Pelosi pushes gourmet menu
Newly ascendant Democrats may have hit roadblocks on Iraq and fiscal issues, but they have revamped congressional menus, replacing fatty, pre-made foods with healthier, gourmet alternatives. The once dreary congressional cafeterias now abound with haute cuisine.
The menu transformation is part of Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s “Greening the Capitol” plan to make the House campus more environmentally friendly and socially progressive.
But there can be a downside to delicious. Not everyone is happy with the enhanced offerings. Many congressional employees have complained that as the food quality has increased, so have the prices.
“It’s a big jump from high school cafeteria to fancy-pants gourmet. I just wish my pay improved,” said Caryn Schenewerk, a staffer for Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.). A fruit and cheese side dish with two small wedges of brie and cheddar, six grapes, two saltines and one strawberry cost $4.95, for example.
...
House officials explained that the fresher and more varied foods were indeed more expensive but that they had tried to preserve low-cost alternatives such as pizza, sandwiches and prepared salads, which remain around the same price. Higher prices weren’t the only complaints.
One House Republican aide lobbed attacks at the Democrats over e-mail.
“I really don’t like Nanny Nancy telling me what I can and cannot eat for lunch. If I want to eat unhealthy, I should have that choice!” the aide fumed.
Republican aides have raised questions about why the cafeterias now stock Stonyfield Farm yogurt, speculating that the move would line the pockets of the company’s CEO, Gary Hirshberg, a significant player in Democratic politics.
...
And the recycling stations, oh, the recycling stations! They are veritable shrines to a renewable Earth, with four differently shaped slots to sort garbage and lengthy directions on proper sorting. Soup containers go into the square-shaped “compostable” slot, but soup lids end up in the rounded “landfill waste” slot.
...
Ventura said customers would have to change their behavior to accommodate the environmentally friendly products.
Questions and answers for a better you!
1) Dems can't create meaningful legislation? Go haute cuisine and brie!
2) Dems can't create meaningful legislation? Go green on campus and be socially progressive!
3) Dems increase the cost of living? Too bad. It's good for you whether you like it or not.
4) Citizens complain about price increases? Even though you are being forced into our better life style, we've kept some of your disgusting choices around to placate you. For window dressing and only for awhile.
5) Nanny Nancy? How dare you, you sexist! Go to your room! And no tax relief for a month for you buster!! Scoot! Go! Wait until you father gets home!
6) Dems build a better world in a bubble for show? Well, why not reward those that donated huge sums of money to make all this possible for us?
7) Dems build a better world in a bubble for show? How better to show our passion, our dedication to silly science than building a shrine to our blessed Mother Earth?
8) If you have a different opinion? Better modify your behavior or we will do it for you.
9) Thank us for a healthier life style for you. Don't we feel better?
10) Iraq, taxes, immigration and health care? We hope Bush and Cheney get clogged arteries.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Monday, January 14, 2008
Hollywood Pimps For Democrats
Personally, I am shocked. Shocked. Yeah, whatever.
Jennifer Aniston–$2,300 to Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama
Tyra Banks–$2,300 contribution to Obama
Halle Berry–$2,300 to Obama
Zach Braff–$2,300 to Obama
Christie Brinkley–$2,150 to Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton–$1,000 to Obama
Jerry Bruckheimer–$2,300 to Republican presidential candidate John McCain
Cher–$2,100 to former Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden
George Clooney–$2,300 to Obama
Michael Douglas–$4,600 to Clinton–$4,600 to Richardson–$1,500 to Democratic presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich–$4,600 to Dodd–$4,600 to Obama
Jamie Foxx–$2,300 to Obama
Kelsey Grammer–$2,300 to Republican presidential candidate Rudy Giuliani
Tom Hanks–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Obama
Val Kilmer–$2,300 to Richardson
Tobey Maguire–$4,600 to Clinton–$2,300 to Obama
Steve Martin–$2,300 to Dodd
Lorne Michaels–$4,600 to Dodd–$2,300 to McCain
Bette Midler–$4,600 to Richardson–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Obama
Eddie Murphy–$2,300 to Obama
Paul Newman–$4,600 to Obama–$4,600 to Clinton–$2,300 to Richardson–$4,600 to Dodd
Edward Norton–$2,300 to Obama
Rosie O'Donnell–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Obama–$2,300 to Richardson–$2,300 to Edwards
Sean Penn–$2,300 to Kucinich–$4,600 to Edwards
Ellen Pompeo–$4,600 to Obama
Lynn Redgrave–$250 to Clinton
Rob Reiner–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Richardson–$2,300 to Edwards–$1,000 to Dodd
Chris Rock–$4,600 to Obama
Adam Sandler–$2,100 to Giuliani
Brooke Shields–$2,300 to Obama
Will Smith–$4,600 to Obama
Steven Spielberg–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Richardson–$2,300 to Edwards–$2,300 to Obama
Ben Stein–$750 to Giuliani
Ben Stiller–$2,300 to Edwards–$2,300 to Obama–$4,600 to Clinton
Barbra Streisand–$1,000 to Dodd–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Edwards–$2,300 to Obama
Oprah Winfrey–$2,300 to Obama
Renee Zellweger–$4,600 to Clinton
Jennifer Aniston–$2,300 to Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama
Tyra Banks–$2,300 contribution to Obama
Halle Berry–$2,300 to Obama
Zach Braff–$2,300 to Obama
Christie Brinkley–$2,150 to Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton–$1,000 to Obama
Jerry Bruckheimer–$2,300 to Republican presidential candidate John McCain
Cher–$2,100 to former Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden
George Clooney–$2,300 to Obama
Michael Douglas–$4,600 to Clinton–$4,600 to Richardson–$1,500 to Democratic presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich–$4,600 to Dodd–$4,600 to Obama
Jamie Foxx–$2,300 to Obama
Kelsey Grammer–$2,300 to Republican presidential candidate Rudy Giuliani
Tom Hanks–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Obama
Val Kilmer–$2,300 to Richardson
Tobey Maguire–$4,600 to Clinton–$2,300 to Obama
Steve Martin–$2,300 to Dodd
Lorne Michaels–$4,600 to Dodd–$2,300 to McCain
Bette Midler–$4,600 to Richardson–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Obama
Eddie Murphy–$2,300 to Obama
Paul Newman–$4,600 to Obama–$4,600 to Clinton–$2,300 to Richardson–$4,600 to Dodd
Edward Norton–$2,300 to Obama
Rosie O'Donnell–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Obama–$2,300 to Richardson–$2,300 to Edwards
Sean Penn–$2,300 to Kucinich–$4,600 to Edwards
Ellen Pompeo–$4,600 to Obama
Lynn Redgrave–$250 to Clinton
Rob Reiner–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Richardson–$2,300 to Edwards–$1,000 to Dodd
Chris Rock–$4,600 to Obama
Adam Sandler–$2,100 to Giuliani
Brooke Shields–$2,300 to Obama
Will Smith–$4,600 to Obama
Steven Spielberg–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Richardson–$2,300 to Edwards–$2,300 to Obama
Ben Stein–$750 to Giuliani
Ben Stiller–$2,300 to Edwards–$2,300 to Obama–$4,600 to Clinton
Barbra Streisand–$1,000 to Dodd–$2,300 to Clinton–$2,300 to Edwards–$2,300 to Obama
Oprah Winfrey–$2,300 to Obama
Renee Zellweger–$4,600 to Clinton
Need Spiritual 911 For Episcopal 666
Coincidence?
DEVILISH DEBATE: CHURCH MOTION GETS THE NUMBER 666
Eyebrows were raised in Britain's House of Commons yesterday when a motion calling for the Church of England to be disestablished was listed with the number 666, symbol of the Antichrist.
"This number is supposed to be the mark of the Devil. It looks as though God or the Devil have been moving in mysterious ways," said Bob Russell, a Liberal Democrat lawmaker among those proposing the motion for debate.
"What is even stranger is that this motion was tabled last night when MPs were debating blasphemy," he added.
The motion calls for an end to the formal link between church and state in England - embodied in the Queen, who is both head of state and head of the Church of England.
Nah, but apt.
DEVILISH DEBATE: CHURCH MOTION GETS THE NUMBER 666
Eyebrows were raised in Britain's House of Commons yesterday when a motion calling for the Church of England to be disestablished was listed with the number 666, symbol of the Antichrist.
"This number is supposed to be the mark of the Devil. It looks as though God or the Devil have been moving in mysterious ways," said Bob Russell, a Liberal Democrat lawmaker among those proposing the motion for debate.
"What is even stranger is that this motion was tabled last night when MPs were debating blasphemy," he added.
The motion calls for an end to the formal link between church and state in England - embodied in the Queen, who is both head of state and head of the Church of England.
Nah, but apt.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Hillary Clinton Is Compassionate If You Know Your Place
After an hour-long television interview critiquing Sen. Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton went to an African American church, where the only words she had for her democratic rival -- were of praise.
Soon after little Barack got back from the river where he had been collecting wood to make a drum, Hillary Clinton, Empress of her new world, had this to say to her adoring fans globally;
"We never thought we would see the day when an African-American and a woman were competing for the presidency," Clinton said. "I am so proud of my party I am so proud of my country and I am so proud of Sen. Barack Obama."
Obviously hoping that Barack can one day grow into herbustier shoes, Empress Hillary glowed as her husband, William Jefferson Clinton, patted Barack on the head and praised his race for accepting government programs designed to help them become something they have historically been unable to achieve on their own.
"We, together, you blacks, whatever, voters, will overcome" proclaimed Hillary Clinton as William Jefferson Clinton enthusiastically nodded his darkened head up and down, "Deep in my heart, I do believe, with enough money we can make you achieve, vote for me, yo'all can see that I have don my part on down here where yo have been forced to live."
Clinton went on to say that she was shocked that someone like Obama who had benefited fromher so many government programs addressing racial disparities to improve their chances, would stoop to racism attempting to discuss the future of all Americans just win the presidency. In the past Clinton has repeatedly pointed out that she would never use sex, race or religion in any political campaign.
"There's that mutuality of respect between people where you don't see people as percentage points. Where you don't manipulate people. Where you're not interested in social engineering for people. The struggle for an integrated life existing in an atmosphere of communal trust and respect is one with desperately important political and social consequences."
A wag in the wings quoted Obama as saying, "I got your upper middle class mutuality right here." Obama's grandmother, when asked, wasn't clear on what Barack meant by his middle class remark, but did ask, "Didn't Hillary defend those murderers up east when she was still learning at that fancy college her parents sent her?"
No Wellesley College or Yale University spokesmen could be found to comment though the corpse of Barry Goldwater did a point 6 difficult backward flip within his coffin saying, "Christ Almighty, who found this bitch?"
Soon after little Barack got back from the river where he had been collecting wood to make a drum, Hillary Clinton, Empress of her new world, had this to say to her adoring fans globally;
"We never thought we would see the day when an African-American and a woman were competing for the presidency," Clinton said. "I am so proud of my party I am so proud of my country and I am so proud of Sen. Barack Obama."
Obviously hoping that Barack can one day grow into her
"We, together, you blacks, whatever, voters, will overcome" proclaimed Hillary Clinton as William Jefferson Clinton enthusiastically nodded his darkened head up and down, "Deep in my heart, I do believe, with enough money we can make you achieve, vote for me, yo'all can see that I have don my part on down here where yo have been forced to live."
Clinton went on to say that she was shocked that someone like Obama who had benefited from
"There's that mutuality of respect between people where you don't see people as percentage points. Where you don't manipulate people. Where you're not interested in social engineering for people. The struggle for an integrated life existing in an atmosphere of communal trust and respect is one with desperately important political and social consequences."
A wag in the wings quoted Obama as saying, "I got your upper middle class mutuality right here." Obama's grandmother, when asked, wasn't clear on what Barack meant by his middle class remark, but did ask, "Didn't Hillary defend those murderers up east when she was still learning at that fancy college her parents sent her?"
No Wellesley College or Yale University spokesmen could be found to comment though the corpse of Barry Goldwater did a point 6 difficult backward flip within his coffin saying, "Christ Almighty, who found this bitch?"
Hillary Clinton Is A Racist!
No one can argue with the fact that Hillary Clinton is a racist by her own logic and those of her liberal camaraderie. Black people cannot be racist by the very color of their skin. To imply so is a racist statement in itself. Ergo, Barack Hussein Obama cannot be a racist. Since the argument is about racism that leaves only Hillary Clinton.
Will Hillary get Robert Byrd of West Virginia to introduce her to an Ayrian Nation recruiter?
Clinton, Obama spar on race, experience
Not withstanding that William Jefferson Clinton of Hope Arkansas was the first black president of the United States of America, Hillary Rodham Clinton-Rodham might want to check the Liberal Thesaurus of Acceptable Phrases and Loving Vocabulary for future reference before she goes off script.
Otherwise, Lanny Davis might wet himself again.
Will Hillary get Robert Byrd of West Virginia to introduce her to an Ayrian Nation recruiter?
Clinton, Obama spar on race, experience
Not withstanding that William Jefferson Clinton of Hope Arkansas was the first black president of the United States of America, Hillary Rodham Clinton-Rodham might want to check the Liberal Thesaurus of Acceptable Phrases and Loving Vocabulary for future reference before she goes off script.
Otherwise, Lanny Davis might wet himself again.
When Hillary Cackles Lies
Clinton burst out cackling laughing on Timmy Russert's Show when asked if her invented “vast right-wing conspiracy" still exists.
“Oh, I don’t know,” she said. “I haven’t paid much attention to it for about 10 years. I really don’t have any idea. ... I’m just too busy to worry about that.”
Mz Clinton went on to say what a really good guy Barack Obama is except when he lies and is a tool ofthe vast right wing conspiracy those that prefer a real black man who is obviously unqualified to be president rather than an all knowing, ready out of the box, empress like, say, Hillary Clinton.
“Oh, I don’t know,” she said. “I haven’t paid much attention to it for about 10 years. I really don’t have any idea. ... I’m just too busy to worry about that.”
Mz Clinton went on to say what a really good guy Barack Obama is except when he lies and is a tool of
Friday, January 11, 2008
Kos Wants Fun Denying Representative Democracy To Michigan Voters
Via My Vast Rightwing Conspiracy
I was going to quip that Kos acts just like a union thug fixing an election, but then I thought he'd probably take that as a compliment.
Let's have some fun in Michigan
Michigan Democrats should vote for Mitt Romney, because if Mitt wins, Democrats win. How so?
For Michigan Democrats, the Democratic primary is meaningless since the DNC stripped the state of all its delegates (at least temporarily) for violating party rules. Hillary Clinton is alone on the ballot.
But on the GOP side, this primary will be fiercely contested. John McCain is currently enjoying the afterglow of media love since his New Hamsphire victory, while Iowa winner Mike Huckabee is poised to do well in South Carolina.
Meanwhile, poor Mitt Romney, who’s suffered back-to-back losses in the last week, desperately needs to win Michigan in order to keep his campaign afloat. Bottom line, if Romney loses Michigan, he’s out. If he wins, he stays in.
And we want Romney in, because the more Republican candidates we have fighting it out, trashing each other with negative ads and spending tons of money, the better it is for us. We want Mitt to stay in the race, and to do that, we need him to win in Michigan.
Two polls the last couple of days show a tight race: Strategic Vision (R) shows Romney within striking distance with 20 percent to McCain’s 29 (Huckabee is third with 18), while Rossman Group shows Huckabee with the lead — 23 percent to Romney’s 22 and McCain’s 18.
Now here’s the thing — without a real Democratic contest on the ballot, and a lack of party registration in Michigan, this is an open primary. Anyone can pick up a Republican ballot. So Michigan Democrats and independents who want to see the Republican battle royale continue should just take a few minutes on Tuesday, January 15th to cast a ballot for Mitt Romney in the Republican primary.
If you know someone in Michigan, send them the email I’ve included below the fold. If you don’t know someone in Michigan, send the email to your liberal friends and see if THEY have friends in Michigan. Get the word out, whether by blog, mailing list, MySpace or Facebook page, or whatever.
If we can help push Mitt over the line, not only do we help keep their field fragmented, but we also pollute Romney’s victory. How “legitimate” will the Mittster’s victory look if liberals provide the margin of victory? Think of the hilarity that will ensue. We’ll simply be adding fuel to their civil war, never a bad thing from our vantage point.
Liberals like Kos would whine and cry like wittle babies if mean old Republicans upset their process to make America what they want it to be.
I was going to quip that Kos acts just like a union thug fixing an election, but then I thought he'd probably take that as a compliment.
Let's have some fun in Michigan
Michigan Democrats should vote for Mitt Romney, because if Mitt wins, Democrats win. How so?
For Michigan Democrats, the Democratic primary is meaningless since the DNC stripped the state of all its delegates (at least temporarily) for violating party rules. Hillary Clinton is alone on the ballot.
But on the GOP side, this primary will be fiercely contested. John McCain is currently enjoying the afterglow of media love since his New Hamsphire victory, while Iowa winner Mike Huckabee is poised to do well in South Carolina.
Meanwhile, poor Mitt Romney, who’s suffered back-to-back losses in the last week, desperately needs to win Michigan in order to keep his campaign afloat. Bottom line, if Romney loses Michigan, he’s out. If he wins, he stays in.
And we want Romney in, because the more Republican candidates we have fighting it out, trashing each other with negative ads and spending tons of money, the better it is for us. We want Mitt to stay in the race, and to do that, we need him to win in Michigan.
Two polls the last couple of days show a tight race: Strategic Vision (R) shows Romney within striking distance with 20 percent to McCain’s 29 (Huckabee is third with 18), while Rossman Group shows Huckabee with the lead — 23 percent to Romney’s 22 and McCain’s 18.
Now here’s the thing — without a real Democratic contest on the ballot, and a lack of party registration in Michigan, this is an open primary. Anyone can pick up a Republican ballot. So Michigan Democrats and independents who want to see the Republican battle royale continue should just take a few minutes on Tuesday, January 15th to cast a ballot for Mitt Romney in the Republican primary.
If you know someone in Michigan, send them the email I’ve included below the fold. If you don’t know someone in Michigan, send the email to your liberal friends and see if THEY have friends in Michigan. Get the word out, whether by blog, mailing list, MySpace or Facebook page, or whatever.
If we can help push Mitt over the line, not only do we help keep their field fragmented, but we also pollute Romney’s victory. How “legitimate” will the Mittster’s victory look if liberals provide the margin of victory? Think of the hilarity that will ensue. We’ll simply be adding fuel to their civil war, never a bad thing from our vantage point.
Liberals like Kos would whine and cry like wittle babies if mean old Republicans upset their process to make America what they want it to be.
No Swearing Damn It
But if I go outside, I might offend the smokers
St. Louis-area town considers proposal that would ban swearing in bars
What the ...? A St. Louis-area town is considering a bill that would ban swearing in bars, along with table-dancing, drinking contests and profane music.
City officials contend the bill is needed to keep rowdy crowds under control because the historic downtown area gets a little too lively on some nights.
So, this law would give law enforcement another tool to control the uncontrollables, if they choose. Does that mean selective enforcement, say like hearing the other way when an off duty buddy swears after one drink too many Boiler Makers or arresting a person the cop just doesn't like the looks of over a damn or hell?
I am a big fan of the police. I am not a big fan of the police as judge over which laws to enforce or not enforce. I am no fan of cheap suit feel good laws that aren't meant to be uniformly enforced.
Under this law, if I was a cop, I would make mass arrests for any bartender, owner or customer that played Nine Inch Nails. I hate crappy music.
St. Louis-area town considers proposal that would ban swearing in bars
What the ...? A St. Louis-area town is considering a bill that would ban swearing in bars, along with table-dancing, drinking contests and profane music.
City officials contend the bill is needed to keep rowdy crowds under control because the historic downtown area gets a little too lively on some nights.
So, this law would give law enforcement another tool to control the uncontrollables, if they choose. Does that mean selective enforcement, say like hearing the other way when an off duty buddy swears after one drink too many Boiler Makers or arresting a person the cop just doesn't like the looks of over a damn or hell?
I am a big fan of the police. I am not a big fan of the police as judge over which laws to enforce or not enforce. I am no fan of cheap suit feel good laws that aren't meant to be uniformly enforced.
Under this law, if I was a cop, I would make mass arrests for any bartender, owner or customer that played Nine Inch Nails. I hate crappy music.
Good Gawd Almighty I Must Missed The Memo
GOP Rivals Back Tax, Spending Cuts in SC
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) - Republican presidential rivals backed a blend of tax and spending cuts Thursday night to head off an election-year recession they generally agreed is avoidable.
Breathlessly the nation waits to see if these maverick Republicans will go out on the limb of tax cuts for the other 49 states.
"Make fun buddy," muttered a clearly irritated Paul.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) - Republican presidential rivals backed a blend of tax and spending cuts Thursday night to head off an election-year recession they generally agreed is avoidable.
Breathlessly the nation waits to see if these maverick Republicans will go out on the limb of tax cuts for the other 49 states.
"Make fun buddy," muttered a clearly irritated Paul.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Ron Paul Wackos Flood FOX News Poll
According to the first poll results on FOX News 38% of responders believe Ron Paul won the Republican debate in Myrtle Beach, SC tonight. (Now they're posting 35%. HEY, you RonPaulians are slacking off. Don't stop at voting 10 times. You all can count to 20 can't you?)
Even Ron Paul knows he lost the debate and any hope he may have had to make a difference.
Look for him to do a loser thing and run as an Independent. Just like Ralph Nader and another Texas loser, Ross Perot.
I believe I am more right to support Fred Thompson after the debate this evening.
Even Ron Paul knows he lost the debate and any hope he may have had to make a difference.
Look for him to do a loser thing and run as an Independent. Just like Ralph Nader and another Texas loser, Ross Perot.
I believe I am more right to support Fred Thompson after the debate this evening.
Thompson Wins In SC IMO
Fred Dalton T was very good this evening. McCain so-so. Giuliani so-so. Huckabee less so-so. Romney stubbed his toe. Ron Paul remade himself into an Admiral Stockdale, eh?
Most Clueless Secretary Of State Pegs Bush As Worst Prez
It is like Chicken Little complaining that the sky isn't falling.
Albright: Bush 'One of the Worst Presidencies' in History
Former Secretary of State pegs global warming and adjusting to globalization as goals for next president.
The stately ex- Sec of St began with an unbiased promotion of her new book;
“Memo to the President Elect: How We Can Restore America's Reputation and Leadership.”
Albright believes the real future of the next president is;
Albright served under former Vice President Al Gore, one of the staunch global warming “cheerleaders” who advocates a pledge that would require all developed nations to curb their greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent.
Mad is a little short on logic, but not partisanship.
UPDATE: This Ain't Hell has some excellent thoughts on Chairwoman Halfbright:
Um. Damn, that is just halfway stupid isn’t it? Yes, we need to know what other nation’s interests are, but, the President’s job is NOT to cater to the wishes of foreigners. I guess Albright could be an authority on the interests of North Korea…
Albright: Bush 'One of the Worst Presidencies' in History
Former Secretary of State pegs global warming and adjusting to globalization as goals for next president.
The stately ex- Sec of St began with an unbiased promotion of her new book;
“Memo to the President Elect: How We Can Restore America's Reputation and Leadership.”
Albright believes the real future of the next president is;
Albright served under former Vice President Al Gore, one of the staunch global warming “cheerleaders” who advocates a pledge that would require all developed nations to curb their greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent.
Mad is a little short on logic, but not partisanship.
UPDATE: This Ain't Hell has some excellent thoughts on Chairwoman Halfbright:
Um. Damn, that is just halfway stupid isn’t it? Yes, we need to know what other nation’s interests are, but, the President’s job is NOT to cater to the wishes of foreigners. I guess Albright could be an authority on the interests of North Korea…
Ron Paul Over The Cliff & Waving Bye Bye
I attended a central committee meeting and came home to watch the SC debate. I really meant to wait until the debate was over to ascertain what had been said by the candidates, but Ron Paul beat the Christmas rush and is proving he is completely incapable of being the president of the United States of America..
Belief & Heart: Politics As A Non-Profit
I'd never been to Seth's site before, but I'm glad I did because we share some similar thoughts. I'm pretty sure we didn't work together to get Ronald Reagan elected, but we just may have crossed paths through charitable non-profits. In the worlds of foundations and campaigns there is a constant; if it worked before it works now. Unfortunately, as Seth's blog shows, it no longer is the reality of non-profits. It is also no longer the reality of today's campaigning.
I gave at the office
Mark Rovner has an insightful post about the current state of fundraising and non-profits.
The short version: most big charities are based on direct mail fundraising, and as you're read here before, direct mail is dying. What to do?
I'll start with the bad news: I despair for most of the top 50 non-profits in the US. These are the big guys, and they're stuck. Unlike the Fortune 100, not known for being cutting edge in themselves, the top charities rarely change... if you're big, you're used to being big and you expect to stay big. That means that generation after generation of staff has been hired to keep doing what's working. Big risks and crazy schemes are certainly frowned upon.
The good news is this: the Internet is not a replacement for direct mail fundraising. It is, in fact, something much bigger than that for just about every non-profit.
As soon as commerce started online, many non-profits discovered lots of income from their websites. This was mistakenly chalked up to brilliant conversion and smart marketing. In fact, it was just technologically advanced donors using a more convenient method to send in money they would have sent in anyway.
The big win is in changing the very nature of what it means to support a charity. The idea of "I gave at the office" and of giving money in the last week in December speaks to obligation. Many people donate to satisfy a guilty feeling, or to please a friend. This doesn't scale. Not one bit. It's super easy to ignore a direct mail solicitation when all you have to do is hit delete and no one notices.
The big win is in turning donors into patrons and activists and participants. The biggest donors are the ones who not only give, but do the work. The ones who make the soup or feed the hungry or hang the art. My mom was a volunteer for years at the Albright Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo, New York, and there's no doubt at all that we gave more money to the museum than we would have if they'd sent us a flyer once a month.
The internet allows some organizations to embrace long-distance involvement. It lets charities flip the funnel, not through some simple hand waving, but by reorganizing around the idea of engagement online. It means opening yourself up to volunteers, encouraging them to network, to connect with each other, and yes, even to mutiny. It means giving every one of your professionals a blog and the freedom to use it. It means mixing it up with volunteers, so they have something truly at stake. This is understandably scary for many non-profits, but I'm not so sure you have a choice.
Do you have to abandon the old ways today? Of course not. But responsible stewardship requires that you find and empower the mavericks and give them the flexibility to build something new, not to try to force the internet to act like direct mail with free stamps.
Fundraising is the major force behind campaigns and Ron Paul has shown, for example, how the Internet can be utilized as an easier and faster tool to not just raise funds, but get headlines. That fellow in Nigeria that keeps notifying me of the $25o Million he wants to give me is another example of raising funds over the Internet. As Seth points out this isn't new thinking, it is just new technology and a technology that all campaigns will eventually use.
Good ideas can spread into campaigns. Campaigns can domino into a larger effort capable of winning. Funding is only the start. Networking, thinking outside of the box, ignoring time and distance,and allowing volunteers to become local experts and to disseminate the message locally, statewide and nationally. These are the are ways to build a campaign. More importantly, it is a way for the campaign to retain and utilize volunteers to win.
Every campaign needs funding and every volunteer effort needs some ability to fund itself. When these ingredients are put together campaigns become viable. Just as small business is the lifeblood of the economy, volunteers are the lifeblood of winning campaigns. If the product is good.
Any thoughts?
I gave at the office
Mark Rovner has an insightful post about the current state of fundraising and non-profits.
The short version: most big charities are based on direct mail fundraising, and as you're read here before, direct mail is dying. What to do?
I'll start with the bad news: I despair for most of the top 50 non-profits in the US. These are the big guys, and they're stuck. Unlike the Fortune 100, not known for being cutting edge in themselves, the top charities rarely change... if you're big, you're used to being big and you expect to stay big. That means that generation after generation of staff has been hired to keep doing what's working. Big risks and crazy schemes are certainly frowned upon.
The good news is this: the Internet is not a replacement for direct mail fundraising. It is, in fact, something much bigger than that for just about every non-profit.
As soon as commerce started online, many non-profits discovered lots of income from their websites. This was mistakenly chalked up to brilliant conversion and smart marketing. In fact, it was just technologically advanced donors using a more convenient method to send in money they would have sent in anyway.
The big win is in changing the very nature of what it means to support a charity. The idea of "I gave at the office" and of giving money in the last week in December speaks to obligation. Many people donate to satisfy a guilty feeling, or to please a friend. This doesn't scale. Not one bit. It's super easy to ignore a direct mail solicitation when all you have to do is hit delete and no one notices.
The big win is in turning donors into patrons and activists and participants. The biggest donors are the ones who not only give, but do the work. The ones who make the soup or feed the hungry or hang the art. My mom was a volunteer for years at the Albright Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo, New York, and there's no doubt at all that we gave more money to the museum than we would have if they'd sent us a flyer once a month.
The internet allows some organizations to embrace long-distance involvement. It lets charities flip the funnel, not through some simple hand waving, but by reorganizing around the idea of engagement online. It means opening yourself up to volunteers, encouraging them to network, to connect with each other, and yes, even to mutiny. It means giving every one of your professionals a blog and the freedom to use it. It means mixing it up with volunteers, so they have something truly at stake. This is understandably scary for many non-profits, but I'm not so sure you have a choice.
Do you have to abandon the old ways today? Of course not. But responsible stewardship requires that you find and empower the mavericks and give them the flexibility to build something new, not to try to force the internet to act like direct mail with free stamps.
Fundraising is the major force behind campaigns and Ron Paul has shown, for example, how the Internet can be utilized as an easier and faster tool to not just raise funds, but get headlines. That fellow in Nigeria that keeps notifying me of the $25o Million he wants to give me is another example of raising funds over the Internet. As Seth points out this isn't new thinking, it is just new technology and a technology that all campaigns will eventually use.
Good ideas can spread into campaigns. Campaigns can domino into a larger effort capable of winning. Funding is only the start. Networking, thinking outside of the box, ignoring time and distance,and allowing volunteers to become local experts and to disseminate the message locally, statewide and nationally. These are the are ways to build a campaign. More importantly, it is a way for the campaign to retain and utilize volunteers to win.
Every campaign needs funding and every volunteer effort needs some ability to fund itself. When these ingredients are put together campaigns become viable. Just as small business is the lifeblood of the economy, volunteers are the lifeblood of winning campaigns. If the product is good.
Any thoughts?
The Protest Movement Is A Lie
We have protesters that on a daily basis decry the inhuman policies of the United States against those that only want to work and be good citizens even though they are here illegally. Why have the protesters and their propaganda experts not protested against the government of Mexico and those in Central and South America for abandoning their people?
This is only one example of the protest movement as a lie. What kind of government forces their people to pick lettuce in America instead of near their homes in their native country? A government that cares little of its people.
Below is an article from Pajama Media that is about Europe. Here, we only need to look at major cities and universities across our country to see a Lie Movement that ignores political reality because it is much more comfortable to have a comfy coffee shop nearby to relax in after one's protest against our system that allows them to protest conveniently.
Portrait of the Artist as a Dhimmified Man
Similarly, in October 2006 London’s Whitechapel Art Gallery removed erotic works by the surrealist Hans Bellmer. According to the curator, “the motive was simply to not shock the population of the Whitechapel neighborhood, which is partly Muslim.” The pictures were pulled merely one week after a Berlin opera house had cancelled — then sheepishly reinstated — performances of Mozart’s Idomeneo, in which the title character grandstands with the severed heads of Poseidon, Buddha, Jesus, and Mohammed. Needless to say, the severed heads of Poseidon, Buddha, and Jesus were never an issue.
Amir Taheri has compiled other disturbing cases from across the continent: German carnivals prohibiting costumes that might look “Islamic,” Spanish towns canceling traditional festivals marking the victory over the Moors, the blacklisting of books deemed critical of Islam, and the removal from public view of illuminated manuscripts that feature images of Mohammed.
To those that protest, a few questions that all have a different answer than a simple, United States.
Why are there:
No protests against a government that has forgotten them
No protest against a government that tortures
No protest against a government that kills its own citizens
No protest against a government that lies to the people
No protest against a government that legalizes rape
No protest against a government that, as policy, uses mass murder
No protest against a government that sends its people to their death
No protest against a government that purposely impoverishes the people
No protest against a government that plans the subjugation of its people and other nations
No protest against a government that has racism as an international policy
No protest against a government that funds lies by artists and educators
Comparing President Bush to Hitler is not only childish, but politically, morally and historically ignorant.
This is only one example of the protest movement as a lie. What kind of government forces their people to pick lettuce in America instead of near their homes in their native country? A government that cares little of its people.
Below is an article from Pajama Media that is about Europe. Here, we only need to look at major cities and universities across our country to see a Lie Movement that ignores political reality because it is much more comfortable to have a comfy coffee shop nearby to relax in after one's protest against our system that allows them to protest conveniently.
Portrait of the Artist as a Dhimmified Man
Similarly, in October 2006 London’s Whitechapel Art Gallery removed erotic works by the surrealist Hans Bellmer. According to the curator, “the motive was simply to not shock the population of the Whitechapel neighborhood, which is partly Muslim.” The pictures were pulled merely one week after a Berlin opera house had cancelled — then sheepishly reinstated — performances of Mozart’s Idomeneo, in which the title character grandstands with the severed heads of Poseidon, Buddha, Jesus, and Mohammed. Needless to say, the severed heads of Poseidon, Buddha, and Jesus were never an issue.
Amir Taheri has compiled other disturbing cases from across the continent: German carnivals prohibiting costumes that might look “Islamic,” Spanish towns canceling traditional festivals marking the victory over the Moors, the blacklisting of books deemed critical of Islam, and the removal from public view of illuminated manuscripts that feature images of Mohammed.
To those that protest, a few questions that all have a different answer than a simple, United States.
Why are there:
No protests against a government that has forgotten them
No protest against a government that tortures
No protest against a government that kills its own citizens
No protest against a government that lies to the people
No protest against a government that legalizes rape
No protest against a government that, as policy, uses mass murder
No protest against a government that sends its people to their death
No protest against a government that purposely impoverishes the people
No protest against a government that plans the subjugation of its people and other nations
No protest against a government that has racism as an international policy
No protest against a government that funds lies by artists and educators
Comparing President Bush to Hitler is not only childish, but politically, morally and historically ignorant.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Paul & Clinton Meltdown?
This speaks for itself. (See UPDATE I for the Love For Ron Lobby response)
UPDATE II
RON PAUL HAS ISSUED THIS STATEMENT:
“This story is old news and has been rehashed for over a decade. It's once again being resurrected for obvious political reasons on the day of the New Hampshire primary.
“When I was out of Congress and practicing medicine full-time, a newsletter was published under my name that I did not edit. Several writers contributed to the product. For over a decade, I have publically taken moral responsibility for not paying closer attention to what went out under my name.”
Excuse me, but did Ron Paul, who wants to be POTUS, just say that he wasn't paying enough attention when some fall guy was plastering the nation with hate, racism and anti-Semeticism in his name? Geez, is that supposed to make me feel better?
Ron Paul Newsletters Unearthed: Claim MLK a Gay Pedophile, Praise David Duke, Speculate 1993 WTC Bombing Was Mossad Job...
Ron Paul Bigotry Revolution
I might add, on a personal note, that as a libertarian with significant sympathy for Paul’s platform, I initially viewed claims of his past history of racism skeptically. But the evidence is so overwhelming that the defense of Paul is now, itself, indefensible.
Some Quotes:
“I think we can safely assume that 95% of the black males in that city [Washington, D.C.] are semi-criminal or entirely criminal.”
“The cause of the riots is plain: barbarism. If the barbarians cannot loot sufficiently through legal channels (i.e., the riots being the welfare-state minus the middleman), they resort to illegal ones, to terrorism.”
“If this walking bomb had gone off, it would have demolished the House Chamber and most of the congressmen in it. Yet this attempted terrorist attack was buried by the media. Why? Because the perpetrator was an undoubtedly mad Israeli, furious over alleged slights to his country… [T]he Israeli lobby deep-sixed the story, and no one outside of Congress ever head about it.”
HILLARY UNLOADS: YOU'RE NO MARTIN LUTHER KING...
VIDEO: BILL FURY AT OBAMA: 'THIS WHOLE THING IS THE BIGGEST FAIRY TALE I HAVE EVER SEEN'...
MAG: Clinton campaign faces a 'cash crunch'...
UPDATE: Below are the first 15 comments on the NR site with the story about Ron Paul mentioned above. The NR is not the point here really, it is the response of Ron Paulians who haven't a clue. I truly hope Paul's quotes are out-of-context, misquotes or whatever the Ron Paul Lovein Lobby is saying these days, but they can't claim that about their comments pasted all over the inner tubies.
Posted by Ken
1 of 432 warn tnr respond
Unfortunately, your information is simply that propaganda that is misleading, inaccurate, and definitely with a political agenda. I am ashamed that I read your entire post. Moreover, you contradict yourself. Van Meses was a jew- so how can Dr. Paul be an anti-Semite. Do ytou research thoroughly without a political agenda and you will see that your are way off. Thank you very much but no thank you. Note: I am Hispanic and I despise smears.
Posted by teplukhin2you
2 of 432 warn tnr respond
THANK YOU, Mr Kirchick. Nice to see TNR back in the muckraking business-- Ryan Lizza's shoes are being filled. Appreciate especially your diligence in actually getting away from the modem and schlepping out to Lawrence KS to comb through old newsletters and do what we expect journalists to do. ------------------------------------------------------ Doesn't fully atone for this abortion of a website revamp, but you guys are making a start. I'll renew my subscription.
Posted by
3 of 432 warn tnr respond
Posted by Chris
4 of 432 warn tnr respond
Ah, the old Ghostwritten Newsletter Smear with some guilt by association thrown in. Must be that time of the month... So how is being a Giuliani shill going for you after that 4% in Iowa? Bad? It appears so.
Posted by lavaman
5 of 432 warn tnr respond
Where's your bibliography? I'd like to know the exact name, issue number, article title, etc. that each of these quotes were taken from.
Posted by Tom Demas
6 of 432 warn tnr respond
Yeah.. Paul's a closet racist...sure...dude you surprise me..I thought you guys although misguided policy wise would at least acknowledge that Paul has been consistent philisophically.
Posted by TJ
7 of 432 warn tnr respond
I thought all of these accusations had already been delt with?
Posted by paul
8 of 432 warn tnr respond
haha that's all you got. Your bark was bigger than you bite.
Posted by danimal
9 of 432 warn tnr respond
"Anyways, I don't think Ron Paul is a homophobe; I'm just cynical and enjoy getting supporters of political candidates riled up. If you were a Giuliani guy I'd have called him a fascist. But I must say, the Ron Paul supporters are the most enthusiastic of the bunch!" http://gays-for-ron.blogspot.com/2008/01/jamie-kirchick-i-dont-think-ron-paul-is.html
Posted by Antony
10 of 432 warn tnr respond
Horrible photo... Paul looks angelic, not like this ultra-close distortion.
Posted by Lucinda
11 of 432 warn tnr respond
I come from Hispanic decent and have met Dr. Paul. With that said how dare you say these things without research. This is not what the man stands for. Why don't people in the media realize all he wants to do is follow the constitution?
Posted by Richard
12 of 432 warn tnr respond
If he's a minority owner, then it's impossible that he wrote this. It's like blaming the Forbes Family for everything written in Forbes Magazine, or blaming Opera for everything written in O magazine!
Posted by ralphnelle
13 of 432 warn tnr respond
Outstanding investigative journalism.
Posted by S. Kristol
14 of 432 warn tnr respond
I see a lot of inference and innuendo, but not much in the way of solid evidence. Is it because I haven't learned the secret language or don't have the my receiver tuned to the right transmitter?
Posted by Bob
15 of 432 warn tnr respond
Or..... You could just be a rabid Romney supporter who likes to take things out of context in ad-hominem attacks against someone you see as threatening to take support away from your focus-grouped neo-con wannabe candidate.
Read all 432 comments listed if you can. If you can, maybe you should vote for "Lovey", aka Ron Paul.
UPDATE II
RON PAUL HAS ISSUED THIS STATEMENT:
“This story is old news and has been rehashed for over a decade. It's once again being resurrected for obvious political reasons on the day of the New Hampshire primary.
“When I was out of Congress and practicing medicine full-time, a newsletter was published under my name that I did not edit. Several writers contributed to the product. For over a decade, I have publically taken moral responsibility for not paying closer attention to what went out under my name.”
Excuse me, but did Ron Paul, who wants to be POTUS, just say that he wasn't paying enough attention when some fall guy was plastering the nation with hate, racism and anti-Semeticism in his name? Geez, is that supposed to make me feel better?
Ron Paul Newsletters Unearthed: Claim MLK a Gay Pedophile, Praise David Duke, Speculate 1993 WTC Bombing Was Mossad Job...
Ron Paul Bigotry Revolution
I might add, on a personal note, that as a libertarian with significant sympathy for Paul’s platform, I initially viewed claims of his past history of racism skeptically. But the evidence is so overwhelming that the defense of Paul is now, itself, indefensible.
Some Quotes:
“I think we can safely assume that 95% of the black males in that city [Washington, D.C.] are semi-criminal or entirely criminal.”
“The cause of the riots is plain: barbarism. If the barbarians cannot loot sufficiently through legal channels (i.e., the riots being the welfare-state minus the middleman), they resort to illegal ones, to terrorism.”
“If this walking bomb had gone off, it would have demolished the House Chamber and most of the congressmen in it. Yet this attempted terrorist attack was buried by the media. Why? Because the perpetrator was an undoubtedly mad Israeli, furious over alleged slights to his country… [T]he Israeli lobby deep-sixed the story, and no one outside of Congress ever head about it.”
HILLARY UNLOADS: YOU'RE NO MARTIN LUTHER KING...
VIDEO: BILL FURY AT OBAMA: 'THIS WHOLE THING IS THE BIGGEST FAIRY TALE I HAVE EVER SEEN'...
MAG: Clinton campaign faces a 'cash crunch'...
UPDATE: Below are the first 15 comments on the NR site with the story about Ron Paul mentioned above. The NR is not the point here really, it is the response of Ron Paulians who haven't a clue. I truly hope Paul's quotes are out-of-context, misquotes or whatever the Ron Paul Lovein Lobby is saying these days, but they can't claim that about their comments pasted all over the inner tubies.
Posted by Ken
1 of 432 warn tnr respond
Unfortunately, your information is simply that propaganda that is misleading, inaccurate, and definitely with a political agenda. I am ashamed that I read your entire post. Moreover, you contradict yourself. Van Meses was a jew- so how can Dr. Paul be an anti-Semite. Do ytou research thoroughly without a political agenda and you will see that your are way off. Thank you very much but no thank you. Note: I am Hispanic and I despise smears.
Posted by teplukhin2you
2 of 432 warn tnr respond
THANK YOU, Mr Kirchick. Nice to see TNR back in the muckraking business-- Ryan Lizza's shoes are being filled. Appreciate especially your diligence in actually getting away from the modem and schlepping out to Lawrence KS to comb through old newsletters and do what we expect journalists to do. ------------------------------------------------------ Doesn't fully atone for this abortion of a website revamp, but you guys are making a start. I'll renew my subscription.
Posted by
3 of 432 warn tnr respond
Posted by Chris
4 of 432 warn tnr respond
Ah, the old Ghostwritten Newsletter Smear with some guilt by association thrown in. Must be that time of the month... So how is being a Giuliani shill going for you after that 4% in Iowa? Bad? It appears so.
Posted by lavaman
5 of 432 warn tnr respond
Where's your bibliography? I'd like to know the exact name, issue number, article title, etc. that each of these quotes were taken from.
Posted by Tom Demas
6 of 432 warn tnr respond
Yeah.. Paul's a closet racist...sure...dude you surprise me..I thought you guys although misguided policy wise would at least acknowledge that Paul has been consistent philisophically.
Posted by TJ
7 of 432 warn tnr respond
I thought all of these accusations had already been delt with?
Posted by paul
8 of 432 warn tnr respond
haha that's all you got. Your bark was bigger than you bite.
Posted by danimal
9 of 432 warn tnr respond
"Anyways, I don't think Ron Paul is a homophobe; I'm just cynical and enjoy getting supporters of political candidates riled up. If you were a Giuliani guy I'd have called him a fascist. But I must say, the Ron Paul supporters are the most enthusiastic of the bunch!" http://gays-for-ron.blogspot.com/2008/01/jamie-kirchick-i-dont-think-ron-paul-is.html
Posted by Antony
10 of 432 warn tnr respond
Horrible photo... Paul looks angelic, not like this ultra-close distortion.
Posted by Lucinda
11 of 432 warn tnr respond
I come from Hispanic decent and have met Dr. Paul. With that said how dare you say these things without research. This is not what the man stands for. Why don't people in the media realize all he wants to do is follow the constitution?
Posted by Richard
12 of 432 warn tnr respond
If he's a minority owner, then it's impossible that he wrote this. It's like blaming the Forbes Family for everything written in Forbes Magazine, or blaming Opera for everything written in O magazine!
Posted by ralphnelle
13 of 432 warn tnr respond
Outstanding investigative journalism.
Posted by S. Kristol
14 of 432 warn tnr respond
I see a lot of inference and innuendo, but not much in the way of solid evidence. Is it because I haven't learned the secret language or don't have the my receiver tuned to the right transmitter?
Posted by Bob
15 of 432 warn tnr respond
Or..... You could just be a rabid Romney supporter who likes to take things out of context in ad-hominem attacks against someone you see as threatening to take support away from your focus-grouped neo-con wannabe candidate.
Read all 432 comments listed if you can. If you can, maybe you should vote for "Lovey", aka Ron Paul.
New Jersey Apologizes For Slavery
New Jersey Apologizes for Slavery
Geez, I knew New Jersey's population had aged, but I've never met anyone here in Ohio old enough to have practiced slavery.
Geez, I knew New Jersey's population had aged, but I've never met anyone here in Ohio old enough to have practiced slavery.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Congratulations To LSU
LSU 38
OSU 24
Watch out next season. Our very young team will be a year older and a year wiser.
And a year bigger, faster and stronger. Fear the vest.
But this year belongs to LSU. Congratulations.
OSU 24
Watch out next season. Our very young team will be a year older and a year wiser.
And a year bigger, faster and stronger. Fear the vest.
But this year belongs to LSU. Congratulations.
Say It Ain't So Bro
Are the Hill people running away from the Hill?
TALK OF HILLARY EXIT ENGULFS CAMPAIGNS
Meanwhile, Democrat hopeful John Edwards has confided to senior staff that he is staying in the race because Hillary "could soon be out."
Edwards should open a Roadkill Cafe since he always seems to be picking through the political, professional and legal left overs.
TALK OF HILLARY EXIT ENGULFS CAMPAIGNS
Meanwhile, Democrat hopeful John Edwards has confided to senior staff that he is staying in the race because Hillary "could soon be out."
Edwards should open a Roadkill Cafe since he always seems to be picking through the political, professional and legal left overs.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Coney Island's Dreamland II
The Dreamland Fire
I have always been fascinated by Coney Island and places like it. Maybe I was so enamoured because under no circumstances was I ever allowed to go. I stayed quite often with a friend who's family had a beautiful place at Buckeye Lake, but the amusement park there was breathing its last breath, so it doesn't really count.
A panoramic view from across Surf Avenue. Working left to right we see:
1: "Bauer Sisters- Burned out but still doing Business"
2: "Living Freaks"
3: The remnants of the Dreamland Tower
4: "Dreamland's Animal Arena"
(Photo courtesy the Library of Congress)
...
At two in the morning on May 27, 1911 workers worked in Dreamland's Hell Gate attraction, preparing it for opening day only a few hours away. A few light bulbs burst, buckets of tar were tipped over and shortly Hell Gate was engulfed in flames. The fire spread quickly to the rest of the park. Dreamland burned through the next day. Fire companies came to the scene, but the wind's direction calmed a fire that could have otherwise engulfed the island. Coney Island icons like Thompson's Scenic Railway, the Iron Tower and all of Dreamland were destroyed. The park burned for 18 hours. The lathe & plaster structures were very flammable and the Dreamland tower was so bright it was seen in Manhattan (and that was in a period when the city's buildings averaged around only ten stories tall). Ironically, William H. Reynold's greed could have been the undoing of the park. He set down Dreamland so fast that the city did not have time to pull up their fire hydrants. The firemen reported serious issues of low pressure, which could have come from the dozens of hydrants leaking water amongst the ruins.
I have always been fascinated by Coney Island and places like it. Maybe I was so enamoured because under no circumstances was I ever allowed to go. I stayed quite often with a friend who's family had a beautiful place at Buckeye Lake, but the amusement park there was breathing its last breath, so it doesn't really count.
Scotland II - Bonnie Prince Charlie
The Cottage at Culloden - Field quarters used by government forces Welcome to Culloden
Very few place names stir stronger emotions than Culloden. When Scots hear it they think of more than just a location: the moor in the north of Scotland just to the east of Inverness. They think of the death of an era, a noble world view and a civilisation. They think of a heroic last stand against vastly superior forces, of claymores, blood soaked tartan, of religion, nationhood and the price of modernity. The connection between Culloden and all of these images and ideas is remarkable, especially if we consider that the event which connects them to this moor lasted less than half an hour: the Battle of Culloden, 16th of April, 1746. No other event in the history of Scotland has come to mean so much to so many.
...
In retreat the 5000 strong army was hounded by an 8000 strong government force right into the heart of the Highlands at Inverness. The decision by the Jacobite commanders to stand and fight on Culloden Moor, 5 miles to the east, has to go down as one of the greatest shows of incompetence in military history. The Jacobites were not just outnumbered, outgunned, exhausted and malnourished but had marshalled their men on open ground: easy targets for the long range government artillery. Driven by bombardment into a wild attack of men who know they are about to die, they charged sword in hand and were mown down in less than half an hour, most without ever reaching the government lines. When the battle was over government troops went on a rampage, indiscriminately arresting or killing everyone they came across. Bonnie Prince Charlie was amongst those to escape.
Read more here.
Haggis, Because I Was Asked
For Webutante who has the great fortune to have a son she loves and the good fortune to be visiting Scotland. Scotland beat the English. They were so rude to Rome that Hadrian built a wall to keep them in Scotland. The Scottish also gave us possibly the two greatest banes known to man, golf and Haggis. It is fully possible that the first Haggis may have been made possible by a frustrated Scotsman slaughtering a sheep with a nine iron.
Being that you are a lady, I will suggest that you only read the ingredients alone or with close friends.
Haggis Recipes
Haggis "is typically served on Burns Night, January 25, when Scotland celebrates the birth of its greatest poet, Robert Burns, who was born in Ayrshire on that date in 1759. During the celebration, Burns poems are read, and the haggis is addressed by a member of the party, ceremonially, in the form of verses from Burns' poem, 'Address to a Haggis.' A typical meal for Burns Night would include Cock-a-Leekie, Haggis with Tatties-an'-Neeps, Roastit Beef, Tipsy Laird, and Dunlop Cheese."
Oh, and did I mention that whisky is also served?
Haggis has many ingredients, many recipes and many supporters. So do many other fetishes.
P.G. Wodehouse has the following to say about haggis:
The fact that I am not a haggis addict is probably due to my having read Shakespeare. It is the same with many Englishmen. There is no doubt that Shakespeare has rather put us off the stuff.... You remember the passage to which I refer? Macbeth happens upon the three witches while they are preparing the evening meal. They are dropping things into the cauldron and chanting "Eye of newt and toe of frog, wool of bat and tongue of dog," and so on, and he immediately recognises the recipe. "How now, you secret, black and midnight haggis," he cries shuddering.
This has caused misunderstandings and has done an injustice to haggis. Grim as it is, it is not as bad as that-- or should not be. What the dish really consists of -- or should consist of -- is the more intimate parts of a sheep chopped up fine and blended with salt, pepper, nutmeg, onions, oatmeal, and beef suet. But it seems to me that there is a grave danger of the cook going all whimsey and deciding not to stop there. When you reflect that the haggis is served up with a sort of mackintosh round it, concealing its contents, you will readily see that the temptation to play a practical joke on the boys must be almost irresistible. Scotsmen have their merry moods, like all of us, and the thought must occasionally cross the cook's mind that it would be no end of a lark to shove in a lot of newts and frogs and bats and dogs and then stand in the doorway watching the poor simps wade into them....
An odd thing--ironical, you might say-- in connection with haggis is that it is not Scottish. In an old cook book, published 1653, it is specifically mentioned as an English dish called haggas or haggus, while France claims it as her mince (hachis) going about under an alias. It would be rather amusing if it turned out that Burns was really a couple of Irish boys named Pat and Mike.
To paraphrase Waylan and Willie, "Mothers don't let you babies grow up to eat Haggis."
Being that you are a lady, I will suggest that you only read the ingredients alone or with close friends.
Haggis Recipes
Haggis "is typically served on Burns Night, January 25, when Scotland celebrates the birth of its greatest poet, Robert Burns, who was born in Ayrshire on that date in 1759. During the celebration, Burns poems are read, and the haggis is addressed by a member of the party, ceremonially, in the form of verses from Burns' poem, 'Address to a Haggis.' A typical meal for Burns Night would include Cock-a-Leekie, Haggis with Tatties-an'-Neeps, Roastit Beef, Tipsy Laird, and Dunlop Cheese."
Oh, and did I mention that whisky is also served?
Haggis has many ingredients, many recipes and many supporters. So do many other fetishes.
P.G. Wodehouse has the following to say about haggis:
The fact that I am not a haggis addict is probably due to my having read Shakespeare. It is the same with many Englishmen. There is no doubt that Shakespeare has rather put us off the stuff.... You remember the passage to which I refer? Macbeth happens upon the three witches while they are preparing the evening meal. They are dropping things into the cauldron and chanting "Eye of newt and toe of frog, wool of bat and tongue of dog," and so on, and he immediately recognises the recipe. "How now, you secret, black and midnight haggis," he cries shuddering.
This has caused misunderstandings and has done an injustice to haggis. Grim as it is, it is not as bad as that-- or should not be. What the dish really consists of -- or should consist of -- is the more intimate parts of a sheep chopped up fine and blended with salt, pepper, nutmeg, onions, oatmeal, and beef suet. But it seems to me that there is a grave danger of the cook going all whimsey and deciding not to stop there. When you reflect that the haggis is served up with a sort of mackintosh round it, concealing its contents, you will readily see that the temptation to play a practical joke on the boys must be almost irresistible. Scotsmen have their merry moods, like all of us, and the thought must occasionally cross the cook's mind that it would be no end of a lark to shove in a lot of newts and frogs and bats and dogs and then stand in the doorway watching the poor simps wade into them....
An odd thing--ironical, you might say-- in connection with haggis is that it is not Scottish. In an old cook book, published 1653, it is specifically mentioned as an English dish called haggas or haggus, while France claims it as her mince (hachis) going about under an alias. It would be rather amusing if it turned out that Burns was really a couple of Irish boys named Pat and Mike.
To paraphrase Waylan and Willie, "Mothers don't let you babies grow up to eat Haggis."
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Coney Island's Dreamland
Dreamland
If Steeplechase represented fun and sexuality, and Luna was the juxtaposition of art and youth, Dreamland was the Bible brought to Brooklyn with hints of showmanship. The park was the brainchild of a crooked businessman, William H. Reynolds. He had many connections in the Tammany politics of New York. Reynolds was the poster boy for crooked politics and seemed to have his fingers in most every pie- he even sold Chrysler the plot of land where his art-deco urban masterpiece would grow. Author Richard Snow said that Reynold's underhanded activities were brought to Coney and that Dreamland was built so fast that many islanders felt the park grew over many of the area's fire hydrants, ensuring the park free city water for its short life. Dreamland only operated from 1904-1911, but during that time the park helped turn the island into a city unlike anything the modern world had seen.
During the Korean War my father-in-law protected Coney Island from attack as a crewman of a United States Navy blimp.
Coney Island was never attacked.
When It's Time To Take Mom's Car Keys
Sometimes it's obvious when, like this;
"They certainly don’t have our standards. They don’t have our ethics, and so forth."
Thank you Lord for answered prayers.
Thank you Lord for answered prayers.
Friday, January 04, 2008
Cincinnati Ohio Subway
The system was never completed but the tunnels still exist. Go to this pretty cool site to see more.
Abandoned tunnels are often the object of urban legend, but Cincinnati is in fact the site of the country's largest abandoned subway tunnel. But "abandoned" is not quite the word, as construction slowed to a stop in 1925 before even half of the 16 mile line was completed. Seven miles between Cincinnati's central business district and the industrial suburb of Norwood were tunneled, bridged, or graded, but no track was laid and no subway cars were ordered. No passengers ever rode between the six stations that were built.
Central Parkway construction, north of the Plum St. turn.
The finished Parkway, with subway beneath. The Race St. station is directly below this point.
Abandoned tunnels are often the object of urban legend, but Cincinnati is in fact the site of the country's largest abandoned subway tunnel. But "abandoned" is not quite the word, as construction slowed to a stop in 1925 before even half of the 16 mile line was completed. Seven miles between Cincinnati's central business district and the industrial suburb of Norwood were tunneled, bridged, or graded, but no track was laid and no subway cars were ordered. No passengers ever rode between the six stations that were built.
Central Parkway construction, north of the Plum St. turn.
The finished Parkway, with subway beneath. The Race St. station is directly below this point.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Who Is Major Garret? Was His Mother Captain Garret?
Huckabee seems to have won. Actually, Ed Rollins has won. This man wins, but he is backing the wrong horse.
Huckabee will go down. Hard.
Huckabee will go down. Hard.
Internet Polls, Straw Polls, Anybody's Poll Wrong. Ron Paul Won!!!!!!
There is still an outside chance. I'll hold my breath until 9:11.
Iowa Is here
For many people the campaigning for president is already tiresome. Many, including family, expressed over the holidays that they couldn't care less about all "those losers". More than few expressed their displeasure with the candidates, both Reps and Dems. Ah-hem.
If you don't like the candidates, too bad. Unless you are a complete and total moron waiting for the estimatable Michael Bloomberg to jump in, these are the candidates you have to choose from. What, your brilliant Uncle Freebus, who you Aunt thought was the smartest man on the planet, ain't running this cycle? I feel for you. Really. I don't.
Good luck to all of tonight's candidates
If you don't like the candidates, too bad. Unless you are a complete and total moron waiting for the estimatable Michael Bloomberg to jump in, these are the candidates you have to choose from. What, your brilliant Uncle Freebus, who you Aunt thought was the smartest man on the planet, ain't running this cycle? I feel for you. Really. I do
Good luck to all of tonight's candidates
Thompson's Staying In Sez Galen So Shudda Your Face
Team Fred Strongly Denies... [Byron York]
Good morning from Des Moines. I just got off the phone with Rich Galen, a top adviser to Fred Thompson, and it would be an understament to say that he is strongly denying the Politico story reporting that Thompson "will drop out of the race within days if he finishes poorly in Thursday's caucus.
"The story cites "several Republican officials close to Fred Thompson's presidential campaign." Galen told me, "I'm a Republican official in the Thompson campaign, and I'm denying it." Galen also said that no one inside the campaign was a source for the story. "I can't put enough adjectives in front of the 'deny' to accurately describe how vehemently I'm denying the story," he said.
Galen said that "just to make sure," he checked with Thompson himself, who told him the story was not true. "We have the schedule for Saturday and Sunday in New Hampshire, and then we're going down to South Carolina," Galen told me.
If Rich Galen says it is snowing in hell, I'd make sure my boots and gloves are on. I mean if I ever had reason to be there.
Via NRO
Good morning from Des Moines. I just got off the phone with Rich Galen, a top adviser to Fred Thompson, and it would be an understament to say that he is strongly denying the Politico story reporting that Thompson "will drop out of the race within days if he finishes poorly in Thursday's caucus.
"The story cites "several Republican officials close to Fred Thompson's presidential campaign." Galen told me, "I'm a Republican official in the Thompson campaign, and I'm denying it." Galen also said that no one inside the campaign was a source for the story. "I can't put enough adjectives in front of the 'deny' to accurately describe how vehemently I'm denying the story," he said.
Galen said that "just to make sure," he checked with Thompson himself, who told him the story was not true. "We have the schedule for Saturday and Sunday in New Hampshire, and then we're going down to South Carolina," Galen told me.
If Rich Galen says it is snowing in hell, I'd make sure my boots and gloves are on. I mean if I ever had reason to be there.
Via NRO
Painfully Distorted Medical News
Lies, damned lies, and statistics or how to use accurate data for inaccurate conclusions. In short, how to use numbers to lie.
Free drug samples go to wealthy and insured
Insured patients go to doctors while the uninsured go to clinics and the emergency room. Pharma reps usually don't hang out at clinics and emergency rooms. Coincidence? I think not.
As for the wealthy, I guess if you use the liberal definition of wealthy, then yes, the wealthy get most of the samples if being wealthy is defined as those with a job.
Read the story and pay close attention to the cherry-picked stats. This story is a classic.
Free drug samples go to wealthy and insured
Insured patients go to doctors while the uninsured go to clinics and the emergency room. Pharma reps usually don't hang out at clinics and emergency rooms. Coincidence? I think not.
As for the wealthy, I guess if you use the liberal definition of wealthy, then yes, the wealthy get most of the samples if being wealthy is defined as those with a job.
Read the story and pay close attention to the cherry-picked stats. This story is a classic.
Painfully Obvious Medical News
Happiness may be good for your health
In a study of nearly 3,000 healthy British adults, lead by Dr. Andrew Steptoe of University College London, found that those who reported upbeat moods had lower levels of cortisol -- a "stress" hormone that, when chronically elevated, may contribute to high blood pressure, abdominal obesity and dampened immune function, among other problems.
Now if researchers can work on the evidence that frivolous taxation stress is harmful to health so we can finally slap the final warning language on the side of the capitol dome and slap the Senate Majority Leader and the Speaker of House upside their hollow little heads.
In a study of nearly 3,000 healthy British adults, lead by Dr. Andrew Steptoe of University College London, found that those who reported upbeat moods had lower levels of cortisol -- a "stress" hormone that, when chronically elevated, may contribute to high blood pressure, abdominal obesity and dampened immune function, among other problems.
Now if researchers can work on the evidence that frivolous taxation stress is harmful to health so we can finally slap the final warning language on the side of the capitol dome and slap the Senate Majority Leader and the Speaker of House upside their hollow little heads.
The Not So "Great Society", Dem Caucuses And Economic Ruin
January 4, 1965 - In his State of the Union Address, President Lyndon Johnson describes his "Great Society" program, which includes a “War on Poverty,” laws promoting racial justice, health care funding for the elderly and the needy, urban renewal, and federal aid to schools.
It is appropriate that the anniversary of the start of a massive Democrat failure costing taxpayers billions of dollars while leaving those that were to be helped worse off, falls almost on the day of the next generation of Democrats taking part in the Iowa Caucus. The Clinton twins alone could cost billions more in their version of socialized medicine. John Edwards, as a solo act, is a one-man economic wrecking ball and Obama is learning how to pander to voters using our tax dollars at an impressive rate.
Let us all raise our glasses to the "Great Society" and Lyndon Baines Johnson's failure. Together, they almost cost America its soul, all so LBJ could build his legacy much as the current crop of losers are attempting. God save us.
As to LBJ's legacy, public education stinks, urban renewal ravaged cities large and small, the cost of medical care has skyrocketed while the quality has sunk and whole new forms of racism have been codified into law nationwide. Way to go Lyndon, you smuck.
Old joke: Why did LBJ call his daughter Linda Bird? He couldn't be that unkind to dogs.
It is appropriate that the anniversary of the start of a massive Democrat failure costing taxpayers billions of dollars while leaving those that were to be helped worse off, falls almost on the day of the next generation of Democrats taking part in the Iowa Caucus. The Clinton twins alone could cost billions more in their version of socialized medicine. John Edwards, as a solo act, is a one-man economic wrecking ball and Obama is learning how to pander to voters using our tax dollars at an impressive rate.
Let us all raise our glasses to the "Great Society" and Lyndon Baines Johnson's failure. Together, they almost cost America its soul, all so LBJ could build his legacy much as the current crop of losers are attempting. God save us.
As to LBJ's legacy, public education stinks, urban renewal ravaged cities large and small, the cost of medical care has skyrocketed while the quality has sunk and whole new forms of racism have been codified into law nationwide. Way to go Lyndon, you smuck.
Old joke: Why did LBJ call his daughter Linda Bird? He couldn't be that unkind to dogs.
Fred Thompson's Beliefs Are Compelling
From The Corner:
Fred Thompson, Reagan Conservative
Only Thompson has a true conservative platform to defend life, liberty and American sovereignty. Only Thompson is advancing a compelling program for economic growth by controlling entitlement spending, unleashing innovation and making the American Dream real for every taxpayer. Only Thompson is committed to strengthening both our military and our intelligence and rallying the country for what must be a protracted struggle against jihadism.
I do agree.
Fred Thompson, Reagan Conservative
Only Thompson has a true conservative platform to defend life, liberty and American sovereignty. Only Thompson is advancing a compelling program for economic growth by controlling entitlement spending, unleashing innovation and making the American Dream real for every taxpayer. Only Thompson is committed to strengthening both our military and our intelligence and rallying the country for what must be a protracted struggle against jihadism.
I do agree.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Climate Ain't Weather And Your Fat Butt Ain't Weight
Remember the difference.
Snow Flurries Possible In Central Florida During Hard Freeze
I guess the difference is that climate won't make your tangerines freeze, but temperature will make your oranges ice cold.
Snow Flurries Possible In Central Florida During Hard Freeze
I guess the difference is that climate won't make your tangerines freeze, but temperature will make your oranges ice cold.
Michael Moore And Iowa Yawners
Something's gonna break.
MICHAEL MOORE ON THE FENCE: 'I am not endorsing anyone at this point'...
Why would anyone care except maybe the person he endorses. That person may do a faux lemming and run for the cliff.
I would.
MICHAEL MOORE ON THE FENCE: 'I am not endorsing anyone at this point'...
Why would anyone care except maybe the person he endorses. That person may do a faux lemming and run for the cliff.
I would.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Dinah Lord Is Back
Granted, I have been out of town amongst the heathen in NYC, but not seeing Dinah is like not seeing a sunrise.
Go now .....
http://dinahlord.blogspot.com/
Sheeeeee's bacccckk! And better!!
Go now .....
http://dinahlord.blogspot.com/
Sheeeeee's bacccckk! And better!!
FUGLY As A National Goal
I work and have worked with a tremendously different and different thinking group of people when I work with houses, buildings and public spaces. What we all have in common, many times the only thing in common, is beauty and human interaction within their environment.
I love architecture though I am not an architect. I do not just dislike bad architecture, I hate it.
Dubai is exploring the boundaries of intergalatic FUGLY. These buildings were dated before they were occupied and none of them were ever designed to be comfortable with people.
Someone please stop them. That much money will sometimes make one twice as stupid.
I love architecture though I am not an architect. I do not just dislike bad architecture, I hate it.
Dubai is exploring the boundaries of intergalatic FUGLY. These buildings were dated before they were occupied and none of them were ever designed to be comfortable with people.
Someone please stop them. That much money will sometimes make one twice as stupid.
What If Iowa Is Just The First Prez Contest?
Another scintillating 'what if' from the what if we were ever right as the paper of record:
What if Iowa Settles Nothing for Democrats?
But what if it is not decisive?
Then maybe they might just have to keep campaigning.
What if Iowa Settles Nothing for Democrats?
But what if it is not decisive?
Then maybe they might just have to keep campaigning.
Govt. Program Will Detect, Cite And Log Inappropriate Thoughts
Anecdotal wrongness on the part of juveniles adds up inability of society's weakest link to deal with problems.
Parents, as proven by various government studies, are completely incapable of parenting. Using examples of a young Dick wanting to have sex and an even younger Jane wanting to say no, government scientists have proven that young people are acting out in inappropriate ways.
In an associate study, government results have shown that Pierpont and LeShawna were given complexes when Dick and Jane acted in the ways they did. LaShawna, having been told no by Jane, may never have another relationship warned scientists. As witnessed by researchers, "Pierpont may never know the warmth of another man after being totally repulsed by the Dick in the study" warned the study.
Science has proven that testosterone is a contributing factor in many cultural and mental problems which is why so many scientists are calling for a reduction or at least more control of testosterone.
Kits target underage drinking in Hawaii
And Kim said the new testing program is part of an ongoing comprehensive plan — including enforcement and education in schools — to curb underage drinking, a problem that Kim and other advocates say is worsening.
Though there are no new statistics to back up the assertions, if they're right, the increase would buck a trend of declining liquor use among minors over the past 20 years.
About 37 percent of Hawai'i eighth-graders surveyed in 2003 said they had tried alcohol at some point, compared with 49 percent in 2000 and 64 percent in 1987, according to the latest figures from a state Health Department survey.
The survey also showed 73 percent of high school seniors in 2003 had tried alcohol, compared with 86 percent in 1987.
Kim said he believes alcohol use among minors is up based on complaints from parents, an increase in violations at stores and bars, and anecdotes from advocates.
In an alarming study unassociated to these studies, government scientists have noted an unexpected trend in the nation's youth to think government studies are full of crap.
A spokesman for a united group of government scientists thought outloud that inappropriate thought by Americans, especially those under age, are costing taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars each year in detection and enforcement. "This isn't just a parental problem, it is a national problem, indeed it is finally a governmental problem and we are addressing it as such. Any effort less than this would be admitting we are poor stewards for the future"
Parents, as proven by various government studies, are completely incapable of parenting. Using examples of a young Dick wanting to have sex and an even younger Jane wanting to say no, government scientists have proven that young people are acting out in inappropriate ways.
In an associate study, government results have shown that Pierpont and LeShawna were given complexes when Dick and Jane acted in the ways they did. LaShawna, having been told no by Jane, may never have another relationship warned scientists. As witnessed by researchers, "Pierpont may never know the warmth of another man after being totally repulsed by the Dick in the study" warned the study.
Science has proven that testosterone is a contributing factor in many cultural and mental problems which is why so many scientists are calling for a reduction or at least more control of testosterone.
Kits target underage drinking in Hawaii
And Kim said the new testing program is part of an ongoing comprehensive plan — including enforcement and education in schools — to curb underage drinking, a problem that Kim and other advocates say is worsening.
Though there are no new statistics to back up the assertions, if they're right, the increase would buck a trend of declining liquor use among minors over the past 20 years.
About 37 percent of Hawai'i eighth-graders surveyed in 2003 said they had tried alcohol at some point, compared with 49 percent in 2000 and 64 percent in 1987, according to the latest figures from a state Health Department survey.
The survey also showed 73 percent of high school seniors in 2003 had tried alcohol, compared with 86 percent in 1987.
Kim said he believes alcohol use among minors is up based on complaints from parents, an increase in violations at stores and bars, and anecdotes from advocates.
In an alarming study unassociated to these studies, government scientists have noted an unexpected trend in the nation's youth to think government studies are full of crap.
A spokesman for a united group of government scientists thought outloud that inappropriate thought by Americans, especially those under age, are costing taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars each year in detection and enforcement. "This isn't just a parental problem, it is a national problem, indeed it is finally a governmental problem and we are addressing it as such. Any effort less than this would be admitting we are poor stewards for the future"
Cindy Sheehan Is a [W]itch
The constitution guarantees the right and privilege to be moron if one so desires.
Rose Parade Features Sunshine, Peaceful Crowd
Dozens of anti-war protesters staked out spots across from television cameras at Colorado and Orange Grove. They hoisted signs reading "Impeachment is Patriotic" and yelled anti-war slogans. The protesters were booed by parade watchers sitting in the grandstand.
Cindy Sheehan and her ilk exercise that right daily.
Rose Parade Features Sunshine, Peaceful Crowd
Dozens of anti-war protesters staked out spots across from television cameras at Colorado and Orange Grove. They hoisted signs reading "Impeachment is Patriotic" and yelled anti-war slogans. The protesters were booed by parade watchers sitting in the grandstand.
Cindy Sheehan and her ilk exercise that right daily.
Majors Boycott Ron Paul Minors
In a move that will cause nuts to get more so and leftist supporters screaming disenfranchisement, Ron Paul and Duncan Hunter may not be included in some upcoming televised debates. Paul supporters are calling for boycotts and other tactics hoping to bring FOX and ABC to their knees.
TV cuts candidates from debates, angering Paul backers
ABC and Fox News Channel are narrowing the field of presidential candidates invited to debates this weekend just before the New Hampshire primary, in Fox's case infuriating supporters of Republican Rep. Ron Paul.
...
Some livid Paul supporters are distributing e-mails calling for a boycott of Fox advertisers.
Maybe Paul's coalition of troofers, anti-war, and small government types, i.e., liberals, libertines and libertarians can force free air time for all candidates. If billionaire putz Bloomberg gets huckster Hagel to run then they can all debate all the time and anytime they want. Maybe even include Mary Carey, should she run, for balance and reason in the debates.
UPDATE: Yes Mathilda, Mary Carey made THOSE types of movies and, no Mathilda, I have never seen them, but thanks for asking.
TV cuts candidates from debates, angering Paul backers
ABC and Fox News Channel are narrowing the field of presidential candidates invited to debates this weekend just before the New Hampshire primary, in Fox's case infuriating supporters of Republican Rep. Ron Paul.
...
Some livid Paul supporters are distributing e-mails calling for a boycott of Fox advertisers.
Maybe Paul's coalition of troofers, anti-war, and small government types, i.e., liberals, libertines and libertarians can force free air time for all candidates. If billionaire putz Bloomberg gets huckster Hagel to run then they can all debate all the time and anytime they want. Maybe even include Mary Carey, should she run, for balance and reason in the debates.
UPDATE: Yes Mathilda, Mary Carey made THOSE types of movies and, no Mathilda, I have never seen them, but thanks for asking.
Jihad, Socialism, Bhutto, Musharraf And The Bomb
An excellent article concerning what is good for the US, what is good for Pakistan and what is needed to stop the barbarous throwbacks who want a world caliphate.
Benazir Bhutto
Killed by the real Pakistan.
The real Pakistan is a place where the military, ineffective and half-hearted though it is in combating Islamic terror, is the thin line between today’s boiling pot and what tomorrow is more likely to be a jihadist nuclear power than a Western-style democracy.
In that real Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto’s murder is not shocking. There, it was a matter of when, not if.
It is the new way of warfare to proclaim that our quarrel is never with the heroic, struggling people of fill-in-the-blank country. No, we, of course, fight only the regime that oppresses them and frustrates their unquestionable desire for freedom and equality.
Pakistan just won’t cooperate with this noble narrative.
Whether we get round to admitting it or not, in Pakistan, our quarrel is with the people. Their struggle, literally, is jihad. For them, freedom would mean institutionalizing the tyranny of Islamic fundamentalism. They are the same people who, only a few weeks ago, tried to kill Benazir Bhutto on what was to be her triumphant return to prominence — the symbol, however dubious, of democracy’s promise. They are the same people who managed to kill her today. Today, no surfeit of Western media depicting angry lawyers railing about Musharraf — as if he were the problem — can camouflage that fact.
Before we dismiss Arabs, Persians and Indians as ignorant because of their cultural or political leaders, we must remember who we have voted for, such as the current leaders in Congress. Talk about throwbacks.
Benazir Bhutto
Killed by the real Pakistan.
The real Pakistan is a place where the military, ineffective and half-hearted though it is in combating Islamic terror, is the thin line between today’s boiling pot and what tomorrow is more likely to be a jihadist nuclear power than a Western-style democracy.
In that real Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto’s murder is not shocking. There, it was a matter of when, not if.
It is the new way of warfare to proclaim that our quarrel is never with the heroic, struggling people of fill-in-the-blank country. No, we, of course, fight only the regime that oppresses them and frustrates their unquestionable desire for freedom and equality.
Pakistan just won’t cooperate with this noble narrative.
Whether we get round to admitting it or not, in Pakistan, our quarrel is with the people. Their struggle, literally, is jihad. For them, freedom would mean institutionalizing the tyranny of Islamic fundamentalism. They are the same people who, only a few weeks ago, tried to kill Benazir Bhutto on what was to be her triumphant return to prominence — the symbol, however dubious, of democracy’s promise. They are the same people who managed to kill her today. Today, no surfeit of Western media depicting angry lawyers railing about Musharraf — as if he were the problem — can camouflage that fact.
Before we dismiss Arabs, Persians and Indians as ignorant because of their cultural or political leaders, we must remember who we have voted for, such as the current leaders in Congress. Talk about throwbacks.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Master Illustrators
Outside of Sendak this book covers a whole lot of my youth in which both my parents, my grandmother, my aunts and my sisters read to me.Especially glorious was arriving at a point in the story where one of them would carefully turn the book so I could view the appropriate illustration.
Many times, that night's shared illustration shaped my dreams until the next chapter's view. "Last of the Mohican's" filled my little mind with horror and deeds of valor for years.
To relive and pass on this wonderful gift, I read to my two munchkins. It was a pleasure as well.
.......
Wyeth, Andrew; Wyeth, James; Pyle, Howard; Wyeth, N.C. Illustrators Wondrous Strange : The Wyeth Tradition New York, NY, U.S.A.: Little Brown & Company, 1998 C.Large 4to over 11 inches. Red Cloth with gold stamped spine. 123 color and 3 b/w illustrations. 161 pages of images by the Wyeth Family. An elegant and dramatic book finely printed and bound.
Near Edinburgh
Greenbank Cottage in the snow. Look closely and you will see that this cottage was actually a duplex.
Musical Losers Hire Lawyers To Be Bullies
Jeez, maybe I shoulda not thrown away all those warnings from RIAA and I coulda avoided that whole emotion thing one is supposed to get listening to their lawyer's warnings music.
This why I don't buy music by or from these hypocrites. The last CD I purchased was probably a remastered Willie Dixon collection which is so appropriate because the clients of these lowlife lawyers have been stealing from him their entire "professional" careers.
Record Industry Goes After Personal Use
The RIAA's legal crusade against its customers is a classic example of an old media company clinging to a business model that has collapsed. Four years of a failed strategy has only "created a whole market of people who specifically look to buy independent goods so as not to deal with the big record companies," Beckerman says. "Every problem they're trying to solve is worse now than when they started."
The industry "will continue to bring lawsuits" against those who "ignore years of warnings," RIAA spokesman Jonathan Lamy said in a statement. "It's not our first choice, but it's a necessary part of the equation. There are consequences for breaking the law." And, perhaps, for firing up your computer.
Maybe they can look into suing the "clap on, clap off" lady for stealing applause.
This why I don't buy music by or from these hypocrites. The last CD I purchased was probably a remastered Willie Dixon collection which is so appropriate because the clients of these lowlife lawyers have been stealing from him their entire "professional" careers.
Record Industry Goes After Personal Use
The RIAA's legal crusade against its customers is a classic example of an old media company clinging to a business model that has collapsed. Four years of a failed strategy has only "created a whole market of people who specifically look to buy independent goods so as not to deal with the big record companies," Beckerman says. "Every problem they're trying to solve is worse now than when they started."
The industry "will continue to bring lawsuits" against those who "ignore years of warnings," RIAA spokesman Jonathan Lamy said in a statement. "It's not our first choice, but it's a necessary part of the equation. There are consequences for breaking the law." And, perhaps, for firing up your computer.
Maybe they can look into suing the "clap on, clap off" lady for stealing applause.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Is Glenn Greenwald Capable Of A Poof In The Wind?
The real question is whether the wind is capable of holding his poofs?
My daughter liked Puff Daddy, for a while, until we all started calling him Fart Father.
Is there hope for Glenn Gassey Greenwald? Nah, he has become a victim of his own vapors.
the poof is in the putting
A whole new meaning for an intellectual Winnie the Pooh.
My daughter liked Puff Daddy, for a while, until we all started calling him Fart Father.
Is there hope for Glenn Gassey Greenwald? Nah, he has become a victim of his own vapors.
the poof is in the putting
A whole new meaning for an intellectual Winnie the Pooh.
Dear Onkyo, Sony, Panasonic, et al
In spite of your instructions and manuals we got your products to work today.
Why do you employ people who hate consumers so much?
UPDATE:
My bad;
"Why do you employ people who hate consumers so much?"
Should be;
"Why do you employ people who don't care enough about consumers to actually make your instruction manual work and make sense to those that are not nerd nubs?"
I am so sorry. Really.
Why do you employ people who hate consumers so much?
UPDATE:
My bad;
"Why do you employ people who hate consumers so much?"
Should be;
"Why do you employ people who don't care enough about consumers to actually make your instruction manual work and make sense to those that are not nerd nubs?"
I am so sorry. Really.
When Will The Emotionally Stupid Stop Rioting?
I've read all about the assassination in Pakistan. Musharraf, al-Qaeda, Taliban or which ever group of nuts that may have been responsible is really not important. They are all nuts. Every. single. one. of. them.
Here in America we have our own nuts. Years ago I lived through the murder of Martin Luther King which sparked the inner-cities to show their rage while also complaining that racism was unfair and it made them poor, so they burned down their inner-city stores, their houses and the places that employed them.
Not too many years later, nuts used cinder blocks against the skulls of people they dragged out of vehicles to show their anger as the fires they sparked burned their inner-city stores, their houses and the places that employed them because a second rate loser committed a second rate crime and the police were particularly nasty in the arrest. Rodney King then (a day late and a dollar short) whined, "Can't we all just get along?" as the riots he helped start burned on and more people were murdered.
Bhutto is dead. As Prime Minister she was twice found wanting. Some people are making her a saint. Some are asking hard questions. And, yes, a small sick group of pitiful losers are satisfied with their assassination. Most or many of that nation are rioting, murdering, destroying and burning or nodding their heads to the mayhem.
The ever present defenders of such stupid actions weep with symbiotic "understanding", sigh with wrenching emotion and stare with hard eyes at those of us that do not understand their passion for illogical action and inaction that destroys and murders in response to murder and destruction.
All of these actions are stupid and not understandable. To say they are understandable is stupid.
They are nuts. When will they all stop, shut up and go quietly home?
Here in America we have our own nuts. Years ago I lived through the murder of Martin Luther King which sparked the inner-cities to show their rage while also complaining that racism was unfair and it made them poor, so they burned down their inner-city stores, their houses and the places that employed them.
Not too many years later, nuts used cinder blocks against the skulls of people they dragged out of vehicles to show their anger as the fires they sparked burned their inner-city stores, their houses and the places that employed them because a second rate loser committed a second rate crime and the police were particularly nasty in the arrest. Rodney King then (a day late and a dollar short) whined, "Can't we all just get along?" as the riots he helped start burned on and more people were murdered.
Bhutto is dead. As Prime Minister she was twice found wanting. Some people are making her a saint. Some are asking hard questions. And, yes, a small sick group of pitiful losers are satisfied with their assassination. Most or many of that nation are rioting, murdering, destroying and burning or nodding their heads to the mayhem.
The ever present defenders of such stupid actions weep with symbiotic "understanding", sigh with wrenching emotion and stare with hard eyes at those of us that do not understand their passion for illogical action and inaction that destroys and murders in response to murder and destruction.
All of these actions are stupid and not understandable. To say they are understandable is stupid.
They are nuts. When will they all stop, shut up and go quietly home?
Friday, December 28, 2007
Smoke, 2nd Hand Smoke And Self Rightous Smugness Kills Truth
Smoking Ban Hits French Cafe Culture
France Consigns Smoky Cafes to History Under Broadening Smoking Ban
But many bartenders and restaurant staffers are looking forward to breathing easier and to clothes that don't stink of seeped-in odors from the clouds of smoke where they work.
Who ever wrote this crap either has never worked in a restaurant or is more than willing to bend the truth to make a point they believe worth making. Either way, well meaning or not, they are a liar.
As one who has worked in many restaurants it is with no effort I can re-smell garlic, yeast, oregano, fish, burned butter, oil and meat or the incredible mix of foods smashed onto the floor that needs to be scrapped up, hosed out and disposed of at the end of the working night. These are the smells, mixed with smoke, spilled beer and booze, one goes home with after a night working in a restaurant. Well, these things mixed with B.O., perfume, cheap cologne and bad breath.
“Seeped-in odors from clouds of smoke”? Yeah, right.
Was it that rough scaling Iwo Jima to single handedly hunt down and kill that paper-hanging sonofabitch in Berlin?
I hate drama queens.
France Consigns Smoky Cafes to History Under Broadening Smoking Ban
But many bartenders and restaurant staffers are looking forward to breathing easier and to clothes that don't stink of seeped-in odors from the clouds of smoke where they work.
Who ever wrote this crap either has never worked in a restaurant or is more than willing to bend the truth to make a point they believe worth making. Either way, well meaning or not, they are a liar.
As one who has worked in many restaurants it is with no effort I can re-smell garlic, yeast, oregano, fish, burned butter, oil and meat or the incredible mix of foods smashed onto the floor that needs to be scrapped up, hosed out and disposed of at the end of the working night. These are the smells, mixed with smoke, spilled beer and booze, one goes home with after a night working in a restaurant. Well, these things mixed with B.O., perfume, cheap cologne and bad breath.
“Seeped-in odors from clouds of smoke”? Yeah, right.
Was it that rough scaling Iwo Jima to single handedly hunt down and kill that paper-hanging sonofabitch in Berlin?
I hate drama queens.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Lord, Save Us From Eco-Morons Such As Dave Lindorff
Their arrogant dismissal of those they consider troglodytes, or less, is telling of their commitment to the truth.
Global Warming Will Save America from the Right...Eventually
by Dave Lindorff
There will be much work to be done to help the earth and its residents—human and non-human—survive this man-made catastrophe, and we can’t have these future refugee troglodytes, should their personal disasters still fail to make them recognize reality, mucking things up again.
A true acolyte of Al Gore.
Global Warming Will Save America from the Right...Eventually
by Dave Lindorff
There will be much work to be done to help the earth and its residents—human and non-human—survive this man-made catastrophe, and we can’t have these future refugee troglodytes, should their personal disasters still fail to make them recognize reality, mucking things up again.
A true acolyte of Al Gore.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
A Christmas Present From The Taxers
Plan Would Let Seniors Work to Pay Taxes
NY Town Wants to Start Program to Let Senior Citizens Work Off Property Taxes, for $7 an Hour
Perhaps they might think about lowering taxes. That would be a real gift. From any government.
NY Town Wants to Start Program to Let Senior Citizens Work Off Property Taxes, for $7 an Hour
Perhaps they might think about lowering taxes. That would be a real gift. From any government.
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