The New York Times > Washington > G.O.P. to Make Ethics Inquiries Harder to Begin

So, when you get caught with your fingers in the cookie jar, you just change the rules? Shameful.

The New York Times > Washington > G.O.P. to Make Ethics Inquiries Harder to Begin

Reggie White dead at 43.

The All Time leader in sacks in the NFL and overall great human being has passed away of a heart attack. I sat here watching interviews on ESPN and seeing these big tough linemen breaking down when they talk about how great of a person he was. He was one of the greatest in shaping the game and being a playmaker. He leaves behind a family, and thousands of fans who will miss him.

Administration Overhauls Rules for U.S. Forests

While I am all about a little more flexibility with how we approach conservation efforts, don't these rules just amount to opening the doors for government corruption at its worst? If a tree falls in a forest, but it's the last tree, will anyone notice?

The New York Times > Washington > Administration Overhauls Rules for U.S. Forests

Fun stuff...

This site has some really addictive and time wasting games. Great for those long days working the weekend at a no end, low paying crap job...

http://popcap.com/

My fav is Bookworm (thank Chris!)

Good Reading

A good friend of mine gave me McSweeney's Enchanted Chamber of Astonishing Stories for Christmas this year. I have read the first three stories thus far and must say that I am really enjoying it. It has been a long, long time since I've read a collection of short stories, probably back in college. At any rate, the editor of this fine volume is one Michael Chabon, whose noted work said friend thought I had read. I haven't, yet, but he won the Pulitzer Prize in 2000 for The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay so I will have to give him a shot.

Oh, the first story in Enchanted Chamber is just freaking bizarre, but what else should one expect from Margaret Atwood, the fine writer of The Handmaid's Tale?

Moose strikes again

This guy is pure gold a lot of the time. Bull Moose spits the truth again.

http://www.bullmooseblog.com/2004/12/defense-less.html

Go on and check it out, and if you haven't read his site before, please do.

Google Search: hopkin green frog

I feel so "yesterday" now...

Google Search: hopkin green frog

Hopkin Green Frog

Good lord this is annoying. I swear, when I got to the end of it I thought I had found the end of the internet. If you want to spend 15-30 mindless minutes clicking images on the internet, this is for you. I can only imagine just how long it took to put it all together.

ps. i'll find my frog

Wolcott on Kerik

Sadly, it's been a few days since I've been able to read Wolcott's blog, but I was finally able to catch up today. This entryis a real zinger.

Wolcott's impressions of seeing Bernard Kerik in person sum up what I had thought all along--this guy was full of false self-importance (read:BS). Sure, I have respect for any person in a position of leadership who provided at least adequate direction in a time of crisis, but those legs can only carry one so far, right? As we all know now, Kerik's were quickly cut out from beneath him because of his arrogance and presumptuousness.

I have to agree with Wolcott's assertion that the Dems we see on TV are seriously lacking in the balls department, but I do have to wonder something: is it any coincidence that the "liberal" media gets such pieces of milquetoast on in the first place? Why should we assume for one second that cable news show producers would seek out guests as equally aggressive as their Republican counterparts? The viewers that CNN and Faux News seek to pander to so badly want to see an unfair fight to further substantiate that "they" have the moral and political authority in this country, so it only makes sense to me.

Of course, this isn't to say that the Democratic Party as a whole doesn't need to grow a pair. Life as a liberal in these times...

BBC NEWS | Americas | Missile defence shield test fails

BBC NEWS | Americas | Missile defence shield test fails Man, am I glad we're able to spend $10bn on something that currently doesn't (an will probably never) work. I am all for spending money on defense, but can we maybe work on projects that have a better chance of success? This just seems like so much money being randomly thrown at a problem.

Kristof: The Poison Puzzle

Nicholas Kristof has been traveling throughout Eastern Europe for the past several weeks. This is one of many columns devoted to digging beneath the surface that we see in our news. Good stuff. I can only hope that Putinocracy doesn't go too far.

The New York Times > Opinion > Op-Ed Columnist: The Poison Puzzle

Why are we even concerned?!

What is it exactly that drives the American public to be so interested in so called "high profile" court cases? Scott Pertson, found guilty, and the jury says he deserves the death penalty. Ok... I'm failing to see where I need to be so updated on a more than daily basis. Why is this case so damn important?

Over 1000 dead Americans and we don't seem to give two squats. One murder trail of a sleazy individual and it's plastered on the front page of nearly every news site, and news paper available. Have we lost our priorities!?

I'm not trying to trivialize Laci and her unborn child's deaths. But when we need coverage of breaking news, important information, and updates on what's really happening.. Our media fails us. It covers the stories about the soldiers suing to not go back to Iraq under the BS stop-loss program.

Can any of you honestly say that knowing what Scott Peterson had for lunch that day is more important than us knowing the truth about how bad things could be in Bush's war with the Middle East? Can you? Look in the mirror and ask if knowing this man's fate is more important than finding out our troops aren't as protected as they should be.. Or if this case has been as important as knowing why minorities are still being treated unfairly at the polls. Our media once more covers the collective ass of this administration's and this government's follies. Let's hope one day for a more competent media that takes advantage of it's freedom instead of helping to curb the American people's freedom.

Huddled masses, put the remote down and step away from the TV.

The 12 Days of Rummy

NY Times strikes again.. Mwuahahahaha!

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/12/12/opinion/12dowd.html?ex=1103839392&ei=1&en=a6d0ed44da1993c2

Check it out, and thanks to my ever vigilant mother for finding this one.

Recruiting goals fall short.. Well, duh!

Well, looks like the Captains want out.. Do you blame them?

Check out: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2002113845_officershortage09m.html

Thing that really caught my eye was:

"...Army Reserve is crafting a new policy to curb resignations. Under the policy, which has yet to be finalized, company-grade officers who have not yet been deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan would generally not be allowed to resign unless they could demonstrate "extreme personal reasons," such as hardships posed by the death or disability of a spouse." (Seattle Times)

So, an officer who has not been deployed, but could have fulfilled his/her commitment would not be allowed out unless they have "extreme personal reasons". Well, how bout the urge not to die for the head monkey in the White House? Seems rather extreme to me, and the whole life threatening part is rather personal. Eh, guess that's the problem with going into the military, life threatening insurgents with RPGs aren't really considered personal or extreme.

Side note from the article: "So the Guard is now increasingly targeting civilians with no prior military service, including high-school seniors who also are already being wooed by the Marines and active-duty Army." It's bad enough they come to the high school and give the students the ASVAB, but now they're going to increase their targeting of high school seniors. They crawl through the lower income malls, stalk through low income neighborhoods promising steady pay, and haunt university campuses in hopes of sending more sheep to the meat grinder of Bushco.

Huddled masses, just say no to Bushco recruiters.

Good times, good times...

What a fun week it's been! Rummy comes off looking like a complete jackass after being grilled by a GI with a planted question. But, you know.. It's about time! Rummy has been getting away with too much, and never deserved a second term, even in Bushco.

The truth suffers when Rummy and Bushco speak. Not just the truth is being shattered.. Freedom of press is being crushed. The reported who asked the brave GI to grill Rummy stated it was his only way to get that question aired. The reporter, Edward Lee Pitts of Chattanooga Times Free Press, stated he planted the question because he knew he wouldn't be allowed to ask questions.

Rummy's brilliant response ""It's essentially a matter of physics, not a matter of money," Rumsfeld said. "It's a matter of production and the capability of doing it.

"As you know, you have to go to war with the Army you have, not the Army you want." (CNN.com).

So Rummy calls our military men and women wussies. Hmmm... Way to be give them pride and moral in what their doing when a large part of the world is calling them and us war criminals. Bloody brilliant. Glad to know he's with Bushco, because it just makes life so much more fun for the 48% who voted against this kind of crap.

Bush retorted to the negative publicity with: "If I were a soldier overseas wanting to defend my country, I would want to ask the secretary of defense the same question. And that is, 'Are we getting the best we can get us?' And they deserve the best," (CNN.com).

Well, Bush, crack up the production on some armor. The economy is sluggish, get the industrial business booming by giving them something to do. I'm sure there are plenty of companies who would love to get that job (could you perhaps look in the yellow pages instead of just asking Hali-Cheney-ton to do it?). Go on.. Try it out. You put us in a war time state, so how bout a war time economy? Put some of those out of work people back to work. Give our troops the protection they deserve and are asking for. Talking the talk is well and good.. But back it up with real actions to improve the safety of our American troops, not just line the pockets of your good ole boy network.

Huddled masses, do you have some bullet proof glass you'd like to donate to the cause?

Smell This!

I never thought I'd see a scratch 'n sniff internet in my lifetime.

Something Awful: My Mother Is Insane

This is a truly terrifying thing to see. I have heard stories of extreme packrats, but had never before witnessed it. These pictures tell the tale of someone who has a mental illness. Can someone tell me what it is? Please? Scroll down the linked page to get to the actual meat of the post.

The New York Times > Opinion > Op-Ed Contributor: Wines That Travel Well

This may be a bit dry and may have an air of snobbery about it, but Jim Clarke eventually hits upon a far more important point of discussion: what do we do about the internet and sales taxes? This is definitely a topic I want to explore more fully in the future, particularly when internet-based sales are continuing to grow rapidly while Wal-Mart has less than stellar Black Friday numbers.

The New York Times > Business > What Corporate America Can't Build: A Sentence

This article, or rather the contents of it, caused me serious physical pain this morning. Sadly, I see this kind of poorly written communication on a daily basis from vendors I work with as well as from coworkers. Some of the emails are so hideous, I'm embarrassed to reply to them because I usually have to follow up with a phone call to make sure I understand the intent behind the email. What happened to the necessary art of the written word? Are people incapable of either composing sentences correctly the first time or proofreading them? I think I need to start my own consulting business to provide remedial and advanced training for written communication in the corporate world.

And a wee bit o' good news!

The fiance was just accepted into to IUPUI (Indiana University/Purdue University Indianapolis). So now we're Northern bound. I will now begin begging for jobs in a new job market. Oh the joy!

But, it will be good. Relatives up there, some good friends there, and many new oppurtunities. Now to enjoy the next 5 to 7 months here. Got a lotta enjoying of AR to do. There's a lot still to see in our nice little state.

Huddled masses.. Take the day off and wander randomly throughout our small speck of paradise on this earth (I'll be enjoying my days off come Saturday and Sunday).

Ahh crap.. They still hate us?!

Yup, they sure do. Check out this pretty piece of an article from the Sunday Herald online.

http://www.sundayherald.com/46389

Damn! To think those words were written by Rumsfeld. No wonder the neocons go nuts when he talks. Now shouldn't we all thank Bush for keeping our favorite village idiot around? If it weren't for him slipping up and saying the truth, we'd all have to keep saying it ourselves. I guess Bush may be kicking himself about keeping Rumy now.

Huddled masses, enjoy the good laugh at GWB's expense while we can.

It is unpatriotic not to tell the truth, whether about the president or anyone else.
– Theodore Roosevelt

You voted for him why, hunters/fishers?

From CNN.com: "The Bush administration Tuesday proposed large cuts in federally designated areas in the Northwest and California meant to aid the recovery of threatened or endangered salmon."

The "meant to aid the recovery" part is the kicker because... "Both proposals were strongly opposed by environmentalists, Indian tribes and a commercial fishing group, which said the Bush administration was abandoning any hopes of restoring salmon beyond bare survival."

Odd that the commercial fishing groups who would probably know a little more about the salmon population that GWB would go against this. Or perhaps Bush is simply bending to the will of another big corporation at the expense of our countries wildlife and wetlands.

Same article: "Large areas could be cut where state and federal habitat protections are already in place, such as national forests and places where the economic benefits of development outweigh the biological benefits of habitat.

After a lawsuit brought by the National Association of Home Builders, the federal agency agreed to reconsider critical habitat designations for 13 groups of threatened or endangered salmon in the Northwest, and seven in California.

The home builders association has been chafing under the costs of getting federal permits for development in wetlands."

So wait.. Let me get this right... Because the Home Builders sue over the costs to get permits to destroy wetlands Bush bends over, does a flip and agrees to destroy uncountable acres of land. Even our friends on the right can appreciate a good cooked salmon. Right? Or would you prefer we go ahead and wipe out this species of fish so we can have some water front property?

Remember, huddled masses, environment bad.. A house with a view good. And maybe then we can get rid of those cry baby dolphins.. Who needs them!? Or perhaps we should start strip mining in the Grand Canyon for gold. Who needs an environmental policy?

A repub. wants Annan to resign?

After news of the food-for-oil problem we've got a good old neocon going after the head of the UN. Grant there may be something to this.. But a Re-thug is the one calling for it?

Hello, Pot? This is Kettle.. You're black.

How can a republican in our current administration accuse someone of abusing a program of any kind? Someone, please give me an answer here?

Maybe Annan needs to be investigated, and then, if there is a link between him and this illegal act, we should consider legal action be taken against him and asking him to resign. Until we find proof he had a hand in either ignoring this issue or in promoting these activities, maybe we should back off. And just who the heck are we to be tossing around who should resign and expect the world to listen?!

If Annan resigned simply because some droopy-dog of a republican called for it during his half-assed face time on one of the NON-liberal media outlets then it would set a very dangerous precedent. If the leader of the UN is under the thumb of America then how will he/she represent the many nations of the world without bending to whatever might ONLY benefit America? Am I so wrong to believe not ever must bend to the will of America? If one should fall to the pressure from this attack poodle, then what about other leaders? It would only be a matter of time before they are accused of not agreeing with the will of Bushco and resignations demanded.

Not to mention.. Wouldn't it be hypocritical to expect Annan to resign when we demand it and not have Bush resign when someone from another country's political parties demands it?

Don't get me wrong, if there is a valid connection with proof (not WMD in Iraq proof), then we do need to take action. If not, then the attack poodles need to stop barking and go back to gnawing on the leg of America.

Huddled masses do not point a finger at someone when you believe they have done wrong, because you will find four other fingers pointing back at you.

Late night ramble and rant

Ok, the Thanksgiving hiatus is over, and I've been once more goaded to action by the sharp, pointy stick of injustice Tom keeps in his cubicle as a means to annoy me to the point of posting (everyone say "thanks, tom" together now).

Don't you ever get tired of listening to us Liberals rant and rave about the wrongs this administration commits? Aww.. Come on, you know you don't! If it weren't for us 48% no one would know their elbow from their.. Well, you get the point there. It's the liberals who counter balance the neocons.. Without a good dose of liberal, "conservative morals" would dominate everything. Scary thought, that. Granted too liberal is bad too. Somewhere one must strike a balance and find the path between zealous "moral" conservative and bleeding heart liberal. One who seems to do just that is Bull Moose (a link found to the right on your screen. I highly recommend it and obviously Tom does as well since he Blogrolled him). His words describing Bush's lack of political action that would benefit America over the neocon party are striking, and well crafted.

"Ever since 9/11, the Moose has been struck that the President has lacked any political imagination to expand his base beyond the narrow limitations set by the conservative elements of his party. Whether the issues are tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy or a genuine national service initiative, the President has never sought to build a unity politics of national greatness. That brief shining moment in the days and weeks after 9/11 was quickly lost as the President just urged Americans to "shop" and the Administration continued to pursue tax cuts even in the face of a war." - Bull Moose

Followed by a blistering comment: "He has yet to challenge the Hastert Rule which mandates that the elephant comes before the flag."

This gentleman is indeed a moderate, but he calls them like he sees them. And I'm definitely inclined to agree on these statements. Bush has placed party politics above the needs of Americans.

How you ask? How about basically forcing Powell to resign by his lack of support? Or perhaps handing that position over to a individual who lacks the creative mind or the will to protect the American people? One can not ignore that Rice brushed aside the reports of an Al Qaeda attack on American soil pre-9/11.

We also must take a view at Bush's lack of action concerning the problems at home. Not to sound bitter, but my mutual fund didn't begin posting loss until Bush stepped into office... Ok, ok.. So he didn't cause that. Of course we can NOT blame all that is wrong in America, let alone the world on the shoulders of this one Texan. But we can not ignore that we do still have problems here at home that can not be solved by sending our troops off to die in some land where the majority of the populous views us as oppressive and hates us (not for our freedom.. but because we've blown up most of their country.. DUH!!). Diverting our attention from his lack of foreign policy and lack of caring towards social issues (unless it's that bad bad gay marriage thingy.. we all know Bush hates that issue. always good to oppress our citizens).

We still have rampant problems with social security (I doubt I'll have any when I retire). We still have racism and intolerance here. We still have more gun violence than almost all of our non-third world allies. We still have corrupt companies reaching into the pocket of their employees so the CEOs can buy that new house, go on that extended vacation, or whatever rich people do. We still have in intelligence agency that can not pull its head from the sand of 9/11. We still have shipments arriving to docks and wharves being unchecked. We still have firefighters, policemen, and teachers who are horribly under paid. There will come a day when these issues will be viewed, and maybe then we will see the shock and awe we were told to expect from the beginning of this "war." The shock and awe of how we have neglected these issues, and that our children will live worse than we have if we don't fix it.

No, huddled masses, we are not so perfect that we should mold another country into our image. But yet, we are not so bad, so far from all that is good that there is no hope.

Pharyngula::Joining the masses clamoring to deface books

This is just too good. I'm so tired of people who are unable or unwilling to understand exactly what a scientific theory is. In fact, I'm just simply tired of ignorance and closed-minded reactionaries.

Pharyngula::Joining the masses clamoring to deface books

Fight the good fight!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I've been away from the PC for the last couple of days, but not much new to report anyway. For you regulars out there, I'd like to point out the new terror level alert indicator in the right-hand column of this site. I stumbled across this today and decided that it was funnier and a bit more amusing. The previous one is simply a little too politically biting, and besides, what's better than Aqua Teen Hunger Force?!?!?

Thanks for reading. Have a safe and happy holiday weekend. I hope to post again on Sunday.

FCC thoughts...

Mr. James Wolcott has an interesting theory on the FCC here.

While I typically find his blog extremely interesting and very intelligent, I'm not sure getting rid of the FCC is the right answer to this antiquated censor machine.

While I am completely for freedom of speech, I'm not too sure about allowing anything and everything to be said or done on TV. At least not until we can get a v-chip installed in every TV. I do believe it is NOT my job to monitor what your kids see or hear. It is YOUR job. Do it well and they will be exposed to proper things. Do it poorly by sitting your 4 year old in front of the TV all day as a baby sitter and reap the rewards.

I'm not saying the FCC isn't a over-blown, power hungry beast bent on controlling when, how and what we watch on our TVs... But maybe we should just re-work the current system. Or perhaps... Maybe some people should be worried more about something more important than Terrel Owens and Nicollette Sheridan doing a poorly acted spoof of a very popular TV show. Don't we have more to worry about in the world? Well according to the FCC and a few key Right Wingers... I guess not. Basically, you should censor what you and your family view.

Huddled masses.. It shouldn't be up to some over paid, old fat white man to decide. Even though it is...

Negotiators Add Abortion Clause to Spending Bill

I just read the following in this morning's New York Times online edition:

"House and Senate negotiators have tucked a potentially far-reaching anti-abortion provision into a $388 billion must-pass spending bill, complicating plans for Congress to wrap up its business and adjourn for the year."

"The abortion language would bar federal, state and local agencies from withholding taxpayer money from health care providers that refuse to provide or pay for abortions or refuse to offer abortion counseling or referrals. Current federal law, aimed at protecting Roman Catholic doctors, provides such "conscience protection'' to doctors who do not want to undergo abortion training. The new language would expand that protection to all health care providers, including hospitals, doctors, clinics and insurers."

This is simply unacceptable. This is just the next step toward overturning Roe v. Wade. And even without overturning it, this measure would allow personal politics at the managerial levels of hospitals to override a woman's right to choose. Please do what you can to fight this by contacting your Congressional representatives--House and Senate.

Here is the full article:
The New York Times > Washington > Negotiators Add Abortion Clause to Spending Bill

Is this our America still?

We are a nation based on freedoms. We are a nation geared to promote freedom around the globe through diplomatic and military action. We are a nation of free thinkers and hard workers. We are a nation the world looks to for how to set right what once was wrong....

Not anymore.

We are a nation that should be ashamed. A nation of people numb to violence and the actions of our leaders. We are a nation hell bent on dictating how a good portion of our civilians will live their lifestyles. We are a nation now accused of war crimes by the United Nations.

"On Nov. 17, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights called for investigation of American war crimes in Fallujah..." - Paul Craig Roberts, Antiwar.com.

I'm hurt that our nation could be accused of this.. But I know that, sadly, it's probably true. After a Marine shot a captured (note: restrained), wounded and unarmed Iraqi.. I just don't know. Things are spinning out of control more and more as we continue our occupation of Iraq. I do support our troops, in so much that I wish all of them to come home safely. But it seems that the neocons are immune to the bloodshed.

The phrases "get some balls, stop being a wimp, etc etc.." are tossed around by our friends on the Right. But, really.. If you're so inclined to say such things, join up. The military would love for you to help them out. Or if you can't.. Sign your kids up! Help your cause with more than just words. If all you do is sit on the sidelines and talk without acting.. You're just a cheerleader. Who's the wuss now?

Huddled masses.. Uncle Sam needs you now! Write your congress person, take action, and take pride our country still has hope.

Lookback Marys

Lookback Marys is my friend's band. If you live in Central Arkansas, you should definitely check them out.

A site worth checking out

Thought I'd share one more site. This site has some really good stuff on the war, and some news you wouldn't otherwise receive if you just watched the old "Fair and Ballanced" BS on tv.

Check it out.

Huddled masses, a quote to think on: Man has no right to kill his brother. It is no excuse that he does so in uniform: he only adds the infamy of servitude to the crime of murder.
– Percy Bysshe Shelley

Clinton Library

Opens today! While I'm stuck here in my rinky-dink job bored out of my skull there are hundreds of Celebs and dignitaries helping to celebrate the opening of this library. I personally feel this library is an excellent addition to Little Rock. This should bring about more renovation to the downtown area, leading to more jobs and over all a growth to Little Rock's population and economy.

I'm sure some of our more stubborn (read: conservatives) readers won't agree to this, since it is Clinton (a Dem.). But for the love of all that is good.. Put aside the party politics for a moment and just enjoy that something good is happening to a small city that could use some good publicity. Quit whining about Clinton's personal life, his "lack of morals," and anything else about Clinton that you hate. Also, please stop complaining about the roads being closed.. It's not like the roads that are closed were really all that great. If there wasn't construction on those roads already, I could understand a little whining.. But seriously, shut it.

Here's to Bubba and his new library. And hopefully a great improvement to our small, but fair city.

And just to rib Tom.. Huddled masses.. Get your read on.

Pre-Thanksgiving Hunger

Warning, do not read this article if you are already starting to feel the pangs of hunger. It has absolutely got my mouth watering in anticipation of my mom's wonderful bread stuffing with apples, celery, and sage and also for my father-in-law's delicious oyster cornbread dressing. Two places, two meals in two days, two delightfully different approaches to Thanksgiving Dinner. Damn, I'm hungry. Tryptophan and high carbohydrate side dishes, you are the devil, a wonderful, happy, delectable devil, and I love you.

The New York Times > Dining & Wine > There's Only One Stuffing: Ask Any Cook

What's on the menu at my families' dinner tables for Thanksgiving, you might ask?

Mom--Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, pan-fried candied sweet potatoes, green bean casserole (my wife absolutely loathes this "old lady" church potluck dish), strawberry and cream cheese/nut ball jello salad (another dish loathed by my wife, but a childhood favorite of mine), and homemade pumpkin pie. Yum!

In-laws--Turkey, oyster cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, oven-baked sweet potatoes, green beans cooked with ham, a delicious green salad with fresh avocado, bread from this funky Italian bakery in Pittsburgh, Kansas, homemade mincemeat pie, and homemade pecan pie. Oh, and homemade wine, to boot.

I'm starting to cut back on my caloric intake already in anticipation of the most evil food weekend of the year.

Cheers!

Condi Rice: Old Puppet, New Tricks

James Wolcott again pens the words that are stumbling around in my head. Watching Condi Rice give her acceptance speech (that's what it was, after all) made me sick to my stomach, particularly the bit about her "mentor" Colin Powell. It sounded all a little too shallow and too much like an actor who had just won an Academy Award. After all of her miscues, missteps, lies ("hundreds of Al-Qaeda leaders"), and no evidence of a backbone, we're supposed to believe that she will be an effective diplomat? Correct me if I'm wrong, but the Secretary of State is supposed to be able to communicate policy and negotiate independently within the framework of that policy? It is obvious from this appointment that Bushco is getting exactly what they wanted in Colin Powell but didn't get, at least initially--a mouthpiece to do the dirty work of telling other nations to go to hell while smiling. Condi will be the best puppet ever!

Oddity

This is not what I expected to see while perusing MSNBC.com today. I honestly don't what to say other than, well crap, I don't know what to say.

Pentagon to Cut Off Boy Scouts From Bases

Pentagon to Cut Off Boy Scouts From Bases

So is this a "good" thing? I'm not so sure. I understand the point, I suppose, but I think that the ACLU is really reaching for straws. No, I'm not exactly thrilled with the dirty little secrets the Boy Scouts organization has been harboring, but it would seem that the ACLU could better spend their time going after groups and organizations that spread fear and hate and prosper from discrimination. The ACLU just gives liberals/progressives/whatever the hell we want to be called this week a bad name. It makes us look like the god-hating commies that the right depicts us as being. This is the kind of crap that steers me back to the center.

Words can not express...

Please be aware these are very graphic pics. I am in no way advocating the shock value of these photos in any way. Our media refuses to cover the real pain this war is causing. I honestly can't say anything about these.. The sadness and anger have mixed and left me without words.
here

Huddled masses.... Silence.

Beyond Red and Blue (Again)

This is an outstanding analysis of the election results as they relate to the 10 Regions of US Politics. Both the map and the analysis are courtesy of Robert David Sullivan. Dig deeply into the regional (cultural as well as geographical) analysis and one finds that the United States is much more complicated than the simple red and blue states paradigm that the ready-made national media outlets shove down our collective throat. I personally gained a much deeper understanding of where we are as a country. This should also help discourage some the simple stereotypes we have of people from different areas of the country, which is desperately needed if we are to get back to having real discourse again.

A sign?

It's gotta be hitting the fan. Powell resigns. Granted he was beginning to fall under influence of the Dark Side.. Ahh, hell.. He all but ruined his integrity by bowing to Bush's war. Sigh... Sad that he caved in. I always thought he had a serious chance at being the first Black President if he ran. We shall see, young padawans.

It was speculation for so long if he'd be canned or quit. I for one am glad he's leaving this administration behind. After serving so long and working so hard, perhaps it's time for a vacation. I mean, GWB takes plenty of vacations, why not let someone else who actually does work take one? Maybe now Powell can get back his morals and some common sense.

Which flows into.. Why the hell is Condi Rice even being considered?! She's got almost no chance at getting any other country to work with her for GWB's agenda. She'll have no power with most of the Middle Eastern nations.. And she sure as hell won't be able to help broker a peace between Palestine and Israel. So why her? Cause she's a GWB chicken hawk. Push, push, push for war and human rights violations, but couldn't care less about the people dying because of her poor choices.

Also, the monster is dead.. As if you didn't know. Arafat is gone and buried. I'll shed no tears for that man. Only in the vaguest sense did he work towards a Palestinian state. He placed his own political goals above those of his people. He used terrorists to push his "message." If there was ever a country that needed a new leader it is Palestine... And Israel. That conflict is long over-due for an ending. And I say, either put up the damn wall completely and never deal with the rest of the world. Or break down and admit that the Palestinians have a right to their own nation without the constant threat of an over-powering military blowing up their homes. No, I don't believe either side is right in it's methods or just in it's actions. But somewhere, something has got to give.

Warnings for the huddled masses... Duck, it's gonna hit the fan..

Greatest Player ever!?

As I sit here watching God's gift to all football loving people.. HDTV! I listen to the announcers babble on about Jerry Rice being so great and such an inspiration to whatever team he's on. How he encourages everyone to work harder and be better. How's he's possibly the greatest player or receiver ever.

Wait.. Is this the same Rice that the same media darlings criticized after his Games with a Catch streak ended? The same one who we all knew threw a fit to get out of Oakland, but that was after he threw a fit to get out of San Fran.

Jerry Rice is the mold for all current WR.. Owens, Moss, etc.. The "my way or the highway" attitude of these receivers all stems from this one man. If he doesn't get his way, you'll know about it. He may not blow up on the sidelines like T.O. or run over a metermaid like Moss, but if you think he's not a pain in any coaches rear if he's not getting his way.. You're sadly mistaken.

Now I know you can't lay the entire blame on him, and I'm not disputing the numbers he's got. But, I am saying he quite possibly started the evolution of the wide receiver to more of a immature mindset. Also, when you say greatest ever, put a star by that.. I think there are plenty of other players who would easily fit that bill. You can't say greatest ever without mentioning Sweetness, or Sanders.. What about Montana, or Elway? You know Rice wouldn't have those numbers if not for Montana and Young. You think Rice would be so great with a quaterback like Ryan Leaf? No, he'd throw a tantrum until he was traded.

I say unto the huddled masses.. Go long!

Gun-Control

My take on gun-control is this: if one thinks that gun-control regulations are unreasonable and non-applicable based solely on the idea that the Bill of Rights should be read in terms of black and white, then one should read every amendment in it as such. Is anyone here a Libertarian? Not me, not Richard, so, anyone, anyone?

I don't cling to the idea of the militia clause, because it is not as clear-cut as people would like to believe. I am not an advocate of the idea that a person should not be able to defend himself in his own home; that argument is simply unreasonable and contradicts a statement in our country's other wonderful document, the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." I do, however, believe that rights come with responsibilities, and it is simply reckless to believe that gun manufacture, sales, ownership, and usage should be unregulated.

To strengthen my argument a bit let's take a quick look at some of the amendments in the Bill of Rights and review examples of how each is regulated or interpreted differently (ignored) in some way.

Amendment I--"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances."

Wow, that's a lot to digest, isn't it? However, we know the following: a) The federal government has endorsed laws allowing for federal funding of faith-based initiatives--such laws state that the organization cannot actively promote certain religious beliefs or tenets in the administration of such initiatives, but this is hardly enforceable and it is naive to think that a homeless person going to a church to get some food and a shower doesn't realize that he is walking into a church, what with all of those crosses, bibles, and Jesus artwork all over the joint. b) Freedom of speech by individuals or the press is limited by libel laws such that one can't say something publicly that defames someone's character without facing some serious consequences. Nor can one yell "fire" or "bomb" (without evidence suggesting as such) in a public place without breaking a few laws. c) The freedom to assemble is highly regulated--most cities require permits in order to protest in a public place (not unreasonable, in my opinion).

Amendment IV--"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized."

Patriot Act. Need I say anything else?

Amendment VI--"In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense."

"Speedy" has been interpreted several ways by different judiciaries.

Amendment X--"The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people."

Through some very creative legislation, the Federal government did just this with the Drinking Age Act of 1984. By essentially threatening the states with a reduction in Federal-aid highway funds unless the states raised the legal drinking age to 21 the Federal government performed a run-around on states' rights. There is an abundance of similar examples, but this one in particular is one of the more notable laws.

As one can clearly see, many Amendments in the Bill of Rights are open to interpretation and regulation, so it is not, in my estimation, unreasonable to expect that the Second Amendment would be subject to the same treatment.

A not so secret.. SECRET!

Ok.. Let me ask you all dedicated readers: How exactly is a secret attack secret if you broadcast it over every news station across the face of God's now semi-green Earth?

Not to denigrate (a favorite term amoung our Convervative friends) our military forces.. But when did we start letting the news media cover our secret plans to attack someone or someplace? I mean, come on people! Everyone in Fal-whatever-ja knew so far in advance that the US was massing troops in a "secret" location outside of the city. Can we maybe get the "embedded" reporters to shut the hell up for just a few days?

First they won't report any real news, like how bad things could be (that's right... i didn't say how bad they are! so get off my back!). And now they go into feeding frenzy mode when we're plotting a secret attack. "Phantom Fury" my.. Well, I'll just say there was nothing Phantom like about it.

To the huddled masses I say... Shhhh, it's a secret.

The New York Times > Opinion > Editorial Observer: 15 Years After the Wall Came Down, the Ghosts Abound in Berlin

This fine column written by Serge Schmemann was printed a few days ago, but is very much worth the read. It is interesting to note how the evils of the past are reconciled within our present-day experience. What and who are we willing to forgive in order to forge on with our lives, yet at what cost? How do you we remember atrocities without tarnishing the future? I have no answers.

Saturday Morning and I'm Awake?

No entries yesterday; how disappointing. It's halftime of the Tottenham-Arsenal game (booo to those Gooners!). I generally don't get up at 6:00 AM on a Saturday to watch soccer/football unless it's Man Utd playing. I couldn't resist getting up, however, for the hope of Arsenal losing to a cross-town rival. This is kind of like being a Tennessee Volunteers fan and willing yourself to watch Auburn play Alabama--it doesn't exactly leave a good taste in your mouth. The second half is about to start and I'm hungry. Maybe there will be something of more substance later. :)

Vet. Day

I sit here watching "Saving Private Ryan" on my fiancee's incredibly crappy small tv. It makes me remember that my grandfather served in WWII. He helped clean up concentration camps. He never spoke of what he saw, or did from that time. I'm also reminded my father served in Korea and my uncle in Vietnam. My family has a rather proud (albeit short compared to others) history of service, even if they refused to discuss the events (which under the situations, can't be blame).

I think even the most hardened left and right wingers should for certain days, set aside our fundamental differences to honor those veterans who served and those who still are. No, I still haven't changed my opinion on Iraq, or my conservative friend's misguided ideologies. But, I can take a day or two to sit back and honor those who deserve it.

In closing I have a quote for the huddled masses..

"Loyalty to the country always. Loyalty to the government when it deserves it." - Mark Twain

A cartoon that amuses me..

Tom's posted Turn Signals On a Landraider.. And it's funny.

But my inner nerd speaks to me.. It tells me to enlighten you all to...

The Order of The Stick

And on a side note.. Does anyone miss Calvin and Hobbs? I sure as hell do! Bill Waterson was masterful on so many levels. Sure we've got some good ones like Boondocks, and Garfield is still around.. But man, Calvin and Hobbs was pure gold classic.

read, enjoy, visit this site more.

Huddled masses.. Rejoice for we have given you entertainment.

Head shaking and finger pointing

You ever have that moment when you're a little kid and your parents leave the house with you in it for the first time? Feels great at first.. You've got the whole house to yourself, time for some fun! Right? Then you kinda realize you're there alone. It's a pretty big house, and that episode of Crypt Keeper (bear with me folks.. I?m going where with this) was awfully scary about the kids staying at home alone.. And the serial killer/ghost/demon/whatever shows up and ends up getting them. Yea, anyway.. Basically, America is the kid home alone in the big house right now.

Yup.. Mom (England, mainly cause Tony Blair always struck me as kinda girly) and Dad (insert other semi-powerful country.. like France, their women are kinda "manly" if you believe the current administration?s lies) are leaving. England won't be down with G-W-B for much longer. Blair isn't so popular that he can't be replaced by someone more anti-Bush, and the more British troops that die in Iraq the less support Blair gets. Remember, their media isn't so controlled by the government, so they get to see when the poop hits the fan more often.

What Bushco has done is alienate the world. I can hear you now, you conservative zealots. "We don't need them! They're cowards! Etc.." Let see... We don't need anyone else since we're so self-sufficient. Since we make everything here in the good ole US of A. Yup, we'll be fine once we've cut off the rest of the world. Sure enough we don't need our big screen TVs, our super fast computers, or even our gas guzzling SUVs (sure.. keep believing Ford is all American made if you're so inclined...). And once we've cut off the rest of the world, we'll be exactly where "they" want us. They being the terrorists, they being Bushco who thinks everyone else is wrong, they being the individuals who would like to see America fall. I dare say.. Should we not refer to Bush as Nero? Hand that man a fiddle so he can play as America burns.

Maybe I'm being too harsh.. I mean, a useless war, poor economy, and all the smoke we have blown up our not-so-respected asses. You'd think some conservative would have a moment of clarity. But, I'm not holding my breath. And of course, any conservative reading this will say I'm just another left wing, nut job, hippie. Lord forbid I have an opinion other than the one fed to me by Bushco's media.

And I say unto the huddled masses.. Burn baby, burn. *goes back to work to the sound of a fiddle*

Lunchtime...

...and I just happen to run across this food article in today's New York Times. I consider myself as having a very open mind (and developed palate) when it comes to food, and the ramen noodle dishes described here are just making me look at my reheated leftovers as the less-than-desirable remains that they are. I just emailed my wife and proclaimed that this is something we will have to experience when we go to Japan (I can dream, right?). At the very least we will have to try the New York variety out when we make it there for a vacation.

Party in My Cube, Day Two

Working, working hard, because it is hard work...

But that doesn't mean one can't groove to the tunes of David Bowie's Heathen. Released in 2002, this definitely marks a return to more "traditional" Bowie. Quirky, fairly straight-forward rock with some electronic effects thrown in for good measure combined with signature Bowie lyrics makes for a good CD. Now I'm really wishing I had a copy of Reality with me because that is a great CD.

Back to work...

There's a Party in My Cube

OK, so not really. I am actually working, though this 30 minute pause to update the blog is stretching into 40, err, 50 minutes, OK, OK, an hour, but I'm about caught up with all that needs to be done.

I have been dusting off several old CDs in my collection recently. As I type I am listening to Nine Inch Nails' The Downward Spiral. For some reason it doesn't even sound close to dated even though it was released ten years ago. I guess Trent Reznor really knew what he was doing. This music still gives me chills.

And here's another blast from the, well, more recent past. "I wish I was a neutron bomb; for once I could go off." Kinda summarizes how a lot of people felt recently, huh? Anyone able to name the artist and song (like I actually have a lot of readers, HA!)? The first one to comment with the correct information gets a can of Diet Dr. Pepper! ;)

Make a Difference

Feeling inspired, frustrated, or otherwise disaffected by last week's election? If you're a Dem and want to see what you can do to make a difference, I highly recommend going here first. New Democrats Online: The Democratic Leadership Council's Online Community At least there seems to be a somewhat sane approach to rebuilding, and it mostly avoids the whining crap that you have to put up with at the more vitriolic Dem-oriented sites. Recent postings indicate that a deep, introspective look at the Democrat party is well underway.

America Has Spoken

Again, more food for thought here. The message is simple and clear and means much more than the hundreds of god-awful blog comments I've been reading over at dKos and Eschaton lately. The original posts are usually insightful, but damn, I'm tired of hearing people whining about the election already. Yeah, it bummed me out, too, but it's just about 100% official (as opposed to 99.999999%) and we have to move past it in order to make a difference.

America has spoken

Turn Your Back on Bush

Well, this is certainly a more interesting take on protest than what we've seen recently, particularly at Bush's 2001 inauguration parade. I'm all about protest in the vein of Mahatma Gandhi and Jesus Christ. I'm just of the opinion that throwing rotten tomatoes at the procession and burning effigies along the parade route just makes the rest of us look like a bunch of loonies.

Turn your back on Bush.

sigh

I just don't feel like writing about politics. Richard's post below is great and pretty well sums up some of my feelings, but I'm still a bit bruised and overwhelmed to think of it too much. :(

So, just a few random meanderings about something totally non-political: my favorite hobby, Warhammer.

I'm in the midst of creating an army to participate in a map-based campaign, and I'm excited about it in a geeky kind of way (is there any other way to approach Warhammer?!?!). The campaign is based around the idea of several armies setting out to explore the depths of a mysterious island known as Estragon's Island, named for a famous explorer who was last seen setting out on a final voyage to find a fabled island said to contain vast riches. Yeah, pretty cliched, but it is a fresh change from tourney-based play, and I'm looking forward to the role-playing aspect of it.

If you've read this far, you have an inner-geek, and you should be proud. It is certainly therapeutic to think about something else for a change, if only for a few minutes.

The day after tomorrow

One day after the biggest election of my generation and only one word could describe how I felt this morning... Numb. Although it took me quite some time to figure out what exactly I was feeling, numb seems to be the closest to correct.

We went to bed around 12ish.. Thinking it was over. Bushco had won yet again. In the face of what was suppose to be an overwhelming liberal outpouring of votes, Bush stood strong. Not one single state below the Mason-Dixon Line voted for Kerry. NOT ONE! Granted two of the biggest states (electoral votes) were all but locked for Bush. Texas (home state and Repub hotbed) and Florida (owned by Jeb Bush and the Election Thieves of 2000). What else could you expect from those states. Hell the Dems seemed to hardly care about the Southern states, only tossing some money into Arkansas at the last minute. Sending Clinton to Arkansas was a last ditch effort, and it's hard to say it.. But he doesn't stir the emotions of Arkansans since moving to New York. Even I could say to them "well DUH!"

But the time for being angry is over. Stop pouting, grumbling about leaving the country, and in general feeling like ass. The time has come to deal with our latest Incarnation of Idiocy. Bush Part Deux will press our buttons, and enrage us. But we have to lay out a plan to remove this Conservative Cancer from power. Not Bush in particular, but the concept of Conservative Morals. These "morals" corrupt our leaders, repress our citizens and insult our former allies and friends. We must look forward to 2008 right now. Who among us will step up to that plate and take on the vast, impressive machine the Repub thugs created? H. Clinton, Kerry, Dean? Maybe not.. The time is coming for some new blood to rise up. We started with Obama, but we have to keep on that track.

As The Moose said, this too shall pass. But now I will impart my wee bit 'o wisdom unto the huddled masses... Once it was said.. "For the People, by the people." And so it should be once more.

A quick two minute drill and...

All Kerry has to do is lay down a quick no huddle two minute drill involving 370-some-odd-tons of explosives, 1100+ US dead, 100k+ Iraqi dead, and the lack of answers Bushco can provide. The ads are on TV here now, and Bush's doesn't show anything other than his grasping a the air as his administration of evil goes down.

Now.. I'm not really one to rant (well, yea I actually am. right Tom). But for the love all that is right and not RIGHT.. Why can't a conservative give me any real answers? Were they trained to avoid, duck, dodge and in general weasel away from a true answer? Watching the interview with the Barbie Doll of the conservative construct (Ann Coulter) on Real Time with Bill Maher made me want to gag. The blonde bimbo not only wouldn't admit to Bush's ineptness on 9/11.. But she also claimed that any president would have reacted the same. What?! Damn... When asked if she thought Bush had an easier route to the White House via his family, money, and connections. She stares blankly for a moment, a very dazed look (much like that of Bush when he hears bad news) look on her face, and responds with John Kerry did that. What?! She claims John Kerry funded his campaign with Teresa's money. What?! Last I checked John Kerry worked his way up to office prior to marrying her.

But Annie saying the truth would be too close to right (not RIGHT). It's obvious we can't pry a real answer from any conservative.. Maybe if we throw enough money at them they'll tell us the truth. And if you think the liberals are willing to do that.. I have a bridge I'd like to sell you.

I say once more unto the huddled masses.. damn.

Hissyfit: Psych 101

Interesting perspective on the whole Jon Stewart-Crossfire hoo-hah and what the greater implications are of it.

Hissyfit: Psych 101

2004's Scariest Halloween Costumes

Well, I meant to post this last Friday, but even though this really isn't that relevant any longer, it's still worth a view if your sensibilities aren't easily offended (some of these are pretty borderline).

2004's Scariest Halloween Costumes

Sweet Jesus on a Pogo Stick!

I don't mean to obsess on James Wolcott's blog so much, but damn, the man knows how to turn a phrase and send up red flags at the same time. This entry, Captain Queeg Plays with His Marbles, just had me rolling on the floor. If you think Roger L. Simon is scary, you should see the nut jobs posting comments to his original post.

CBS/NY Times Florida Poll--Where Is It?

This entry at Atrios' blog has the conspiracy theorists out in full force. I tend to agree that something fishy is going on? I mean, come on, the media would never hide any news like this, would they. /sarcasm

While he's got the War Drums...

I personally prefered the more direct and enraged song by Eminem, "Mosh". Found here.

Either way, both shoot Bushy-boy the finger. Nice animation in both.

Counting Bodies Like Sheep to the Rhythm of the War Drums

Scathing political commentary from A Perfect Circle. I must have this CD!

APC: Counting Bodies Like Sheep to the Rhythm of the War Drums

Can't We All Just Get Along?

I have such a hard time understanding why people feel so threatened about other people exercising their right to do what they want to do. Religious zealots should stop right now--HA! as if a religious zealot would be reading this blog in the first place. This excellent article on Salon tells it all*.

*If you don't have a subscription to Salon.com, just click the free one-day pass link and sit through the ad--it is pretty painless for what you get, which is access to excellent journal writing online, which sadly isn't as readily available as it should be.

contrapositive

contrapositive has an interesting blow-by-blow preview of what to be looking for election night. Good stuff and very simple.

James Wolcott: Idiots Convention

Mr. Wolcott is the man. Along with MSNBC's Hardball, CNN is doing their best to disprove the so-called liberal-biased media. It's just so damn frustrating to see "news" reports distorting the facts. Hundreds indeed.

A Friend's Blog

Roy has a pretty funny blog. He hasn't gone political yet, unlike me, who had sworn off politics on the blog (oops).

Visualize Winning

If you're a Dem, and life is getting you down, or better yet, the ridiculous polls like the latest Gallup poll are getting you down, just go here and calm down (while getting excited).

CNN At it Again!

Tsk, tsk. So, how's that argument about the so-called "liberal-biased" media go again? I swear, CNN is running to the right as fast as they can to try to save their lives from the green-eyed monster that is FOX News.

Polling Fun on dKOS

This entertaining blog has some interesting reference material up in regard to polls and how they relate to final outcomes in incumbent elections.

Utterly Bizarre Website of the Day

Courtesy of co-worker Cliff.

World Beard and Moustache Championships

How Many?

Ok, so this has probably made its way around the internet a few times by now, but I still find it amusing.

How many Bush administration officials does it take to change a light bulb?

None. There’s nothing wrong with that light bulb. There is no need to change anything. We made the right decision and nothing has happened to change our minds. People who criticize this light bulb now, just because it doesn’t work anymore, supported us when we first screwed it in, and when these flip-floppers insist on saying that it is burned out, they are merely giving aid and encouragement to the Forces of Darkness.

--John Cleese

Jon Stewart on Crossfire

This is insane! Tucker Carlson is such an idiot! How many diamonds could his ass produce?!? I applaud Jon for taking a stand and holding these guys to the fire.

The Poll Tax, Updated

This kind of crap is simply shameful.

The New York Times > Opinion > Campaign 2004: The Big Issues: The Poll Tax, Updated

Militant Cleric Considers Entry Into Iraqi Politics

The New York Times > International > Middle East > Militant Cleric Considers Entry Into Iraqi Politics (registration required)

Hey, this is what the Bush administration wanted, right? I mean, come on, what's better than an Islamic militant getting involved with the democratic process? At least he's trying, even if the outcome isn't exactly what we had in mind.

This Cracks Me Up

I love hijinks, especially when they disrupt Republican spin doctors.

CNN Undecided Voter

Karl Rove would love this guy.

Debate Polling

American Research is doing some interesting polling with three different sets of panels who watched the debates. It will be enlightening to see the final results.

Today...

..this about says it all for me.

Interesting View on Political "Frames"

This is an interesting look at how Republicans and Dems viewpoints differ; whether you agree or not, it is something to consider:

Daily Kos examination of George Lakoff's new book Don't Think of an Elephant

The Space Elevator Comes Closer to Reality

The Space Elevator Comes Closer to Reality

This is one of the most bizarre concepts I've read about recently. I guess I've been far out of the loop when it comes to space travel theory.

Just Finished Neuromancer...

...and I'm not exactly sure what I think. While I enjoyed the storyline and thought some of the visual imagery was pretty nifty, I guess I'm just jaded. Maybe I need to discuss this over a couple of beers with a couple of friends who have read it.

Project Rebirth

This is a super-neat site that documents in time-lapse photography from seven different cameras the cleanup and rebuilding effort at ground zero. It is almost surreal.

Project Rebirth

I AM A LIBERAL!

Well, a Democrat, anyway. After hearing Zell Miller's fire-and-brimstone speech and Bush's disappointing speech of "I wills" that was simply a rehash of campaign 2000's undelivered promises, I realized just how impossible it would be for me to ever consider voting for this kind of Republican.

For your entertainment dollar this evening, check out James Wolcott's blog. Funny stuff.

--tweedler

Current Electoral Vote Predictor 2004

More fun Presidential election stuff:
Current Electoral Vote Predictor 2004

Something to Amuse Myself

This is what I do to laugh at people who both work for and are customers of the company for which I also work. I have been careful not to post too much, if at all, and only in generic terms when I do. The average wireless phone customer is pretty clueless. Oh, did I actually type that? Sorry. ;)

Sabato's Crystal Ball

This is way too cool (if you're interested in politics,that is).

Sabato's Crystal Ball - About the Crystal Ball

As a huge fan of Miéville's previous two novels centered in and around the fictional city New Crobuzon, I am chomping at the bit to read his latest novel, Iron Council.

A quick excerpt from Amazon's review:

China Miéville's novel Iron Council is the tumultuous story of the "Perpetual Train." Born from monopolists' greed and dispatched to tame the western lands beyond New Crobuzon, the train is itself the beginnings of an Iron Council formed in the fire of frontier revolt against the railroad's masters. From the wilderness, the legend of Iron Council becomes the spark uniting the oppressed and brings barricades to the streets of faraway New Crobuzon.

Miéville's universe is based on what many people have termed as "steam-punk" but it his writing is not remotely cold nor alienating like much of the cyber-punk genre. Check his stuff out; it is well worth the read.

Heh heh heh. Here's a well-established online comic strip that is based on Warhammer 40K. Hilarious, I tell you! What, you don't believe me? Check it out yourself.

Turn Signals on a Landraider

I ordinarily won't post about politics here, unless it is really funny. I couldn't resist this:

Ted Kennedy Sobriety Watch: Still Sober?

One of my favorite eBay searches is for "Warhammer Painted", which brings up all sorts of crazy items, from really poorly-painted minis to some spectacular displays of skill. This is a good example of what I like:

WARHAMMER Chaos Lord Archaon on foot PAINTED

Have you ever looked at your credit report? I mean, really looked at it? Sheesh! I took the time to delve into mine this evening (wanting to get a mortgage within the next 6 months or so) and I found five, count 'em, five errors in it. Let the fun begin...

And so I begin again. I hope to actually keep up with the blog this time around. I'm not so worried about focus, but for god's sake I will not suffer the readers (all two of them, I'm sure) to know every little last detail of my existence.