Bitter Differences: Bipartisanship in a Democratic Congress
Today a new Congress will be sworn in, with the Democrats now holding the majority in both houses. Will this Congress be able to work with the Bush Administration? The first day of the new Congress will be filled with so much bipartisanship that it will make even John McCain sick to his moderate stomach. But from there on out there will be an all out assault on the Bush Administration, and rightly so.
The president published an editorial in the Wall Street Journal yesterday essentially bowing to the Democrats wishes, or in other words trying to appease the beast that wants to destroy him. He called for more attention on small businesses and the “regular” consumer. He also asked for the line-item veto, which would have to be approved by Congress. Is “W” wacked out of his gore? What in the hell happened to him supporting multi-national corporations and their massive conglomerates? “W” evidently changed his policy over night in a feeble attempt to keep the new Congress off of his ass so that he can conduct his personal war in Iraq.
The Democrats swept the midterms because they have an agenda that the nation feels is proper for the times and if there is no bipartisanship, well so be it then. The GOP has been using war like tactics since 1994 and frankly it is time that they receive a taste of their own medicine. I am sure that the Democrats will not buy the president’s last minute changes to his policy, as “W” has a tendency to shift his policy views every 5 minutes, especially in the domestic arena.
Two border patrol agents who shot a Mexican drug smuggler are set to begin their prison sentences in the coming days. Are you kidding me? Is that not the goal of even having the border patrol in the first place, to stop the illegal flow of drugs into this country? Over fifty-five members of Congress have signed a letter aimed at persuading the president to grant these two men a pardon. Yet those Congressmen and other various insiders calling for the pardon have been shunned by the White House. I guess that it is now acceptable to allow illegal aliens and those supporting the “drug industry” in America to come on over whenever they feel like it. This is the most ass backwards domestic strategy to date by the Bush Administration.
There is a huge controversy brewing across the Atlantic over the cell phone video that was recorded during Saddam Hussein’s execution. The Iraqi government (majority Shiite) is “looking into it,” but I highly doubt anything of substantial reckoning will come out of it. Saddam, who was a Sunni, was heckled by the Shiites who were charged with executing him before the actual event took place, which is evidently wrong. I am not an Iraqi, but was not he the one who killed thousands upon thousands of Shiites during his time in “office?” I believe that those present had every right to blast the man, as he deserved it as much as he deserved to be executed. That video helped to heal the wounds of many who experienced his wrath first hand.
Finally, Pat Robertson, a prominent evangelical has predicted through his “conversations with God” that there will be an event of cataclysmic proportions sometime at the end of 2007. The “700 Club” host believes that millions in the U.S. will be affected in a massive terror attack. This coming from a man who said that the U.S. was going to be hit by a tsunami in 2006, that Ariel Sharon was stricken by a stroke because he ceded lands to Palestine, and that the president would find a solution to the social security problem in 2005.
A prophet by definition is someone who is right 100 % of the time, not occassionally. I am a religious person and I believe that prophets do exist, but not this lunatic. If I said something catastrophic was going to happen to the US at the end of 2007, I would be in jail right now; no shit. This man simply wants attention so that he can further his agenda on his little TV show, plain and simple.
04 January 2007
31 December 2006
A Year in Review: 2006
As is the case with the passing of another year, new events, people, and stories permeate into our lives regardless of who we are or where we may reside in this world. 2006 distinguished itself with an array of innumerable measures that surely cannot be compared to any other time in history. The American presidency again dominated the headlines, but for all of the wrong reasons. George W. Bush plunged America even further into his “War on Terror” on the other side of the globe with tragic effects on both the Iraqi and American psyche, not to mention the countless lives that have perished on both sides. Immigration issues once again came to the forefront of America, as over 500,000 people marched in Los Angeles in late March to protest Bush’s crackdown on illegal immigrants to a country that prides itself on being the melting pot of all people, regardless of race or nationality. The American presidency made headlines again with the passing of our 38th President Gerald Ford late this month. Ford’s presidency further demonstrated the resolve of America and the very Constitution that binds this great republic together.
For the first time since 1994, the U.S. Congress will now be controlled by the Democrats. Voters turned out in mass to appraise the actions of the GOP controlled Congress and the voters articulated their disenchantment in resounding numbers and giving us hope for a sincere Congress starting in January 2007. Samuel Alito was sworn in as the newest justice of the Supreme Court in January, the latest conservative added to the highest court in the land by the Bush Administration. Dick Cheney showed us that even vice-presidents are human by accidentally shooting a friend in the face with a shotgun while on a hunting trip in late February. The nation’s economy also prospered, with the DOW Jones Industrial soaring to new heights on a monthly basis and hitting a new high of over 12,500 in December.
The digital music revolution further helped the economy to flourish with the 1 billionth legal song sold on Apple’s ITUNES which occurred in late February. The economy and corporate world also was served justice with the sentencing of Jeffery Skilling to 24 years in prison for his role in the biggest corporate bankruptcy and fraud case to ever strike the world in the Enron debacle. The Southern United States managed to further the healing process from the devastating hurricane season of last year, with a little help from mother-nature herself. The New Orleans Superdome reopened its doors for the first time in over a year in September with an inspiring performance from the Saints.
In April the U.S. lost a valued ally in Ariel Sharon, as he was removed from the office of the prime minister of Israel after succumbing to a stroke in January. A new coalition government would take their seats in May, a monumental change in the government of Israel. Israel also engaged in a conflict with Lebanon, which ended in a ceasefire in August under the guise of the United Nations. A close neighbor of Israel, Iran made headlines throughout the year with the government’s firm resolve to be apart of the exclusive nuclear power club. A country that is nowhere near the stature of Iran, Sudan, more specifically Darfur made headlines throughout the year for all of the wrong reasons. Over 400,000 Sudanese people have been mercilessly slaughtered to date, with no end in sight. A constant source of tension in Somalia was subdued, as the Union of Islamic Courts taking power in the capital city of Mogadishu in early June.
America’s hottest enemy, North Korea furthered its nuclear weapons ambition with a semi-successful detonation of a 100 kiloton nuclear device below ground in October. Prior to that test, the North Koreans test launched a long range missile that could in theory carry a nuclear warhead to America in July. Our long time nemesis, Fidel Castro seeded power to his brother Raul in late July, the first time since 1959 that Castro has given up control of Cuba. It appears as if the 80 year old Castro will not make it through 2007, as many in the intelligence business have agreed that he faces a hopeless battle with terminal cancer. In December Fiji, a small island nation was overrun by a coup d’état, with the military taking control of the small country.
The space shuttles Discovery and Atlantis made successful visits to the International Space Station, the first launches since the tragic Columbia disaster in 2003. America’s space program still proved that it is indeed a leader and innovator in the exploration of the heavens and beyond. Microsoft, the world’s leader in software technology released a new Internet Explorer, Windows system, and Office system to further back up their stature. Currently, more than 90% of computers world wide run some sort of Microsoft product. The United States’ population reached the 300 million plateau for the first time in history in October and still maintains the world’s third most populous nation status. A dictator was finally brought to justice in November with the conviction and subsequent execution of Saddam Hussein. An international crime mystery of James Bond like stature occurred in late November with the assassination of Alexander Litvinenko, a former KGB officer. Litvinenko, an outspoken critic of President Vladimir Putin of Russia was silenced via polonium 210, a highly radio active substance, which raises questions of the Russian’s involvement in the plot.
As you can see, 2006 was indeed a monumental year in the history of humanity. Countless events in various strata’s of the world undoubtedly had some bearing in our lives, whether we simply glanced at those very events on the news or felt them first hand. Needless to say, one can only expect more untamed and outrageous events in 2007.
As is the case with the passing of another year, new events, people, and stories permeate into our lives regardless of who we are or where we may reside in this world. 2006 distinguished itself with an array of innumerable measures that surely cannot be compared to any other time in history. The American presidency again dominated the headlines, but for all of the wrong reasons. George W. Bush plunged America even further into his “War on Terror” on the other side of the globe with tragic effects on both the Iraqi and American psyche, not to mention the countless lives that have perished on both sides. Immigration issues once again came to the forefront of America, as over 500,000 people marched in Los Angeles in late March to protest Bush’s crackdown on illegal immigrants to a country that prides itself on being the melting pot of all people, regardless of race or nationality. The American presidency made headlines again with the passing of our 38th President Gerald Ford late this month. Ford’s presidency further demonstrated the resolve of America and the very Constitution that binds this great republic together.
For the first time since 1994, the U.S. Congress will now be controlled by the Democrats. Voters turned out in mass to appraise the actions of the GOP controlled Congress and the voters articulated their disenchantment in resounding numbers and giving us hope for a sincere Congress starting in January 2007. Samuel Alito was sworn in as the newest justice of the Supreme Court in January, the latest conservative added to the highest court in the land by the Bush Administration. Dick Cheney showed us that even vice-presidents are human by accidentally shooting a friend in the face with a shotgun while on a hunting trip in late February. The nation’s economy also prospered, with the DOW Jones Industrial soaring to new heights on a monthly basis and hitting a new high of over 12,500 in December.
The digital music revolution further helped the economy to flourish with the 1 billionth legal song sold on Apple’s ITUNES which occurred in late February. The economy and corporate world also was served justice with the sentencing of Jeffery Skilling to 24 years in prison for his role in the biggest corporate bankruptcy and fraud case to ever strike the world in the Enron debacle. The Southern United States managed to further the healing process from the devastating hurricane season of last year, with a little help from mother-nature herself. The New Orleans Superdome reopened its doors for the first time in over a year in September with an inspiring performance from the Saints.
In April the U.S. lost a valued ally in Ariel Sharon, as he was removed from the office of the prime minister of Israel after succumbing to a stroke in January. A new coalition government would take their seats in May, a monumental change in the government of Israel. Israel also engaged in a conflict with Lebanon, which ended in a ceasefire in August under the guise of the United Nations. A close neighbor of Israel, Iran made headlines throughout the year with the government’s firm resolve to be apart of the exclusive nuclear power club. A country that is nowhere near the stature of Iran, Sudan, more specifically Darfur made headlines throughout the year for all of the wrong reasons. Over 400,000 Sudanese people have been mercilessly slaughtered to date, with no end in sight. A constant source of tension in Somalia was subdued, as the Union of Islamic Courts taking power in the capital city of Mogadishu in early June.
America’s hottest enemy, North Korea furthered its nuclear weapons ambition with a semi-successful detonation of a 100 kiloton nuclear device below ground in October. Prior to that test, the North Koreans test launched a long range missile that could in theory carry a nuclear warhead to America in July. Our long time nemesis, Fidel Castro seeded power to his brother Raul in late July, the first time since 1959 that Castro has given up control of Cuba. It appears as if the 80 year old Castro will not make it through 2007, as many in the intelligence business have agreed that he faces a hopeless battle with terminal cancer. In December Fiji, a small island nation was overrun by a coup d’état, with the military taking control of the small country.
The space shuttles Discovery and Atlantis made successful visits to the International Space Station, the first launches since the tragic Columbia disaster in 2003. America’s space program still proved that it is indeed a leader and innovator in the exploration of the heavens and beyond. Microsoft, the world’s leader in software technology released a new Internet Explorer, Windows system, and Office system to further back up their stature. Currently, more than 90% of computers world wide run some sort of Microsoft product. The United States’ population reached the 300 million plateau for the first time in history in October and still maintains the world’s third most populous nation status. A dictator was finally brought to justice in November with the conviction and subsequent execution of Saddam Hussein. An international crime mystery of James Bond like stature occurred in late November with the assassination of Alexander Litvinenko, a former KGB officer. Litvinenko, an outspoken critic of President Vladimir Putin of Russia was silenced via polonium 210, a highly radio active substance, which raises questions of the Russian’s involvement in the plot.
As you can see, 2006 was indeed a monumental year in the history of humanity. Countless events in various strata’s of the world undoubtedly had some bearing in our lives, whether we simply glanced at those very events on the news or felt them first hand. Needless to say, one can only expect more untamed and outrageous events in 2007.
29 December 2006
The Legacy of Saddam Hussein
Saddam Hussein will undoubtedly go down in western history as one of the most immoral men to ever walk the planet. Saddam’s demise is now imminent, as the Iraqi government plans to execute the former dictator at the gallows early Saturday morning (Iraq time). Saddam was captured by coalition forces in the early morning hours on December 13, 2003 in an emergency bunker near his hometown of Tikrit.
This seemingly unromantic capture of a man who murdered thousands of his own citizens while in power best sums up the last few years of his life. “W” made it a priority to capture this man, who in retrospect never did anything specifically against the United States. Many have criticized “W’s” father, George H.W. Bush for not subduing the dictator while he had the chance in 1991 after Iraqi forces were defeated in the first Gulf War. Saddam received a simple slap on the wrist for his actions in invading Kuwait and was left in power. Basically, if the U.S. and their UN allies would have deposed Saddam in 1991, we would not be going through this second tirade in the Persian Gulf.
The irony behind Saddam’s rise to power is that he received help from our very own Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1964. He was even trained by the CIA in an attempt to help overthrow Abdul Karim Quassim, the leader of Iraq at the time. Quassim evidently began to make stronger ties towards Communist big wigs in the USSR, which in turn led the U.S. to support the Ba’athist party, which Saddam was apart of until his demise in late 2003. By 1967, Saddam was the strongman of the Ba’athist party, as he was known to have a wicked temper and would not hesitate to slay any opponents of the party. He stayed loyal to the party and assumed his role of the number two man in the country. On July 16, 1979 Saddam succeeded al-Bakr as president of Iraq after he forced the ailing Bakr to cede him the presidency.
From there Saddam would begin his reign of terror that would last for more than two decades. Soon after taking power, Saddam began a war with Iran that lasted until 1988. During that time he ordered the use of nerve agents and a variety of illegal chemical weapons to be used on the Iranians and even his own citizens. This use of chemical weapons led to his conviction of crimes against humanity on November 5, 2006. He was charged with the killings of 148 individuals with illegal chemical weapons that occurred in 1982. This case falls within the top twenty of the alleged 500+ times Saddam committed crimes against humanity.
There is no doubt that Saddam was an evil man and this is one of the first times since the Nuremburg trials after WWII that a leader(s) of a belligerent regime will be executed with the help of the west. Saddam’s legacy as one of the worst people of the twentieth century will not doubt travel on through the ages of history. Personally I believe that executing him is the best solution to the problem, as even if he were left alive, the high level of violence would still continue in Iraq. He must pay for his crimes, as many former totalitarian leaders never did in the 20th century. It is well known that I disagree with the legitimacy of the war in Iraq, but people like Saddam Hussein have no place or right to kill thousands upon thousands of their own people just because they disagree with the current state of affairs in a country. May the Lord have some sort of mercy on Saddam’s soul; he’ll need it.
Saddam Hussein will undoubtedly go down in western history as one of the most immoral men to ever walk the planet. Saddam’s demise is now imminent, as the Iraqi government plans to execute the former dictator at the gallows early Saturday morning (Iraq time). Saddam was captured by coalition forces in the early morning hours on December 13, 2003 in an emergency bunker near his hometown of Tikrit.
This seemingly unromantic capture of a man who murdered thousands of his own citizens while in power best sums up the last few years of his life. “W” made it a priority to capture this man, who in retrospect never did anything specifically against the United States. Many have criticized “W’s” father, George H.W. Bush for not subduing the dictator while he had the chance in 1991 after Iraqi forces were defeated in the first Gulf War. Saddam received a simple slap on the wrist for his actions in invading Kuwait and was left in power. Basically, if the U.S. and their UN allies would have deposed Saddam in 1991, we would not be going through this second tirade in the Persian Gulf.
The irony behind Saddam’s rise to power is that he received help from our very own Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1964. He was even trained by the CIA in an attempt to help overthrow Abdul Karim Quassim, the leader of Iraq at the time. Quassim evidently began to make stronger ties towards Communist big wigs in the USSR, which in turn led the U.S. to support the Ba’athist party, which Saddam was apart of until his demise in late 2003. By 1967, Saddam was the strongman of the Ba’athist party, as he was known to have a wicked temper and would not hesitate to slay any opponents of the party. He stayed loyal to the party and assumed his role of the number two man in the country. On July 16, 1979 Saddam succeeded al-Bakr as president of Iraq after he forced the ailing Bakr to cede him the presidency.
From there Saddam would begin his reign of terror that would last for more than two decades. Soon after taking power, Saddam began a war with Iran that lasted until 1988. During that time he ordered the use of nerve agents and a variety of illegal chemical weapons to be used on the Iranians and even his own citizens. This use of chemical weapons led to his conviction of crimes against humanity on November 5, 2006. He was charged with the killings of 148 individuals with illegal chemical weapons that occurred in 1982. This case falls within the top twenty of the alleged 500+ times Saddam committed crimes against humanity.
There is no doubt that Saddam was an evil man and this is one of the first times since the Nuremburg trials after WWII that a leader(s) of a belligerent regime will be executed with the help of the west. Saddam’s legacy as one of the worst people of the twentieth century will not doubt travel on through the ages of history. Personally I believe that executing him is the best solution to the problem, as even if he were left alive, the high level of violence would still continue in Iraq. He must pay for his crimes, as many former totalitarian leaders never did in the 20th century. It is well known that I disagree with the legitimacy of the war in Iraq, but people like Saddam Hussein have no place or right to kill thousands upon thousands of their own people just because they disagree with the current state of affairs in a country. May the Lord have some sort of mercy on Saddam’s soul; he’ll need it.
27 December 2006
The Passing of a President
Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr., the 38th president of the United States passed away today at the age of 93; the longest living president in history. As is typical with the passing of former presidents, the media will be in a perpetual frenzy over the coming days. I feel that it is proper to pay tribute to our fallen leaders, but in a low key manner. The book has long been closed on Ford's presidency, but his legacy still remains firmly engrained into the American psyche. But Americans tend to thrash about when a leader is not paid proper tribute (probably going back to the days of monarchies and such). Never the less, Ford will go down in history as the most “unlikely” man to ever call 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue his address.
It is a truly remarkable feat to become president in the modern age, as it takes over a year of campaigning, massive amounts of capital, and the undivided loyalty of a sanctioning political party. Yet Ford was never elected to the presidency, the only president in our nation’s history to have never run a national campaign to seek the office (the first time around). Ford began his political career in 1948 out of Michigan when he was elected to the House of Representatives. He would be appointed to the Warren Commission, the group that investigated and concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald was the sole shooter in the assasination of John F. Kennedy. He managed to work his way up through the ranks of the Republican Party to become minority leader of the house (even though his dream was to become speaker). In October 1973, then Vice President Spiro Agnew resigned after pleading no contest to tax evasion. Richard Nixon saw it fit to appoint the congressionally popular Ford to the post of the vice presidency to distort the clout of corruption that had been shadowing his administration since the infamous Watergate Scandal.
By August 1974 it was becoming obvious to Nixon that he would not survive the remainder of his 2 years left in office due to the ominous impeachment hearings that were to begin in Congress. Richard Nixon is the only president to resign from the office, which in turn left Ford as the default president. In his first month as president, Ford pardoned Richard Nixon for his actions during the Watergate scandal, which would cost Ford the presidency in the election of 1976 (saving Nixon the trouble of going to prison). Ford would lose one of the closest presidential elections in history to former Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter. Even before the general election Ford barley received the nomination of his party, but managed to win a closely fought battle with a man by the name of Ronald Reagan. His legacy will forever be associated with the pardoning of Nixon.
In hindsight his pardoning of Richard Nixon seemed to help heal the massive wound that pervaded the country. The Watergate scandal made many Americans question the authenticity and honesty of the entire political stratum. Ford’s candor while in office helped to heal the gaping wound in the political world of Washington D.C. Nixon was a president whose time and attention was closely guarded by his handlers and even himself. Ford was known for his “open door policy” and un-bureaucratic office structure. Essentially, he was open to everyone, even two women, whom would try to assassinate Ford on two separate occasions. His time in the oval office was not without his handling of major crises that pervaded the country at the time, including inflation, an economic recession, massive unemployment numbers, and of course, the energy crisis. Yet, the country survived those days with the leadership of President Ford. You ever hear of Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld? Well, they got their start with President Ford, as chief of staff and defense secretary, respectively.
After losing to Carter in 1976, Ford would lead a quiet life out of the public eye. He spent most of his time in either Colorado or California, as do most former presidents. Surprisingly, he has been a closet opponent to "W's" Iraq war. A 2004 interview he did with Bob Woodward of the Washington Post was released this week, but no one ever knew about it, as Ford insructed Woodward to release it only upon his death. In the interview he criticizes the Bush Administration's imperial notions about even going to war in the first place. Needless to say, he has gone down as the most implausible president in our nation’s history. But the man himself truly managed to silence his doubters while in office, as it takes a special sort of man to take on the responsibility of president of the United States. You do not have to respect the man, but you should respect the office.
Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr., the 38th president of the United States passed away today at the age of 93; the longest living president in history. As is typical with the passing of former presidents, the media will be in a perpetual frenzy over the coming days. I feel that it is proper to pay tribute to our fallen leaders, but in a low key manner. The book has long been closed on Ford's presidency, but his legacy still remains firmly engrained into the American psyche. But Americans tend to thrash about when a leader is not paid proper tribute (probably going back to the days of monarchies and such). Never the less, Ford will go down in history as the most “unlikely” man to ever call 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue his address.
It is a truly remarkable feat to become president in the modern age, as it takes over a year of campaigning, massive amounts of capital, and the undivided loyalty of a sanctioning political party. Yet Ford was never elected to the presidency, the only president in our nation’s history to have never run a national campaign to seek the office (the first time around). Ford began his political career in 1948 out of Michigan when he was elected to the House of Representatives. He would be appointed to the Warren Commission, the group that investigated and concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald was the sole shooter in the assasination of John F. Kennedy. He managed to work his way up through the ranks of the Republican Party to become minority leader of the house (even though his dream was to become speaker). In October 1973, then Vice President Spiro Agnew resigned after pleading no contest to tax evasion. Richard Nixon saw it fit to appoint the congressionally popular Ford to the post of the vice presidency to distort the clout of corruption that had been shadowing his administration since the infamous Watergate Scandal.
By August 1974 it was becoming obvious to Nixon that he would not survive the remainder of his 2 years left in office due to the ominous impeachment hearings that were to begin in Congress. Richard Nixon is the only president to resign from the office, which in turn left Ford as the default president. In his first month as president, Ford pardoned Richard Nixon for his actions during the Watergate scandal, which would cost Ford the presidency in the election of 1976 (saving Nixon the trouble of going to prison). Ford would lose one of the closest presidential elections in history to former Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter. Even before the general election Ford barley received the nomination of his party, but managed to win a closely fought battle with a man by the name of Ronald Reagan. His legacy will forever be associated with the pardoning of Nixon.
In hindsight his pardoning of Richard Nixon seemed to help heal the massive wound that pervaded the country. The Watergate scandal made many Americans question the authenticity and honesty of the entire political stratum. Ford’s candor while in office helped to heal the gaping wound in the political world of Washington D.C. Nixon was a president whose time and attention was closely guarded by his handlers and even himself. Ford was known for his “open door policy” and un-bureaucratic office structure. Essentially, he was open to everyone, even two women, whom would try to assassinate Ford on two separate occasions. His time in the oval office was not without his handling of major crises that pervaded the country at the time, including inflation, an economic recession, massive unemployment numbers, and of course, the energy crisis. Yet, the country survived those days with the leadership of President Ford. You ever hear of Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld? Well, they got their start with President Ford, as chief of staff and defense secretary, respectively.
After losing to Carter in 1976, Ford would lead a quiet life out of the public eye. He spent most of his time in either Colorado or California, as do most former presidents. Surprisingly, he has been a closet opponent to "W's" Iraq war. A 2004 interview he did with Bob Woodward of the Washington Post was released this week, but no one ever knew about it, as Ford insructed Woodward to release it only upon his death. In the interview he criticizes the Bush Administration's imperial notions about even going to war in the first place. Needless to say, he has gone down as the most implausible president in our nation’s history. But the man himself truly managed to silence his doubters while in office, as it takes a special sort of man to take on the responsibility of president of the United States. You do not have to respect the man, but you should respect the office.
25 December 2006
The Essence of Christmas Relived
First, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a truly prosperous new year. As I sit here tonight watching “A Christmas Story,” I cannot help but think of the true meaning of Christmas. One word best sums up Christmas in 2006: consumerism. Americans have turned this truly religious holiday into a rampant binge of consuming billions and billions of dollars of pure crap. Obviously Christmas has not always consisted of standing in line at your local Wal-Mart fighting vying for a limited number of Playstations or going to bed at 7PM in the hopes that Santa Clause did not pass up your house. So what in the hell happened to celebrating the birth of Christ?
The first evidence of Christmas turning into “Consumeras” occurred in 1822 when a poem entitled “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” was penned by Clement Clarke Moore. In his poem, Moore emphases exchanging gifts to help the spirit of Christmas prosper. I am sure that his intentions were noble, but no one could have predicted what Christmas would turn into. Now such super retail giants like Wal-Mart, Target, JC Penny’s, Macy’s, and countless other chains rely on holiday season to increase their profits ten fold. Even stores like Pet Smart publicize massive ad campaigns cater to owners of dogs and cats to buy more crap for their beloved pets.
Instead of spending time with our families and those we love, going to church, or even taking it easy, we now froth at the mouth when shopping season begins. I would not be surprised to learn that more people have heart attacks at this time of the year than any other. I would have a heart attack if I had to buy “my woman”(praise the lord I am single and loving it) a $10K dollar diamond ring from Kay Jewelers, as they tend to run a rather sappy ad campaign in the attempt to con people into buying their merchandize. As we get older the spirit of Christmas tends to diminish, as another fact of getting older includes becoming cheaper and conceded (welcome to my world).
I am sure that most of us can recall those days of when we were youngsters and we could not wait to get up at 7AM and see what “Jolly Old Saint Nick” brought us. Now all I want for Christmas is to sleep until noon (the joys of not having kids or young kids around!). I am simply baffled as to why people want to spend hours upon hours in a godforsaken shopping mall to spend money? What is it worth? Trying to buy your loved ones love? The concept sickens me. Now I can see why Scroucge despised Christmas. Granted, I am not exactly a church going man, but at least I make an appearance and understand the original objective of Christmas.
First, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a truly prosperous new year. As I sit here tonight watching “A Christmas Story,” I cannot help but think of the true meaning of Christmas. One word best sums up Christmas in 2006: consumerism. Americans have turned this truly religious holiday into a rampant binge of consuming billions and billions of dollars of pure crap. Obviously Christmas has not always consisted of standing in line at your local Wal-Mart fighting vying for a limited number of Playstations or going to bed at 7PM in the hopes that Santa Clause did not pass up your house. So what in the hell happened to celebrating the birth of Christ?
The first evidence of Christmas turning into “Consumeras” occurred in 1822 when a poem entitled “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” was penned by Clement Clarke Moore. In his poem, Moore emphases exchanging gifts to help the spirit of Christmas prosper. I am sure that his intentions were noble, but no one could have predicted what Christmas would turn into. Now such super retail giants like Wal-Mart, Target, JC Penny’s, Macy’s, and countless other chains rely on holiday season to increase their profits ten fold. Even stores like Pet Smart publicize massive ad campaigns cater to owners of dogs and cats to buy more crap for their beloved pets.
Instead of spending time with our families and those we love, going to church, or even taking it easy, we now froth at the mouth when shopping season begins. I would not be surprised to learn that more people have heart attacks at this time of the year than any other. I would have a heart attack if I had to buy “my woman”(praise the lord I am single and loving it) a $10K dollar diamond ring from Kay Jewelers, as they tend to run a rather sappy ad campaign in the attempt to con people into buying their merchandize. As we get older the spirit of Christmas tends to diminish, as another fact of getting older includes becoming cheaper and conceded (welcome to my world).
I am sure that most of us can recall those days of when we were youngsters and we could not wait to get up at 7AM and see what “Jolly Old Saint Nick” brought us. Now all I want for Christmas is to sleep until noon (the joys of not having kids or young kids around!). I am simply baffled as to why people want to spend hours upon hours in a godforsaken shopping mall to spend money? What is it worth? Trying to buy your loved ones love? The concept sickens me. Now I can see why Scroucge despised Christmas. Granted, I am not exactly a church going man, but at least I make an appearance and understand the original objective of Christmas.
22 December 2006
The Ludicrous Beliefs of Holocaust Deniers
Recently, a story of a Holocaust denier has hit the news. British writer David Irving was imprisoned in Austria for his beliefs concerning what “actually” happened in Germany from 1939-1945 at countless Nazi concentration camps. These individuals that deny that the Holocaust never occurred blame those who were wrongly imprisoned for what happened to them. Currently Austrian and German law makes it illegal to deny the Holocaust. There is really no better way to put it, but what in the hell is wrong with these people?
The actions of Adolph Hitler and his zombie like Nazi Party during World War II is by far one of, if not the biggest atrocity of the 20th century. Over 6 million Jews were wrongly imprisoned and murdered in concentration camps simply based on the preposterous theory that Jews were an inferior race to the Aryans (i.e. blue eyed, blonde Germans). Hitler subscribed to the Social Darwinist theory of one race being superior to another based on skin color and country of origin. His goal was to make the German race hegemonic on a world scale, i.e. the Third Reich. The ironic fact is that Hitler was quarter Jewish, as many of his descendants were practicing Jews (this interesting tid-bid never got out during his time in power). Hitler was a mental case and this goes to show the sheer madness that pervaded his peculiar though process.
History tells us that Hitler ran countless concentration camps throughout Germany and many of the lands his army invaded from 1939-1945. Many in the west were oblivious to the fact that these camps even existed, much less the appalling acts that were being committed behind the closely guarded gates. It was not until late in the war when the allied powers began entering German territory to discover the masses of ravenous Jews, POWs, and countless other races being kept against their wills. Many of those responsible for these atrocities were subsequently convicted of crimes against humanity at the infamous Nuremburg trials that followed the allied victory.
I would not consider these individuals that deny the Holocaust ever happened as “neo-Nazis.” But instead I would consider them individuals that are not exactly in touch with humanity, anti Semitic so to say. There is not a shadow of a doubt in my mind, much less the minds of millions that the Holocaust happened. It has been the subject of many publications and is something that we learn throughout our years of primary and secondary education in the United States. There is simply no denying the facts of what happened in Nazi Germany during WWII. The myriad of video footage, accounts of those that experienced it firsthand, the stories of the allied troops that liberated the camps, the Nuremburg trials themselves when Nazi officials even admitted their actions, the decrepit presence of where the camps once stood, and even Hitler’s own words in Mien Kampf further detail evidence to the contrary.
This is surely not the act of mass propaganda that has pervaded our western societies over the past sixty years; it is simply stating the truth. Blaming those who were wrongly imprisoned in camps such as Austerlitz, Birkenau, Belzec, etc… is sheer madness. I really haven’t the slightest clue of how these people have come to these conclusions when the facts outweigh their misconstrued view of the past. Their beliefs of the past are insulting to the families of those who experienced one of the lowest points in humanity, much less those who perished in the camps for their beliefs. Some events of the past are best left untouched and this is one of them.
Recently, a story of a Holocaust denier has hit the news. British writer David Irving was imprisoned in Austria for his beliefs concerning what “actually” happened in Germany from 1939-1945 at countless Nazi concentration camps. These individuals that deny that the Holocaust never occurred blame those who were wrongly imprisoned for what happened to them. Currently Austrian and German law makes it illegal to deny the Holocaust. There is really no better way to put it, but what in the hell is wrong with these people?
The actions of Adolph Hitler and his zombie like Nazi Party during World War II is by far one of, if not the biggest atrocity of the 20th century. Over 6 million Jews were wrongly imprisoned and murdered in concentration camps simply based on the preposterous theory that Jews were an inferior race to the Aryans (i.e. blue eyed, blonde Germans). Hitler subscribed to the Social Darwinist theory of one race being superior to another based on skin color and country of origin. His goal was to make the German race hegemonic on a world scale, i.e. the Third Reich. The ironic fact is that Hitler was quarter Jewish, as many of his descendants were practicing Jews (this interesting tid-bid never got out during his time in power). Hitler was a mental case and this goes to show the sheer madness that pervaded his peculiar though process.
History tells us that Hitler ran countless concentration camps throughout Germany and many of the lands his army invaded from 1939-1945. Many in the west were oblivious to the fact that these camps even existed, much less the appalling acts that were being committed behind the closely guarded gates. It was not until late in the war when the allied powers began entering German territory to discover the masses of ravenous Jews, POWs, and countless other races being kept against their wills. Many of those responsible for these atrocities were subsequently convicted of crimes against humanity at the infamous Nuremburg trials that followed the allied victory.
I would not consider these individuals that deny the Holocaust ever happened as “neo-Nazis.” But instead I would consider them individuals that are not exactly in touch with humanity, anti Semitic so to say. There is not a shadow of a doubt in my mind, much less the minds of millions that the Holocaust happened. It has been the subject of many publications and is something that we learn throughout our years of primary and secondary education in the United States. There is simply no denying the facts of what happened in Nazi Germany during WWII. The myriad of video footage, accounts of those that experienced it firsthand, the stories of the allied troops that liberated the camps, the Nuremburg trials themselves when Nazi officials even admitted their actions, the decrepit presence of where the camps once stood, and even Hitler’s own words in Mien Kampf further detail evidence to the contrary.
This is surely not the act of mass propaganda that has pervaded our western societies over the past sixty years; it is simply stating the truth. Blaming those who were wrongly imprisoned in camps such as Austerlitz, Birkenau, Belzec, etc… is sheer madness. I really haven’t the slightest clue of how these people have come to these conclusions when the facts outweigh their misconstrued view of the past. Their beliefs of the past are insulting to the families of those who experienced one of the lowest points in humanity, much less those who perished in the camps for their beliefs. Some events of the past are best left untouched and this is one of them.
21 December 2006
The Significance of Population Numbers
Today the Japanese government released alarming statistics concerning their future population growth, well, rather decline. Within the next 50 years their population will decline by almost 30%. The elderly population (those over 65) will rise by 40.5%, which will strain the welfare system of the state. Japan is the only industrialized nation with a declining population. Currently Japan’s population is a little over 127 million people. One would assume that falling population numbers may in fact be a good thing, as the Earth’s total population is expected to rise to almost 12 billion people by 2050, which will put further tension on a variety of social and environmental resources. But the significance of the Japan numbers is concerning because Japan is obviously an ally of the United States and a large contributor to other various western nations.
In reviewing population numbers, it is critical to assess the fertility rate of the women in a particular country to gage the sustainability of a country. In the case of Japan, that number is estimated at 1.4 children born per woman. The other vital number to look at is of course, population growth rate. Japan’s current number is around .02% a year, which is low in comparison to other nations. To point out the disparities in population growth, it is vital to look at a prospering nation, at least in the context of population. India is to become the most populous country in the world within the next few years, overtaking China in the process. It was estimated that India’s population in July 2006 was around 1.1 billion and growing. India’s population is growing at 1.38% a year, which in the milieu of 1.1 billion people, their numbers are steady and on the rise. Their fertility rate is 2.73 children per woman, which is a solid number.
The United States on the other hand is the third most populous nation on the planet, with 300 million people as of October. Our growth rate is around .91% a year and on the rise, with our fertility rate at 2.09 children per woman. A steady flow of new people is vital to any nation, as the economy of any nation is dependent on population growth (a pseudo-Marxism theory of sorts). A good analogy would be this: A nation with one person attempting to run every aspect of the country, or a nation with 2 people trying to run every aspect of a country. Obviously, the country with two people would have the advantage, at least in a capitalist system.
Essentially, the more people a nation possesses, the more likely that nation is likely to succeed. In a communist system such as Chinas', it is the reverse (not as much as it use to). China as of now is still the most populous country on the planet, but the government’s infamous law concerning only one child per couple has staggered their population. In their case, the more people, the more unlikely the government can maintain control. This is not an argument of communism vs. capitalism, but is simply pointing out why population helps to fuel a country in this day and age.
-Source of population numbers: CIA World Factbook 2006
Today the Japanese government released alarming statistics concerning their future population growth, well, rather decline. Within the next 50 years their population will decline by almost 30%. The elderly population (those over 65) will rise by 40.5%, which will strain the welfare system of the state. Japan is the only industrialized nation with a declining population. Currently Japan’s population is a little over 127 million people. One would assume that falling population numbers may in fact be a good thing, as the Earth’s total population is expected to rise to almost 12 billion people by 2050, which will put further tension on a variety of social and environmental resources. But the significance of the Japan numbers is concerning because Japan is obviously an ally of the United States and a large contributor to other various western nations.
In reviewing population numbers, it is critical to assess the fertility rate of the women in a particular country to gage the sustainability of a country. In the case of Japan, that number is estimated at 1.4 children born per woman. The other vital number to look at is of course, population growth rate. Japan’s current number is around .02% a year, which is low in comparison to other nations. To point out the disparities in population growth, it is vital to look at a prospering nation, at least in the context of population. India is to become the most populous country in the world within the next few years, overtaking China in the process. It was estimated that India’s population in July 2006 was around 1.1 billion and growing. India’s population is growing at 1.38% a year, which in the milieu of 1.1 billion people, their numbers are steady and on the rise. Their fertility rate is 2.73 children per woman, which is a solid number.
The United States on the other hand is the third most populous nation on the planet, with 300 million people as of October. Our growth rate is around .91% a year and on the rise, with our fertility rate at 2.09 children per woman. A steady flow of new people is vital to any nation, as the economy of any nation is dependent on population growth (a pseudo-Marxism theory of sorts). A good analogy would be this: A nation with one person attempting to run every aspect of the country, or a nation with 2 people trying to run every aspect of a country. Obviously, the country with two people would have the advantage, at least in a capitalist system.
Essentially, the more people a nation possesses, the more likely that nation is likely to succeed. In a communist system such as Chinas', it is the reverse (not as much as it use to). China as of now is still the most populous country on the planet, but the government’s infamous law concerning only one child per couple has staggered their population. In their case, the more people, the more unlikely the government can maintain control. This is not an argument of communism vs. capitalism, but is simply pointing out why population helps to fuel a country in this day and age.
-Source of population numbers: CIA World Factbook 2006
20 December 2006
The Assault on Christianity
Recently Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen sent out his annual holiday greeting card. No shocker there, as many governors and politicians mail countless greeting cards to their constituents. But of course, with this issue, controversy has arisen. The card features a picture of a young Muslim girl that the governor encountered last year while in Afghanistan. The greeting card has riled many conservatives because the card’s context is of wishing those whom received the card “Merry Christmas.” “Merry Christmas” evidently does not mix too well with the Islamic faith, at least according to the conservatives. The back of the card states the following:
"May the peace and joy of this Christmas season be with you and your loved ones throughout the coming year. While it may seem odd to put a portrait of a young Muslim woman on a Christmas card, this Season reminds us that He loves His children most of all. May the miracle of Christmas help bring peace to this young woman and her wounded land.”
Reverend Maury Davis, a conservative minister has been the governor’s most outspoken critic in reference to the card and its substance. He believes that the card is not clear enough in stating that Jesus loves all people. He also disagrees that Christmas is not about honoring all religions. I am not putting words into the good reverend’s mouth, but my definition included honoring all religions, as the goal of Christianity is to bring people together as one, especially around the holiday season regardless of faith. I believe that Governor Bredesen’s goal was filled with good intentions and not that of malice in insulting other people’s faith, including Christians.
This is a case where politics has stammered into the way of religion. The depiction of a Muslim woman on a holiday greeting card is not wrong; it is further emphasizing the position of Christianity. In the age of vilifying politicians based on their personal beliefs, words from those like Rev. Davis are absolutely uncalled for. Granted, the man is the governor of Tennessee, but I am sure that he disclosed his religious beliefs at sometime during his campaign. People knew what they were receiving when they voted the man into office. Picking apart a simple greeting card wishing everyone a Merry Christmas is utterly ridiculous (not to many people can spell that word for some odd reason) because there is a Muslim woman on the front of it.
The American public has received the wrong idea about Islam in “W’s” war on terror. Only a slim number of those belonging to the faith are apart of the radical sect that perpetrates acts of terror against us “infidels.” The Bush Administration would have you believe that everyone of the Islamic faith is evil and hell bent on dominating the world. I disagree with some aspects of Islam, but I do not despise those who are apart of it. The last time I checked, both Christians and Muslims worship the same God, whether it is “Allah” or Jesus Christ. The basic disagreement between Christianity and Islam is over whether Christ was the true savior. I do not want to debate religious doctrine, as that battle is constantly waged in our own minds. But the point is that conservatives like Rev. Davis are skewing the fine line between politics and religion. His words are an insult to Christians and Muslims alike. Can’t we all just get along and drop the rhetoric? I know that is impossible, but it is the principle that counts, especially from those claiming to tout their beliefs on the "Christian right."
Recently Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen sent out his annual holiday greeting card. No shocker there, as many governors and politicians mail countless greeting cards to their constituents. But of course, with this issue, controversy has arisen. The card features a picture of a young Muslim girl that the governor encountered last year while in Afghanistan. The greeting card has riled many conservatives because the card’s context is of wishing those whom received the card “Merry Christmas.” “Merry Christmas” evidently does not mix too well with the Islamic faith, at least according to the conservatives. The back of the card states the following:
"May the peace and joy of this Christmas season be with you and your loved ones throughout the coming year. While it may seem odd to put a portrait of a young Muslim woman on a Christmas card, this Season reminds us that He loves His children most of all. May the miracle of Christmas help bring peace to this young woman and her wounded land.”
Reverend Maury Davis, a conservative minister has been the governor’s most outspoken critic in reference to the card and its substance. He believes that the card is not clear enough in stating that Jesus loves all people. He also disagrees that Christmas is not about honoring all religions. I am not putting words into the good reverend’s mouth, but my definition included honoring all religions, as the goal of Christianity is to bring people together as one, especially around the holiday season regardless of faith. I believe that Governor Bredesen’s goal was filled with good intentions and not that of malice in insulting other people’s faith, including Christians.
This is a case where politics has stammered into the way of religion. The depiction of a Muslim woman on a holiday greeting card is not wrong; it is further emphasizing the position of Christianity. In the age of vilifying politicians based on their personal beliefs, words from those like Rev. Davis are absolutely uncalled for. Granted, the man is the governor of Tennessee, but I am sure that he disclosed his religious beliefs at sometime during his campaign. People knew what they were receiving when they voted the man into office. Picking apart a simple greeting card wishing everyone a Merry Christmas is utterly ridiculous (not to many people can spell that word for some odd reason) because there is a Muslim woman on the front of it.
The American public has received the wrong idea about Islam in “W’s” war on terror. Only a slim number of those belonging to the faith are apart of the radical sect that perpetrates acts of terror against us “infidels.” The Bush Administration would have you believe that everyone of the Islamic faith is evil and hell bent on dominating the world. I disagree with some aspects of Islam, but I do not despise those who are apart of it. The last time I checked, both Christians and Muslims worship the same God, whether it is “Allah” or Jesus Christ. The basic disagreement between Christianity and Islam is over whether Christ was the true savior. I do not want to debate religious doctrine, as that battle is constantly waged in our own minds. But the point is that conservatives like Rev. Davis are skewing the fine line between politics and religion. His words are an insult to Christians and Muslims alike. Can’t we all just get along and drop the rhetoric? I know that is impossible, but it is the principle that counts, especially from those claiming to tout their beliefs on the "Christian right."
18 December 2006
Defense and "Thuggery"
The Rex Grossman controversy is over, but there is a new controversy brewing in Chicago. The Bears clinched the number one seed in the NFC (and home field advantage throughout the playoffs) on Sunday with a 34-31 overtime win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Isn’t that a problem though? A three point victory over a 3-10 team coming in is a bit concerning. The defense is a shadow of its former self, at least in comparison to the early season defense. The absence of Mike Brown, Tommy Harris, and Tank Johnson (lets say he has a few legal issues right now), has affected the Bears’ ability to quell the run and caused the pass rush to become moot. Granted, the defense only gave up 57 yards on the ground Sunday, but 300 yards through the air, especially three break away plays, all of which occurred in the second half. The secondary is depleted as well, but something needs to be done to stop the leaking. Essentially, the defense blew a 24-3 lead, but luckily the offense brought home the prize. People need to start regaining their health or there maybe a problem come play off time.
On the bright side Grossman had a marvelous game, becoming the first Bears passer in 73 games (that’s quite a few seasons) to pass for over 300 yards. He ended up with 339 yards (a career high) and 2 touchdown passes. He held strong in the face of adversity and guided the offense, which this time, had to win the game. The normally solid Robbie Gould has been off of late as well. After making his first 24 field goals, he has missed three of his last six attempts, one of which could have won the game early in overtime. Luckily the defense held and gave him another chance, which he converted from 25 yards. All I can say is that I hope he regains his confidence, as he will play a major role down the stretch and in the playoffs. Devin Hester also had a shaky game, with one major fumble that turned into a touchdown for the Bucs in the fourth quarter. He did not run any back, but the Bucs kicked away from him most of the game, which goes to show that he is on the minds of Bears’ opponents, hence altering the make-up of the game.
The other topic of this discourse concerns the melee that occurred on Thursday evening between the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks. Conjuring up memories of the debacle that occurred in 2004 between the Pacers and Pistons, this hideous display of belligerence has again tarnished the NBA’s reputation. Ten players were ejected with a 1:15 left in the game, basically all of whom were on the floor at the time. Carmelo Anthony (a cornerstone of the NBA elite) managed to humiliate himself; getting in a cheap shot blow to the face of Mardy Collins after the brawl was quelled. Evidently this brawl occurred due to Isiah Thomas warning Carmelo Anthony not to go to the “paint,” as the game was over by then, with the Nuggets leading big. Thomas evidently was irritated that Anthony and Marcus Camby were still on the floor in a blow out. What kind of behavior for a head coach-president of the Knick’s organization? Real classy!
Essentially this latest brawl has embarrassed the NBA again, relegating the league to “thuggery” status. I am sure that David Stern (NBA commissioner) will take stern (no pun intended) action against those involved in the melee. The sheer number of games that the players involved will accumulate in suspensions should be staggering. The NBA is slowly going down hill, as TV ratings are down and revenues are shrinking. Why is this? Because of these fights that are occurring on a consistent basis! Kids looks up to a lot of these NBA stars. But their actions on the court are not fitting of a role model, but instead they have more in common with a gang on the streets.
The Rex Grossman controversy is over, but there is a new controversy brewing in Chicago. The Bears clinched the number one seed in the NFC (and home field advantage throughout the playoffs) on Sunday with a 34-31 overtime win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Isn’t that a problem though? A three point victory over a 3-10 team coming in is a bit concerning. The defense is a shadow of its former self, at least in comparison to the early season defense. The absence of Mike Brown, Tommy Harris, and Tank Johnson (lets say he has a few legal issues right now), has affected the Bears’ ability to quell the run and caused the pass rush to become moot. Granted, the defense only gave up 57 yards on the ground Sunday, but 300 yards through the air, especially three break away plays, all of which occurred in the second half. The secondary is depleted as well, but something needs to be done to stop the leaking. Essentially, the defense blew a 24-3 lead, but luckily the offense brought home the prize. People need to start regaining their health or there maybe a problem come play off time.
On the bright side Grossman had a marvelous game, becoming the first Bears passer in 73 games (that’s quite a few seasons) to pass for over 300 yards. He ended up with 339 yards (a career high) and 2 touchdown passes. He held strong in the face of adversity and guided the offense, which this time, had to win the game. The normally solid Robbie Gould has been off of late as well. After making his first 24 field goals, he has missed three of his last six attempts, one of which could have won the game early in overtime. Luckily the defense held and gave him another chance, which he converted from 25 yards. All I can say is that I hope he regains his confidence, as he will play a major role down the stretch and in the playoffs. Devin Hester also had a shaky game, with one major fumble that turned into a touchdown for the Bucs in the fourth quarter. He did not run any back, but the Bucs kicked away from him most of the game, which goes to show that he is on the minds of Bears’ opponents, hence altering the make-up of the game.
The other topic of this discourse concerns the melee that occurred on Thursday evening between the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks. Conjuring up memories of the debacle that occurred in 2004 between the Pacers and Pistons, this hideous display of belligerence has again tarnished the NBA’s reputation. Ten players were ejected with a 1:15 left in the game, basically all of whom were on the floor at the time. Carmelo Anthony (a cornerstone of the NBA elite) managed to humiliate himself; getting in a cheap shot blow to the face of Mardy Collins after the brawl was quelled. Evidently this brawl occurred due to Isiah Thomas warning Carmelo Anthony not to go to the “paint,” as the game was over by then, with the Nuggets leading big. Thomas evidently was irritated that Anthony and Marcus Camby were still on the floor in a blow out. What kind of behavior for a head coach-president of the Knick’s organization? Real classy!
Essentially this latest brawl has embarrassed the NBA again, relegating the league to “thuggery” status. I am sure that David Stern (NBA commissioner) will take stern (no pun intended) action against those involved in the melee. The sheer number of games that the players involved will accumulate in suspensions should be staggering. The NBA is slowly going down hill, as TV ratings are down and revenues are shrinking. Why is this? Because of these fights that are occurring on a consistent basis! Kids looks up to a lot of these NBA stars. But their actions on the court are not fitting of a role model, but instead they have more in common with a gang on the streets.
14 December 2006
Impeachment and Depression: The Irony
President George W. Bush should be impeached. Blunt eh? It is apparent at this time that “W” has broken the law, both domestically and internationally. Domestically Bush has to answer to the Constitution and Congress. Obviously, the Constitution is a bit out of date, as it does not specify what to do in cases of prolonged, illegitimate wars, i.e. Vietnam and this latest debacle. Yet in a constitutional context, there is leeway, as stated on Article II, section 4, “The President, Vice-President, and all other civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors.” The statement of high crimes as misdemeanors is vague, which opens up any occupant of the office to increased scrutiny. In the case of Bush, he can be impeached based on the intelligence debacle before the “Operation Iraqi Freedom” commenced in March 2003.
It is fair to assume that the administration misled the American people about weapons of mass destruction (WMD) that were supposedly in Iraq under the regime of Saddam Hussein. The thing is though, there were not any! This war is a personal vendetta for this president. He will tell the world that Saddam was evil and that he was protecting our oil interests in the Middle East. But in reality, he fucked the situation up even more; countless innocent Iraqis have been killed, the country is in civil war, and almost 3,000 U.S. service men and women have lost their lives. Bush stated today that he would not be rushed to make a decision about Iraq, but I think it is necessary to “rush” it, “W.” He answers to the people, not the wall or whoever the hell he takes advice from.
Internationally, the president should be held accountable on his decision to illegally detain “enemy combatants” at the U.S. Naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Granted, some of these people may very well pose a threat to our national security, as well as countless other nations. But the fact of the matter is that the acts were illegal and in direct violation of the Geneva Conventions. He has also sanctioned the use of our allies to do our dirty work for us, such as sending “enemy combatants” to Jordan and Israel; both countries are not apart of the Geneva accords. They can do whatever the hell they want. I am not saying that some of these terrorists do not deserve it, but again, it is illegal, at least by our standards.
The president has tarnished the name of this once great nation with his personal vendetta of repugnance.
In other news it has been brought to my attention that there is an ongoing battle between the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and family members of those who took anti-depressants and committed suicide. Evidently those between the ages of 18-25 are at risk for suicidal thoughts while on the drugs. The FDA already has a warning out that states adolescents up to the age of 18 are at risk for increased suicidal thoughts while on the drugs. But let us take a step back here and review the milieu of the issue. I understand that people have problems, some of which they have no control over. But the thing is, many people who take anti-depressants are depressed, which includes the risk of suicidal thoughts!
I believe that this is a futile fight for those who want a stronger warning label on anti-depressants. They are simply scaring those who currently are on the drugs as well as those who could potentially use the drugs for a positive outcome in their lives. Think I do not know my head from my ass on this issue? Wrong; I take an anti-depressant, a lovely cocktail of ingredients called Effexor. I am not depressed, I take them for a wicked anxiety issue (I am a tad high strung). I have never had suicidal thoughts while on the drug, which has been for almost 2 years now. Anti-depressants have helped me and countless others. People need to start looking for a scapegoat and deal with the facts of life.
President George W. Bush should be impeached. Blunt eh? It is apparent at this time that “W” has broken the law, both domestically and internationally. Domestically Bush has to answer to the Constitution and Congress. Obviously, the Constitution is a bit out of date, as it does not specify what to do in cases of prolonged, illegitimate wars, i.e. Vietnam and this latest debacle. Yet in a constitutional context, there is leeway, as stated on Article II, section 4, “The President, Vice-President, and all other civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors.” The statement of high crimes as misdemeanors is vague, which opens up any occupant of the office to increased scrutiny. In the case of Bush, he can be impeached based on the intelligence debacle before the “Operation Iraqi Freedom” commenced in March 2003.
It is fair to assume that the administration misled the American people about weapons of mass destruction (WMD) that were supposedly in Iraq under the regime of Saddam Hussein. The thing is though, there were not any! This war is a personal vendetta for this president. He will tell the world that Saddam was evil and that he was protecting our oil interests in the Middle East. But in reality, he fucked the situation up even more; countless innocent Iraqis have been killed, the country is in civil war, and almost 3,000 U.S. service men and women have lost their lives. Bush stated today that he would not be rushed to make a decision about Iraq, but I think it is necessary to “rush” it, “W.” He answers to the people, not the wall or whoever the hell he takes advice from.
Internationally, the president should be held accountable on his decision to illegally detain “enemy combatants” at the U.S. Naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Granted, some of these people may very well pose a threat to our national security, as well as countless other nations. But the fact of the matter is that the acts were illegal and in direct violation of the Geneva Conventions. He has also sanctioned the use of our allies to do our dirty work for us, such as sending “enemy combatants” to Jordan and Israel; both countries are not apart of the Geneva accords. They can do whatever the hell they want. I am not saying that some of these terrorists do not deserve it, but again, it is illegal, at least by our standards.
The president has tarnished the name of this once great nation with his personal vendetta of repugnance.
In other news it has been brought to my attention that there is an ongoing battle between the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and family members of those who took anti-depressants and committed suicide. Evidently those between the ages of 18-25 are at risk for suicidal thoughts while on the drugs. The FDA already has a warning out that states adolescents up to the age of 18 are at risk for increased suicidal thoughts while on the drugs. But let us take a step back here and review the milieu of the issue. I understand that people have problems, some of which they have no control over. But the thing is, many people who take anti-depressants are depressed, which includes the risk of suicidal thoughts!
I believe that this is a futile fight for those who want a stronger warning label on anti-depressants. They are simply scaring those who currently are on the drugs as well as those who could potentially use the drugs for a positive outcome in their lives. Think I do not know my head from my ass on this issue? Wrong; I take an anti-depressant, a lovely cocktail of ingredients called Effexor. I am not depressed, I take them for a wicked anxiety issue (I am a tad high strung). I have never had suicidal thoughts while on the drug, which has been for almost 2 years now. Anti-depressants have helped me and countless others. People need to start looking for a scapegoat and deal with the facts of life.
12 December 2006
Bears and Trees
Two matters of concern this evening that I must have a word about. The first of which is the Bears win! My lord the Bears actually won and no one is bitching about it, including myself. Rex played a lot better than he has the past few weeks. Granted it was against a half-assed defense in the form of the Rams, but never the less he did not turn the ball over. He came out with a 95.2 QB rating, which I must say is leaps and bounds better than 1.3. Special teams did an excellent job to complement Grossman’s performance. Devin Hester returned not one, but two kickoffs for touchdowns. He now holds the record for most kick returns in a season with 6. I smell rookie of the year! The only downside to the game was the fact that the defense gave up 27 points, with a few drives over 70 yards. This is where the injuries are starting to hurt the Bears. Tommy Harris and Mike Brown are key components of this defense and it does show when they are not in the game (which they won’t be, as both are out for the season). Robbie Gould missed 2 field goals, which excludes him from team MVP candidacy. Hopefully he does not come down with Mike Vanderjact syndrome and miss hitting the broad side of a barn on a clear day.
The other concern is a news story. Evidently, a Rabi requested that Christmas trees be removed from a Seattle airport, under the guise of litigation. This issue is equivalent to last years “Happy Holidays” slogan instead of Merry Christmas at Wal-Mart stores across the nation. Wal-Mart changed that this year, but still this situation reeks of anti-Semitism. This is the United States of America, the land of religious freedom, not the land of “appease the Jews.” That’s what the Russians do; they kick Jews out and send them to Israel to thwart the Palestinians. I have nothing against Jews or the Jewish faith, but look around you. Do you see Menorahs everywhere? Fuck no you don’t; you see big ass green Catholic Christmas trees all around! There is a line and that Rabi just crossed it. When you take away a symbol of a Christian holiday because there are no menorahs set up as well, you just insulted your own faith, not to mention the many others that view the Christmas tree as a symbol. But the threat of a lawsuit is utterly ridiculous. The airport should not be sued; it should be the Rabi who gets sued for being a fucking asshole. The world ceases to amaze me…
Two matters of concern this evening that I must have a word about. The first of which is the Bears win! My lord the Bears actually won and no one is bitching about it, including myself. Rex played a lot better than he has the past few weeks. Granted it was against a half-assed defense in the form of the Rams, but never the less he did not turn the ball over. He came out with a 95.2 QB rating, which I must say is leaps and bounds better than 1.3. Special teams did an excellent job to complement Grossman’s performance. Devin Hester returned not one, but two kickoffs for touchdowns. He now holds the record for most kick returns in a season with 6. I smell rookie of the year! The only downside to the game was the fact that the defense gave up 27 points, with a few drives over 70 yards. This is where the injuries are starting to hurt the Bears. Tommy Harris and Mike Brown are key components of this defense and it does show when they are not in the game (which they won’t be, as both are out for the season). Robbie Gould missed 2 field goals, which excludes him from team MVP candidacy. Hopefully he does not come down with Mike Vanderjact syndrome and miss hitting the broad side of a barn on a clear day.
The other concern is a news story. Evidently, a Rabi requested that Christmas trees be removed from a Seattle airport, under the guise of litigation. This issue is equivalent to last years “Happy Holidays” slogan instead of Merry Christmas at Wal-Mart stores across the nation. Wal-Mart changed that this year, but still this situation reeks of anti-Semitism. This is the United States of America, the land of religious freedom, not the land of “appease the Jews.” That’s what the Russians do; they kick Jews out and send them to Israel to thwart the Palestinians. I have nothing against Jews or the Jewish faith, but look around you. Do you see Menorahs everywhere? Fuck no you don’t; you see big ass green Catholic Christmas trees all around! There is a line and that Rabi just crossed it. When you take away a symbol of a Christian holiday because there are no menorahs set up as well, you just insulted your own faith, not to mention the many others that view the Christmas tree as a symbol. But the threat of a lawsuit is utterly ridiculous. The airport should not be sued; it should be the Rabi who gets sued for being a fucking asshole. The world ceases to amaze me…
11 December 2006
The Russian Culture
Petr Chaodaev, a great 19th century Russian thinker once wrote, “Russians existed to teach the world what not to do.” His words still resonate with Russians and the western world to this day. The assassination of Alexander Litvinenko has raised many questions about the substance of Russian culture, as their culture has now impeded the west. Litvinenko was poisoned in the United Kingdom, not Russia. He was even a citizen of the United Kingdom, which is why the British authorities are taking an extreme interest in the case. A murder of one of their own on their soil is an outrage and understandably so. The Litvineko case is a reminiscent of a James Bond like spy novel, with twists and turns at every dimension of the plot.
One must understand that Russia has been an isolated nation since it was first incepted in 862, in the region around present day Kiev, Ukraine; known as Muscovy. The Russians have strangely prided themselves on their orthodox ways, as they have staunchly been against any outside interference in their three main periods of history; Imperial, Soviet, and Modern day Russia. Russia is still a nation that is as much different from the west as it was one hundred years ago. You never hear Russians speaking of the atrocities of Stalin, do you? There is a reasonable answer to why the Russians are the way they are, but the Litvinenko case has made many to ponder the Russian’s culture. Did he really know enough to damage the current government and actions in concern to Chechnya?
Modern day Russia is still on edge and paranoid as ever about outsider interference in their “internal affairs.” President Vladimir Putin seems to be steering his nation back towards the Soviet days, as he has consolidated the nation’s power center back to the government and it appears as if he is not going to release the levers of power anytime soon. The private sector is shrinking rapidly as well as people’s opinions on current issues within the country. Russians have been known to possess a “gung-ho” attitude of shooting now and asking questions later. Even if one roams the streets of Moscow today, you are not far from the guise of police or military personnel with their AK-47’s and a variety of other weaponry. Granted, these are not the past days of the KGB bugging your hotel room or “tailing” you around, but those attitudes and perceptions could make an appearance again at anytime.
The Litvinenko case also uncovers what Russian culture really encompasses. Murdering people in Russia is looked at as a common everyday occurrence and the people have sadly accepted these methods. It is no secret that the mob runs a lot of “the show” in Russia, as their contacts have pervaded into every sect of society and the economy. Russia has the most billionaires per capita than any nation in the world, which says a lot about disparities in wealth distribution and how much of the country these “special interests” control. I am sure that someone in Russia had something to do with the death Litvinenko, whether it is Putin, the FSB, or the mob; God only knows who. This culture of shooting now and asking questions later has made its way into the western world, which is unacceptable to many. The west has always been perplexed by the way Russians do business, but now it is an international incident.
Whatever happens in Russia needs to stay in Russia; it is their internal affair how they do business. But as long as the oil (they have the world’s largest oil reserve) and natural gas keeps flowing, the west will remain silent about the status quo in Russia. It should be obvious by now that the west will only speak up to protect their economic interests. The “messy” under world of Russia is a place that no one in the west wants to stick their foot into, as they may come out without a foot or not come out at all. Keep the game where it belongs.
Petr Chaodaev, a great 19th century Russian thinker once wrote, “Russians existed to teach the world what not to do.” His words still resonate with Russians and the western world to this day. The assassination of Alexander Litvinenko has raised many questions about the substance of Russian culture, as their culture has now impeded the west. Litvinenko was poisoned in the United Kingdom, not Russia. He was even a citizen of the United Kingdom, which is why the British authorities are taking an extreme interest in the case. A murder of one of their own on their soil is an outrage and understandably so. The Litvineko case is a reminiscent of a James Bond like spy novel, with twists and turns at every dimension of the plot.
One must understand that Russia has been an isolated nation since it was first incepted in 862, in the region around present day Kiev, Ukraine; known as Muscovy. The Russians have strangely prided themselves on their orthodox ways, as they have staunchly been against any outside interference in their three main periods of history; Imperial, Soviet, and Modern day Russia. Russia is still a nation that is as much different from the west as it was one hundred years ago. You never hear Russians speaking of the atrocities of Stalin, do you? There is a reasonable answer to why the Russians are the way they are, but the Litvinenko case has made many to ponder the Russian’s culture. Did he really know enough to damage the current government and actions in concern to Chechnya?
Modern day Russia is still on edge and paranoid as ever about outsider interference in their “internal affairs.” President Vladimir Putin seems to be steering his nation back towards the Soviet days, as he has consolidated the nation’s power center back to the government and it appears as if he is not going to release the levers of power anytime soon. The private sector is shrinking rapidly as well as people’s opinions on current issues within the country. Russians have been known to possess a “gung-ho” attitude of shooting now and asking questions later. Even if one roams the streets of Moscow today, you are not far from the guise of police or military personnel with their AK-47’s and a variety of other weaponry. Granted, these are not the past days of the KGB bugging your hotel room or “tailing” you around, but those attitudes and perceptions could make an appearance again at anytime.
The Litvinenko case also uncovers what Russian culture really encompasses. Murdering people in Russia is looked at as a common everyday occurrence and the people have sadly accepted these methods. It is no secret that the mob runs a lot of “the show” in Russia, as their contacts have pervaded into every sect of society and the economy. Russia has the most billionaires per capita than any nation in the world, which says a lot about disparities in wealth distribution and how much of the country these “special interests” control. I am sure that someone in Russia had something to do with the death Litvinenko, whether it is Putin, the FSB, or the mob; God only knows who. This culture of shooting now and asking questions later has made its way into the western world, which is unacceptable to many. The west has always been perplexed by the way Russians do business, but now it is an international incident.
Whatever happens in Russia needs to stay in Russia; it is their internal affair how they do business. But as long as the oil (they have the world’s largest oil reserve) and natural gas keeps flowing, the west will remain silent about the status quo in Russia. It should be obvious by now that the west will only speak up to protect their economic interests. The “messy” under world of Russia is a place that no one in the west wants to stick their foot into, as they may come out without a foot or not come out at all. Keep the game where it belongs.
10 December 2006
America Run Amuck
I recently came across an article published in The Nation, entitled “9/11: The Roots of Paranoia.” In this article the author begs the simple question of where in the hell these 9/11 conspiracy theorists are coming up with these far fetched ideas of what “really” happened on September 11, 2001. I do agree with the author of the work that the media is one culprit in this vast conspiracy network than has seemingly overtaken the internet. I am not going to mention names or website addresses out of fear of litigation, but I will mention my opinion; sue me for that.
First and foremost I will respond to the author’s critique concerning the American media. As stated before, I agree that the American media has not been cynical enough of the current administration. Think about it; when we hear of these terror threats that have somehow made their way onto American soil, the media proceeds to jump on board the train with no questions asked. They do this because this administration has the niche for inciting paranoia concerning anything remotely harmful to our security. The media tends to resemble a flock of sheep drooling at a fresh field of green fucking grass. Did Iraq have any WMD’s? After over running the sovereign nation it has been decided that Saddam did not have any WMD’s, but instead that he had a whole lot of fucking oil. The Bush Administration does deserve credit in this respect, as they have effectively neutered the American media, the one source of disparagement that they would have to contend with on a day to day basis. It is as if our opinions matter, right?
The brunt of the article was about the 9/11 conspiracy theorists organizations that have been taking root on the internet and are slowly garnering a following. America does have a storied past concerning conspiracy theories, which in turn does not surprise me that this sect of anarchists have popped up. There are theories out there that FDR knew that the Japanese were going to attack Pearl Harbor in 1941, but he let it happen anyway. Or the Roswell, New Mexico incident with the supposed alien space ship that crashed. Essentially, there are those out there who have nothing better to do than bash their heads off the wall until shit starts stammering out of their mouths.
The 9/11 conspiracy theories revolve around two separate ideas; one the government knew that the attacks were going to happen and subsequently let it happen or that the government did it in order to pick a fight with Iraq. I do not think that the government was that desperate for oil, as we could have seemingly entered Iraq like we did illegally in March 2003 and told the world to fuck itself without the whole 9/11 deal. They attempt to give empirical evidence suggesting that the government somehow blew up the World Trade Center after the planes struck the towers to weaken the steel in the buildings. But all of their so called “scientific evidence” has been proved a fallacy. Steel melts at 2500 degrees, but it begins to weaken at 1500 degrees. The WTC was made up of a lot of steel and cement; supports will break even if weakened a bit. Almost 3,000 people perished that day and to incite the idea that the government was behind it is made. These anarchists are repulsing in their ideology and as people.
The author of the article cites a poll that was taken in July; in which 1/3 of Americans believe the government is giving us a line of bullshit concerning 9/11. Maybe I am giving “W” too much credit on this one, but I think he has been forthright about the actual events of 9/11, everything else, hell no. I found it amusing that an outgoing representative in the US Congress decided to introduce a bill in a symbolic gesture of impeaching “W.” I applaud this congresswoman, but the new democratic leadership refuses to pick a fight with the president and the bill will not even make it out of committee. But if a poll was taken asking how many Americans agreed that president should be removed from office, I think the number would be higher than 1/3rd.
So, who in the end will be to blame for the turmoil that this nation faces? Those who voted for “W” twice!
I recently came across an article published in The Nation, entitled “9/11: The Roots of Paranoia.” In this article the author begs the simple question of where in the hell these 9/11 conspiracy theorists are coming up with these far fetched ideas of what “really” happened on September 11, 2001. I do agree with the author of the work that the media is one culprit in this vast conspiracy network than has seemingly overtaken the internet. I am not going to mention names or website addresses out of fear of litigation, but I will mention my opinion; sue me for that.
First and foremost I will respond to the author’s critique concerning the American media. As stated before, I agree that the American media has not been cynical enough of the current administration. Think about it; when we hear of these terror threats that have somehow made their way onto American soil, the media proceeds to jump on board the train with no questions asked. They do this because this administration has the niche for inciting paranoia concerning anything remotely harmful to our security. The media tends to resemble a flock of sheep drooling at a fresh field of green fucking grass. Did Iraq have any WMD’s? After over running the sovereign nation it has been decided that Saddam did not have any WMD’s, but instead that he had a whole lot of fucking oil. The Bush Administration does deserve credit in this respect, as they have effectively neutered the American media, the one source of disparagement that they would have to contend with on a day to day basis. It is as if our opinions matter, right?
The brunt of the article was about the 9/11 conspiracy theorists organizations that have been taking root on the internet and are slowly garnering a following. America does have a storied past concerning conspiracy theories, which in turn does not surprise me that this sect of anarchists have popped up. There are theories out there that FDR knew that the Japanese were going to attack Pearl Harbor in 1941, but he let it happen anyway. Or the Roswell, New Mexico incident with the supposed alien space ship that crashed. Essentially, there are those out there who have nothing better to do than bash their heads off the wall until shit starts stammering out of their mouths.
The 9/11 conspiracy theories revolve around two separate ideas; one the government knew that the attacks were going to happen and subsequently let it happen or that the government did it in order to pick a fight with Iraq. I do not think that the government was that desperate for oil, as we could have seemingly entered Iraq like we did illegally in March 2003 and told the world to fuck itself without the whole 9/11 deal. They attempt to give empirical evidence suggesting that the government somehow blew up the World Trade Center after the planes struck the towers to weaken the steel in the buildings. But all of their so called “scientific evidence” has been proved a fallacy. Steel melts at 2500 degrees, but it begins to weaken at 1500 degrees. The WTC was made up of a lot of steel and cement; supports will break even if weakened a bit. Almost 3,000 people perished that day and to incite the idea that the government was behind it is made. These anarchists are repulsing in their ideology and as people.
The author of the article cites a poll that was taken in July; in which 1/3 of Americans believe the government is giving us a line of bullshit concerning 9/11. Maybe I am giving “W” too much credit on this one, but I think he has been forthright about the actual events of 9/11, everything else, hell no. I found it amusing that an outgoing representative in the US Congress decided to introduce a bill in a symbolic gesture of impeaching “W.” I applaud this congresswoman, but the new democratic leadership refuses to pick a fight with the president and the bill will not even make it out of committee. But if a poll was taken asking how many Americans agreed that president should be removed from office, I think the number would be higher than 1/3rd.
So, who in the end will be to blame for the turmoil that this nation faces? Those who voted for “W” twice!
07 December 2006
Iraq and Our Sex Crazed Culture
The Iraq Study Group published their report today in an official capacity. The report essentially calls for a gradual troop reduction starting in 2008, with minimal U.S. forces staying on in an advisory role. Will “W” accept the results? Only the wall knows and the hamster that runs around in his skull (his brain). The group consisted of an equal amount of democrats and republicans, which I guess you could say is bi-partisan. The whooping and the hollering over the report maybe a bit exaggerated over the coming days, but at least it is something. If the group’s ideas manage to resonate with the president, the following actions will resemble the twilight of the Vietnam War. After we go into the country, fuck it up, we pull our asses out with our tails between our legs. Good job “W,” another stunning victory for the United States of America.
On a lighter note it has been revealed that Dick Cheney’s daughter, Mary is pregnant. Not a big deal you say? This one even has Big Dick’s own party ragging his ass. Mary Cheney is indeed a lesbian and is having this child with her partner of 15 years. I personally do not see the problem in it, big deal, it happens all the time now. But remember, Cheney belongs to the REPUBLICAN party, the conservatives. His so called allies are already criticizing Cheney over it. The ironic part in all of this is that the Bush Whitehouse has never supported same sex marriage and has quite frankly spoken out against it being wrong and immoral. What a dad! Hopefully this teaches ol’ Dick a lesson; do not associate with people who despise your kids.
In other news the Senate unanimously confirmed Robert Gates today as defense secretary with a 95-2 vote. I wish Gates luck and lots of it. I’ll send him my lucky rabbit’s foot. I have also taken note of the fact that Britney Spears has been Yahoo’s top search for the past week. Are Americans and the rest of the world that concerned with seeing her puss? Yeah I went and found it, but I used the Google because the Google knows all (mocking “W”). I really cannot say that I am all that impressed with it. It’s just a snapper; shit I can Google that and see about a million of them. Personally I have never really been all that impressed with Spears, as she is just another blonde bimbo in the line of thousands that seems to permeate through our society. I also believe that people are searching like mad to find the supposed sex tape that she and Kevin Federline (fuck tard) made. Yeah, I don’t think I’ll be looking for that one anytime soon.
The Iraq Study Group published their report today in an official capacity. The report essentially calls for a gradual troop reduction starting in 2008, with minimal U.S. forces staying on in an advisory role. Will “W” accept the results? Only the wall knows and the hamster that runs around in his skull (his brain). The group consisted of an equal amount of democrats and republicans, which I guess you could say is bi-partisan. The whooping and the hollering over the report maybe a bit exaggerated over the coming days, but at least it is something. If the group’s ideas manage to resonate with the president, the following actions will resemble the twilight of the Vietnam War. After we go into the country, fuck it up, we pull our asses out with our tails between our legs. Good job “W,” another stunning victory for the United States of America.
On a lighter note it has been revealed that Dick Cheney’s daughter, Mary is pregnant. Not a big deal you say? This one even has Big Dick’s own party ragging his ass. Mary Cheney is indeed a lesbian and is having this child with her partner of 15 years. I personally do not see the problem in it, big deal, it happens all the time now. But remember, Cheney belongs to the REPUBLICAN party, the conservatives. His so called allies are already criticizing Cheney over it. The ironic part in all of this is that the Bush Whitehouse has never supported same sex marriage and has quite frankly spoken out against it being wrong and immoral. What a dad! Hopefully this teaches ol’ Dick a lesson; do not associate with people who despise your kids.
In other news the Senate unanimously confirmed Robert Gates today as defense secretary with a 95-2 vote. I wish Gates luck and lots of it. I’ll send him my lucky rabbit’s foot. I have also taken note of the fact that Britney Spears has been Yahoo’s top search for the past week. Are Americans and the rest of the world that concerned with seeing her puss? Yeah I went and found it, but I used the Google because the Google knows all (mocking “W”). I really cannot say that I am all that impressed with it. It’s just a snapper; shit I can Google that and see about a million of them. Personally I have never really been all that impressed with Spears, as she is just another blonde bimbo in the line of thousands that seems to permeate through our society. I also believe that people are searching like mad to find the supposed sex tape that she and Kevin Federline (fuck tard) made. Yeah, I don’t think I’ll be looking for that one anytime soon.
06 December 2006
Trimming The Fat
I must admit that I am impressed with two occurrences this past day. It is rare that I am impressed with anything anymore, so enjoy. The first of which is Robert Gates. Gates is “W’s” nominee for the vacant post of defense secretary. He maybe a Bush man, but his answer to this question during the Senate Armed Services Committee confirmation hearing stunned me, “Do you believe we are winning the war in Iraq?” Gates replied “no!” I had to check my ears to ensure that I heard that answer correctly, but he actually said “no.” I am unsure about how much influence he will have on “W” (probably none as “W” tends not to listen to those who knows what they are talking about), but I am sure he will be a moderate source of information in the Bush camp. Gates even stated that he wants to actually go to Iraq and talk with ground commanders about the situation. He may actually listen to the people who know the most about war, generals. Unlike “Rummy,” who had the tendency to listen to the wall instead of war experts, Gates may indeed resolve the tactical issues in Iraq.
The other news that caught my eye was that New York has banned artificial trans-fat in every restaurant in the city. This was the city that banned smoking in public places as well, which says to me that the officials actually give a rat’s ass about their citizens. Artificial trans-fat is basically the shit that makes us all fat and can be found in everything from pie crust to chocolate (basically the shit we eat every day of our lives). The downside to this is that people are going to bitch and moan about not being able to stuff their obese faces with fat loaded burgers and hot dogs at the local bar and grill. Point in fact; people are too indolent to care for themselves, so now it falls on a city government. I am sure that other major cities in the US will follow suit (hopefully Houston, the fattest city in America), but it all depends on how liberal their local city councils are. Welcome to the new healthy and over populated America people!
I must admit that I am impressed with two occurrences this past day. It is rare that I am impressed with anything anymore, so enjoy. The first of which is Robert Gates. Gates is “W’s” nominee for the vacant post of defense secretary. He maybe a Bush man, but his answer to this question during the Senate Armed Services Committee confirmation hearing stunned me, “Do you believe we are winning the war in Iraq?” Gates replied “no!” I had to check my ears to ensure that I heard that answer correctly, but he actually said “no.” I am unsure about how much influence he will have on “W” (probably none as “W” tends not to listen to those who knows what they are talking about), but I am sure he will be a moderate source of information in the Bush camp. Gates even stated that he wants to actually go to Iraq and talk with ground commanders about the situation. He may actually listen to the people who know the most about war, generals. Unlike “Rummy,” who had the tendency to listen to the wall instead of war experts, Gates may indeed resolve the tactical issues in Iraq.
The other news that caught my eye was that New York has banned artificial trans-fat in every restaurant in the city. This was the city that banned smoking in public places as well, which says to me that the officials actually give a rat’s ass about their citizens. Artificial trans-fat is basically the shit that makes us all fat and can be found in everything from pie crust to chocolate (basically the shit we eat every day of our lives). The downside to this is that people are going to bitch and moan about not being able to stuff their obese faces with fat loaded burgers and hot dogs at the local bar and grill. Point in fact; people are too indolent to care for themselves, so now it falls on a city government. I am sure that other major cities in the US will follow suit (hopefully Houston, the fattest city in America), but it all depends on how liberal their local city councils are. Welcome to the new healthy and over populated America people!
04 December 2006
Failure
I feel that it is necessary to have another word on the Bear’s performance on Sunday. Rex Grossman proceeded to turn the ball over 3 fucking times and managed a lofty 1.3 QB rating. 1.3? Are you kidding me? Yet Lovie Smith still feels that it is proper to stick with Grossman as QB. I know they are 10-2 with Rex at the helm, but they were about the same last year with Kyle Orton running the show. What happened last year? They lost in the first round of the playoffs as the number 2 seed in the NFC. The Bears do have the potential to go to the Super Bowl this year. I know I maybe a bit biased, but they are a solid team. Their defense and special teams are immense. They just need to put the figurative cherry on top with some offense. This saga remains open, as there are four games left in the regular season; we’ll see if Rex can pull his head out of his ass in that time. At least they clinched the NFC North with the win today. Thank you Devin Hester!
Now I must have a word concerning the BCS (Bullshit Championship Series) bullshit. Ohio State will play Florida in the “Fiesta National Championship Game (highly original name by the way).” Besides the fact that I am absolutely sick and tired of college teams from Florida hogging the lime light, Florida does not belong in the game. Michigan proved all year long that they were deserving of the number two ranking, yet they get proper fucked at the end of the year. The “experts” claim that Florida played in a tougher conference, the SEC and that they had the toughest schedule in the nation. I agree on the fact that they did indeed have a tough schedule and they performed well. But conferences should have no baring on BCS bowl selection. These “experts” also claim that the Big Ten was weak this year, which in comparison to the SEC they were. But the number one team in the country was in that conference, along with a few tough opponents. The fact that there were not as many ranked teams in the Big Ten can be culpable to that they all beat the hell out of each other, which makes for far better games. More than half of the country wanted to see Michigan in the big game, not Florida. What a load of shit! At least the computers cannot be blamed this time, as it was human error.
On the news front it has been revealed that “W” may possibly make some “strategry adjustments” concerning the war in Iraq. It is about time! Granted he may make some cosmetic changes to the current strategy, but there is no guarantee that he will do anything of significance. He has a habit of doing that you know. Personally I believe he does a lot of talking (incandescent rambling with a lack of proper grammar), but never really follows through on much. I cannot wait until January when Bush’s cronies are subpoenaed by Congress to spill their slimy guts about what is really going on in Iraq. I spoke of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez yesterday and it appears that he has won re-election in a sweeping electoral win. His victory does smell of bullshit though, as he used state resources in his “campaign” and many were celebrating before the “polls” closed. More than likely the election was rigged. I would assume that he used Chicago Machine tactics in his endeavor for another 6 year term (roughing people up at the polls, dead people voting, etc…). I cannot wait until he rants again in front of the United Nations next October. Hopefully he’ll learn a new adjective to describe President Bush by then (fuck tard or in Spanish, tard de la cogida).
On a final note Microsoft released ‘Windows Vista’ this past week to businesses world wide. Being a “tech addict” I have been testing Windows Vista since July. My impression is that the system is rather unstable. It basically takes a supped up computer to run the operating system, as well as a mega supped up graphics card. The system does look quite flashy and in many ways similar to the Mac OS (a good rip off), with many visual improvements and such. But if you like waiting 10 minutes for your computer to boot up and enjoy countless system crashes, go for it. I believe Microsoft is also releasing the new Office system simultaneously. Again, I have been testing that as well, and I am more impressed with it than the new Windows. It is simpler, as you do not have to waste as much time formatting everything. Hell for the college crowds out there it even has a ‘reference’ section so you do not have to fuck around with bibliographies and such. You can even talk into a microphone (voice recognition) and it will type; even though that bombed this past week at a live display at Microsoft’s headquarters in Redmond, Washington. So if you wish to buy Vista, go for it, but you’ll have to buy a new computer or upgrade (spend more money) on your current machine.
I feel that it is necessary to have another word on the Bear’s performance on Sunday. Rex Grossman proceeded to turn the ball over 3 fucking times and managed a lofty 1.3 QB rating. 1.3? Are you kidding me? Yet Lovie Smith still feels that it is proper to stick with Grossman as QB. I know they are 10-2 with Rex at the helm, but they were about the same last year with Kyle Orton running the show. What happened last year? They lost in the first round of the playoffs as the number 2 seed in the NFC. The Bears do have the potential to go to the Super Bowl this year. I know I maybe a bit biased, but they are a solid team. Their defense and special teams are immense. They just need to put the figurative cherry on top with some offense. This saga remains open, as there are four games left in the regular season; we’ll see if Rex can pull his head out of his ass in that time. At least they clinched the NFC North with the win today. Thank you Devin Hester!
Now I must have a word concerning the BCS (Bullshit Championship Series) bullshit. Ohio State will play Florida in the “Fiesta National Championship Game (highly original name by the way).” Besides the fact that I am absolutely sick and tired of college teams from Florida hogging the lime light, Florida does not belong in the game. Michigan proved all year long that they were deserving of the number two ranking, yet they get proper fucked at the end of the year. The “experts” claim that Florida played in a tougher conference, the SEC and that they had the toughest schedule in the nation. I agree on the fact that they did indeed have a tough schedule and they performed well. But conferences should have no baring on BCS bowl selection. These “experts” also claim that the Big Ten was weak this year, which in comparison to the SEC they were. But the number one team in the country was in that conference, along with a few tough opponents. The fact that there were not as many ranked teams in the Big Ten can be culpable to that they all beat the hell out of each other, which makes for far better games. More than half of the country wanted to see Michigan in the big game, not Florida. What a load of shit! At least the computers cannot be blamed this time, as it was human error.
On the news front it has been revealed that “W” may possibly make some “strategry adjustments” concerning the war in Iraq. It is about time! Granted he may make some cosmetic changes to the current strategy, but there is no guarantee that he will do anything of significance. He has a habit of doing that you know. Personally I believe he does a lot of talking (incandescent rambling with a lack of proper grammar), but never really follows through on much. I cannot wait until January when Bush’s cronies are subpoenaed by Congress to spill their slimy guts about what is really going on in Iraq. I spoke of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez yesterday and it appears that he has won re-election in a sweeping electoral win. His victory does smell of bullshit though, as he used state resources in his “campaign” and many were celebrating before the “polls” closed. More than likely the election was rigged. I would assume that he used Chicago Machine tactics in his endeavor for another 6 year term (roughing people up at the polls, dead people voting, etc…). I cannot wait until he rants again in front of the United Nations next October. Hopefully he’ll learn a new adjective to describe President Bush by then (fuck tard or in Spanish, tard de la cogida).
On a final note Microsoft released ‘Windows Vista’ this past week to businesses world wide. Being a “tech addict” I have been testing Windows Vista since July. My impression is that the system is rather unstable. It basically takes a supped up computer to run the operating system, as well as a mega supped up graphics card. The system does look quite flashy and in many ways similar to the Mac OS (a good rip off), with many visual improvements and such. But if you like waiting 10 minutes for your computer to boot up and enjoy countless system crashes, go for it. I believe Microsoft is also releasing the new Office system simultaneously. Again, I have been testing that as well, and I am more impressed with it than the new Windows. It is simpler, as you do not have to waste as much time formatting everything. Hell for the college crowds out there it even has a ‘reference’ section so you do not have to fuck around with bibliographies and such. You can even talk into a microphone (voice recognition) and it will type; even though that bombed this past week at a live display at Microsoft’s headquarters in Redmond, Washington. So if you wish to buy Vista, go for it, but you’ll have to buy a new computer or upgrade (spend more money) on your current machine.
03 December 2006
Winter Wonderland
It is Saturday night and I am bored, surprised? Well let me tell you this; my liver hates me right now and drinking would not be in my best interest. After consuming 10 gallons of “holiday flavors” last evening, I really do not think my liver has the ability to oxidize more booze. I have spent this past week either drunk off of my ass or sitting in front of the TV in my underwear watching the “E! Channel.” If I see or hear Ryan Secrest come on with anymore “breaking news” concerning the marriage of two people that I could give a rat’s ass about, I am going to personally cancel the cable. Who in the hell cares about Tom Cruise and Kati Holmes? I sure as hell don’t. The marriage will end up in divorce anyways.
How about all of this snow! Brings me back to summer when I couldn’t drive after my run in with the law, except this time I have a valid driver’s license. In retrospect I am thinking that it was not such a good idea to buy a Mustang and proceed to “supe” it up. The damn thing doesn’t know what traction is in dry conditions, much less when there is a sixteenth of an inch of snow on the ground. I slid through 4 stop signs the other night while traveling 4 fucking blocks. I think I may find it necessary to invest in a monster truck or a snow plow. Anyone have any of those items for sale? Never the less it will be stuck in a driveway for a week or 2, unless I get towed, which will save me a lot of trouble.
On the football scene I must say that I am impressed with UCLA defeating USC today. I do not know if I or much less America as a whole can stand to see USC in another national championship game that no one watches. The regular season games are far better than those “Bowl Championship Series” games. Personally I am rooting for Michigan to play Ohio State, as Michigan has been the second best team all year. Fuck the “experts” and what they think. The Bears on the other hand are progressing well with a 9-2 record. This season is rather reminiscent of last year, as the offense has taken a shit and the defense; along with Brian Urlacher’s gravitational pull are winning games. Just two fucking touchdowns would have tied the game last week against New England. But Rex Grossman decided to do what he does best; run like a chicken with his head cut off and throw the ball to the other team.
On the political front I have not seen “W” make an ass of himself of late, except when he was stood up by the Iraqi prime minister. That is a classic! This is the guy Bush probably had installed as the PM, yet the guy does not give him the time of day. I love it! Hugo Chavez, the “populist” (he runs around in mobs with his people) president of Venezuela has been on fire of late with his critical comments concerning our president. I am not sticking up for Bush, but come the hell on Hugo! “Diablo?” That is all you can think of? Get some new material or call Donald Rumsfeld.
I have also been obsessed with the big story out of Britain that CNN cannot get enough of; the poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko. Litvinenko evidently was a former KGB man who has been rather critical of current Russian President Vladimir Putin’s policies (he has a fetish for Soviet Russia). Litvinenko blamed Putin for ordering him poisoned with Polonium 210, a nasty radioactive substance that probably only the Russians would have for consumer use. Personally I believe that the Russians probably had something to do with it, as they do not fuck around, which in this context is right up their alley. I mean if there is a bank robbery-hostage situation in Russia, they go on a head and bring the tanks in; no shit.
Bout all I got for now...damn!
It is Saturday night and I am bored, surprised? Well let me tell you this; my liver hates me right now and drinking would not be in my best interest. After consuming 10 gallons of “holiday flavors” last evening, I really do not think my liver has the ability to oxidize more booze. I have spent this past week either drunk off of my ass or sitting in front of the TV in my underwear watching the “E! Channel.” If I see or hear Ryan Secrest come on with anymore “breaking news” concerning the marriage of two people that I could give a rat’s ass about, I am going to personally cancel the cable. Who in the hell cares about Tom Cruise and Kati Holmes? I sure as hell don’t. The marriage will end up in divorce anyways.
How about all of this snow! Brings me back to summer when I couldn’t drive after my run in with the law, except this time I have a valid driver’s license. In retrospect I am thinking that it was not such a good idea to buy a Mustang and proceed to “supe” it up. The damn thing doesn’t know what traction is in dry conditions, much less when there is a sixteenth of an inch of snow on the ground. I slid through 4 stop signs the other night while traveling 4 fucking blocks. I think I may find it necessary to invest in a monster truck or a snow plow. Anyone have any of those items for sale? Never the less it will be stuck in a driveway for a week or 2, unless I get towed, which will save me a lot of trouble.
On the football scene I must say that I am impressed with UCLA defeating USC today. I do not know if I or much less America as a whole can stand to see USC in another national championship game that no one watches. The regular season games are far better than those “Bowl Championship Series” games. Personally I am rooting for Michigan to play Ohio State, as Michigan has been the second best team all year. Fuck the “experts” and what they think. The Bears on the other hand are progressing well with a 9-2 record. This season is rather reminiscent of last year, as the offense has taken a shit and the defense; along with Brian Urlacher’s gravitational pull are winning games. Just two fucking touchdowns would have tied the game last week against New England. But Rex Grossman decided to do what he does best; run like a chicken with his head cut off and throw the ball to the other team.
On the political front I have not seen “W” make an ass of himself of late, except when he was stood up by the Iraqi prime minister. That is a classic! This is the guy Bush probably had installed as the PM, yet the guy does not give him the time of day. I love it! Hugo Chavez, the “populist” (he runs around in mobs with his people) president of Venezuela has been on fire of late with his critical comments concerning our president. I am not sticking up for Bush, but come the hell on Hugo! “Diablo?” That is all you can think of? Get some new material or call Donald Rumsfeld.
I have also been obsessed with the big story out of Britain that CNN cannot get enough of; the poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko. Litvinenko evidently was a former KGB man who has been rather critical of current Russian President Vladimir Putin’s policies (he has a fetish for Soviet Russia). Litvinenko blamed Putin for ordering him poisoned with Polonium 210, a nasty radioactive substance that probably only the Russians would have for consumer use. Personally I believe that the Russians probably had something to do with it, as they do not fuck around, which in this context is right up their alley. I mean if there is a bank robbery-hostage situation in Russia, they go on a head and bring the tanks in; no shit.
Bout all I got for now...damn!
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