It is thus decided. Secretary Paulson can spend up to $700 billion of the taxpayers money. And, no one can review, or make changes to the final decision. In addition, there is nothing to be done about the action after the fact.
Capitalist Socialism. That is where we stand. We the taxpayers are not only on the hook for a trillion dollars worth of unnecessary war, we now we are going to be handed the bill to bailout those who gambled and lost. The war is brought to us by Halliburton, KBR and an assortment of others who have profited handsomely. We have paid Dick Cheney and his ilk with our blood and treasure. Now, for the elite, and this would of course be Mr. McCain and company, we get to give them a lot of money for being the very worst of businessmen and women.
It is going to be very interesting to hear politicians of every stripe step up and proclaim that this was in the best interest of the country. Tomorrow should offer us the finest in spinning from left, right and everywhere in between. They will come before us and claim with straight faces that this was the best course available and it took great courage to make this momentous decision. They may in fact be right. I sure as hell don't know. But, what I see is $700 billion of taxpayer money being given to those who caused the problem in the first place. We are going to reward crooks for malfeasance and ineptitude. And, there isn't one damned thing we can do about it. Right or wrong.
$700 Billion.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
Lehman, Merrill, et. al.
Some great fun on Wall Street this morning. Lehman has filed bankruptcy, Merrill would have except for a quick sale of itself to Bank of America. And, AIG is begging for cash and may in the end follow along after Lehman or Merrill.
So, I'm just wondering here, after decades of corporations before citizens politics. Particularly the last eight. After more give aways than can be counted to companies large and small, for any reason whatsoever. How is it that that we are watching a collapse in the financial markets? Certainly it couldn't be that it was all bullshit, sold as golden apples? Perhaps now would be a good time to ask Mr. McCain's financial guru? Or, better yet. Let's ask Mr. McCain, that giant among men who feels he is the best the country has to offer in good judgement. Hmmm...Graham, Palin...kind of a losing proposition looks like to me.
This is likely not the end of all the mess we are watching. It is entirely likely that what we are seeing is the beginning of the downsizing of Wall Street. And, by extension, the downsizing of the United States. Unless, and until, we get our fiscal house in order, this country is going to be the model for the rest of the world in what not to do to govern a country.
So, I'm just wondering here, after decades of corporations before citizens politics. Particularly the last eight. After more give aways than can be counted to companies large and small, for any reason whatsoever. How is it that that we are watching a collapse in the financial markets? Certainly it couldn't be that it was all bullshit, sold as golden apples? Perhaps now would be a good time to ask Mr. McCain's financial guru? Or, better yet. Let's ask Mr. McCain, that giant among men who feels he is the best the country has to offer in good judgement. Hmmm...Graham, Palin...kind of a losing proposition looks like to me.
This is likely not the end of all the mess we are watching. It is entirely likely that what we are seeing is the beginning of the downsizing of Wall Street. And, by extension, the downsizing of the United States. Unless, and until, we get our fiscal house in order, this country is going to be the model for the rest of the world in what not to do to govern a country.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Lying
It absolutely confounds me how the Republican Party can continue to fool so many people. How can a party that has made one it's tenents, lying about anything and everything, hold onto such a huge number of voters?
There seems to be no subject that they will not lie about. Whether it is Mr. Obama's record, his background or his childhood. Whether its global warming, economics or support for the troops. It seems that the lie is preferred to any form of the truth.
It may just be that they have no truth to tell. No new ideas. Nothing positive to focu on. So, rather than admit that they are going to just follow along with whatever policy was put in place before them, they focus on the negative. And, lie.
That may be it. But, why in the world would people who have been so thoroughly duped over the last eight years be willing to extend their support for more of the same? We have lost our standing in the world as a perveyor of peace and goodwill. Our military has been used and abused until it is near the point of collapse. The economy is in shambles. So...?
There seems to be no subject that they will not lie about. Whether it is Mr. Obama's record, his background or his childhood. Whether its global warming, economics or support for the troops. It seems that the lie is preferred to any form of the truth.
It may just be that they have no truth to tell. No new ideas. Nothing positive to focu on. So, rather than admit that they are going to just follow along with whatever policy was put in place before them, they focus on the negative. And, lie.
That may be it. But, why in the world would people who have been so thoroughly duped over the last eight years be willing to extend their support for more of the same? We have lost our standing in the world as a perveyor of peace and goodwill. Our military has been used and abused until it is near the point of collapse. The economy is in shambles. So...?
Monday, September 08, 2008
Energy and Focus
It seems that over the last week or so, those in the trenches have lost some of their energy and focus. I don't mean that everyone has gone off to play video games and drink beer. What I mean is that too many have been paying too much attention to the Ms. Palin situation unfolding. It is important if you are a pundit and your livelihood depends on such crap. Or, if you happen to work for the Obama campaign and one of your issues is handling the circus that is Ms. Palin.
For the rest of us however, it seems to me that our energy and focus needs to be on making sure we get everyone who is available to vote, registered. That we are knocking on every door in the United States, to make sure that all who can, do. That if we can, we are putting our money into the campaign coffer.
Mr. Obama has a paid staff to take care of those things that we just really can't do a damned thing about. We need to make sure that we have our energy and focus where it is needed. We need to make sure that the day after the election, we have made The Change that we so desperately need and want.
For the rest of us however, it seems to me that our energy and focus needs to be on making sure we get everyone who is available to vote, registered. That we are knocking on every door in the United States, to make sure that all who can, do. That if we can, we are putting our money into the campaign coffer.
Mr. Obama has a paid staff to take care of those things that we just really can't do a damned thing about. We need to make sure that we have our energy and focus where it is needed. We need to make sure that the day after the election, we have made The Change that we so desperately need and want.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Conventions. Over. Finally.
So, the Democrats held their convention. And now the Republicans have had their convention. It's finally time to get down to the election. Since, as is generally the case, nothing of import happens until after the summer is over and people get back home and start paying attention. Too bad, of course. A lot of very cool things have happened over the summer that were worthy of attention. Mr. Obama took the Democratic nomination from Ms. Clinton. Mr. McCain, once written off, is now the nominee for the Republicans.
Mr. Obama chose as his running mate Mr. Biden, a Senator of several decades and a foreign policy expert. Mr. McCain has chosen as his running mate, uuhhh...Ms. Palin, the 20 month Governor of Alaska. Who, previously was a mayor of a town of less than 10,000.
Next there will be the debates. Two between the two at the top of the ticket, and one by the VP choices. This is going to provide a lot of fun for everyone. Mr. Obama is a writer and orator. Mr. McCain is a mumbling, fumbling old fool. By the time the VP debate takes place, the Democrat's should have long since taken the muzzle off of Mr. Biden and...I'm not sure I want to see that.
The election itself is, in my estimation, the anticlimax of the whole election cycle. I fully expect Mr. Obama to win in a landslide. But, win he will. And, the United States will begin crawling back to a place of prominence and leadership in the world.
Mr. Obama chose as his running mate Mr. Biden, a Senator of several decades and a foreign policy expert. Mr. McCain has chosen as his running mate, uuhhh...Ms. Palin, the 20 month Governor of Alaska. Who, previously was a mayor of a town of less than 10,000.
Next there will be the debates. Two between the two at the top of the ticket, and one by the VP choices. This is going to provide a lot of fun for everyone. Mr. Obama is a writer and orator. Mr. McCain is a mumbling, fumbling old fool. By the time the VP debate takes place, the Democrat's should have long since taken the muzzle off of Mr. Biden and...I'm not sure I want to see that.
The election itself is, in my estimation, the anticlimax of the whole election cycle. I fully expect Mr. Obama to win in a landslide. But, win he will. And, the United States will begin crawling back to a place of prominence and leadership in the world.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Mr. McCain's choices
Just back from a trip around the western states. Motorcycle performed flawlessly. Had the stuff good trips are made of. Heat, chill, dry, wet, windy and altogether wonderful trip.
Saw Mr. Obama's acceptance speech. The man can write his ass off. And, even better, he is an orator extrordinaire. That was really something to see and hear. When even Mr. Buchanan, the old racist, pays compliments, you have witnessed something that you will see and hear very few times in a lifetime.
So now there is this choice of Mr. McCain of Ms. Palin as his running mate. Uhh, right. Talk about your questionable choices. Mr. McCain has so far curtailed an interview that was to be done on CNN because they questioned his judgement on his selection. Last I checked that was the role of the press. Not that they have been very good at it the last eight years, but now is okay for me. Then we find out she was questioned by the vetting committee the day before the selection. Obviously a lot of information was gathered and a lot of vetting done. Let's put that CNN question back on the table.
The hot head that Mr. McCain is, he should be on fire by the time the debates are over and done with. Which means, as politely as I can put it, after he has been eviscerated by Mr. Obama in front of the entire world. He lacks every bit of judgement necessary to be a leader in the world we face. He selects a VP running mate because he he has t take a great risk if he has any chance of winning. After it becomes apparent that he has stepped in bigger shit than crashing five planes, he whines to his base that the media isn't being nice to him and his choice.
Not sure how Ms. Palin will play tonight in front of a national audience. But, it should prove to be interesting. In the end, however, I think it will be much ado about nothing. Which is what I think she offers the world at large.
Oh. And, this just in. An open mic puts Ms. Noonan on record as calling her selection a bullshit choice and signifying the end of the presidential race. Between the statements of Ms. Noonan and Mr. Murphy over an open mic when they thought they had gone to commercial, it's just one more view from inside the Republican Party. They see the choices of Mr. McCain and his, amd Mr. Bush's Party continuing what is going to be a long process of unwinding.
Welcome to the world of reality, Grand Old Party.
Saw Mr. Obama's acceptance speech. The man can write his ass off. And, even better, he is an orator extrordinaire. That was really something to see and hear. When even Mr. Buchanan, the old racist, pays compliments, you have witnessed something that you will see and hear very few times in a lifetime.
So now there is this choice of Mr. McCain of Ms. Palin as his running mate. Uhh, right. Talk about your questionable choices. Mr. McCain has so far curtailed an interview that was to be done on CNN because they questioned his judgement on his selection. Last I checked that was the role of the press. Not that they have been very good at it the last eight years, but now is okay for me. Then we find out she was questioned by the vetting committee the day before the selection. Obviously a lot of information was gathered and a lot of vetting done. Let's put that CNN question back on the table.
The hot head that Mr. McCain is, he should be on fire by the time the debates are over and done with. Which means, as politely as I can put it, after he has been eviscerated by Mr. Obama in front of the entire world. He lacks every bit of judgement necessary to be a leader in the world we face. He selects a VP running mate because he he has t take a great risk if he has any chance of winning. After it becomes apparent that he has stepped in bigger shit than crashing five planes, he whines to his base that the media isn't being nice to him and his choice.
Not sure how Ms. Palin will play tonight in front of a national audience. But, it should prove to be interesting. In the end, however, I think it will be much ado about nothing. Which is what I think she offers the world at large.
Oh. And, this just in. An open mic puts Ms. Noonan on record as calling her selection a bullshit choice and signifying the end of the presidential race. Between the statements of Ms. Noonan and Mr. Murphy over an open mic when they thought they had gone to commercial, it's just one more view from inside the Republican Party. They see the choices of Mr. McCain and his, amd Mr. Bush's Party continuing what is going to be a long process of unwinding.
Welcome to the world of reality, Grand Old Party.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Mr. Obama's acceptance speech
Just got back from a motorcycle trip that took me over 6,000 miles and some absolutely spectacular scenery. From New Mexico, Yosemite Park, Northern Washington and Libby to Great Falls, MT. We should all go out and look at what this country is made of, it's worth a whole lot more than it costs monitarily.
Unless you just arrived from being dead for several days, you know that the Democratic Party held it's convention in Denver, CO the past several days with the acceptance speech of Mr. Obama delivered at Envesco Field last night before 84,000 people. Not to mention the other 38, ooo, ooo of us who eavesdropped by way of television.
It is my opinion that the speech delivered last night was one of the best political speeches we have heard in the last couple of generations. The man writes a lot of his own speeches and is without a doubt one of the great orator's of our time. Reverend King and Ms. Barbara Jordan would be extremely proud of the speech that came from Envesco last night.
Today we got what was supposed to be some sort of attention grab by the camp of Mr. McCain. He chose as his running mate, the Governor of Alaska, Ms. Palin. What it demonstrated, however, was that the lack of good judgement shown over time by Mr. McCain is alive and well. Four years ago, the woman was the Mayor of a small town, who while holding that position placed a $20 million dollar horse collar on the place. The cost for a sports complex. She should work well for the extreme right wing. Thank you Mr. McCain.
Speaking of disaster, the debates should be extremely entertaining for Democrat's, who have endured the worst of all outcomes the past two Presidential election cycles. Watching the evisceration of the two Republican sacrificial lambs is going to go a long way toward rebuilding the spirits of the Democratic Party faithful. Not only have they got Mr. Obama as the leader of the Party, but Mr. Biden, who, when unleashed will be a whole lot of fun to watch. The differences between Modern Man and the Neanderthal's is going to make for one helluva an entertaining fall.
YES!! WE!! CAN!!
Unless you just arrived from being dead for several days, you know that the Democratic Party held it's convention in Denver, CO the past several days with the acceptance speech of Mr. Obama delivered at Envesco Field last night before 84,000 people. Not to mention the other 38, ooo, ooo of us who eavesdropped by way of television.
It is my opinion that the speech delivered last night was one of the best political speeches we have heard in the last couple of generations. The man writes a lot of his own speeches and is without a doubt one of the great orator's of our time. Reverend King and Ms. Barbara Jordan would be extremely proud of the speech that came from Envesco last night.
Today we got what was supposed to be some sort of attention grab by the camp of Mr. McCain. He chose as his running mate, the Governor of Alaska, Ms. Palin. What it demonstrated, however, was that the lack of good judgement shown over time by Mr. McCain is alive and well. Four years ago, the woman was the Mayor of a small town, who while holding that position placed a $20 million dollar horse collar on the place. The cost for a sports complex. She should work well for the extreme right wing. Thank you Mr. McCain.
Speaking of disaster, the debates should be extremely entertaining for Democrat's, who have endured the worst of all outcomes the past two Presidential election cycles. Watching the evisceration of the two Republican sacrificial lambs is going to go a long way toward rebuilding the spirits of the Democratic Party faithful. Not only have they got Mr. Obama as the leader of the Party, but Mr. Biden, who, when unleashed will be a whole lot of fun to watch. The differences between Modern Man and the Neanderthal's is going to make for one helluva an entertaining fall.
YES!! WE!! CAN!!
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Paris Hilton?
Anybody notice a cool sea breeze today? If you are politically inclined, of course the answer is hell no. As a matter of fact, it is getting a whole lot hotter as the days wear on.
Mr. Obama seems to have come out of the always a nice guy shell. Today after the tire pressure fiasco that is a great symbol of Mr. McCain's chole cam pain, Mr. Obama came down on him from several heights. Making fun of his flip-flopping on whether maintaining the proper tire pressure is a good idea, he brought examples of others backing the position. NASCAR, AAA, and of course every driver in the world. Whether you call it backstepping, flipping, or flopping, it was about as fast a dance as we've seen in a long time.
But, I must say, the Gold, today, goes to Paris Hilton. The piece she released bitch slapping Mr. McCain was well written, well delivered, and funny. The woman doesn't generally measure on my Interest 'O Meter, but this unexpected little gem is worth watching.
Definitely a good day for the Obama camp. Let's hope that they now flood the landscape for the next three months. It's almost over, friends. YES!WE!CAN!
Mr. Obama seems to have come out of the always a nice guy shell. Today after the tire pressure fiasco that is a great symbol of Mr. McCain's chole cam pain, Mr. Obama came down on him from several heights. Making fun of his flip-flopping on whether maintaining the proper tire pressure is a good idea, he brought examples of others backing the position. NASCAR, AAA, and of course every driver in the world. Whether you call it backstepping, flipping, or flopping, it was about as fast a dance as we've seen in a long time.
But, I must say, the Gold, today, goes to Paris Hilton. The piece she released bitch slapping Mr. McCain was well written, well delivered, and funny. The woman doesn't generally measure on my Interest 'O Meter, but this unexpected little gem is worth watching.
Definitely a good day for the Obama camp. Let's hope that they now flood the landscape for the next three months. It's almost over, friends. YES!WE!CAN!
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Crap on a cracker
Abstinence-only. That's what I call crap on a cracker. But, RB, I'm told, that's what parents want taught in their schools. Allowing that there may possibly be one iota of truth to the statement, let's take a little look at some of what parents want. Seventy-one (71) percent of all parents believe that teens need to know that they can obtain birth control pills from family planning clinics without permission from a parent. Eighty-three (83) percent want youth to know how to put on a condom.
That may not tell some folks anything. But, it tells me that as parents, they don't want their kids out fucking everything that walks or approximates that. However, they realize that sex is a primal instinct. And, just like other animals, our children will, for the most part, be out there participating.
Abstinence-only. More, crap on a cracker. Abstinence-only education delays sexual initiation and reduces teen pregnancy. A federally-funded evaluation shows us that abstinence-only education is not effective at delaying the initiation of sexual activity or in reducing teen pregnancy.
The whole of the abstinence-only meme was pushed along by the Bush Administration to give some red meat to the Christian right wing of the Republican Party. And, given plenty of air and ink by the traditional media. Did they ever really believe that it would work? Can't say for sure. But, probably not.
Abstinence-only. Yet, more crap on a cracker. Abstinence-only-until-marriage programs reflect American values. Even among those who abstained from sex until age 20 or older, eighty-one (81) percent reported having had premarital sex. That tells me that whoever is behind selling this bullshit doesn't have a clue about American values. And, they sure as hell don't know anything about biology.
Don't suppose there is any ideology driven programs being perpetrated upon our children and grandchildren by the Bush cabal, eh? Certainly, they wouldn't let the nuttiest of the wingnuts dictate a program so important to our very future? Or, would they?
Abstinence-only. Oh for Christ's sake. Another example of crap on a cracker. Virginity pledges delay the onset of sexual activity and protect teens from STI's (sexually transmitted infection (HIV, Gonnorhea, human papalomavirus). Let's see here. Hmmmm. Study says, sexual activity among pledgers was delayed by 18 months. And, those who took the pledge were 1/3 less likely to use to use contraception when they finally did succumb to their animal instincts.
So. What did we find out from this little exercise? That Abstinence-only. Or, crap on a cracker, is just exactly that. Shit. It's a complete fabrication of the truth. It does not lower the STI count. It does not reduce pregnancy. And, it leaves our children fumbling in the dark. So to speak. We know that it is a complete failure. And, it only cost us 1.5 billion dollars. And, of course, the miseducation of thousands of our children and grandchildren. Crap on a cracker.
That may not tell some folks anything. But, it tells me that as parents, they don't want their kids out fucking everything that walks or approximates that. However, they realize that sex is a primal instinct. And, just like other animals, our children will, for the most part, be out there participating.
Abstinence-only. More, crap on a cracker. Abstinence-only education delays sexual initiation and reduces teen pregnancy. A federally-funded evaluation shows us that abstinence-only education is not effective at delaying the initiation of sexual activity or in reducing teen pregnancy.
The whole of the abstinence-only meme was pushed along by the Bush Administration to give some red meat to the Christian right wing of the Republican Party. And, given plenty of air and ink by the traditional media. Did they ever really believe that it would work? Can't say for sure. But, probably not.
Abstinence-only. Yet, more crap on a cracker. Abstinence-only-until-marriage programs reflect American values. Even among those who abstained from sex until age 20 or older, eighty-one (81) percent reported having had premarital sex. That tells me that whoever is behind selling this bullshit doesn't have a clue about American values. And, they sure as hell don't know anything about biology.
Don't suppose there is any ideology driven programs being perpetrated upon our children and grandchildren by the Bush cabal, eh? Certainly, they wouldn't let the nuttiest of the wingnuts dictate a program so important to our very future? Or, would they?
Abstinence-only. Oh for Christ's sake. Another example of crap on a cracker. Virginity pledges delay the onset of sexual activity and protect teens from STI's (sexually transmitted infection (HIV, Gonnorhea, human papalomavirus). Let's see here. Hmmmm. Study says, sexual activity among pledgers was delayed by 18 months. And, those who took the pledge were 1/3 less likely to use to use contraception when they finally did succumb to their animal instincts.
So. What did we find out from this little exercise? That Abstinence-only. Or, crap on a cracker, is just exactly that. Shit. It's a complete fabrication of the truth. It does not lower the STI count. It does not reduce pregnancy. And, it leaves our children fumbling in the dark. So to speak. We know that it is a complete failure. And, it only cost us 1.5 billion dollars. And, of course, the miseducation of thousands of our children and grandchildren. Crap on a cracker.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Lemming Fever
Like a herd of lemmings, the citizens of the US are once again following the siren call of those who would spread bullshit. In this case its all about oil.
The last time lemming fever broke out, we ended up in Iraq. This time the leaders of this mess want people to believe that we can drill our way out of our energy problems. Of course, this is no more true than it was that there were WMD in Iraq. They are lieing. Their own Energy Department has told them so. Everyone who knows anything about oil, and isn't working for an oil company, has told them so. Still they appear all over the traditional media selling the drill meme.
So here's what I can't figure. They all know that climate change is real. They know that man has caused the majority of the problem. They know that burning fossil fuel is what drives the climate change issue. Yet, they (those who have picked up lemming fever) are falling in line behind the criminals who want more drilling for yet more fossil fuel.
So, just what have those advising against the drill meme said about all of this? First, if drilling started today, it would be several years before any of that oil, if its there, would appear at the pumps. Second, when that oil comes to market, if it were all kept here in the US, it would bring prices down about a nickel. Third, if all of that oil were to arrive at the pumps at the same time, it would give us a year or so worth of fuel. Fourth, all of that fuel would likely be put on the international market, where the oil companies could make the most money. Fifth, we would, for all the money spent, be no nearer to cleaning the atmosphere of the filth we have put into it. Sixth, we would have squandered precious time and resources getting to an energy plan that, at it's heart, would provide sustainable energy at the same cost. Minus the pollutants brought to us by fossil fuel.
So, here we are. Watching the march of the lemmings. All of those afflicted with lemming fever racing headlong for the cliff. And, what are we to do? First, it seems to me that we do something to reduce the lemming fever. We face bullshit with truth at every level and with every person we meet. Second, we blog swarm the issue. Force the traditional media to pick it up and present it truthfully to the public at large. Third, we promote those who have the biggest guns. Matt Simmons, theoilddrum, and all the rest who have the expertise and knowledge to face down big oil. For the truth is, big oil has big money. And, they will promote their bullshit about drilling our way out of our energy problems as long as they can. See tobacco companies for reference material. Fourth, blog, blog and blog.
The last time lemming fever broke out, we ended up in Iraq. This time the leaders of this mess want people to believe that we can drill our way out of our energy problems. Of course, this is no more true than it was that there were WMD in Iraq. They are lieing. Their own Energy Department has told them so. Everyone who knows anything about oil, and isn't working for an oil company, has told them so. Still they appear all over the traditional media selling the drill meme.
So here's what I can't figure. They all know that climate change is real. They know that man has caused the majority of the problem. They know that burning fossil fuel is what drives the climate change issue. Yet, they (those who have picked up lemming fever) are falling in line behind the criminals who want more drilling for yet more fossil fuel.
So, just what have those advising against the drill meme said about all of this? First, if drilling started today, it would be several years before any of that oil, if its there, would appear at the pumps. Second, when that oil comes to market, if it were all kept here in the US, it would bring prices down about a nickel. Third, if all of that oil were to arrive at the pumps at the same time, it would give us a year or so worth of fuel. Fourth, all of that fuel would likely be put on the international market, where the oil companies could make the most money. Fifth, we would, for all the money spent, be no nearer to cleaning the atmosphere of the filth we have put into it. Sixth, we would have squandered precious time and resources getting to an energy plan that, at it's heart, would provide sustainable energy at the same cost. Minus the pollutants brought to us by fossil fuel.
So, here we are. Watching the march of the lemmings. All of those afflicted with lemming fever racing headlong for the cliff. And, what are we to do? First, it seems to me that we do something to reduce the lemming fever. We face bullshit with truth at every level and with every person we meet. Second, we blog swarm the issue. Force the traditional media to pick it up and present it truthfully to the public at large. Third, we promote those who have the biggest guns. Matt Simmons, theoilddrum, and all the rest who have the expertise and knowledge to face down big oil. For the truth is, big oil has big money. And, they will promote their bullshit about drilling our way out of our energy problems as long as they can. See tobacco companies for reference material. Fourth, blog, blog and blog.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Big Oil Lobbyists
John. John. John. It seems it takes relatively little to buy Mr. McCain in'08. A couple of million will suffice.
It seems that the big oil lobbyists have stood up for Mr. McCain, and that was enough, along with some cash, of course, to do the trick. Mr. McCain is now entirely on-board with drilling anywhere, anytime, as long as it produces. Cash, that is.
It was known, at one time, that Mr. McCain was against drilling off the coasts and in Alaska, since the offing was small and there was too much possibility of damage to the environment. Twenty nine big oil lobbyists came to Mr. McCain and provided new information, mostly in large bill, and what do you know. Mr. McCain is now in the drill our way out of the problem camp.
It should not surprise anyone that this has come to pass. Mr. McCain, it has become apparent, is willing to sell anything and everything, including his scruples, if in fact he had any left, to win a political race. Many of us have known this for some time. However, the big oil lobbyists have made it entirely clear to anyone interested in knowing.
So, what happens now? We the liberals, that would be me, are going to stay on this monkey until he crawls away to Arizona to one of his wife's houses and goes permanently into retirement.
Mr. McCain, what big oil lobbyists can buy. For the obvious reason, Mr. McCain is for sale.
It seems that the big oil lobbyists have stood up for Mr. McCain, and that was enough, along with some cash, of course, to do the trick. Mr. McCain is now entirely on-board with drilling anywhere, anytime, as long as it produces. Cash, that is.
It was known, at one time, that Mr. McCain was against drilling off the coasts and in Alaska, since the offing was small and there was too much possibility of damage to the environment. Twenty nine big oil lobbyists came to Mr. McCain and provided new information, mostly in large bill, and what do you know. Mr. McCain is now in the drill our way out of the problem camp.
It should not surprise anyone that this has come to pass. Mr. McCain, it has become apparent, is willing to sell anything and everything, including his scruples, if in fact he had any left, to win a political race. Many of us have known this for some time. However, the big oil lobbyists have made it entirely clear to anyone interested in knowing.
So, what happens now? We the liberals, that would be me, are going to stay on this monkey until he crawls away to Arizona to one of his wife's houses and goes permanently into retirement.
Mr. McCain, what big oil lobbyists can buy. For the obvious reason, Mr. McCain is for sale.
Mr.McCain:Anti-troops/veterans
Mr. McCain, the anti-troop/veterans candidate, has given us a very good view of the slime that will be eminating from his cam pain until November. His release of the ad questioning Mr. Obama's integrity and concern for the troops, foreshadows what we can expect from that camp. The ad, as we chave come to expect from Republican candidates, is filled with falsehoods and innuendo. The "Swiftboating" that was used against Mr. Kerryin '04 has a new coat of paint and has set sail.
The problem that faces Mr. MCain, is his oh so available voting record in the U.S. Senate. As concerns the troops, Mr. McCain has, at very best, a dismal record of support. And, he seems to believe that somehow no one will ever find and bring into the public eye this pathetic record. Its as if he and his cam pain staff somehow see Mr. McCain's being a veteran as equating to support for the troops/veterans.
It doesn't work that way folks. When you, over the course of many years, vote against better health care for our toops/veterans. When you don't even show up when a vote is before the Senate to give todays veterans the same level of support you were given via a new GI Bill, that puts you in the anti-troops/veterans camp.
The problem that faces Mr. MCain, is his oh so available voting record in the U.S. Senate. As concerns the troops, Mr. McCain has, at very best, a dismal record of support. And, he seems to believe that somehow no one will ever find and bring into the public eye this pathetic record. Its as if he and his cam pain staff somehow see Mr. McCain's being a veteran as equating to support for the troops/veterans.
It doesn't work that way folks. When you, over the course of many years, vote against better health care for our toops/veterans. When you don't even show up when a vote is before the Senate to give todays veterans the same level of support you were given via a new GI Bill, that puts you in the anti-troops/veterans camp.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Humour
There is always something of humour available for those who seek it. Yesterday we had Mr. Obama speaking to 200,000 in Germany. People with signs and screaming, USA, USA, USA. What a magnificent sight to see after the past eight years of scorn and rapprochement from those same people. The US standing once again before the world as a leader, someone to emulate.
On the other hand, we had Mr. McCain hanging around in a sausage restaurant in Ohio. Speaking to maybe 20 people. The only signs were those proclaiming the special of the day. People watching an old guy who has without doubt run his cam pain clear off into the weeds. A very clear picture of someone who believes that Iraq was in our best interest. That we should make every attempt to drill our way out of our energy problems. That the people who have lost their homes and are suffering from an economy in the toilet, are a bunch of whiners.
Contrasting the two we have the young, charismatic leader. And, the guy who hasn't a clue where the border of Iran and Pakistan are. Or, that a nation who's name he call out hasn't existed for several decades.
Maybe what this is isn't really humour at all. Maybe its just a pathetic take on a Greek tragedy.
On the other hand, we had Mr. McCain hanging around in a sausage restaurant in Ohio. Speaking to maybe 20 people. The only signs were those proclaiming the special of the day. People watching an old guy who has without doubt run his cam pain clear off into the weeds. A very clear picture of someone who believes that Iraq was in our best interest. That we should make every attempt to drill our way out of our energy problems. That the people who have lost their homes and are suffering from an economy in the toilet, are a bunch of whiners.
Contrasting the two we have the young, charismatic leader. And, the guy who hasn't a clue where the border of Iran and Pakistan are. Or, that a nation who's name he call out hasn't existed for several decades.
Maybe what this is isn't really humour at all. Maybe its just a pathetic take on a Greek tragedy.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Whiner's
So, while the future President of the United States, Barack Hussein Obama, is overseas wowing the US troops, leaders of foreign countries and the people located therein. Mr. McCain (whiner) remains at home whining his sorry ass off about what Mr. Obama is doing and saying. It doesn't matter too much, as he becomes less and less relevant to the political landscape. But, the traditional media is still carrying water for the Republican Party, CBS in a big way at the moment.
Last night we heard from KO on MSNBC, that CBS had removed a sentence from a paragraph that appeared during an interview that whiner had with Ms. Couric. Now, in all honesty, no one expects much from Ms. Couric, and we won't get it. But, those who would alter a statement by one of those running for the Presidency of the country, because it would make him look bad, are bordering on the edge of criminality.
Not sure what is going to be said about it all today by the McCain camp. But, I can easily imagine a whole helluva lot of whining. Because, after all, thats about all they have going for them. They have nothing but the Bush plan to offer the American people for the next four years. Thus the whining.
Whine On.
Last night we heard from KO on MSNBC, that CBS had removed a sentence from a paragraph that appeared during an interview that whiner had with Ms. Couric. Now, in all honesty, no one expects much from Ms. Couric, and we won't get it. But, those who would alter a statement by one of those running for the Presidency of the country, because it would make him look bad, are bordering on the edge of criminality.
Not sure what is going to be said about it all today by the McCain camp. But, I can easily imagine a whole helluva lot of whining. Because, after all, thats about all they have going for them. They have nothing but the Bush plan to offer the American people for the next four years. Thus the whining.
Whine On.
Netroots Nation '08 (my view)
So that was Netroots Nation '08. Interesting at many, many levels. And, useful at all of those levels, also.
Skinny, fat, tall, short, intellectual and me. All in one place for the purpose of interacting on our favorite subjects. Politics to be sure, since that is the nature of the beast. But, within that very large area, a whole host of topics to delved into.
Science was a large part of the equation, since it impacts so many facets of our day to day lives. And, I must say, those people know well their subjects. But, they know a helluva lot more than just their personal little slice. They are able to hold forth on a whole range of subjects from evolutionary biology to the atmosphere and from geology to atronomy.
However, I must say, the most interesting things to me concerned the real things that we can and should be doing for our planet and it's temperature. The best discussion I was involved in came after one of the science panels. It involved one ASiegel who is a regular on DKOS and is a principal with Energize America. The discussion covered several subjects, but the one that intrigued me most was the one that involved school buses and changing the environmental problems that plague schools.
The first idea is that school buses must be turned green. We did in fact see one of the dozen buses being tested throughout the country. This one happened to reside in Austin and thus was easy for us to get ahold of. Since they run most of the year and spend a lot of time sitting, the premise is that they would be one of the easier ways to cut down on energy use. And, the selling point, they would cut down on the amount of pollutants reaching our children every day.
The second is that heating and cooling could be a lot more efficient in most of the schools we have open right now. One idea I thought intrigueing was the one of planting on the rooftops. It would have immeiate impact on both heating and cooling, and could be used to, at least part of the time, be used to grow food for the young occupants.
Was I impressed with NN '08? You bet your ass. It was well put together and well presented. It brought about 4,000 political boggers together into one place and offered them the chance to learn and give their opinions to a whole group of like minded people. Is that a big deal? See the answser to the first question in this paragraph. This now the main stream media. This is becoming how the world is to gain information about the surrounding world. The traditional media becomes more and more fox like and irrelevant. Does this really matter? We all certainly believe it does. And, our candidates, who are more and more aligning with us believe it to.
Can't wait for NN '09 in Pittsburgh, PA.
Skinny, fat, tall, short, intellectual and me. All in one place for the purpose of interacting on our favorite subjects. Politics to be sure, since that is the nature of the beast. But, within that very large area, a whole host of topics to delved into.
Science was a large part of the equation, since it impacts so many facets of our day to day lives. And, I must say, those people know well their subjects. But, they know a helluva lot more than just their personal little slice. They are able to hold forth on a whole range of subjects from evolutionary biology to the atmosphere and from geology to atronomy.
However, I must say, the most interesting things to me concerned the real things that we can and should be doing for our planet and it's temperature. The best discussion I was involved in came after one of the science panels. It involved one ASiegel who is a regular on DKOS and is a principal with Energize America. The discussion covered several subjects, but the one that intrigued me most was the one that involved school buses and changing the environmental problems that plague schools.
The first idea is that school buses must be turned green. We did in fact see one of the dozen buses being tested throughout the country. This one happened to reside in Austin and thus was easy for us to get ahold of. Since they run most of the year and spend a lot of time sitting, the premise is that they would be one of the easier ways to cut down on energy use. And, the selling point, they would cut down on the amount of pollutants reaching our children every day.
The second is that heating and cooling could be a lot more efficient in most of the schools we have open right now. One idea I thought intrigueing was the one of planting on the rooftops. It would have immeiate impact on both heating and cooling, and could be used to, at least part of the time, be used to grow food for the young occupants.
Was I impressed with NN '08? You bet your ass. It was well put together and well presented. It brought about 4,000 political boggers together into one place and offered them the chance to learn and give their opinions to a whole group of like minded people. Is that a big deal? See the answser to the first question in this paragraph. This now the main stream media. This is becoming how the world is to gain information about the surrounding world. The traditional media becomes more and more fox like and irrelevant. Does this really matter? We all certainly believe it does. And, our candidates, who are more and more aligning with us believe it to.
Can't wait for NN '09 in Pittsburgh, PA.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Decisions
My intention is to restart my postings. There are many reasons for the grand hiatus, however, they are of no real import to anyone but myself.
This first post is about personal stuff. The first item is this, if you are male, and near or inside the middle age area, pay attention. Last Monday I had reason to travel. My back ached, all of the major muscle groups ached, and all of my joints ached. Monday night I was up to pee every two hours from 8 til 2. This nonsense continued throughout the week. Last night I noticed that it was getting uncomfortable to sit. The issue was a vague pain just behind the scrotum (ball sack). This morning it was decided that it is an enlarged Prostate. Antibiotics for 14 days. No big deal. But, it gave me reason to think about he number of times I have heard others say that you should pay attention and have those vague pains checked out immediately. I will be paying more attention, sooner.
Oldest brother, Bill, died at the end of September. The original ten are now down to six. The old boy was in his mid 80's and had lost any real quality of life that was remaining over the previous year. Very tough on his family, as he was always the big tough Marine who could and did take care of everything. But, they also understood that he was better off by far.
Brother-in-law, Joe, died just after Christmas. Went up to Arkansas and spent time with nephew Bud and his son Joseph. They lost mother, grandmother Eunice two years ago. Been a tough couple of years.
While that was going on, got word from youngest sister, Laura, that her gall bladder had been removed, adhesions pulled loose (previous ovarian ca surgery) and a small hole torn in the small intestine (adhesion's) repaired. So, went from burial to wound packing, cooking and whatevering.
We have arrived at the point where enough white papers have been released that we know where Presidential candidates stand on issues. If we have been diligent, we have read these paper's and have aligned ourselves with the respective candidate.
In my case, that is John Edwards. He, like any other, does not hold all of the issues that I find important, sacrosanct. However, he aligns most closely with my views. It must be stated that of all of the candidates involved, Kucinich would be my favorite. However, he doesn't have the backing, in any respect that will propel him to the WH. Thus my choice of JRE.
Further, it should be obvious from the above, that no matter who the candidate for the Democratic Party is, I will vote for that person. Since they are light years above anything that the Republican Party could/would offer.
This first post is about personal stuff. The first item is this, if you are male, and near or inside the middle age area, pay attention. Last Monday I had reason to travel. My back ached, all of the major muscle groups ached, and all of my joints ached. Monday night I was up to pee every two hours from 8 til 2. This nonsense continued throughout the week. Last night I noticed that it was getting uncomfortable to sit. The issue was a vague pain just behind the scrotum (ball sack). This morning it was decided that it is an enlarged Prostate. Antibiotics for 14 days. No big deal. But, it gave me reason to think about he number of times I have heard others say that you should pay attention and have those vague pains checked out immediately. I will be paying more attention, sooner.
Oldest brother, Bill, died at the end of September. The original ten are now down to six. The old boy was in his mid 80's and had lost any real quality of life that was remaining over the previous year. Very tough on his family, as he was always the big tough Marine who could and did take care of everything. But, they also understood that he was better off by far.
Brother-in-law, Joe, died just after Christmas. Went up to Arkansas and spent time with nephew Bud and his son Joseph. They lost mother, grandmother Eunice two years ago. Been a tough couple of years.
While that was going on, got word from youngest sister, Laura, that her gall bladder had been removed, adhesions pulled loose (previous ovarian ca surgery) and a small hole torn in the small intestine (adhesion's) repaired. So, went from burial to wound packing, cooking and whatevering.
We have arrived at the point where enough white papers have been released that we know where Presidential candidates stand on issues. If we have been diligent, we have read these paper's and have aligned ourselves with the respective candidate.
In my case, that is John Edwards. He, like any other, does not hold all of the issues that I find important, sacrosanct. However, he aligns most closely with my views. It must be stated that of all of the candidates involved, Kucinich would be my favorite. However, he doesn't have the backing, in any respect that will propel him to the WH. Thus my choice of JRE.
Further, it should be obvious from the above, that no matter who the candidate for the Democratic Party is, I will vote for that person. Since they are light years above anything that the Republican Party could/would offer.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Definition of BUSHIT
Bush has offered Democrats conciliatory words. Actually saw that phrase in a article about the Democratic retreat being held this week-end. That is without a doubt fits the definition of the word BUSHIT. Noone in the world that I inhabit believes for an instant that the asshole can/bould be conciliatroy to Democrats about anything.
His plan is to delay and obfuscate. He will do anything to keep the Senate from stopping his war. So any possibility that he is telling the truth, to any degree whatsoever, meets the definition of the word BUSHIT.
We know the man to be a liar in every respect. He cares not at all what the Senate thinks, what the House thinks, or for that matter what the citizens of this country think. He is committed to continueing his war, dismantling Social Security and anything else that calls for government spending. Except of course the military, credits to his rich buddies and large corporate entities. Guess those last two are redundancies. Anything to the contrary is BUSHIT.
"With Saddam Hussein's execution, the only person who didn't lie about WMD was hanging from the end of a rope." John R. Cobarruvias, Houston, TX
Farewell, MOLLY IVINS
His plan is to delay and obfuscate. He will do anything to keep the Senate from stopping his war. So any possibility that he is telling the truth, to any degree whatsoever, meets the definition of the word BUSHIT.
We know the man to be a liar in every respect. He cares not at all what the Senate thinks, what the House thinks, or for that matter what the citizens of this country think. He is committed to continueing his war, dismantling Social Security and anything else that calls for government spending. Except of course the military, credits to his rich buddies and large corporate entities. Guess those last two are redundancies. Anything to the contrary is BUSHIT.
"With Saddam Hussein's execution, the only person who didn't lie about WMD was hanging from the end of a rope." John R. Cobarruvias, Houston, TX
Farewell, MOLLY IVINS
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Iran
There has been a flurry of articles and comments on the possibility of the US attacking Iran. There had been some few articles with speculation what with the deployment of war ships being put into place around Iran, but not much more until very recently. Suddenly there is speculation all over the blogosphere. Not much in the msm as one would expect, but it is beginning to filter through.
Of course from the Wankosphere there is denial and obfuscation. That too is to be expected. They've been at it now for six long, painful years. But of late, some few are beginning to say what needs to be said. Keith Olberman is the leader. He has been right on and unrelenting in his exposure of all that is rotten in the Bush Administration, GOP, FOX (Faux) News, and all of their miniondom.
Now there is a report that there are military types inside Iran doing the work they are trained to do. They are not my focus. Rather, the corrupt Administration that has placed them there, at the risk of igniting a regional conflict are my focus. These are people with no regard for human life. These are people who have no interest in the results of their actions. These are not responsible adults, but petulant, spoiled children who should be grounded. FOR LIFE.
As of today, I am squarely in the camp of those who would vote to Impeach. As late as yesterday I was one who was against this action. Not because I thought it was a bad idea. But, because there didn't seem to be the votes to take it to fruition. Count me out of that camp. This asshole needs to be sent back to Crawford, TX. No...wait...I don't want that useless fuck in my state. How about down to South America where he is buying property? Yea. That's it.
As for Iran, they have not intention of attacking the US. Getting their asses bombed out of power isn't what they have in mind. Unless, and until they make such a move, stay the fuck away from there.
Is there nuclear program a problem? Hell yes it's a problem. It's a problem that the US has nuclear weapons. But, that shouldn't make them the focus of an attack. We just gave India information for their nuclear program. And, they don't belong to the group of those nations who has signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty. So, why are we pissing with them?
Only to distract us friends. Only to distract us.
This from the Financial Times of London:
"US officials have previously told the Financial Times that they deem it their right to pursue terrorists wherever they are." Emphasis mine.
Of course from the Wankosphere there is denial and obfuscation. That too is to be expected. They've been at it now for six long, painful years. But of late, some few are beginning to say what needs to be said. Keith Olberman is the leader. He has been right on and unrelenting in his exposure of all that is rotten in the Bush Administration, GOP, FOX (Faux) News, and all of their miniondom.
Now there is a report that there are military types inside Iran doing the work they are trained to do. They are not my focus. Rather, the corrupt Administration that has placed them there, at the risk of igniting a regional conflict are my focus. These are people with no regard for human life. These are people who have no interest in the results of their actions. These are not responsible adults, but petulant, spoiled children who should be grounded. FOR LIFE.
As of today, I am squarely in the camp of those who would vote to Impeach. As late as yesterday I was one who was against this action. Not because I thought it was a bad idea. But, because there didn't seem to be the votes to take it to fruition. Count me out of that camp. This asshole needs to be sent back to Crawford, TX. No...wait...I don't want that useless fuck in my state. How about down to South America where he is buying property? Yea. That's it.
As for Iran, they have not intention of attacking the US. Getting their asses bombed out of power isn't what they have in mind. Unless, and until they make such a move, stay the fuck away from there.
Is there nuclear program a problem? Hell yes it's a problem. It's a problem that the US has nuclear weapons. But, that shouldn't make them the focus of an attack. We just gave India information for their nuclear program. And, they don't belong to the group of those nations who has signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty. So, why are we pissing with them?
Only to distract us friends. Only to distract us.
This from the Financial Times of London:
"US officials have previously told the Financial Times that they deem it their right to pursue terrorists wherever they are." Emphasis mine.
New Way Forward
The President of the US, has stated, in his Saturday address, that if anyone doesn't like his plan (New Way Forward) they need to come up with one of their own. So, let's see how that plays. John Murtha came up with a plan last year. That must have been missed in all of that voting uproar. The Iran Study Group thought it might be a good idea to discuss the whole thing with those who live nearby and are most apt to be involved in a conflagration that would widen. They suggested a New Way Forward. Must have been busy with cocktails. Joe Biden has put one forward. Maybe that one was missed what with all of the swearing in of Congress and all that that entails.
Oh, Oh, I know one teacher!!!!!! What about Russ Feingold and the don't get involved in the first place idea? Must have missed that, what with all the rest of those fine gentlemen voting to make it a go.
What a crock of shit. He didn't listen then, he's not listening now. He doesn't give a fat fuck what anybody thinks. He wants war and it doesn't matter who thinks otherwise. He is going to have his war. And, if the people need a distraction, then how about we lob a few into Iran and get their attention?
This guy is sick fucking psychopath. He needs to be removed from office to protect the rest of the world.
That would be my New Way Forward.
What do you think so far?
Oh, Oh, I know one teacher!!!!!! What about Russ Feingold and the don't get involved in the first place idea? Must have missed that, what with all the rest of those fine gentlemen voting to make it a go.
What a crock of shit. He didn't listen then, he's not listening now. He doesn't give a fat fuck what anybody thinks. He wants war and it doesn't matter who thinks otherwise. He is going to have his war. And, if the people need a distraction, then how about we lob a few into Iran and get their attention?
This guy is sick fucking psychopath. He needs to be removed from office to protect the rest of the world.
That would be my New Way Forward.
What do you think so far?
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Death by Poverty
According to UNICEF 30,000 children die due to poverty per day. That would make for nearly 11, 000,000 deaths per year. Is there anyone on this planet who can justify this in any way? It is absolutely astonishing to me that we can allow such a thing to happen with the food reserves we have. Would it be tough to accomplish? Of course it would. Someone has to pay the farmers for their product. It has to be distributed. That is no easy task. But, could it be done? No doubt about it.
We spend trillions on wars, bridges to nowhere, and tax write offs to the top 1%. We waste billions on face lifts, beauty creams, and high priced tennis shoes. Yet 30,000 children die because of poverty. That is not only shameful, it is a crime. It is murder.
It's only 3,000. We have to sacrifice.
We spend trillions on wars, bridges to nowhere, and tax write offs to the top 1%. We waste billions on face lifts, beauty creams, and high priced tennis shoes. Yet 30,000 children die because of poverty. That is not only shameful, it is a crime. It is murder.
It's only 3,000. We have to sacrifice.
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