Simply Left Behind: Reframing The Propaganda: The Non-Rapturist's Guide To The Galaxy: "...I'm not sure who to root for, to be honest. Part of me sees a chance to have a Democratic hegemony for the bulk of this century and thinks that's a good thing, so wants the Rushians to win. Part of me remembers that thirty year old ideas get stale for both sides and that Bill Clinton was most successful when he co-opted some obscure Publican ideas and gave them his own spin, so I'd like to see McCain wrest the party back.
Either way, we're witnessing the end of conservatism."
I rarely disagree with Carl, but this time I do. I don't see the Limbaugh-Coulter-Malkin wing of the GOP as conservative-- they are reactionary-- it's not enough to go slow, carefully way choices, and slowly commit to change, "The Rushians" want to roll back time to some bygone, halcyon era when, you know, slavery was more legal than it is now. That is not conservative. I do hope we're see the end of reactionaryism (jeez, what an ugly word).
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Who's Your Party?
Charlotte Front and Center: Tea Party Tax Payers Have Found John Galt: "...Who is threatened by the Tea Party Movement? Corrupt politicians that flood both parties with their lobbyist friends in tow; Wall Street whose greed continues to bleed consumers with its corrupt business practices;and those who stand to gain political power from a nationalization of every industry that once defined the dreams of the American citizen.
Will the Tea Parties be successful in their goals? Hopefully so. If enough citizens join in protest then John Galt steps forward. If the media is able to dissuade the public in general, then John Galt goes back into hiding until Americans have had enough."
Don't know who John Galt is? Try this, though I like this better.
Will the Tea Parties be successful in their goals? Hopefully so. If enough citizens join in protest then John Galt steps forward. If the media is able to dissuade the public in general, then John Galt goes back into hiding until Americans have had enough."
Don't know who John Galt is? Try this, though I like this better.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
A Real Blast From The Past
TG Daily - NASA satellite observes ancient gamma-ray burst: "Houston (TX) - A NASA satellite has observed a gamma-ray burst from an ancient star that died when the universe was only 630 million years old.
The event, known as GRB 090423, was the most distant cosmic explosion ever recorded.
'The Swift [satellite] was designed to catch these very distant bursts,' explained Swift lead scientist Neil Gehrels. 'The incredible distance to this burst exceeded our greatest expectations - it was a true blast from the past...'"
The event, known as GRB 090423, was the most distant cosmic explosion ever recorded.
'The Swift [satellite] was designed to catch these very distant bursts,' explained Swift lead scientist Neil Gehrels. 'The incredible distance to this burst exceeded our greatest expectations - it was a true blast from the past...'"
When Turncoats Become Patriots
SNAP ANALYSIS: Specter defection a sharp blow to Republicans | Reuters: "WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Senator Arlen Specter's abrupt move to switch allegiance to President Barack Obama's Democratic Party was a sharp blow to Republicans and will likely generate more soul-searching for the minority party.
His decision to seek re-election as a Democrat next year was a nakedly political move to hang on to power..."
So if he comes over our side, is he our hero? Well, since my side has left me (mostly) alone in the middle, I'm not particularly excited about this move. The Democrats lost a few after big Bush wins, too, so what goes around, comes around (swine flu, hopefully, excepted).
His decision to seek re-election as a Democrat next year was a nakedly political move to hang on to power..."
So if he comes over our side, is he our hero? Well, since my side has left me (mostly) alone in the middle, I'm not particularly excited about this move. The Democrats lost a few after big Bush wins, too, so what goes around, comes around (swine flu, hopefully, excepted).
Monday, April 27, 2009
Approval Ratings
Evening News: Iceland Has a Lezzie PM! WHHHHOOO HOOOOO! « The Confluence: "...Major News outlets are polling Bam’s Approval ratings at 60 percent. But examination of those polls seem to indicate that Democrats are being oversampled. I’ve noticed that Democrats are sampled more than Republicans, and Independents are barely sampled at all. 60 percent isn’t all that good of an approval rating to begin with after 100 days. It is the same as Dubya’s was, and much worse than JFK’s and Reagan’s. But judging by the (likely deliberate) sampling errors in major Opinion Polls, it would appear as though Bam’s approval rating is actually lower than 60 percent.
In other words, Dear Leaders supposedly amazing “Popularity” is, like everything else about him, over rated."
In other words, Dear Leaders supposedly amazing “Popularity” is, like everything else about him, over rated."
Flogging Nancy
Nancy: The Hits Keep Comin’ : NO QUARTER
'When one attempts to obsure, deflect, and outright prevaricate as much as Speaker Nancy Pelosi, one can expect critics galore. And that’s just what’s happened. Politico’s Glenn Thrush has been hammering Nancy hard. This article was published less than an hour ago:“Pelosi playing defense on torture“...'
'When one attempts to obsure, deflect, and outright prevaricate as much as Speaker Nancy Pelosi, one can expect critics galore. And that’s just what’s happened. Politico’s Glenn Thrush has been hammering Nancy hard. This article was published less than an hour ago:“Pelosi playing defense on torture“...'
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Single Payer Blues
Cannonfire-'Health Care Reform': "Health care reform is actually possible. The Republicans cannot filibuster. First the first time in my memory, the single-payer option is viable. Unfortunately, Obama and Pelosi seem wedded to the idea of keeping private insurers -- otherwise known as USELESS LEECHES -- in the system..."
You mean we no longer need HMO executives making millions per year for denying people the health benefits they paid for? Go figure. You mean insurance salesmen would once again have to rely on mandatory auto insurance and (should be mandatory) life insurance sales to bring home the (heart attack) bacon?
Update: Simply Left Behind has an excellent post on this topic, also.
You mean we no longer need HMO executives making millions per year for denying people the health benefits they paid for? Go figure. You mean insurance salesmen would once again have to rely on mandatory auto insurance and (should be mandatory) life insurance sales to bring home the (heart attack) bacon?
Update: Simply Left Behind has an excellent post on this topic, also.
Vivid Losing
Dana Milbank - Obama, McCain Campaign Chiefs Come Clean - washingtonpost.com: "...On McCain's acceptance of inevitable defeat: 'I was waiting for his bus to crash into a CDC truck carrying bubonic plague to release over Cincinnati and Ohio. It was just one thing after another, you know, and never to our benefit...'"
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Lying Liars And The Lies They Tell
Nancy Pelosi Is Lying : NO QUARTER: "Now that President Obama has teed her up — by releasing documents before he thought out all the possible repercussions (except, he thought, to make his MoveOn crowd happy [as if]) — Nancy Pelosi is yowling loudly no way no how, no siree, au contraire, that she was aware that she and lead Congressional members were explicitly informed about waterboarding. Rep. Pete Hoekstra who was in on the THIRTY meetings informing members of Congress about what was going on, confirms that “they knew and knew in detail exactly what was going on...”"
Abortion Foreign Policy
Clinton Grilled Over Abortion Views At Committee Hearing - Talk Radio News Service: "...From the Republican side, Clinton was asked multiple questions on her thoughts relating to abortion around the world. Congressman Christopher Smith (R-N.J.) led the talk by asking whether “the Obama administration would be seeking in any way to weaken or over-turn pro-life laws and policies in African and Latin American countries either directly or through multilateral organizations.” Clinton told the committee, “It is my strongly held view that you are entitled to advocate and everyone who agrees with you should be free to do so anywhere in the world and so are we. We happen to think that family planning is an important part of women’s health and reproductive health includes access to abortion, that I believe should be safe, legal and rare.”
Clinton told the committee that during her time as First Lady helped create the campaign against teen pregnancy which saw the rate of teen pregnancy decrease. She said, “I am sad to report that after an administration of 8-years that undone so much of the good work, the rate of teenage pregnancy is going up”. To which she received applaud from members of the public listening at the hearing..."
"Grilled...four hours...abortion..." That seems way over the top for the Secretary of State.
Clinton told the committee that during her time as First Lady helped create the campaign against teen pregnancy which saw the rate of teen pregnancy decrease. She said, “I am sad to report that after an administration of 8-years that undone so much of the good work, the rate of teenage pregnancy is going up”. To which she received applaud from members of the public listening at the hearing..."
"Grilled...four hours...abortion..." That seems way over the top for the Secretary of State.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Dem Maneuvering
Democrats may maneuver around GOP filibuster on healthcare legislation - Los Angeles Times: "Removing a major obstacle to the sweeping healthcare legislation sought by President Obama, senior Democrats on Capitol Hill have agreed to deny Republicans the power to block action by filibustering in the Senate, according to Democratic congressional officials.
The maneuver -- which Democrats hope to formally approve in a budget resolution next week -- threatens to spark a revolt by GOP lawmakers and could complicate Democratic efforts to push through other high-priority proposals on their agenda..."
The maneuver -- which Democrats hope to formally approve in a budget resolution next week -- threatens to spark a revolt by GOP lawmakers and could complicate Democratic efforts to push through other high-priority proposals on their agenda..."
Thursday, April 23, 2009
The Daily Uh-Oh
Opposition grows to Pakistan's Taliban pact - washingtonpost.com: "...fter failing to quell the Taliban through force, President Asif Ali Zardari last week approved enforcement of Islamic sharia law in the Swat valley and adjoining areas despite criticism from Western governments and Pakistani liberals and rights groups.
Critics said the approval of sharia law in the valley, 125 km (80 miles) northwest of Islamabad, was akin to appeasing the militants.
Within days they forced their way into a new district closer to the capital, refused to lay down their arms and said their aim was to push their harsh version of Islam across the country.
'They are now threatening to get out of Swat and take other areas into their custody. So we've got to avoid that situation,' former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said in an interview with USA Today published Wednesday.
Sharif is seen as the most popular politician in Pakistan after he forced Zardari to give in on a confrontation over the independence of the judiciary last month..."
Critics said the approval of sharia law in the valley, 125 km (80 miles) northwest of Islamabad, was akin to appeasing the militants.
Within days they forced their way into a new district closer to the capital, refused to lay down their arms and said their aim was to push their harsh version of Islam across the country.
'They are now threatening to get out of Swat and take other areas into their custody. So we've got to avoid that situation,' former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said in an interview with USA Today published Wednesday.
Sharif is seen as the most popular politician in Pakistan after he forced Zardari to give in on a confrontation over the independence of the judiciary last month..."
Death In The Electronic Family
So Long, GeoCities: We Forgot You Still Existed - PC World: "GeoCities, a free Web hosting service that achieved fame in the mid-90s, died Thursday at the Yahoo headquarters in Silicon Valley. GeoCities was 15 years old.
GeoCities had suffered a long and drawn-out battle with its health over the past decade. An antiquated service model and outdated technology are widely blamed for the struggle. An official cause of death, however, has yet to be determined..."
GeoCities had suffered a long and drawn-out battle with its health over the past decade. An antiquated service model and outdated technology are widely blamed for the struggle. An official cause of death, however, has yet to be determined..."
More On Miss CA
A Storm is Gaythering « The Confluence: "...I clicked on it, expecting some stupid rant similar to the one above in NOM’s Marriage Ad, but all she really said was, “I was raised to believe that Marriage should be between a man and a woman.”
Well, obviously I disagree. I do support Gay Marriage personally. I don’t always agree with Wanda Sykes, but I like what she says, “If you’re against same sex marriage, then don’t marry someone of the same sex!” And I do think that Same Sex Marriage Laws should be left to the states, but I think equality of benefits is a right..."
Amen.
Well, obviously I disagree. I do support Gay Marriage personally. I don’t always agree with Wanda Sykes, but I like what she says, “If you’re against same sex marriage, then don’t marry someone of the same sex!” And I do think that Same Sex Marriage Laws should be left to the states, but I think equality of benefits is a right..."
Amen.
Tin Foil Sales Increase
Cannonfire has the inside dope on the passport scandal involving Sen. Clinton, et. al.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Palin Gets Hillaryed
The Sarah Palin Project: Eye of Newt and RINO Tails « The Confluence: "...Speaking as someone who remains a loyal supporter of Sarah Palin , there remains for me an open ended question of whether or not her bid for the presidency in 2012 will be sincerely supported by the GOP. Especially, the many elephants and RINOs that pee standing up.
Newt’s carefully crafted responses suggests a continuing pattern of the Republican patriarchy that is dismissive towards Sarah Palin. Newt’s interview in particular presents a more obvious attempt at her marginalization. On its face, Newt’s opinion of Palin has to be taken with a grain of salt- as it is one that comes from a man who has historically questioned the authority of women. He mentions Sarah’s appeal to media as one possible limitation to her bid in 2012. If I were Newt, I would not bring up personal relationships and media scrutiny (cough, cough).
Newt’s recent slight of Palin is not an isolated case. When interviews among other GOP males are examined collectively, their responses towards Palin tells a similar story. Palin’s former presidential running mate John McCain, exhibited a common air of discomfort and unresponsiveness when questioned about Palin’s political future within the Republican party. On one Jay Leno appearance McCain failed to even mention Palin..."
Newt’s carefully crafted responses suggests a continuing pattern of the Republican patriarchy that is dismissive towards Sarah Palin. Newt’s interview in particular presents a more obvious attempt at her marginalization. On its face, Newt’s opinion of Palin has to be taken with a grain of salt- as it is one that comes from a man who has historically questioned the authority of women. He mentions Sarah’s appeal to media as one possible limitation to her bid in 2012. If I were Newt, I would not bring up personal relationships and media scrutiny (cough, cough).
Newt’s recent slight of Palin is not an isolated case. When interviews among other GOP males are examined collectively, their responses towards Palin tells a similar story. Palin’s former presidential running mate John McCain, exhibited a common air of discomfort and unresponsiveness when questioned about Palin’s political future within the Republican party. On one Jay Leno appearance McCain failed to even mention Palin..."
From The Dangerous Precedent Department
Obama announces plan to lease federal waters for clean energy - CNN.com: "NEWTON, Iowa (CNN) -- President Obama marked Earth Day Wednesday by announcing a new initiative to lease federal waters for the purpose of generating electricity from wind and ocean currents..." Like communism and ice cream, this idea sounds good on paper, but it bothers me...
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Nutty Medical News
BBC NEWS | Health | Walnuts may prevent breast cancer: "Eating walnuts may help to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, research suggests.
The nuts contain ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and phytosterols that may all reduce the risk of the disease..."
The nuts contain ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and phytosterols that may all reduce the risk of the disease..."
The Boo-Hooing Of The Rich
This little ditty is guaranteed to give that blood pressure medicine a workout: The Rage of the Privileged Class As It Loses Its Privileges -- New York Magazine.
Gay Rights And Miss America
Actor212 hits a homer with this post about the gay rights/ Miss America controversy: Simply Left Behind: The Non-Rapturist's Guide To The Galaxy--"Hanoi Hilton".
Monday, April 20, 2009
Universal Health Would Help All
Insurance can reduce health disparities - UPI.com: "BOSTON, April 20 (UPI) -- Universal healthcare coverage may reduce numerous types of health disparities in the general population, officials of a U.S. non-profit group said..."
The rest of the post explains the methodology in the study, which seems to indicate a very positive outlook for universal health doing a great deal of public good.
The rest of the post explains the methodology in the study, which seems to indicate a very positive outlook for universal health doing a great deal of public good.
Will Video On Demand Suck Less Now?
Adobe To Move Flash Into Digital TVs -- Television -- InformationWeek: "Adobe (NSDQ: ADBE) on Monday said its Flash platform for running rich Internet applications and playing online video will ship in major vendors' digital TVs and set-top boxes in the second half of the year.
Flash will be incorporated in the system-on-a-chip products from Broadcom (NSDQ: BRCM), Intel (NSDQ: INTC), NXP, Sigma Designs, and Mediatek. The integration will extend Adobe's reach with Flash beyond PCs and mobile phones..."
Or will we still get our politics in stuttering, jerky gasps?
Flash will be incorporated in the system-on-a-chip products from Broadcom (NSDQ: BRCM), Intel (NSDQ: INTC), NXP, Sigma Designs, and Mediatek. The integration will extend Adobe's reach with Flash beyond PCs and mobile phones..."
Or will we still get our politics in stuttering, jerky gasps?
O'Errors O'barrsment!
That title sounds vaguely like an opera, which may be fitting. If you have your doubts about the President, you might oughta hustle over to NO QUARTER and read a string of posts that will confirm your suspicions.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
We're Safe!
The Associated Press: White House: US has tools needed to protect nation. The article notes that the media from the White House is a push-back over the Bush-regime griping about the release of the "secret" (that everyone and his dog knew about) torture memos. The Bush Criminals get no sympathy from me, and neither do the Obama Criminals, but all the whining has much more to do with CYA than with national security.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Puma Primaries
Saturday: Forest and trees and The Marshall Plan « The Confluence: "...Where am I going with this? Oh, yeah. I was going to write today about the PUMA movement and principles. I believe that a successful movement is based on principles. I also believe that we are at a time in our nation’s history when the public is so fed up with the two party system that there is a window of opportunity to make a real change and the political principles of either party aren’t as relevent at the present time. Our social safety net in this country is so fragile that it only takes a couple of missed paychecks or a catastrophic illness to put a family into insolvency. The steady erosion of our quality of life has happened under the auspices of both parties through deregulation, regressive taxation, union busting and the outright fraud perpetrated by the financial industry and their cronies in the business management field. Before the election last year, we knew that the Republican party was morally bankrupt but who would have suspected before November 2008 that Democrats would also seek the path of least resistance and sell us out? Well, *us*. We believed it because we watched it happening in real time with our eyes wide open and our minds unclouded by propaganda. But now, many more people know it too..."
So get out there and run in the primaries! Who knows, maybe we can elect a few Pumacrats.
So get out there and run in the primaries! Who knows, maybe we can elect a few Pumacrats.
Obama Overreaction
Charlotte Front and Center: Georgetown Asked to Cover Name of Jesus for Obama Address
"Before Obama spoke last Tuesday at Georgetown University, the White House asked that the symbol "IHS" be covered. The symbol "IHS" is a symbol standing for the name of Jesus in the Christian world.
"Before Obama spoke last Tuesday at Georgetown University, the White House asked that the symbol "IHS" be covered. The symbol "IHS" is a symbol standing for the name of Jesus in the Christian world.
The University covered the background with flags in order to appease White House demands. Yet even after placing the flags as a backdrop for Obama, the symbol could still be seen. Not to worry, they were able to hide any visibility of Christian symbolism. Afterall, it is important we keep appeasing the secular sensitivities around the world. Normally, when someone speaks at Georgetown, no one goes out of their way to hide symbols. Gaston Hall Stage at Georgetown is filled with Christan signs and symbols; it is a Catholic university for heaven's sake!..."
Sigh.
Sigh.
Friday, April 17, 2009
West Virginia Bank Unbails
West Virginia Bank First to Give Back All Federal Bailout Money - Presidential Politics | Political News - FOXNews.com: "WASHINGTON -- A West Virginia bank has become the first to completely cut its ties to the federal government's $700 billion financial rescue program.
The Treasury Department said Friday that Centra Financial Holdings Inc. of Morgantown, W.Va., has given the government $750,000 to buy back warrants Treasury was holding that gave it an ownership share in the company.
That transaction means Centra Financial has now paid the full costs of participating in the financial rescue program. On March 31 the bank returned the $15 million in capital infusions the government had provided..."
The Treasury Department said Friday that Centra Financial Holdings Inc. of Morgantown, W.Va., has given the government $750,000 to buy back warrants Treasury was holding that gave it an ownership share in the company.
That transaction means Centra Financial has now paid the full costs of participating in the financial rescue program. On March 31 the bank returned the $15 million in capital infusions the government had provided..."
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Banking Question
The Confluence--'High Noon At The Banker Corral': "...Go read the whole thing. Goldman is playing a global game of Monopoly with the potential for devastating consequences for all of us. Now that I think of it, didn’t Hank Paulsen hate Lehman Brothers? And wasn’t he the former CEO of Goldman? Is bankruptcy the way G-S is eliminating their competition? Something strange and unsavory is going on with G-S and the other banks that feels like out of control aggressive avarice.
And who are the people on Capitol Hill who refuse to put a stop to it all? Frank? Dodd?
Johnson says there’s no time like the present to engage the Department of Justice to enforce and prosecute antitrust laws. So, who is standing in the way of a showdown?"
And who are the people on Capitol Hill who refuse to put a stop to it all? Frank? Dodd?
Johnson says there’s no time like the present to engage the Department of Justice to enforce and prosecute antitrust laws. So, who is standing in the way of a showdown?"
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Save Your Marriage!
As long as I'm doing non-political stuff today-- this one is funny and insightful-- 11 "Don't-Tell-the-Wife" Secrets All Men Keep.
Amazing Music Video (Not Political)
Susan Boyle - Singer - Britains Got Talent 2009 (With Lyrics)
If this performance does not tug at your heart strings, then you have no heart. What was it Sharon Stone said in The Quick and The Dead? "Today, I'm the fastest gun." Well, Susan Boyle is certainly the major talent find of the year if not the decade.
Tea Party Posts
NO QUARTER has two excellent posts on the subject: here and here.
I would be at my local tea party except I know I would have to listen to an enormous amount of drivel about "damn liberals" and "damn Democrats," and since I am both, why would go anywhere just to hear myself get cussed? If some of us PUMA types got a chance to chat then I might go, otherwise, I will just cheer.
I would be at my local tea party except I know I would have to listen to an enormous amount of drivel about "damn liberals" and "damn Democrats," and since I am both, why would go anywhere just to hear myself get cussed? If some of us PUMA types got a chance to chat then I might go, otherwise, I will just cheer.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Extremism Increases
Recession fueling right-wing extremism, U.S. says | Reuters: "MIAMI (Reuters) - Right-wing extremists in the United States are gaining new recruits by exploiting fears about the economy and the election of the first black U.S. president, the Department of Homeland Security warned in a report to law enforcement officials..."
Winners And Losers
Congrats to Al-- you did good. Thanks to Howling Latina: Franken Wins for posting a very niftly picture of the loser. A minor hiss at the comment thread.
Monday, April 13, 2009
From The "What Could Go Wrong There?" Department
FOXNews.com - Obama May Block Sun's Rays to End Global Warming - Science News | Science & Technology | Technology News. I really didn't think his head had gotten that big, but I could be wrong.
More Bow Breaking
Was it an O'Bow or not? Did he lean or did he bow and how do you spell Faux Pas in Austrian? And are some people too stupid for network news : NO QUARTER?
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Power In Numbers
The Associated Press: America's uninsured haven't shown collective power
"By RICARDO ALONSO-ZALDIVAR – 22 hours ago
"By RICARDO ALONSO-ZALDIVAR – 22 hours ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — If the uninsured were a political lobbying group, they'd have more members than AARP. The National Mall couldn't hold them if they decided to march on Washington.
But going without health insurance is still seen as a personal issue, a misfortune for many and a choice for some. People who lose coverage often struggle alone instead of turning their frustration into political action.
Illegal immigrants rallied in Washington during past immigration debates, but the uninsured linger in the background as Congress struggles with a health care overhaul that seems to have the best odds in years of passing..."
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Flogging Thine Self
Quite the post, courtesy a conservative Republican, who postulates the end is neigh for the GOPers. I think not but the post is well worth your time: GOP R.I.P. : NO QUARTER.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Rove Calls Biden A Liar
....and here's another episode from "Pot 'n Kettle Theatre:"
US Vice-President Biden is a habitual liar, says Republican strategist Rove: "Washington, Apr.10 (ANI): Republican strategist Karl Rove has called Vice President Joe Biden a 'liar' for claiming that he scolded former President George W Bush in private meetings.
'I hate to say this, but he’s a serial exaggerator. If I was being unkind, I would say liar. But it is a habit he ought to drop,' Fox News quoted Rove, as saying.
'You should not exaggerate and lie like this when you are the Vice President of the United States,' he added.
Biden’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment, although Biden spokesman Jay Carney told Fox on Wednesday: 'The vice president stands by his remarks...'"
US Vice-President Biden is a habitual liar, says Republican strategist Rove: "Washington, Apr.10 (ANI): Republican strategist Karl Rove has called Vice President Joe Biden a 'liar' for claiming that he scolded former President George W Bush in private meetings.
'I hate to say this, but he’s a serial exaggerator. If I was being unkind, I would say liar. But it is a habit he ought to drop,' Fox News quoted Rove, as saying.
'You should not exaggerate and lie like this when you are the Vice President of the United States,' he added.
Biden’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment, although Biden spokesman Jay Carney told Fox on Wednesday: 'The vice president stands by his remarks...'"
Declining Rock-Rib Fortunes
GOP's Christian Right Pact Costs Votes - Forbes.com
"...The current Newsweek has a lengthy article entitled "The End of Christian America." It notes that the percentage of self-identified Christians has gone down 10% in last two decades, while "the number of Americans who claim no religious affiliation has nearly doubled since 1990, rising from 8% to 15%..."
The number of "Christians" will continue to decline as long as the self-proclaimed, so-called "Christians" continue to act in a most un-Christian way. No one wants to be identified with a group of narrow-minded, thuggish busy-bodies who think their way is the only way. These people often squeal about freedom but what they really want is everyone to be free to act and think the way they want them to. Who wants to a member of that club? Well, I am a Christian, but I am a red-letter Christian and I take orders from no man.
"...The current Newsweek has a lengthy article entitled "The End of Christian America." It notes that the percentage of self-identified Christians has gone down 10% in last two decades, while "the number of Americans who claim no religious affiliation has nearly doubled since 1990, rising from 8% to 15%..."
The number of "Christians" will continue to decline as long as the self-proclaimed, so-called "Christians" continue to act in a most un-Christian way. No one wants to be identified with a group of narrow-minded, thuggish busy-bodies who think their way is the only way. These people often squeal about freedom but what they really want is everyone to be free to act and think the way they want them to. Who wants to a member of that club? Well, I am a Christian, but I am a red-letter Christian and I take orders from no man.
Pirates Threatening
Pirates with U.S. hostage vow to fight if attacked | Reuters: "MOGADISHU (Reuters) - Somali pirates holding an American on a drifting lifeboat vowed on Friday to fight any attack by U.S. naval forces and reportedly recaptured their hostage when he jumped overboard to escape.
Ship captain Richard Phillips leapt into the sea, but was quickly brought back, U.S. media said, citing defense sources.
'We are not afraid of the Americans,' one of the pirates told Reuters by satellite phone on behalf of the gang holding Phillips far off the Somali coast in the Indian Ocean..."
Four snipers ought to do the trick. Or are we gonna gum 'em to death?
Ship captain Richard Phillips leapt into the sea, but was quickly brought back, U.S. media said, citing defense sources.
'We are not afraid of the Americans,' one of the pirates told Reuters by satellite phone on behalf of the gang holding Phillips far off the Somali coast in the Indian Ocean..."
Four snipers ought to do the trick. Or are we gonna gum 'em to death?
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
NC Sets Its Priorities
From the NCAE Daily Political Briefing: (my bold)
Despite a public school system where 16 counties have been found unconstitutional and another county was most recently described as committing "educational genocide," the North Carolina Senate lopped $615 million from PreK-12 public education in its budget proposal.And the "crown jewel" of the state, as the 16-campus university system has been called by senators recently? Only $36 million in cuts.
"It's very strange that North Carolina is receiving close to $700 million in federal stimulus money to stabilize K-12 education and the Senate cuts us by almost that amount," said NCAE President Sheri Strickland. "If you read the Senate's money report, they make no mention of this infusion of cash allocated to save jobs in our schools."
NCAE figures the Senate is either turning down the federal stimulus money or spending it on priorities not set forth by the U.S. Department of Education. Either way, the Senate has its priorities confused, according to Strickland.
"Under this plan, North Carolina students lose over 6,000 teachers next year," said Strickland. "But hardworking families will continue funding out-of-state tuition bills for out-of-state scholarship athletes?
These priorities are wrong."
Strickland went on to list a number of funding and tax reforms that could be dealt with during this budget crisis, including a means test for Legislative Tuition Grants. Currently, North Carolina gives any in-state family, regardless of how wealthy, nearly $2,000 if their children attend Duke, Wake Forest, Davidson or any other private North Carolina school.
Five Guides On The Path
Voice Online :: Obama’s spiritual guide: "THE WHITE House has released the names of five church leaders, three of whom are black, who provide President Barack Obama with spiritual counsel.
The five leaders Bishop T D Jakes, Rev Kirbyjon Caldwell and Rev Otis Moore, Rev Joel Hunter and Rev Jim Wallis are said to share the same conviction as the President that faith is the foundation in the fight against economic inequality and social injustice..."
Hmm. I've always felt one guide, God, was sufficient. Maybe the Golden Rule and the Ten Commandments weren't clear enough. Remember that old saw about cooks in the kitchen?
The five leaders Bishop T D Jakes, Rev Kirbyjon Caldwell and Rev Otis Moore, Rev Joel Hunter and Rev Jim Wallis are said to share the same conviction as the President that faith is the foundation in the fight against economic inequality and social injustice..."
Hmm. I've always felt one guide, God, was sufficient. Maybe the Golden Rule and the Ten Commandments weren't clear enough. Remember that old saw about cooks in the kitchen?
Dead Tree AP Threatens Google
...and everyone else. I guess propaganda is not as cheap as it used to be. Google Boss: Newspapers Are Our Friends - The Channel Wire - IT Channel News And Views by CRN and VARBusiness
Electrical Spies
Cyberspies penetrate electrical grid: report | Reuters: "WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Cyberspies have penetrated the U.S. electrical grid and left behind software programs that could be used to disrupt the system, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday.
The spies came from China, Russia and other countries, and were believed to be on a mission to navigate the U.S. electrical system and its controls, the newspaper said, citing current and former U.S. national security officials..."
They are going to be really surprised when they discover they have accidentally uploaded Skynet to their own computers.
The spies came from China, Russia and other countries, and were believed to be on a mission to navigate the U.S. electrical system and its controls, the newspaper said, citing current and former U.S. national security officials..."
They are going to be really surprised when they discover they have accidentally uploaded Skynet to their own computers.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Comment Of The Day
Well, actually, yesterday.
'The Servant Is The One Who Takes The Money'--Cannonfire: ..."'The servant is the one who takes the money'. Perfect. This has so many meanings on so many levels. You can be bought, you made a deal and now must live up to it, I am your master, you just got swindled, a contract is a contract, and I own your ass (Tony Soprano). I am sure there can be many more.
The problem is their rather limited societal view. They have been trained to be aggressive crooks (ex. Cassano is Milken's creature), told their entire pathetic little lives how clever they are, discouraged from looking beyond the cesspool of greed they swim in, unable to comprehend that intelligence does not equate wisdom. We own their ass and enormous hunks are going to be removed irregardless of the buying of pols and moronic rationalizations. The public wants them in leg irons and the current government will be flipped out as was the last one.
posted by
"
'The Servant Is The One Who Takes The Money'--Cannonfire: ..."'The servant is the one who takes the money'. Perfect. This has so many meanings on so many levels. You can be bought, you made a deal and now must live up to it, I am your master, you just got swindled, a contract is a contract, and I own your ass (Tony Soprano). I am sure there can be many more.
The problem is their rather limited societal view. They have been trained to be aggressive crooks (ex. Cassano is Milken's creature), told their entire pathetic little lives how clever they are, discouraged from looking beyond the cesspool of greed they swim in, unable to comprehend that intelligence does not equate wisdom. We own their ass and enormous hunks are going to be removed irregardless of the buying of pols and moronic rationalizations. The public wants them in leg irons and the current government will be flipped out as was the last one.
posted by
"
Uniform Squabble
Marine Fights to Graduate HS in Blues: "EL PASO, Texas -- Garrett Miles-McCarthy does not care about donning the traditional navy-blue cap and gown when he graduates from Chapin High School in June.
The 18-year-old, who completed his coursework in December and is now a private first class in the Marine Corps, wants to accept his high school diploma in his military uniform. The school principal rejected his request, but the fight has just begun.
His mother, Marie McCarthy, is pushing to change an El Paso Independent School District rule that prohibits students at graduation ceremonies from wearing anything other than the traditional regalia..."
"Signs. Signs. Everywhere a sign." Rules. Rules. Rules. Heaven is a place where everyone has commonsense and the sense to use it.
The 18-year-old, who completed his coursework in December and is now a private first class in the Marine Corps, wants to accept his high school diploma in his military uniform. The school principal rejected his request, but the fight has just begun.
His mother, Marie McCarthy, is pushing to change an El Paso Independent School District rule that prohibits students at graduation ceremonies from wearing anything other than the traditional regalia..."
"Signs. Signs. Everywhere a sign." Rules. Rules. Rules. Heaven is a place where everyone has commonsense and the sense to use it.
Benefit Expansion For GIs
Veterans Report - Omnibus Veterans' Benefits Bill: "U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, recently introduced the Veterans' Insurance and Benefits Enhancement Act of 2009, which addresses a broad range of veterans' benefits. Insurance enhancements in the bill include:
- A new insurance program for service-connected disabled veterans;
- An expanded eligibility for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage; and
- A $10,000 increase to the amount of supplemental insurance totally disabled veterans may purchase..."
- A new insurance program for service-connected disabled veterans;
- An expanded eligibility for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage; and
- A $10,000 increase to the amount of supplemental insurance totally disabled veterans may purchase..."
Defense Rebudgeting
Gates aims for military 'overhaul' -- baltimoresun.com
"WASHINGTON - Streamlining and restructuring military spending for conflicts like Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates proposed on Monday adding special force troops, cyber-war capabilities, theater missile defense systems to protect troops and unmanned aerial vehicles while slashing some big-war, big-ticket programs such as the supersonic stealth F-22 fighter made by Lockheed Martin of Bethesda..."
"WASHINGTON - Streamlining and restructuring military spending for conflicts like Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates proposed on Monday adding special force troops, cyber-war capabilities, theater missile defense systems to protect troops and unmanned aerial vehicles while slashing some big-war, big-ticket programs such as the supersonic stealth F-22 fighter made by Lockheed Martin of Bethesda..."
Monday, April 06, 2009
Reparations?
Logistics Monster:"HR40; $8Million Commission On Slavery Reparations"
The last time this came up, the advocates for wanted South Carolina and a billion dollars. Wonder if that is still the case.
The last time this came up, the advocates for wanted South Carolina and a billion dollars. Wonder if that is still the case.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
The Daily Uh-Oh
ACORN Whistleblowers Produce Shocking Testimony on Capitol Hill - HUMAN EVENTS: "Late last week, Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.), chairman of the House Committee on the Judiciary, called for a hearing to investigate ACORN. You read that right. At a Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties subcommittee hearing entitled “Lessons Learned from the 2008 Election” last Thursday, witness testimony not only drew Conyers to the subcommittee hearing but events led to Conyers strongly urging that subcommittee chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) conduct a full hearing on ACORN, calling allegations made at the hearing “serious.”
The shocking testimony that began the chain of events came from Pennsylvania attorney Heather Heidelbaugh, who in October of last year represented “a candidate, voters and the Republican State Committee of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania” seeking a preliminary injunction against ACORN and the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The complaint alleged violations of the election code, fraud and misrepresentation, and violations of equal protection and due process..."
The shocking testimony that began the chain of events came from Pennsylvania attorney Heather Heidelbaugh, who in October of last year represented “a candidate, voters and the Republican State Committee of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania” seeking a preliminary injunction against ACORN and the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The complaint alleged violations of the election code, fraud and misrepresentation, and violations of equal protection and due process..."
O'Good
Obama trip to Europe creates goodwill | Freep.com | Detroit Free Press: "STRASBOURG, France -- Crowds are thronging, leaders gushing, headlines blaring. Even a roomful of foreign reporters applauded President Barack Obama after a London news conference.
They love him in Europe. But are they giving him anything to take home? It's a mixed bag: some success, several failures and much to be determined..."
And the Not Bush phenomenon continues.
They love him in Europe. But are they giving him anything to take home? It's a mixed bag: some success, several failures and much to be determined..."
And the Not Bush phenomenon continues.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
It's Bad Out There
Robert Reich's Blog: It's a Depression "The March employment numbers, out this morning, are bleak: 8.5 percent of Americans officially unemployed, 663,000 more jobs lost. But if you include people who are out of work and have given up trying to find a job, the real unemployment rate is 9 percent. And if you include people working part time who'd rather be working full time, it's now up to 15.6 percent. One in every six workers in America is now either unemployed or underemployed..."
Image via Defence magazine and Trendsupdate.
Friday, April 03, 2009
"Referendum" Election Close
CORRECTED: House race in New York too close to call | Reuters: "NEW YORK (Reuters) - A special election to fill a congressional seat in New York state was too close to call late on Tuesday with less than 100 votes separating candidates in the race viewed by many as a referendum on President Barack Obama's handling of the U.S. economy..."
If you are reading political tea leaves in this election and forecasting support for or against O'Precious, then note that which ever way it goes, the margins are razor thin. I still say that the swing vote in all these kinds of elections has more to do with what is going locally than nationally.
If you are reading political tea leaves in this election and forecasting support for or against O'Precious, then note that which ever way it goes, the margins are razor thin. I still say that the swing vote in all these kinds of elections has more to do with what is going locally than nationally.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Karma, Karma, Again, Again
Dodd Trails Potential GOP Opponents in 2010 Race, Poll Shows - Presidential Politics | Political News - FOXNews.com: "Connecticut Sen. Chris Dodd is trailing several potential Republican challengers in the 2010 Senate race, according to a new state poll which shows the veteran Democratic lawmaker suffering from fallout over the AIG bonuses.
The Quinnipiac University poll released Thursday shows Dodd with record low approval ratings. Just 33 percent of Connecticut voters approve of the job Dodd is doing in the Senate..."
The Quinnipiac University poll released Thursday shows Dodd with record low approval ratings. Just 33 percent of Connecticut voters approve of the job Dodd is doing in the Senate..."
Insensible Cuts?
Senator: Expect painful cuts in Pentagon budget: "WASHINGTON (AP) - A Senate defense committee chairman says Pentagon budget will include large, painful cuts. Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Carl Levin said Tuesday that major program cuts will not be pushed off until the 2011 budget, but will be included when Defense Secretary Robert Gates sends his spending plan to the president later this month..."
Defense dollars generate jobs here at home. I don't think they generate that many jobs with the billions we are giving to financial institutions. Let's not cut jobs during a depression, that really seems counterproductive to stimulus.
Defense dollars generate jobs here at home. I don't think they generate that many jobs with the billions we are giving to financial institutions. Let's not cut jobs during a depression, that really seems counterproductive to stimulus.
The Daily Flashback
Harry and Louise on Clinton's health plan...
Ah. If "they" had known then, what I (and many others) knew then, then we all wouldn't be in this mess.
Stevens Update
The Associated Press: Alaskans have mixed reactions to Stevens' case: "...Begich released a short statement saying he always maintained that Stevens should not serve time in jail and that Wednesday's action likely ensures that is the case.
'It's time for Senator Stevens, his family and Alaskans to move on and put this behind us,' Begich said..."
Yeah. Sure. Sorry to inconvenience you, Ted. I got two words: Rollo Tomasi.
'It's time for Senator Stevens, his family and Alaskans to move on and put this behind us,' Begich said..."
Yeah. Sure. Sorry to inconvenience you, Ted. I got two words: Rollo Tomasi.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Alaska Crook Update
U.S. Moves to Drop Case Against Ex-Senator Stevens (Update2) - Bloomberg.com: "April 1 (Bloomberg) -- The U.S. Justice Department asked a federal judge to set aside the political corruption conviction of former Alaska Senator Ted Stevens, saying that prosecutors withheld information from defense lawyers during the trial.
The government’s decision to file federal court papers in Washington to drop the case was prompted by Attorney General Eric Holder’s conclusion that the government should have turned over notes of witness interviews to defense lawyers for the former Republican lawmaker, a person familiar with the case said..."
Isn't it funny, whether you are an aging hippy terrorist with political pull or a roundly corrupt Senator, that the government always manages to screw-up the case so the criminal walks away none the worse for the experience? Odd that.
The government’s decision to file federal court papers in Washington to drop the case was prompted by Attorney General Eric Holder’s conclusion that the government should have turned over notes of witness interviews to defense lawyers for the former Republican lawmaker, a person familiar with the case said..."
Isn't it funny, whether you are an aging hippy terrorist with political pull or a roundly corrupt Senator, that the government always manages to screw-up the case so the criminal walks away none the worse for the experience? Odd that.
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