I want to know each and every one of you (In honor of Khephra)

[bigwillq]

Hi my name is Will.

I've been posting on DU for almost 1-year and I have close to 10,000 posts.
I have chatted and PMed with some of you, some more than others, but there are thousands of DUers that I do not know. Yes, I see and read your threads and posts but that's the extent of what I know about you.

I didn't know Khephra all that well, I did read his posts, but I don't recall ever having a conversation with nim nor did I ever PM him.

I know many of you out there are saddened by his passing. I am too especially after reading the thousands of nice things everyone said about him.

Losing someone you care about is a horrible thing as we all know but I feel we need to learn something when someone dies.

So, I don't want to lose another DUer without getting a chance to know them better, like me in Kef's case.

So, my name is Will, it's nice to meet you.
Feel free to aske me any questions you would like in this thread and I will go ahead and ask away to you.

:hi:

[Bouncy Ball]

1. I didn't get to know Scott as well as I would have wanted to, either.

And I am really saddened by that.

Hi, my name is Bouncy Ball (sorry I can't risk it with my name). I'm not sure how many posts I have, but I've been around DU far longer than my membership date indicates.

I'm just a fairly normal 34 year old married woman, mother of one, living in the shitty suburbs of Dallas.

I love this place. And HI WILL! I always like seeing posts from you!

:hi:

[bigwillq]

5. Hi Bouncy Ball!

I enjoy your posts too! They always make me chuckle.

The # of posts part was just to point out that I have close to 10K but that I still don't know as many people as I would like.

I'm 26 living in CT. I'm a sports writer for a newspaper here.
I have a boyfriend, we've been together almost 4 years.

DU is the best!

So your child, boy or girl?:hi:

Share if you wish. I understand kids are a personal matter.

[Bouncy Ball]

8. The child is a girl child

who is 10 going on 37 and the light of my life (not to make anyone gag or anything). She and my husband are everything to me, my life.

I am in education, a consultant of sorts (can't go into too many details on that either) and am working on a Masters degree.

My Meyers-Briggs personality type is IMFJ, which makes me very rare!

[bigwillq]

30. Oh, those girl children

They can be a handful!:)

[bling bling]

208. I'm an IMFJ too!

You are rare! It's nice to meet another one.

[bicentennial_baby]

2. Hey Will!

I'm Heather! I'm a 28 y.o college student in MA! Nice to meet ya! :hi:

[bigwillq]

6. Hi Heather!

:hi:

It's nice to meet you.

What part of MA?

[bicentennial_baby]

15. Western MA

In the lovely, progressive, Pioneer Valley

[bigwillq]

36. Ain't it great to be BLUE!

I'm in a very DEM part of CT near and in New Haven. I work in NH and live about 10 miles away.

[roguevalley]

3. Hi Will. I'm Cathy. I live in Alaska and I'm a retired school teacher.Oo

I've been here since about 2002 I believe and without this place, I think I would have depression. Kephra was someone whose threads I always read because he was always so quick to find the news. There are some people who are just pillars in a community and when they go, it feels empty. Where do you live and what do you do everyday?

[bigwillq]

9. Hello Cathy!

I live in Connecticut. I am 26 years old and I'm a sports writer.

I like sports, movies and music.

I enjoy hanging out with my boyfriend and my other friends. I like to go clubbing/dancing.

I'm just a laid back guy who likes to have fun and be surrounded by happy people.

And oh yes, I would be lost without DU. It keeps me sane!:hi:

[wryter2000]

4. I'm Alice

From Oaktown, Bumpcity, aka Oakland, CA

[bigwillq]

11. What's going on Alice!

It's good to meet you!:hi:

[Tom_Foolery]

7. Hey, Will...

My name is Brent. I'm a 44 year-old dj in Kentucky. I've been on DU almost a year. I enjoy your posts very much.

[bigwillq]

13. Howdy, Brent!

I enjoy your posts as well!

Do you work at a radio station or are you a DJ for hire?

I am 26 and I live in CT. I'm a sports writer:hi:

[Tom_Foolery]

19. I work at a 100,000 watt country station n/t

[bigwillq]

40. Cool!

Who's your fave country singer?

[Tom_Foolery]

54. Current: Andy Griggs & Oldie: Don Williams...

I've worked just about every format there is.

[Bok_Tukalo]

10. Hello Will

My name is Mike. I've been here a few years but only started posting alot recently. I live in between Dallas and Ft Worth. I'm more conservative than most here but it seems share a great deal of interests with other members from art (I paint) to science fiction to political and social commentary. I really like this place and everyone seems to be more in tune with the way I think than I would have guessed.

[bigwillq]

16. What's up, Mike?

Glad you posted in here!:hi:

I live in CT. What is the red state of Texas like?

[Bok_Tukalo]

Like I said, I am more conservative than most DU'ers but in

Texas, I'm considered a raving liberal.

[bigwillq]

41. LOL! Raving liberal!

:)

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

18. Arlington or another suburb?

I used to live in Ft. Worth, and my brother in law owns a bar in Arlington.

[Bok_Tukalo]

29. Bedford

Not far from Arlington.

[RagingInMiami]

12. Hey Will

My name is Carlos and I'm a fellow journalist. I'm 36 years old and I spent seven years writing for daily newspapers, mostly about crime and immigration in the SW USA.
Now I'm freelancing for various magazines and about to start a masters program in creative writing.

[bigwillq]

20. Hola, Carlos!

I am 26 and I live in CT. I've been working at a daily newspaper for almost 3 years. I enjoy it, it's what I went to school for. It's a grind though, long hours, working all different days. But I have a job, I can't complain!

What made you get out of the newspaper biz?

Best of luck on your masters program!:hi:

[RagingInMiami]

39. What made me get out of the newspaper biz?

I can go on all day about this, but I'll keep it short. It's mostly to do with the corporate takeover of the nation's newspapers that kill a paper's competitive spirit.
When I first started at a small newspaper, the goal was to beat the larger regional rival. And their goal was not to let themselves be beat by us.
Today, a handful of media companies have purchased all the newspapers in various regions throughout the U.S., putting an end to the competition. In fact, reporters at papers that were once competing against each other, are now forced to share information.
With nobody to compete against, it no longer is a priority to provide readers with the latest, most compelling news, no matter whose feet you stepped on.
My last job was at the Arizona Republic, a paper owned by Gannett, the largest media company in the world. They have a very cookie-cutter approach to news. They are very soft.
I was covering the police beat and wanted to do investigative reporting. They wanted me to write 10-inch features, at least two a day, to fill the paper.
It got old real fast. I have no regrets in leaving the biz behind.

[bigwillq]

44. Sounds like how it's getting up here in CT

I expect to stay here only a few more years. This job is my first "real" job out of college and so far it's been a real learning experience. I'm only 26 and figure I'll stay for a bit and then move on.


I would like to write more political pieces or get into an entertainment publication.

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

14. Peace be with you

I am Ayesha Haqqiqa, which is my spiritual name. I am nearly 54, and live in the Arkansas Ozarks. My husband and I lead the Dances of Universal Peace, which I would say is one of the main spiritual practices in our lives. I also serve on the Board of Directors of an integrative medicine foundation that combines traditional medicine with herbs, homeopathy, and different forms of energy techniques.

Hello, Will! You live in the same state as my favorite actor, Sam Waterston, who lives in Litchfield County.

[bigwillq]

22. Sounds like you lead a very interesting life

I am very interested in alternative spirituality.

I was raised Catholic but haven't attended church in many years (except for a wedding or a funeral).

I feel that spirituality comes from within and not from a religious form.

It's very nice to meet you!:hi:

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

33. Nice to meet you

as a journalist, you might find it interesting to take in a Dances of Universal Peace meeting. It would make for an interesting feature, especially in these times of hate and distrust among people. I'm sure there are several Dance meetings within driving distance for you. Check it out at:
http://www.dancesofuniversalpeace.org/

[bigwillq]

37. Thanks for the link

I will check it out:hi:

[Spacemom]

140. Hi Ayesha Haqqiqa!

I plan on attending my first dance next week.

I can't wait, it sounds really beautiful. :loveya:

[cal04]

17. Hi Will

Great Idea, to get to know people
I didn't know Khephra, although I read his posts everyday. I will miss him.
I live on Long Island, nice to meet you and everyone here.

[bigwillq]

24. L.I.-Not too far from me

I am in CT!

It's nice to meet you!:hi:

[fluffernutter]

21. Hi Will. i am saddened by the loss of Khephra as well

it really hits home when we lose someone we enjoy and appreciate so suddenly like this. so, thank you for posting this.

will, you are someone i know i like already from your posts (and i think i have told you before) it is nice to get to know you better as time goes on :pals:

i lurked at DU for a while before finally posting after the election, when i felt like i needed to be around more liberal people and hopefully make a change somehow in the state of our country, and i jumped in. i'm glad to be here.

:hi: hi everyone~looking forward to getting to know you all better, beth

[bigwillq]

27. Oh, fluffernutter, thanks for the kind words

Yes you told me that before and I appreciate it!

You are becoming one of my fave DUers as well!:pals:

We kind of have the same sense of humor and I am also enjoying getting to know you better!


I came to DU just before primary season. DU has helped me understand the political process better. I've learned so much from so many.

[Longgrain]

76. Hopefully not to Hijack this thread but

Hi Ellie, I know we haven't talked as much as we used to...

For the longest time it seemed like you were the only one who wanted to take the time to get to know me...and I'm so glad you did.

I'm happy to see we've both added a few other friends to our buddies list...

:pals:

[fluffernutter]

184. i am glad we met...

if not for DU, i wouldn't know you, and i am glad that i do.

you are a talented and caring person, and i am lucky to call you my friend.

:hug: beth/ellie

[Richardo]

215. Hi Will!

Nice initiative.

Kudos!

Rich

[J-Lo Biafra]

23. My name is Juliana Sims

From just outside Kansas City, Missouri. I am a 19-year old college student majoring in Secondary Ed- English. I just became politically involved over the past year, and I am fairly new to DU.

[bigwillq]

28. Welcome to DU!

Nice to meet you!:hi:

[jonnyblitz]

25. hi my name is jonny!

:P I will try to get down to new haven this week (we have discussed my vehicle issue in PMs but it works out because of YOUR schedule) to meet you when you get out of work and get this "meeting" DUers thing rolling for ya! no reason not to since you are only down the road from me at your work! :hi:

[bigwillq]

32. Hi Johnny

I'm Will, I'm 26 and I live in CT.....oh wait...are you the same Jonnyblitz who keeps PMing me???

Leave me alone, stalker!:silly:

Seriously, yes we need to me. ASAP!:hi:

[jonnyblitz]

46. ha ha

hahaha . funny. :hug:

[bigwillq]

50. Glad you enjoyed that!

:hug: :pals:

[pres2032]

26. hey Will, what's up?

i'm steve, a senior in college, political science major. I've lived in Pennsylvania my whole life and plan to spend the rest of it here involved in its politics or in DC politics. hope we can chat!

[bigwillq]

34. What's going on, Steve?

It's nice to meet you.

What part of PA?:hi:

[pres2032]

49. Eastern PA

Lehigh Valley

[5thGenDemocrat]

31. Hi. I'm John and I was fortunate enough to meet Kheph

He came to our FUNDAY party here in Saginaw three years ago and, as you'd expect, charmed us all with his wonderful personality -- even those who were only here for the beer and even those who were Republicans.
He was one of a kind. I hope a lot of DUers can make FUNDAY XI this year (on June 18). We'll figure out some way to honor Kheph (my brain is not functioning that well just yet) and we'll hoist something non-alcoholic in his memory.
John
It's nice meeting you too, Will. I don't know that we've ever chatted before (honestly, I'm not here as much as I used to be), but I suspect Kef would think it's high time we started.

[bigwillq]

35. Good to meet you John

I'm sorry for the loss of your friend, Khephra.


Let's not be strangers!:hi:

[DancingBear]

38. Hello Will

Dave here - born and raised in Connecticut (just outside New Haven).

My wife and I currently live in VA, but we're moving back to NH soon (hooray!)

I'm 51, and I build custom furniture for a living.

Nice to meet you. :hi:

[bigwillq]

45. Hello Dave--

When was the last time to came up to CT?

If you do again, we should meet.:hi:

[DancingBear]

56. I get up there fairly often

Mom still lives there.

I'll PM you the next time I come up!

[bigwillq]

58. Cool!

I'm never meant a fellow DU! I might be soon!

I can't wait! You better PM me!

[BulletproofLandshark]

42. Hi Will

My name is Ian. I'm 28 years old and I live in Strasburg,VA. I don't post all that much, but I've been coming to DU for news for about 3 years now. Because of people like Khephra, I am much more informed about the nature of the world than I ever could have been otherwise. Wherever he is now, I think it must bring him a lot of happiness to know so many people cared about him.

[bigwillq]

48. A warm welcome to you, Ian

You should post more often, if time allows.
:hi:

[stepnw1f]

43. Hi Bill

My name is Markus. It's very nice to meet you and a welcome to all newbies.

Keph, I will miss your posts. I wish I had known you better for I now know the World around me a little better. It's time I contributed the way you did to the DU community. Thank you Keph, you live on here.

[bigwillq]

51. Are the Pats going to win it all?

Nice to meet you Markus!:hi:

[stepnw1f]

57. I Don't Think So

I see Pittsburg taking it this time. But hey... this team does show resilience. The DB are in troube and have been the Pats #1 weakness this year. We'll have to see.

Seriously, If Patriots don't make it, I want Pittsburg to.

Anyways, hello from Boston.

[bigwillq]

62. I'm going with the Colts

Pittsburg's rookie QB makes me weary of them.

Come playoff time, you have to go with experience, imo.

[MuseRider]

47. Will, I am Lynne.

:hi: We have encountered each other a couple of times. Your post comes at a very good time. Sorrow over the loss of Khephra and the fact that my youngest is leaving this evening to go back to school. Both boys gone and I am sad to see them go.

I am in Kansas. A classical musician first a farmer/rancher second. I came here in September 2002 I think.

I have to go out to the farm now but I am going to bookmark this thread to come back to tonight. Thanks, I needed this today. Lets get aquainted.

Since I have to leave and have not read through the other responses yet let me ask a question, I hope it has not been asked already. What is your most favorite thing in the world to do with your spare time?

[bigwillq]

53. Answer--Be with my family, boyfriend and other friends

I like to surround myself with the people that love and care about me!:hi:



We will talk later!

[Texasgal]

52. Hello Will!

My name is Jana! I reside in the great state of Texas and I am addicted to DU!

This sounds suspiciously like an AA meeting!

Nice thread, and nice to meet you!

[bigwillq]

59. Nice to meet you too, Jane!

I am addicted to DU too! We might need to go to classes for that Soon!:hi:

[Acryliccalico]

55. Hi Will

I am Dawn and live about 100 miles west of Chicago. I am 55 years old and have 4 children. I have a BA in Psy/Soc and was a substance abuse counselor for 2 years, a sub. teacher 1 year. Second husband passed away 2002.

[bigwillq]

60. You lead a full life!

Nice to meet you, Dawn!:hi:

[Longgrain]

61. Hey Will

It's just me Pete, I think we've talked once or twice before.

I'm living with my parents now in north central Massachusetts...and a couple of other DUers have taken the time to get to know me, and some of the personal struggles I've been dealing with over the last six months...

Most people around here know me as an artist/ writer. I'm not always as politically motivated as some people around here are, but I am a life-long Dem and a true friend to anyone who's looking for one.

I feel bad about Khephra, since I really didn't get a chance to know him...

I found this earlier today...It appears to be the only conversation Kleph and I had...

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=279x129

I really wish we could have talked some more...:-(

[bigwillq]

65. Hi Pete-

I enjoy your posts! I hope we can get to know each other better!

At least I know what you look like-All your pic threads!:)

Feel free to PM me if you get a chance.

I'm a good listener. I'm not really aware of some of your struggles. Feel free to share if you wish.:hi:

[Longgrain]

73. I have way too many pm correspondances going on right now...

So don't be offended if I don't answer you...but you seem like a nice guy.

A few more things about me...

I wrote my first novel about two years ago, and have been having a hell of a time getting it published. I started out as an art student, and have been trying to get back to school for about a year now, I just can't afford it. My father and my brother are unemployed, so I've been helping the family out...(plus living at home is a lot cheaper).

I'm also dealing with a break up with a young woman who i had high hopes for starting a long term relationship with, and I very recently had several close friends move away...

Hope that explains a few things...
:)

[bigwillq]

82. Thanks for sharing!

I won't bother you with the PMs then.

It seems like you have a lot on your plate.
Just remember, I'm here to listen if you ever need an ear.

[Longgrain]

84. Thanks...

I'll be looking for you...:)

[Lenape85]

63. Well, I'm a college student at Ramapo College of NJ

...which sucks; I wish I could transfer. I am about to turn 20 years old and am an environmental studies major. I'm single as of right now.

[bigwillq]

66. It's nice to meet you!

:hi:


Where would you like to transfer to?

[smbolisnch]

64. Hi Will!

I didn't know Kephera well either, but the feeling of loss at DU is palpable. I wish I would have known him better, he was obviously a wonderful guy!

My name is Meg, and I am a 25 year old college student. I have been married for a little over 6 years and I looking forward to graduating next spring! Oh yes, and my father in law was a sports writer/editor for years and years. He is even in the sports hall of fame! My very own celebrity ;) Wonderful to meet you! :hug:

[bigwillq]

67. Kudos to your father in law!

It's nice to officially meet you. I have read some of your posts and you responded to some of the movie threads I posted!

Graduating? Undergrad or grad?:hi:

[smbolisnch]

68. Undergrad.....

Respiratory therapy :D

[bigwillq]

71. Congrats in advance of your graduation!

:hi:

[smbolisnch]

77. Thanks, Will! (nt)

[Gothic Sponge]

69. Hi Will!

I'm Mike. I remember you gave me good advice when i was down over my break up. I just wanted to let you know i never forgot that. :hi:

[bigwillq]

70. Glad I was able to help!

I enjoy your posts!:hi:

[Lydia Leftcoast]

72. I'm not going to give my real name now, but I'm

a 54-year-old free-lance translator living in Minneapolis.

[bigwillq]

81. Hi Lydia Leftcoast

Nice to meet you!:hi:

[VolcanoJen]

74. What a great thread, Will! Hi everyone, I'm Jennifer!

I've been around DU as long as Kef, and my heart aches with the loss of my friend.

I want to know everyone, too... now more than ever.

I miss you already, Scott. :-(

[bigwillq]

85. Hi Jennifer

You're all over this place. I've read many of your posts!


I'm glad you like this thread. I figured this was the least I can do. We need to find the positives out of a tragic loss like Scott's passing.

If nothing else, maybe I and my fellow DUers can make this more of a friendly place than it already is.:hi:

[charlyvi]

75. Hi bigwillq!

I'm charlyvi.....nice to met ya, though I still think white cornbread is best.

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

79. Hi, I'm Maryam!

I'm a 42-year-old third-year law student in Pittsburgh, PA. After graduation I'm moving to Irving, TX to join my husband, who's a psychiatrist at UT Southwestern. I work at Neighborhood Legal Services in Pittsburgh. We have no children, but have two cats, Monty and Simba. I'm a Virgo. I love cats, "Seinfeld," reading, scrapbooking, computers and politics. I'm still a Dean supporter, but will support anyone who can get this maniac out of office.

[bigwillq]

89. Hi Maryam!

From one Dean fan to the next-:toast:

[bigwillq]

86. Yellow!

:hi:

I enjoy your posts!:pals:

[MarianJack]

78. Hi, Will!

My name is Jack and I'm married to the lovely Maria (hence my user name) and the father of a wonderful son who will be 5 in March.

Our family is an ethnic crazy quilt. I'm white, my wife Puerto Rican and our son African American.

We moved from the Philadelphia area to Maine almost 3 years ago. My wife is a (GREAT) teacher. I've been under or unemployed (mostly under)for the last 19 months but things are starting to look good for a couple of positions.

Thank you for your post as I do believe that we are a community here that is united by our commonalities much more than divided by our differences!

Peace to you and yours in this new year. Better times for America WILL come.

[bigwillq]

88. What a pleasure to meet you!

Please join in the Interracial relationship forum.

I am white also and my love is Puerto Rican.


It sounds like you lead a fulfilling life.

Best of luck to you as well in 2005. I hope all goes well in your job search!:hi:

[MarianJack]

93. Thanks! A Question though!

When you step out of line does your S.O. smile and remind you that Lorena Bobbit was ALSO a Hispanic woman?

[bigwillq]

106. LOL!

I never step out of line!:evilgrin:

on edit: I'm more likely to pull a Bobbitt on his ass, er, ..his ...you know what I mean!

[CO Liberal]

80. Hi, Will - I'm Wayne

I've been posting here on DU since September 9, 2001. Like everyone else, I will miss Khephra. He usually posted stories before I heard them on the radio.

I live in Southern Colorado with my wife (The Princess, another DU-er), our cat Della, and our dogs Peanut and Pearl. I work for a major defense contractor in Colorado Springs, heading up a team of writers documenting the GPS satellite system that makes OnStar and GPS positioning possible.

Here at home, I'm a precinct co-chair and a member of the Central Committee of the Pueblo County Democratic Party.

[bigwillq]

90. Wayne,

:hi:

I've read many of your posts and your wife's as well.
She's a hot sketch, huh? She make me laugh!


It's nice to meet you!

[SarahB]

83. Hi, I'm Sarah.

You always go out of your way to be incredibly nice to me- just because. I just wanted you to know I appreciate that. Since you are close by, I hope to be able to meet you one day. You're a great guy. :pals:

[bigwillq]

91. Well that's cause you're such a sweetie!

I enjoy your posts! I too, hope we can meet. I have never met a DUer in person and hopefully that will change soon. I'm not sure if I can go to the Feb. 5 meetup at Dodi's house but I'm going to try. I may have to work like you (I read the thread in the CT forum).


Cheers!:hi:

[jus_the_facts]

87. Hey....

....I'm Amberley...just Amber is all well and good tho!! :hi: :hug:

:loveya: ~*~RIP Kheph~*~ :loveya:

[bigwillq]

92. Amber-Alert! Hee-Hee!

:hi:

[mitchtv]

94. Hi, Big Will

I am a retired Union activist(CWA & TIU) I retired for health reasons in the 90's(Lover transplant) I am fine now I live in the Palm springs area with my Partner of 28 years. I mostly lurk, tho I have a few posts under my belt. I am a veteran of the "Movement" in the 60' and 70's What times those were. I yearn for the militantism of those years to return. I suspect it will take a draft.

[bigwillq]

107. Hi MitchTV

Thanks for taking part!:hi:

[Dastard Stepchild]

95. Howdy! My name is Stephanie :)

I've been a member of DU since the beginning of 2004. I started out at SmirkingChimp.com, and made my way over here after following a link from that site. To date, I am only active on DU, and only really visit other Dem sites sporadically. I only have about 500 posts - not from lack of interest, but from a serious lack of time. As such, my name may not be easily recognizable. I keep wanting to be a member of the 1000+ club, but other responsibilities always get in the way.

I'm a Lounge junkie because I prefer the humor in life to the somber, though I do visit and appreciate the other forums as well. Mostly, I just wanna laugh with other Dems.

Things that DUers may not know about me:

1. I LOVE to do research. I really hope to get my PhD some day. I'm slowly working towards that goal.

2. I am a very committed vegan, and I adore all animals. They make me smile, even when I see them in pictures. I always click on the kitty threads, even if I don't respond.

3. I love the winter, and I love snow. I am always happy this time of year.

4. I like to take photographs of off-the-beaten-track places of the cities and towns I visit. Little details catch my eye.

5. If I could puruse any interests with no regard for a need for income, it would be art and popular culture studies.

6. I really like public transportation.

7. I kinda want to be cynical, because then the horrors of life wouldn't bother me so much. My sarcasm makes me sound cynical, but really, I am a big softie and am in constant awe and/or terror of the world around me.

8. I can't carry cash in my pockets because I give it to homeless individuals I see downtown... in 2004, I estimate I gave over $300 homeless people.

9. I really like DU, and need a daily fix. I may not have a high post count, but I count on this site to be an oasis away from the increasingly conservative world that is cropping up around me.

10. I used to play the cello, and rue the day I gave it up to pursue a vaguely satisfying high school social life.

11. I get sweaty plams and heart palpitations when I have to speak in front of a large group - even in a normal classroom setting.

12. I am the very proud daughter of two very proud Democrats. I love my parents more than they could ever know.

OK - I'd love to hear your list of things DUers don't know about you! :)

[bigwillq]

109. Well, that was quite an intro!

:)

Thanks for sharing!

I will make a list for everyone. I'm a tad busy at work but when I get a chance, I'll do it!:hi:

[Cuban_Liberal]

96. Hi! Tony here

My name is Tony, and I'm a 27 year-old gay male from the tiny downstate community of Arcola, the heart of Illinois' Amish country. My area is fairly 'maroon', meaning that while it tends to favor Republicans at the polls, it's not unheard of for Democrats to be elected.

As far as personal background goes, I have 3 older sisters and 3 younger brothers, and I fairly well fit the stereotype of what a middle child is. My dad is a first-generation Mexican-American and my mom is an escapee/immigrant from Cuba who is now a naturalized American citizen. I was born in Miami and lived most of my life in the South, although I gradated high school in Indiana. I'm an Army veteran and have worked as both a paramedic and a deputy sheriff. I graduated from Wabash College in Crawfordsville, IN and am currently attending law school at UIUC. With my life-partner, Padraig18, I co-own a small news agency and an independent bookstore.

I'm politically active on the local and congressional district levels, serving as a precinct committeeman and as a member of my county party's executive committee. I have no current political aspirations beyond these, although that could and likely will change in a few years.

Temperamentally, I'm pretty laid back, although I've been known to become pretty cranky with RW disruptors, bullies and people who don't understand the meaning of the word 'no. *grin*

:hi:

[bigwillq]

110. Where did I see this post before!?

;-)

Thanks for posting it in my little thread!


Tony, you're one of my fave DUers (and Paddy too!) You are a great guy, intelligent, caring, honest, witty..the list goes on and on..

And oh yeah, sexy too!:evilgrin:
I have a thang for Latino guys!

[Dzimbowicz]

97. Hi Will

You helped me the other day to accumluate posts to escape the 700 club and I would like to thank you once again for that. As you can see, I have now made it.

I am a public school teacher, a veteran and have been a Democrat since I was a teen in the early 70s.

:hi:

[bigwillq]

111. Congrats on 800 posts!

:toast:


Thanks for sharing!:hi:

[peacefreak]

98. Hi Will

I'm Pat. I live in Northern New England. Kef's been on my mind all day, too. I took off for a drive today so as to not waste a beautiful day.
I couldn't help but think that he was trying so hard to get the news out that he forgot to take care of himself.
I've been here since 2003. My post count is not very high, because I'm a pretty quiet person.
The impact that all of you have had on me is tremendous though. I am here every day. I always learn something here. Or smile. Or like yesterday--cry.
So here's to Kef's wisdom, Will Pitt's writing, SarahBelle's journey, NMSA's truth, & even Matcom's ass. We may not be able to see each other, but you are all as real to me as the people I love in my family.

[bigwillq]

112. That's a great post!

I too am touched by no many of you everyday!:hi:

[no_hypocrisy]

99. Hi Will!

PM if you ever have a question about a traffic ticket. I'm an attorney who specializes in the area.

What's your forte?

[bigwillq]

113. Where were you a few years back?

I got two speeding tickets within a year of each other.

Cost me a buddle!

I guess sports-I am a sports writer. Or movies.

Nice to meet ya!:hi:

[no_hypocrisy]

150. Well, I'm here if you need me now. Knock on wood.

My favorite cousin is also a sports writer. Is this something you do or something you love to do?

[bigwillq]

153. I hope I won't have to need you but I'm glad

you're offerring your help!

My job is something that I love to do!

[JohnKleeb]

100. We know each other well Will but I am John, Kleeb, or whatever

variation of my name you wanna call me. 17 years old and from the state of Virginia. One thing I'd like to share and I felt this way on the eve of the election too, I just wish we all had met under better times, Ive met many people who I consider life friends, people who I wish I lived closer to so we could hang out, the last two times Ive hanged out with DUers have not been politically intended at all but just hanging out and talkin life, I am gonna have that oppertunity again in a couple of weeks and I can't wait.

[bigwillq]

114. My man Kleeb-

You're the best! Nice post, I agree!

I'm hoping to meet my first DUer in person very soon! I can't wait!:hi:

[JohnKleeb]

117. you're meeting Jonny aintcha?

heh funny, he was the second I met :). I know with certainity that pretty much none of us wouldn't have met if 2000 hadn't happened, its been a learning experience for me, met some great people. You know Ive never mentioned this but Jonny used to be my nickname in summer camp, I had a dream about those guys last night, I had a great bond with them too, way before I used the internets so I don't know what happened to them, sigh it was so fun back then.

[bigwillq]

124. Aww, the good old days!

The more I get older, the more I realize that people come and go in life. Whether, they pass away or move away, people will exit and enter your life everyday.

The important thing is to learn something from those people and cherish the time you spent with them.

BTW, yes, I am planning on meeting Jonny! I am so excited!:)

[JohnKleeb]

127. He really is a good guy

I miss some of the people Ive lost touch with, sigh if only I had their addresses and stuff, and wrote them, it would just be nice to hang out with them and discuss things as adults pratically, they were like 20 when they were my conselor and I was like eh 9.

[bigwillq]

129. I worked at a summer camp for 5 years

I loved working with kids and I too met so many nice kids who I since lost touch with.

I hope all those kids are doing well. I miss them, too!:hug:

[JohnKleeb]

132. heh I was the kid,

Really, I wish I hadn't lost touch, its been so long though, my last year of that camp was when I was going in to 6th grade I think. That was so long ago.

[bigwillq]

134. I know you were the kid!

At the camp I worked at, you can only be under 13 in order to go to it.

But that's a good age. I felt like I was able to teach them things and help them out before they got to an age where they think they know everything.

[JohnKleeb]

137. Yeah

sorry was confused. Damnit, those days would probably seem oh so corny now but they were so much fun back in the day, I met one of my future crushes, not a current crush but a crush I had at camp one year, I had plans to work at that camp when I would be eligible but my life plans changed :shrug:, kind of a shame but it really was becoming a shame of its former self when I left because I was too old, many of my favorite conselors were leaving because they were graduating college and stuff, and here am now, almost graduating from high school. You know what the funny thing is come to think of it, I think I knew a sister of a conselor I had and I didnt realize she was her sister until recently.

[HEyHEY]

101. My names Terry, I"m blonde 6,4 pretty muscular

I'm a personal trainer in Fairbanks Alaska.

[Cuban_Liberal]

102. Lying bitch!

:spank: :P

[JohnKleeb]

103. thats sexist!

oh now you got me thinking of sex, bad kleeb!

[HEyHEY]

104. AH!

[bigwillq]

115. LOL!

Hey, you!:hi:

[Shananigans]

165. Damn....and here I thought...

;)

[Pithlet]

105. Hi, Will

My name is Dawn. I've been a member of DU for over 3 years. I'm married to another DUer (kcr, he introduced me to this place) and we have two boys: one who will be 4 next month, and 14 months. Nice to meet you, too :hi: even though I already knew who you were :)

Scott's passing made me realize what a big part of my life DU really is. One of my biggest regrets is that I didn't get out to the big meet in Boston in 2002, or any of the other ones. I've yet to meet a single DUer in person, yet I feel close to many of those I've met here over the years. We can't take each other for granted. Thanks for this post.

[bigwillq]

116. Hello, Dawn!

I know you too but I thought this thread can be a nice way of maybe getting to know each other better or maybe saying hello to a Newbie!

We may even meet a "new" friend.:hi:

[proud2BlibKansan]

108. Hi Will

What a great idea you have here. I too have enjoyed Khephra's LBNs and have adopted that as my major news source after giving up newspapers and TV news in the past year. I never talked to him directly but I did appreciate his efforts to keep us all informed and I do feel very sad today. It is a great loss.

I have been coming to DU for a little over a year now. Don't remember how I found it but it has been a lifesaver to me, especially since Nov.2. Thank you DUers!!

I am 51, old enough to remember the nightmare of the Vietnam War and Nixon. I grew up watching the war and the Civil Rights struggles of the 60s on TV every day. I think that's what shaped my liberalism. I have watched many of my peers turn conservative but I just become more liberal all the time. Watching the monster in the WH just pushes me farther to the left.

I teach special ed in a large urban school district. This is my 25th year in education. I spend a lot of time at the education board.

Oh, and I live in the burbs of KC and learned to hate rush when he was just the announcer for the Royals. He was a jerk even then :)

The other great gift in my life this past year has been Air America. I know without it and DU, I would have lost my mind months ago, here in fundie land.

So rock on DU and smooth sailing to Kef.

[bigwillq]

118. Thanks for a wonderful post!

:hi:

[DontBlameMe]

119. HI, Will. My name's Brendan.

I don't post too much, but I remember when Khephra was in the single digit thousand posts! I mean, like, 6 or 7 thousand! He always was a class act. Hell, I remember a post of his where we had to guess his gender, cause everyone always thougt he was a she. I don't know why I remember that, I just always do.

Like you I didn't know Kef as well as I would have liked. It always seemed I was too busy bouncing in and out of DU to really get to know anyone.

But I'll tell you this. I plan to make it my new years resolution to get to know each and every Du'er I can this year.


So, Will, where do you live and what do you do, when you're not on Du that is?

Me, I'm an unemployed IT geek who's currently a stay at home dad for a 19 month old bundle of piss and vinegar, with another on the way.

[bigwillq]

122. Hi!

I live in Connecticut, I am a sports writer.

I enjoy sports, movies, music, being outdoors, dancing/clubbing/partying and I like to surround my self with family and friends.:hi:

[auntAgonist]

120. Hi Will

I'm just me, auntAgonist aka Kesha. I'm originally from Scotland, lived in Canada most of my life. Now I'm in Michigan. I used to be a long distance trucker, I studied to be a mortician, worked with people who were dumped on the streets when Ontario government closed down psychiatric hospitals, I've been fortunate enough to see and do so much. I don't post a whole lot here on DU. My threads sink hard and fast :)
This is a great idea you have here.

thanks.

[bigwillq]

123. Hello

Don't give up on your threads!:hi:

[auntAgonist]

126. too much

information .. I bored you :(

[bigwillq]

128. I am not bored with you!

And that was not nearly enough info.

I'm at work and I'm trying to respond to everyone who posts in this thread but I also have to get some work done so I'm sorry if my reply was short.

But I just wanted to at least say Hi and thank you for replying to my thread.

I am going to print out this thread before I leave work and then read it again!

:hi:

[auntAgonist]

151. I'm just giving

you a hard time :)

You're doing well in responding to everyone!


good work Will!

:toast:

[bigwillq]

156. Thanks!

I'm having fun. But it's for a good cause, for Khephra. I don't know how it's exactly helping Scott or his family but I feel you always learn something when someone passes and you need to take the positive out of a bad situation.
Scott's death has taught me not to take anyone for granted. I hope that makes sense.

[bo44]

121. Hey Will my name is bo and I am glad to meet you

[bigwillq]

125. Nice to meet you too, Bo!

:hi:

[opiate69]

130. Hi, Will.

My name is Rick, and I'm a 35 year old musician living in Washington State. I actually grew up in Connecticut, though I've been here in Wash. for 15 years. Here's to Kheph, may he rest in peace, and new-found friends. :toast:

[bigwillq]

131. Hello, Rick

What part of CT? :hi:

[opiate69]

136. All over, actually..

Stamford (my grandparents still live there), Norwalk, West Haven, and tiny little Griswold. I do miss it, terribly sometimes, but Washington is home for me now.

[huskerlaw]

133. Hello Will!

Great idea! My name is Lisa and I'm a lawyer/college student in Nebraska. I've been on the board for a while, but don't really know anyone yet.

[bigwillq]

135. Welcome, Lisa!

Tell us more!

Feel free to ask me more questions!:hi:

[huskerlaw]

138. More info and some questions...

I'm 26, working on a Master's degree. I've got an adorable cat named Riley. I'm hoping to move out of this red state hell ASAP, probably to the West coast. I've been pondering getting into politics, but haven't decided exactly how to do that. ;)

What do you do? Any kids? Cute pets (since they seem to be popular around here)? What brought you to DU?

[bigwillq]

142. I am a sports writer

No kids, I'm gay (I have a boyfriend!)

Me and my man have 2 chinchilas, a turtle and 4 fish.

I found DU while googling Howard Dean's name last year!

[huskerlaw]

183. Oooh sports!!

I've always thought that would be a great career. I'm that girl that the guys like to hang out with because I love watching and discussing sports. I love the Huskers, of course, but also the Patriots, Yankees, and UConn (because the Husker b-ball team is merely a formality).

[Individualist]

139. Hi Will

I'm Brenda, a 61 year old retired medical secretary, divorced for many years, living alone with my (sometimes) psychotic cat. I didn't know Khephra personally, but having read so very many of his posts for nearly three years, I feel as if I have a hole in my heart today. :cry:

[bigwillq]

143. Hello Brenda

I know, it's such a sad time.
But we're all in this together.:hi:

[Bullwinkle925]

141. Howdy, Will

My name is Sue...........(Please, no Johnny Cash jokes). I didn't know Keph either. I've just joined DU in the past couple of weeks.
He sounds like he was a genuinely nice person. It's nice that there is a tremendous outpouring of sympathy for him. I hope he knew how much he meant to people.
I'm in California. Have been a Democrat all my life and lean toward the Liberal side of things. Endured, barely, the past 4 years and am certainly not looking forward to the next 4.
Moved to CA from Kansas a thousand years ago. Didn't know what a breath of fresh air was like until I made it to a Blue State!
It's nice of you to want to get to know people here on this site.
For the most part, I've been genuinely impressed by the kindnesses shown by the DU'ers.

[bigwillq]

144. Welcome Sue!

Glad you're a part of our little group!:hi:

[proud2BlibKansan]

154. What part of Kansas?

I'm in KC

[Bullwinkle925]

216. I was born in El Dorado

and left there in '68. Been a Californian ever since. Despite how I feel about the limited mind expansion in Kansas, it is still my 'home' and at times I miss the experience of a small town atmosphere. Guess that's just a sign of aging - harkening back to the comfort and warmth of childhood.

[Spacemom]

145. Hello Will, I'm Melissa.

I've only been here at DU for about a month now. I'm 33. I've been married for 11 years and we have 2 beautiful boys. (9 and 4) I'm a stay at home mom. We live in Austin. It's a tiny oasis of blue in an ocean of red. :D At least Kerry carried Travis county. :P

I didn't really know Scott, but from all the beautiful memorials here, I feel as though I did. It sounds like he was a kind and caring person. We all lose when the world loses a person like that. My condolences to all his friends and family.

DU is full of wonderful people. :grouphug:

[bigwillq]

146. Welcome Melissa!

That's my sister's name!


Glad you found your way to DU!:hi:

[Downtown Hound]

147. Hey Will

My name is Mac and I live in CA. I'm 28 years old and I used to make TV commercials, but now I'm about to go to trucking school and be a truck driver. In Bush's America, it's the only job I can find that pays $50,000 a year, and I don't want to work for the corporate media anymore. I want to make independent movies, and I need some dollars to do that.

Keph was a great one. We had similar interests, we often found we liked the same movies, and I just found out that at one time he posted a thread about Johnny Cash's Main in Black at one point. I posted a thread about that myself not too long ago, not knowing that he'd already done so. So apparently, we liked a lot of the same things. He will be missed greatly.

[bigwillq]

149. What's up Mac!

I hope you follow your dream to make movies!

I always wanted to be a director, I still want to do that but it's a tough biz to break into. But I am now in a job that I love so we'll see what happens.

I hope things work out for you. Stay in touch.:hi:

[katinmn]

148. Hi Will! I thought the same thing and I'm glad you started this thread.

I'm 48 and the mom of a 13-year-old.

I'm a freelance science and health writer. I also write some political essays but the health writing is my bread and butter for now.

I was lured to DU by a post Skinner made to another forum I was active on last summer. I think it had to do with the swift boat liars. Anyhow, I liked DU from the start and after bouncing between the two for some months I decided my heart was with DU and I became a contributor in September.

DU was a lifeline during the campaign, the election, and its aftermath, and remains so to this day.

I'm very proud of what the DU contributed to the Boxer Rebellion January 6.

[bigwillq]

152. Nice to meet you!

DU has helped me so much over the course of the last year. I would go insane without it. It's amazing how much DU is a part of my life. It's like I'm sharing a part of my life with so many people.

DU is best during times of crisis and the election aftermath was one of those times I depended on DU the most.

It's also great to follow events with the other members. Not only political events but something so silly like Halloween, I remember we all posted what we were going to dress up like.


Hope to chat with you soon. :hi:

[Deja Q]

155. This is a lovely idea of yours.

My name is Dave. It's nice to meet you too. :toast:

[bigwillq]

157. Hey Dave!

You're one of my fave DUers!:toast:

[mr blur]

158. Hi, Keith here

I'm 49, live in the south of England with my wife, son and two stepsons.
I'm a socialist who thinks that Blair is way too far to the right and only his removal holds any hope for the future of the Labour Party over here. I worked for years to help get the Tories out only to find that the government we finally replaced them with was led by a clown only too happy to be a supporter of American imperialism.
Anyhoo, I used to have a graphic design business until a diagnosis with MS put an end to it so now I'm one of the idle poor though not too badly done by as we live in a society where welfare is not an evil word and healthcare is free for all. I have a (possibly) unhealthy obsession with Tom Verlaine and the band Television and spend a lot of time tweaking my TV website.
I started coming here when we started to realise that was was happening with The Chimp was going to have dangerous repercussions on the rest of the world. And it has.

[bigwillq]

161. Hello, Keith

Greetings from the U.S.

My mom's mother is from Liverpool. She met my grandfather when he was in the war.

She came over on the original Queen Mary (I hope that's the name of the boat!)

:hi:

[6000eliot]

159. Hi Will. I'm Dan.

I've been lurking here for a couple of years, but only recently started to post with any regularity. I'm very shy and take a while to warm up. Anyway, I'm 40, and I teach college. I've been with my partner for 10 years. How long have you and your bf been together? (I hope that's not too personal.)

[bigwillq]

163. Hello, Dan!

My boyfriend and I have been together for 3 1/2 years!
Please post more often! I will really like to get to know you!


Wow, 10 years! Congrats!:toast:

[salin]

160. Hi Will

for now I still go by 'salin' - I have been at DU since Jan of 2002 (I tried to signup earlier - but hit some glitches). I have a background in educational policy, have worked as a policy analyst and now am back to my professional roots working with urban youth.

I have returned to my roots in Indiana, but have lived/worked in Metro DC, Ann Arbor/Detroit, and the SF Bay Area. All of those places were more interesting (and liberal) than here (though in Indiana my hometown of bloomington is considered far-out liberal - but to me that is more a sign of "all things being relative" than of reality), but family brought me back - to many years missed of the next generation of my family.

My time at Du tends to center around breaking news and op/eds; but sometimes the silly side has to get out and hang in the lounge. I don't get to post as much as I once did - no longer doing as much writing as my main work (which allowed for odder hours to allow for procrastination...) but I still love it here.

I have spent time today reflecting on Keph, what he meant to me (I had the pleasure of meeting him, and speaking a few times on the phone) and to "salin" (specific to DU), and to "us" as a community - with several other DUers with whom I have interacted over the years, but had not had the chance to speak with (phone) before. Community can be found here at DU and when it is found it is deep.

That's all for now - have to go cook dinner! Best,

salin

[bigwillq]

167. Hi Salin!

I've read many of your posts! I enjoy them!


It's funny how to talk about "community", DU is my own special place. Hardly any of my family, friends know that I chat here, well at least not as much as I do! It's like my own little world and although I haven't met any of you in person, I feel like I've known some of you forever.


I thought this thread would help us all get to know each other better.
So far so good!:hi:

[GOPisEvil]

162. Hi Will.

I'm David. It's my pleasure to say hi. :hi: Glad to know ya!

[bigwillq]

168. Hi David!

I'm honored that a DU legend is posting in my little thread!:)

It's nice to know you too!:hi:

[GOPisEvil]

175. Oh stop with that "legend" stuff.

I'm just an average guy. I just happened to have a job where I could post from work all day. Not anymore though. :-)

Your thread is a nice idea. I feel like an open book sometimes, but if anyone wants to know something, they can always ask.

[bigwillq]

190. Same here with me-I can post at work!

Sometimes I post more here at DU than actually work but oh well.


Bye, Legend!:)

[katinmn]

193. Jiminy Crickits - you have a lot of posts!

My post count went up considerably when I started working from home again at the beginning in December. Sometimes DU is addictive, no?

Anyhow, I like your posts, GopisEvil.

[GOPisEvil]

211. Thanks!

My count has dropped a lot recently. I post at night for the most part.

:hi:

[katinmn]

214. I wish I could say that

Since I started working from home again I find that DU is HIGHLY addictive!

:)

Just something I have to learn to deal with.

[GOPisEvil]

251. Agreed. This place is highly addictive.

I miss it when I can't get to it.

[TOhioLiberal]

164. Hi Will...

...My name is Karen, I'm from Ohio. I'm 42 years old, married with 2 wonderful young men (I can't call them 'kids' anymore) aged 21 and 17.

I always started my 'day' on DU by reading LBN, and a lot of Keph's postings. He will surely be missed. :cry:

[bigwillq]

169. Hello, Karen

It's so funny thay we both have over 1,000 posts and I don't think I ever chatted with you before.

I hope that will change! :hi:

[TOhioLiberal]

180. Me too!

Count on me to say hi. :hi:

BTW: you have chatted with me before, it was with my original username, trekkerlass.

[ZombieNixon]

166. Hi, Will

I'm Nikhil. I live in a very red part of a purple state (New Mexico). I'm nearly 18, and I program computers and learn foreign languages for fun (in other words, I'm a nerd). I used to write a youth opinion column for my local paper, which I posted on DU sometimes, but Gannet bought up the paper and turned it into a right-wing rag. :mad:. I want to start an online computer game company and eventually pursue a career in politics.

:hi:

[bigwillq]

171. Glad you are here!

Thanks for sharing! I love your screen name!:hi:

[Taxloss]

170. Hi Will! I'm Will too.

I live in London, England. I don't really have a question. Just wanted to say hi. I hope you're well.

[bigwillq]

173. Will! Hello!

I am well. Hope you are too!

My mom's mother is from Liverpool!:hi:

[Taxloss]

174. A proud city - and the capital of culture!

Nice to make your acquaintance.

[Left Is Write]

172. I'm a girl!

Oh, wait...we already had that conversation the other night. ;)

I'm Cathy, 38 years old, happily married, and the mother of three children. I pine for my homestate after being away for four years. I'm a wannabe writer, exercise buff, life-long Democrat and the third of my parents five children.

My kids are 17, 5, and 3, two girls and a boy. Right now I'm a stay home mom, fitting the stereotype driving carpool and to activities and preschool in my minivan.

I'm blonde. I'm left-handed. I formerly had a career in radio.

And I always enjoy your posts. :)

[bigwillq]

176. Hey, GIRL!

Thanks for sharing! Wow, what a great life you got going for yourself!

I have a shaved head, I'm right-handed, and I have to have a career in print because I don't have a voice for radio! :)

And I NEVER enjoy your posts-Hee Hee
:silly:

[Left Is Write]

177. Awww...never? Not even a little bit?

A teeny tiny itty bitty little bit?

O8)

[bigwillq]

185. I enjoy your posts very much!

I Mean it!:)

[Shananigans]

178. Shannon here...

I am a 25 year old single chick currently making my home in Minneapolis. Some of my favorite things to do are travel internationally, debate politics, volunteer and spend time with friends and family.

I have been coming to DU for what seems to be years now, but with work and other committments I often dissappear for a few weeks. As of yet I haven't really made any friends on DU. I do hope to one day actually attend a local DU gathering, though!

I guess that's all I have for now.

[bigwillq]

186. Hi Shannon!

Please don't be a stranger!

Thanks for sharing!:hi:

[Shananigans]

196. Don't be a stranger to what?

I don't really think I am a stranger...I've been around here along time. I just don't actually KNOW anyone from DU.

But ya gotta love it...

Go Vikings!

[Stepup2]

179. Hi Will

This is a fantastic tribute to Khephra!

My name is Kelly and I am 40 and live in Michigan. My partner and I have been together for 16 years, and we have a dog and 3 birds we have adopted/rescued.

[bigwillq]

187. Hello Kelly

Glad you like the thread.

Nice to meet ya!:hi:

[johnnie]

181. Hello Will

I'm Johnnie. I have been here going on two years. I'm 40 years old and live in Ohio. :hi:

[bigwillq]

188. My funny johnnie

Your posts make me laugh!:hi:

[lumberingbear]

182. Hi Will!

I'm Al. I'm 57, a retired Pharmacist. I'm gay also. For the last 2 and 1/2 years I've taken care of my Mother who has Alheimer's here in Indiana. My home is in Florida and when my work here is done I will return to Florida and probably work part-time.

I always have enjoyed your threads and comments and being here at DU has helped me during this time that I'm taking care of my mother.

It's nice to meet you! :hug:

[bigwillq]

189. Welcome Al!

What a great son you are! Your mom shouldd be very proud!:hug:

It's nice to meet you as well!:hi:

[bigwillq]

191. Thanks everyone for posting!

I am leaving work now.
I am so glad to have met so many of you. Some I have chatted with but I got to know a lot more about all you wonderful DUers!:hug:


I may kick this next time I log on but feel free to add to it. Introduce yourself to someone you haven't met before. The worse that can happen is that you meet a new friend.

That's all for now!:hi:

[put out]

202. Hey, thank you for this, I have enjoyed it. I will post below n/t

[Zing Zing Zingbah]

192. I'm 25, married, and I have a two year old son.

I'm currently a stay-at-home mom. I have a B.S. in computer engineering, which hasn't done a whole lot for me. I would like to get a master's and maybe even PhD some day. My current dream job would be being a Mathematics professor.

I live in Florida right now, but I'm not a Floridian. I'm not very fond of Florida. I spent the overwhelming majority of my life living in Maine. I'm definitely a Mainer. Maine is a great place. Thankfully, we'll be moving north this summer. Most likely, we'll be moving to CT, because my husband wants to go to school there. I've never lived in CT before, but I imagine I will like it so much better. It's a heck of a lot closer to Maine anyhow.

Also, I'm really into running. I like to run about 2 or 3 miles every day. I guess I'm going to have to get a gym membership when we move back up north. The one thing that I really like about Florida is that the weather is great in the winter. It's prefect for running outside.

[bigwillq]

221. Thanks for sharing a little bit about yourself!

:hi:

[SmileyBoy]

194. Hi Will. Nice to meet you.

My name is Ari, I'm 22 and I live in Fargo, ND. I've been a DU member since March of 2002. I'm a student equipment assistant for the North Dakota State University football team, and I'm an NDSU student. I also deliver pizzas part-time. You can find my picture in the NDSU football media guide. I've only been partially active in Democratic politics for a couple years now, but I have been to a couple protests.

[bigwillq]

222. Hello, Ari

Thanks for posting!:hi:

[Skittles]

195. I'm Susan, I live in North Texas

nice to meet you Will! :hi:

[Senator Lamb]

197. Hi my name is Justin

Im 19 and a student at Ramapo College in New Jersey. a long time DU observer, but dont post too often.

[bigwillq]

224. What's up, Justin!

Welcome to DU! You should post more!:hi:

[bigwillq]

223. Hi, Skittles!

Your posts always keep me laughing!:hi:

[Bride of Cthulhu]

198. Hi Will

I'm Carol and i hail from Reno Nevada which is wet and snowy at the moment.

[bigwillq]

225. Hi Carol

Welcome to DU!:hi:

[fujiyama]

199. Hi Dave

I'm FujiYama on DU, but that's not my real name. Maybe in time I'll reveal it on DU, though I'd say my AOL IM is close to giving away my real name.

I go to an urban university in south east MI and will be graduating in a semester with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering.

I wish I had interacted and got to know Kephra better, but from those times I did, he was a real decent person. This forum isn't quite the same place without him.

I've been on DU for about a year and a half now with a bit over 5k posts. I love discussing politics with informed Dems from all over. I have learned quite a bit from fellow DUers.

[bigwillq]

226. Hi fujiyama!

:hi:

[PittPoliSci]

200. Hello Will, I'm Wil

We've had a few conversations, and I regularly read your posts on DU. It's good getting to re-know you. :hi:

[bigwillq]

228. Hello again!

I too have enjoyed our chats!:hi:

[Lone_Star_Dem]

201. Hi Will

It's nice to meet you. :hi:

I'm from Texas, where I live in the Hill Country in the Highland Lakes area. It's a beautiful place to live and I'm right above Austin, our liberal oasis. When I get too much freeper exposure I dash down there for a day and detox. :)

I started reading DU this Spring/Summer and joined a bit before the election. This place was a lifesaver for me after Nov 2nd!

[bigwillq]

229. Nice to meet you too!

Thanks for sharing!:hi:

[Bake]

203. Hi Will, I'm Bake

I'm a southerner, a lawyer, and a musician. Glad to meet you here at DU and have the opportunity to get to know you and your views.

I wish I'd had the chance to know Kheph personally. After three-plus years at DU (geez, it seems longer than that!), I got to know him pretty well, for a forum.

May we all not less tha chance pass again.

Bake

[bigwillq]

230. Howdy, Bake!

Nice to meet you!:hi:

[put out]

204. Hello, Will.

I am Kim. I am a nurse and a 44 year old married mother of one. Also, I bleach my hair blond and have been known to drive a minivan with children and sports equipment in the back. No, the kids are in the seats, the equipment is in the back. I live in an affluent red county in a red state. Never judge a book by the cover.

The real deal: I found this site via Salon in late 2001. I registered in fall of 2003, I think, and just busted 1000 posts (chatter plenty in real life, not so much here). Finding you all was like stepping into an air conditioned room on a hot and steamy day and I could finally catch my breath. I am liberal and always have been and will be until my last day.

Will, your good friend would be proud of this. I used to read his LBN and when my husband would say "Hey, did you hear..." I could always say, yeah, it happened Tuesday but the AP won't have it until tonight's news.

Guess how I knew? Rest easy, Khephra.

edited for spelling errors. would someone else please fix my syntax?

[bigwillq]

231. Hi Kim

Nice to meet you!:hi:

[Lorien]

205. Hi Will

My name is Jen, I'm thirtysomething, single, and I live in Orlando. I started out at Smirking Chimp, but then moved to DU in 2002 (I still post at SC occasionally). I'm a freelance artist who has worked for the Walt Disney corporation for nearly 16 years as an illustrator, instructor, and traditional animator (on some of their better films from the early '90s ;-) ) Right now I'm writing and illustrating children's books, which has been a lifelong dream of mine but it sure doesn't pay the bills like all those products for merchandising do. I hope to move back up north someday soon, for various reasons.

:hi:

[bigwillq]

233. Hello Jen!

Thanks for sharing!:hi:

[last1standing]

206. Hi Will.

I'm Ken and I've been a semi-lurker here since 2001. Good to meet you.

[bigwillq]

234. Welcome Ken!

:hi:

[bling bling]

207. Hi Will

I'm a 31 year old female. I've voted for Democrats in every election since I was 18.

I smoke and drink too much coffee. My three favorite books in the world are The Prophet, the Tao Te Ching, and The Giving Tree.

I hate, loathe, detest this administration beyond words. About a year ago I started thinking maybe I was in the twilight zone by myself based on what I saw in the MSM. That's how I found the DU and realized it wasn't just me who saw the madness.

I'm not really a goal-oriented person but at the moment I have one goal. It's a long standing goal, actually. And that is to start going to bed earlier and waking up earlier. I want to be a morning person *so* bad.

It's now 4:30 a.m. Damn.

[bigwillq]

235. Welcome bling bling!

I smoke too much too! It's nice to meet you!:hi:

[newyawker99]

209. Hi Will!

I am Roni and I live in Brooklyn NY.

This is a great thread and thanks
for starting it!


:thumbsup: :loveya:

[bigwillq]

236. Hi Roni!

You're the best! Glad you like the thread!

Thanks for all the work you do here at DU!:hi:

[sniffa]

210. hi i'm mike

i'm from massachusetts (boston area). i've been a DUer for aLmost a year now, but a Lurker for much Longer. you guys are my "true" friends in the sense that i can be myseLf here - and i greatLy appreciate that... even more so when i hang out with the reaL Life friends; onLy a handfuL i can say reaLLy know me.

so, thank you everyone for giving me that wonderfuL gift. :hi:

[bigwillq]

237. What's up Mike!

Thanks for sharing a bit about yourself.:hi:

[blindpig]

212. Hi Will!

I am a Baltimorean living in exile. My hot button is the environment, particularly biodiversity, thus my pessimism, pissing & moaning. But I will not give up.

BTW, my name is Dave.

[bigwillq]

238. Hello Dave!

Don't ever give up fighting for what you believe in!:hi:

[murielm99]

213. Hi Will!

I saw this last night, but I was too tired to read through the whole thing and respond.

What a great idea you had! DU is a true community, even though most of us have never met each other.

I suppose if I had ever seen Khephra in real life, I would have walked right past him, never knowing the sensitive, intelligent person behind that mild exterior. That is one of the great things about this community. We know each other more intimately through our ideas and words.

Like many others here, I have become increasingly disillusioned with the mainstream news. I get most of my news on-line, through DU, Bush Watch, and a few foreign on-line newspapers. But I always come here first, to LBN. I guess you could say I got most of my news through Khephra.

I am a 56 year old woman, who drinks too much coffee, and smokes too much, like one of the posters above. I think I have gotten worse since the selection in 2000. (I really will quit soon).

I have three grown children, who are all wonderful. My eldest has just begun posting here. She is fluter21. Say hi to her if you see her.

My name is Muriel. I live outside a small rural community in northern Illinois. I work as a substitute teacher, but I would love a full-time job. Our area has been hard-hit economically, and jobs are hard to find. People are leaving the area. I have been married for 26 years.

I am active in county politics. I am an officer in our county Democratic committee, and a precinct committeeman. It is hard to find many Democrats in my community, so DU is a wonderful place to interact.

It is nice to meet you, Will.

[bigwillq]

240. It's nice to meet you, Muriel!

Seems like you live a full life!:hi:

[MissMillie]

217. I'm MaryAlice

and it's a pleasure to meet you.

I live in Oxford, MA (birthplace of Clara Barton).

I'm a single mom, w/ 2 teenage boys (one is my own, one I just recently took in)

We have 3 cats who live w/ us.

I work at a college.

Right now, I'm hungry. lol

[jeanarrett]

218. Nice thread, Will

I am new to DU also (as you can see from my paltry number of posts), but I love this site. A little overwhelming when I see how many posts some people have and how well some of you know each other, so this is a good thread.

I live near Ann Arbor in partially blue state Michigan.

I'm single with five kids (ages 4 - 14) and work as a paralegal for a large Detroit law firm. What I really want to be when I grow up, though, is a geologist. I don't know if I'll ever get back to school to do that (no time), so it's a hobby for now.

Obviously, I did not know Keph at all, but by all the very moving posts, he was a much loved person. Someone I missed knowing and I'm sad for that. I have struggled with alcohol problems myself over the years due to various family tragedies (and of course because it's addiction!) and so can certainly understand that struggle of his.

I'm hoping to get to know a lot more of you over the coming months.

[bigwillq]

242. Welcome to DU!

It's nice to meet you!

Keep on posting!:hi:

[bigwillq]

241. Hi Mary Alice!

It's very nice to meet you!:hi:

[GreenPartyVoter]

219. Hi, Will, I'm Jen from Maine. I have two young sons, my hubby

is barely a moderate Repub, and my in-laws are extreme fundagelical Repubs. I have two ten year old cats who have declared no definite political affilition, but I suspect them of liberal tendencies as I have seen them puke up hairballs on newspapers. (They apparently understand that the MSM is a bad thing at the moment.)

I'm a Green but I am interested in talking and working with other progressives, hence the reason I hang out here. This is a FANTASTIC place to recharge my liberal batteries and keep on top of what is going on in the world.

I have a website that I run in order to work out my anger over RWer and fundagelical insanity: http://timeforachange.bluelemur.com/

I also review women's fiction as well as write it. http://curvynovels.com/

And I coach a middle school cheerleading team.

[bigwillq]

243. Hi!

LOL! about your cats!

Nice to met you! I've read many of your posts!:hi:

[GreenPartyVoter]

253. Well thank you. So glad to know someone actually reads what

I have to say. *g*

----------------------------------------------------------
Save our country one town, county, and state at a time!
http://timeforachange.bluelemur.com/electionreform.htm#why

[bigwillq]

255. What you have to say is important!

What all of us have to say is important! Even those countless copycats threads!

[GreenPartyVoter]

258. I confess to lurving those copycat threads. They keep things light

around here. :)

----------------------------------------------------------
Save our country one town, county, and state at a time!
http://timeforachange.bluelemur.com/electionreform.htm#why

[txaslftist]

220. Hi Will.

Long time democrat. Lawyer. Father of two perfect daughters (5 & 8), one perfect son on the way. Married to someone much smarter than I am. 38 years old. Texan by way of USAF. About sums me up. Unable to talk in complete sentences.

[bigwillq]

244. Nice to meet you!

Best of luck with your son!:hi:

[DoveTurnedHawk]

227. Great Idea, Will

My name's Dennis, I'm 34 years old, and I live in Los Angeles and work in the entertainment biz. I like to think I knew Scott reasonably well, I certainly considered him to be a friend, although I'm not sure how close of one he considered me to be. He was just the kindest soul. We PMed and cross-posted a lot about fantasy novels, games of all kinds, and our other similar hobbies. We had a few difficult exchanges during the primary season, but we quickly made up, I have a hard time imagining Kef staying mad at anyone. I spoke to him on the phone a few times, and we almost met up when I was visiting Indianapolis over the summer, but unfortunately he was sick with a bad cold.

How do you like New Haven? My sister had a love/hate relationship with the place. :-)

DTH

[bigwillq]

245. Hello, DTH

That's cool that you work in the entertainment biz!

I love New Haven. May I ask why your sister had a love/hate with it?

:hi:

[DoveTurnedHawk]

249. Not That Cool

Everyone works in the entertainment biz here. After you get over the stars (who you generally only see on very rare occasions), it's just like any other job. :-)

My sis always had a stock answer: "I loved it because of Yale, and I hated it because of Yale." I'll have to ask her for more details about what she meant. :-)

DTH

[bigwillq]

254. May I ask what you do in the biz?

PM me if yuo don't want to share with the entire board.

I don't recall ever reading if you did share.

-Will

[Debi]

232. Hello Will

I'm Debi, and I'm from Iowa! First in the Nation Caucuses! Yeah!
My Democratic activism began when I started dating my now husband (he's a former congressman who represented this great state as a County Chair, District Chair, State Chair and finally in Congress from 1987 to 1992). We are lucky in that he's a practicing attorney and I am his secretary, so we get time together and flexibility in our work schedule (and I get to post on DU quite often).

Tell me about when you KNEW you were a Democrat and why you've decided to post on DU. :hi:

[bigwillq]

246. Hi Debi-

I knew I was a DEM when I turned 18 and started to vote but my interest in politics didn't start until after the 2000 selection.

I found DU when I googled "Howard Dean" last yr.

[Solly Mack]

239. Hi Will

Nice to meet you! I'm from Georgia, I live in Germany, and my school nickname was Poppy. You can well understand why I don't use it anymore. :) I was also called "Outlaw" as a child due to my lack of concern for rules. I still don't care too much for rules.

I'm a perky morning person which means I grate on the nerves of most of the world's population. :)

[bigwillq]

247. Hi Solly Mack

it's nice to meet you!:hi:

[Lisa0825]

248. Hi, Will. Great idea for a post!

I also did not get to know Kef, but did read his posts. Actually, I don't think I have really gotten to know many people here. Kef's death made me stop and wonder how many would notice if I disappeared. I look up to those who have so much to say here and say it so well. I'm just a lot better at reading and responding now and then, than bringing anything new to the table.

At first I was not going to respond to this topic, because I knew it would get so huge, and figured you'd be overwhelmed, but I'm amazed at how diligently you have kept up with it! I have bookmarked it so I can come back later and use it to get to know others a little better myself.

I am 36, single, no kids.... just one fat furry four-legged kid, my kitty. I live on the Gulf Coast of Texas and work in an employment office. I'm going to New Orleans with two fellow DUers for a special inaugaration day event. The Houston area DUers are starting to do more 3D-socializing lately, so that has been nice.

Ask me anything.

I don't know what to ask you, because I haven't read what everyone else asked, so why don't you just tell me something you haven't said yet? :-)

[bigwillq]

252. Hello, thanks for replying!

I'm glad you decided to post. Yes, it's been crzy trying to keep up but I want to respond to everyone who posts.

At first I was going to give just one big thank you but all these people have taken their time to post so I might as well respond to them personally.

I don't know how huge this thread will get and in a week's time, who knows, it may get old but I thought it was a cool idea. There's so many people here and how many do I actually know? Not as many as I would like to.

So, something I haven't said?

The toenails on both my big toes are kinda long. I've been letting them grow for a few months.

This has been going on for like 6 months but they each have broke twice. One time, one of the toenails was over an inch long!:hi:

[Chovexani]

250. What a great thread

Hi, I'm Jessica and I'm a 23 year old starving wannabe fantasy writer from blue NYC. I've been on DU almost from its inception during the theft of 2000, but had a different SN back then (which I've long since forgotten). When I'm not writing gay dark elf porn, I enjoy anime, video games and obsessing too much over TV shows.

I just found out about Kef today and I'm devastated. He was one of my very favorite DUers, and we used to chat constantly about anime, comics and the like--we had a lot of the same interests and seemed to follow each other from thread to thread. He had a wonderful personality and a vivid imagination and was just a joy to talk to. I'm depressed as all get out that I never got to meet him offline. Just recently we were talking about conventions and he said he wanted to get to as many big ones as he could this year, he asked me about a big anime con I went to last year because he wanted to go and I was hoping very much to hang out with him at the next one. I'm really, really going to miss him.

I think this thread is a great idea and a fitting tribute to his memory. Kef meant so much to this community and I think he'd be happy to see us coming together like this. I've met up with some DUers offline before (I couldn't hang out more at the RNC protest 'cause I kinda passed out in the street, hehe), but I will make an effort to try and do it more often. There are so many great people on this site, it's like a family and I want to get to know you more. :hi:

[bigwillq]

256. Hello Jessica

You sound like a very interesting person! It's good to meet nice!:hi:

[Arkana]

257. Compared to Kef, I'm as newb as you can get

My name's Alex, and I've been posting since March of 2004. Near to 2,000 posts. Nice to meet you, Will.

[bigwillq]

259. Nice to meet you too, Alex

I've only been here since jan. 2004. But I felt early on like a member of the DU family!:hi:

[trof]

260. My name is Massey. My friends call me Butch.

I got the nickname at birth (1941) and it stuck.
Been happily (pretty much) married since 1969.
Have a much beloved daughter, son-in-law, and grandson.
Retired airline pilot, TWA and Nippon Cargo Airlines.
I like dogs and cats.
And some kids.

[bigwillq]

262. Howdy Butch!

I enjoy your posts!:hi:

[Mountainman]

261. Hello, I miss Khephra too, he said some nice things to me

I didn't know him either but he did reply to many of my posts as if he were sitting next to me and talking to me so I feel I did know him in some way.

Glad to know you also

[bigwillq]

263. Nice to meet you too!

:hi:

[southlandshari]

264. Recovering sports journalist here

Hi Will,

Shari in Alabama here, mid-30s, first career during and after college was in the collegiate sports information arena at both the Division I university and conference levels. Left the business for various reasons, but mostly because I needed to see the world, explore my faith, and decided I preferred sports as a hobby (albeit an intense one!) rather than a career.

Thanks for the thread!

southlandshari

[bigwillq]

266. Hello!

Being an SID or soemthing in that field is never an easy job!

Glad you posted. It's nice to meet you.:hi:

[Philosophy]

265. Hi Will

I'm Alden. I'm a 32-year old professional computer programmer and software designer helplessly surrounded by Jesuslanders in a SE Alabama. I've been single forever which is slowly driving me insane.

My hobbies include running, weightlifting, singing in a heavy metal band, philosophy, genetics, and theoretical physics.

My political persuasion is anarcho-communist.

My current projects are writing my first sci fi novel, and designing an advanced computer artificial intelligence system with which I plan to take over the world.

[bigwillq]

267. Hi Alden!

Sounds like you got an interesting life going for yourself.

It's very nice to meet you!:hi:

[Biased Liberal Media]

268. Hi Will!

I'm Biased Liberal Media, a woman from Washington State. I was born & bred in California and now live in an extremely conservative area. I believe I've been liberal all my life, always speaking out against hatred, racism, or anything I felt was wrong.

Right now the causes closest to my heart are gay marriage, poverty, racism, and civil rights.

It's nice to meet you too! :)

[bigwillq]

269. Hello. Great causes to fight for!

Glad to meet you.:hi:

[CherokeeDem]

272. Will, Thanks, This Is Really Nice.

I have been lurking on-line since DU first started. Many of you are like long lost friends and Khephra was one of the special ones. It is wonderful to read a bit about the people we feel like we really know.

I am a lifelong Democrat from SC originally; in fact, the first politician I met was Fritz Hollings when he was Gov of SC and I was 5. Spent my college years at U of KY (GO Wildcats!) and lived there until a move to Florida in 1996. I currently live in Miami and have been very active in the Party here until recently. My job as Coordinator of Nursing Programs at a local hospital keeps me very busy (not a nurse, a clinical microbiologist before). Now divorced, I live with my little boy toys, two male cats...Fox and Rusty.

It's a pleasure to get to know everyone. Good Dems all!

Debbie
Miami

[bigwillq]

273. It's great to meet you too!

Please post more, when you're not too busy!

[skygazer]

270. Hi Will!

I always enjoy your posts. And like you, I read many of Khephra's posts but I never had a conversation with him. Still, you feel like you know a person a bit when you read so many posts. It's sad when they go so suddenly, like losing a family member.

I'm originally from Vermont but transplanted to the bay area of California 6 years ago. I run a grocery store wine and liquor department and live in a little house in the woods with my boyfriend and our cat. I love this place - it keeps me as sane as I'll ever be!

[bigwillq]

271. Hello. I enjoy chatting with you!

Cool job and I would love to live in a little house in the woods.

Do you guys see a lot of wild animals where you are?:hi:

[AFSCME girl]

274. Hi Will,

My name is Karen. I'm 42 and I work for my county's Community Mental Health Dept. I am also the Treasurer for my AFSCME Local. I am Mom to two very spoiled little kitty girls - Angeline and S'more.

This is a wonderful idea to honor Kephra this way. One of the first things I do as part of my morning routine, is check the LBN for the latest news and I got so used to seeing Kephra's name in that forum! Even though I did not know him, I really feel the sense of loss here at DU over his passing. I'm sure he was a wonderful human being and he will be sorely missed!

Love,
AFSCME girl

:hi:

[bigwillq]

275. Hi Karen,

It's good to meet nice. :hi:

[AFSCME girl]

276. Awww, what a sweetheart

you are! Thank you :loveya:

[yellowdogintexas]

277. Hi, I am Claire and I live in Fort Worth Texas

I can't remember when I was not a Democrat. My earliest television memory is of my mother screaming over the Army McCarthy hearings, (boy did she hate McCarthy)

Then she taught me to hate Nixon. (when he ran for Vice President)and as they say the rest is history.


Not fun living in such a red state, I can say that once I lived in Massachusetts, but I was not registered to vote there; we voted absentee in Kentucky ..something about keeping your legal residence in your home state so you did not have to license your car in Mass.

I lived in Nashville for about 13 years, which is a pretty blue city.

I have a husband, a daughter and four cats, and I work as a customer service representative for a large nationwide company.

I believe liberals are the true Christians of this world.

Reading, cooking, gardening and shopping for bargains are my favorite hobbies.

This is a nice thing to do, Will. I am not sure if I ever "Crossed posts" with Scott, but I definitely wish I had known him, he must have been a terrific guy!!!