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A Few of FR's Finest....Every Day....10-15-02
Billie
Posted on 10/15/2002 5:36:25 AM PDT by Billie
A Few of FR's Finest..... ......Every Day
FR is a Treasure Trove of talented, compassionate, patriotic, wonderful people who gather every day to discuss the latest news and issues; salute and support our military and our leaders; tell a few jokes; learn a new word; write poetry; pray for those in need; and congratulate those who are deserving. Thank you, Jim Robinson, for giving us the vehicle in which we can express ourselves.
Free Republic made its debut in September, 1996, and the forum was added in early 1997. I can remember lurking when there were only a few regulars who posted, and now there are over 60,000 who have registered for posting privileges. The forum is read daily by tens of thousands of concerned citizens and patriots from all around the country and the world.
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![](http://d21c.com/billie/FRfinest/eaglewithstars.jpg) A Few of FR's Finest November 11, 2001
So many people have written me since my original Veteran's Day Tribute, asking how they, or a loved one, could be included in that tribute. Since I can no longer add the photos to the body of the thread, I've been including them in additional posts as I received enough to make another collage.
Still that doesn't seem to be enough. I think there's never been a better nor more appropriate time to keep the faces of our own Veterans and Active Military in front of FReepers--every day! That's why I wanted to do yet another Daily Thread .....ABOUT FReepers .....and FOR FReepers. But not only about our Military FReepers; for all FReepers! Wouldn't it be nice to get to know a few of the other FReepers as well? That's why, in addition to seeing FR's Finest Military Personnel every day, I thought it might be fun to feature a different FReeper (or FReepers) each day. If you would like to be pictured, or know someone who would, please FReepmail me and we'll turn the spotlight - on YOU - for the day!
And do let me know if you'd like your picture added to the groups of Veterans/Active Military below. I will keep this page updated, and continue to add them to the comment section of the original Veteran's Day thread as well.
![](http://d21c.com/billie/banners/redwhitebluebanner.jpg)
![](http://d21c.com/billie/FRfinest/vet6a.jpg) TOP: g'nad, AgThorn's son Justin, SLB, AgThorn's son Brett
MIDDLE: fish70, razorback-bert, CheneyChick,Leroy S Mort, Mark17
BOTTOM: Terry's Take, Taxman, DinkyDau
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![](http://d21c.com/billie/banners/redwhitebluebanner.jpg)
![](http://d21c.com/billie/FRfinest/vet7a.jpg) TOP: ValerieUSA's son Grant, SK1Thurman, kd5cts, RangerVetNam,
dansangel and .45man's son-in-law Tony
BOTTOM: rangerX, Old China Hand, Trish, Howlin's dad, Mustang
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![](http://d21c.com/billie/banners/redwhitebluebanner.jpg)
![](http://d21c.com/billie/FRfinest/vet8a.jpg) TOP: ohioWfan's son, MamaBear's father-in-law, MamaBear's dad, ladtx
MIDDLE: The Mayor's niece, M.Kehoe, Beach_Babe's son-in-law
BOTTOM: deadhead's dad, HiJinx, Severa's hubby, viligantcitizen's granddad.
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![](http://d21c.com/billie/banners/redwhitebluebanner.jpg)
![](http://d21c.com/billie/FRfinest/vet9a.jpg) TOP: Q6-God, Scan59, Mama Bear and JKPhoto's son, ofMagog
MIDDLE: Big'ol_freeper, JustAmy's great uncle, Prodigal Son
BOTTOM: JustAmy's husband, JustAmy's brother-in-law, JustAmy's brother.
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![](http://d21c.com/billie/banners/redwhitebluebanner.jpg)
![](http://d21c.com/billie/FRfinest/vet10a.jpg) TOP: dakine's wife, MeeknMing's dad, Auntbee's nephew, MilitiaMan7, AlasBabylon. BOTTOM: Joe Brower, Temple Owl, Temple Owl's wife, dutchess' dad, Aomagrat
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![Ohio](http://www.freerepublic.com/images/flags/us/ohioC.gif)
In Our Spotlight Today...
Dutchess
Dutchess, my namesake....she was a U of Michigan student who was on her way to the gas chamber when we found her...she was the best....I was new to the internet when I had to get a screen name to post on FR....I automatically typed in Dutchess...our "first baby". She was smart, gentle, loyal...everything I want to be......~ Dutchess
I thought the way she chose her screen name was most interesting and wanted to mention it here. Dutchess the Dog is long gone now, but still lives on in both their hearts. Dutchess and Mr. D have been married for 27 years and, "while we don't have children, we have learned the blessing of animals." Below are two of their three "children", Gizmo (in Dutchess' lap) and Codee. Not pictured is their cat, Fred.
Dutchess
Freeper since 03-23-98
It's always nice to get to know our Finest FReepers in their own words, so with that in mind, here are some of Dutchess' words....how she came to FR, when she came to FR, why she came to FR, and why she stays at FR. :)
I would share that I am a carbon copy of most of the FReepers who discovered FR in 1998. It was through a Drudge link... it was the Whitewater files...my secretary happened to be off that day (and yes I have the same one and "damn" she STILL controls me!) and I "FELT LIKE I CAME HOME". Mr. D had tried to get me excited about the internet (poor guy...little did he realize). I was so excited when I came home telling him about this site....7 months later he took me to the March for Justice for our Anniversary....and probably rues the day that he turned me onto the internet.
I am involved in local politics (Mr. D is an elected prosecutor). We both hate local "local politics" but do what we have to do and have met many wonderful people along the way. I've learned that not all political people are "political" and do really care. On a larger level we are usually behind the scenes.
My real job is the director of a notforprofit organization that promotes selfsufficiency. My background was social work and about 5 years in government employment made me realize that the only way to help people was through the private sector. That's been my day job for 15 years.
My biggest volunteer effort has been with our Humane Society. I was the treasurer for about 10 years and during that time we went from a 3 kennel shack to a 30 kennel/run AWESOME shelter that has a great spay/neuter program and, while we euthanize, we make every attempt to adopt out adoptable pets. I'm not an animal rights nut (had a great steak tonight) but...I draw the line with abusing animals, not spay/neutoring unless there is a reason, etc.
Bring A Stray...
..Into Your Heart & Home!
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Most of my "amusing" stories center around issues with my Democratic parents who have come to accept me as a FReeper.
The first was our sojourn to the March for Justice. They thought we were radical and nuts. They also feared for our safety thinking of the Vietnam protests. I urged them to watch it on CSPAN, and not only did they watch it but had all their "bluehair" Florida friends watch with them. Dad was especially impressed with Jesse L. Peterson, Alan Keys and ReJoyce. Their endearment towards conservatism lasted about 3 days.
The next was when we celebrated our family Christmas at our house the day of the impeachment hearings. 20 conservatives ranging in ages 5 - 50 and Mom and Dad. All five tv's were going and people were hanging out in various rooms. We already had sung a few DFU songs around the piano (Doug's "BJ's in the Night" did it for Dad who WAS SEETHING) When Livingston out of the blue resigned his seat, Dad jumped up gleefully (amazing for a 75 year old who had 10 hip replacements), ran around the house and said "See, Republicans cheat on their wives, too". It was a Kodak moment. We all were saddened but heck, it made Dad's day.
Another was Clinton/Dole election night. Mother called up, obviously irritated, and said in a most angry tone, "I just want you to know...I voted for Dole...I hope you're happy" CLICK...
Being the only daughter I have almost daily contact with my parents (whom I love to death BUT...) I think I now understand why I am so drawn to FR where I immediately found comfort and solace during the impeachment fiasco, the election debacle and all those times in between.
10-12-02 It hit home tonight as we went out to dinner with my folks and their friends (also 80). It was cute that Mom commented about me being a "FReeper"...like everyone should know what that is! I had to explain and went on "briefly" about my ideology...turned out they were one of the folks that watched the March for Justice...actually had a cocktail party during the last hour! Think about that for a minute...Happy Hour in Florida to watch the "FReepers!" (and they were all dem Clinton lovers!) I thought that was pretty funny.
Anyway, tonight, they paused for a moment and said I sounded just like their 45 year old son who keeps telling them that "the times have changed"..."the democrats of their time are not the democrats we have now"..."unions SERVED a purpose at one time...but look today" They all kind of looked at each other and decided maybe we have a point...but aren't necessarily comfortable with change. It was kind of sad in a way as I watched them struggling to give up strong-held beliefs, even though they deepdown know it is the right thing to do. The good news is that they are all solidly behind GW (even my dad), seeing him as an honest person who has our country's best interest at heart.
My only other inspiration is my Polish background. All four grandparents immigrated here in their teens (in fear of WWI), meeting here and marrying. None spoke English most of their (AND MY) life and were so proud when they became citizens. I was raised hearing the horror stories of communism, how government confiscated the land once the owner died so it couldn't be passed on to the family.
I had the great fortune of visiting Poland 8 years ago when they were still dealing with the early downfall of communism. It was something they fought for years...but all of a sudden they lost many univeral perks such as health care, rent, utilities...weddings (yes believe it or not...if you had a non religious wedding the government paid for it all...(reception too) My relatives were cool, they had a Polish Catholic wedding and reception plus the state one a week later) Two wedding parties, albums and lots of fun!)
Upon returning home it FINALLY hit me that that the BIG BAD COMMUNISTS didnt take land by gun but by taxation...just like what is happening here. My mom and aunt didn't want to hear that then and to this day do not see the correlation as don't most democrat immigrants. That was and is the most stark realization of why we need to fight and fight hard to end class warfare...encourage free enterprise, end social engineering and especially keep insisting on personal responsibility. ~ Dutchess
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Dutchess is both a big cheerleader and financial supporter of FR (she says that Badjoe knows more about her credit card than her husband does!), and also is proud to say she was one of Doug from Upland's first 'groupies', playing the piano and singing along to many of his songs! She found FR's Finest soon after we debuted our first thread; she was at home that day, suffering from a bad case of getting a bit too close to poison oak, and she has been one of our staunchest supporters and biggest cheerleaders since that first visit, seldom missing a day to comment, even on family getaways (where she will scope out the nearest public library for an internet connection if she has to)!
With Jim Robinson at the March for Justice, 10-30-98
We're so glad you found us... And we found you, Dutchess!
You're Definitely One of FR's Finest!
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THIS WEEK'S THREADs
10-14-02 Molly Pitcher
Opinions by our own 'King of Ping'
The guy's good, folks!
Thanks, Mixer!
1) Click on the graphic to open the Calendar. 2) Once there you can click on any month and even click to the right to go into next year. Once you are in the month that you joined FR you will need to click on the number in the calendar and then an add item screen will come up. 3) In the next box enter your name in the "Calendar Text" field and then click on submit. 4) If any of the screens fail to load simply click on refresh in your browser and that will usually fix it. 5) If all else fails or simply if you want me to do this for you send me an FReepmail and I will gladly do it for you. ~Mixer |
TOPICS: Culture/Society; Miscellaneous; News/Current Events; Political Humor/Cartoons
KEYWORDS: freepers; fun; military; ohio; patriotic; pets; surprises; veterans
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To: ST.LOUIE1
"Or Sexy Xy. : )" Sorry I left you alone in the arena, Wolfie, while I got some beauty sleep..:))
Great comeback, as always!
LOL
321
posted on
10/15/2002 3:17:07 PM PDT
by
LadyX
To: lodwick; ST.LOUIE1; JustAmy; WVNan
Just saw your MANOGRAM, JL, and will laugh forever!
That would indeed be poetic justice for the SO_ man who invented the Instrument of Torture for Wimmin.
LOL
322
posted on
10/15/2002 3:22:08 PM PDT
by
LadyX
To: LadyX
A farmer had some puppies he needed to sell.
He painted a sign advertising the 5 pups. And set about nailing it to a post on the edge of his yard.
As he was driving the last nail into the post, he felt a tug on his overalls. He looked down into the eyes of a little boy. "Mister," he said, "I want to buy one of your puppies." "Well," said the farmer, as he rubbed the sweat of the back of his neck, "These puppies come from fine parents and cost a good deal of money."
The boy dropped his head for a moment. Then reaching deep into his pocket, he pulled out a handful of change and held it up to the farmer.
"I've got thirty-nine cents. Is that enough to take a look?" "Sure," said the farmer. And with that he let out a whistle "Here,Dolly!" he called. Out from the doghouse and down the ramp ran Dolly followed by four little balls of fur.
The little boy pressed his face against the chain link fence. His eyes danced with delight. As the dogs made their way to the fence, the little boy noticed something else stirring inside the doghouse. Slowly another little ball appeared, this one noticeably smaller. Down the ramp it slid. Then in a somewhat awkward manner, the little pup began hobbling toward the others, doing its best to catch up....
"I want that one," the little boy said, pointing to the runt.
The farmer knelt down at the boy's side and said, "Son, you don't want that puppy. He will never be able to run and play with you like these other dogs would."
With that the little boy stepped back from the fence, reached down, and began rolling up one leg of his trousers. In doing so he revealed a steel brace running down both sides of his leg attaching itself to a specially made shoe.
Looking back up at the farmer, he said, "You see sir, I don't run too well myself, and he will need someone who understands."
To: dutchess
Mr. D. lurked here at work today...Billie...he was VERY impressed with your presentation and couldn't believe all the kind remarks. He says he has a better understanding of the "freeper family". Thanks, Dutchess. It actually went together pretty quickly - after you sent the picture of Dutchess! Wasn't sure how I wanted to start, until I saw her picture, and reading the things you had said in a couple of different letters about her. I knew then which way to go with it all. I'm glad Mr. D liked it. The 'family' photograph is beautiful - of ALL of you!
324
posted on
10/15/2002 3:24:51 PM PDT
by
Billie
To: ST.LOUIE1; JustAmy
I'm so glad Billie finally left to take her nap!
Be careful...Billie doesn't do 'naps'.
She's probably just lurking to try and catch one of us. : ( JustAMinute, you two hooligans! Caught ya! :) (Actually, that cartoon was pretty funny!)
325
posted on
10/15/2002 3:28:16 PM PDT
by
Billie
To: JustAmy
Amy, what are you giving Frank to drink?!!
I'm cracking up seeing all his posts!
326
posted on
10/15/2002 3:28:28 PM PDT
by
LadyX
To: Billie; dutchess
Made me put on my glasses
and use the magnifying glass, ya did.
Looks like Devonshire to me, and I assume it is legit.
Just looked *regal* like our dutchess, doncha know?!!
327
posted on
10/15/2002 3:33:46 PM PDT
by
LadyX
To: Billie
Thanks, Billie :)
Buddy went through a surgical procedure to remove a tumor in his snout. After about a year, the tumor reappeared. When Buddy was put down a while later, UC Davis Vet School sent a letter telling us that Buddy's local dr. made a contribution in Buddy's name to the Companion Dog Foundation. (sniff, sniff)
To: Diver Dave
Wonderful story, Dave.
We are better human beings when we learn from our pets their lessons of love and devotion.
329
posted on
10/15/2002 3:40:00 PM PDT
by
LadyX
To: ST.LOUIE1; Mama_Bear
He wouldn't dare. I'll sic Billie on him, LOL! ;-) etu, MzBear?! :) (Why's everybody always pickin' on me?) LOL
330
posted on
10/15/2002 3:46:11 PM PDT
by
Billie
To: humblegunner
Hi, humble - love the stern look of that eagle. :)
331
posted on
10/15/2002 3:47:57 PM PDT
by
Billie
To: dutchess; Billie
Hope you are still here Dutchess. Just read the complete thread from start to finish (including your profile for the second time)...It was an enchanting experience.
Billie did an excellent job, starting with a photo of Dutchess in her sunglasses and ending with a great picture of you and JimRob and a neat picture in between of the "family". (BTW W does not have much on Mr. D-but then I am sure you know that)...
Congratulations. You are a great and loyal FReeper and Conservative. Hope you enjoyed your very splendid day in the spotlight.
To: LadyX
THE Best (Kerry Blue) Puppy for 2002!! WAY TO GO! What is our puppy's name?
333
posted on
10/15/2002 3:50:41 PM PDT
by
Billie
To: Billie; dutchess
Hi, humble - love the stern look of that eagle. :) Now if only I could master ADDRESSING things properly!
(Yes, I like that particular eagle, too!)
To: Billie; Mama_Bear; dansangel
Hi guys...thanks for posting the calendar Billie...I'm glad you waited till I got here to do tea...
To: daisyscarlett
Hey, daisy! You're here! Good - I've got to go, and I'm not sure that JustFrank, Mudboy, LouieWolf, and lodwick don't need a little watching. You may have to wave the flyswatter a couple of times to get their attention. :) Hope you had a good day, but I'm glad you're here. And I did remember - rather late - to post the calendar!
336
posted on
10/15/2002 3:54:24 PM PDT
by
Billie
To: LadyX
Mr. Just is busy making wine; I think Frank has been out helping with the tasting!
337
posted on
10/15/2002 3:57:29 PM PDT
by
JustAmy
To: Billie; lodwick
Great thread today, Billie. Sorry I wasn't here earlier to participate but I did read every word and you're right I'll keep the flyswatter nearby...lol...but you were also right when you said that cartoon Lodwick posted-though close to the line-was funny!!
To: JustAmy
Your post has me confused...I thought Mr. Just was Frank???
To: Billie
He wouldn't dare. I'll sic Billie on him, LOL! ;-)etu, MzBear?! :)
Well, hey......I'd be right behind ya'. LOL!
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