a little question from patricia
Was it something in your personal life or something in the world of politics?
Was it a good thing or a bad thing?
In the future when someone mentions the year, 2004, what will it bring to your mind?
Friday, December 31
AH! THE REASONS BEGIN TO EMERGE:
"It is all too obvious that the US's relative disinterest in the disaster has to do with its cause: a random act of nature. Absent a human actor who can easily be held up to blame, an act of natural terror is not interesting for the powers that be, because it does not allow a reaction of the order of regime change or "shock and awe" bombardment. Really, who wants to feed the people who are starving for food, when it's so much more satisfying to feed those who seem to be starving for democracy? When there's no one to punish, no perceived political wrong to right, the US tends to ignore the crisis."
The entire article is here:
http://www.counterpunch.org/deliso12312004.html
The entire article is here:
http://www.counterpunch.org/deliso12312004.html
Tsunami footage too graphic?
When I'm not reveling in the sights of Arizona and I'm just chilling out in the hotel suite, we watch CNN to keep abreast of the South Pacific catastrophe. Last night Anderson Cooper mentioned that viewers were complaining about the graphic nature of the tsunami footage being shown. I wonder how many people complained and what is wrong with their remote control? I wonder what planet these people think they are living on.
PS: I'm online via AOL this week, so I checked out the tsunami message boards. I was happily surprised that many felt that bush should put off his inauguration festivities or donate the money to help the victims. Sadly, the majority of sentiment was full of hatred. Here is an example of some of the sentiment:
What an asshole.
PS: I'm online via AOL this week, so I checked out the tsunami message boards. I was happily surprised that many felt that bush should put off his inauguration festivities or donate the money to help the victims. Sadly, the majority of sentiment was full of hatred. Here is an example of some of the sentiment:
What happened in Asia is certainly tragic, but it still pales in comparison to our own tragedy, 9/11. What happened in Asia was a natural disaster. 9/11 was brought about by hatred of Americans. The tsunami victims were poor and lived in huts. The 9/11 victims were productive members of society, and the loss of real estate was unimaginable.
What an asshole.
Bitchin'
by pissed off patricia
How low can they go? I received an email this morning with the word "tsunami" in the subject line. I opened it and the content was all about cheap drugs from somewhere. Yep, even the spammers are into benefitting from the disaster.
I also heard this morning on TV that tourists are yet going to the islands and staying in the hotels that survived. Yes the islands need the tourist money but how the hell can you splash around in the pool when dead bodies are still washing up on the shores? There were reports of tourists bitching because the service wasn't what they expected. I hope those weren't American tourists. I wish the tourists would stay home and instead donate whatever money they were planning to spend there to a worthy relief cause instead.
It's amazing how some human beings can turn a tragedy into a money making operation. After Hurricane Jeanne blew through our area it wasn't days but hours until some were selling t-shirts that said, I survived Frances and Jeanne. The local newspaper is selling a book now filled with photos of the aftermath of the storms. Nope, nowhere in the book does it say that the proceeds are going to a charitable organization. We actually received one of these books as a Christmas gift. Why the hell would anyone think that we would want to see those pictures and relive that experience? You wonder sometimes where people's heads might be. I have one idea but I won't say it here.
You have probably heard that Powell and Jeb Bush are flying over to view the area where the tsunamis hit. Why those two you ask? What good will it do for them to view the carnage first hand? Doesn't Jeb have a job being the governor of Florida? Why not save the cost of their plane trip and add that money to our donations? Well yes, that makes all the sense in the world, but this isn't about logic, this is about something else. Powell will soon be political history so why him? They say that Jeb is going because he has dealt with hurricane damages. Yeah, right. The tsunami death toll and damages are way different than our hurricanes. Could it be that Jeb's face will forever be associated with our American kindness to the victims and be remembered as such in 2008? That would be my guess. Jeb has repeatedly stated that he has no intention of seeking the presidency in 2008, and we all know that bushs never lie. We do know that, don't we? Please keep in mind that when you go to the neocon's PNAC website, Jeb's name is right there along with all the others. He's there with Rumsfeld, and Wolfowitz and all the rest. Yes, please do keep that in mind. Please!
So here we are on the eve of a new year. I have a suggestion for a resolution for everyone. Let's resolve to do our level best to try to make the world a better place in the coming year. Let's try to make 2005 a year that we will look back on with a smile. From my point of view, 2004 was not pretty and it wasn't kind. It has been a year of so many tragedies and so much hardship around the globe. I'm pretty sure we can do better, aren't you?
Here's to a new year of love and kindness. Here's to a new year of peace. Here's to a new year that we can be proud of and remember with fondness. Here's to a Happy New Year!
How low can they go? I received an email this morning with the word "tsunami" in the subject line. I opened it and the content was all about cheap drugs from somewhere. Yep, even the spammers are into benefitting from the disaster.
I also heard this morning on TV that tourists are yet going to the islands and staying in the hotels that survived. Yes the islands need the tourist money but how the hell can you splash around in the pool when dead bodies are still washing up on the shores? There were reports of tourists bitching because the service wasn't what they expected. I hope those weren't American tourists. I wish the tourists would stay home and instead donate whatever money they were planning to spend there to a worthy relief cause instead.
It's amazing how some human beings can turn a tragedy into a money making operation. After Hurricane Jeanne blew through our area it wasn't days but hours until some were selling t-shirts that said, I survived Frances and Jeanne. The local newspaper is selling a book now filled with photos of the aftermath of the storms. Nope, nowhere in the book does it say that the proceeds are going to a charitable organization. We actually received one of these books as a Christmas gift. Why the hell would anyone think that we would want to see those pictures and relive that experience? You wonder sometimes where people's heads might be. I have one idea but I won't say it here.
You have probably heard that Powell and Jeb Bush are flying over to view the area where the tsunamis hit. Why those two you ask? What good will it do for them to view the carnage first hand? Doesn't Jeb have a job being the governor of Florida? Why not save the cost of their plane trip and add that money to our donations? Well yes, that makes all the sense in the world, but this isn't about logic, this is about something else. Powell will soon be political history so why him? They say that Jeb is going because he has dealt with hurricane damages. Yeah, right. The tsunami death toll and damages are way different than our hurricanes. Could it be that Jeb's face will forever be associated with our American kindness to the victims and be remembered as such in 2008? That would be my guess. Jeb has repeatedly stated that he has no intention of seeking the presidency in 2008, and we all know that bushs never lie. We do know that, don't we? Please keep in mind that when you go to the neocon's PNAC website, Jeb's name is right there along with all the others. He's there with Rumsfeld, and Wolfowitz and all the rest. Yes, please do keep that in mind. Please!
So here we are on the eve of a new year. I have a suggestion for a resolution for everyone. Let's resolve to do our level best to try to make the world a better place in the coming year. Let's try to make 2005 a year that we will look back on with a smile. From my point of view, 2004 was not pretty and it wasn't kind. It has been a year of so many tragedies and so much hardship around the globe. I'm pretty sure we can do better, aren't you?
Here's to a new year of love and kindness. Here's to a new year of peace. Here's to a new year that we can be proud of and remember with fondness. Here's to a Happy New Year!
“Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute"--Robert Goodloe Harper
Billions for offense, but only 35 million to contribute--george bush
Thursday, December 30
Greetings From Sedona Arizona
by Blondesense
The rainbows are thick and juicy here. I saw lots of them since I arrived in "sunny" Arizona. Hundreds had to be evacuated from Sedona as the temperatures rose thus melting Flagstaff's snow. I got to see Sedona on CNN and all over the news here in the Southwest. It's funny when you go to a place where it hardly ever rains and then when it does, the news is loaded with stories of rain. There were helicopter shots of cars driving in rain. The kind people of Sedona apologized to me for the rain. I told them that it was just like home. But it isn't like Long Island home here. It's like a home for my soul. I woke up today and poked my head out the door and what to my wondering eyes should appear but the most gorgeous sights of my life.
Today I hiked up the beautiful red rocks of Sedona with a spiritual guide. I have never seen such a beautiful place in my life and never have I felt such energy. This place has been calling me years. I didn't know why. But here I am. I felt the energy rush through me like lightning while I was high above Sedona standing in magical, mystical places where this world meets the other world. There is a god, you know. It's not that god who hates gay people and loves war. This god is the creator and this god doesn't have a lot of rules and regulations. This god wants us to love each other and pray together very hard for peace to come over the world. This god wants each and every one of us to hand over our sorrows and suffering to be healed and gone forever so that we may remain in the light.
More pictures and visions to come soon.
The rainbows are thick and juicy here. I saw lots of them since I arrived in "sunny" Arizona. Hundreds had to be evacuated from Sedona as the temperatures rose thus melting Flagstaff's snow. I got to see Sedona on CNN and all over the news here in the Southwest. It's funny when you go to a place where it hardly ever rains and then when it does, the news is loaded with stories of rain. There were helicopter shots of cars driving in rain. The kind people of Sedona apologized to me for the rain. I told them that it was just like home. But it isn't like Long Island home here. It's like a home for my soul. I woke up today and poked my head out the door and what to my wondering eyes should appear but the most gorgeous sights of my life.
Today I hiked up the beautiful red rocks of Sedona with a spiritual guide. I have never seen such a beautiful place in my life and never have I felt such energy. This place has been calling me years. I didn't know why. But here I am. I felt the energy rush through me like lightning while I was high above Sedona standing in magical, mystical places where this world meets the other world. There is a god, you know. It's not that god who hates gay people and loves war. This god is the creator and this god doesn't have a lot of rules and regulations. This god wants us to love each other and pray together very hard for peace to come over the world. This god wants each and every one of us to hand over our sorrows and suffering to be healed and gone forever so that we may remain in the light.
More pictures and visions to come soon.
JUST WHEN I THOUGHT I COULDN'T GET MORE DISGUSTED
bush pledges $35 million in tsunami aid; Republicans plan $40 million inaugural ball.
And then this comes sailing in from PissedOffPatricia:
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 30 (Bernama) -- The death toll in Acheh, the region worst hit by last Sunday's tsunami, may exceed 400,000 as many affected areas could still not be reached for search and rescue operations, Indonesia's Ambassador to Malaysia Drs H. Rusdihardjo said Thursday.
He said the estimate was based on air surveillance by Indonesian authorities who found no signs of life in places like Meulaboh, Pulau Simeulue and Tapak Tuan while several islands off the west coast of Sumatera had "disappeared".
Check it all out at:
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news_lite.php?id=111574
And then this comes sailing in from PissedOffPatricia:
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 30 (Bernama) -- The death toll in Acheh, the region worst hit by last Sunday's tsunami, may exceed 400,000 as many affected areas could still not be reached for search and rescue operations, Indonesia's Ambassador to Malaysia Drs H. Rusdihardjo said Thursday.
He said the estimate was based on air surveillance by Indonesian authorities who found no signs of life in places like Meulaboh, Pulau Simeulue and Tapak Tuan while several islands off the west coast of Sumatera had "disappeared".
Check it all out at:
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news_lite.php?id=111574
CONTEST THE VOTE
Sent to PeterofLoneTree by someone who neither a Democrat or Republican:
Questions are swirling around whether the election was conducted
honestly or not. We need to know -- was it or wasn't it?
When Congress reconvenes in January, at least 14 members of the House of
Representatives will challenge the validity of the 2004 election. They
will request an immediate investigation into many problems and
irregularities encountered in the election.
According to the Electoral Count Act of 1887, one senator and one House
Representative are required to contest an election prior to
inauguration. We have the representatives; we still need a senator.
Please let your senators know that you want them to stand up with House
Representatives and contest the vote. A petition has been drawn up
requesting senators to join with the Represenatives. To review and sign
the petition, please go to: www.ContestTheVote.org .
The signed petition will be delivered to each senator in person by a
coalition of representatives from a variety of concerned organizations
and individuals. We will also deliver copies of signed petitions from
all states to the U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary to encourage
them to hold formal hearings on the 2004 election.
The online petition has been signed by 14,000 people and the goal is to
reach 100,000 signatures by December 31st. Continue to reach out to
organizations, friends and affiliates. The response has been fantastic.
If you haven't signed already, please sign and if you have - tell others
about the option at www.ContestTheVote.org. Call in to a radio station.
Send a letter to the editor. Don't forget to mention www.ContestTheVote.org
Thanks for your support,
Questions are swirling around whether the election was conducted
honestly or not. We need to know -- was it or wasn't it?
When Congress reconvenes in January, at least 14 members of the House of
Representatives will challenge the validity of the 2004 election. They
will request an immediate investigation into many problems and
irregularities encountered in the election.
According to the Electoral Count Act of 1887, one senator and one House
Representative are required to contest an election prior to
inauguration. We have the representatives; we still need a senator.
Please let your senators know that you want them to stand up with House
Representatives and contest the vote. A petition has been drawn up
requesting senators to join with the Represenatives. To review and sign
the petition, please go to: www.ContestTheVote.org .
The signed petition will be delivered to each senator in person by a
coalition of representatives from a variety of concerned organizations
and individuals. We will also deliver copies of signed petitions from
all states to the U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary to encourage
them to hold formal hearings on the 2004 election.
The online petition has been signed by 14,000 people and the goal is to
reach 100,000 signatures by December 31st. Continue to reach out to
organizations, friends and affiliates. The response has been fantastic.
If you haven't signed already, please sign and if you have - tell others
about the option at www.ContestTheVote.org. Call in to a radio station.
Send a letter to the editor. Don't forget to mention www.ContestTheVote.org
Thanks for your support,
QUOTE OF THE DAY:
From the San Francisco Chronicle:
Yet critics noted that U.S. aid so far was about the equivalent of what the United States spent in seven hours for its military intervention in Iraq. "We spend $35 million before breakfast every day in Iraq," said Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont.
Yet critics noted that U.S. aid so far was about the equivalent of what the United States spent in seven hours for its military intervention in Iraq. "We spend $35 million before breakfast every day in Iraq," said Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont.
In Response To The First Two Comments In The Blog Below:
POP, Mule, And Everybody,
I'm hip to your sentiments. I've written Leach, Harkin, and Grassley dozens of times and the standard response is the "we're looking into the situation" bullshit reply. "Thank you for your concern". Sound familiar? POP, punch up http://www.floridagreens.org/ and see what happens. The rest of you , try this: http://www.gp.org/ or this: http://www.lp.org/. This ain't no recruiting drive. I could give a shit less what your affiliation is. But there's at least a couple of outfits that are trying to do something--the Greens and the Libertarians, "Glibs" for short. They're the ones who with nothing to gain, except respect, are leading the fight for an honest recount in Ohio. There's a lot of hot poop on the subject at http://www.truthout.org/, as well as http://www.commondreams.org/.
My next letter to Harkin is going to include the question: "On January 6, are you going to stand up like a man, or stay seated like a Republican in Democrat's clothing? Or maybe an "ass of a different color"?
I'm hip to your sentiments. I've written Leach, Harkin, and Grassley dozens of times and the standard response is the "we're looking into the situation" bullshit reply. "Thank you for your concern". Sound familiar? POP, punch up http://www.floridagreens.org/ and see what happens. The rest of you , try this: http://www.gp.org/ or this: http://www.lp.org/. This ain't no recruiting drive. I could give a shit less what your affiliation is. But there's at least a couple of outfits that are trying to do something--the Greens and the Libertarians, "Glibs" for short. They're the ones who with nothing to gain, except respect, are leading the fight for an honest recount in Ohio. There's a lot of hot poop on the subject at http://www.truthout.org/, as well as http://www.commondreams.org/.
My next letter to Harkin is going to include the question: "On January 6, are you going to stand up like a man, or stay seated like a Republican in Democrat's clothing? Or maybe an "ass of a different color"?
Here's What To Do With The List Of Fax Numbers:
This from http://www.truthout.org/docs_04/122304V.shtml "In a December 21 conference call with activists from the around the US, Jackson said he has urged Senators Kerry (D-MA) and Hillary Clinton (D-NY) to stand with US Representatives who intend to challenge the Electoral College's expected approval of George W. Bush for a second term. A challenge by US Representatives in 2000 failed because no Senators would join their motion."
Soooo, fire off a fax, presupposing you have access to one, and let your elected representative (sic) know that he/she should at least make a stand on Jan. 6 and challenge the results of the election. Or e-mail.
Soooo, fire off a fax, presupposing you have access to one, and let your elected representative (sic) know that he/she should at least make a stand on Jan. 6 and challenge the results of the election. Or e-mail.
Bitchin'
by pissed off patricia
Our drinking buddy is out at his "ranch" clearing brush. (what's with the brush clearing and how much is there?) Plus he apparently is practicing walking and learning to ride his bike. He's pretty busy with all this stuff and we all know it's "hard work". With all this on his Texas sized plate he probably just doesn't have time to make New Year's resolution, right? How about we make some for him. What should he resolve to do in the coming year? Okay sure, his first one should be to stop declaring wars based on lies, but besides that, what else?
Our drinking buddy is out at his "ranch" clearing brush. (what's with the brush clearing and how much is there?) Plus he apparently is practicing walking and learning to ride his bike. He's pretty busy with all this stuff and we all know it's "hard work". With all this on his Texas sized plate he probably just doesn't have time to make New Year's resolution, right? How about we make some for him. What should he resolve to do in the coming year? Okay sure, his first one should be to stop declaring wars based on lies, but besides that, what else?
Wednesday, December 29
Need A Fax Number For A Senator? Here's A Partial List:
Have something you wanna raise hell about? Let 'er rip!
A Volunteer has passed this along - here is Sen Harkin's and a few others
Sen's' fax #;s
Fax to:
ARK: Pryor-D 202-228-0908 / Blanche-D 202-228-1371
CA: Boxer-D 202-228-3972 / Feinstein-D 202-228-3954
CONN: Dodd-D 202-228-1683 / Lieberman-D 202-224-9750
DE: Carper-D 202-228-2190 / Biden-D 202-224-0139
FLA: Nelson-D 202-228-2183
HI: Akaka-D 202-224-2126 / Inouye-D 202-224-6747
IL: Durbin-D 202-228-0400 / Obama-D 202-228-1372 and 312-427-6401
IN: Bayh-D fax, 202-228-1377 / Lugar-R 202-228-0360
IOWA: Harkin-D 202-224-9369
LA: Landrieu-D 202-224-9735
MD: Mikulski-D 202-224-8858 / Sarbanes-D 202-224-1651
MAINE: Snowe-R 202-224-1946
MASS: Kerry-D 202-224-8525 / Kennedy-D 202-224-2417
MI: Stabenow-D 202-228-0325 / Levin-D 202-224-1388
MN: Dayton-D 202-228-2186
MT: Baucus-D 202-228-3790
NV: Reid-D 202-224-7327
ND Dorgan-D 202-224-1193 / Conrad-D 202-224-7776
NJ: Corzine-D 202-228-2197 / Lautenberg-D 202-228-4054
NM: Bingaman-D 202-224-2852
NY: Clinton-D 202-228-0282 / Schumer-D 202-228-1218
OH: Voinovich-R 202-228-1382 / DeWine-R 202-224-6519
OR: Wyden-D 202-228-2717 RI: Chafee-R 202-228-2853 / Reed-D 202-224-4680
SD: Johnson-D 202-228-5765
VT: Jeffords-I 202-228-0776 / Leahy-D 202-224-3476
WASH: Cantwell-D 202-228-0514 / Murray-D 202-224-0238
WVA: Rockefeller-D 202-224-7665 / Byrd-D 202-228-0002
WI: Feingold-D 202-224-2725 / Kohl-D 202-224-9787
And if you want to e-mail, try http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home/
A Volunteer has passed this along - here is Sen Harkin's and a few others
Sen's' fax #;s
Fax to:
ARK: Pryor-D 202-228-0908 / Blanche-D 202-228-1371
CA: Boxer-D 202-228-3972 / Feinstein-D 202-228-3954
CONN: Dodd-D 202-228-1683 / Lieberman-D 202-224-9750
DE: Carper-D 202-228-2190 / Biden-D 202-224-0139
FLA: Nelson-D 202-228-2183
HI: Akaka-D 202-224-2126 / Inouye-D 202-224-6747
IL: Durbin-D 202-228-0400 / Obama-D 202-228-1372 and 312-427-6401
IN: Bayh-D fax, 202-228-1377 / Lugar-R 202-228-0360
IOWA: Harkin-D 202-224-9369
LA: Landrieu-D 202-224-9735
MD: Mikulski-D 202-224-8858 / Sarbanes-D 202-224-1651
MAINE: Snowe-R 202-224-1946
MASS: Kerry-D 202-224-8525 / Kennedy-D 202-224-2417
MI: Stabenow-D 202-228-0325 / Levin-D 202-224-1388
MN: Dayton-D 202-228-2186
MT: Baucus-D 202-228-3790
NV: Reid-D 202-224-7327
ND Dorgan-D 202-224-1193 / Conrad-D 202-224-7776
NJ: Corzine-D 202-228-2197 / Lautenberg-D 202-228-4054
NM: Bingaman-D 202-224-2852
NY: Clinton-D 202-228-0282 / Schumer-D 202-228-1218
OH: Voinovich-R 202-228-1382 / DeWine-R 202-224-6519
OR: Wyden-D 202-228-2717 RI: Chafee-R 202-228-2853 / Reed-D 202-224-4680
SD: Johnson-D 202-228-5765
VT: Jeffords-I 202-228-0776 / Leahy-D 202-224-3476
WASH: Cantwell-D 202-228-0514 / Murray-D 202-224-0238
WVA: Rockefeller-D 202-224-7665 / Byrd-D 202-228-0002
WI: Feingold-D 202-224-2725 / Kohl-D 202-224-9787
And if you want to e-mail, try http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home/
Swedish paper reports tsunami warning halted out of concern for tourist industry
Just minutes after the earthquake in the Indian Ocean on Sunday morning, Thailand’s foremost meteorological experts were sitting together in a crisis meeting. But they decided not to warn about the tsunami “out of courtesy to the tourist industry,” writes the Thailand daily newspaper The Nation.
The experts got the news around 8:00 am on Sunday morning local time. An hour later, the first massive wave struck. But the experts started to discuss the economic impacts when they discussed if a tsunami warning should be issued.
Those are the leading sentences. Read it all here:
http://207.44.245.159/article7569.htm
The experts got the news around 8:00 am on Sunday morning local time. An hour later, the first massive wave struck. But the experts started to discuss the economic impacts when they discussed if a tsunami warning should be issued.
Those are the leading sentences. Read it all here:
http://207.44.245.159/article7569.htm
SAY WHAT? by pissedoffpatricia
US attorney-general joins Saddam
December 29, 2004
December 29, 2004
FORMER US attorney general Ramsey Clark is to join the defence team of Saddam Hussein, a spokesman for the toppled Iraqi president's lawyers said today.
"This honours and inspires us." and "Mr Clark also said the US itself must be tried for the November assault on Fallujah, destruction of houses, torture in prisons and its role in the deaths of thousands of Iraqis in the war."
Mr Clark, who held the office of attorney general under US president Lyndon B. Johnson, "is one of the members of the defence team of president Saddam Hussein," Ziad Khassawneh said.
If It Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It
Here's a place to start on our campaign to get the good little boys and girls in Congress to leave Social Security the hell alone. It's a marvelous little website that lets you access your local House Rep. and U.S. Senators: http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home/. Hint: Be reasonably polite but firm as hell. If you need sources for your arguments check out Paul Krugman and Lew Rockwell.
Bitchin' Because I Have To by pissed off patricia
And you said it wouldn't happen. Well, it did.
The president of the most powerful nation on the globe took a couple a minutes out this morning from biking and clearing brush on his "ranch" so that he could address the earthquake/tsunami disaster. That's the disaster that occurred, uh when did it occur? Oh yeah, last SUNDAY. Today is what day? Oh yeah, it's WEDNESDAY. The frat kid of the hour gave up a few minutes for the cause. Finally shamed into doing a little Texas jawin' with us commoners, he moseyed on over. We couldn't see him when he spoke so we don't know how sad he looked. Seems he was with a few members of the press at his own private helicopter hanger at the "ranch". He actually sounds even more ignorant when he speaks sans TV camera. He reminded us that he has sent letters of condolence. No one reminded him that a damned condolence letter is about the last thing that is needed right now. Maybe his letters could be used for toilet tissue. My favorite part of his, peek-a-boo we can't see you, speech was when he told how awful the parents of the children killed in the disasters must feel. He tried to get mushy and gushy, but it didn't come across very well. I guess the parents of Iraqi children who have been killed in his war have no feelings and no hearts, because I've never heard his chimpness mention them.
Our bombs and bullets have killed children every bit as dead as the tsunamis did, and I'm pretty sure tears are just as plentiful in Iraq as they are in the wake of the tsunamis. I'm sure Iraqi parents cry just as much when they bury their little dead collateral damages of war, as the people do now when they bury their sweet little children who died as a result of this natural disaster.
Meanwhile we seem to be in a pissing match about which country has and will give more money to the disaster victims. I don't remember this ever being a concern in the past after major disasters abroad. Why now? Seems we're being awful defensive about this. Could it be because this is the first time, at least in my memory, that just about everyone in the world thinks we're a country of butt-heads? And, with the pocket change that we first handed the victims, haven't we proved our butt-head reputation was deserved? I guess when you lie and declare a war in which thousands of innocent people are killed it looks pretty bad. Especially when the whole world knows that we are spending billions every month to kill people. That sure makes giving pocket change to save lives look pretty sad. Our message is that we will spare no expense when we are about a war and killing people, but when it comes to saving lives we shall hold our purse strings very tight. No wonder we're holding our butt-heads very low.
Now hop on over to the Washington Post and read this article. "Aid Grows Amid Remarks About President's Absence"
The president of the most powerful nation on the globe took a couple a minutes out this morning from biking and clearing brush on his "ranch" so that he could address the earthquake/tsunami disaster. That's the disaster that occurred, uh when did it occur? Oh yeah, last SUNDAY. Today is what day? Oh yeah, it's WEDNESDAY. The frat kid of the hour gave up a few minutes for the cause. Finally shamed into doing a little Texas jawin' with us commoners, he moseyed on over. We couldn't see him when he spoke so we don't know how sad he looked. Seems he was with a few members of the press at his own private helicopter hanger at the "ranch". He actually sounds even more ignorant when he speaks sans TV camera. He reminded us that he has sent letters of condolence. No one reminded him that a damned condolence letter is about the last thing that is needed right now. Maybe his letters could be used for toilet tissue. My favorite part of his, peek-a-boo we can't see you, speech was when he told how awful the parents of the children killed in the disasters must feel. He tried to get mushy and gushy, but it didn't come across very well. I guess the parents of Iraqi children who have been killed in his war have no feelings and no hearts, because I've never heard his chimpness mention them.
Our bombs and bullets have killed children every bit as dead as the tsunamis did, and I'm pretty sure tears are just as plentiful in Iraq as they are in the wake of the tsunamis. I'm sure Iraqi parents cry just as much when they bury their little dead collateral damages of war, as the people do now when they bury their sweet little children who died as a result of this natural disaster.
Meanwhile we seem to be in a pissing match about which country has and will give more money to the disaster victims. I don't remember this ever being a concern in the past after major disasters abroad. Why now? Seems we're being awful defensive about this. Could it be because this is the first time, at least in my memory, that just about everyone in the world thinks we're a country of butt-heads? And, with the pocket change that we first handed the victims, haven't we proved our butt-head reputation was deserved? I guess when you lie and declare a war in which thousands of innocent people are killed it looks pretty bad. Especially when the whole world knows that we are spending billions every month to kill people. That sure makes giving pocket change to save lives look pretty sad. Our message is that we will spare no expense when we are about a war and killing people, but when it comes to saving lives we shall hold our purse strings very tight. No wonder we're holding our butt-heads very low.
Now hop on over to the Washington Post and read this article. "Aid Grows Amid Remarks About President's Absence"
What they're worried about in Iowa City
I guess it's all a question of priorities. The Press-Citizen can be accessed at http://www.press-citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll/frontpage
Anyhow, here's the text of the e-mail I sent this morning:
Subj: Lower costs of future deer kills
Date: 12/29/04 8:01:32 AM Central Standard Time
From: PETEROFLONETREE
To: opinion@press-citizen.com
Your editorial contains these comments: "The result is a larger deer population grazing in our yards; ultimately this population must peak, resulting in disease or starvation. Certainly this raises the ethical question whether allowing such slow and painful deaths is humane..."
And your question raises another question: Does causing 500,000 deaths by enforced sanctions against Iraq in the 1990s by the United States create similar ethical questions? source: http://web.ukonline.co.uk/f.dowker/genocideiraq.html
Anyhow, here's the text of the e-mail I sent this morning:
Subj: Lower costs of future deer kills
Date: 12/29/04 8:01:32 AM Central Standard Time
From: PETEROFLONETREE
To: opinion@press-citizen.com
Your editorial contains these comments: "The result is a larger deer population grazing in our yards; ultimately this population must peak, resulting in disease or starvation. Certainly this raises the ethical question whether allowing such slow and painful deaths is humane..."
And your question raises another question: Does causing 500,000 deaths by enforced sanctions against Iraq in the 1990s by the United States create similar ethical questions? source: http://web.ukonline.co.uk/f.dowker/genocideiraq.html
Tuesday, December 28
tsunami, not a river, of denial
While I am avoiding studying for the Texas Bar exam, I thought I read that a U.N. official said that President Bush was "stingy" regarding the $15 million in relief he pledged for the victims of the tsunami.
Is it really news to the world that Bush is "stingy?"
Bush hasn't made a public statement between clearing brush on the faux ranch and exercising. He had a little National Security Council meeting and made some other possibly offensive remarks. President Clinton, the old pro, made some on-point remarks and of course made the two-term Bush look like an amateur.
Over ten percent of Americans live in poverty, and the world discovers that Bush is "stingy." Bush has cut Pell grants and student loans to college students, and the world discovers that Bush is "stingy." Bush mocked death row inmates who plead for their lives, and the world discovers that Bush is "stingy." Bush wants to gut tort litigation and prevent individuals from suing giant corporations and holding them responsible for their negligent acts, and the world discovers that Bush is "stingy."
Not only is the man "stingy" he is out of touch with everyone except the world of corporate oil. His own mother commented that she couldn't bother her "beautiful mind" over body counts in Iraq. I doubt she is rolling any bandages for Indians, either.
It is a miracle that there has been any coverage of the tragedy. It is so abstact to Americans that this many people are dead and more will die due to disease, it is safe to report it like some strange increase in a human lottery jackpot. What is real, like how out of touch our media and therefore ourselves are, isn't reported. We have a terrible conflict in Iraq, violent crime in our neighborhoods, our schools are a failure, trying to live day to day is more and more difficult, and we can't get on airplanes and have our luggage arrive with us. Media is comfortable reporting the increase in the death toll in Asia because it is comforting that no matter what is wrong here, we are not there.
Is it really news to the world that Bush is "stingy?"
Bush hasn't made a public statement between clearing brush on the faux ranch and exercising. He had a little National Security Council meeting and made some other possibly offensive remarks. President Clinton, the old pro, made some on-point remarks and of course made the two-term Bush look like an amateur.
Over ten percent of Americans live in poverty, and the world discovers that Bush is "stingy." Bush has cut Pell grants and student loans to college students, and the world discovers that Bush is "stingy." Bush mocked death row inmates who plead for their lives, and the world discovers that Bush is "stingy." Bush wants to gut tort litigation and prevent individuals from suing giant corporations and holding them responsible for their negligent acts, and the world discovers that Bush is "stingy."
Not only is the man "stingy" he is out of touch with everyone except the world of corporate oil. His own mother commented that she couldn't bother her "beautiful mind" over body counts in Iraq. I doubt she is rolling any bandages for Indians, either.
It is a miracle that there has been any coverage of the tragedy. It is so abstact to Americans that this many people are dead and more will die due to disease, it is safe to report it like some strange increase in a human lottery jackpot. What is real, like how out of touch our media and therefore ourselves are, isn't reported. We have a terrible conflict in Iraq, violent crime in our neighborhoods, our schools are a failure, trying to live day to day is more and more difficult, and we can't get on airplanes and have our luggage arrive with us. Media is comfortable reporting the increase in the death toll in Asia because it is comforting that no matter what is wrong here, we are not there.
Let's All Do Something For george:
For it is written: "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." Matthew 25 And george, YOU ARE THE LEAST.
It's too embarrassing when we get caught beating people to death so let's ship them someplace else and let others beat them to death
A US jet registered to a ghost company whisks terror suspects to countries that use torture, according to the Washington Post.
The Gulfstream V turbojet had been seen at US military bases around the world, often loading hooded and shackled suspects and delivering them to countries known to use torture, a process the CIA calls "rendition", the newspaper said.
The jet, with the tail number N379P, had been seen in Afghanistan, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan.
Read it all here: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page-
/0,5744,11799413%255E401,00.html
The Gulfstream V turbojet had been seen at US military bases around the world, often loading hooded and shackled suspects and delivering them to countries known to use torture, a process the CIA calls "rendition", the newspaper said.
The jet, with the tail number N379P, had been seen in Afghanistan, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan.
Read it all here: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page-
/0,5744,11799413%255E401,00.html
Question Of The Day:
If, as the old saying goes, "Ignorance is Bliss", is george bush the happiest man on earth?
Do You Hear What I Hear?
Bitchin'
by pissed off patricia
Do You Hear What I Hear?
Even as thousands have been killed as a result of the tsunamis, soldiers and Iraqis are still being killed in Iraq. The war wasn't put on hold until the tsunami business is over. The media put the war on hold though. So how many soldiers have you heard were killed today in Iraq? There were at least two. Did you hear about it on TV? I didn't. Did you instead hear that the death toll from the tsunamis is rising rapidly? Me too, about a zillion times.
Send the kids to bed...or maybe not.
If you punch http://dahrjamailiraq.com/gallery/view_-
album.php?set_albumName=album28&page=1
make sure first you can handle some gruesome shit. And for once I'm not blowing smoke up anybody's pantsleg.
album.php?set_albumName=album28&page=1
make sure first you can handle some gruesome shit. And for once I'm not blowing smoke up anybody's pantsleg.
Here's how I phrased it to the Iowa City Press-Citizen
By ALEKSANDAR VASOVIC
Associated Press Writer
"KIEV, Ukraine (AP) -- Opposition leader Viktor Yushchenkocelebrated his apparent victory in Ukraine's presidential electionrerun Monday, but his opponent refused to concede defeat and vowed tochallenge the results before Ukraine's Supreme Court in what could be aprotracted legal battle."
Peter of Lone Tree continues: Your article plus GoogleNews.com provide me with 2,634 different articles to read on the crooked Ukrainian election. I have been unable to discover any Associated Press or Google coverage of the crooked voting in Ohio on November 2. Are the stories of crooked voting in this country being suppressed?
Associated Press Writer
"KIEV, Ukraine (AP) -- Opposition leader Viktor Yushchenkocelebrated his apparent victory in Ukraine's presidential electionrerun Monday, but his opponent refused to concede defeat and vowed tochallenge the results before Ukraine's Supreme Court in what could be aprotracted legal battle."
Peter of Lone Tree continues: Your article plus GoogleNews.com provide me with 2,634 different articles to read on the crooked Ukrainian election. I have been unable to discover any Associated Press or Google coverage of the crooked voting in Ohio on November 2. Are the stories of crooked voting in this country being suppressed?
Searching for a suitable headline the only thing I could think of was: "Will Kerry Stand Up Like A Man Instead Of A Democrat And Challenge The Vote?"
"In Miami County, Blackwell certified a 98.6% turnout in the Concord Southwest precinct, comprised of 520 votes for Bush and 157 for Kerry. This statistically improbable turnout has all but 10 of the 689 registered voters casting their ballots on Election Day. A preliminary canvas by The Free Press of less than half the precinct found 25 registered voters admitting they had not voted, meaning the official tally was almost certainly fraudulent."
Read it all here: http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/1228-01.htm
Read it all here: http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/1228-01.htm
Kerry's lead attorney on the ground in Ohio, Daniel J. Hoffheimer:
"There are many conspiracy theorists opining these days. There are many allegations of fraud. But this presidential election is over. The Bush-Cheney ticket has won. The Kerry-Edwards campaign has found no conspiracy and no fraud in Ohio, though there have been many irregularities that cry out to be fixed for future elections. Senator Kerry and we in Ohio intend to fix them. When all of the problems in Ohio are added together, however bad they are, they do not add up to a victory for Kerry-Edwards."
Translation: We're going to roll over and take it up the butt like good little boys.
Translation: We're going to roll over and take it up the butt like good little boys.
Is Rumsfeld finally admitting part of the truth?
FROM http://edition.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0412/24/nfcnn.01.html
DONALD RUMSFELD, SECRETARY OF DEFENSE:
"And to change that way of living, would strike at the very essence of our country. And I think all of us have a sense if we imagine the kind of world we would face if the people who bombed the mess hall in Mosul, or the people who did the bombing in Spain, or the people who attacked the United States in New York, shot down the plane over Pennsylvania (emphasis mine) and attacked the Pentagon, the people who cut off peoples' heads on television to intimidate, to frighten -- indeed the word "terrorized" is just that. Its purpose is to terrorize, to alter behavior, to make people be something other than that which they want to be."
Peter of Lone Tree continues: That would help explain why the wreckage was scattered over an eight-mile area. Since it's highly unlikely the Iraqi air force shot the plane down we'll have to assume the deed was done by the U.S. air force which is what a lot of people have been saying all along. So where does that leave the heroes of Flight 93? Not-so-rhetorical Question Of The Day: Is September 11 going to turn into another November 22? Or, has it already?
Pissed Off Patricia had this to say as well as related comments: "Yeah, that sure would explain it. They are saying that Rummy was tired when he said that. I guess lying is "hard work". Bullshit happens.
Notice that the number of innocent Iraqis we have killed in Iraq just about equals the number killed by the tsunamis. When we do it it's called collateral damage. When the ocean does it, it's called a natural disaster. I think in defense of the ocean we should call all the victims of the tsunamis, collateral damage of nature. Dark humor happens.
I find it interesting that we have plenty of money to spend when it comes to killing people in Iraq but little to spend when it comes to the countries who are suffering right now and need to "be loved the way we would want to be loved ourselves". Anger also happens."
DONALD RUMSFELD, SECRETARY OF DEFENSE:
"And to change that way of living, would strike at the very essence of our country. And I think all of us have a sense if we imagine the kind of world we would face if the people who bombed the mess hall in Mosul, or the people who did the bombing in Spain, or the people who attacked the United States in New York, shot down the plane over Pennsylvania (emphasis mine) and attacked the Pentagon, the people who cut off peoples' heads on television to intimidate, to frighten -- indeed the word "terrorized" is just that. Its purpose is to terrorize, to alter behavior, to make people be something other than that which they want to be."
Peter of Lone Tree continues: That would help explain why the wreckage was scattered over an eight-mile area. Since it's highly unlikely the Iraqi air force shot the plane down we'll have to assume the deed was done by the U.S. air force which is what a lot of people have been saying all along. So where does that leave the heroes of Flight 93? Not-so-rhetorical Question Of The Day: Is September 11 going to turn into another November 22? Or, has it already?
Pissed Off Patricia had this to say as well as related comments: "Yeah, that sure would explain it. They are saying that Rummy was tired when he said that. I guess lying is "hard work". Bullshit happens.
Notice that the number of innocent Iraqis we have killed in Iraq just about equals the number killed by the tsunamis. When we do it it's called collateral damage. When the ocean does it, it's called a natural disaster. I think in defense of the ocean we should call all the victims of the tsunamis, collateral damage of nature. Dark humor happens.
I find it interesting that we have plenty of money to spend when it comes to killing people in Iraq but little to spend when it comes to the countries who are suffering right now and need to "be loved the way we would want to be loved ourselves". Anger also happens."
For you Eastern Iowans:
Mostly cloudy and mild today
Hi: 38°
Let the comments begin with this. Best I can do for now. Humidity is high, sinuses are clogged, need one more coffee and cigaret before movement and thought are possible.
Hi: 38°
Let the comments begin with this. Best I can do for now. Humidity is high, sinuses are clogged, need one more coffee and cigaret before movement and thought are possible.
Monday, December 27
Yooze Guys: Welcome Peter From Lone Tree
Peter is an honorary blonde for the next 2 weeks as we ladies will not be near computers as often as we would so like to be. Please show Peter of Lone Tree Iowa some luv.
Patricia will be back here right after the new year and I will be back from Arizona on the 7th of January. I expect to be popping in on the blogosphere, if I can get the lap top hooked up to the internet from the hotel rooms, to see what's up and report on my journeys through canyons, valleys, craters, deserts and forests. Let us pray that I packed sensible and comfortable footwear. Amen.
Patricia will be back here right after the new year and I will be back from Arizona on the 7th of January. I expect to be popping in on the blogosphere, if I can get the lap top hooked up to the internet from the hotel rooms, to see what's up and report on my journeys through canyons, valleys, craters, deserts and forests. Let us pray that I packed sensible and comfortable footwear. Amen.
Troubles continue with Ukraine presidential election
That's the lead headline at Googlenews.com. There are 2,633 related stories. I didn't review them all. But I did search the so-called "major media" sources for any mention of the vote fraud which has been alleged in Ohio and Florida, as well as other states, on Nov. 2. The only mention which might be considered "major" is by MSNBC'S Keith Olbermann . Do we smell a conspiracy here? To suppress the news about vote fraud in the United States (of all places!)? Well, as one of my favorite authors, Greg Palast, once said, "I don't believe in conspiracies...but there might be a plot".
There will be no "Quote of the Day" for this Monday (unless I get sufficiently inspired). But there is a "Suggestion for the Day". And that is: Contact your local newspaper, radio station, et.al. and ask why there are thousands of stories available about the crooked Ukrainian election, but none available about the crooked United States election.
There will be no "Quote of the Day" for this Monday (unless I get sufficiently inspired). But there is a "Suggestion for the Day". And that is: Contact your local newspaper, radio station, et.al. and ask why there are thousands of stories available about the crooked Ukrainian election, but none available about the crooked United States election.
President Says Something Sort Of Compassionate
While perusing the news today, I found something quite surprising. Our leader said something downright Christian. He didn't attribute the quote to Jesus, who was the one who said it in the Gospel of Matthew, but said "we are called" without naming who or what calls us. If I were a Christian minister, I'd be all over this. heh. This is the second time our dear leader left Jesus out of the season. Here is the leader's quote:
"Christmastime reminds each of us that we have a duty to our fellow citizens, that we are called to love our neighbor just as we would like to be loved ourselves," Bush added. "By volunteering our time and talents where they are needed most, we help heal the sick, comfort those who suffer, and bring hope to those who despair, one heart and one soul at a time."
By golly those sound like the 2 commandments of Jesus and the corporal works of mercy!
Then bush went on to talk about our troops who are fighting enemies of freedom in Afghanistan and Iraq who are "bringing liberty to the oppressed" and "are helping to win the war on terror" He explains that "they are defending the freedom and security of us all. They and their families are making many sacrifices for our nation, and for that, all Americans are deeply grateful."
I don't feel any safer knowing that a whole bunch of Iraqi's are dead. There are some of us who would disagree with bringing liberty to the oppressed by way of blowing them up, raiding their homes, torturing them, killing their children, allowing their antiquities to be looted and leaving them tons of depleted uranium to remember us by.
Governor Richardson of New Mexico really summed up the true spirit of Christmas (NOT) with this quote: "No one has fulfilled the spirit of the Christmas season more than the men and women who are serving our military overseas." I wouldn't use the term "spirit of Christmas" and "military overseas" in the same sentence during the devastating occupation of another country which didn't have WMDs and wasn't going to blow us up. I don't mean to disparage the troops. They are trained to do what they do and following someone's orders. It's just a sad sad reflection on our world at large.
"Christmastime reminds each of us that we have a duty to our fellow citizens, that we are called to love our neighbor just as we would like to be loved ourselves," Bush added. "By volunteering our time and talents where they are needed most, we help heal the sick, comfort those who suffer, and bring hope to those who despair, one heart and one soul at a time."
By golly those sound like the 2 commandments of Jesus and the corporal works of mercy!
Then bush went on to talk about our troops who are fighting enemies of freedom in Afghanistan and Iraq who are "bringing liberty to the oppressed" and "are helping to win the war on terror" He explains that "they are defending the freedom and security of us all. They and their families are making many sacrifices for our nation, and for that, all Americans are deeply grateful."
I don't feel any safer knowing that a whole bunch of Iraqi's are dead. There are some of us who would disagree with bringing liberty to the oppressed by way of blowing them up, raiding their homes, torturing them, killing their children, allowing their antiquities to be looted and leaving them tons of depleted uranium to remember us by.
Governor Richardson of New Mexico really summed up the true spirit of Christmas (NOT) with this quote: "No one has fulfilled the spirit of the Christmas season more than the men and women who are serving our military overseas." I wouldn't use the term "spirit of Christmas" and "military overseas" in the same sentence during the devastating occupation of another country which didn't have WMDs and wasn't going to blow us up. I don't mean to disparage the troops. They are trained to do what they do and following someone's orders. It's just a sad sad reflection on our world at large.
Sunday, December 26
Quote Of The Day For December 26:
This morning it was said to me by the lady of the manor, "Some of the Christmas bread that was given to us for the holidays didn't get eaten so I pitched it into the farmer's field for mulch." I replied, "You threw away food"? She said, "It was old and it smelled, so out it goes."
With a tremor in my voice I asked, "I'm old and sometimes I smell; should I be worried?"
With a tremor in my voice I asked, "I'm old and sometimes I smell; should I be worried?"
Fear of Flying
I'll be traveling via plane on Tuesday morning for the first time since 9/11. I have to take 2 flights to get where I'm going. oy. I don't particularly care for flying. I have this take off and landing issue. Once I'm up there, I'm fine as long as I'm 2 sheets to the wind. Supposedly I won't be felt up by a stranger at check in because the airports have eased up on their pat down rules, it has been reported. I always miss out on the cheap thrills. Kidding. I get plenty.
This article in the Kansas City Star is pretty interesting. You have women who feel somewhat violated by the pat down especially when it's random, and I would fall into that category. Then you have your "patriotic" women who would take their "top off... It's part of traveling, you do what you need to do." I don't think so.
I'm not bringing anything metal on the trip. I clipped the toenails already. I wouldn't want to be accused of planning to hijack an Airbus using toenail clippers that I have cleverly tried conceal between my breasts. Hey remember when you could you bring pot on airplanes? And even smoke it? Those were the days, eh?
Here is the new pat down rule:
The Transportation Security Administration has changed the rules regarding pat-down searches. Now, screeners will only pat down passengers' chests if they set off the handheld metal detector or if it looks like something could be concealed beneath their shirts.
Pat-down guidelines
I doubt I will be wearing my sequined bulky sweatshirt for the plane ride and I am hardly suspicious, as I look like the menopausal version of the 1960's all American girl next door, but these rules still leave something to be desired in a democracy, if you know what I mean.
This article in the Kansas City Star is pretty interesting. You have women who feel somewhat violated by the pat down especially when it's random, and I would fall into that category. Then you have your "patriotic" women who would take their "top off... It's part of traveling, you do what you need to do." I don't think so.
I'm not bringing anything metal on the trip. I clipped the toenails already. I wouldn't want to be accused of planning to hijack an Airbus using toenail clippers that I have cleverly tried conceal between my breasts. Hey remember when you could you bring pot on airplanes? And even smoke it? Those were the days, eh?
Here is the new pat down rule:
The Transportation Security Administration has changed the rules regarding pat-down searches. Now, screeners will only pat down passengers' chests if they set off the handheld metal detector or if it looks like something could be concealed beneath their shirts.
Pat-down guidelines
- Travelers will receive pat-downs if they set off metal detectors. Others are randomly selected.
- Passengers will get a chest pat-down if they set off the hand-held metal detector or if it looks as if something could be concealed beneath their tops.
- Avoid wearing tops with metallic designs or fibers that could set off the metal detector or bulky sweaters and sweatshirts.
- Passengers who refuse to submit to a pat-down will not be allowed to board their flights.
- Screeners are required to offer private screening to passengers, but travelers may request private screening if the option is not offered to them.
- Screeners of the same gender as the passenger, if available, will conduct the pat-downs.
I doubt I will be wearing my sequined bulky sweatshirt for the plane ride and I am hardly suspicious, as I look like the menopausal version of the 1960's all American girl next door, but these rules still leave something to be desired in a democracy, if you know what I mean.
- If a passenger thinks the screening procedure was done inappropriately, he or she should immediately request to speak to a screening supervisor. Feedback forms are available at the security checkpoints or passengers can call the TSA Contact Center at (866) 289-9673 or e-mail TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov .
Talking politics and religion at yuletide
This past year I learned who my friends were. So I got to spend a really really quiet Christmas season and holiday for a change. I learned that a lot of these "friends" were actually pro-war and they believed that the death of tens of thousands of innocents was justifiable. It will end terrorism they say. Oh really? I'd like to see that. Not kidding. I would love for all of this horror to have a happy ending somehow. Maybe I will wake up and it will have all been a dream.
People say you should never talk religion and politics. Bullshit, I say. You should talk religion and politics if the media is talking religion and politics non stop. I brought the war up a few times at some social events this year and found at that some of my "friends" felt that the only good Iraqi is a dead Iraqi and believed that Islam is an evil religion. I was glad to find that out so that I can never bother with those people again. It explained my suspicions of their redneckian leanings. Another lesson I learned was that some people are only your friend when they want something and pretend to like you and what you stand for. They conveniently disagree with you wholeheartedly when it's payback time. Normally I would forgive a debt but when someone is pro-death, I must demand payback as I don't support blood.
If there's a war going on, most definitely you should talk about war. We should look at pictures of Christmas in Iraq. I suppose until they start a draft, most people are more than happy to support the war as long as there are 40 and 50 year old ladies willing to serve in Iraq and defend our country. And let's not forget the young people who signed up to defend our country this holiday season. No, let's not forget their kids and the Iraqi kids. We should think of all the good that is being done in Iraq too, whatever that is. Well no, I can't think of all the good being done there because there is so much blood on America's hands. No blood for oil, as they say. I'd rather ride a bike and do with what I have to save lives.
People say you should never talk religion and politics. Bullshit, I say. You should talk religion and politics if the media is talking religion and politics non stop. I brought the war up a few times at some social events this year and found at that some of my "friends" felt that the only good Iraqi is a dead Iraqi and believed that Islam is an evil religion. I was glad to find that out so that I can never bother with those people again. It explained my suspicions of their redneckian leanings. Another lesson I learned was that some people are only your friend when they want something and pretend to like you and what you stand for. They conveniently disagree with you wholeheartedly when it's payback time. Normally I would forgive a debt but when someone is pro-death, I must demand payback as I don't support blood.
If there's a war going on, most definitely you should talk about war. We should look at pictures of Christmas in Iraq. I suppose until they start a draft, most people are more than happy to support the war as long as there are 40 and 50 year old ladies willing to serve in Iraq and defend our country. And let's not forget the young people who signed up to defend our country this holiday season. No, let's not forget their kids and the Iraqi kids. We should think of all the good that is being done in Iraq too, whatever that is. Well no, I can't think of all the good being done there because there is so much blood on America's hands. No blood for oil, as they say. I'd rather ride a bike and do with what I have to save lives.
Saturday, December 25
Merry Christmas
I got a new puter chair. What did you get? My son said he got the "wide load" seat so that I can grow with it cause I sit here so much. Wasn't that sweet? What a nice boy. It's very nice and roomy. Leather and high back. Made in Canada with lovely wood armrests and legs. Lifetime warranty. Wonder if it's covered when I grow out of it sideways?
That does it. I'm going for a looooong walk after my Christmas nap.
That does it. I'm going for a looooong walk after my Christmas nap.
Quote Of The Day For This Christmas:
"Needing Nothing, I Have Everything".
Feel free to interpolate, extrapolate, even gesticulate upon the above statement.
But remember: Matriculation causes blindness; or so I've been told.
Feel free to interpolate, extrapolate, even gesticulate upon the above statement.
But remember: Matriculation causes blindness; or so I've been told.
Friday, December 24
Fill In The Blank:
Here's the beginning of the sentence as found in Googlenews:
BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) Bearing gifts of praise and encouragement, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld paid a Christmas Eve visit to some of the most dangerous ___________.
The most original and creative entry will be awarded a gift of praise and encouragement.
BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) Bearing gifts of praise and encouragement, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld paid a Christmas Eve visit to some of the most dangerous ___________.
The most original and creative entry will be awarded a gift of praise and encouragement.
Quote of the Week:
"It seems like the Three Stooges have been put in charge of
security for the Ohio recount,"--Cobb-LaMarche Media Director Blair
Bobier.
security for the Ohio recount,"--Cobb-LaMarche Media Director Blair
Bobier.
Wear and Tear...
Maybe I meant War On Terror. Anyway, fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy...There is no social security crisis. But there will be if bush and his good little boys and girls in Congress have their way.
To wit: "While Social Security does little to protect against inflation (something it was not designed to do) it does protect against the potential ravages of economic collapses. To invest Social Security in the stock market would render this depression-safety-net worthless, and possibly could even hasten conditions of something hitherto unseen: a perfect storm in the market with the coming of an inevitable demographically driven market collapse." So says David Price at http://www.counterpunch.org/price12222004.html. (Bear with me here; I'm still trying to figure the hotmail links.)
In any case, simple words cannot describe the ecstasy I feel on hearing the rumor that Social Security payments will increase by 2.7% next year; especially since I read recently that the boys and girls in Congress voted themselves a 3.5% increase. And that reminds me; here's a handy little site for you all: http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home/. Type in your zip code here and there and send and receive e-mail messages to and from your idio...er, local Senate and House members. There's also a review of recently passed legislation. By the way,anybody remember the last time a proposal in Congress didn't pass?
Before someone jumps on me for being too all-inclusive in my condemnation of the legislative bodies, let me say this: Any Senator or Representative who doesn't stand on Jan. 6 and challenge the electoral college vote is a wussie. Or is it woosie?
To wit: "While Social Security does little to protect against inflation (something it was not designed to do) it does protect against the potential ravages of economic collapses. To invest Social Security in the stock market would render this depression-safety-net worthless, and possibly could even hasten conditions of something hitherto unseen: a perfect storm in the market with the coming of an inevitable demographically driven market collapse." So says David Price at http://www.counterpunch.org/price12222004.html. (Bear with me here; I'm still trying to figure the hotmail links.)
In any case, simple words cannot describe the ecstasy I feel on hearing the rumor that Social Security payments will increase by 2.7% next year; especially since I read recently that the boys and girls in Congress voted themselves a 3.5% increase. And that reminds me; here's a handy little site for you all: http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home/. Type in your zip code here and there and send and receive e-mail messages to and from your idio...er, local Senate and House members. There's also a review of recently passed legislation. By the way,anybody remember the last time a proposal in Congress didn't pass?
Before someone jumps on me for being too all-inclusive in my condemnation of the legislative bodies, let me say this: Any Senator or Representative who doesn't stand on Jan. 6 and challenge the electoral college vote is a wussie. Or is it woosie?
Maybe This Visit Will Be Different From Bush's Visit
From Reuters: "Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld paid US troops in Iraq a surprise Christmas Eve visit after weeks of controversy over his handling of the war and perceived lack of sensitivity to US forces and their families."
How different. Maybe Rumpot will present the troops with a plastic ham instead of a plastic turkey.
How different. Maybe Rumpot will present the troops with a plastic ham instead of a plastic turkey.
Leaves From The Tree:
Yes, there was a "lone tree". A tall stately elm which somehow grew up by itself in the middle of the Iowa prairie and used as a landmark by people migrating across the country. Still alive when I graduated Lone Tree High in 1959, it died of Dutch Elm Disease sometime in the '60s and all that remains is a stone marker with plaque.
Thursday, December 23
Ya think old Vladimir feels the same way about bushie?
THE PRESIDENT: As you know, Vladimir Putin and I have got a good personal relationship, starting with our meeting in Slovenia. I intend to keep it that way. It's important for Russia and the United States to have the kind of relationship where if we disagree with decisions, we can do so in a friendly and positive way. (answering first question at news conference on Monday)
Today: Putin again slammed US-led plans to press ahead with elections next month in Iraq and said it was the height of hypocrisy for Western governments to criticize Russia for pursuing its interests in neighbouring former Soviet republics.
"Today according to our estimates there are nine cities in Iraq where there are hostilities but they still want to carry out elections," he said, condemning European elections monitors' plans to observe the poll from Jordan as a "farce".
"We do not understand how there can be an election in a country under conditions of total occupation... It's absurd. It's a farce. Everything is upside down."
THE PRESIDENT: As you know, Vladimir Putin and I have got a good personal relationship, starting with our meeting in Slovenia. I intend to keep it that way. It's important for Russia and the United States to have the kind of relationship where if we disagree with decisions, we can do so in a friendly and positive way. (answering first question at news conference on Monday)
Today: Putin again slammed US-led plans to press ahead with elections next month in Iraq and said it was the height of hypocrisy for Western governments to criticize Russia for pursuing its interests in neighbouring former Soviet republics.
"Today according to our estimates there are nine cities in Iraq where there are hostilities but they still want to carry out elections," he said, condemning European elections monitors' plans to observe the poll from Jordan as a "farce".
"We do not understand how there can be an election in a country under conditions of total occupation... It's absurd. It's a farce. Everything is upside down."
My Wish For You
This is not going to be a Bitchin' post. This is my wish for each of you. I wish you a Christmas filled with love and happiness.
I also wish for PEACE ON EARTH in 2005.
I will not be posting for about a week. I am taking a timeout to enjoy my holiday. Be sweet to one another and I'll see you in the New Year.
With love,
patricia
I also wish for PEACE ON EARTH in 2005.
I will not be posting for about a week. I am taking a timeout to enjoy my holiday. Be sweet to one another and I'll see you in the New Year.
With love,
patricia
Cloned Kitty
Cute kitty.
Nine-week-old 'Little Nicky' Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2004 in Texas. 'Little Nicky' a successfully cloned cat was sold to Julie by Genetic Savings and Clone for $50,000.
Nicky's birth has sparked ethics debates across the land. Some good reasons given. Some not. Read the article here. Even though many say that the $50,000 could have been spent sheltering homeless cats, no one has a right to tell Julie the owner what to do with her money. The thing that would make me not clone my cat, assuming I had that much money to piss away and I had no ethics problems with cloning, is this:
"Scientists also warn that cloned animals suffer from more health problems than their traditionally bred peers and that cloning is still a very inexact science. It takes many gruesome failures to produce just a single clone."Gruesome failures? No thanks. In the seminary 14 years ago, cloning was a big topic, a whole semester in moral theology. Our professor was a priest and a scientist. We went over the pros and cons. It really boils down to whether or not this technology will be used for good and for saving lives. It's amazing what people will do for money so I'm not sure I trust my fellow human beings to use this technology for good.
Of course in the Catholic Seminary we had to discuss the 'soul' part of it as well as the scientific and ethics part of it. No one knows what the real story is with souls though. It's all theory and speculation. You can argue if the soul is this, then cloning would mean that or if the soul is that then cloning would mean this till the cows come home.
Very interesting subject though. Invitro fertilizationwas another good moral topic to study as well as stem cell research. The Church had some really good points against invitro, but the main point was god awful and was riddled with holes. I'll talk about that another time. (can you tell that I was raised by a lawyer?) Thought I'd be rolling my eyes in all the moral classes, but since they were taught by scientists, MDs and lawyers who were also priests, it was quite informative and there was nothing black and white about it. No, we didn't learn that "the pope says this, so you must believe this." We were actually invited to participate in the dialogue, do research and make arguments for either side. Not bad, right?
And no, I wouldn't clone my cat. My kitty, who we had to euthanize on election day of all days like it wasn't a horrible enough day, looked like that cat above. We adopted her after the previous kitty who looked like that was hit by a car. You can usually find a cat that looks like a previous cat or has a similar personality in an animal shelter. Cloning pets is not a cause for the greater good, so I would have to argue against it if I were to prepare for a debate on this, which I'm not doing right now.
I would be interested in the cloning of organs to save lives especially if it were my child's life. We've come this far in cloning technology, there's no going back. Let the debates begin. We're in the future now.
White Christmas
I watched the Weather Channel this morning. News channels just piss me off. A lot of you all will be having quite a white Christmas. I also see that a lot of areas that don't usually have snow storms are inundated with the white stuff. Stay home if your area is not equipped to handle large amounts of snow. You'll get stuck and you won't be happy or safe lost in a snow drift. If you have an SUV it doesn't matter cause when it snows, the roads are littered with flipped over SUV's. Enjoy the day and read blogs! Our snow/ice is gone so I won't be worried about breaking my hip for Christmas. It's back in the mid to high 50's around here. Balmy.
Stay safe and warm, my friends!
Stay safe and warm, my friends!
Wednesday, December 22
Christ-less Christmas in the White House
I have been so busy preparing for the 2007th birthday of our savior, Jesus that I almost forgot to read World Net Daily this week. Most of the stories are kind of boring and whiney this week, but one whiner was rather ironic.
Here's the poop.
Did you notice that our leader has been neglecting to mention Jesus in his speeches? He rarely says the word "Christmas" and uses that "holiday" or "season" word instead. There is only one creche on display in the White House and you can hardly see our Lord and Savior. The White House decorations in my opinion are really beautiful however they pay homage to Frosty the Snowman and Santa which really irritates Christian taxpayers who are trying to make a case against department stores, businesses and government offices which don't support Jesus and now our own leader who was appointed by the Lord himself, barely gives him a mention.
WND goes on to complain that our leader gave more of a religious explanation for Hanukkah (Remember the brave Maccabees speech?) than to Christmas and even paid more attention to Kwanzaa last year than to Christmas. I believe that Jerry Falwell proclaimed that Kwanzaa was a fake holiday.
See yesterday's post about the bushistas and their support of Rev. Moon as the new messiah from Gadfly. The WND knows that Moon is no messiah. It's beginning to make sense to me now... all this fake religiosity by bush.
Here's the poop.
Did you notice that our leader has been neglecting to mention Jesus in his speeches? He rarely says the word "Christmas" and uses that "holiday" or "season" word instead. There is only one creche on display in the White House and you can hardly see our Lord and Savior. The White House decorations in my opinion are really beautiful however they pay homage to Frosty the Snowman and Santa which really irritates Christian taxpayers who are trying to make a case against department stores, businesses and government offices which don't support Jesus and now our own leader who was appointed by the Lord himself, barely gives him a mention.
WND goes on to complain that our leader gave more of a religious explanation for Hanukkah (Remember the brave Maccabees speech?) than to Christmas and even paid more attention to Kwanzaa last year than to Christmas. I believe that Jerry Falwell proclaimed that Kwanzaa was a fake holiday.
See yesterday's post about the bushistas and their support of Rev. Moon as the new messiah from Gadfly. The WND knows that Moon is no messiah. It's beginning to make sense to me now... all this fake religiosity by bush.
Martha Talks
"Dear Friends,
"When one is incarcerated with 1,200 other inmates, it is hard to be selfish at Christmas -- hard to think of Christmases past and Christmases future -- that I know will be as they always were for me -- beautiful! So many of the women here in Alderson will never have the joy and wellbeing that you and I experience. Many of them have been here for years -- devoid of care, devoid of love, devoid of family." Read the rest of Martha's Christmas Message at Marthatalks.com
"When one is incarcerated with 1,200 other inmates, it is hard to be selfish at Christmas -- hard to think of Christmases past and Christmases future -- that I know will be as they always were for me -- beautiful! So many of the women here in Alderson will never have the joy and wellbeing that you and I experience. Many of them have been here for years -- devoid of care, devoid of love, devoid of family." Read the rest of Martha's Christmas Message at Marthatalks.com
Buy Blue
I always try to shop where they take good care of employees and pay them well. So naturally that leaves out Wal-Mart the evil empire. Used to be that Home Depot took good care of its employees, but not anymore from what I hear from those few left who work there.
Secondly, I care about what companies gave to thefascists Republicans. To my dismay, Amazon.com gave 60% while Barnes and Noble gave almost 100% to the Democrats. Bummer. I like Amazon, the bastards. I'll still shop there. Mark Morford today wrote a good column about buying blue. He claims that Starbucks has great employee benefits and gave 100% to Dems. Almost made me want to take up drinking coffee but I have enough cravings already. He says to use Google over Yahoo, which I do and to use Hyatt Hotels. I happen to love Bed, Bath and Beyond- they gave 93% to Dems. Yay!
Thirdly, I try to buy American made products too. It's hard but I do try.
>Edited by blondesense for clarity.
Secondly, I care about what companies gave to the
Thirdly, I try to buy American made products too. It's hard but I do try.
>Edited by blondesense for clarity.
Bitchin' Because Some Things are Unbelievable
by pissed off patricia
Rumsfeld appeared on TV this afternoon. He attempted to eat a little sliver of humble pie. He sort of choked it down and drank some water. Seems now they think the disaster at Mosul yesterday was a suicide bomber.
Okay, think about this. You can't get on an airplane in the US with your cuticle scissors in your purse, but a guy carrying a bomb or with a bomb strapped on him apparently walked right into a US military base in Mosul. I have a zillion snarky things I could say here but I won't. This is too serious and too unbelievable to snark about.
Rumsfeld appeared on TV this afternoon. He attempted to eat a little sliver of humble pie. He sort of choked it down and drank some water. Seems now they think the disaster at Mosul yesterday was a suicide bomber.
Okay, think about this. You can't get on an airplane in the US with your cuticle scissors in your purse, but a guy carrying a bomb or with a bomb strapped on him apparently walked right into a US military base in Mosul. I have a zillion snarky things I could say here but I won't. This is too serious and too unbelievable to snark about.
CAMP CHRISTMAS
A decorated tree sits next to a cannon at a U.S. military camp near Fallujah, Iraq, Dec. 16. In his message for World Peace Day, Pope John Paul II said that war and retaliation cannot bring peace. An essential part of promoting peace, he said, is ensuring that every person is given a share in the goods of the earth. (Reuters)
Copyright © 2004 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
Bitchin'
by pissed off patricia
A couple of weeks ago when the houses were burned in Maryland, the law enforcement folks thought environmentalists had set the fires and thus it was proclaimed an act of "ECO-TERRORISM". I bitched about that term then and I'm bitching about it again. Now it seems some punk assed gang decided to burn the houses to make a name for themselves, or at least that's what it says in today's New York Times. Here's their headline on the story today, " As Investigation Widens, Arson Is Linked to Maryland Gang" See? It's gone. No more use of the word terrorism now, it's just arson that's gang related.
When they thought it was environmentalists who burned the houses, they tacked on "TERRORISM" to make it real damned big and scary. But when they discovered they couldn't tie the crime of arson to the environmental community, well shucks, it's back to just plain old run of the mill arson now.
Looks to me like someone is working on making environmental a dirty word and environmentalists a mean and rotten and dangerous group. Think environmentalist, think TERRORIST. Yes, there are some in the environmental community who have gone over the hill just like some in the religious community are right over the hill with them. It happens.
What about Jim Jones and the Kool-aid deal? Was Jim Jones a religious terrorist? What about the people who feel that god will work medical wonders so they won't allow their sick child to see a doctor? If the child dies, are they religious terrorists?
How the hell do you define a terrorist? I have apparently been mistaken. I thought that a terrorist was someone, usually from another country, who killed people, lots of people. But according to this house burning deal, where no one died, I guess a terrorist can be anyone we want it to be and their crime can be any crime we want it to be. Pick an organization, accuse them of a crime and then tack the word terrorist on after their name. Let's say we find an abortion clinic has been blown up during the night. How quickly would we hear the term "anti-abortion terrorist"? I kinda doubt we ever would.
I find it ironic that this bunch of losers in this punk assed gang burned these houses to make a big name for themselves and the best name they can get is just plain old arsonists. If they were smart they would claim they're environmentalists, then they could gain lots and lots of notoriety because that would qualify them as the much dreaded and much feared........ECO-TERRORISTS.
A couple of weeks ago when the houses were burned in Maryland, the law enforcement folks thought environmentalists had set the fires and thus it was proclaimed an act of "ECO-TERRORISM". I bitched about that term then and I'm bitching about it again. Now it seems some punk assed gang decided to burn the houses to make a name for themselves, or at least that's what it says in today's New York Times. Here's their headline on the story today, " As Investigation Widens, Arson Is Linked to Maryland Gang" See? It's gone. No more use of the word terrorism now, it's just arson that's gang related.
When they thought it was environmentalists who burned the houses, they tacked on "TERRORISM" to make it real damned big and scary. But when they discovered they couldn't tie the crime of arson to the environmental community, well shucks, it's back to just plain old run of the mill arson now.
Looks to me like someone is working on making environmental a dirty word and environmentalists a mean and rotten and dangerous group. Think environmentalist, think TERRORIST. Yes, there are some in the environmental community who have gone over the hill just like some in the religious community are right over the hill with them. It happens.
What about Jim Jones and the Kool-aid deal? Was Jim Jones a religious terrorist? What about the people who feel that god will work medical wonders so they won't allow their sick child to see a doctor? If the child dies, are they religious terrorists?
How the hell do you define a terrorist? I have apparently been mistaken. I thought that a terrorist was someone, usually from another country, who killed people, lots of people. But according to this house burning deal, where no one died, I guess a terrorist can be anyone we want it to be and their crime can be any crime we want it to be. Pick an organization, accuse them of a crime and then tack the word terrorist on after their name. Let's say we find an abortion clinic has been blown up during the night. How quickly would we hear the term "anti-abortion terrorist"? I kinda doubt we ever would.
I find it ironic that this bunch of losers in this punk assed gang burned these houses to make a big name for themselves and the best name they can get is just plain old arsonists. If they were smart they would claim they're environmentalists, then they could gain lots and lots of notoriety because that would qualify them as the much dreaded and much feared........ECO-TERRORISTS.
Oh Baby Oh Baby
More Christmas Gift Ideas for the purring kitten
I remember the first time my cell phone vibrated in my pocket. I exclaimed, "oh baby, oh baby, I should sit on my cell phone." I never did. But now with these new products on the market, maybe a cell phone will be the girl's best friend!
Vibra-exciter is a vibrating bullet that attaches to your cell phone and is then placed somewhere on your body... ahem. Then wait for the fun to happen when someone calls you! "oh baby, oh baby... Hi Mom!" It's marketed as a great phone sex accompaniment. Watch the demonstration here.
DialanOrgasm.com is less discreet (website not safe for work) as there are funky rubber attachments to add to your vibrating cell phones. They come in fabulous colors. Turn your phone into a sex toy with a finger or a butterfly attachment. How very sexy. "Hi Mom, waddaya mean you can't hear me? Oh, I was just talking to Harvey in Atlanta. Hang on while I take the dildo off my phone."
Purring Kitty is a java download for your cellphone which makes it "purr" more. heh. "H-h-h-e-e-e-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-lo-o-o-o-o-o-o"
And lastly, HomeMadeSexToys.com gives cheap skates free tips for using your cell phone to enhance your sex life. (not really all that safe for work)
Ah modern technology. Great minds are working day and night to improve the quality of living for all people. God Bless Amurka.
I remember the first time my cell phone vibrated in my pocket. I exclaimed, "oh baby, oh baby, I should sit on my cell phone." I never did. But now with these new products on the market, maybe a cell phone will be the girl's best friend!
Vibra-exciter is a vibrating bullet that attaches to your cell phone and is then placed somewhere on your body... ahem. Then wait for the fun to happen when someone calls you! "oh baby, oh baby... Hi Mom!" It's marketed as a great phone sex accompaniment. Watch the demonstration here.
DialanOrgasm.com is less discreet (website not safe for work) as there are funky rubber attachments to add to your vibrating cell phones. They come in fabulous colors. Turn your phone into a sex toy with a finger or a butterfly attachment. How very sexy. "Hi Mom, waddaya mean you can't hear me? Oh, I was just talking to Harvey in Atlanta. Hang on while I take the dildo off my phone."
Purring Kitty is a java download for your cellphone which makes it "purr" more. heh. "H-h-h-e-e-e-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-lo-o-o-o-o-o-o"
And lastly, HomeMadeSexToys.com gives cheap skates free tips for using your cell phone to enhance your sex life. (not really all that safe for work)
Ah modern technology. Great minds are working day and night to improve the quality of living for all people. God Bless Amurka.
Tuesday, December 21
The Myth Of National Victimhood
by Thom Harmann
It's Christmas week - Adolf Hitler's favorite season after he declared an official merger of church and state - and, ironically, conservatives are using the occasion to mount a new and bizarre attack.
They said liberals are out to destroy Christmas. Cobbling together a few anecdotes (unsupportable attacks are always anecdote-based), they managed to imply a vast anti-Christian conspiracy bubbling just under the belly of America, and pushed that frightening implication into the minds of millions of Americans just in time for the holiday season.
Conservatives must constantly attack others (and focus on "morality") to keep hidden their own true agenda, which is no less than a return to the world of Scrooge & Marley, Inc. They're working to bring about a return to Robber Baron feudalism, with a stable, rich, and powerful ruling class, and an impoverished, frightened, and politically impotent working class.
But for conservatives to keep the loyalty of the working-class victims of their policies (which are shipping American jobs overseas, while fighting unions and minimum-wage increases here), they must convince people that there is a "them" out there - liberals in this case - who are out to destroy America's moral fiber and are thus responsible for working-class misery.
This is an old trick, and one the cons know is very difficult to counter. Consider what happened when German militarism in WWI led, through the punishing Treaty of Versailles and then later the Great Depression, to the collapse of the German economy in the 1920s and early 1930s. Hitler couldn't blame the militarists and corporatist conservatives who had led his nation into WWI and mismanaged the economy afterwards, so he pointed to the Jews as the "them" responsible for the problems in German society.
Read the rest
It's Christmas week - Adolf Hitler's favorite season after he declared an official merger of church and state - and, ironically, conservatives are using the occasion to mount a new and bizarre attack.
They said liberals are out to destroy Christmas. Cobbling together a few anecdotes (unsupportable attacks are always anecdote-based), they managed to imply a vast anti-Christian conspiracy bubbling just under the belly of America, and pushed that frightening implication into the minds of millions of Americans just in time for the holiday season.
Conservatives must constantly attack others (and focus on "morality") to keep hidden their own true agenda, which is no less than a return to the world of Scrooge & Marley, Inc. They're working to bring about a return to Robber Baron feudalism, with a stable, rich, and powerful ruling class, and an impoverished, frightened, and politically impotent working class.
But for conservatives to keep the loyalty of the working-class victims of their policies (which are shipping American jobs overseas, while fighting unions and minimum-wage increases here), they must convince people that there is a "them" out there - liberals in this case - who are out to destroy America's moral fiber and are thus responsible for working-class misery.
This is an old trick, and one the cons know is very difficult to counter. Consider what happened when German militarism in WWI led, through the punishing Treaty of Versailles and then later the Great Depression, to the collapse of the German economy in the 1920s and early 1930s. Hitler couldn't blame the militarists and corporatist conservatives who had led his nation into WWI and mismanaged the economy afterwards, so he pointed to the Jews as the "them" responsible for the problems in German society.
Read the rest
For What It's Worth
Somethings happening here
what it is is exactly clear
There's a man with a crown over there
Saying "Crown me messiah or beware"
I think it's time we stop, children, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
Crosses on your churches are past
Time to worship moon at last
The Bushes are flaming with desire
The elevate the moon even higher
I think it's time we stop, children, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
Here we go. Read and connect the dots.
It's the end of the world as we know it. And they better quit blaming the liberals for ruining America. I'm sick of it.
what it is is exactly clear
There's a man with a crown over there
Saying "Crown me messiah or beware"
I think it's time we stop, children, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
Crosses on your churches are past
Time to worship moon at last
The Bushes are flaming with desire
The elevate the moon even higher
I think it's time we stop, children, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
Here we go. Read and connect the dots.
It's the end of the world as we know it. And they better quit blaming the liberals for ruining America. I'm sick of it.
Christmas Rant
by Blondesense
So I was reading this ridiculous article about the country "spiraling downward to the left" and the perceived Christmas flap over at Foxnews.com, that bastion of misinformation. I am so freaking sick and tired of hearing about liberals being unchristian and atheistic and pagan etc etc. What is the big deal about whether or not Merry Christmas is said or written in public places? Since when is hanging junk on buildings a sign of Christianity? Is that what Christmas is about? No. We're supposed to remember that the savior was born at some time in history and celebrate thusly. There are no dictates in any religion as to how the celebration should be accomplished.
The best Catholic biblical scholars ascertained that Jesus was probably born around September 11, 3BCE. The infancy narratives are myth according to them too. Early Christian fathers wanted to get in on some Winter Solstice action and figured that Christmas would fit in nicely. There is nothing wrong with this symbolism. It's lovely. Let's move on.
What should Christians be doing at Christmas and in general to live the Christian life?
Since I was raised Catholic, let's look at the Corporal works of mercy.
To feed the hungry;
To give drink to the thirsty;
To clothe the naked;
To shelter the homeless;
To visit the sick;
To ransom the imprisoned;
To bury the dead.
The corporal works of mercy come from Jesus in Matthew 25. "Then he shall say to them also that shall be on his left hand: Depart from me, you cursed, in everlasting fire which was prepared for the devil and his angels . For I was hungry, and you gave me not to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me not to drink. I was a stranger, and you took me not in; naked, and you covered me not; sick and in prison , and you did not visit me", etc.
There you go. That is Christianity in a nutshell from Jesus himself. Now do liberals or conservatives exemplify these values? Both. In government which party exemplifies these values? Not the current Republican party at all. Who voted for this current government. They say that they are religious Christians! At Christmastime, wouldn't it be prudent to live these values more than worrying about Christmas decorations or Happy Holidays vs Merry Christmas? Republicans are worried that people aren't shopping enough. Well raise the goddamn minimum wage and bring the damn jobs back to America, why don't you?
And another thing from the faux news article:
In my church, according to the advent calendar of events, there is some sort of pageant, Christmas carol sing along, food drive, visit to old folk home thing, children's play, nativity re-enactment, church decorating party, prayer vigil, dinner dance, etc etc going on almost every day for the month of December and up until January 6th. Why the hell would I need anything else? This guy should spend more time at church. Church is what invented Christmas. Who cares what stores do? Stores are businesses. They do not care if you have a Merry Christmas. They care if the CEO's and/or stockholders have a Merry Christmas.
What is our Christian country doing for the 96% of people who celebrate Christmas which is by the way not really a holy day. Easter is the biggie. Not much. Check this out. Does this jive with the corporal works of mercy?
Our Christian nation is creating homeless people, poor people, hungry people, thirsty people, dead people, sick people and imprisoned people through our government which caters to the rich and to big business. It's not liberals who are ruining Christmas. It's not liberals who are ruining Christianity. Taking care of those less fortunate has always been a cause of liberals and it is a value that is written in their hearts.
Yeah, Christmas is under attack, alright. Christianity is under attack too. By Pseudo-Christian fascists.
Keep killing those terrible Iraqi's we were supposed to liberate. Take away everything New Deal that helped American's collectively. Make more bombs. Build more prisons. Alienate more countries. Starve more families, but be sure to pretend that you are against abortion and keep saying you stand for Christian values and families as long as it's your own family. Take care of your own Christian ass. Let's just see if anything is done about abortion by the Republicans. I will bet that absolutely nothing is done because there is no money to be made by banning or restricting abortion.
Merry Fuckin' Christmas
So I was reading this ridiculous article about the country "spiraling downward to the left" and the perceived Christmas flap over at Foxnews.com, that bastion of misinformation. I am so freaking sick and tired of hearing about liberals being unchristian and atheistic and pagan etc etc. What is the big deal about whether or not Merry Christmas is said or written in public places? Since when is hanging junk on buildings a sign of Christianity? Is that what Christmas is about? No. We're supposed to remember that the savior was born at some time in history and celebrate thusly. There are no dictates in any religion as to how the celebration should be accomplished.
The best Catholic biblical scholars ascertained that Jesus was probably born around September 11, 3BCE. The infancy narratives are myth according to them too. Early Christian fathers wanted to get in on some Winter Solstice action and figured that Christmas would fit in nicely. There is nothing wrong with this symbolism. It's lovely. Let's move on.
What should Christians be doing at Christmas and in general to live the Christian life?
Since I was raised Catholic, let's look at the Corporal works of mercy.
To feed the hungry;
To give drink to the thirsty;
To clothe the naked;
To shelter the homeless;
To visit the sick;
To ransom the imprisoned;
To bury the dead.
The corporal works of mercy come from Jesus in Matthew 25. "Then he shall say to them also that shall be on his left hand: Depart from me, you cursed, in everlasting fire which was prepared for the devil and his angels . For I was hungry, and you gave me not to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me not to drink. I was a stranger, and you took me not in; naked, and you covered me not; sick and in prison , and you did not visit me", etc.
There you go. That is Christianity in a nutshell from Jesus himself. Now do liberals or conservatives exemplify these values? Both. In government which party exemplifies these values? Not the current Republican party at all. Who voted for this current government. They say that they are religious Christians! At Christmastime, wouldn't it be prudent to live these values more than worrying about Christmas decorations or Happy Holidays vs Merry Christmas? Republicans are worried that people aren't shopping enough. Well raise the goddamn minimum wage and bring the damn jobs back to America, why don't you?
And another thing from the faux news article:
"I think the businesses and the schools have just gone too far; this is the final straw," says Institute president John W. Whitehead. "It's supposed to be a time of, what, peace and freedom and fun. And they've kind of made it into a secular ... kind of gray day."First of all asshole, you are off on Christmas. If it's a gray day, then it's your own fault. Public schools are public. Send your kids to religious schools if you don't like it. Go to church. I'm not going back to Israel because it's dangerous there and I was born here.
In my church, according to the advent calendar of events, there is some sort of pageant, Christmas carol sing along, food drive, visit to old folk home thing, children's play, nativity re-enactment, church decorating party, prayer vigil, dinner dance, etc etc going on almost every day for the month of December and up until January 6th. Why the hell would I need anything else? This guy should spend more time at church. Church is what invented Christmas. Who cares what stores do? Stores are businesses. They do not care if you have a Merry Christmas. They care if the CEO's and/or stockholders have a Merry Christmas.
What is our Christian country doing for the 96% of people who celebrate Christmas which is by the way not really a holy day. Easter is the biggie. Not much. Check this out. Does this jive with the corporal works of mercy?
In only four of the nation's 3,066 counties can someone working full-time and earning federal minimum wage afford to pay rent and utilities on a one-bedroom apartment, an advocacy group on low-income housing reported Monday.Nice, huh? And here in NY, Pataki who vetoed raising the minimum wage which is a paltry $5.15 was finally overridden but it still sucks. It's going to a whopping $6/hr. Where I live and I kid you not, I personally know people who live in their cars. And they work. A studio apartment in this area goes for about $800/mo. Our utilities are astronomical. You cannot live here on less than $40,000/yr.
Our Christian nation is creating homeless people, poor people, hungry people, thirsty people, dead people, sick people and imprisoned people through our government which caters to the rich and to big business. It's not liberals who are ruining Christmas. It's not liberals who are ruining Christianity. Taking care of those less fortunate has always been a cause of liberals and it is a value that is written in their hearts.
Yeah, Christmas is under attack, alright. Christianity is under attack too. By Pseudo-Christian fascists.
Keep killing those terrible Iraqi's we were supposed to liberate. Take away everything New Deal that helped American's collectively. Make more bombs. Build more prisons. Alienate more countries. Starve more families, but be sure to pretend that you are against abortion and keep saying you stand for Christian values and families as long as it's your own family. Take care of your own Christian ass. Let's just see if anything is done about abortion by the Republicans. I will bet that absolutely nothing is done because there is no money to be made by banning or restricting abortion.
Merry Fuckin' Christmas
Apparently I Can't Shut Up Today
I know I'm blathering on and on today, but I feel like I'm losing it and so I'm talking it all out to you. Hang on with me, okay? I'll be happy to return the favor if you ever need it.
Now the news out of Mosul is that twenty something people have been killed and fifty something others have been wounded. You know what? I think all those people would be okay this very minute if george bush had not declared this war. Yes indeed, that's what I think and believe. I think all those deaths and injuries are directly and completely related to us and more so to those Americans who voted for bush in 2000 and in 2004. They committed the crime and we are all guilty by association.
Don't they see what they have done? Don't they? Don't they see that if we buried all the innocent Iraqis we have killed in this war in the same place, there would be one more mass grave in that country? How the hell can they miss that? I'll tell you one thing and I know I'll probably get pissy comments for saying this. If this is such a god fearing fucking country why the hell aren't these god fearing fools scared to fucking death right now? We're all walking around with other people's blood dripping from our hands. Why can't they see it or smell it? It doesn't just dry up and fall off because we keep applying more every day. Today we added a whole lot more blood to our hands and topic number one is do we say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays? Twenty some new graves will be dug soon and America is bickering about political correctness in holiday greetings. Yes, that's what our main concern is today. Some want religion everywhere while others want it left in the church. How about the freshly killed twenty something bodies folks, where shall we put them?
Now the news out of Mosul is that twenty something people have been killed and fifty something others have been wounded. You know what? I think all those people would be okay this very minute if george bush had not declared this war. Yes indeed, that's what I think and believe. I think all those deaths and injuries are directly and completely related to us and more so to those Americans who voted for bush in 2000 and in 2004. They committed the crime and we are all guilty by association.
Don't they see what they have done? Don't they? Don't they see that if we buried all the innocent Iraqis we have killed in this war in the same place, there would be one more mass grave in that country? How the hell can they miss that? I'll tell you one thing and I know I'll probably get pissy comments for saying this. If this is such a god fearing fucking country why the hell aren't these god fearing fools scared to fucking death right now? We're all walking around with other people's blood dripping from our hands. Why can't they see it or smell it? It doesn't just dry up and fall off because we keep applying more every day. Today we added a whole lot more blood to our hands and topic number one is do we say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays? Twenty some new graves will be dug soon and America is bickering about political correctness in holiday greetings. Yes, that's what our main concern is today. Some want religion everywhere while others want it left in the church. How about the freshly killed twenty something bodies folks, where shall we put them?
Early Morning Smile Theft
by pissed off patricia
Woke up, got outta bed.........
I got up this morning and as I walked/stumbled to the kitchen I noticed six new presents under our tree. Seems Mr. Pissed off Patricia had stayed up last night and wrapped gifts long after Mrs. p.o.p, had kept her date with her pillow. A great big smile appeared on my face when I saw the presents and the little girl side of me got all excited. Maybe this is Christmas after all. My smile was so big that I'm surprised it fit on my face.
Then I went in to the kitchen, fed Murphy the bichon and Fred, our adopted ex-street cat. I started the coffee and turned on the TV. I listened and watched and somewhere in there I lost my smile. First I heard that even more drugs are killing people than they thought, but these aren't illegal drugs, these are drugs the FDA let slip by their scrutiny. Good work FDA, you helped steal my smile. Then I hear that there's a new pill that will replace sleep, of course there is a danger that truckers will take these damned things and become road hazards. Okay fine, a little more smile is missing. Then came the announcement that there has been a large explosion at a military base in Mosul with multiple casualties. Shit! That's when the smile faded and not even a Cheshire cat grin remained.
So as I sit here and wonder how bad the news will be from Mosul as we find out more about what happened, I begin to wonder about something else. What do bush and all his neocon buddies feel and think when they get up on a morning like this. Does the news get to them like it does to me and probably to you? Do they feel that stab in their heart when they hear about deaths in Iraq? Does that news throw a dark and heavy blanket over them and does it hurt, or do they just brush it off? Do they ever feel like screaming out loud because they are so frustrated and so worried about what we are doing to the rest of the world? Do they ever cry when they're all by themselves. Do they ever cry for people they don't even know? I do, and it seems lately I do that a lot. Do they?
You know, I sure do wish they cried and I wish they would tell us if they do. I think if they are human they have to feel sad and they have to worry. Bush didn't look worried yesterday at that press conference. It's weird to me that he often smiles when he speaks of deaths and killing. Next time he's on TV, watch his face when he talks about these things. He smiles. I don't. Seems it's okay for him to have his smile whenever he wants and I guess it's okay if his war steals my smile away. I don't like that one bit.
So you and I cry while he smiles. I believe there are more people crying today than smiling. Maybe that's why he smiles so much, he uses the smiles he has stolen from all of us.
Woke up, got outta bed.........
I got up this morning and as I walked/stumbled to the kitchen I noticed six new presents under our tree. Seems Mr. Pissed off Patricia had stayed up last night and wrapped gifts long after Mrs. p.o.p, had kept her date with her pillow. A great big smile appeared on my face when I saw the presents and the little girl side of me got all excited. Maybe this is Christmas after all. My smile was so big that I'm surprised it fit on my face.
Then I went in to the kitchen, fed Murphy the bichon and Fred, our adopted ex-street cat. I started the coffee and turned on the TV. I listened and watched and somewhere in there I lost my smile. First I heard that even more drugs are killing people than they thought, but these aren't illegal drugs, these are drugs the FDA let slip by their scrutiny. Good work FDA, you helped steal my smile. Then I hear that there's a new pill that will replace sleep, of course there is a danger that truckers will take these damned things and become road hazards. Okay fine, a little more smile is missing. Then came the announcement that there has been a large explosion at a military base in Mosul with multiple casualties. Shit! That's when the smile faded and not even a Cheshire cat grin remained.
So as I sit here and wonder how bad the news will be from Mosul as we find out more about what happened, I begin to wonder about something else. What do bush and all his neocon buddies feel and think when they get up on a morning like this. Does the news get to them like it does to me and probably to you? Do they feel that stab in their heart when they hear about deaths in Iraq? Does that news throw a dark and heavy blanket over them and does it hurt, or do they just brush it off? Do they ever feel like screaming out loud because they are so frustrated and so worried about what we are doing to the rest of the world? Do they ever cry when they're all by themselves. Do they ever cry for people they don't even know? I do, and it seems lately I do that a lot. Do they?
You know, I sure do wish they cried and I wish they would tell us if they do. I think if they are human they have to feel sad and they have to worry. Bush didn't look worried yesterday at that press conference. It's weird to me that he often smiles when he speaks of deaths and killing. Next time he's on TV, watch his face when he talks about these things. He smiles. I don't. Seems it's okay for him to have his smile whenever he wants and I guess it's okay if his war steals my smile away. I don't like that one bit.
So you and I cry while he smiles. I believe there are more people crying today than smiling. Maybe that's why he smiles so much, he uses the smiles he has stolen from all of us.
Did You Know?
Fun factoids from blondesense
- President Lincoln was gay. Shocking discovery! Stop the presses. Discovery Channel.
- The Puritans banned Christmas because it was more like Mardis Gras than a solemn holyday. Grace Cathedral
- In the northern hemisphere, the Winter solstice is day of the year when the Sun is farthest south. The winter solstice marks the first day of the season of winter . The declination of the Sun on the (northern) winter solstice is known as the tropic of capricorn (-23° 27'). Science World
- Birth of the Sun, Birth of the Son. Coincidence? Belief Net
- The yuletide comes from a pagan festival of fire. History of Yule
- In Finland, Santa Claus has a murky past. He was called Joulupukki, "yule goat", donned horns and an animal hide and covered his face with soot or a bark mask. He travelled from house to house frightening children with his wild dancing and singing, and expected offerings of food and booze. Full story
- Americans and Congress increasingly feel that Rumsfeld should resign but the president feels that he is a caring and good human being. Proof that the president should resign too.
- Happy Winter Solstice! To the ancients, it appeared as if the Sun and Moon stopped in their flight across the sky—this is the longest night of the year and was a time of both anticipation and rejoicing at the Sun’s rebirth out of the Goddess.
- Song of the day: Here Comes the Sun
Bitchin'
by pissed off patricia
If you go to the giulianipartners.com site you will find that Giuliani Partners, in 2002, joined up with Ernst and Young.
From the website:
Then if you tip-toe around the site you'll find their executives and guess who is a senior vice president? Yep, one Bernard Kerik. Knowing what we now know about him, it's sort of funny now to read how he is described on the site. You can read it here
So just to add to the story about Giuliani Partners. There's this from Dec. 1, 2004
If it is just coincidence and luck, it's damned amazing coincidental luck.
Oh yeah, speaking of coincidental luck, it happened to Rudy before. Here's something else from the website.
Seems Rudy has a real knack for making lemonade, doesn't it? Our social security money is about to go over to Wall Street to subsidize big business and there's old Rudy standing there ready to take care of it and maybe get a little financial benefit too. We still have no clue who sent the anthrax letters, but have no fear, Rudy and the gang comes to the decontamination rescue and what luck, more financial benefit.
Makes you wonder, huh?
If you go to the giulianipartners.com site you will find that Giuliani Partners, in 2002, joined up with Ernst and Young.
From the website:
"January 15, 2002 - New York, NY. Rudolph W. Giuliani and Ernst & Young LLP, a global leader in professional services, jointly announced today that they have established an alliance to offer consulting services and to make and manage investments. The first company formed from this alliance, Giuliani Partners LLC, will focus on helping Chief Executive Officers and Boards of Directors secure the future of their firms by advising them on the protection of their companies' financial and physical assets, knowledge, people and brand."
Then if you tip-toe around the site you'll find their executives and guess who is a senior vice president? Yep, one Bernard Kerik. Knowing what we now know about him, it's sort of funny now to read how he is described on the site. You can read it here
So just to add to the story about Giuliani Partners. There's this from Dec. 1, 2004
"NEW YORK - Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, who made headlines in the 1980s prosecuting Wall Street financiers, now plans to join the club and build an investment advisory practice.Is it just me, or does it seem a coincidental opportunity that Giuliani is getting his fingers on Wall Street at the same time that bush is trying to move social security money over to Wall Street? Is someone giving Rudy a gift that keeps on giving?
Giuliani’s consulting firm Wednesday said it purchased accounting firm Ernst & Young’s investment banking practice for an undisclosed price. The new investment bank, Giuliani Capital Advisors LLC, will advise companies on deals such as acquisitions and restructurings.
The Ernst & Young investment banking unit, Ernst & Young Corporate Finance LLC, has executives and staff in six U.S. offices."
If it is just coincidence and luck, it's damned amazing coincidental luck.
Oh yeah, speaking of coincidental luck, it happened to Rudy before. Here's something else from the website.
and
"Giuliani Partners and Sabre Technical Services Form New Venture –– Bio·ONE™
BIO·ONE™ WILL REMEDIATE THE FIRST ANTHRAX-CONTAMINATED BUILDING
January 13, 2004 - Boca Raton, FL. Flanked by Rudolph W. Giuliani, Chairman and CEO of Giuliani Partners LLC, and John Y. Mason, President and CEO of Sabre Technical Services LLC, David Rustine, President of Crown Companies and the new owner of the American Media Inc. (AMI) building announced today that Bio·ONE™ has been selected to decontaminate and remediate the building –– site of the first recognized anthrax incident in 2001.
“"Bio·ONE has unique chlorine dioxide-based technology and experience cleaning-up anthrax-contaminated buildings with no residual toxicity. This made them the clear choice,"” said Rustine.
Sabre Technical Services, a leader in biological and chemical remediation technology and services, has teamed with Giuliani Partners, a management consulting firm with extensive experience in security, emergency preparedness and response, as well as crisis management, to create Bio·ONE Solutions LLC. Bio·ONE is a joint venture that will work to enhance the current technology and to expand the uses of chlorine dioxide as a tool for dealing with biological and chemical incidents, as well as develop new beneficial public and commercial applications. The new joint venture will be headquartered in the remediated AMI building."
"The American Media Inc. building was the first building where anthrax was discovered in October of 2001. This contamination resulted in the death of the National Enquirer's photo editor, Robert Stevens. The building has remained under quarantine since. Rustine purchased the three-story, 67,500-square-foot building in April 2003 with the goal of restoring it as a safe workspace."
Seems Rudy has a real knack for making lemonade, doesn't it? Our social security money is about to go over to Wall Street to subsidize big business and there's old Rudy standing there ready to take care of it and maybe get a little financial benefit too. We still have no clue who sent the anthrax letters, but have no fear, Rudy and the gang comes to the decontamination rescue and what luck, more financial benefit.
Makes you wonder, huh?
Monday, December 20
Other Junk In The News
by Blondesense
Dumbsfeld used a machine to sign letters of condolence to the relatives of soldiers killed in Iraq. Jeez, he couldn't take time out of his schedule to sign his name and not be a prick for 2 seconds? Guess not. Now is this the type of family values government that people voted for? Is this defensible? I am sure it will be defended somehow and even some people whose kids were needlessly killed in bush's folly might defend it. This was revealed by David Hackworth who used to be a military analyst on Fox News but I don't think he is anymore because he is very outspoken against the bushistas.
It's seems that in Florida, the court ruling against using vouchers for religious schools in November inflamed conservatives. There is this little problem with the Florida constitution: separation of church and state. Rather than altering the radical conservative agenda, there is talk about radically altering the Florida constitution.
The R.C. Church, with all its money and its bank, has "generously" started an AIDS fund with a whopping $132,000 and urges "people to contribute even if they object to the Church's opposition to the use of condoms to fight the spread of the disease." Well yes, people should help the charity if it truly helps those who are dying of the disease. It is up to churches to help those who are sick and dying. I'm not in the mood to write a dissertation on condoms today. I do wonder why the RCC is so cheap though. A cool million would have been nicer. Ante up Popey.
Dumbsfeld used a machine to sign letters of condolence to the relatives of soldiers killed in Iraq. Jeez, he couldn't take time out of his schedule to sign his name and not be a prick for 2 seconds? Guess not. Now is this the type of family values government that people voted for? Is this defensible? I am sure it will be defended somehow and even some people whose kids were needlessly killed in bush's folly might defend it. This was revealed by David Hackworth who used to be a military analyst on Fox News but I don't think he is anymore because he is very outspoken against the bushistas.
It's seems that in Florida, the court ruling against using vouchers for religious schools in November inflamed conservatives. There is this little problem with the Florida constitution: separation of church and state. Rather than altering the radical conservative agenda, there is talk about radically altering the Florida constitution.
The R.C. Church, with all its money and its bank, has "generously" started an AIDS fund with a whopping $132,000 and urges "people to contribute even if they object to the Church's opposition to the use of condoms to fight the spread of the disease." Well yes, people should help the charity if it truly helps those who are dying of the disease. It is up to churches to help those who are sick and dying. I'm not in the mood to write a dissertation on condoms today. I do wonder why the RCC is so cheap though. A cool million would have been nicer. Ante up Popey.
Bitchin' about Bush and Our Environmental Future
by pissed off patricia
We all feared it was coming and here it is.
Bush to scrap American green code
We all feared it was coming and here it is.
Bush to scrap American green code
"Not to be outdone, the Republican chairman of the House Resources Committee, Richard Pombo, has announced an equally radical review of the Endangered Species Act, the country's principal measure for the protection of wildlife and ecosystems, against which he has long campaigned. The law has been the main obstacle to the wholescale felling of much of the US's remaining endangered temperate rain forest.Are you crying yet? There's more in the article.
And in a third assault, congressional leaders have also announced an attack on the National Environmental Policy Act, which requires detailed assessments of the environmental effects of major developments before they proceed.
Philip Clapp, president of the National Environmental Trust, said last week that the previous Bush administration had largely contented itself with weakening environmental legislation by watering down environmental rules, but the new one now intended to go much further, making the changes permanent by rolling back the law. "
He added, "We will now see an assault on the law, which will set the US in the direction of becoming a Third-World country in terms of Environmental protection."
Here's another result of this war. The war based on lies and liars.
Where the hell did we put our compassion? Where the hell did we put our values?
Seems we have misplaced everything, doesn't it?
Another Iraq Casualty: Nearly 900 U.S. Kids Lost a Parent in War, Scripps Finds
"NEW YORK The escalating toll of American dead in Iraq (news - web sites) is causing another tragedy that cuts deeper. After studying casualty reports and obituaries and accounts in hometown newspapers, and also conducting family interviews, Scripps Howard News Service has identified nearly 900 U.S. children who have lost a parent in the war.
Where the hell did we put our compassion? Where the hell did we put our values?
Seems we have misplaced everything, doesn't it?
Another Iraq Casualty: Nearly 900 U.S. Kids Lost a Parent in War, Scripps Finds
"NEW YORK The escalating toll of American dead in Iraq (news - web sites) is causing another tragedy that cuts deeper. After studying casualty reports and obituaries and accounts in hometown newspapers, and also conducting family interviews, Scripps Howard News Service has identified nearly 900 U.S. children who have lost a parent in the war.
Winter Has Arrived on Long Island... A Day Early
It snowed here last night. Not a lot of snow but enough to make travel treacherous in that it rained first and then froze as the temperature plummeted into the teens and left a nice layer of ice beneath the blanket of snow. That's the worst. I think the high temp today is 23º and the low is 16º. Nice. Not. Yesterday it was 50-ish. There was a cute little snow drift in front of my door this morning- oh about 8 inches. Very cute.
Naturally I wasn't home last night and was surprised to to find my son's car frozen solid in front of my friend's house and had to crack the ice with my car keys so I could gain entry into to poor little PT Cruiser (my car was blocked in at home so I took his) which is emblazoned with flames- oh that wicked manly machine of pure testosterone with its 4 cylinders of pure power. It's got heated seats. Whew. Of course I was wearing a windbreaker and sneakers with no socks as it really wasn't that cold when I went out. I should listen to the weather once in a while. Ironically, I was watching a movie called "Ice Storm" on IFC at my friend's house.
Yesterday, I was at the end of my rope as I begged the husband and son to pleeeeeeeeese take down the canvas awning on the back patio because one of these days it might snow and the awning was not made for snow load or ice. It might get cold too and no one would feel like working outside either. Also I really didn't want to have to think of the backyard until spring. Alas, the awning came down just in time. Another whew. We jammed everything into the shed just in time too.
Well it's officially winter on the Isle of Long. I think the pansies and mums that were still blooming as of the other day have had the radish, as we say here and I have no idea what that means. I suppose the grass will turn brown. I donned my plaid flannel Lanz of Salsburg nightgown which is the second official sign of winter, took my prescription drugs from the shrink and drifted off to la la land. We still haven't been invited anywhere for Christmas. I guess we'll be joining the Jews for Chinese food and a movie premiere on the 25th. I might like that.
Naturally I wasn't home last night and was surprised to to find my son's car frozen solid in front of my friend's house and had to crack the ice with my car keys so I could gain entry into to poor little PT Cruiser (my car was blocked in at home so I took his) which is emblazoned with flames- oh that wicked manly machine of pure testosterone with its 4 cylinders of pure power. It's got heated seats. Whew. Of course I was wearing a windbreaker and sneakers with no socks as it really wasn't that cold when I went out. I should listen to the weather once in a while. Ironically, I was watching a movie called "Ice Storm" on IFC at my friend's house.
Yesterday, I was at the end of my rope as I begged the husband and son to pleeeeeeeeese take down the canvas awning on the back patio because one of these days it might snow and the awning was not made for snow load or ice. It might get cold too and no one would feel like working outside either. Also I really didn't want to have to think of the backyard until spring. Alas, the awning came down just in time. Another whew. We jammed everything into the shed just in time too.
Well it's officially winter on the Isle of Long. I think the pansies and mums that were still blooming as of the other day have had the radish, as we say here and I have no idea what that means. I suppose the grass will turn brown. I donned my plaid flannel Lanz of Salsburg nightgown which is the second official sign of winter, took my prescription drugs from the shrink and drifted off to la la land. We still haven't been invited anywhere for Christmas. I guess we'll be joining the Jews for Chinese food and a movie premiere on the 25th. I might like that.
Blinky Speaks
by pissed off patricia
Blinky held a press conference this morning.
Blinky said things look positive.
Blinky said it's "hard work" and it's "complex".
Blinky said he will not negotiate with himself.
Those of us listening to Blinky have no clue what the fuck he meant.
Blinky held a press conference this morning.
Blinky said things look positive.
Blinky said it's "hard work" and it's "complex".
Blinky said he will not negotiate with himself.
Those of us listening to Blinky have no clue what the fuck he meant.
Bitchin' Just a Little More
by pissed off patricia
If this doesn't scare the beejeezus out of you, please explain to me why it doesn't. Especially since General Boykin is involved.
Pentagon Seeks to Expand Role in Intelligence-Collecting
If this doesn't scare the beejeezus out of you, please explain to me why it doesn't. Especially since General Boykin is involved.
Pentagon Seeks to Expand Role in Intelligence-Collecting
gifts worth giving
Dear Santa or Jesus,
As a country we haven't been too good this past year. By following george bush, we sort of fornicated with the dog. There are a lot of sins floating around this country today and there are a big bunch of sinners. No one has been as good as they should have been. Maybe we will get presents this year, maybe not. To help us overcome our evil ways perhaps some of these gifts might help.
I found these on the internet. Here are some Christmas gifts I believe might be able to change the future of our nation and they may well appeal to the best of our god fearing brothers and sisters.
1. Jesus on a Rope. "Where's Jesus? Hanging around the showers, that's where! And ethereally purplish Jesus soap hangs from a royal purple rope, ready to be whipped up into a lather."
2. Wash away your sins body and bath conversion kit. For Liars, Cheaters and Wrong-Doers. "Kit includes: Body Wash - in the shower cleansing power Hand Cream - smooth on salvation 4 Towelettes - kill sins on contact Breath Spray - commune with confidence"
3. I feel this gift might also be a good idea or at the very least, interesting. Perhaps a good re-gifting idea. The "Get a Grip Mini-Giftbasket for the Chronic Masturbator" contains a mini-bottle of Purell hand sanitizer and one pair of green latex surgical gloves for the handling of the penis; two packs of HandzOff Anti-masturbatory gum; one church-approved "Good News" pivot-head disposable razor for ease in shaving the palms should the masturbator relapse; one Baby "Every Sperm is Sacred" pocket touchstone to remind the masturbator to save his seed; and one pamphlet on avoiding self-abuse, all attractively packaged in a handsome giftbasket ready to present to that special someone in your life."
And finally, I saved the best for last.
4. Here's the Fuzzy Dayglo Velvet Jesus Bank, a 17" fuzzy dayglo velvet Jesus Bank in Lurid Magenta. This is beyond words so I suggest you view it for yourself.
Sincerely,
Just one more shopping sinner who hasn't given up hope
As a country we haven't been too good this past year. By following george bush, we sort of fornicated with the dog. There are a lot of sins floating around this country today and there are a big bunch of sinners. No one has been as good as they should have been. Maybe we will get presents this year, maybe not. To help us overcome our evil ways perhaps some of these gifts might help.
I found these on the internet. Here are some Christmas gifts I believe might be able to change the future of our nation and they may well appeal to the best of our god fearing brothers and sisters.
1. Jesus on a Rope. "Where's Jesus? Hanging around the showers, that's where! And ethereally purplish Jesus soap hangs from a royal purple rope, ready to be whipped up into a lather."
2. Wash away your sins body and bath conversion kit. For Liars, Cheaters and Wrong-Doers. "Kit includes: Body Wash - in the shower cleansing power Hand Cream - smooth on salvation 4 Towelettes - kill sins on contact Breath Spray - commune with confidence"
3. I feel this gift might also be a good idea or at the very least, interesting. Perhaps a good re-gifting idea. The "Get a Grip Mini-Giftbasket for the Chronic Masturbator" contains a mini-bottle of Purell hand sanitizer and one pair of green latex surgical gloves for the handling of the penis; two packs of HandzOff Anti-masturbatory gum; one church-approved "Good News" pivot-head disposable razor for ease in shaving the palms should the masturbator relapse; one Baby "Every Sperm is Sacred" pocket touchstone to remind the masturbator to save his seed; and one pamphlet on avoiding self-abuse, all attractively packaged in a handsome giftbasket ready to present to that special someone in your life."
And finally, I saved the best for last.
4. Here's the Fuzzy Dayglo Velvet Jesus Bank, a 17" fuzzy dayglo velvet Jesus Bank in Lurid Magenta. This is beyond words so I suggest you view it for yourself.
Sincerely,
Just one more shopping sinner who hasn't given up hope
Bitchin'
by pissed off patricia
Some more heat for the Rummy roast. Are you listening Satan?
Some more heat for the Rummy roast. Are you listening Satan?
Lying Kills
by Richard Reeves
NEW YORK -- On Monday of this week, both The New York Times and USA Today published anonymously sourced stories reporting that the Department of Defense was considering plunging deeply into the disinformation business."Such missions, " said The Times, "could take the deceptive techniques endorsed for use on the battlefield to confuse an adversary and adopt them for covert propaganda campaigns aimed at neutral and even allied nations."
The timing suggests these stories were leaked by people in the Pentagon trying to stop the military before it kills again -- or simply shoots itself in the foot. The idea suggests there are crazy people in the Department of Defense. Criminally insane, in this case.
Sunday, December 19
So Whose Fault Is It?
The media says it's the liberal media that put the soldier in Kuwait up to asking Rummy why they don't have armor. I mean how dare a soldier ask the Fuckface of Defense right before Christmas such a question? It might ruin Rummy's Xmas. And who is this liberal media anyway? I keep hearing about it on the media! Anyway, Inhofe says it's Clinton's fault that our troops have to scrounge for armor and that Iraq is a big mess. Now I seem to remember that bush said that it was Kerry's fault that the troops had no armor even though the $87 billion got passed anyway. But didn't I just read that Armor Holdings Company gladly increased its production from 450 to 550 vehicles per month after the big broohaha over Rummy's disgrace in Kuwait? They said all they needed was someone to tell them to increase the production rate. Of course the US Guvmnt didn't order more vehicles or anything and somehow that relates back to Clinton and Kerry or something... I don't know. You figure it out.
UPDATE: Read comments section for brilliant informed commentary plus great quote by Duncan Idaho: You fuck over the troops with the Secretary of Defense you have, not the Secretary of Defense you wish you had. You're living in your own Duncan Idaho
UPDATE: Read comments section for brilliant informed commentary plus great quote by Duncan Idaho: You fuck over the troops with the Secretary of Defense you have, not the Secretary of Defense you wish you had. You're living in your own Duncan Idaho
Songs We Should Be Singing
What's Going On?
(What's So Funny About) Peace Love and Understanding?
With God On Our Side
Masters of War
For What It's Worth
War What Is It Good For?
How Long?
Eve of Destruction
Ohio
Imagine
Happy Xmas
Fortunate Son
Born In The USA
Some Mother's Son
Inspired by a mule from Missouri
And updated due to suggestions from the peanut gallery.
(What's So Funny About) Peace Love and Understanding?
With God On Our Side
Masters of War
For What It's Worth
War What Is It Good For?
How Long?
Eve of Destruction
Ohio
Imagine
Happy Xmas
Fortunate Son
Born In The USA
Some Mother's Son
Inspired by a mule from Missouri
And updated due to suggestions from the peanut gallery.
Reason 10,982 To Not Want To Admit To Being Christian
44% of Americans in a nationwide poll conducted by Cornell University believe that Muslim Americans should have their civil liberties curtailed. These 44% described themselves as Republican and/or highly religious. just shoot me Researchers also found that these people also paid attention to television news and are fearful of another terrorist attack. Figures.
Also in the article:
UPDATE:
Rob Schumacher kindly passed along this link to the PDF file with the full results of the survey. I took a quick look (I'll print out the rest and study it further) and have surmised that watching television news and a having high degree of religiosity makes you paranoid, intolerant and rather stupid. We already knew that, but now we can see it in numbers. The scary part is that almost half the country falls into this category. Just stay near the cities and you'll be ok.
Also in the article:
"According to the survey, 37% believe a terrorist attack in the United States is still likely within the next 12 months. In a similar poll conducted by Cornell in November 2002, that number stood at 90%."That's interesting. Maybe they thought that a terror attack was going to happen around the election and since it didn't happen, that we are out of danger. Or maybe, perish the thought, people think that since bush won, we are safe now.
UPDATE:
Rob Schumacher kindly passed along this link to the PDF file with the full results of the survey. I took a quick look (I'll print out the rest and study it further) and have surmised that watching television news and a having high degree of religiosity makes you paranoid, intolerant and rather stupid. We already knew that, but now we can see it in numbers. The scary part is that almost half the country falls into this category. Just stay near the cities and you'll be ok.
Guardsman Killed Iraqi After Sex
Guardsman Killed Iraqi After Sex
By JAY PRICE, Staff Writer
By JAY PRICE, Staff Writer
"A North Carolina National Guard member thought to be the first U.S. soldier convicted of murdering an Iraqi said he "snapped" and shot the 17-year-old boy after they had consensual sex, according to court-martial records released this week."War! What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!
Seasons Greetings As Per The Nightly News
by Blondesense
Deck the halls with fire retardant holly
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Tis the season to avoid folly,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Don we gender appropriate apparel,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Singing un-offensive carols,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
See the blazing UL lights before us,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Keep the tree well watered and join the chorus.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Check the toys with merry measure,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Or junior'll choke on christmas treasure,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Fast the way the old pet passes,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
If it eats the Christmas plants-es,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Don't leave burning candles unattended
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Or sit on broken chairs unmended
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Drunken drivers're out to bid you a
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Snow and ice and rain will skid you
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Refrigerate leftover foo-ood.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Or you won't feel so very goo-ood.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Now you have no real good reason
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
T0 enjoy the holiday season
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
HO HO HO
Merry Christmas
HO HO HO
Deck the halls with fire retardant holly
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Tis the season to avoid folly,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Don we gender appropriate apparel,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Singing un-offensive carols,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
See the blazing UL lights before us,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Keep the tree well watered and join the chorus.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Check the toys with merry measure,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Or junior'll choke on christmas treasure,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Fast the way the old pet passes,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
If it eats the Christmas plants-es,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Don't leave burning candles unattended
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Or sit on broken chairs unmended
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Drunken drivers're out to bid you a
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Snow and ice and rain will skid you
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Refrigerate leftover foo-ood.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Or you won't feel so very goo-ood.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Now you have no real good reason
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
T0 enjoy the holiday season
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
HO HO HO
Merry Christmas
HO HO HO
Bitchin'
It's About Time
by pissed off patricia
From what I'm hearing on Fox News, bush will be Time Magazine's Man of the Year. Figures. He has certainly been responsible for a lot of news. Like being responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent Iraqis and the deaths of about 1300 members of our military. Like draining our financial river until it has become a sand pit. Like lying to the world. Yep, that's making news, but not as much news as you would think and not the news you would hope.
The "Man of the Year" is not always a good man, he's a man in the news or who makes news and the news he makes determines the kind of man he is. When you list bush's good points against his bad points you quickly see why he is on the cover of Time. He is infamous, he is not famous.
UPDATE:
You can read Time's story about Man of the Year 2004, here
This is why Time says bush was chosen.
by pissed off patricia
From what I'm hearing on Fox News, bush will be Time Magazine's Man of the Year. Figures. He has certainly been responsible for a lot of news. Like being responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent Iraqis and the deaths of about 1300 members of our military. Like draining our financial river until it has become a sand pit. Like lying to the world. Yep, that's making news, but not as much news as you would think and not the news you would hope.
The "Man of the Year" is not always a good man, he's a man in the news or who makes news and the news he makes determines the kind of man he is. When you list bush's good points against his bad points you quickly see why he is on the cover of Time. He is infamous, he is not famous.
UPDATE:
You can read Time's story about Man of the Year 2004, here
This is why Time says bush was chosen.
"For sharpening the debate until the choices bled, for reframing reality to match his design, for gambling his fortunes—and ours—on his faith in the power of leadership, George W. Bush is TIME's 2004 Person of the Year."Not exactly glowing terms, is it?
Saturday, December 18
Bitchin'
by pissed off patricia
This is a really and truly must read this from Mother Jones.
America's Sinister Plan for Falluja
By Michael Schwartz
Introduction by Tom Engelhardt
Please take the time and learn about the surprise the US is planning for the returning people of Falluja. It's not pretty and you won't feel proud. As I read this article I felt a chill and realized I was holding my hand over my mouth in disbelief. As you read this, some part of you will refuse to believe that this is our country doing this. After each sentence you read, you'll think it can't get worse, but it does. Yeah, some awful things have been done in our name, but some more awful things are coming to the people of Falluja. Repeat after me, Not in My Name!
This is a really and truly must read this from Mother Jones.
America's Sinister Plan for Falluja
By Michael Schwartz
Introduction by Tom Engelhardt
Please take the time and learn about the surprise the US is planning for the returning people of Falluja. It's not pretty and you won't feel proud. As I read this article I felt a chill and realized I was holding my hand over my mouth in disbelief. As you read this, some part of you will refuse to believe that this is our country doing this. After each sentence you read, you'll think it can't get worse, but it does. Yeah, some awful things have been done in our name, but some more awful things are coming to the people of Falluja. Repeat after me, Not in My Name!
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