"I live in Ohio or Texas, am I brain-dead?"
But much of Obama's traffic is about topics he'd rather avoid. Yahoo! analyst Vera H-C Chan says people in Ohio and Texas are still scouting out rumors about Obama, as reflected in queries like "barack obama muslim," "obama's church," "obama antichrist," "barack obama muslim school," and the straightforward question, "is obama a christian or a muslim?"
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Monday, March 3, 2008
Smiff is going to send them a few bucks...
Watch it...
Of course, we still have the best health care system in the world. And, by best, i mean absolutely the most pathetic for the richest country in the world. And, by richest, i mean most in debt. And, by most in debt, i mean thanks, Dumbya! And by Dumbya, i mean the idiotic, brainless moron "running" the country...
Is dis one of the signs of the End Times?
I will defer to our resident End Times expert, Mr. McClure...
Six-legged 'hexapus' claimed as world first in Britain
British marine experts have found what they claim is a world first -- a six-legged octopus, or "hexapus," whom they have christened Henry.
The unique sea creature, which has two limbs fewer than a normal octopus, is believed to be the result of a birth defect rather than an accident, say his keepers at the Blackpool Sea Life Centre in northwest England.
"We've scoured the Internet and talked to lots of other aquariums and no-one has ever heard of another case of a six-legged octopus," said supervisor Carey Duckhouse.
Henry was discovered in a lobster pot off the north Wales coast two weeks ago, and was one of eight creatures that Sea Life staff picked up from a local marine zoo there -- where staff hadn't noticed his missing legs.
It was only when he attached himself to the inside of a glass tank that Sea Life staff noticed he was two limbs short of a full set. Octopuses are renowned for having three hearts and blue blood, but not usually six legs.
"He's a lovely little thing," said a spokeswoman, adding that he will go on display to the public later this month.
Six-legged 'hexapus' claimed as world first in BritainBritish marine experts have found what they claim is a world first -- a six-legged octopus, or "hexapus," whom they have christened Henry.
The unique sea creature, which has two limbs fewer than a normal octopus, is believed to be the result of a birth defect rather than an accident, say his keepers at the Blackpool Sea Life Centre in northwest England.
"We've scoured the Internet and talked to lots of other aquariums and no-one has ever heard of another case of a six-legged octopus," said supervisor Carey Duckhouse.
Henry was discovered in a lobster pot off the north Wales coast two weeks ago, and was one of eight creatures that Sea Life staff picked up from a local marine zoo there -- where staff hadn't noticed his missing legs.
It was only when he attached himself to the inside of a glass tank that Sea Life staff noticed he was two limbs short of a full set. Octopuses are renowned for having three hearts and blue blood, but not usually six legs.
"He's a lovely little thing," said a spokeswoman, adding that he will go on display to the public later this month.
Is one of the tools getting injured? how about all five?
Milton Bradley on, what else, Milton Bradley:
"You take my last five years, and put those numbers and put them over a 162-game season, I'm pretty damn good. Let's be honest--I'm a five-tool guy here. There is no risk. You pay me $5 million as a five-tool guy, I'm underpaid. What other five-tool guys are there? Jimmy Rollins? Carlos Beltrán? Look what they're making. Look what I'm making. So I'm a steal, I'm a bargain, in my words."
Er, crazy much? First, his career high in stolen bases is 17. He's had 10 or more three times. So, speed is not one of the tools. Career .273 hitter. Hitting for average? Not one of the tools. His HR total pro-rated over a 162 game season is 19 (also his single season high). Along with a career .439 SLG%, power is also not a tool. (Rollins, a SHORTSTOP, has a career .441 SLG%). How about fielding? Slightly above average RF, though with a slightly below average fielding %. Call him average. Throwing arm? Career high in assists is 9.
"There is no risk." He's played over 101 games in a season ONCE in his career.
I would say the five tools he's referencing are: getting injured, spending weeks every year on the DL, whining, "domestic disputes," and being a GIGANTIC ASSHOLE. Granted, he was the best hitter on the Padres last year WHEN HE WAS IN THE LINEUP. When they needed him the last week, he blew up at an umpire and got injured after he fell down when HIS MANAGER TOUCHED HIM. And then--SHOCKINGLY--they didn't resign him.
"You take my last five years, and put those numbers and put them over a 162-game season, I'm pretty damn good. Let's be honest--I'm a five-tool guy here. There is no risk. You pay me $5 million as a five-tool guy, I'm underpaid. What other five-tool guys are there? Jimmy Rollins? Carlos Beltrán? Look what they're making. Look what I'm making. So I'm a steal, I'm a bargain, in my words."
Er, crazy much? First, his career high in stolen bases is 17. He's had 10 or more three times. So, speed is not one of the tools. Career .273 hitter. Hitting for average? Not one of the tools. His HR total pro-rated over a 162 game season is 19 (also his single season high). Along with a career .439 SLG%, power is also not a tool. (Rollins, a SHORTSTOP, has a career .441 SLG%). How about fielding? Slightly above average RF, though with a slightly below average fielding %. Call him average. Throwing arm? Career high in assists is 9.
"There is no risk." He's played over 101 games in a season ONCE in his career.
I would say the five tools he's referencing are: getting injured, spending weeks every year on the DL, whining, "domestic disputes," and being a GIGANTIC ASSHOLE. Granted, he was the best hitter on the Padres last year WHEN HE WAS IN THE LINEUP. When they needed him the last week, he blew up at an umpire and got injured after he fell down when HIS MANAGER TOUCHED HIM. And then--SHOCKINGLY--they didn't resign him.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Train Wreck...
One of the kids should be counting pedals from a flower in her sleep...
The only thing I don't like about this little mash-up is they leave out the final image of Hillary used in the original ad - the one with the humorously fashionable glasses, the practiced look of quiet intensity and the well placed jewelery at three in the morning.
The only thing I don't like about this little mash-up is they leave out the final image of Hillary used in the original ad - the one with the humorously fashionable glasses, the practiced look of quiet intensity and the well placed jewelery at three in the morning.
Friday, February 29, 2008
when does he start working this kind of magic on the Cubs?
For Whom the Zell Tolls
"I’d say people are shocked and demoralized," said one insider. "This billionaire [Zell] comes in and says he is going to save us and then he screws us..."
"The whole history of this being a great national paper, this is definitely the death knell," said one shell-shocked insider.
"I’d say people are shocked and demoralized," said one insider. "This billionaire [Zell] comes in and says he is going to save us and then he screws us..."
"The whole history of this being a great national paper, this is definitely the death knell," said one shell-shocked insider.
Clinton faces Kenya cattle fine over Obama photo
News item: NAIROBI (Reuters) - Kenyan elders may impose a fine on U.S. presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton, payable in livestock, after a photo of her rival Barack Obama in robes dragged their people into the race for the White House.
gosh, we never expected people to show up
News item: Record turnout in this year's presidential primaries has election officials worried about possible shortages of machines, ballots and poll workers in November.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Speaking of recycling...
Smiff mentioned earlier dat MSNBC decided to spend a few minutes Farrakhan-bashing. Well, apparently BillO noticed too (Smiff & BillO have something in common? Fung's not surprised) and complained about it on his show. Then KO has BillO as his "Worst Person in the World" for complaining about the Farrakhan thing and then spending more time on it than MSNBC did.
Now I know BillO and KO have been feuding since the Spanish Inquisition, but can they at least wait a week? You know, and deal with real news? That is what they're supposed to do, right?
Now I know BillO and KO have been feuding since the Spanish Inquisition, but can they at least wait a week? You know, and deal with real news? That is what they're supposed to do, right?
please, don't eat
There are now 1,866 Americans fasting for "holiness in the life of George W. Bush," up from 1,493 a year ago, according to http://www.heartlight.org/fast, for those keeping track.
What do you think, idiots?
-
Do you want to see more night games at Wrigley Field?
Yes (1971 responses)
54.9%
No (1618 responses)
- 3589 total responses (Results not scientific, but idiotic)
-
Do you want to see more concerts at Wrigley Field?
Yes (1558 responses)
No (1861 responses)
- 3419 total responses (Results not scientific, but moronic)
-
Should the naming rights be sold for Wrigley Field?
Yes (673 responses)
No (2951 responses)
- 3624 total responses (Results not scientific, but so Cub)
Bushisms
WASHINGTON - President Bush said Thursday that the country's wealthy are not recession-bound and, despite expressing concern about slowing economic growth, rejected for now any additional stimulus efforts. "We acted robustly," he said, referencing Merriam-Websters second definition of that word. He then noted that rather than using the accepted macroeconomic definition of recession: a slowdown in a country's gross domestic product, or negative real economic growth, for two or more successive quarters of a year, he was relying only on the dictionary definition "a period of reduced economic activity."
*
"We have not yet reached a 'period'" he remarked, noting that it has been more like a smidgeon, glimmer, dash or spot of reduced economic activity. "There's no sure-fire way to know we are in a recession before January 09, I think," he added.
"We'll see the effects of this pro-growth package," Bush told reporters at a White House news conference, referencing himself and his major contributors with his pronoun. He acknowledged that some lawmakers, are already talking about a second stimulus package, aimed at the middle-class. "Why don't we let stimulus package 1, which seemed like a good idea at the time, have a chance to kick in?" Bush's eloquent comments were of course evocative of FDR's first fireside chat after his court packing plan, when, using brevity as the essence of wit, he reminded the American people "it seemed like a good idea at the time."
Bush's view of the economy was decidedly rosier than that of many economists, who say the country is nearing recession territory or may already be there. The difference, said White House spokeswoman Dana Perino is that "the President is drawing a distinction between the haves and the have-mores." "I'm concerned about the economy," he said, subtextually indicating that he is concerned about his own financial well being. "I don't think we're headed to recession. But no question, we're in a slowdown." His first we was meant to represent families with an income in excess of $200,000 per year, and the second we was intended to represent lazy, non-constituent, and probably black families.
The centerpiece of government efforts to brace the wobbly economy is a package Congress passed and Bush signed last month. It will rush rebates ranging from $300 to $1,200 to millions of people and give tax incentives to businesses. That money can be used by most consumers to offset the higher price of gas, or to buy a Nintendo Wii. There are indications that paying $4 for a gallon of gasoline is not out of the question once the summer driving season arrives. Asked about that, Bush said "That's interesting. I hadn't heard that. ... I know it's like $6 now, right?"
*
Bush criticized the Democratic presidential candidates over their attempts to disassociate themselves from the North American Free Trade Agreement, a free-trade pact between the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Bush said the deal is contributing to more and better-paying jobs for Americans - outside the US.
*
Following his news conference, Bush expressed confidence in the nation's ability to weather the economic downturn. "We'll make it through this period just like we made it through other periods of uncertainty during my presidency," Bush said, suggesting our long national nightmare is just beginning.
Republican Multi-tasking
Boehner tells GOP to get off 'dead asses'
I didn't actually read this article, but I'm assuming that it has to do with Republicans combining their two favorite hobbies of beastiality and necrophilia.
I didn't actually read this article, but I'm assuming that it has to do with Republicans combining their two favorite hobbies of beastiality and necrophilia.
Sam Zell: a HYOOOGE @$$hole or the HYOOOGEST @$$hole?
It didn't take long for me to start hating dis @$$hole's guts. And this is a mortal lock: despite their Obama worship, the Chicago Tribune will keep their Republican-lovin' streak alive and endorse John McCain... oh yeah, screw the Cubs. 100 more years of suckin'! (or at least while this @$$hole owns the team...)
But don’t tell that to media mogul Sam Zell, new owner of The Tribune Co. Guess who he blames for the state of the economy?….Wait for it….Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Seriously.
"Obviously what we have going on is an attempt to create a self-fulfilling prophecy," said Zell, chairman of Equity Investments Group and owner of the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Times and other companies. "We have two Democratic candidates who are vying with each other to describe the economic situation worse."
Yep, no way it could be the ding-a-ling who's been in the White House for the last 7 years...
But don’t tell that to media mogul Sam Zell, new owner of The Tribune Co. Guess who he blames for the state of the economy?….Wait for it….Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Seriously.
"Obviously what we have going on is an attempt to create a self-fulfilling prophecy," said Zell, chairman of Equity Investments Group and owner of the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Times and other companies. "We have two Democratic candidates who are vying with each other to describe the economic situation worse."
Yep, no way it could be the ding-a-ling who's been in the White House for the last 7 years...
Winning Hearts And Minds! (WHAM!) (cont'd!)
Sunni Forces Losing Patience With U.S.
BAGHDAD, Feb. 27 -- U.S.-backed Sunni volunteer forces, which have played a vital role in reducing violence in Iraq, are increasingly frustrated with the American military and the Iraqi government over what they see as a lack of recognition of their growing political clout and insufficient U.S. support...
"Now, there is no cooperation with the Americans," said Haider Mustafa al-Kaisy, an Awakening commander in Baqubah, the capital of Diyala province, an insurgent stronghold that U.S. and Iraqi forces are still struggling to control. "We have stopped fighting al-Qaeda..."
"They should make me stronger. They should not weaken me," said Kassim, a former commander in the Islamic Army, an insurgent group. "We need weapons. We need vehicles. We do not even have gas for the few cars we have. When we joined, the Americans promised to provide all necessities. Now we know those were only words..."
Inadvertent U.S. killings of Awakening fighters -- five such incidents have occurred in the past three weeks -- are adding to the frustrations. In the southern town of Jurf al-Sakr, U.S. soldiers killed three fighters Feb. 15. U.S. commanders said that the men had fired upon the soldiers first and that the troops acted in self-defense.
Within hours, more than 1,000 fighters walked away from their posts. Sabah al-Janabi, who heads the Awakening in the area, publicly criticized the U.S. military, alleging it had killed 19 of his men in the past 45 days, which U.S. commanders deny...
In the village of Zaab, west of the northern city of Kirkuk, police officials and witnesses said U.S. forces on Feb. 14 killed six relatives of an Awakening leader, Issa Muhsin al-Jubouri, and detained him and others. In an interview last week, after his release, he said U.S. soldiers had "raised their weapons in my face and shouted at me, 'Confess or I will shoot you.'
"They beat me and cursed me and made me face the wall, saying to me, 'You have exploited the Awakening to support the terrorists,' " Jubouri said. "I kept saying, 'You are mistaken, because I and my family have been victims of terrorists.' "
BAGHDAD, Feb. 27 -- U.S.-backed Sunni volunteer forces, which have played a vital role in reducing violence in Iraq, are increasingly frustrated with the American military and the Iraqi government over what they see as a lack of recognition of their growing political clout and insufficient U.S. support...
"Now, there is no cooperation with the Americans," said Haider Mustafa al-Kaisy, an Awakening commander in Baqubah, the capital of Diyala province, an insurgent stronghold that U.S. and Iraqi forces are still struggling to control. "We have stopped fighting al-Qaeda..."
"They should make me stronger. They should not weaken me," said Kassim, a former commander in the Islamic Army, an insurgent group. "We need weapons. We need vehicles. We do not even have gas for the few cars we have. When we joined, the Americans promised to provide all necessities. Now we know those were only words..."
Inadvertent U.S. killings of Awakening fighters -- five such incidents have occurred in the past three weeks -- are adding to the frustrations. In the southern town of Jurf al-Sakr, U.S. soldiers killed three fighters Feb. 15. U.S. commanders said that the men had fired upon the soldiers first and that the troops acted in self-defense.
Within hours, more than 1,000 fighters walked away from their posts. Sabah al-Janabi, who heads the Awakening in the area, publicly criticized the U.S. military, alleging it had killed 19 of his men in the past 45 days, which U.S. commanders deny...
In the village of Zaab, west of the northern city of Kirkuk, police officials and witnesses said U.S. forces on Feb. 14 killed six relatives of an Awakening leader, Issa Muhsin al-Jubouri, and detained him and others. In an interview last week, after his release, he said U.S. soldiers had "raised their weapons in my face and shouted at me, 'Confess or I will shoot you.'
"They beat me and cursed me and made me face the wall, saying to me, 'You have exploited the Awakening to support the terrorists,' " Jubouri said. "I kept saying, 'You are mistaken, because I and my family have been victims of terrorists.' "
keeping America safe from Americans
Record-High Ratio of Americans in Prison
More than one in 100 adult Americans is in jail or prison, an all-time high that is costing state governments nearly $50 billion a year, in addition to more than $5 billion spent by the federal government... With more than 2.3 million people behind bars at the start of 2008, the United States leads the world in both the number and the percentage of residents it incarcerates, leaving even far more populous China a distant second, noted the report by the nonpartisan Pew Center on the States.
The ballooning prison population is largely the result of tougher state and federal sentencing imposed since the mid-1980s. Minorities have been hit particularly hard: One in nine black men age 20 to 34 is behind bars...
More than one in 100 adult Americans is in jail or prison, an all-time high that is costing state governments nearly $50 billion a year, in addition to more than $5 billion spent by the federal government... With more than 2.3 million people behind bars at the start of 2008, the United States leads the world in both the number and the percentage of residents it incarcerates, leaving even far more populous China a distant second, noted the report by the nonpartisan Pew Center on the States.
The ballooning prison population is largely the result of tougher state and federal sentencing imposed since the mid-1980s. Minorities have been hit particularly hard: One in nine black men age 20 to 34 is behind bars...
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz(cont)
McCain’s Canal Zone Birth Prompts Queries About Whether That Rules Him Out
Shouldn't they check this (and make a ruling) when a person STARTS their candidacy? They need to change the law anyway. If you're born to US parents, it shouldn't matter where you were when you were born - why would that be good enuff for citizenship but not for the presidency? And why shouldn't Ahnuld be able to run? In a true democracy, we should be able to vote in whoever we want. Even a non citizen. Some guy just off the boat from Haiti should be eligible, at least for the two days before we send him back.
Shouldn't they check this (and make a ruling) when a person STARTS their candidacy? They need to change the law anyway. If you're born to US parents, it shouldn't matter where you were when you were born - why would that be good enuff for citizenship but not for the presidency? And why shouldn't Ahnuld be able to run? In a true democracy, we should be able to vote in whoever we want. Even a non citizen. Some guy just off the boat from Haiti should be eligible, at least for the two days before we send him back.
Such Candor...
...is why the US thinks the election has little chance of being "free and fair"...
"I am giving you an order to vote for the President (Cde Mugabe). Do not be distracted. The challenges we are currently facing are just a passing phase," he said.
"I am giving you an order to vote for the President (Cde Mugabe). Do not be distracted. The challenges we are currently facing are just a passing phase," he said.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Tim Russert is a Putz
So i'm watching the 2nd part of last night's debate and they just spent 10+ minutes on Louis Farrakhan?!?!
WHAT THE FUCK DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH ANYTHING IMPORTANT?
Hey Tim Russert: Go Fuck Yourself.
WHAT THE FUCK DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH ANYTHING IMPORTANT?
Hey Tim Russert: Go Fuck Yourself.
Good God (see previous post)
Dodgers manager Joe Torre said he told Nomar Garciaparra that he'd have the inside track at winning the starting job at third base over Andy LaRoche.
Figures. "I talked to him the other day," Torre said. "I explained to him that being the veteran guy, he has the inside track as far as being the starting third baseman. But we will (start the season) with the best 25 (players) we can get." Torre's love of veterans also figures to be good news for Juan Pierre. The Dodgers have shot themselves in the foot a lot the last couple of years with their playing time decisions. Torre has his strengths, but breaking in youngsters isn't one of them.
Figures. "I talked to him the other day," Torre said. "I explained to him that being the veteran guy, he has the inside track as far as being the starting third baseman. But we will (start the season) with the best 25 (players) we can get." Torre's love of veterans also figures to be good news for Juan Pierre. The Dodgers have shot themselves in the foot a lot the last couple of years with their playing time decisions. Torre has his strengths, but breaking in youngsters isn't one of them.
How to suck at managing, part 785
Tigers manager Jim Leyland announced Wednesday that Miguel Cabrera would open the season batting fifth. Leyland will use a lineup of: CF Curtis Granderson, 2B Placido Polanco, DH Gary Sheffield, RF Magglio Ordonez, 3B Cabrera, 1B Carlos Guillen, SS Edgar Renteria, C Ivan Rodriguez and LF Jacque Jones. Marcus Thames is expected to start over Jones versus lefties.
Yes, batting your best hitter 5th - great idea, Jimmy. Fortunetly for "Smoke 'Em if You Got 'Em" Leyland, Sheff will miss about half the year with a bad hammy and pouting over his contract, his agent, the media, Joe Torre, his hair stylist, the Detroit nightlife, etc.
Yes, batting your best hitter 5th - great idea, Jimmy. Fortunetly for "Smoke 'Em if You Got 'Em" Leyland, Sheff will miss about half the year with a bad hammy and pouting over his contract, his agent, the media, Joe Torre, his hair stylist, the Detroit nightlife, etc.
Was he hanging with Bret Boone?
An arrest warrant has been issued by the Irvine Police Department for Scott Spiezio on six charges stemming from a Dec. 30 incident. The warrant alleges driving under influence, driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or more, hit and run, aggravated assault, assault and battery. Spiezio was on the restricted list for a time last season because of substance abuse problems.
Smiff is a drunkard, too, but at least i have sense enough to have a personal chauffer (Rebecca) drive me to rock shows where i can have a few gin & tonics and white russians...
Smiff is a drunkard, too, but at least i have sense enough to have a personal chauffer (Rebecca) drive me to rock shows where i can have a few gin & tonics and white russians...
maybe they should follow da Huckster around for like 20 minutes...
News item: The IRS is investigating the United Church of Christ over a speech Sen. Barack Obama gave at its national meeting last year after he became a candidate for president, the denomination said Tuesday.
The next step for this blog?
From the Blogger Buzz...
With GrandCentral, a free service from Google, you can receive phone calls and post voicemails right on your blog. Though GrandCentral is currently in a private beta test, bloggers can skip the wait and get a free account immediately. Sign up now
I can't think of a better way to enhance da hottest blog on da internets dan dis...
With GrandCentral, a free service from Google, you can receive phone calls and post voicemails right on your blog. Though GrandCentral is currently in a private beta test, bloggers can skip the wait and get a free account immediately. Sign up now
I can't think of a better way to enhance da hottest blog on da internets dan dis...
If it's Bush III: IV More Wars, who is going to blow Smiff's brains out because surely i will not be able to take this anymore...
Poll: Obama overtakes Clinton, tied with McCain
*Un-freaking-believable. Yes, very strong on national security: a proven failure who is promising a constant state of war and 100--why not 1,000--years in Iraq. Please, GIVE ME MORE OF THAT...AND DON'T FORGET THE REACH-AROUND! Jesus Phokking Christ already, how FUCKING STUPID IS THIS COUNTRY??
Oh yes, and the economy: McCain has stated he "doesn't understand it."
Does K-Mad still have dat "How to move to Canada" book?
Feb. 27 (Bloomberg) -- Barack Obama moved ahead of Hillary Clinton in the battle for the Democratic presidential nomination, and is in a dead heat in a general-election fight against Republican John McCain, who enjoys an advantage on national-security issues.
A Bloomberg/Los Angeles Times survey shows Obama is preferred by Democratic primary voters 48 percent to 42 percent, the first time he has overtaken Clinton in a Bloomberg/Times poll. In a general-election match-up among registered voters, McCain is 2 points ahead of Obama, within the margin of error; he beats Clinton by 6 points.
McCain runs ahead of Obama on every issue except health care.* The Arizona senator has a 13-point advantage on Iraq and a 37- point lead on terrorism. He also does better on managing the economy. One area where Obama has a clear edge is on the question of who would bring the most change in Washington; the Illinois senator has an almost 3-to-1 lead.
*Un-freaking-believable. Yes, very strong on national security: a proven failure who is promising a constant state of war and 100--why not 1,000--years in Iraq. Please, GIVE ME MORE OF THAT...AND DON'T FORGET THE REACH-AROUND! Jesus Phokking Christ already, how FUCKING STUPID IS THIS COUNTRY??
Oh yes, and the economy: McCain has stated he "doesn't understand it."
Does K-Mad still have dat "How to move to Canada" book?
I still love those cute turtles though -- hilarious!
News item: Comcast acknowledges that it hired people to take up room at an F.C.C. hearing into its practices.
It's all about Blago
Blagojevich: NIU's Cole Hall to be demolished
Blagojevich: Cole Hall to be demolished and replaced with Memorial Hall
Associated Press
7:32 AM CST, February 27, 2008
DEKALB, Ill. - Governor Rod Blagojevich's office says the building that was the scene of this month's shooting at Northern Illinois University will be demolished and replaced with a new classroom building. A gunman fatally shot five students attending a lecture inside Cole Hall before turning a gun on himself on Valentine's Day. Blagojevich plans an afternoon news conference to announce funding that will allow NIU to demolish Cole Hall. A new state-of-the-art general classroom building will be built on the site and named Memorial Hall.
At least 16 others were wounded during the attack at the 25,000-student campus about an hour from Chicago. Classes resumed at NIU this week.
I don't know much about this building, except what happened this month of course, but should it be demolished just because of what one person did? I mean, isn't this exactly why people go out and shoot a bunch of other people before killing themselves? That in some sick way they put their indent on history?
Blagojevich: Cole Hall to be demolished and replaced with Memorial Hall
Associated Press
7:32 AM CST, February 27, 2008
DEKALB, Ill. - Governor Rod Blagojevich's office says the building that was the scene of this month's shooting at Northern Illinois University will be demolished and replaced with a new classroom building. A gunman fatally shot five students attending a lecture inside Cole Hall before turning a gun on himself on Valentine's Day. Blagojevich plans an afternoon news conference to announce funding that will allow NIU to demolish Cole Hall. A new state-of-the-art general classroom building will be built on the site and named Memorial Hall.
At least 16 others were wounded during the attack at the 25,000-student campus about an hour from Chicago. Classes resumed at NIU this week.
I don't know much about this building, except what happened this month of course, but should it be demolished just because of what one person did? I mean, isn't this exactly why people go out and shoot a bunch of other people before killing themselves? That in some sick way they put their indent on history?
yet anudder new Smiff emerges...
The mailing label for my FREE copy (suckers!) of the Baseball Prospectus reads:
Mike Smithey
Smithey Mike Smithey
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Crab Queens Barf...
Well, what does this...mean? And now will the Rays sign Bonds?
Scott Kazmir going for MRI on left elbow
Scott Kazmir will go for an MRI on his left elbow this afternoon after feeling what "felt like a hyperextension" while warming up for Tuesday's intrasquad game.
Kazmir said he did well on strengths tests performed by Rays trainers after the incident and was encouraged that he didn't feel any further pain in the elbow, which was covered by a blue sleeve as he prepared to leave. "It felt like it just jammed a little bit, like a hyperextension," he said.
Or like something broken-star-splittingly horrible. Feb. 26 - 12:20 pm et
Scott Kazmir going for MRI on left elbow
Scott Kazmir will go for an MRI on his left elbow this afternoon after feeling what "felt like a hyperextension" while warming up for Tuesday's intrasquad game.
Kazmir said he did well on strengths tests performed by Rays trainers after the incident and was encouraged that he didn't feel any further pain in the elbow, which was covered by a blue sleeve as he prepared to leave. "It felt like it just jammed a little bit, like a hyperextension," he said.
Or like something broken-star-splittingly horrible. Feb. 26 - 12:20 pm et
Resolved: The people of Chicago are entitled to tell Sam Zell what he should do with his asset
"We intend to sell the Cubs on our time frame and in the manner in which we choose," Zell said on CNBC. "The idea of a debate occurring over what I should do with my asset leaves me somewhat questioning the integrity of the debate."
Has anyone else noticed...
...the treasure trove of unfinished blog posts that were autosaved by Blogger? Sumthin we started on and den never finished? We could, like, release them as bloopers or something - Smiff's Random Thoughts? K-Mad's Mad Dreams? Sarge's Log? Corms' Worms? Fung's cave drawings? Ranger's tales of danger?
Slow news day...
Slow news day...
Good times...
According to the Daily News, a major leaguer has informed congressional investigators that Roger Clemens often joked in the clubhouse about a memorable account at a party thrown by Jose Canseco — a scene in which Debbie Clemens and Canseco's ex-wife Jessica compared the results of their surgical breast enhancements.
More Picture Fun With Obama
I saw NBC news the other night when they talked about all three candidates. They showed a screen that was split three ways with McCain, Clinton and Obama. Although I am not sophisticated enough to pull up a clip and do a screen capture - Obama was standing behind a podium with his favorite placard in front of him - which I am certain read "Change - We Can Believe In." However, the cropping effect by their news department produced an effect which I have tried to replicate above. Lovely. Someone please let O'Reilly know.
And you think Smiff has been drinking again?
Bret Boone revealed Monday than an alcohol problem contributed to him walking away from the game two years ago. Boone had gotten to the point where he would drink 12-15 beers after a game.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Terrist! Terrist! Terrist!
Dis proves it! He's wit dem! Not wit us! Is dis who you want leading you, America? Somebody who would wear something other than a suit & tie? Wearing terrist clothes? Huh?
Lessee how long "turban-gate" takes to blow over...
Also, dis image does show, quite clearly, that he's not black enuff...
OBP? Dusty still doesn't roll that way...
Reds manager Dusty Baker indicated on Monday that he'd likely keep Brandon Phillips in the cleanup spot this season. "Brandon will probably hit third someday*," Baker said. "But, right now, I need to him break up Junior and (Adam) Dunn." Ken Griffey Jr. always hits third whether he deserves to or not, suggesting that Phillips will clean up and Dunn's superior OBP will again land in the fifth spot. Baker could have gotten more creative given his lack of prototypical top-of-the-order guys, but that's not his style.
*Funny!
*Funny!
Oopsie
Sarge got caught...
'Girl' at Japan school was 39-year-old man
Tokyo, Japan
22 February 2008 07:27
A Japanese man was arrested for trespassing this week after turning up at a high school dressed in a girl's uniform and a long wig, local police said.
Thirty-nine-year-old Tetsunori Nanpei told police he had bought the uniform over the internet and put it on to take a stroll near the school in Saitama, north of Tokyo, on Wednesday, the daily Asahi Shimbun said.
When students standing outside the gates started to scream at the sight of him, he dashed inside the school grounds, hoping to blend in with the crowds of teenagers, the paper said.
They also screamed, forcing the man to flee, losing his wig in the process. A school clerk pursued him and stopped him at a nearby riverbank, the paper said.
Police confirmed the arrest of the man in school uniform and wig but declined to give further details. - Reuters
'Girl' at Japan school was 39-year-old man
Tokyo, Japan
22 February 2008 07:27
A Japanese man was arrested for trespassing this week after turning up at a high school dressed in a girl's uniform and a long wig, local police said.
Thirty-nine-year-old Tetsunori Nanpei told police he had bought the uniform over the internet and put it on to take a stroll near the school in Saitama, north of Tokyo, on Wednesday, the daily Asahi Shimbun said.
When students standing outside the gates started to scream at the sight of him, he dashed inside the school grounds, hoping to blend in with the crowds of teenagers, the paper said.
They also screamed, forcing the man to flee, losing his wig in the process. A school clerk pursued him and stopped him at a nearby riverbank, the paper said.
Police confirmed the arrest of the man in school uniform and wig but declined to give further details. - Reuters
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Saturday, February 23, 2008
I can't win for losing.
Winter: will it ever end?
Get ready for a rerun of Friday's wet, blustery conditions. Forecasters say a half inch to an inch of rain could fall at the coast and inland valleys Sunday. And powerful winds should rake the mountains while hyoooge waves pound the beaches.
Fung: one of the 322?
You cool wid dis?
The Bears and Rex Grossman have agreed to another year for $3 million. And you are…
* Fine with it. Nothing better is out there (1242 responses) 50.8%
* Ecstatic. He will lead the Bears to glory (322 responses) 13.2%
* Irritated. They could have shopped around (586 responses) 24.0%
* Breathing fire. This guy is responsible for all that is bad with Chicago sports * (296 responses) 12.1%
* Datz a lot to lay on one person.
The Bears and Rex Grossman have agreed to another year for $3 million. And you are…
* Fine with it. Nothing better is out there (1242 responses) 50.8%
* Ecstatic. He will lead the Bears to glory (322 responses) 13.2%
* Irritated. They could have shopped around (586 responses) 24.0%
* Breathing fire. This guy is responsible for all that is bad with Chicago sports * (296 responses) 12.1%
* Datz a lot to lay on one person.
Friday, February 22, 2008
What this means: ETA to K-Mad: August 12th
Baseball Prospectus 2008 Shipping News
Posted by Steven Goldman @ February 21, 2008, 11:32 PM-->
Due to some scattered shipping dates quoted by various on-line book retailers, we’ve received many inquiries from readers as to just when they can expect to receive their copies of Baseball Prospectus 2008. Sadly, we’re not told much more about this than anyone else; when you publish a book, it’s a bit like sending your kid off to school, only the school refuses to tell you when they’ll be coming home.
That said, we’re hearing that Amazon should start filling orders very shortly. The books are out there: we’ve glimpsed them, the retailers have them, and it’s just a question of them gearing up their massive delivery apparatus and getting the books out the door and onto the shelves. We understand your impatience because we share it.
Posted by Steven Goldman @ February 21, 2008, 11:32 PM-->
Due to some scattered shipping dates quoted by various on-line book retailers, we’ve received many inquiries from readers as to just when they can expect to receive their copies of Baseball Prospectus 2008. Sadly, we’re not told much more about this than anyone else; when you publish a book, it’s a bit like sending your kid off to school, only the school refuses to tell you when they’ll be coming home.
That said, we’re hearing that Amazon should start filling orders very shortly. The books are out there: we’ve glimpsed them, the retailers have them, and it’s just a question of them gearing up their massive delivery apparatus and getting the books out the door and onto the shelves. We understand your impatience because we share it.
EMPTY YOUR BANK ACCOUNTS TODAY!
Cubs tickets on sale
1:32 PM CST, February 22, 2008
MESA, Ariz. - Tickets for individual Cubs games went on sale at 8 a.m. Friday at Wrigley Field, at 10 a.m. at http://www.cubs.com/ and at 10 a.m. via phone at 800-843-2827 or 866-652-2827 (out of state).
1:32 PM CST, February 22, 2008
MESA, Ariz. - Tickets for individual Cubs games went on sale at 8 a.m. Friday at Wrigley Field, at 10 a.m. at http://www.cubs.com/ and at 10 a.m. via phone at 800-843-2827 or 866-652-2827 (out of state).
Don't Be Gay
A Florida school administrator, no doubt a South Park fan, allegedly admonishes his students "don't be gay." And in support of his position he has allegedly suspended several students who wear rainbows or other symbols of gay pride in his school. The ACLU sued.
Of course, the complaint hasn't been answered yet, so we don't know what the school is willing to admit to. However, an exciting letter from a school representative sets up one issue nicely for any court loss. The letter basically says, we don't allow pro-gay statements because they would be disruptive just like we don't allow anti-gay statements. I love it. So if the school loses, presumably the administrator will have his revenge after all. He will allow anti-gay statements, throwing up his arms and exclaiming "I love the First Amendment." And after all, there may well be more students willing to wear anti-gay statements then pro-gay statements. In another letter they apparently compared it to students wearing the Confederate flag. So that's another possibility. Wear your Rainbow Brite shirt and then we will let them display their rebel pride.
I can't imagine what this administrator would do if he actually had gay or lesbian parents attending a parent teacher conference or a basketball game or a school play. I recognize there is a difference, but I can't imagine he would be any less hostile to the open display of homosexuality. Perhaps the schools should refuse to educate gay students or children of gay or lesbian couples. Maybe the next step is to eliminate liberals from public education. Then papists. Then nonwhites. Then non-evangelicals. Then troublemakers. Then those who sin. Eventually, we will eliminate these kind of educational disturbances by really tailoring the kind of mainstream children we are willing to educate. Of course, I doubt that these children should be exposed to the kinds of lies that are propagated by science, and there is little hope for teaching history or literature, almost all of which has been written by flawed sinners. Perhaps a modest schoolhouse, focusing on biblical education where these chosen children can be taught the divine word of god. Oh well.
Of course, the complaint hasn't been answered yet, so we don't know what the school is willing to admit to. However, an exciting letter from a school representative sets up one issue nicely for any court loss. The letter basically says, we don't allow pro-gay statements because they would be disruptive just like we don't allow anti-gay statements. I love it. So if the school loses, presumably the administrator will have his revenge after all. He will allow anti-gay statements, throwing up his arms and exclaiming "I love the First Amendment." And after all, there may well be more students willing to wear anti-gay statements then pro-gay statements. In another letter they apparently compared it to students wearing the Confederate flag. So that's another possibility. Wear your Rainbow Brite shirt and then we will let them display their rebel pride.
I can't imagine what this administrator would do if he actually had gay or lesbian parents attending a parent teacher conference or a basketball game or a school play. I recognize there is a difference, but I can't imagine he would be any less hostile to the open display of homosexuality. Perhaps the schools should refuse to educate gay students or children of gay or lesbian couples. Maybe the next step is to eliminate liberals from public education. Then papists. Then nonwhites. Then non-evangelicals. Then troublemakers. Then those who sin. Eventually, we will eliminate these kind of educational disturbances by really tailoring the kind of mainstream children we are willing to educate. Of course, I doubt that these children should be exposed to the kinds of lies that are propagated by science, and there is little hope for teaching history or literature, almost all of which has been written by flawed sinners. Perhaps a modest schoolhouse, focusing on biblical education where these chosen children can be taught the divine word of god. Oh well.
Smiff has been busy...
Triplets born to teenager - again
By Daniel Schweimler BBC News, Buenos Aires
A 16-year-old Argentine girl has given birth to female triplets - for the second time.
The girl, named only as Pamela, had her first set of female triplets aged 15, having first given birth to a son when she was just 14.
All seven children were born prematurely but without any kind of fertility treatment.
While doctors say the three newborns and their mother are well, the case has sparked debate across Argentina.
In bars and cafes, as well as the letters pages of newspapers, there has been widespread criticism of Pamela's alleged promiscuity.
Seeking more
Pamela's family already receives help from the provincial authorities, which donated land and built them a house when the first set of triplets was born.
Pamela's mother, who cleans houses to support her daughter and rapidly increasing number of grandchildren, says they will now seek more assistance from the government for the new additions to the family.
Some Argentines are arguing that perhaps what Pamela needs is more advice on contraception.
The teenager, who will be 17 on Monday, comes from the remote town of Leones in the central Argentine province of Cordoba.
By Daniel Schweimler BBC News, Buenos Aires
A 16-year-old Argentine girl has given birth to female triplets - for the second time.
The girl, named only as Pamela, had her first set of female triplets aged 15, having first given birth to a son when she was just 14.
All seven children were born prematurely but without any kind of fertility treatment.
While doctors say the three newborns and their mother are well, the case has sparked debate across Argentina.
In bars and cafes, as well as the letters pages of newspapers, there has been widespread criticism of Pamela's alleged promiscuity.
Seeking more
Pamela's family already receives help from the provincial authorities, which donated land and built them a house when the first set of triplets was born.
Pamela's mother, who cleans houses to support her daughter and rapidly increasing number of grandchildren, says they will now seek more assistance from the government for the new additions to the family.
Some Argentines are arguing that perhaps what Pamela needs is more advice on contraception.
The teenager, who will be 17 on Monday, comes from the remote town of Leones in the central Argentine province of Cordoba.
Well, He Should Take Comfort in the Fact that Eugene Debs Spent a Lot of Time in Jail Too...
For, you know, the courage to speak his mind. But this is a speaking of the mind too, in a sense, the kind of mind that wants to get really, really rich on the taxpayers' dime while complaining that government doesn't "work" and that things would be better if we let the pros do it. You know, the pros that pay him off and make things not work.
Arizona GOP lawmaker indicted
* Story Highlights
* Rep. Rick Renzi indicted on federal charges Friday
* Charges include conspiracy, money laundering and extortion
* Indictment of Arizona Republican stems from investigation into land deals
* Three-term congressman has said he would not seek re-election
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Rep. Rick Renzi, an Arizona Republican, has been indicted on federal charges following an investigation into his relationship with a former business partner regarding land deals, the Justice Department said Friday.
In a 35-count indictment, Renzi is charged with conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering, extortion and insurance fraud.
Federal investigators also were looking at whether Renzi's father was enriched by the lawmaker's relationship with the ex-business partner, according to the indictment.
Renzi has been under an ethical cloud since the FBI raided a family business last year. The FBI said it was investigating whether the congressman had used his office for personal gain.
He stepped down from the House Intelligence Committee in April after the raid.
Renzi has denied any wrongdoing.
Renzi, a three-term member of the House, announced in August that he would not seek re-election. He represents Arizona's 1st Congressional District.
Federal prosecutors have scheduled a news conference Friday morning in Phoenix, Arizona, to announce details of the charges.
See how he votes! Ethical cloud or not, the man's going to salute hospitalized veterans even though his party fails these same veterans with about the regularity of a healthy goose.
Arizona GOP lawmaker indicted
* Story Highlights
* Rep. Rick Renzi indicted on federal charges Friday
* Charges include conspiracy, money laundering and extortion
* Indictment of Arizona Republican stems from investigation into land deals
* Three-term congressman has said he would not seek re-election
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Rep. Rick Renzi, an Arizona Republican, has been indicted on federal charges following an investigation into his relationship with a former business partner regarding land deals, the Justice Department said Friday.
In a 35-count indictment, Renzi is charged with conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering, extortion and insurance fraud.
Federal investigators also were looking at whether Renzi's father was enriched by the lawmaker's relationship with the ex-business partner, according to the indictment.
Renzi has been under an ethical cloud since the FBI raided a family business last year. The FBI said it was investigating whether the congressman had used his office for personal gain.
He stepped down from the House Intelligence Committee in April after the raid.
Renzi has denied any wrongdoing.
Renzi, a three-term member of the House, announced in August that he would not seek re-election. He represents Arizona's 1st Congressional District.
Federal prosecutors have scheduled a news conference Friday morning in Phoenix, Arizona, to announce details of the charges.
See how he votes! Ethical cloud or not, the man's going to salute hospitalized veterans even though his party fails these same veterans with about the regularity of a healthy goose.
With Heads Up Asses a Candle is Needed to Guide the Way
So we used some airstrips in BritishLand (Diego Fucking Nowhere or some shit...) to transport prisoners singled out for torture even though they didn't want us to do that, but it's cool because it was just an administrative error, like, you know, New Orleans or something like that. As well, London's cool with it because we used "good faith" in handling our soon to be tortured prisoners. As far as they know, the blindfolded and shackled prisoners (who could possibly be innocent and turned in by Afghani or Iraqi soldiers working with militants - as is often the case - see Taxi to the Dark Side ) did not have cattle prods waved near their genitals or water shoved down their throat during the refueling, which is important for English sensibilities. So it's just America being America and that's cool. I mean, it was better that America do all the torture-shit without any British involvement, but you know, protocol in the end has been reestablished, and that's what counts.
Charles Krauthammer meanwhile is on the crack with his idea that the Iraq progress (less suicide bombings - more meetings between rich sheiks and vigilante forces that don't appear to be actively ethnically cleansing anymore now that the neighborhoods have been vetted in Baghdad) could transform the entire Mideast. Because you know, they totally trust us now looking at what's going on there. They trust us in Africa too! So much that the Chinese are going around and cleaning up on the economic future basically by claiming "hey! We're not American."
It used to be the freako-conservatives who haven't been prescient since they didn't like Stalin and even then they were totally cool with staying out of Hitler's way - used to plead with the American public that the economy was good and their homes were worth a lot of money (!!!$$$!!!) but now with the economy drenched in the urine of excess, we are told, hey, at least we're winning the war in Iraq. I mean, in the sense that they are not killing each other or us so much anymore. Though asking them or us what it all means is kind of like asking Bill Clinton to define "is".
Anyway, what follows is the very funny and depressing article from CNN - I read this at a breakfast counter and clapped once (the "administrative error" part) - it's small and means nothing, except that in its bureaucratic ass-headedness in talking about the mechanics of American methods of interrogation and torture it reveals the absolute bungle of American policy during the last seven plus years now. :
LONDON, England (CNN) -- British Foreign Secretary David Miliband said Thursday that British territory was used to transport two suspects in the CIA's rendition program.
David Miliband said two suspects in the CIA rendition program were transported via British soil.
The British government previously had said it played no part in the program. The foreign secretary said Thursday's revelations were the result of "new information" the United States gave to Britain last Friday.
The U.S. State Department said it regretted Britain was given wrong information and called it "an administrative error."
State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said: "We express regret that we initially provided inaccurate information to a good friend and ally."
Miliband told the House of Commons that two flights, each carrying a U.S. detainee, refueled in 2002 in Diego Garcia, a British territory in the Indian Ocean.
Miliband said the U.S. government had assured Britain that no U.S. detainees were ever held on Diego Garcia.
Don't Miss
* CIA flights to Greenland investigated
He said the planes only refueled at the U.S. facility on the island, and the detainees never left the plane.
He said a U.S. investigation showed no record of any other rendition through Diego Garcia or any other UK territory since then.
Then-Prime Minister Tony Blair assured the government's Intelligence and Security Committee last March that the United States had never rendered any detainees through the UK or its overseas territories since Sept. 11, 2001. The committee released a report last June saying it was satisfied with the findings.
Miliband said the government had a "deep disappointment" about the late news of the rendition flights, but he said Britain believed the United States acted "in good faith" when it made the initial assurances that no flights had taken place.
"Secretary Rice has underlined to me the firm U.S. understanding that there will be no rendition through the UK, UK airspace or overseas territories without express British government permission," he said.
Mike Gapes, chairman of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, was less forgiving about the late information. His committee published its annual report on human rights last April in which it already expressed concerns about rendition.
"The fact that the United States Bush Administration has clearly misled or lied to our government has resulted in our government inadvertently misleading a select committee of this house and members of this house," Gapes said. "The United States administration has to bear in mind that this is a most serious matter and we do not wish to see it repeated."
CNN obtained a copy of a message CIA Director Mike Hayden sent to CIA employees in which he said the information surfaced late last year when the agency "took a fresh look" at records of rendition flights. He said it was important to take responsibility for the error.
"Given our mission, CIA could have no interest in a process destined to produce bad intelligence," he wrote.
In his message, Hayden says speculation about a CIA holding facility on Diego Garcia -- and allegations that the detainees are transported for the purpose of torture -- are "false."
"Torture is against our laws and our values," Hayden wrote.
The European Parliament and human rights groups have condemned the CIA's practice of rendition, in which the United States moved a suspected terrorist in CIA custody from one country to another.
advertisement
Critics claim the suspects are turned over to foreign intelligence services who use harsher interrogation methods, including torture.
As for the two detainees transported through Diego Garcia, Miliband said neither was a British national or resident. One is currently being held at Guantanamo Bay and the other has been released, he said.
Charles Krauthammer meanwhile is on the crack with his idea that the Iraq progress (less suicide bombings - more meetings between rich sheiks and vigilante forces that don't appear to be actively ethnically cleansing anymore now that the neighborhoods have been vetted in Baghdad) could transform the entire Mideast. Because you know, they totally trust us now looking at what's going on there. They trust us in Africa too! So much that the Chinese are going around and cleaning up on the economic future basically by claiming "hey! We're not American."
It used to be the freako-conservatives who haven't been prescient since they didn't like Stalin and even then they were totally cool with staying out of Hitler's way - used to plead with the American public that the economy was good and their homes were worth a lot of money (!!!$$$!!!) but now with the economy drenched in the urine of excess, we are told, hey, at least we're winning the war in Iraq. I mean, in the sense that they are not killing each other or us so much anymore. Though asking them or us what it all means is kind of like asking Bill Clinton to define "is".
Anyway, what follows is the very funny and depressing article from CNN - I read this at a breakfast counter and clapped once (the "administrative error" part) - it's small and means nothing, except that in its bureaucratic ass-headedness in talking about the mechanics of American methods of interrogation and torture it reveals the absolute bungle of American policy during the last seven plus years now. :
LONDON, England (CNN) -- British Foreign Secretary David Miliband said Thursday that British territory was used to transport two suspects in the CIA's rendition program.
David Miliband said two suspects in the CIA rendition program were transported via British soil.
The British government previously had said it played no part in the program. The foreign secretary said Thursday's revelations were the result of "new information" the United States gave to Britain last Friday.
The U.S. State Department said it regretted Britain was given wrong information and called it "an administrative error."
State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said: "We express regret that we initially provided inaccurate information to a good friend and ally."
Miliband told the House of Commons that two flights, each carrying a U.S. detainee, refueled in 2002 in Diego Garcia, a British territory in the Indian Ocean.
Miliband said the U.S. government had assured Britain that no U.S. detainees were ever held on Diego Garcia.
Don't Miss
* CIA flights to Greenland investigated
He said the planes only refueled at the U.S. facility on the island, and the detainees never left the plane.
He said a U.S. investigation showed no record of any other rendition through Diego Garcia or any other UK territory since then.
Then-Prime Minister Tony Blair assured the government's Intelligence and Security Committee last March that the United States had never rendered any detainees through the UK or its overseas territories since Sept. 11, 2001. The committee released a report last June saying it was satisfied with the findings.
Miliband said the government had a "deep disappointment" about the late news of the rendition flights, but he said Britain believed the United States acted "in good faith" when it made the initial assurances that no flights had taken place.
"Secretary Rice has underlined to me the firm U.S. understanding that there will be no rendition through the UK, UK airspace or overseas territories without express British government permission," he said.
Mike Gapes, chairman of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, was less forgiving about the late information. His committee published its annual report on human rights last April in which it already expressed concerns about rendition.
"The fact that the United States Bush Administration has clearly misled or lied to our government has resulted in our government inadvertently misleading a select committee of this house and members of this house," Gapes said. "The United States administration has to bear in mind that this is a most serious matter and we do not wish to see it repeated."
CNN obtained a copy of a message CIA Director Mike Hayden sent to CIA employees in which he said the information surfaced late last year when the agency "took a fresh look" at records of rendition flights. He said it was important to take responsibility for the error.
"Given our mission, CIA could have no interest in a process destined to produce bad intelligence," he wrote.
In his message, Hayden says speculation about a CIA holding facility on Diego Garcia -- and allegations that the detainees are transported for the purpose of torture -- are "false."
"Torture is against our laws and our values," Hayden wrote.
The European Parliament and human rights groups have condemned the CIA's practice of rendition, in which the United States moved a suspected terrorist in CIA custody from one country to another.
advertisement
Critics claim the suspects are turned over to foreign intelligence services who use harsher interrogation methods, including torture.
As for the two detainees transported through Diego Garcia, Miliband said neither was a British national or resident. One is currently being held at Guantanamo Bay and the other has been released, he said.
mistakes were made, or, Winning Hearts And Minds! (WHAM!) (cont'd!)
"There have been some errors. It's something we regret."
- U.S. military spokesman Maj. Brad Leighton, commenting on how groups of U.S.-allied militias in Iraq have quit working with American troops after incidents in which U.S. soldiers killed their members.
- U.S. military spokesman Maj. Brad Leighton, commenting on how groups of U.S.-allied militias in Iraq have quit working with American troops after incidents in which U.S. soldiers killed their members.
dere is annudder doomsday direkkly behind dis one (cont'd)
News item — Illinois’ mass-transit agencies could lose up to more than $4 billion in federal money for capital improvements and service expansion programs could be doomed if Gov. Rod "Perfect Hair" Blagojevich fails to put more state dollars toward public transportation, two lawmakers warned Thursday.
U.S. Reps. Melissa Bean, D-Barrington, and Mark Kirk, R-Highland Park, sounded their alarm after hearing preliminary details of Gov. Blagojevich’s 2009 budget proposal...
Among the shortcomings, Ms. Bean said, was a plan to spend $1 billion over the next three years on improvement programs at the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra and Pace.
“That is $1.7 billion short,” she said... Illinois public transportation projects qualify for a total of $4.1 billion in federal funds for capital improvements, she said, but only if the state ponies up a total of $2.7 billion. The state has to provide 40% of the funding for each project in order to get the federal funds for the project.
“If we can’t find the additional dollars, we are going to leave the federal dollars on the table,” she said. “The money is there, but the money will be gone.”
U.S. Reps. Melissa Bean, D-Barrington, and Mark Kirk, R-Highland Park, sounded their alarm after hearing preliminary details of Gov. Blagojevich’s 2009 budget proposal...
Among the shortcomings, Ms. Bean said, was a plan to spend $1 billion over the next three years on improvement programs at the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra and Pace.
“That is $1.7 billion short,” she said... Illinois public transportation projects qualify for a total of $4.1 billion in federal funds for capital improvements, she said, but only if the state ponies up a total of $2.7 billion. The state has to provide 40% of the funding for each project in order to get the federal funds for the project.
“If we can’t find the additional dollars, we are going to leave the federal dollars on the table,” she said. “The money is there, but the money will be gone.”
Thursday, February 21, 2008
the original whitey keeping darky down
While i was putting together my file for my recent performance review, i was alerted to this article about the website i worked on at Northwestern before i told them to stick dat job and shove it. (If my review goes through and they keep me around dis joint collecting dust, my pay in July will have gone up $26K since i was at NU just a year and half ago, living on what i could forage from Evanston alleys and dumpsters...but i digress...oh, yeah, have i told you how much NU SUCKS? If there was a way Henry Bienen could get away with not paying anyone anything, with no benefits, if that's what the market dictates, he would...oooh, what a further digressment...) Oh yeah, a couple of stories like this came out about the same time, also in the international press. The American press? Not so much.
The Independent: Lost worlds
Independent, The (London, England) - January 12, 2007
Author: Ed Caesar
Joseph Conrad notes, in Heart of Darkness, that "the conquest of the earth, which mostly means the taking it away from those who have a different complexion or slightly flatter noses than ourselves, is not a pretty thing when you look into it too much." Conrad's celebrated novella was set against the backdrop of Europe's "scramble for Africa", when its conquest seemed - as it had done for centuries - a very pretty thing indeed. And in a series of 113 maps of Africa - dating from 1530 to 1915 and now available for download from Northwestern University's archives - all the romance and ignorance of Europe's developing relationship with Stan-ley's "dark continent" becomes clear. Because the early cartographers had never been to the places they were attempting to map, some of Northwestern's exhibits are a significant departure from reality. The Nile changes position any number of times, while mountains, lakes and other topographical features mutate like putty. But it is the names that leap out from the maps. One vainglorious example, from 1747, refers to the entirety of West Africa as "Negroland". Other maps, meanwhile, chart defunct civilisations - Dahomey (in what is now Benin); Abyssinia (in modern-day Ethiopia); and the southern empire of Monomotapa (now in Zimbabwe and Mozambique). The skill of the cartographers is undeniable. Indeed, in the luscious example here - drawn by Willem Janszoon Blaeu and published in Amsterdam in 1635 - the continent is rendered in minute, if inaccurate, detail. But the telling evidence of what is not yet known leaps from the page. Whereas Africa's coastline is peppered with place names and the mouths of rivers, much of the interior - particularly the area that is now Congo - is blank. Blaeu clearly considered white space a crime, and filled these gaps in European knowledge with friendly-looking beasts - a chubby elephant; an unthreatening lion; a cheeky monkey. What all these maps display is that the great powers to the north had conquered Africa long before white men stepped ashore and claimed the territory in person. In the simple act of charting and naming, the European imagination had already sliced up the continent. http://www.library.northwestern.edu/govinfo/collections/mapsofafrica/
The Independent: Lost worlds
Independent, The (London, England) - January 12, 2007
Author: Ed Caesar
Joseph Conrad notes, in Heart of Darkness, that "the conquest of the earth, which mostly means the taking it away from those who have a different complexion or slightly flatter noses than ourselves, is not a pretty thing when you look into it too much." Conrad's celebrated novella was set against the backdrop of Europe's "scramble for Africa", when its conquest seemed - as it had done for centuries - a very pretty thing indeed. And in a series of 113 maps of Africa - dating from 1530 to 1915 and now available for download from Northwestern University's archives - all the romance and ignorance of Europe's developing relationship with Stan-ley's "dark continent" becomes clear. Because the early cartographers had never been to the places they were attempting to map, some of Northwestern's exhibits are a significant departure from reality. The Nile changes position any number of times, while mountains, lakes and other topographical features mutate like putty. But it is the names that leap out from the maps. One vainglorious example, from 1747, refers to the entirety of West Africa as "Negroland". Other maps, meanwhile, chart defunct civilisations - Dahomey (in what is now Benin); Abyssinia (in modern-day Ethiopia); and the southern empire of Monomotapa (now in Zimbabwe and Mozambique). The skill of the cartographers is undeniable. Indeed, in the luscious example here - drawn by Willem Janszoon Blaeu and published in Amsterdam in 1635 - the continent is rendered in minute, if inaccurate, detail. But the telling evidence of what is not yet known leaps from the page. Whereas Africa's coastline is peppered with place names and the mouths of rivers, much of the interior - particularly the area that is now Congo - is blank. Blaeu clearly considered white space a crime, and filled these gaps in European knowledge with friendly-looking beasts - a chubby elephant; an unthreatening lion; a cheeky monkey. What all these maps display is that the great powers to the north had conquered Africa long before white men stepped ashore and claimed the territory in person. In the simple act of charting and naming, the European imagination had already sliced up the continent. http://www.library.northwestern.edu/govinfo/collections/mapsofafrica/
Fat Blips all around
Australia's postal service makes weighty decision
Sydney, Australia
20 February 2008 01:14
Australia's postal service has increased the maximum weight for its delivery staff after struggling to attract applicants weighing less than 90kg, local media reported on Tuesday.
The old limit was designed to allow "posties", as they are known here, to carry 40kg of mail on their small motorcycles for a total load of 130kg, the Daily Telegraph said.
That was seen as a "safe working limit" for the 110cc Hondas, but because of difficulties in finding suitable staff, the weight limit has been raised to 105kg, a union official said."
How many people weigh 90kg? Not many. They lifted the limit to 105kg after Honda gave them permission," said union organiser Michael Etue.
The prevalence of obesity has more than doubled in Australia in the past 20 years, the Australian General Practice Network of doctors said last year.
Australia Post spokesperson Scott McIntyre acknowledged that Honda had approved the weight increase after tests found it "would not have any significant effect on the stability, handling or safety of the 110cc motorcycle".
But unions claim the increased weight allowance means posties cannot carry as much mail and will have to work overtime to meet unrealistic deadlines. -- AFP
For da metrically challenged, dis means dey're going up from about 200lbs to 230lbs. Fung could have been a postie even under the old rules. Apparently I missed my calling...
Sydney, Australia
20 February 2008 01:14
Australia's postal service has increased the maximum weight for its delivery staff after struggling to attract applicants weighing less than 90kg, local media reported on Tuesday.
The old limit was designed to allow "posties", as they are known here, to carry 40kg of mail on their small motorcycles for a total load of 130kg, the Daily Telegraph said.
That was seen as a "safe working limit" for the 110cc Hondas, but because of difficulties in finding suitable staff, the weight limit has been raised to 105kg, a union official said."
How many people weigh 90kg? Not many. They lifted the limit to 105kg after Honda gave them permission," said union organiser Michael Etue.
The prevalence of obesity has more than doubled in Australia in the past 20 years, the Australian General Practice Network of doctors said last year.
Australia Post spokesperson Scott McIntyre acknowledged that Honda had approved the weight increase after tests found it "would not have any significant effect on the stability, handling or safety of the 110cc motorcycle".
But unions claim the increased weight allowance means posties cannot carry as much mail and will have to work overtime to meet unrealistic deadlines. -- AFP
For da metrically challenged, dis means dey're going up from about 200lbs to 230lbs. Fung could have been a postie even under the old rules. Apparently I missed my calling...
You know you're old when...
...you don't know your Monroes from your Madonnas
'Rare' Marilyn Monroe nude photo actually famous Madonna picture
Nicastro and his wife, Phyllis, said they had spent about four months researching the origin of the photograph and called in Chris Harris, a publicist and Monroe expert, for help authenticating it.
Harris said it was a dead ringer for Monroe and scheduled a Wednesday news conference to unveil the image to reporters.
So either Madonna did a really good job, or this Chris Harris guy is a lousy "expert." I'm going with the latter - if you're an expert on Monroe you should be an expert on anyone who tried to copy her too. Like LiLo this week.
'Rare' Marilyn Monroe nude photo actually famous Madonna picture
Nicastro and his wife, Phyllis, said they had spent about four months researching the origin of the photograph and called in Chris Harris, a publicist and Monroe expert, for help authenticating it.
Harris said it was a dead ringer for Monroe and scheduled a Wednesday news conference to unveil the image to reporters.
So either Madonna did a really good job, or this Chris Harris guy is a lousy "expert." I'm going with the latter - if you're an expert on Monroe you should be an expert on anyone who tried to copy her too. Like LiLo this week.
This Just In...
Barack Obama may be the antichrist, "Mabus."
Or Abbas may be Mabus. Or Sampson. Mabus may not be the antichrist. Nostradamus died before being able to be clear about all his prophesies. Bible may not be entirely accurate. I had sausage skillet for breakfast.
Wait. If Barack is the antichrist, does that mean we should vote for him to bring the end times or not vote for him because he is the antichrist. I'm confused.
Or Abbas may be Mabus. Or Sampson. Mabus may not be the antichrist. Nostradamus died before being able to be clear about all his prophesies. Bible may not be entirely accurate. I had sausage skillet for breakfast.
Wait. If Barack is the antichrist, does that mean we should vote for him to bring the end times or not vote for him because he is the antichrist. I'm confused.
Fountain of youth = urinating on yourself?
41-year-old Moises Alou doesn't think 2008 will be his last season in the majors. "I don't know what happened to me," Alou said. "Maybe New York is the fountain of youth. Seriously, the past three years I've been looking forward for the season to be over, for me to go home and retire. But now I'm looking forward to having a good season, so they can ask me to come back and play another year."
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
speaking of sucking
Isiah Thomas: The George Bush of Basketball Coaches...
New York 36
Philadelphia 72 Half
W. Green: 17 Pts, 2 Reb, 1 Ast
New York 36
Philadelphia 72 Half
W. Green: 17 Pts, 2 Reb, 1 Ast
in baseball terms: Dumbya has dropped below the Mendoza Line
Looks like a lot of voters have flip-flopped....what do you have to say for yourselves?
Worse than Watergate: Bush scores lowest presidential approval rating EVER!
George W. Bush is now the most unpopular president in recorded American history.
Overall, 19% of Americans say that they approve of the way George W. Bush is handling his job as president, 77% disapprove, and 4% are undecided.
Worse than Watergate: Bush scores lowest presidential approval rating EVER!
George W. Bush is now the most unpopular president in recorded American history.
Overall, 19% of Americans say that they approve of the way George W. Bush is handling his job as president, 77% disapprove, and 4% are undecided.
the most idiotic thing i've heard since Dumbya's last news conference
A woman referee was not allowed to officiate at a basketball game at St. Mary's Academy in Topeka, Kan., because the athletic director didn't want a woman "put in a position of authority over boys."
Hmmm, which begs the question, are there mothers in Kansas?
Hmmm, which begs the question, are there mothers in Kansas?
let's hope they don't start with the current president
garbage in, garbage out, if you will...
News Item: ''Machines will achieve human-level intelligence by 2029, a leading U.S. inventor has predicted."
News Item: ''Machines will achieve human-level intelligence by 2029, a leading U.S. inventor has predicted."
on the plus side, Florida has schools
Yesterday, the Florida Board of Education voted 4-3 to adopt new science standards that, for the first time, would require public schools to teach evolution. Previously, Florida's science standards referred to evolution as "biological changes over time," but those rules "were slammed by scientists as vague and shallow..."
But instead of accepting this scientific standard, the Florida Board approved "a last-minute alternative" following numerous public complaints and objections made by religious conservatives. The new Florida school science standard on evolution will come with a caveat: "The subject will be taught as 'the scientific theory of evolution.'"
But instead of accepting this scientific standard, the Florida Board approved "a last-minute alternative" following numerous public complaints and objections made by religious conservatives. The new Florida school science standard on evolution will come with a caveat: "The subject will be taught as 'the scientific theory of evolution.'"
if we can't censor it, we'll just have to destroy it
While there is much diversity in the style of Internet censorship among the world's worst offenders, one common thread unites them: Internet censorship doesn't work.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Profiling, Iraqi Style
Iraq orders police to round up beggars and mentally ill
The U.S. military and the Iraqi government have claimed that Sunni insurgents led by al-Qaida in Iraq are increasingly trying to use Iraq's most vulnerable populations as suicide bombers to avoid raising suspicions or being searched at checkpoints that guard access to many markets, neighborhoods and bridges in the capital.
And so we must lock them all up. For their protection. And ours.
The U.S. military and the Iraqi government have claimed that Sunni insurgents led by al-Qaida in Iraq are increasingly trying to use Iraq's most vulnerable populations as suicide bombers to avoid raising suspicions or being searched at checkpoints that guard access to many markets, neighborhoods and bridges in the capital.
And so we must lock them all up. For their protection. And ours.
life keeps getting better
News item: Kraft Foods Inc. announced Tuesday that it plans this year to roll out focaccia pizza, macaroni and cheese crackers and microwaveable bagel sticks filled with cream cheese.
K-Mad Keeps on Killin'
K-Mad killed him in reverse. How does he do it?? And he's not even a pitcher...
I'm changing my DOA ETA to Jan. 15th...
Dan Johnson had to spend eight days in the hospital last month because of a case of sinusitis.
This went unreported at the time. It was revealed last month that he had spent four days in the hospital for viral meningitis, but this was a different case. According to Johnson, doctors wanted to drill a hole into his forehead to treat him, but that would have cost him two months. He elected to go with antibiotics instead and is fully recovered now, though he has lost about 30 pounds since the end of the season. Johnson may be battling Mike Sweeney for one spot on Oakland's roster.
I'm changing my DOA ETA to Jan. 15th...
Dan Johnson had to spend eight days in the hospital last month because of a case of sinusitis.
This went unreported at the time. It was revealed last month that he had spent four days in the hospital for viral meningitis, but this was a different case. According to Johnson, doctors wanted to drill a hole into his forehead to treat him, but that would have cost him two months. He elected to go with antibiotics instead and is fully recovered now, though he has lost about 30 pounds since the end of the season. Johnson may be battling Mike Sweeney for one spot on Oakland's roster.
Smiff's Restaurant Bill
Or rather, what would appear on several bills at Smiff's restaurant...coz he rolls dat way.
anudder crappy week ahead...
| Forecast for San Diego, California: 139 PM PST MON FEB 18 2008 |
| TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY | SATURDAY | SUNDAY | |
 | | | |  | |  |
| Chance Of Rain | Chance Of Frogs | Chance Of Locusts | Chance Of Flying Monkeys | Chance Of Rapture | Chance Of Chance | |
| Hi: 59°F Lo: 46°F | Hi: 59°F Lo: 46°F | Hi: 60°F Lo: 46°F | Hi: 60°F Lo: 46°F | Hi: 61°F Lo: 47°F | Hi: 61°F Lo: 46°F | |
| Pop: 20% | Pop: 40% |
Monday, February 18, 2008
Crazy People in Dugouts
There’ll be no holding back in 2008, says White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen, who blames his own change of style for his ballclub’s decline to 90 losses last season.
Off to a bad start already...wrong finger, Ozzie...
Though a tip o' the cap to da Huskies...
Though a tip o' the cap to da Huskies...Crazy People on TV
Fungster's home sick today (too much skillet cookie? Perhaps...) and is watching morning TV. I caught the end of Oprah (?) and she gave out a gift to one of the viewers (it was 2 tix to the premiere of a movie or something) and she acted like she'd just won the lottery - so happy she was about to cry. It can't get more nuts than that, can it? Then I started watching The Price is Right. Now dose people were NUTS! So now I know the secret. You gotta be crazy to be on TV. So I guess dat gives Smiff a chance. The rest of us - we'll just have to have something really, REALLY weird happen to us. Super weird. Waaaaay out there.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
John McCrazy: A Career in Pandering
Maybe he should rename his bus "The Straight Panda Express," and put a picture of cute little panda on deres flip-flopping...
John McCain — Panderer Extraordinaire
* Pander On Tax Cuts: In 2001, McCain was one of just two GOP senators to vote against Bush’s destructive tax cuts. Now, however, McCain makes a point of touting his support for making Bush’s tax cuts permanent.
* Pander On Stimulus: For the past few months, McCain has been declaring that passing an economic stimulus package is at the very top of his agenda. Yet when the Senate voted earlier this month on a generous bill providing increased assistance to seniors and veterans, McCain skipped the vote. The bill fell just one vote short of passage, a victory for the far right.
* Pander To Karl Rove: In the 2000 presidential campaign, Karl Rove launched vicious smear tactics against McCain on behalf of Bush’s campaign. Recently, however, McCain has embraced the right-wing political operative. He said that he has “always respected Karl Rove as one of the smart great political minds I think in American politics” and specifically refused to condemn Rove’s partisan smears.
* Pander On Immigration: McCain was a co-sponsor of the DREAM Act, which would grant legal status to illegal immigrants’ kids who graduate from high school. Now, to make the nativist elements in his party happy, he’s against it.
* Pander to U.N. Critics: McCain used to champion the Law of the Sea convention, even volunteering to testify on the treaty’s behalf before a Senate committee. Now, to pander to U.N. critics, he opposes it.
* Pander to Abortion-Rights Opponents: McCain used to say he would not support a reversal of Roe v. Wade. Now, to pander to his party’s base, he’s said the opposite.
* Pander to the Religious Right: McCain condemned radical TV preachers like Jerry Falwell as “agents of intolerance” in 2000, but once he began running for president again, he pandered to the religious right by cozying up to the man who said Americans “deserved” the 9/11 attacks.
* Pander to Iowans: McCain was anti-ethanol before the 2008 campaign. Once on the trail in Iowa, he became pro-ethanol.
* Pander to South Carolinians: McCain was against official promotion of the Confederate flag, but in 2000, hoping to curry favor with South Carolinians, pandered shamelessly on the issue, and later conceded that his position was one of “cowardice.”
Olbermann also played a clip of him last night from a debate where he said "gay couples should be allowed to marry in some sort of ceremony," and then minutes later after the debate he flip-flopped and said they shouldn't be allowed to get married.
John McCain — Panderer Extraordinaire
* Pander On Tax Cuts: In 2001, McCain was one of just two GOP senators to vote against Bush’s destructive tax cuts. Now, however, McCain makes a point of touting his support for making Bush’s tax cuts permanent.
* Pander On Stimulus: For the past few months, McCain has been declaring that passing an economic stimulus package is at the very top of his agenda. Yet when the Senate voted earlier this month on a generous bill providing increased assistance to seniors and veterans, McCain skipped the vote. The bill fell just one vote short of passage, a victory for the far right.
* Pander To Karl Rove: In the 2000 presidential campaign, Karl Rove launched vicious smear tactics against McCain on behalf of Bush’s campaign. Recently, however, McCain has embraced the right-wing political operative. He said that he has “always respected Karl Rove as one of the smart great political minds I think in American politics” and specifically refused to condemn Rove’s partisan smears.
* Pander On Immigration: McCain was a co-sponsor of the DREAM Act, which would grant legal status to illegal immigrants’ kids who graduate from high school. Now, to make the nativist elements in his party happy, he’s against it.
* Pander to U.N. Critics: McCain used to champion the Law of the Sea convention, even volunteering to testify on the treaty’s behalf before a Senate committee. Now, to pander to U.N. critics, he opposes it.
* Pander to Abortion-Rights Opponents: McCain used to say he would not support a reversal of Roe v. Wade. Now, to pander to his party’s base, he’s said the opposite.
* Pander to the Religious Right: McCain condemned radical TV preachers like Jerry Falwell as “agents of intolerance” in 2000, but once he began running for president again, he pandered to the religious right by cozying up to the man who said Americans “deserved” the 9/11 attacks.
* Pander to Iowans: McCain was anti-ethanol before the 2008 campaign. Once on the trail in Iowa, he became pro-ethanol.
* Pander to South Carolinians: McCain was against official promotion of the Confederate flag, but in 2000, hoping to curry favor with South Carolinians, pandered shamelessly on the issue, and later conceded that his position was one of “cowardice.”
Olbermann also played a clip of him last night from a debate where he said "gay couples should be allowed to marry in some sort of ceremony," and then minutes later after the debate he flip-flopped and said they shouldn't be allowed to get married.
Huskies
I was watching the coverage of the shooting this morning when I almost saw Matt Lauer go the way of right-wingnuts. He asked one of the students "were you in the classroom when someone yelled out - 'he is reloading'?" It seems like a little comment but it brought back a number of memories.
The students thankfully answered him with a quick "no." If you remember, well after the VA Tech shooting, a few vocal voices suggested that (1) the students should have jumped the shooter while he was reloading or (2) that if the students had guns they could have returned fire. Frightening. What the students did was run. And for good reason - the graffiti found in the bathroom not long ago threatened that a rampage at NIU would be different, because unlike the VA Tech shootings, there would be more than one gunman. What the students on TV this morning did discuss was their fear that when they left the building, they would be picked off by another sniper, or their fear that entering another building would not provide safe refuge, because of their fear of other gunmen. It sounded like the students had a good memory of that grafitti, but it was strange that the news did not ask about it.
I don't see how the fairly quick response by the school or the actions of the students can be called into question, though the information coming out about the rampage is far from complete.
I don't know that you can call a country where you have to arm yourself to go to school or work or shopping a "society." At least not a civilized one. Where do we go from here?
And without further ado, this link wasn't hard to find.
The students thankfully answered him with a quick "no." If you remember, well after the VA Tech shooting, a few vocal voices suggested that (1) the students should have jumped the shooter while he was reloading or (2) that if the students had guns they could have returned fire. Frightening. What the students did was run. And for good reason - the graffiti found in the bathroom not long ago threatened that a rampage at NIU would be different, because unlike the VA Tech shootings, there would be more than one gunman. What the students on TV this morning did discuss was their fear that when they left the building, they would be picked off by another sniper, or their fear that entering another building would not provide safe refuge, because of their fear of other gunmen. It sounded like the students had a good memory of that grafitti, but it was strange that the news did not ask about it.
I don't see how the fairly quick response by the school or the actions of the students can be called into question, though the information coming out about the rampage is far from complete.
I don't know that you can call a country where you have to arm yourself to go to school or work or shopping a "society." At least not a civilized one. Where do we go from here?
And without further ado, this link wasn't hard to find.
formidable moisture (cont'd)
News item: A major storm lifts into the Midwest Sunday with a cocktail of precipitation. The moisture available to it will be formidable. It could be one of the wettest weather systems to traverse the nation's Heartland this winter. The Chicago area may be subject to the system's full range of precipitation (frogs? ed.). Early forecast trends suggest the metro area could sit astride the storm's so-called "rain/snow line".
what the phokk is wrong with us?
This post on the NIU killing spree mirrors my experience pretty well. I had a really good film class in Cole Hall, a really awful math class, and went too infrequently to Cine Club, a much better film series than we deserved given how few people showed up for it.
Silly, Just Silly
Partisan divide confusing to some
Republican's on Clemens' side; McNamee's lawyer sees pardon coming
What's so confusing about schmuks backing schmuks?
Republican's on Clemens' side; McNamee's lawyer sees pardon coming
What's so confusing about schmuks backing schmuks?
"Cut-off" aka "We didn't see that coming...Doh!...we're phokking idiots!"
Whither the weather?
This was the view of snow-covered Palomar Mountain from Valley Center during a break in the weather as San Diego County is unexpectedly pelted when a storm that forecasters call a “cut-off” system stalls over the region, resulting in showers around the county, some thunder, hail and snow.Yeah, dat's snow in SoCal. It's frigid here right now! My feet are cold!! Ok, it's 45, but i almost had to put a hat on for my walk home tonight. Dat's tough.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Why journalists SUCK (cont)
Jane Fonda uses vulgar slang on 'Today', NBC apologizes
First, of course, who da phokk cares? Second, why is dis news? Third, dey don't tell you what she said that required an apology. You have to read the comments to find out what she said, not the story itself. And, of course, dose people in the comments might be lying up a storm, those lying liars. So after reading the story, I still did not know what had happened. Way to go Trib!
First, of course, who da phokk cares? Second, why is dis news? Third, dey don't tell you what she said that required an apology. You have to read the comments to find out what she said, not the story itself. And, of course, dose people in the comments might be lying up a storm, those lying liars. So after reading the story, I still did not know what had happened. Way to go Trib!
Hey Boner, make sure the door hits you on the ass (around the neck and shoulders) on the way out...
...and don't come back, ya hear?
Crybaby Boehner and Republicans walk out of Congress
I love it that he calls the Democrats out for "political grandstanding" before they walk out.
The grandstanding is voting on the Bushies' cronies contempt of Congress for refusing to testify...
Crybaby Boehner and Republicans walk out of Congress
I love it that he calls the Democrats out for "political grandstanding" before they walk out.
The grandstanding is voting on the Bushies' cronies contempt of Congress for refusing to testify...
[insert own joke here]
Aramis Ramirez admitted to raising roosters for fighting in an interview with a Dominican cockfighting magazine. We read that magazine, but only for the articles. It's not much of an admission, considering cockfighting is a legal and accepted part of Dominican culture. Ramirez, like Pedro Martinez, will probably face backlash from animal rights groups, but the fact is that most Dominican players probably have at least a tenuous connection to the pastime.
a cockfighting magazine?? (ok, one comment)
a cockfighting magazine?? (ok, one comment)
dere is annudder doomsday direkkly behind dis one (cont'd)
Chicago schools to Springfield: We need $180 million
News item: Chicago Public Schools officials said Thursday they need an additional $180 million in state aid to balance the fiscal 2009 budget. But they stopped short of threatening to shut schools, lay off teachers or take other severe steps if the money doesn’t arrive.
(Springfield to Chicago schools: go phokk yourselves... ed.)
News item: Chicago Public Schools officials said Thursday they need an additional $180 million in state aid to balance the fiscal 2009 budget. But they stopped short of threatening to shut schools, lay off teachers or take other severe steps if the money doesn’t arrive.
(Springfield to Chicago schools: go phokk yourselves... ed.)
save time & money: just throw darts
You remember dat "sunny forecast" from da udder day? Not only have we been fogged in for the last two days, but now it's raining. Dat's right, RAINING! (is winter ever going to end? damn dat phokking groundhog!).
The only thing worse than these snake-oil salesmen are economists. Did you see their "forecast" for consumer spending in January? Down 0.3%. What actually happened? Up o.3%. Next month, based on January, they will predict anudder uptick. Which means, the economy will back-slide again.
The only thing worse than these snake-oil salesmen are economists. Did you see their "forecast" for consumer spending in January? Down 0.3%. What actually happened? Up o.3%. Next month, based on January, they will predict anudder uptick. Which means, the economy will back-slide again.
No Hawk and D.J.? ridicurous...
Frick Award to be announced Tuesday
The winner of the 2008 Ford C. Frick Award, presented annually to a broadcaster for "major contributions to baseball," will be announced this Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 2 p.m. ET.
Joe Nuxhall (82,304 fan votes), Bill King (7,659) and Joe Morgan (6,065) earned spots on the 10-person ballot through online fan voting. The three fan selections are joined by Tom Cheek, Ken Coleman, Dizzy Dean, Tony Kubek, Graham McNamee, Dave Niehaus and Dave Van Horne. The recipient of the award will be honored during 2008 Hall of Fame Weekend, July 25-28, in Cooperstown, N.Y.
The winner of the 2008 Ford C. Frick Award, presented annually to a broadcaster for "major contributions to baseball," will be announced this Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 2 p.m. ET.
Joe Nuxhall (82,304 fan votes), Bill King (7,659) and Joe Morgan (6,065) earned spots on the 10-person ballot through online fan voting. The three fan selections are joined by Tom Cheek, Ken Coleman, Dizzy Dean, Tony Kubek, Graham McNamee, Dave Niehaus and Dave Van Horne. The recipient of the award will be honored during 2008 Hall of Fame Weekend, July 25-28, in Cooperstown, N.Y.
Bu$#!+ometer
Bush defends US record on Darfur
US President George W Bush has defended his decision not to send troops to the Sudanese region of Darfur, despite what he calls a genocide taking place there.
He called it a "seminal decision" not to intervene with force, taken partly out of the desire not to send US troops into another Muslim country.
Well, now we know. There's a 'quota' on how many Muslim countries we can be in at any given time. No wonder Iran's going nuts - they know we can't invade or we'd go over the quota and what, the world would end? So if we pulled out of Iraq, then we could go into Darfur?
Or perhaps this is because of the unfortunate use of the word "crusade" earlier on in the Presidency? Now we can't go into a country that's had issues between a Muslim north and Christian south?
Or are the Sudanese too dark to spill our blood over? I mean, they do have oil there...
US President George W Bush has defended his decision not to send troops to the Sudanese region of Darfur, despite what he calls a genocide taking place there.
He called it a "seminal decision" not to intervene with force, taken partly out of the desire not to send US troops into another Muslim country.
Well, now we know. There's a 'quota' on how many Muslim countries we can be in at any given time. No wonder Iran's going nuts - they know we can't invade or we'd go over the quota and what, the world would end? So if we pulled out of Iraq, then we could go into Darfur?
Or perhaps this is because of the unfortunate use of the word "crusade" earlier on in the Presidency? Now we can't go into a country that's had issues between a Muslim north and Christian south?
Or are the Sudanese too dark to spill our blood over? I mean, they do have oil there...
What could go wrong?
My prediction - we'll "miss" and hit a Chinese or Russian spy satellite instead...
US 'to shoot down spy satellite'
The Pentagon is said to want to shoot the craft down from a shipThe US military is planning to shoot down a broken spy satellite due to crash land on Earth in the next few weeks, US news agency AP reports.
Pentagon officials are quoted as saying they want to fire a missile from a US Navy ship to destroy the satellite before it enters the atmosphere.
Last month, officials said the satellite had lost power and could contain hazardous materials.
The Pentagon is due to hold a briefing on the subject later.
The broken satellite was expected to hit the top of the Earth's atmosphere by the end of February or early March.
It is believed to be the size of a small bus and weigh about 20,000lb (9,000kg). There has been a lot of speculation that the craft contains a high quantity of hydrazine rocket fuel that would cause it to explode on re-entry.
When news of the spy satellite's problems was first announced last month, the White House said it was monitoring the situation.
A spokesman said "numerous" satellites had come out of orbit and fallen back to Earth harmlessly over the years.
US 'to shoot down spy satellite'
The Pentagon is said to want to shoot the craft down from a shipThe US military is planning to shoot down a broken spy satellite due to crash land on Earth in the next few weeks, US news agency AP reports.
Pentagon officials are quoted as saying they want to fire a missile from a US Navy ship to destroy the satellite before it enters the atmosphere.
Last month, officials said the satellite had lost power and could contain hazardous materials.
The Pentagon is due to hold a briefing on the subject later.
The broken satellite was expected to hit the top of the Earth's atmosphere by the end of February or early March.
It is believed to be the size of a small bus and weigh about 20,000lb (9,000kg). There has been a lot of speculation that the craft contains a high quantity of hydrazine rocket fuel that would cause it to explode on re-entry.
When news of the spy satellite's problems was first announced last month, the White House said it was monitoring the situation.
A spokesman said "numerous" satellites had come out of orbit and fallen back to Earth harmlessly over the years.
Going for da record
Zimbabwe's annual inflation rate soared to 66,212.3% in December, according to official figures.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Da Huckster: FULL@S#IT: SHOCKING
I had a conversation the other day about what kind of "degree" Mike Huckabee actually received.
Totally ripped off from Wikipedia:
Huckabee married his wife, Janet McCain*, on May 25, 1974.[11] He graduated magna cum laude from Ouachita Baptist University, completing his bachelor's degree in Religion in 2½ years before attending Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, where he dropped out after one year.[12][13][14]
Huckabee:
"I have a bachelor of arts in religion and a minor in communications in my undergraduate work. And then I have 46 hours on a master's degree at Southwestern Theology Seminary. So, my degree as a theological degree is at the college level and then 46 hours toward a masters -- three years of study of New Testament Greek, and then the rest of it, all in Seminary was theological studies, but my degree was actually in religion."
Even though he said during a debate, "I'm the only guy on that stage with a theology degree," his degree was actually in religion. He doesn't have a degree in theology (sorry "Rev", a B.A. in religion doesn't qualify). An actual minister should have a Master of Divinity. I knew Martin Luther King, Jr...Martin Luther King, Jr. was a friend of mine (dad)...Mike Huckabee is no Martin Luther King, Jr. (uh, NO S#IT).
So, in my opinion, Mike Huckabee is FULL@S#IT.
*McCain?!
Totally ripped off from Wikipedia:
Huckabee married his wife, Janet McCain*, on May 25, 1974.[11] He graduated magna cum laude from Ouachita Baptist University, completing his bachelor's degree in Religion in 2½ years before attending Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, where he dropped out after one year.[12][13][14]
Huckabee:
"I have a bachelor of arts in religion and a minor in communications in my undergraduate work. And then I have 46 hours on a master's degree at Southwestern Theology Seminary. So, my degree as a theological degree is at the college level and then 46 hours toward a masters -- three years of study of New Testament Greek, and then the rest of it, all in Seminary was theological studies, but my degree was actually in religion."
Even though he said during a debate, "I'm the only guy on that stage with a theology degree," his degree was actually in religion. He doesn't have a degree in theology (sorry "Rev", a B.A. in religion doesn't qualify). An actual minister should have a Master of Divinity. I knew Martin Luther King, Jr...Martin Luther King, Jr. was a friend of mine (dad)...Mike Huckabee is no Martin Luther King, Jr. (uh, NO S#IT).
So, in my opinion, Mike Huckabee is FULL@S#IT.
*McCain?!
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