So an IT error caused thousands of local crime victims (and families of) to receive erroneous automated calls that the perpetrator was being freed. This story hits even more personally to me, as one of my co-workers received the call that her daughter's killer was being freed (figures the one night I actually watch local news and I catch that).
To me though, the bigger question is, why are these calls being made by an automated service? If someone in my family was murdered and the killer was being freed, I had damned well better be notified by a human being and not some machine. Would it kill them to hire someone to make these calls personally? If it's a budget or volume issue, don't you think people would be willing to pay an extra $2 a year in taxes to fund that position?
Change Your Life In 2006!
If you want to make 2006 a memorable year, you need to pick up a copy of the book titled, "This Book Will Change Your Life". The book is filled with daily tasks that will guarantee to make each day one to remember.
For 365 days, you are instructed to complete a task and record the results. Some of the daily tasks are more difficult than others, some examples are:
Day 17: Eat nothing but asparagus all day long to ascertain just how noxious your pee can get.
Day 28: Choose your final meal on death row and make it.
Day 34: Write to a dictator to stop torture (I wonder if W. counts?)
Day 181: Write to your city asking that your street be renamed after you.
Day 213: Stage a crime in front of a back-alley security camera and see if anyone comes to the rescue.
Day 303: Report A UFO sighting.
I have not completed the exercises (call me unimaginative and lazy) but, maybe this is the year.
More details about this book and the latest version are available on the Benrik website.
For 365 days, you are instructed to complete a task and record the results. Some of the daily tasks are more difficult than others, some examples are:
Day 17: Eat nothing but asparagus all day long to ascertain just how noxious your pee can get.
Day 28: Choose your final meal on death row and make it.
Day 34: Write to a dictator to stop torture (I wonder if W. counts?)
Day 181: Write to your city asking that your street be renamed after you.
Day 213: Stage a crime in front of a back-alley security camera and see if anyone comes to the rescue.
Day 303: Report A UFO sighting.
I have not completed the exercises (call me unimaginative and lazy) but, maybe this is the year.
More details about this book and the latest version are available on the Benrik website.
The White House and The NSA Are Handing Out Cookies!
And no, not the chocolate chip variety either. The National Security Agency is apologizing for using cookies to track visitors to it's website while the White House is denying the use of cookies.
And I thought that they were just doing some old fashioned wire-tapping. Silly me!
And I thought that they were just doing some old fashioned wire-tapping. Silly me!
You Gotta Fight For Your Voting Rights
We all know what went wrong in Ohio in 2004, but the Republicans were not only using their tactics to claim this battleground state for the presidential election, but they were also laying the groundwork for 2006.
John Conyers, the ranking Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, conducted an investigation into the voting irregularities in Ohio during the 2004 election. The results of this investigation are published in the report, “Preserving Democracy: What Went Wrong In Ohio”. This report lays out the actions taken by Ken Blackwell, Secretary of State for Ohio and co-chair of Bush-Cheney ’04.
Some of the dirty tricks produced by Blackwell included the misallocation of voting machines, the decision to restrict provisional ballots, and the rejection of voter registration applications.
But that’s not all - the Ohio Republican party practiced voter intimidation, and utilized partisan challengers on Election Day.
John Conyers’ report did not receive a lot of coverage from the mainstream media, which is most unfortunate. What is very disappointing is that for the most part, John Conyers’ report was overlooked, and the false accusations of, “voter fraud” from the Republican party were used to establish House Bill 3, ironically titled the, “Voter Reform” bill. In a nutshell, this bill requires that all voters present a form of I.D. before they are allowed to vote.
So who are the players in all of this? Check out this article from The Free Press. I guarantee that you will not be shocked to learn who is involved and which house on Pennsylvania Avenue the trail leads to.
It’s the same cast of characters and the same lines coming from the same corrupt party. Does 2006 belong to us? Definitely. Will it be easy? Absolutely not. As we prepare for the ’06 elections, we need to also prepare for a fight. The Republicans have a lot of tricks up their sleeves and they will use each and every one of them to guarantee a win. We need to make sure to take the fight to them and under no circumstances, roll over like we did previous years. Our country is in dire straits and it’s time to take it back.
John Conyers, the ranking Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, conducted an investigation into the voting irregularities in Ohio during the 2004 election. The results of this investigation are published in the report, “Preserving Democracy: What Went Wrong In Ohio”. This report lays out the actions taken by Ken Blackwell, Secretary of State for Ohio and co-chair of Bush-Cheney ’04.
Some of the dirty tricks produced by Blackwell included the misallocation of voting machines, the decision to restrict provisional ballots, and the rejection of voter registration applications.
But that’s not all - the Ohio Republican party practiced voter intimidation, and utilized partisan challengers on Election Day.
John Conyers’ report did not receive a lot of coverage from the mainstream media, which is most unfortunate. What is very disappointing is that for the most part, John Conyers’ report was overlooked, and the false accusations of, “voter fraud” from the Republican party were used to establish House Bill 3, ironically titled the, “Voter Reform” bill. In a nutshell, this bill requires that all voters present a form of I.D. before they are allowed to vote.
So who are the players in all of this? Check out this article from The Free Press. I guarantee that you will not be shocked to learn who is involved and which house on Pennsylvania Avenue the trail leads to.
It’s the same cast of characters and the same lines coming from the same corrupt party. Does 2006 belong to us? Definitely. Will it be easy? Absolutely not. As we prepare for the ’06 elections, we need to also prepare for a fight. The Republicans have a lot of tricks up their sleeves and they will use each and every one of them to guarantee a win. We need to make sure to take the fight to them and under no circumstances, roll over like we did previous years. Our country is in dire straits and it’s time to take it back.
Ann Coulter: Hot Or Not?
Yesterday I was perusing Crooks and Liars and I saw a clip from Ann Coulter's appearance on the Today show. Reading comments on the clip, I wasn't surprised to see complaints about Matt Lauer basically treating her with kids gloves. What was surprising was the number of people (including those who disagreed with her) who commented on how "hot" she is.
My question: why is Ann Coulter considered hot? Are women who look like strips of beef jerky wearing blonde wigs considered the new barometer of beauty in this country? Is being blonde and tanorexic the only explanation of how Ann can get away with saying tripe like:
"We should invade their countries, kill their leaders and convert them to Christianity. We weren't punctilious about locating and punishing only Hitler and his top officers. We carpet-bombed German cities; we killed civilians. That's war. And this is war." (National Review Online, September 13, 2001)
"I think [women] should be armed but should not vote...women have no capacity to understand how money is earned. They have a lot of ideas on how to spend it...it's always more money on education, more money on child care, more money on day care." (Politically Incorrect, February 26, 2001)
"Frankly, I'm not a big fan of the First Amendment." (University of Florida speech, October 20, 2005)
If being blonde and skinny is all it takes for people to lap up your polical views, no matter how outrageous, then maybe the Democrats should kidnap and brainwash Paris Hilton a la the Symbionese Liberation Army, put her on the Today show and make her say things like "Bush is the Anti-Christ." That, as Paris would say, would be hot.
My question: why is Ann Coulter considered hot? Are women who look like strips of beef jerky wearing blonde wigs considered the new barometer of beauty in this country? Is being blonde and tanorexic the only explanation of how Ann can get away with saying tripe like:
"We should invade their countries, kill their leaders and convert them to Christianity. We weren't punctilious about locating and punishing only Hitler and his top officers. We carpet-bombed German cities; we killed civilians. That's war. And this is war." (National Review Online, September 13, 2001)
"I think [women] should be armed but should not vote...women have no capacity to understand how money is earned. They have a lot of ideas on how to spend it...it's always more money on education, more money on child care, more money on day care." (Politically Incorrect, February 26, 2001)
"Frankly, I'm not a big fan of the First Amendment." (University of Florida speech, October 20, 2005)
If being blonde and skinny is all it takes for people to lap up your polical views, no matter how outrageous, then maybe the Democrats should kidnap and brainwash Paris Hilton a la the Symbionese Liberation Army, put her on the Today show and make her say things like "Bush is the Anti-Christ." That, as Paris would say, would be hot.
Politics a good investment!
What would you say if I told you that you can donate to a political campaign this year and get back your investment next year?
This offer is only good when you donate to a campaign committe for any of the Ohio state offices. Here's how it works, donate before midnight on Saturday then when filing your Ohio State tax return take the deduction. You can even take this deduction if you are filing an EZ form.
So write that check to support candidates for State Reps or State Senators and reap the rewards in 2006.
This offer is only good when you donate to a campaign committe for any of the Ohio state offices. Here's how it works, donate before midnight on Saturday then when filing your Ohio State tax return take the deduction. You can even take this deduction if you are filing an EZ form.
So write that check to support candidates for State Reps or State Senators and reap the rewards in 2006.
Second 2006 Wish List
Since we're in the New Year's spirit, here are a list of things I want to see in 2006 (bonus for me since I'm Jewish; I can still ask for these as Hanukkah gifts):
- Cooperation between city council and the county commissioners to get something other than a pile of dirt moving at The Banks.
- A Bengal playoff win and a date with Denver (two phrases that should warm any Bengal fan’s heart: “Jake Plummer” and “playoff game”).
- Four words – Jean Schmidt, duct tape.
- Another local bar to hear good live music at in town.
- Less bad German bands at those venues.
- 11/7/2006 – the date we get Congress back – 45 weeks to go.
- A Nextel Cup race at Kentucky Speedway for 2007.
- Cool weather for the Flying Pig.
- A restaurant to step up and take the place of the Maisonette as the premier fine dining restaurant in town.
- Southwest Airlines at CVG.
- For the Reds, a .300 hitting table setter, another 20 steals guy, the Austin Kearns of 3 years ago, the Tony Womack of 5 years ago, less K’s from Dunn and Wily Mo, another quality starter, 45 wins from Harang/Claussen/Williams, lightning to strike Eric Milton and Paul Wilson, some competent middle relief, a shutdown closer…oh screw it, they’re hopeless.
- Someone to come up with a new catch phrase to take the heat off of the Grammar Queen.
This New Year's Eve watch out for those corks!
You have a higher chance of being killed by a flying Champagne cork than by a poisonous spider.
This tid bit brought to you by Ian Lenler author of Alcoholica Esoterica: a collection of useful and useless information as it relates to the history and consumption of all manner of booze.
This tid bit brought to you by Ian Lenler author of Alcoholica Esoterica: a collection of useful and useless information as it relates to the history and consumption of all manner of booze.
What will you do with your Second?
New Year’s eve you will have one more second to celebrate. Scientists are delaying the start of 2006 by the first "leap second" in seven years, a timing tweak meant to make up for changes in the Earth's rotation.
Of course this second won’t be available to you unless you have an atomic clock. So I’m telling you now so you can enjoy that extra second. At midnight coordinated Universal Time, or for you old timers, Greenwich Mean Time, just before 7 Pm EST.
Consider how to use that extra second. I for one would like to bank it and use it on a warm day, when I’m in my garden, digging with my dog. Unless they find a way to put time in a bottle in the next 36 hours I guess I need a better plan. I think I will take the time to hug my hubby!
What will you do with your extra second?
Of course this second won’t be available to you unless you have an atomic clock. So I’m telling you now so you can enjoy that extra second. At midnight coordinated Universal Time, or for you old timers, Greenwich Mean Time, just before 7 Pm EST.
Consider how to use that extra second. I for one would like to bank it and use it on a warm day, when I’m in my garden, digging with my dog. Unless they find a way to put time in a bottle in the next 36 hours I guess I need a better plan. I think I will take the time to hug my hubby!
What will you do with your extra second?
Site changes
An update on site changes you may have noticed in the last couple of days.
1) The color scheme has changed. Thanks, Another Dem!
2) I've added "Favorite posts" and "ID Discussion" as post categories on the left.
3) I've split links into two categories: "Blogroll" and "Fave sites." If you want anything added, subtracted, multiplied, mutated, switched around or otherwise manipulated, just ask.
4) I posted some pictures in my last post. If you want them removed, let me know.
5) To find out how to have "expandable posts," see this post.
6) I've used this mechanism to shorten a couple of posts: e.g., GQ's Christmas post and my ID post.
1) The color scheme has changed. Thanks, Another Dem!
2) I've added "Favorite posts" and "ID Discussion" as post categories on the left.
3) I've split links into two categories: "Blogroll" and "Fave sites." If you want anything added, subtracted, multiplied, mutated, switched around or otherwise manipulated, just ask.
4) I posted some pictures in my last post. If you want them removed, let me know.
5) To find out how to have "expandable posts," see this post.
6) I've used this mechanism to shorten a couple of posts: e.g., GQ's Christmas post and my ID post.
Camera-phone pictures from the party
A couple of pictures from the party last week.
(Update: Okay, I've changed the background to white. So you can't tell the difference anymore.)
First, here's what the DL logo would like with our current background. The image background clashes with the site background, no? One option is to change the site background to white. If you have an opinion, please post.
And now for some fun stuff.
Can you tell which one's the real buckeye?
A drink is downed with amazing speed.
Whaaa?
All's well after a couple of drinks.
(Update: Okay, I've changed the background to white. So you can't tell the difference anymore.)
First, here's what the DL logo would like with our current background. The image background clashes with the site background, no? One option is to change the site background to white. If you have an opinion, please post.
And now for some fun stuff.
Can you tell which one's the real buckeye?
A drink is downed with amazing speed.
Whaaa?
All's well after a couple of drinks.
Expandable posts
Update 3: The "Read More" link won't show in the Preview window, but will show when you publish your post.
Update 2: All right, it's all good! Go for it.
Update: On second thoughts, hold on for a little bit longer. I've found that this messes a bit with the color scheme. Let me fix that and I'll post a second update in a bit. Ugh!
Original post:
I've been experimenting a bit with expandable posts. When writing long posts, these will let you present a teaser paragraph and a link to the rest of the post. To find out how to do this, click on the "Read More" link below!
It's actually pretty simple.
1) In the window where you are composing your post, you'll see a field called "Link" (just below the "Title" field). Type YES in the "Link" field.
2) Now, write your first couple of lines as usual, then enclose the "hidden" part of your post (the part that you want visible when one clicks on the "Read More" link) in the span HTML tag. Here's an example:
Here's the first line of my long post.
<span class="fullpost"> Here's the part that's supposed to be visible upon clicking the "Read More" link. </span>
And that's it!
Holla' at me if you have questions or problems.
Update 2: All right, it's all good! Go for it.
Update: On second thoughts, hold on for a little bit longer. I've found that this messes a bit with the color scheme. Let me fix that and I'll post a second update in a bit. Ugh!
Original post:
I've been experimenting a bit with expandable posts. When writing long posts, these will let you present a teaser paragraph and a link to the rest of the post. To find out how to do this, click on the "Read More" link below!
It's actually pretty simple.
1) In the window where you are composing your post, you'll see a field called "Link" (just below the "Title" field). Type YES in the "Link" field.
2) Now, write your first couple of lines as usual, then enclose the "hidden" part of your post (the part that you want visible when one clicks on the "Read More" link) in the span HTML tag. Here's an example:
Here's the first line of my long post.
<span class="fullpost"> Here's the part that's supposed to be visible upon clicking the "Read More" link. </span>
And that's it!
Holla' at me if you have questions or problems.
Jack 2000!
Some magazine called Texas Monthly (subscription required) has a piece on Red strategist Matthew Dowd. Apparently Dowd and his cronies can determine whether you are Dem or Repub based on your purchasing habits (182 data points to be exact). Some of this stuff seems off the wall, but this one is a head scratcher:
The TV show "Will & Grace," for example, which centers on the lives of a gay man and a straight woman, leans heavily Republican. It's the Republican women who are watching it.
Hmmmm. Any thoughts on why this is? I'll start: Republican women secretly lust for Will and Jack because their Republican husbands suck in bed; Democratic women feel no such need because us Blue men got skillz. Feel free to opine further.
(all above info courtesy of Washington Monthly, except the speculation on Republican wee-wees, that's all mine)
The TV show "Will & Grace," for example, which centers on the lives of a gay man and a straight woman, leans heavily Republican. It's the Republican women who are watching it.
Hmmmm. Any thoughts on why this is? I'll start: Republican women secretly lust for Will and Jack because their Republican husbands suck in bed; Democratic women feel no such need because us Blue men got skillz. Feel free to opine further.
(all above info courtesy of Washington Monthly, except the speculation on Republican wee-wees, that's all mine)
If you're having a bad day...
...go get yourself a candy cane! Seriously, try being mad while you have a candy cane in your mouth, you can't do it! I think this should be part of Mallory's first 100 day plan - a candy cane a day for everyone in Cincinnati. It's better than Lloyd Braun's plan on Seinfeld to have everyone in NYC wear nametags so they'd be friendlier to each other.
Clean air helps global warming?
I found this piece that is frankly way beyond my knowledge of science to be able to grasp. It sounds silly on the surface, but I can't make heads or tails of if it's true. Anyone with a science background have any opinions? (courtesy of Tuesday Morning Quarterback at NFL.com)
The Menace of Clean Air CLEANER AIR MAY SPEED GLOBAL WARMING, the New York Times headlined last week. Huh? The apparently nutty story reports the British technical journal Nature contains a study showing that air pollution prevents global warming; with air pollution declining markedly in Western nations at least, global warming would be expected to accelerate. Actually this is quite logical. Air pollution contains soot and other tiny dark particles that hang in the air and reflect sunlight back into space. As air pollution declines and the sky becomes clearer, more sunlight reaches the ground. This suggests polluted sky would tend to cool the Earth, while clean sky would tend to allow warming. So maybe it's not such a mystery why global mean temperatures declined in the first half of the 20th century, then rose in the second half. In the first half of the 20th century, thick, dark smoke pollution from unregulated coal-burning was ubitquitous in Western nations -- London's killer smog of 1952 killed several thousand people, while a blanket of coal-burning smog killed 21 people in Dorona, Pennsylvania, in 1948. Significant areas of the planet were shrouded in pollution-caused clouds during the first half of the last century, and these clouds reflected away sunlight.
Decades of ever-more-complex pollution-control mechanisms on power plants, vehicles and industrial facilities have eliminated smoke pollution in the Western world, though this scourge continues in China and India, while greatly reducing fine soot. All forms of air pollution have declined dramatically in the United States: Overall air pollution is down 36 percent in the last 15 years alone, despite big increases in population, economic output and energy use. And despite the commonly heard political claim that George W. Bush has "rolled back" or in some way softened the Clean Air Act -- it's the reverse, Bush has issued a series of rulings making the Clean Air Act more strict -- air pollution has continued its trend of decline during the Bush presidency. (Links to the relevant trend studies are here.)
So the air is getting cleaner, which will accelerate global warming. Clean air -- it's hazardous! Talk about postmodern concepts. The new study didn't surprise me because 16 years ago yours truly wrote, for the Los Angeles Times, an article warning about such zany interaction of pollutants. My 1989 article noted that declining air pollution would be expected to accelerate global warming. I also noted that one reason ultraviolet radiation from stratospheric ozone depletion never caused the predicted harm is that ground-level ozone in urban smog reflected away the UV rays. But watch out, I wrote in 1989: "This means it's only safe to sunbathe in a smoggy location such as Los Angeles, not in some dangerously clean place like Hawaii." Today that zany equilibrium has shifted. Los Angeles air quality has improved very dramatically -- just one stage-one ozone alert in Los Angeles in the last six years, versus 100 or so per year during the 1970s -- while stratospheric ozone depletion is no longer a threat owing to the ban on CFCs. Anyway it sounds weird, but the fact that air quality keeps improving really is one of the reasons climate change is becoming more of a concern.
The Menace of Clean Air CLEANER AIR MAY SPEED GLOBAL WARMING, the New York Times headlined last week. Huh? The apparently nutty story reports the British technical journal Nature contains a study showing that air pollution prevents global warming; with air pollution declining markedly in Western nations at least, global warming would be expected to accelerate. Actually this is quite logical. Air pollution contains soot and other tiny dark particles that hang in the air and reflect sunlight back into space. As air pollution declines and the sky becomes clearer, more sunlight reaches the ground. This suggests polluted sky would tend to cool the Earth, while clean sky would tend to allow warming. So maybe it's not such a mystery why global mean temperatures declined in the first half of the 20th century, then rose in the second half. In the first half of the 20th century, thick, dark smoke pollution from unregulated coal-burning was ubitquitous in Western nations -- London's killer smog of 1952 killed several thousand people, while a blanket of coal-burning smog killed 21 people in Dorona, Pennsylvania, in 1948. Significant areas of the planet were shrouded in pollution-caused clouds during the first half of the last century, and these clouds reflected away sunlight.
Decades of ever-more-complex pollution-control mechanisms on power plants, vehicles and industrial facilities have eliminated smoke pollution in the Western world, though this scourge continues in China and India, while greatly reducing fine soot. All forms of air pollution have declined dramatically in the United States: Overall air pollution is down 36 percent in the last 15 years alone, despite big increases in population, economic output and energy use. And despite the commonly heard political claim that George W. Bush has "rolled back" or in some way softened the Clean Air Act -- it's the reverse, Bush has issued a series of rulings making the Clean Air Act more strict -- air pollution has continued its trend of decline during the Bush presidency. (Links to the relevant trend studies are here.)
So the air is getting cleaner, which will accelerate global warming. Clean air -- it's hazardous! Talk about postmodern concepts. The new study didn't surprise me because 16 years ago yours truly wrote, for the Los Angeles Times, an article warning about such zany interaction of pollutants. My 1989 article noted that declining air pollution would be expected to accelerate global warming. I also noted that one reason ultraviolet radiation from stratospheric ozone depletion never caused the predicted harm is that ground-level ozone in urban smog reflected away the UV rays. But watch out, I wrote in 1989: "This means it's only safe to sunbathe in a smoggy location such as Los Angeles, not in some dangerously clean place like Hawaii." Today that zany equilibrium has shifted. Los Angeles air quality has improved very dramatically -- just one stage-one ozone alert in Los Angeles in the last six years, versus 100 or so per year during the 1970s -- while stratospheric ozone depletion is no longer a threat owing to the ban on CFCs. Anyway it sounds weird, but the fact that air quality keeps improving really is one of the reasons climate change is becoming more of a concern.
My (Running) Wish List for 2006
With 2005 coming to a close, I have been compiling a list of things I hope will come true in 2006:
Indictments, indictments, indictments. Now that Enron’s former chief accounting executive has agreed to squeal to save his own neck, I hope that more Enron execs will be spending next year trying to pick up the soap without bending over in the showers of our nation’s finest penal institutions. And as much as I loved my Fitzmas gift , I hope that an even bigger present will come next year.
Good performers for Tall Stacks. In 2003, I saw Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, Los Lobos, Emmylou Harris, B.B. King and other amazing artists for a measly $10. Here’s hoping that This year's Tall Stacks lineup will be just as amazing (and affordable).
New Democratic blood in Kentucky. Kentucky will have general elections in 2006 with over 4,000 offices (a record number) to be decided. With Ernie Fletcher’s approval ratings only slightly higher than Taft’s, this Kentucky Woman hopes that some of the Republicans who rode on Mr. “Clean up the mess in Frankfort” coattails will be drowning their sorrows in firewater on November 8.
More to come.
Indictments, indictments, indictments. Now that Enron’s former chief accounting executive has agreed to squeal to save his own neck, I hope that more Enron execs will be spending next year trying to pick up the soap without bending over in the showers of our nation’s finest penal institutions. And as much as I loved my Fitzmas gift , I hope that an even bigger present will come next year.
Good performers for Tall Stacks. In 2003, I saw Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, Los Lobos, Emmylou Harris, B.B. King and other amazing artists for a measly $10. Here’s hoping that This year's Tall Stacks lineup will be just as amazing (and affordable).
New Democratic blood in Kentucky. Kentucky will have general elections in 2006 with over 4,000 offices (a record number) to be decided. With Ernie Fletcher’s approval ratings only slightly higher than Taft’s, this Kentucky Woman hopes that some of the Republicans who rode on Mr. “Clean up the mess in Frankfort” coattails will be drowning their sorrows in firewater on November 8.
More to come.
How I spent my HOLIDAY vacation…by request
Most people complain that their families are dysfunctional. Well, I’m living proof that a very functional family can be frustrating and depressing. I also now realize that those sometimes funny, but always sad movies about holidays with the family are most certainly based in someone’s truth.
Cast of Characters:
Dad – my dad
Lisa – my step-mom
Angie – 35-year old sister who lives in San Francisco
Annie – 19-year old sister who attends Anderson Christian College in Indiana
Laura – 18-year old sister who is a senior at Lakota East
Katie – 16-year old sister who is a sophomore at Lakota East
Thursday& Friday
My holiday weekend started off nice enough with my Drinking Liberally buddies at Cheryl & John’s house. I had to control myself as I was supposed to be at the mall to meet my four sisters at 9:00 the next morning and I didn’t want to be the bitchy hung-over sister. After dragging myself out of bed at 7:30, in order to drop my car off at the dealership for a repair, I stopped to pick up coffee and set the cup in cup holder in the center console of my car. I screeched into the Mazda dealership at 8:30, precisely the time I was supposed to meet my aunt there. She was already waiting for me. I pulled into the garage and as I was retrieving my cup and noticed that it was empty – something in the console had punctured the bottom of it and 16 ounces of coffee were now in my console – Angie called to let us know that the rest of the gang would be 30 minutes late. When I tried to explain that we were already on our way and that being that late was a little rude, she said, “Well, we’re still in our pajamas so deal with it.” They ended up at the mall at 9:45 – 45 minutes late. Shoulda stayed at the party for one more drink…
Saturday
I made it home Friday night to sleep cozy and comfy in my bed with my cat. Very nice, except that when I woke up, I was feeling a little cold. Went downstairs to the thermostat, sure enough it said 50 degrees. Apparently, I really did blow through $800 of heating oil in just under eight weeks. I called every oil company in town, Tuesday was the soonest anyone could be out. Great, four days with no heat.
I managed to have a good breakfast with friends on Saturday morning but had to rush to Christmas Eve dinner as we were supposed to be at Grandma’s at 1:00, for dinner at 2:00. Once again, I screeched into my destination barely on-time (2:00), only to realize that I was the only one there. Everyone else showed up at 3:00. Thanks, family. Love the continued punctuality.
My favorite conversations of the day when something like this…
Annie: “Hey Mom, what would you do if I had a secret fiancé and I told you I was getting married?”
Lisa: “Yea! Grandbabies!”
Christy: “She’s 19 and a freshman in college with a 4.0.”
Lisa: “ I really can’t wait for grandbabies!”
Another conversation:
Annie: “Mom, I really can’t decide if I like David.”
Lisa: “Do you see yourself marrying him?”
Annie: “No.”
Lisa: “Don’t waste your time then.”
Christy: “She’s 19! Does she really need to find her husband right now?”
Lisa: “I always said that if I wasn’t going to marry them, there is no reason to get to know them.”
Another conversation:
Annie: “I can’t wait to get out of school and get married and move back to West Chester.”
Laura: “Me, too.”
Katie: “Me, too.”
Christy: “Don’t you guys want to explore, maybe see what else is out there?”
Annie: “No, I really just want to be where I already know everything and don’t have to learn new streets or stores or anything.”
Christy: “Wow…not quite sure what to do with that.”
Sunday
Woke up at Dad’s with the girls and had a nice family Christmas morning and played games. All good. Lisa was a little upset with Angie and me for not joining the family at church, but what-ev (new word I learned from Annie).
The schedule for the day was supposed to be Grandma’s at 2:00, Dad’s at 5:00 for dinner and cousin’s at 8:00. Thanks to my perpetually late family, we managed Grandma’s at 3:00, Dad’s at 6:00 and cousin’s at 9:30. I did make it home to sleep in my very cold house with my very cold cat.
Monday
The schedule was supposed to be meet Aunt Myra at 11:30 for lunch, back to Dad’s around 1:00, drop Angie off at her friend’s house to drive back to Chicago at 3:00. We managed lunch at 11:40, Dad’s around 2:00 and dropped her off at her friend’s house at 3:20. Somehow, I seemed to be the only person this whole weekend who even noticed that we were late for every single event/time/meal for which we were scheduled.
The other new word I learned this weekend is “Emo.” Apparently this is the next sort of cool, sort of scary type of person, as “Goth” is so “last year.” Emo are people who are very emotional. This can be anything from kids who claim to be abused (who are actually probably the rich kids who are ignored by their parents), to boys who write really sad songs about being dumped, to people who cut themselves…yes, cut themselves. Now my sisters are far too emotionally well-grounded for this but they all know someone who has scars on their arms and legs from cutting themselves. Also, Katie told me of a website that teaches you how to be anorexic. http://www.plagueangel.org/grotto/ Just a warning to anyone who plans to raise children and eventually teenagers. Good luck.
Overall, I suppose I cannot complain too much as I am blessed by someone (or something) with a sweet family who loves me and takes care of each other. Fortunately for me though, Christmas only comes once a year. And it was really nice to be back on Tuesday with the most normal people I know, the gang from DL. Thanks, all.
Christy
Cast of Characters:
Dad – my dad
Lisa – my step-mom
Angie – 35-year old sister who lives in San Francisco
Annie – 19-year old sister who attends Anderson Christian College in Indiana
Laura – 18-year old sister who is a senior at Lakota East
Katie – 16-year old sister who is a sophomore at Lakota East
Thursday& Friday
My holiday weekend started off nice enough with my Drinking Liberally buddies at Cheryl & John’s house. I had to control myself as I was supposed to be at the mall to meet my four sisters at 9:00 the next morning and I didn’t want to be the bitchy hung-over sister. After dragging myself out of bed at 7:30, in order to drop my car off at the dealership for a repair, I stopped to pick up coffee and set the cup in cup holder in the center console of my car. I screeched into the Mazda dealership at 8:30, precisely the time I was supposed to meet my aunt there. She was already waiting for me. I pulled into the garage and as I was retrieving my cup and noticed that it was empty – something in the console had punctured the bottom of it and 16 ounces of coffee were now in my console – Angie called to let us know that the rest of the gang would be 30 minutes late. When I tried to explain that we were already on our way and that being that late was a little rude, she said, “Well, we’re still in our pajamas so deal with it.” They ended up at the mall at 9:45 – 45 minutes late. Shoulda stayed at the party for one more drink…
Saturday
I made it home Friday night to sleep cozy and comfy in my bed with my cat. Very nice, except that when I woke up, I was feeling a little cold. Went downstairs to the thermostat, sure enough it said 50 degrees. Apparently, I really did blow through $800 of heating oil in just under eight weeks. I called every oil company in town, Tuesday was the soonest anyone could be out. Great, four days with no heat.
I managed to have a good breakfast with friends on Saturday morning but had to rush to Christmas Eve dinner as we were supposed to be at Grandma’s at 1:00, for dinner at 2:00. Once again, I screeched into my destination barely on-time (2:00), only to realize that I was the only one there. Everyone else showed up at 3:00. Thanks, family. Love the continued punctuality.
My favorite conversations of the day when something like this…
Annie: “Hey Mom, what would you do if I had a secret fiancé and I told you I was getting married?”
Lisa: “Yea! Grandbabies!”
Christy: “She’s 19 and a freshman in college with a 4.0.”
Lisa: “ I really can’t wait for grandbabies!”
Another conversation:
Annie: “Mom, I really can’t decide if I like David.”
Lisa: “Do you see yourself marrying him?”
Annie: “No.”
Lisa: “Don’t waste your time then.”
Christy: “She’s 19! Does she really need to find her husband right now?”
Lisa: “I always said that if I wasn’t going to marry them, there is no reason to get to know them.”
Another conversation:
Annie: “I can’t wait to get out of school and get married and move back to West Chester.”
Laura: “Me, too.”
Katie: “Me, too.”
Christy: “Don’t you guys want to explore, maybe see what else is out there?”
Annie: “No, I really just want to be where I already know everything and don’t have to learn new streets or stores or anything.”
Christy: “Wow…not quite sure what to do with that.”
Sunday
Woke up at Dad’s with the girls and had a nice family Christmas morning and played games. All good. Lisa was a little upset with Angie and me for not joining the family at church, but what-ev (new word I learned from Annie).
The schedule for the day was supposed to be Grandma’s at 2:00, Dad’s at 5:00 for dinner and cousin’s at 8:00. Thanks to my perpetually late family, we managed Grandma’s at 3:00, Dad’s at 6:00 and cousin’s at 9:30. I did make it home to sleep in my very cold house with my very cold cat.
Monday
The schedule was supposed to be meet Aunt Myra at 11:30 for lunch, back to Dad’s around 1:00, drop Angie off at her friend’s house to drive back to Chicago at 3:00. We managed lunch at 11:40, Dad’s around 2:00 and dropped her off at her friend’s house at 3:20. Somehow, I seemed to be the only person this whole weekend who even noticed that we were late for every single event/time/meal for which we were scheduled.
The other new word I learned this weekend is “Emo.” Apparently this is the next sort of cool, sort of scary type of person, as “Goth” is so “last year.” Emo are people who are very emotional. This can be anything from kids who claim to be abused (who are actually probably the rich kids who are ignored by their parents), to boys who write really sad songs about being dumped, to people who cut themselves…yes, cut themselves. Now my sisters are far too emotionally well-grounded for this but they all know someone who has scars on their arms and legs from cutting themselves. Also, Katie told me of a website that teaches you how to be anorexic. http://www.plagueangel.org/grotto/ Just a warning to anyone who plans to raise children and eventually teenagers. Good luck.
Overall, I suppose I cannot complain too much as I am blessed by someone (or something) with a sweet family who loves me and takes care of each other. Fortunately for me though, Christmas only comes once a year. And it was really nice to be back on Tuesday with the most normal people I know, the gang from DL. Thanks, all.
Christy
The Search For A Cure
In the United States, approximately 20 million people have diabetes. Out of that 20 million, 14 million have been diagnosed and 6 million aren’t even aware that they have diabetes.
There are two major forms of diabetes. With Type 1 diabetes, the body no longer produces insulin. Type 1 diabetes can be treated by taking insulin shots and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise. Type 1 diabetes is usually hereditary or caused from failure to properly treat type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetics are considered insulin resistant. This means that their bodies produce insulin, but does not use the insulin properly. Type 2 diabetes is usually a result of obesity or sometimes it is hereditary. Most Type 2 diabetics can control their blood glucose levels through the use of oral medications, diet, and exercise. In some cases, Type 2 diabetics also use insulin therapy.
There has been great progress in the treatment of diabetes. Over the past several years, we have seen the introduction of continuous blood glucose monitors, newer insulins, and insulin pumps (Devices that can be programmed to continuously give the correct amount of insulin to a patient. It basically mimics what a normal pancreas does). The treatment of diabetes has benefited from research and education. But, with all of the advancements in the treatment of diabetes, there still is not a cure.
But, there is always hope for a cure. Dr. Horacio Rilo, a researcher at the University Of Cincinnati, is currently conducting research on islet cell transplants. Islet cells are the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. In Type 1 diabetics, islet cells are destroyed. What causes these cells to be destroyed is really unknown, but there is a belief that the body’s immune system sees the pancreas as a foreign organ and destroys the islet (beta) cells. With islet cell transplants, the destroyed islet cells are replaced with fresh islet cells from a donor. The hope is that the body accepts the donor cells and the body once again produces insulin.
To date, Dr. Rilo has performed islet cells transplants on six patients and today - one of those patients is completely off of insulin therapy. This is very promising to Type 1’s like myself.
What is unfortunate is that Dr. Rilo has lost funding for this project. What is fortunate is that he is carrying on his work through private donations and volunteers.
The Cincinnati Post published a great article on it earlier this year.
If you would like to make a contribution to Dr. Rilo’s research, learn more about diabetes or islet cell research, take a look at my doctor’s website.
Know the symptoms, get treated, and TCOYD.
There are two major forms of diabetes. With Type 1 diabetes, the body no longer produces insulin. Type 1 diabetes can be treated by taking insulin shots and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise. Type 1 diabetes is usually hereditary or caused from failure to properly treat type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetics are considered insulin resistant. This means that their bodies produce insulin, but does not use the insulin properly. Type 2 diabetes is usually a result of obesity or sometimes it is hereditary. Most Type 2 diabetics can control their blood glucose levels through the use of oral medications, diet, and exercise. In some cases, Type 2 diabetics also use insulin therapy.
There has been great progress in the treatment of diabetes. Over the past several years, we have seen the introduction of continuous blood glucose monitors, newer insulins, and insulin pumps (Devices that can be programmed to continuously give the correct amount of insulin to a patient. It basically mimics what a normal pancreas does). The treatment of diabetes has benefited from research and education. But, with all of the advancements in the treatment of diabetes, there still is not a cure.
But, there is always hope for a cure. Dr. Horacio Rilo, a researcher at the University Of Cincinnati, is currently conducting research on islet cell transplants. Islet cells are the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. In Type 1 diabetics, islet cells are destroyed. What causes these cells to be destroyed is really unknown, but there is a belief that the body’s immune system sees the pancreas as a foreign organ and destroys the islet (beta) cells. With islet cell transplants, the destroyed islet cells are replaced with fresh islet cells from a donor. The hope is that the body accepts the donor cells and the body once again produces insulin.
To date, Dr. Rilo has performed islet cells transplants on six patients and today - one of those patients is completely off of insulin therapy. This is very promising to Type 1’s like myself.
What is unfortunate is that Dr. Rilo has lost funding for this project. What is fortunate is that he is carrying on his work through private donations and volunteers.
The Cincinnati Post published a great article on it earlier this year.
If you would like to make a contribution to Dr. Rilo’s research, learn more about diabetes or islet cell research, take a look at my doctor’s website.
Know the symptoms, get treated, and TCOYD.
It's a sign of the times
Another sign in a window has people upset. This time the sign is in a window in a campaign office in Minnesota. Todays report in the NYTimes claims a volunteer for a Democratic Gubernatorial candidate, State Senator Steve Kelley placed the sign in the office window.
The sign sites the number of wounded, killed in the war and the duration of the war. The problem is the campaign office is next to an Army reruiting office. Evidentially it upsets the recruiters to have the sign next door, to pass it on their way to work....more importantly for recruits to pass it.
The man who made the sign has been asked to make more and market them.
Sign me up.
FYI the current American dead since March 2003 is 2172.
The sign sites the number of wounded, killed in the war and the duration of the war. The problem is the campaign office is next to an Army reruiting office. Evidentially it upsets the recruiters to have the sign next door, to pass it on their way to work....more importantly for recruits to pass it.
The man who made the sign has been asked to make more and market them.
Sign me up.
FYI the current American dead since March 2003 is 2172.
True dis
Thanks to iTunes, you can download the Chronicles of Narnia video from SNL for free.
(via The Big Picture, via Atrios)
(via The Big Picture, via Atrios)
Thought for the day
Never, never, never believe any war will be smooth and easy, or that anyone who embarks on the strange voyage can measure the tides and hurricanes he will encounter. The statesman who yields to war fever must realize that once the signal is given, he is no longer the master of policy but the slave of unforeseeable and uncontrollable events.
--Winston Churchill
Quick! Someone tell George "Mission Accomplished" Bush and Dick "Rose Petals" Cheney! (No, I am not suggesting either man is a statesman.)
Did we really defeat the turrists?
Verrry interesting op-ed by Robert Steinback in the Miami Herald today on where we've been in the last four years. Worth a look-see, it'll give you plenty to think about.
Darwin's Struggle agianst I.D.- Now a game
While perusing the NYT Science Times today, something I assume conservatives don't do, I happened on a commentary heralding the misguided attempt to tout I.D. as science. The author, Cornelia Dean, references the many growing humorous jabs at I.D. including the Flying Spaghetti Monster as well as a new game; Bone Wars from Zygote Games.
In BONE WARS, players take the role of paleontologists during the great "Dinosaur Rush" of the late 19th Century.
Zygote is offering a discount to Kansas orders.
Why give a discount to Kansas? Why not Wyoming or Vermont? Simple: the Kansas Board of Education has attempted to give equal space in the state public school biology curriculum to the doctrine of "Intelligent Design," claiming that it is a "scientific theory" about the origin and development of life. It isn't, of course, and when real scientists complained that "Intelligent Design" fits none of the criteria for an actual scientific theory, the Board responded by redefining "science" so that it is no longer limited to the search for natural explanations for phenomena.
Save us from Icompetent Design and order one for your kids classroom today!
In BONE WARS, players take the role of paleontologists during the great "Dinosaur Rush" of the late 19th Century.
Zygote is offering a discount to Kansas orders.
Why give a discount to Kansas? Why not Wyoming or Vermont? Simple: the Kansas Board of Education has attempted to give equal space in the state public school biology curriculum to the doctrine of "Intelligent Design," claiming that it is a "scientific theory" about the origin and development of life. It isn't, of course, and when real scientists complained that "Intelligent Design" fits none of the criteria for an actual scientific theory, the Board responded by redefining "science" so that it is no longer limited to the search for natural explanations for phenomena.
Save us from Icompetent Design and order one for your kids classroom today!
Pile on Bush!!
Ok, get your minds out of the gutters...
Since the floodgates are officially opened on the ID debate, I'll throw in my commentary on Kathleen 'girls should have chastity belts drilled to their hips until their 25th birthday' Parker's inane defense of ID in an op-ed piece in the Enquirer several months ago, along with a random thought following the Katrina disaster and how it relates to the right's overall views of science.
Since the floodgates are officially opened on the ID debate, I'll throw in my commentary on Kathleen 'girls should have chastity belts drilled to their hips until their 25th birthday' Parker's inane defense of ID in an op-ed piece in the Enquirer several months ago, along with a random thought following the Katrina disaster and how it relates to the right's overall views of science.
"Intelligent Design"
Over the last few weeks, I have been doing some reading on the so-called "theory" of "Intelligent Design." In the coming days and weeks, I'd like to share with you what I've learned from my reading.
As a first post on this subject, I'd like to pen some initial impressions of mine. I am thoroughly flabbergasted that there is even a controversy about the origins of life in the United Frickin' States, arguably the most scientifically advanced country on the face of this planet. Me, I come from a far less advanced country, where religion plays a huge role in everyday life. And yet, even there, the predominance of science in questions about the origins of life is never disputed. How could this be, I've asked myself on more than one occasion. I don't have an answer to that, but this much is clear to me. ID is creationism cleverly disguised as science by the Discovery Institute and other peddlers of this junk science. Just because you call yourselves an "Institute," you don't automatically become scientists and your claims science. That would be akin to yours truly forming the DL Institute for Beer Research, ascribing the "creation" of beer to an "intelligent" cause (like, say, the Flying Spaghetti Monster), demanding equal time with the theory of fermentation, and then suggesting that we "teach the controversy."
Of course, these are very generic statements about ID. In my future posts, I will present solid scientific discussions regarding ID. As a researcher (though not in biology), I have some idea about what constitutes science, what "theory" means, and what a hypothesis is. Allow me to quote Douglas J. Futuyma, author of the widely-used text Evolutionary Biology (via Talk.Origins):
Everytime I hear someone flippantly say, "Evolution is just a theory," I can't quite decide whether to laugh at the claim or let loose a can of whoop-ass and bitch-slappin'. Sorry, but "theory" has a very specific meaning in science. By the way, the same goes for, "Teach the controversy." Ya hear that, George? There is no fucking controversy in the scientific community!
My goal is to expose some of the myths and falsities perpetrated by the right wing. Please let me know, via the comments, if there are any specific aspects of this issue of interest to you and I'll try to highlight those.
(Updated to quote Futuyma.)
As a first post on this subject, I'd like to pen some initial impressions of mine. I am thoroughly flabbergasted that there is even a controversy about the origins of life in the United Frickin' States, arguably the most scientifically advanced country on the face of this planet. Me, I come from a far less advanced country, where religion plays a huge role in everyday life. And yet, even there, the predominance of science in questions about the origins of life is never disputed. How could this be, I've asked myself on more than one occasion. I don't have an answer to that, but this much is clear to me. ID is creationism cleverly disguised as science by the Discovery Institute and other peddlers of this junk science. Just because you call yourselves an "Institute," you don't automatically become scientists and your claims science. That would be akin to yours truly forming the DL Institute for Beer Research, ascribing the "creation" of beer to an "intelligent" cause (like, say, the Flying Spaghetti Monster), demanding equal time with the theory of fermentation, and then suggesting that we "teach the controversy."
Of course, these are very generic statements about ID. In my future posts, I will present solid scientific discussions regarding ID. As a researcher (though not in biology), I have some idea about what constitutes science, what "theory" means, and what a hypothesis is. Allow me to quote Douglas J. Futuyma, author of the widely-used text Evolutionary Biology (via Talk.Origins):
In everyday speech, "theory" often means a hypothesis or even a mere speculation. But in science, "theory" means "a statement of what are held to be the general laws, principles, or causes of something known or observed." as the Oxford English Dictionary defines it.
Everytime I hear someone flippantly say, "Evolution is just a theory," I can't quite decide whether to laugh at the claim or let loose a can of whoop-ass and bitch-slappin'. Sorry, but "theory" has a very specific meaning in science. By the way, the same goes for, "Teach the controversy." Ya hear that, George? There is no fucking controversy in the scientific community!
My goal is to expose some of the myths and falsities perpetrated by the right wing. Please let me know, via the comments, if there are any specific aspects of this issue of interest to you and I'll try to highlight those.
(Updated to quote Futuyma.)
Top Picks Of 2005
With the year coming to a close, it's time for me to give my top album picks for the year. Of course, this is my opinion only, but when you really think about it, that's what really matters. So, without further delay, let me count them down Kasey Kasem style.
#10 Death Cab For Cutie, "Plans"
#9 Mike Doughty, "Haughty Melodic"
#8 Franz Ferdinand, "You Could Have It So Much Better"
#7 Madness, "The Dangerman Sessions, Volume One"
#6 Coldplay, "X&Y"
#5 White Stripes, "Get Behind Me Satan"
#4 Doves, "Some Cities"
#3 Bloc Party, "Silent Alarm"
#2 New Order, "Waiting For The Siren's Call"
#1 Greg Dulli, "Amber Headlights"
Feel free to prove me wrong.
#10 Death Cab For Cutie, "Plans"
#9 Mike Doughty, "Haughty Melodic"
#8 Franz Ferdinand, "You Could Have It So Much Better"
#7 Madness, "The Dangerman Sessions, Volume One"
#6 Coldplay, "X&Y"
#5 White Stripes, "Get Behind Me Satan"
#4 Doves, "Some Cities"
#3 Bloc Party, "Silent Alarm"
#2 New Order, "Waiting For The Siren's Call"
#1 Greg Dulli, "Amber Headlights"
Feel free to prove me wrong.
Thought for the day
I once wanted to become an atheist, but I gave up -- they have no holidays.
--Henny Youngman
--Henny Youngman
Absolut-ly!
Log on to the Absolut web site and select your favorite absolut holiday ad.
Your a chance to win a stay at the Ice Hotel in Sweden.
Your a chance to win a stay at the Ice Hotel in Sweden.
In The Penalty Box For One Season
If you are a hockey fan living in Cincinnati, you have seen many hockey teams come and go. Fear not hockey fans, for hockey will return to this great city next season!
The new hockey team will be called the Cincinnati Rail Raiders. Where did the name come from? According to Rail Raiders' management, it is named after Cincinnati's long history of train systems (which is funny to me because of this Issue), and a train robbery that happened long ago in Cleves. Somehow, it has to do with hockey being, "derailed" in Cincinnati.
This made me think of other great moments in Cincinnati history that we could use to name a hockey team. Indulge me while I come up with a few:
The Cincinnati "Prudes" or "1st Amendment Busters" in honor of Larry Flynt and Robert Mapplethorpe.
The Cincinnati "Cows". It seems that the city has a big problem with runaway cows.
And my personal favorite - The Cincinnati, "Hockey In The Form Of A Mushroom Cloud" for this little gem back on October 7, 2002.
I was going to go into the origins of hockey, but I have not been able to confirm my sources.
The new hockey team will be called the Cincinnati Rail Raiders. Where did the name come from? According to Rail Raiders' management, it is named after Cincinnati's long history of train systems (which is funny to me because of this Issue), and a train robbery that happened long ago in Cleves. Somehow, it has to do with hockey being, "derailed" in Cincinnati.
This made me think of other great moments in Cincinnati history that we could use to name a hockey team. Indulge me while I come up with a few:
The Cincinnati "Prudes" or "1st Amendment Busters" in honor of Larry Flynt and Robert Mapplethorpe.
The Cincinnati "Cows". It seems that the city has a big problem with runaway cows.
And my personal favorite - The Cincinnati, "Hockey In The Form Of A Mushroom Cloud" for this little gem back on October 7, 2002.
I was going to go into the origins of hockey, but I have not been able to confirm my sources.
A musical tribute to Bush and Co.
Finally a film that reflects my feelings toward Bush and Co.
Warning: adult language; don't watch at work or with your kids in the room.
Warning: adult language; don't watch at work or with your kids in the room.
Saving the world $10 at a time
Saw Munich last night - PASS! Unless you enjoy three hours (snore) of unadulterated violence (which I usually do), disturbing imagery, and generally dislikable characters. Even the one requisite gratuitous nudity scene got ruined by a murder. The only upside of the movie was that Eric Bana bears an odd resemblance to Corey Feldman, which made me hope that a coked-out Corey Haim might appear on screen and think he was back in Licensed to Drive, which would have made it much more enjoyable.
Thought for the day
In heaven all the interesting people are missing.
--Friedrich Nietzsche
Go to hell. It's more fun.
--Friedrich Nietzsche
Go to hell. It's more fun.
Wanna have a beer with 'em?
Is this the mark of electoral success?
It might make a good litmus test before donating or campaigning for a candidate.
Do you vote for a candidate because you wanna have a beer with him, or because you agree with them on the issues? About thirty percent of voters name an issue when they explain why they voted the way they did, and only a fifth hold consistent opinions on issues over time.
Who wants a cardboard cut-out candidate with a long résumé spouting tired political talking points? No charisma and BORING, the only inspiration they provide is for you to stay home on Election Day.
It's about Charisma. You wouldn't want to have a beer with someone who has no personality.
Charisma is
"a certain appeal, allure, or presence. When charismatic people enter a room, they draw attention and may enliven the whole gathering."
says Howard Friedman, a professor of psychology at the University of California-Riverside.
Sound like any local politicians you know?
I want candidates that have a personality and passion that get people excited and interested in politics again. A democracy only works when citizens are engaged, and the only way to get citizens engaged is to have inspirational leaders. Voter apathy that permeates America today is appalling, but the astonishing lack of decent candidates is the real tragedy.
I want a candidate that seems sincere, is a leader and more importantly one that I want to have a beer with! The kind of person that once in office I know will consider an issue with an open mind and make a decision based on reason, not talking points. One that has the guts to take a stand, move forward with a plan and have the charisma to sell it.
So from now on I challenge you to ask this question before you donate or sign up for the next phone bank for that candidate, would I want to have a beer with 'em?
It might make a good litmus test before donating or campaigning for a candidate.
Do you vote for a candidate because you wanna have a beer with him, or because you agree with them on the issues? About thirty percent of voters name an issue when they explain why they voted the way they did, and only a fifth hold consistent opinions on issues over time.
Who wants a cardboard cut-out candidate with a long résumé spouting tired political talking points? No charisma and BORING, the only inspiration they provide is for you to stay home on Election Day.
It's about Charisma. You wouldn't want to have a beer with someone who has no personality.
Charisma is
"a certain appeal, allure, or presence. When charismatic people enter a room, they draw attention and may enliven the whole gathering."
says Howard Friedman, a professor of psychology at the University of California-Riverside.
Sound like any local politicians you know?
I want candidates that have a personality and passion that get people excited and interested in politics again. A democracy only works when citizens are engaged, and the only way to get citizens engaged is to have inspirational leaders. Voter apathy that permeates America today is appalling, but the astonishing lack of decent candidates is the real tragedy.
I want a candidate that seems sincere, is a leader and more importantly one that I want to have a beer with! The kind of person that once in office I know will consider an issue with an open mind and make a decision based on reason, not talking points. One that has the guts to take a stand, move forward with a plan and have the charisma to sell it.
So from now on I challenge you to ask this question before you donate or sign up for the next phone bank for that candidate, would I want to have a beer with 'em?
That is a fatwa in my pants, and I am happy to see you
How long before Al Qaeda puts out the hit on Bin Laden's niece after she drops her burqa?
Thought for the day
Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative.
--Oscar Wilde
This holiday, remember to be creative with your drinks. Mix it up!
--Oscar Wilde
This holiday, remember to be creative with your drinks. Mix it up!
The continuing saga of voting irregularities
Apparently Ken Blackwell and Katherine Harris were involved in the voting for the 2012 Olympic venue.
The enemies of Bill O'Reilly
Why are the Greenhills Community Church and the readers of the Cincinnati Enquirer waging a war against Christmas?
DL Music Mix Challenge: Dick Cheney's iPod Playlist
Over the past year, various members of DL have created music mixes around various themes. For the New Year, I propose a new mix challenge: Dick Cheney's iPod playlist.
Apparently, ole Dicky boy is so enamored of his iPod that on a recent Air Force II flight, he bogarted one of the last remaining power outlets for his device while other passengers had to share outlets. Being a music lover myself, I can attest that, after a hard day of casting tie-breaking votes, I would inconvenience reporters filing stories so I could listen to my favorite Arcade Fire songs. I mean, what good is an imperial presidency for if you can't use your influence to steal precious power from journalists so you can listen to Johnny Cash?
Yep, our vice-president has the Man in Black on his iPod as well as "oldies but goodies" from the 40s and 50s. Apart from Cash, I must say that Cheney's music selection is seriously lacking. So, here are some songs I think would be perfect additions to his iPod:
- "Bad to the Bone" - George Thorogood
- "Evil is Goin' On" - Howlin' Wolf
- "Hair of the Dog" - Nazareth
- "Bad Moon Rising" - CCR
- "The Number of the Beast" - Iron Maiden
- This song
- And Celine Dion. Lots and lots of Celine Dion.
Other suggestions?
Apparently, ole Dicky boy is so enamored of his iPod that on a recent Air Force II flight, he bogarted one of the last remaining power outlets for his device while other passengers had to share outlets. Being a music lover myself, I can attest that, after a hard day of casting tie-breaking votes, I would inconvenience reporters filing stories so I could listen to my favorite Arcade Fire songs. I mean, what good is an imperial presidency for if you can't use your influence to steal precious power from journalists so you can listen to Johnny Cash?
Yep, our vice-president has the Man in Black on his iPod as well as "oldies but goodies" from the 40s and 50s. Apart from Cash, I must say that Cheney's music selection is seriously lacking. So, here are some songs I think would be perfect additions to his iPod:
- "Bad to the Bone" - George Thorogood
- "Evil is Goin' On" - Howlin' Wolf
- "Hair of the Dog" - Nazareth
- "Bad Moon Rising" - CCR
- "The Number of the Beast" - Iron Maiden
- This song
- And Celine Dion. Lots and lots of Celine Dion.
Other suggestions?
And the FSM Said It Was Good
BoingBoing posted a great interview with Bobby Henderson, creator of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster. All the FSM acolytes in DL (and there are quite a few) will be happy to learn that The Gospel of the Flying Spaghetti Monster will be published in March. All proceeds go to the purchase of a "huge and bad-ass" pirate ship for all FSM missionaries. Arrgh--ramen, matey!!!
An Interesting Read?
(Via Atrios) Washington Monthly has a long article on Kos. It's a pretty good read, particularly if you are not a regular blog reader ("bleader"?).
Then, read Kos's corrections.
Then, read Kos's corrections.
Shuffle up and deal
As this is a musically inclined group, it pains me to report that one of the last bastions of good rock music in town, WAQZ, has succumbed to the 'shuffle' format. Basically there's no more DJ's, no rhyme nor reason to the playlist, they just put all the tunes in the computer, pushed play, and just let it run. I knew something was up when I turned it on Saturday morning and there was no Out of Order with Jed the Fish.
I've long felt that eventually Clear Channel was just going to buy all the FM stations in town and just merge them into one continuous shuffle. Why wait, just go ahead and do it, there's so little personality left in music radio anymore, just get it overwith. Until then, here are my new names for the major stations in town:
MIX - My Shuffle Will Go On
Q102 - Shuffle Clarkson/Usher
WEBN - Shuffletallica
KISS - Shuffizle Dizzle
FOX - Shuffle on the water, a fire in the sky
MOJO - Shuffletomic Dog
B105 - Shuffle a horse, ride a cowboy
XM - safe haven from Cincinnati radio
I've long felt that eventually Clear Channel was just going to buy all the FM stations in town and just merge them into one continuous shuffle. Why wait, just go ahead and do it, there's so little personality left in music radio anymore, just get it overwith. Until then, here are my new names for the major stations in town:
MIX - My Shuffle Will Go On
Q102 - Shuffle Clarkson/Usher
WEBN - Shuffletallica
KISS - Shuffizle Dizzle
FOX - Shuffle on the water, a fire in the sky
MOJO - Shuffletomic Dog
B105 - Shuffle a horse, ride a cowboy
XM - safe haven from Cincinnati radio
Fo' Shizzle!
Okay, maybe the title is unwarranted, but I hope we can do this communal blog thing and see if it works. Just another avenue for us to bitch. So, my dears, let's get started and have a bloggerific time.
I dedicate this first post to the Flying Spaghetti Monster. May His Noodly Appendage touch us all in mysterious and X-rated ways. RAmen.
I dedicate this first post to the Flying Spaghetti Monster. May His Noodly Appendage touch us all in mysterious and X-rated ways. RAmen.
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