After the story that broke Republican Senator Larry Craig's silence was discovered and reported, he has been forced to defend his decision to plead guilty to a charge of attempted lewd behavior in a Minnesota airport restroom, which is costing him dearly today.
Today, Senator Craig has been forced to stand-down from his Senate committee positions. Several fellow Republican senators, including John McCain (AZ) and Norm Coleman (MN), have called for Craig's resignation resulting from acknowledging participation in a crime, which they say makes him unworthy to serve as a senator.
I think they are right! (How often does that happen?)
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Senator Larry Craig (R-ID)
After being arrested and pleading guilty to committing a lewd act, while at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, on June 11, 2007, Republican Senator Larry Craig (ID) is denying that he is gay, or committed any of the acts he openly admitted to engaging.
Apparently, Senator Craig was looking for some hanky-panky, with another man.
The Republican Party seems to be full of old men, who never quite made it out of the closet. Like Senator Craig, former Congressman Mark Foley (R-FL), spent time online soliciting former congressional male pages.
Unlike Foley, Senator Craig pleaded guilty to attempting to solicit an undercover police officer, while inside the airport's bathroom.
Now the question remains, will Senator Craig resign or be retired by the voters of Idaho? He is up for re-election in 2008. Perhaps, the voters of Idaho will be forgiving of their "closeted" elected official.
Apparently, Senator Craig was looking for some hanky-panky, with another man.
The Republican Party seems to be full of old men, who never quite made it out of the closet. Like Senator Craig, former Congressman Mark Foley (R-FL), spent time online soliciting former congressional male pages.
Unlike Foley, Senator Craig pleaded guilty to attempting to solicit an undercover police officer, while inside the airport's bathroom.
Now the question remains, will Senator Craig resign or be retired by the voters of Idaho? He is up for re-election in 2008. Perhaps, the voters of Idaho will be forgiving of their "closeted" elected official.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Gay Unions During the Middle Ages
I found a very interesting article about gay unions during the growing oppression of the Roman Catholic Church, in Europe.
It would seem that men were allowed to enter into "brotherments" (affrèrement) with other men, with whom they weren't related to. Of course, it is impossible to know if this was the case or not. But many of the agreements seem to imply that both individuals agreed to share all aspects of their lives.
It sounds like a union to me!
It would seem that men were allowed to enter into "brotherments" (affrèrement) with other men, with whom they weren't related to. Of course, it is impossible to know if this was the case or not. But many of the agreements seem to imply that both individuals agreed to share all aspects of their lives.
It sounds like a union to me!
Gonzales says, "Adios!"
After much pressure relating to alleged illegal activities, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales is finally stepping down from his post.
George W. Bush said that Gonzales endured "unfair treatment that...created harmful distraction at the Justice Department."
Now, which Bush crony will be nominated? It is only fair that the U.S. Senate conduct a very thorough investigation before confirming whomever Bush nominates.
George W. Bush said that Gonzales endured "unfair treatment that...created harmful distraction at the Justice Department."
Now, which Bush crony will be nominated? It is only fair that the U.S. Senate conduct a very thorough investigation before confirming whomever Bush nominates.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Hillary and Terrorism
On Thursday, Senator Hillary Clinton said that if terrorists were to attack the United States again, then it would be the Republican Party which would win.
I agree.
Republican presidential candidates would use the post-terror pandemonium to create a renewed atmosphere of fear and distrust. After all, that is what George W. Bush did. It won him re-election, even though he is a bumbling buffoon, who hasn't had an original idea in years.
An attack on our soil is not something to be capitalized on by politicians.
Thank you, Hillary!
I agree.
Republican presidential candidates would use the post-terror pandemonium to create a renewed atmosphere of fear and distrust. After all, that is what George W. Bush did. It won him re-election, even though he is a bumbling buffoon, who hasn't had an original idea in years.
An attack on our soil is not something to be capitalized on by politicians.
Thank you, Hillary!
Friday, August 24, 2007
Noriega can be extradited
Former Panamanian president, Manuel Noriega, can be extradited to France, following his release from a Miami-area federal prison, on September 6, according to a federal court.
In 1999, a French court found Noriega guilty, in absentia, for money laundering, and subsequently sentenced him to ten years in prison.
If I were him, I'd appeal.
He should be careful, though. The United States might get really upset and hang him, like Saddam, if he gets too sassy.
In 1999, a French court found Noriega guilty, in absentia, for money laundering, and subsequently sentenced him to ten years in prison.
If I were him, I'd appeal.
He should be careful, though. The United States might get really upset and hang him, like Saddam, if he gets too sassy.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
A day in the life of a "strict" teacher
Every year, I start my school year--as a teacher--swearing that this year is going to be the year I get "strict." I always start out strong, but then I falter as the days, weeks, and months wear on.
This year was my strongest. I was a harsh disciplinarian on the first day of school. I think the kids were genuinely in fear of my class. But all that fuss and smoke is not really me, I've found out.
I love being a teacher. I am happiest when I am in the classroom. I may not always own up to it, but I look forward to my day. My students--even those new ones I have this year--have discovered a single fact about me that has always evaded me.
It may sound conceited, but I am the teacher that every student wants to have. They break their necks to speak to me. Sometimes in the hallway, between classes, I have to work it like a politician with rock star status. I have to stop and hear about a former student's life, how much they wish they had me again as a teacher. They want to give me five, shake my hand, show me something they've done. In essence, I think they want me to be proud of them, as individuals. I think it's because I genuinely listen and talk to them.
Isn't that what every living human wants, after all?
Even my new students, who are supposed to be afraid of me, remember, giggle and speak to me as we pass. They share their hopes, fears, dreams, and uncertainties without reservation, with me. I have to admit that my "strict" persona has presented substantial holes in it. I find myself making a joke in class, and generally carrying on while I'm teaching. The thing is I have fun teaching and they actually learn something because they listen and are willing to take risks for me that they ordinarily wouldn't take for that hateful teacher. They always wonder what absurdity I am going to come up with in the next minute, during class. It would seem, I have no limit!
What this year's "strictness" has told my students is that I am willing to meet them half way. I can be fun, exciting, devilish, but they seem to understand that I also demand respect from them, and for them; it's unspoken.
Don't get me wrong. We're not sitting in class doing nothing. I'm not simply doing a stand-up comedy bit for fifty minutes, six times a day, five days a week, thirty six weeks a year. Consistently, my former--and current students--tell me my class is challenging, even hard. I teach, after all. It's sort of funny still that they would take another one of my classes, even knowing that they will have to work. That speaks volumes to me.
Yeah, my class might be a bit louder than the one next door. I might clap my hands a bit too much when I get excited. I might hoot and holler when they make it a step further toward self-actualization. I hand out candy, stickers, and give thumbs-up, but it's just how I am; essentially, it is how I am happiest.
Why not capitalize on what I do best?
Being a nice guy.
This year was my strongest. I was a harsh disciplinarian on the first day of school. I think the kids were genuinely in fear of my class. But all that fuss and smoke is not really me, I've found out.
I love being a teacher. I am happiest when I am in the classroom. I may not always own up to it, but I look forward to my day. My students--even those new ones I have this year--have discovered a single fact about me that has always evaded me.
It may sound conceited, but I am the teacher that every student wants to have. They break their necks to speak to me. Sometimes in the hallway, between classes, I have to work it like a politician with rock star status. I have to stop and hear about a former student's life, how much they wish they had me again as a teacher. They want to give me five, shake my hand, show me something they've done. In essence, I think they want me to be proud of them, as individuals. I think it's because I genuinely listen and talk to them.
Isn't that what every living human wants, after all?
Even my new students, who are supposed to be afraid of me, remember, giggle and speak to me as we pass. They share their hopes, fears, dreams, and uncertainties without reservation, with me. I have to admit that my "strict" persona has presented substantial holes in it. I find myself making a joke in class, and generally carrying on while I'm teaching. The thing is I have fun teaching and they actually learn something because they listen and are willing to take risks for me that they ordinarily wouldn't take for that hateful teacher. They always wonder what absurdity I am going to come up with in the next minute, during class. It would seem, I have no limit!
What this year's "strictness" has told my students is that I am willing to meet them half way. I can be fun, exciting, devilish, but they seem to understand that I also demand respect from them, and for them; it's unspoken.
Don't get me wrong. We're not sitting in class doing nothing. I'm not simply doing a stand-up comedy bit for fifty minutes, six times a day, five days a week, thirty six weeks a year. Consistently, my former--and current students--tell me my class is challenging, even hard. I teach, after all. It's sort of funny still that they would take another one of my classes, even knowing that they will have to work. That speaks volumes to me.
Yeah, my class might be a bit louder than the one next door. I might clap my hands a bit too much when I get excited. I might hoot and holler when they make it a step further toward self-actualization. I hand out candy, stickers, and give thumbs-up, but it's just how I am; essentially, it is how I am happiest.
Why not capitalize on what I do best?
Being a nice guy.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Crandall Canyon Mine to be closed as a memorial
After more than two weeks of searching, hoping and wishing, the executives at the Crandall Canyon Mine, in Huntington, Utah, is about ready to call the whole thing off.
After boring a fifth hole into the ceiling of the mine, they were unable to raise any hopes that the miners might still be alive.
The mine will bore a sixth hole, at a different location. If there are no signs of life present at this hole sight, then the mine will be closed as a memorial--albeit, tomb--to the six coal miners who are missing, and seemingly presumed dead, according to Bob Murray, who is the CEO of Murray Energy Corp, which owns the mine.
Although, many family members, at the site, seem to be holding on to false hope, there doesn't appear to be any thing to substantiate a continued, prolonged search for the miners.
After boring a fifth hole into the ceiling of the mine, they were unable to raise any hopes that the miners might still be alive.
The mine will bore a sixth hole, at a different location. If there are no signs of life present at this hole sight, then the mine will be closed as a memorial--albeit, tomb--to the six coal miners who are missing, and seemingly presumed dead, according to Bob Murray, who is the CEO of Murray Energy Corp, which owns the mine.
Although, many family members, at the site, seem to be holding on to false hope, there doesn't appear to be any thing to substantiate a continued, prolonged search for the miners.
George W. Bush snubs Vermont
Since being "elected" president, George W. Bush has not visited the state of Vermont.
It is the only state the president has not visited. For some reason, some people in Vermont are a bit hurt by this, even though he is well hated in their state.
This must be some sort of presidential fluke, considering Bill Clinton did not visit the state of Nebraska, until almost the end of his second term in office. Clinton finally went to say that he had, well, went. (Actually, he gave a speech at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.)
I wonder if Bush will do the same?
I envision if I didn't go to a state, it would be Alaska. It just seems so remote and cold, in my opinion.
It is the only state the president has not visited. For some reason, some people in Vermont are a bit hurt by this, even though he is well hated in their state.
This must be some sort of presidential fluke, considering Bill Clinton did not visit the state of Nebraska, until almost the end of his second term in office. Clinton finally went to say that he had, well, went. (Actually, he gave a speech at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.)
I wonder if Bush will do the same?
I envision if I didn't go to a state, it would be Alaska. It just seems so remote and cold, in my opinion.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Bullying & Myspace
In what seems to be a growing trend among school districts across the United States, students are being monitored--and punished--by their schools, for the things they post on social websites, like Myspace.
Is it the job of the school to punish students for content that is posted on a privately controlled website?
I am not sure if the answer is so easily clear cut.
Although, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is monitoring such cases, some of which have gone before federal courts already. The ACLU is worried that the fear of retaliation by an individual's school may work to curb freedoms enjoyed under the First Amendment.
In essence, students should expect that their personal communications will be protected by the Constitution of the United States, via the First Amendment's protection of the freedom of speech, but at the same time they must be wary that such communication can become extra-constitutional when it goes as far as to limit the freedoms of another individual, through the direct--or indirect--threat of pain or injury.
The question still remains: should schools be the entity to provide punishments arising from verbal threats against other students made on privately-owned social websites?
Surely, any administrator or teacher, who works within a school, and has reasonable knowledge of impending injury toward a student, is within their rights to take necessary precautions to safeguard that student. In the end, however, there is an entity that exists to deal with such matters, which take place outside of the school campus, and that is the police, and to a greater scope, the judicial system.
Is it the job of the school to punish students for content that is posted on a privately controlled website?
I am not sure if the answer is so easily clear cut.
Although, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is monitoring such cases, some of which have gone before federal courts already. The ACLU is worried that the fear of retaliation by an individual's school may work to curb freedoms enjoyed under the First Amendment.
In essence, students should expect that their personal communications will be protected by the Constitution of the United States, via the First Amendment's protection of the freedom of speech, but at the same time they must be wary that such communication can become extra-constitutional when it goes as far as to limit the freedoms of another individual, through the direct--or indirect--threat of pain or injury.
The question still remains: should schools be the entity to provide punishments arising from verbal threats against other students made on privately-owned social websites?
Surely, any administrator or teacher, who works within a school, and has reasonable knowledge of impending injury toward a student, is within their rights to take necessary precautions to safeguard that student. In the end, however, there is an entity that exists to deal with such matters, which take place outside of the school campus, and that is the police, and to a greater scope, the judicial system.
Hurricane Dean
Should what's left of New Orleans be afraid of Hurricane Dean, who now sits in the Caribbean Sea?
The storm now packs winds of up to 145 mph, as it moves closer to the island of Jamaica. The storm has already brought devastation to the Lesser Antilles, over the past couple of days. In St. Lucia a man was reportedly drowned when he tried to ford a river to save a cow.
Mexico has already issues hurricane watches along its eastern coastline, as the storm begins its ever slow journey toward the Gulf of Mexico.
The storm now packs winds of up to 145 mph, as it moves closer to the island of Jamaica. The storm has already brought devastation to the Lesser Antilles, over the past couple of days. In St. Lucia a man was reportedly drowned when he tried to ford a river to save a cow.
Mexico has already issues hurricane watches along its eastern coastline, as the storm begins its ever slow journey toward the Gulf of Mexico.
Barack Obama limits debate schedule
Senator Barack Obama's campaign is going to limit the amount of debates and forums the senator participates in during the upcoming months, leading up to key Democratic primaries and caucuses.
The Obama team states that this will improve the "face time" the senator has with the voters of key states, like Iowa and New Hampshire. They also note, however, that their strategy may work to alienate certain key groups, if he does not participate in their forums and other first tier candidates do, which could cost him votes and important political endorsements.
I detect a bit of desperation forming in Camp Obama.
The Obama team states that this will improve the "face time" the senator has with the voters of key states, like Iowa and New Hampshire. They also note, however, that their strategy may work to alienate certain key groups, if he does not participate in their forums and other first tier candidates do, which could cost him votes and important political endorsements.
I detect a bit of desperation forming in Camp Obama.
Karl Rove's New Job: Hillary Watching
It would seem that some in the Republican Party Ivory Tower have moved to have so-called former George W. Bush "brain" and "architect" settle into a new role: Hillary commentary.
Since his retirement from his cushy aide's job in the White House, Rove has found it necessary to criticize the Clinton presidential campaign.
Why?
The answer is easy, or so it would seem, Republicans are afraid of what a Clinton win of the Democratic primaries would mean for their chances in November 2008. With Bush at the head of the Republican Party, it is hard to digest any belief--even false belief--that they have a chance in hell of winning the White House.
Rove we see through you!
Since his retirement from his cushy aide's job in the White House, Rove has found it necessary to criticize the Clinton presidential campaign.
Why?
The answer is easy, or so it would seem, Republicans are afraid of what a Clinton win of the Democratic primaries would mean for their chances in November 2008. With Bush at the head of the Republican Party, it is hard to digest any belief--even false belief--that they have a chance in hell of winning the White House.
Rove we see through you!
Friday, August 17, 2007
Tony Snow stepping down
White House press secretary, Tony Snow, is stepping down, according to the Associated Press. The transition could come as early as the beginning of September.
Good for him.
Good for him.
Fred Thompson advocates repeal of Roe v. Wade, ban gay marriage
Former United States senator, Fred Thompson (R-TN), was unofficially campaigning today, when he stated that he would work to repeal the decades' old Supreme Court opinion of Roe v. Wade, which protects a woman's right to choose what she does with her body. In addition, he went further to state that he would work for a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage.
Is Fred Thompson trying to send us back to the stone-age with this political crap?
In regards to gay marriage, Thompson said, "I don’t think that one state ought to be able to pass a law requiring gay marriage or allowing gay marriage and have another state be required to follow along."
I suppose Mr. Thompson is working to create some sort of narrow political base among Republicans for his campaign. By limiting his appeal this way, he is also guaranteeing that he will lose the Republican Party's nomination in 2008.
Is Fred Thompson trying to send us back to the stone-age with this political crap?
In regards to gay marriage, Thompson said, "I don’t think that one state ought to be able to pass a law requiring gay marriage or allowing gay marriage and have another state be required to follow along."
I suppose Mr. Thompson is working to create some sort of narrow political base among Republicans for his campaign. By limiting his appeal this way, he is also guaranteeing that he will lose the Republican Party's nomination in 2008.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Jenna G.W. Bush Is Getting Married
I think it is great that Jenna Bush, the daughter of George W. Bush, is getting married to Karl Rove. That is just wonderful. I guess that is how Bush pays back his friends, by offering them one of his daughters.
(P.S. I know she isn't marrying Karl Rove; it's just funny.)
(P.S. I know she isn't marrying Karl Rove; it's just funny.)
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Karl Rove is looking for a new job
After "retiring" from George W. Bush's side, Karl Rove is now looking for someone else to sink his tentacles into.
While sitting in on the Viagra sponsored portion of The Rush Limbaugh Show today, Rove put down Senator Hillary Clinton; specifically, he called her bid for the presidency as being "fatally flawed."
Why?
Karl Rove, although he is officially out of politics for the time being, is hoping to receive a call from either the Rudy Giuliani or Mitt Romney campaigns. He thinks they need someone with his stature to help them win the election in 2008. If he is really as smart as everyone claims he is, then he understands that the Republicans are the ones who are "fatally flawed" in the upcoming presidential square-off, between Republicans and Democrats.
Besides, I don't think any Republican campaign would hire him. He comes with way too many liabilities, and after serving as Bush's "right-hand man" for all these years, his credentials are rather tarnished, in the public's eye.
While sitting in on the Viagra sponsored portion of The Rush Limbaugh Show today, Rove put down Senator Hillary Clinton; specifically, he called her bid for the presidency as being "fatally flawed."
Why?
Karl Rove, although he is officially out of politics for the time being, is hoping to receive a call from either the Rudy Giuliani or Mitt Romney campaigns. He thinks they need someone with his stature to help them win the election in 2008. If he is really as smart as everyone claims he is, then he understands that the Republicans are the ones who are "fatally flawed" in the upcoming presidential square-off, between Republicans and Democrats.
Besides, I don't think any Republican campaign would hire him. He comes with way too many liabilities, and after serving as Bush's "right-hand man" for all these years, his credentials are rather tarnished, in the public's eye.
Bush attacks Hillary for the truth
After Hillary Clinton's first Iowa presidential campaign ad hit the air, showing the inconsistencies of the Bush administration for the past six years, George W. Bush was on the war path.
Bush's retort was that he helped to bring down the cost of healthcare for seniors. Okay, that sounds pretty good, but could he have done much better? By adding extra benefits, through Medicare, senior citizens can get their medicines at reduced prices, yes, but many times the reduced price is still too steep for someone on a fixed income.
Bush has stepped out on veterans returning from his wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Department of Veterans' Affairs cannot completely administrate the capital's veterans' hospital, Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Simply, where is the funding?
Hmmm...is Bush really mad because Senator Clinton highlighted only a few of his larger failures?
I think all avenues lead to a single, unifying answer: YES!
Bush's retort was that he helped to bring down the cost of healthcare for seniors. Okay, that sounds pretty good, but could he have done much better? By adding extra benefits, through Medicare, senior citizens can get their medicines at reduced prices, yes, but many times the reduced price is still too steep for someone on a fixed income.
Bush has stepped out on veterans returning from his wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Department of Veterans' Affairs cannot completely administrate the capital's veterans' hospital, Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Simply, where is the funding?
Hmmm...is Bush really mad because Senator Clinton highlighted only a few of his larger failures?
I think all avenues lead to a single, unifying answer: YES!
Monday, August 13, 2007
Hillary takes on the draft, Bush
After the Bush-styled war czar, Lt. General Douglas Lute, testified that the draft might be a viable alternative to the strains felt by the current all-volunteer armed forces, in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Bush administration has leaked that it has always had that option on the table.
Senator Clinton has called on President Bush to clarify his position on the military draft.
Senator Clinton has called on President Bush to clarify his position on the military draft.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Pompous Ass
After the Ames, Iowa straw poll, former Republican Massachusetts governor, Mitt Romney, in regards to his win of the baseless poll, stated that Giuliani, Thompson, and McCain's decisions not to participate were based on their beliefs that they couldn't win.
Let's face it, Mr. Romney, the Republican Party is not going to win the presidency in 2008. So why do you even bother to run?
Let's face it, Mr. Romney, the Republican Party is not going to win the presidency in 2008. So why do you even bother to run?
Musharraf Attends Afghan Jirga
Speaking at the close of the Afghan jirga, Pakistani president, Pervez Musharraf, stated that he fears the "Talibanization" of his country's infrastructure..
Then, perhaps he should do something about it.
Then, perhaps he should do something about it.
Draft
The president's war advisor, Lt. General Douglas Lute, is a raving moron.
In order to maintain the morale of the military, he thinks that a draft would do more to make those currently serving in the military--on a volunteer basis--feel better about their service. It might cut down on the number of tours of duty they have to complete. In addition, it makes their families feel more at ease about their loved one's service.
Aw, how touching.
Perhaps, instead of panhandling to Bush's incessant belief that war in Iraq is good for America, he might want to tell the president that the war should be ended immediately.
But for the most part, Bush is happy with the current status quo, inasmuch as the military is concerned. He says that the all-volunteer armed forces is just peachy with him.
In order to maintain the morale of the military, he thinks that a draft would do more to make those currently serving in the military--on a volunteer basis--feel better about their service. It might cut down on the number of tours of duty they have to complete. In addition, it makes their families feel more at ease about their loved one's service.
Aw, how touching.
Perhaps, instead of panhandling to Bush's incessant belief that war in Iraq is good for America, he might want to tell the president that the war should be ended immediately.
But for the most part, Bush is happy with the current status quo, inasmuch as the military is concerned. He says that the all-volunteer armed forces is just peachy with him.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Why are people raving lunatics?
People are up in arms that someone--who allegedly committed a crime--is receiving compensation for their job.
An Alabama teacher, who was dismissed for a rape charge, is apparently receiving compensation for his years as a teacher. What is wrong with that?
If I do a job satisfactorily, then I deserve to be compensated for doing it. If I am found guilty of a crime, while on the job, then fire me, but can you legally take away the benefits I have earned up to that point?
The state of Alabama tends to agree with me.
Although, opponents to the law, would strip the former teacher of his rights and benefits, they fail to see the fallacies of their logic.
Let's look at it from a less ominous legal perspective.
If I am driving 80mph in a 50mph speed zone and get caught, I will probably be fined for violating the speed limit, which is set by the state. Up to this point, I have not been charged with a similar criminal action. Some people might be upset that I was driving so recklessly in front of their homes, which is a valid concern. Even though, I have paid for my car, some of the homeowners want the state to take away my car, even though I legally own it.
Absurd, vigilante logic? You bet!
An Alabama teacher, who was dismissed for a rape charge, is apparently receiving compensation for his years as a teacher. What is wrong with that?
If I do a job satisfactorily, then I deserve to be compensated for doing it. If I am found guilty of a crime, while on the job, then fire me, but can you legally take away the benefits I have earned up to that point?
The state of Alabama tends to agree with me.
Although, opponents to the law, would strip the former teacher of his rights and benefits, they fail to see the fallacies of their logic.
Let's look at it from a less ominous legal perspective.
If I am driving 80mph in a 50mph speed zone and get caught, I will probably be fined for violating the speed limit, which is set by the state. Up to this point, I have not been charged with a similar criminal action. Some people might be upset that I was driving so recklessly in front of their homes, which is a valid concern. Even though, I have paid for my car, some of the homeowners want the state to take away my car, even though I legally own it.
Absurd, vigilante logic? You bet!
Miner Report
After more than six days--three miles beneath the earth, it is my solemn opinion that the trapped coal miners, in Utah, are dead.
Is Barack Obama "black enough"?
Yesterday, at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention, in Las Vegas, Barack Obama was confronted with the issue of his so-called "blackness."
He stated that there appears to be a problem, for a black candidate, if he or she can appeal to white people also.
The basic answer, according to Obama's response, is this is silly. Let's move on beyond the color of a person's skin.
I agree.
(On a lighter side, there are those that argue that no one can be as black, when it comes to politics, as Bill Clinton is.)
He stated that there appears to be a problem, for a black candidate, if he or she can appeal to white people also.
The basic answer, according to Obama's response, is this is silly. Let's move on beyond the color of a person's skin.
I agree.
(On a lighter side, there are those that argue that no one can be as black, when it comes to politics, as Bill Clinton is.)
Friday, August 10, 2007
Stock Report
What's up with the stock market?
They say it has to do with the housing market crisis that has suddenly bloomed in recent weeks. I guess no one had the foresight to understand that when you give poor people low interest loans to buy homes, and then jack them up to double and triple rates they cannot pay them.
Sounds like a lame excuse to me.
Let's face it, they used the so-called oil problem for a while when stocks plummeted, too. I am not an expert on the stock market, and what motivates it, but when approximately 85% of my net wealth is linked to it, I have to take notice.
MasterCard came out with its stock over a year ago. I took a risk and gambled that it would do very well. Now, almost 70% of my personal investment portfolio is connected to this stock. Dumb? Perhaps, but you wouldn't say that if you made as much money as I did, when the stock jumped from $50/share to $170/share. Those were good ol' days. Now the same stock is hovering around $140/share (still not quite to the crisis point, but still enough to create a panic for me), which is a large wallop on any person's wallet, when they are invested in it.
The banking industry is losing its proverbial shirt because of these interest rates. As a result, I have decided to attempt to capitalize on it--in any event--by buying heavily into Deutsche Bank Ag Namen (Symbol: DB) and Credit Suisse Group (Symbol: CS). I am always drawn to foreign stock. I suppose I like the foreign tax. (Not really!)
I hope that my gut feeling over this proves to be correct after the end of next week!
They say it has to do with the housing market crisis that has suddenly bloomed in recent weeks. I guess no one had the foresight to understand that when you give poor people low interest loans to buy homes, and then jack them up to double and triple rates they cannot pay them.
Sounds like a lame excuse to me.
Let's face it, they used the so-called oil problem for a while when stocks plummeted, too. I am not an expert on the stock market, and what motivates it, but when approximately 85% of my net wealth is linked to it, I have to take notice.
MasterCard came out with its stock over a year ago. I took a risk and gambled that it would do very well. Now, almost 70% of my personal investment portfolio is connected to this stock. Dumb? Perhaps, but you wouldn't say that if you made as much money as I did, when the stock jumped from $50/share to $170/share. Those were good ol' days. Now the same stock is hovering around $140/share (still not quite to the crisis point, but still enough to create a panic for me), which is a large wallop on any person's wallet, when they are invested in it.
The banking industry is losing its proverbial shirt because of these interest rates. As a result, I have decided to attempt to capitalize on it--in any event--by buying heavily into Deutsche Bank Ag Namen (Symbol: DB) and Credit Suisse Group (Symbol: CS). I am always drawn to foreign stock. I suppose I like the foreign tax. (Not really!)
I hope that my gut feeling over this proves to be correct after the end of next week!
Will the United States invade Pakistan?
After nearly eight years of unopposed rule, is General Pervez Musharraf's tenure as president of Pakistan about to end?
The United States is growing less patient with Musharraf's inaction regarding the growing insurgency--along the Pakinstan-Afghanistan border--that threatens America's agenda in Afghanistan.
Many believe that the Taliban, which once ruled Afghanistan with an iron fist, before the United States-led invasion, has regrouped inside of Pakistan. Then, there's the biggest obstacle of all: is Osama bin Ladin heading al-Qaeda from an undisclosed location in the mountainous provinces of northwestern Pakistan?
There are indications that General Musharraf feels his own presidency might be in jeopardy. Recently, a Pakistani court unanimously found that Musharraf's suspension of the country's popular chief justice, on suspicion of corruption, was illegal, and he was subsequently reinstated to his position. This defiant action resounds with those elements who might be looking to unseat Musharraf from his pro-Western position in Islamabad.
In an effort to provide some stability to his presidency, Musharraf made the unprecedented move of meeting with former Pakistani prime minister, Benazir Bhutto, who is the head of Musharraf's main opposition, the Pakistan Peoples Party.
Under a tentative agreement, Musharraf retains his position as president, but Bhutto will return to Pakistan, from her nine years in self-imposed exile, in the United Arab Emirates, to head the government.
For both Musharraf and Bhutto, the task of attempting to stabilize Pakistan's growing domestic unrest will be arduous.
The United States is growing less patient with Musharraf's inaction regarding the growing insurgency--along the Pakinstan-Afghanistan border--that threatens America's agenda in Afghanistan.
Many believe that the Taliban, which once ruled Afghanistan with an iron fist, before the United States-led invasion, has regrouped inside of Pakistan. Then, there's the biggest obstacle of all: is Osama bin Ladin heading al-Qaeda from an undisclosed location in the mountainous provinces of northwestern Pakistan?
There are indications that General Musharraf feels his own presidency might be in jeopardy. Recently, a Pakistani court unanimously found that Musharraf's suspension of the country's popular chief justice, on suspicion of corruption, was illegal, and he was subsequently reinstated to his position. This defiant action resounds with those elements who might be looking to unseat Musharraf from his pro-Western position in Islamabad.
In an effort to provide some stability to his presidency, Musharraf made the unprecedented move of meeting with former Pakistani prime minister, Benazir Bhutto, who is the head of Musharraf's main opposition, the Pakistan Peoples Party.
Under a tentative agreement, Musharraf retains his position as president, but Bhutto will return to Pakistan, from her nine years in self-imposed exile, in the United Arab Emirates, to head the government.
For both Musharraf and Bhutto, the task of attempting to stabilize Pakistan's growing domestic unrest will be arduous.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
George W. Bush's Recent Accomplishments
Here is a list of accomplishments for George Bush over the past week, or so, with his personal annotations in parenthesis:
- Found out he doesn't have colon cancer, after all (what was that anal probe for again?)
- Beat Lyme Disease (damn ticks, they should all die, must call Dick Cheney for details on how to do that)
And his proudest accomplishment:
- Finally, got in touch with Barry Bonds (he's a dope-head like me, and he is loved...kind of)
Congratulations, Mr. President, on a job well done!
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Higher Taxes
A Republican member of Congress, Don Young (AK), stated that it might be necessary to increase the taxes on gasoline, in order to pay for the update of long neglected bridges across the United States.
Since the collapse of the bridge in Minneapolis, last week, it would seem there about 500 other comparable bridges, around the country, which fall into a similar category as this bridge.
Why should we have to pay more taxes on something that is already outrageous? Perhaps, Congress should find the money to pay for these kinds of repairs--from existing funds--without requiring Americans to pay more in taxes, as a result. Congress sure finds the money to pay for Bush's private war, when he demands it. Instead, Congress should divert funds, by downsizing armed forces abroad.
It makes sense.
Since the collapse of the bridge in Minneapolis, last week, it would seem there about 500 other comparable bridges, around the country, which fall into a similar category as this bridge.
Why should we have to pay more taxes on something that is already outrageous? Perhaps, Congress should find the money to pay for these kinds of repairs--from existing funds--without requiring Americans to pay more in taxes, as a result. Congress sure finds the money to pay for Bush's private war, when he demands it. Instead, Congress should divert funds, by downsizing armed forces abroad.
It makes sense.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Hillary moves ahead in polls
A Newsweek poll shows that Senator Hillary Clinton is ahead by up to 21-percent among potential Democratic candidates, including Barack Obama.
Just like I said, I see a Clinton-Gore ticket coming up for 2008!
Just like I said, I see a Clinton-Gore ticket coming up for 2008!
Russia's Mission to the Arctic
Last week, Russia "planted" its flag at the bottom of the Arctic Ocean, via a sub, in an attempt to lay claim to the area's wealth of natural resources (i.e., oil and natural gas).
The governments of the United States and Canada claim that the media event doesn't justify Russia's exclusivity, when it comes to the exploitation of the resources.
I agree. I think the time of planting flags on the shores of distant lands (or sub-marine landscapes) is passe.
The governments of the United States and Canada claim that the media event doesn't justify Russia's exclusivity, when it comes to the exploitation of the resources.
I agree. I think the time of planting flags on the shores of distant lands (or sub-marine landscapes) is passe.
Congress gives in to Bush...again
You know, I have been upset by the new Democratic-led Congress.
They give into Bush's demands way too easily. Just because he calls for an expansion of the government's ability to eavesdrop, doesn't mean they have to do it!
Congress approved Bush's request to amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, after a rather unimpressive squabble. Apparently, Bush threatened to veto the bill if it didn't meet his director of National Intelligence's needs, which must have caused congressional leaders to quake in their boots.
Big whoop!
Exactly when was the last time Bush gave into the demands of Congress?
All of this talk about "secret courts" really sounds un-American to me. A defiant Congress would have told Bush to toot it out of his bum, and then went on a month long vacation, leaving him high-and-dry. Why should Congress be obliged to do anything the president wants, when he is so rigid in his agenda?
I want a Congress that stands up against the president!
They give into Bush's demands way too easily. Just because he calls for an expansion of the government's ability to eavesdrop, doesn't mean they have to do it!
Congress approved Bush's request to amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, after a rather unimpressive squabble. Apparently, Bush threatened to veto the bill if it didn't meet his director of National Intelligence's needs, which must have caused congressional leaders to quake in their boots.
Big whoop!
Exactly when was the last time Bush gave into the demands of Congress?
All of this talk about "secret courts" really sounds un-American to me. A defiant Congress would have told Bush to toot it out of his bum, and then went on a month long vacation, leaving him high-and-dry. Why should Congress be obliged to do anything the president wants, when he is so rigid in his agenda?
I want a Congress that stands up against the president!
Home Run Tie
Wow! I am so not excited by this Barry Bonds thing. Why do I care that a grown man can hit a ball out of the park 755 times?
Sounds like he needs to do something constructive with his time, like take up the abuse of steroids.
Sounds like he needs to do something constructive with his time, like take up the abuse of steroids.
Soldier Gets 110 Years For Rape
After being found guilty of raping a fourteen year old Iraqi girl and the subsequent murder of the girl's family, Pfc. Jesse Spielman was sentenced to 110 years.
I found this quite shocking, actually. Considering the Bush administration's policy on nation building and general war, I figured they would have found him guilty and then pinned a medal on him, while congratulating him, "Good job, soldier!"
Sometimes I can still be surprised!
I found this quite shocking, actually. Considering the Bush administration's policy on nation building and general war, I figured they would have found him guilty and then pinned a medal on him, while congratulating him, "Good job, soldier!"
Sometimes I can still be surprised!
Friday, August 03, 2007
Nicole Richie Is Jail Shopping
Nicole Richie has decided that she would rather serve her ninety hours at Los Angeles County Jail, rather than a Los Angeles city jail.
For her convenience, she has until September 28 to check-in for her unfortunate incarceration.
It must be nice to get to shop for everything!
For her convenience, she has until September 28 to check-in for her unfortunate incarceration.
It must be nice to get to shop for everything!
Bush's Delight
After the bridge fell in Minneapolis, the media has switched gears completely. What war in Iraq?! The media's response: "We've got to cover a bridge that fell down!"
Of course, I sympathize with the families of those people who died, as a result. (I'm not a heartless monster...well, not always.)
Of course, I sympathize with the families of those people who died, as a result. (I'm not a heartless monster...well, not always.)
Bridges of Minneapolis
After the interstate bridge failed, the other day, in Minneapolis, there has been beefed up inspections of all the nation's bridges.
I have witnessed--first-hand--how busy the Transportation Cabinet has been in Kentucky, alone. It would seem that our bridges (Kentucky has 14,000 of them) only need to be inspected after a major disaster hundreds of miles away occurs.
Good going there, guys!
I have witnessed--first-hand--how busy the Transportation Cabinet has been in Kentucky, alone. It would seem that our bridges (Kentucky has 14,000 of them) only need to be inspected after a major disaster hundreds of miles away occurs.
Good going there, guys!
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Foreign Beats Domestic
A report shows that last month foreign made vehicles outsold those made in America, for the first time in auto history.
Automobile makers in the United States saw a 19-percent dip in their sales for the month, compared to July 2006.
Asian made vehicles accounted for about 45-percent of those sold inside the U.S.
What does it all mean?
Basically, it is a kick in the butt for American automakers. It shows them, quite matter-of-factly, that they must endeavor to solve their sales slump, through unique innovations, or face greater financial difficulties in the future, as a result.
Automobile makers in the United States saw a 19-percent dip in their sales for the month, compared to July 2006.
Asian made vehicles accounted for about 45-percent of those sold inside the U.S.
What does it all mean?
Basically, it is a kick in the butt for American automakers. It shows them, quite matter-of-factly, that they must endeavor to solve their sales slump, through unique innovations, or face greater financial difficulties in the future, as a result.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Cheney cites a "witch hunt"
Vice President Dick Cheney stated that the investigation into the controversial firing of eight United States attorneys, by the United States Congress, constitutes a "witch hunt."
I say to Vice President Cheney that sometimes you have to weed the witches out from the ordinary people!
Perhaps he forgets his history, but once-upon-a-time--in this country--witches were burned at the stake.
I say to Vice President Cheney that sometimes you have to weed the witches out from the ordinary people!
Perhaps he forgets his history, but once-upon-a-time--in this country--witches were burned at the stake.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Chief Justice Suffers Seizure
Bush lackey, and chief justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, John Roberts, suffered a seizure while vacationing at his home in Maine, according to the Supreme Court press office.
Hmmmm...
Hmmmm...
Avandia treats diabetes, but causes heart attacks...according to one
Pharmaceutical conglomerate, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), argued today that its drug, Avandia (generic: rosiglitazone), does not precipitate cardiac-related injury when taken by patients, who are being treated, by the drug, for diabetes.
Initially, David Graham, who sits on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) panel, moved that the drug should be pulled from the market, citing research which points at patients, who are being treated by Avandia, suffered a greater number of heart attacks.
GSK, though, had three billion reasons ($3 billion in sales in 2006) against the FDA's one lone voice, stating why its drug should be allowed to stay on the market.
It appears as if the FDA panel concurs with GSK's argument. They voted 22-1 to keep the drug on the market (while acknowledging the seeming correlations between heart attacks and the drug). They stated that the drug's label should be updated to communicate the elevated heart attack risk to physicians and patients.
Initially, David Graham, who sits on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) panel, moved that the drug should be pulled from the market, citing research which points at patients, who are being treated by Avandia, suffered a greater number of heart attacks.
GSK, though, had three billion reasons ($3 billion in sales in 2006) against the FDA's one lone voice, stating why its drug should be allowed to stay on the market.
It appears as if the FDA panel concurs with GSK's argument. They voted 22-1 to keep the drug on the market (while acknowledging the seeming correlations between heart attacks and the drug). They stated that the drug's label should be updated to communicate the elevated heart attack risk to physicians and patients.
George & Gordon are friends, at last
In what may turn out to be a futile attempt at maintaining the support of the United Kingdom, George W. Bush hosted British prime minister, Gordon Brown, at Camp David over the weekend.
Since Tony Blair's departure, Bush may be alone in the world when it comes to his actions in Iraq and Afghanistan, considering the UK was the United States' greatest ally and supporter in Bush's quest to bring "democracy" to the uncivilized world.
Considering Blair's resignation as prime minister was instigated--in part--by the unyielding war in Iraq, it will be advantageous for Brown to move in a different direction when it comes to his country's foreign policy, for his own sake, at least.
Since Tony Blair's departure, Bush may be alone in the world when it comes to his actions in Iraq and Afghanistan, considering the UK was the United States' greatest ally and supporter in Bush's quest to bring "democracy" to the uncivilized world.
Considering Blair's resignation as prime minister was instigated--in part--by the unyielding war in Iraq, it will be advantageous for Brown to move in a different direction when it comes to his country's foreign policy, for his own sake, at least.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Newt Gingrich Agrees With Me
Last night, I said that a possible Clinton-Obama ticket may emerge as the Democratic presidential ticket in 2008.
Today, Newt Gingrich is repeating my prediction on national television.
Can I sue for intellectual property theft? Eh, I guess I'll let him have this one.
I've got my eyes set on a Clinton-Gore ticket, anyhow.
Today, Newt Gingrich is repeating my prediction on national television.
Can I sue for intellectual property theft? Eh, I guess I'll let him have this one.
I've got my eyes set on a Clinton-Gore ticket, anyhow.
Plastered to the Stars
NASA has found that several astronauts may have been "hammered" while they were preparing for liftoff in the space shuttle.
I find it a bit foolish that astronauts have access to alcohol during the week or so leading up to a launch. Apparently, NASA has a policy called, "twelve hours from the bottle to the throttle." Okay, that's cute, but what does it mean? I suppose some astronauts like to toast their future mission's success by shooting off a cork and indulging in a nice glass of champagne. That's understandable.
What I don't understand is NASA's sudden urgency regarding these alleged incidence. What is the blood-alcohol ratio that the organization finds acceptable for astronauts to participate in a flight? One might think the sober answer is zero.
For some, however, it might be too much stress to bear. The time leading up to lift off certainly must be stressful. I guess they resort to the bottle as a means to calm their nerves.
Here's to you!
I find it a bit foolish that astronauts have access to alcohol during the week or so leading up to a launch. Apparently, NASA has a policy called, "twelve hours from the bottle to the throttle." Okay, that's cute, but what does it mean? I suppose some astronauts like to toast their future mission's success by shooting off a cork and indulging in a nice glass of champagne. That's understandable.
What I don't understand is NASA's sudden urgency regarding these alleged incidence. What is the blood-alcohol ratio that the organization finds acceptable for astronauts to participate in a flight? One might think the sober answer is zero.
For some, however, it might be too much stress to bear. The time leading up to lift off certainly must be stressful. I guess they resort to the bottle as a means to calm their nerves.
Here's to you!
"I am Pat 'effin' Tillman..."
Who cares?
People in the media pretend this is the only soldier who has died in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Certainly, the loss of any American soldier's life is a tragedy, but one soldier's demise is no more important than his/her comrades.
Let's stop pretending like this person's sacrifice is more valuable, with this in mind.
People in the media pretend this is the only soldier who has died in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Certainly, the loss of any American soldier's life is a tragedy, but one soldier's demise is no more important than his/her comrades.
Let's stop pretending like this person's sacrifice is more valuable, with this in mind.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Clinton-Gore 2008, perhaps?
After the dust in Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina finally settles, it will be time for Hillary to choose a political ally to be her vice president.
I have read the commentary of several political opinionists who believe that she will select Senator Barack Obama for this important position. Now, firstly, she could do worse, I admit. I am not sure, though, she will follow in the footsteps of John Kerry, who was the Democratic nominee in 2004. As we all know, Kerry selected John Edwards for the important VP post, even after being rivals in the primaries.
No, Hillary has to do something different. Something a little sneaky, something a little unexpected.
If not Obama, then who will Hillary select?
The ultimate Republican hump busting ticket is simply: Hillary Clinton and Al Gore!
Although, Vice President Gore will not seek the Democratic presidential nomination--in his own right--doesn't mean he won't accept its vice-president slot. From the influential vice president's chair, he can work to bring important environmental issues into the limelight. And, of course, Gore is no stranger to being vice president, considering he served in the post from 1993-2001, under Bill Clinton.
It's a ticket that American can get behind!
I have read the commentary of several political opinionists who believe that she will select Senator Barack Obama for this important position. Now, firstly, she could do worse, I admit. I am not sure, though, she will follow in the footsteps of John Kerry, who was the Democratic nominee in 2004. As we all know, Kerry selected John Edwards for the important VP post, even after being rivals in the primaries.
No, Hillary has to do something different. Something a little sneaky, something a little unexpected.
If not Obama, then who will Hillary select?
The ultimate Republican hump busting ticket is simply: Hillary Clinton and Al Gore!
Although, Vice President Gore will not seek the Democratic presidential nomination--in his own right--doesn't mean he won't accept its vice-president slot. From the influential vice president's chair, he can work to bring important environmental issues into the limelight. And, of course, Gore is no stranger to being vice president, considering he served in the post from 1993-2001, under Bill Clinton.
It's a ticket that American can get behind!
ClintonGore 2008
Are you ready for change?
Prince Gabor Found Nude in Rolls
"Prince" Frederic von Anhalt, who is married to Hungarian cop-hater, Zsa Zsa Gabor, was found Thursday, by police, sitting in his Rolls Royce wearing nothing more than his birthday suit.
Von Anhalt stated that while traveling next to the Bel Air Country Club, he was flagged down by three women, whom he suspected wanted to take their picture with him, but instead they mugged him (taking only his clothes, apparently).
I think the poor guy is just over-wrought by the fact that Anna Nicole's baby is not his child. He seems to the type of person who will resort to any kind of stunt to get his name before the media.
Anyone could park outside a country club, take off his/her clothes, and claim to have been accosted by transients, who only want clothes.
Von Anhalt stated that while traveling next to the Bel Air Country Club, he was flagged down by three women, whom he suspected wanted to take their picture with him, but instead they mugged him (taking only his clothes, apparently).
I think the poor guy is just over-wrought by the fact that Anna Nicole's baby is not his child. He seems to the type of person who will resort to any kind of stunt to get his name before the media.
Anyone could park outside a country club, take off his/her clothes, and claim to have been accosted by transients, who only want clothes.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Bush-Cheney Lite?
In the spirit of political rivalry, Senator Barack Obama has equated that Senator Hillary Clinton is a watered down version of Bush and Cheney.
How simply ridiculous!
I agree with Hillary's statement of: "Well, this is getting kind of silly. I've been called a lot of things in my life but I've never been called George Bush or Dick Cheney certainly. We have to ask what's ever happened to the politics of hope?"
Although, Obama is a cash cow, he really doesn't stand any chance of being elected to the presidency, no matter how much Oprah backs him and throws him million dollar soirees at her California home.
This type of rhetoric demonstrates the futility of the Obama platform. After the first few primaries and caucuses are held early next year, we'll see who is standing after the dust settles!
How simply ridiculous!
I agree with Hillary's statement of: "Well, this is getting kind of silly. I've been called a lot of things in my life but I've never been called George Bush or Dick Cheney certainly. We have to ask what's ever happened to the politics of hope?"
Although, Obama is a cash cow, he really doesn't stand any chance of being elected to the presidency, no matter how much Oprah backs him and throws him million dollar soirees at her California home.
This type of rhetoric demonstrates the futility of the Obama platform. After the first few primaries and caucuses are held early next year, we'll see who is standing after the dust settles!
Hillary2008
While Cheney's Out...
While Cheney is out on the operating table this weekend, the powers of the president will be temporarily shifted to George W. Bush.
Ultimately, it means that Bush will have complete and unfettered access to the country's infrastructure, without any type of oversight.
Wait...he does that anyhow.
Forget it.
Ultimately, it means that Bush will have complete and unfettered access to the country's infrastructure, without any type of oversight.
Wait...he does that anyhow.
Forget it.
Cheney to get his batteries changed this weekend
Vice President Dick Cheney will undergo a procedure at George Washington University Hospital, this weekend, to have the batteries in his implanted defibrillator replaced.
During a routine physical exam, it was discovered that the device's batteries needed to be replaced.
Perhaps, while they are working on his battery replacement, they can also look for the cause of his Heartless Bastard Syndrome (HBS).
(Symptoms of HBS include the inability to empathize with normal human emotions. It may impact your ability to maintain meaningful relationships with those closest to you. In some cases, HBS was shown to increase a person's hostility. In all cases, it caused a grim outlook on life.)
During a routine physical exam, it was discovered that the device's batteries needed to be replaced.
Perhaps, while they are working on his battery replacement, they can also look for the cause of his Heartless Bastard Syndrome (HBS).
(Symptoms of HBS include the inability to empathize with normal human emotions. It may impact your ability to maintain meaningful relationships with those closest to you. In some cases, HBS was shown to increase a person's hostility. In all cases, it caused a grim outlook on life.)
Nicole Richie Gets Jail
Paris Hilton buddy and co-star, Nicole Richie, received 90 hours of jail time from a California judge today for her own drunk driving stint back in December 2006.
Richie was sentenced to four days (96 hours), but was given credit for six hours she has already served in the clink. In addition to 90 hours of incomprehensible jail time, she will also be placed on probation for three years and pay a $2,048 fine.
The judge informed Richie that if she violates her probation she can be jailed for up to one year.
I hope she does better than Paris, when the time comes for her to enter jail!
Richie was sentenced to four days (96 hours), but was given credit for six hours she has already served in the clink. In addition to 90 hours of incomprehensible jail time, she will also be placed on probation for three years and pay a $2,048 fine.
The judge informed Richie that if she violates her probation she can be jailed for up to one year.
I hope she does better than Paris, when the time comes for her to enter jail!
The Price is...Wrong
Comedian Drew Carey has been slated by The Price Is Right producers to fill the incredibly large shoes left behind by former host Bob Barker.
Carey, whose professional credits include The Drew Carey Show and Who's Line Is It Anyway?, will have to climb out from beneath the shadow left behind by Barker, even before taping his first show.
It is certain that Carey's style will take the mainstay game show into a completely different direction. After thirty years of "coming on down" everyday with Bob Barker, it may be too much of a leap for many of the show's faithful to make.
I wish him luck, however!
Carey, whose professional credits include The Drew Carey Show and Who's Line Is It Anyway?, will have to climb out from beneath the shadow left behind by Barker, even before taping his first show.
It is certain that Carey's style will take the mainstay game show into a completely different direction. After thirty years of "coming on down" everyday with Bob Barker, it may be too much of a leap for many of the show's faithful to make.
I wish him luck, however!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Who is Lindsay Lohan?
Why do I care if someone named Lindsay Lohan was arrested for drugs, etc.? I am not sure who this person even is. With the whole Paris Hilton debacle, I think we are all ready to move on beyond the rap sheets of celebrities.
As I said, did this Lindsay person star in a movie, sing, change the world? I am not even sure. Does her family own a chain of international hotels? I don't think so, at least.
What do arrests mean for the famous? It is cheap publicity--plain and simple. It doesn't cost much, beyond your self-respect and freedom (but only for a short time). But in the long run, we don't hold so-and-so accountable because he or she was in jail for five days for cocaine abuse, DUI, or generally turning up in the gutter. It makes the majority of people crave more.
"Oh my God! Can you believe what she did the other night?"
Sure, I thought the whole Paris Hilton incident was precious. Who didn't, honestly? We all had a our laugh when the debutante was carted off to jail to pay her debt to society for a whole litany of infractions.
But, finally, enough is more than enough. Why do I care if they are drug addicts or alcoholics? It may be sad. But it is equally sad for the thousands of other people who deal with these issues everyday and never see their name on CNN.
Only the media seems to care now.
As I said, did this Lindsay person star in a movie, sing, change the world? I am not even sure. Does her family own a chain of international hotels? I don't think so, at least.
What do arrests mean for the famous? It is cheap publicity--plain and simple. It doesn't cost much, beyond your self-respect and freedom (but only for a short time). But in the long run, we don't hold so-and-so accountable because he or she was in jail for five days for cocaine abuse, DUI, or generally turning up in the gutter. It makes the majority of people crave more.
"Oh my God! Can you believe what she did the other night?"
Sure, I thought the whole Paris Hilton incident was precious. Who didn't, honestly? We all had a our laugh when the debutante was carted off to jail to pay her debt to society for a whole litany of infractions.
But, finally, enough is more than enough. Why do I care if they are drug addicts or alcoholics? It may be sad. But it is equally sad for the thousands of other people who deal with these issues everyday and never see their name on CNN.
Only the media seems to care now.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
All Tanned and Coiffed
After a nice eight days in gai Paris, I am finally returned home. The trip itself was wild. What happens in Paris stays in Paris, yes? With that said, the most I am willing to divulge is my new tan (which was rather serendipitous in attainment).
Honestly, I almost stayed, in lieu of returning home. I found it hard to leave something that is so magical and liberal. The French are everything Americans are not. They are bold and understanding. At the same time, however, we, as Americans are more outgoing in our convictions, which is a virtue, also. In the end, though, I decided that I had to return home. Home is where the heart is, after all. My heart will always be in the land that bore me: America.
I am still suffering some touches of jet lag. I am usually good about getting over it quickly. Give me a few hours of sleep in the middle of the day and I am fine. That is when I am going ahead in time, of course. When I arrived in France, I had to catch up six hours. Now, I am slowing down to be caught up by the time deficiency. In fact, it is still one a.m. in my mind. I should be asleep, perhaps. By tomorrow, I prophecy, that I will be as good as gold.
All-in-all, it was a bon journée.
Honestly, I almost stayed, in lieu of returning home. I found it hard to leave something that is so magical and liberal. The French are everything Americans are not. They are bold and understanding. At the same time, however, we, as Americans are more outgoing in our convictions, which is a virtue, also. In the end, though, I decided that I had to return home. Home is where the heart is, after all. My heart will always be in the land that bore me: America.
I am still suffering some touches of jet lag. I am usually good about getting over it quickly. Give me a few hours of sleep in the middle of the day and I am fine. That is when I am going ahead in time, of course. When I arrived in France, I had to catch up six hours. Now, I am slowing down to be caught up by the time deficiency. In fact, it is still one a.m. in my mind. I should be asleep, perhaps. By tomorrow, I prophecy, that I will be as good as gold.
All-in-all, it was a bon journée.
Back
After a total of about seventeen hours in flight--to France and home again--I am back!
And what a time I had while I was there!
And what a time I had while I was there!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Chatty Clinton, Edwards
It would seem that Hillary Clinton and John Edwards were caught at yesterday's NAACP debate discussing the demise of fellow Democratic candidates for president.
After the debate, and while the microphones were still live, Senator Clinton seemed rather taken with the notion that such debates were trivialized by so many minor candidates, as she talked to former Senator Edwards. She proposed that the two campaigns should work on strategies to thin out the herd.
You go Hillary!
After the debate, and while the microphones were still live, Senator Clinton seemed rather taken with the notion that such debates were trivialized by so many minor candidates, as she talked to former Senator Edwards. She proposed that the two campaigns should work on strategies to thin out the herd.
You go Hillary!
Friday, July 13, 2007
I love you, Megan Mullally (aka Karen Walker)
If I was straight, I'd so sleep with Megan Mullally, but mostly because of her Karen character on Will & Grace.
We can still make out right, honey?
We can still make out right, honey?
Love from long ago
Like the Pink song, "Who Knew," I find myself living in a world of shadows where past relationships haunt me.
As the song says, "Time makes it harder/I wish I could remember/But I keep your memory/You visit me in my sleep," is it wrong to dream of people you once loved? And sometimes in quite intimate and naughty terms?
I feel guilty about it occasionally, but it is like they are back in my life for a brief time. I miss them mostly, but I can't have them.
It's tough, but we go forward. Right?
As the song says, "Time makes it harder/I wish I could remember/But I keep your memory/You visit me in my sleep," is it wrong to dream of people you once loved? And sometimes in quite intimate and naughty terms?
I feel guilty about it occasionally, but it is like they are back in my life for a brief time. I miss them mostly, but I can't have them.
It's tough, but we go forward. Right?
Friday the 13th
I proclaim not to be a superstitious person, but I am secretly.
I am only leaving for France on Sunday, because of what today is. I had initially planned on leaving today, but when I saw the date on the calendar I postponed my departure date until Sunday, as to allow for plenty of room between the dates.
I don't know why, but black cats don't bother me, I can walk beneath ladders, bite my fingernails on Sunday, but I can't do much on Friday the 13th.
Maybe it's the cheesy horror flicks they sometimes show late at night, like Friday the 13th and Nightmare on Elm Street. I just don't want what happened to cinema to happen to me.
It's rather scary!
I am only leaving for France on Sunday, because of what today is. I had initially planned on leaving today, but when I saw the date on the calendar I postponed my departure date until Sunday, as to allow for plenty of room between the dates.
I don't know why, but black cats don't bother me, I can walk beneath ladders, bite my fingernails on Sunday, but I can't do much on Friday the 13th.
Maybe it's the cheesy horror flicks they sometimes show late at night, like Friday the 13th and Nightmare on Elm Street. I just don't want what happened to cinema to happen to me.
It's rather scary!
Water Conservation
We've been told to conserve water, because there is a drought going on in Kentucky. I was all for conserving water and doing my part, until today. I was out and I noticed how dirty my car is, so I drove by the car wash.
They were lined up bumper-to-bumper to drive through the automated car wash. There was water flowing freely. I decided that is for me!
Now, I have a squeaky clean car. Apparently there is lots of water to go around, since they are still allowed to run the car washes 24 hours-a-day.
They were lined up bumper-to-bumper to drive through the automated car wash. There was water flowing freely. I decided that is for me!
Now, I have a squeaky clean car. Apparently there is lots of water to go around, since they are still allowed to run the car washes 24 hours-a-day.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
John McCain is Bankrupt
With the 2008 presidential election just getting into full gear, two sources close to Camp McCain say that the senator is down to his last $250,000.
Even though, he has about $2 million on hand, he already owes about $1.8 million of that money for previous debts.
McCain, who is now a perennial presidential candidate, and general all-around Bush stooge, probably needs to close up shop and head back to the Senate, where he has missed most of his votes this year.
A highly confused John McCain was heard uttering, "What do you mean I'm a senator?" He's out of touch, simply.
Even though, he has about $2 million on hand, he already owes about $1.8 million of that money for previous debts.
McCain, who is now a perennial presidential candidate, and general all-around Bush stooge, probably needs to close up shop and head back to the Senate, where he has missed most of his votes this year.
A highly confused John McCain was heard uttering, "What do you mean I'm a senator?" He's out of touch, simply.
TB Patient Gets Sued
Former media darling, Andrew Speaker, who was falsely accused of being infected with a rare form of tuberculosis, is being sued by seven fellow passengers of a trans-Atlantic flight he took after being allegedly told, by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), not to fly.
This type of lawsuit brings up some interesting notions. If people can sue someone they shared a flight with for knowingly putting them at risk, can anyone sue someone else in similar situations?
Here's an example of my hypothesis. If I drive down the road and later find out a drunk individual was arrested, while driving on the same stretch of highway I had previously been driving, can I sue that individual for what could have potentially happened to me if our paths had crossed in a hazardous way?
The individuals who are suing Speaker have not presented any signs that they contracted the same disease that he allegedly had. If they do not present symptoms, then their lawsuits will have a hard time succeeding in a court of law, based on the fact they are disease free. The same holds true for my belief that I can sue someone for drunk driving on the same road I had been driving without being injured as a result.
This type of lawsuit brings up some interesting notions. If people can sue someone they shared a flight with for knowingly putting them at risk, can anyone sue someone else in similar situations?
Here's an example of my hypothesis. If I drive down the road and later find out a drunk individual was arrested, while driving on the same stretch of highway I had previously been driving, can I sue that individual for what could have potentially happened to me if our paths had crossed in a hazardous way?
The individuals who are suing Speaker have not presented any signs that they contracted the same disease that he allegedly had. If they do not present symptoms, then their lawsuits will have a hard time succeeding in a court of law, based on the fact they are disease free. The same holds true for my belief that I can sue someone for drunk driving on the same road I had been driving without being injured as a result.
The New Hair of George W. Bush
Is it just me or is President Bush coloring his hair?
If you look at his newest media appearances, his hair has a golden brown glimmer to it. I'm not saying that he took all of the gray out, but before it had that old woman blue hair shine to it.
Believe me, take a look! Bush is slowly covering up that post-9/11 gray.
Good for him!
If you look at his newest media appearances, his hair has a golden brown glimmer to it. I'm not saying that he took all of the gray out, but before it had that old woman blue hair shine to it.
Believe me, take a look! Bush is slowly covering up that post-9/11 gray.
Good for him!
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Mammoth Discovery
The well-preserved remains of a baby female mammoth were recovered from the permafrost of Siberia.
Like previous mammoth discoveries, scientists hope they can extract DNA from the preserved animal in order to better understand its genetic make-up, and perhaps create a clone.
Unbelievable Parents
The parents of a sixteen-year-old girl, who recently married her forty-year-old former high school coach, have filed a lawsuit against the Brunswick County Board of Education for not protecting their daughter from her coach.
Let's examine this case a bit further, with a critical eye.
The parents allege that they filed concerns regarding their daughters involvement with her coach with the school, but it failed to discipline him.
So they did what any frustrated and upset parents would do, they signed a consent form which allowed their daughter to marry the same coach they are suing the school over.
Can we say dummies?
If I were the judge, I would dismiss this case as being hypocritical. At the very least, if the parents wished to continue the case, I would have to advise them that they will have to file charges against themselves, making them co-defendants, for custodial neglect and interference, considering they freely signed the consent form for their daughter to marry the man they are now alleging is a pervert.
You can't have your cake and eat it, too, in this case. If the parents had filed the suit, and not permitted their daughter to marry her coach, instead they filed for a restraining order against him, then their case would have merit.
Case dismissed!
Let's examine this case a bit further, with a critical eye.
The parents allege that they filed concerns regarding their daughters involvement with her coach with the school, but it failed to discipline him.
So they did what any frustrated and upset parents would do, they signed a consent form which allowed their daughter to marry the same coach they are suing the school over.
Can we say dummies?
If I were the judge, I would dismiss this case as being hypocritical. At the very least, if the parents wished to continue the case, I would have to advise them that they will have to file charges against themselves, making them co-defendants, for custodial neglect and interference, considering they freely signed the consent form for their daughter to marry the man they are now alleging is a pervert.
You can't have your cake and eat it, too, in this case. If the parents had filed the suit, and not permitted their daughter to marry her coach, instead they filed for a restraining order against him, then their case would have merit.
Case dismissed!
Britain, wazzup?
In the past two weeks, I have found myself thanking my lucky stars that I am not going to the United Kingdom for my summer holiday.
Why?
Well, it all started with the terrorist doctors. I mean, let's look at the facts. I go to the doctor (I love mine, and he's Lebanese), and it turns out the whole time he's just been using you as a front to plot terror against your country.
At what point do co-workers become oblivious to the professionals with whom they work?
Another tip-off to patients might be when your doctor wants to be paid for services with 25-kilogram bags of ammonium nitrate...hmmmm....not unrealistic. Everyone wants a nice, healthy garden, after all.
Then, on CNN, with my good friend, Christiane Amanpour, reporting, I see this Muslim extremist saying that some day Britain will submit to Shir'a (شريعة) law. Of course, I find this argument ludicrous, considering many of the Muslims they interviewed, on the street, had no clue what Shir'a law even was.
I guess that Muslim cleric is lucky he isn't in the United States, considering George W. Bush would have been all over him with a cattle prod, while simultaneously shipping him off to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, with a black back over his head, for an extended tropical holiday.
Of course, I do not support these actions.
Now there's the problem with the barbaric practice of female circumcision that has pitched up in Britain (yeah, my boyfriend is British, so I pick up a few of his sayings). According to sources, the practice is usually limited to first generation immigrants from Africa and the Middle East, though.
Don't get me wrong, I love the British. Most of my family came from there.
The bottom line is: every country has its problems.
Why?
Well, it all started with the terrorist doctors. I mean, let's look at the facts. I go to the doctor (I love mine, and he's Lebanese), and it turns out the whole time he's just been using you as a front to plot terror against your country.
At what point do co-workers become oblivious to the professionals with whom they work?
Another tip-off to patients might be when your doctor wants to be paid for services with 25-kilogram bags of ammonium nitrate...hmmmm....not unrealistic. Everyone wants a nice, healthy garden, after all.
Then, on CNN, with my good friend, Christiane Amanpour, reporting, I see this Muslim extremist saying that some day Britain will submit to Shir'a (شريعة) law. Of course, I find this argument ludicrous, considering many of the Muslims they interviewed, on the street, had no clue what Shir'a law even was.
I guess that Muslim cleric is lucky he isn't in the United States, considering George W. Bush would have been all over him with a cattle prod, while simultaneously shipping him off to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, with a black back over his head, for an extended tropical holiday.
Of course, I do not support these actions.
Now there's the problem with the barbaric practice of female circumcision that has pitched up in Britain (yeah, my boyfriend is British, so I pick up a few of his sayings). According to sources, the practice is usually limited to first generation immigrants from Africa and the Middle East, though.
Don't get me wrong, I love the British. Most of my family came from there.
The bottom line is: every country has its problems.
Cialis
I hope someone out there can explain something to me.
It's about those erectile dysfunction commercials; specifically, Cialis. Yes, I understand what it treats and how it works. What I am having trouble with is understanding their advertisement campaign.
"When the time's right, will you be ready?"
That makes perfect sense to me! It's crystal clear, in fact.
But if you take the thirty seconds from your life to watch a Cialis commercial, from start to finish, you see at the end a man and woman, in two separate cast iron bath tubs, which are located outside, with their joined hands swinging freely in the empty space between the tubs.
That part I don't get. What's the symbolism that goes along with the last two seconds of this advertisement?
Usually I'm good at deciphering symbolism, too.
Remember, if you suffer from priapism--an erection lasting more than four hours--seek immediate medical assistance. As this could cause indefinite damage to your pee-pee. (Yes, I'm not a proctologist. Surprise!)
It's about those erectile dysfunction commercials; specifically, Cialis. Yes, I understand what it treats and how it works. What I am having trouble with is understanding their advertisement campaign.
"When the time's right, will you be ready?"
That makes perfect sense to me! It's crystal clear, in fact.
But if you take the thirty seconds from your life to watch a Cialis commercial, from start to finish, you see at the end a man and woman, in two separate cast iron bath tubs, which are located outside, with their joined hands swinging freely in the empty space between the tubs.
That part I don't get. What's the symbolism that goes along with the last two seconds of this advertisement?
Usually I'm good at deciphering symbolism, too.
Remember, if you suffer from priapism--an erection lasting more than four hours--seek immediate medical assistance. As this could cause indefinite damage to your pee-pee. (Yes, I'm not a proctologist. Surprise!)
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
China executes...official
In a state farce, not seen since 2000, China has summarily executed a former high ranking government official, Zheng Xiaoyu, who was in charge of the country's food and drug safety.
Zheng was convicted of taking almost $900,000 in bribes from various companies for favors. The court found that this type of behavior constituted a dereliction of his duties.
This sounds like an execution made out of anger, because of all the recent problems arising from China's food exports. It will serve as a very stark reminder of the obligations current and future officials have in securing the safety of China's food and drug programs.
Zheng was convicted of taking almost $900,000 in bribes from various companies for favors. The court found that this type of behavior constituted a dereliction of his duties.
This sounds like an execution made out of anger, because of all the recent problems arising from China's food exports. It will serve as a very stark reminder of the obligations current and future officials have in securing the safety of China's food and drug programs.
Monday, July 09, 2007
Executive Privilege, My Ass
George W. Bush, once again, slammed dunked the idiocy and rhetoric when he informed Congress that he is going to maintain his executive privilege when it comes to permitting former aides to testify, before House and Senate judicial committees, about the dismissal of federal prosecutors.
I'm not really sure where Bush comes up with these things. Honestly, how does allowing your former staffers to testify about the firing of federal prosecutors endanger the welfare of the state?
Bottom line, it does not!
So what this all boils down to is one thing: the perceived extra-constitutional privilege of the executive branch to selectively sequester information. (In Bush terms: I ain't telling, and you can't make me. I'm the Decider!)
What decision has he made? One that protects him from further fodder for his impeachment.
I'm not really sure where Bush comes up with these things. Honestly, how does allowing your former staffers to testify about the firing of federal prosecutors endanger the welfare of the state?
Bottom line, it does not!
So what this all boils down to is one thing: the perceived extra-constitutional privilege of the executive branch to selectively sequester information. (In Bush terms: I ain't telling, and you can't make me. I'm the Decider!)
What decision has he made? One that protects him from further fodder for his impeachment.
Trip Anxiety
As the day approaches for me to leave for Paris, I find myself worrying more and more about the little things, which I suppose is normal (but I hate).
I wonder if I will have enough clothes; what if they get stained? Soiled? Ripped? Lost?
I worry about money; will I lose my credit cards? Will someone steal my cash? Will the housekeeper help herself to my things while I'm not there?
I just want to wake up and find myself there with no problems. I don't want to sweat the little things. I suppose I need a travel planner/personal assistant, someone to pack my luggage, hold my hand on the flight, escort me to all the places I want to go, feed me, water me, bathe me, and in general, take care of me.
Wow! That's a lot of responsibility. How will I manage?
I wonder if I will have enough clothes; what if they get stained? Soiled? Ripped? Lost?
I worry about money; will I lose my credit cards? Will someone steal my cash? Will the housekeeper help herself to my things while I'm not there?
I just want to wake up and find myself there with no problems. I don't want to sweat the little things. I suppose I need a travel planner/personal assistant, someone to pack my luggage, hold my hand on the flight, escort me to all the places I want to go, feed me, water me, bathe me, and in general, take care of me.
Wow! That's a lot of responsibility. How will I manage?
Sunday, July 08, 2007
The NEW Seven Wonders of the World
In a worldwide contest to determine a new list of the world's greatest wonders, people voted--via Internet and text message--for their choices.
The new list was revealed yesterday in Lisbon, Portugal. The final list showing the world's wonders includes:
The Great Wall of China
Petra in Jordan
Brazil's statue of Christ the Redeemer
Peru's Machu Picchu
Mexico's Chichen Itza pyramid
The Colosseum in Rome
India's Taj Mahal
Noticeably absent from the list is the only ancient wonder of the world that still stands today, the Great Pyramid at Giza. This omission has caused great exception with the government of Egypt, which maintains the Great Pyramid is the only wonder of the world.
The new list was revealed yesterday in Lisbon, Portugal. The final list showing the world's wonders includes:
The Great Wall of China
Petra in Jordan
Brazil's statue of Christ the Redeemer
Peru's Machu Picchu
Mexico's Chichen Itza pyramid
The Colosseum in Rome
India's Taj Mahal
Noticeably absent from the list is the only ancient wonder of the world that still stands today, the Great Pyramid at Giza. This omission has caused great exception with the government of Egypt, which maintains the Great Pyramid is the only wonder of the world.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Friday, July 06, 2007
Libby's Fine
Scooter Libby opted to pay his $250,000 court imposed fine this past week, which was part of his original sentence for outing a CIA agent.
Now, Bush commuted his thirty month prison sentence, but left the fine intact. Now as much as I might appreciate not going to jail, I think I'd like to keep my $250,000 even more. If he went to jail, how long would he have served, honestly? I am guessing maybe six months in a cushy, minimum security federal prison.
My next question is when George W. Bush finally does pardon Libby, will he get his $250,000 fine back?
Also, has anyone ever wondered what courts do with fines they collect? (I never really found out.)
Now, Bush commuted his thirty month prison sentence, but left the fine intact. Now as much as I might appreciate not going to jail, I think I'd like to keep my $250,000 even more. If he went to jail, how long would he have served, honestly? I am guessing maybe six months in a cushy, minimum security federal prison.
My next question is when George W. Bush finally does pardon Libby, will he get his $250,000 fine back?
Also, has anyone ever wondered what courts do with fines they collect? (I never really found out.)
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Tony Snow, Bite Me!
The White House is up in arms over the statement made by Bill Clinton over George W. Bush's little scandal, which seems to have erupted over his agreement to commute the thirty month prison sentence of Dick Cheney's number one crony, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby.
It has so embroiled the White House that Bush's minister of propaganda, Tony Snow, wrote an op-ed piece in USA Today, attacking President Clinton for the pardons he issued in the last days of his presidency.
I fail to see the relevancy.
Further, I agree completely with President Clinton's statement that Bush, and his group of hateful sycophants, "believe that they should be able to do what they want to do, and that the law is a minor obstacle."
It has so embroiled the White House that Bush's minister of propaganda, Tony Snow, wrote an op-ed piece in USA Today, attacking President Clinton for the pardons he issued in the last days of his presidency.
I fail to see the relevancy.
Further, I agree completely with President Clinton's statement that Bush, and his group of hateful sycophants, "believe that they should be able to do what they want to do, and that the law is a minor obstacle."
David Hasselhoff loves Wendy's
I've heard about the David Hasselhoff video of him eating a burger, while lying on the floor, drunk out of his mind.
Of course, I decided that it was high time I actually watched this video for myself.
At first, I thought, "Wow! This is really pathetic."
Then, after watching the video for about three minutes, it all made perfect sense to me. If my daughter's voice was so shrill and naggy, I'd resort to alcohol as an escape mechanism also.
It is obvious his daughter is the one making the video. I can appreciate why she did it. She wanted to show him how he behaves when he is drunk.
What I don't know understand, however, is how it ends up on websites, like YouTube.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
I met Hillary & Bill Clinton at Dairy Queen
I really didn't meet the Clintons at Dairy Queen, but some people did yesterday.
In a unique presentation, the Hillary Clinton campaign has launched HillCam, which allows visitors to Hillary's website to see her and Bill's unvarnished adventures, as they campaign across Iowa this week.
In the video clip, you see Bill Clinton ordering a "grilled chicken and a big ice tea...lots of ice." During the time it takes to fill their order, you see them meeting and greeting the unsuspecting DQ patrons.
In the end, you see Hillary pick her sunglasses from the drink station and take a big old drink of her large DQ drink, which is wrapped in a napkin to absorb the sweat. (It must have been a hot day in Iowa!)
Now I want something from Dairy Queen!!!
In a unique presentation, the Hillary Clinton campaign has launched HillCam, which allows visitors to Hillary's website to see her and Bill's unvarnished adventures, as they campaign across Iowa this week.
In the video clip, you see Bill Clinton ordering a "grilled chicken and a big ice tea...lots of ice." During the time it takes to fill their order, you see them meeting and greeting the unsuspecting DQ patrons.
In the end, you see Hillary pick her sunglasses from the drink station and take a big old drink of her large DQ drink, which is wrapped in a napkin to absorb the sweat. (It must have been a hot day in Iowa!)
Now I want something from Dairy Queen!!!
Cops
Yesterday, my brother and I were going out for lunch when we spotted a rather reckless driver. The individual (who turned out to be an older man) was weaving all over the road. Once he actually left the road and was able to pull the right side of his car out of the ditch, in what turned out to be a seemingly futile maneuver to correct his driving.
This method of driving went on for several miles. He was meeting vehicles on the wrong side of the road. Many times, he simply had to stop to avoid crashing into them.
At this point, I decided to call the cops. In Kentucky, you dial (800) 222-5555 for the state police, which I did; unlike some people, it was not a real enough emergency (yet) to dial 911.
The man who came on the line transferred me to the correct county post of the state police. I then proceeded to give the lady on the phone the license plate number and description of the car. She ran the plate and then patched me through to the state police dispatcher, who took over.
I was quite pumped by this point.
This man was kind of gruff. His voice was like those you hear on the radio in Cops. He wanted the facts of the situation and nothing else. I felt just like I was a policeman in hot pursuit. My brother, who was sitting next to me, was feeding me the details of the chase, and I relayed them to the dispatcher, while the man in front of us was completely oblivious.
Sitting at a traffic light, I saw the state police car whiz through, but to my dismay, in the opposite direction. I informed the dispatcher, who then barked at the patrol car, through the raido, to turn around and go the opposite direction. I followed the man until he exited the main highway. He was going to Kentucky Fried Chicken, of course. In a stupid decision, I decided not to follow him into the parking lot of the restaurant. The dispatcher then thanked me for my civic mindedness, and the call was finally terminated after nine minutes and six miles.
My brother, who was apparently frustrated with me, said, "Why'd you do that? I wanted to see him get taken down." Of course, he was referring to my decision to drive on without stopping. In a moment of indecision, I found myself doing a turn around on a very busy stretch of highway, as I positioned myself in the opposite lane.
In what seemed like forever (but was really just three minutes), we finally made it back to the KFC parking lot. There sat the car, parked beneath a shady tree. The driver was now eerily absent. Was he inside the restaurant? Had the cops snatched him and taken him to jail? (Probably not in three minutes.)
Parked inconspicuously, my brother and I waited for about five minutes. We did not see the driver of the car we'd been chasing, nor the police.
I may never know happened to the driver of the car, which had Kentucky plate 08* DL*, but you know who you are!
This method of driving went on for several miles. He was meeting vehicles on the wrong side of the road. Many times, he simply had to stop to avoid crashing into them.
At this point, I decided to call the cops. In Kentucky, you dial (800) 222-5555 for the state police, which I did; unlike some people, it was not a real enough emergency (yet) to dial 911.
The man who came on the line transferred me to the correct county post of the state police. I then proceeded to give the lady on the phone the license plate number and description of the car. She ran the plate and then patched me through to the state police dispatcher, who took over.
I was quite pumped by this point.
This man was kind of gruff. His voice was like those you hear on the radio in Cops. He wanted the facts of the situation and nothing else. I felt just like I was a policeman in hot pursuit. My brother, who was sitting next to me, was feeding me the details of the chase, and I relayed them to the dispatcher, while the man in front of us was completely oblivious.
Sitting at a traffic light, I saw the state police car whiz through, but to my dismay, in the opposite direction. I informed the dispatcher, who then barked at the patrol car, through the raido, to turn around and go the opposite direction. I followed the man until he exited the main highway. He was going to Kentucky Fried Chicken, of course. In a stupid decision, I decided not to follow him into the parking lot of the restaurant. The dispatcher then thanked me for my civic mindedness, and the call was finally terminated after nine minutes and six miles.
My brother, who was apparently frustrated with me, said, "Why'd you do that? I wanted to see him get taken down." Of course, he was referring to my decision to drive on without stopping. In a moment of indecision, I found myself doing a turn around on a very busy stretch of highway, as I positioned myself in the opposite lane.
In what seemed like forever (but was really just three minutes), we finally made it back to the KFC parking lot. There sat the car, parked beneath a shady tree. The driver was now eerily absent. Was he inside the restaurant? Had the cops snatched him and taken him to jail? (Probably not in three minutes.)
Parked inconspicuously, my brother and I waited for about five minutes. We did not see the driver of the car we'd been chasing, nor the police.
I may never know happened to the driver of the car, which had Kentucky plate 08* DL*, but you know who you are!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Scooter Libby gets a free ride, sorta
Today, from a fishing boat in Kennebunkport, Maine, President George W. Bush commuted Dick Cheney's good pal, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby's jail sentence.
Earlier today, a federal appellate court held that Libby, who was charged with leaking a CIA operative's identity, and subsequently found guilty, could not delay his thirty month prison sentence during the appeals process.
Even though, he is free from prison, he is not free from the conviction, which remains on his record. He can only get rid of that if the president grants him a pardon. Bush only granted him a commutation of his prison sentence. I am sure he will get his full pardon around 6am on January 20, 2009, though, along with other party hacks and cronies, who are facing prison.
Earlier today, a federal appellate court held that Libby, who was charged with leaking a CIA operative's identity, and subsequently found guilty, could not delay his thirty month prison sentence during the appeals process.
Even though, he is free from prison, he is not free from the conviction, which remains on his record. He can only get rid of that if the president grants him a pardon. Bush only granted him a commutation of his prison sentence. I am sure he will get his full pardon around 6am on January 20, 2009, though, along with other party hacks and cronies, who are facing prison.
Do we still need capital punishment?
We have come a long way from the capital punishment we have all seen in Westerns. Instead of tying ropes around the necks of the condemned and stringing them up from the nearest tree, we stick them with needles full of poison and electrocute them to death, while the rest of the civilized world looks on in horror.
Modern, civilized nations, like those of western Europe (France, United Kingdom, etc.), do not execute prisoners anymore. It is odd, I believe, that a country like the United States, which toots its own horn as being the most modern, democratic, humane country in the world, still practices a most barbaric ritual, state-sanctioned murder.
How many people must die, guilty or innocent, before we understand murder is simply murder? Just because twelve ill-informed peers, including a person in a black robe, sanction it, doesn't make it right.
We say that our methods of execution are not cruel or unusual. I am not sure any of those people who have been executed would not agree with this assessment. When it takes an hour for someone to die a slow, agonizing death as they lay strapped to a gurney, with onlookers standing behind a glass, it is hard to accept that death, in this fashion, is humane.
More and more states have adopted lethal injection as their preferred method of execution. We learn more about it from each instance it is used. What we have learned is it may be most cruel of all methods of execution used in this country in the past fifty years. It sounds nice (well, as nice as death can be): you are strapped down to a hospital gurney, someone with as little medical knowledge and experience as possible attempts to connect IVs to your arm, then they feed a cocktail of death directly into your veins. First, they want to put you into a deep sleep so you are oblivious to what his going on, then they want to inject a little drug into you that paralyzes your diaphragm, so you stop breathing, then they finish you off with an injection that stops your heart from beating.
Poof, you're gone; dead as a box full of door nails, or so they hope.
Many times, you're not as lucky, if you're the condemned. The person administering the cocktail is inexperienced with medical procedures. Your executioner may be a high school drop out, lucky you! Other times, the drugs they use are not enough to do the job adequately, considering the prescribed dosage fails to do the job as anticipated. Your prognosis: a slow, painful death.
Families of the condemned are left behind to pick up the pieces. They are the last hope for a truly humane way of dying. Perhaps, they are even the last hope for having capital punishment, in the United States, banned altogether.
Some people, like the mother of Joseph Clark, a man who was executed in Ohio by lethal injection, in 2006, are calling into question the practice of lethal injection, by suing the Ohio state prisons.
Clark was forced to endure over ninety minutes of confusion, pain, and cruel torture as his executioners muddled their way through the botched procedure. You know it is pretty bad when the condemned individual is fully awake and assisting in his own execution. He even asked, "Can you just give me something by mouth to end this?"
In America, we must ask ourselves if it is really worth the effort to execute prisoners. Is it worth the price of killing men and women for crimes they may or may not have committed? How high must the the price finally be before we say it is too high?
Modern, civilized nations, like those of western Europe (France, United Kingdom, etc.), do not execute prisoners anymore. It is odd, I believe, that a country like the United States, which toots its own horn as being the most modern, democratic, humane country in the world, still practices a most barbaric ritual, state-sanctioned murder.
How many people must die, guilty or innocent, before we understand murder is simply murder? Just because twelve ill-informed peers, including a person in a black robe, sanction it, doesn't make it right.
We say that our methods of execution are not cruel or unusual. I am not sure any of those people who have been executed would not agree with this assessment. When it takes an hour for someone to die a slow, agonizing death as they lay strapped to a gurney, with onlookers standing behind a glass, it is hard to accept that death, in this fashion, is humane.
More and more states have adopted lethal injection as their preferred method of execution. We learn more about it from each instance it is used. What we have learned is it may be most cruel of all methods of execution used in this country in the past fifty years. It sounds nice (well, as nice as death can be): you are strapped down to a hospital gurney, someone with as little medical knowledge and experience as possible attempts to connect IVs to your arm, then they feed a cocktail of death directly into your veins. First, they want to put you into a deep sleep so you are oblivious to what his going on, then they want to inject a little drug into you that paralyzes your diaphragm, so you stop breathing, then they finish you off with an injection that stops your heart from beating.
Poof, you're gone; dead as a box full of door nails, or so they hope.
Many times, you're not as lucky, if you're the condemned. The person administering the cocktail is inexperienced with medical procedures. Your executioner may be a high school drop out, lucky you! Other times, the drugs they use are not enough to do the job adequately, considering the prescribed dosage fails to do the job as anticipated. Your prognosis: a slow, painful death.
Families of the condemned are left behind to pick up the pieces. They are the last hope for a truly humane way of dying. Perhaps, they are even the last hope for having capital punishment, in the United States, banned altogether.
Some people, like the mother of Joseph Clark, a man who was executed in Ohio by lethal injection, in 2006, are calling into question the practice of lethal injection, by suing the Ohio state prisons.
Clark was forced to endure over ninety minutes of confusion, pain, and cruel torture as his executioners muddled their way through the botched procedure. You know it is pretty bad when the condemned individual is fully awake and assisting in his own execution. He even asked, "Can you just give me something by mouth to end this?"
In America, we must ask ourselves if it is really worth the effort to execute prisoners. Is it worth the price of killing men and women for crimes they may or may not have committed? How high must the the price finally be before we say it is too high?
Bill Clinton: Asset or Liability?
Many see Bill Clinton as a suave, dapper politician who can sway almost anyone into his corner. Others see this type of charm as being a liability to Hillary Clinton's campaign for the presidency.
This week, Hillary and Bill Clinton begin a cross state campaigning bonanza as they criss-cross the state of Iowa. Iowa, being one of the first states to vote next year, will really need to be awed by some home-grown, apple pie eating, stars-and-stripes waving enthusiasm from the Clintons, since it is the Fourth of July week.
But back to Bill.
Bill Clinton served as president for eight years, in his own right. I believe that he has what it takes to win another presidential election, but he is fully aware that this time it is Hillary's victory, not his.
Al Gore wanted to distance himself from his boss, back in 2000. He wanted to be his own man, win by the sweat of his own brow. Although, he did win the popular vote, Gore was ultimately defeated in a very narrow margin that some (including me) believe was fudged by a certain governor, but I digress.
Some argue that if Al Gore had utilized the Clinton mystique more readily, then he could have won in the 2000 election's electoral college, too.
Hillary Clinton understands this dilemma. She understands that she has a very large political asset at her beck-and-call. Unlike Gore, she is not going to squander it. She can still be her own woman, win her own election, but she won't be stupid enough to take the risk of not using Bill Clinton.
Parents
When it comes to technology, my parents are kind of in the Mesolithic Era of development.
You see, about three months ago, I bought my parents a really nice coffee maker. They had one of those percolator types that you see being used in those 1960s sitcoms. It was a silver, freestanding decanter. You had to take the top off, pour the water in, fill the basket up with coffee, put a cover on that, then try to work this little stick like device into a tiny hole at the bottom of the pot, replace the top, then plug it up and patiently wait ten minutes.
Being the dutiful son, I thought, "I'll get them a really nice coffee maker, just because..."
I go to Williams-Sonoma, where I could live, and I find them a really fine machine. I end up paying $300 for it. I was all excited when I finally took it home to mom. She worked for a while setting it up and making a cup of coffee. It was really, really good too. I was so excited. And the best part of all is the machine almost makes the coffee by itself, unlike the percolator. People, it even matches the kitchen's decor! (How good am I?)
What have I learned from this experience? Hmmmm...well, it would seem they only use the new coffee maker when I come over. They still use the antiquated, dilapidated percolator for their everyday needs.
So, next to their brand new, three-hundred-dollar, state-of-the-art, German-engineered coffee maker, stands a piece of history, which gets way more action.
I just don't get it!
You see, about three months ago, I bought my parents a really nice coffee maker. They had one of those percolator types that you see being used in those 1960s sitcoms. It was a silver, freestanding decanter. You had to take the top off, pour the water in, fill the basket up with coffee, put a cover on that, then try to work this little stick like device into a tiny hole at the bottom of the pot, replace the top, then plug it up and patiently wait ten minutes.
Being the dutiful son, I thought, "I'll get them a really nice coffee maker, just because..."
I go to Williams-Sonoma, where I could live, and I find them a really fine machine. I end up paying $300 for it. I was all excited when I finally took it home to mom. She worked for a while setting it up and making a cup of coffee. It was really, really good too. I was so excited. And the best part of all is the machine almost makes the coffee by itself, unlike the percolator. People, it even matches the kitchen's decor! (How good am I?)
What have I learned from this experience? Hmmmm...well, it would seem they only use the new coffee maker when I come over. They still use the antiquated, dilapidated percolator for their everyday needs.
So, next to their brand new, three-hundred-dollar, state-of-the-art, German-engineered coffee maker, stands a piece of history, which gets way more action.
I just don't get it!
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Terrorism in the United Kingdom
Since Friday, I have been keeping up with the events surrounding two vehicles, in London, which were loaded with explosives and shrapnel. Luckily, those car bombs did not detonate, because the police were alerted to their presence. Then, yesterday, we had the car bombing at the airport in Glasgow, Scotland.
Several people have been arrested in the Scotland attack, but we are still not certain for whom these individuals work. Some say it is al Qaeda, but the link is not quite certain.
Several people have been arrested in the Scotland attack, but we are still not certain for whom these individuals work. Some say it is al Qaeda, but the link is not quite certain.
New CNN.com Format
After many moons, CNN has finally vamped up its webpage. Although, I am a creature of habit, I do enjoy the new look of the website.
Some things I enjoy:
Some things I enjoy:
- Boldness of the layout
- Larger font size
- Less video links
- More convenient local weather box, with cuter icons
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Martyr Mouse: R.I.P.
The beloved character of all right wing, extremist Palestinian children, Farfour, was affectionately "martyred" on his show, instantly morphing him into "Martyr Mouse." Basically, an Israeli official came to buy Martyr Mouse's land. In the end, the character declined to sell his land to the official, and he was killed for it; therefore, he became a martyr for dying for his land and principles, by not selling out to a dirty, child killing Jew. It should be noted that the television station, Al Aqsa TV, that broadcasts the program, is run by Hamas.
I wonder who they are looking for to take over Martyr Mouse's spot on Hamas children's television?
I wonder who they are looking for to take over Martyr Mouse's spot on Hamas children's television?
Friday, June 29, 2007
Is Mitt Romney an animal abuser?
I thought this was pretty funny, but sad at the same time. At least, he built the poor doggy its very own windshield.
(From CNN)
Under fire from a leading animal rights group, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney defended the family dog’s mode of transportation to a 1983 summer vacation.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) criticized the Republican presidential hopeful after The Boston Globe reported that Romney transported his dog in a rooftop carrier when the family drove from Boston to Ontario.
“If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog,” Ingrid Newkirk, president of PETA said in a statement. “I don’t know who would find that acceptable.”
The article noted that Romney had built a wind shield carrier to make the ride more comfortable for the family’s Irish Setter.
But on the campaign trail in Pennsylvania Thursday, Romney defended his chosen mode of transportation for the family dog.
“He scrambled up there every time we went on trips, got in all by himself and enjoyed it,” Romney said of the Irish Setter.
Romney also conceded any endorsement of his candidacy by the group was unlikely.
“PETA has not been my fan over the years. PETA was after me for having a rodeo at the Olympics,” he said in reference to his role as chief executive of the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah. “PETA was unhappy when I went quail hunting in Georgia, and they’re not happy that my dog likes fresh air.”
(From CNN)
Under fire from a leading animal rights group, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney defended the family dog’s mode of transportation to a 1983 summer vacation.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) criticized the Republican presidential hopeful after The Boston Globe reported that Romney transported his dog in a rooftop carrier when the family drove from Boston to Ontario.
“If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog,” Ingrid Newkirk, president of PETA said in a statement. “I don’t know who would find that acceptable.”
The article noted that Romney had built a wind shield carrier to make the ride more comfortable for the family’s Irish Setter.
But on the campaign trail in Pennsylvania Thursday, Romney defended his chosen mode of transportation for the family dog.
“He scrambled up there every time we went on trips, got in all by himself and enjoyed it,” Romney said of the Irish Setter.
Romney also conceded any endorsement of his candidacy by the group was unlikely.
“PETA has not been my fan over the years. PETA was after me for having a rodeo at the Olympics,” he said in reference to his role as chief executive of the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah. “PETA was unhappy when I went quail hunting in Georgia, and they’re not happy that my dog likes fresh air.”
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Supreme Court limits school districts' right to use racial factors
The United States Supreme Court ruled that school districts cannot simply consider the race of a student when assigning him/her to a school.
Chief Justice John Roberts (a Bush crony) stated that all factors of a student should be taken into account, besides race.
Basically, the Court ruled that racial factors are not paramount to integrating school districts, but they can be used in a limited way, such as securing the diversity of student population. I suppose something else like intelligence (duh!) should be taken into account, also.
Chief Justice John Roberts (a Bush crony) stated that all factors of a student should be taken into account, besides race.
Basically, the Court ruled that racial factors are not paramount to integrating school districts, but they can be used in a limited way, such as securing the diversity of student population. I suppose something else like intelligence (duh!) should be taken into account, also.
Paris Hilton: High on Life
Speaking about her brief incarceration in the medical wing of a Los Angeles County jail, Paris Hilton brought up the great triumvirate of all post-jailhouse recants:
- Drugs
- Drinking
- God
Those three things are important, because they are what the vast majority of Americans want to hear about when someone is released from jail. I don't know why people automatically assume that someone is saved once they exit jail. The question is always asked, "Did you find God while in jail?" I suppose if you said no, you are sentencing yourself--de facto--back to jail. On drugs, she said she didn't do any of those. I thought she was a real party girl. Is she trying to say it is all an act? As for drinking, she stated she only drinks a little bit. I suppose the times she was stopped for DUI were all good examples of when she had been drinking a little bit.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
'Will & Grace' v. 'Designing Women'
The ultimate conspiracy theory is here, and it pits Will & Grace against Designing Women.
Recently, I began to watch Designing Women re-reruns on Ion Television (yeah, I know). I hadn't watched any of the episodes since I was very young, and it was before Will & Grace came to the small screen.
I was taken aback by some of the similarities between these two shows, once I started watching the re-reruns. First of all, let's understand that Designing Women came to life a decade before Will & Grace got its first breath of life.
Here are some of the similarities I have seen in the shows.
Designing Women
This show brought together four women who are in the interior decorating business, named after the two sisters, Julia and Suzanne Sugarbaker, who own it. The majority of each episode takes place around Sugarbaker's office. Each character brings a different view of life, and they have been juxtaposed by placing them together in the same office space. They work together, while tackling contemporary issues, through dramatic flair. Julia Sugarbaker is the level-headed, straight-forward, in-your-face matriarch of the group. Her sister, Suzanne, is the ageless, debutante, who-got-filthy-rich-off-of-her-ex-husbands, lives in a Georgia mansion, and has a Latina maid with whom she has a love-hate relationship, hops from party to party, and never does any work around the office, but she is always there. She is the beauty queen. She has big breasts and she's not afraid to use them. Her social contacts are often seen as the means to keeping Sugarbaker's alive. Mary Jo, the red head, is the common-sense, heart-rendering member of the group. She is the antithesis of Julia. She often comes up with sage advice, but she can be somewhat ditsy. Charlene is the airhead of the group. Her ideas and actions are often called into question by the others of the group. Her less than stellar up-bringing makes her more reliant on the others for support through life's ups and downs. She is a very vulnerable character. She is often paired with Suzanne for comic relief.
Will & Grace
This show takes place in the upper east side of Manhattan. It is an unconventional show that pairs two gay men with two heterosexual (bi-curious, okay) women. This show also tackles contemporary issues, while destroying gay stereotypes. The two main characters, Will and Grace, share an apartment through the majority of the series, which is where the bulk of the show takes place. Will is the sensible gay lawyer, who is often the skeptic of the group. He has a difficult time showing his personal feelings, especially when they require him to be vulnerable. He is, however, very vocal when he is speaking on behalf of issues that are important to him. Grace, the red head, is an interior decorator. She is often the level headed version of Will. She speaks from the heart, but she can often be unconventional and ditsy. Karen is the boozer and cruiser of the group. She is flawless in every way, especially her breasts, except for her drinking and pill popping. She is often seen hanging around Grace's office, where she "works" as the assistant. Karen bilks millions of dollars off of her fat husband, Stan, while living in a Park Avenue penthouse with her Latina maid, with whom she has a love-hate relationship. Her high class social contacts keep Grace Adler Designs alive. Jack is the younger, dumber version of Will. He is gay and he flaunts it at every opportunity. He has never had a real job, and he is bent on being a world famous actor. Jack is a very vulnerable, lovable character. His less than stellar background and irresponsible behavior often land him into trouble, which requires the other characters to save him. He is often paired with Karen for comic relief.
It's all a pretty interesting coincidence, or is it?
Some other interesting facts:
Recently, I began to watch Designing Women re-reruns on Ion Television (yeah, I know). I hadn't watched any of the episodes since I was very young, and it was before Will & Grace came to the small screen.
I was taken aback by some of the similarities between these two shows, once I started watching the re-reruns. First of all, let's understand that Designing Women came to life a decade before Will & Grace got its first breath of life.
Here are some of the similarities I have seen in the shows.
Designing Women
This show brought together four women who are in the interior decorating business, named after the two sisters, Julia and Suzanne Sugarbaker, who own it. The majority of each episode takes place around Sugarbaker's office. Each character brings a different view of life, and they have been juxtaposed by placing them together in the same office space. They work together, while tackling contemporary issues, through dramatic flair. Julia Sugarbaker is the level-headed, straight-forward, in-your-face matriarch of the group. Her sister, Suzanne, is the ageless, debutante, who-got-filthy-rich-off-of-her-ex-husbands, lives in a Georgia mansion, and has a Latina maid with whom she has a love-hate relationship, hops from party to party, and never does any work around the office, but she is always there. She is the beauty queen. She has big breasts and she's not afraid to use them. Her social contacts are often seen as the means to keeping Sugarbaker's alive. Mary Jo, the red head, is the common-sense, heart-rendering member of the group. She is the antithesis of Julia. She often comes up with sage advice, but she can be somewhat ditsy. Charlene is the airhead of the group. Her ideas and actions are often called into question by the others of the group. Her less than stellar up-bringing makes her more reliant on the others for support through life's ups and downs. She is a very vulnerable character. She is often paired with Suzanne for comic relief.
Will & Grace
This show takes place in the upper east side of Manhattan. It is an unconventional show that pairs two gay men with two heterosexual (bi-curious, okay) women. This show also tackles contemporary issues, while destroying gay stereotypes. The two main characters, Will and Grace, share an apartment through the majority of the series, which is where the bulk of the show takes place. Will is the sensible gay lawyer, who is often the skeptic of the group. He has a difficult time showing his personal feelings, especially when they require him to be vulnerable. He is, however, very vocal when he is speaking on behalf of issues that are important to him. Grace, the red head, is an interior decorator. She is often the level headed version of Will. She speaks from the heart, but she can often be unconventional and ditsy. Karen is the boozer and cruiser of the group. She is flawless in every way, especially her breasts, except for her drinking and pill popping. She is often seen hanging around Grace's office, where she "works" as the assistant. Karen bilks millions of dollars off of her fat husband, Stan, while living in a Park Avenue penthouse with her Latina maid, with whom she has a love-hate relationship. Her high class social contacts keep Grace Adler Designs alive. Jack is the younger, dumber version of Will. He is gay and he flaunts it at every opportunity. He has never had a real job, and he is bent on being a world famous actor. Jack is a very vulnerable, lovable character. His less than stellar background and irresponsible behavior often land him into trouble, which requires the other characters to save him. He is often paired with Karen for comic relief.
It's all a pretty interesting coincidence, or is it?
Some other interesting facts:
- Mason is the fat entrepreneur that Suzanne fixes Charlene up with for a date. Mason is the fat step-son of Karen.
- Rosario and Consuela are the Latina maids of Karen and Suzanne, who both came from "one of those little countries." They are often at each others throats, yelling and threatening, but in the end they are inseparable.
- Karen and Suzanne both relied on the support of their husbands to become the endearing socialites they are in each show.
Either way, they're both good shows.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Giuliani's Photo Op
In apparent bid to completely destroy his political campaign for president, former New York City mayor, Rudy Giuliani (R), had his photo taken with zealot, right-wing-nut-job Pat Robertson. The meeting took place at Regent University, which was founded by Robertson. While he was there, I wonder if Giuliani received any revelations from Robertson about God's plan for him.
Really, Giuliani is grasping at straws if he is traveling to Virginia to make friends with someone like Robertson. (Yes, I know there were 650 business, political, and corporate leaders present, or so they call them, during the meeting.) In the photo, you can tell that they are both excited to be in the presence of each other.
I think Pat Robertson is holding Giuliani's hand for a little too long there. Maybe there is some latent homosexual tendencies, which are beginning to manifest.
Trip to France
After much work, I have finally worked out my trip to France.
I will be leaving on July 15 and returning on July 23. I am looking forward to some rest and relaxation in Paris. I am not setting an agenda for myself while I am there, either. I have told some people I may simply stay in the hotel room the whole time, and I just might (not really).
I do want to go and experience some places of historical significance. I am going to visit Versailles, of course. Also, I may get my nerve up to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower for the panoramic view of Paris. I want to visit the different areas of Paris and see the architecture, while sampling the local cuisine.
My greatest hope is to not get lost and make it back home in one piece. This will be my greatest solo adventure ever. I really wanted to do this trip alone. It is sort of a way to reconnect with myself without having people around me that I know. Let's face it, in a city of millions of people, no one is going to know me, which is perfect. I can become a completely different person, if I want. Hmmm...??? I doubt that will happen, though, I am pretty set in my ways and neuroses.
I just hope there aren't any snakes on the plane! (Okay, bad joke.)
I will be leaving on July 15 and returning on July 23. I am looking forward to some rest and relaxation in Paris. I am not setting an agenda for myself while I am there, either. I have told some people I may simply stay in the hotel room the whole time, and I just might (not really).
I do want to go and experience some places of historical significance. I am going to visit Versailles, of course. Also, I may get my nerve up to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower for the panoramic view of Paris. I want to visit the different areas of Paris and see the architecture, while sampling the local cuisine.
My greatest hope is to not get lost and make it back home in one piece. This will be my greatest solo adventure ever. I really wanted to do this trip alone. It is sort of a way to reconnect with myself without having people around me that I know. Let's face it, in a city of millions of people, no one is going to know me, which is perfect. I can become a completely different person, if I want. Hmmm...??? I doubt that will happen, though, I am pretty set in my ways and neuroses.
I just hope there aren't any snakes on the plane! (Okay, bad joke.)
Hillary Clinton Pledges to Lift Ban on Stem Cell Research
From Hillary Clinton for President's website:
Hillary Clinton said today that science, not narrow ideology, should drive our national research agenda, and pledged to lift the ban on ethical embryonic stem cell research. At a conversation at Dartmouth College in Hanover, Clinton was joined by two New Hampshire families with personal experiences with illnesses and disabilities that could potentially be cured or helped by stem cell research, as well as the Associate Chief of Neurology at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
Clinton discussed the potential of stem cell research to both save lives and keep the United States on the cutting-edge of scientific advancement. She argued that ideology should never get in the way of scientific progress.
"It's time to unlock the potential of stem cell research and put an end to the backwards and restrictive policies of this administration," Clinton said. "Our scientists have been set back years in the race for life-saving cures because they've been held back by a narrow ideology that rejects sound science. As President, I will lift the ban on ethical embryonic stem cell research and allow our scientists to pursue treatments that could help millions of Americans."
Over 100 million Americans could benefit from the advancements that come from stem cell research. Although a majority of Americans support stem cell research, President Bush has placed severe restrictions on funding. Last year, the President vetoed the bipartisan Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act that overwhelmingly passed Congress, and he has vowed to veto a new version of the bill passed earlier this month with broad support.
Twenty-three year old Laura Clark of Antrim, and her mother Kathleen, joined Senator Clinton today. Laura was a young nursing student at the University of New Hampshire when she was involved in a car accident that left her with a severe spinal cord injury. Laura said that she finds the current restrictions on research to be "extremely frustrating."
Alex Walter, 10, of Londonderry, was accompanied to the event by his parents Steve and Kathy, and his sister Leah. Alex has had Type 1 Diabetes since he was four.
"Alex is a strong kid but this is hard for anyone to deal with," said his dad Steve Walter, who is a registered Republican. "We test his blood 10 times a day, and of course, there are insulin injections. I worry about the next 40 or 50 years of his life. I want to see a cure for my son and I think stem cell research might lead us there. I'm angry that under this Administration we have not been able to move forward."
The scientific and medical communities have lobbied for funding to pursue research on both adult and embryonic stem cells. Researchers estimate that within five years we could make major strides towards curing Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, strokes and heart attacks, diabetes, ALS, and Huntington's disease.
Dr. Jeffrey Cohen, a professor of neurology at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center who treats ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) patients, strongly supports expanded funding. "There is no cure for Lou Gehrig's Disease and only one medication that can treat it," said Cohen. "It's discouraging that there is such limited funding from the National Institutes of Health. It's unfortunate that we haven't been able to progress faster -- there are so many potential treatment opportunities for ALS that can result from stem cell research."
As a long-time advocate of healthcare and scientific research, Senator Clinton is committed to seeing that stem cell research moves forward. She voted in favor of the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, and has also worked to expand the budget of the National Institutes of Health.
Hillary Clinton said today that science, not narrow ideology, should drive our national research agenda, and pledged to lift the ban on ethical embryonic stem cell research. At a conversation at Dartmouth College in Hanover, Clinton was joined by two New Hampshire families with personal experiences with illnesses and disabilities that could potentially be cured or helped by stem cell research, as well as the Associate Chief of Neurology at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
Clinton discussed the potential of stem cell research to both save lives and keep the United States on the cutting-edge of scientific advancement. She argued that ideology should never get in the way of scientific progress.
"It's time to unlock the potential of stem cell research and put an end to the backwards and restrictive policies of this administration," Clinton said. "Our scientists have been set back years in the race for life-saving cures because they've been held back by a narrow ideology that rejects sound science. As President, I will lift the ban on ethical embryonic stem cell research and allow our scientists to pursue treatments that could help millions of Americans."
Over 100 million Americans could benefit from the advancements that come from stem cell research. Although a majority of Americans support stem cell research, President Bush has placed severe restrictions on funding. Last year, the President vetoed the bipartisan Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act that overwhelmingly passed Congress, and he has vowed to veto a new version of the bill passed earlier this month with broad support.
Twenty-three year old Laura Clark of Antrim, and her mother Kathleen, joined Senator Clinton today. Laura was a young nursing student at the University of New Hampshire when she was involved in a car accident that left her with a severe spinal cord injury. Laura said that she finds the current restrictions on research to be "extremely frustrating."
Alex Walter, 10, of Londonderry, was accompanied to the event by his parents Steve and Kathy, and his sister Leah. Alex has had Type 1 Diabetes since he was four.
"Alex is a strong kid but this is hard for anyone to deal with," said his dad Steve Walter, who is a registered Republican. "We test his blood 10 times a day, and of course, there are insulin injections. I worry about the next 40 or 50 years of his life. I want to see a cure for my son and I think stem cell research might lead us there. I'm angry that under this Administration we have not been able to move forward."
The scientific and medical communities have lobbied for funding to pursue research on both adult and embryonic stem cells. Researchers estimate that within five years we could make major strides towards curing Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, strokes and heart attacks, diabetes, ALS, and Huntington's disease.
Dr. Jeffrey Cohen, a professor of neurology at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center who treats ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) patients, strongly supports expanded funding. "There is no cure for Lou Gehrig's Disease and only one medication that can treat it," said Cohen. "It's discouraging that there is such limited funding from the National Institutes of Health. It's unfortunate that we haven't been able to progress faster -- there are so many potential treatment opportunities for ALS that can result from stem cell research."
As a long-time advocate of healthcare and scientific research, Senator Clinton is committed to seeing that stem cell research moves forward. She voted in favor of the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, and has also worked to expand the budget of the National Institutes of Health.
Benoit Knows Best
Even though, I don't watch "wrestling," I found this story interesting, because it allegedly involves drug abuse, fame and abuse.
A wrestler in the WWE, Chris Benoit, killed his wife and son, before hanging himself. Some have attributed this horrific event to his abuse of steroids. Now, I was under the impression that they have tests for those kinds of drugs.
Why wouldn't someone in such a physically demanding profession, as professional wrestling, be tested for drug infractions, such as steroid use? It is quite simple if you think about it. Organizations, like the WWE, rely on the image of their wrestlers to keep their demographic engaged. If you drug test them and find they are abusing drugs, then you might have to fire them and then what would happen to your profit?
See how that works? It's pretty simple.
Of course, no one is for certain this is the case. The only facts we do know are that his wife filed for divorce from Benoit in 2003, but went on to drop the petition. Also, his wife filed for a protective order from the court, stating the cause as "cruel treatment."
A wrestler in the WWE, Chris Benoit, killed his wife and son, before hanging himself. Some have attributed this horrific event to his abuse of steroids. Now, I was under the impression that they have tests for those kinds of drugs.
Why wouldn't someone in such a physically demanding profession, as professional wrestling, be tested for drug infractions, such as steroid use? It is quite simple if you think about it. Organizations, like the WWE, rely on the image of their wrestlers to keep their demographic engaged. If you drug test them and find they are abusing drugs, then you might have to fire them and then what would happen to your profit?
See how that works? It's pretty simple.
Of course, no one is for certain this is the case. The only facts we do know are that his wife filed for divorce from Benoit in 2003, but went on to drop the petition. Also, his wife filed for a protective order from the court, stating the cause as "cruel treatment."
Monday, June 25, 2007
Hillary's Not Afraid!
A CNN/Opinion Research Corporation shows that Hillary Clinton and Rudy Giuliani are almost tied in a contest between them for president, with Clinton at 49% to Giuliani's 48% (with a +/-3 points sampling error).
This recent poll shows the influence current New York City mayor, Michael Bloomberg, would have on the candidates from the two major political parties.
I never put much faith in third party candidates.
This recent poll shows the influence current New York City mayor, Michael Bloomberg, would have on the candidates from the two major political parties.
I never put much faith in third party candidates.
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