No matter how President-Elect Obama tries to spin it; the choice of Rick Warren is an insult to GLBT community not to mention the reality based community. The president-elect can couch this in all the bipartisan, all-inclusive language that he likes the reality is it is still a very bad idea and encourages hate speech and division and treats all ideas as equal; the reality is they are not all equal and not everyone deserves equal time.
My disappointment grows with each rationalization given.
18 December, 2008
17 December, 2008
What the HELL is he thinking???
The announcement today that Rick Warren will participate in the Obama inaugural has me completely flabbergasted. What the HELL was he thinking?? I know Obama wants to be all inclusive but shouldn't that include those whose beliefs are also all-inclusive? Why go right for the BIGOT? I am disappointed beyond belief.
I thought this administration was supposed to be about change? Adding Rick Warren to the list of speakers is not change it's more of the same bigotry and hatred.
President-elect Obama I expected more of you.
To quote Atrios, " Aside from the bigot part, Rick Warren, is you know, a liar'."
I thought this administration was supposed to be about change? Adding Rick Warren to the list of speakers is not change it's more of the same bigotry and hatred.
President-elect Obama I expected more of you.
To quote Atrios, " Aside from the bigot part, Rick Warren, is you know, a liar'."
23 November, 2008
09 November, 2008
Brooks on Face the Nation
David Brooks admits to the failure of the conservative movement in America. I had to replay TiVo four times before I could believe it wasn't an audio hallucination. As soon as I find a clip it'll be posted.
08 November, 2008
07 November, 2008
Bravo, Lawrence O'Donnell
I am not a big fan of Lawrence O'Donnell but this is priceless and he slammed Buchanan. Mika's Palin crush is almost as bad as Buchanan's and just as annoying.
A open letter to Senator Harry Reid
Dear Senator Reid,
Kick Joe Lieberman out of the Democratic Caucus. Do not allow your personal feelings for Mr. Lieberman to cloud your judgment here. Lieberman not only helped John McCain on the campaign trail; he actively campaigned for down-ticket republicans. He made some bad decisions based on his hurt feelings and his perception of being cut-loose by the democratic party.
He turned his back on us first. Remember he lost the democratic primary in Connecticut in 2004 and opted to feed his gigantic ego by creating the Lieberman for Connecticut party; and then complained that he did not get enough support from his fellow democrats in the Senate. In my opinion, Ned Lamont, the true democrat running for Senate in 2004 should be angry with the DSCC, Chuck Shumer & friends offered Mr. Lamont no support and as such allowed Liberman to return to the Senate. Much of the Lieberman problem actually rests with his fellow Senators and the DSCC.
To allow Holy Joe to continue as Chairman of the Homeland Security committee would be a slap in the face to all of the democrats in this country who came out so strongly for President-Elect Obama. Do not reward Lieberman's disloyalty with continued power in the US Senate. Let him go over to the Republican caucus; we don't need him. Get a spine and tell Holy Joe to suck it up and be a man; he betrayed not only his party; but also his constituency and the reward for that is no reward.
Kick Joe Lieberman out of the Democratic Caucus. Do not allow your personal feelings for Mr. Lieberman to cloud your judgment here. Lieberman not only helped John McCain on the campaign trail; he actively campaigned for down-ticket republicans. He made some bad decisions based on his hurt feelings and his perception of being cut-loose by the democratic party.
He turned his back on us first. Remember he lost the democratic primary in Connecticut in 2004 and opted to feed his gigantic ego by creating the Lieberman for Connecticut party; and then complained that he did not get enough support from his fellow democrats in the Senate. In my opinion, Ned Lamont, the true democrat running for Senate in 2004 should be angry with the DSCC, Chuck Shumer & friends offered Mr. Lamont no support and as such allowed Liberman to return to the Senate. Much of the Lieberman problem actually rests with his fellow Senators and the DSCC.
To allow Holy Joe to continue as Chairman of the Homeland Security committee would be a slap in the face to all of the democrats in this country who came out so strongly for President-Elect Obama. Do not reward Lieberman's disloyalty with continued power in the US Senate. Let him go over to the Republican caucus; we don't need him. Get a spine and tell Holy Joe to suck it up and be a man; he betrayed not only his party; but also his constituency and the reward for that is no reward.
05 November, 2008
We need to stop the pundits & nay-sayers
I've been listening to much of the chattering class today. They are all saying that Obama will need to lead from the middle. ARRRGHHHH!!!
We knew this would happen; what everyone seems to forget is that we can re-define the middle. Howard Dean understands this and I certainly hope he will help President Elect Obama understand this. Yes, we will need some help from the right, but they can no longer pretend that the public hasn't spoken.
Instead of being a Clinton 'new democrat' which is really just a moderate republican; President-Elect Obama can bring the party back to the true center. I'm not asking for a hard left shift here. Though it is what I would like; but we can return to the true center and once again care for our neighbors and friends without being thought of as soft or wimpy.
We knew this would happen; what everyone seems to forget is that we can re-define the middle. Howard Dean understands this and I certainly hope he will help President Elect Obama understand this. Yes, we will need some help from the right, but they can no longer pretend that the public hasn't spoken.
Instead of being a Clinton 'new democrat' which is really just a moderate republican; President-Elect Obama can bring the party back to the true center. I'm not asking for a hard left shift here. Though it is what I would like; but we can return to the true center and once again care for our neighbors and friends without being thought of as soft or wimpy.
Obama acceptance speech 4 November 2008
This was an inspiring and great speech. Of course we expected nothing less of our new President. I still can't believe this is real.
Yes, we did
I was too emotional last night to post. We really truly actually did it.
A few notes to the News Networks:
1. CNN the last president to have party control of both the house & senate-Um, if you think really hard it may come back to you---George W. Bush remember the big upset in Congress in 2006??? You do have a research department, don't you? Send an intern to google permanent republican majority.
2. NBC-The Today Show-No one cares what will happen to Sarah Palin-she lost, her ticket lost & her party lost big. Today is for Obama Biden.
3. MSNBC Keep that idiot Tucker Carlson off the air. He has no idea what he is talking about. Out of the blue he brings up Hillary Clinton and how badly she was treated in the primaries?? She wasn't treated badly; she lost.
4. MSNBC Dump Scarborough-he's another idiot who doesn't know what he's talking about and never met a fact he couldn't dismiss condescendingly just because he doesn't like it.
A few notes to the News Networks:
1. CNN the last president to have party control of both the house & senate-Um, if you think really hard it may come back to you---George W. Bush remember the big upset in Congress in 2006??? You do have a research department, don't you? Send an intern to google permanent republican majority.
2. NBC-The Today Show-No one cares what will happen to Sarah Palin-she lost, her ticket lost & her party lost big. Today is for Obama Biden.
3. MSNBC Keep that idiot Tucker Carlson off the air. He has no idea what he is talking about. Out of the blue he brings up Hillary Clinton and how badly she was treated in the primaries?? She wasn't treated badly; she lost.
4. MSNBC Dump Scarborough-he's another idiot who doesn't know what he's talking about and never met a fact he couldn't dismiss condescendingly just because he doesn't like it.
04 November, 2008
Tom Delay is an idiot
Tom Delay is a total moron. On MSNBC just now he said Nancy Pelosi is going to run circles around Obama and she is going to be the real power in the party. He also suggested that we are going to destroy the economy. Wrong, you moron that would be the Republican party that tanked the economy. As usual it's up to the Democratic Party to clean up after the Republicans.
Asshole.
Asshole.
Why I went to Colorado
I spent most weekends in October in Colorado. I went because I wanted to know as I sat in my apartment on Salt Lake City's Capitol Hill tonight that I had done everything I possibly could to help Obama win this election.
I did it because I have two nieces and one nephew and one grandniece. I want them to have a future that allows them all to reach their full potential. I want all of my future grand nieces and nephews to have a future with clean air and clean water and renewable & sustainable energy. I want the children of my sisters children to live in a world that doesn't hate americans. I want them to live in a world where we do not enter into pre-emptive war and create more enemies than friends. I am sitting here in my Capitol hill apartment with my heart in my throat watching returns and it is early yet. Colorado is still open granted for a few minutes only. WE haven't flipped a red state yet, but we have many still on the table.
I went to Colorado all those weekends even though I have MS and and the exhaustion factor when I return home each sunday has been difficult. I am still unemployed and looking for a job and I believe I blew an interview because I had it on a Monday morning and I was still tired from the weekend. Had a little bit of cognitive fuzziness. I went to Colorado because I think this is the most important election of my lifetime. I went to Colorado so I would know I did my part; it's taken its toll on me physically, but I wouldn't change it for the world.
This has been a wonderful experience and I wouldn't change it for anything even though I may have blown an interview behind it. Here's hoping it has helped in some small part to give us a better world & country.
Peace!
I did it because I have two nieces and one nephew and one grandniece. I want them to have a future that allows them all to reach their full potential. I want all of my future grand nieces and nephews to have a future with clean air and clean water and renewable & sustainable energy. I want the children of my sisters children to live in a world that doesn't hate americans. I want them to live in a world where we do not enter into pre-emptive war and create more enemies than friends. I am sitting here in my Capitol hill apartment with my heart in my throat watching returns and it is early yet. Colorado is still open granted for a few minutes only. WE haven't flipped a red state yet, but we have many still on the table.
I went to Colorado all those weekends even though I have MS and and the exhaustion factor when I return home each sunday has been difficult. I am still unemployed and looking for a job and I believe I blew an interview because I had it on a Monday morning and I was still tired from the weekend. Had a little bit of cognitive fuzziness. I went to Colorado because I think this is the most important election of my lifetime. I went to Colorado so I would know I did my part; it's taken its toll on me physically, but I wouldn't change it for the world.
This has been a wonderful experience and I wouldn't change it for anything even though I may have blown an interview behind it. Here's hoping it has helped in some small part to give us a better world & country.
Peace!
Congratulations, Kay Hagen
MSNBC has just called the North Carolina Senate race for Kay Hagen. Congratulations, Senator-elect Hagen.
Mark Warner won VA no big surprise, but congratulations Senator-Elect Warner. Virginia appears to have 80% turnout. Way to go virginia, here's hoping we take it.
What is it with South Florida & Palm Beach County? They have these weird ballots again. Will they never learn???
Mark Warner won VA no big surprise, but congratulations Senator-Elect Warner. Virginia appears to have 80% turnout. Way to go virginia, here's hoping we take it.
What is it with South Florida & Palm Beach County? They have these weird ballots again. Will they never learn???
They just can't help it, can they?
The republican party just can't help themselves. McCain is up by 25 points here in Utah and still they are trying to suppress the vote in the very democratic capitol hill voting precinct 2074.
I received my polling location via mail a few weeks ago; it told me I needed to vote @ LDS 125 West 500 North Salt Lake City, UT. I thought great I can get there no sweat. One problem; the LDS ward is NOT @ 125 West 500 North; that is a private home. So this morning, I walked around in the rain and cold and occassional snow looking for my polling place. I went into the polling place @ the Washington Elementary School and was given the standard sorry, we just realized this morning we gave people the incorrect address; the correct address is 225 West 500 North; one must enter through the back of the building and the poll workers were some of the least friendly I have ever met. I suppose I have that democrat vibe.
I did vote and fortunately due to the internal paper trail & verification screens my vote was tallied for Obama-Biden. I'm freezing and damp so off to take a hot bath and watch "The West Wing" for a few hours before turning on MSNBC to watch the results of this election.
I still can't believe they tried to suppress the vote in Utah. They just can't help themselves.
I received my polling location via mail a few weeks ago; it told me I needed to vote @ LDS 125 West 500 North Salt Lake City, UT. I thought great I can get there no sweat. One problem; the LDS ward is NOT @ 125 West 500 North; that is a private home. So this morning, I walked around in the rain and cold and occassional snow looking for my polling place. I went into the polling place @ the Washington Elementary School and was given the standard sorry, we just realized this morning we gave people the incorrect address; the correct address is 225 West 500 North; one must enter through the back of the building and the poll workers were some of the least friendly I have ever met. I suppose I have that democrat vibe.
I did vote and fortunately due to the internal paper trail & verification screens my vote was tallied for Obama-Biden. I'm freezing and damp so off to take a hot bath and watch "The West Wing" for a few hours before turning on MSNBC to watch the results of this election.
I still can't believe they tried to suppress the vote in Utah. They just can't help themselves.
It's here!!!!!
To-do list for Tuesday 4 November 2008:
1. Change the World
Go VOTE! VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!!!!
BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!
03 November, 2008
Canvassing Lake & Eagle Counties in Colorado
I got home late last night from my final Colorado trip. It was a great time again, though the folks in Eagle a little less organized than Garfield & Mesa Counties.
I know regardless of the outcome tomorrow, I have done everything I could to help turn this country in the right direction again. I will do some GOTV phone-banking this evening & tomorrow morning after I vote; but alas, Utah remains unrepentantly red.
A part of me is not quite ready to this end, this has been a fun campaign to be involved in and I am sad to see it end. A much larger part of me cannot wait for it be over so we see the results of all of our hard work and an end to the Bush debacle. I'm just not sure what I am going to do with my weekends from now on. Maybe get a life??
Don't Forget to VOTE!!!!!
1 day to change; 77 days to the end of an error.
BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!
I know regardless of the outcome tomorrow, I have done everything I could to help turn this country in the right direction again. I will do some GOTV phone-banking this evening & tomorrow morning after I vote; but alas, Utah remains unrepentantly red.
A part of me is not quite ready to this end, this has been a fun campaign to be involved in and I am sad to see it end. A much larger part of me cannot wait for it be over so we see the results of all of our hard work and an end to the Bush debacle. I'm just not sure what I am going to do with my weekends from now on. Maybe get a life??
Don't Forget to VOTE!!!!!
1 day to change; 77 days to the end of an error.
BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!
02 November, 2008
Canvassing Eagle County Colorado
I've been in Eagle County, Colorado this weekend. Home of Vail, Eagle, Edwards, Gypsum. It's lovely, but not all of the folks are. At our first turf stop while my team and I were deciding the best way to divvy up the territory a 30ish white man drove up to us and yelled out his window, "I thought you all were white"
One of my companions responded, "we are".
"Then why are you all voting for the monkey?"
Yes, it was that kind of day. A little scary and a lot of fun as all of these weekends have been but that set the tone a bit and had us on edge until we moved to the next neighborhood.
Just keep going folks, we're almost at the finish line. Two days to change.
One of my companions responded, "we are".
"Then why are you all voting for the monkey?"
Yes, it was that kind of day. A little scary and a lot of fun as all of these weekends have been but that set the tone a bit and had us on edge until we moved to the next neighborhood.
Just keep going folks, we're almost at the finish line. Two days to change.
31 October, 2008
A few questions about McCain's 'love' of JTP
After the Joe the Plumber debate, we learned JTP was lying to Obama about:
a) being a licensed plumber
b) buying a business
c) the worth of said business
we also found out he had an outstanding tax bill. He has been campaigning with McCain-Palin now for at least a week and has hired a publicist, is trying to get a recording contract and book deal and lying about Obama's views on Israel.
My question is has he paid his taxes yet? If he has who actually paid them? If he hasn't has McCain gone completely off his gourd? Campaigning with a tax cheat are you kidding me?? the tax cheat represents 'pro-American' values? He doesn't think he should have to pay taxes. So he thinks cops, firefighters, roads and bridges just grow on trees and the government doesn't work. If everyone acted the way JTP does it certainly wouldn't.
McCain would do well to rid himself of the parasite known as Joe the Plumber and find someone to campaign with him who really believes in America.
a) being a licensed plumber
b) buying a business
c) the worth of said business
we also found out he had an outstanding tax bill. He has been campaigning with McCain-Palin now for at least a week and has hired a publicist, is trying to get a recording contract and book deal and lying about Obama's views on Israel.
My question is has he paid his taxes yet? If he has who actually paid them? If he hasn't has McCain gone completely off his gourd? Campaigning with a tax cheat are you kidding me?? the tax cheat represents 'pro-American' values? He doesn't think he should have to pay taxes. So he thinks cops, firefighters, roads and bridges just grow on trees and the government doesn't work. If everyone acted the way JTP does it certainly wouldn't.
McCain would do well to rid himself of the parasite known as Joe the Plumber and find someone to campaign with him who really believes in America.
30 October, 2008
Rachel interviews Obama and knocks it out of the park
Rachel Maddow interviewed Barack Obama last night on her MSNBC show and hit it out of the park. They discussed my favorite topic Infrastructure.
Congratulations Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies won the World Series last night. Congratulations and good job winning at home in the rain soaked and suspended game. Brad Lidge struck out the final batter to seal the deal.
This life-long Met fan offers her heart-felt congratulations. Have fun at your parade tomorrow.
This life-long Met fan offers her heart-felt congratulations. Have fun at your parade tomorrow.
29 October, 2008
Six days
It's six days to the election and visions of voter suppression keeping me awake at night. All I can say is VOTE; VOTE; VOTE. Remember the higher numbers of voters who show up the less likely it is that they can steal yet another election.
Go VOTE. I would suggest that folks vote early, but I don't early vote. Election day is my Christmas morning, I love to get up early and be one of the first to the polls so I can take my time and cast my ballot. I am a self-proclaimed civics geek and love election day. Those of you who do not feel the way I do by all means vote early if you can. Don't let this happen:
Go VOTE. I would suggest that folks vote early, but I don't early vote. Election day is my Christmas morning, I love to get up early and be one of the first to the polls so I can take my time and cast my ballot. I am a self-proclaimed civics geek and love election day. Those of you who do not feel the way I do by all means vote early if you can. Don't let this happen:
22 October, 2008
Obama speech in Richmond VA
Obama gave a great speech in Richmond today; it contained many of the elements of his 2004 keynote @ the Democratic National Convention. It also contains so many truths about what this election is really about. It makes the McCain - Palin look so tawdry in comparison and calls them out; albeit in a nice way.
There is so much at stake this year; this man has to be our next president or else what will become of this country?
Here's the video
There is so much at stake this year; this man has to be our next president or else what will become of this country?
Here's the video
20 October, 2008
17 October, 2008
Bad new TV series
The premise of the Ex-List might be funnier were it not the standard desperate female searching for the perfect man; but rather a desperate male searching for the perfect mate. Just a thought.
16 October, 2008
Just because I think it's over
Doesn't mean I'm not heading to Colorado the last two weekends before the election. I think we're gonna win in an electoral landslide; if not a percentage vote landslide. Doesn't mean I'm gonna sit back and just watch it all from the sidelines. I believe we need to knock on every door; talk to every voter-undecided, or decided and remind them to get out and vote.
I know early voting has already begun in certain states, it begins here in Utah on the 21st and that's great. I vote on Election Day; it's a tradition and I like going to the polls on election day. I know, I know, I'm a huge civics geek and election day is like christmas morning for me.
Do what the sign in Grand Junction office says-Go Knock Doors!!!
Thursday morning coffee
Just listened to the MSNBC interview with Joe the Plumber; guess what he's a reactionary righty. Wants borders closed; thinks Social Security should never have been enacted. he is one of those clinging to his guns and money. Why did they spend so much time last night talking to the fringe??
15 October, 2008
If Chuck Todd is correct
If Chuck Todd is correct; the polls as they stand today should remain relatively stagnant and this is where we will end in 19 days. The reasoning Chuck used was all of the early voting and mail in ballots.
So from Chuck's lips to Goddesses ears and Obama wins the White House.
So from Chuck's lips to Goddesses ears and Obama wins the White House.
He's blaming Town Halls
McAncient is seriously blaming his mudslinging on Obama not agreeing to Town Hall meetings? Seriously? Playing the victim card much McBush; John Lewis hurt my feelings and Senator Obama has to apologize for it. What a scum-sucking liar!!! McCain wins on the sleaze factor.
McCain is proud of his supporters, well there you go. Inciting a riot is still a crime right?
When is Obama going to slam McAncient with the Gordon Liddy connection. Remember him; convicted felon? Tried to bring down the government from the inside with Nixon.
for the record senator mccain there is no such thing as 'pro-abortion' movement. It's pro-choice and we believe that includes comprehensive sex-education which includes information about birth control. As a member of pro-choice america I would love it if the need for abortion were completely eradicated; sadly it will never happen. Obama just said it Nobody is Pro-abortion!! Rock on Barack!!
Does John McCain not realize that Sarah Palin's youngest has Down Syndrome and is not autistic?
McCain is proud of his supporters, well there you go. Inciting a riot is still a crime right?
When is Obama going to slam McAncient with the Gordon Liddy connection. Remember him; convicted felon? Tried to bring down the government from the inside with Nixon.
for the record senator mccain there is no such thing as 'pro-abortion' movement. It's pro-choice and we believe that includes comprehensive sex-education which includes information about birth control. As a member of pro-choice america I would love it if the need for abortion were completely eradicated; sadly it will never happen. Obama just said it Nobody is Pro-abortion!! Rock on Barack!!
Does John McCain not realize that Sarah Palin's youngest has Down Syndrome and is not autistic?
Debate Night in America
For the record, but the time this night is over I am going to HATE Joe the plumber! Who will also probably out of business. Is he related to Joe Six Pack?
13 October, 2008
12 October, 2008
Canvassing in Colorado
Just got back from a weekend of canvassing in Grand Junction, Colorado. It was wonderful. It is a joy to see so many people committed to the Obama campaign.
We left from Salt Lake City Friday evening and drove to Grand Junction; we were quite a group a nurse, a retired state worker, an 18 year old college freshman, and me a 47 year old unemployed quality assurance analyst. (Wow! I really am 47; today is my birthday).
We arrived at the Grand Junction office and were greeted by local volunteers set up with housing from other local volunteers; it was heartwarming the way people opened their homes to us. I have volunteered for a lot of campaigns in my day and this is one of the most organized I have ever been involved in. Not to mention the ground game; it is a stellar organization; I guess that's what happens when you have a community organizer running for President he knows how to get the job done.
I'm fried right now, and need some sleep. I will post more tomorrow; plus I got some great pictures that I want to post.
We left from Salt Lake City Friday evening and drove to Grand Junction; we were quite a group a nurse, a retired state worker, an 18 year old college freshman, and me a 47 year old unemployed quality assurance analyst. (Wow! I really am 47; today is my birthday).
We arrived at the Grand Junction office and were greeted by local volunteers set up with housing from other local volunteers; it was heartwarming the way people opened their homes to us. I have volunteered for a lot of campaigns in my day and this is one of the most organized I have ever been involved in. Not to mention the ground game; it is a stellar organization; I guess that's what happens when you have a community organizer running for President he knows how to get the job done.
I'm fried right now, and need some sleep. I will post more tomorrow; plus I got some great pictures that I want to post.
10 October, 2008
Now I remember why I love Connecticut
Connecticut State Supreme Court Overturns Ban on Same-Sex Marriage
Whereas I still think the bigger issues facing the LGBT community are comprehensive hate crimes legislation; Equal housing and employment; it's good see that the CT Supremes believe the LGBT community is composed of human beings who should be accorded the same rights as the rest of the population
Whereas I still think the bigger issues facing the LGBT community are comprehensive hate crimes legislation; Equal housing and employment; it's good see that the CT Supremes believe the LGBT community is composed of human beings who should be accorded the same rights as the rest of the population
09 October, 2008
Bush goes on the teevee machine
So W. decided to hold a press briefing this morning to shore up the economy. When he stepped to the podium the market was down between 89 & 96 points; a little over an hour later and the market is down over 350 points. How's the confidence boost working for ya, W?
07 October, 2008
This is news?
Joe Lieberman told Newsmax today he may bolt the Democratic Senate Caucus in the next session. Correct me if I'm wrong but hasn't Joe already hung the Democratic Party out to dry?
It was my understanding that he'd pretty much been told he was out when he made the decision to speak @ the Republican National Convention. So is this a case of "You can fire me, I quit"? Sure sounds like it to me.
It should be interesting to see how the Connecticut for Lieberman party Senator will be treated by those he sold his soul for. My guess, they'll throw him under the bus; he's already served his purpose; keeping the Senate from putting forth a truly progressive platform during the 106th session of congress.
I know the state of Connecticut has been kicking itself in the arse for not voting for Ned Lamont for a while, this just makes it worse. The DSCC proved what a bunch of wankers they can be and then paid the price for not supporting the winner of the Democratic primary in CT instead of allowing their personal feelings for Holy Joe kept them from doing their job. Joe, don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out of the Democratic Caucus; hope you got something worthwhile for not only your soul, but your convictions. We shan't miss you, droopy dog.
It was my understanding that he'd pretty much been told he was out when he made the decision to speak @ the Republican National Convention. So is this a case of "You can fire me, I quit"? Sure sounds like it to me.
It should be interesting to see how the Connecticut for Lieberman party Senator will be treated by those he sold his soul for. My guess, they'll throw him under the bus; he's already served his purpose; keeping the Senate from putting forth a truly progressive platform during the 106th session of congress.
I know the state of Connecticut has been kicking itself in the arse for not voting for Ned Lamont for a while, this just makes it worse. The DSCC proved what a bunch of wankers they can be and then paid the price for not supporting the winner of the Democratic primary in CT instead of allowing their personal feelings for Holy Joe kept them from doing their job. Joe, don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out of the Democratic Caucus; hope you got something worthwhile for not only your soul, but your convictions. We shan't miss you, droopy dog.
06 October, 2008
Is Andrea Mitchell working for the McCain campaign?
I'm watching MSNBC Live with Andrea Mitchell and she is claiming that because the Keating 5 was 20 years ago it doesn't matter; but Bill Ayers matters even though the Weather Underground blew itself up (and mostly out of existence) in March of 1970, that's 38+ years ago people that matters.
Give me a break and Stephanie Cutter from the Obama campaign kicked Mitchell's ass about the Keating 5 stating and I am paraphrasing here that it shows his penchant for degregulation and that he is still uninformed about the economy.
When asked about Sarah Palin essentially calling Obama a tratior and bringing up the Ayers thing. Cutter hit back with the non-suspension suspension of the McCain campaign and the belief that the electorate is smart enough to see a diversion when it is presented. She said Palin/McCain is playing fast and loose trying to divert the campaign from the real issue of the day which is the economy, stupid.
Stephanie Cutter rocked the house and shut Mitchell down with her diversionary tactics trying to make the campaign focus on the mud-slinging coming from the right.
Give me a break and Stephanie Cutter from the Obama campaign kicked Mitchell's ass about the Keating 5 stating and I am paraphrasing here that it shows his penchant for degregulation and that he is still uninformed about the economy.
When asked about Sarah Palin essentially calling Obama a tratior and bringing up the Ayers thing. Cutter hit back with the non-suspension suspension of the McCain campaign and the belief that the electorate is smart enough to see a diversion when it is presented. She said Palin/McCain is playing fast and loose trying to divert the campaign from the real issue of the day which is the economy, stupid.
Stephanie Cutter rocked the house and shut Mitchell down with her diversionary tactics trying to make the campaign focus on the mud-slinging coming from the right.
05 October, 2008
Sunday Afternoon (Sports & Cooking)
It appears Autumn has finally arrived on the Wasatch front. It's about damn time, too. Today turned into a lovely cool, sunny day. It's funny I seem to have a compulsion to cook when things are not going well; and since the US economy is in the tank the time seemed right for meatballs and sauce; baked macaroni and cheese and lasagne.
The good news is the Giants won 4-0 WOOHOO!!!! Chad Pennington won down in Miami; what the hell is up with the Chargers??? Last year I had a bet with a friend of mine over who would win a Super Bowl first Rivers or Eli-obviously I won. But how did San Diego get so bad so fast? It's not like they are the Seahawks.
Detroit beat San Antonio to win the WNBA Championship; I thought San Antonio had at least one win in them. While I think the Shock are a fine team with a boatload of talent I'm not a big bill lambier fan. Besides half of the San Antonio line-up is composed of former New York Liberty players. The team who has my heart, regardless of the number of times they break it at the end of the season; much like my beloved New York Mets.
the only comfort I get from the Mets falling apart again at the end of this season is that the Cubs are not going to win a world series this year either. It has suddenly become very difficult to type; I have a cat half on my lap and half on my MacBook. She knows the rule is she is supposed to sleep on my shoulder while I'm on the computer, but all things being equal and Addie being a cat-we know how well rules go over.
completely off the frivolity of a sunday afternoon spent cooking comfort food and football.
Joe Biden's mother in law Bonnie Jacobs passed away today. My thoughts and best wishes are with Jill, Joe and the families. Losing a parent is never easy no matter how old one may be. It should also be noted Joe's son Beau deployed with the DE National Guard today to Fort Bliss, TX for training. Godspeed Beau and all of our armed forces in harm's way.
The good news is the Giants won 4-0 WOOHOO!!!! Chad Pennington won down in Miami; what the hell is up with the Chargers??? Last year I had a bet with a friend of mine over who would win a Super Bowl first Rivers or Eli-obviously I won. But how did San Diego get so bad so fast? It's not like they are the Seahawks.
Detroit beat San Antonio to win the WNBA Championship; I thought San Antonio had at least one win in them. While I think the Shock are a fine team with a boatload of talent I'm not a big bill lambier fan. Besides half of the San Antonio line-up is composed of former New York Liberty players. The team who has my heart, regardless of the number of times they break it at the end of the season; much like my beloved New York Mets.
the only comfort I get from the Mets falling apart again at the end of this season is that the Cubs are not going to win a world series this year either. It has suddenly become very difficult to type; I have a cat half on my lap and half on my MacBook. She knows the rule is she is supposed to sleep on my shoulder while I'm on the computer, but all things being equal and Addie being a cat-we know how well rules go over.
completely off the frivolity of a sunday afternoon spent cooking comfort food and football.
Joe Biden's mother in law Bonnie Jacobs passed away today. My thoughts and best wishes are with Jill, Joe and the families. Losing a parent is never easy no matter how old one may be. It should also be noted Joe's son Beau deployed with the DE National Guard today to Fort Bliss, TX for training. Godspeed Beau and all of our armed forces in harm's way.
People Can Change
I am up to here with everyone bringing up the Obama-Ayers connection. Yes, this includes you New York Times, MTP w/ Tom Brokaw, This Weak, FTN. Yes, Senator Obama and Mr Ayers have met; they have sat on boards together and Mr Ayers hosted at least one fundraiser for the Senator when he was running for the Illinois State Senate. Big hairy deal. Yes, Mr Ayers was a member of the Weather Underground in the late 1960's and early 1970's. That was a very long time ago.
Mr Ayers was not convicted of any crimes; as per the article in The New York Times Saturday 4 October, 2008:
He then went on to earn his doctorate in education from Columbia University in 1987 and is a professor of education at the University of Illinois. Ayers does charitable work and writes books. People can and do change. Mr Ayers continues to work in the community now in a much more constructive way.
McCain on the other hand has associations with racist, anti-semitic groups. Here's what Paul Begala had to say on MTP this morning:
Once again, the republicans confound me. I don't understand how they can spew their talking points without either laughing out loud or their heads exploding from the inanity of it all.
Mr Ayers was not convicted of any crimes; as per the article in The New York Times Saturday 4 October, 2008:
Federal riot and bombing conspiracy charges against him were dropped in 1974 because of illegal wiretaps and other prosecutorial misconduct, and he was welcomed back after years in hiding by his large and prominent family.
He then went on to earn his doctorate in education from Columbia University in 1987 and is a professor of education at the University of Illinois. Ayers does charitable work and writes books. People can and do change. Mr Ayers continues to work in the community now in a much more constructive way.
McCain on the other hand has associations with racist, anti-semitic groups. Here's what Paul Begala had to say on MTP this morning:
Once again, the republicans confound me. I don't understand how they can spew their talking points without either laughing out loud or their heads exploding from the inanity of it all.
Peggy Noonan on civility & grace???
When did Peggy Noonan decide that dirty politics doesn't work?? What is with this lecturing the public on how to be a grownup? She who said Sarah Palin did a great job on Thursday night? One who worships at the altar of Ronald Reagan and still thinks he was a great president. I am so confused.
I really miss Tim Russert.
I really miss Tim Russert.
03 October, 2008
The VP Debate
Sarah Palin neither fell off the stage nor did she burst into flames during last night's VP debate; for the Republican faithful apparently that was enough. As for the McCain-Palin ticket it wasn't even close to enough. the same day the McCain campaign gave up on Michigan; Sarah Six-Pack did nothing to shore up support for the ticket with 'middle-class' voters.
The punditocracy on the right is all a-twitter with glowing reviews of her performance last night. I want to know what debate they were watching. From Pat Buchanan and Roger Simon on MSNBC last night, Dick Morris on Fox News (should we even call it news over there?) to David Brooks in today's New York Times they all think her performance was stellar. In a sense they are correct; it was a performance, but not a stellar one. The audience could tell she was repeating her lines as written; that does not make for a stellar performance; maybe a good reading but not a performance. Tina Fey & the writers over @ SNL won't have work very hard to script the Palin bit for tomorrow night; she provided plenty of satire all on her own.
The contrast Joe Biden provided should give the Democrats more hope. The Senator from Delaware was a delight to watch; he had his facts at the ready, but more than that, I got a sense of what an Obama-Biden administration will do once they are in office. Biden provided real answers to the questions posed by moderator Gwen Ifill; he dismissed Palin as nothing more than a conduit with which to pummel the McCain record. Joe did his job last night; Palin didn't.
I have no idea what a McCain-Palin administration has in mind for the country except of course to deregulate the health insurance industry. More deregulation; that's exactly what we need; since it's working out so well for the financial markets.
The real winner last night was the american electorate; once again, we got to see exactly where each party and each ticket stands. Obama-Biden want to govern; they understand what the rest of us struggle with daily and want to help us struggle less; they understand that Climate change is a real man-made issue and they only way to solve the climate crisis is to look at the causes and determine the best ways to lessen the effects that are within our power. McCain-Palin, flash, trash and personality; continued reaction to world events instead of sober, thoughtful action after gathering the facts and determining the best path. The choice to me seems clear, but I'm an elitist who wants an intelligent, effective Administration.
The punditocracy on the right is all a-twitter with glowing reviews of her performance last night. I want to know what debate they were watching. From Pat Buchanan and Roger Simon on MSNBC last night, Dick Morris on Fox News (should we even call it news over there?) to David Brooks in today's New York Times they all think her performance was stellar. In a sense they are correct; it was a performance, but not a stellar one. The audience could tell she was repeating her lines as written; that does not make for a stellar performance; maybe a good reading but not a performance. Tina Fey & the writers over @ SNL won't have work very hard to script the Palin bit for tomorrow night; she provided plenty of satire all on her own.
The contrast Joe Biden provided should give the Democrats more hope. The Senator from Delaware was a delight to watch; he had his facts at the ready, but more than that, I got a sense of what an Obama-Biden administration will do once they are in office. Biden provided real answers to the questions posed by moderator Gwen Ifill; he dismissed Palin as nothing more than a conduit with which to pummel the McCain record. Joe did his job last night; Palin didn't.
I have no idea what a McCain-Palin administration has in mind for the country except of course to deregulate the health insurance industry. More deregulation; that's exactly what we need; since it's working out so well for the financial markets.
The real winner last night was the american electorate; once again, we got to see exactly where each party and each ticket stands. Obama-Biden want to govern; they understand what the rest of us struggle with daily and want to help us struggle less; they understand that Climate change is a real man-made issue and they only way to solve the climate crisis is to look at the causes and determine the best ways to lessen the effects that are within our power. McCain-Palin, flash, trash and personality; continued reaction to world events instead of sober, thoughtful action after gathering the facts and determining the best path. The choice to me seems clear, but I'm an elitist who wants an intelligent, effective Administration.
25 September, 2008
McCain suspends campaign
John McCain decided to suspend his campaign to rush back to Washington to 'fix' the economy. Really? Just how does he propose to do this? McCain is not a member of the Senate Finance Committee, so what input could he possibly have in the current ongoing negotiations?
His ignorance of economics is well documented; and the advice he is getting from his economic advisors is well, part of the problem currently affecting the markets. Isn't that why he has a running mate? Shouldn't Palin be picking up any slack McCain has left because of his reactionary stance; albeit it's a week and a half late. I wonder if the cratering polling numbers for McCain have anything to do with his sudden desire to be involved in 'saving the economy'. Senator Christoper Dodd; the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee said last night on the Rachel Maddow Show on MSNBC; that he has yet to receive one single phone call from Senator McCain regarding the economic crisis. He did say he has spoken to Senator Obama on numerous occassions and knows that the Junior Senator from Illinois has been in constant contact with Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson. Interesting that Senator Obama, also running for President; feels no need to suspend his campaign or call off the debate on Friday night.
Now, I'm no judge of executive ability; but it seems to me that Senator Obama has taken the right action. He is in contact with those who are attempting to remedy the current situation and will meet with the President & Senator McCain today for the photo-op about the crisis, but he has not stopped doing everything else. this strikes me as the correct action; McCain seems to be one of those who would panic in a crisis and start screaming for people to do something; ANYTHING, RIGHT NOW! In the Quality Assurance business we know this is a disaster on top of a disaster. It is always best to allow cooler heads to prevail; look at the situation from different angles; see what it is exactly that is broken. What needs to be fixed, what needs to happen immediately; and what can be deferred until we have more time to thoroughly evaluate the situation. i have always found that be the smarter choice instead of running around the building screaming your hair is on fire and making a bad situation worse.
His ignorance of economics is well documented; and the advice he is getting from his economic advisors is well, part of the problem currently affecting the markets. Isn't that why he has a running mate? Shouldn't Palin be picking up any slack McCain has left because of his reactionary stance; albeit it's a week and a half late. I wonder if the cratering polling numbers for McCain have anything to do with his sudden desire to be involved in 'saving the economy'. Senator Christoper Dodd; the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee said last night on the Rachel Maddow Show on MSNBC; that he has yet to receive one single phone call from Senator McCain regarding the economic crisis. He did say he has spoken to Senator Obama on numerous occassions and knows that the Junior Senator from Illinois has been in constant contact with Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson. Interesting that Senator Obama, also running for President; feels no need to suspend his campaign or call off the debate on Friday night.
Now, I'm no judge of executive ability; but it seems to me that Senator Obama has taken the right action. He is in contact with those who are attempting to remedy the current situation and will meet with the President & Senator McCain today for the photo-op about the crisis, but he has not stopped doing everything else. this strikes me as the correct action; McCain seems to be one of those who would panic in a crisis and start screaming for people to do something; ANYTHING, RIGHT NOW! In the Quality Assurance business we know this is a disaster on top of a disaster. It is always best to allow cooler heads to prevail; look at the situation from different angles; see what it is exactly that is broken. What needs to be fixed, what needs to happen immediately; and what can be deferred until we have more time to thoroughly evaluate the situation. i have always found that be the smarter choice instead of running around the building screaming your hair is on fire and making a bad situation worse.
09 September, 2008
New Obama Ad
This new Obama ad; put together Monday night after the Maverick ad is great. The campaign actually uses the word liars. It's about time.
05 September, 2008
RNC, it's finally over
KOs reaction to the 9/11 propaganda film was the highlight of the evening for me and it should be for everyone:
They really are heartless.
They really are heartless.
04 September, 2008
RNC day 3
I watched as much as I could of the Republican Convention last night; it was very difficult. Am I the only one who thinks the speakers have been uniquely uninspired?
Carly Fiorina was flat and boring. I don't believe in the republican platform or anything they claim to believe in; and yet I could have crafted a better speech and delivered it more convincingly. Honestly, does anyone think "I know John McCain" is a rallying cry?
The hypocrisy of the sexism story line, why is it whining when Senator Clinton claims sexism in the press but a valid claim when it's Sarah Palin? I personally think Senator Clinton and her spokespeople overplayed the sexism card. There was some sexism mixed with a huge dose of Hillary-hatred from the pundit-class. Now, the same republican talking heads who called the junior Senator from New York a whiner for questioning the media coverage of her campaign are the first to attack the media for sexism in the coverage of Sarah Palin.
The media and the public have a right to know just how she was vetted; what criteria were used in the process; other than the obvious pandering to the uber-right wing of the party. We know nothing of Sarah Palin; people pay less attention to Alaska than they do to Utah. I mean let's be realistic. To say she knows about foreign policy because Alaska is close to Russia is really pushing the envelope. Granted, she may get more State Department intel because of the proximity of her state to Russia; but it hardly qualifies as foreign policy experience.
As for the constant stream of nay-saying about community organizing; it is one more thinly veiled racist screed. What is so inherently wrong about caring about what happens to the people who live in a community? How is organizing a bad thing? I thought it would be impossible for the Republicans to run against Hope; but apparently they can do it and they can also run against compassion and caring and community.
Is this really the kind of world we want for our children? The loudest rallying cry so far of the convention is "Drill, Baby, Drill", do they republicans really see no future beyond say 2012? How sad a commentary is that on society?
Carly Fiorina was flat and boring. I don't believe in the republican platform or anything they claim to believe in; and yet I could have crafted a better speech and delivered it more convincingly. Honestly, does anyone think "I know John McCain" is a rallying cry?
The hypocrisy of the sexism story line, why is it whining when Senator Clinton claims sexism in the press but a valid claim when it's Sarah Palin? I personally think Senator Clinton and her spokespeople overplayed the sexism card. There was some sexism mixed with a huge dose of Hillary-hatred from the pundit-class. Now, the same republican talking heads who called the junior Senator from New York a whiner for questioning the media coverage of her campaign are the first to attack the media for sexism in the coverage of Sarah Palin.
The media and the public have a right to know just how she was vetted; what criteria were used in the process; other than the obvious pandering to the uber-right wing of the party. We know nothing of Sarah Palin; people pay less attention to Alaska than they do to Utah. I mean let's be realistic. To say she knows about foreign policy because Alaska is close to Russia is really pushing the envelope. Granted, she may get more State Department intel because of the proximity of her state to Russia; but it hardly qualifies as foreign policy experience.
As for the constant stream of nay-saying about community organizing; it is one more thinly veiled racist screed. What is so inherently wrong about caring about what happens to the people who live in a community? How is organizing a bad thing? I thought it would be impossible for the Republicans to run against Hope; but apparently they can do it and they can also run against compassion and caring and community.
Is this really the kind of world we want for our children? The loudest rallying cry so far of the convention is "Drill, Baby, Drill", do they republicans really see no future beyond say 2012? How sad a commentary is that on society?
02 September, 2008
01 September, 2008
Who is Contessa Brewer married to?
Would someone please tell me how Contessa Brewer got her job at MSNBC? It has to be nepotism at best and well casting couch at worst. The woman makes Ann Curry look like a professional interviewer. I never thought I would say thought.
I'm listening to MSNBC's coverage of the storm and Brewer is unable to construct a simple sentence; much less a complex one. How did she graduate from grammar school, much less high school and college? The woman is an idiot; I thought she was bad on the Abrams show, but at least there she was only covering fluff; now that they have her down on the Gulf Coast covering real news they need to fire her. She is awful.
I'm listening to MSNBC's coverage of the storm and Brewer is unable to construct a simple sentence; much less a complex one. How did she graduate from grammar school, much less high school and college? The woman is an idiot; I thought she was bad on the Abrams show, but at least there she was only covering fluff; now that they have her down on the Gulf Coast covering real news they need to fire her. She is awful.
How's that abstinence only education working out?
Well, if we ever needed more proof that abstinence only education doesn't work; Sarah Palin and her family have provided it. Palin's 17 year old daughter is pregnant; and she is going to marry the father and keep the baby. That is her choice and while it is not one I would have made her age; democrats have made sure she has that choice.
There are larger issues at here than one young woman; and as to Miss Palin I will say no more. She is entitled to her privacy. The broader issues of abstinence education and emotional intelligence; are not off limits, however. I believe it is time we have this discussion on a national level, so here's my take on some of it.
Abstinence only doesn't work; it's actually counter-intuitive when you think about it. Tell any child they can't do something and the first thing they want to do is that exact thing. Part of it is simply growing up; testing boundaries another part of it is knowing that if Mom and Dad say no, it must be fun or cool. I know when I was a child I thought that way. The bottom line is some teenagers are going to have sex no matter what we say or do. It's inevitable, we all need to get over it. As long as there are teeenagers, cars and hormones some child somewhere is going to have sex. I think it is much more important that we educate our children about safe sex; it's not just a matter of teenage pregnancy it is also a health issue. STD's are prevalent among teens and something needs to be done to curtail that.
The other thing we have always neglected to talk to our children about when discussing sex is the emotional intelligence factor. Having sex involves more than just having sex there is an emotional component and most teens are not ready for that. We are raised with these fairytales of perfect love and mr right and 'the one' most adolescents without even realizing it have bought into the fantasy; at least girls have. During adolescence what is perceived of as love is generally just raging hormones-don't get me wrong I'm all for raging hormones and have no problem with pre-marital sex. (Heaven knows I've had my share of wild, monkey sex just for the sake of sex.) But we need to let our children know that the first blush of sexual curiosity is not love it's just hormones. We need to teach our children it's okay to experiment but maybe certain things need to be explored when they are older.
All too often young girls who get pregnant are searching for something. Some one to take of or someone to take care them. Someone to love as it were.
There are larger issues at here than one young woman; and as to Miss Palin I will say no more. She is entitled to her privacy. The broader issues of abstinence education and emotional intelligence; are not off limits, however. I believe it is time we have this discussion on a national level, so here's my take on some of it.
Abstinence only doesn't work; it's actually counter-intuitive when you think about it. Tell any child they can't do something and the first thing they want to do is that exact thing. Part of it is simply growing up; testing boundaries another part of it is knowing that if Mom and Dad say no, it must be fun or cool. I know when I was a child I thought that way. The bottom line is some teenagers are going to have sex no matter what we say or do. It's inevitable, we all need to get over it. As long as there are teeenagers, cars and hormones some child somewhere is going to have sex. I think it is much more important that we educate our children about safe sex; it's not just a matter of teenage pregnancy it is also a health issue. STD's are prevalent among teens and something needs to be done to curtail that.
The other thing we have always neglected to talk to our children about when discussing sex is the emotional intelligence factor. Having sex involves more than just having sex there is an emotional component and most teens are not ready for that. We are raised with these fairytales of perfect love and mr right and 'the one' most adolescents without even realizing it have bought into the fantasy; at least girls have. During adolescence what is perceived of as love is generally just raging hormones-don't get me wrong I'm all for raging hormones and have no problem with pre-marital sex. (Heaven knows I've had my share of wild, monkey sex just for the sake of sex.) But we need to let our children know that the first blush of sexual curiosity is not love it's just hormones. We need to teach our children it's okay to experiment but maybe certain things need to be explored when they are older.
All too often young girls who get pregnant are searching for something. Some one to take of or someone to take care them. Someone to love as it were.
30 August, 2008
The Republicans are not "Pro-Life'
AS we gear up for the Republican National Convention and all the spin you can handle. It is important to remember that while the MSM and the Repugnant party will consistently try to tell us how pro-life they are.
I beg to differ. Full-throated, vehement, support for the death penalty; especially as applied to lower-income primarily minority defendants is NOT pro-life. Indiscriminately, sending our troops into harm's way to invade and occupy soverign nations NOT pro-life. Not caring for the numbers of civilians killed and wounded during said occupations; referring instead to these human beings as collateral damage is NOT a pro-life stance.
Talking tough to any nation that happens to disagree with our policies however misguided and threatening more violence is NOT Pro-Life.
The only life the Republican Party is concerned with is that of the fetus; the non-viable blastocysts that will eventually become a human being. As to what may happen to those blasto-cysts after they become a child they could care less. A child who is the product of rape or incest who will care for and love that child? The Republicans could care less; if you happen to be poor and have children don't ask for help from the government-pull yourself by your bootstraps; even you don't have any boots. But don't you dare think about not carrying that group of cells to term even if you do not have the mental, physical, economic, emotional means to properly care for it. We won't help you once you've given birth. Would someone please, please, please explain to me how that is pro-life?
The republican party is anti-choice; it's despises women and thinks we are stupid. The announcement of Sarah Palin as McCain's running mate was purely to appease the right-wing nutosphere. Yes, it's historic for the Republican Party; but once again it proves just how out of touch with the present McCain and the republicans are--the Democrats nominated a woman for VP 24 years ago. Somehow the Republicans think this is a new, novel idea. Way to keep up with the times.
I beg to differ. Full-throated, vehement, support for the death penalty; especially as applied to lower-income primarily minority defendants is NOT pro-life. Indiscriminately, sending our troops into harm's way to invade and occupy soverign nations NOT pro-life. Not caring for the numbers of civilians killed and wounded during said occupations; referring instead to these human beings as collateral damage is NOT a pro-life stance.
Talking tough to any nation that happens to disagree with our policies however misguided and threatening more violence is NOT Pro-Life.
The only life the Republican Party is concerned with is that of the fetus; the non-viable blastocysts that will eventually become a human being. As to what may happen to those blasto-cysts after they become a child they could care less. A child who is the product of rape or incest who will care for and love that child? The Republicans could care less; if you happen to be poor and have children don't ask for help from the government-pull yourself by your bootstraps; even you don't have any boots. But don't you dare think about not carrying that group of cells to term even if you do not have the mental, physical, economic, emotional means to properly care for it. We won't help you once you've given birth. Would someone please, please, please explain to me how that is pro-life?
The republican party is anti-choice; it's despises women and thinks we are stupid. The announcement of Sarah Palin as McCain's running mate was purely to appease the right-wing nutosphere. Yes, it's historic for the Republican Party; but once again it proves just how out of touch with the present McCain and the republicans are--the Democrats nominated a woman for VP 24 years ago. Somehow the Republicans think this is a new, novel idea. Way to keep up with the times.
29 August, 2008
What the Palin choice tells us
I've been saying all along that the McCain camp is running scared; regardless of the 'soft poll numbers'. His announcement this morning of Sarah Palin as his running mate proves it. On one hand he is trying to appeal to the mythical disaffected Hillary voter; he is also trying to appease the nuttiest of the right-wingnut crowd; she's virulently anti-choice & a creationist to boot; and he is trying to look hip.
Too many messages with one pick; they can't all work and I think the only one that will is the wing-nut appeal. Biden is going to shred her in the debate. She's young which may backfire since that will only highlight just how old he really is. I know I'm bordering on age-ism here and I really do not mean to. Yes, I do believe 72 is too old for the high-office in the land; but it is so much more than just his chronological age. It has to do with his inability to adapt to a changing world. Her youth also undercuts the republican talking point of Obama's lack of experience; she's three years younger than Obama and has much less experience. I'm not quite sure how being the Mayor of a town with 8,500 residents and Governor of a state with fewer than 1 million residents (670,000 to be exact; according to the Dallas Morning News) translates into being a viable candidate for the Vice Presidency of the United States. Does she even know what a real city is? Has she ever been in an 'inner-city'?
I'm sure we will hear all about her five kids; especially her youngest, afflicted with Down's Syndrome. Again, being a mother is a noble calling, but does is qualify her to be on the national stage? More telling is the belief she has in creationism-seriously. So what does that mean for quality science education in the US? I'm surmising that does not bode well for aspiring doctors and medical researchers not to mention biochemists.
McCain-Palin bad for Women bad for America. This election season just got a lot scarier and we have so much more at stake today then we did even last night.
Too many messages with one pick; they can't all work and I think the only one that will is the wing-nut appeal. Biden is going to shred her in the debate. She's young which may backfire since that will only highlight just how old he really is. I know I'm bordering on age-ism here and I really do not mean to. Yes, I do believe 72 is too old for the high-office in the land; but it is so much more than just his chronological age. It has to do with his inability to adapt to a changing world. Her youth also undercuts the republican talking point of Obama's lack of experience; she's three years younger than Obama and has much less experience. I'm not quite sure how being the Mayor of a town with 8,500 residents and Governor of a state with fewer than 1 million residents (670,000 to be exact; according to the Dallas Morning News) translates into being a viable candidate for the Vice Presidency of the United States. Does she even know what a real city is? Has she ever been in an 'inner-city'?
I'm sure we will hear all about her five kids; especially her youngest, afflicted with Down's Syndrome. Again, being a mother is a noble calling, but does is qualify her to be on the national stage? More telling is the belief she has in creationism-seriously. So what does that mean for quality science education in the US? I'm surmising that does not bode well for aspiring doctors and medical researchers not to mention biochemists.
McCain-Palin bad for Women bad for America. This election season just got a lot scarier and we have so much more at stake today then we did even last night.
28 August, 2008
History
I just finished listening to Obama's speech on NPR. (Today of all days I managed to totally destroy my cable connection somehow while moving furniture I pulled the cable out of the wall and totally destroyed the connector.) But I digress.
I think he hit all notes he had to. I think it was a wonderful speech and the Republicans are probably in trouble next week. Always less compelling than Democrats at convention it will be less so this year; all those old white guys who don't know how to use a computer. Don't know what Blog is shorthand for.
The Obama campaign is ready to hit the ground running tomorrow after tonight's speech. We not only heard that we need to change to this country but how Obama plans to go about creating that change. I did cringe a bit when he mentioned the oxymoronic 'clean coal' and 'safe nuclear power' but it would be asking too much for us to agree on everything.
The platform is one of the most inclusive and most obviously feminist in a long time. As a lesbian I appreciate it; as an unemployed lesbian I loved hearing about equal pay for equal work.
this is just mindblowing for me; i love it (h/t Miss Laura @ dailykos)
We may not agree on abortion, but surely we can agree on reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies in this country. The reality of gun ownership may be different for hunters in rural Ohio than for those plagued by gang-violence in Cleveland, but don't tell me we can't uphold the Second Amendment while keeping AK-47s out of the hands of criminals. I know there are differences on same-sex marriage, but surely we can agree that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters deserve to visit the person they love in the hospital and to live lives free of discrimination. Passions fly on immigration, but I don't know anyone who benefits when a mother is separated from her infant child or an employer undercuts American wages by hiring illegal workers. This, too, is part of America's promise -- the promise of a democracy where we can find the strength and grace to bridge divides and unite in common effort.
I know there are those who dismiss such beliefs as happy talk. They claim that our insistence on something larger, something firmer and more honest in our public life is just a Trojan Horse for higher taxes and the abandonment of traditional values. And that's to be expected. Because if you don't have any fresh ideas, then you use stale tactics to scare the voters. If you don't have a record to run on, then you paint your opponent as someone people should run from.
You make a big election about small things.
I think he hit all notes he had to. I think it was a wonderful speech and the Republicans are probably in trouble next week. Always less compelling than Democrats at convention it will be less so this year; all those old white guys who don't know how to use a computer. Don't know what Blog is shorthand for.
The Obama campaign is ready to hit the ground running tomorrow after tonight's speech. We not only heard that we need to change to this country but how Obama plans to go about creating that change. I did cringe a bit when he mentioned the oxymoronic 'clean coal' and 'safe nuclear power' but it would be asking too much for us to agree on everything.
The platform is one of the most inclusive and most obviously feminist in a long time. As a lesbian I appreciate it; as an unemployed lesbian I loved hearing about equal pay for equal work.
this is just mindblowing for me; i love it (h/t Miss Laura @ dailykos)
We may not agree on abortion, but surely we can agree on reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies in this country. The reality of gun ownership may be different for hunters in rural Ohio than for those plagued by gang-violence in Cleveland, but don't tell me we can't uphold the Second Amendment while keeping AK-47s out of the hands of criminals. I know there are differences on same-sex marriage, but surely we can agree that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters deserve to visit the person they love in the hospital and to live lives free of discrimination. Passions fly on immigration, but I don't know anyone who benefits when a mother is separated from her infant child or an employer undercuts American wages by hiring illegal workers. This, too, is part of America's promise -- the promise of a democracy where we can find the strength and grace to bridge divides and unite in common effort.
I know there are those who dismiss such beliefs as happy talk. They claim that our insistence on something larger, something firmer and more honest in our public life is just a Trojan Horse for higher taxes and the abandonment of traditional values. And that's to be expected. Because if you don't have any fresh ideas, then you use stale tactics to scare the voters. If you don't have a record to run on, then you paint your opponent as someone people should run from.
You make a big election about small things.
27 August, 2008
the Rollcall
I watched the roll call this afternoon, in tears. I was a tad disappointed we didn't get to hear from every state. I Love the Roll Call; states get to show off what so great about each of them. But what are ya gonna do; there has to be some stage craft. I thought is was okay; not quite as dramatic as a full roll would have been; but she had to grab the spotlight one last time.
I did sob like a baby; when the nomination was made official. History was made and it was in many ways just another ordinary Wednesday in America. I wanted to hit Joe Scarborough from MSNBC; as if this is a newsflash. When Matthews and Olbermann asked him about the historic nature of this nomination he yammered on about school desegregation and made some innane comment about how people in their mid to late forties don't think it's that big of a deal. He's wrong; I'm 46 years old; white, middle class and I have a sense of history and that roll call was history being made. I never thought I would see the candidates we had in the primary season in my lifetime. At least not as feasible candidates. Maybe middle-aged, intellectually incurious stupid white guys don't think this nomination was no big deal; the rest of the us know what happened today.
I am proud of my party tonight and hopefully President Clinton will add to that. I know Biden will hit one out of the park tonight.
Something else morning Joe doesn't get for many of us we're been saying we are the change we've been waiting for since we were kids and to have a Major Party Nominee who believes it also is important to us. We know our time is now and it is historic. Time to watch the rest of the speeches.
I did sob like a baby; when the nomination was made official. History was made and it was in many ways just another ordinary Wednesday in America. I wanted to hit Joe Scarborough from MSNBC; as if this is a newsflash. When Matthews and Olbermann asked him about the historic nature of this nomination he yammered on about school desegregation and made some innane comment about how people in their mid to late forties don't think it's that big of a deal. He's wrong; I'm 46 years old; white, middle class and I have a sense of history and that roll call was history being made. I never thought I would see the candidates we had in the primary season in my lifetime. At least not as feasible candidates. Maybe middle-aged, intellectually incurious stupid white guys don't think this nomination was no big deal; the rest of the us know what happened today.
I am proud of my party tonight and hopefully President Clinton will add to that. I know Biden will hit one out of the park tonight.
Something else morning Joe doesn't get for many of us we're been saying we are the change we've been waiting for since we were kids and to have a Major Party Nominee who believes it also is important to us. We know our time is now and it is historic. Time to watch the rest of the speeches.
26 August, 2008
She's nailed it
I now regret my previous post. Hillary Clinton, gave a WOW speech tonight at the Democratic National Convention. Maybe now the pundits will shut up about the Clinton-Obama drama.
Warner was disappointing-he was a way too non-partisan. Where was the red meat that is the job of the Keynote speaker. Senator Clinton was much more the true Keynote speaker tonight. She has redeemed herself in my eyes and if President Clinton gives half the speech tomorrow night that Senator Clinton gave tonight it will be seal the Clinton legacy.
Brava Hillary.
Warner was disappointing-he was a way too non-partisan. Where was the red meat that is the job of the Keynote speaker. Senator Clinton was much more the true Keynote speaker tonight. She has redeemed herself in my eyes and if President Clinton gives half the speech tomorrow night that Senator Clinton gave tonight it will be seal the Clinton legacy.
Brava Hillary.
Enough with the Clintons, already
I am officially over the Clintons. I have been for awhile, I just wish the MSM get over them. BooHooHoo; she lost get over it. Contrary to the Clinton plan she was not entitled to the nomination she had to earn it and guess what? She didn't. she is NOT, I repeat NOT a liberal and finally the american electorate saw that.
Bill Clinton continues to have his minions repeat the fallacy that the Obama campaign tagged him as a racist. I don't really remember them saying it. Maybe Bill is a little sensitive because he knows his comments were racially divisive, intentionally. His feelings were hurt, he's 62 years old-get over it. How many people's feelings has Clinton hurt over the years. Dude, you are no longer the President; you are no longer the titular head of the Party. You time has passed; it didn't last as long as you wanted to; sorry. Maybe if you had been more of a progressive it would have lasted longer.
Ted Kennedy made it very clear last night; the Clinton era is over and it is time for the Obama era to begin and it is one that truly is about changing the way America works.
Let the Clintons take the stage in Denver; forget all the drama talk; the Democratic Party owes the Clintons nothing. The Clinton's drove the party to the right; it's time to return to our roots.
Any Hillary supporter who will not now support Obama never has been, never will be someone who votes for equal opportunity; women's rights. They obviously are uninformed neo-phytes who need to read the occassional newspaper and maybe take a class in history.
Bill Clinton continues to have his minions repeat the fallacy that the Obama campaign tagged him as a racist. I don't really remember them saying it. Maybe Bill is a little sensitive because he knows his comments were racially divisive, intentionally. His feelings were hurt, he's 62 years old-get over it. How many people's feelings has Clinton hurt over the years. Dude, you are no longer the President; you are no longer the titular head of the Party. You time has passed; it didn't last as long as you wanted to; sorry. Maybe if you had been more of a progressive it would have lasted longer.
Ted Kennedy made it very clear last night; the Clinton era is over and it is time for the Obama era to begin and it is one that truly is about changing the way America works.
Let the Clintons take the stage in Denver; forget all the drama talk; the Democratic Party owes the Clintons nothing. The Clinton's drove the party to the right; it's time to return to our roots.
Any Hillary supporter who will not now support Obama never has been, never will be someone who votes for equal opportunity; women's rights. They obviously are uninformed neo-phytes who need to read the occassional newspaper and maybe take a class in history.
25 August, 2008
Obama office in Salt Lake City
We had a huge turnout for the grand opening open house of the Obama for America office in Salt Lake City, Utah (yes, Utah) on Saturday. Over six hundred people showed up to express their support for the campaign, buy lawn signs, t-shirts, buttons & bumper stickers. Signing up to volunteer for the campaign and just get more information. It was a great day. Here are a few pictures from the day:
Oh to be in Denver
I am so sick and tired of hearing how the Clinton's have to bring the Democratic Party together in Denver. Newsflash, the party is united. With the exception of a few very loud and apparently very wealthy Clinton supporters there is no rift in the party.
Everyone is freaking out about July and August polling numbers; guess what it's the summer and people are on holiday and sadly much of america doesn't want to think about the election that is a mere 71 days away. Folks have been working on their tan or golf swing or waiting in line @ some amusement park; and for the last week or so getting the children ready to go back to school. Polling numbers are always close in July & August; until the conventions are over most people don't pay attention to elections. Americans take a certain amount of pride in being uninformed and disconnected from the electoral process. The long primary season may have had something to do with this year's summer doldrums also. I'm sure there are plenty of people out there who just wanted a respite from politicians and talk of politics. Personally, I don't understand it but I enjoy being informed and think the process is wonderful, flawed, but still a lot of fun. I know I am in the minority.
Everyone is freaking out about July and August polling numbers; guess what it's the summer and people are on holiday and sadly much of america doesn't want to think about the election that is a mere 71 days away. Folks have been working on their tan or golf swing or waiting in line @ some amusement park; and for the last week or so getting the children ready to go back to school. Polling numbers are always close in July & August; until the conventions are over most people don't pay attention to elections. Americans take a certain amount of pride in being uninformed and disconnected from the electoral process. The long primary season may have had something to do with this year's summer doldrums also. I'm sure there are plenty of people out there who just wanted a respite from politicians and talk of politics. Personally, I don't understand it but I enjoy being informed and think the process is wonderful, flawed, but still a lot of fun. I know I am in the minority.
23 August, 2008
It's Biden
There is going to be alot of navel gazing this weekend over the Obama selection of Joe Biden as his running mate. I do believe this is a good choice.
Full disclosure, I would have preferred Chris Dodd or Gov Richardson; but I am pleased with Senator Biden.
Senator Biden has serious foreign policy chops, I like that. He is very outspoken, but he is also thoughtful, smart, and passionate; all things I love about politicians.
The smear brigades have already started; and they will bring up the plagarism thing over and over again. What we all need to remember is that only once when he used that quote did he forget to give attribution. Everyone has done that from time to time; and it's time for republicans and pundits to get over themselves. I personally think having a link to the Keating Scandal is a much greater problem; but oh, right it's John McCain and he's untouchable.
When did the AP become a tool of the right? All of their analyses about the Biden pick is that Biden was a safe choice; shows Obama is unsure of himself-yada, yada, yada. I believe it shows Senator Obama knows his weakness on foreign policy. Yes, Obama is well travelled, and knowledgeable about the world; that alone makes him more qualified than the current resident of the White House; who didn't even have a passport when he was sworn into office. Adding Biden ticket adds foreign policy experience; which is sorely needed at this time. The damage the Bush Administration has done to our reputation abroad will need to be fixed; Biden is the man to help do that. He knows everybody; and that is important.
I do not believe that choosing Senator Biden as his running mate is a choice of the same old, same old. Yes, Biden has been in Washington for a long time, but he still remains outside of it in many ways. He commutes from his home in Delaware, he actually lives on his Senate salary; not many in Washington do that. He is a strong supporter of Union & Workers rights and unlike most of the Washington insiders he still lives like the middle class kid he was. This is a breath of fresh air and a change from the usual suspects in the Veep Stakes.
Full disclosure, I would have preferred Chris Dodd or Gov Richardson; but I am pleased with Senator Biden.
Senator Biden has serious foreign policy chops, I like that. He is very outspoken, but he is also thoughtful, smart, and passionate; all things I love about politicians.
The smear brigades have already started; and they will bring up the plagarism thing over and over again. What we all need to remember is that only once when he used that quote did he forget to give attribution. Everyone has done that from time to time; and it's time for republicans and pundits to get over themselves. I personally think having a link to the Keating Scandal is a much greater problem; but oh, right it's John McCain and he's untouchable.
When did the AP become a tool of the right? All of their analyses about the Biden pick is that Biden was a safe choice; shows Obama is unsure of himself-yada, yada, yada. I believe it shows Senator Obama knows his weakness on foreign policy. Yes, Obama is well travelled, and knowledgeable about the world; that alone makes him more qualified than the current resident of the White House; who didn't even have a passport when he was sworn into office. Adding Biden ticket adds foreign policy experience; which is sorely needed at this time. The damage the Bush Administration has done to our reputation abroad will need to be fixed; Biden is the man to help do that. He knows everybody; and that is important.
I do not believe that choosing Senator Biden as his running mate is a choice of the same old, same old. Yes, Biden has been in Washington for a long time, but he still remains outside of it in many ways. He commutes from his home in Delaware, he actually lives on his Senate salary; not many in Washington do that. He is a strong supporter of Union & Workers rights and unlike most of the Washington insiders he still lives like the middle class kid he was. This is a breath of fresh air and a change from the usual suspects in the Veep Stakes.
22 August, 2008
Was it a senior moment or is he an idiot?
John McCain had to have his staff get back to the guys @ politico because he wasn't sure if condos count as homes? Was he unsure of the number because of all of the residences on the grounds of the Sedona ranch? Can he not count that high? Is he so disconnected from even the everyday of his own life that he is unsure? Is he stupid or just forgetful?
Anyway you slice it, if you add this to the other things he doesn't know anything about: Economics, how to end a war, the price of gas, the difference between Sunni & Shiia, Geography, how to access the internet, or use a computer for that matter.
(I'm sure there are plenty of other things I am missing but it's late and I'm tired and I don't have anyone to staff this out to.)
How did this guy get the nomination? Why would anyone vote for him? No wonder so many Republican Senators have opted out of the Republican Convention next month; they don't want to be associated with him.
Anyway you slice it, if you add this to the other things he doesn't know anything about: Economics, how to end a war, the price of gas, the difference between Sunni & Shiia, Geography, how to access the internet, or use a computer for that matter.
(I'm sure there are plenty of other things I am missing but it's late and I'm tired and I don't have anyone to staff this out to.)
How did this guy get the nomination? Why would anyone vote for him? No wonder so many Republican Senators have opted out of the Republican Convention next month; they don't want to be associated with him.
19 August, 2008
MSNBC what took you so long
MSNBC will formally announce tomorrow that Rachel Maddow will take over the 9pm eastern time slot beginning 8 September 2008. I only have one question for the cable network-What took you so long?!
I like the Abrams show and will miss it; but it's gonna be nice to have a female anchor with her own show on the 'teevee' machine.
For those of you unfamiliar with her radio show 'The Rachel Maddow Show' on Air America where have you been these past four years? She is smart, funny, wry, and has wonderful worldview. This is a show that should not be missed. Olbermann fans should already be familiar with her she has been a contributor for quite a while and his permanent fill-in host. Here's hoping she keeps all of his viewers and brings in a ton of her own.
Election season coverage just got better; now all MSNBC has to do is rid itself of the awful 'Morning Joe' with Scarborough and it will be the best NewsChannel on the air; when they actually air news.
I like the Abrams show and will miss it; but it's gonna be nice to have a female anchor with her own show on the 'teevee' machine.
For those of you unfamiliar with her radio show 'The Rachel Maddow Show' on Air America where have you been these past four years? She is smart, funny, wry, and has wonderful worldview. This is a show that should not be missed. Olbermann fans should already be familiar with her she has been a contributor for quite a while and his permanent fill-in host. Here's hoping she keeps all of his viewers and brings in a ton of her own.
Election season coverage just got better; now all MSNBC has to do is rid itself of the awful 'Morning Joe' with Scarborough and it will be the best NewsChannel on the air; when they actually air news.
15 August, 2008
Clean Energy Rally in SLC
the Salt Lake City Democracy Council will be hosting a Clean Energy Rally; Tuesday 19 August in Downtown Salt Lake City. Currently the plan is to rally by the Solar Panels @ the Salt Palace Convention Center. I am awaiting a return call from the Salt Palace to finalize exactly where we will gather.
I will continue to post updates here as I confirm details.
I will continue to post updates here as I confirm details.
14 August, 2008
Hyperbole and the Olympics
Let me preface this post with some background. I am a sports fan; I watch sports all the time, all types; I understand sports and the commentary of sporting events lend themselves to hyperbole. Did I mention I'm also from New York; not exactly a hyperbole free zone. That said Tuesday night Tim Daggett and by proxy NBC Sports jumped the hyperbolic shark.
During the girls gymnastics team finals Tim Daggett called Alicia Sacramone's fall during the floor exercises a "Disaster of Epic Proportions". (I had to rewind TiVo three times, I thought I was having an audio hallucination.) Once I processed what I'd heard, I became incensed. My first thoughts were this is only a sporting event and not winning a gold medal in no way shape or form constitutes a disaster of any proportion. The odds were the against the USA team winning gold anyway. then I began to think about really constitutes a Disaster of Epic Proportions; let's see, the destruction of an American city due to government incompetence; the occupation of a sovereign nation that has this nation on the verge of bankruptcy; the death of American men and women in Iraq and Afganistan not to mention the toll taken on the citizens of those nations; the genocide that continues to this day in the Darfur area of the Sudan. These are Disasters of Epic Proportions made worse by a President who refuses to acknowledge there is anything wrong. Daggett made this statement on the same day the Attorney General of the United States of America said to the American Bar Association with a straight face; that not all violations of the law are crimes as an explanation for not prosecuting those who violated .
I began to think that Mr. Daggett lives a life uncomplicated by things such as reading a newspaper or watching the evening news or quite possibly reality. He should have been removed from all commentary immediately until he apologized not only to Ms Sacramone but also the viewers for equating a Silver Medal at the Olympics with a disaster and to paint it as a failure. It doesn't even equate to a Sporting Disaster of Epic Proportions. Here a few examples for sporting disasters:
October 2007: The New York Mets had led the National League East since the first week of the season, in the final week of the season they blew their lead and fell out of the post season not even qualifying for the wild card.
January 15 2005: The New York Jets blow three field goals and lose to Pittsburgh by three points and after a great run are out of the post season. Three field goals are you kidding me???!
October 2004: During the ALCS the New York Yankees led the Boston Red Sox 3 games to none only needing one more win to move on to the World Series; Boston won the next four games because the Yankees fell apart and the Boston Red Sox go on to win their first championship since 1918.
October 25 1986: Game Six of World Series; the Boston Red Sox were one strike away from winning their first championship since 1918. The management of the New York Mets had broadcast on the big screen: The New York Mets congratulate the World Series Champion Boston Red Sox when Mookie Wilson dribbled a ball down the first base line that went through first baseman Bill Buckners legs allowing the Mets to win game six and go on the following night to win game seven and their second World Series.
I told you I was a sports fan. Stacked up against this very small sampling of sports disasters Alicia Sacramone's fall isn't even a blip on the radar and winning the Silver Medal is certainly not a failure.
During the girls gymnastics team finals Tim Daggett called Alicia Sacramone's fall during the floor exercises a "Disaster of Epic Proportions". (I had to rewind TiVo three times, I thought I was having an audio hallucination.) Once I processed what I'd heard, I became incensed. My first thoughts were this is only a sporting event and not winning a gold medal in no way shape or form constitutes a disaster of any proportion. The odds were the against the USA team winning gold anyway. then I began to think about really constitutes a Disaster of Epic Proportions; let's see, the destruction of an American city due to government incompetence; the occupation of a sovereign nation that has this nation on the verge of bankruptcy; the death of American men and women in Iraq and Afganistan not to mention the toll taken on the citizens of those nations; the genocide that continues to this day in the Darfur area of the Sudan. These are Disasters of Epic Proportions made worse by a President who refuses to acknowledge there is anything wrong. Daggett made this statement on the same day the Attorney General of the United States of America said to the American Bar Association with a straight face; that not all violations of the law are crimes as an explanation for not prosecuting those who violated .
I began to think that Mr. Daggett lives a life uncomplicated by things such as reading a newspaper or watching the evening news or quite possibly reality. He should have been removed from all commentary immediately until he apologized not only to Ms Sacramone but also the viewers for equating a Silver Medal at the Olympics with a disaster and to paint it as a failure. It doesn't even equate to a Sporting Disaster of Epic Proportions. Here a few examples for sporting disasters:
October 2007: The New York Mets had led the National League East since the first week of the season, in the final week of the season they blew their lead and fell out of the post season not even qualifying for the wild card.
January 15 2005: The New York Jets blow three field goals and lose to Pittsburgh by three points and after a great run are out of the post season. Three field goals are you kidding me???!
October 2004: During the ALCS the New York Yankees led the Boston Red Sox 3 games to none only needing one more win to move on to the World Series; Boston won the next four games because the Yankees fell apart and the Boston Red Sox go on to win their first championship since 1918.
October 25 1986: Game Six of World Series; the Boston Red Sox were one strike away from winning their first championship since 1918. The management of the New York Mets had broadcast on the big screen: The New York Mets congratulate the World Series Champion Boston Red Sox when Mookie Wilson dribbled a ball down the first base line that went through first baseman Bill Buckners legs allowing the Mets to win game six and go on the following night to win game seven and their second World Series.
I told you I was a sports fan. Stacked up against this very small sampling of sports disasters Alicia Sacramone's fall isn't even a blip on the radar and winning the Silver Medal is certainly not a failure.
23 April, 2008
The Clinton Dilemma
I'm a woman, a liberal and a proud feminist. This is why Hillary Clinton has presented such a dilemma to me. I did not vote for her in the Utah Democratic Primary; I voted for Obama. I was originally an Edwards supporter; John seemed to embody all the progressive ideas I think the Democratic party lost on it's way to becoming the party of middle-ground. Thank you, bill Clinton.
I've waited my entire life to see a viable female candidate for President and yet now that we have one; I can't support her. I find that so sad. When I voted in our primary in february I was completely overwhelmed as I looked down the list. Granted all of the white males were still on the ballot but when it hit me that they were all out of the race I was brought to tears. For the first time in my life I had a choice between the white chick and the black dude. It was an incredible feeling; I could see myself describing this moment to my grandniece and seeing her shrug her shoulders as if to say what's the big deal. Christene is not quite 2 years old; so it is completely possible by the time she will vote for the first time race, & gender will not be issues. Hopefully, neither will religion or sexual orientation-but I won't hold my breath-it is only 16 years from now.
My reservations about the junior senator from New York are as follows:
1. She's NOT a liberal
2. I believe we live in a republic and do not have "royal" families-no one is guaranteed a shot at the white house.
3. Do we really want 28 years of Bush; Clinton; Bush; Clinton (translation free trade disasters)
4. She can only be gracious when she wins.
5. Changes the rules whenever she doesn't get her way in a primary
6. Triangulates more than her husband ever did. I want a straight answer from her just ONCE, please.
7. Inability to admit she was wrong, even once. (We've had one of those guys for 8 years do we really want another?)
8. Exaggerates her experience: Being First lady with NO security clearance is a far cry from being President.
9. Has allowed the neo-cons to drive the rhetoric on Iran; maybe she should do some research on her own.
10. Didn't learn her lesson from the Dick Morris debacle; hired Mark Penn.
11. Is too close to corporate big money.
I really wanted to vote for her; yet I find I can't.
I've waited my entire life to see a viable female candidate for President and yet now that we have one; I can't support her. I find that so sad. When I voted in our primary in february I was completely overwhelmed as I looked down the list. Granted all of the white males were still on the ballot but when it hit me that they were all out of the race I was brought to tears. For the first time in my life I had a choice between the white chick and the black dude. It was an incredible feeling; I could see myself describing this moment to my grandniece and seeing her shrug her shoulders as if to say what's the big deal. Christene is not quite 2 years old; so it is completely possible by the time she will vote for the first time race, & gender will not be issues. Hopefully, neither will religion or sexual orientation-but I won't hold my breath-it is only 16 years from now.
My reservations about the junior senator from New York are as follows:
1. She's NOT a liberal
2. I believe we live in a republic and do not have "royal" families-no one is guaranteed a shot at the white house.
3. Do we really want 28 years of Bush; Clinton; Bush; Clinton (translation free trade disasters)
4. She can only be gracious when she wins.
5. Changes the rules whenever she doesn't get her way in a primary
6. Triangulates more than her husband ever did. I want a straight answer from her just ONCE, please.
7. Inability to admit she was wrong, even once. (We've had one of those guys for 8 years do we really want another?)
8. Exaggerates her experience: Being First lady with NO security clearance is a far cry from being President.
9. Has allowed the neo-cons to drive the rhetoric on Iran; maybe she should do some research on her own.
10. Didn't learn her lesson from the Dick Morris debacle; hired Mark Penn.
11. Is too close to corporate big money.
I really wanted to vote for her; yet I find I can't.
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