In Siegel’s 2012 book, which releases in paperback on May 14, she mentions journalists by name including HuffPost‘s Sam Stein, WaPo‘s Chris Cillizza,  then-Politico‘s Ben Smith and “Tara” from Page Six — i.e. Tara Palmeri, formerly of the Washington Examiner and currently of the New York Post. Also mentioned: Brianna, possibly CNN’s Brianna Keilar.

Smith wasn’t aware of his presence in the book. “I was not!” he wrote. “But glad my immortality is assured.” When told that he was mentioned in a semi-racy novel, Stein asked, “Did my story on Ms. Greenley make the front page of Huffpost?”

Sadly, no. Smith was identified as the reporter who broke the fictitious news of the novel’s main character, Olivia Greenley, going to work as Georgia Gov. and Presidential hopeful Landon Taylor. Interestingly, Greenley has an affair with the very married candidate, as does the star in ABC’s “Scandal” — also named Olivia as in Olivia Pope. Politico also gets a shout-out: “Sure, her mom didn’t know what Politico was, but her colleagues did. Ben Smith was reporting on her. Sam Stein and Chris Cillizza, too.”

Later in the book… continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T: “On a certain street in Cambridge, MA. (And yes, I respected their wishes.)” — CNN’s Jake Tapper.

Chelsea Handler says WHCD is a sure thing

“It’s very easy to get invited to that thing, by the way.” — E! late night talk show host Chelsea Handler on her show last night of the WHCD. She has attended the dinner in previous years.

Women pooping at work

“How did I miss this groundbreaking piece on the last great obstacle facing woman at work: finding a place to poop.” — HuffPost‘s Sam Stein, who links to The Daily Beast story. Tim Miller, executive director of the America Rising PAC, responds, “Isn’t it easier for women to poop on the sly? Unlike men they don’t have to deal with the shame of choosing stall over urinal.” And HuffPost‘s Jon Ward tells them both, “Just stop.”

Convo Between Two Journos

Today we have Reuters’ Jack Shafer and Reuters Op-ed Editor James Ledbetter. Clearly these two don’t believe in walking down the hallway to talk to each other.

Ledbetter: “You’re awfully ornery for a guy with no column ideas.”

Shafer: “Rejecting yr bad ideas does not equal having no ideas.”

Ledbetter: “And yet you have presented none.”

The Observer

“Whoever this homeless lady is talkin to she is PISSED at them. Too bad they’re not on the bus to hear her mutterings.” — BuzzFeed Washington Bureau Chief John Stanton.

Birthday shoutouts to…Sam Youngman, formerly of Reuters, and Daily Caller TV reporter Jeff Poor, whose birthday was yesterday.

Politico Playbook publish time: 8:19 a.m.

A fellow’s ‘stupid’ assumption

“I stupidly assume when someone gets assigned a beat to write about they have some knowledge of it. obviously not.” — Media Matters fellow Oliver Willis, who wasn’t done quite yet. He added: “Re: my complaining about media writers. A lot of political reporters don’t understand politics either. Saw it in 2012 campaign writing.”

Jonah Goldberg: The Stylist

“Hey @greggutfeld you need collar stays.” — NationalReviewOnline‘s Jonah Goldberg to Fox News’ Greg Gutfeld.

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was a blur this year as stars, journalists, nerdy political types — and Psy — rubbed elbows. Well, not Psy, he was busy smoking. But the rest of ‘em fawned and frolicked around the Washington Hilton oohing and ahhing at one another’s evening wear. People watching was admittedly pretty phenomenal. As evidenced by the shrieks coming from young, female bystanders salivating at the mere sight of a star. Each time an actor or well-known journalist walked by, they screamed and barked things out at them like faux paparazzi. In a moment of hilarity, one journalist, who shall remain nameless, was heard biting a security employee’s head off as they kept constantly trying to herd and push a small smattering of people waiting by the door from one end to the other. “I have two tickets, I have a right to be here and I’m not moving,” the person snapped in a display of spectacular irritation. Security immediately backed right down and eased away. And the lesson is? Yelling wins! (By the way, pictured above: actress Kate Walsh.)

4:35 p.m. Betsy tells Eddie she need 15 more minutes. He replies, “Are you trying to squeeze in a size 8 dress again?”

5:42 p.m. Eddie is running slightly behind because he has no idea how to tie a bow-tie and he couldn’t get the Tucker Carlson consult. As usual, Carlson skipped out of town for the WHCD. We learned later in the evening that he’s in New Orleans riding Go Karts with Daily Caller Publisher Neil Patel.

6:13 p.m. Settling in at the lobby of the Washington Hilton for some major people watching. MC Hammer sighting. Girls screaming, “WOO HOO! WOO HOO!”

6:14 p.m. TIME‘s Zeke Miller enters in a wrinkly blazer.

6:15 p.m. DJ at Atlantic party may have Tourette’s. Ticking and chirping, etc…

6:16 p.m. Fox News Correspondent Peter Doocy sighting. This guy is too tall and everywhere this weekend.

6:17 p.m. Washington Examiner Nikki Schwab sighting. Her hair is in curls this evening. Very pleasant interaction.

6:18 p.m. Woman walks into the Hilton wearing a kimono.

6:19 p.m. It’s Kathleen Turner. The gaggle of girls in the lobby: “Kathleen we love you!!!”

6:20 p.m. Amy Poehler walks by. “Ahh ahh we love you Amy!”

6:21 p.m. CBS’ Gayle King has entered the hotel in a stunner of a kelly green gown by Vicky Tiel.

6:22 p.m. A rando woman who won’t stop yapping is saying to her friends, “I’m walking around the house going, does this match?”

6:23  p.m. The NPR greeter awaiting NPR party guests in the front of the hotel looks like he should be at the airport. He’s a vision of nerdy perfection.

6:24 p.m. Washington Examiner‘s Byron York walks into the hotel and promptly walks down the wrong set of stairs.

6: 25 p.m. It’s Fox News’ Geraldo Rivera! He’s all smiles for anyone who approaches. Up close his mustache is nothing short of thick and amazing.

6:27 p.m. A Jon Huntsman sighting. He walks in with a lovely blonde (presumably his wife) on his arm.

6:28 p.m. We get reprimanded for the second time for standing in the “wrong” place. Is there a right place? Who knows?

6:30 p.m. Holy shit. It’s Nicole Kidman. Bradley Cooper follows shortly thereafter.

6: 32 p.m. House Maj. Leader Eric Cantor is hanging out by the entrance.

6:35 p.m. Olivia Wilde and Jason Sudeikis drawing major stares in the lobby. Wilde’s flowing chocolate brown dress is unbelievable beautiful.

6:37 p.m. A young woman walking with CBS “60 Minutes” correspondent Scott Pelley has ample cleavage.

6:40 p.m. Sightings: White House Press Sec. Jay Carney. Chicago Sun Times‘ Clarence Page. Kathleen Sebelius. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

6:41 p.m. Dave Weigel, a big FishbowlDC fan, has been spotted. Later he’ll watch us like a hawk even though we’re not snapping his picture tonight or bothering him whatsoever.

6:45 p.m. The kid from Glee! is here. Wasn’t he at Tammy’s?

6:50 p.m. Publicist and Hollywood on the Potomac blogger Janet Donovan spotted in the bar line at the Atlantic, CBS, NJ pre-party. Janet insists this is her last year doing this. “I’ve been doing this since 1971,” she says wearily. “Enough is enough.”

6:55 p.m. Bob Schieffer holding court at the CBS party. Worlds colliding. Glee! kid spotted talking to Mother Jones Bureau Chief David Corn. WTF?

6:59 p.m. CBS news anchor and producer Julie Chen stands out in bright pink dress that may have been the second best frock of the evening. Olivia Wilde’s gown was hard to beat.

7 p.m. Andy Cohen from Bravo is here. He has some schmutz on his blazer.

7: 05 p.m. Overheard: “He’s very brave here coming with his ugly wife.”

7:06 p.m. Reince Priebus sighting. Later he’ll be a dumb joke in Conan’s monologue.

7:16 p.m. Ed Helms telling his girlfriend that people come here “for the food.”

7:17 p.m. Psy‘s handlers are a bunch of asses. “No, we did red carpet interviews. We’re not doing any more.” Regarding Psy and pictures, guest says, “This isn’t Korea. This is America.”

7:18 p.m. Peter cuts U.S. Treasury Sec. Jack Lew in a line. Way to go Peter!

7:19 p.m. CNBC’s Jim Cramer is yelling. continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

GREAT EXPECTATIONS: “It’s just too easy for the NY Post headline writers.” — HuffPost‘s Sam Stein.

Speaking of Weiner…

“We really need to get moving on a conservative PAC to support Anthony Weiner getting back into politics. Who’s with me?” — Jazz Shaw, weekend editor at Hot Air.

Publisher wants beach body

“My current body-type is ‘zeppelin.’ So not ready for summer.” — Metro Weekly Co-Publisher Sean Bugg.

A publicist says no to pantyhose 

“If you’re wearing pantyhose with sandals you and I have a serious problem.” — Courtney Cohen, a publicist and former producer for ABC’s “This Week.”

Politico scribe to Hollywood

“I’m in Hollywood to cover the RNC Spring mtg. Invocation ahead of possibly-contentious, 5-hr Rules mtg asks God to give everyone patience.” Politico‘s James Hohmann. What he won’t be attending: “Dick Cheney will address the RNC at a closed-press lunch tomorrow afternoon here in Hollywood.” Roll Call‘s Jonathan Strong had a suggestion for Hohmann, saying, “You should go to Voyeur with some RNC people.”  Hohmann replied, “I would NOT get reimbursed for that.”

Halperin’s Words of Wisdom

“Dear colleagues: sometimes elected officials try to pass laws b/c they think those laws are right, not to gain electoral or political edge.” — TIME‘s Mark Halperin.

Politico Playbook Publish Time: 6:43 a.m.

When lateness pays off

“Got off jury duty by showing up late. Weird incentive there.” — BuzzFeed Editor-in-Chief Ben Smith.

From the Dept. of Bragiculture…

“Getting so many emails the little transparent Outlook notice in the corner of my computer just isn’t turning off anymore.” — Politico‘s Alex Guillen, who deserves a hearty congratulations for getting a lot of emails.

MSNBC journo has fun facts on cicadas and a style writer braces herself for a lot of face time at the salon… continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

Brad Blynier, one of the owners of the War Shore Oyster Company, the company that’s harvesting the exclusive oyster for the restaurant, describes the oyster as “farm raised, premium cocktail-sized and has a robust brininess with a clean, mild and sweet finish.”

Based on the oyster’s characteristics, we’ve come up with naming suggestions but feel free to come up with your own (write us at Betsy@mediabistro.com,  fishbowldc@mediabistro.com or use our Anonymous Tips button):

The Badass Oyster: Do we even need to name the journalist who comes to work with a chain tied to his waste? That’d be BuzzFeed D.C. Bureau Chief John Stanton. The Meghan: For Meghan McCain, a tart oyster served naked of its shell; The Rose Garden: after The Daily Caller‘s Neil Munro, an oyster served live and will never shut up. The Burger Oyster: it’s cocktail-sized, after all, and has former TIME scribe and professional partygoer Tim Burger written all over it. To spice things up, we have The Rosie: sweet, tart and can cuss like a sailor for BuzzFeed‘s Rosie Gray (and we mean nothing by the tart, only that it’s a flavor that might be present in an oyster.). The Bob Schieffer, farm raised, but still clean and sweet– an undeniable D.C. institution. The Hardball Oyster: All robust and briny things should be named after MSNBC host Chris Matthews, shouldn’t they? The Pothead Oyster: all laid back and smooth, HuffPost‘s Sam Stein. The Howeeza: after mild, sweet Judy Kurtz from The Hill. The Ezzy: serious and wonky with a touch of lemon and an aroma of fresh figs for WaPo‘s favorite “f–k you” blogger Ezra Klein. The Weingarten: a little sour-aftertaste for D.C.’s ultimate curmudgeon, WaPo‘s Gene Weingarten. The Luke: for MSNBC’s Luke Russert, a very meaty oyster;  “Shorty” the Jake Sherman oyster. The Stealth Spunkster: she’s everywhere and nowhere all at once after Hollywood on the Potomac‘s Janet Donovan; and The Lady: the always well-mannered and comedy-laced Neda Semnani from Roll Call‘s HOH. The Angry Oyster: Can you guess? That’d be Tim Grieve, who just gave Politico the middle finger and bolted to National Journal. The Fresh Mouthed Oyster: Politico‘s own salty tweeter Ben White, who likes to share his crappy hotel experiences. Hey, maybe this time the Jefferson Hotel will actually hold a reservation for him or the W will give him a room that doesn’t place the bathroom in the foyer. The Potty Mouthed Oyster: Mike Elk, a brusque, sharp-flavored oyster for the labor journo who swears more than any other. The Shooter: Who else? After the gun activist journalist herself, Emily Miller of TWT. And finally, we offer The Boyle: for you-know-who, the always all blown up Matthew Boyle of Breitbart News.

Do not stop reading. We’re not kidding. Here’s the fun part… continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

A new pew poll shows 52 percent of Americans want marijuana to be legalized. The finding set off a discussion on the show with Stein arguing that it should be legalized. “This is so obvious,” he said. “We should obviously decriminalize pot.”

Show host Joe Scarborough asked why that was so obvious.

“Because everyone uses it,” replied Stein with MSNBC talking head Richard Wolffe looking at him knowingly.

“Maybe everyone in your circle,” said Scarborough.

Someone off camera asked Stein, “Is that why you’re so slow this morning?” A back-and-forth between Stein and Scarborough ensued…

Update: Stein writes in that he was “never a pothead,” which he describes as “someone who LOVES pot.”

continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

Reporter learns chest hair is not suncreen

“Lesson learned on vacation: chest hair does not substitute for sbf50 sunscreen” — HuffPost‘s Sam Stein.

Unsolicited advice

“To the guy awkwardly breaking up w/someone via phone outside my apartment: you’re doing it wrong.” — Politico‘s Juana Summers.

A novel idea

“When reading a novel I often involuntarily visualise a friend as a character. Gets weird if character misbehaves, has inappropriate sex etc.” — The Sunday Times Washington Bureau Chief Toby Harnden.

More unsolicited advice

Gregory (6:28 a.m. Sunday): “Big Sunday – my son’s championship basketball game AND my interview with Speaker Boehner on @meetthepress”

Fournier (6:35 a.m. Sunday): “Same advice for you on both events: call fouls loudly. You’ll see a lot of ‘em. #boehner #lovethatboy.”

Uh oh.

“Spam on #maddow hashtag is not coming from the show or any producers. Have reached out to Twitter to investigate.” — msnbcPR.

Weigel notices “weird” people

“An unexplained Metro delay really lets you focus on how many weird people are waiting with you.” — Slate‘s Dave Weigel.

Outside Observers

“There’s no place in the world that loves local celebrities as much as Washington. #Woodward” — MSNBC Contributor and The Nation correspondent Ari Melber.

“So true, a friend who recently moved to DC: “DC sucks, I was getting dinner and everyone was talking about Bob Woodward.” — BuzzFeed‘s Andrew Kaczynski.

Politico Playbook Publish Time: 6:25 a.m.

Necessary Tweet of the Day

“Someone’s wireless network in my building is called ‘Monkeypants.’ #Bold.” — NRSC Strategist Brad Dayspring.

Peter Ogburn contributed to this report.

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

DOG IN SUITCASE: “Packing my things for a short vacation.” — HuffPost‘s Sam Stein with the accompanying photograph.

Words to live by

“I’ve certainly been to Ikea. Just don’t recall a meatballs department.” — CNN’s Jake Tapper.

Whistling while she works

“Dear neighbors: your fears are correct: I am recording a whistling demo. If you had not locked your wifi this might have been avoided.” — WaPo humor blogger and columnist Alexandra Petri.

Journo sees glass half full

“Much as I have to complain about younger journalists, at least they didn’t grow up with this super-distorted idolatry of Woodward/Bernstein” — Media Matters’ Oliver Willis.

Politico Playbook Publish Time: 8:08 a.m.

Quote Taken out of Context

“Just so long as cows don’t start showing up in my horse meat meat balls.” — WSJ‘s Neil King.

Meghan McCain tries to avoid foot fetishist

“There’s a foot fetishist on twitter whose bio says my feet are one of his two favorites ever. So basically I’m done with the internet today.” — MSNBC Contributor and Daily Beast Columnist Meghan McCain.

Weigel says no Judd

“We focus too much on Ashley Judd and not enough on the 300 million odd other Americans who will also never be senators.” — Slate‘s Dave Weigel.

Ugly convo between two journos. continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

SOTU quotes that are fit for a Fishbowl: “I know the human being and fish can coexist peacefully.” — brought to our attention by HuffPost‘s Sam Stein‘s Twitter feed. It’s an old quote from former President George W. Bush. And this: “At least there’s no smoked fish joke in this one.” — Mother Jones‘ Nick Baumann.

“The outside of the Dome on SOTU night.” – Roll Call‘s Meredith Shiner with accompanying photograph.

Shut up SOTU clappers, journo wants his Zzzz’s

“Dear applauders: Please stop. I have a bedtime.” — WaPo‘s Chris Cillizza.

Importantish Q to Ponder: “So… Does Senator Menendez shake President Obama’s hand as he walks in? Awkward. #SOTU” — NRSC Strategist Brad Dayspring.

Important Q to Ponder: “So does CNN break away from the burning house to do the State of the Union.” — TPM‘s Josh Marshall.

Important Q to Ponder III: “What’s the over/under on the number of Nicorette patches John Boehner has plastered all over himself right now?” — Times of London‘s Matt Spence.

THE SPEAKER AND THE LOUDMOUTH: “Luke Russert shakes Speaker Boehner’s hand as he walks to the chamber for SOTU.” — NBC House of Representatives Producer Frank Thorp. Boehner affectionately (we think) refers to Russert as the “loudmouth.”

Rothenberg crushes the spirit of political reporters

“Political reporters always incredibly excited by SOTU. Real people not so much.” — Stu Rothenberg, who writes a column for Roll Call, a publication full of political reporters. And then, oddly, he writes, “My first SOTU inside the chamber? 1970 when I was Colby College intern in Ed Muskie’s office. AA gave me ticket.” Um, hey Stu, do real people give a sh-t about this?

Speaking of excitement…

“The hallway outside Sen. Durbin’s office smells overwhelmingly of barbecue.” — Roll Call‘s Shiner of the Illinois Democrat.

And again…

“Just spoke to Gabby Giffords for the first time since the day before she was shot. She looks amazing. Twinkle in her eye and broad smile.” — CNN Chief Congressional Correspondent Dana Bash.

“Senate page just said in Statuary Hall ‘Oh my God. Kelly Ayotte is rocking the mint-green!’ I am partial to Bader Ginsberg‘s red.” — Roll Call‘s Abby Livingston.

“McCain ribbing Kerry as he walks by.” — Politico‘s Manu Raju.

“Rep. Terry Sewell is the most energetic greeter of the House! Urrybody gets a kiss and big laugh and a thousand watt smile.” — BuzzFeed Washington Bureau Chief John Stanton.

“Lots of schmoozing with former colleagues as Secy Kerry makes his way down the aisle.” — CBS White House radio correspondent Mark Knoller.

“Whoever said that politics is showbiz for ugly people was a master of understatement. Or just blind.” — Reason‘s Nick Gillespie.

“VP Biden has a scratched cornea, reports NBC, which is why he is wearing glasses.” — The Hill‘s Emily Goodin.

Politico Playbook Publish Time: 7:43 a.m.

The Jokester Caucus

• “Press will now begin attacking Rubio for drinking problem.” — USA Today‘s Paul Singer.

• “I’m sure I’m going to dislike this but at least Beyonce is performing.” — Logan Dobson, before the SOTU address began.

• “When is halftime? Where is Beyonce?” — FNC’s Greg Gutfeld.

• “Who’s the fat lump of shit next to Mrs Obama? #SOTU.” — Anthony Cumia from the Opie and Anthony radio show.

• “Marco! Pollo! Marco! Pollo! Fish out of water!” [Insert Rubio Joke Here] #Rubioing.” — Syndicated columnist and Bullfight Strategies’ Karl Frisch.

• “What’s the opposite of 5-Hour Energy? Boehner’s had two of them, at least.” — Bloomberg Business Week‘s Joshua Green.

The Critics

“Really pathetic and sad reflection on media-culture that taking a drink of water can overwhelm everything else.” — Christian Heinze, founder of Prez16.com. Seconded by NRSC Spokesman Brian Walsh, who said, “Exactly.”

Oh, but wait: “Jesus… the water sip blew the whole speech. Was on board until then but he blew it. Cue SNL.” — Jason Killian Meath, President, GOP Media Firm.

“The problem with this speech is a.) we already knew what was in it and b.) little of it is new.” — Politico‘s Ben White.

“I like Rubio’s remarks thus far, dislike the dry mouth. Get the man a water. Let’s hear some solutions.” — Conservative radio host Dana Loesch.

“Was leaning off camera to get water really better than obviously needing one?” — WCP Editor Mike Madden during the GOP response of Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.).

“Rubio keeps grabbing at his face. What’s with that?” — Baron‘s D.C. Editor James McTague.

“Huh, Chris Matthews voted for George W. Bush. You can admit that on MSNBC and still have a job? #MSNBCAfterDark” — U.S. News & World Report‘s Robert Schlesinger at 12:19 a.m.

Gratitude is…

“SOMEBODY PLEASE GIF THAT AWKWARD WATER BOTTLE GRAB, RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!! wowowoowowowowoowowow” — WaPo Express’ Clinton Yates.

“Water grab! Thank God.” — ABC News’ Nico Hines.

“Rubio has serious case of drymouth. Thank god he just took a sip of water.” — Roll Call Senate Editor Emily Pierce.

Jeff Zucker, give this man a raise! 

“CNN has every story covered tonight. On CNN-US: SOTU coverage. On HLN, continuing live coverage of Calif. Manhunt.” — CNN Washington Bureau Chief Sam Feist.

Wardrobe Change

“I just changed into flats because it is SRO in the House press gallery. #SOTU” — TWT‘s Emily Miller.

The sharp-tongued observers… continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

“Photo of POTUS mtg w speechwriters Cody Keenan and Jon Favreau today.” — Pete Souza, Director of White House Photography, with accompanying photograph.

Reporter encounters wall with Capitol Hill flack

“New boundaries of blow off. Called congressional office. Press sec doesn’t want to talk. I ask for voicemail. ‘She doesn’t take voicemail.’ — HuffPost‘s Sam Stein.

Weingarten reacts to poop idea 

Military reporter for SpaceNews Mike Gruss writes, “You know with some crafty maneuvering you can use the same bag for multiple poops, right?” To which WaPo‘s poopy Pulitzer Prize columnist Gene Weingarten replies, “You are an animal.”

Politico Playbook publish time: 8:20 a.m.

Humility is…

“On MSNBC in a few minutes, acting like I know stuff.” — The Atlantic‘s Molly Ball.

Where’s Dick Morris these days?

From Media Matters Spokeswoman Jess Levin…6:22 p.m. “Dick Morris – Absent From Fox For Nearly Three Months — To Appear On CNN” 6:25 p.m. “Dick Morris hasn’t been on Fox since Nov 12, 2012. Post 2008 election, he was on 19 times.” See here and here. The Wrap reported late yesterday that Fox News has dropped him. Never fear that he might disappear completely. Watch for him tonight on CNN’s “Piers Morgan Tonight” at 9 p.m. ET. If Morris is looking for a reference he might try WaPo‘s Erik Wemple, who writes this about him today: “Vast arrogance and loose, poorly substantiated facts: a great combination for a cable-news contributor in these modern times.” But he might do well to avoid Wemple as a life coach. He writes, “Don’t worry, Morris: It’s the end only of your relevance.”

The Ideas Guy

“Hoping to convince @BuzzFeedBen to give me a location consult on future #BuzzFeedBrews at tonight’s launch.” — Tim Miller, Deputy Communications Director, RNC. The event was held at The 201 Bar on Capitol Hill. Miller explained to FishbowlDC, “Just joking with them about going to a Hill bar instead of bringing it to Big John’s neighborhood. Shaw needs some politics love.” Big John is, of course, BuzzFeed Washington Bureau Chief John Stanton.

A profound thought from HuffPost‘s liberal media writer Jason Linkins. continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

INSOMNIA AT A GLANCE: “Nights when I’m up against my will worrying about everything affecting everyone I love are dumb and pointless, but I get to see this. It’s nice.” — Laurie White, writer, photographer, blogger, with accompanying photograph.

AnonymASS Tipster of the Day

Anonymous: “Why does nobody look into the affair between BLANK and BLANK?” Memo to ASS: Why do frogs ribbet? Because you have no proof whatsoever, AnonymASS. Or if you do, you haven’t given it to us. It also sounds like you have a personal stake in this, which, frankly makes me nervous.

Oh no! Is Gene Weingarten radioactive?

“If any of you wants to melt some gold down for quick cash, my body appears to be at 230 degrees celsius right now.” — WaPo‘s Gene Weingarten, who clearly missed his flu shot. God speed, Gene! I have FBDC and Current TV’s Peter Ogburn praying for you all day long.

Speaking of Ogburn…is he bringing sexy back?

“@BPShow Are you guys still live on Current? I can’t seem to get you. I want to feast my eyes on @peterogburn’s smexxy bod-eh. ♥‿♥” — Unknown. Twitter account no longer exists. And the answer? Yes, “Full Court Press” is still on the air for another few months.

Incest Desk: Isn’t this lovely? 

“Wishing my friend @seanhannity and his lovely wife Jill a very happy 20th anniversary.” — House Maj. Leader Eric Cantor to his good buddy, FNC’s Sean Hannity. Last time we checked, Hallmark is still in business and stamps are still available. If all that fails, there’s always email. But Twitter?

Congrats to…Olivia Alair, who has joined SKDKinckerbocker as a V.P. Reporters on the trail know her as the campaign press secretary to first lady Michelle Obama. She joins the communications firm from the trail, where she coordinated the first lady’s national communications strategy. Previously, Alair was press secretary for Dept. of Transportation Sec. Ray LaHood. She began her career as a press aide to then-Sen. Joe Biden. Also joining the firm is Nina Jenkins as a senior associate. She spent two years as a member of the research department for the Obama campaign.

HuffPost employee irked by press room in “The West Wing”… continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

STEIN’s NEW DAWG: “Meet the newest addition to my family.” — HuffPost‘s Sam Stein, following in the footsteps (we hope) of Fox News’ Dana Purina (or Perino) and her beloved Jasper.

Romance at the Kucinich household

“Mmm. I could get used to this…breakfast in bed served by my perfect husband Dennis Kucinich. Something to be said about our new schedule!” — Elizabeth Kucinich on her ex-congressman hubby.

Paul Wharton drenches himself in cashmere

“It’s freezing outside… Looks like ill be in cashmere all weekend long and I love it!!!” Hey boo! Sending u love! Bundle up!” — Real Housewives of DC star Paul Wharton to his boo,  food and restaurant blogger BJ Coleman.

A backup plan for Chuck Hagel

“Howard Kurtz, if Hagel loses he can be the anchor for Gore Jazeera.. perfect fit.” — WaPo‘s right-wing blogger Jennifer Rubin. President Obama has nominated ex-Sen. Chuck Hagel to be Sec. of Defense.

Huh?

“Deadly flu season set to be moderate to severe.” — WTOP on the flu season, which is expected to be “deadly” unless it’s moderate….or severe.

The weekend’s most uplifting headline: “Retired firefighter, dog named Pumpkin credited for saving Bowie woman.” — WaPo.

Kurt Loder, Patrick Kennedy, and marijuana laws

“Oxycontin enthusiast Patrick Kennedy opposes marijuana legalization.” — Ex-MTV VJ Kurt Loder, a columnist for Reason magazine.

Is this a prank phone call? 

“Pizza Hut just called about our order. They’re out of pepperoni. Really. Did every single house in Washington order pizza for this game?” — CNBC’s Eamon Javers, who then asked, “Is your refrigerator running?” (Joking…)

Sunday complaints

“Meet the Press is ideological advocacy journalism. It’s fine, do your thing, but be honest about it.” — Seth Michaels, writer for the Working America website.

“Any rational person that watches George @GStephanopoulos interview a GOP official and then a Democratic official will see his bias. #phony” — Ex-Mitt Romney aide Richard Grenell, who does spots on media criticism for Fox News.

Radio journalist finds relief from hacking cough and BuzzFeed’s Bureau Chief has a stern warning for Washington State lawmakers… continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

“No White House photos from family meetings. But the family of Emilie Parker, who was 6, released this on their own.” — Paul Brandus of West Wing Reports.

TIPS FROM THE POOL, INTO THE DEEP END: “Deep female sobs were heard from several sections of the audience, as the president started to read the names of the teachers who were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary school. …The president is speaking without a teleprompter and he carried his remarks in a dark folder. ” — A White House Pool Report by AFP’s Stephen Collinson on President Obama‘s speech in Newtown, Conn. last night.

Confessional: “I keep having this one horrible thought: I am lying when I tell my children there’s no such thing as monsters.” — ABC News Senior White House Correspondent Jake Tapper in starkly shifting roles over the weekend between reporter and private citizen. He received a lot of praise but some complaints.

Journo pushes gun control laws

“If we as a nation got serious about keeping guns away from the mentally disturbed, Louie Gohmert *would* have reason to be concerned.” — Mother Jones Engagement Editor and former Survivor: Baghdad contestant Adam Weinstein on Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), who went on Fox News Sunday this weekend and announced that more guns are the answer to mass killings such as the one at Sandy Hook.

A mayor, former White House COS changes his mind on guns

“President Clinton and I fought to pass the assault weapons ban. It’s time to renew and strengthen it. An easy vote.” — Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. But wait, The New Yorker‘s Ryan Lizza points out the mayor’s incredible hypocrisy…Read here.

And an editor addresses what evil is not…

“Evil has nothing to do with Autism, Asperger’s, or being goth.” — CNN Contributor and Breitbart.com‘s Dana Loesch.

A moment of tweeting silence?

“I won’t be tweeting during President’s remarks. I think we should all listen carefully.” — Politico‘s Roger Simon.

Whoa, what?! “Friend of mine joined NRA this morning. Sleeper mole trying to change org from inside. Will they support more limitations and licensing?” — Washingtonian Publisher Cathy Merrill Williams.

A compliment for CNN: “CNN is doing a segment on comfort dogs being brought to Newtown to help people cope. It’s actually comforting just watching them on TV.” — HuffPost‘s Sam Stein.

Journalistic outrage

“Yesterday’s orgy of erroneous & at times repulsively awful reporting on #Newtown should be a wakeup call for journalists everywhere.” — Roll Call White House reporter Steven Dennis.

“You see journalists saying ‘this is so awful, why does this keep happening’ while rabidly posting links to the killer’s social media.” — Justin Green, editor of David Frum’s blog.

“Not the best day for my trade.” — TIME White House correspondent Michael Scherer with a link to a story on outlets that botched the Connecticut shooting story.

Congratulations to… FNC’s Greta Van Susteren and hubby John Coale on 33 years of marriage. They celebrated on Sunday.

TV journo planned to spend weekend in prayer… continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

HuffPost

The fun began at 6:10 p.m.

At 6:55 p.m. the headline strangely began to significantly soften toward House Maj. Leader Cantor.

At 7:20 p.m. they were on the move again. Something’s not quite right. This time, they decided to tighten and lighten things up? They altered the headline slightly from “negotiating” to “discussing.”

Oh, but they weren’t done just yet. Like strung out junkies, they had one more injection left. At 8:05 p.m., the headline shifted one last time. In this instance, the two lawmakers are “talking” and no one is blamed for the stall. Everyone happy?

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Yesterday Byers posted an excerpt from a HuffPost story by Stein, who had interviewed former GOP presidential candidate Jon Huntsman:

“‘In an interview with The Huffington Post, [Jon] Huntsman laid out his vision for the Republican Party going forward….’

“Get it?”

And that was it.

Stein reacted to the post by saying he “always thought it was weird that people think Republicans can’t talk to [HuffPost] and still be conservative.”

With that, Byers’ post starts to make sense. He was suggesting that HuffPost, known as a left-leaning publication, may not be the best platform for a Republican to try influencing the GOP.

“Call a GOP strategist and ask them if [HuffPost] is best place to lay out your vision for GOP,” Byers said to Stein. “Seriously?” Stein replied. “We scored a [Mitt] Romney interview in the primary? We talk to GOP lawmakers all the time, top operatives, officials, etc…”

A former Huntsman communications director says HuffPost is a reasonable place for the GOP to speak out…

continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.