.
Posted by: Opie Taylor at April 18, 2026 10:23 AM (2Ez/1)
310
there was a shopkeeper's daughter as well
Posted by: Don Black
*****************
Well done.
God, how England could use a leader with her backbone.
Posted by: Don Black
*****************
Well done.
God, how England could use a leader with her backbone.
Posted by: Sam Adams at April 18, 2026 10:23 AM (X+xvk)
311
>>Just like Canadian nitwits (not all of Canadians) have to point to not being Americans instead of hard accomplishments, European nitwits (not all of Europeans) have to point to bennies instead of hard accomplishments.
I used to travel to the Netherlands pretty frequently on business. I distinctly remember being lectured one night in a pub by some locals that I should tell people I was Canadian instead of American.
My reply was not what they wanted hear but it was exactly what I wanted them to hear.
I used to travel to the Netherlands pretty frequently on business. I distinctly remember being lectured one night in a pub by some locals that I should tell people I was Canadian instead of American.
My reply was not what they wanted hear but it was exactly what I wanted them to hear.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:24 AM (viF8m)
312
270 We're standing right here.
Posted by: White pillars at April 18, 2026 10:00 AM (2Ez/1)
You're always just holding things up.
Posted by: White pillars at April 18, 2026 10:00 AM (2Ez/1)
You're always just holding things up.
Posted by: Isn't it Ionic, don't you think? at April 18, 2026 10:24 AM (TbWk/)
313
It’s not just Britain that’s poor. All of Europe is poor save for outliers like Luxembourg. Germany’s gdp/capita is 30% lower that the US. And Germany is the “economic engine of Europe”.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 10:26 AM (OC4HQ)
314
what the heck is “Opie” short for?
Posted by: Tom Servo
"Opilio", lije the Bering Sea crabs on "Deadliest Catch".
what the heck is “Opie” short for?
Posted by: Tom Servo
"Opilio", lije the Bering Sea crabs on "Deadliest Catch".
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at April 18, 2026 10:26 AM (xG4kz)
315
If the Pope is talking religion he's Pope Leo. If he's talking politics he's Pope Bob.
I'm easy that way. If he's talking football he might be Pope Bobby Leo, possibly from Yale.
I'm easy that way. If he's talking football he might be Pope Bobby Leo, possibly from Yale.
Posted by: From about That Time at April 18, 2026 10:28 AM (sl73Y)
316
Why is it that my typos too often make me appear to be Dutch adjacent?
Why is it that my typos too often make me appear to be Dutch adjacent?
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at April 18, 2026 10:28 AM (xG4kz)
Posted by: PabloD at April 18, 2026 10:29 AM (zUFRX)
318
Ski tickets in Europe are a lot cheaper than American resorts. People point this out all the time online. I once replied to this saying it’s because Americans are rich and can afford it. If euro resorts charged $300 like Vail does nobody would show up because few people can afford it.
The replies back to me were what you expect they were lol. Europe isn’t poor it’s rich because socialism is awesome and Americans are dying due to no health care. That propaganda has been so ingrained on the left it’s not even up for debate.
The replies back to me were what you expect they were lol. Europe isn’t poor it’s rich because socialism is awesome and Americans are dying due to no health care. That propaganda has been so ingrained on the left it’s not even up for debate.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 10:30 AM (OC4HQ)
319
More autos are now manufactured in Alabama than in Michigan.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 10:30 AM (yGQJD)
320
And if he's talking BBQ he's Pope Bubba.
Posted by: Baby back or St. Louis at April 18, 2026 10:31 AM (2Ez/1)
321
What was it about Opie that made him appear Ope-like
'hey look at that kid- he's kinda opey looking'
'hey look at that kid- he's kinda opey looking'
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 10:31 AM (ZxPkt)
322
JackStraw. In the Netherlands right now. No problem being an American so far. Pretty tired of hearing about green everything.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at April 18, 2026 10:31 AM (kxiH3)
323
Just sitting down at the big feed with the intrepid Mrs. E and my brother James. We intend to take this table into harm’s way.
Posted by: Eromero at April 18, 2026 10:32 AM (Mxjiy)
324
Herog - yet the Marxists still have to try and use class warfare in every situation
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 10:32 AM (Ia/+0)
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:32 AM (ndZc7)
326
It’s not just Britain that’s poor. All of Europe is poor
Times call for America to field the Poor Corps.
Teach the Euros how to build shotgun shacks, strew broken down appliances and furniture around their yards and put their vehicles up on cinder blocks. Old timey stuff!
Iff'n they's good we can teach them how to talk slang and iff'n they's really good, how to make 'shine!
It’s not just Britain that’s poor. All of Europe is poor
Times call for America to field the Poor Corps.
Teach the Euros how to build shotgun shacks, strew broken down appliances and furniture around their yards and put their vehicles up on cinder blocks. Old timey stuff!
Iff'n they's good we can teach them how to talk slang and iff'n they's really good, how to make 'shine!
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at April 18, 2026 10:33 AM (xG4kz)
327
The ears, it was the ears. I know what I’m talking about.
Posted by: Eromero at April 18, 2026 10:33 AM (Mxjiy)
328
323 Just sitting down at the big feed with the intrepid Mrs. E and my brother James. We intend to take this table into harm’s way.
Posted by: Eromero at April 18, 2026 10:32 AM (Mxjiy)
Let the bacon beware!
Posted by: Eromero at April 18, 2026 10:32 AM (Mxjiy)
Let the bacon beware!
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 10:33 AM (hOUT3)
Posted by: Robert at April 18, 2026 10:37 AM (dpXJq)
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:38 AM (ndZc7)
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:38 AM (viF8m)
332
We were all blessed with being born or immigrated to the most amazing country there has ever been no matter what the idiots in the box say.
Posted by: JackStraw
I have been to dozens and dozens other countries, and while they may be interesting to visit, none of them remotely approach life in America. It is always good to come home.
Posted by: JackStraw
I have been to dozens and dozens other countries, and while they may be interesting to visit, none of them remotely approach life in America. It is always good to come home.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at April 18, 2026 10:39 AM (0U5gm)
333
Just like the british still believe their country still has wealth and power (it doesn’t) most Euros still believe Europe has some military significance. It doesn’t.
The saddest joke reported recently was Spanish PM Sanchez proposing the creation of a EU Army. Meanwhile a British Brigadier was forced to admit, in Parliament, that Britain does not any longer have the lift capability to deploy a single division to mainland Europe, if it was called on to do so.
The saddest joke reported recently was Spanish PM Sanchez proposing the creation of a EU Army. Meanwhile a British Brigadier was forced to admit, in Parliament, that Britain does not any longer have the lift capability to deploy a single division to mainland Europe, if it was called on to do so.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 10:40 AM (yGQJD)
334
Amazing what siphoning off wealth to pay for weak life care does. But bet a sizable bureaucracy is doing with those taxes.
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 10:40 AM (Ia/+0)
335
Where oh where can one get the truth about the Straits of Hormuz. They’re opened, they’re closed. No ships made it through, no a cruise ship made it through, 20 ships made it through, zero ships made it through. Good grief what a bunch of gobbledygook.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at April 18, 2026 10:40 AM (kxiH3)
336
Pope Bob will side with the Martians.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:40 AM (ndZc7)
337
My dad went to England back in the late 70's for work. Twice over a year's time IIRC. He came home with an appreciation for dark beer, but disliked most everything else about the UK.
In his line of work, much of Europe was seen as semi-unfriendly even with the shadow of the Russian Bear hovering over it during the Cold War. Things apparently haven't changed much on that side of the pond.
In his line of work, much of Europe was seen as semi-unfriendly even with the shadow of the Russian Bear hovering over it during the Cold War. Things apparently haven't changed much on that side of the pond.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 18, 2026 10:40 AM (AkEZC)
338
Every thirty minutes the Iranians come out with another statement, claiming the strait is now open, claiming it is now closed
Red light! Green light!
Red light! Green light!
Posted by: Commissar of plenty and festive little hats at April 18, 2026 10:41 AM (Kt19C)
339
A few years ago Great Britain deployed an aircraft carrier that didn't have any aircraft.
Posted by: Sam Adams at April 18, 2026 10:41 AM (X+xvk)
340
Are there stronger bacterial strains running around out there than there used to be?
With Western Civilization's slide into debauchery, there's been quite evolutionary Renaissance for STDs! As Grok summarizes for me:
1. Antibiotic-Resistant Gonorrhea (the biggest ongoing story)
2.TMvii — A New Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection
3. Mycoplasma genitalium (M. gen): Increasingly recognized as a significant STI causing urethritis
4. Syphilis trends: Overall cases have mixed signals — primary/secondary syphilis declined recently in the U.S., but late-stage and congenital cases remain elevated. A novel strain (NYMC01) identified in 2025 was linked to unusual painful oral lesions
5. Shigella (XDR strains): Extensively drug-resistant shigella (causing severe diarrhea) is rising in the U.S., sometimes linked to sexual transmission networks
6. Older HIV "VB variant" (highly virulent subtype B from the Netherlands, identified years ago) showed faster progression and higher viral loads pre-treatment
With Western Civilization's slide into debauchery, there's been quite evolutionary Renaissance for STDs! As Grok summarizes for me:
1. Antibiotic-Resistant Gonorrhea (the biggest ongoing story)
2.TMvii — A New Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection
3. Mycoplasma genitalium (M. gen): Increasingly recognized as a significant STI causing urethritis
4. Syphilis trends: Overall cases have mixed signals — primary/secondary syphilis declined recently in the U.S., but late-stage and congenital cases remain elevated. A novel strain (NYMC01) identified in 2025 was linked to unusual painful oral lesions
5. Shigella (XDR strains): Extensively drug-resistant shigella (causing severe diarrhea) is rising in the U.S., sometimes linked to sexual transmission networks
6. Older HIV "VB variant" (highly virulent subtype B from the Netherlands, identified years ago) showed faster progression and higher viral loads pre-treatment
Posted by: Admiral Ackbar at April 18, 2026 10:42 AM (ycI94)
341
JackStraw. In the Netherlands right now. No problem being an American so far. Pretty tired of hearing about green everything.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine
I see this all the time. They seem to want their own subjugation and destruction, as long as they get "free" stuff, or can save the Earf. Until the people there want to be free of babysitters and masters, Europe is on a death march.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine
I see this all the time. They seem to want their own subjugation and destruction, as long as they get "free" stuff, or can save the Earf. Until the people there want to be free of babysitters and masters, Europe is on a death march.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at April 18, 2026 10:43 AM (0U5gm)
342
336 Pope Bob will side with the Martians.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks
We all worship the same God, ultimately.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks
We all worship the same God, ultimately.
Posted by: Newest Commie Pope at April 18, 2026 10:43 AM (ycI94)
343
325 DO NOT CLICK!
I clicked through to the NY Post piece.
What are those things on Michael Avenatti's feet?
https://tinyurl.com/3s9spx8j
I clicked through to the NY Post piece.
What are those things on Michael Avenatti's feet?
https://tinyurl.com/3s9spx8j
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 10:43 AM (Y1sOo)
344
Seeing but not playing a Forbes news on YouTube that Iran fires on a tanker and is closing the Hormuz Dog Leg
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 10:43 AM (Ia/+0)
345
> Every thirty minutes the Iranians come out with another statement, claiming the strait is now open, claiming it is now closed
------------
I think it's the mullahs and the IRGC fighting for supremacy. The IRGC seems to have the upper hand.
And all the weapons.
------------
I think it's the mullahs and the IRGC fighting for supremacy. The IRGC seems to have the upper hand.
And all the weapons.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (AkEZC)
Posted by: one hour sober at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (Y1sOo)
347
Hey Mike, you missed a spot.
Posted by: Halfway house janitorial supervisor at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (2Ez/1)
348
- TousiTV live on utube right now reporting that documentary team in Calais France has been arrested and being held in jail right now, without charges.
Posted by: TeeJ at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (EcT7r)
349
40 years ago I spent 18 months in England. I went over a mild internationalist. I came back a rabid isolationist and superpatriot.
40 years ago I spent 18 months in England. I went over a mild internationalist. I came back a rabid isolationist and superpatriot.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (tgvbd)
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (kJmSS)
351
What are those things on Michael Avenatti's feet?
https://tinyurl.com/3s9spx8j
Posted by: one hour sober
Why does that picture of him remind me of John Malkovich?
https://tinyurl.com/3s9spx8j
Posted by: one hour sober
Why does that picture of him remind me of John Malkovich?
Posted by: Admiral Ackbar at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (ycI94)
352
>>I have been to dozens and dozens other countries, and while they may be interesting to visit, none of them remotely approach life in America. It is always good to come home.
I've been very fortunate that my work has taken me around the world many times. I've met great people and seen beautiful places. And the opposite.
There is no better feeling than coming home to America. There is no place in the world like here. I'm very much in favor of protecting it from enemies foreign and domestic.
I've been very fortunate that my work has taken me around the world many times. I've met great people and seen beautiful places. And the opposite.
There is no better feeling than coming home to America. There is no place in the world like here. I'm very much in favor of protecting it from enemies foreign and domestic.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:46 AM (viF8m)
353
307 The poorest American is richer than 80% of the world’s population. Americans have no idea how good they have it compared to the rest of the world.
Posted by: Heroq
But no free healthcare or college!!!!
Posted by: Heroq
But no free healthcare or college!!!!
Posted by: Young spoiled entitled American child at April 18, 2026 10:46 AM (ycI94)
354
Just how many straits are there in Hormuz?
Posted by: I gotta ask at April 18, 2026 10:47 AM (2Ez/1)
355
Where oh where can one get the truth about the Straits of Hormuz. They’re opened, they’re closed. No ships made it through, no a cruise ship made it through, 20 ships made it through, zero ships made it through. Good grief what a bunch of gobbledygook.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine
It's like the Hokey Pokey. You put your left foot in. You take your left foot out. You put your left foot in and you shake it all about.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine
It's like the Hokey Pokey. You put your left foot in. You take your left foot out. You put your left foot in and you shake it all about.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:47 AM (ndZc7)
356
So a floating cricket pitch
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 10:47 AM (Ia/+0)
357
348 - TousiTV live on utube right now reporting that documentary team in Calais France has been arrested and being held in jail right now, without charges.
Posted by: TeeJ at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (EcT7r)
They must have gotten video of Macron’s wife butch slapping him again.
Posted by: TeeJ at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (EcT7r)
They must have gotten video of Macron’s wife butch slapping him again.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 10:47 AM (yGQJD)
358
wherever the US Navy is, the Navy is in charge
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 10:48 AM (ZxPkt)
359
Just how many straits are there in Hormuz?
Posted by: I gotta ask
It is my impression that it is illegal to be otherwise.
Posted by: I gotta ask
It is my impression that it is illegal to be otherwise.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at April 18, 2026 10:48 AM (0U5gm)
360
354 Just how many straits are there in Hormuz?
Posted by: I gotta ask at April 18, 2026 10:47 AM (2Ez/1)
It’s actually quite crooked. Should be called the Hormuz Dogleg.
Posted by: I gotta ask at April 18, 2026 10:47 AM (2Ez/1)
It’s actually quite crooked. Should be called the Hormuz Dogleg.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 10:49 AM (yGQJD)
Posted by: Linda Rondstat at April 18, 2026 10:50 AM (2Ez/1)
362
>>JackStraw. In the Netherlands right now. No problem being an American so far. Pretty tired of hearing about green everything.
Have a great time! Beautiful place, particularly when the tulips are blooming.
Have a great time! Beautiful place, particularly when the tulips are blooming.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:50 AM (viF8m)
363
I've been very fortunate that my work has taken me around the world many times. I've met great people and seen beautiful places. And the opposite.
There is no better feeling than coming home to America. There is no place in the world like here. I'm very much in favor of protecting it from enemies foreign and domestic.
Posted by: JackStraw
You could live a comfortable life of mediocrity in most European nations. Less work, less stress, a managed decline. Life in America is more demanding, but ultimately the US drives almost all innovation and progress in the world. Succumbing to the slothful call of Europe literally slows the development of the humanity.
There is no better feeling than coming home to America. There is no place in the world like here. I'm very much in favor of protecting it from enemies foreign and domestic.
Posted by: JackStraw
You could live a comfortable life of mediocrity in most European nations. Less work, less stress, a managed decline. Life in America is more demanding, but ultimately the US drives almost all innovation and progress in the world. Succumbing to the slothful call of Europe literally slows the development of the humanity.
Posted by: Moron Analyst at April 18, 2026 10:51 AM (ycI94)
364
Bernie Moreno: Senate Will Not Advance House-Passed Resolution Allowing 350k Haitians to Remain in U.S.
-
Praise the Lord!
-
Praise the Lord!
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:52 AM (ndZc7)
365
The Bee has a new Californians Move to Texas video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nI-ZbygKeyE&t=114s
The Bee has a new Californians Move to Texas video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nI-ZbygKeyE&t=114s
Posted by: naturalfake at April 18, 2026 10:52 AM (iJfKG)
366
Hearing young Marxists talk about “free college” is funny. While every state u here has multi billion dollar infrastructure complete with Olympic sized pools and rock climbing in dorms. The “free” dorms in Europe are like public housing buildings.
When I was a yuuute my gf did a summer abroad at a college in France. I went to visit her for a week. I was like whoa this is the campus? It was bare bones everything. Kinda run down, old, the windows in the dorm room were 50 years old and razor thin. Which is fine I guess you don’t really need the rock climbing. But the kids have no idea they’re comparing apples to bananas when they demand the “free” stuff.
When I was a yuuute my gf did a summer abroad at a college in France. I went to visit her for a week. I was like whoa this is the campus? It was bare bones everything. Kinda run down, old, the windows in the dorm room were 50 years old and razor thin. Which is fine I guess you don’t really need the rock climbing. But the kids have no idea they’re comparing apples to bananas when they demand the “free” stuff.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 10:54 AM (OC4HQ)
367
Pope Leo is currently (or recently) in Cameroon using his office to stop the civil violence in that country. He officiated a Mass that drew 120,000 of the faithful.
Surprising for me, CBS News gave a fair and lengthy report on the visit.
The AP also reported that, in an answer to a question, Pope Leo stated :
"He addressed the spiraling back-and-forth saga of Trump’s critiques of his peace message, which have dominated news headlines this week. But the American pope also sought to set the record straight, insisting that his preaching isn’t directed at Trump, but reflects the broader Gospel message of peace.
“There’s been a certain narrative that has not been accurate in all of its aspects, but because of the political situation created when, on the first day of the trip, the president of the United States made some comments about myself,” he said.
“Much of what has been written since then has been more commentary on commentary, trying to interpret what has been said.”
Me: So the process of adjustment is on-going.
Surprising for me, CBS News gave a fair and lengthy report on the visit.
The AP also reported that, in an answer to a question, Pope Leo stated :
"He addressed the spiraling back-and-forth saga of Trump’s critiques of his peace message, which have dominated news headlines this week. But the American pope also sought to set the record straight, insisting that his preaching isn’t directed at Trump, but reflects the broader Gospel message of peace.
“There’s been a certain narrative that has not been accurate in all of its aspects, but because of the political situation created when, on the first day of the trip, the president of the United States made some comments about myself,” he said.
“Much of what has been written since then has been more commentary on commentary, trying to interpret what has been said.”
Me: So the process of adjustment is on-going.
Posted by: mrp at April 18, 2026 10:54 AM (rj6Yv)
368
40 years ago I spent 18 months in England. I went over a mild internationalist. I came back a rabid isolationist and superpatriot.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (tgvbd)
I have been to dozens and dozens other countries, and while they may be interesting to visit, none of them remotely approach life in America. It is always good to come home.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at April 18, 2026 10:39 AM (0U5gm)
There is no better feeling than coming home to America. There is no place in the world like here. I'm very much in favor of protecting it from enemies foreign and domestic.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:46 AM (viF8m)
Shakespeare was right. All the world's a shithole.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at April 18, 2026 10:44 AM (tgvbd)
I have been to dozens and dozens other countries, and while they may be interesting to visit, none of them remotely approach life in America. It is always good to come home.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at April 18, 2026 10:39 AM (0U5gm)
There is no better feeling than coming home to America. There is no place in the world like here. I'm very much in favor of protecting it from enemies foreign and domestic.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:46 AM (viF8m)
Shakespeare was right. All the world's a shithole.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at April 18, 2026 10:55 AM (snZF9)
Posted by: callsign claymore at April 18, 2026 10:55 AM (/6r4m)
370
Why wouldn't Young Marxists want university of Cultural Marxism free?
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 10:55 AM (Ia/+0)
371
Controversial opinion. Any list of great guitar players that doesn't include Prince is wrong.
https://tinyurl.com/5hfmxz9c
https://tinyurl.com/5hfmxz9c
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 10:55 AM (viF8m)
372
364 Send every Haitian back with $20 and a Mars Bar. The Haitian economy will be the best ever.
Posted by: bill in arkansas, not gonna comply with nuttin, waiting for the 0300 knock on the door at April 18, 2026 10:55 AM (gm9Sb)
373
They must have gotten video of Macron’s wife butch slapping him again.
Posted by: Tom Servo
Didja see the pictures of Macron Swalwelling Italian PM Meloni?
https://tinyurl.com/f9ycfu46
Posted by: Tom Servo
Didja see the pictures of Macron Swalwelling Italian PM Meloni?
https://tinyurl.com/f9ycfu46
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM (ndZc7)
374
In the Netherlands right now. [ ] Pretty tired of hearing about green everything.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine
Well, I mean, considering the kind of green you can get there.... There was a great coffeeshop called Abraxis years ago. ;->
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine
Well, I mean, considering the kind of green you can get there.... There was a great coffeeshop called Abraxis years ago. ;->
Posted by: Dark Litigator at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM (W5mpo)
375
Are there stronger bacterial strains running around out there than there used to be?
With Western Civilization's slide into debauchery, there's been quite evolutionary Renaissance for STDs! As Grok summarizes for me:
1. Antibiotic-Resistant Gonorrhea (the biggest ongoing story)
2.TMvii — A New Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection
3. Mycoplasma genitalium (M. gen): Increasingly recognized as a significant STI causing urethritis
4. Syphilis trends: Overall cases have mixed signals — primary/secondary syphilis declined recently in the U.S., but late-stage and congenital cases remain elevated. A novel strain (NYMC01) identified in 2025 was linked to unusual painful oral lesions
5. Shigella (XDR strains): Extensively drug-resistant shigella (causing severe diarrhea) is rising in the U.S., sometimes linked to sexual transmission networks
6. Older HIV "VB variant" (highly virulent subtype B from the Netherlands, identified years ago) showed faster progression and higher viral loads pre-treatment
Posted by: Admiral Ackbar at April 18, 2026 10:42 AM (ycI94)
Look at all the Disease Diversity that Our New Cultural Enhancers brought with them from the Third World.
Yay!!!
With Western Civilization's slide into debauchery, there's been quite evolutionary Renaissance for STDs! As Grok summarizes for me:
1. Antibiotic-Resistant Gonorrhea (the biggest ongoing story)
2.TMvii — A New Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection
3. Mycoplasma genitalium (M. gen): Increasingly recognized as a significant STI causing urethritis
4. Syphilis trends: Overall cases have mixed signals — primary/secondary syphilis declined recently in the U.S., but late-stage and congenital cases remain elevated. A novel strain (NYMC01) identified in 2025 was linked to unusual painful oral lesions
5. Shigella (XDR strains): Extensively drug-resistant shigella (causing severe diarrhea) is rising in the U.S., sometimes linked to sexual transmission networks
6. Older HIV "VB variant" (highly virulent subtype B from the Netherlands, identified years ago) showed faster progression and higher viral loads pre-treatment
Posted by: Admiral Ackbar at April 18, 2026 10:42 AM (ycI94)
Look at all the Disease Diversity that Our New Cultural Enhancers brought with them from the Third World.
Yay!!!
Posted by: naturalfake at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM (iJfKG)
376
I was brought up in an Orthodox synagogue. As a teen, I joined a Conservative(not a political definition but a religious one) synagogue so I could be in an Israeli dance troupe and other teen stuff. As an adult, I married a non Jew so went looking for a Reform synagogue. I went in to meet with the rabbi who handed me a booklet which not only laid out what the synagogue was all about but also their political views which included a pro abortion stance. I was appalled that they wanted me to accept a political view as a congregant regardless of whether I agreed or disagreed. This was not what I came to synagogue for.
I will never understand how any Christian or Jew can accept that Islam can coexist. Their law Sharia is inhumane and goes against both the new and Old Testament.
End of rant
I will never understand how any Christian or Jew can accept that Islam can coexist. Their law Sharia is inhumane and goes against both the new and Old Testament.
End of rant
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 18, 2026 10:58 AM (kJmSS)
377
It's like the Hokey Pokey. You put your left foot in. You take your left foot out. You put your left foot in and you shake it all about.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:47 AM (ndZc7)
======
It's like the pre-war policy of distributed authority in Iran has raised its ugly head and the leadership is now fully committed to tearing itself apart.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:47 AM (ndZc7)
======
It's like the pre-war policy of distributed authority in Iran has raised its ugly head and the leadership is now fully committed to tearing itself apart.
Posted by: mrp at April 18, 2026 10:58 AM (rj6Yv)
378
In the Netherlands right now. [ ] Pretty tired of hearing about green everything.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine
Well, I mean, considering the kind of green you can get there.... There was a great coffeeshop called Abraxis years ago. ;->
Posted by: Dark Litigator at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM (W5mpo)
Was the coffee served by a....Black Magic Woman?
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine
Well, I mean, considering the kind of green you can get there.... There was a great coffeeshop called Abraxis years ago. ;->
Posted by: Dark Litigator at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM (W5mpo)
Was the coffee served by a....Black Magic Woman?
Posted by: naturalfake at April 18, 2026 10:59 AM (iJfKG)
379
“Much of what has been written since then has been more commentary on commentary, trying to interpret what has been said.”
-
So Pope Bob blinked?
-
So Pope Bob blinked?
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 11:00 AM (ndZc7)
380
It’s not just Britain that’s poor. All of Europe is poor save for outliers like Luxembourg. Germany’s gdp/capita is 30% lower that the US. And Germany is the “economic engine of Europe”.
Posted by: Heroq
*******
Don't forget about me....
Posted by: Heroq
*******
Don't forget about me....
Posted by: Switzerland at April 18, 2026 11:00 AM (IQ6Gq)
381
I spent some time working in Western Europe in a few countries. 2-3 week stints there, 2-3 weeks back home. I worked with people who were at my level of seniority in our company, same experience, same education etc.
Their lifestyles were waaaay lower than mine at home. I remember vividly me casually mentioning something about my pool. And they were like what you have a pool? It was like unheard of for someone in that economic strata to have a pool. Hell it was almost unheard of to own a home to begin with let alone a home with a pool.
A pool here, especially in the warmer climates isn’t given a second thought. It’s a very middle class thing. Over there it’s like you’re an aristocrat.
And that always stayed with me regarding how much better off Americans are.
Their lifestyles were waaaay lower than mine at home. I remember vividly me casually mentioning something about my pool. And they were like what you have a pool? It was like unheard of for someone in that economic strata to have a pool. Hell it was almost unheard of to own a home to begin with let alone a home with a pool.
A pool here, especially in the warmer climates isn’t given a second thought. It’s a very middle class thing. Over there it’s like you’re an aristocrat.
And that always stayed with me regarding how much better off Americans are.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 11:01 AM (OC4HQ)
382
Taxpayers on the Hook for $18M in Congressional Sexual Harassment Settlements
-
May I suggest castration as a cost saving measure?
-
May I suggest castration as a cost saving measure?
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 11:03 AM (ndZc7)
383
358 wherever the US Navy is, the Navy is in charge
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 10:48 AM (ZxPkt)
Maybe having a SecWar not a SecDef helps!
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 10:48 AM (ZxPkt)
Maybe having a SecWar not a SecDef helps!
Posted by: Commissar Hrothgar (hOUT3) ~ THIS year in Corsicana! ~ at April 18, 2026 11:03 AM (hOUT3)
384
Well, I mean, considering the kind of green you can get there.... There was a great coffeeshop called Abraxis years ago. ;->
Posted by: Dark Litigator at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM (W5mpo)
Was the coffee served by a....Black Magic Woman?
Posted by: naturalfake
Coffee? >_>>
Posted by: Dark Litigator at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM (W5mpo)
Was the coffee served by a....Black Magic Woman?
Posted by: naturalfake
Coffee? >_>>
Posted by: Dark Litigator at April 18, 2026 11:07 AM (W5mpo)
385
Why doesn't AoS allow shifty eyes?
Posted by: Dark Litigator at April 18, 2026 11:07 AM (W5mpo)
386
I saw a really silly poll. 2028 gop nomination. Vance at 42%. Ok that makes sense he’s the clear leader.
Second place at 20%? Don Jr. lol.
Is this shit serious?
Second place at 20%? Don Jr. lol.
Is this shit serious?
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 11:09 AM (OC4HQ)
387
Didja see the pictures of Macron Swalwelling Italian PM Meloni?
https://tinyurl.com/f9ycfu46
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM
#####
Don't you just HATE it when people turn your name into a verb?
https://tinyurl.com/f9ycfu46
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 10:57 AM
#####
Don't you just HATE it when people turn your name into a verb?
Posted by: M. Lewinsky at April 18, 2026 11:11 AM (2Ez/1)
388
>>And that always stayed with me regarding how much better off Americans are.
There is nothing like international travel to demonstrate how incredibly fortunate we are to live in this country. Some countries need walls to keep their people in. We have them to keep people out.
There is nothing like international travel to demonstrate how incredibly fortunate we are to live in this country. Some countries need walls to keep their people in. We have them to keep people out.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 11:12 AM (viF8m)
389
US Naxy can be in charge depending on who is in charge
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 11:12 AM (Ia/+0)
390
Coast Guard Seizes 3,825 Lbs of Cocaine in Pacific Bust, Enough to Kill Over 1.4 Million Americans
-
Or a three day weekend for Hunter.
-
Or a three day weekend for Hunter.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Damn It Feels Good to Be a Trumpster! at April 18, 2026 11:13 AM (ndZc7)
391
*Some countries need walls to keep their people in. We have them to keep people out.*
-----
I know, right?
-----
I know, right?
Posted by: Vatican City at April 18, 2026 11:14 AM (2Ez/1)
392
JackStraw. At Keukenof tomorrow.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at April 18, 2026 11:15 AM (Nib8X)
393
Second place at 20%? Don Jr. lol.
Is this shit serious?
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 11:09 AM (OC4HQ)
It’s just a name recognition poll. That’s why Kamala still shows up in Democrat polls. The ‘28 race is between Rubio and Vance, if Rubio wants to try for it. DeSantis had a moment, but it’s gone now.
Is this shit serious?
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 11:09 AM (OC4HQ)
It’s just a name recognition poll. That’s why Kamala still shows up in Democrat polls. The ‘28 race is between Rubio and Vance, if Rubio wants to try for it. DeSantis had a moment, but it’s gone now.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 11:16 AM (yGQJD)
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 11:19 AM (viF8m)
395
It's entirely possible that JD Vance could still be the sitting US president in January of 2037.
2037.
2037.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at April 18, 2026 11:20 AM (2Ez/1)
396
When I was a kid growing up in Phoenix, we didn’t have a pool but most of my friends did. (In most newer neighborhoods every other house had a pool). My mom liked the idea of my brother and I hanging out at our friends house and causing trouble rather than doing it at her house.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 11:21 AM (yGQJD)
397
"Guess I should cut down on my coffee consumption. Those K-cups go for over a dollar, each.
Posted by: one hour sober"
If you like that sort of coffee, you can either get the refillable k-cups, or you can move to a moka pot, like the Bialetti stove top coffee maker.
Posted by: one hour sober"
If you like that sort of coffee, you can either get the refillable k-cups, or you can move to a moka pot, like the Bialetti stove top coffee maker.
Posted by: Kindltot at April 18, 2026 11:22 AM (rbvCR)
398
A pool here, especially in the warmer climates isn’t given a second thought. It’s a very middle class thing. Over there it’s like you’re an aristocrat.
So is bathing. I mentioned once that I wash my ass twice a day and all the euros I worked with were like "Wut? You wash your ass? Twice a day? Wow...must be nice to be royalty!".
Don't even talk to them about dental care.
So is bathing. I mentioned once that I wash my ass twice a day and all the euros I worked with were like "Wut? You wash your ass? Twice a day? Wow...must be nice to be royalty!".
Don't even talk to them about dental care.
Posted by: Not A European Peasant at April 18, 2026 11:22 AM (onPc6)
399
I think it will be a Vance /Rubio ticket that will function more like a partnership. They are friends and there is lots of mutual respect. Rubio can continue to be the foreign policy powerhouse while Vance focuses on Domestic. Perfect.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 18, 2026 11:22 AM (kJmSS)
400
The Tousi TV documentary team in France was arrested by French authorities. They were in Calais to report on migrant movements to the UK.
Posted by: mrp at April 18, 2026 11:24 AM (rj6Yv)
401
A pool here, especially in the warmer climates isn’t given a second thought. It’s a very middle class thing. Over there it’s like you’re an aristocrat.
And that always stayed with me regarding how much better off Americans are.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 11:01 AM (OC4HQ)
As soon as I was old enough to travel I went to jamaica. I saw people living in things that weren't as nice as sheds in the US. Huts built from old billboards and scrap wood, etc. Never saw anything like that before. It was eye opening.
And that always stayed with me regarding how much better off Americans are.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 11:01 AM (OC4HQ)
As soon as I was old enough to travel I went to jamaica. I saw people living in things that weren't as nice as sheds in the US. Huts built from old billboards and scrap wood, etc. Never saw anything like that before. It was eye opening.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at April 18, 2026 11:25 AM (snZF9)
402
399 I think it will be a Vance /Rubio ticket that will function more like a partnership. They are friends and there is lots of mutual respect. Rubio can continue to be the foreign policy powerhouse while Vance focuses on Domestic. Perfect.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 18, 2026 11:22 AM (kJmSS)
I honestly believe Rubio truly enjoys the job he has now; he’s clearly the most powerful Sec of State since Kissinger. Not an exaggeration to say he’s clearly the #2 man in Trump’s government today.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 18, 2026 11:22 AM (kJmSS)
I honestly believe Rubio truly enjoys the job he has now; he’s clearly the most powerful Sec of State since Kissinger. Not an exaggeration to say he’s clearly the #2 man in Trump’s government today.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 11:25 AM (yGQJD)
403
Yeah a Vance/Rubio partnership would be pretty fucking awesome.
2028 is a lifetime from now in politics time. Anything can still happen. It’s still too early to really know anything. Think back to April 2006, did anyone have Obama on the radar? Not really. It was going to be a Hillary coronation. Until it wasn’t.
2028 is a lifetime from now in politics time. Anything can still happen. It’s still too early to really know anything. Think back to April 2006, did anyone have Obama on the radar? Not really. It was going to be a Hillary coronation. Until it wasn’t.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 11:26 AM (OC4HQ)
404
When i graduated from high school and before we all started college, 5 friends and I went to Europe. By ourselves. I dont know what our parents were thinking. We had a great time, survived some situations by the skin of our teeth, but we were all smart bullshit artists, and we lived. It was a different time, of course back then. But my kids themselves shake their heads at what we did when we were young.
Posted by: Megthered at April 18, 2026 11:27 AM (UUs/D)
405
122
Eventually a ~$100m amount was narrowly approved after the 3rd referendum vote finally succeeded. It was clear that the supporters were going to keep putting it on every ballot until it was approved. My property tax bill will now go up by 20%. Completely and utterly ridiculous.
Posted by: Defenestratus at April 18, 2026 09:04 AM
--------
Does this measure authorize one of those weird ill-advised municipal loans that take 50 years to repay and the total repayment is an order of magnitude greater that the principal?
122
Eventually a ~$100m amount was narrowly approved after the 3rd referendum vote finally succeeded. It was clear that the supporters were going to keep putting it on every ballot until it was approved. My property tax bill will now go up by 20%. Completely and utterly ridiculous.
Posted by: Defenestratus at April 18, 2026 09:04 AM
--------
Does this measure authorize one of those weird ill-advised municipal loans that take 50 years to repay and the total repayment is an order of magnitude greater that the principal?
Posted by: Semi-Literate Thug at April 18, 2026 11:30 AM (azNOR)
406
"Guess I should cut down on my coffee consumption. Those K-cups go for over a dollar, each.
Posted by: one hour sober"
If you like that sort of coffee, you can either get the refillable k-cups, or you can move to a moka pot, like the Bialetti stove top coffee maker.
Posted by: Kindltot at April 18, 2026 11:22 AM (rbvCR)
Here's how cheap I am: After using the standard K-cup, I'd remove the foil top, empty the spent grounds, rinse the cup, refill with regular ground coffee, press a square of aluminum foil over it(I found that heavy foil yielded best results), and go. I could get about a dozen uses out of that single cup, even reusung the foil top...
Posted by: one hour sober"
If you like that sort of coffee, you can either get the refillable k-cups, or you can move to a moka pot, like the Bialetti stove top coffee maker.
Posted by: Kindltot at April 18, 2026 11:22 AM (rbvCR)
Here's how cheap I am: After using the standard K-cup, I'd remove the foil top, empty the spent grounds, rinse the cup, refill with regular ground coffee, press a square of aluminum foil over it(I found that heavy foil yielded best results), and go. I could get about a dozen uses out of that single cup, even reusung the foil top...
Posted by: Joe Kidd at April 18, 2026 11:30 AM (nbLIj)
407
KT HAZ A NOOD
Posted by: Skip at April 18, 2026 11:31 AM (Ia/+0)
408
I did the backpack in Europe thing after college, by myself. Had a blast. Looking back on it I remember meeting a ton of girls who were traveling alone. Europe was safe back then for that to happen. Today? Not so much.
And no I didn’t do the gay Canada flag on my backpack thing.
And no I didn’t do the gay Canada flag on my backpack thing.
Posted by: Heroq at April 18, 2026 11:31 AM (OC4HQ)
409
When i graduated from high school and before we all started college, 5 friends and I went to Europe. By ourselves. I dont know what our parents were thinking. We had a great time, survived some situations by the skin of our teeth, but we were all smart bullshit artists, and we lived. It was a different time, of course back then. But my kids themselves shake their heads at what we did when we were young.
Posted by: Megthered at April 18, 2026 11:27 AM (UUs/D)
Back in the early 80's my cousin graduated college and then went and back packed around europe for 10 weeks with a few friends. Yeah, it was a definitely a different time.
Posted by: Megthered at April 18, 2026 11:27 AM (UUs/D)
Back in the early 80's my cousin graduated college and then went and back packed around europe for 10 weeks with a few friends. Yeah, it was a definitely a different time.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at April 18, 2026 11:31 AM (snZF9)
410
Shakespeare was right. All the world's a shithole.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at April 18, 2026 10:55 AM (snZF9)
And we are merely floaters,
Drifting, bobbing, resurfacing.
Last scene of all,
That ends this strange eventful history,
Flushed into oblivion.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at April 18, 2026 10:55 AM (snZF9)
And we are merely floaters,
Drifting, bobbing, resurfacing.
Last scene of all,
That ends this strange eventful history,
Flushed into oblivion.
Posted by: Aaaaaan fin at April 18, 2026 11:31 AM (TbWk/)
411
Does this measure authorize one of those weird ill-advised municipal loans that take 50 years to repay and the total repayment is an order of magnitude greater that the principal?
---------
Bonds. It's the way that governments make the Dimly Aware think that the latest boondoggle will actually cost voters nothing.
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Bonds. It's the way that governments make the Dimly Aware think that the latest boondoggle will actually cost voters nothing.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at April 18, 2026 11:31 AM (JkO4W)
412
As soon as I was old enough to travel I went to jamaica. I saw people living in things that weren't as nice as sheds in the US. Huts built from old billboards and scrap wood, etc. Never saw anything like that before. It was eye opening.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at April 18, 2026 11:25 AM (snZF9)
I spent some time in Guadalajara 20 years ago, beautiful city. Few realize it’s the 5th largest city in North America. The suburb we stayed in was wealthy, as nice and clean as any comparable US city suburb. Then we’re being driven around the city and we come around a turn and oh look, there’s the small hill where 30,000 people live in cardboard boxes. (Literally). That’s when you realize what a different world it is.
And I said we were being driven around - never ever be foolish enough to think you can drive on Mexican roads yourself. Traffic laws there are like the Pirates Code; they’re simply suggestions.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at April 18, 2026 11:25 AM (snZF9)
I spent some time in Guadalajara 20 years ago, beautiful city. Few realize it’s the 5th largest city in North America. The suburb we stayed in was wealthy, as nice and clean as any comparable US city suburb. Then we’re being driven around the city and we come around a turn and oh look, there’s the small hill where 30,000 people live in cardboard boxes. (Literally). That’s when you realize what a different world it is.
And I said we were being driven around - never ever be foolish enough to think you can drive on Mexican roads yourself. Traffic laws there are like the Pirates Code; they’re simply suggestions.
Posted by: Tom Servo at April 18, 2026 11:32 AM (yGQJD)
413
Ilhan Omar has explained her $30million fortune. It was a clerical error. I kid you not. She now claims she and hubby are worth between $18,000 and $95,000. She signed the disclosure form saying $30mil because she doesn't bother her pretty little turbaned head with "the businesses" and she trusted "the pros" who did the accounting.
Someone should ask her who her CPA was. You'd think 1) they would be all BIPOC, and 2) she'd be a little angry. But oddly, no complaint from her about the people who made this 30,000% mistake.
Ilhan Omar has explained her $30million fortune. It was a clerical error. I kid you not. She now claims she and hubby are worth between $18,000 and $95,000. She signed the disclosure form saying $30mil because she doesn't bother her pretty little turbaned head with "the businesses" and she trusted "the pros" who did the accounting.
Someone should ask her who her CPA was. You'd think 1) they would be all BIPOC, and 2) she'd be a little angry. But oddly, no complaint from her about the people who made this 30,000% mistake.
Posted by: Blonde Morticia at April 18, 2026 11:34 AM (n7rxJ)
414
>>And I said we were being driven around - never ever be foolish enough to think you can drive on Mexican roads yourself. Traffic laws there are like the Pirates Code; they’re simply suggestions.
Try South Africa or better yet Papua New Guinea.
A drive outside the urban areas and sometimes within is a roll of the dice.
Try South Africa or better yet Papua New Guinea.
A drive outside the urban areas and sometimes within is a roll of the dice.
Posted by: JackStraw at April 18, 2026 11:35 AM (viF8m)
415
Three men who played key roles in bringing down the Soviet Union:
A B-list Hollywood actor
A Roman Catholic priest
A shipyard electrician
Posted by: You could look it up at April 18, 2026 10:14 AM (2Ez/1)
...and a woman. Seamstress I think she was...
A B-list Hollywood actor
A Roman Catholic priest
A shipyard electrician
Posted by: You could look it up at April 18, 2026 10:14 AM (2Ez/1)
...and a woman. Seamstress I think she was...
Posted by: Joe Kidd at April 18, 2026 11:36 AM (nbLIj)
416
I went backpacking thru western Europe years ago. One day, I was hiking the foothills of Mt Tibbidabbo, and I came upon a lake, in a clearing...
Posted by: Don Black at April 18, 2026 11:38 AM (ZxPkt)
417
The year I graduated college and broke up with my long time boyfriend, my parents gifted me with a trip,to Europe. So, I flew Icelandair to Europe on my own with a backpack and one small suitcase and spent 3 months traveling in Europe and then to Israel. 22 years old. Alone. No cell phone. No fixed address but somehow got mail. This could never be done in today's world.
By the way, I ended up marrying that boyfriend.
By the way, I ended up marrying that boyfriend.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 18, 2026 11:55 AM (kJmSS)
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