"This action today is a small but symbolic effort to show the complete disregard of many on Capitol Hill for the intelligence of our so-called constituents," said Ney, chairman of the House Administration Committee.
Oh, wait, that was a paraphrase ... means about the same thing, right?
yep...
just read about it on Pravda...ooops... i mean CNN.com...(same difference these days...)
freedom fries eh?
good lord...
this irrational anger and hatred of France, and french people in general is ridiculous...
personally, i find it heartening to see countries standing up against the current regime in the US...
i just find it sad to see that some folks mistake the worlds anger at the white house administration and your current leader as 'anti-US' or that we (as the rest of the world) don't like the United States..
total rubbish...
of course we like the US.
we like it plenty...
hell, the folks i've met while traveling through america were amongst the nicest i've ever come across..
and there's you, of course, wil
and folks like Kevin Smith...
i mean really, how can you hate a country that has actor/writers like you and kevin?
we like america, and americans just fine...
not so keen on that bush guy tho...
or the rest of the hawks that are whispering in his ear...
anyhow...take care wil....
and as always..if you're looking for PROPER journalism and views on the upcoming masacre in the desert...
www.zmag.org
(gotta plug them...my bro-in-law helps run the site, and it's always got the latest from Chomsky, Zinn and Fisk..how can you go wrong)
I don't think it is stupid. What I think is stupid is the French not supporting us. The French will only want somehting done when Iraqi troops are marching down the Paris streets, or when Paris looks like Beruit. I intend to use the "Freedom" moniker myself.
PLEASE NOTE: I am not attacking Wil. I am simply disagreeing with him. Thanks!
My parents have a vacation house in Beaufort, NC, and my dad talked about the café that apparently started this rubbish a few weeks ago. Funnily enough, my dad the dyed-in-the-oil Republican thought it was a stupid thing to do as well. Love to hear what he'd think about our representatives wasting time on it.
That will be french fries for me on my next order, thank you.
Actually, it makes these people look downright ignorant. Makes 'em feel good at the expense of intelligence and makes 'em figure that they'll look good to their constituents. I'd like to think that folks are smarter than the congresscritters who swill at the public trough and don't have the balls to stand up to a president who expects the rest of us to sacrifice our loved ones in a war that isn't yet justified.
Oh. Wait. I forgot. He's justifying it by calling everybody evil. And curtailing civil rights. And stomping his foot while getting mad at France and others who may just possibly be seeing this with clearer vision (i.e. no blood-lust besotting their thoughts) than our leaders are at this point.
My sentiments exactly. I covered this story a little differently on my web page: burka.blogspot.com (or tomburka.com). BTW, I invite rich Republicans to "throw out" French champagne, wine, etc. by sending the bottles to me. Or even Wil.
Damn right that is stupid. It sounds very junior high and yet very appropriate for the Bush administration's "you're either with us or your against us" approach.
This is just plane sad, pathetic, and stupid. French toast and french fries has always been a favorite of mine. It's no wonder I have little faith in this world sometimes.
It's actually pretty frightening. It's just the kind of xenophobic behaviour that can lead to long-term conflict. Just watch the predjudice arise in your own communities. Any French citizens in the US (UK, or even here where I am in Australia) will now be targeted by rednecks. Oh joy.
What's worse is that neither "French fries" nor "French toast" is French in origin!
Though if they are looking to remove French wines from their menus, I think that I could take some off of their hands. All in the name of freedom, of course! ;-)
in repsonse to "freedom"'s comment, I must remind him/her (more likely the former;) that the French OPENLY supported the UNANIMOUS UN military action in Afghanistan. They agreed with the direct link the U.S. PROVED to ALL UN SECURITY COUNCIL MEMBERS between the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and 9-11 attackers. Oh, they also provided 10% of the bill for Desert Storm, openly supported our military strikes against Libya in the 80s. But yeah, I guess we need to ignore their cultural contributions (even though most did not come from them in the first place). Yet no one has boycotted chicken nuggets, a DISTINCTLY French invention, as anyone who bothered to go there would know. They just don't care until they've been invaded. That whole thing in the Ivory Coast is because their are Iverian soldiers marching down the Champs Elysee, not because they are stopping a civil war and genocide.
Okay, now I'm the only practicing Republican I know under the age of thirty, and even I think this is dumb. But really, are we entering an age of widespread and entrenched francophobia? No. Nobody will remember this in a year's time. It's a blip. We're not going to invade France and drive the inhabitants into the Mediterranean in a bloody rout. Though god knows, it's not an entirely bad idea...
Hmm seems we made a mistake electing bush....my lil sister could been a better president...i mean he wont even accept to take a iq test in public how sad is that
So after all of the times that France has stood (and fought) by our side, we've decided that they are no longer worthy enough to have their own opinion. Never mind that Russia and Germany agree with them - are we going to go back to calling German Shephards "Alsaysians" like we did in WWII?
My thoughts: "You must be at least THIS SMART to be in Congress." Term limits, man... term limits. But more importantly, thank you for posting this alternate article, CNN didn't have the bit about the French Embassy pointing out that french fries come from Belgium. That's priceless. I love it. XD
Other than that, I'm an advocate of freedom-kissing, how about everyone else? ;D
Saw this today too, and went immediately to Fark...LOL
If there are folks out there that don't believe there is a LOT of propaganda going on, well, this just proves there is.
The ironic thing about this is that French Toast (mentioned in the article but not in the headline; also changed to "freedom toast") was called "german toast" until WWI...
This is not only stupid, it's actually, well, stupid! That didn't come out right.
French fries are called French fries, *everyone* knows that. So if they suddenly become freedom fries, doesn't freedom become synonymous with French/France?
Cool - I'm going on a school trip to Freedom on Sunday!
You have to wonder what the French ambassadors think about this.
I mean, on the one hand they're thinking Americans are obviously idiots because the iffy potato treats they're complaining about are not French, they're Belgian. That came out loud and clear in the dry comment from the embassy. :-)
On the other hand, it's got to be at least a little worrying on a symbolic level... it reminds me of another news story I read. A French official was saying "We didn't say anything before, because we were afraid of making relations between our countries worse. But right now, they can't get any worse, so we decided to come out with it."
Ugh ... who are those bozos out there, and why didn't we have a checkbox on the voting form that said "i prefer non-bozos in office, thanks"? The US has been bullying and threatening even its allies with insults and threats of trade sanctions. The impact to the US's diplomatic reputation is really going to be terrible in the long term.
I can understand the frustration with France... Isn't it better to run a few menus instead of doing something else to France?
Let's see, how we can count the ways getting rid of Saddam hurts France, shall we?
1) 80+ billion dollars (US) owed to France from Iraq.
2) 81 French companies show at a trade show in Iraq this past October, all of them get multi-million dollar contracts.
3) France supplied the breeder reactor (the kind that produces weapons grade materials) and fissionable material that Iraq bought long ago (that the Israelis took out).
4) French Oil Companies currently hold more than half of Iraq's oil production capacity.
5) Lagardere SCA (French Company) owns Elle, Car & Driver, Women's Day, and other US magazines... who owns 90 Million in stock in this French Company (about 2% of it)... Saddam Hussein!
6) French aircraft parts company circumventing UN sanctions and delivering banned materials to Iraq via UAE and Jordanian companies (owned by Iraq).
So, I don't mind a few xerox copies of a menu... Seems like a rational thing compared to the crapola France has been up to.
in a way, highly amusing. in a much more real way, sad. i guess people just look on TV at his brow knotted in concern for his country ..aww...and don't pay enough attention to what is actually coming out of his mouth...well at least some of us can boycott. ugh, i cant even picture eating something called freedom fries, next theyll be making red, white, and blue striped ketchup, just ugh. (by the way, i always thought chirac sounded more like some klingon or something than a french diplomat...i mean it really is a perfect star trek name...)
They should do away with calling deep fried julienne potatoes, 'French Fries' and call them 'Chips' like they do here in the UK. 'Potato Chips' could then be called 'Crisps' like they are here in the UK.
Who needs France to confuse everyones language, when the UK does just as good a job! lmao
*only joking fellow brits. I'm in a funny (haha not peculiar) mood!*
Of course we could exercise good judgment by not eating as many french fries because they're so high in fat, rather than make ourselves look silly by banning them or calling them something new due to xenophobic rage.
Naw. That would be common sense. Who'd expect THAT from our leaders...
""This action today is a small but symbolic effort to show the strong displeasure of many on Capitol Hill with the actions of our so-called ally, France," said Ney, chairman of the House Administration Committee. "
whoah. whoah.
...of our so-called ally, France????
whoah!
do we really want to be saying that?
do.
we.
REALLY??!!
want...
to
say
that??
uh. whoah!
Capital Hill better get it's head out of it's "Freedom Fry" laiden ass...this ain't some kind of game.
Bush says: Boohoo! France wont play with us in our Iraqi sandbox! Now we got to hit them where it hurts and change the name of our carcinogenic fried potatoes. I bet they will be very offended and rethink their position.
The french were probably offended with the name "french fries" in the first place.
FREEDOM FRIES? Freedom to develop cancer and become overweight?
What's funny is how many so called "Americans" forget that if it wasn't for the French, we would still be ruled by Britain or some other alternate history would have come out.
It's just opened again for the new season, and someone arrives this weekend,
goes to the (small) coffee shop and demands that she only be served British food stuffs. "Under no circumstances would she eat any French Food"
God some people are just a waste of skin and oxygen!
"This action today is a small but symbolic effort to show the strong displeasure of many on Capitol Hill with the actions of our so-called ally, France," said Ney, chairman of the House Administration Committee.
--
Just one more reason why I, as a Canadian, would love to see the American government absolutely obliterated. I'm not French-Canadian or anything like that, it's just one more notch in the U.S. government's dispicable arrogance and self-righteousness. I have no problem with the American people in general, however, so don't anyone label me as anti-American or racist.
After a visit to my local bakery, I've realized that our govt. is trying to make the American citizen look like a idiot...In my attempt to be P.C., I tried to order some French bread and could only say "bread" and point...when I wanted some French pastries, same thing, I said "pastry" and pointed. The clerk looked at me as if I were an idiot that crawled out of a cave...Of course, this tale is fictitious, but isn't this just what our beloved leader wants from his Lemmings..err..citizens...
Don't take offense, but this is the sort of press that makes the world think all Americans are utter fools. And to be honest, the people in question aren't doing the US any favours. The world is on the brink of war - who gives a damn about french fries? Freedom fries? The 'Land of the Free' is so often far from the truth anyway.
anyway, I think french fries are only called that in North America..
Australia/New Zealand/Ireland/UK call them chips (except in McD's and Burger King) and the French call them Fried Potatoes (Pomme Frite) ?
What's next? Are they going to re-edit Better Off Dead and change the classic dinner scene to include Freedom Bread, Freedom Toast, Freedom Fries, Freedom Dressing and Freedom Water? Where does it all end ?!?
I really want to go to that restauraunt and say, I would like a hamburger, and some FRENCH FRIES. Saying the last bit so I could be loudly understood throughout the place.. see what would happen.
So the French dissagree with us, so what, that doesnt make them part of the axis of evil. Or wait, with Bush, maybe it does..
Truly stupid. As a non-American who still likes the country a great deal I have to say the current crop of poly-ticks are really making the entire nation look bad.
Bush has to be a blowhard at this point in order to have the slightest prayer of re-election, but what those cretins have as an excuse eludes me.
Truly scary as well to watch CNN and hear reports about how the US is going to pee all over the UN if they don't knuckle under and attack no matter what world opinion is like.
DMCA, the new Gestap... Homeland Security, excuse me... young men who have "facilitated software piracy" going to jail for years even though they never made a dime in profit from it... Land of the free? I feel a lot more secure and free where I live at the moment, thanks.
Hard to even call it the land of the brave at this point, knowing that the Iraqi troops stand about the same chance as your neighbourhood kindergarten would against the US army.
this is the funniest thing I've seen in a while, somehow tragic but funny as well... mmm so what's next? claim the gifts the two nations have given each other back just like some couples do after they break up?
Wil, you're the best friend I'll never have. I know so many Americans who have a sensible position on Iraq, it's incredible there's such an almost-McCarthyite atmosphere there!
I've been wondering about something for a while, though. Please enlighten me if it's practical for you. Why. Did you used to pronounce s as "sh" when you were little? Like "That's okay captain - I undershtand". It's just got me in a bit of a conundrum, because (being in the UK) I've only experience of one other American pronouncing things that way - Jodie Foster. Where does this accent come from? (P.S. Unwarranted "sh" sounds can also be traced to the inhabitants of a certain Gaulish village circa 50BC, when intoxicated (see your comic collection), but I didn't want to mention this (despite doing so!) so as not to seem offensive - I'm just curious!)
I live in NC...and the next time i go into any restaurant I will ask for "french fries" instead of my usual "fries" I will now make a point to say french!
Je pense que je serai outlawed aussi tot parce que je parle un peu de francais...ou peut-etre maintenant je parle un peu de liberte...
I did a double take when I read this article just to make sure I wasn't somehow forwarded to The Onion! I'm not even gonna start on this, anybody with more than one neuron in their head has already realized anything I would say about it.
And the article somebody posted about the guy being kicked out of a mall for wearing a Give Peace a Chance t-shirt? He could face up to one year in prison for refusing to take it off!?
You're absolutely right, Wil. That _IS_ stupid. Next thing you know, we'll have Disarm Dogs, the Superpower Salad, Liberty Lasagnia, Patriot Pizza, and Constitution Chilie. Thanks for yet another laugh, man. Really brightens the day ^-^
Wil- I respect your right to have your opinion- however, I disagree. This is not stupid, it is irrelevant. You cannot use the actions of a few people to totally dismiss the pro-war stance. My step-brother is in Kuwait, and I would never disrespect his sacrifice and the sacrifice of my family by making fun of this situation. We are here expressing our opinions- a luxury that they don't have in Iraq. I think that we can disagree peacefully, without sinking so low to insult people who do not agree w/ us.
Singling out France because of their opposition to the US & UK (government) agenda of bombing Iraq reminds me of a story my German fiancee told me about the DDR (East German communist government prior to German Unification).
Familes who were opposed to the Communist party were singled out and ridiculed... schoolchildren who did not join the Pioneers (junior communist party) were excluded from certain after school activities.
All in all.. the activities of these US businesses seem very communist to me.. a great day for the country that is supposed to represent the essence of democracy... instead of respecting the right of opposition it jokes at it... I suppose it represents the elements of society that will follow a government regardless of what position it takes.. would Muppet be the correct term to use?
I posted on this on the Religion/Politics "American/French bashing" thread, but the moderator deleted it. My comment was: "Do you realize how fucking childish this looks to the rest of the world?"
I don't use the F-word much, but it seemed appropriate here.
Ok...
Did none of your read ANIMAL FARM?
You sound like a bunch of Pigs only now it's "D" Good, "R" Bad.
Get you head out of the sand and WAKE UP!!!
The world might be black and white, but the whole Republicans bad thing had gotten crazy!
If you people spent 1/2 the time thinking through your "RDDB" beliefes, you might realize that your supporting RED China, and yes, the people WE as AMERICANS hate the most. REPUBLICANS!!!!
This whole concept of your is stupid!!
Wil, don't get me wrong your intitled to your own ideas. But please know the facts first!
You owe it to yourself and to the rest of us.
If all of you have any questions about your beliefs just ask, I'm more then willing to explain them to you --- Eichybahn@aol.com
Also, FYI only 15% of all Champagne comes from France, the rest comes from the same country that saved FRANCE's ASS afew times the beautiful USA!!!
Finally, Blood for oil, that makes as much sence as Blood for Steel of have none of you heard of WW2?
Wil, I'm starting to understand why you don't respond to my E-Mail!!!
"I don't think we have to retaliate against France. They've isolated themselves pretty well,"
This statement is really funny to me. With all that's going on we as Americans have to ask ourselves if we're not the ones isolating ourselves. George Bush a Republican and is now leader of the free world,is only speeking to those who voted for him, Republicans; gun wielding, southern republicans. This group only makes up a VERY small percentage of citizens of this so called "free world". Istead of telling his supporters what he's "gonna" do, he should take some time and listen to the popular opinion of the rest of the free world. We are a hated people, and it's deffinetely NOT going to get better. We are entering a very interesting and vexing time. Hopefully W has not set the ball rolling on this great nation's demise. Sorry to turn your web app into an opinion platform wil.
First off, I think Wil should totally write that BBSpot! Too damned funny!
Second, this isn't an Anti-Republican sentiment. This is an Anti-Jackass statement. The Propaganda Potato Products things was STUPID. They couldn't find time to do something USEFUL so they decided to change the names of French Fries in the House Cafeterias.
I posted my own personal rant on my own Thingie (http://tinkrbel.greyduck.net/archives/000109.php#000109), but the people on this comment section have cheered me up considerably since I wrote it...
thanks for reminding me that i am NOT surrounded by idiots -- I am just governed by them...
I remember when the French Government was carrying out Nuclear tests on Pacific Islands sometime during the mid-80's. The Australia community decided to carry out an even worse campaign, and boycotted French products and the French culture in general.
So if it's any comfort to our friends in the US, you aren't the first ones who have carried actions as foolish as this.
I have so many comments on this, that I literally am exploding from too many at one time, and I cannot choose.
lets start with this. The french aren't exactly famous for taking something and dipping it in a vat of hot lard. Idiotically, at some point, some misguided american called them "French Fries". The french always laugh at us about that. Not only are french fries, not french, neither is french toast.
So, while the french rejoice at no longer being associated with a food they consider wholly American, disgusting and unhealthy, we think we're throwing them a huge insult.
If we wanted to insult the french, we could have always re-named chitterlings "French ham" or scrapple "French meat". Or we could have simply referred to the gunk that builds up underneath your sink strainer as "French residue".
But please, the only thing that is being insulted by this gesture is my intelligence.
FYI - 100% of Champagne comes from France, anything created ouside of the Champagne region that resembles a wine with bubbles it is called sparkling wine. Any 12 year old who has seen Wayne's World knows that.
Well, that is about as childish as it gets. So, what I gather from this nonsense is that my country's leaders are saying that anything French should be boycotted to show displeasure with what they consider to be anti-American?
Can you say CORNY!
I go to an authentic French restaraunt occasionly, owned and operated by a large French family. I guess that means I am anti-American.
A good friend of mine was born in France. He moved to the US just 7 years ago. When I carry on a conversation with him, I guess that means I am anti-American.
My sister wears authentic French perfume. She buys it through friends of hers that live in France. I guess that means my sister is anti-American.
Hundreds of thousands of people born and raised in the United States visit the Statue of Liberty every single day. The statue was a gift from France. I guess that means those hundreds of thousands of people are Anti-American.
My roommate has a calandar on his wall in his computer room. The calandar has a picture of a chateau at the foot of some mountains in St. Anne, France. I guess that means my roommate is anti-American.
My parents enjoy a sip of French wine occasionally during a quiet dinner. I guess that means my parents are anti-American.
Another friend of mine was born and raised in the United States, however she married an American man who has a last name that is French in origin. I guess that means my freind and her husband are anti-American.
I don't want to see my country's fighting men and fighting women die in a war on foreign soil under the guise of a regime change that will benefit the entire world, when the only real beneficiaries will be rich assholes that already line their pockets with the blood, sweat, and tears of average people who work hard to provide a decent life for their families. I guess that makes me Anti-American...
This makes me want to cry. I grew up in a loving home with parents who proudly protested the Vietnam "conflict" and hoped that my brother and I would never have to do the same. We aren't a perfect people, but we are certainly capable of patience, peace, and tolerance. Every time I turn on the news I am reminded that we are so far from that ideal. I love my country and I have always been a proud Texan, but I ache that we as a nation can't act responsibly. I speak out against war because I do love my country and I speak out against Bush personally because I am proud of my state heritage. (BTW, Bush only lived in Texas for a few years anyway, so I certainly don't claim him!)
Wil, I am proud of you for continuing to post your ideas and desires for peace, even in the face of those who would call you "anti-american".
I just think it's plain silly. It reminds me of when we were kids in grade school and called each other names. The most amazing thing is how much press it got. Apparently, the cafeteria where they filmed this nutty display had nine camera crews.
Artisticspirit, did you ever think that *they're* the ones burning the bridges? They NEVER agree with us whether we have a Republican president or a Democrat for a president. France's government is filled with a bunch of ninnies.
Oookay....now what am I supposed to say when I want fries? Yes Id like a lareg order of FREEDOM fries...>_
Can we say petty??? Yes, yes we can. *rolls eyes* Come now, children, play nice or no ice cream! *walks away mumbling something about how stupid congress is*
Rather interesting. Personally, I think this will only bring more people against us rather than for us. It was a childish thing to do and just shows that our government feels it is beyond reproach.
Why do we have to just sit by and be mentally abused like this by our own govt. I cant believe the...OMG...I can only think of curses right now. (count to 10)mumblemumblemumble....where's the complaint box??? oh YEAH. RIGHT.
Ok, this is going to far....
Now French Stewart, Harry from 3rd Rock will now be known as "Freedom" Stewart.
Filmography at http://us.imdb.com/Name?Stewart,+French
Now, if it wasn't for France being the first country to recognize us as a independent country during the American Revolution (disregard the fact that they did it for their own purposes), we might not be here today! We might be in some penal colonies in "New Holland" (Australia) ---The French helped us GAIN our freedom. And how do we repay them?? With "freedom fries"?? Good god, this makes me want to move to France, because this is downright shameful. Don't the people who made this decision have anything better to do? Just because we don't like the anti-war attitude of France and their stanky armpit smell doesn't mean we can act ridiculous if they happen to disagree with us. Good grief, I'm going to go fall on my sword now. This makes me angry.
Quoth Shawna K:
"Now, if it wasn't for France being the first country to recognize us as a independent country during the American Revolution (disregard the fact that they did it for their own purposes), we might not be here today!"
I think it's safe to say we repaid that debt in WWI. And we repaid it again (and with a helluva lot of interest, I might add) during WWII.
There's no doubt about that, I totally agree. But we must remain friends, oui? Because the only weapon France needs if they got in a war with us is B.O., and they have plenty of that. We got nothing on them.
Seriously, it's just too dangerous to start fucking around with one of our biggest allies...Excuse my French.
This is too much. I'm actually starting to sympathize with the French (being British, that doesn't come easily).
Seriously, France has been an ally of the United States for over 200 years - longer than Britain - and now because they disagree over one very contentious issue they have become the enemy.
It seems that the US is trying very hard to create enemies these days.
Eichybahn,
Thank you for not going off on Dictaters/Dictater-Tots or Texas Toast!
I think this makes the US look childish and silly, its the kind of thing you would expect to see on a playground, not in a country's governing body. I realize it only took the work of two boot-licking senators to get it done, but someone should have been monitoring recess!
Vive la France ! Je pense la cafe est stupide. ( I also pense my French is rusty but c'est la vie ! )
Now all we have to do to be rebellious is know
" un peu de Francais" or study Matisse or read something about France -- be wild, be crazy, start with something about the caves of Lascaux ( sic ) Cro-magnons and Neanderthals both had more sense than these people and yup, they were both French ( I know, they were " all " over Europe etc.)
== Adieux, KPFW
Comments
It sure is!
Posted by: ember | March 11, 2003 01:08 PM
stupid!? i'll have to register you with Mr. Rumsfeld...he's lookin fer you anti-freedom (fries) types!
Posted by: Last refuge of scoundrels | March 11, 2003 01:09 PM
No, that is beyond silly. France chooses to disagree with us, that is there right. It is downright petty to change the menu items.
Gar!
Posted by: rachel | March 11, 2003 01:09 PM
The French Embassy in Washington had no immediate comment, except to say that french fries actually come from Belgium. Go France!
Posted by: ivy | March 11, 2003 01:10 PM
You mean like your last movie? ;-)
Stupid, yes, but it really doesn't cost anything.
Posted by: Brian | March 11, 2003 01:10 PM
Hey i'm not american, and i hate to think my money was going to anything as pointless as that. But then again it probably is.
Kordith
Posted by: Kordith | March 11, 2003 01:11 PM
"This action today is a small but symbolic effort to show the complete disregard of many on Capitol Hill for the intelligence of our so-called constituents," said Ney, chairman of the House Administration Committee.
Oh, wait, that was a paraphrase ... means about the same thing, right?
Posted by: Joseph | March 11, 2003 01:11 PM
ah ha ha ha ha! sorry, but that is kind of silly, and funny. and doesn't surprise me one bit.
Posted by: firefly | March 11, 2003 01:11 PM
Any bets on whether Republicans will stop swilling Champagne at taxpayer expense? Or do you think they're too stupid to notice it's French too?
Posted by: MrGarbanzo | March 11, 2003 01:12 PM
I guess Lance Armstrong will have to compete in the Tour De Freedom next year.
Posted by: Kennedy | March 11, 2003 01:13 PM
During WWII sauerkraut was called "Liberty Cabbage".......
Posted by: Dana | March 11, 2003 01:14 PM
Hey, so now we can have freedom kissing! Freedom dressing! Freedom braids! Freedom ticklers!
Posted by: Jeremy | March 11, 2003 01:16 PM
Feh. I'm about to go into one of these fine establishments, order some "french" fries and if they won't take my order - I'll leave.
How stupid can you get. Wait. Don't answer that.
Posted by: Donna | March 11, 2003 01:17 PM
If you thing that's stupid. What about being arrested for whearing a "give peace a chance" t-shirt?
http://www.cnn.com/2003/US/Northeast/03/04/iraq.usa.shirt.reut/index.html
Posted by: Bugs | March 11, 2003 01:17 PM
yep...
just read about it on Pravda...ooops... i mean CNN.com...(same difference these days...)
freedom fries eh?
good lord...
this irrational anger and hatred of France, and french people in general is ridiculous...
personally, i find it heartening to see countries standing up against the current regime in the US...
i just find it sad to see that some folks mistake the worlds anger at the white house administration and your current leader as 'anti-US' or that we (as the rest of the world) don't like the United States..
total rubbish...
of course we like the US.
we like it plenty...
hell, the folks i've met while traveling through america were amongst the nicest i've ever come across..
and there's you, of course, wil
and folks like Kevin Smith...
i mean really, how can you hate a country that has actor/writers like you and kevin?
we like america, and americans just fine...
not so keen on that bush guy tho...
or the rest of the hawks that are whispering in his ear...
anyhow...take care wil....
and as always..if you're looking for PROPER journalism and views on the upcoming masacre in the desert...
www.zmag.org
(gotta plug them...my bro-in-law helps run the site, and it's always got the latest from Chomsky, Zinn and Fisk..how can you go wrong)
;)
Posted by: Tyson | March 11, 2003 01:17 PM
Haha! That's too much! I can't believe it..I'm proud to be an American and all, but good Lord.......
Posted by: Mary | March 11, 2003 01:17 PM
Yeah, the roomie and I were talking about this just this morning.
We think better names would have been Dictaters/Dictater-tots and Texas Toast
God Bless America...Please!
Posted by: Mick | March 11, 2003 01:17 PM
Now taking suggestions for the renaming of Texas Toast to something more appropriate. Blood For Oil Toast?
Posted by: Merlin Missy | March 11, 2003 01:18 PM
I don't think it is stupid. What I think is stupid is the French not supporting us. The French will only want somehting done when Iraqi troops are marching down the Paris streets, or when Paris looks like Beruit. I intend to use the "Freedom" moniker myself.
PLEASE NOTE: I am not attacking Wil. I am simply disagreeing with him. Thanks!
Posted by: freedom | March 11, 2003 01:21 PM
Reason 105 we are a doomed species
Posted by: Aces | March 11, 2003 01:22 PM
What's next, Freedom Dressing? Freedom Braids? Freedom Kissing? Freedom Ticklers?
Posted by: Clay | March 11, 2003 01:25 PM
Maybe I'm just overtired, but when I read the "Belgium" line I couldn't stop laughing.
Posted by: DeadCat | March 11, 2003 01:25 PM
My parents have a vacation house in Beaufort, NC, and my dad talked about the café that apparently started this rubbish a few weeks ago. Funnily enough, my dad the dyed-in-the-oil Republican thought it was a stupid thing to do as well. Love to hear what he'd think about our representatives wasting time on it.
That will be french fries for me on my next order, thank you.
Posted by: Shannon | March 11, 2003 01:27 PM
This makes me want to move to NC just so I can vote him out of office.
Posted by: matt | March 11, 2003 01:27 PM
Actually, it makes these people look downright ignorant. Makes 'em feel good at the expense of intelligence and makes 'em figure that they'll look good to their constituents. I'd like to think that folks are smarter than the congresscritters who swill at the public trough and don't have the balls to stand up to a president who expects the rest of us to sacrifice our loved ones in a war that isn't yet justified.
Oh. Wait. I forgot. He's justifying it by calling everybody evil. And curtailing civil rights. And stomping his foot while getting mad at France and others who may just possibly be seeing this with clearer vision (i.e. no blood-lust besotting their thoughts) than our leaders are at this point.
Argh!!!!
Posted by: SpaceWriter | March 11, 2003 01:28 PM
You think this is stupid?
We had the millenium dome.
*shudders*
It's nice you exercise your freedom of speech in the US without reprisal because apparently we in the rest of the world aren't allowed to.
Y'all think about that now.
If you want to that is.
No pressure.
*leers*
(Any responses please see me in the forums so we dont clog up the comments)
Posted by: EnglishBen | March 11, 2003 01:29 PM
Of course my traiterous friend Jeremy stole all my Freedom jokes and posted them first. BAH!
Posted by: Clay | March 11, 2003 01:30 PM
Yeah, I'm a bastard. But at least I can spell 'traitorous'. :)
Posted by: Jeremy | March 11, 2003 01:32 PM
I worry about the state of our country. This is ridiculous.
Posted by: Gwyndyn | March 11, 2003 01:33 PM
My sentiments exactly. I covered this story a little differently on my web page: burka.blogspot.com (or tomburka.com). BTW, I invite rich Republicans to "throw out" French champagne, wine, etc. by sending the bottles to me. Or even Wil.
Posted by: Tom Burka | March 11, 2003 01:35 PM
Damn right that is stupid. It sounds very junior high and yet very appropriate for the Bush administration's "you're either with us or your against us" approach.
Posted by: Euphemia | March 11, 2003 01:35 PM
P.S. Clay and Jeremy are goobers. ;) *smooch*
Posted by: Gwyndyn | March 11, 2003 01:37 PM
Time to burn Frances McDormand at the stake.
Posted by: Fred Fowler | March 11, 2003 01:39 PM
This is just plane sad, pathetic, and stupid. French toast and french fries has always been a favorite of mine. It's no wonder I have little faith in this world sometimes.
Posted by: SpiderWebb | March 11, 2003 01:41 PM
How much of the taxpayer's money will be used to change all of the menus? Because they will have to get new menus.
Posted by: Yo!Philly | March 11, 2003 01:44 PM
Ha, yeah, I just read about that, like 5 minutes before coming here.
Freedom fries.... ah... national security...
Posted by: Tom | March 11, 2003 01:46 PM
It's actually pretty frightening. It's just the kind of xenophobic behaviour that can lead to long-term conflict. Just watch the predjudice arise in your own communities. Any French citizens in the US (UK, or even here where I am in Australia) will now be targeted by rednecks. Oh joy.
Posted by: jj | March 11, 2003 01:46 PM
Why don't we just give the statue of liberty back?
Posted by: katster | March 11, 2003 01:47 PM
Sorry Wil I missed that. I was freedom kissing my fiancee.
Chris
Posted by: Christopher Feyrer | March 11, 2003 01:49 PM
What's worse is that neither "French fries" nor "French toast" is French in origin!
Though if they are looking to remove French wines from their menus, I think that I could take some off of their hands. All in the name of freedom, of course! ;-)
These are sad, sad times.
Posted by: Mike | March 11, 2003 01:51 PM
in repsonse to "freedom"'s comment, I must remind him/her (more likely the former;) that the French OPENLY supported the UNANIMOUS UN military action in Afghanistan. They agreed with the direct link the U.S. PROVED to ALL UN SECURITY COUNCIL MEMBERS between the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and 9-11 attackers. Oh, they also provided 10% of the bill for Desert Storm, openly supported our military strikes against Libya in the 80s. But yeah, I guess we need to ignore their cultural contributions (even though most did not come from them in the first place). Yet no one has boycotted chicken nuggets, a DISTINCTLY French invention, as anyone who bothered to go there would know. They just don't care until they've been invaded. That whole thing in the Ivory Coast is because their are Iverian soldiers marching down the Champs Elysee, not because they are stopping a civil war and genocide.
Posted by: disgruntled | March 11, 2003 01:52 PM
Viva La.......Wait.
USA! USA! USA!
Posted by: Allan Koeberlin II | March 11, 2003 01:55 PM
"The French Embassy in Washington had no immediate comment, except to say that french fries actually come from Belgium."
that is awesome. hahaha
Posted by: jenn | March 11, 2003 01:58 PM
McDonalds goes overboard trying to be PC....
Would you like French, Belgian or Freedon Fries with that?
Posted by: Debby | March 11, 2003 02:01 PM
I'd like to "Freedom" kiss that chick from Alias... :).
This crap is ridiculous!
Posted by: Jason @ BowlingShirt.com | March 11, 2003 02:07 PM
Okay, now I'm the only practicing Republican I know under the age of thirty, and even I think this is dumb. But really, are we entering an age of widespread and entrenched francophobia? No. Nobody will remember this in a year's time. It's a blip. We're not going to invade France and drive the inhabitants into the Mediterranean in a bloody rout. Though god knows, it's not an entirely bad idea...
These folks are idiots, though.
Posted by: Dave | March 11, 2003 02:07 PM
Hmm seems we made a mistake electing bush....my lil sister could been a better president...i mean he wont even accept to take a iq test in public how sad is that
Posted by: Kazuki | March 11, 2003 02:08 PM
So I suppose I need to start serving freedom roast coffee...?
(This whole thing is so freaking stupid.)
Posted by: sandra | March 11, 2003 02:09 PM
So after all of the times that France has stood (and fought) by our side, we've decided that they are no longer worthy enough to have their own opinion. Never mind that Russia and Germany agree with them - are we going to go back to calling German Shephards "Alsaysians" like we did in WWII?
Posted by: Kirsten Smtith | March 11, 2003 02:09 PM
Next forum will consist of freedom cream pies.
Posted by: ze- mag | March 11, 2003 02:13 PM
My thoughts: "You must be at least THIS SMART to be in Congress." Term limits, man... term limits. But more importantly, thank you for posting this alternate article, CNN didn't have the bit about the French Embassy pointing out that french fries come from Belgium. That's priceless. I love it. XD
Other than that, I'm an advocate of freedom-kissing, how about everyone else? ;D
Posted by: Danielle | March 11, 2003 02:13 PM
Saw this today too, and went immediately to Fark...LOL
If there are folks out there that don't believe there is a LOT of propaganda going on, well, this just proves there is.
Posted by: reallylikesj | March 11, 2003 02:14 PM
I agree that is stupid!
Posted by: Cindy | March 11, 2003 02:20 PM
The ironic thing about this is that French Toast (mentioned in the article but not in the headline; also changed to "freedom toast") was called "german toast" until WWI...
Posted by: Erik Wessing | March 11, 2003 02:20 PM
God bless America, eh?
Posted by: Phillip | March 11, 2003 02:21 PM
This is not only stupid, it's actually, well, stupid! That didn't come out right.
French fries are called French fries, *everyone* knows that. So if they suddenly become freedom fries, doesn't freedom become synonymous with French/France?
Cool - I'm going on a school trip to Freedom on Sunday!
Posted by: EofS | March 11, 2003 02:21 PM
HA!
Posted by: thedragon | March 11, 2003 02:21 PM
You have to wonder what the French ambassadors think about this.
I mean, on the one hand they're thinking Americans are obviously idiots because the iffy potato treats they're complaining about are not French, they're Belgian. That came out loud and clear in the dry comment from the embassy. :-)
On the other hand, it's got to be at least a little worrying on a symbolic level... it reminds me of another news story I read. A French official was saying "We didn't say anything before, because we were afraid of making relations between our countries worse. But right now, they can't get any worse, so we decided to come out with it."
Ugh ... who are those bozos out there, and why didn't we have a checkbox on the voting form that said "i prefer non-bozos in office, thanks"? The US has been bullying and threatening even its allies with insults and threats of trade sanctions. The impact to the US's diplomatic reputation is really going to be terrible in the long term.
Posted by: drew | March 11, 2003 02:22 PM
I can understand the frustration with France... Isn't it better to run a few menus instead of doing something else to France?
Let's see, how we can count the ways getting rid of Saddam hurts France, shall we?
1) 80+ billion dollars (US) owed to France from Iraq.
2) 81 French companies show at a trade show in Iraq this past October, all of them get multi-million dollar contracts.
3) France supplied the breeder reactor (the kind that produces weapons grade materials) and fissionable material that Iraq bought long ago (that the Israelis took out).
4) French Oil Companies currently hold more than half of Iraq's oil production capacity.
5) Lagardere SCA (French Company) owns Elle, Car & Driver, Women's Day, and other US magazines... who owns 90 Million in stock in this French Company (about 2% of it)... Saddam Hussein!
6) French aircraft parts company circumventing UN sanctions and delivering banned materials to Iraq via UAE and Jordanian companies (owned by Iraq).
So, I don't mind a few xerox copies of a menu... Seems like a rational thing compared to the crapola France has been up to.
Posted by: Scottm | March 11, 2003 02:23 PM
i wish this was a joke ... really, i do. {sigh}
Posted by: andrew | March 11, 2003 02:23 PM
in a way, highly amusing. in a much more real way, sad. i guess people just look on TV at his brow knotted in concern for his country ..aww...and don't pay enough attention to what is actually coming out of his mouth...well at least some of us can boycott. ugh, i cant even picture eating something called freedom fries, next theyll be making red, white, and blue striped ketchup, just ugh. (by the way, i always thought chirac sounded more like some klingon or something than a french diplomat...i mean it really is a perfect star trek name...)
Posted by: inga | March 11, 2003 02:26 PM
They should do away with calling deep fried julienne potatoes, 'French Fries' and call them 'Chips' like they do here in the UK. 'Potato Chips' could then be called 'Crisps' like they are here in the UK.
Who needs France to confuse everyones language, when the UK does just as good a job! lmao
*only joking fellow brits. I'm in a funny (haha not peculiar) mood!*
Posted by: Foxychik | March 11, 2003 02:30 PM
You're so right,that really is so stupid !
Posted by: Tammie | March 11, 2003 02:34 PM
reading these comments...i worry about the country...this generation is as dopey as mine.
Posted by: scared | March 11, 2003 02:35 PM
On the plus side, if they're voting on what to call fries, they're not voting to go to war. What else can we get them to rename?
Posted by: Mike | March 11, 2003 02:36 PM
Never underestimate the stupidity of people.
Posted by: Jonathanchance | March 11, 2003 02:40 PM
Of course we could exercise good judgment by not eating as many french fries because they're so high in fat, rather than make ourselves look silly by banning them or calling them something new due to xenophobic rage.
Naw. That would be common sense. Who'd expect THAT from our leaders...
Posted by: SpaceWriter | March 11, 2003 02:40 PM
""This action today is a small but symbolic effort to show the strong displeasure of many on Capitol Hill with the actions of our so-called ally, France," said Ney, chairman of the House Administration Committee. "
whoah. whoah.
...of our so-called ally, France????
whoah!
do we really want to be saying that?
do.
we.
REALLY??!!
want...
to
say
that??
uh. whoah!
Capital Hill better get it's head out of it's "Freedom Fry" laiden ass...this ain't some kind of game.
Posted by: C.P. | March 11, 2003 02:52 PM
I'm going to phone this place up, and tell them I'd like to order 500 bucks worth of "pommes frites."
Posted by: wil | March 11, 2003 02:56 PM
Bush says: Boohoo! France wont play with us in our Iraqi sandbox! Now we got to hit them where it hurts and change the name of our carcinogenic fried potatoes. I bet they will be very offended and rethink their position.
The french were probably offended with the name "french fries" in the first place.
FREEDOM FRIES? Freedom to develop cancer and become overweight?
Posted by: Viking | March 11, 2003 02:59 PM
What's funny is how many so called "Americans" forget that if it wasn't for the French, we would still be ruled by Britain or some other alternate history would have come out.
Posted by: Patrick Smith | March 11, 2003 03:00 PM
you're right, f*cking pathetic.
However, my partner Emma is property manager for Woolsthorpe Manor (Birthplace and family home of Sir Isaac Newton- in the UK!!)
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scripts/nthandbook.dll?ACTION=PROPERTY&PROPERTYID=82
It's just opened again for the new season, and someone arrives this weekend,
goes to the (small) coffee shop and demands that she only be served British food stuffs. "Under no circumstances would she eat any French Food"
God some people are just a waste of skin and oxygen!
Posted by: Iain Alexander | March 11, 2003 03:01 PM
"This action today is a small but symbolic effort to show the strong displeasure of many on Capitol Hill with the actions of our so-called ally, France," said Ney, chairman of the House Administration Committee.
--
Just one more reason why I, as a Canadian, would love to see the American government absolutely obliterated. I'm not French-Canadian or anything like that, it's just one more notch in the U.S. government's dispicable arrogance and self-righteousness. I have no problem with the American people in general, however, so don't anyone label me as anti-American or racist.
Posted by: Matt | March 11, 2003 03:02 PM
After a visit to my local bakery, I've realized that our govt. is trying to make the American citizen look like a idiot...In my attempt to be P.C., I tried to order some French bread and could only say "bread" and point...when I wanted some French pastries, same thing, I said "pastry" and pointed. The clerk looked at me as if I were an idiot that crawled out of a cave...Of course, this tale is fictitious, but isn't this just what our beloved leader wants from his Lemmings..err..citizens...
Posted by: Garkeller | March 11, 2003 03:02 PM
Don't take offense, but this is the sort of press that makes the world think all Americans are utter fools. And to be honest, the people in question aren't doing the US any favours. The world is on the brink of war - who gives a damn about french fries? Freedom fries? The 'Land of the Free' is so often far from the truth anyway.
Posted by: Ed | March 11, 2003 03:03 PM
anyway, I think french fries are only called that in North America..
Australia/New Zealand/Ireland/UK call them chips (except in McD's and Burger King) and the French call them Fried Potatoes (Pomme Frite) ?
Posted by: Iain Alexander | March 11, 2003 03:04 PM
"The French Embassy in Washington had no immediate comment, except to say that french fries actually come from Belgium."
The word for the day, children, is "dumbass."
Posted by: Conrad Poohs | March 11, 2003 03:04 PM
maybe we could sue the french for their fatty, starchy fries! dont let em off the hook my friends! call em French "Death" Fries and lets litigate!
if the fat clogs we must sue the frogs!
Posted by: francophile | March 11, 2003 03:12 PM
What's next? Are they going to re-edit Better Off Dead and change the classic dinner scene to include Freedom Bread, Freedom Toast, Freedom Fries, Freedom Dressing and Freedom Water? Where does it all end ?!?
Posted by: SlaveToTheWage | March 11, 2003 03:14 PM
I really want to go to that restauraunt and say, I would like a hamburger, and some FRENCH FRIES. Saying the last bit so I could be loudly understood throughout the place.. see what would happen.
So the French dissagree with us, so what, that doesnt make them part of the axis of evil. Or wait, with Bush, maybe it does..
Posted by: Mike | March 11, 2003 03:17 PM
On the plus side, the British "chips" is a way cooler, and shorter, word.
Posted by: Mr Frosty | March 11, 2003 03:23 PM
Truly stupid. As a non-American who still likes the country a great deal I have to say the current crop of poly-ticks are really making the entire nation look bad.
Bush has to be a blowhard at this point in order to have the slightest prayer of re-election, but what those cretins have as an excuse eludes me.
Truly scary as well to watch CNN and hear reports about how the US is going to pee all over the UN if they don't knuckle under and attack no matter what world opinion is like.
DMCA, the new Gestap... Homeland Security, excuse me... young men who have "facilitated software piracy" going to jail for years even though they never made a dime in profit from it... Land of the free? I feel a lot more secure and free where I live at the moment, thanks.
Hard to even call it the land of the brave at this point, knowing that the Iraqi troops stand about the same chance as your neighbourhood kindergarten would against the US army.
Posted by: Kimmo Jaskari | March 11, 2003 03:26 PM
this is the funniest thing I've seen in a while, somehow tragic but funny as well... mmm so what's next? claim the gifts the two nations have given each other back just like some couples do after they break up?
Posted by: Soda Cáustica | March 11, 2003 03:27 PM
Where's my Victory Cabbage, damnit?!
Posted by: Gwalchmai | March 11, 2003 03:31 PM
Wil, you're the best friend I'll never have. I know so many Americans who have a sensible position on Iraq, it's incredible there's such an almost-McCarthyite atmosphere there!
I've been wondering about something for a while, though. Please enlighten me if it's practical for you. Why. Did you used to pronounce s as "sh" when you were little? Like "That's okay captain - I undershtand". It's just got me in a bit of a conundrum, because (being in the UK) I've only experience of one other American pronouncing things that way - Jodie Foster. Where does this accent come from? (P.S. Unwarranted "sh" sounds can also be traced to the inhabitants of a certain Gaulish village circa 50BC, when intoxicated (see your comic collection), but I didn't want to mention this (despite doing so!) so as not to seem offensive - I'm just curious!)
Cheers. Don't let the Bushiites get you down.
M.
Posted by: Marko | March 11, 2003 03:37 PM
I live in NC...and the next time i go into any restaurant I will ask for "french fries" instead of my usual "fries" I will now make a point to say french!
Je pense que je serai outlawed aussi tot parce que je parle un peu de francais...ou peut-etre maintenant je parle un peu de liberte...
and the belgium line was hilarious...
Posted by: D Hampton | March 11, 2003 03:37 PM
Oh. My. God.
I did a double take when I read this article just to make sure I wasn't somehow forwarded to The Onion! I'm not even gonna start on this, anybody with more than one neuron in their head has already realized anything I would say about it.
And the article somebody posted about the guy being kicked out of a mall for wearing a Give Peace a Chance t-shirt? He could face up to one year in prison for refusing to take it off!?
...
That's it, I'm moving to Canada.
Posted by: Jayonas | March 11, 2003 03:38 PM
You're absolutely right, Wil. That _IS_ stupid. Next thing you know, we'll have Disarm Dogs, the Superpower Salad, Liberty Lasagnia, Patriot Pizza, and Constitution Chilie. Thanks for yet another laugh, man. Really brightens the day ^-^
Posted by: Eric | March 11, 2003 03:49 PM
ugh... cras, asinine or just plain stupid?
Posted by: ThrashKarl | March 11, 2003 03:56 PM
Wow...
It's sorta like elementary school... Wimpy little retaliations in light of a bigger problem.
I wonder if they will rename Louisiana, and the french quarter...
Posted by: Robby | March 11, 2003 04:02 PM
LOL french fries are even a french food..nor do they originate from france..hahaha another million dollar toilet seat story.
Thanks for the laugh wil.
Posted by: Bryan | March 11, 2003 04:06 PM
Wil- I respect your right to have your opinion- however, I disagree. This is not stupid, it is irrelevant. You cannot use the actions of a few people to totally dismiss the pro-war stance. My step-brother is in Kuwait, and I would never disrespect his sacrifice and the sacrifice of my family by making fun of this situation. We are here expressing our opinions- a luxury that they don't have in Iraq. I think that we can disagree peacefully, without sinking so low to insult people who do not agree w/ us.
Posted by: KD | March 11, 2003 04:08 PM
Singling out France because of their opposition to the US & UK (government) agenda of bombing Iraq reminds me of a story my German fiancee told me about the DDR (East German communist government prior to German Unification).
Familes who were opposed to the Communist party were singled out and ridiculed... schoolchildren who did not join the Pioneers (junior communist party) were excluded from certain after school activities.
All in all.. the activities of these US businesses seem very communist to me.. a great day for the country that is supposed to represent the essence of democracy... instead of respecting the right of opposition it jokes at it... I suppose it represents the elements of society that will follow a government regardless of what position it takes.. would Muppet be the correct term to use?
Posted by: Cormac | March 11, 2003 04:11 PM
*shakes head in disbelief*
Never ceases to amaze me!
*walks away shaking head some more*
Posted by: NephraTari | March 11, 2003 04:16 PM
I posted on this on the Religion/Politics "American/French bashing" thread, but the moderator deleted it. My comment was: "Do you realize how fucking childish this looks to the rest of the world?"
I don't use the F-word much, but it seemed appropriate here.
Posted by: synchronicity | March 11, 2003 04:18 PM
Truly. Freakin'. Amazing.
Posted by: Tracey | March 11, 2003 04:29 PM
Stupid enough that you brought it to our attention. HAHAHA
Posted by: Lisa Marie | March 11, 2003 04:30 PM
Well... we shouldn't call them french fries. We should be honest about that. They're deep fried artery cloggers. Yum.
Posted by: Thumper | March 11, 2003 04:44 PM
Our president.
http://springfield-shopper.de/Information/listen/cletus.gif
Posted by: Spudnuts | March 11, 2003 04:57 PM
"Why don't we just give the statue of liberty back?
Posted by katster at March 11, 2003 01:47 PM"
I hadn't thought of that until you posted it. Maybe I should write my congressperson. Hey Wil, who is the congressperson for Pasadena?
Posted by: Vanessa | March 11, 2003 05:02 PM
"Why don't we just give the statue of liberty back?
Posted by katster at March 11, 2003 01:47 PM"
OMFG. This is too funny. Can I write a story for BBSpot using this? "Bush to return Statue of Liberty to France"
Posted by: wil | March 11, 2003 05:06 PM
Ok...
Did none of your read ANIMAL FARM?
You sound like a bunch of Pigs only now it's "D" Good, "R" Bad.
Get you head out of the sand and WAKE UP!!!
The world might be black and white, but the whole Republicans bad thing had gotten crazy!
If you people spent 1/2 the time thinking through your "RDDB" beliefes, you might realize that your supporting RED China, and yes, the people WE as AMERICANS hate the most. REPUBLICANS!!!!
This whole concept of your is stupid!!
Wil, don't get me wrong your intitled to your own ideas. But please know the facts first!
You owe it to yourself and to the rest of us.
If all of you have any questions about your beliefs just ask, I'm more then willing to explain them to you --- Eichybahn@aol.com
Also, FYI only 15% of all Champagne comes from France, the rest comes from the same country that saved FRANCE's ASS afew times the beautiful USA!!!
Finally, Blood for oil, that makes as much sence as Blood for Steel of have none of you heard of WW2?
Wil, I'm starting to understand why you don't respond to my E-Mail!!!
Smile Bitch,
Posted by: Eichybahn | March 11, 2003 05:18 PM
"I don't think we have to retaliate against France. They've isolated themselves pretty well,"
This statement is really funny to me. With all that's going on we as Americans have to ask ourselves if we're not the ones isolating ourselves. George Bush a Republican and is now leader of the free world,is only speeking to those who voted for him, Republicans; gun wielding, southern republicans. This group only makes up a VERY small percentage of citizens of this so called "free world". Istead of telling his supporters what he's "gonna" do, he should take some time and listen to the popular opinion of the rest of the free world. We are a hated people, and it's deffinetely NOT going to get better. We are entering a very interesting and vexing time. Hopefully W has not set the ball rolling on this great nation's demise. Sorry to turn your web app into an opinion platform wil.
C/0 the rest of the world
Posted by: Craig | March 11, 2003 06:00 PM
DHampton above wrote:
Je pense que je serai outlawed aussi tot parce que je parle un peu de francais...ou peut-etre maintenant je parle un peu de liberte...
*scratches head in bemusement*
"Errrrrrrrm........ can I have chips with mine?"
Posted by: Foxychik | March 11, 2003 06:04 PM
First off, I think Wil should totally write that BBSpot! Too damned funny!
Second, this isn't an Anti-Republican sentiment. This is an Anti-Jackass statement. The Propaganda Potato Products things was STUPID. They couldn't find time to do something USEFUL so they decided to change the names of French Fries in the House Cafeterias.
I posted my own personal rant on my own Thingie (http://tinkrbel.greyduck.net/archives/000109.php#000109), but the people on this comment section have cheered me up considerably since I wrote it...
thanks for reminding me that i am NOT surrounded by idiots -- I am just governed by them...
Posted by: Mari | March 11, 2003 06:09 PM
I remember when the French Government was carrying out Nuclear tests on Pacific Islands sometime during the mid-80's. The Australia community decided to carry out an even worse campaign, and boycotted French products and the French culture in general.
So if it's any comfort to our friends in the US, you aren't the first ones who have carried actions as foolish as this.
Posted by: Space Hamster | March 11, 2003 06:11 PM
I have so many comments on this, that I literally am exploding from too many at one time, and I cannot choose.
lets start with this. The french aren't exactly famous for taking something and dipping it in a vat of hot lard. Idiotically, at some point, some misguided american called them "French Fries". The french always laugh at us about that. Not only are french fries, not french, neither is french toast.
So, while the french rejoice at no longer being associated with a food they consider wholly American, disgusting and unhealthy, we think we're throwing them a huge insult.
If we wanted to insult the french, we could have always re-named chitterlings "French ham" or scrapple "French meat". Or we could have simply referred to the gunk that builds up underneath your sink strainer as "French residue".
But please, the only thing that is being insulted by this gesture is my intelligence.
Posted by: Muse | March 11, 2003 06:19 PM
Eichybahn
FYI - 100% of Champagne comes from France, anything created ouside of the Champagne region that resembles a wine with bubbles it is called sparkling wine. Any 12 year old who has seen Wayne's World knows that.
Your Ignorance is B lis S
Posted by: Craig | March 11, 2003 06:23 PM
Well, that is about as childish as it gets. So, what I gather from this nonsense is that my country's leaders are saying that anything French should be boycotted to show displeasure with what they consider to be anti-American?
Can you say CORNY!
I go to an authentic French restaraunt occasionly, owned and operated by a large French family. I guess that means I am anti-American.
A good friend of mine was born in France. He moved to the US just 7 years ago. When I carry on a conversation with him, I guess that means I am anti-American.
My sister wears authentic French perfume. She buys it through friends of hers that live in France. I guess that means my sister is anti-American.
Hundreds of thousands of people born and raised in the United States visit the Statue of Liberty every single day. The statue was a gift from France. I guess that means those hundreds of thousands of people are Anti-American.
My roommate has a calandar on his wall in his computer room. The calandar has a picture of a chateau at the foot of some mountains in St. Anne, France. I guess that means my roommate is anti-American.
My parents enjoy a sip of French wine occasionally during a quiet dinner. I guess that means my parents are anti-American.
Another friend of mine was born and raised in the United States, however she married an American man who has a last name that is French in origin. I guess that means my freind and her husband are anti-American.
I don't want to see my country's fighting men and fighting women die in a war on foreign soil under the guise of a regime change that will benefit the entire world, when the only real beneficiaries will be rich assholes that already line their pockets with the blood, sweat, and tears of average people who work hard to provide a decent life for their families. I guess that makes me Anti-American...
Posted by: WebNuT! | March 11, 2003 06:39 PM
This makes me want to cry. I grew up in a loving home with parents who proudly protested the Vietnam "conflict" and hoped that my brother and I would never have to do the same. We aren't a perfect people, but we are certainly capable of patience, peace, and tolerance. Every time I turn on the news I am reminded that we are so far from that ideal. I love my country and I have always been a proud Texan, but I ache that we as a nation can't act responsibly. I speak out against war because I do love my country and I speak out against Bush personally because I am proud of my state heritage. (BTW, Bush only lived in Texas for a few years anyway, so I certainly don't claim him!)
Wil, I am proud of you for continuing to post your ideas and desires for peace, even in the face of those who would call you "anti-american".
Posted by: robin lefler | March 11, 2003 06:40 PM
Yeah, I saw that. Come the fuck on! Please.
Posted by: Christy | March 11, 2003 07:18 PM
I think it rocks! Man, I think France is worried they have to surrender if we attack Iraq. It's hilarious and a nice shot at such a two-faced country.
Posted by: Rob | March 11, 2003 07:56 PM
I just think it's plain silly. It reminds me of when we were kids in grade school and called each other names. The most amazing thing is how much press it got. Apparently, the cafeteria where they filmed this nutty display had nine camera crews.
Lovely 15 minutes of fame.
Posted by: darla8855 | March 11, 2003 07:56 PM
This makes me sad. How selfish and immature. Republicans are burning old friendship bridges in such a way...that they will never grow back.
Posted by: artisticspirit | March 11, 2003 07:58 PM
Artisticspirit, did you ever think that *they're* the ones burning the bridges? They NEVER agree with us whether we have a Republican president or a Democrat for a president. France's government is filled with a bunch of ninnies.
Posted by: Rob | March 11, 2003 08:01 PM
O_O
Oookay....now what am I supposed to say when I want fries? Yes Id like a lareg order of FREEDOM fries...>_
Can we say petty??? Yes, yes we can. *rolls eyes* Come now, children, play nice or no ice cream! *walks away mumbling something about how stupid congress is*
Posted by: GreenEyes The Official CAT of Violence | March 11, 2003 08:03 PM
It's Liberty Cabbage all over again!
Aren't you glad to know that congress is focusing on the important things?
::bangs her head against the monitor repeatedly::
Posted by: RoxyElliot | March 11, 2003 08:05 PM
Rather interesting. Personally, I think this will only bring more people against us rather than for us. It was a childish thing to do and just shows that our government feels it is beyond reproach.
I fear for the days to come.
Chris
Posted by: Chris | March 11, 2003 08:18 PM
hahahahahahahaha, those crazy Americans.....
Posted by: Canadian, eh | March 11, 2003 08:54 PM
J'aime le fromage.
Posted by: Rob Matsushita | March 11, 2003 09:05 PM
Why do we have to just sit by and be mentally abused like this by our own govt. I cant believe the...OMG...I can only think of curses right now. (count to 10)mumblemumblemumble....where's the complaint box??? oh YEAH. RIGHT.
Posted by: Susan H | March 11, 2003 09:14 PM
Ok, this is going to far....
Now French Stewart, Harry from 3rd Rock will now be known as "Freedom" Stewart.
Filmography at http://us.imdb.com/Name?Stewart,+French
Posted by: MojoMark | March 11, 2003 09:25 PM
Keep in mind that this was initiated and passed by Reps. Bob Ney (R. Ohio) and Walter Jones (R. North Carolina).
This didn't come from the White House, and it's not right to lay this idiocy at Bush's feet. They've got their hands full with idiocies all their own.
Posted by: wil | March 11, 2003 09:35 PM
Now, if it wasn't for France being the first country to recognize us as a independent country during the American Revolution (disregard the fact that they did it for their own purposes), we might not be here today! We might be in some penal colonies in "New Holland" (Australia) ---The French helped us GAIN our freedom. And how do we repay them?? With "freedom fries"?? Good god, this makes me want to move to France, because this is downright shameful. Don't the people who made this decision have anything better to do? Just because we don't like the anti-war attitude of France and their stanky armpit smell doesn't mean we can act ridiculous if they happen to disagree with us. Good grief, I'm going to go fall on my sword now. This makes me angry.
Posted by: Shawna K | March 11, 2003 09:39 PM
Quoth Shawna K:
"Now, if it wasn't for France being the first country to recognize us as a independent country during the American Revolution (disregard the fact that they did it for their own purposes), we might not be here today!"
I think it's safe to say we repaid that debt in WWI. And we repaid it again (and with a helluva lot of interest, I might add) during WWII.
Posted by: ToastedAmigo | March 11, 2003 09:46 PM
Hey ToastedAmigo,
There's no doubt about that, I totally agree. But we must remain friends, oui? Because the only weapon France needs if they got in a war with us is B.O., and they have plenty of that. We got nothing on them.
Seriously, it's just too dangerous to start fucking around with one of our biggest allies...Excuse my French.
Posted by: Shawna K | March 11, 2003 09:49 PM
This is too much. I'm actually starting to sympathize with the French (being British, that doesn't come easily).
Seriously, France has been an ally of the United States for over 200 years - longer than Britain - and now because they disagree over one very contentious issue they have become the enemy.
It seems that the US is trying very hard to create enemies these days.
Vive la France!
Posted by: Steve R | March 11, 2003 10:05 PM
p.s. Anyway, they're not French Fries, they're chips.
Posted by: Steve R | March 11, 2003 10:08 PM
In related news, 'American Cheese' goes unmodified.
Posted by: FrankDrebin | March 11, 2003 10:24 PM
Eichybahn,
Thank you for not going off on Dictaters/Dictater-Tots or Texas Toast!
I think this makes the US look childish and silly, its the kind of thing you would expect to see on a playground, not in a country's governing body. I realize it only took the work of two boot-licking senators to get it done, but someone should have been monitoring recess!
France is not my enemy! Vive La France!
Posted by: Monique | March 11, 2003 10:31 PM
I think it's kind of fitting, seeing as how there's nothing french about them in the first place, it's a totally meaningless statement to make.
Posted by: Jenny | March 11, 2003 10:50 PM
Vive la France ! Je pense la cafe est stupide. ( I also pense my French is rusty but c'est la vie ! )
Now all we have to do to be rebellious is know
" un peu de Francais" or study Matisse or read something about France -- be wild, be crazy, start with something about the caves of Lascaux ( sic ) Cro-magnons and Neanderthals both had more sense than these people and yup, they were both French ( I know, they were " all " over Europe etc.)
== Adieux, KPFW
Posted by: KPFW | March 11, 2003 10:51 PM