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Sticky PostingsNeed a web site? A blog? A podcast? A domain? src="http://rt.trafficfacts.com/tf.php?k=2066g20df04a25f6b76003f1e9c9e8cbad9652f100518h8;c=s"> Thursday, May 8. 2008My humble solution to the HRC problem
As I was out and abouth this week, I chanced upon the post-NC primary episode of the Diane Rheams show. Her 3 guests were all in agreement that Hillary Clinton needed to get out of the way, but, that like a guest that just doesn't want to leave when you are yawning at the door, this might be a problem. Being Beltway operatives, they were all talking about ways to allow her to save face in a carrot-and-stick kind of way. These folks think she should be offered the Vice president's slot, or have her campaign debts paid off. Neither of these are very good - Hillary is not going to settle for second place, no matter how powerful Darth Cheney has made it, and with the really BIG, important election coming up, Democrats need all the money they can use for all the congressional, senate, and presidential races. Based on some of the blogs I've been reading lately, quite a few in the general public are beyond the niceties of negotiating and just want her out. NOW.
I have to give credit to my beloved for coming up with what I feel is a perfect solution - Give her the next open slot on the Supreme Court. Consider: 1) Supreme Court Justice is a powerful enough position to assuage the loss of the presidency. 2) The Court is so out of balance right now that we really need a hard left shift to even it out. 3) Poor Bader-Ginsburg needs another woman to speak for half of the country. 4) All the corporate media and pundits would be so busy frothing at the mouth over her that Obama could actually get the important business of running the country done. and most importantly 5) It would be so much fun to see Fat Tony, Clarence, Roberts, and Scalito blow their respective gaskets. It might even be good for them to be challenged and have to think about the issues, rather than rubber-stamping every leftover Bush whim. Note from my Beloved: When I first made this observation over a year ago, Senator Clinton was not running for the Republican nomination, as she is now, so, the idea of appointing Clinton to the Supreme Court might horrify some people. Because she has some of the stupidest political advisers fistfuls of money can buy, she has been running a hard right campaign because they told her that's how she wins. As a Supreme Court Justice is not a job you have to run for, and once you're in, death is about the only thing that will dislodge you, she could happily return to the more liberal and sensible Hillary of the early 90's. Just the idea of his would give Pat Robertson an aneurysm, and it doesn't get better than that. Let's party likes it's 1938
Roman mayor vows purge of gypsies
Irish Independent The new mayor of Rome promised yesterday to purge the Italian capital of 20,000 illegal immigrants and to raze 85 Roma Gypsy camps.Folks, we are replaying the 1930's with America starring as Germany, and Italy reprising its original role. For the record, the last time this bright idea was implemented, 500,000 "gypsies" were sent to their deaths, along with millions of Jews, gays, communists and other defectives. Wednesday, April 23. 2008The bizarre logic of the chattering classes
I was listening to NPR this morning and Mara Laison was prattling on about Sen. Clinton's big win and how poorly Obama did among white voters. She also said that this re-enforces the problem that if Obama win in the big states like PA, he's unelectable in the November.
We then learn from that Obama was hurt by high voter turn out, despite registering 180,000 new Democrats. Finally, David Greene tells us that Clinton is gaining momentum. OK, fact time. Yes, Clinton won Pennsylvania last night. No question. A month ago she was supposed to win by 19-20%. Instead she won by less than 9%, so it would seem this 180,000 new Democrats Obama registered did come into play. Clinton picks up 10-20 more delegates, but still trails Obama by about 150 delegates. Kos shows us that that Obama has made inroads amongst every Clinton demographic group since the Ohio primary (though I am confused at how Obama could decline among those with a college education and those without. Seems one should have gone up while the other went down). If anyone would seem to be "gaining momentum" it would be Obama. The greatest warping of logic comes from the claim that because Obama loses in big states like Pennsylvania and Ohio, he is unelectable in November. Apparently, Democrats who voted for Clinton will vote for a Republican in November, rather than the Democratic candidate of their party. By this logic, every one who voted for Romney, Paul, Huckabee, et al, will vote for the Democrat rather than the Republican candidate. Seems like a wash to me. Freepers or, "Lay Off That Stuff, Guys. It'll Kill Yah!"
“is there a Tony Snow’s tumor appreciation thread? I hope his tumor makes a full recovery from that bad case of Tony it’s got.” It’s one thing to blurt out something hateful on the spur of the moment -- to say “good” after hearing news of some personal tragedy striking a public figure you despise. It’s another thing to sit down and write something celebrating such a tragedy, proofread it, and then hit the send button so that it’s posted on a public forum. And it’s quite another thing to embrace hatred in this manner, and attack anyone who refuses to join in. The current freepification of political rhetoric is understandable on an intellectual level in the same way that intoxication is understandable. We’ve all seen at some point in our lives the person who’s had a few too many and who truly believes that he or she is being funny and/or brave, and/or brilliant. Such drunks will often get belligerent with anyone who tries to get them to sit down, shut up, and eat something. And if you dare to touch their bottles or put a full glass out of their reach – well, they sometimes have to be physically restrained from smacking you. You are now officially their enemy. Not so long ago getting drunk on hatred was mainly the province of people who posted to sites like Free Republic or Little Green Footballs. Unfortunately, quite a few people on the left side of the political equation have apparently watched Freepers post on subjects like the death of Paul Wellstone, Rachel Corrie, and Marla Ruzicka, and, instead of being revolted, have been envious. “Kewel!” they’ve exclaimed. “We should do that!” And so they ran out and bought themselves case of the same stuff, guzzled it down, and are now staggering around the blogosphere slurring their words, waving their fists, and throwing up on anyone who gets in their way. They are distinguishable from Freepers only because they insert the names of right-wingers or perceived right-wingers in the places where Freepers would insert the names of liberals or perceived liberals. And to make the spectacle truly pathetic, they seem to fondly imagine themselves as courageous defenders of their cause, tough hombres contemptuously brushing aside all those weak namby-pambys who draw the line at gloating about a man quite possibly dying from cancer. One of the side effects of hate intoxication is a blurring of vision, an inability to perceive nuance. Objecting to their behavior is instantly interpreted as praise for the individuals they’ve attacked. “Wassamatta wid you” they ask, focusing blearily on the person who’s just objected to Hillary Clinton being called a “fucking whore” or has expressed the hope for Tony Snow’s recovery. “You some kinda big fanna Bush? You think you’re some kinda high and mighty saint?” Frequently they’ll launch into imitations, miming attempts at common decency. “Oh, geeze, poooooooor so-and-so! He just got rushed to the hospital! Ima gonna cry!” Then, “Nope!” they’ll declare triumphantly, with all the archness of that man at the end of the bar who’s had four strong martinis and thinks he’s being cute, “the tears just ain’t cummin. I’m a baaad, baaaaaaad person!” Another symptom is a queasiness that’s at odds with the macho stance these guys frequently adopt. One minute they’re marching about unshaven, an ammo belt draped over their chest, a cigar stub clenched in their gritted teeth, railing about all those squeamish sissies who don’t courageously join in cheering some horrific personal tragedy striking either a Republican or a perceived Republican. The next minute they’re asking to be excused because, faced with the statement that the Republican or perceived Republican is a human being, Sergeant Rock’s tummy has gone all flopsie and he has to go upchuck in the bushes. Sorry to spoil the fun guys, but you really need to lay off that stuff. It’ll kill ya. Yes, I know, while you’re on it you feel ever so tough, ever so smart and strong and brave, but that’s just an illusion. To anyone who’s not drinking from that bottle you look as dumb, out of control, and easily manipulated as any Freeper. Monday, April 21. 2008Reading Between the Lines, Pt. 2
Reading Between the Lines of 2008 Primary Voter Guide
Text taken from NC Public Funding Programs 2008 Primary Voter Guide : NC Board of Elections Again, in the interest of helping the confused liberal/progressive voter, here is a humble attempt (and personal opinion) to determine which candidates have ideas and qualifications that might be appealing. Our picks for consideration are in BOLD type. This time it's the candidates for Auditor, Commissioner of Insurance, and Superintendent of Public Instruction. Auditor Beth A. Wood Occupation: Case Investigator Endorsements: NC State AFL-CIO; Ralph A. Campbell, Jr., Former Democratic State Auditor; WA Br Broadus, CPA, PC, Chairman of AICPA Government & Not-For-Profit Conference Steering Committee. Personal Statement: “I have been a CPA for 20 years, I have 15 years experience in State government, 10 years in the State Auditor's Office, and I train CPA's across the nation in government accounting & auditing”. Fred Aikens Occupation: Career State Employee with service in the Legislative and Executive Branches of State Government. Which means you did...what exactly? Endorsement: None yet Personal Statement: “Qualifications: Senior Fiscal/Budget Analyst for the Legislature (15 years), Senior Executive in 2 of the largest agencies (yes, but what are they?) in State Government, one encompassing oversight responsibility for a $2.5 B per year budget and 15,000 employees, plus a strong military background that included positions of significant responsibility in the Global War Against Terrorism and command of troops during wartime in the Iraqi Theater of Operation.” Warning Bells: Where do I start? When I think of auditors and accountants, I think of sober, responsible individuals focused on managing money, not Rambo with a calculator and an AK-47. I like my auditors BORINGLY normal. I'm sure Enron and Bear Sterns had “exciting” auditors, and we all know how that turned out. Also, when was the last time the military handled money responsibly? He especially lost me at the idea of giving someone the power to rifle through bank accounts in the name of the “Global War against Terrorism”. Ask Eliot Spitzer how he likes that.... Commissioner of Insurance Wayne Goodwin Occupation: Asst. Commissioner of Insurance: Asst. State Fire Marshall; NC Dept of Insurance, 2005-present Personal Statement: "What distinguishes me from my opponent? I am NOT affliated with the insurance industry. I am for “the People”. I’m the first Insurance Commissioner candidate to refuse special interest money, and the first to accept fundraising limits. My opponents continue to accept special interest money. It will be my honor to continue Jim Long’s legacy.” Warning Bells: Oooh, this is a tough one, because I really liked Jim Long, and I enjoy Mr. Goodwin's blog (Wayne's World), BUT after reading through his opponent's (singular) statement, I really can't find strong evidence that he has done what Goodwin has said (Smith stated he has modest self-imposed limits). Goodwin appears to have the whole backing and blessing of the Democratic machinery and mucky-mucks behind him, and to be honest, I'm not necessarily sure about that (see, Kay Hagan). Also, Mr. Smith said the magic words that really get my attention: "making health care reform a top priority". David G. Smith Occupation: Attorney Personal Elective offices held: None Personal Statement: “I am a participant in the Voter-Owned Elections Program. I will not accept any campaign contribution of more than $200 from any contributor to avoid any appearance of conflict of interest in my job as your Commissioner of Insurance. Once elected, I will commit to keeping insurance costs low for our state’s citizens, making health care reform a top priority and punish those who commit insurance fraud in our state.” Superintendent of Public Instruction Eddie Davis Occupation: 30-Year Classroom Teacher Personal Statement: "As we look toward the future, Davis believes that students need stronger critical thinking skills, whether they are headed to college or to the workplace. Standardized testing is very important, however , our schools must focus on teaching the "whole child" if our students are to be prepared to answer the challenges of the 21st Century. Davis pledges to spend the majority of his time working with parents and students to develop programs the will reduce dropouts and eliminate achievement gaps." Some friendly advice? What you say is good, Peel thinks you need to ditch the creepy way of referring to yourself in the third person. June St. Clair Atkinson Occupation: Educator, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Educational administrator, Public school teacher. All at the same time? Personal Statement: I will focus on all students being excellent readers and having access to technology. All educators must work in schools where students demonstrate respect and personal responsibility. To meet these goals, we must continue to build partnerships with parents, business people, and interested citizens and make major changes in No Child Left Behind. Like jettisoning that idea? Warning bells: Both candidates have good qualifications, but I tend toward Mr. Davis because he mentions working with the students, and not business people. If you want to know why my antipathy towards the business world mingling in our schools, please check out this post, Born to Buy: The Commercialization of Public Schools on The Simple Dollar. Very scary stuff that should concern any parent. Also doesn't sound opposed enough to NCLB. Blaiming the victim, the ongoing saga
King, School To Blame, Says Defense Lawyer
Queerty.com The debate over who’s to blame for Lawrence King’s death continues to rage two months after his murder.Hmmm...If "imposing" one's "sexuality" on another is grounds for murder, then that would mean that any girl approached by a boy for a date could be shot dead if the girl didn't like him. After all, he would be "imposing his sexuality" on her. Also, wouldn't that mean that gays or lesbians approached by heterosexuals could also kill for the same reason? What about the imposition of other objectionable behavior. Can I shoot someone for trying to impose their religion on me? How about their political opinion? I find myself fearing for my life when degenerates start spouting off the latest Rush Limbaugh talking points, so wouldn't I be justified in defending myself before it is too late? While I hope the jury doesn't buy this, I also hope that the prosecution will get a clue The have, in their infinite stupidity, decided to try a 14 year-old as an adult. Sunday, April 20. 2008McCain's cheerleader accuses Obama of being McCain's cheerleader
Clinton yesterday:
Now, you heard Congressman Murtha refer to this. Senator Obama said today that John McCain would be better for the country than George Bush. Now, Senator McCain is a real American patriot who has served our country with distinction, but Senator McCain would follow the same failed policies that have been so wrong for our country the last seven years.A paramecium would be better than Bush. A mentally-retarded paramecium with severe brain damage, a crystal meth habit and Tourette's Syndrome would be better than Bush. What Obama actually said: Obama also paid the Republican presidential nominee-in-waiting a backhanded compliment. “Either Democrat would be better than John McCain,” he told an audience in Reading. “And all three of us would be better than George Bush.”Obama complimented Clinton by saying that she would be better than McCain, then highlighted how bad Bush was by saying even McCain, who they are better than, would be better than Bush. Try to find the compliment to Obama in this statement by Clinton made on four separate occasions: "I have a lifetime of experience that I will bring to the White House. I know Senator McCain has a lifetime of experience that he will bring to the White House. And Senator Obama has a speech he gave in 2002." Reading Between the Lines Pt. 1 - N.C. Court of Appeals
Reading Between the Lines of 2008 Primary Voter Guide
Text taken from NC Public Funding Programs 2008 Primary Voter Guide : NC Board of Elections By this time, North Carolinians should have received this useful information on the races a lot of people don't pay attention to, and should. The brochure contains basic background info and personal statements on the candidates for judicial elections, auditor, commissioner of insurance, and superintendent of public education, offices all of which we will probably encounter at some point in our day-to-day living (like when you write your check for car insurance, have to go to court for jury duty or other business, or send a child to public school). Judicial candidates are supposed to be non-politicial, but being human beings and that we do not have a "Neutral" Party or something like Robert Heinlein's Fair Witness program, candidates can indicate tendencies toward certain ideologies... So in the interest of helping the confused liberal/progressive voter, here is a humble attempt (and personal opinion) to determine which candidates have ideas and qualifications that might be appealing. Our picks for consideration are in BOLD type. First up: NC Court of Appeals (1 Seat open) Jewel Ann Farlow Occupation: Lawyer Date admitted to the Bar: Aug.19th, 1988 Warning Bell: in Personal Statement: “My civil practice includes representation of clients in the areas of family law, domestic violence, contract, collection, personal injury, Landlord/Tenant, and bankruptcy law.” Her first couple of clients are commendable, but I can't help but think the following when I see these: Collection= hounding people for credit card companies;Personal injury=ambulance chaser; Landlord/Tenant=depends on which side she's arguing for.... The kicker is she's been endorsed by the Republicans. Dean R. Poirier Occupation: Appeals Referee & Adjunct Instructor of Law Date admitted to the Bar: Admitted to practice, N.C., 1993. U.S. District Court , Eastern District of N.C., 1993. Warning Bells: Lists among employers Liberty University. Have not yet been able to verify this is THE Liberty University of Falwell fame, but based on the amount of religious statements on his website, it's probably a safe assumption. In Personal Statement:“I believe in “Judicial Humility” as opposed to “Judicial Arrogance”, “Judicial Restraint” as opposed to “Judicial Activism”…judges should defer to the elected branches of the federal and state governments with respect to policy so long as they stay within the confines of their powers as defined by the U.S. and State constitutions.” "Judicial Activism" is neo-con code word for not enforcing the law, but ceding power to the other branches of government. Based on his deep religious beliefs and attitude of staying out of the way, I worry that he would not be too concerned about that whole separation of church and state thing. James A (Jim) Wynn Occupation: Appellate Judge Date admitted to the Bar: 1979 Personal Statement: “I write and speak nationally about judicial independence including as Chair of the ABA’s Judicial Division. Because of my hard work and experience, I have been endorsed by, among others, the N.C. Association of Educators, N.C. Academy of Trial Lawyers, and Democratic and Republican Former Chief Justices of the N.C. Supreme Court – Burley Mitchell, James Exum, Henry Frye, and Rhoda Billings.” N.C. Court of Appeals (1 seat open) Sam J. Ervin IV Occupation: Commissioner, N.C. Utilities Commission Date admitted to the Bar: 1981 Warning Bells: The name “Ervin” carries a lot of historical weight and expectations. While I give him points for not drawing on that family connection, I have reservations about the Utilities Commissioner post and some of his past statements regarding energy. Janet Pueschel Occupation: Attorney Date admitted to the Bar: 1992 Warning Bells: No personal statement provided. 'Nuff said. Kristin Ruth Occupation: Judge, District Court (Wake County) Date admitted to the Bar: 1990 Legal/Judicial Experience: Recognized nationally as an authority on child support enforcement. Member, Governor’s Commission on Responsible Fatherhood (2000); Board of Directors, Carolina Dispute Settlement Services; Chief Justice’s Commission on Professionalism (2003-2006); Member, Federal Task Force on Child Support; Service of Excellence Award, NC Child Support Council (2000); American Business Woman of the Year (2003); Judge of the Year, Federal Office of Child Support Enforcement (2004). John M. Tyson Occupation: Judge, N.C. Court of Appeals Date Admitted to the Bar: 1980 Warning Bells: Legal/Judicial Experience: Board Certified Specialist, Real Property Law NC State Bar 2001; Private law practice: Real Estate Dir. And Counsel, Revco Drug & Family Dollar (1980-1993). Endorsements: Home Builders Assoc., Cumberland Conservatives. Sounds a bit too cozy with the realtors/developers, don't really consider counsel for corporate stores to be a great endorsement, definitely do not consider the Cumberland Consevatives to be a great endorsement. Haven't we got too many conservatives in the court system already? Wednesday, April 16. 2008More oil news, and not good
Fears that Russian oil output has hit its peak
The Financial Times (UK) Russian oil production has peaked, one of the country's top energy executives has warned, fuelling concerns that the world's biggest oil producers cannot keep up with rampant Asian demand.Not good on a lot of levels. The obvious ones are higher prices and spiraling inflation. The long term problem becomes political instability in a country with a massive arsenal of atomic weapons. Tuesday, April 15. 2008And since it is a day for oil hype...
Survey says oil field holds 3B barrels
The Oklahoman Federal officials estimate an oil field known as the Bakken Formation in North Dakota and Montana has an estimated 3 billion barrels of recoverable oil that hasn't been found.1) These are Federal officials working for the Bush Administration. All pronouncements are considered bald-faced lies until vetted by actual adults. 2) 3 billions barrels of oil will run the U.S. for 150 days. 3) The oil is locked in shale, and will be expensive to extract. It will also take a lot of time to extract the oil, if it does, in fact, exist. Israel behaves like small child
Carter Denied Security During Israel Visit
Reuters Israel's secret service has declined to assist U.S. agents guarding former U.S. President Jimmy Carter during a visit in which Israeli leaders have shunned him, U.S. sources close to the matter said on Monday.We certainly mustn't allow any chance for peace to break out. |
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