The following is an excerpt from an e-mail I received from a Delaware politician. Yup, one of your representatives. I will not say who or at what level, as I have no permission to do so. I also did not even check to see if this person was Democrat or Republican. It doesn't much matter, does it?
I had thanked this person for his/her response and noted that he/she was the only one who had responded. He/she replied:
"I am very disappointed and a little irritated by others not responding. Maybe we should have a law that if an elected official does not return a call within a week that they be removed from office? Politicians' do not like to put things into writing which can be used against them in the future. It is all such a silly, silly game that some politicians play and in my book a reason we should have limited terms."
Hmmmmm.....I may have to move so that I can vote for him/her in the next election.
Friday, February 29, 2008
J'Accuse !
In January of 1898, Emile Zola was established as a writer. His success allowed him to reside in a plus villa near Paris. He hob-nobbed with the literary elite, and served as inspiration to many other writers.
In this year, at the age of 58, it would not be prudent for him to upset his comfortable life. He was honored, respected, and admired. But the inequities of The Dreyfus Affair offended his sensibilities in such a way that he was moved to write J’Accuse!, a lengthy treatise published on the front page of the Paris newspaper L’Aurore.
J’Accuse is considered to be one of the prime examples of an open letter: an address to an individual but meant for public consumption. In his letter, he confronts the judicial establishment the military, cover-ups, manufactured evidence, and the manipulating of the public into a frenzy over Dreyfus’ alleged acts.
No, Zola did not have to do this, and he knew the risk he was taking. He was in fact found guilty of libel, fleeing to England to avoid imprisonment.
The story of Zola and J’Accuse is inspiring in that it shows how one man, one single man, can have such an influence over the course of events. How one man could become so outraged, so incensed at corruption and inequity that it filled his very spirit with the words that came from his pen. That one man would risk life and reputation, comfort and good company to make this stand is inspirational.
When I read of the shenanigans of our own General Assembly, I wish that we had someone who would stand and yell, “J’Accuse !”. J’accuse, those who use their office for financial gain. J’accuse those who stand idly by and let it happen. J’accuse the very system which insults the public in its total disrespect for rules of decency and common sense. J’accuse the philanderers and whorers of tax dollars.
As Zola concludes:
“As for the people I am accusing, I do not know them, I have never seen them, and I bear them neither ill will nor hatred. To me they are mere entities, agents of harm to society. The action I am taking is no more than a radical measure to hasten the explosion of truth and justice.
I have but one passion: to enlighten those who have been kept in the dark, in the name of humanity which has suffered so much and is entitled to happiness. My fiery protest is simply the cry of my very soul. Let them dare, then, to bring me before a court of law and let the inquiry take place in broad daylight! I am waiting.”
I am waiting as well. Delaware is waiting. We have been waiting a long time. To the good and honest members of the General Assembly, I thank you.
To, the rest, J’Accuse !
Thursday, February 28, 2008
A Change of Pace ---- Guest Post by Chainsaw
My S.O. Chainsaw is/was an Air Force brat. He spent formative years in England, Colorado, Florida and Georiga.
I guess Florida and Georgia stuck more than most. A little (and right true) story:
______________________________
Many times as I resided in the State of Georgia, and other places in the Deep South, references were often made about seemingly inbred people and the movie "Deliverance."
Usually it was referring jokingly to a small town, or region, that seems slightly out of touch with time, that cause homophobic men to feel like keeping their backsides against a brick wall, and things along those lines. Also quoting lines from the movie like "squeal like a pig" and "you have purty mouth" have been used all over the South in references to a myriad of poor, or even at times, some good, off-color jokes.
Back when the Olympics were coming to Atlanta, any facility, relative to sports or any event they may have, within a 250 mile radius, was utilized for training or storage.
A guy I was working with named, Ed, were on a job together and came up to me and told me of a killer, top secret, you-gotta-sneak-thru-a-hunting-club, catfish hole, on the Ocmulgee river. (pronounced: Oak-mull-gee) I was ready to pack up my tools right then and got get a pot of flat tails and a tub of chicken livers. He told me he'd take me the next day, and he had it set up where Reggie would run our time cards thru the swipe-strip thing on the time clock (it was set up like an ATM) and we would get paid for the day to go fishing.
The job was so huge that after being introduced to our area foreman, I never saw him again until payday. We were working what is called "permit work" when your skills are up to snuff but you aren't a union member and you do a lot of miscellaneous fabricating and welding. All the gravy work went to union guys and you get paid a percentage less than they do which was still killer money at $28/hr.
Anyway we head out to this inbred, god forsaken little area outside of Jackson, Ga. called, Flovilla, Ga. God, where do they come up with these names? We took my four-wheel drive GMC Jimmy down this thing that used to be a road. It looked more like a gully between the pine trees and it was all red clay. We came to Wise creek and Ed says, "Drive thru it man!" I’m freaking out, "Drive thru what?" I got out of the truck and checked it out. The sides were steep and had a lot of rock mixed in with the red Georgia clay.
There were old washed out truck ruts showing evidence that it could be done. The water itself looked as if it would be almost door handle deep. I put it in four-wheel drive low, and with a little finesse and a whole lot of luck and mud slung all over, we made it across. We had to celebrate the crossing by chugging a can of Budweiser each, because Ed realized that his cooler was going to be too heavy to carry as far as we had to walk.
Walk? Damn man, I thought I was going fishin'! Hiding the truck in a blind spot between tall bushes, loading all of our gear on ourselves, we navigated the rest of the half mile to the river on foot and hiked on to "THE" spot.
He wasn’t kidding about the catfish there. I was dragging them in left and right. It seems that there had once been an old ferry there from back in the turn of the century and the timbers used to make the base of it were either cyprus or cedar, I can’t remember which, but they were huge. I was later told, they were 4 feet by 4 feet and 50 feet long. The flood that came through the Macon,Ga. area in ' 93 tore them all loose from under the river bank where they laid undisturbed, after the ferry was long gone and a highway had been built with a bridge, about 8 miles upriver. When the flood came thru and tore out the timbers, they came to rest on the bottom in a pile on the river bottom and created a large eddy where the water was slower and fish could come into the void, out of the current to rest, feed, or procreate. That is where we were tossing our bait.
By the time we actually got to the spot, set up everything and were catching fish, it was about 7 am. By 9 am, I had a nice morning beer buzz going, and was heading towards drunk, trying to empty Ed's cooler down to a manageable weight.
Now this may gross you out, maybe not, it depends on how much you are into fishing, but, whenever we caught a fish, we'd toss it into the big Playmate cooler Ed had, and we had to keep drinkin the semi-smelly beer cans to make room for more fish (aint life a bitch?) and toss back the ones that looked like they weren't keepers. Ed does not, I mean does not, believe in the concept of catch and release! I had to argue with him several times about the sizes of the fish and at the rate we were catching them, we would have ample opportunity to keep plenty of big ones for him.
I took a break and smoked a cigarette and noticed out the corner of my eye, some kayaks coming down the river.
It dawned on me then that it was some of the people involved in the Olympics because there was an obvious coach-type that was barking orders at the group following behind him like baby ducks follow their mother. By the time they got down our way, my ornery mind had time to think of something to say to mess with them.
In the bright sunlight of mid morning and, the way we were positioned on the bank between ancient oak trees, in the shade, no one could see you from the river because of the contrast of bright sun on the river itself and the deep, dark green, shade of the banks, made it look almost black. I exploited and capitalized on this. Just as the mouthy coach passed in alignment with me and where I was sitting, I cupped my hands to my mouth and in my best canned, hillbilly, sounding voice said,
" Hay, ya'll aint heered no dadgum banjos a-playin'' have yee?"
It got the reaction I expected it would and then some! The lead man in the kayak-convoy, did one of those maneuvers like a figure eight trying to see where the sound came from and then realizing a split second later his vulnerability, due to the lack of visibility, and contrasting light, gave the illusion that the bank where the trees were, was a thick wall of dark color as far as you could see, plus, your voice carries in a weird way and actually sounds like its coming from the other side of the river.
Realizing that he couldn't locate the source of the voice, he shouted out, while looking up in the air, (duh, dude we're over here!) with some kind of a European sounding accent,
"I do not know about any banjos but, I did not forget to pack my lunch with a pistol inside it."
Well, my first reaction was like, oh shit, that old boy is about to start shooting in every direction. When I saw he wasn't reaching for anything that feeling went away and they were all drifting into the huge eddy, putting them at a disadvantage, geometrically speaking as the convoy became disorganized.
All we could do is stifle giggles because we knew he wasn't going to start shooting in our direction.As they paddled out of the almost dead calm, the sight was too much for two drunken idiots playing hooky from work to go fishing. We finally busted out laughing and it sounded like the whole river turned into a standing room only, comedy club. The leader barked some kind of order and they all dug their paddles in hard and deep and away they went farther on down the river and we had to bust out laughing again.
We were relieved that he didn’t pull out a gun, or I was anyway. We carried 22 keeper-sized catfish, averaging 2 lbs. a few went 4lbs, out of the woods at about 12:30pm,actually we staggered to my truck and we sat down to rest because the cooler was so heavy that he was carrying with ice, fish and remaining beer. I carried my 2 rods, his 3 rods, two five gallon buckets, with the remaining bait, and my stealth tackle kit.
If you factored in the meandering course we had took due to our level of intoxication, we turned that half mile return walk into a complete mile.
I have many memories of those times and places. I tell Shirley (aka GirlGeek) that having lived in Delaware for five years, I ain't seein' much difference from Georgia. Good ole boys will be good ole boys.
Just keep your back to the wall.
I guess Florida and Georgia stuck more than most. A little (and right true) story:
______________________________
Many times as I resided in the State of Georgia, and other places in the Deep South, references were often made about seemingly inbred people and the movie "Deliverance."
Usually it was referring jokingly to a small town, or region, that seems slightly out of touch with time, that cause homophobic men to feel like keeping their backsides against a brick wall, and things along those lines. Also quoting lines from the movie like "squeal like a pig" and "you have purty mouth" have been used all over the South in references to a myriad of poor, or even at times, some good, off-color jokes.
Back when the Olympics were coming to Atlanta, any facility, relative to sports or any event they may have, within a 250 mile radius, was utilized for training or storage.
A guy I was working with named, Ed, were on a job together and came up to me and told me of a killer, top secret, you-gotta-sneak-thru-a-hunting-club, catfish hole, on the Ocmulgee river. (pronounced: Oak-mull-gee) I was ready to pack up my tools right then and got get a pot of flat tails and a tub of chicken livers. He told me he'd take me the next day, and he had it set up where Reggie would run our time cards thru the swipe-strip thing on the time clock (it was set up like an ATM) and we would get paid for the day to go fishing.
The job was so huge that after being introduced to our area foreman, I never saw him again until payday. We were working what is called "permit work" when your skills are up to snuff but you aren't a union member and you do a lot of miscellaneous fabricating and welding. All the gravy work went to union guys and you get paid a percentage less than they do which was still killer money at $28/hr.
Anyway we head out to this inbred, god forsaken little area outside of Jackson, Ga. called, Flovilla, Ga. God, where do they come up with these names? We took my four-wheel drive GMC Jimmy down this thing that used to be a road. It looked more like a gully between the pine trees and it was all red clay. We came to Wise creek and Ed says, "Drive thru it man!" I’m freaking out, "Drive thru what?" I got out of the truck and checked it out. The sides were steep and had a lot of rock mixed in with the red Georgia clay.
There were old washed out truck ruts showing evidence that it could be done. The water itself looked as if it would be almost door handle deep. I put it in four-wheel drive low, and with a little finesse and a whole lot of luck and mud slung all over, we made it across. We had to celebrate the crossing by chugging a can of Budweiser each, because Ed realized that his cooler was going to be too heavy to carry as far as we had to walk.
Walk? Damn man, I thought I was going fishin'! Hiding the truck in a blind spot between tall bushes, loading all of our gear on ourselves, we navigated the rest of the half mile to the river on foot and hiked on to "THE" spot.
He wasn’t kidding about the catfish there. I was dragging them in left and right. It seems that there had once been an old ferry there from back in the turn of the century and the timbers used to make the base of it were either cyprus or cedar, I can’t remember which, but they were huge. I was later told, they were 4 feet by 4 feet and 50 feet long. The flood that came through the Macon,Ga. area in ' 93 tore them all loose from under the river bank where they laid undisturbed, after the ferry was long gone and a highway had been built with a bridge, about 8 miles upriver. When the flood came thru and tore out the timbers, they came to rest on the bottom in a pile on the river bottom and created a large eddy where the water was slower and fish could come into the void, out of the current to rest, feed, or procreate. That is where we were tossing our bait.
By the time we actually got to the spot, set up everything and were catching fish, it was about 7 am. By 9 am, I had a nice morning beer buzz going, and was heading towards drunk, trying to empty Ed's cooler down to a manageable weight.
Now this may gross you out, maybe not, it depends on how much you are into fishing, but, whenever we caught a fish, we'd toss it into the big Playmate cooler Ed had, and we had to keep drinkin the semi-smelly beer cans to make room for more fish (aint life a bitch?) and toss back the ones that looked like they weren't keepers. Ed does not, I mean does not, believe in the concept of catch and release! I had to argue with him several times about the sizes of the fish and at the rate we were catching them, we would have ample opportunity to keep plenty of big ones for him.
I took a break and smoked a cigarette and noticed out the corner of my eye, some kayaks coming down the river.
It dawned on me then that it was some of the people involved in the Olympics because there was an obvious coach-type that was barking orders at the group following behind him like baby ducks follow their mother. By the time they got down our way, my ornery mind had time to think of something to say to mess with them.
In the bright sunlight of mid morning and, the way we were positioned on the bank between ancient oak trees, in the shade, no one could see you from the river because of the contrast of bright sun on the river itself and the deep, dark green, shade of the banks, made it look almost black. I exploited and capitalized on this. Just as the mouthy coach passed in alignment with me and where I was sitting, I cupped my hands to my mouth and in my best canned, hillbilly, sounding voice said,
" Hay, ya'll aint heered no dadgum banjos a-playin'' have yee?"
It got the reaction I expected it would and then some! The lead man in the kayak-convoy, did one of those maneuvers like a figure eight trying to see where the sound came from and then realizing a split second later his vulnerability, due to the lack of visibility, and contrasting light, gave the illusion that the bank where the trees were, was a thick wall of dark color as far as you could see, plus, your voice carries in a weird way and actually sounds like its coming from the other side of the river.
Realizing that he couldn't locate the source of the voice, he shouted out, while looking up in the air, (duh, dude we're over here!) with some kind of a European sounding accent,
"I do not know about any banjos but, I did not forget to pack my lunch with a pistol inside it."
Well, my first reaction was like, oh shit, that old boy is about to start shooting in every direction. When I saw he wasn't reaching for anything that feeling went away and they were all drifting into the huge eddy, putting them at a disadvantage, geometrically speaking as the convoy became disorganized.
All we could do is stifle giggles because we knew he wasn't going to start shooting in our direction.As they paddled out of the almost dead calm, the sight was too much for two drunken idiots playing hooky from work to go fishing. We finally busted out laughing and it sounded like the whole river turned into a standing room only, comedy club. The leader barked some kind of order and they all dug their paddles in hard and deep and away they went farther on down the river and we had to bust out laughing again.
We were relieved that he didn’t pull out a gun, or I was anyway. We carried 22 keeper-sized catfish, averaging 2 lbs. a few went 4lbs, out of the woods at about 12:30pm,actually we staggered to my truck and we sat down to rest because the cooler was so heavy that he was carrying with ice, fish and remaining beer. I carried my 2 rods, his 3 rods, two five gallon buckets, with the remaining bait, and my stealth tackle kit.
If you factored in the meandering course we had took due to our level of intoxication, we turned that half mile return walk into a complete mile.
I have many memories of those times and places. I tell Shirley (aka GirlGeek) that having lived in Delaware for five years, I ain't seein' much difference from Georgia. Good ole boys will be good ole boys.
Just keep your back to the wall.
Eminent Psychologist Says Liberalism is a Mental Disorder
Now there is proof ? (LINK)
"Based on strikingly irrational beliefs and emotions, modern liberals relentlessly undermine the most important principles on which our freedoms were founded," says Dr. Lyle Rossiter, author of the new book, "The Liberal Mind: The Psychological Causes of Political Madness." "Like spoiled, angry children, they rebel against the normal responsibilities of adulthood and demand that a parental government meet their needs from cradle to grave......
.....Rossiter says the kind of liberalism being displayed by the two major candidates for the Democratic Party presidential nomination can only be understood as a psychological disorder."
h/t Mad Mikey
"Based on strikingly irrational beliefs and emotions, modern liberals relentlessly undermine the most important principles on which our freedoms were founded," says Dr. Lyle Rossiter, author of the new book, "The Liberal Mind: The Psychological Causes of Political Madness." "Like spoiled, angry children, they rebel against the normal responsibilities of adulthood and demand that a parental government meet their needs from cradle to grave......
.....Rossiter says the kind of liberalism being displayed by the two major candidates for the Democratic Party presidential nomination can only be understood as a psychological disorder."
h/t Mad Mikey
Psssst ! Hey Canada, I Didn't Mean It !
"Barack Obama has ratcheted up his attacks on NAFTA, but a senior member of his campaign team told a Canadian official not to take his criticisms seriously, CTV News has learned.....
....Within the last month, a top staff member for Obama's campaign telephoned Michael Wilson, Canada's ambassador to the United States, and warned him that Obama would speak out against NAFTA, according to Canadian sources. The staff member reassured Wilson that the criticisms would only be campaign rhetoric, and should not be taken at face value."
(LINK TO STORY)
....Within the last month, a top staff member for Obama's campaign telephoned Michael Wilson, Canada's ambassador to the United States, and warned him that Obama would speak out against NAFTA, according to Canadian sources. The staff member reassured Wilson that the criticisms would only be campaign rhetoric, and should not be taken at face value."
(LINK TO STORY)
Hapless Robbers Target Biker Meeting
It doesn't get any better than this." (CNN) -- Two masked and machete-wielding men who barged into a club in Sydney, Australia, couldn't have picked a worse night for their robbery -- a monthly meeting of bikers.
About 50 burly bikers fought back with tables and chairs -- pretty much anything that wasn't bolted down. One would-be robber was tied up; the other in the hospital. Police arrested both.
'These guys were absolutely dumb as bricks,' Jerry Vancornewal, leader of the bikers, told CNN Thursday. "
READ THE STORY HERE
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Comment Rescue from Delaware Online Forum on Atkins' Decision to Run as a Democrat
These News Journal commenters every once in awhile come up with a gem:
Former Rep. Atkins changes parties, files to run for old seat
Posted by: festivus69- Wed Feb 27, 2008 4:59 pm
Former Rep. Atkins changes parties, files to run for old seat
Posted by: festivus69- Wed Feb 27, 2008 4:59 pm
Now that's a party I can live with !"This is pretty funny actually. "I screwed up so I might as well be a Democrat!" That is is message I am getting. I just think we need to start a new party for all of the controversial politicians.
We can call it "the keg party". "
Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes
I am changing my voter registration for the last time. For quite a few years I have been registered as an Independent. Last fall, I changed to Republican in order to support Ron Paul. It was simple to do, and I have no regrets. It was merely a formality.
I cannot, however, confidently called myself a Republican. My parents were life-long Democrats. I dallied with the idea of registering as a Libertarian which is where I think I more than likely fit in the most. But in the end, I think I have finally realized that my anathema towards organized parties in general got the better of me. I just cannot fit neatly into one party’s agenda and do not have the patience to argue for or against the particulars of a platform.
I am not gay, but I support gay rights. I do not smoke pot nor am I a prostitute, but I support the decriminalization of both activities. I loathe abortion, but support freedom of choice. I believe strongly in the principles of the Constitution. I watch in horror at the rise of the nanny state. I favor a minimalist government, and probably most forcefully I demand accountability in government both fiscally and ethically. Other than that, I just want to be left alone.
I voted for Republican Bush in 2004. I voted for Democrat Bryon Short in the District 7 special election last year. In the Delaware Governor’s race, I could just as easily vote for a Democrat, as a Republican, Libertarian, or Independent. I would lean towards a Republican due to fiscal issues, but that assumption has become blurred in the past, and I no longer trust all so-called Republicans to live up to the traditional ideas of fiscal conservatism, so it will all depend on who is remaining after the primaries. I will make my decision then.
Although I will not be able to vote in primaries, I will be free to support who I think is the best candidate without the burden of partisan dogma and the associated bullshit that comes with it.
My impatience with organizations of different sorts perhaps come from my task-oriented, project-management, geeky, control-freak nature. I am too easily frustrated by people with personal agendas and the inherent inability of organizations to take decisive action.
I have seen independents in the motorcycle rights community have more of an effect than some of the so-called organized associations. There is Garry VanKirk in Arizona, creator of Bikers Accident Survivor Forum, M-A-D-D Ray Henke in California, creator of Motorcyclists Against Dumb Drivers, Bruce Arnold in Florida, author of Long Distance Rider and moderator of Bruce-N-Rays Biker Forum, and fellow bloggers “rc” and “Sam”. Independents all. Action-takers all. They are doers, and don’t have the constraints of formal structure. They say that organizing a bunch of bikers is like herding cats. It’s true of bikers, and probably just about any other group. I have seen many die from either stagnation or internal strife.
There are times when the auspices of an official organization have their advantages. These I will take within reason. Just don’t ask me to be a cheerleader for a cause I don’t believe in, don’t stick your platform down my throat, and don’t expect me to agree with everything you espouse.
I have a tee-shirt from a motorcycle outfit. On the back it says,
“Never underestimate those who remain independent.”
So, I’ll be bugging the Department of Elections one more time to change my registration back to Independent. I think it will be my last.
I cannot, however, confidently called myself a Republican. My parents were life-long Democrats. I dallied with the idea of registering as a Libertarian which is where I think I more than likely fit in the most. But in the end, I think I have finally realized that my anathema towards organized parties in general got the better of me. I just cannot fit neatly into one party’s agenda and do not have the patience to argue for or against the particulars of a platform.
I am not gay, but I support gay rights. I do not smoke pot nor am I a prostitute, but I support the decriminalization of both activities. I loathe abortion, but support freedom of choice. I believe strongly in the principles of the Constitution. I watch in horror at the rise of the nanny state. I favor a minimalist government, and probably most forcefully I demand accountability in government both fiscally and ethically. Other than that, I just want to be left alone.
I voted for Republican Bush in 2004. I voted for Democrat Bryon Short in the District 7 special election last year. In the Delaware Governor’s race, I could just as easily vote for a Democrat, as a Republican, Libertarian, or Independent. I would lean towards a Republican due to fiscal issues, but that assumption has become blurred in the past, and I no longer trust all so-called Republicans to live up to the traditional ideas of fiscal conservatism, so it will all depend on who is remaining after the primaries. I will make my decision then.
Although I will not be able to vote in primaries, I will be free to support who I think is the best candidate without the burden of partisan dogma and the associated bullshit that comes with it.
My impatience with organizations of different sorts perhaps come from my task-oriented, project-management, geeky, control-freak nature. I am too easily frustrated by people with personal agendas and the inherent inability of organizations to take decisive action.
I have seen independents in the motorcycle rights community have more of an effect than some of the so-called organized associations. There is Garry VanKirk in Arizona, creator of Bikers Accident Survivor Forum, M-A-D-D Ray Henke in California, creator of Motorcyclists Against Dumb Drivers, Bruce Arnold in Florida, author of Long Distance Rider and moderator of Bruce-N-Rays Biker Forum, and fellow bloggers “rc” and “Sam”. Independents all. Action-takers all. They are doers, and don’t have the constraints of formal structure. They say that organizing a bunch of bikers is like herding cats. It’s true of bikers, and probably just about any other group. I have seen many die from either stagnation or internal strife.
There are times when the auspices of an official organization have their advantages. These I will take within reason. Just don’t ask me to be a cheerleader for a cause I don’t believe in, don’t stick your platform down my throat, and don’t expect me to agree with everything you espouse.
I have a tee-shirt from a motorcycle outfit. On the back it says,
“Never underestimate those who remain independent.”
So, I’ll be bugging the Department of Elections one more time to change my registration back to Independent. I think it will be my last.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Bush Policies Belie Promises - MRF
MRF E-MAIL NEWS
http://www.mrf.org (website)
(LINK)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michael "Boz" Kerr, MRF Vice-President
bozrf.org (e-mail)
26 February 2008
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is taking action in light of what appears to be an alarming trend with high-level government agency and cabinet-level appointees of President George W. Bush.
President Bush campaigned for the presidency on a platform of "compassionate conservatism." During his campaign he often spoke of his desire to reign in big government and his commitment to personal freedoms. His message resonated with many in the motorcycling community and with the leadership of the MRF at that time.
While the president continues to speak of his conservative approach to public policy and respect for the rights of the states during this election cycle, the practices of a growing number of his appointees seem to be in marked contrast with his rhetoric. Both Mark Rosenker, Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Mary Peters, Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOT) have embarked on a course that at first glance would seem out of place in a conservative Republican administration.
Mr. Rosenker appears to be enamored with 1960s era "Great Society" style programs. He is using his agency and his position to pressure every state in the Union to adopt mandatory helmet laws for all motorcycle riders.
Ms. Peters must have a battalion of Philadelphia lawyers on her staff watching over her as she walks on the edge of federal regulations. The DOT secretary is on a budget-busting spending spree that would make a "New Dealer" blush. She is not content to just spend the DOT's budget on social engineering, she is crafting ways to legally skirt the letter and the intent of SAFETY-LU (the highway funding act passed by the 109th congress) to scoop up what ever monies she can to advance her personal mission, even if such funds are a meager amount dedicated to aiding motorcycle rider education.
The MRF finds this to be rather peculiar behavior in an administration that bills itself as "compassionately conservative." Perhaps even more peculiar is the fact that the president appears to be comfortable with his appointees' actions. The MRF is certainly not comfortable as we watch these presidential appointees lining up against us.
Our level of discomfort increases as we recall other issues with appointees of the president. An unpleasant tussle with the Environmental Protection Agency set the tone early on in this administration, followed by Dr. Runge at the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration referring to motorcyclists as the scourge of the highways.
While the MRF will aggressively fight any negative legislation that may be introduced at the behest of these presidential appointees, we will not waste time wrestling with the current lame duck administration that has historically low approval ratings with the American public; we are looking to the future.
The MRF is calling on the leadership of the Republican Party to explain to us and to six million motorcycle-riding Americans if this is the type of public policy that we can expect in the future should a Republican be elected president in November. We will be writing a formal letter to Mike Duncan, Chairman of the Republican National Committee, expressing our displeasure over the course that the current administration has taken and asking for assurances that this is not the direction that his party is going to follow. A copy of that letter will be forwarded to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Republican Leader John Boehner. We will also be asking for a meeting with Mr. Duncan, and will present him with a questionnaire on motorcycle-related issues. We will ask that our questionnaire be forwarded to the presidential nominee of his party.
The MRF will be making a similar request to Howard Dean, the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee. When the questionnaires are completed they will be posted on the MRF website and published in the MRF reports without editorial comment, or any endorsement from the MRF.
Michael Kerr
MRF Vice President
http://www.mrf.org (website)
(LINK)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michael "Boz" Kerr, MRF Vice-President
bozrf.org (e-mail)
26 February 2008
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is taking action in light of what appears to be an alarming trend with high-level government agency and cabinet-level appointees of President George W. Bush.
President Bush campaigned for the presidency on a platform of "compassionate conservatism." During his campaign he often spoke of his desire to reign in big government and his commitment to personal freedoms. His message resonated with many in the motorcycling community and with the leadership of the MRF at that time.
While the president continues to speak of his conservative approach to public policy and respect for the rights of the states during this election cycle, the practices of a growing number of his appointees seem to be in marked contrast with his rhetoric. Both Mark Rosenker, Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Mary Peters, Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOT) have embarked on a course that at first glance would seem out of place in a conservative Republican administration.
Mr. Rosenker appears to be enamored with 1960s era "Great Society" style programs. He is using his agency and his position to pressure every state in the Union to adopt mandatory helmet laws for all motorcycle riders.
Ms. Peters must have a battalion of Philadelphia lawyers on her staff watching over her as she walks on the edge of federal regulations. The DOT secretary is on a budget-busting spending spree that would make a "New Dealer" blush. She is not content to just spend the DOT's budget on social engineering, she is crafting ways to legally skirt the letter and the intent of SAFETY-LU (the highway funding act passed by the 109th congress) to scoop up what ever monies she can to advance her personal mission, even if such funds are a meager amount dedicated to aiding motorcycle rider education.
The MRF finds this to be rather peculiar behavior in an administration that bills itself as "compassionately conservative." Perhaps even more peculiar is the fact that the president appears to be comfortable with his appointees' actions. The MRF is certainly not comfortable as we watch these presidential appointees lining up against us.
Our level of discomfort increases as we recall other issues with appointees of the president. An unpleasant tussle with the Environmental Protection Agency set the tone early on in this administration, followed by Dr. Runge at the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration referring to motorcyclists as the scourge of the highways.
While the MRF will aggressively fight any negative legislation that may be introduced at the behest of these presidential appointees, we will not waste time wrestling with the current lame duck administration that has historically low approval ratings with the American public; we are looking to the future.
The MRF is calling on the leadership of the Republican Party to explain to us and to six million motorcycle-riding Americans if this is the type of public policy that we can expect in the future should a Republican be elected president in November. We will be writing a formal letter to Mike Duncan, Chairman of the Republican National Committee, expressing our displeasure over the course that the current administration has taken and asking for assurances that this is not the direction that his party is going to follow. A copy of that letter will be forwarded to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Republican Leader John Boehner. We will also be asking for a meeting with Mr. Duncan, and will present him with a questionnaire on motorcycle-related issues. We will ask that our questionnaire be forwarded to the presidential nominee of his party.
The MRF will be making a similar request to Howard Dean, the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee. When the questionnaires are completed they will be posted on the MRF website and published in the MRF reports without editorial comment, or any endorsement from the MRF.
Michael Kerr
MRF Vice President
Around the Horn Friday
If you would like to be included in the first round-robin ATHF, e-mail your submission our first host, Merit-Bound Alley at jmadjeski_at_gmail_dot_com !
If you would like your turn as host, let Merit-Bound Alley know as well. The more the merrier (and less work for all).
If you would like your turn as host, let Merit-Bound Alley know as well. The more the merrier (and less work for all).
How Bizarre is This?
Family feud adds to week of stupid violent acts
"The clash happened in a Collegeville home where Sean Shurelds, who favors Obama, allegedly tried to choke his brother-in-law Jose Ortiz, who likes Clinton....
Ortiz responded by allegedly plunging a kitchen knife into Shurelds' stomach." (LINK)
"The clash happened in a Collegeville home where Sean Shurelds, who favors Obama, allegedly tried to choke his brother-in-law Jose Ortiz, who likes Clinton....
Ortiz responded by allegedly plunging a kitchen knife into Shurelds' stomach." (LINK)
Monday, February 25, 2008
Geek Humor
I am in the process of reviewing our Disaster Recovery Plan where I work. The purpose of the plan is to have all bases covered for systems, notification of personnel, ongoing data activities, etc., in the event of an emergency.
Scott Adams did it best. I should use it as my coversheet:
Scott Adams did it best. I should use it as my coversheet:
Friday, February 22, 2008
Would Like Some Cheese With That Whine?
Oh, how we whine. Oh, how we commiserate. In the end, we are full of sound and fury, signifying nothing (yes, that is plagiarism, so sue me, or get Willy's estate to do it..or even better, Shakespeare's).There are many that want to make a better way for Delaware. Many whine:
"Oh, you're just a big fat Republican."
"Oh, you're just a whiny little Democrat".
Am NOT !
Are SO !
It is all quite tiresome, cases in point:
No wonder your party is dying in DE.
You were talking about Dan Short and you know it, jackass.
Look after your own glass house, Pal.
Mark my words.
Ah, incisive and productive debate at its finest. Jefferson is turning in his grave.
Get over it. Do something, for godssakes. You seem so all-powerfull, at least in your own minds. Stop your incessant whining. Where is the coherent plan? Where is there a solution?
Can you get out of your own petty asses long enough to find out?
Good Ole Boy In Da Snow
My old man Chainsaw has been up dissa way for nigh on five years. He's a Suth'na alright. An Airforce brat, he lived in England in his pre-teen years, Colorado for awhile, but ended up down-air in Georgia and Florida, and I guess he reckons that's where he hails from.
He has those Suth'n ways. Ain't seen too much snow, septin' for when he worked in the mountains of Virginia for awhile. A welder by trade, he hung off'n somma dem-air ships in Naw-leens, welding them big suckers just hanging by the hair of his chinny-chin-chin, torch in hand.
But he's been uppa this-a-way for for t'while now, and he'll admit t'yit alright that he's gettin to right likin' it. We're at home here. We have great friends. When we visited his Georgia kinfolk last year and he was dang near lost. He admitted to me: "I am a Delawarean now". But he still has those southern ways of talkin' and movin'.
A good ole boy in the snow. Sure is ri-ite cute:
He has those Suth'n ways. Ain't seen too much snow, septin' for when he worked in the mountains of Virginia for awhile. A welder by trade, he hung off'n somma dem-air ships in Naw-leens, welding them big suckers just hanging by the hair of his chinny-chin-chin, torch in hand.
But he's been uppa this-a-way for for t'while now, and he'll admit t'yit alright that he's gettin to right likin' it. We're at home here. We have great friends. When we visited his Georgia kinfolk last year and he was dang near lost. He admitted to me: "I am a Delawarean now". But he still has those southern ways of talkin' and movin'.
A good ole boy in the snow. Sure is ri-ite cute:
My Mood Right Now....
It's real simple.....
Mama told me when I was young
Come sit beside me, my only son
And listen closely to what I say.
And if you do this
It will help you some sunny day.
Take your time... dont live too fast,
Troubles will come and they will pass.
Go find a woman and youll find love,
And dont forget son,
There is someone up above.
And be a simple kind of man.
Be something you love and understand.
Be a simple kind of man.
Wont you do this for me son,
If you can?
Mama told me when I was young
Come sit beside me, my only son
And listen closely to what I say.
And if you do this
It will help you some sunny day.
Take your time... dont live too fast,
Troubles will come and they will pass.
Go find a woman and youll find love,
And dont forget son,
There is someone up above.
And be a simple kind of man.
Be something you love and understand.
Be a simple kind of man.
Wont you do this for me son,
If you can?
My Poe Jeans
I was cleaning out a closet the other day and was amazed at how many jeans I have. High-righers, low-riders, bellbottoms, straight-leg, raggedy and pristine.
There are normally two categories: fat jeans and skinny jeans. As is usual at this time of year, I am in the "fat jeans" stage. I'll wear the "skinny jeans" (which is really a misnomer...it should be called a "less fat") stage once spring comes.
So, I separate the fat jeans from the skinny jeans. Different piles, different times of year.
But much to my dismay, I have discovered a new category. It does not warrant a pile of its own. It is a new and frightening category, and I am loathe to just give up and discard them or give them to the Salvation Army, because like Obama I Believe in Hope. I Believe in Change.
The new category of jeans? Like the line from Edgar Allen Poe's famous poem:
"Quothe the raven: Nevermore !"
Sigh.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Where is Common Cause?
I sent the below letter today via snail-mail to Bob Edgar, President of Common Cause, with a copy to Karen Hobert Flynn, Common Cause Vice President for State Operations.
Dear Mr. Edgar,
I am an e-mail subscriber to Common Cause at the national level. At some point last summer, I looked into getting more involved locally here in Delaware. Unfortunately, I appear to have chosen the worst possible time.
Common Cause of Delaware at that time was going through some rather nasty turmoil, much of which was promulgated in the local media as well as by Delaware bloggers. I will not recount the history here, as it is probably known at the national level all too well. From what I read on the issues it appeared to be a combination of clashing egos, inappropriate communications, lack of adherence to organizational protocols, misinformation, and just plain childishness. It was not a pretty sight, and pretty much turned me off to the whole process.
While I am not privy to the details of the demise of Common Cause in Delaware, I have been watching, waiting, and hoping for some outcome that would result in its reincarnation, hopefully devoid of troublesome combativeness that plagued it in the past. It is my understanding that this has been under discussion or is undergoing some kind of review at the national level.
Delaware is a small state, but we seem to be extraordinarily plagued by government malfeasance, lack of transparency and accountability, and a general sense of helplessness on the part of the public as to what to do about it. I publish a blog that addresses some of the issues, and along with other bloggers often bemoan some of the outright foolishness that is going on in our State, but beyond that there is little in the way of organized action.
As an information services professional, project manager, writer, Delawarean, and above all a citizen, I feel that real action and real results can be achieved more effectively under the umbrella of a national organization with common goals. It is only through collective action and information-sharing that any efforts towards a more open and accountable government can have any significant impact.
My question surrounds the current status of Common Cause in Delaware. Can you enlighten me as to if and when there will be some official resurrection and recognition in the near future?
If there is anything I can do to assist in the process, I will most certainly do it.
Respectfully,
Shirley Vandever
Dear Mr. Edgar,
I am an e-mail subscriber to Common Cause at the national level. At some point last summer, I looked into getting more involved locally here in Delaware. Unfortunately, I appear to have chosen the worst possible time.
Common Cause of Delaware at that time was going through some rather nasty turmoil, much of which was promulgated in the local media as well as by Delaware bloggers. I will not recount the history here, as it is probably known at the national level all too well. From what I read on the issues it appeared to be a combination of clashing egos, inappropriate communications, lack of adherence to organizational protocols, misinformation, and just plain childishness. It was not a pretty sight, and pretty much turned me off to the whole process.
While I am not privy to the details of the demise of Common Cause in Delaware, I have been watching, waiting, and hoping for some outcome that would result in its reincarnation, hopefully devoid of troublesome combativeness that plagued it in the past. It is my understanding that this has been under discussion or is undergoing some kind of review at the national level.
Delaware is a small state, but we seem to be extraordinarily plagued by government malfeasance, lack of transparency and accountability, and a general sense of helplessness on the part of the public as to what to do about it. I publish a blog that addresses some of the issues, and along with other bloggers often bemoan some of the outright foolishness that is going on in our State, but beyond that there is little in the way of organized action.
As an information services professional, project manager, writer, Delawarean, and above all a citizen, I feel that real action and real results can be achieved more effectively under the umbrella of a national organization with common goals. It is only through collective action and information-sharing that any efforts towards a more open and accountable government can have any significant impact.
My question surrounds the current status of Common Cause in Delaware. Can you enlighten me as to if and when there will be some official resurrection and recognition in the near future?
If there is anything I can do to assist in the process, I will most certainly do it.
Respectfully,
Shirley Vandever
Request for Committee Hearing Re: Nancy Wagner
I sent the following e-mail today:
To: Members of the State of Delaware House Ethics Committee:
Richard C. Cathcart
Robert F. Gilligan
Helene M. Keeley
Clifford G. Lee
Terry R. Spence
Re: Request for Committee Hearing Investigating Conflict of Interest on the Part of Representative Nancy Wagner
Honorable Representatives,
It is a long-held and perhaps naïve assumption on my part and most likely the part of all Delawareans that their representatives are to be beyond reproach, both personally and professionally. By this, I do not mean some impossible ideal of absolute perfection; rather, the simple supposition that our representatives act in good faith, without subterfuge, and under the principle that the purpose of holding office is to fulfill the will of the people, not for personal, financial or political gain.
This sounds like a simple concept, and one which most citizens both in and out of politics try their best to adhere to, but recent alleged actions by Representative Wagner appear to give credence to the words of Oliveira Vianna: "I'm capable of all types of courage, except the courage of resisting my friends."
A recent article in The News Journal by reporter Cris Barrish brought to light what for all intents and purposes appears to be actions by Representative Wagner which constitute a clear conflict of interest and are in violation of Title 29, Chapter 10, § 1002 of the Delaware Code. I am confident that you are all aware of these allegations; therefore I will not enumerate them here other than to say that Representative Wagner appears to be the force behind securing a position with a State agency for her husband, and has at least twice voted for the budget containing the epilogue language creating said position.
Since any inquiry into conflict of interest allegations must originate from a member of the House, I ask that you as a body or any individual member request said inquiry.
It is my belief that an Ethics Committee must not only be reactive but also be proactive when charges of this nature, especially those made in such a public and reputable forum such as The News Journal, come to its attention. It is only by such action that the public trust can begin to even come close to a modicum of respect for those in whom we place our public trust. This trust goes beyond party affiliations (I am a registered Republican). It is a most basic tenet of our system of representative government; that our legislators are to look after our interests, not their own.
I respectfully await your reply,
Shirley Vandever
(contact information)
To: Members of the State of Delaware House Ethics Committee:
Richard C. Cathcart
Robert F. Gilligan
Helene M. Keeley
Clifford G. Lee
Terry R. Spence
Re: Request for Committee Hearing Investigating Conflict of Interest on the Part of Representative Nancy Wagner
Honorable Representatives,
It is a long-held and perhaps naïve assumption on my part and most likely the part of all Delawareans that their representatives are to be beyond reproach, both personally and professionally. By this, I do not mean some impossible ideal of absolute perfection; rather, the simple supposition that our representatives act in good faith, without subterfuge, and under the principle that the purpose of holding office is to fulfill the will of the people, not for personal, financial or political gain.
This sounds like a simple concept, and one which most citizens both in and out of politics try their best to adhere to, but recent alleged actions by Representative Wagner appear to give credence to the words of Oliveira Vianna: "I'm capable of all types of courage, except the courage of resisting my friends."
A recent article in The News Journal by reporter Cris Barrish brought to light what for all intents and purposes appears to be actions by Representative Wagner which constitute a clear conflict of interest and are in violation of Title 29, Chapter 10, § 1002 of the Delaware Code. I am confident that you are all aware of these allegations; therefore I will not enumerate them here other than to say that Representative Wagner appears to be the force behind securing a position with a State agency for her husband, and has at least twice voted for the budget containing the epilogue language creating said position.
Since any inquiry into conflict of interest allegations must originate from a member of the House, I ask that you as a body or any individual member request said inquiry.
It is my belief that an Ethics Committee must not only be reactive but also be proactive when charges of this nature, especially those made in such a public and reputable forum such as The News Journal, come to its attention. It is only by such action that the public trust can begin to even come close to a modicum of respect for those in whom we place our public trust. This trust goes beyond party affiliations (I am a registered Republican). It is a most basic tenet of our system of representative government; that our legislators are to look after our interests, not their own.
I respectfully await your reply,
Shirley Vandever
(contact information)
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Job Security, Delaware Style
Blogger Gerry Fulcher has ranted, and I believe rightly so, that beyond Chris Barrish’s News Journal article on February 10th, not much has been said or done about Representative Nancy Wagner’s little job security deal for her husband, the unposted position of Department of Corrections videographer.
Gerry writes:
“Where are you Bloggers and radio people with the followup? Sure, you wrote about it once or twice, and maybe you did a show on it…but that should only be the beginning. The next is to get off your collective asses and do the hard-nosed leg work.”
I think Gerry is right.
What is daunting here is that it is obvious to anyone that the Nancy-and-Bud show is merely the tip of the iceberg. The good-ole-boy (and girl) cronyism is part of the Delaware way. It is pervasive on both sides of the aisle, an entrenched system of non-accountability and political subterfuge that has gone on for decades. Whether or not Nancy Wagner’s situation is addressed, it is the system and not just the individual.
My question is this: If it is true that this position was written into the epilogue language of a budget bill that was voted on, isn’t each person who voted for it complicit in this? Isn’t it the entire General Assembly itself that should be investigated?
That this dirty little secret is not causing more of a public outrage shows how jaded we have become.
So, Gerry, I will write my letter to the House Ethics Committee members. I’m not sure what else to do besides bitch and moan. Little else seems available to me, just a cog in a greased-up wheel spinning on and on and on with a life of its own.
You tell me, sir, and I’ll do it.
“Where are you Bloggers and radio people with the followup? Sure, you wrote about it once or twice, and maybe you did a show on it…but that should only be the beginning. The next is to get off your collective asses and do the hard-nosed leg work.”
I think Gerry is right.
What is daunting here is that it is obvious to anyone that the Nancy-and-Bud show is merely the tip of the iceberg. The good-ole-boy (and girl) cronyism is part of the Delaware way. It is pervasive on both sides of the aisle, an entrenched system of non-accountability and political subterfuge that has gone on for decades. Whether or not Nancy Wagner’s situation is addressed, it is the system and not just the individual.
My question is this: If it is true that this position was written into the epilogue language of a budget bill that was voted on, isn’t each person who voted for it complicit in this? Isn’t it the entire General Assembly itself that should be investigated?
That this dirty little secret is not causing more of a public outrage shows how jaded we have become.
So, Gerry, I will write my letter to the House Ethics Committee members. I’m not sure what else to do besides bitch and moan. Little else seems available to me, just a cog in a greased-up wheel spinning on and on and on with a life of its own.
You tell me, sir, and I’ll do it.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Obama Economic Plan is"Borderline Unimplementable"
"Mr Obama’s plan met instant scepticism from otherwise sympathetic Democratic economists who said it would require a large regulatory apparatus to put into practice......"
“I would say that this plan is borderline unimplementable,” said a Democratic economist in Washington.
read more digg story
“I would say that this plan is borderline unimplementable,” said a Democratic economist in Washington.
read more digg story
Will Delaware Make the Deadline?
Delaware is one of only six states that has not filed for an extension of the May 2008 deadline for implementation of the Real ID Act. Although it is expected that Delaware will make such a request, time is getting short.
If no action is taken, citizens of those states could face a possible nightmare, including not being able to board airplanes. According to Brian Zimmer, of Coalition for a Secure Driver’s License:
"These governors have not told their citizens what will happen," he said. "They have not told them they will have to go out and get passports" or some other federal ID. (SOURCE).
While I believe that our final response will be refusal to implement the provisions of this Act, we should at this juncture at least ensure that our citizens are not inconvenienced due to simple inaction.
How about it, Delaware?
If no action is taken, citizens of those states could face a possible nightmare, including not being able to board airplanes. According to Brian Zimmer, of Coalition for a Secure Driver’s License:
"These governors have not told their citizens what will happen," he said. "They have not told them they will have to go out and get passports" or some other federal ID. (SOURCE).
While I believe that our final response will be refusal to implement the provisions of this Act, we should at this juncture at least ensure that our citizens are not inconvenienced due to simple inaction.
How about it, Delaware?
Tin Foil Hat Slightly Askew?
OK, so sometime Thursday the military is supposed to shoot down that pesky satellite. If allowed to reenter the earth’s atmosphere on its own could result in a deadly leak of toxic gas
Is anyone even remotely worried about this? Anyone? I have to say that my normally calm demeanor is getting quite a workout. Note the difference one little word can make:
From CNN:
NASA Administrator Michael Griffin said there's nothing the military can do to make the outcome worse.
From Scientific American:
"There is almost nothing we can do here that makes it worse," Griffin said.
ALMOST?
Egad. I'm freaking out.
Is anyone even remotely worried about this? Anyone? I have to say that my normally calm demeanor is getting quite a workout. Note the difference one little word can make:
From CNN:
NASA Administrator Michael Griffin said there's nothing the military can do to make the outcome worse.
From Scientific American:
"There is almost nothing we can do here that makes it worse," Griffin said.
ALMOST?
Egad. I'm freaking out.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
I Better Stick to Blogging
The way this piece is titled totally misses the point. Nothing in the article says anything like this nor even intimates to it.
It was not my choice. I am not sure I have a choice.
Snappy? Yes. Relevant? No.
Sigh.
It was not my choice. I am not sure I have a choice.
Snappy? Yes. Relevant? No.
Sigh.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Urgent Email from Sister, Nothing Done, Everything Gained
One of my three younger sisters lives in South Carolina with her attorney husband and two children. She's been there nigh on fifteen years, and tells me that she could live there for another fifty years and they would still think of her as a Yankee. She holds her own.
Her daughter Amanda will be graduating from high school this year. I received the following urgent e-mail:
"I've got to write up a little something for Amanda's senior page in her yearbook. I've been looking in past yearbooks and seeing what other parents say. A lot of them have a quote from the bible, some famous author, person or something. Can you think of a good one? A witty one? Any one? You are my sister of words.
Oh, and it's due Friday (Thursday night for you).
I love you!"
The pressure ! I didn't feel adequate to the task. She expected something pithy and profound from her "sister of words". I asked her a few questions. In the end, I didn't deliver. I couldn't. It is my niece, but it is her daughter.
I'm glad I didn't offer anything. It would have been lame.
E-mail received this morning from my sister.
"So I went with....
'And if you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance.' "
Well, dang, little sister. You done good. Better words for a daughter were never spoken.
Her daughter Amanda will be graduating from high school this year. I received the following urgent e-mail:
"I've got to write up a little something for Amanda's senior page in her yearbook. I've been looking in past yearbooks and seeing what other parents say. A lot of them have a quote from the bible, some famous author, person or something. Can you think of a good one? A witty one? Any one? You are my sister of words.
Oh, and it's due Friday (Thursday night for you).
I love you!"
The pressure ! I didn't feel adequate to the task. She expected something pithy and profound from her "sister of words". I asked her a few questions. In the end, I didn't deliver. I couldn't. It is my niece, but it is her daughter.
I'm glad I didn't offer anything. It would have been lame.
E-mail received this morning from my sister.
"So I went with....
'And if you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance.' "
Well, dang, little sister. You done good. Better words for a daughter were never spoken.
Friday, February 15, 2008
House GOP Fails to Appoint an Earmark Reformer. What Next?
from Dick Armey <darmey@freedomworks.org>
toShirley <svandever@gmail.com>,
date Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 4:51 PM
subjectDecision on Make it Flake Campaignmailed-byfreedomworks.org
Dear Shirley,
As someone who took action in our MakeitFlake Campaign to get earmark reformer Rep. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) appointed to a Republican slot on the Appropriations Committee, I wanted to give you an update with the latest news.
First, on Wednesday, we printed and hand-delivered your open letter to GOP Leader Rep. Boehner with over 3,500 signatures. Again, thank you for signing in support of spending reform. FreedomWorks members nationwide also made over 7,500 calls to Republican members of Congress on this issue using our automated phone system. We definitely got some attention on Capitol Hill.
Despite this widespread grassroots support for earmark reformer Rep. Flake, the Republican Steering Committee yesterday selected Jo Bonner (R-AL) to fill the vacancy on the House Appropriations Committee. While Rep. Flake was not ultimately selected (at least this time), it is clear that grassroots pressure has moved the earmarking issue to the top of the House Republican agenda and our voices are making a difference.
We are not going to rest until we restore fiscal responsibility to Congress. So what next?
Representative Bonner has a long history of securing earmarks for his district, and voting in favor of egregious pork projects on the House floor, but in public statements following his appointment yesterday, he said, “The current earmark process has become a symbol of a broken Washington. I sought this seat on the Appropriations Committee because I believe the time for change and reform – Towards that end, I have strongly supported the efforts of House Republican leadership to reform the current earmark process and eliminate wasteful spending.“
FreedomWorks applauds Bonner’s statement and is now calling on him to back up his message by personally pledging to swear off all earmarks for fiscal year 2009.
Republicans in Congress need to show that they are serious about ending the earmark process and to that end FreedomWorks is engaging a multi-pronged campaign to focus pressure on both sitting lawmakers and those seeking to ascend to Congress and the White House to go on the record and pledge to end this scandalous practice. Specifically, FreedomWorks will organize online, phone, and face-to-face activities, and is considering print, radio, and television ads targeting specific legislators and candidates. We are also raising money for our earmark campaign with online donations.
Earmarking is a localized political process, and conservatives expect leaders with a national vision. Earmarking works fine for liberals who follow an "all politics is local, what can you give me" philosophy.
Earmarking does not work with the conservative value of shrinking government and with constituents not looking for government handouts. FreedomWorks’ campaign will continue to shine the light on conservatives and liberals alike and we’ll see who’s really serious about stopping this shameful process and who’s simply posturing.
Thanks again for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Dick Armey
FreedomWorks
toShirley <svandever@gmail.com>,
date Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 4:51 PM
subjectDecision on Make it Flake Campaignmailed-byfreedomworks.org
Dear Shirley,
As someone who took action in our MakeitFlake Campaign to get earmark reformer Rep. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) appointed to a Republican slot on the Appropriations Committee, I wanted to give you an update with the latest news.
First, on Wednesday, we printed and hand-delivered your open letter to GOP Leader Rep. Boehner with over 3,500 signatures. Again, thank you for signing in support of spending reform. FreedomWorks members nationwide also made over 7,500 calls to Republican members of Congress on this issue using our automated phone system. We definitely got some attention on Capitol Hill.
Despite this widespread grassroots support for earmark reformer Rep. Flake, the Republican Steering Committee yesterday selected Jo Bonner (R-AL) to fill the vacancy on the House Appropriations Committee. While Rep. Flake was not ultimately selected (at least this time), it is clear that grassroots pressure has moved the earmarking issue to the top of the House Republican agenda and our voices are making a difference.
We are not going to rest until we restore fiscal responsibility to Congress. So what next?
Representative Bonner has a long history of securing earmarks for his district, and voting in favor of egregious pork projects on the House floor, but in public statements following his appointment yesterday, he said, “The current earmark process has become a symbol of a broken Washington. I sought this seat on the Appropriations Committee because I believe the time for change and reform – Towards that end, I have strongly supported the efforts of House Republican leadership to reform the current earmark process and eliminate wasteful spending.“
FreedomWorks applauds Bonner’s statement and is now calling on him to back up his message by personally pledging to swear off all earmarks for fiscal year 2009.
Republicans in Congress need to show that they are serious about ending the earmark process and to that end FreedomWorks is engaging a multi-pronged campaign to focus pressure on both sitting lawmakers and those seeking to ascend to Congress and the White House to go on the record and pledge to end this scandalous practice. Specifically, FreedomWorks will organize online, phone, and face-to-face activities, and is considering print, radio, and television ads targeting specific legislators and candidates. We are also raising money for our earmark campaign with online donations.
Earmarking is a localized political process, and conservatives expect leaders with a national vision. Earmarking works fine for liberals who follow an "all politics is local, what can you give me" philosophy.
Earmarking does not work with the conservative value of shrinking government and with constituents not looking for government handouts. FreedomWorks’ campaign will continue to shine the light on conservatives and liberals alike and we’ll see who’s really serious about stopping this shameful process and who’s simply posturing.
Thanks again for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Dick Armey
FreedomWorks
No Flakes, but Plenty of Bull on the House Appropriations Committee
Conservative politicians and political action groups considered it a no brainer that Jeff Flake (AZ) should fill the vacant slot on the appropriations committee:
“Appropriations is often called the third branch of Congress because it is home to its most passionate spenders. By contrast, Mr. Flake received a 100% rating from Citizens Against Government Waste, and along with Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn is the scourge of Congressional earmarkers. In four terms in Congress, Mr. Flake has never sought a special bridge, courthouse, parking lot, or teapot museum for his district. Republican leaders were so incensed at his role in exposing GOP earmarks in 2006 that they booted him off the Judiciary Committee.” (Wall Street Journal Editorial, 1/8/2008).
But alas, it looks as though it is going to be business as usual in Washington.
Conservative bloggers and fiscal conservative action groups are incensed.
Word has it that Republicans were pouting over Flake’s lack of loyalty to the team, and that he criticized his own party too much.
Methinks they do protest too much. Who makes these decisions? Wait a minute ! What’s this guy still doing there?
The Appropriations Committee needs to take a wider stance and make room for Jeff Flake. That is, if they don’t want to continue to be considered a joke by the rest of the country.
“Appropriations is often called the third branch of Congress because it is home to its most passionate spenders. By contrast, Mr. Flake received a 100% rating from Citizens Against Government Waste, and along with Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn is the scourge of Congressional earmarkers. In four terms in Congress, Mr. Flake has never sought a special bridge, courthouse, parking lot, or teapot museum for his district. Republican leaders were so incensed at his role in exposing GOP earmarks in 2006 that they booted him off the Judiciary Committee.” (Wall Street Journal Editorial, 1/8/2008).
But alas, it looks as though it is going to be business as usual in Washington.
Conservative bloggers and fiscal conservative action groups are incensed.
Word has it that Republicans were pouting over Flake’s lack of loyalty to the team, and that he criticized his own party too much.
Methinks they do protest too much. Who makes these decisions? Wait a minute ! What’s this guy still doing there?
The Appropriations Committee needs to take a wider stance and make room for Jeff Flake. That is, if they don’t want to continue to be considered a joke by the rest of the country.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Open Records Bill to be Signed Today
No, not in Delaware. We're still waiting.
"Gov. Rendell today will sign the open-records bill, which will greatly expand public access to a wide array of government records......
And for the first time, the legislature will be subject to the open-records law."
Complete story HERE.
"Gov. Rendell today will sign the open-records bill, which will greatly expand public access to a wide array of government records......
And for the first time, the legislature will be subject to the open-records law."
Complete story HERE.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Lord of the Gadflies
Today's congressional gadflies are learning that the arm-twisting and lock-stepping that once defined urban or local political machines can, aided by the media, go national. Just look at Ron Paul.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
FISA Amendments Defeated in the Senate
In case you had any doubt, or were wondering about the significane of the proposed amendments to FISA which were rejected today, read kavips' thoughtful post.
The Congressional Record is revealing (and long), however I thought that the following two excerpts pretty much sum it up. There are some of the remarks made by Senator Feingold on Dodd amendment No. 3907 (to amendment No. 3911), to strike the provisions providing immunity from civil liability to electronic communication service providers for certain assistance provided to the Government. They can be found on page S838 (emphasis added):
“Companies do not need to do their own analysis of the court order or the certification to determine whether the Government is, in fact, acting lawfully. But if requests are not properly documented, FISA instructs the telephone companies to refuse the Government's request and subjects them to liability if they instead decide to cooperate. This framework, which has been in place for 30 years, protects companies that act at the request of the Government, while also protecting the privacy of Americans' communications. Some supporters of retroactively expanding this provision argue that the telephone companies should not be penalized if they relied on high-level Government assurance that the requested assistance was lawful. As superficially appealing as that argument may sound, it utterly ignores the history of the FISA statute.”
“Quite frankly, the claim that any telephone company that cooperates with a Government request for assistance is simply acting out of the sense of patriotic duty doesn't fare much better. Recently, we learned that telecommunications companies actually have cut off wiretaps when the Government failed to promptly pay its bills.”
Do you feel so sorry for AT&T now? They were only doing what the government told them to do? Rubbish.
Pure rubbish.
Jimmy Stewart, we need you.
The Congressional Record is revealing (and long), however I thought that the following two excerpts pretty much sum it up. There are some of the remarks made by Senator Feingold on Dodd amendment No. 3907 (to amendment No. 3911), to strike the provisions providing immunity from civil liability to electronic communication service providers for certain assistance provided to the Government. They can be found on page S838 (emphasis added):
“Companies do not need to do their own analysis of the court order or the certification to determine whether the Government is, in fact, acting lawfully. But if requests are not properly documented, FISA instructs the telephone companies to refuse the Government's request and subjects them to liability if they instead decide to cooperate. This framework, which has been in place for 30 years, protects companies that act at the request of the Government, while also protecting the privacy of Americans' communications. Some supporters of retroactively expanding this provision argue that the telephone companies should not be penalized if they relied on high-level Government assurance that the requested assistance was lawful. As superficially appealing as that argument may sound, it utterly ignores the history of the FISA statute.”
“Quite frankly, the claim that any telephone company that cooperates with a Government request for assistance is simply acting out of the sense of patriotic duty doesn't fare much better. Recently, we learned that telecommunications companies actually have cut off wiretaps when the Government failed to promptly pay its bills.”
Do you feel so sorry for AT&T now? They were only doing what the government told them to do? Rubbish.
Pure rubbish.
Jimmy Stewart, we need you.
I'm Just Saying....
"It is a wise rule and should be fundamental in a government disposed to cherish its credit, and at the same time to restrain the use of it within the limits of its faculties, "never to borrow a dollar without laying a tax in the same instant for paying the interest annually, and the principal within a given term; and to consider that tax as pledged to the creditors on the public faith.""
-- Thomas Jefferson (letter to John Wayles Eppes, 24 June 1813)
My Hit List
One of my favorite bloggers has a "hit list". If something makes him mad, it goes on the list. I don't always agree with his selections, but it's his list so he can do what he wants with it.It made me think that it might be somewhat therapeutic to have one's very own "hit list". If something annoys you, you can take solace in that fact that at least it is on your list and that perhaps you'll get to it someday.
The first item to make my list is Valentine's Day. The sight of hapless men scurrying frantically to make that desparate purchase for their significant other is annoying. I just don't see the sense in it. The two biggest items purchased either have a limited shelf-life (flowers) or are immediately consumed (candy). What is the sense in that? I love flowers and I love getting them, but a $10 bouquet is better than $60 in roses that will be dead in a few days.
I am certainly not unromantic. Contrary to my staid demeanor I am probably more romantic than most. But I look for (and find) the signs of romance in little everyday things, not a gift from Zales. Oh, those Zales commercials will be on my hit list as well.
Why, recently I was feeling a little down, you know how it happens: the humdrum and routine of everyday life makes you melancholy and you know that the first flush of love, those early days when each day was something new, are probably gone forever. So I said to my significant other something about the loss of romance and spontaneity (I may have had a glass or two of Bolla Valpolicella at the time and a glisten in my eye), and told him it would be great if he just picked me up and swept me off of my feet without warning.
A few days went by, and I had forgotten about it. I came home, tired and blue one evening, and the old man came right up and picked me up like a newlywed, laughing and smiling all the way. I laughed, too.
But you know at a certain age things don't always work the way you want them to and muscles don't get used quite as much. Backs tend to creak, knees bend a little farther down than you want, and discs tend to slip. The old man paid just a bit for his demonstration, and he didn't say so but I think he blamed it on me.
All I can say is that my driver's license says I am 5'9" and 140 lbs. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
So yes, I hate Valentine's Day and all the stupid pressure it puts on people to outdo each other in how much money they spend. Make every day Valentine's Day with your loved ones. It doesn't take a fortune.
Maybe just a strong back.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Friday, February 8, 2008
McCain Knows How to Pick His Advisors
It was reported last night that Donald Luskin, Ron Paul’s economic advisor, has moved to the McCain camp.
You have to say this about McCain: When he knows he needs help on economic issues, he knows right where to go.
Read Luskin’s commentary on “The Paulonomics Factor” by clicking HERE.
One sign of a good leader is the ability to surround oneself with good people.
John McCain just went up a notch in my book.
You have to say this about McCain: When he knows he needs help on economic issues, he knows right where to go.
Read Luskin’s commentary on “The Paulonomics Factor” by clicking HERE.
One sign of a good leader is the ability to surround oneself with good people.
John McCain just went up a notch in my book.
Welcome Home, Sgt. O'Rourke !
Sgt. Ryan O'Rourke, USMC, is coming home today. Patriot Guard Riders from Delaware, PA, and New Jersey will be there to welcome him with a hundred Hoo-Ra's, and plenty of the red, white and blue.
My significant other, Chainsaw, will be meeting up with fellow PGR riders Wolfman and AngryInch at the first rest stop on 95 around 1:00 this afternoon. From there, they will ride up to Engine 69 on Bartram Avenue to meet up with the PA contingent. A flag line will be set up at the airport to greet Sgt. O'Rourke when he gets off the plane, then a motorcycle escort over the Walt Whiteman to Marlton, New Jersey and home sweet home for this young man. The New Jersey police will be part of the escort. They have always been awesome.
Welcome home, Sgt. O'Rourke. Your sacrifice and service will not be forgotten.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Things My Father Taught Me
My father taught me alot of things...this is just one.
In my late teens and early twenties I was of course trying to find my niche in life and on occasion would have a job interview and not know where it was. When you are that age, you just haven't been that many places, even in Delaware. My Dad would always take the time a few days before my appointment to drive me to where I had to go.
When you're going for a job interview, you're always nervous. Knowing that I wouldn't get lost and having that comfort level of a trial run took a little piece of that edgieness off.
When I moved back to Delaware from Philly in 2002, I had to find out how to work the trains. Even though I work in Suburban Station, the whole world of the R-2 was foreign to me. A girlfriend at work took me through the steps, told me the ins and outs of buying tickets and transpasses, and even walked me down to my train the very first time I took it home.
Recently, I have been helping a close friend with a job search. He had an interview in Philly, and having never been there he was quite concerned. He didn't say so, but I knew it. So, I took a day off from work last week and we did a trial run. Note to self: never trust MapQuest. When the time came for the interview, he was fine. I think that trial run had something to do with it.
Next week, my friend has to go for a physical. It is also in Philadelphia, a whole different areas from where his interview was. We'll make the dry run this weekend.
And don't you know, when I moved back to Delaware and had to find out how to get ON the dang R-2, who was it that took the time to show me Darley Road and the entrance to the Claymont train station? My Dad, of course. We even talked to the security guard on duty at the time who told me exactly what I needed to do.
This isn't a big thing or anything deep or profound. It is one of those little things you remember and pay forward. I willl be forever grateful to my father for teaching me that, even if I didn't realize the significance of it until many years later.
Take somebody on a dry run. It will make your day.
In my late teens and early twenties I was of course trying to find my niche in life and on occasion would have a job interview and not know where it was. When you are that age, you just haven't been that many places, even in Delaware. My Dad would always take the time a few days before my appointment to drive me to where I had to go.
When you're going for a job interview, you're always nervous. Knowing that I wouldn't get lost and having that comfort level of a trial run took a little piece of that edgieness off.
When I moved back to Delaware from Philly in 2002, I had to find out how to work the trains. Even though I work in Suburban Station, the whole world of the R-2 was foreign to me. A girlfriend at work took me through the steps, told me the ins and outs of buying tickets and transpasses, and even walked me down to my train the very first time I took it home.
Recently, I have been helping a close friend with a job search. He had an interview in Philly, and having never been there he was quite concerned. He didn't say so, but I knew it. So, I took a day off from work last week and we did a trial run. Note to self: never trust MapQuest. When the time came for the interview, he was fine. I think that trial run had something to do with it.
Next week, my friend has to go for a physical. It is also in Philadelphia, a whole different areas from where his interview was. We'll make the dry run this weekend.
And don't you know, when I moved back to Delaware and had to find out how to get ON the dang R-2, who was it that took the time to show me Darley Road and the entrance to the Claymont train station? My Dad, of course. We even talked to the security guard on duty at the time who told me exactly what I needed to do.
This isn't a big thing or anything deep or profound. It is one of those little things you remember and pay forward. I willl be forever grateful to my father for teaching me that, even if I didn't realize the significance of it until many years later.
Take somebody on a dry run. It will make your day.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Dept. Of Homeland Security: 'Has Anybody Seen A Blue Folder?
"In an emergency press conference held this morning, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff urged the American public to be on the lookout for a folder that was misplaced sometime in the last 24 hours, most likely in the DHS offices, but also possibly anywhere else. "
Where I Am Now
My candidate, Ron Paul, will not be the Republican candidate for president. Of all of the people running, he is the only one I could truly support with my heart and mind. So what do I do now?
The finalists will be decided without me. I have no part of that now. I fear Clinton’s entrenchment in the system. I don’t believe her. Another Clinton presidency will plunge us further towards the ultimate nanny state. While I am heartened by the youthful earnestness of Obama, he is more of the same, though perhaps less imbued by and therefore plagued with the Democratic dogma. He is not ready.
The government is taking care of us. All it has cost us is our liberty.
On the Republican side, I have no preference. Like Hube, I cannot abide Huckabee. Although he is a conservative and probably a nice enough guy, his overt religiosity scares me. He also seems to be quite a politician at this point, working the spoiler game for a piece of the Republican pie. I see backroom deals abounding.
Neither Romney nor McCain inspire me. While I admire Mitt’s business acumen, the whole Romney health care plan in Massachusetts is Big Brother at its finest. I admire and respect McCain’s service to our country, but some of his stands reek of a brand of liberalism that seeks more to tout initiatives and plans rather than to solve problems. And no, I don’t listen to Limbaugh or Coulter. Rush is a clown and Ann is an anorexic shrew. They have no bearing on my opinion whatsoever.
I listened to some of WDEL’s coverage of the Delaware primaries yesterday. In one segment, Allan Loudell spoke of talking to a woman who voted for Clinton because she heard that Obama was a “radical Muslim”. Mr. Loudell expressed amazement that such a rumor (which in my view was political dirty tricks) was still believed by some people. Although it saddens me, it does not shock me. The American people are extraordinarily lazy and stupid it seems. Few people take the time to really find out about the candidates and their positions.
This November, we will not be electing the next President. We will be electing the next American Idol.
So, back to the question, “What do I do now”?
The finalists will be decided without me. I have no part of that now. I fear Clinton’s entrenchment in the system. I don’t believe her. Another Clinton presidency will plunge us further towards the ultimate nanny state. While I am heartened by the youthful earnestness of Obama, he is more of the same, though perhaps less imbued by and therefore plagued with the Democratic dogma. He is not ready.
The government is taking care of us. All it has cost us is our liberty.
On the Republican side, I have no preference. Like Hube, I cannot abide Huckabee. Although he is a conservative and probably a nice enough guy, his overt religiosity scares me. He also seems to be quite a politician at this point, working the spoiler game for a piece of the Republican pie. I see backroom deals abounding.
Neither Romney nor McCain inspire me. While I admire Mitt’s business acumen, the whole Romney health care plan in Massachusetts is Big Brother at its finest. I admire and respect McCain’s service to our country, but some of his stands reek of a brand of liberalism that seeks more to tout initiatives and plans rather than to solve problems. And no, I don’t listen to Limbaugh or Coulter. Rush is a clown and Ann is an anorexic shrew. They have no bearing on my opinion whatsoever.
I listened to some of WDEL’s coverage of the Delaware primaries yesterday. In one segment, Allan Loudell spoke of talking to a woman who voted for Clinton because she heard that Obama was a “radical Muslim”. Mr. Loudell expressed amazement that such a rumor (which in my view was political dirty tricks) was still believed by some people. Although it saddens me, it does not shock me. The American people are extraordinarily lazy and stupid it seems. Few people take the time to really find out about the candidates and their positions.
This November, we will not be electing the next President. We will be electing the next American Idol.
So, back to the question, “What do I do now”?
There is much to do locally in the near future. Delaware, like many other states, is at a crossroads. Are we going to demand a responsible government? Or do we settle for more of the same? Will there be candidates for statewide offices that can eschew cronyism, inspire the people, and give us the government we expect and deserve?
Can we unearth the trench that the past administration has dug and breathe new life into our state agencies? Or will the good old boys-and-girls keep running things?
This I pledge: I will not give up. I will study and ask questions and find out what I need to know in order to make informed choices. I also pledge to support as much as possible, both by word and by deed, those candidates that represent change, hope, and responsibility.
My mind is open. All I need is the right people to prove something to me.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Penalty could exceed $900 for refusing to get insurance under Massachusetts
This scares me.
"Penalties for Massachusetts residents who can afford health insurance but do not purchase it in 2008 could quadruple compared with the maximum penalty in 2007, according to draft regulations released by the Department of Revenue yesterday."
2007 penalty: "The health reform law, signed by former governor Mitt Romney in April 2006, states that the penalty for 2007 would be the loss of an individual's personal income tax exemption. "
2008 penalty: "....a 60-year-old resident of Boston, who would pay more than $4,600 a year for health insurance provided by the state, could have been hit with a $2,300 penalty. But the maximum possible penalty is $912 for all residents. "
2009 penalty: ????????????????????????????????????????????
read more digg story
"Penalties for Massachusetts residents who can afford health insurance but do not purchase it in 2008 could quadruple compared with the maximum penalty in 2007, according to draft regulations released by the Department of Revenue yesterday."
2007 penalty: "The health reform law, signed by former governor Mitt Romney in April 2006, states that the penalty for 2007 would be the loss of an individual's personal income tax exemption. "
2008 penalty: "....a 60-year-old resident of Boston, who would pay more than $4,600 a year for health insurance provided by the state, could have been hit with a $2,300 penalty. But the maximum possible penalty is $912 for all residents. "
2009 penalty: ????????????????????????????????????????????
read more digg story
Overweight People Pay Less for Healthcare
I love this story.
“In a paper published online Monday in the Public Library of Science Medicine journal, Dutch researchers found that the health costs of thin and healthy people in adulthood are more expensive than those of either fat people or smokers.”
Why? The damn healthy people live too long, thus putting a tremendous burden on the healthcare system for a longer period of time. Unhealthy people die off earlier, so we don’t have to pay to take care of them.
Makes perfect sense to me. Hand me a donut.
“In a paper published online Monday in the Public Library of Science Medicine journal, Dutch researchers found that the health costs of thin and healthy people in adulthood are more expensive than those of either fat people or smokers.”
Why? The damn healthy people live too long, thus putting a tremendous burden on the healthcare system for a longer period of time. Unhealthy people die off earlier, so we don’t have to pay to take care of them.
Makes perfect sense to me. Hand me a donut.
Super Tuesday
I was the third person in line at Trinity Presbyterian Church on Darley Road at 6:45 A.M.
I would like to think that I was the first person in Delaware to vote for Ron Paul. May or may not be true, but I like to think that it was.
I would like to think that I was the first person in Delaware to vote for Ron Paul. May or may not be true, but I like to think that it was.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Ride of the Free for the Home of the Brave
The Red Knights, an organization of fire service personnel and their families, is sponsoring a motorcycle ride for the homeless veterans shelter just south of Milford, "Home of the Brave".
When: Sunday, 5/4/2008
Where: "The Home of the Brave", located off of Route 1 North on Sharps Rd.
"The ride is approximately 60 to 70 miles long. It will take you through Greenwood, Bridgeville, Seaford, Millsboro, and back to "The Home of the Brave for GOOD FOOD - 50/50 Raffle., and pin.
Cost: $15.00 registration fee with free t-shirt to the first 150 registered riders. All proceeds go directly to The Home of the Brave.
Help us serve those who served us (donations of cash, food, clothing, etc. are appreciated)."
One-page PDF flyer can be found HERE.Don't ride a motorcycle? Check out The Home of the Brave website to see how you can help.
Paving Paradise
Ron Paul's weekly column, Texas Straight Talk. (OK, kavips? :)))
The Constitution guarantees Americans the right to be secure against all unreasonable seizures. My home state of Texas is unfortunately planning on some very unreasonable seizures of land with the monstrous Trans Texas Corridor highway project. The TTC plans call for a highway to cut through about 4,000 Texas miles, and with separate rail lines for passenger and freight, a multi-lane highway with separate truck lanes, utility and cable easements, this highway could be as wide as 1200 feet across. In the end this project would consume something like half a million acres of land in Texas . However, since the exact path of the road has not been determined, it is putting much more acreage in jeopardy, and in limbo.
Taking land is destructive enough. But the perpetual threat of taking an undetermined amount of land is hanging over the heads of millions of Texans and putting their lives at a standstill. Land is a store of wealth and a source of stability. This highway project is tragically threatening that for so many Texans.
The principle of private property is the cornerstone to a free and prosperous society. In situations where a colossal government land grab is a distinct possibility, investment or improvement becomes more risky with an uncertain future and tends not to happen. How do you sell land that may or may not be taken by the government at some point in the not too distant future? Who would buy it? How do you cultivate or build on, or even near, land that may or may not be paved over and turned into a massive, noisy thoroughfare in a few years?
Even more insulting is the distinct possibility that, while the road will collect tolls and fees, making a private foreign firm billions of dollars in revenue, the costs of building it could be heavily borne by taxpayers. So the costs will be socialized and the profits privatized. Public-private partnership indeed!
From Washington I have voiced my staunch disapproval of taking these hard-working taxpayers’ land for a private toll road, by introducing legislation (HR 5191) that simply states, “No Federal funds appropriated or made available before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act may be used by a unit of Federal, State, or local government to carry out the highway project known as the 'Trans-Texas Corridor'.” I am working hard in Congress to make sure that no Federal funding is used to undermine property rights in this way.
We should be focusing on guarding and securing our borders for the protection of the American people. Instead we are paving the way for more and more people to cross the border as comfortably as possible. And taking the family farm to do it. It is an absolute outrage.
The Constitution guarantees Americans the right to be secure against all unreasonable seizures. My home state of Texas is unfortunately planning on some very unreasonable seizures of land with the monstrous Trans Texas Corridor highway project. The TTC plans call for a highway to cut through about 4,000 Texas miles, and with separate rail lines for passenger and freight, a multi-lane highway with separate truck lanes, utility and cable easements, this highway could be as wide as 1200 feet across. In the end this project would consume something like half a million acres of land in Texas . However, since the exact path of the road has not been determined, it is putting much more acreage in jeopardy, and in limbo.
Taking land is destructive enough. But the perpetual threat of taking an undetermined amount of land is hanging over the heads of millions of Texans and putting their lives at a standstill. Land is a store of wealth and a source of stability. This highway project is tragically threatening that for so many Texans.
The principle of private property is the cornerstone to a free and prosperous society. In situations where a colossal government land grab is a distinct possibility, investment or improvement becomes more risky with an uncertain future and tends not to happen. How do you sell land that may or may not be taken by the government at some point in the not too distant future? Who would buy it? How do you cultivate or build on, or even near, land that may or may not be paved over and turned into a massive, noisy thoroughfare in a few years?
Even more insulting is the distinct possibility that, while the road will collect tolls and fees, making a private foreign firm billions of dollars in revenue, the costs of building it could be heavily borne by taxpayers. So the costs will be socialized and the profits privatized. Public-private partnership indeed!
From Washington I have voiced my staunch disapproval of taking these hard-working taxpayers’ land for a private toll road, by introducing legislation (HR 5191) that simply states, “No Federal funds appropriated or made available before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act may be used by a unit of Federal, State, or local government to carry out the highway project known as the 'Trans-Texas Corridor'.” I am working hard in Congress to make sure that no Federal funding is used to undermine property rights in this way.
We should be focusing on guarding and securing our borders for the protection of the American people. Instead we are paving the way for more and more people to cross the border as comfortably as possible. And taking the family farm to do it. It is an absolute outrage.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
And The Correct Answer Is.......
This is for all you men out there. Girls, you can stop reading right now. You already know the answer. It's a no-brainer.
We were out food shopping kind of early the other morning and a lady in the aisle hollered at us in recognition. We returned a "hey!", not quite sure who it was at first, but after a few seconds it dawned on us, and we gave a more comfortable "hey, how ya doin'", and went on our merry way. Neither of us recognized her at first. It was early in the morning, dontcha know.
Later that day, my significant other Chainsaw was talking to a friend on the phone and I heard him say, "Well dang, I didn't recognize her without 4 1/2 pounds of makeup on !". I smiled smugly in my mother-earth kind of way. Never having been weaned on womens' wiles, my day had come, and I knew that I was secure with my somewhat-flawed but ever-so-real personnae.
It stuck in my mind for a day or so, as things often do. Today, Chainsaw and I were out and about again, and I asked him:
"Would I look better with 4 1/2 pounds of makeup?"
Now, think for a moment gentlemen. Think long and hard. What would your answer be if your wife, significant other, daughter or mother asked you this question? Think, now.
Correct Answer: No
Incorrect (and Chainsaw's) Answer: "I don't know, I've never seen you with 4 1/2 pounds of makeup."
This is quite simple. Think about it. Just a piece of advice to all you men out there.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
We were out food shopping kind of early the other morning and a lady in the aisle hollered at us in recognition. We returned a "hey!", not quite sure who it was at first, but after a few seconds it dawned on us, and we gave a more comfortable "hey, how ya doin'", and went on our merry way. Neither of us recognized her at first. It was early in the morning, dontcha know.
Later that day, my significant other Chainsaw was talking to a friend on the phone and I heard him say, "Well dang, I didn't recognize her without 4 1/2 pounds of makeup on !". I smiled smugly in my mother-earth kind of way. Never having been weaned on womens' wiles, my day had come, and I knew that I was secure with my somewhat-flawed but ever-so-real personnae.
It stuck in my mind for a day or so, as things often do. Today, Chainsaw and I were out and about again, and I asked him:
"Would I look better with 4 1/2 pounds of makeup?"
Now, think for a moment gentlemen. Think long and hard. What would your answer be if your wife, significant other, daughter or mother asked you this question? Think, now.
Correct Answer: No
Incorrect (and Chainsaw's) Answer: "I don't know, I've never seen you with 4 1/2 pounds of makeup."
This is quite simple. Think about it. Just a piece of advice to all you men out there.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
Reading List
Two recent posts in the Delaware blogosphere got me to thinking.
Mike Mahaffie recently mused about Art Garfunkel's reading list. Oh, it shamed me so. And over on Delaware Libertarian, I was reminded in one post by the good professor that not everything is on the internet. Who knew?
As a totally-wired-24/7 geek, I had forgotten the feel and smell of a good book, curling on the couch with cuppa, reading a passage or two, looking up and thinking, then reading it again. I had always been a voracious reader, but for the past five years I have been ignoring that favorite pastime of mine. Time to get back, old girl, back where you belong.
So, I dusted off the old library card, and Chainsaw and I headed over to the New Castle County library. It's a lovely, welcoming place full of all sorts of people: young families, students, seniors, and everything in between. I swear I saw Huey Newton there. For real. I was ready to raise my fist in solidarity !
So many books ! Chainsaw reacquainted himself with the Dewey Decimel System, while I just wandered about and at the same time we both discovered the area I was looking for: the 900 section. For quite sometime I have been pondering in my little brain about revolution, the nature of revolution and the people behind it. I believe that we in the United States are ready for a revolution: not a bloody one, but a quiet, insistant one armed by brains and little baby steps to make this country a better place. A groundswell of sanity, if you prefer.
So, where better to start than the American Revolution?
But I didn't want the Americanized, rah-rah kind of book. I wanted to read about the struggles and missteps, the story of the truly imperfect people who squabbled amongst themselves and made some not-so-great decisions but somehow along the way managed to make what we call the United States of America. What a time it must have been !
The first book I happened upon was A Few Bloody Noses: The Realities and Mythologies of the American Revolution, by Robert Harvey (2002). At the time of publication, Mr. Harvey was a member of the British Parliament. I suspect there will be none of that grandiose fervor of admiration from him, and he even says in his introduction that "...exceptional human endeavor is the more remarkable in having been achieved by mortal men with all their weaknesses, suspicions, treachery, and greed." No whitewash here, I suspect.
My next selection was Thomas Jefferson: A Strange Case of Mistaken Identity, by Alf J. Mapp, Jr. (1987). The forward states, "It is the major premise of this book that the story of Thomas Jefferson in American history is a strange case of mistaken identity resulting in part from willful misrepresentation but even more from the wishful thinking of both admirers and detractors." Foibles and all, this should be an interesting read.
While checking out, found that my library card had expired, but the good news is that my renewal doesn't expire for another twenty years ! Holy Cow !
I have alot of catching up to do.
Mike Mahaffie recently mused about Art Garfunkel's reading list. Oh, it shamed me so. And over on Delaware Libertarian, I was reminded in one post by the good professor that not everything is on the internet. Who knew?
As a totally-wired-24/7 geek, I had forgotten the feel and smell of a good book, curling on the couch with cuppa, reading a passage or two, looking up and thinking, then reading it again. I had always been a voracious reader, but for the past five years I have been ignoring that favorite pastime of mine. Time to get back, old girl, back where you belong.
So, I dusted off the old library card, and Chainsaw and I headed over to the New Castle County library. It's a lovely, welcoming place full of all sorts of people: young families, students, seniors, and everything in between. I swear I saw Huey Newton there. For real. I was ready to raise my fist in solidarity !
So many books ! Chainsaw reacquainted himself with the Dewey Decimel System, while I just wandered about and at the same time we both discovered the area I was looking for: the 900 section. For quite sometime I have been pondering in my little brain about revolution, the nature of revolution and the people behind it. I believe that we in the United States are ready for a revolution: not a bloody one, but a quiet, insistant one armed by brains and little baby steps to make this country a better place. A groundswell of sanity, if you prefer.
So, where better to start than the American Revolution?
But I didn't want the Americanized, rah-rah kind of book. I wanted to read about the struggles and missteps, the story of the truly imperfect people who squabbled amongst themselves and made some not-so-great decisions but somehow along the way managed to make what we call the United States of America. What a time it must have been !
The first book I happened upon was A Few Bloody Noses: The Realities and Mythologies of the American Revolution, by Robert Harvey (2002). At the time of publication, Mr. Harvey was a member of the British Parliament. I suspect there will be none of that grandiose fervor of admiration from him, and he even says in his introduction that "...exceptional human endeavor is the more remarkable in having been achieved by mortal men with all their weaknesses, suspicions, treachery, and greed." No whitewash here, I suspect.
My next selection was Thomas Jefferson: A Strange Case of Mistaken Identity, by Alf J. Mapp, Jr. (1987). The forward states, "It is the major premise of this book that the story of Thomas Jefferson in American history is a strange case of mistaken identity resulting in part from willful misrepresentation but even more from the wishful thinking of both admirers and detractors." Foibles and all, this should be an interesting read.
While checking out, found that my library card had expired, but the good news is that my renewal doesn't expire for another twenty years ! Holy Cow !
I have alot of catching up to do.
Roll Me Away
Friday, February 1, 2008
Robert Foraker on "The Funk"
Talk Delaware conducted an online chat/interview with Robert Foraker, Democratic candidate for Governor.
Hear his views on the State of the State, education, pollution, wind power, poverty, and a variety of other topics.
EXCERPT: "robert foraker: Do you think Delaware needs an enema?"
The discussion, followup, and reader reaction can be found HERE. Trust me, this is great stuff !
Hear his views on the State of the State, education, pollution, wind power, poverty, and a variety of other topics.
EXCERPT: "robert foraker: Do you think Delaware needs an enema?"
The discussion, followup, and reader reaction can be found HERE. Trust me, this is great stuff !
Don't Frisk Me, Bro !
Philadelphia crime statistics, 2006 (LINK):
Murder………………. 406
Rape………………… 960
Robbery…………….. 10,971
Aggravated Assault.. 10,546
Compared to 2002 statistics, the number of murders alone represents a 41 percent increase.
Philadelphia is truly becoming the killing fields. Last Thursday, a 20-year-old pregnant woman was shot to death in Frankford. Death on the streets is becoming the norm, not the exception.
As part of his plan to decrease crime, new police commissioner Charles Ramsey will be instituting “stop-and-frisk” searches.
Whoah, wait a minute. This immediately gets my civil liberties vessels to pounding. The police can stop me for no reason other than looking suspicious? Isn’t this a policy just begging for abuse, and won’t the minority population bear the brunt? This is going too far. This is a police state waiting to happen. We may has well go back to the days of billy clubs and random harassment. I lived in the Fishtown section from 1990-2003 and there was more than one occasion where one of my ex-brothers-in-law woke up in The Roundhouse with a couple of black eyes and a fat lip after encountering the wrong end of one of Philly’s finest’s nightsticks for no good reason other than being a smartass.
But what exactly what constitutes “suspicion”? One of the criteria for a justified stop is “appearing not to fit the time and place.” I would beg to differ with anyone who says that a middle-aged white woman is not inherently more dangerous than a black teenager in baggy pants, but who is going to get stopped at 11 PM on Kensington Avenue? Huh?
To gain moral support for my outrage, I took an informal (hallway) and unscientific (two people) survey in my workplace. Both live in the city, and have for most of their lives. “Harrrrumph !”, I say, “What about this? Unreasonable search and seizure! Unconstitutional !”. I expected that we would be gathering our collective outrage into a lunchtime session of whining and moaning.
I was quite surprised at both of their reactions.
“Donna” is a 30-something, rough-and-tumble white chick who works in the office by day, and as a single mother fills in the gaps by working weekends as a bartender in a biker bar on the mean streets of Kensington. Her reaction ? “Frisk me, bro ! I don’t care ! If I have something wrong with my ID or whatever, I don’t care ! I want the low-lifes off the street. Something’s gotta be done and if I get hassled I don’t care, as long as they get the creeps and gangbangers. You can’t even go downna corner to get a packa smokes without worrying about getting’ shot”.
“Sam” is a black, 30-something, IT professional with a young family. A while back, he told me about a time when he was in college and was driving in Jersey and was being followed by a cop for some unknown reason, was eventually stopped and hassled, even after providing all the legitimate paperwork necessary to prove who he was. It was quite an experience, and he avoids Jersey to this day. His reaction? “If you don’t have anything to hide, you should have no problem with it.” I thought he would at least be a tad uncomfortable, but he in essence echoed Donna’s sentiment of “Something has to be done”.
Philadelphia has become that desperate and afraid.
I did some research on “stop-and-frisk” laws. They were instituted in New York City and other places, and challenges have been made. There are definitions for justified stops and justified frisks. If the officers are properly trained and carry out their duties in a responsible manner, it appears that there are checkpoints in place to help prevent abuse.
But this is Philadelphia, after all. I am encouraged and enthusiastic about the Nutter administration. He is bringing a sense of hope and no more “business as usual” to the city.
But the old guard is still in power in many ways. Bad habits are hard to break.
The stop-and-frisk program nags at me in so many unexplainable ways. Has it come to this, that we trade in our fears for loss of freedom? Is this what we have become? And isn’t this the same thing that happened nationally after the terrorist attacks of 2001?
I am very afraid for our liberty.
Murder………………. 406
Rape………………… 960
Robbery…………….. 10,971
Aggravated Assault.. 10,546
Compared to 2002 statistics, the number of murders alone represents a 41 percent increase.
Philadelphia is truly becoming the killing fields. Last Thursday, a 20-year-old pregnant woman was shot to death in Frankford. Death on the streets is becoming the norm, not the exception.
As part of his plan to decrease crime, new police commissioner Charles Ramsey will be instituting “stop-and-frisk” searches.
Whoah, wait a minute. This immediately gets my civil liberties vessels to pounding. The police can stop me for no reason other than looking suspicious? Isn’t this a policy just begging for abuse, and won’t the minority population bear the brunt? This is going too far. This is a police state waiting to happen. We may has well go back to the days of billy clubs and random harassment. I lived in the Fishtown section from 1990-2003 and there was more than one occasion where one of my ex-brothers-in-law woke up in The Roundhouse with a couple of black eyes and a fat lip after encountering the wrong end of one of Philly’s finest’s nightsticks for no good reason other than being a smartass.
But what exactly what constitutes “suspicion”? One of the criteria for a justified stop is “appearing not to fit the time and place.” I would beg to differ with anyone who says that a middle-aged white woman is not inherently more dangerous than a black teenager in baggy pants, but who is going to get stopped at 11 PM on Kensington Avenue? Huh?
To gain moral support for my outrage, I took an informal (hallway) and unscientific (two people) survey in my workplace. Both live in the city, and have for most of their lives. “Harrrrumph !”, I say, “What about this? Unreasonable search and seizure! Unconstitutional !”. I expected that we would be gathering our collective outrage into a lunchtime session of whining and moaning.
I was quite surprised at both of their reactions.
“Donna” is a 30-something, rough-and-tumble white chick who works in the office by day, and as a single mother fills in the gaps by working weekends as a bartender in a biker bar on the mean streets of Kensington. Her reaction ? “Frisk me, bro ! I don’t care ! If I have something wrong with my ID or whatever, I don’t care ! I want the low-lifes off the street. Something’s gotta be done and if I get hassled I don’t care, as long as they get the creeps and gangbangers. You can’t even go downna corner to get a packa smokes without worrying about getting’ shot”.
“Sam” is a black, 30-something, IT professional with a young family. A while back, he told me about a time when he was in college and was driving in Jersey and was being followed by a cop for some unknown reason, was eventually stopped and hassled, even after providing all the legitimate paperwork necessary to prove who he was. It was quite an experience, and he avoids Jersey to this day. His reaction? “If you don’t have anything to hide, you should have no problem with it.” I thought he would at least be a tad uncomfortable, but he in essence echoed Donna’s sentiment of “Something has to be done”.
Philadelphia has become that desperate and afraid.
I did some research on “stop-and-frisk” laws. They were instituted in New York City and other places, and challenges have been made. There are definitions for justified stops and justified frisks. If the officers are properly trained and carry out their duties in a responsible manner, it appears that there are checkpoints in place to help prevent abuse.
But this is Philadelphia, after all. I am encouraged and enthusiastic about the Nutter administration. He is bringing a sense of hope and no more “business as usual” to the city.
But the old guard is still in power in many ways. Bad habits are hard to break.
The stop-and-frisk program nags at me in so many unexplainable ways. Has it come to this, that we trade in our fears for loss of freedom? Is this what we have become? And isn’t this the same thing that happened nationally after the terrorist attacks of 2001?
I am very afraid for our liberty.
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