Take a break Michelle Obama on food network tonight.

[rwheeler31]

Should be fun.

[Don Caballero]

1. I am so proud of our First Lady

She is an eloquent beauty and a major improvement from the Drunk Driving Child Killer who proceeded her.

[WillieW]

154. Wow, that hurts!

[mopinko]

2. details please

not that we never sit and watch the food all night. but there is some kind of, what do you call it, um, um, oh yeah, football on tonight.

[JHB]

12. It's a "White House" edition of "Iron Chef America"...

"Iron Chef America" is a Food Network show where two chefs compete to produce a set number of dishes using a special theme ingredient within a set timeframe, and there is a panel of judges who taste the dishes to determine the winner. (The "America" part of the name is because it's a spin-off of a Japanese show which originated the formula.)

One of the competitors in this episode is the White House chief chef, and the theme ingredients are produce from Michelle's WH home garden.

[femrap]

3. yippee....women

back in the kitchen. And she looks as if she might be pregnant as well.

Go ahead and flame. This woman has a law degree and has worked in the business arena. Why is she playing with food?

The 1950's were NOT fun.

[MichaelHarris]

6. you do know

what the show is about right? There are a number of men cooking on that show.

[karynnj]

11. How silly

I know many women, with several advanced degrees that like cooking. I know many men who do too. I don't know if Obama cooks, but if he did, it would be fun to see him show how he makes a favorite dish. Most people like food and many like to cook - especially if they don't have to. This simply will make Michelle Obama seem to be sharing more of the multidimensional person she is. The fact is the only female Chicago lawyer I know , who graduated second in her law school, is also one of the very best cooks I know.

(In 2004, one of the cutest articles I saw was in the NYT food section ( http://www.nytimes.com/2004/10/13/dining/13TERE.html?_r=1&pagewanted=1&ei=5090&en=a15423a4a1dba9c3&ex=1255492800&partner=rssuserland) . Teresa, who runs a major foundation which makes her every bit as high powered as Michelle, spoke of making things like a Portuguese fish stew, where due to mercury in some fish she needed to find a healthier substitute. Asked if JK cooked, she spoke of the him making the best chocolate mousse she ever had - a picture of the candidate I never would have thought of. )

[Stinky The Clown]

53. There was an interview with the Obamas at their Chicago home back during the campaign ......

..... (maybe the primaries) wherein Obama was asked about his culinary prowess. He made his go-to dish ..... some tuna salad thing. I'll bet he can also make a PB&J.

[mopinko]

18. women chefs are another matter. still not enough.

especially on the food network.

[femrap]

89. I so agree with you! nt

Isn't it...men are chefs and women are cooks?

[mopinko]

98. yes it is.

it is better than it used to be. but there is still some serious hazing of women chefs and managers in restaurants.

[femrap]

124. A woman friend of mine

got her culinary license and worked in the kitchen. She said it was non-stop groping and demeaning language.

With all of those knives around, I would have had a hard time controlling myself.:evilgrin:

[JuniperLea]

100. How many do you need before you drop this BS?

Tina Nordström

Kelly Choi

Katie Lee Joel

Giada de Laurentiis

Cat Cora

Padma Lakshmi

Rachael Ray

Stephanie Izard

Sara Moulton

Nigella Lawson

Paula Deen

Sandra Lee

Ina Garten

Lidia Bastianich

Ann Cooper

Claire Bassano

Gale Gand

Mary Ann Esposito

Susan Feniger

Mary Sue Milliken

Aïda Mollenkamp

[mopinko]

143. hey, this is a stupid thread. but

most of the women on the food network are "home cook" types, not the high power, big shoot out shows. and i suspect the sheer numbers are at least a little tipped.
it is better than it used to be in the restaurant world, without a doubt. without a doubt. but the double standard lives.

i loves me some flotus, tho, and this thread is full of shit.

[JuniperLea]

160. No, you're wrong...

Moulton is huge, was editor of Gourmet Magazine... I only noted notable chefs here... only the "Test Kitchen" women were in doubt, so I left them out...

My godfather was an executive chef... I was a foodie before it was cool... and I've remained abreast of the gourmet foods/restaurant industry most of my life. There are no "home cook" types on my list... not by a long shot.

[FrenchieCat]

24. My daughter graduated from Harvard, is currently in Grad school for a PHD....

and she loves to cook as often as possible! And so does her new hubby; also a Harvard graduate.

You. my dear, are truly special.

[cornermouse]

25. Your daughter hasn't cooked as many meals

for as many people as some of us have. Some of us have done enough cooking that it no longer holds the same enchantment, charm, or interest. But enough of that.

Michelle is an extremely sharp lady who has the potential to set a shining national example for young girls about future employment possibilities, most of whom will not be able to afford the luxury of staying home. Is it really in the best interest of the young girls to have those young girls watch her set an example of "staying out of menfolk business" when she has so much more to offer?

[cali]

27. I have. I cook professionally

and I love it. And hosting this program is hardly setting an example of "staying out of men's business".


Your comment is ignorant and ridiculous.

[cornermouse]

28. You are probably the exception rather than the rule.

I'm glad you're apparently happy with it.

Most little girls aren't going to make a living from cooking. More will be making a living via other avenues for which Michelle could provide a great example. I didn't think that people would find it so difficult to understand nor did I think people would decide that it was a insult to Michelle.

[JI7]

30. Michelle didn't even cook on the show, most of the cooks were men

nothing you are saying has anything to do with what the show was about.

the part with Michelle was mostly discussing the white house garden and eating healthy.

[cornermouse]

31. Eating healthy is something you learn in biology and home ec class.

"Most little girls aren't going to make a living from cooking. More will be making a living via other avenues for which Michelle could provide a great example."

n/t

[cali]

35. really? you think eating healthily is what they teach in biology class?

As for home ec, there are few schools where that's even taught anymore. In any case, it's only in the last couple of decades that professional cooking has opened up to women. It was very much a man's world for a long time.

[tammywammy]

58. "Eating healthy is something you learn in biology and home ec class"

:rofl:

And the only people I knew that took home ec (I graduated in 1999) were the slackers. I was too busy taking advanced classes along with orchestra and journalism to put in fucking home ec. I learned to cook from both of my parents. I'm an educated adult who also loves to cook.

[karynnj]

65. In biology?? Not in my high school and that was in the 1960s

Maybe in Health. The fact is that even those of us that aced the exams, did not live by what we learned and having it prevented attractively with emphasis on good, fresh, locally grown vegetables can make someone decide to change the food they buy ready made or the food they buy to cook. This may get attention from people not usually into cooking.

[Stinky The Clown]

55. You're quite wrong in your perceptions

There are many women in serious positions in the food industry.

Chefs

Executives

R&D

Support companies (equipment, china and silverware, logistics, etc.)

The food business (my business for my entire career) is among the more egalitarian and diverse.

[JuniperLea]

105. Now I'm too "la-la"...

See below...

:eyes:

[JuniperLea]

73. You need to crawl out from under your rock once in a while...

Julia Child was a pioneer in the field of bringing gourmet food to the masses, and she enjoyed the hell out of it and gave us all a lot of great information in the process.

And Julia's former sous chef, Sara Moulton (from Wiki): Sara Moulton is an American chef, cookbook author, and television personality. She was the chef of Gourmet magazine’s executive dining room for 20 years, until the magazine's publisher, Conde Nast, announced on Oct. 5, 2009, that the magazine would cease publication. Moulton is food editor of ABC-TV’s “Good Morning America.”

The host of public television’s “Sara’s Weeknight Meals,” Moulton was also one of the original stars of the Food Network during that national cable channel's first decade. Between 1996 and 2005, Moulton hosted the Food Network's "Cooking Live," "Cooking Live Primetime," and "Sara's Secrets." She is the author of “Sara’s Secrets for Weeknight Meals” and “Sara Moulton Cooks at Home.” A pioneering advocate of women culinary professionals, Moulton was one of the founders, in 1982, of the New York Women’s Culinary Alliance.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sara_Moulton

Then there are Mary Sue Milliken & Susan Feniger... try Border Grill in Santa Monica or Ciudad in Downtown Los Angeles. They had an extremely popular cooking show, and many books too.

Women have a firm hold in the industry, and they aren't scullery maids either.

There is a huge difference between being a scullery maid or a robot cook in a school cafeteria and being someone who genuinely likes (or loves) to cook.

I was fortunate that my Godfather was an executive chef. He inspired me, and my mother, to be creative and to enjoy exploring the world of gastronomical delights. Heck, even my bowl of oatmeal gets a special treatment! Nothing need be boring, or drudgery. And women have been part of the gourmet cooking scene all of my life... I wonder where you've been.

[Name removed]

90. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[JuniperLea]

102. This is how you react when your theories are blown out of the water?

You drop the argument and go for the personal insults?

You're just too "against DU rules" for me...

Just too few female chefs for you, huh?

Tina Nordström

Kelly Choi

Katie Lee Joel

Giada de Laurentiis

Cat Cora

Padma Lakshmi

Rachael Ray

Stephanie Izard

Sara Moulton

Nigella Lawson

Paula Deen

Sandra Lee

Ina Garten

Lidia Bastianich

Ann Cooper

Claire Bassano

Gale Gand

Mary Ann Esposito

Susan Feniger

Mary Sue Milliken

Aïda Mollenkamp

[Cha]

118. Excellent Advice!

[H2O Man]

33. I love to cook.

I've always enjoyed spending time in the kitchen, preparing meals for my family. It is part of keeping a family together and communicating. I have old pots and pans from my great grandmother and grandfather, along with her plates and his cookbook. My wife handles the sea food -- she is better at preparing it than anyone else, and I've enjoyed the best sea food from the east to west coast. But anything else, I make. I consider cooking and enjoying meals as an important family function, not limited by sex or age.

[cali]

36. Of course, I agree. It can also be, as I'm sure you've experienced

both creative and contemplative. I love to cook with my son, who's inherited my love of it.

[H2O Man]

69. Right.

I prefer the food that we make here, over any that we get when we eat out. And I enjoy having taught my sons -- and now teaching my daughters -- how to cook. It is an important family function.

[Dappleganger]

42. Same here, it's like being in art and chemistry class all at once!

Helps to relieve the stress and I gain tremendous satisfaction knowing that my family is eating healthy, delicious meals made from scratch on our budget. I'm completely self-taught as Mom pushed me out of the kitchen as a child but am proud that it's something I learned to love. Dh also enjoys cooking elaborate breakfasts at least once a week and of course he enjoys the thrill of the grill.

[H2O Man]

70. Yep.

We have a grill, and four different fire pits around our property. They remind me of years ago, in one house I lived in, we only had wood for heat and that included our stove/oven. The first pizza came out more than a bit well-done, but once I got the hang of it, things improved.

[Skidmore]

37. That is just a ridiculous statement all around.

My nephew just graduated from the Culinary Arts school. Most of his class was male. If you ever noticed on some of these food programs, many of the great chefs of the world are not women but men. Cooking is a profession, even if it means cooking for a small restaurant. It is a career option for many.

[madmom]

52. I am neither a college grad (but working on it) nor a professional

anything (did blue collar work all my life) I have cooked from scratch meals for my family for 36 years. I made it mandatory for at least one sit down at the table as a family meal a day (both my kids miss it when it doesn't happen, they are both grown now) and yes after all this cooking, I still LOVE to cook. I enjoy finding new recipes and trying them, experimenting trying to make them "better" or just suit our tastes more.I see nothing wrong in what Michele Obama is doing. Oh and BTW both my kids, including my son, loves to cook.

[karynnj]

54. Give it a rest - If it were First Lady Elizabeth Edwards you would be in heaven

The fact is that most people cook, men and women. Michelle can speak of healthy diet issues - mentioning the great vegetables she got from their organic garden. Not to mention, I remember in high school that us girls, who had used recipes to cook interesting things were better at chemistry experiments - there was some transference in skills.

Remember HRC made the point that she DID make cookies as well as be a lawyer. People are multi-dimensional.

[lukasahero]

150. At 46, I've cooked my share of meals

And it still holds the very "same enchantment, charm, or interest."

Do you people even know what the show is? Did you watch it? Do you know that the White House FEMALE chef was competing with some of the best chefs in the nation? Do you know that SHE WON?

Do you know that Michelle was talking about the importance of growing food locally and the vegetables used in the show were from the White House garden? Do you think that is foolish 'wimmen-folk' fare?

[SemiCharmedQuark]

34. Wow. Michelle Obama didn't even enter the kitchen and 3/4 of the chefs were men.

In fact, she didn't even touch food.

She looked pregnant? This was filmed MONTHS ago.

[Dappleganger]

43. That was a stupid remark she made, too...

Isn't Michelle smart enough to know how she wants to portray herself?? I hate it when people project their personal issues onto others.

[femrap]

91. I just saw her on TV news

yesterday....she's gonna announce her 'expecting' soon. I predicted this as soon as he won the prez.

They have to get the 'heir,' right?

Plus we need more Cannon Fodder for the wars...all good american woman will have to have a 'bump.' gag.

[snooper2]

165. you are just the bright one aren't ya?

:eyes:

[blogslut]

40. Mrs Obama is built like a woman

She's not pregnant and that little whispering rumor is getting tired.

[Dappleganger]

41. How backwards of you.

The show happened to also feature the WH chef who's a woman and your comment is ignorant and ridiculous.

[Stinky The Clown]

51. Oh please ...... you're way off base.

[happy_liberal]

66. we all have to eat, someone has to cook

I think cooking for your family is one of the most important jobs these days. Most intelligent people are beginning to notice just how messed up our food supply is, and basic cooking skills are needed to avoid all the crap the FDA is letting by.

Everyone is concerned about health care. Food is fuel and medicine. What we put in our body is probably the single most important determining factor to our health. An intelligent person who knows their way around the kitchen can save thousands on health care by using prevention instead of big pharma.(not to mention the money saved on food)

[DeschutesRiver]

67. No flames -it was your assumption that because Michelle involved, it must mean in the kitchen

Your post put her in the kitchen, and that wasn't her role in this episode. So why were you thinking she was "back in the kitchen", "playing with food?"

She told the cooks - majority male, one female WH cook participating - that they were free to take anything they needed from the WH garden. That was the extent of her involvement - a few words directing the chefs to the produce section.

I have a law degree I used, I ran businesses, and I know how to "play with food", along with about a thousand other interests that smart active minds require to keep lubed. I understand that having a trained legal brain is no impediment to holding as many interests in life as possible.

The only other stereotypical womanly thing I never did was have a kid. But if Michelle is pregnant, would that be the result of her acting like a 1950s woman, or might it be because she had decided she wanted anoher child and possesses a uterus with which to grow one? How can you tell which motive might be correct, just by looking at her and guessing?

The 1950s weren't fun for a lot of reasons, for either women or people of any color other than white, though it was particularly horrific for black people. Sick, sick society then. But I didn't see anything objectionable in this Iron Chef setup - if you'd watched it, you probably wouldn't have either.

[femrap]

93. Got to have the 'heir'....

just like Elizabeth who now is facing a death sentence because she had to be pumped full of estrogen to conceive.

Women are free...there is no patriarchy...2 daughters is a great family.

Just watch.

[DeschutesRiver]

96. Oh I doubt that is true

the world is both a shitty and an amazing place, all at the same time. At certain times and in certain places, someone is always free, and someone else is not - that is how it rolls.

My money is on the fact that Michelle is no more trying for an "heir" than she was "playing in the kitchen."

ETA: Besides, seems like there isn't much point in having an heir like there used to be, since modern "heirs" usually turn out to be nothing more a bunch of lazy, low IQ smug bastards who sit around and get high all day, shining in the bling, bling that they sponged off their folks. Nothing you'd be proud of watching carry the family name or even worth handing the family fortune to when you bite the dust. Okay, fat generalization, but that's how I'm seeing it at the moment.

[femrap]

97. Please....

women have endured pressure to produce the male heir since Henry VIII decided to create Protestantism.

My niece just got the 'nudge' the other day from her father-in-law.

[DeschutesRiver]

110. And pray tell, why would your niece give a flying "f" about the nudge?

There is always some moron in the world telling other people what to do, what they expect to see happen. Pardon my french, but so the "f" what?

Nudges of all kinds are delivered for as many reasons as you can imagine in our world - people always try to influence others to do their bidding. Pressure is just another name for X person trying to get what they want from Y person, and it sure isn't just limited to procreation issues. And the answer is the same - you tell the person to quit pushing, to quit with the nudges, or you eliminate their disruptive presence in your life. You only get one life - far too short to be mucking through it with people who are using you as a procreation tool (in this case). Buh-bye, is that one word or two?

I think it a fallacy on many levels that all women today have "endured" pressure to produce baby boys. I know I didn't (of course, that was quite a few yesterdays ago). Perhaps the ones who do feel vulnerable to that sort of thing, where it is unwanted by them, need to modify their living situation to eliminate that sort of issue. I still don't think popping a baby boy male toy is quite as big today as it was in the past, but otoh, I don't spend a lot of time with people who have bizarre ideas like that. Well, I try not to, but sometimes that it is hard to escape all the bizarre outdated ideas out there.

Is the argument that woman are still dumb and incapable of independant, rational thought on the subject of who they marry and whether they pop out baby boys strictly because they are told to do so? That is depressing, but I suppose nothing would surprise me anymore.

[DevonRex]

114. She's just being petty. Disgustingly so. nt

[DeschutesRiver]

140. I am not certain yet

but the posts do put a whole lot of limits on what a woman should or should be allowed to do (ie, women with legal brains should never be found playing in a kitchen). Similar to the way a sexist would put limits on what a woman should or shouldn't do.

There was also a vague hint that women can't stand up to pressure very well, at least that was my take on the posts. And something with which I do not agree at all. Certainly, there are individual differences in this regard, but it isn't a trait of all women in general.

[femrap]

126. OK...so your advice is just to

ignore all pressure from the cultural morons. Do you know how many morons are out there? And maybe you live in an enlightened area like San Fran and don't have that many to deal with. But believe me, societal pressure exists to conform...for some, it is easier to give in than to be ostracized.

And I must say, you're perfect. You don't deal with it so anyone who does have morons in their life...well, it's her fault for not smacking that father-in-law upside the head with her elbow.

What a tolerant, compassionate and understanding person you are.

[DeschutesRiver]

137. Strange outlook on many levels

In this incarnation of my life stage, I actually live in a ranching community - let your imagination be your guide on the outlook in this somewhat fundie, predictably republican, family values sort of gig. In the name of full disclosure, I have also spent a life stage in a far more enlightened area, as you would probably call it. Who knows where I will end up, but I don't put limits on myself based on societal expectations. Really, what is the point in doing that?

As for your niece, well, it is her choice in how she sets up her life. Not sure why fault would be an issue.

As for me, here is my outlook on pressure - it lives and walks amongst us. Sometimes I not only acknowledge pressure, I engage it. I might talk to it softly, I might hit it in battle with a big stick, I might ignore it and I might ban it from my life. Depends on a lot of different factors. I do not expect that it will go away. I do not expect it to automatically yield to me because I am a woman.

Here would be my actual advice to your niece. When I was young (maybe even her age), I found myself in a dilemma that is typical when you are that young and unfinished as the human that you will become. I found the pressures of "societal conformity" all around me, imagine that. One person would say "well, I don't like X about you, you really need to change that. NO ONE is like that, and NO ONE will like you if you continue to be that way." Well, I'd change my behavior to fit in with that norm - kids are just so impressionable when they are starting out, don't you think?

Sadly, since my circle of friends, acquaintances and just persons of general interest was so wildly varied, sure enough the very next week a person with a commpletely different perspective would say the same thing about another aspect of me that they thought I MUST change, or risk being ostracized! Pretty soon came the dilemma to be resolved - if I kept changing who I was to fit X or Y person's idea of who I must be to fit in, then when will I ever find my own identity? Who was I? Just whoever someone else wanted me to be?

And I chose to figure out who I wanted to be, and what I wanted for myself, on my own, from that point onward. Decided it was more important to like myself, than to be liked by others who were seeking only to advance what was comfortable for them, in their skins. There is world of people out there who do not put relentless pressure on others, as do these morons (better word - control freaks). That is who I choose to associate with, and I can do that from any corner of the world, which allows me the freedom to seek a lot of different experiences in many environments that I wouldn't otherwise step foot if I had continued to take the easy way out of always "giving in" to others insistence that the only way for me is their way.

Is your niece happy about who she must be, in order to be accepted by what you describe as cultural morons? If so, that is good. If not and she wishes to change that, is there any way you could be a guide for that sort of change? It is a harder road to follow when you do it on your own, esp. at that age. But her life is still open ended and the possibilities are limitless.

P.S. At 52, I'd say I am more than aware of how many morons exist in the world. At this point, I do believe they are the majority.

[Rabrrrrrr]

138. If you think Henry VIII decided to create Protestantism, I'm not surprised you think Michelle erred.

Clearly, your brain ain't functioning properly.

[femrap]

141. He wanted a divorce....

remember? Wanted to find a woman who could give him an heir/err.

[Rabrrrrrr]

146. Of course - clearly I remember better than you do.

Henry VIII had nothing to do with the Protestant movement, and Anglicanism never had anything of any real substance to do with any of the Protestant reformers of the time.

His move and secession from the Catholic Church was entirely independent, and is why Anglicanism is not considered a Protestant denomination.

If you knew history, you'd know that.

But given that you want to call Michelle Obama a housewive slave setting back the women's movement a few centuries just because she wants a garden in the White House and wants to get Americans to try to eat locally grown stuff, I'm not surprised you'd think that Henry VIII is to be included with Luther and Calvin.

:eyes:

Seriously.

[Name removed]

147. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[tammywammy]

148. What does your post have to do with the fact that Henry didn't create Protestantism

You said he did, Rabrrrrrr pointed out he didn't. I learned a long time ago, when I get my facts messed up, it's best to concede that you don't know what you're talking about instead of diverting to another topic.

[Rabrrrrrr]

149. So I proved you wrong, and therefore, I work for the Heritage Foundation?

You're the one who was obsessed with Henry being a creator of Protestantism, and then you blame me for making him look like a religious zealot?

Man, you're fucked up.

p.s. - one of the big reasons for the garden at the White House is to teach nutrition, and to show people the ease with which one can grow one's own food, even in the city.

Also, the food show she was on isn't hers - it's the Food Network's. She was merely a guest.

You have an awful problem with facts.

[hileeopnyn8d]

152. She is doing

something about educating & promoting better nutrition in urban areas, this has been pointed out to you several times already.

[lies and propaganda]

76. Nice POUTRAGE, lol.

I guess you have no idea the concept of the program or that she was on it a mere 1 minute introducing it and thats all.

She wasnt objectified in the sliughtest.

[alfredo]

104. Lawyers are allowed to cook last I checked.

[DevonRex]

113. WTF is your PROBLEM? "Michelle looks as if she might be pregnant as well."

What a totally ignorant thing to say. And ignorant was NOT my first word choice.

[Cha]

115. What a narrow minded view.

The First Lady Michelle Obama can handle cooking as well as all her other talents and responsibilities.

Too bad that needs to be pointed out.

[fishwax]

125. lol -- that's a pretty absurd response to the show

:rofl:

[ProfessorGAC]

166. My Wife Is Smart. My Wife Is Educated

And she's a great cook who likes doing it. Were you intentionally insulting my wife?
GAC

[femrap]

4. yippee....women

back in the kitchen. And she looks as if she might be pregnant as well.

Go ahead and flame. This woman has a law degree and has worked in the business arena. Why is she playing with food?

The 1950's were NOT fun.

[malaise]

7. I have three degrees and I still love

cooking. Hubby also cooks and so does my brother. Cooking is a rare skill these days and I am very happy that I can cook. Sorry there is nothing insulting or demeaning about being able to cook.

[greenbird]

32. Food and sustainability issues are huge right now.

This has nothing to do with the 50s or women's roles. I'm sure that if you delved into the issue, you'd see that what she's doing with the white House garden, farmer's market, and school children is immensely important.

[femrap]

77. I simply find it odd that she

didn't seem to find them interesting in the past.

Her handlers have her well under control.

[Dappleganger]

45. She's playing around in the kitchen because she's confident enough

to not care what the hell you think.

Yet another ignorant remark.

[femrap]

78. Funny she wasn't doing much

of this before she arrived at the WH. The Handlers have her setting the example for what women are to do.

[Dappleganger]

155. "The Handlers"??

I am quite certain that Mrs. Obama has a mind of her own, or are you saying that she is too dumb to think?

[Name removed]

48. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[JuniperLea]

74. This woman loves to "play with food"

It's not demeaning to women in the least... she's not pretending to be a scullery maid for crying out loud.

Shame on you for painting this creative and honorable field of work with such a nasty, uneducated brush.

[femrap]

79. I didn't create this

patriarchy. Women are cooks. Men are chefs.

She is an attorney who has worked in the health care field and I don't remember reading anything (and I've read a lot about her) about her great desire to garden, cook or train a dog.

Hell...she has a staff doing that at the WH.

The Handlers have her setting the example. I wish she'd read some books or paint or put in solar panels at the WH.

[JuniperLea]

81. Bullshit...

There are now and for the past 50 years have been female chefs.

Why is it wrong for a woman to enjoy gourmet cooking?

[femrap]

83. Not before Julia Child...

Are you over the age of 50?

Count the chefs on your Food Channel. Male v. Female. Time on the air.

Hey, if you feel more comfortable living with blinders, be my guest.

And nothing is wrong with enjoying gourmet cooking....I just don't think The First Lady ever did. And now she has a staff to do all of that.

I wish she were out giving Nutritious meal ideas to the ghetto poor who have to live on food stamps and don't have land for a garden.

[JuniperLea]

86. I'll be 53 this summer...

And how far the hell back do you need to go to feel validiated as a woman? Jeez... Julia was no doubt the cutting edge, but if you'd pull your head out of the sand you'd understand that the flood gates have already opened and women are really beginning to dominate the TV cooking industry... and in Los Angeles, there are women in executive chef roles all over the place. Ciudad is a prime example.

I gave you a list of female executive chefs upthread... just those I could name off the top of my head... and if you did a little research, you'd notice that ALL the food channels are predominantly showing female chefs on their cooking shows. On America's Test Kitchens, the women outnumber the men three to one.

Here are a few more off the top of my head:

Tina Nordström

Kelly Choi

Katie Lee Joel

Giada de Laurentiis

Cat Cora

Padma Lakshmi

Rachael Ray

Stephanie Izard

Sara Moulton

Nigella Lawson

Paula Deen

Sandra Lee

Ina Garten

Lidia Bastianich

Ann Cooper

Claire Bassano

Gale Gand

Mary Ann Esposito

Susan Feniger

Mary Sue Milliken

Aïda Mollenkamp

I could go on and on... but it seems the more names I present, the more you insist I have blinders on... riiiiiight.

[femrap]

87. I'm glad to see women making inroads in

the field of 'chefdom.' I simply remember when I was in my twenties and thirties, men were chefs and women were cooks.

Now if you want to tell me that my Life Experience is wrong and I was living in some dreamworld on Mars, you go right ahead.

I believe we are through, don't you?

Good luck. Buh Bye.

[JuniperLea]

99. You should choose your words more carefully...

I didn't realize you were still complaining about things as they were 20 years ago... it seems to me you were using phrases clearly and solidly rooted in the present.

[lukasahero]

151. "I simply remember when I was in my twenties and thirties,"

It's time to move on. The world has changed - you should consider catching up with reality.

[Name removed]

164. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[lukasahero]

170. You call yourself a feminist but talk to another feminist like this?

Your comments here have been pathetically demeaning to all women but you think you're the arbiter of women's rights? Whatever.


Edited to add: Ok - who alerted on that post? I was going to let it stand as evidence of the support the poster has for women. :rofl: :hi:

[hileeopnyn8d]

139. She's out

at their schools and in their community helping them start community gardens. I live in the city and have a tiny yard, but I have a vegetable garden and I've helped develop community gardens throughout the city I live in.

I'm positive that Michelle Obama is very aware of the lack of decent grocery options in many inner city areas in this country.

[omega minimo]

142. .... or participate in the Health Care debate

This is the post so far that seems to make your point most clearly and least provocatively

[Neecy]

75. I can't believe the criticism

What's wrong with highlighting organic gardens? Garbage food is literally killing people. If anything, I think it's one of the most important projects tackled by a First Lady in the last 40 years.

[Name removed]

80. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[cornermouse]

5. Another nice little wife type role

where she doesn't offend anyone by showing that not only does she have a brain in her head, she has a very sharp brain in her head which for some unknown reason she is keeping well hidden. This is not a criticism. I can understand not wanting to become a player in the political landscape but every time Michelle shows up in one of these innocuous appearances I miss Hillary.

[marmar]

8. WTF?

:wtf:

Some people will crap on everything.

[cornermouse]

9. She has been so much more in the business world.

She could still be so much more as First Lady and to put it bluntly, the little girls in this country would benefit from it. Jill Biden didn't quit her job. I don't know why Michelle is hiding her intelligence behind the traditional First Lady role of the past. Do you?

[marmar]

10. For the purposes of this post, who cares?

nt

[cornermouse]

13. I do.

She's wasting an opportunity to make a real difference. I"m sorry you are unable to see that.

[MichaelHarris]

17. actually

she made a real difference in promoting healthy eating and growing a garden. That was the purpose of this episode.

[Occulus]

23. I get it now. She's not making the kind of difference you consider 'sufficient'.

You have it exactly backward. If she inspires people to start gardening more (and in fact she should be doing even more on this front, but after all it is winter), she will be making more real of a difference than any demonstration of her intelligence could possibly make. Food is expensive, it is more so each year, and kids and entire families are out there starving or being underfed- even ones who have a home and income.

I have a refrigerator full of condiments and sauces, and no real food. Why? Because at the prices I'm spending on "raw materials" when I do cook, it's actually cheaper for me to go out and buy it made and wrapped... and I love to cook (baklava, mmm). When it costs me almost $30 to make merely a good meat loaf (and just that, no veggie, no side dish), cooking a good meal of any kind each day costs more than I can possibly afford to spend on food. I know I'm not alone in that; everyone I know eats like shit, too.

I also rent an apartment, which means I would have to get approval from my landlord to have an actual garden instead of my (too shallow for anything that grows deeply) troughs and buckets. I wish I could grow corn, squash, and potatoes. If she were to make home gardening popular during her time as First Lady, to the point that they're popping up all over the state in noticeable numbers, maybe it'll become so popular that it turns into a tenant right (I know, I know, but hope springs eternal).

The fact remains that, if I had had a good garden, the ground beef in the meat loaf I mentioned above would have been the only thing I would have had to buy to make the whole meal, veggies and sides included. It would have reduced my grocery bill for that single full meal from probably at least $50 all told to a mere $7 to $9. Michelle Obama is trying to give us all an example we all can benefit from if we but take the time and effort to follow it. If we all did, maybe we'd end up a healthier, better-fed, and less 'casually impoverished' nation overall. I'd say that's a "real difference", and quite a profound one. Maybe that, in itself, is a demonstration of her intelligence.

[cornermouse]

26. $30 for a meatloaf?

I'm guessing you probably didn't grow up in a large family.

[Paul_D]

38. High end meatloaf?

Wow - $30 for meatloaf? I guess it would depend on where you live but that's outrageous. The one I make tonight will be around $13 but only because I'm using 6 lbs of meat. As far as your garden, why don't you see if you could get several people in the complex that would be interested and then go to the management. If there is space for it, it would be less that would have to be mowed and with several people tending it there would be less work for you.

eta:
I was kinda dissapointed that the First Lady didn't have more of a role in the episode than a 3 min garden introduction. Having her as a judge would have been great, and having the show centered around things home cooks could easily do would have great as well. White truffles? Yeah - I'm on the way out to buy a pound of those right now:eyes: I know the premise of the show, but for them to showcase 'America's Garden' it would have been better to add a 'ease of preperation' category in judging.

[Retrograde]

121. maybe you could check out DU's cooking group for some tips

on how to make meatloaf (for one? for a family?) for less than $30. There's also a frugal living group.

You're right, food is not getting cheaper as more and more people lose their sources of income, so learning how to make the most of what you have is important.

[carpe diem]

14. since Hillary has already been mentioned...

i'm sure you remember how much fun it was when she was being subpoenaed and called to testify about files and work from her days at the Rose Law Firm and don't even mention Whitewater...there is no reason to think that any non-traditional roll (let alone an actual independent career) that Michelle Obama attempted wouldn't be subject to the same petty, malicious, non stop b.s. witch hunts and manufactured scandals that Hillary (and Bill) were subject to...i knew before her husband took office that she was going to play it safe and cannot blame her AT ALL...her husband has enough crap to deal with from these assholes without her inadvertently becoming a distraction..and she would be a distraction because the RW 'attack machine' would be demanding hearings and subpoenas and alleging crimes and scandals over every meeting, phone call, email msg., and water cooler conversation she had related to any work/career she tried to have...they would like nothing more to run the same plays on her that they ran on Hillary and there is no reason think they wouldn't get away with it again...the same 'machinery' is in place just more refined and even more enablers in the MSM...i feel confident Michelle is going to spend the next 4-8 yrs. gardening and 'baking cookies' and all the other traditional 1st lady stuff and yes it's too bad because she could do so many other things, but it really isn't worth it to her, her children or her husband and his administration for her to put a bullseye on her back like that...

[cornermouse]

29. Hillary set an example of courage under fire, strength, perseverance.

and breaking the glass ceiling. I don't agree with everything she does or has done but she has set a good example for our daughters and grand daughters in the business place when faced with obstacles to overcome.

[blm]

49. baloney, she went along with the fascist agenda to get along with the fascists and never looked back

at her former ideals. She has turned into all talk and no follow up for anything but militarism.

[Stinky The Clown]

56. You're **very** skilled

at pissing on an innocuous thread.

[carpe diem]

132. i think she would rather have gotten

a healthcare bill passed...

[crikkett]

15. The 'traditional First Lady role' is an experience few can boast.

I'd live it fully, too.

[CakeGrrl]

19. Gee, could it POSSIBLY be that

POTUS and FLOTUS are damn well aware that the RW will fabricate and fling any outrageous shit they possibly can, aided and abetted by the MSM, and maybe it's not a bad idea for FLOTUS to keep a relatively mellow profile for the sake of their two pre-teen kids and to keep any dumbass distraction from being thrown the President's way?

Just a thought.

[cornermouse]

22. Fear based political decisions?

Just a thought.

[CakeGrrl]

84. Just say "I hate the President and his wife" and get it out of your system.

That's pretty much all you're saying now matter how you couch it.

Unless you're staked out 24/7 with the First Lady, I don't know how you presume to know how she spends her time or leverages her intellect.

[cornermouse]

123. I don't hate them.

I never have. That's your invention.

[Thothmes]

131. POTUS & FLOTUS

that that some DU participants will fabricate and fling any outrageous shit they possibly can.

[cali]

39. your hate of all things Obama is addling you.

and sorry, sweetums, but "Another nice little wife type role" is absolutely a criticism. And an ugly one at that. Why don't you just go back to your JE worship.

[Dappleganger]

44. Come out of the Dark Ages...

Mrs. Obama is far more capable than you are to know how she could best influence other women and girls.

[femrap]

88. me, too.

The Handlers want today's women to head back into the kitchen and train the dog.

I'm just waiting for The First Lady to announce she's expecting.

[snooper2]

167. I get it now...you are still bitter....

nt...

[JuniperLea]

107. "This is not a criticism."

:rofl:

[JHB]

16. Apparently Michelle only had a cameo, to introduce the special ingredient...

...produce from the WH garden.

The real "person of interest" in this show is WH executive chef Cristeta "Cris" Comerford:

http://www.foodnetwork.com/chef-cristeta-comerford/bio/index.html

Chef Comerford attended the University of the Philippines to pursue a Bachelor of
Science in Food Technology. Her 26 years of culinary experience include fine dining
restaurants in Washington DC, Chicago, Austria, Napa Valley and France. As a member
of the Club Chefs du Chef, an association of chefs of heads of states, she had
continually pursued her growth in techniques, abilities and food trends.

Because of her strong belief in family and community, she had faithfully served as a
church deacon and currently leading a home study group with her husband, John.
They have both volunteered on humanitarian trips to an impoverished town in Brazil.
Recently, she was a keynote speaker at an International Women's Leadership Conference
hosted by the Governor of Hawaii, Gov. Linda Lingle. Mentorship to younger culinarians
lead her to speak to students at the Kapiolani Community College in Honolulu.

Her seven year old daughter Danielle had shown her culinary interest by writing their
New Year's Eve dinner celebration. They live in Columbia, Maryland in between visiting
families in Seattle and Chicago.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/iron-chef-america/index.html

[Dappleganger]

46. Exactly, and Chef Comerford was amazing!

She was definitely the coolest head on the show last night!

[femrap]

94. I find it rather

odd that a female poster on a Progressive Board would refer to The First Lady as 'Mrs.'

Gee...I guess those Virginia Slim Cigarette ads were all wrong. We haven't come very far at all.

Men are lucky not to have distinguish themselves as married or not...easier to cheat I guess.

[Dappleganger]

156. Your arguments make no sense whatsoever...

If she didn't want to be called Mrs. Obama she is certainly educated and intelligent enough to say so herself. At least I give her far more credit for being intelligent than do you, who once again is throwing stones from the cheap seats.

[femrap]

159. I was referring to your

use of 'Mrs.' Not Michelle. I didn't know she announced that she wanted by referred to Mrs. Barack Obama.

Next you'll tell me that you like all women to be referred to as 'girls.'

I'm tired of going backward toward the '50's. Women worked hard back in the day to not distinguish between married and unmarried women...just like men. You know, a sense of 'equality.'

Glad to see the Backlash is firmly in control.:sarcasm:

[Dappleganger]

161. She's not dragging anyone back to the 1950's.

And your argument about her is based on nothing. For the record, as a woman I find all of your arguments in this thread laughable.

[femrap]

162. Just another tool....

take your widdle dogs and feel free to dander your ganger....:P

The patriarchy and the boyz will appreciate your efforts at trying to ridicule me.

You need a mirror.:think: :dunce:

Gotta run...that Ignore button is calling. :woohoo:

[Lost-in-FL]

20. I noticed something missing from the Presidential Garden.

Grapes, malts and barley to make wine and beer. :toast:

Yeah, of course... bread too.

[Number23]

21. Some of the posts in this thread... (shaking my damn head)

But I guess we're supposed to consider this yet another bit of "constructive criticism" of the Obamas.

[Dappleganger]

47. +1

More throwing stones from the cheap seats.

[GoCubsGo]

50. No kidding.

There will always be a few that will pick at everything--even when it's something good like trying to get people to grow and eat lots of fresh produce. Because trying to help people get healthy is a bad, bad thing, I guess.

[AspenRose]

71. Ignore is a beautiful thing

[Number23]

135. I don't use it, but if I did, the two assholes in this thread shitting all over Michelle

for going on the Food Network as if the very MENTION of food preparation will eliminate the last 70 years of women's rights would be the first ones on it.

[DevonRex]

111. How absolutely petty can people BE? One says Michelle looks pregnant even.

I guess that must be constructive, too, instead of just assholish.

[fishwax]

129. +1

[peaches2003]

57. Don't even get me started on the false advertising re this show

I am an avid viewer of Food Network and watch Iron Chef every Sunday night. They have been advertising this special 2 hour "White House" Iron Chef for months. There was definetely the impression that it was filmed in the WH kitchen and all my friends who watch FN thought the same and we were eagerly awaiting this show. How do you spell r-i-p-o-f-f-?! The 3 FN chefs were filmed outside the WH and in Michelle's garden for about 3 minutes and Michelle came outside for about 60 seconds. Yes, the WH chef participated in the show, but it was all filmed in NY in the FN kitchens where it always is. This was total false advertising and I am furious with FN (not with the WH or Michelle) for leading their viewers on like this.

[tammywammy]

59. I thought Michelle was going to be a judge

I was disappointed when she wasn't.

BTW, the lead up commercials. The first time I saw them I was with some friends. When the teaser said something about ingredient of national importance, a friend not missing a beat said "bald eagle" in the Chairman's voice. :)

[peaches2003]

60. It was filmed in NY, not at the WH

so I'm not surprised she wasn't a judge, but was just disappointed in the whole thing. In fact they never even went in the WH much less the WH kitchen. A tour of the WH kitchen would have been the least they could have done and would have been great. Not as advertised and I expect more than that from Food Network.

[tammywammy]

61. I'll admit I stopped watching soon after they announced the judges

I preferred the House marathon on USA. I agree a tour of the WH kitchen would have been cool and kept me watching, but otherwise I was another plain ol' Iron Chef. I'm biased I love the original version of Iron Chef much more than the American one too.

[peaches2003]

62. I switched in the 2nd hour

to House Hunters on HGTV. I like Iron Chef, but 2 hours of it is one hour too long. I just emailed Food Network telling them I don't appreciate false advertising.

[hileeopnyn8d]

120. The promotion of the

show was over-the-top and kind of silly, though totally in line with the Iron Chef theme. Which I personally find filled with fake suspense, dramatic music and well - the Chairman.

They did say in the commercials that they would be back in the kitchen stadium for the competition, but it was completely downplayed. There were more photos of the Food Network chefs at the WH back when this was filmed, which made me believe they would be touring the WH kitchen and meeting all the WH chefs.

I DVR'd it, but fell asleep before the judging part. Boy, does Emeril sweat up a storm.

[JNelson6563]

63. I can't believe they paired WH chef with Flay.

Oy.

Pretty unbalanced pairing IMO.

[cornermouse]

64. So what has Michelle done that Barbara and Laura did not?

Barbara made public service announcements about eating a meal as a family. That's not much different from appearing on a cooking show.

For the last time. Michelle has an opportunity to provide a example of what a professional woman can be to young girls. Why do you dislike that idea so much? Are you that much in love with the old stereotypes?

[tammywammy]

68. She didn't even cook

She was on the show less than 5 minutes to talk about the garden. Your continued reference to the stereotype of the woman back in the kitchen is unfounded, even more so that three of the chefs on the show were men.

[CakeGrrl]

85. It's funny and bizarre that this appearance is chapping your hide so much

Did you even WATCH it?

The First Lady simply appeared to "offer" the use of the WH garden to the chefs and mentioned its purpose: To promote healthy eating. WTF is wrong with that? Or more to the point, what rational person would find anything wrong with that?

She did not don an apron and pose like a Betty Crocker cookbook model.

And if you don't think she's done anything to promote empowerment of young women, then you haven't been paying much attention. That's no one's fault but your own.

[DevonRex]

108. She hates Michelle. Plain and simple and it's very, very obvious.

And it should embarrass her but it doesn't. That embarrasses me for her.

[DevonRex]

109. Sad that you don't know you've embarrassed yourself royally. nt

[Cha]

119. Could you be anymore puny?

[myrna minx]

72. Good gawd - is there any subject that isn't flamed here?

:rofl: I mean really :rofl:

[Stinky The Clown]

82. To be honest, no matter *what* got said here to flame, the issue is not the topic. The issue .......

..... is the deep dislike between the Obama supporters and the Obama detractors. Since it is against the rules to insult each other, they pick at the things the other group likes.

Chain yanking and button pushing.

There were very strong words posted here over what is a completely innocent, non controversial matter. It is childishness in the extreme.

[hileeopnyn8d]

112. That's it in a nutshell. nt

[truebrit71]

92. No kidding right?

I opened the thread so see what people thought about the show and walked right into a flame-fest...

Bunch of tossers...

How about you talk about the OP for fuck's sake?

I thought it was way cool that they used veggies from the WH garden, but I wished that she would have been one of the judges..

Great show, food looked delicious, loved Nigella's cleavage :evilgrin:

[CakeGrrl]

95. I agree - Michelle should have been a judge, since

she advised them to include sweet potatoes. Would've been nice to get her opinion on how everything turned out.

[Capn Sunshine]

101. It's really something to see isn't it?

the shit-stirrers have completely driven this bozo bus off the cliff.
I blame Obama.

"And Hi Fructose Corn Syrup is a good idea, dammit!"

[H2O Man]

103. No, sadly, there's not.

Strange, some of the hostility on this thread.

[CBR]

106. This thread is f'ing nuts. nt

[DevonRex]

116. Oh, but it's all good, constructive criticism, don't you know?

:rofl:

[snooper2]

168. It's just two idiots causing all the commotion

that's all it takes as long as they keep responding :)

[Capn Sunshine]

117. LOUNGE! LOUNGE! LOUNGE!

This thread has taken on the special qualities that require the keenly sharpened intellects of the lounge for proper focus.

[cornermouse]

122. The really strange thing about all the above?

I'm not the one that is expending anger, probably because I'm not that invested in the subject other than the fact that when I look at Michelle I see a lady who, given the professional level that she had achieved before the White House, is clearly very intelligent, socially adept, and very competent and who, for whatever reason, is not using those abilities to encourage little girls academically and to dream of professions that used to be and to some extent still are off limits. For some reason, that is now reason for attack. Go figure.

[HiFructosePronSyrup]

127. "to dream of professions that used to be off limits."

You mean like professional chefs?

[cali]

128. bwahahahahaha. too funny, sweetie. your bitterness and anger

are on overdrive. pathetic. really, deeply, truly pathetic.

[suffragette]

130. You mean like promoting programs such as "Women of Excellence"?

http://www.denverpost.com/headlines/ci_13799952

First lady Michelle Obama brings mentoring message to Colorado
By Karen E. Crummy
The Denver Post
Posted: 11/16/2009 11:52:38 AM MST

First lady Michelle Obama is visiting Denver today to focus attention on a program that puts students in touch with women who can act as their mentors.

Speaking at a luncheon at the governor's mansion, the first lady told 80 high school girls that through "hard work and focus" and perseverance when someone doubts them, they could be successful.

Joining Obama in Denver today are Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Labor Secretary Hilda Solis; Christina Romer, Chair of the council of Economic advisors; and EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson.

Others scheduled to participate in events surrounding the first lady's visit include: congresswomen Diana DeGette, D-Denver, and Betsy Markey, D-Fort Collins; Colorado First Lady Jeanne Ritter; actresses Susan Sarandon, Fran Drescher, Alfre Woodard, Traci Ellis Ross and Karen Olivo; Helen Thorpe, a journalist and wife of Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper; Maggie Fox, CEO of the Alliance for Climate Protection and the wife of Sen. Mark Udall; Susan Daggett, an environmental consultant and the wife of Sen. Michael Bennet; Denver School Board President Theresa Pena; Ellen Ochoa, Deputy Director of the Johnson Space Center; Nancy Brinker, founder of the Susan B. Komen Race for the Cure; Denver Chamber of Commerce CEO & President Kelly Brough; and Jandell Allen-Davis, Vice President of Government & External Relations for Kaiser Permanente Colorado.


Looks to me like she is doing exactly that.

And if she also wants to encourage sustainability and making healthy food choices, so much the better.

[Number23]

133. Please don't bother. Any fool that has closed their eyes to what Michelle has done since becoming

1st Lady is certainly beyond all hope of educating. It takes willful DELIBERATE blindness to miss all of the advocacy she's done on behalf of girls and education -- including hosting a damn seminar at the White House between female leaders in the business world and local DC schoolgirls -- to explain some of the blatant ass backward stupidity being displayed in this thread by two well-known and WELL documented haters of all things Obama.

And the fact that these two poseurs actually have the nerve to try to cloak their "concern" under the guise of "feminism" would be hilarious if it weren't so pitiful and nauseating.

[suffragette]

144. Michelle Obama also spoke to school girls in England

Found a little on that:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/politics/article6025234.ece

There were squeals, high-fives and tears. Michelle Obama electrified a North London school in a surprise visit during which she told children to remember that “being smart is cooler than anything in the world”.

America’s First Lady appeared at times overwhelmed by the reaction to her visit to the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington.

In remarks to 100 teenage girls who had no idea that she was coming, Mrs Obama said that education, rather than their background, counted the most in life.

“If you want to know the reason why I am standing here, it’s because of education,” she told them.

“I never cut class. I loved getting As, I liked being smart. I liked being on time. I thought being smart is cooler than anything in the world. You, too, with these values, can control your own destiny. You, too, can pave the way.” She urged them to believe in their dreams.

She clearly is passionate about encouraging girls to aspire and achieve.

She merits credit for consistently and powerfully reaching out to young girls to affirm their ability to choose a path. And if that path leads to being a White House chef or transforming an urban community with pea patches - so much the better.

[hileeopnyn8d]

136. Thank you for posting that

I was going to dig that and some other similar articles about events and programs she promotes. Contrary to what the above poster keeps stating the First Lady is not promoting or advocating subservient roles for women.

Besides, there is nothing wrong with encouraging kids to eat healthy and increase their activity.

[suffragette]

145. You're welcome

Agree with what you wrote.

Goodness knows, I've expressed ( and no doubt will again) critical views of policy decisions (especially about HCR) Obama has made and I've posted on my disagreement with the direction of the DLC.

But it's also important to give credit where credit is due and that is definitely the case here.

[carpe diem]

134. i guess you missed this...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-tc-nw-obama-mentor-110209nov02,0,4496760.story


WASHINGTON - -- First lady Michelle Obama -- and some of her Chicago "sisters" in the White House -- on Monday will launch a first-of-its-kind mentoring program with about 20 high school girls from greater Washington.

As the first anniversary of President Barack Obama's election nears, it's the first lady who is making history now. Call this chapter "Girl Power."

Observers say her leadership and mentoring initiative has not been done by a first lady before. It will see Obama -- and White House staffers including Valerie Jarrett, Tina Tchen, Susan Sher and Desiree Rogers, Chicagoans all -- act as mentors to high school juniors and sophomores.
............

Tchen, an attorney from Chicago long active in politics, said the program builds on a March event at the White House that saw high school girls interact with the first lady, White House officials and a cast of celebrities including singers Alicia Keyes and Sheryl Crow; actresses and sisters Debbie Allen and Phylicia Rashad; actress Fran Drescher; and Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to travel into space.

Tchen said the program launch will see proteges visit their mentors' offices and gather as a group for dinner. The inaugural class's duration has not been decided, she said, adding that she expects discussions of college, careers, and balancing work and motherhood.

The mentors, she said, want to give proteges a "window to a wide variety of different opportunities to play out your dreams."
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>



I guess you'll have to find another justification for your supposed disappointment in her role modeling.

[CakeGrrl]

158. Again, you're only emphasizing your own ignorance

If you think this appearance is symbolic of the First Lady's efforts, you're grossly underinformed. And that is YOUR fault.

[Kalyke]

153. Too bad most of the chefs didn't pick up on the word, "healthy."

Far too much pork-infused fat (and butter fat) in most of those meals.

I wish the Food Network could do SOMETHING without using pork or B-B-Q (and I'm Southern!!)

[Dappleganger]

157. It's amazing how this thread has brought out the anti-Obama crowd

who are instead laying blame at the feet of Michelle for not bringing them their xmas pony.

[NYC Liberal]

163. Michelle? Cooking? SEXISM!! ... OUTRAGE!!!!1

[snooper2]

169. That picture shows the sexism right there!

Michelle should be at the grill showing a woman can do it as well. We all know women are forced inside to make salads while the "man" works the grill. This has been ingrained in us since the 50's!

:rofl:

[PVnRT]

171. This thread needs to be kicked again

So much stupid from so few posters...really amazing.