It's Official
As of 1:24 PM:
"In the Iowa District Court for Johnson County, Iowa
in re: the marriage of John Charles Deeth and Laura Renee Deeth,
Decree of Dissolution of Marriage..."
Nice to have something to remember the day by rather than Tiananmen Square...
The worst.
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
Thursday, March 27, 2003
ABCNEWS.com : Record Labels to Reissue 3 Zevon Albums
The man who wrote "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead" is taking it literally, working right up to the end. This is a guy you only hear on the radio at Halloween, and he gets people like Dylan, Neil Young, REM, and Jerry Garcia to play as his sidemen. Keep on rockin' as long as you can, Warren, and thanks for spending the last of your time here making music.
The man who wrote "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead" is taking it literally, working right up to the end. This is a guy you only hear on the radio at Halloween, and he gets people like Dylan, Neil Young, REM, and Jerry Garcia to play as his sidemen. Keep on rockin' as long as you can, Warren, and thanks for spending the last of your time here making music.
Wednesday, March 26, 2003
Dead Iraqi Would Have Loved Democracy: As usual the Onion does it best.
On a more serious note get the latest Iraqi civilian body count here. Amazingly enough I found this link on Fox News.
On a more serious note get the latest Iraqi civilian body count here. Amazingly enough I found this link on Fox News.
Monday, March 24, 2003
Bill Holm: When needed most, the voice that could say 'no' is gone
"For the last several months of war drumming, I've heard in my inner ear the undelivered speeches of Paul Wellstone, almost the only large public voice to stand up to Bush on the authorization of war powers. Wellstone seems to have been the last live conscience in the Democratic Party..."
"For the last several months of war drumming, I've heard in my inner ear the undelivered speeches of Paul Wellstone, almost the only large public voice to stand up to Bush on the authorization of war powers. Wellstone seems to have been the last live conscience in the Democratic Party..."
Sunday, March 23, 2003
Michael Moore scolds Bush at Oscars
"We like nonfiction and we live in fictitious times. We live in a time where we have fictitious election results, that elect a fictitious president. We live in a time where we have a man sending us to war for fictitious reasons."
On a lighter note
"We like nonfiction and we live in fictitious times. We live in a time where we have fictitious election results, that elect a fictitious president. We live in a time where we have a man sending us to war for fictitious reasons."
On a lighter note
Friday, March 21, 2003
Guns N' Roses "Civil War" lyrics
Look at your young men fighting
Look at your women crying
Look at your young men dying
The way they've always done before...
I moved to Iowa City in August 1990. The Kuwait invasion was that week. By coincidence, this song was also released. Even though it wasn't directly about Gulf War I, the coincidence of time was stunning. It was also the one time Axl and company directed their considerable anger at a deserving target.
I've been thinking of this song this week.
Look at your young men fighting
Look at your women crying
Look at your young men dying
The way they've always done before...
I moved to Iowa City in August 1990. The Kuwait invasion was that week. By coincidence, this song was also released. Even though it wasn't directly about Gulf War I, the coincidence of time was stunning. It was also the one time Axl and company directed their considerable anger at a deserving target.
I've been thinking of this song this week.
SI.com - Hockey - Fans boo U.S. anthem before Isles-Habs game in Montreal - Friday March 21, 2003 12:57 AM
"The sellout crowd of 21,273 was asked to "show your support and respect for two great nations" before the singing of the American and Canadian national anthems.
But a significant portion of the crowd booed throughout Star-Spangled Banner in an apparent display of their displeasure with the U.S.-led war against Iraq. More than 200,000 people turned out for an anti-war demonstration in Montreal last Saturday..."
"The sellout crowd of 21,273 was asked to "show your support and respect for two great nations" before the singing of the American and Canadian national anthems.
But a significant portion of the crowd booed throughout Star-Spangled Banner in an apparent display of their displeasure with the U.S.-led war against Iraq. More than 200,000 people turned out for an anti-war demonstration in Montreal last Saturday..."
Audioslave gets political at Warfield / Cornell goes after Bush, Rage-style
"I don't like bombing people in the name of people who pay taxes," Cornell growled. "It pisses me off."
De la Rocha, eat your heart out.
On a stage flanked by anti-war signs ("How Many Iraqis Per Gallon?" and "Somewhere in Texas a Village Is Missing Its Idiot"), Audioslave -- Cornell, guitarist Tom Morello, bassist Tim Commerford and drummer Brad Wilk -- showed it has successfully struck a balance between Rage's musical manifestos and the dark confessionals Cornell wrote with Soundgarden.
"I don't like bombing people in the name of people who pay taxes," Cornell growled. "It pisses me off."
De la Rocha, eat your heart out.
On a stage flanked by anti-war signs ("How Many Iraqis Per Gallon?" and "Somewhere in Texas a Village Is Missing Its Idiot"), Audioslave -- Cornell, guitarist Tom Morello, bassist Tim Commerford and drummer Brad Wilk -- showed it has successfully struck a balance between Rage's musical manifestos and the dark confessionals Cornell wrote with Soundgarden.
ABCNEWS.com : New U.S. HIV Cases Rise, Spark Yawns
"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in February that new HIV/AIDS cases in the United States have risen for the first time since 1993.
Between 2000 and 2001, the estimated number of new diagnosed adolescent and adult cases rose from 40,766 to 41,311 — approximately 1 percent.
The rise was small, but researchers warned that it could be a harbinger of worse times ahead and a signal that americans are no longer so afraid of HIV. One of the greatest obstacles doctors and health officials are battling in the war on virus is complacency..."
Wake up, people! There's a holocaust going on right now in southern Africa and if we bury our heads in the sand the same thing can happen here.
"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in February that new HIV/AIDS cases in the United States have risen for the first time since 1993.
Between 2000 and 2001, the estimated number of new diagnosed adolescent and adult cases rose from 40,766 to 41,311 — approximately 1 percent.
The rise was small, but researchers warned that it could be a harbinger of worse times ahead and a signal that americans are no longer so afraid of HIV. One of the greatest obstacles doctors and health officials are battling in the war on virus is complacency..."
Wake up, people! There's a holocaust going on right now in southern Africa and if we bury our heads in the sand the same thing can happen here.
Wednesday, March 19, 2003
Just a thought
Those of you who know me might have heard I've had a tough time lately. I don't have a lot to say about that but I do want to make one note:
I ride a bike to work now, and my route goes up and down Gilbert Street.
Twice a day I ride by the homeless shelter. And if my troubles are too much, whenever it seems like it is as bad as it can get, that twice a day reality check puts it all in perspective.
A special thank you to Chrissy Canganelli and all the people and volunteers and donors who make the Iowa City Emergency Housing Project happen.
Those of you who know me might have heard I've had a tough time lately. I don't have a lot to say about that but I do want to make one note:
I ride a bike to work now, and my route goes up and down Gilbert Street.
Twice a day I ride by the homeless shelter. And if my troubles are too much, whenever it seems like it is as bad as it can get, that twice a day reality check puts it all in perspective.
Saturday, March 15, 2003
"Sopranos" on ice as row rumbles on
HBO, HBO, HBO. Don't youse know nuthin?
When the godfather asks for more money, give him more money.
With Sopranos, I order HBO. Without Sopranos, I don't. How many more like me are there? Exact figures not required, just round to the nearest million.
HBO, HBO, HBO. Don't youse know nuthin?
When the godfather asks for more money, give him more money.
With Sopranos, I order HBO. Without Sopranos, I don't. How many more like me are there? Exact figures not required, just round to the nearest million.
Friday, March 14, 2003
CNN.com - Dixie Chicks singer apologizes for Bush comment - Mar. 14, 2003
aaaaaaaand.... the inevitable wimpout.
aaaaaaaand.... the inevitable wimpout.
ABCNEWS.com : Dixie Chicks Remark Irks Country Fans
Country stations across the United States have pulled the Chicks from playlists following reports that lead singer Natalie Maines said in a concert in London earlier this week that she was "ashamed the president of the United States is from Texas."
The group released a statement Thursday saying they have been overseas for several weeks and "the anti-American sentiment that has unfolded here is astounding. While we support our troops, there is nothing more frightening than the notion of going to war with Iraq and the prospect of all the innocent lives that will be lost."
In a separate statement Thursday, Maines said, "I feel the president is ignoring the opinion of many in the U.S. and alienating the rest of the world. My comments were made in frustration, and one of the privileges of being an American is you are free to voice your own point of view."
Country stations across the United States have pulled the Chicks from playlists following reports that lead singer Natalie Maines said in a concert in London earlier this week that she was "ashamed the president of the United States is from Texas."
The group released a statement Thursday saying they have been overseas for several weeks and "the anti-American sentiment that has unfolded here is astounding. While we support our troops, there is nothing more frightening than the notion of going to war with Iraq and the prospect of all the innocent lives that will be lost."
In a separate statement Thursday, Maines said, "I feel the president is ignoring the opinion of many in the U.S. and alienating the rest of the world. My comments were made in frustration, and one of the privileges of being an American is you are free to voice your own point of view."
JS Online: Now it's Ueckerstown
"If you are a baseball fan in Wisconsin, Bob Uecker has been inside your house. He's been at your cookouts and picnics. Now, as he enters his 33rd year with the Brewers, Uecker is headed to the Baseball Hall of Fame."
"Career highlights? I had two. I got an intentional walk from Sandy Koufax and I got out of a rundown against the Mets."
"As someone who has made a showbiz career of belittling his own playing days, Uecker will gather for his July induction with the likes of Hank Aaron, Robin Yount and Bob Gibson, esteemed members of the brotherhood who also happened to once share a clubhouse with Mr. Baseball."
Give the man his due. He's been a reounding success in three very different fields: as a skilled broadcaster, a decent comic actor, and as a ballplayer. Yah, I know the .200 career batting average, but he made it all the way to the big leagues in probably the most competitive era ever: post-Jackie Robinson, pre-expansion, and Ueck was good enough.
Plus by all accounts he's a hell of a nice guy.
I spent many many happy hours in my childhood and young adult years listening to Bob Uecker: puttering around the garage with my dad, riding in the car on vacation, celebrating the `82 pennant in the dorms at Eau Claire. I worked "with" Mr. Baseball in a very small way, at a local Brewer station in La Crosse. I had to pay attention to every call and every out, because I had to squeeze in the local ads and weather.
The money was lousy. But I just remember thinking "I'm getting paid - paid! - to listen to Ueck and the Brewers." Somehow it never seemed like work.
Congrats to one of the great ones. Cooperstown, just be sure to give him a seat in the front roooooooow.
"If you are a baseball fan in Wisconsin, Bob Uecker has been inside your house. He's been at your cookouts and picnics. Now, as he enters his 33rd year with the Brewers, Uecker is headed to the Baseball Hall of Fame."
"Career highlights? I had two. I got an intentional walk from Sandy Koufax and I got out of a rundown against the Mets."
"As someone who has made a showbiz career of belittling his own playing days, Uecker will gather for his July induction with the likes of Hank Aaron, Robin Yount and Bob Gibson, esteemed members of the brotherhood who also happened to once share a clubhouse with Mr. Baseball."
Give the man his due. He's been a reounding success in three very different fields: as a skilled broadcaster, a decent comic actor, and as a ballplayer. Yah, I know the .200 career batting average, but he made it all the way to the big leagues in probably the most competitive era ever: post-Jackie Robinson, pre-expansion, and Ueck was good enough.
Plus by all accounts he's a hell of a nice guy.
I spent many many happy hours in my childhood and young adult years listening to Bob Uecker: puttering around the garage with my dad, riding in the car on vacation, celebrating the `82 pennant in the dorms at Eau Claire. I worked "with" Mr. Baseball in a very small way, at a local Brewer station in La Crosse. I had to pay attention to every call and every out, because I had to squeeze in the local ads and weather.
The money was lousy. But I just remember thinking "I'm getting paid - paid! - to listen to Ueck and the Brewers." Somehow it never seemed like work.
Congrats to one of the great ones. Cooperstown, just be sure to give him a seat in the front roooooooow.
Thursday, March 13, 2003
David Duke Gets 15-Month Sentence for Fraud - FOXNews.com
Here's hoping they put him in the general population...
Here's hoping they put him in the general population...
Wednesday, March 12, 2003
Salon.com Audio | The antiwar sampler
Billy Bragg, Ani DiFranco, John Mellencamp, Saul Williams, Chumbawamba and the Beastie Boys speak out against the impending war.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
What, no Rolling Stones?
Billy Bragg, Ani DiFranco, John Mellencamp, Saul Williams, Chumbawamba and the Beastie Boys speak out against the impending war.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
What, no Rolling Stones?
E! Online News - Stones Licked by Chinese Censors
"The government has forbidden the Stones from performing such greatest hits as "Brown Sugar," "Honky Tonk Woman," "Beast of Burden," and "Let's Spend the Night Together" because the tunes contain too much sexual innuendo for the masses. Authorities were also uncomfortable with the interracial overtones of "Brown Sugar."
The censors don't seem mind Mick crooning "Sympathy for the Devil," "Satisfaction," or "Street Fighting Man," (as we all know, a big no-no in the Forbidden City)."
The really sad part is that the Stones wimped out and went along. Now what would have REALLY rocked would have been a "Sympathy for the Devil" update with a special verse for the butchers of Tiananmen...
"The government has forbidden the Stones from performing such greatest hits as "Brown Sugar," "Honky Tonk Woman," "Beast of Burden," and "Let's Spend the Night Together" because the tunes contain too much sexual innuendo for the masses. Authorities were also uncomfortable with the interracial overtones of "Brown Sugar."
The censors don't seem mind Mick crooning "Sympathy for the Devil," "Satisfaction," or "Street Fighting Man," (as we all know, a big no-no in the Forbidden City)."
The really sad part is that the Stones wimped out and went along. Now what would have REALLY rocked would have been a "Sympathy for the Devil" update with a special verse for the butchers of Tiananmen...
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
VH1.com : Beastie Boys Take On Bush With First Song In Five Years
"You build more bombs as you get more bold/ As your mid-life crisis war unfolds/ All you wanna do is take control/ Now put that Axis of Evil bullshit on hold."
"You build more bombs as you get more bold/ As your mid-life crisis war unfolds/ All you wanna do is take control/ Now put that Axis of Evil bullshit on hold."
Monday, March 10, 2003
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum : Hall of Fame : 2003 Inductees
This should have been the night of the Clash reunion...
"Strummer, Mick Jones and "Topper" Headon wanted to perform at the Clash's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, Paul Simonon was the holdout... One Sunday morning last December Joe Strummer faxed a message to Simonon urging him to stop being churlish and dig out his bass guitar. Simonon never had the chance to answer. Strummer died that very day... "
Also turn it up loud for AC/DC, Elvis Costello, The Police, and the Righteous Brothers.
Now speaking of Cleveland --- why don't the have the induction concert there? Why do they have it at the very un-rock Waldorf Astoria? Someone should alert Dennis Kucinich...
This should have been the night of the Clash reunion...
"Strummer, Mick Jones and "Topper" Headon wanted to perform at the Clash's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, Paul Simonon was the holdout... One Sunday morning last December Joe Strummer faxed a message to Simonon urging him to stop being churlish and dig out his bass guitar. Simonon never had the chance to answer. Strummer died that very day... "
Also turn it up loud for AC/DC, Elvis Costello, The Police, and the Righteous Brothers.
Now speaking of Cleveland --- why don't the have the induction concert there? Why do they have it at the very un-rock Waldorf Astoria? Someone should alert Dennis Kucinich...
Cleveland.com: Politics of Celebrity Yet Again
And in Ohio yet again: "Bernie Kosar for U.S. Senate?"
And in Ohio yet again: "Bernie Kosar for U.S. Senate?"
Friday, March 07, 2003
Wednesday, March 05, 2003
Tuesday, March 04, 2003
It's Lieberman-Gore in 2004!
They've scanned my psyche and come up with my worst nightmare:
Tipper Gore and Lieberman Too!
"The political wife formerly known as the "Second Lady" is expected to announce she will join the 2004 ticket led by Connecticut Senator Joseph Lieberman, if the Democrats allow the conservative lawmaker to wear the label of "right-wing Democrat."...
Also discussed: Ex-Vermont Governor, Presidential Hopeful Arrested as "Enemy Combatant"
They've scanned my psyche and come up with my worst nightmare:
Tipper Gore and Lieberman Too!
"The political wife formerly known as the "Second Lady" is expected to announce she will join the 2004 ticket led by Connecticut Senator Joseph Lieberman, if the Democrats allow the conservative lawmaker to wear the label of "right-wing Democrat."...
Also discussed: Ex-Vermont Governor, Presidential Hopeful Arrested as "Enemy Combatant"
ABCNEWS.com : Lawyer Arrested for Wearing a 'Peace' T-Shirt
"A lawyer was arrested late Monday and charged with trespassing at a public mall in the state of New York after refusing to take off a T-shirt advocating peace that he had just purchased at the mall."
Let's make it easy and just repeal the First Amendment now...
"A lawyer was arrested late Monday and charged with trespassing at a public mall in the state of New York after refusing to take off a T-shirt advocating peace that he had just purchased at the mall."
Let's make it easy and just repeal the First Amendment now...
Friday, February 28, 2003
The Trouble With Corporate Radio: The Day the Protest Music Died
"After the National Guard killed four antiwar demonstrators at Kent State University in Ohio in the spring of 1970, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young recorded a song, simply titled "Ohio," about the horror of the event, criticizing President Richard Nixon by name. The song was rushed onto the air while sentiment was still high, and became both an antiwar anthem and a huge moneymaker.
A comparable song about George W. Bush's rush to war in Iraq would have no chance at all today...."
Where is Joe Strummer when we need him?
"After the National Guard killed four antiwar demonstrators at Kent State University in Ohio in the spring of 1970, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young recorded a song, simply titled "Ohio," about the horror of the event, criticizing President Richard Nixon by name. The song was rushed onto the air while sentiment was still high, and became both an antiwar anthem and a huge moneymaker.
A comparable song about George W. Bush's rush to war in Iraq would have no chance at all today...."
Where is Joe Strummer when we need him?
Thursday, February 27, 2003
The New Republic Online: State of Peace
It's a caucus article and hey, I got quotated!
"All this, of course, is a nightmare for the most unapologetically pro-war Democrat in the race, Joe Lieberman. 'I don't expect to win here,' he explains to reporters at the state Capitol after a meeting with Governor Tom Vilsack on his first day in Iowa since officially declaring his run for president. He's not alone in this assessment: Nobody expects him to win here--in large part because nobody here plans to vote for him. At the Capitol, almost every question for Lieberman is about Iraq, and they're virtually all hostile. 'I haven't found one person in Iowa who supports the man,' says Larew, an Edwards backer. John Deeth, a caucusgoer in Iowa City, expresses a common sentiment among state Democrats, especially antiwar voters, 'Anybody but Lieberman.'"
It's a caucus article and hey, I got quotated!
"All this, of course, is a nightmare for the most unapologetically pro-war Democrat in the race, Joe Lieberman. 'I don't expect to win here,' he explains to reporters at the state Capitol after a meeting with Governor Tom Vilsack on his first day in Iowa since officially declaring his run for president. He's not alone in this assessment: Nobody expects him to win here--in large part because nobody here plans to vote for him. At the Capitol, almost every question for Lieberman is about Iraq, and they're virtually all hostile. 'I haven't found one person in Iowa who supports the man,' says Larew, an Edwards backer. John Deeth, a caucusgoer in Iowa City, expresses a common sentiment among state Democrats, especially antiwar voters, 'Anybody but Lieberman.'"
Wednesday, February 26, 2003
'Got Beer?' Wisconsin Urged To Adopt Official Drink
Milk vs. Beer. Now in Wisconsin, that's a tough one. This one is PETA's idea...
Milk vs. Beer. Now in Wisconsin, that's a tough one. This one is PETA's idea...
Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Yepsen Watch
The latest gratuitous slam on Johnson County and espresso-based beverages in today's Des Moines Register by the over-rated David Yepsen:
Traditionally, the Dubuque poobahs host a "Dubuque Night" during each legislative session, an excuse for a beer and brats bash. Well, this year, to the dismay of many, they upscaled it. Yepsen ends his item with: "If people want lattes and bean sprouts, let them find an 'Iowa City Night' somewhere.
Note to any national media types who may have stumbled onto this: The only time Yepsen scoops anyone is when he's spoon fed. If you want the real story, talk to Mike Glover of the AP.
For the record, I really do like lattes but I'm not much on bean sprouts.
The latest gratuitous slam on Johnson County and espresso-based beverages in today's Des Moines Register by the over-rated David Yepsen:
Traditionally, the Dubuque poobahs host a "Dubuque Night" during each legislative session, an excuse for a beer and brats bash. Well, this year, to the dismay of many, they upscaled it. Yepsen ends his item with: "If people want lattes and bean sprouts, let them find an 'Iowa City Night' somewhere.
Note to any national media types who may have stumbled onto this: The only time Yepsen scoops anyone is when he's spoon fed. If you want the real story, talk to Mike Glover of the AP.
Monday, February 24, 2003
Cat Lovers March in Rome for Feline Pride
"One of the march organizers, Silvia Viviani, argued that "cat ladies" should be paid by the government for looking after strays. 'We want the authorities to recognize our work and efforts by giving it the status of a professional job,' Viviani said."
"One of the march organizers, Silvia Viviani, argued that "cat ladies" should be paid by the government for looking after strays. 'We want the authorities to recognize our work and efforts by giving it the status of a professional job,' Viviani said."
For Liberals, It's Morning in America - Shock jocks are the progressive answer to Rush Limbaugh
Now HERE's an interesting premise from Marc Fisher of Slate: going after the Jesse Ventura vote. The meat of the article:
"Shock jocks rant for hours on end on behalf of civil liberties, sexual freedom, the rights of the little guy against the nation's big corporations and institutions (and—sorry, Dems—against affirmative action). They may not share Limbaugh's fascination with electoral politics, but on the issues that divide this country into red and blue, they are as popular and powerful as the supposedly unchallenged conservatives. FM talk scores with young guys who like their radio on the risqué side, with a bulging menu of sex jokes and a powerful message that this is America and you can do whatever you want.
Hint to Democrats: You may not like to admit this, but these are your voters. Most people listen to radio alone in their cars, where no one needs to be PC, and no one has to fear being slapped with a harassment charge. And it's OK to chuckle at that coarse humor and still vote Democratic. The PC brigades may find this hard to believe...
Shock jocks talk about what people are talking about, which, if you listen carefully, usually are exactly the same issues that determine how people vote: personal freedom, mores, economic well-being, family, what it's like to be a guy or a woman or an American right now. And they do it almost unfailingly from a left-libertarian perspective—they are classic social liberals."
I always thought the smartest thing the Libertarians ever did was nominate Howard Stern for Governor of New York in 1994. [He bailed on the race when he realized he's have to disclose his finances and give up his show.]
Now HERE's an interesting premise from Marc Fisher of Slate: going after the Jesse Ventura vote. The meat of the article:
"Shock jocks rant for hours on end on behalf of civil liberties, sexual freedom, the rights of the little guy against the nation's big corporations and institutions (and—sorry, Dems—against affirmative action). They may not share Limbaugh's fascination with electoral politics, but on the issues that divide this country into red and blue, they are as popular and powerful as the supposedly unchallenged conservatives. FM talk scores with young guys who like their radio on the risqué side, with a bulging menu of sex jokes and a powerful message that this is America and you can do whatever you want.
Hint to Democrats: You may not like to admit this, but these are your voters. Most people listen to radio alone in their cars, where no one needs to be PC, and no one has to fear being slapped with a harassment charge. And it's OK to chuckle at that coarse humor and still vote Democratic. The PC brigades may find this hard to believe...
Shock jocks talk about what people are talking about, which, if you listen carefully, usually are exactly the same issues that determine how people vote: personal freedom, mores, economic well-being, family, what it's like to be a guy or a woman or an American right now. And they do it almost unfailingly from a left-libertarian perspective—they are classic social liberals."
I always thought the smartest thing the Libertarians ever did was nominate Howard Stern for Governor of New York in 1994. [He bailed on the race when he realized he's have to disclose his finances and give up his show.]
ABCNEWS.com : Ex-Mobster Gravano Faces Murder Charges
"Former mob hitman Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gravano will face murder charges for allegedly arranging the 1980 shooting death of a New York City police officer, a prosecutor said Monday..."
"Former mob hitman Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gravano will face murder charges for allegedly arranging the 1980 shooting death of a New York City police officer, a prosecutor said Monday..."
Saturday, February 22, 2003
Sad Day For Rockers
This is a local story on the Rhode Island fire. People shouldn't die horrible deaths just going to see a band.
This is a local story on the Rhode Island fire. People shouldn't die horrible deaths just going to see a band.
Friday, February 21, 2003
Evil Bills in Iowa Legislature
The religious extremists are pushing their morality again this session...
"House File 64, sponsored by Republican state Representative Dan Boddicker, would have judges take custody of a child from one parent and give it to the other if the custodial parent shacked up with someone else..."
This guy represents part of MY COUNTY and people don't realize who they're dealing with...
The religious extremists are pushing their morality again this session...
"House File 64, sponsored by Republican state Representative Dan Boddicker, would have judges take custody of a child from one parent and give it to the other if the custodial parent shacked up with someone else..."
This guy represents part of MY COUNTY and people don't realize who they're dealing with...
Monday, February 17, 2003
Yahoo! News - Florida Author Chosen to Pen 'Godfather' Sequel
"Random House has made author Mark Winegardner an offer he can't refuse. The publisher said on Friday it picked the Florida-based writer to pen the sequel to "The Godfather," Mario Puzo's 1969 tale of Mafia ties and betrayal that sold 20 million copies and inspired a trilogy of films about the Corleone family...."
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! No! No! No! No! NOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Mario Puzo is DEAD. Let the Corelones rest with him.
The article does note that Winegardner is German-Irish, which Tom Hagen fans should appreciate.
"Random House has made author Mark Winegardner an offer he can't refuse. The publisher said on Friday it picked the Florida-based writer to pen the sequel to "The Godfather," Mario Puzo's 1969 tale of Mafia ties and betrayal that sold 20 million copies and inspired a trilogy of films about the Corleone family...."
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! No! No! No! No! NOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Mario Puzo is DEAD. Let the Corelones rest with him.
The article does note that Winegardner is German-Irish, which Tom Hagen fans should appreciate.
Another Trent Lott a-Brewin'?
"Rep. Howard Coble (R-NC) said during a radio show on Feb 4 that Japanese-Americans were interned during WWII for their own safety, but disagreed with a caller who said Arab-Americans should be confined..."
And why are we only hearing about this now?
"Rep. Howard Coble (R-NC) said during a radio show on Feb 4 that Japanese-Americans were interned during WWII for their own safety, but disagreed with a caller who said Arab-Americans should be confined..."
And why are we only hearing about this now?
Kucinich candidacy hailed in Iowa
Saw the guy twice yesterday. The living room speech was better than the auditorium speech - he is definitely completely and absolutely anti-war. The man must, however, do something about the hair. I mean, it's not Jim Traficant-bad, but it's not good.
At the very least he outshone Carol Mosely-Braun who had ONE PERSON show up in Des Moines.
Not all of these folks are going to make it to January 19, 2004. For myself I'm still in the Uncommitteed Except No Lieberman camp.
Saw the guy twice yesterday. The living room speech was better than the auditorium speech - he is definitely completely and absolutely anti-war. The man must, however, do something about the hair. I mean, it's not Jim Traficant-bad, but it's not good.
At the very least he outshone Carol Mosely-Braun who had ONE PERSON show up in Des Moines.
Not all of these folks are going to make it to January 19, 2004. For myself I'm still in the Uncommitteed Except No Lieberman camp.
Saturday, February 15, 2003
What a real empire is like
This is really really scary:
"Imagine not one, but several successive World Trade Center attacks, over a period of years, and with nuclear weapons. Now imagine that repeated instances of inaction, infighting or incompetence on the part of civil authorities being proven to have contributed to those attacks. Then imagine a military figure -- charismatic, ambitious, competent -- coming to public attention by dealing successfully with a public crisis..."
This is really really scary:
"Imagine not one, but several successive World Trade Center attacks, over a period of years, and with nuclear weapons. Now imagine that repeated instances of inaction, infighting or incompetence on the part of civil authorities being proven to have contributed to those attacks. Then imagine a military figure -- charismatic, ambitious, competent -- coming to public attention by dealing successfully with a public crisis..."
A Foxworthy-worthy You Might Be A Redneck If...
Man pleads guilty after trying to eat pet goat
The Gazette
Saturday, February 15, 2003, 10:37:23 AM
CEDAR RAPIDS -- A man accused of trying to kill a pet goat for his supper admitted his guilt Friday.
Timothy Ferguson, 19, of Ely, pleaded guilty to livestock abuse and possession of a controlled substance. He will be sentenced April 4.
Ferguson was arrested Oct. 30, 2002, after neighbors of Naomi Foshe, 2200 33rd Ave. SW, saw her pet goat tied to a tree and called police. When police arrived, they discovered the goat's throat had been cut.
Ferguson said he intended to eat the goat.
Foshe could not be reached for comment
Man pleads guilty after trying to eat pet goat
The Gazette
Saturday, February 15, 2003, 10:37:23 AM
CEDAR RAPIDS -- A man accused of trying to kill a pet goat for his supper admitted his guilt Friday.
Timothy Ferguson, 19, of Ely, pleaded guilty to livestock abuse and possession of a controlled substance. He will be sentenced April 4.
Ferguson was arrested Oct. 30, 2002, after neighbors of Naomi Foshe, 2200 33rd Ave. SW, saw her pet goat tied to a tree and called police. When police arrived, they discovered the goat's throat had been cut.
Ferguson said he intended to eat the goat.
Foshe could not be reached for comment
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
Lutefisk tickets are going fast
"Only 120 tickets remain for the Saturday, March 1, lutefisk supper at the Northwood United Methodist Church.."
I thought only us Loo-trans ate lutefisk.
Ever see Fargo? I have relatives in northern Wisconsin who talk exactly like that. Uff Da! (that's Norvegian for oy vey)
"Only 120 tickets remain for the Saturday, March 1, lutefisk supper at the Northwood United Methodist Church.."
I thought only us Loo-trans ate lutefisk.
Ever see Fargo? I have relatives in northern Wisconsin who talk exactly like that. Uff Da! (that's Norvegian for oy vey)
Monday, February 10, 2003
Saturday, February 08, 2003
Did Gore Block Bradley (With Cars) In New Hampshire?
"Knowing that Bradley’s strength came from tony tech havens such as Bedford, the Gore team organized a caravan to clog highway I-93 with traffic so as to discourage potential Bradley voters from getting to the polls."
"Knowing that Bradley’s strength came from tony tech havens such as Bedford, the Gore team organized a caravan to clog highway I-93 with traffic so as to discourage potential Bradley voters from getting to the polls."
Tuesday, February 04, 2003
One of the real heroes
Czech president Vaclav Havel is term-limited out of office this week. Probably the coolest world leader of my lifetime and a man who took real risks back in the wild days of `89.
Czech president Vaclav Havel is term-limited out of office this week. Probably the coolest world leader of my lifetime and a man who took real risks back in the wild days of `89.
Monday, February 03, 2003
Fear and Loathing in Baghdad
Gonzo Journalist Dr. Hunter S. Thompson and former Colorado Gov. Dick Lamm helped hundreds express their fear and loathing over a potential war against Iraq....
Gonzo Journalist Dr. Hunter S. Thompson and former Colorado Gov. Dick Lamm helped hundreds express their fear and loathing over a potential war against Iraq....
Producer Phil Spector Arrested in Killing
Apparantly EXTREMELY upset about the upcoming stripped-down version of Let It Be...
Apparantly EXTREMELY upset about the upcoming stripped-down version of Let It Be...
This South Carolina Thing Is Tricky
"The NAACP has declared a tourist boycott of the state, so how do you campaign in the state, honor the boycott and not offend voters -- some of whom support the boycott, and some who don't?"
This conundrum could reduce the impact of SC's approximately third or fourth nominating contest. Which could make Iowa and New Hampshire all the more important!
"The NAACP has declared a tourist boycott of the state, so how do you campaign in the state, honor the boycott and not offend voters -- some of whom support the boycott, and some who don't?"
This conundrum could reduce the impact of SC's approximately third or fourth nominating contest. Which could make Iowa and New Hampshire all the more important!
Saturday, February 01, 2003
Embrace file-sharing, or die
A record executive and his son make a formal case for freely downloading music. The gist: 50 million Americans can't be wrong.
A record executive and his son make a formal case for freely downloading music. The gist: 50 million Americans can't be wrong.
Space Shuttle Lost
I can't think of anything to say except thoughts and prayers to the astronauts and their families.
I can't think of anything to say except thoughts and prayers to the astronauts and their families.
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