ABCNEWS.com : Ailing Zevon Gives Lesson With His Exit
"A week before his diagnosis, Zevon had called Jorge Calderon and said he wanted to make another disc. The two men have been best friends since their first meeting in 1972, when a mutual friend asked Calderon for a ride to bail Zevon out of the drunk tank.
"The question was, `Do you still want to do that or do you want to go to Mexico and lie on a beach and forget about all that,'" Calderon said. "He was going through that in his mind, what to do with such a shocking piece of news. Who knows how to handle that?
"He called back and said, `I still want to do this.'"
You did it, Warren. Thanks.
Everybody go buy it Tuesday.
The worst.
Wednesday, August 20, 2003
Monday, August 18, 2003
Gotti's Brother Charged With Plotting Hit on Sammy the Bull
"Peter Gotti was charged Monday with plotting to kill Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gravano, the Mafia turncoat who once dared the Gambino crime family to hunt him down.
The indictment included five other Gambino family members already charged in a wide racketeering conspiracy that included the alleged plot to kill Gravano. Gravano was arrested in a drug case before the hit could be carried out..."
The words "rat" and "whacked" appear nowhere...
"Peter Gotti was charged Monday with plotting to kill Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gravano, the Mafia turncoat who once dared the Gambino crime family to hunt him down.
The indictment included five other Gambino family members already charged in a wide racketeering conspiracy that included the alleged plot to kill Gravano. Gravano was arrested in a drug case before the hit could be carried out..."
The words "rat" and "whacked" appear nowhere...
Tuesday, August 12, 2003
Dean is no Dukakis
"Republicans have a dream so vivid and real they can taste the political blood on it: 2004 will be 1988 redux. Howard Dean against George Bush II will be a replay of Michael Dukakis against George Bush I. And that means the former Vermont governor is going to be dead meat.
Well, not exactly..."
Dream on, Karl Rove...
"Republicans have a dream so vivid and real they can taste the political blood on it: 2004 will be 1988 redux. Howard Dean against George Bush II will be a replay of Michael Dukakis against George Bush I. And that means the former Vermont governor is going to be dead meat.
Well, not exactly..."
Dream on, Karl Rove...
Give Arnold Money?!!?
"I don't need to take any money from anybody. I have plenty of money myself" - Arnold Schwarzenegger to reporters August 6 Wednesday.
"Click Here To Contribute Online Now!" joinarnold.com, August 12
"I don't need to take any money from anybody. I have plenty of money myself" - Arnold Schwarzenegger to reporters August 6 Wednesday.
"Click Here To Contribute Online Now!" joinarnold.com, August 12
Friday, August 08, 2003
After the Brouhaha and Boycott, Dixie Chicks and Fans Still Aren't Singing the Blues
"President Bush, he just made an apology, something about nuclear weapons that weren't really there," Hallman says. "That was a lot worse than what Natalie done."
"President Bush, he just made an apology, something about nuclear weapons that weren't really there," Hallman says. "That was a lot worse than what Natalie done."
Thursday, August 07, 2003
The Ultimate Politics of Celebrity
There's household name celebrities and then there's first name basis, name on the marquee above the title, $20 million a film celebrities. Not just a movie star - one of the half dozen biggest movie stars.
Ah-nold for governor just put the presidential race on the back pages for two months.
Notice how he managed to work in "hasta la vista baby," "I'll be back" and "pump you up" (not even his catchphrase!) in less than 15 minutes.
Last night might have been the peak: now that he's in he will have to take actual positions on actual issues.
And did anyone notice that the guy who started this 300 ring circus, Darrell Issa, just dropped out?
On the down side I had really been looking forward to Senator Jerry Springer...
There's household name celebrities and then there's first name basis, name on the marquee above the title, $20 million a film celebrities. Not just a movie star - one of the half dozen biggest movie stars.
Ah-nold for governor just put the presidential race on the back pages for two months.
Notice how he managed to work in "hasta la vista baby," "I'll be back" and "pump you up" (not even his catchphrase!) in less than 15 minutes.
Last night might have been the peak: now that he's in he will have to take actual positions on actual issues.
And did anyone notice that the guy who started this 300 ring circus, Darrell Issa, just dropped out?
On the down side I had really been looking forward to Senator Jerry Springer...
ABCNEWS.com : Gore Repeats Pledge Not to Run in 2004
Cue up the Hallelujah chorus...
"I am not going to join them, but later in the political cycle I will endorse one of them..."
That oughta be the kiss of death...
Cue up the Hallelujah chorus...
"I am not going to join them, but later in the political cycle I will endorse one of them..."
That oughta be the kiss of death...
Wednesday, August 06, 2003
Tuesday, August 05, 2003
TheOmahaChannel.com - Politics - Shomshor Wins Council Bluffs Special Election
That's plus one for the Dems....
That's plus one for the Dems....
Yahoo! News - Dean: I Have Best Chance to Oust Bush
"We've got to bring new people into the electoral process," Dean said on NBC's "Today" show. "We're going to say that to the people of Ralph Nader, ... people who voted for John McCain and Ross Perot. ... and that's the beginning of the coalition that I think can change the occupancy of the White House. "
Exactly, Doc, exactly...
"We've got to bring new people into the electoral process," Dean said on NBC's "Today" show. "We're going to say that to the people of Ralph Nader, ... people who voted for John McCain and Ross Perot. ... and that's the beginning of the coalition that I think can change the occupancy of the White House. "
Exactly, Doc, exactly...
Thursday, July 31, 2003
I didn't know there was a back road to the airport."
"The 11 Democratic senators from Texas had known for weeks that the moment might come when they would have to flee Austin to try to thwart a congressional redistricting bill. But as events developed quickly at the state Capitol in Austin on Monday, a decision to leave had to be made immediately and the senators were forced to board a pair of private jets for Albuquerque with literally little more than the clothes on their backs..."
"The 11 Democratic senators from Texas had known for weeks that the moment might come when they would have to flee Austin to try to thwart a congressional redistricting bill. But as events developed quickly at the state Capitol in Austin on Monday, a decision to leave had to be made immediately and the senators were forced to board a pair of private jets for Albuquerque with literally little more than the clothes on their backs..."
Wednesday, July 30, 2003
My nightmare is not yet over
"Former Vice-President Al Gore is coming under pressure from political supporters and friends to jump into the 2004 presidential campaign... a former Democratic National Committee official close to Gore told The Hill he believes the former vice president may enter the Democratic primary this fall..."
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! No no no no no NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
"Former Vice-President Al Gore is coming under pressure from political supporters and friends to jump into the 2004 presidential campaign... a former Democratic National Committee official close to Gore told The Hill he believes the former vice president may enter the Democratic primary this fall..."
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! No no no no no NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Tuesday, July 29, 2003
Killer Ds II: I knew I shoulda took that left toin at Albuquerque
"Democratic state lawmakers have again fled Texas to confound GOP efforts to redraw boundaries in order to guarantee a Republican majority in the state's U.S. House delegation. This time, however, the action — or lack thereof — is on the Senate side, where 11 Democrats boarded two private planes and flew to Albuquerque, N.M., on Monday afternoon..."
"Democratic state lawmakers have again fled Texas to confound GOP efforts to redraw boundaries in order to guarantee a Republican majority in the state's U.S. House delegation. This time, however, the action — or lack thereof — is on the Senate side, where 11 Democrats boarded two private planes and flew to Albuquerque, N.M., on Monday afternoon..."
Monday, July 28, 2003
Wellstone's name invoked by Democratic presidential hopefuls
Nine months later and I still get choked up...
Nine months later and I still get choked up...
Monday, July 21, 2003
Local power brokers always ahead in the primaries
Life in caucusland: multiple mentions of hometown folks in national political articles...
"..the backing of a respected local person can be more effective than any ad. Endorsements don't guarantee victories — but they can give a candidate credibility. They are especially powerful when the person making the endorsement has sway with a network of potential voters.
Like, say, Sarah Swisher..."
And here's another one:
Joe Bolkcom, a state senator in Iowa, where Democrats will cast the first votes in January, said, “I want to win. Dean’s electability will be a significant part of my decision” on supporting him
Life in caucusland: multiple mentions of hometown folks in national political articles...
"..the backing of a respected local person can be more effective than any ad. Endorsements don't guarantee victories — but they can give a candidate credibility. They are especially powerful when the person making the endorsement has sway with a network of potential voters.
Like, say, Sarah Swisher..."
And here's another one:
Joe Bolkcom, a state senator in Iowa, where Democrats will cast the first votes in January, said, “I want to win. Dean’s electability will be a significant part of my decision” on supporting him
Wednesday, July 16, 2003
Signs Point to a Rocky Path for Lieberman
Good news here:
"A staff shake-up and slap from the NAACP this week are just the latest signs of the problems facing presidential hopeful Joe Lieberman, whose strategy for winning the nomination faces deep skepticism from many fellow Democrats..."
Good news here:
"A staff shake-up and slap from the NAACP this week are just the latest signs of the problems facing presidential hopeful Joe Lieberman, whose strategy for winning the nomination faces deep skepticism from many fellow Democrats..."
Tuesday, July 15, 2003
Monday, July 14, 2003
Don't be another George McGovern?
I wish we had another McGovern... Wise words today from the South Dakotan himself, the best president we never had.
I wish we had another McGovern... Wise words today from the South Dakotan himself, the best president we never had.
Thursday, July 10, 2003
Among Democrats, The Energy Seems To Be on the Left
innnnteresting article:
"Whether the invigorated left is a good or bad thing depends, for many Democratic leaders, on how recent history is interpreted. Indeed, the issue can be boiled down to a single question: What actually happened in the 2000 presidential election?"
Don't get me started...
innnnteresting article:
"Whether the invigorated left is a good or bad thing depends, for many Democratic leaders, on how recent history is interpreted. Indeed, the issue can be boiled down to a single question: What actually happened in the 2000 presidential election?"
Don't get me started...
TX: Senate rejects House redistricting map, will draw its own map
Yeeee-haw:
"It's a silly map. I can't support that," said Sen. Kip Averitt, R-Waco, whose home county of McLennan is divided into two congressional districts in the House plan. "I can't support splitting my county."
Yeeee-haw:
"It's a silly map. I can't support that," said Sen. Kip Averitt, R-Waco, whose home county of McLennan is divided into two congressional districts in the House plan. "I can't support splitting my county."
Tuesday, July 08, 2003
Texas House approves GOP congressional redistricting map
Followup on The Great Oklahoma Hideout. Looks like the Democratic Senators can stop it...
Followup on The Great Oklahoma Hideout. Looks like the Democratic Senators can stop it...
Monday, July 07, 2003
The man who was a Beatle
"To this day, Pete Best has no idea why he was forced out of the Beatles..."
Didn't he do a solo album called "Best of the Beatles"?
"To this day, Pete Best has no idea why he was forced out of the Beatles..."
Didn't he do a solo album called "Best of the Beatles"?
Monday, June 30, 2003
Comic voice emerges for Bush re-election
As a long time fan I would be remiss if I did not note with sad disappointment the Republicanization of Dennis Miller.
Sure, we knew all along he wasn't a Hollywood liberal. But he always had this fascinating libertarian streak to him. I seriously thought the Libertarians should look at him as a candidate.
In the long run, how comfortable is the party of the Christian Coalition going to be with Mr. Four Letter Word? And how comfortable is he going to be with them?
And a Danny Goldberg moment: if Dennis had offered to do a Democratic event, would we have taken him up on it? More likely we would have thrown it back in his face, scared of alienating cultural conservatives who don't support us anyway...
As a long time fan I would be remiss if I did not note with sad disappointment the Republicanization of Dennis Miller.
Sure, we knew all along he wasn't a Hollywood liberal. But he always had this fascinating libertarian streak to him. I seriously thought the Libertarians should look at him as a candidate.
In the long run, how comfortable is the party of the Christian Coalition going to be with Mr. Four Letter Word? And how comfortable is he going to be with them?
And a Danny Goldberg moment: if Dennis had offered to do a Democratic event, would we have taken him up on it? More likely we would have thrown it back in his face, scared of alienating cultural conservatives who don't support us anyway...
Sunday, June 29, 2003
Hollywood Loses Katharine Hepburn
But in the end, there were at least two things Hepburn never regretted--her love for Tracy, and her non-love of the media that covered the two of them, separately and together, for decades.
"Death will be a great relief," she once said. "No more interviews."
But in the end, there were at least two things Hepburn never regretted--her love for Tracy, and her non-love of the media that covered the two of them, separately and together, for decades.
"Death will be a great relief," she once said. "No more interviews."
Saturday, June 28, 2003
'Wiseguy' Henry Hill Writes Guide to NYC4061483
In his guide, Hill reveals that Scorsese never let him meet with Ray Liotta, his on-screen alter ego. "He didn't want me to influence him whatsoever," writes Hill.
Robert De Niro, in contrast, endlessly quizzed Hill for insights into the character based on Jimmy "The Gent" Burke...
In his guide, Hill reveals that Scorsese never let him meet with Ray Liotta, his on-screen alter ego. "He didn't want me to influence him whatsoever," writes Hill.
Robert De Niro, in contrast, endlessly quizzed Hill for insights into the character based on Jimmy "The Gent" Burke...
Thursday, June 26, 2003
Senator wants to crack down on lewd broadcasts4061483
Fritz Hollings obviously hasn't grown since he was on the Tipper hearings committee:
"I wouldn't publicly repeat that language, indecency and filth myself," Hollings said. "He ought never to have a license again."
Fritz Hollings obviously hasn't grown since he was on the Tipper hearings committee:
"I wouldn't publicly repeat that language, indecency and filth myself," Hollings said. "He ought never to have a license again."
American Gays Hail Ruling, Look to Marriage
"This is a great day for liberty. I think this is a clear evidence ... America isn't really homophobic. It just use to think it was supposed to be" - Barney Frank
"This is a great day for liberty. I think this is a clear evidence ... America isn't really homophobic. It just use to think it was supposed to be" - Barney Frank
Tuesday, June 24, 2003
ctnow.com: POLITICS: SPEAKING OF LIEBERMAN
I couldn't have made this one up:
"At a symposium following the film, Bush media adviser Mark McKinnon said that he and another adviser recommended Lieberman as a running mate in 2000 ... for BUSH. McKinnon said that the supposition was that integrity would be big in the 2000 election, and 'if the question was values,' Lieberman was the answer..."
I couldn't have made this one up:
"At a symposium following the film, Bush media adviser Mark McKinnon said that he and another adviser recommended Lieberman as a running mate in 2000 ... for BUSH. McKinnon said that the supposition was that integrity would be big in the 2000 election, and 'if the question was values,' Lieberman was the answer..."
Monday, June 23, 2003
For Liberals, It's Morning in America - Shock jocks are the progressive answer to Rush Limbaugh. By Marc Fisher
I decided to re-blog this. Re-read it in the context of Danny Goldberg's book.
I decided to re-blog this. Re-read it in the context of Danny Goldberg's book.
Chicago Tribune | 1 court retirement could tip balance
Here comes the Holy War, or "in the words of one Republican lawyer, a 'death cage match'...":
"Although the fevered talk of a possible retirement at the Supreme Court has centered on Chief Justice William Rehnquist and Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, sources knowledgeable about the court are quietly speculating that John Paul Stevens, the oldest and arguably most liberal justice, is considering stepping down..."
Here comes the Holy War, or "in the words of one Republican lawyer, a 'death cage match'...":
"Although the fevered talk of a possible retirement at the Supreme Court has centered on Chief Justice William Rehnquist and Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, sources knowledgeable about the court are quietly speculating that John Paul Stevens, the oldest and arguably most liberal justice, is considering stepping down..."
Jackson Wants Democrats to Focus on South (washingtonpost.com)
Now here's a Southern Strategy I like:
"Jackson said Southern states shouldn't be ceded to President Bush because they have large black populations that tend to support Democrats. "They gave up the fight," he said of the Gore campaign..."
Now here's a Southern Strategy I like:
"Jackson said Southern states shouldn't be ceded to President Bush because they have large black populations that tend to support Democrats. "They gave up the fight," he said of the Gore campaign..."
Sunday, June 22, 2003
Sharon: Israel Can Continue Expanding Settlements
Here's MY peace plan:
Cut off every dime to these bastards until the Palestinians have a country.
Here's MY peace plan:
Cut off every dime to these bastards until the Palestinians have a country.
Saturday, June 21, 2003
Chicken pox added to mandatory list
"Chicken pox vaccinations are now required for children entering school or child care, the Iowa Department of Public Health announced Friday. The new rule was approved by the Iowa Legislature and signed by Gov. Tom Vilsack this spring..."
That was going to be my first bill if I had won that election.
"Chicken pox vaccinations are now required for children entering school or child care, the Iowa Department of Public Health announced Friday. The new rule was approved by the Iowa Legislature and signed by Gov. Tom Vilsack this spring..."
That was going to be my first bill if I had won that election.
Friday, June 20, 2003
ABCNEWS.com : Feds Follow Canada Marijuana Proposal
"Paul Kennedy, senior assistant deputy solicitor general for Canada noted while marijuana enters the U.S., cocaine and guns tend to travel north..." so who's got the worse end of that, eh?
First gay marriage, now this. Bush and Ashcroft must be having seizures.
"Paul Kennedy, senior assistant deputy solicitor general for Canada noted while marijuana enters the U.S., cocaine and guns tend to travel north..." so who's got the worse end of that, eh?
First gay marriage, now this. Bush and Ashcroft must be having seizures.
Thursday, June 19, 2003
Wired News: Orrin Hatch: Software Pirate?
Republican hypocrisy watch:
"Hatch himself is using unlicensed software on his official website, which presumably would qualify his computer to be smoked by the system he proposes..."
Republican hypocrisy watch:
"Hatch himself is using unlicensed software on his official website, which presumably would qualify his computer to be smoked by the system he proposes..."
Tuesday, June 17, 2003
Southern Baptists start gay initiative
Meanwhile, in America:
"The Southern Baptist Convention announced a new initiative Tuesday to convince gays that they can become heterosexual if they accept Jesus Christ as their savior and reject their “sinful, destructive lifestyle....”
O, CA-na-DA...
Meanwhile, in America:
"The Southern Baptist Convention announced a new initiative Tuesday to convince gays that they can become heterosexual if they accept Jesus Christ as their savior and reject their “sinful, destructive lifestyle....”
O, CA-na-DA...
Canadian Government to Allow Gay Marriage
Now that's a nice present for Pride Week.
"The announcement means the government decided against appealing recent court rulings that declared the nation's definition of marriage as unconstitutional because it specified the union of a man and woman..."
I find myself blogging way more Fox News items that I ever thought likely.
Now that's a nice present for Pride Week.
"The announcement means the government decided against appealing recent court rulings that declared the nation's definition of marriage as unconstitutional because it specified the union of a man and woman..."
I find myself blogging way more Fox News items that I ever thought likely.
Hatch Takes Aim at Illegal Downloading
Scary Republican Idea Of The Week:
"He endorsed technology that would twice warn a computer user about illegal online behavior, then destroy their computer. "If we can find some way to do this without destroying their machines, we'd be interested in hearing about that," Hatch said. "If that's the only way, then I'm all for destroying their machines. If you have a few hundred thousand of those, I think they would realize" the seriousness of their actions, he said..."
Scary Republican Idea Of The Week:
"He endorsed technology that would twice warn a computer user about illegal online behavior, then destroy their computer. "If we can find some way to do this without destroying their machines, we'd be interested in hearing about that," Hatch said. "If that's the only way, then I'm all for destroying their machines. If you have a few hundred thousand of those, I think they would realize" the seriousness of their actions, he said..."
Monday, June 16, 2003
Exile gone mainstream
Anyone else heard the eponymous "Liz Phair" yet?
sigh... I remember how I felt the day I was at the college radio station, eagerly broke open "Cut The Crap" by the Clash... and then played it.
I waited five years for this?
Six weeks ago, I heard the lead cut "Extraordinary" on one of the WB teeny bopper shows. Unknowing, I asked my stepdaughter who it was - and she actually thought it was Avril Lavigne! Obviously The Matrix production team captured their sound again.
Somehow if I had imagined a Liz Phair song about underwear, it would have been a lot better than the one she actually wrote. And the best she can say about a fling with a younger guy is "rock me all night"? Did she consult the cliche dictionary? And she even throws in a self-referential lyric, eeew.
Oh, and here's the big insight on male-female relations: "it's a war, and nothin's gonna change." This from the woman who wrote "Fuck And Run"?
This is the funny part : she gets her first ever TipperSticker on this one. How Tipper and Joe Lieberman ever missed Exile In Guyville I'll never know. (Actually, I think I do: Liz is a cute white girl with an upscale college-rock demographic, and not a metal mutant or a gangsta rapper. Notice how she gets the Mark of Quality only when she makes the Big Grab For The Hearts And Minds Of The Mainstream?) The song in question, officially titled "H.W.C." (someone somewhere wimped out and didn't spell it out) is much, uh, breezier than one would have expected.
Conventional industry wisdom, June 2003: Exile was a fluke. Maybe Eponymous will be a big hit and some innocent kids will be forever corrupted by the lyrics to "Flower." That, and only that, gives me hope.
Off to play the "Girlysound" bootlegs it took me three months to download...
The good news is, like me, Liz is single again. If Nicole Kidman never calls, I have a backup plan... well, maybe not after this post. Wait, Liz, maybe it'll grow on me...
Anyone else heard the eponymous "Liz Phair" yet?
sigh... I remember how I felt the day I was at the college radio station, eagerly broke open "Cut The Crap" by the Clash... and then played it.
I waited five years for this?
Six weeks ago, I heard the lead cut "Extraordinary" on one of the WB teeny bopper shows. Unknowing, I asked my stepdaughter who it was - and she actually thought it was Avril Lavigne! Obviously The Matrix production team captured their sound again.
Somehow if I had imagined a Liz Phair song about underwear, it would have been a lot better than the one she actually wrote. And the best she can say about a fling with a younger guy is "rock me all night"? Did she consult the cliche dictionary? And she even throws in a self-referential lyric, eeew.
Oh, and here's the big insight on male-female relations: "it's a war, and nothin's gonna change." This from the woman who wrote "Fuck And Run"?
This is the funny part : she gets her first ever TipperSticker on this one. How Tipper and Joe Lieberman ever missed Exile In Guyville I'll never know. (Actually, I think I do: Liz is a cute white girl with an upscale college-rock demographic, and not a metal mutant or a gangsta rapper. Notice how she gets the Mark of Quality only when she makes the Big Grab For The Hearts And Minds Of The Mainstream?) The song in question, officially titled "H.W.C." (someone somewhere wimped out and didn't spell it out) is much, uh, breezier than one would have expected.
Conventional industry wisdom, June 2003: Exile was a fluke. Maybe Eponymous will be a big hit and some innocent kids will be forever corrupted by the lyrics to "Flower." That, and only that, gives me hope.
Off to play the "Girlysound" bootlegs it took me three months to download...
The good news is, like me, Liz is single again. If Nicole Kidman never calls, I have a backup plan... well, maybe not after this post. Wait, Liz, maybe it'll grow on me...
Sparse crowd at 'draft Gore' rally
Ha, ha, ha ha, ha...
"A rally to drum up support for a presidential run by former vice president Al Gore drew a sparse crowd of just over 100 people..."
Ha, ha, ha ha, ha...
"A rally to drum up support for a presidential run by former vice president Al Gore drew a sparse crowd of just over 100 people..."
Sunday, June 15, 2003
Myanmar: Suu Kyi in Custody to Protect Against Assassination
Tell a lie, make it big, repeat it often enough...
Tell a lie, make it big, repeat it often enough...
Friday, June 13, 2003
Sopranos: Season 6?
"David Chase is talking to HBO about the possibility of doing a sixth season. (The show's fifth season is currently in production and is slated to debut in early 2004.) Meanwhile, James Gandolfini has taken a giant step towards repairing his image in the wake of his very public salary renegotiation with HBO earlier this year. The Emmy winner, who recently received an advance on his share of the Sopranos profits from the network, reportedly handed out $500,000 in checks to more than a dozen of his fellow cast members..."
"David Chase is talking to HBO about the possibility of doing a sixth season. (The show's fifth season is currently in production and is slated to debut in early 2004.) Meanwhile, James Gandolfini has taken a giant step towards repairing his image in the wake of his very public salary renegotiation with HBO earlier this year. The Emmy winner, who recently received an advance on his share of the Sopranos profits from the network, reportedly handed out $500,000 in checks to more than a dozen of his fellow cast members..."
Wednesday, June 11, 2003
E! Online News - "Sopranos" Shelf-Life Extended?
"David Chase hinted that the fifth season could extend beyond the planned 13 episodes..."
The bad news:
"Extra episodes could mean the hit HBO show won't be back on the air until February or March 2004..." Madon'! that's a long time!
"David Chase hinted that the fifth season could extend beyond the planned 13 episodes..."
The bad news:
"Extra episodes could mean the hit HBO show won't be back on the air until February or March 2004..." Madon'! that's a long time!
Musical guests join Zevon's final album
"Fortunately, I have a studio in my apartment. So I'm going to be able to stagger into that thing pretty much when the hearse is idling at the curb..."
"Fortunately, I have a studio in my apartment. So I'm going to be able to stagger into that thing pretty much when the hearse is idling at the curb..."
Chicago Tribune | Springer Senate bid not just talk
JER-RY! JER-RY! JER-RY!
"Talk-show host Jerry Springer on Tuesday moved a step closer toward a U.S. Senate bid, announcing the creation of an exploratory campaign committee in Ohio..."
Springer exploratory committee site
JER-RY! JER-RY! JER-RY!
"Talk-show host Jerry Springer on Tuesday moved a step closer toward a U.S. Senate bid, announcing the creation of an exploratory campaign committee in Ohio..."
Springer exploratory committee site
Sunday, June 08, 2003
Bush's Scorched-Earth Campaign
"The presidency's real goal is to disable the Democratic opposition, once and for all..."
An interesting read that explains a lot.
"The presidency's real goal is to disable the Democratic opposition, once and for all..."
An interesting read that explains a lot.
Wednesday, June 04, 2003
Tuesday, June 03, 2003
Tiananmen Mothers Find It Hard to Forgive, Forget
Another anniversary comes and goes, almost unnoticed, and still no answers.
Another anniversary comes and goes, almost unnoticed, and still no answers.
Monday, June 02, 2003
Welcome, new Democrat
Citing the continued intolerance of Republicans on gay issues, a New Hampshire state representative switched over to the Democratic Party last Friday.
"We are hated, we are marginalized, and are basically unwanted by a party that has forsaken the principles of Abraham Lincoln and become dominated by a right wing that falls far short of representing mainstream America," said Rep. Corey Corbin, D-Rockingham.
Corbin has joined the Elected Officials Caucus of the National Stonewall Democrats...
Citing the continued intolerance of Republicans on gay issues, a New Hampshire state representative switched over to the Democratic Party last Friday.
"We are hated, we are marginalized, and are basically unwanted by a party that has forsaken the principles of Abraham Lincoln and become dominated by a right wing that falls far short of representing mainstream America," said Rep. Corey Corbin, D-Rockingham.
Corbin has joined the Elected Officials Caucus of the National Stonewall Democrats...
Gossip Archive Front Page
Hey, the MSNBC gossip quiz left me off the list:
5. This man was linked with Nicole Kidman -- but she has denied anything romantic exists between them.
a) Russell Crowe
b) Jim Carrey
c) Ewan McGregor
d) Iain Glen
e) hunky Esquire writer Tom Junod
f) Jude Law
g) Rapper Q-Tip
h) Toby Maguire
i) Adrien Brody
j) All of the above
Hey, the MSNBC gossip quiz left me off the list:
5. This man was linked with Nicole Kidman -- but she has denied anything romantic exists between them.
a) Russell Crowe
b) Jim Carrey
c) Ewan McGregor
d) Iain Glen
e) hunky Esquire writer Tom Junod
f) Jude Law
g) Rapper Q-Tip
h) Toby Maguire
i) Adrien Brody
j) All of the above
Thursday, May 29, 2003
Philly Boy Scouts Defy National Stance on Gays
"'We disagree with the national stance, and we're not comfortable with the stated national policy,' council Chairman David H. Lipson Jr. said..."
Iowa City, are you listening?
"'We disagree with the national stance, and we're not comfortable with the stated national policy,' council Chairman David H. Lipson Jr. said..."
Iowa City, are you listening?
Dutch Potheads Decry New No-Smoking Law
The drug policy debate in the Netherlands is just a TAD different than ours:
"Under a new ban on smoking in public places, Dutch coffee shops would be allowed to continue selling joints, but customers would have to go outside to smoke them..."
The drug policy debate in the Netherlands is just a TAD different than ours:
"Under a new ban on smoking in public places, Dutch coffee shops would be allowed to continue selling joints, but customers would have to go outside to smoke them..."
The Comeback Kid making a comeback?
"Clinton suggested yesterday, to a packed John F. Kennedy Library and Museum audience, that he thinks the 22d Amendment should be amended, making citizens eligible to serve more than eight years as president over their lifetimes..."
He'd have whomped Dubya like he whomped Poppy...
Anyone else remember NPR's Nixon for President April Fools 1992 broadcast?
"Clinton suggested yesterday, to a packed John F. Kennedy Library and Museum audience, that he thinks the 22d Amendment should be amended, making citizens eligible to serve more than eight years as president over their lifetimes..."
He'd have whomped Dubya like he whomped Poppy...
Anyone else remember NPR's Nixon for President April Fools 1992 broadcast?
Wednesday, May 28, 2003
ABCNEWS.com : Calif.'s AG Urges Leniency for Pot 'Guru'
Article speaks for itself, I can't add anything...
Article speaks for itself, I can't add anything...
Tuesday, May 27, 2003
Dispatches from the Culture Wars: How the Left Lost Teen Spirit" by Danny Goldberg
I tried to buy this book as soon as I learned of its existence; Prairie Lights says it's not out till a week or so from now. Go to your locally owned book store and buy it ASAP; if you can't find it check that Prairie Lights link...
The author, a long time civil liberties activist and music industry insider states: "It’s rational for conservatives to attack pop culture because they have a constituency that for religious or cultural reasons is offended by the four-letter words and so on. It might cost them a few libertarians, but the good outweighs the bad. What’s irrational is Democrats doing it, because their constituency mostly likes pop culture. They might win some tiny group of swing voters, but they’re attacking a huge chunk of their following and not gaining very much."
And THIS is what I've been trying to tell my fellow Democrats for three years:
"Lieberman is a more extreme, humorless version of Tipper Gore, and he’s obsessed with beating up on pop culture... Al Gore believed that Lieberman was going to cleanse him of Clinton’s sexual behavior, and he completely turned his back on a huge percentage of his base. He never related to the Nader voters, never related to young people, and with a great economy and peace in the world, managed to lose an election."
More from Danny Goldberg
More from a couple years ago
Telling excerpt from reviews:
"In a meeting with Jack Newfield, according to Goldberg, liberal Sen. Charles Schumer confessed to having never heard of Eminem. This illustrates record producer and civil liberties activist Goldberg's powerful critique of the left and the Democratic Party's failure to stay in touch with its broad popular base and with popular culture as a way of reaching them..."
I tried to buy this book as soon as I learned of its existence; Prairie Lights says it's not out till a week or so from now. Go to your locally owned book store and buy it ASAP; if you can't find it check that Prairie Lights link...
The author, a long time civil liberties activist and music industry insider states: "It’s rational for conservatives to attack pop culture because they have a constituency that for religious or cultural reasons is offended by the four-letter words and so on. It might cost them a few libertarians, but the good outweighs the bad. What’s irrational is Democrats doing it, because their constituency mostly likes pop culture. They might win some tiny group of swing voters, but they’re attacking a huge chunk of their following and not gaining very much."
And THIS is what I've been trying to tell my fellow Democrats for three years:
"Lieberman is a more extreme, humorless version of Tipper Gore, and he’s obsessed with beating up on pop culture... Al Gore believed that Lieberman was going to cleanse him of Clinton’s sexual behavior, and he completely turned his back on a huge percentage of his base. He never related to the Nader voters, never related to young people, and with a great economy and peace in the world, managed to lose an election."
More from Danny Goldberg
More from a couple years ago
Telling excerpt from reviews:
"In a meeting with Jack Newfield, according to Goldberg, liberal Sen. Charles Schumer confessed to having never heard of Eminem. This illustrates record producer and civil liberties activist Goldberg's powerful critique of the left and the Democratic Party's failure to stay in touch with its broad popular base and with popular culture as a way of reaching them..."
Politics of Celebrity Again: Gov. AH-nold
"Arnold Schwarzenegger says he may think about running for California governor after the summer release of his new movie, 'Terminator 3'..."
"Arnold Schwarzenegger says he may think about running for California governor after the summer release of his new movie, 'Terminator 3'..."
Thursday, May 22, 2003
The Onion | '90s Punk Decries Punks Of Today
"I saw some kid wearing a Sex Pistols T-shirt the other day—he couldn't have been more than 9 when the Pistols did their Filthy Lucre reunion tour," Tolbert said. "I was like, 'You can listen to the music, you can wear the T-shirt, but I was there.' I had fifth-row seats at that goddamn stadium, man, right up front, close enough to see Johnny Rotten's wrinkles. Did you see an original member of The Clash play during Big Audio Dynamite II's last tour? Did you see two of the four original Ramones play at the KROQ Weenie Roast in '95? You did not, but I did. I swear to God, they're like a joke, these people."
"I saw some kid wearing a Sex Pistols T-shirt the other day—he couldn't have been more than 9 when the Pistols did their Filthy Lucre reunion tour," Tolbert said. "I was like, 'You can listen to the music, you can wear the T-shirt, but I was there.' I had fifth-row seats at that goddamn stadium, man, right up front, close enough to see Johnny Rotten's wrinkles. Did you see an original member of The Clash play during Big Audio Dynamite II's last tour? Did you see two of the four original Ramones play at the KROQ Weenie Roast in '95? You did not, but I did. I swear to God, they're like a joke, these people."
Wednesday, May 21, 2003
Lieberman Watch: Now He Takes On Video Games
This little item illustrates one of the things that's most wrong with the attacks on popular culture that Joe Lieberman and Tipper Gore so love: portraying censorship as a progressive or feminist issue.
Lieberman also committs the fallacy of arguing for censorship by illustrating and emphasizing the most unappetizing examples, when the real point is the principle. The details of the speech involved are only one aspect of the debate, just like the crimes involved are only one facet of the death penalty debate. You don't have to approve of murder to oppose executions, and you don't have to approve of content to support free speech.
This little item illustrates one of the things that's most wrong with the attacks on popular culture that Joe Lieberman and Tipper Gore so love: portraying censorship as a progressive or feminist issue.
Lieberman also committs the fallacy of arguing for censorship by illustrating and emphasizing the most unappetizing examples, when the real point is the principle. The details of the speech involved are only one aspect of the debate, just like the crimes involved are only one facet of the death penalty debate. You don't have to approve of murder to oppose executions, and you don't have to approve of content to support free speech.
Monday, May 19, 2003
Newsday.com - Supreme Court Seat Shuffle? Judges' retirements would spark first shift in decades
RED ALERT! RED ALERT!
"Well-informed court observers say that there could be two Supreme Court resignations next month, Chief Justice William H. Rehn quist and Associate Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, bringing the greatest upheaval on the court in 32 years..."
And right in the middle of the Democratic presidential nomination...
RED ALERT! RED ALERT!
"Well-informed court observers say that there could be two Supreme Court resignations next month, Chief Justice William H. Rehn quist and Associate Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, bringing the greatest upheaval on the court in 32 years..."
And right in the middle of the Democratic presidential nomination...
Friday, May 16, 2003
ABCNEWS.com : Texas Democrats Leave Okla., Return Home
"Runaway Texas Democrats returned to a heroes' welcome at the Capitol on Friday after their self-imposed exile in Oklahoma killed a redistricting bill they hated. Legislative business in the House of Representatives resumed.
"Welcome home, Texas heroes," one sign read as the lawmakers stepped up to the Capitol to cheers and applause from like-minded citizens..."
"Runaway Texas Democrats returned to a heroes' welcome at the Capitol on Friday after their self-imposed exile in Oklahoma killed a redistricting bill they hated. Legislative business in the House of Representatives resumed.
"Welcome home, Texas heroes," one sign read as the lawmakers stepped up to the Capitol to cheers and applause from like-minded citizens..."
DallasNews -Democrats back in Austin
Redistricting bill dead; House GOP leaders expect no retribution
"They rolled out about 10:45 p.m. and crossed the state line 30 minutes later. Democrats held a brief news conference amid blustery winds, and about 15 of them repeatedly shouted, "Glad to be back in Texas!" as they flashed the "hook 'em Horns" sign to the media...
Redistricting bill dead; House GOP leaders expect no retribution
"They rolled out about 10:45 p.m. and crossed the state line 30 minutes later. Democrats held a brief news conference amid blustery winds, and about 15 of them repeatedly shouted, "Glad to be back in Texas!" as they flashed the "hook 'em Horns" sign to the media...
Alleged Mobster Charged With Plotting Hit on Sammy the Bull
Now THAT's a shocker...
"A reputed Gambino family hit man has been charged with plotting to kill mob turncoat Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gravano, who left the witness protection program and dared the Mafia to hunt him down..."
Now THAT's a shocker...
"A reputed Gambino family hit man has been charged with plotting to kill mob turncoat Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gravano, who left the witness protection program and dared the Mafia to hunt him down..."
Thursday, May 15, 2003
E! Online News - Guns N' Weiland
Scott Wieland? Slash et al. hire the one guy in all of rock who may be as completely dysfunctional as Axl?
Actual Chinese democracy still likely before Chinese Democracy...
Come on, sky! Clear up before the eclipse!
Scott Wieland? Slash et al. hire the one guy in all of rock who may be as completely dysfunctional as Axl?
Actual Chinese democracy still likely before Chinese Democracy...
Come on, sky! Clear up before the eclipse!
CBS News | Report: Feds Joined Texas Posse | May 15, 2003 12:45:39
This Texas thing is now officially As Big As It Gets even by Texas standards:
"...the lawmakers said they received bandannas, whiskey and a note from Willie Nelson, who wrote 'Way to go. Stand your ground.'"
This Texas thing is now officially As Big As It Gets even by Texas standards:
"...the lawmakers said they received bandannas, whiskey and a note from Willie Nelson, who wrote 'Way to go. Stand your ground.'"
Tuesday, May 13, 2003
The Burnt Orange Report: News Politics, and Fun from Deep in the Heart of Texas
For color and flavor you can't beat the Texas State Legislature.
Short version:
The Texas GOP is trying to re-redistrict the state's congressional delegation. This is Tom DeLay's baby.
The GOP has majorities in both Texas houses. However, a 2/3 quorum is required.
Sooooo....
53 Democratic legislators have "disappeared" and state troopers are out looking for them. Most are believed holed up at the Ardmore, Oklahoma Holiday Inn.
Even if you don't know the names and faces, this whole thing is worth the read...
For color and flavor you can't beat the Texas State Legislature.
Short version:
The Texas GOP is trying to re-redistrict the state's congressional delegation. This is Tom DeLay's baby.
The GOP has majorities in both Texas houses. However, a 2/3 quorum is required.
Sooooo....
53 Democratic legislators have "disappeared" and state troopers are out looking for them. Most are believed holed up at the Ardmore, Oklahoma Holiday Inn.
Even if you don't know the names and faces, this whole thing is worth the read...
Saturday, May 10, 2003
The Mill to close in June
Sigh... it just gets worse and worse and worse.
"Keith has had enough," his wife said. "Keith is tired by now. He's tired of fighting with the City Council. First, there's the smoking ordinance. Then, there's the 19-and-older ordinance. Who knows what they're going to do next?"
The first time my parents, who are in their 60s, came to visit me in Iowa City, the Mill was the very first place I took them. And they loved it. And we went back.
When is Iowa City going to start playing to its strengths?
Sigh... it just gets worse and worse and worse.
"Keith has had enough," his wife said. "Keith is tired by now. He's tired of fighting with the City Council. First, there's the smoking ordinance. Then, there's the 19-and-older ordinance. Who knows what they're going to do next?"
The first time my parents, who are in their 60s, came to visit me in Iowa City, the Mill was the very first place I took them. And they loved it. And we went back.
When is Iowa City going to start playing to its strengths?
Friday, May 09, 2003
Smiles Coffee - the freshest, home roasted coffee you can brew
Avoid Smiles Coffee like you would avoid dinner with Hannibal Lecter!
E-commerce at its worst. WHY does it take five seconds to debit your account, but five WEEKS to credit the same account? Also the rudest customer service on the planet.
Not much one can do when you're already cancelling your business, but I'm blogging this just for the principle of it. Maybe some search engine will spider me and spread my advice.
Avoid Smiles Coffee like you would avoid dinner with Hannibal Lecter!
E-commerce at its worst. WHY does it take five seconds to debit your account, but five WEEKS to credit the same account? Also the rudest customer service on the planet.
Not much one can do when you're already cancelling your business, but I'm blogging this just for the principle of it. Maybe some search engine will spider me and spread my advice.
Thursday, May 08, 2003
Appeals court rules against young Packers fan, favors school
Now this is some SERIOUS messin' with free speech:
"A federal appeals court upheld a ruling that the New Prague, Minn., School District did not deprive a fourth-grade student of constitutional rights when it barred him from wearing a Green Bay Packers jersey to a Minnesota Vikings party..."
My home town is on the Wisconsin side of the Mississippi and we had a sizable minority of Viking fans when I was a kid. There used to be playground fights - actual pint-size punching fights - between the Packer and Viking fans.
Now this is some SERIOUS messin' with free speech:
"A federal appeals court upheld a ruling that the New Prague, Minn., School District did not deprive a fourth-grade student of constitutional rights when it barred him from wearing a Green Bay Packers jersey to a Minnesota Vikings party..."
My home town is on the Wisconsin side of the Mississippi and we had a sizable minority of Viking fans when I was a kid. There used to be playground fights - actual pint-size punching fights - between the Packer and Viking fans.
Wednesday, May 07, 2003
ABCNEWS.com : Do Violent Lyrics Beget Violent Thoughts?
"Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, a Democratic candidate for president, says, "This study is another reminder of the potential health risks posed by media violence, and of the need for parents to pay attention to their children's media diets."
In a statement, Lieberman says he is preparing a proposal to set up a federal program to fund new research into 'both the positive and negative consequences of electronic media use and expand our knowledge base in this area.'"
I said it before, I'll say it again and for the record: If Lieberman is the nominee I will vote for Ralph Nader again.
That reminds me, I promised my daughter a copy of 8 Mile. That's between me and her and NONE of Joe and Tipper's business.
"Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, a Democratic candidate for president, says, "This study is another reminder of the potential health risks posed by media violence, and of the need for parents to pay attention to their children's media diets."
In a statement, Lieberman says he is preparing a proposal to set up a federal program to fund new research into 'both the positive and negative consequences of electronic media use and expand our knowledge base in this area.'"
I said it before, I'll say it again and for the record: If Lieberman is the nominee I will vote for Ralph Nader again.
That reminds me, I promised my daughter a copy of 8 Mile. That's between me and her and NONE of Joe and Tipper's business.
Tuesday, May 06, 2003
TheSanDiegoChannel.com - News - Bicyclist Wearing Only Thong Draws Range Of Comments
Not that the article is that noteworthy, but when it was first up it had a banner ad for the California Smoker's Helpline: 1-800-NO-BUTTS
hahahahahahahahahahah
Not that the article is that noteworthy, but when it was first up it had a banner ad for the California Smoker's Helpline: 1-800-NO-BUTTS
hahahahahahahahahahah
Monday, May 05, 2003
Exhuming McCarthy
Senate unseals 50-year-old McCarthy transcripts...
"Among the nearly 500 witnesses covered in transcripts of closed door meetings, made public Monday by the Senate, are composer Aaron Copland, New York Times journalist James Reston and Eslanda Goode Robeson, the wife of blacklisted singer-actor Paul Robeson..."
Any comments from Natalie Maines, Tim Robbins and Susan Sarandon would be especially timely.
By the way, I did my patriotic duty and bought a copy of the Dixie Chicks latest the other night. Every so often I reminisce back to my two years as a country DJ...
Senate unseals 50-year-old McCarthy transcripts...
"Among the nearly 500 witnesses covered in transcripts of closed door meetings, made public Monday by the Senate, are composer Aaron Copland, New York Times journalist James Reston and Eslanda Goode Robeson, the wife of blacklisted singer-actor Paul Robeson..."
Any comments from Natalie Maines, Tim Robbins and Susan Sarandon would be especially timely.
By the way, I did my patriotic duty and bought a copy of the Dixie Chicks latest the other night. Every so often I reminisce back to my two years as a country DJ...
Wednesday, April 30, 2003
Philadelphia Inquirer | 04/30/2003 | Santorum mailing angers his critics
"Not long after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum sent out a letter asking for money for a nonprofit group lobbying against same-sex marriages.
"I know it may sound like a huge exaggeration, particularly in light of the attack on America, but this may truly be the most important letter I ever write you," Santorum wrote. The letter endorsed Alexandria, Va.-based Alliance for Marriage and its campaign for a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriages.
This mass mailing has generated a new round of criticism of the senator from gay-rights advocates. Yesterday, they said Santorum, by seemingly equating terrorism and gay marriage, had showed a stunning lack of judgment..."
"Not long after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum sent out a letter asking for money for a nonprofit group lobbying against same-sex marriages.
"I know it may sound like a huge exaggeration, particularly in light of the attack on America, but this may truly be the most important letter I ever write you," Santorum wrote. The letter endorsed Alexandria, Va.-based Alliance for Marriage and its campaign for a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriages.
This mass mailing has generated a new round of criticism of the senator from gay-rights advocates. Yesterday, they said Santorum, by seemingly equating terrorism and gay marriage, had showed a stunning lack of judgment..."
Tuesday, April 29, 2003
ABCNEWS.com : Frist Says Santorum's Post Not in Peril
"People who work with Rick day in, day out understand he's a man of caring, compassion and tolerance," Frist said. "Strongly religious, a man of great faith, an effective and strong leader. In terms of questioning his leadership ability or position, it's a non-issue."
And Frist said this with a straight face. (pun intended)
"People who work with Rick day in, day out understand he's a man of caring, compassion and tolerance," Frist said. "Strongly religious, a man of great faith, an effective and strong leader. In terms of questioning his leadership ability or position, it's a non-issue."
And Frist said this with a straight face. (pun intended)
ABCNEWS.com : Nicole Still Loves Tom
Oh you silly, silly woman...
Kidman now calls herself "very single" and said "I'm waiting for someone to come rock my world."
And Nicole, dear, you STILL haven't called me...
Oh you silly, silly woman...
Kidman now calls herself "very single" and said "I'm waiting for someone to come rock my world."
And Nicole, dear, you STILL haven't called me...
Monday, April 28, 2003
Boston Globe Online / Santorum's odious comparisons
"Santorum's position even goes beyond the supposedly ''tolerant'' notion that homosexuality is OK as long as it's kept invisible: He believes the state should be able to jail people for having the ''wrong kind'' of sex in their bedrooms. Furthermore, likening same-sex relationships to child molestation and bestiality implicitly denies the very humanity of such relationships."
OK. Here's the problem the Republicans have with this:
Trent Lott was a no-brainer. Racial politics are still very much part of the GOP electoral equation, just look at how Bush/Ashcroft handled the U of Michigan case. But nobody this side of the Klan is going to openly defend Emmett Till-era American apartheid.
But a whole lot of Republicans actually agree with Rick Santorum's view of gay people. There's no way Dick Armey's "Barney Fag" comment was a one time thing...
There's two kinds of Republicans: Money Republicans and Jesus Republicans. And this kind of crap is the stuff the Jesus Republicans really care about. Denounce Santorum and the Republicans alienate their own base. (Unlike Democrats, Republicans care a whole lot about not alienating their base.)
Speaking of Democrats who alienate their base: I finally managed to track down a complete copy of Liz Phair's Girlysound and am enjoying my free speech and expression accordingly. Joe Lieberman and Tipper would be aghast...
"Santorum's position even goes beyond the supposedly ''tolerant'' notion that homosexuality is OK as long as it's kept invisible: He believes the state should be able to jail people for having the ''wrong kind'' of sex in their bedrooms. Furthermore, likening same-sex relationships to child molestation and bestiality implicitly denies the very humanity of such relationships."
OK. Here's the problem the Republicans have with this:
Trent Lott was a no-brainer. Racial politics are still very much part of the GOP electoral equation, just look at how Bush/Ashcroft handled the U of Michigan case. But nobody this side of the Klan is going to openly defend Emmett Till-era American apartheid.
But a whole lot of Republicans actually agree with Rick Santorum's view of gay people. There's no way Dick Armey's "Barney Fag" comment was a one time thing...
There's two kinds of Republicans: Money Republicans and Jesus Republicans. And this kind of crap is the stuff the Jesus Republicans really care about. Denounce Santorum and the Republicans alienate their own base. (Unlike Democrats, Republicans care a whole lot about not alienating their base.)
Speaking of Democrats who alienate their base: I finally managed to track down a complete copy of Liz Phair's Girlysound and am enjoying my free speech and expression accordingly. Joe Lieberman and Tipper would be aghast...
The Miami Herald | 04/27/2003 | Bob Graham's workdays
This one gives credit for where Graham, uh, 'borrowed' the idea:
"Graham had retained a hotshot Democratic consultant named Bob Squier to develop his television commercials. Squier immediately grasped the visual possibilities, noting that he had created the television ads in 1974 for Tom Harkin, a working-class congressional candidate from Iowa who had tried his hand at various jobs throughout the campaign. The publicity from the jobs -- reinforced by Squier's television ads from the work sites -- helped elect Harkin."
For the record: Graham is running for vice president.
This one gives credit for where Graham, uh, 'borrowed' the idea:
"Graham had retained a hotshot Democratic consultant named Bob Squier to develop his television commercials. Squier immediately grasped the visual possibilities, noting that he had created the television ads in 1974 for Tom Harkin, a working-class congressional candidate from Iowa who had tried his hand at various jobs throughout the campaign. The publicity from the jobs -- reinforced by Squier's television ads from the work sites -- helped elect Harkin."
For the record: Graham is running for vice president.
Springer weighs pros and cons of Senate run
JER-RY! JER-RY! JER-RY!
"The question is whether I can cut through the clutter of the show,'' said Springer...
For those who scoff, three words: Governor Jesse Ventura.
I say take this guy seriously. I don't know if Voinovich is beatable. But Springer, despite high negatives, has something priceless: 100% name ID. The Capitol has been populated increasingly with any variety of actors, jocks, and astronauts who have a leg up on the competition because people already know who they are. I say it's preferable to the other new breed politician, the self-financed gazillionare candidate.
And have you ever seen the guy outside the context of the show? He seems like an entire reasonable thoughtful guy.
He oughta clean up on the all important Moms Who Dress Like Sluts And Slept With Their Daughter's Boyfriends vote... hey, I had to get one cheap shot in!
(Article also has some stuff on Jim Edgar in Illinois.)
JER-RY! JER-RY! JER-RY!
"The question is whether I can cut through the clutter of the show,'' said Springer...
For those who scoff, three words: Governor Jesse Ventura.
I say take this guy seriously. I don't know if Voinovich is beatable. But Springer, despite high negatives, has something priceless: 100% name ID. The Capitol has been populated increasingly with any variety of actors, jocks, and astronauts who have a leg up on the competition because people already know who they are. I say it's preferable to the other new breed politician, the self-financed gazillionare candidate.
And have you ever seen the guy outside the context of the show? He seems like an entire reasonable thoughtful guy.
He oughta clean up on the all important Moms Who Dress Like Sluts And Slept With Their Daughter's Boyfriends vote... hey, I had to get one cheap shot in!
(Article also has some stuff on Jim Edgar in Illinois.)
Saturday, April 26, 2003
Carry Nation rides again
This one is really interesting in the Iowa City context...
"As far as CASA is concerned, there is no significant difference between use and abuse. The authors gloss over the exhaustively documented health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption to arrive by statistical sleight-of-hand at their headline-grabbing figures. Their data transforms a couple sharing a bottle of wine over dinner into alcohol abusers. More than two drinks a day, and you're a drunkard...."
This one is really interesting in the Iowa City context...
"As far as CASA is concerned, there is no significant difference between use and abuse. The authors gloss over the exhaustively documented health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption to arrive by statistical sleight-of-hand at their headline-grabbing figures. Their data transforms a couple sharing a bottle of wine over dinner into alcohol abusers. More than two drinks a day, and you're a drunkard...."
Friday, April 25, 2003
‘D’oh’! Foes of signs fear more jokes at city’s expense - toledoblade.com
"Mayor Jack Ford has delayed approving new welcome signs with "ToledOH!" after learning about the potential for Toledo to be equated with Homer Simpson..."
"Mayor Jack Ford has delayed approving new welcome signs with "ToledOH!" after learning about the potential for Toledo to be equated with Homer Simpson..."
Wednesday, April 23, 2003
City shelves 21-only law
This is to stop the referendum, or at least get it pushed off to a time when their own seats aren't up.. This is also set up to fail so they can come back in a year and try 21 again...
"But I will still be here in a year... I will watch this very closely." - Connie Champion.
Remember: without the students, Iowa City is just Tipton with a toothpaste factory.
This is to stop the referendum, or at least get it pushed off to a time when their own seats aren't up.. This is also set up to fail so they can come back in a year and try 21 again...
"But I will still be here in a year... I will watch this very closely." - Connie Champion.
Remember: without the students, Iowa City is just Tipton with a toothpaste factory.
Springsteen speaks up for Dix Chix
"The Dixie Chicks have taken a big hit lately for exercising their basic right to express themselves. To me, they're terrific American artists expressing American values by using their American right to free speech. For them to be banished wholesale from radio stations, and even entire radio networks, for speaking out is un-American.
The pressure coming from the government and big business to enforce conformity of thought concerning the war and politics goes against everything that this country is about - namely freedom. Right now, we are supposedly fighting to create freedom in Iraq, at the same time that some are trying to intimidate and punish people for using that same freedom here at home.
I don't know what happens next, but I do want to add my voice to those who think that the Dixie Chicks are getting a raw deal, and an un-American one to boot. I send them my support." - Bruce Springsteen
"The Dixie Chicks have taken a big hit lately for exercising their basic right to express themselves. To me, they're terrific American artists expressing American values by using their American right to free speech. For them to be banished wholesale from radio stations, and even entire radio networks, for speaking out is un-American.
The pressure coming from the government and big business to enforce conformity of thought concerning the war and politics goes against everything that this country is about - namely freedom. Right now, we are supposedly fighting to create freedom in Iraq, at the same time that some are trying to intimidate and punish people for using that same freedom here at home.
I don't know what happens next, but I do want to add my voice to those who think that the Dixie Chicks are getting a raw deal, and an un-American one to boot. I send them my support." - Bruce Springsteen
Tuesday, April 22, 2003
Gay groups rip Santorum
"Some said the comments could be as ruinous as Trent Lott's remarks in December praising Strom Thurmond's 1948 segregationist campaign for president - words that ultimately forced him to resign as Senate Republican leader..."
For the record here's what Santorum said:
"If the Supreme Court says that you have the right to consensual [gay] sex within your home, then you have the right to bigamy, you have the right to polygamy, you have the right to incest, you have the right to adultery. You have the right to anything."
"Some said the comments could be as ruinous as Trent Lott's remarks in December praising Strom Thurmond's 1948 segregationist campaign for president - words that ultimately forced him to resign as Senate Republican leader..."
For the record here's what Santorum said:
"If the Supreme Court says that you have the right to consensual [gay] sex within your home, then you have the right to bigamy, you have the right to polygamy, you have the right to incest, you have the right to adultery. You have the right to anything."
Monday, April 21, 2003
Enjoy Caucuses While They Last Part II
"Michigan leaders confided to The Union Leader that they essentially want assurances from McAuliffe that this will be New Hampshire’s final first primary..."
Also caught up in this: NH's attempts to pass a right to work law are alienating the Democratic labor base - and that doesn't help the status of right-to-work Iowa...
I'm sticking with my prediction that 2004 is The End Of The Caucuses As We Know Them.
"Michigan leaders confided to The Union Leader that they essentially want assurances from McAuliffe that this will be New Hampshire’s final first primary..."
Also caught up in this: NH's attempts to pass a right to work law are alienating the Democratic labor base - and that doesn't help the status of right-to-work Iowa...
I'm sticking with my prediction that 2004 is The End Of The Caucuses As We Know Them.
Thursday, April 17, 2003
Planet X to close May 11
Boy, no one saw this coming, huh? Here's your non-alc alternative, City Council!
Boy, no one saw this coming, huh? Here's your non-alc alternative, City Council!
Wednesday, April 16, 2003
Iowa Caucuses: Enjoy Them While They Last (Manchester Union Leader)
On the surface, Iowa and New Hampshire win for 2004, but get this:
"But in rejecting the Levin-Dingell plan, the AFL-CIO’s resolution also called for creation of a commission to review the 2008 delegate selection process. The DNC and Levin-Dingell backers continue to negotiate issues related to such a commission."
Look out, here comes the all-star team...
Sources said the commission would be chaired by former Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter. Other members would include former Vice Presidents Al Gore and Walter Mondale, 1988 nominee Michael Dukakis and former Sen. Bill Bradley.
The view in Michigan yesterday was that even if the Levin-Dingell New Hampshire challenge fails in this cycle, the DNC will see to it that “the New Hampshire and Iowa privilege,” as one source close to the negotiations put it, ends in 2004. "
On the surface, Iowa and New Hampshire win for 2004, but get this:
"But in rejecting the Levin-Dingell plan, the AFL-CIO’s resolution also called for creation of a commission to review the 2008 delegate selection process. The DNC and Levin-Dingell backers continue to negotiate issues related to such a commission."
Look out, here comes the all-star team...
Sources said the commission would be chaired by former Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter. Other members would include former Vice Presidents Al Gore and Walter Mondale, 1988 nominee Michael Dukakis and former Sen. Bill Bradley.
The view in Michigan yesterday was that even if the Levin-Dingell New Hampshire challenge fails in this cycle, the DNC will see to it that “the New Hampshire and Iowa privilege,” as one source close to the negotiations put it, ends in 2004. "
Tuesday, April 15, 2003
Redhead List
For no good reason other than to embarrass myself.
1. keep ya guessin'
2. Nicole Kidman (that Oscar winning redhead. Says she's waiting for someone to "rock her world"; hasn't called yet)
3. Julianne Moore (that Oscar deserving redhead)
4. Gillian Anderson (fake but a good fake)
5. Laura Prepon (That 70's Chick)
But five redheads are not enough!
Honorable Mention
Retired: Shirley Manson (who has the hopefully temporary idea that blondes have more fun)
UPDATE 4/23: Just saw a picture from toward the end of the Garbage tour last fall and my girl Shirl seems to be letting the red grow back. (!) WIll watch for further developments (if the pattern follows: a year off in Scotland, 18 months in the studio in Madison, and a year or so on tour in about 2005-06)
Reincarnated Redhead: Shirley MacLaine
Classic Redhead: Rita Hayworth
All time classic Redhead: Ann-Margaret in Viva Las Vegas
60-something Redhead: Ann-Margaret again
50-something Redheads: Susan Sarandon, Bonnie Raitt
Redheads most likely to be called Reds: see above
Cartoon category, 21st century BC: Wilma Flintstone
Cartoon category, 21st century AD: Kim Possible (hey, I have a teenage kid, I see the Disney channel. Kim Possible would be a babe if she were real...)
Comic strip category: the little red headed girl
Unrequited category: ditto
Only redhead I am likely to sleep with in the near future: Butterscotch the cat
For no good reason other than to embarrass myself.
1. keep ya guessin'
2. Nicole Kidman (that Oscar winning redhead. Says she's waiting for someone to "rock her world"; hasn't called yet)
3. Julianne Moore (that Oscar deserving redhead)
4. Gillian Anderson (fake but a good fake)
5. Laura Prepon (That 70's Chick)
But five redheads are not enough!
Honorable Mention
Retired: Shirley Manson (who has the hopefully temporary idea that blondes have more fun)
UPDATE 4/23: Just saw a picture from toward the end of the Garbage tour last fall and my girl Shirl seems to be letting the red grow back. (!) WIll watch for further developments (if the pattern follows: a year off in Scotland, 18 months in the studio in Madison, and a year or so on tour in about 2005-06)
Reincarnated Redhead: Shirley MacLaine
Classic Redhead: Rita Hayworth
All time classic Redhead: Ann-Margaret in Viva Las Vegas
60-something Redhead: Ann-Margaret again
50-something Redheads: Susan Sarandon, Bonnie Raitt
Redheads most likely to be called Reds: see above
Cartoon category, 21st century BC: Wilma Flintstone
Cartoon category, 21st century AD: Kim Possible (hey, I have a teenage kid, I see the Disney channel. Kim Possible would be a babe if she were real...)
Comic strip category: the little red headed girl
Unrequited category: ditto
Only redhead I am likely to sleep with in the near future: Butterscotch the cat
Chicago Tribune: Fitzgerald not going to pursue re-election
Finally, after weeks of no news but war news, some inside-baseball politics!
Primary or general, Fitzgerald was a goner either way.
As for Fitzgeralds predecessor Carol Moseley-Braun: does this ripple into the presidential race? That one-voter trip to Des Moines must have been rattling...
Finally, after weeks of no news but war news, some inside-baseball politics!
Primary or general, Fitzgerald was a goner either way.
As for Fitzgeralds predecessor Carol Moseley-Braun: does this ripple into the presidential race? That one-voter trip to Des Moines must have been rattling...
Thursday, April 10, 2003
Wednesday, April 09, 2003
Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon join forces for tour
No, it was supposed to say Journey AND Puppet Show... Ya know, this woulda filled stadiums when I was in high school.
One of the great cultural moments in my adolescence was the week the B-52s were on Saturday Night Live. Foreverafter there were two camps: those of us who got the joke and thought it was cool, and those who thought they were idiots (actually I think the word they used was probably "fags" but that raises a whoooole buncha other issues and I was just talking music for the moment.)
No, it was supposed to say Journey AND Puppet Show... Ya know, this woulda filled stadiums when I was in high school.
One of the great cultural moments in my adolescence was the week the B-52s were on Saturday Night Live. Foreverafter there were two camps: those of us who got the joke and thought it was cool, and those who thought they were idiots (actually I think the word they used was probably "fags" but that raises a whoooole buncha other issues and I was just talking music for the moment.)
Monday, April 07, 2003
ABCNEWS.com : Vincent 'The Chin' Gigante Pleads Guilty
Vincent "The Chin" Gigante, the powerful mafia boss who authorities said feigned insanity for decades in an attempt to avoid prosecution, ended the ruse Monday by admitting he misled doctors evaluating him...
Vincent "The Chin" Gigante, the powerful mafia boss who authorities said feigned insanity for decades in an attempt to avoid prosecution, ended the ruse Monday by admitting he misled doctors evaluating him...
Tuesday, April 01, 2003
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)